Brett

Earlier this week, I sat down to work and realized all too well that we had run out of coffee.

Yes, I know. I'm amazed that I'm able to sit here and type this to you now.
Of course I managed to procure some more, and eventually I will fully recover from this traumatic experience, but after an episode like that, I really could use some photo-therapy!
Thankfully, my handsome Brett came through again, and this being the peak of Senior Portrait season, I couldn't think of a better time to try out some manly posing.

Well howdy  to you too!

 I just have to say that this old building is probably my absolute favorite background!

Whenever it's possible, I like to split up my shoots into at least two different outfits and/or locations. It makes the whole process a lot more fun, and it gives clients so much more to choose from. 

That's all for today! Enjoy your (almost) weekend and keep smiling!

Esther Stoneburner
~Viva Bene Photography

The Beginning of Sweatshirt Season

Good day to you all! It is a magnificent day, isn't it? Yes, I think so too.
In fact, you remember that walk I previously promised to take? Well I did! I love walking in the autumn, I love everything about it. The crisp air with the scent of warm wood fires burning, the oh-so-present crunch of leaves beneath my feet, the vivid oranges and reds of the leaves, and (of course) the promise of apple cider and donuts when I get home!
What a shame it would be to have all this loveliness at my fingertips and not share it. Which is why my sister Janet accompanied me for some photographic adventures!

Really quite fantastic, and plenty more in my future. One of my favorite things on earth is strolling hand-in-hand with my handsome fiance Brett (who a year from now, will be referred to as HUSBAND!) What more could I want?

Until next time, get out there, enjoy life, and Keep Smiling!

Esther Stoneburner
Viva Bene Photography

It's a girl!

Happy Monday everyone! Just because it marks the beginning of another work week doesn't mean we have to dread it. But just in case your Monday isn't going quite as well, here's a little something to put a smile on your face.

My sweet sister Judith is expecting a baby girl! Her name is Sakara Celeste, and is already so much like her mommy (We actually have an ultrasound photo of her flipping the middle finger). Here's the first installment of her maternity shoot!

Keeping is short and sweet today, so that's all for now! Have a great week, and keep smiling.

Esther Stoneburner
Viva Bene Photography

When Using Props...

 What a gorgeous day it is! Early September in Michigan means the air is still relatively warm, and the trees are just starting to turn vibrant shades of orange and yellow. Perfect day for a long stroll full of fall photography? I think so! But before I embark on my little adventure, I would like to address something often overlooked when booking a shoot; Props.

  I love props! I live for props! I'm thrilled with props! Now, that being said....
I would never encourage using a prop for props sake. If you've never played music in your life, it would be kind of silly holding a guitar in all your portraits. Same being said for holding a book if you're not much of a reader. We use items like this in photography to better reflect who you are, not just create something interesting to look at.

Brett here is a great example. This is his beloved motorcycle who was fondly referred to as "Thor".
He owned this motorcycle for years, created a lot of fond memories with it, and it made perfect sense to include the bike in our photo shoot.

Your prop doesn't always have to have memories attached to it either you know. Maybe you're a girl who loves the story of Snow White? Let's bring a bright red apple! For a guy who enjoys the renaissance, swords are always fun, and I've even used them in a shoot or two. Your hobby may even be photography. (Really, I promise that's allowed!) Whatever it is, we can always incorporate in a way that is classy, and completely unique to who you are.

Now get out there and enjoy this wonderful day!
Keep smiling!
Esther Stoneburner
~ Viva Bene Photography

Getting to know me

Hello all! My name is Esther L. Stoneburner, but I prefer Esther. Yes, I really do!
I am the owner and Photographer of the business Viva Bene Photography. Why that name in particular you may ask? Well it's actually an Italian phrase that means "It's good to be alive!" and boy, is it ever.

 What I want to do for you, is take life's most joyful moments and capture them in a photograph for you to always have and remember. I serve Southwest MI and the surrounding area with any photography need that may arise.
These needs may include...

* Engagement Photos (My all-time favorite! I usually include a free engagement session with the booking of wedding photography, all you have to do is ask!)

* Weddings


* Senior Portraits


* Maternity and newborn


* Family Portraits


* Professional and products


* Other events

Does this list mean that's all I'll do? Of course not! I've photographed for family reunions, and birthday parties for special people. Don't forget the just-for-fun shoots, sometimes we all need one of those! There are also many needs that we would frequently forget about. Need a special photo for the Christmas cards? Your child for a 4-H project? Farewell party? Anything! I'm always excited to do new things.

One more thing before I say bye for today; are you on facebook? You can now receive exclusive offers and discounts by "liking" the photography page, plus see all the fun shoots people are doing.

http://www.facebook.com/VivaBenePhotography

There ya go! Have a wonderful day everyone, and keep smiling!

Esther Stoneburner
~Viva Bene Photography