J. Mitchel Photography

Sneaky Sneaky! Proposal Shots from Shawn & Robert!

2010-01-23T22:47:00.001-05:00

I love shooting proposals. It is one part romantic, one part high stakes photography and a dash of stake out.

Shawn and Robert are a wonderful couple who found love when they least expected it. Robert had been carefully planning this moment for quite a while.
Big thanks go out to the management at B. B. King's for hooking me up with the prime shooting positions and lighting and to the band for playing along!

Are you planning on proposing or know someone who is? Call me and lets talk about how I can capture that moment forever and she will rave about you to her friends!

For Shawn and Robert, once the jig was up, I came out of hiding and took some great Polaroid style instant shots so they had something to show right away!

What to do in a Snow Storm?

2009-12-19T20:35:00.002-05:00

Why, Edit of course!
OK, so I have been slacking on the bloggin. Check the Facebook page for more frequent updates.
After getting a ton of print orders out today, pulling out the snowblower and rock salt and some last minute foodshopping, we are all set for the blizzard. I am using the time well and catching up on some editing from recent events.

Veterans Day 2009 New York

2009-11-11T20:57:00.022-05:00

I post these images I shot today in recognition of those who have served our country, and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice so we may all enjoy freedom. Thank You.

A sneak Peek from an Engagement Session

2009-10-26T11:01:00.005-04:00

Jen and Kevin are most themselves when spending quality time at home with their animals. I caught up with them at their home for an engagement session. Here are a few pics, as a sneak peek.

With their Long Island Wedding only a few weeks away, check back to J. Mitchel Photography to see the best in affordable wedding photography.

PhotoPlus Expo 2009

2009-10-22T21:23:00.022-04:00

Well, it's that time of year again...the big NYC Photo Industry convention, Photo Plus Expo.
I got into Gotham early and walked the High Line for a bit, wandered around Chelsea then headed up to the Javits Center for the show.

It was great seeing all the new products, but more fun was catching up with Ahmet, Syed, Matt and Meredith...some great photographers I am friendly with.

I did manage to make it out of the show with a new D700, a Black Rapid dual camera harness and a Bescor video light and I am looking forward to shooting with the dual D700 cameras at the two weddings I am shooting next weekend.

The second D700 replaces a D300s, that I just did not care for. With two full frame cameras, one short and one long lens...it is just so much easier to make gorgeous photojournalistic wedding images and never worry about having the wrong lens for the right shot.

Here are a few more images from the day.

Past or Present

Familytime...Bronx Zoo Edition

2009-10-12T14:53:00.019-04:00

I have spent almost 40 years in NY and I have not been to the Bronx Zoo since I was a child myself, so when the weather turned right to take the family and some friends to the zoo...how could I pass that up!

Well, we had an awesome day, and at the end, Sunny was eating her tiny ice cream cone, and not happy that the park was closing.
But in the beginning of the day...it was full of discovery.

Prairie Dogs.
She is fearless.
Peacocks wandered all over the park, passing within inches.

Hotwiring a color coordinated vehicle, Ms. Lilly?
Ms. Lilly
Baby Giraffe!

Monorail ride over the Bronx River
Look! An Elephant!

Gustav and Toni had a great time...Lilly, maybe not as much.

FINNFEST 2009 a Music and Arts Festival

2009-09-25T16:27:00.003-04:00

Want to enjoy one last weekend at the beach? Want to have fun with the family, listen to some awesome bands and eat some tasty food? FINNFEST is your chance to do all that, and support a great cause. Join me in Lido Beach this Saturday, September 26th!

Check out the details at www.FINNFESTLB.com

Fine Art, Life and Landscapes at Scarcella's Saturday and Sunday, Sept 19/20th!

2009-09-18T19:59:00.003-04:00

Getting ready for tomorrow's Fine Art Sale at Scarcellas Nursery in Syosset! Scarcella's Nursery, 1702 Route 25a, Syosset, NY 11791 (516 221-6593) Open 10AM-5PM Fine Art, creative photography and more!

Come see images of New York City, The 'Burbs, and the Seashore in a way you never thought of. You also get to see why you want an artist shooting your wedding and family portraits, not a factory wedding shop.

Matt Damon The Adjustment Bureau Movie Set at South Street Seaport

2009-09-16T19:50:00.000-04:00

Security was tight on the set, by land and by sea.
I was at the Seaport today on the set of a new Matt Damon movie, The Adjustment Bureau. In the movie, Damon plays David Norris, a charismatic congressman who seems destined to be a political superstar. He meets a beautiful ballet dancer named Elise Sellas, only to find strange circumstances keeping their sparks from catching fire. Norris discovers forces are at work to keep them apart, and he peels the layers to find out why.

In Memorium of those who were just going to work that day

2009-09-11T09:26:00.006-04:00

There is not much to say that has not already been said. Firefighters, Police, EMS and other First Responders knew they had a dangerous job. They signed on for a career that could result in the ultimate sacrifice. Hundreds of regular people...office workers to dishwashers had no idea of the horrors to occur. The loss of any of the people who were lost in the 9/11 attacks is too many.
I was one of the last two people to leave my office in midtown that day. The streets were filled with people walking North, covered in toxic dust. Shell shocked.

When I got home in the late afternoon, I went to the one place that calms my mind and lets me think, my sailboat. Even there, there was no escaping that the world had changed that day.

Scott Kelby NAPP Photowalk was a huge success!

2009-07-19T08:41:00.005-04:00

The group on the Central Park Photowalk...I am in the center (white shirt/tan shorts). What is with the faces being held up? That is the image of Scott Kelby, Photoshop Guru extraordinaire and the guy who got the whole ball rollin. Scott, thanks for making this all happen!

There was no rain, there was a warm breeze and beautiful sunny skies with white puffy clouds over Central Park for the 2nd Annual National Association of Photoshop Professionals Worldwide Photowalk.
Actually, not all the clouds were puffy...I am not one for seeing things in clouds, but I thought the cross in the sky was interesting and perhaps could be used as a background image one day. I have a whole file of "stuff that may one day prove useful". When I looked at the image on screen I saw something I did not see in person. Am I the only one who sees a face in the middle of the cloud?

The Photowalk I hosted in Central Park had about 50 participants actually show up and they were of all skill levels. Some had point and shoots, many had DSLRs and at least one person had a disposable film drugstore camera. We broke the group up into 5 teams, handed out maps our intended route and went off into the park, staggered five minutes apart with my team bringing up the rear.
Keep an eye on :
http://www.flickr.com/groups/kelbyphotowalknyc09/ for images from the group as well as on the official page here:
http://worldwidephotowalk.com/new-york-ny-usa/

There were tons of amazing photo opportunities along the route and some really creative shots were taken by the teams. My team exited the park at 5PM and merged with the other teams, getting most of the group back together for our walk down to Lincoln Center. At Lincoln Center, those who were able to stay the whole time got together for a group photo and ten of us grabbed dinner at Peters, on Columbus Avenue.

While this photowalk was sponsored by the National Asssociation of Photoshop Professionals, I do offer other photowalks that incorporate a strong educational component.
Photowalks are generally the second and third Saturday of the month and cover such areas as:
DUMBO
Central Park
Off Camera Flash
The M mode on your camera and how to use it
and I will soon be offering a photowalk of The Highline in NYC.

Photowalks are $50 and are approximately 4 hours on the streets of NYC and Long Island. Please contact me if you have an interest in joining us.

Below are some of my images from yesturday's photowalk.

Fire hydrant, 50mm with a 20 mm extention tube.
Same lens setup, 50mm with a 20mm extention tube...close up of a tire on a backhoe doing contruction work.

Tomorrow's Photowalk UPDATE

2009-07-17T13:06:00.002-04:00

View an important update here:
http://worldwidephotowalk.com/new-york-ny-usa/

As of 1PM Friday, July 17th, there are 12 spots available due to cancellations or folks who just did not confirm back in time, so if you have been thinking about signing up...do it NOW!

Long Beach Fine Arts Show, Set your Calendars! June 13 + 14th

2009-06-10T07:44:00.001-04:00

Wow! The time has been flying by!
The Long Beach Fine Arts Show is this coming weekend and we have been getting our tent ready, matting and framing some really cool new work and basically trying to get the best work possible ready for sale. In addition to traditional prints and canvas gallery wraps, I have modified one of my Epson printers with a six level carbon black ink set. With six different levels of black, I create archival prints that rival the best darkroom work. Best of all, I am printing on unique substrates like metal, wood veneer and specialty papers for a truly amazing image.

There are just two basic principals to my photography:
1) Your images reflect who you are as a couple, making them unique and different from anyone else's.
2) I treat weddings as Fine Art. You get amazingly creative images.

You can see (and purchase) my Fine Art prints at The Cup in Wantagh and The Spoon Cafe, in Lindenhurst. This weekend, you can also stop by the Long Beach Fine Arts show to see my latest works or just to talk:
More details here:
http://www.longbeachny.org/index.asp?Type=B_PR&SEC={33BD7D65-42BC-45CB-ABAB-A6E2B4FB1BFB}&DE={84C4DC04-047F-454B-9A5E-85BDCFF5231E}

Want to see what I am talking about?
http://jmitchelphotography.instaproofs.com/

Fleet Week is here! Lock up your daughters!

2009-05-23T23:06:00.009-04:00

Here is my take on Fleet Week so far:
Seriously, lock up your daughters...or this could be them.

Project POWER to maintain peace

The fleet is well protected by rubber boats
Buy American? We taking bets on the Open sign being made in China?
Along the waterfront

Trade the side arm for a bananna?

Long Beach Breast Cancer Coalition Fun Walk video

2009-05-21T19:10:00.001-04:00

Kelby Photowalk SOLD OUT in 12 hours!

2009-05-19T08:25:00.003-04:00

Once again this year, I am leading the Kelby / National Association of Photoshop Professionals Photowalk in NYC, on July 18th. Word must have spread about last year's photowalk, because all 50 spots filled up within 12 hours!

Here is a comment I received:

"Hi Jeff,

Not surprised that your group filled up so fast...I was with your group last year and had a blast! Please put me on the waiting list.

Hope to see you in July!

Stay well!

George"

So, it seems that I need to start doing more of these, and combine them with the workshops I teach. Stay tuned for details on additional photowalks and workshops.

http://worldwidephotowalk.com/new-york-ny-usa/

Photowalk on July 18th!

2009-05-17T22:19:00.000-04:00

Long Beach Breast Cancer Fun Walk was not a washout after all

2009-05-17T16:42:00.000-04:00

Even in the rain, good people show up for a good cause. Such was the case for the Long Beach Breast Cancer Coalition's Fun Walk, which raised awareness and funding for their support organization. One of the ways I am able to give back to the community that has been so good to me growing up, is by providing event coverage for the LBBCC.
You can find out more about them at www.LongBeachBCC.org

New York Photo Festival

2009-05-16T14:50:00.030-04:00

I took Friday to do the NY Photo Festival in DUMBO and could not ask for better weather.
I took the train down to South Street and then walked up to the Brooklyn Bridge to walk over to DUMBO, where the festival was. You can find out more about the NYPF at http://www.nyphotofestival.com/site/
These are some of the images I made during the day:

Is it better to be lucky, or good? I think I am both. What are the odds that while I was taking pictures on the Brooklyn Bridge, I would see one of the last Checker cabs, zooming by, and nail it?

Allan Weitz, from B & H Photo, was giving an excellent presentation. Allan is an amazing photographer, who spent years shooting yacht interiors.
Folks were lined up to get their portfolios reviewed.

DUMBO is all about the lofts now.

My favorite car. The beer car.

Color Calibration for InkJet Printers Class at B & H Today

2009-05-12T11:51:00.002-04:00

I will be attending the color calibration class at B & H Photo today at 3PM. I regularly calibrate my monitors and printers for accurate results, but have been having trouble when printing on alternative materials, like wood veneers and metals with a product called InkAid. I am hoping today's class will help me figure it out.

Featured on The Bokeh Pot!

2009-05-12T11:11:00.003-04:00

Photographer's are a unique bunch, but still still represent the cross section of society as a whole. There are folks who closely guard the knowledge and skills they have, keeping them from others in a fit of insecurity, and there are those that that live life as an open book and look to share what they have with others.
The Bokeh Pot is a site that profiles photographers who endeavor to share their skills and even their secrets. They each offer unique insights into their practice and their craft.
I am lucky enough to be included with these folks. You can check it out here:
http://thebokehpot.wordpress.com/2009/05/12/j-mitchel-photography-long-island-ny-bokeh-feature/
and read the rest of the features at http://thebokehpot.wordpress.com/

There is a lot to learn in how so many talented photographers all find a way to present their individual styles in common subjects.

When 16 Aircraft Engineers are unavailable...Use Manning Motors

2009-05-11T11:20:00.000-04:00

Like most guys, I see a lot of myself in my car and perhaps that is one of the reasons men choose the cars they do. I love my old Saab. The rush when the turbo kicks, the Whoooosh! when the wastegate dumps boost when you jump off the throttle. I find intelligent design among quirky features. But all things mechanical, need service periodically and Manning Motors in Sea Cliff seems to be the hotspot of knowlegable and talented car guys.
The thing about being a photographer is, your never "off duty"...you are always looking for a shot...training your mind's eye on how to best tell a visual story. While there for my 60k mile service, I found the following images:

Family. Like it or not, it influences who you are.

2009-05-10T11:39:00.002-04:00

My wife and I drove up to Boston this weekend to see my Grandparents. In their mid '90's and living life like a couple of 50 year olds. My Grandfather could easily kick Jack Lalanne's butt in a dark alley at 2AM.
I know how lucky I am, at 39, to still have my Grandparents with me, cognizant and able to enjoy life. I think about the parts myself that I like the most, gentle, compassionate, strong and occasionally intelligent and even funny...and they all come from my Grandfather. Even my love of sailing, gardening and my value of family comes from him. My Grandmother is an accomplished chef who taught me to cook and largely influenced my system of values. This weekend they got to spend time with their Great Granddaughter, which was a treat for all.

Long Beach Breast Cancer Fun Walk! Mark your Calendars!

2009-05-01T12:10:00.000-04:00

One of the ways I give back to my community is by supporting the Long Beach Breast Cancer Coalition, which provides critical support to local cancer victims and their families.
Please, take a few hours and join us on the Long Beach boardwalk May 17th, 2009 for a family fun walk. You get to enjoy light exercise in the sunshine* while helping a good cause.
Find out more about the Long Beach BCC and download a registration form here: http://www.longbeachbcc.org/

*Sunshine not guaranteed. See God for details. Your mileage may vary. It's for a good cause, even if it's cloudy...do the right thing.

Another Custom Aperture Disks in a Lensbaby Picture

2009-03-31T10:14:00.003-04:00

While photowalking in Uptown Park the other night, I came across a string of Christmas lights under an awing. It wasn't yet dark, but with a faster than proper shutter speed I darkened the image to bring out the color saturation. Unlike most Lens Baby images, where there is a point that is in strong focus, and the rest of the image is a dreamy smear, I went the other direction and pulled the Christmas lights so far out of focus, that they are taking the shape of the aperture disk. In this case, the shape of the state of Texas.
Want to try it yourself? Get Lens Baby's creative aperture kit and a box cutter. The kit gives you a few shapes to start with, and a few blanks so you can make your own. Get creative, then get to work!

Forgive me Internet, for I have Sinned...

2009-03-21T17:02:00.012-04:00

It has been almost a Month since my last blog update.
I have been bad. However, feel free to check out my facebook pages which seem to get updated more frequently although not solely with photography related banter.
Personal page:
http://profile.to/jeffpress/

And the J. Mitchel Photography page:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=1705494&id=653460818#/pages/J-Mitchel-Photography/38080587212?ref=ts

I am sure there is a short way to link that, but I have not figured it out yet.

So, it has been awhile since we have had a chat...let's catch up:

For my new viewers:
I use this blog as a way for you to get to know me. Because pictures are a commodity. But, Art, is rare. And I create one of a kind images that turn your wedding day, into art. They capture a moment with your family and children like no one else can.

Don't care about me, and just want to see the pics? No problem. www.JMitchelPhotography.com for weddings and www.JMitchelPhoto.com for architectural. Landscape prints are at http://jmitchelphotography.instaproofs.com

I have two worlds that occasionally collide. I have been a compliance and operations professional for over 15 years on Wall St. and no, I am not to blame for this mess. In fact, with more guys doing what I do, we might not even have been in it.

My other world is that of a photographer. Architectural photography pays the bills, but wedding photography and family portraits are my passion. I think my story telling ability crosses over from weddings into architecture and allows my images to have a much stronger voice than the more technical architectural images.

Occasionally, my worlds collide. And that is a good thing. In my years in the markets I have had the role of protector of assets, guardian of your future and of helping your brokers do the right thing. In that regard, I approach my photography the same way. I am your advocate. I have your best interests at heart. I offer a select group of products, like albums, and my job is to find out your needs and match you up with the service and products you really need, not push stuff I want to sell. And there is a difference. I get paid well to provide awesome images, not to push products.
There, got that out in the open. Now we can move on.

Returning viewers...you already knew all that. Come back in the room.
So, I have been down in Houston doing some consulting work in the operations and trade area for the receivership of a certain large firm that may be involved in a Madoff type scheme, and coming home on the weekends. The work is interesting, the people fascinating and there is lots to both teach and learn. But, definitely hard on the wife and family, as well as myself. Fly home, see the family, shoot, shoot, shoot, hang images in a gallery, see the family, get on a plane.

I love to fly. Of course it is more fun when I am at the yoke, but I love to fly...no matter how gray or dreary the day…it is always beautiful and sunny if you go up high enough. Above the clouds there is always a sunset. And after the dusk, at night, when you are above those clouds…above the pollution, above the world of mankind and can see the heavens for what they are, you see differently. The night sky is the deepest black, but hints of intense colors behind the most brilliant sparkles of light. It is a rare treat to see a night sky for a New Yorker. You go decades or more without seeing it. I think the big blackout was the last decent one I saw. And when you do, you are awestruck. You can almost believe that there is something bigger than you. Something stronger, more powerful and with more heart and imagination than I will ever know that was able to create something so magical.

But, Houston is fun.
There are great wine bars, like the one at Truluck's.

There are cowboy bars, like The Armadillo Palace.
And even good music, like the Armadillo Playboys.
Surprisingly, a lot of fun. And there really are folks yelling "Yee Hawww!' during the show.

Did I mention the 20 foot tall concrete and stainless steel armadillo out front?

Secrets of Grand Central Terminal

2009-02-21T20:53:00.000-05:00

One of the things I love about architecture is the stories of our past that can be learned from the details of construction, use and demolition. The evolution of New York, like much of the country, can be followed by learning the stories of it's architecture and transportation systems. By digging beyond the present, understanding the past...I think I get a better sense of who we are today...and maybe even where we are going tomorrow.

The story of the Vanderbilt fortune and legacy is beyond the scope of my blog...but I highly recommend checking it out. Here is an excellent start: http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/channel/insidegrandcentral/index.html

While I always seem to have a unique view of New York, I got to some amazing behind the scenes places today, thanks to Dan Brucker, Spokesman for the Metro North Railroad and Lt. Kevin Franklin of the BART SWAT team. Here are a few blog images:
This is the very top of the windows on either end of the concourse. The glass floor in the walkways is two inches thick and has a rough surface. The ironwork is amazing and the windows on each side open, to ventilate the station prior to air conditioning.

The windows open via an intricate gear and chain system.

When your train is late, and nobody else knows why....and if you can find them, maybe you can ask...the controllers.
Here in the Operations Center, every switch is monitored, every train is watched. Actually, except for a few desktops with flatscreens, it doesn't look that high tech. Looks just like the control room in the '70's movie "The Taking of Pelham 123".
Franklin Delano Roosevelt's secret presidential rail car, used to transport the president and his Packard car up to street level. This way nobody saw him in a wheel chair, which he viewed as a serious image concern.
The Zodiak mural is actually backwards. The artist made a mirror image by mistake. Still... breathtaking.

Why pro camera gear is so darn heavy and expensive!

2009-02-16T19:39:00.007-05:00

Ok...this post is not for the faint of heart. If you are a photographer...look away. Run. Go to another web page because you do not want to see this.

Folks wonder why our gear is so heavy...why is it so expensive. What is the big deal, what is the difference anyway? My pack for Friday's architectural shoot weighed 27 lbs and was about $8k in gear, not counting the cost of the software on the Macbook I was shooting tethered to.

The below is one of the very rare pictures on my blog, that I did not take. Photo credit goes to ToykoBling.
This is one of my favorite lenses...the Nikon 14-24mm F2.8. Super sharp, amazing in low light and so wide that the state of Montana called and is jealous. It is also almost $2000. One of the reasons is that to get all that amazing performance...it takes a lot of hand ground, very special, glass. They don't normally look like this. This one was attached to a Nikon D3 and cut in half. I shoot it with the Nikon D700, but the look is the same.

The camera is magnesium, for light weight and high strength. The lens body is all metal. And all that expensive glass means it focuses very quickly, in low light and can be superbly sharp. Your Uncle's D60 or Canon Rebel doesn't have what it takes. Of course, the best tools only make the job a little easier. A camera might capture the image, but to see a great photo in your mind first takes skill, practice and a certain level of art. You want to hire a pro for special events...Uncle Bob might take great snapshots...but they are not the same as the images a pro will capture for your once in a lifetime event.

Read more about it and see more scary pictures here:
http://tokyobling.wordpress.com/2008/12/17/nikon-d3-cut-in-half/

20 Dates for 20 Bucks

2009-02-16T10:08:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite places was just featured on News 12's story "20 Dates for 20 Bucks".
http://www.news12.com/LI/topstories/article?id=225360#

The Spoon Coffeehouse, in Lindenhurst, is one of those places that should be in Manhattan, cost 3x as much and have a velvet rope in front. Instead, it is down to earth, bright and friendly.

While the food is great, the place homey and comfortable...the real draw for me is the great coffee and live music. Not live music like Mulcahey's, with the amps set to 11, but think acoustic guitar, haunting vocals and music you can have a conversation over. Don't think date place just for the 20 something set either. If you are married, it is the perfect spot to keep that flame burning bright in your hearts and remind yourselves that you need to get out more often.

In addition to the music, coffee and desserts...you simply have to try the Frozen Hot Chocolate. I grew up at Serendipity's and I think Spoon's Frozen Hot Chocolate is far better.

There is a rotating gallery of local artists who have their work displayed and complement the sophisticated feel of the place. I am the resident artist and always have 20 or so pieces up, so it is also a great way to see my work. In my pieces you will see a lot of everyday images, presented in a whole new way that tells a story. And, really, that is what wedding photography is all about. Telling a personal story, showing how your event is different, even though many of the motions and locations might be the same.

Superbowl Surprise at Penn Station?

2009-01-30T09:33:00.006-05:00

Anybody know what was going on outside of Penn yesterday Morning?
Not sure what they were promoting, but the big guy seemed to have knocked down the red ball and he was down for a while when the other ball came over.

OSP North Meetup, or....Always Be Learnin!

2009-01-25T19:47:00.000-05:00

Being a photographer in New York City is a lot like being Chinese. Even if you are a one in a million, there are a whole lot of folks, just like you. While sometimes standing out in the crowd can be a challenge, in the end you just have to do your own thing, and be the best "You", you can be. And one way I accomplish that is by blending my own artistic vision with the latest trends and techniques in the photography industry.

There is no better way of staying on top of the fast paced NYC photo trends that to regularly meet with amazing photographers and talk shop. Today I met up with some friends from the Tri-State area for lunch at Tanti Baci in the village.

Aside from enjoying great food and conversation, we are photographers and since we always have a camera around, it was just a matter of time until someone started taking some pictures.

Here are a few from the day.
That is Chelo hiding...and then not. Check out her work at www.Chelophoto.com

Tara, from www.TaraSharmaphotography.com

Jameel, from www.JameelMorrison.com

Not pictured, but a big thanks goes out to Bill Wang and Matt Richman at
www.bwangphoto.com and www.mattrichman.com

Another Sign of the Economic Apocalypse

2009-01-15T16:59:00.003-05:00

Ok...maybe apocalypse is a bit strong. But obviously the current economic crisis is hitting different folks in different ways. As we see here, it is certainly affecting the dating pool.

I love NY for a lot of reasons but one of the best is that you can always find a story to tell.

In case you don't have a window in New York

2009-01-15T10:01:00.002-05:00

It's cold and snowy.
But now is the perfect time. If you are planning your wedding and thinking about the sunshine of a June day for your Long Island wedding, now is the time to interview your vendors and start booking.
January is the start of the booking season and prime dates go quickly, especially with some of the incentives vendors are offering right now.

People You Meet...

2009-01-12T17:24:00.000-05:00

NYC Subway musicians have guts. Forget your fear of public speaking...try playing and getting heckled by an E train or two drunk guys!
Meet Guitar Ron.

Ron is a great jazz/funk/blues guy who has seen it all. People either love to hear you play, or forget you are there. Either way it is fun. And sometimes you overhear crazy conversations or see people do amazing things.

Merry Christmas! Did you get engaged?

2008-12-25T11:53:00.004-05:00

J. Mitchel Photography want to wish a very Merry Christmas to all the Long Island and NYC soon to be Brides that may have gotten engaged this Christmas. Now it's time to tell the world!

If your man (or woman) popped the question this Christmas, let me know! I will give you a $100 print credit for your Engagement Session! You can use this towards announcement cards, or for great photos of yourselves as a romantic couple! Take a look at the website to see my portfolio or look me up on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/J-Mitchel-Photography/38080587212

J. Mitchel Photography provides amazing Wedding photography for couples on a budget. If you want great Wedding inexpensive Photography in Nassau, Suffolk Queens, Brooklyn or anywhere in the Metro NYC area, call Jeff at J. Mitchel Photography and see why you don't need to spend a fortune to have a creative and professional Wedding Photographer that is inexpensive.

www.JMitchelPhotography.com
516 236 9277

Snow? What happened to Global Warming!

2008-12-19T18:06:00.000-05:00

If slush counts, we may get a white Christmas yet!
We got a couple of inches of the white fluffy stuff here on Long Island on Friday...so dig your Flexible Flyer out of the garage and head to the hills!

Ok, on the South Shore we don't have many hills...so head to the Atlantic Beach bridge and join the folks sledding down the side of the embankment.
What? That's what we did as kids....we didn't have hills where I grew up.

J. Mitchel's photos Featured in Popular Photography and American Photo Magazines !

2008-12-15T15:30:00.006-05:00

I have images in Popular Photography and American Photo Magazines in the January 2009 issues.

The below is just an image of the article...pick up a copy for the full deal!
The images are from an instructional seminar I attended in October and were chosen from hundreds of entries. Mine is on the upper right, circled in red. The image itself kind of mirrors my feelings about wedding photography.

I treat weddings are art. Images from each one are different from the rest and reflective of the couples personalities and their specific event.

One of the many things that separates me from other wedding photographers is that I constantly shoot creative images of everyday situations and places in a way that nobody has seen before. The images I shoot describe the time, place event and people in a way that makes you feel like you were there...and that is what photojournalism is all about!

In this case, the Brooklyn Bridge has been photographed countless times....but yet this image tells the story of the day like no other has.
And that is the way I shoot your wedding. Beautiful images that describe the day in a way nobody else can.

J. Mitchel Photography provides outstanding wedding and event photography in metro NY for less than you would think.

J. Mitchel Photography Wishes it's Architectural & Interiors Clients Seasons Greetings

2008-12-12T19:00:00.001-05:00

I want to take a moment and say "Thank You" all the clients of J. Mitchel Interiors & Architectural Imaging. It has been a busy year with some amazing projects, and although the current climate is challenging, I know the best will survive. And that group includes firms like Bovis Lendlease, Sotheby's and Archstone. Now is the time to innovate and show your stuff. I know you can do it!

I want to wish all of you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
I look forward to providing you with the images that best show your work on new projects in 2009.

J. Mitchel Interiors & Architectural Imaging provides outstanding images to the construction & architectural trade as well as real-estate professionals. You are good. We make you look that way!

It's Beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2008-12-05T15:05:00.000-05:00

Even the street meat vendors are getting into it!

Season's Greeting to our Long Island Wedding & Events Clients from J. Mitchel Photography

2008-12-01T20:00:00.003-05:00

I want to take just a moment and say "Thank You" to all the couples I was able to work with this year. Being a part of your weddings was very special to me...and I know you have said it shows in the images I delivered to you all.
Enjoy your first Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa ( I think I got everybody in there, but if I missed someone...let me know!) together. It is a magical time and something you will always remember. Guys....I know this isn't necessarily your thing...but seriously...write something meaningful and personal to your Wife on the card this year. Signing the Hallmark card "Love Hubby" doesn't cut it. Remember, your spouse is the greatest gift you will ever get...until you have children.

Happy Holidays,
Jeff
J. Mitchel Photography

11/19/08 LIRR Crash Delays

2008-11-19T09:21:00.000-05:00

It is just one of those mornings...While our commute did have a significant delay, at least nobody was seriously injured when a C3 jumped a switch and kissed an M7 just West of Jamaica this morning.

A Big "Thank You" to Veterans !

2008-11-11T15:01:00.005-05:00

You many not agree with where they are in the world, but you have to respect that they have the guts to do a job that you and I could not do.

Thank You Vets. I appreciate the freedom you fight for and the sacrafices you have made.

If you are current active duty Military and are getting married in 09, call me and lets talk. I will say "Thank You" with a $500 print credit towards your package if you book prior to 12/31/08.

Boo! Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T22:56:00.000-04:00

Sunny is giving me a scary kiss. She doesn't know about the Daddy tax yet. 30% of all Three Musketeers go to Daddy.

Photo Plus Expo...Day Two: The MPIX Popular Photography Rick Sammon New York Water Taxi Boat Cruise

2008-10-25T01:15:00.001-04:00

Big Thank You to Popular Photography magazine and MPIX, the consumer version of Millers (one of the pro labs I use...They are AWESOME!) for sponsoring and setting up the morning activities.
The boat was packed with well over 50 photographers as we toured NYC by water. There were great lessons taught by Carey Schumacher of Barefoot Memories Photography of San Diego http://www.barefoot-memories.com and from the featured speaker, Rick Sammon http://blogs.oreilly.com/digitalmedia/rick-sammon/
I think we all put them to good use as we viewed New York Harbor, networked and made friends.
Here are a few images I shot:

There is a small possibility I have a speaking role in Rick's next DVD. Like 3 seconds worth.
A three hour tour....a three hour tour...
Actually, the weather was perfect. The seas were fine and we didn't even need to build a radio out of bamboo. (Am I really the only one who remembers watching Gilligan's Isle growing up?)
I just love the colors and contrast. I love to mush them up with a unique lens, called a Lens Baby. The blur is harder to get right than you would think. I had trouble for Months...but somehow with the Nikon D700, it just all comes together for me now.

Hard to believe such great architecture leaks like a sieve. The windows at the U.N. are notorious for it. J. Mitchel Photography is the go to source for architectural images in NY and provides architectural photography to construction companies, project management and architectural firms.
That's Ben. Awesome shooter, all around great guy and light monkey extraordinaire.

Old and new, side by side on the water.
Rick Sammon
Are we still doing the colors? I thought we stopped that nonsense?

PhotoPlus Expo 2008

2008-10-23T20:37:00.011-04:00

Once each year, pretty much the entire photo industry descends upon NYC and shows their wares, shares knowledge and discusses what is new in the field. And I would not miss it for the world. As a New York wedding photographer I provide the best images to my brides, am easy to work with and very affordable. Below are a few images from photowalking from Penn Station to Javits this Morning.
With the financial markets going crazy (OK, I have 15 years on Wall Street and have to be careful what I say here...my day job is in risk management/compliance(and No...I am not to blame for this markets mess!)) there is no better time to have a plan B. I think this photo about sums that up. Speaking of tough financial times, if you are planning a wedding, now is the time to think about getting the best bang for your vendor buck. J. Mitchel Photography offers amazing creative wedding photography from just $2300!

In addition to checking out the latest pro gear, selecting key vendors for albums...prints and design work and learning about the newest techniques in images, there are some amazing seminars from top industry leaders.
One of the best parts, is you just never know who you bump into. Today I was fortunate to bump into several amazing folks.

I got to thank David Jay, from Open Source Photo, my favorite forum. That's me on the left. David got a real kick out of my business card...not everyone remembers 35mm slides. David was just enjoying the show, like tons of other folks.
I let David know that what he has created with OSP was more than a place for pros to share knowledge, it is a community that fosters both professional and personal growth from members that believe there are no stupid questions and are unbelievably giving and supportive. David is not a bad shooter either. Check out http://www.davidjay.com/

I also bumped into Joe McNally...my lighting guru idol. This guy has taught me how to light. Well, Joe and David Hobby (AKA The Strobist). Joe has an awesome book, The Moment it clicks that anyone who wants to learn lighting, simply must read. His blog ain't bad either. Check out
http://www.joemcnally.com/blog/ and www.strobist.com

I have met Scott Kelby a few times before and it was Scott that put together the worldwide photowalk in August and I lead the walk for NYC. (check out the August blog posts for that one). Well, Scott is not only a guy who knows his way around a camera...he pretty much wrote the book on anything Photoshop. Actually, he was written over 25 amazing books and is one of the reasons I can edit a wedding of 800 images so well and quickly. It was great to say hello and listen in on a few of his seminars.

Catching up with D.J. Ladez of Lumedyne (who taught an awesome lighting class on the streets of NYC earlier this year) was a treat. As was seeing the instructor from one of the architectural classes I loved. Turns out we were both drooling over the same Nikon 24mm tilt shift lens, and recognized each other.

Walking the floor with two great guys that I work with, Omar Perine and Michael McNenny just made the day go by too fast.
I am always working on sharpening my skills to provide the best in NY and LI wedding photography and Cliff showed me a neat trick for adjusting white balance on the fly with the Live View on my Nikon D700.
Walking non stop (OK, I did sit during some of the seminars) from 10-5 caught up with me at the end of the day and I was pooped when I snapped this on the way out. Contributing factors were forgetting to eat all day and having a pretty bad cold. I treasure my 8 Month old daughter, Sunny, but I never used to get sick and now I get colds all the time. And they take a week or two to go away. Maybe I am just getting old?The thing about NY is...construction never stops. The economy might slow it down, but there is always something going up.

Tomorrow, I have a a spot on the Rick Sammon boat cruise... a half day seminar while circling NYC on a water taxi. http://www.ricksammon.com/Home.html
The best part??? One of my best second shooters and photographer buddies, Amos Chen, is joining me.

Radio City Sunrise

2008-10-17T08:51:00.000-04:00

J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS Run in with the Flight Crew

2008-10-17T08:26:00.000-04:00

Ok, first off, I am not really a football guy (my wife is SO glad about that)...I am a hockey guy, but that said, I did run into the Jets flight crew (Cheerleaders) and their promo team outside the SNY studio Friday Morning and well, lets just say they make a convincing argument. They were hocking special seats for the game and promoting JETS football in general.

Image quality may change on the blog, as I moved from my SonyEricsson K790 to an iPhone. Wife gets the better cameraphone for pictures of the baby, especially since I have my SLR with my most of the time anyway. So, images on the blog will mostly be from the iPhone, rather than my previous cameraphone.

Speed the Plow on Broadway

2008-10-15T21:40:00.003-04:00

I am a big fan of David Mamet (sadly, I can pretty much recite Alec Baldwin's speech in Glenn Gary Glenn Ross in it's entirety), of the HBO series Entourage and love the AMC series Madmen. So to go see Piven and Moss in Speed the Plow was a no brainer.
Either I was the first one to call in for tickets, or the American Express Conceirge service really, really likes me because I was able to get two in the middle of the 5th row.

As an early engagement present, my Wife and I took a rare day to ourselves. We spent the morning wandering through a sunlight Central Park. We had an amazing lunch at Remi, enjoying the courtyard and being outdoors while still being warm and toasty. At 2 we made our way to the classic theatre and our comfy seats.

I have never taken any theatre classes...just never interested me. I go to the occasional B'way show...because, well, I live in NY and I feel guilty if I don't at least enjoy some of what it has to offer. Spamalot, Hairspray...maybe a few others over the years. Maybe because I have seen the actors in other roles...but I have always thought that TV/movie actors had it easy because they are only "on" for a few seconds to a few minutes at a time. With only three actors in the entire show, Piven and Esparza were "on" for the entire hour and a half and they didn't miss a beat. Moss was very strong as well, but I have a newfound respect for what it takes to do that. To provide that much of yourself for so long and so passionately to the role. The play was great. The performance...AWESOME.

After the show, we enjoyed an extended afternoon playtime with our daughter. And that was the best anniversary gift of all.

UPDATE 10/29/08 NY Times Review:
http://theater2.nytimes.com/2008/10/24/theater/reviews/24plow.html?scp=1&sq=Speed-the-Plow&st=cse

Q4 08 MMP

2008-10-07T17:55:00.014-04:00

If you follow my blog, you know at least two things about me:
1) I Use my blog as a way for you to get to know me and by seeing through my eyes, to know my photography.
2) I believe that any relationship is hard work. Marriage is no exception. My wife and I make sure to dedicate time alone to treasure what makes each other so special, and why when we are together...it is like nothing else. I call these MMPs. Marriage Maintenance Plans. Four times a year, we get away to someplace we have never been and focus on us. No distractions from daily life. Usually they are just a long weekend away, exploring someplace new, and a little bit of each other along the way. This time we are headed down to the Sun Coast of Florida.

This is Sunny's 3rd time with us and her first time on an airplane.

In her own seat, with a view of the world. She was happy and well behaved the whole flight. SouthWest was great and on the early AM flight, we had the back of the plane to ourselves.
We rented a condo on the beach in Bel Aire, near Clearwater/Tampa. Coincidentally I ran into this Chevy Bel Air in the Publix parking lot!
Staying on the beach was great! Literally steps to the Gulf of Mexico and clear bluegreen waters. We saw Dolphins swimming along the beach.Love the deep blue sky and the palm trees.
Love my wife and baby more. Sunny's first time in a pool and she had a blast splashing around. Erica loved the sun, the view and the warm salt air breeze.
With a gorgeous sunset at our fingertips, I would say the romance portion of our MMP was on track. It was certainly a romantic moment for this couple on the beach.
Once the sun went down, the night sky took over. Without the light pollution that we see in NY, we could truly see the stars in the heavens.

Ways to save on your Wedding costs

2008-09-19T09:45:00.003-04:00

Weddings can be expensive but there are a host of ways to save while still having an amazing party.
Sure, you can go for a quartet instead of a full band. Heck, there are some AMAZING DJs that can read the crowd and play the classics better than a band.
But what about the cake? While you probably don't want a Carvel Fudgie the Whale ice cream cake...there are ways to have an awesome cake...and afford it too.

One idea is to rent a cake

What? You can do that?
Yeah... http://www.cakerental.com/index.html
The premise is you have a display on an amazing cake...one that would cost a fortune...and the cake you actually serve, while similar in appearance (and FAR better in taste) is a simple sheet cake. There is even a way to work the couple cutting the cake.

Check them out and see if it could be right for you. After all...you rent the limo, the tuxedos...why not the fancy cake?

For the best in creative New York Wedding Photography call J. Mitchel Photography.

Long Beach Breast Cancer Coaliton Kayakathon 2008

2008-09-07T16:01:00.007-04:00

Well, considering the rain and wind yesterday, I think everyone was very pleasantly surprised at what a beautiful Morning we had for this years Kayak a thon, supporting the Long Beach Breast Cancer Coalition.
Luckily I did not have to set my alarm to wake up early today. My 7 Month old baby girl, Sunny Logann, is better than a Timex. Up at 6:30AM every day. I had a little coffee in the garden, and then I was off to Empire Kayaks, in Barnum Isle / Island Park.
Empire Kayaks sponsors the Long Beach Breast Cancer Coaltion each year in an awesome fund raising effort to fight breast cancer in Long Beach, and help assist those affected by Breast Cancer with programs that make life easier.

How could you not LOVE a shirt that says Save the Tatas.

Registration was packed by 9:30 and there were tons of folks already on the water as early as 9!

For more information about the Long Beach Breast Cancer Coaltion , check out their website at http://www.longbeachbcc.org

To see all the images from the 2008 Kayakathon, and perhaps purchase a few to support the Long Beach Breast Cancer Coaliotion, check out the J. Mitchel Photography client proofing website at http://jmitchelphotography.instaproofs.com/

ALL profits from images of this event are donated by J. Mitchel Photography directly to the Long Beach Breast Cancer Coalition.

I grew up in Long Beach / Atlantic Beach and while I have moved a tiny bit inland, my heart is still at the beach. I embrace the chance to give back to the community I was raised in. Covering the LBBCC events is a great way for me to do just that.

If this is your first time reading my blog, I use the blog as more of a get to know me spot, rather than to show my work.

As one of Long Island's top event and architectural photographers, check out my main website at http://www.jmitchelphotography.com/ to see why I am able to tell your Wedding story, or chronicle your home or commercial space in a way no one else can.

Check out my life and landscape prints at The Spoon Cafe in Lindenhurst. Great little coffeehouse and restaurant that has local live music several times a week. Not into dark smokey bars, but want a great date place? This is it. Frozen Hot Chocolate for two...a must have.

Labor Day Weekend 08 BBQ

2008-09-01T23:51:00.010-04:00

Scary how life changes so fast. I mean, it is absolutely awesome where we are today, but it doesn't seem that long ago that parties we hosted and attended started in the mid afternoon and went until the middle of the night. Now, my wife and I are in our mid (ok...LATE) 30s and most of our friends have children too. By 7PM the food was gone, most of the beer was still around and the kids were asleep in their car seats while the parents packed up to go home.
The men pitched horse shoes, the kids played with bubbles and sidewalk chalk, and the women...well, I know they were there...I'm sure they did something fun too. 8-)
Chris insists he is a grillmaster. And I have to say, when we saw the grill...we got a little nervous from all the flames coming out and the stainless steel all glowing and such...but the burgers came out perfect.

Monday, I actually got out on my Hobie Cat for a few hours in the Morning, then we all played in the sand in Long Beach for a few hours. While I can see the water from my front yard, I still miss living at the beach. In my 20s, I would go running on the beach with my dog. I grew up in the West End of Long Beach/East Atlantic Beach and could see the ocean from my bedroom window as a kid. I knew how lucky I was, even back then.

Christmas in August? Maybe Crazy Eddie was right!

2008-08-20T12:10:00.003-04:00

I am showing my age here, but I remember "Crazy Eddie" ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crazy_Eddie ) had famous Christmas in August sales ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fO9XC3tAbkQ )....this was back when nobody started Christmas sales until after Thanksgiving.
As You know, Christmas is early this year because of the eclipse, falling on December 25th, instead of the usual December 25th.

It has been a fun week! (Okay, not really)

2008-08-17T12:11:00.007-04:00

We started the week off by spending the night in the hospital with my Brother, and ended the week with my Daughter, Sunny Logann, leaving daycare early, with a fever. A trip to the Doctor on Saturday Morning, and our fears are confirmed. Coxcakie Virus. It is one of those things kids get. No treatment except for the symptoms and she is just going to be unhappy for a few days. She has moments where she is happy and laughing...then suddenly she is not.

We were playing on the grass Saturday afternoon, when in an instant, she went from happy to not. Even with the puss on her face, she is still adorable.

In other news, Confetti, my Wife's cat of 19 years, was put down today. I am not a cat person...but I actually did like the little fuzzball. When my Wife Erica and I met, I had a Golden Retriever. The month we bought our home, Madison passed on after 13 years. Hardest thing I ever had to do. So I know how hard it was for Erica to make that decision this Morning. I am trying to be as supportive as I can.

Edit Wednesday August 20th***
Ok, so Erica caught it from the baby and added bronchitis. She enjoyed high fever, chills ( I had 7 blankets on her!) and aches. I took care of her and baby on Monday, pushing a shoot of a brownstone in NYC until Tuesday, when Erica's sister was able to take over.
I got to spend a few nights on the couch (to not get sick...not that I did anything wrong!).

Tuesday I was on site at 5Am to get night and twilight shots of the exterior. Much easier to shoot at 5am, when there are no passersby than at 8PM, when there are tons of folks walking the upper West side of NYC. The extra day actually worked out well because the home staging consultant did a fantastic job and even as I was shooting, we worked together to present the home at it's best. Stunning woodwork and craftsmanship that you just don't see everyday. Tons of cool pocket doors, stained glass transoms and a NYC rarity...a real backyard!

August 23rd NYC Photowalk is Sold Out!

2008-08-12T13:14:00.003-04:00

Wow! That was fast. All 50 spots are spoken for on the August 23rd NYC Photowalk I am leading.
The group will meet at the Columbus Circle Fountain, walk under the Trump globe then meander through Central Park, stopping at the boat pond, bridges and tunnels, exit the park at the Hayden Planetarium and walk down Columbus and Broadway to Lincoln Center.

From the emails I have received here are the answers to the FAQS:
No experience needed.

A $4 disposable camera would work as well as the latest greatest camera. In fact, maybe better because you can take risks with it you would not take with a $5k DSLR.

This is more about learning to see creatively, than the tech side of photography.

Everything in Central Park has been shot before, but not through your eyes. Come up with a theme or mission to force yourself to think creatively.
Something like:
Show your feet in every picture, but still have the picture offer a strong sense of place, or a "moment". Could be a sock puppet, could be your hand....could be anything...does not have to be your feet...but the idea is then you start to think of how to show you are in Central Park and how your shoes might be interesting as part of that. My wife has a bunch of pictures taken from a lounge chair in resorts or beaches on various vacations. We call it Toes Around the World. Don't look for it in a musuem anytime soon, but it is cool and creative. Or you could try to show a sign or a name in every picture, perhaps take every picture from 5 inches off the ground...something to force you to see differently.

Travel light.

Less gear means more mobility and forces you to use what you have creatively

The schedule is for a two hour walk. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. At the two hour mark we should end up at the Lincoln Center Fountain. From there, if there is interest in folks grabbing a casual dinner, we can do that (separate checks? Split costs? Whatever) and then photowalk some more as the sun sets in Manhattan.

There will be a widevariety of skills with us. The best of them will make mistakes,and the newest will have happy accidents. Such is life.

More details on this Photowalk?
http://www.photoshopuser.com/photowalk/city/nyc.html

Read the FAQs posted there as well.

Want to see a previous photowalk?
http://www.opensourcephoto.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=31365&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;st=40

Update on my Brother

2008-08-12T10:16:00.003-04:00

Seems to be a really bad sinus infection and tonsilitis. Not fun, but hey, compared to all the other reasons to have to go to the ER all night...not bad. Glad he will be OK. I Didn't sleep though. Starbucks? Anybody see my Starbucks? I need some double espresso love.
Thanks for the kind emails...I appreciate your good wishes.

No Title

2008-08-12T00:35:00.001-04:00

My Brother Randy. Bad pic, but the only one I had in my phone to post to the blog.

Life is fragile

2008-08-12T00:32:00.001-04:00

I took this in the rain because I liked the way water basically fosters life everywhere. But I am looking at it now, on my phone, and thinking that even stainless steel is fragile.

I am actually an optimist, and am confident that my Brother will be fine.

The little Waiting Room

2008-08-12T00:31:00.001-04:00

It would be a shame to waste those comfy vinyl chairs.

An unfun phone call

2008-08-12T00:30:00.001-04:00

My brother was feeling a little sick the past few days. He went to the doctor today, got some prescription meds and should have been feeling better. But he had a headache that makes migraines look fun.

He couldn't take it anymore and went to the hospital. Well, I knew I would be waiting...they have a whole room just for that and I know they would not want to waste all the work they put into it. I waited with him while they triaged folks with bloodier issues. After a few hours we went to the smaller waiting room, then to a bed in the ER.

They are running the usual tests and cat scans, etc. Hopefully tomorrow we will hear good things. He is staying the night and I have to be focused tomorrow, so at 12:45 I left him and will pick up in the AM.

Photowalk NYC 2008 is Almost Full !

2008-08-11T10:13:00.002-04:00

We are limited to just 50 participants and my group is almost full!
Although most of the group are pro photographers, You do not neeed to be a pro for this, just enthusiastic. The best camera to bring, is the one you have.
What is Photowalk NYC? It is a two hour tour through NYC exploring the best photo ops.

I am leading a group of photographers on a photowalk of Central Park and the upper West side next Saturday.
There are details and a sign up page here:
http://www.photoshopuser.com/photowalk/city/nyc.html
There is NO cost, unless you join us for dinner. The more the merrier, so join us and learn something!

Like many photographers, I meet up with and train with several local pros on a consistant basis to discuss our craft, try new techniques and learn from each other. This is the first one I have held to the general public and it should be a lot of fun!

How to reduce the cost of your Long Island Wedding

2008-08-06T14:02:00.002-04:00

I originally saw this on Consumerist, one of my favorite blogs. They got it from CNN and I have a link to the whole story here:
http://edition.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/personal/08/01/wedding.list.quiz/index.html
I recommend reading it. Really funny and really interesting idea. The basic premise is:

"Too often, women are pressured into inviting way too many people to their weddings out of a sense of obligation. Parents, prospective in-laws and grooms can turn a simple wedding into a grand affair.
And as soon as that engagement ring catches her eye, that occasional lunch acquaintance feels entitled to share in your happy nuptials.
Then you realize too late that the majority of people at your wedding don't really know you or what has been going on in your life up until your big day."

They go on to suggest a quiz to see who makes the cut and gets an invite:
"Here are 10 questions couples can use to trim that guest list and weed out the people you really don't want at your wedding.
1) Name the city I'm living in now (Good one to weed folks out, especially if you have moved a lot. Don't use this if you've lived in the same place for 10 years).
2) Name at least two of my closest friends.
3) Name my current employer and my past employer (Again, if you've remained in the same job for 15 years, this does not apply).
4) Do I have any kids?
5) Do you know the name of my fiancé? Bonus question: Where and when did we meet?
6) Do you know where my parents are and whether they are still alive? (Imagine a friend at your wedding asking how long have your parents been married when they divorced years ago).
7) Name at least two of my hobbies.
8) How old am I? (My favorite is when family friends would query, 'Are you 28 now?" Imagine their surprise when I proclaimed, 'yeah, 10 years ago!')
9) Where did I go to college? (Some people might not remember whether you attended college or even graduated.)
10) Name my last boyfriend before this engagement. Bonus question: if you can name the last two and why we broke up. If you get the bonus question right, that might automatically get you in.
Scoring helps determine whether you get invited.
If you score 50 percent or below, you definitely are not getting invited.
If you score barely over 50 percent, you are on the waiting list. If someone who scored better than you cannot attend, you might get an invitation. This barely acceptable person who might be invited may get you a great gift because of their guilt for scoring so low.
If you score over 60 percent, you get an invitation."

Wet NYC Wedding Photography

2008-07-24T08:58:00.000-04:00

I am more of a hat guy than an umbrella guy and I always laugh when I see people ducking to avoid getting hit on the crowded streets of NYC by the virtual sea of umbrellas on the sidewalk.

Today...you might need both a hat and an umbrella. It is pouring. Like cats and dogs. Like building an arc type of rain.

Here is a glimpse of my walk to the office, caught with my cameraphone. What does this have to do with Wedding or realestate photography? You want someone who can view the same scene a hundred times and still create new and exciting ways to see it. Someone who can tell the story visually in an dynamic way. I limit myself to only shoot 15 Weddings per year, so I can give full attention to my Bride and Grooms. They are more than clients. They are customer relationships that often turn into friendships. This type of personal attention...you can't get that from the "wedding factories" that pump out 3 weddings a weekend all year long. And it shows in the results. Your day is unique and special. Your images should be too.

Use the "contact me" button on my website and let's talk about your upcoming event to see if I am the right fit for you.

Blue Van

Janeda & Michael Married at The Sands

2008-07-19T07:00:00.001-04:00

Could not ask for a better day and the beach was just right for some fun photos.

Janeda looked stunning and while Michael and his groomsmen were in classic tuxedos with the reds to match the theme.
There were few dry eyes in the house after two very special readings just before they took their vows.

I was fortunate to be able to work with Amos Chen as my second shooter. You can see Amos' work here:

http://lovebloomsphotography.com/photos/portgallery/

Amos has a great eye for romantic shots. He is part of a group of pro photographers I train and work with and was part of the group on last Wednesday's NYC PhotoWalk Field Trip. I have not gotten around to editing the images yet from that trip, but you really want to check out these two links to see it!

http://bedazzledphotography.blogspot.com/2008/07/april-and-dan-osp-meet-up.html

http://www.opensourcephoto.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=31365&st=60

If you stand around with a camera in NYC, nobody even sees you. But, get 15 photographers setting up lighting in Central Park and shooting some awesome models....EVERYBODY stops and wants to see the celebrities!

No additional All Star Parade Coverage...

2008-07-15T11:03:00.000-04:00

Baby is sick.Just a cold, but has a fever, so I am heading home with her to so she can rest and get better. Dr.'s Orders.

So, no more red carpet photos.

NYC All Star Parade...

2008-07-15T08:40:00.001-04:00

Daddy! Look! It's Superman!

No sweetie, that's just an All Star.

You don't have to be a baseball fan to love a good parade. But you do have to be awake. Everybody else seems excited!

I'm sure there are folks who take the bus who are less than thrilled.

But, where else can you see the whole street covered with red carpet? The Emmy's? No!

ONLY in New York City!

ROAD TRIP ! VT for the 4th....Q3 MMP

2008-07-07T09:44:00.004-04:00

My wife and I are up in VT for the 4th on our Q3 Marriage Maintainance Plan. Four times a year, we make it a point to get out of town and just enjoy each other. Nice just to get out of the everyday grind and celebrate why we love each other. This time, we have the baby with us.

We are up at our favorite place, The Snow Goose Inn, in the Mount Snow Region of Vermont and we are exploring route 7a and route 100. One thing is for sure, the most popular cars in VT are Saabs and Subarus. Almost every vehicle that was not a pickup truck or Harley was a Saab or Subaru. Although you can find classics, like this Dodge Challenger enjoying the curves of Mount Equinox.
UPDATE: 778 miles in 4 days from NY to Boston, through NH, Vermont and Western Mass...our 03 Saab 9-3 got 32 miles per gallon. I am not exactly easy on the throttle either. Gas in VT was $3.99 for regular. $4.49 for regular on 95 in Southern CT.

Moo !
Cows are very friendly. They have no problem coming right up to you and saying hello over the fence. Of course, they don't know about the awesome burger I had at Jerry's Deck in Wilmington!

Baby likes horses. No...you can NOT have a pony!

Jill & Michael's Wedding! It was a HOT one!

2008-06-29T23:13:00.007-04:00

Yeah, sure...it was a little warm out. The Groomsmen were pretty much melting under the bright sun.
The ceremony was classic, and Jill looked superbly elegant.
The Bridal Party was lookin' SHARP!

But the party...the party was downright HOT! Jill and Michael can dance! Their family and friends were tearing up the dance floor at The White House during the reception.

I shoot and train with a great group of local photographers and I was fortunate enough to have Taria from Personal Touch Photography working with me. She is a master at organizing formals and has an easygoing style that works well with her ability to get people where you need them for a great image.
Check out her blog at http://www.tariareed.com/blog/

Also check out the proofing site from J. Mitchel Photography July 13th, when you will start to see the images from Jill and Michael's Wedding online!

Wedding Day! Jill & Mike are getting Married Today!

2008-06-28T07:58:00.003-04:00

Jill and Mike are getting Married Today!

They are a really great couple. We had so much fun doing the E-session! I will be shooting their Wedding Today in Middle Village and the reception in Whitestone. Look for updates tomorrow and if you know them, then you know the password to see their pics on the proofing site!

First Tomato of the Season!

2008-06-28T06:39:00.000-04:00

It is going to be a good day today. Walked out into the garden with the baby this Morning to feed the last remaining Koi (the racoons treat my pond like a sushi bar!) and we stumbled upon the first ripe tomato of the season!

It is all in the viewpoint...

2008-06-27T08:40:00.000-04:00

There are a million great images, all around you.

J. Mitchel Photography steps away from the cliché and tells the story with a unique twist.

Thinking creatively will get you images out of the ordinary, whether you are shooting a wedding or just saying what a gray day it is in NYC.

J. Mitchel Photography provides the best creative Wedding Photography for select Brides in the NY Metro area. Amazing NYC and Long Island Wedding Photography starting at just $1500. www.JMitchelPhotography.com

Baby Update...First Food That Is Not In A Bottle!

2008-06-15T21:49:00.008-04:00

Well, it had to happen sometime...Sunny Logann, my Daughter has been staring longingly at my wife and I every time we eat. So, after consulting our Dr., Today was the day for rice cereal mush.
UHHH! What is this stuff!

THIS is what food tastes like? I am NOT impressed.
Well, just to make you happy, I finished a few ounces. Let me just wipe the taste out of my mouth. That stuff is gross. Give me my bottle back.
That eating...that is some hard work. I'm wiped out. I am just going to take a nap while finishing my bott zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Jill & Michael's Engagement Shoot

2008-06-07T23:17:00.005-04:00

Jill & Michael met me at the beach for our engagement session early on Saturday. We ran 4 or 5 locations and made some amazing images and even took a break from the hot sun at Marvel !

For this one, we were going for a South Pacific kind of feel. Rogers and Hammerstein always provide good inspiration and Jill and Michael wandered the beach to find just the right shells for what they wanted to say to each other.
More images to be posted of this session on the Proofing site and the J. Mitchel Photography website.

J. Mitchel Photography provides the best in Long Island Wedding Photography.

Transition Week for Sunny

2008-06-05T19:25:00.006-04:00

Time for my Wife Erica to go back to the office. Because we are both in NYC just about every day, it seemed the best place to look for day care. Yeah...I know. We are not happy about it either. But at this point in our lives, day care seems like the best option for us until that Lotto thing works out.

We found an awesome place half way between our offices so we can see our daughter during the day from time to time. Great place, but I kid you not...it is pretty close to what our mortgage is.

So to transition both Sunny and Erica in to commuter mode, we started off with transition week where they both softly transition to work and preschool mode. Neither of them were happy about it.

Like most bitter pills, we started off with something fun. Two hours of preschool, then the rest of the day with Mommy and Daddy.

What....should we do?

How about a nice lunch...

Mmmmm, Cuban sandwich!
(No! We did not actually feed a 4 Month old a Cuban Sandwhich)

Then the zoo!

She slept through the WHOLE THING!

"Easy Doc! Do you need your whole fist in there?"

Zzzzz

Then a walk in the park to relax...
And listen to some great music!

The Few, The Proud, The Band? Fleet Week NY

2008-05-23T08:56:00.001-04:00

Fathers, lock up your Daughters...Fleet week is here!
The Maestro !

Forget politics. Forget if we should be doing what in whatever godforsaken part of the World. That is not these folks decision.
These folks are soldiers, in one way or another and they follow orders. Jack says "They follow orders or people die. It's that simple".

These men and women are working hard, risking their lives for our freedom. If you see military personnel on the street, take a moment to stop them and just say "Thanks! I appreciate what you do". Buying them a cold beer would be a nice gesture too.
I bumped into these Navy Band members walking from Penn to Rock Centre this Morning. They were "Armed and Ready" to play. Really nice group of people. Some of them were a little overwhelmed at being in NYC.

Am I going to be on TV? Hi Mom!!!

Long Beach Breast Cancer Coalition 11th Annual Walk to Erase

2008-05-18T12:34:00.005-04:00

My heart is always with the beach community that I grew up in and I try to find ways to give back to Long Beach. One way is by providing event coverage for the Long Beach Breast Cancer Coalition. Today they had their 11th Annual Walk to Erase, Family Fun Walk. You can learn more about the LBBCC at:
http://www.longbeachbcc.org/

There was a large turnout and a lot of last minute registrations, as passers by realized what a great cause was being supported. The weather was perfect, mid 60's with a light breeze and a just right sunny day.

Look back to this blog and on the J. Mitchel Photography proofs site for all the images from the day. http://jmitchelphotography.instaproofs.com/category.php?event=51838&id=79052

J. Mitchel Photography provides the best in creative Long Island Wedding Photography.
I also have a gallery week coming up June 9th, at Grind Coffeehouse in Bellmore, so stop by to gain a viewpoint Long Beach and NY you may not have seen.

Janeda & Michael's Engagement Session...Sneak Peak

2008-05-11T08:01:00.000-04:00

If you read my blog regularly (Hi Mom!), you know that the blog rarely has Wedding images on it. I have been using it more as a sort of get to know me on the personal side kind of thing. Just images from my daily travels, meandering thoughts kinda thing. But Janeda specifically requested...so here it is:
A sneak peak image from Saturday's engagement session
Janeda and Michael are diehard Mets fans, and got some great seats last night at the last minute. Sounds like it was a good Mets game last night...even if they didn't win this time. Pssst. Want to see some cool Mets pictures? Check on on my website, www.jmitchelphotography.com the real estate images section...then click on Citi Field. I shoot for the construction company building the new stadium and did a marketing shoot for the mock ups of the new Sky Booths in the stadium.

Is the Economy affecting your Wedding Budget?

2008-05-09T07:13:00.001-04:00

Harder times are starting to take hold and many folks are cutting back on luxuries and giving serious thought to their own personal "Latte Factor". Even Kitty here, caught on 5th Ave in NYC begging for a saucer of cream, is starting to feel the pinch and is willing to go to half & half.

Your Wedding is a once in a lifetime event. But that doesn't mean the best way to start a marriage is to put yourself in debt paying for your Wedding. There are tons of ways to make your Wedding budget go further while having a beautiful, memorable and elegant event.

Think about stacking beautifully wrapped favors as centerpieces instead of the traditional flowers. They make a wonderful presentation, can be color coordinated to your look, no one has allergies to them, no one fights over who takes them home because everyone gets one and...you save on flowers because you are giving the favors anyway.

Another way to make your Wedding buget go further is to look beyond the Wedding Factory photography studios and the venue's house vendor list that treat Weddings as a boring chore. Using a smaller, independent photographer can often get you more creative images, more personal attention and a far better value.

J. Mitchel Photography provides outstanding creative Wedding photography in the NYC Metro area starting at just $1500. Most of my Brides are complete with beautiful custom albums for under $2500.

Macro Mondays...Today's Post on noticing the beauty around You

2008-05-05T22:06:00.006-04:00

Boring ride to the office today on my usual 7:32 from Baldwin to Penn. But there is beauty and a unique view almost anywhere if you look hard enough.
This first of three images is the treeline thru the train window at normal view. Notice how the acid rain marks balance the light and dark green of the trees as we fly by? Abstract, but kinda cool anyway.
Take a look at the lettering molded into the window. Gotta love that GE makes light bulbs, jet engines, nuclear submarines and train windows. They got all their bases covered.

Now lets take a closer look at that lettering...See how the light has changed and now it is smooth tones black to white? You can see how the letters were melted into the window and appear almost chrome like. The acid marks have depth.

Last one, then you can move on...I promise.
The letters are chrome now, as if raised from a steel plate, cold and forboding. If the Terminator were Italian, he might be made from an advanced Atofina alloy.

Amazing how the view and the story changes the closer you get.

Constantly looking for the unique view to tell your story, J. Mitchel Photography provides the best in Metro NYC Wedding, Event and Realestate images.

Neon Taxi Fetish

2008-04-28T08:45:00.000-04:00

Those who read my blog from time to time know I have a thing for NYC taxis and neon together. This morning's wet weather provided a slippery racetrack for the yellow speed demons. Only this driver's intense focus and nerves of steel keep him ahead of the pack. You can hear "Radar Love" blasting thru the glass.

This MIB Agent is just popping out of HyperDrive on 6th Ave. And you thought Men In Black was just a movie...

Don't even THINK about it!

2008-04-22T08:51:00.000-04:00

New Yorkers are not rude.

It's just that we are direct. No parking, No standing, No Nothin'!

Now MOVE IT BUDDY!

Macro Mondays...

2008-04-21T09:30:00.000-04:00

Macro Mondays are a weekly look at the world close up. Usually there is a story in the image. Today...the story is simple.

The Months before your Wedding are going to be hectic. The Weeks before will be chaotic and move faster than you thought possible. Write tasks down. Work a plan.
Keep your Fiance involved. Don't get caught up in the preparations too much to spend quality time together. You will only do this once...so make sure to make some happy memories of the process.

Grooms-to-be who are reading this...Plan a surprise for her for no reason. Maybe it is flowers delivered to her office, maybe it is a hand made sign stuck at her exit on the Southern State. Do something spontaneous for her.

J. Mitchel Photography provides the best in affordable Wedding and Event photography in the NY Metro area.

Long Island Wedding Photography

2008-04-18T08:13:00.004-04:00

Sharpening the Skills....always working to sharpen the skills. I have fun last night at a marathon seminar that didn't let out until after 11PM. Ed Pierce is a master with over 30 years experience and his Captivated by the light tour presents some new ways of solving traditional lighting problems in a digital environment. http://www.edpierceseminars.com/learn.php

Not only did I gain some really great insight from the speakers into what I am doing well and why, but I learned a few new tricks and even won the raffle! I love presenting my work on framed Canvas and I won a nice 16x20 canvas print credit from WHCC, one of the Pro Only vendors I use to give my Brides the very best in prints.

By constantly sharpening my skills, I can provide the very best in Long Island and Metro NY Wedding Photography.

Interestingly, one of the hot topics of the forums was how the "wedding factory" photographers try to stay fresh and creative. I was not surprised when the straw poll came back that out of 350 seminar participants, when the question was asked: "How many of you shoot weddings"?. Almost every hand went up. "Now put your hand down if you shoot ONLY weddings" Ed said. There were three hands left, including mine.

Ed asked "Why? How can you stay creative like that"?

Parker Pfister ( http://www.parkerjphoto.com/ ) had a very insightful presentation that summed up my philosophy... By shooting for yourself...a creative outlet in landscapes and the world around you, you can see, shoot and capture the story of your Brides Wedding day in ways you would never notice when you only shoot if you get paid for the shot...when you shoot only weddings.

J. Mitchel Photography provides the best in creative editorial Wedding and event photography in the NY Metro area. By shooting with an artists eye and mindset, I get the shots that the Wedding Factories who shoot 2 or 3 weddings each weekend can't. They get tunnelvision and resort to shooting the same stale shots week after week.

Each event is special to me, and it shows in the images.

New Toy on the Way !

2008-04-17T11:32:00.000-04:00

I had so much fun with the ringflash a few weeks ago when shooting a class in NYC, that I just ordered one. Look forward to some really great engagement shoots with a high fashion look in unique locations! J. Mitchel Photography offers inexpensive NYC and Long Island Wedding Photography.
http://www.alienbees.com/abr800.html

Since I am getting my taxes done today,

2008-04-14T18:33:00.001-04:00

Since I am getting my taxes done today, this seemed appropriate.

How nice was the weather Today?

2008-04-10T17:17:00.000-04:00

So nice that there were more folks waterskiing than iceskating at Rock Center Rink today.
The sun made short work of the ice at Rockefeller Center today. A balmy 74 degrees in Midtown. That was not going to slow down this guy...

Website is Down Temporarily...

2008-04-10T14:34:00.003-04:00

Updated 7PM, Dynamods got their act together and we are back up and running.

Dynamods, my webhost, seems to be having some issues at the moment. The have been great, with zero downtime in the last 12 months, so I am cutting them some slack. The site should be back up shortly. This is affecting my email as well, so please call me if it is urgent, at 516 236 9277.

For recent Weddings and Corporate Interiors clients, you are able to view your images on the separately run proofing site at: http://jmitchelphotography.instaproofs.com/ and enter your password for access to your secret folder.

I appologize for the outage and lookforward to having the website up shortly.

Thanks,

Jeff

Macro Mondays

2008-04-07T09:00:00.000-04:00

As an Long Island Wedding Photographer I need to always be looking for the hidden image in plain sight. Sometimes that means not only seeing the forest for the trees, but finding the hidden beauty, even when the trees aren't looking so hot. So, Monday's I am going to find something unexpected in everyday life. Today....it is a lush view of green fields of Waimea Canyon in the mountains of Kauai.

Or maybe it is just some moss on a tree stump. You decide.

What makes Wedding Photography so expensive?

2008-04-03T11:29:00.007-04:00

J. Mitchel Photography provides outstanding wedding photography at accessible prices.

Weddings starting at just $1500.

Because my photography is done on location, I don't need an expensive storefront studio. That means I can price weddings at an affordable level for creative, professional pictures.

To provide creative and dramatic images I am always sharpening my skills and learning new techniques. I frequently attend seminars and training programs on every facet of my studio's business, from photoshop, lens work, lighting...even a marketing class now and then.

Today, I am spending the day with the President of Lumedyne Lighting, D. J. LaDez. We are discussing some new ideas on using studio strobes on the streets of NYC.

Take photos in NY and nobody blinks. Have some decent off camera lighting and a couple of attractive models...EVERYBODY stops and asks "Who is that? Is she famous" and you get a crowd around you.

Art vs. Going Green

2008-04-02T09:21:00.001-04:00

From the end of Feb I have been seeing this Electric Fountain sculpture in Rockefeller Center. There is more info about it here: http://www.cityguideny.com/viewcolumn.cfm?colid=9415

My question is, if Rock Center is making a big push about being "green"...how does a piece that uses over 3400 watts of electricity support that statement? That said...it is an interesting work.

Not Quite Summertime Yet...

2008-03-30T21:16:00.001-04:00

But I was down at the Lido Beach mushrooms scouting some engagement shoot locations on Sunday. The Cabanas are still all wrapped up for Winter, but there were some dogs walking their owners on the beach.

The Lido Beach Mushrooms are one of my favorite photo locations. They are just not something you will see anywhere else. Who took your picture? Only The Shadow Knows...

A little cross processed look to the image here. Not bad for a cameraphone.

The Mushrooms are concrete shelters at the beach park. Most folks don't know that across the street was an active Nike (no, not the sneaker) nuclear missle launch site until the mid '60s. The bunkers are still in the ground there, near the school buses. http://alpha.fdu.edu/~bender/NY29.html The below images courtesy of Google Maps:

And the "Magic Mushrooms" of Lido Beach:

There is Nothing as NYC as...

2008-03-25T08:50:00.001-04:00

A "Black Car" livery taxi and a "Yellow Cab" taxi fighting over a lane in Midtown. This was at 8:30AM today. Posted from my Sony Cameraphone.

Noticing the details is important in a Wedding Photographer. Check out J. Mitchel Photography for the best in affordable NY wedding photography. In fact tell your friends. Stop people on the steet and tell them. Shout from the rooftops... www.JMitchelPhotography.com !
Actually, I am dying to do some more proposal shoots, so if you know anyone who is thinking of popping the question, have them call me.

The best way to propose
J. Mitchel Photography will capture that magic moment when you pop the question! In addition to creative wedding and event photography, J. Mitchel Photography will capture the look on her face when she says YES! Unnoticed in the background, I will be in position at our prearranged location and time to get the photos that she will be bragging to her friends and family with. She will not even know I am there.
This is your shot to be her hero! You want this picture! Call Jeff at 516 236 9277 today, and see how you can have truely inspiring photos, for less than you think. Proposal imaging is just $249 for up to 2 hours, with prints! www.jmitchelphotography.com

Traveling for Easter

2008-03-24T00:38:00.000-04:00

We are heading up to the Grandparents in Boston for the Weekend. First time for them to see the baby. Everybody seems to think my daughter looks like me. I was hoping she would look like my wife, who is the good looking one. I got to spend some time playing Bob Vila and fixed stuff around the house. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Villa

At 94, my grandfather could kick Jack La Lanne's ass. Sharp as a tack, but twice as dangerous. With 40 years as a proctologist, he has a great sense of humor and can always see the brighter side of things.

My grandmother, Chef extraordinaire, has sharp tastebuds only exceeded by her sharp wit. She could debate Clinton...ANY Clinton and make him or her cry.

We were supposed to stay until Monday, but could not get anyone to cat sit for my wife's cat on Monday. Apparently a 19 year old cat needs a chaperone. Wild parties and such. So we make the trek home on Sunday night. TWO AND A HALF HOURS from Newton to I84 on the Mass Pike. Normally, 45 minutes. Maybe the toll collectors all took break at once? Once thru the tolls, it was clear sailing all the way home.

The way up, 3 hours and 32 MPG. The return trip, 5.5 hours, 28 MPG. I love that Saab has a "NightPanel" button. Turns off all the gauges and lights except the speedo. Nice dark dash.

Baby slept the whole way up. We stopped to feed and changer her on the way back. McDonald's coffee is still Waaaaaay too hot for me.

It is absolutely beautiful out!

2008-03-19T08:40:00.000-04:00

If you are a duck.

Bring an Umbrella, it's Gonna be a Wet One. But wet is good. It helps bring out the colors and increased contrast. I snapped this, like almost all the images on the blog, with my Sony K790i cameraphone, on the way in today.

I have a thing for taxis with neon behind them. Don't ask.

Met's Spring Training Comment of the day...

2008-03-18T11:19:00.006-04:00

Met's Spring Training Comment of the day...

Backup Catcher Ramon Castro commenting on an apparent hamstring injury: "I didn't pull nothing," he said. "I don't think it's nothing big. I feel something, so I stop running. I stopped running and it went away." (quote courtesy of Newsday, Image is © J. Mitchel Photography 7/2006)

"I stopped running and it went away..."

Reminds me of the old joke; A guy walks in to a Doctor's office. Says to the Doctor, it hurts my arm when I do this....Doctor says. Don't do that. Please pay the receptionist on the way out.

Do you have to be a Met's fan to be a Wedding Photographer in Queens? No, but it helps.
Check out http://www.jmitchelphotography.com/ for the best in Queens, Brooklyn and Long Island Wedding Photography.

Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Whacha Gonna Do?

2008-03-17T08:50:00.004-04:00

The parade is tons of fun. But behave yourself because NY's Finest is out in force today.

These folks have a tough job. Don't make it harder by being foolish out there.

Don't drive to NYC today

2008-03-17T08:42:00.001-04:00

In fact, avoid the trains too, because there is nothing so much fun as the evening St. Pat's drunk train home. Do what these wise folks did. Take the Magic Bus.

No Parking Even if your Irish

2008-03-17T08:39:00.002-04:00

Or even if your not Irish

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2008-03-17T08:36:00.001-04:00

The city is alive with activity and everyone is wearing their green like a badge of courage.

One Night Only...OK, Two Actually.

2008-03-14T14:08:00.008-04:00

Sunday Morning my time at The Grind is up until another couple of months, so definitely stop by Grind in Bellmore tonight or Saturday night and view/purchase my landscape prints.
The prints present some unique views of life in NYC and Long Island with lots of energy, color and light. I am also showing the Doors images from my Artisan Series of work in Italy.

Can't make it to The Grind? Stop by Spoon, in Lindenhurst! They always have my work up and I call that place my second home. Tell Joe you came because you saw it on the blog. That will drive him nuts. Speaking of nuts...you would be if you went there and did not get a frozen hot chocolate. Better yet...go there on a Saturday night for some really good live music and dessert.

Remember, if the folks shooting your wedding are not artists, they are just pushing a button on a black box. Your wedding deserves more than that. For the best in Long Island Wedding Photography, go to http://www.jmitchelphotography.com/