#notafauxtographer

[btpbyalison]

All because two people fell in love...

A few months ago, a post was made on the IKAGG page searching for a photographer.  My phone started blowing up because so many of you tagged me in the comments.  To be honest, I do my best to comment on them, but I know there’s a 90% chance they’re going to go with someone else.  I’m not the cheapest, and by the time I see it, 287 folks have already reached out.  (That doesn’t mean you shouldn't tag me...PLEASE DON’T STOP).

“Needing a photographer 10/27 starting at 11:30 am. My in-laws are renewing their vows for their 50th wedding anniversary. We will be having a small ceremony followed by family lunch. We would then like to do family photos if possible (or could possibly do them before lunch depending on timeframe).” 

I have been dying to do a vow renewal like this.  DYING.  But, you never know what’s going to come your way.  I HAD to be the one to do this.  Little did I know the couple (and family) I would get to meet. 

A few weeks later I made my way to St. Charles to meet a daughter in love and bride to be again at a small chapel.  I was exhausted, to say the least, and it was late.  I was nervous if 70 would be kind with traffic, but I made it. 

 Both ladies were sassy.  And fun.  What is normally a 20-minute consult, turned into over an hour.  I learned of their story.  A wedding that was 50 years in the making.  I learned of a lady that was surely hiding her Super Woman cape.  We laughed.  I cried (I know you’re shocked).  And I knew I was exactly who they needed to capture this. Thankfully Ms. Jan agreed!

Once upon a time, a young man named Steve went to pick up his friend Gary to head to Cuba, MO to buy fireworks.  A beautiful 16-year-old girl named Jan came to see what the commotion was about and seemed to like the looks of her brother’s friend, and she asked to go.  That was July 2, 1968. 

Let’s fast forward a year, it was 1969, and Steve was in the Navy and stationed in Long Beach, CA.  Jan flew out on a Friday, and on a Monday, they went to the courthouse with his Navy bestie and his wife, and they were married on October 27, 1969.  There was no pomp and circumstance.  No fancy reception.  No speeches.  Just two kids unbelievably in love with each other, and determined to be married before Steve went to Vietnam.  Ms. Jan told me their witnesses offered to stop at McDonald's on the way back.  “We didn’t really have the money for anything like that, so we said no thank you.” 

These babies would soon be raising babies of their own.

Today Ms. Jan got the wedding she had waited 50 years for.  

Their adult kiddos (by blood & marriage) came together and put together a beautiful day.  Ashley lead the charge with such beautiful details. A simple ceremony saturated with their story and most favorite things.  

Gary, their oldest, made the incredible lettered piece for the alter.  

Shannon brought a precious gift of hand-painted stones and that infinity piece above.  Cupcakes from a German chocolate recipe passed down to the bride from her mother were prepared by the couple of the hour.  Cupcakes that were cut with a spatula that was hand-carved by their youngest son.  Little details from other kids who love them so much.  Rings passed by 7 grandbabies, ages 27-6, before handing them off to their grandparents.  

Family quilts lined the pews to add comfort, and others remained folded just in case guests got cold. 

There is nothing better than a couple who clearly adores each other.  A couple who knows how to be silly together.

As Steve told me, this family was covered in love, fun, and a whole lot of Jesus.  At the Salt & Smoke lunch (that they were insistent Jason and I join them at), I had fixed my plate and asked if we would pray.  “Of course,” was the answer.  Then I learned about their family tradition.  Some families hold hands.  This one holds pinkies.  I might be stealing this because I loved it so. 

For years I have said that the longer I am married the more I appreciate those who have made it 30…40...50 years.  This is a couple who doesn’t have to offer advice because it exudes from their example. I definitely learned and was reminded of quite a few truths from the Schmitts today: 

- Happy wife happy life. 

- Never get too busy to hold hands. 

- Things are better when sprinkled with laughter 

- Love really does conquer all. 

- The best things in life are homemade. 

- Quilting is truly a beautiful, lost art. (I am so incredibly jealous of the quilt collection I saw today.) 

- Military spouses are veterans, too.  Thank you will never be enough for these families. 

Today was such an honor.  When I left St. Charles, my heart was even more full than my belly.  You leave Salt & Smoke hungry, y’all, and that’s your fault. 

There are few families who truly love like the Schmitts. 

Thank you for including me (and my hubby) in capturing your love story today!

[btpbyalison]

Saved the best for last. Sunflower minis with one of my favorite families. Grateful to those that only want #BTPbyAlison to capture their story. #BTPbyAlison #StLouisPhotographer #notaFAUXtographer #StoriesWanted #TellYourFriends (at Eckert's Country Store & Farms) https://www.instagram.com/p/B0btD15DgH8/?igshid=1lc7qmup35vrx

[btpbyalison]

A beautiful space for a far more beautiful client. Another lady boss has been branded. #BTPbyAlison #StLouisPhotographer #notaFAUXtographer #LadyBossBranding #YourMoneyMindset #RebelSociety #Entrepreneur #CEOboss (at Angad Arts Hotel) https://www.instagram.com/p/ByGe9S3DvC6/?igshid=1ecmignika3jp

[btpbyalison]

Your love story is special. I can't wait to capture it. #BTPbyAlison #StLouisPhotographer #notaFAUXtographer #StoriesWanted #TellYourFriends (at BTP by Alison, a St. Louis Photographer) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bt4WodjD-rv/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1gspbhr767xkm

[btpbyalison]

All I need now is the birthday girl! #BTPbyAlison #StLouisPhotographer #notaFAUXtographer #ChapterOne #SheLovesPink (at BTP by Alison, a St. Louis Photographer) https://www.instagram.com/p/BtJajiCjcO6/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1r1zho8s9652i

[btpbyalison]

Put your phone up and savor these moments. Contact me today! #BTPbyAlison #StLouisPhotographer #notaFAUXtographer #StoriesWanted #TellYourFriends https://www.instagram.com/p/Bs36YdAjm3-/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=5hvm0fv5kpd

[btpbyalison]

So. STL got a little snow. #BTPbyAlison #StLouisPhotographer #notaFAUXtographer #RescueDogsOfStL (at Benton Park West, St. Louis) https://www.instagram.com/p/BsjUEmkjf3Z/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=98x8988e3ikn

[btpbyalison]

Rumor has it we're getting up to 8 inches of snow Fri night. That means one thing.... SNOW MINIS! #BTPbyAlison #StLouisPhotographer #notaFAUXtographer #Snow #StoriesWanted #TellYourFriends (at BTP by Alison, a St. Louis Photographer) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bsa_sbJjaHk/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=psm0mfliyppo

[btpbyalison]

HE'S HERE! #BTPbyAlison #StLouisPhotographer #notaFAUXtographer #BirthPhotographer #BabyBoy #RockstarMom (at SSM Health St. Clare Hospital - Fenton) https://www.instagram.com/p/BsTt5l9jjHu/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=2c7i0ih9zw2y

[btpbyalison]

Do I do that?

Not channeling my inner Urkel.  (Where are my 90’s kids at!?)

It's a regular thing for me to get asked what I shoot.  And I love that you think of me with each session.  It means you have faith I can quite a few things. (Even if I can’t).  

So here it is.  The official list.

Maybe it is around the first “I love you.”  From THE “yes” your partner was looking for. To the I-Dos. And every anniversary after that. Whatever your happily ever after looks like, I’ll be there.

Couple & engagement session fees start at $125.  Wedding packages start at $500.

From belly to birthday cake. Capturing the moments that disappear in a blink.

Create the perfect package for you and your little one’s first year.

Entrepreneur. Start-Up. Seasoned vet. Executive. Entry-level.

However you define your business, big or small. It has little to do with the size of your passion.

College or high school graduates. I just love capturing seniors. Capturing the now before you tackle what's next!

Let’s create a package perfect for you.

Portraits capture the story of the memory that might otherwise fade.

Family session fees start at $125.

Realtors & property managers-- Looking at you!

Restaurateurs-- Let’s step up your social media game!

Make them fall in love before they even put their hands on it.

Corporate functions. School formals. Birthday parties. Concerts.

Capturing the moments you might otherwise miss that should be remembered.

Super Heroes. Princesses. Adult cake smashes. And more.

Let your inner child out to play.

Sometimes a quick, budget-friendly session is what you’re looking for.  Minis are $100, 20-minute sessions. They include a choice of 5 digital portraits from your personal gallery.

Thank you for the opportunity to capture your story!

[btpbyalison]

These two are getting married today! Lets get this party started!!! #BTPbyAlison #StLouisPhotographer #notaFAUXtographer #WeddingPhotographer #StoriesWanted #TellYourFriends (at BTP by Alison, a St. Louis Photographer) https://www.instagram.com/p/Br79sd0j4iH/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=iqhckxdnr2bv

[btpbyalison]

Hi, y'all. This is the last week to get this special. July 10-13, 15 in Forest Park, and Saturday the 14th at Mastodon State Park! Just a few slots left! #BTPbyAlison #StLouisPhotographer #notaFAUXtographer #SummerMinis #ForestPark #MastodonStatePark (at St. Louis)

[btpbyalison]

What is a lifestyle photographer?

Picture it.  

You’re in the car with your kiddos.  You booked this photographer 2 weeks ago because a friend told you they were great.  Threats ring throughout the car the ENTIRE drive there.  Not the entire drive, because you also bribe them by saying ice cream is in their future. IF they act right.  You arrive.  The kids are frozen because ice cream is the perfect form of payment for an 8-year-old, and they are not 100% what you expect from them.

Your fiancé is dressed in the button up you picked out for him Saturday.  Hair is perfect.  He looks amazing.  You argued with your curling rod for an hour, and your hair now works.  But, this dress, though.  These engagement pictures have to be good because, well save the dates.  Duh.  On the way out the door, he asks again why engagement pictures are so important.

This is where I come in.  Portraits freeze time.  They capture a moment that might never happen again. The good ones come from laughter, fun, and ease.

Kids are not perfect.  They are silly.  A little crazy, in a good way.  Sisters pinch their brothers.  When they’re asked to say cheese.....you get a forced facial expression.  Sometimes shoots go a little something like this:

But, these moments are important, too.  Sometimes Landon doesn’t cooperate with Delilah’s agenda.  And that happens.  And it is hilarious....in retrospect. In 15 years, these will perfect for the wedding slideshow, or when they start dating. 

Then these jewels happen.  The pure smile.  The giggles.  The silliness.  Their true personality.  And as the shoot goes on they open up to me.  Sometimes they get grumpy.  Yet, they blossom.  We have a blast. The moments you want in a frame are captured.  

That is what I do as a lifestyle photographer.  BTP by Alison prides itself on capturing those moments.  Big and small.  BTP??  I explain that here. 

I capture your story; whatever chapter you’re on.  And, you know what?  I absolutely cannot wait to tell it.

[btpbyalison]

Livin’ the dream

Before I set out on this entrepreneur journey, my last position held was in human resources.  On the daily, you would hear the same question asked, “How ya doing?”  For many at the office, the answer was the same:

“Livin’ the dream!”  

But, were they really? Eh.  I’ll give it a maybe.

Commercial sessions, whether for website portraits or headshots, are the only ones that cause me any anxiety.  Some sessions make me a little nervous.  But capturing someone’s dreams put a lot of trust in my hands and shutter.  I find I can’t do enough research on the given topic, and just asking all of the questions.

Saturday I was asked to meet up with Mariella and Megan to capture their dream.  I knew the gist of what their concept was.  But, to listen to these ladies fill in the blanks, I got excited. Seeing their passion.  Hearing THEIR joy,  I couldn’t be more excited for Island Life: Yoga and Nutrition to come to Soulard.  And you should be, too.

Mariella is a BRILLIANT cook.  And watching Megan bend like a pretzel...I have no words.  Stay tuned, because this place is going to be awesome.  You can catch an afternoon yoga class after you order your lunch.  Take that lunch and smoothie with you.  And the lunch will be healthy.  With Mariella cooking, it won’t be anything short of delicious.  

Mariella put it best as we were discussing the pride we have in our work.  Our desire to serve our clients, and improve the world around us.  This is truly the “Year of the Woman.” 

Stay tuned, St. Louis. They’re coming soon to help improve your life!

[btpbyalison]

#OutrageousWoman

That’s exactly what I got called today.  It came shortly after one of my favorite questions.

“What’s your story?”

A new chapter of my story began on April 1st.  I took a leap of faith.  By April 5th I was asking myself what the heck I had done.

I quit my job.  

I said no more to the daily grind of clocking in and out.  I was done making someone else rich.  Working my tail off in a tedious roll to make someone else’s dream come true.  I was done turning down work to be somewhere that drained me physically and spiritually.  

I quit my job.  I started grinding for MY dream.

Photography was the side hustle for years.  Yes, years.  Then, one friend told another friend.  That friend told theirs.  The next thing I knew I was working 40+ hours and then turning around and working 25 in my two days off.  Most nights were spent editing or answering emails about mini specials, weddings, and headshots.  Some equipment upgrades happened.  

Then my bearded guy came home one day and ran the idea by me.  It had been part of our “plan.”   That timeline was quickly adjusted.  

I quit my job.  Outrageous.

Sometimes you have to be a little outrageous to live your best life.  You look around West Tennessee and realize its not your bliss.  You spend the next 13 months making the dream of calling St. Louis home a reality.  (Yes.  That happened.  5 years later, and I still smile looking at the Arch).

Finally, I have my dream job.  My boss is a little cuckoo, but, all in all, she’s alright.  I got to hire what I thought would be the best assistant, but this is how I find her most days.

When I thank you for the opportunity to earn your business; I hope you know & feel how genuine I am. Telling your story is my dream job.  There was a 12-year-old little-redheaded girl who answered what she wanted to be when she grew up with, “I’m not sure yet, but I know I’ll be taking pictures.”  Yep.  Outrageous.

[btpbyalison]

What is in a name?

“by Alison”....that’s the easy part.  Well, hello.  I am Alison.  Alison Hillman.  Nice to meet you.

BTP.  been.there.photography.  Now that is a little more complicated.

It was 2009, a red-haired newlywed had found herself in Jackson, Tennessee. Actually, it wasn’t even Jackson. It was Oakfield.  We lived outside of the city limits and the post office was a trailer.  Not exactly Downtown Nashville, where my engaged self could be found living just months before.  And I was bored.  A lot.  Been there?

I told my husband and some friends I was venturing back into a world I loved:  Photography.  People needed portraits done.  I knew how important pictures were.  My husband blew me off.  My friends told me all the people they knew who were Jackson photographers.  Nobody took me seriously.  Been there?

I didn’t listen.  With camera in hand, heart on my sleeve, I did it anyway.  Then a few years passed.  Regular clients were established.  Before we knew it, it was 2013.  And we were moving.  Soon “home” would be in our dream city:  St. Louis.  I couldn't have been more excited. One thing put my stomach in knots. Quickly, I realized something:  I’d be starting over; rebuilding a client base all over again.  Been there?

Well, here we are.  I am thrilled to have the best clients on Earth, and I can’t wait to see who joins that list next.

Memories are the most important thing we create.  Pictures make sure they are remembered forever.  

When I lost my Dad in 2004, I realized how few pictures we had together.  I cannot change that.  But, I can say I’ve been there and can make sure that is never a regret for you.

I love capturing the smiles.  Laughter.  The smirk I can get from your child who hates the camera.  The look you give the love of your life when you think nobody is paying attention.  The twinkle in your eye when you tell me about your business during a headshot session.  I want to capture your story.  Whatever chapter you are on.

I appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  However, more importantly, I appreciate the trust in capturing what matters most to you.  Moments big and small.  Thank you will never be enough.