Alicia Simone Photography

The "K" Family

2011-11-26T19:07:00.001-05:00

Definitely one of the funnest families I photograph! This is the 4th (I think!) time I have worked with them and we laugh the entire time. The kids are a riot, mom and dad laugh their way through our shoot and everyone is happy. Especially the son, when I hand him is promised purple (grape) lollipop at the end. Everyone happy!

The "C" Family

2011-10-29T13:17:00.001-04:00

I have photographed this family more times than I can count at this point. Their mom is a terrific lady and the best real estate agent in Northern New Jersey (call me if you need her name!) We met at a local club which was different for us since we have only previously met in parks. It was fun getting the kids in a different environment.

The "S" Family

2011-10-26T19:16:00.000-04:00

I love this family. The parents are super cool (yes I mean you Angie) and the kids are a lot of fun. Mom and dad wanted something informal so we met at the playground behind the grammar school all of our kids attend. I had an awesome time with them!

The "K" Family

2011-10-25T19:38:00.001-04:00

I have known these girls for a LONG time (God do I feel Old!). I was a gift to their grandparents. We took a beautiful trip to the New Jersey Botanical Gardens at Ringwood Manor. The older daughter is sweet as can be, but the younger one cracks me up like none other! We had a great time!

The "A" Family

2011-10-15T20:33:00.002-04:00

This is the second time I have photographed this family and they are a joy to work with. The kids are nice, the parents are patient and we have a lot of fun exploring new things to try. They were the first of a very busy season (which I am backed up on already!) and I hope the rest go as smoothly!

The W Family

2011-09-10T12:06:00.001-04:00

I met with the W family in their lush yard on a beautiful morning. It was a last minute appointment because mom wanted to commemorate her daughter's hair before she donated it to locks of love. Also the younger daughter was missing her first teeth, and who wants to forget that?! Sweet girls, we had a fun time.

Currently Booking Fall Sessions - Special September Offer!

2011-08-15T12:02:00.002-04:00

I am currently booking Fall sessions! October and November book quickly, but if you book a September date, you will get a free 8 x 10 gallery wrap photo canvas of the image of your choice! A $150 retail value! Spots are limited.

Please see my website for session details and to book a date!

(Photo courtesy of White House Custom Color Labs)

The "R" Family

2011-08-14T14:21:00.009-04:00

I was given as a gift to these wonderful parents when they had their little girl. She is now 18 months old and was ready for her close up. I loved her curls (as a curly head myself, I am definitely biased!) She was very cute and her parents worried we wouldn't get anything good ... no worries there! Thanks for a great morning in the city!

Ridge Elementary School Arts Day

2011-04-09T15:35:00.005-04:00

Ridge Elementary School held it's annual Arts Day yesterday. Parents come in and share their talents with the school. I was asked to come in and talk about photography. Since I didn't have much time with each group, I thought it would be fun to talk about studio lighting and then have a photo shoot! They loved it. I brought some fun props and the kids had a ball dressing up and posing with their friends.

I can't wait until next year!

p.s. - turn up the volume!

Ready for Ridge Arts Day

2011-04-06T19:27:00.003-04:00

My kids' school has an annual Arts Day where parents come in and teach their talents to the school body. I was asked to work with the kids in some way with Photography. I thought long and hard and decided to go the fun way and show off studio lights and then have a photo booth for the kids to take pics of each other and have fun. I set up all the equipment in my house tonight to make sure it all worked. It did, my kids had fun and I am now confident I can do two groups of 20 kids on Friday ... I'll post some of the pics after the workshop. Wish me luck.

Here are a couple of my kids helping me test out the equipment.

Yes I know I cut his hands/arms off, but he is so unwilling to work with me for anything lately (hello future teenager) that this was a one shot deal.

2011 Book Open for Scheduling

2011-02-07T21:45:00.003-05:00

I just updated my calendar on my website and I am now booking for 2011!

If you want a Spring session with tulips and daffodils ... now is the time!

If you want a Summer session at the beach with the sun and the surf ... now is the time!**

If you want a Fall session for your holiday cards ... now is the time!

Go to my website aliciasimonephotography.com and click on calendar. Pick your date and submit!

FYI - I will be on Cape Cod from Saturday, July 16 through Saturday, July 30. Cape Cod, Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard vacationers ... if interested, email me!

** Travel to locations beyond 25 miles of Ridgewood, NJ are subject to a fee which will be discussed at the time of booking.

The W Family ... by special request ...

2011-01-19T10:25:00.005-05:00

This was a last minute shoot on the first weekend of December. If I didn't like this family so much, I would have said no ... but I love these kids, so there we were at the park, pulling off winter coats to try and get a quick Christmas card shot. It wasn't easy ... it was FREEZING!

How to Take Better Pictures 2 Evening Workshop

2011-01-05T21:26:00.001-05:00

How Take Better Pictures

A two-evening class designed to help you get the most out of your camera!

Dates: Thursday, Feb 3rd and Thursday, Feb 10th

Time: 8:00 pm – 10:00pm

Location: My Home - 295 Bellair Road

Refreshments will be served! Part party … party school!

Cost: $75 (payment is expected to hold a spot!)

Max of 15 students … so book soon!

Day 1:

Get familiar with your camera. Get off automatic and see your pictures improve. Learn what those little buttons and icons mean, and how they can help you take better pictures. Find out how to get sharp pictures. For the DSLR crowd: at the end of the class I will touch upon lenses and demystify the thousand of choices!

Day 2:

This class will focus on editing to make your pictures better! I will use Adobe Elements in the class. A laptop might be useful with a photo editing software installed … but not essential! I’ll even show you how to clean up skin (ie … remove those annoying scratches, bruises, pimples that ruin a perfectly good picture.

What you need for both classes: A digital camera. Either SLR (the kind with the lenses that come off!) or a point and shoot (they may be tiny ... but you will be surprise what they can do!). Bring your manual (all cameras are different and you might need to refer to it!) Make sure you charge your camera and you have room on your memory card. A laptop with a photo editing software would be helpful, but not necessary.

Hope to see you here! Tell a friend!

Alicia

alicia simone
cell: 201-838-8894

website: http://aliciasimonephotography.com/
blog: http://aliciassnaps.blogspot.com/

Have great plan ... will be put to the test

2010-12-02T20:33:00.004-05:00

Thank goodness I work with great families ...

I have previously worked with this family at a local club. They are great and the kids are awesome. They were one of my last bookings of the season and I was crossing my fingers the weather would hold out. It DIDN'T! The wind was whipping off of the lake like a hurricane. I have never backed off of a spot before trying it ... I couldn't even fathom trying.

We found some secluded outside spots and then when we were fully frozen, headed inside and found an empty room with a fireplace. Worked out pretty well.

Thanks to Amy and Mike. You guys are cool!

I love daddy/daughter shots. My weakness.

M. Family ... Third Time Around

2010-11-27T21:36:00.004-05:00

I have shot the M. family three times now. I know these kids so well, it's so easy and fun. The oldest boy is my bud. We commuted to school together for a year and we bonded. He is the best. I love the younger kids too ... the daughter has such expressive eyes and the boy is such an imp ... totally my kind of kids! Thanks for sharing with me for an afternoon Kate!

Jill and Jon's son

2010-11-23T22:08:00.004-05:00

Jill is a very close friend and her husband has the BEST printing business in Northern Jersey! I have known their son since he was 2 years old. He and my son Peter were in the same playgroup and they still see each other to this day ... not as often as we would like though!

Thanks Jill and Jon!

This kid makes it too easy ....

2010-11-23T11:04:00.004-05:00

I met up with this family at their backyard and then we went over to an alley in town. I shot them last year and their daughter makes it so easy. She turns it right on for me and it gorgeous ... how easy is that!

Thanks Joe and Mere.

3 of my Favorite Kids

2010-11-19T22:09:00.004-05:00

I shot these three pain the butt kids last weekend ...

Only kidding, I LOVE these three kids. The oldest, is my son Michael's best friend, and the youngest is my daughter's best friend. My only hope for our middle kids is that they fall madly in love ... but alas, Jen's daughter is madly in love with someone else and my son Peter has just declared he is marrying a classmate.

Maybe it will work out somehow ....

Girl Cousins

2010-11-15T21:22:00.003-05:00

Two girls, very young cousins, came all the way from central NJ to see me. They are only about a year apart -but- so cute. I can happily tell their moms that they are going to be very close. My daughter lives and breathes her cousin who is a year older. They are going to have such fun times together!

Thanks Kathleen and Jodi for sharing your girls with me!

The K. Family

2010-11-14T19:45:00.005-05:00

I met up with Carol and family at a local club. I have never been there in the morning, and was a little hesitant about shooting there at the time. I couldn't have been more pleased with the results. Thanks Carol for making me step out of my late afternoon comfort zone.

Her family was so fun to work with ... thank you for sharing them with me!

Fun with Flashes

2010-11-13T21:12:00.002-05:00

I shot my friend Jen's kids and they are always game for something fun. I broke out the flash and played a little with it. I think it came out kind of cool.

Another S. Family

2010-11-12T21:23:00.004-05:00

I met up with this family in their backyard in Northern New Jersey. It's about as northern as you can go. Miss the turnoff and you are in New York pretty quickly.

This little girl had so much energy it was all mom and I could do to keep up with her. I do love this age. The wobbly walk, the inquisitiveness, the big personalities. Thanks for sharing your daughter with me. She was awesome!

I know this one is in full sun, but I just loved her expression. So sassy!

The S. Family

2010-11-10T21:24:00.004-05:00

It was a cooooold day for shooting. The temperatures plummeted the day of this shoot and we kept having to head indoors to warm up to keep the kids going. All in all, the kids were awesome to work with. Great fun and willing to smile and have fun on command. Thanks Kristen and Joe (fellow SI-lander!)

The C. Family

2010-11-02T21:19:00.005-04:00

Silvia and I have known each other since before the dawn of time it seems. We met through a local newcomers playgroup. We each had one at the time and now we all have three (or more!)

I have seen Silvia's kids grow along side of my own kids. They are great kids and I know now that her son is not allowed anywhere near my daughter when they are in high school ... he is going to be a lady killer!

The Z. Family

2010-10-26T21:04:00.004-04:00

I met up with Corey and family in Westfield, NJ. The park is VERY popular. While we were there, a Quinceañera arrived for pictures and then a wedding showed up and had a ceremony in the center of the park. I felt really bad that I found myself yelling and laughing while these poor people were having a solemn ceremony ... but oh well. I would quiet down and then realize I was yelling and laughing all over again.

The kids were awesome. Another set of three boys ... I don't envy these parents of so many boys I have been shooting lately. But then I come home to my beast (daughter) and wonder if they do have it easier. ;-)

Pam's Kids

2010-10-25T22:00:00.005-04:00

Pam is one of my best cheerleaders. She is a big supporter of local businesses and is one of the most passionate and dedicated Real Estate agents in the Ridgewood area. If are moving and on the lookout for an agent ... look no further, she'll take excellent care of you and your family.

The is our second annual shoot and I know the kids pretty well. They turned it on for me with no problem. Love them! Looking forward to next year's pics already.

Thanks Pam!

My New Assistant

2010-10-25T21:01:00.001-04:00

I love her. I want to keep her!

The M. Family

2010-10-21T11:00:00.002-04:00

This is the first set of three boys I have shot recently. There seems to be a lot of them around.

Susanne and John's boys were such nice kids. Her little guy wouldn't crack a smile no matter what I did for a long while. I finally got a little bit out of him. They all light up like Christmas trees when mom allows them to wrestle and climb on each other at the end. That is always the big event at the shoot ... go ahead, beat the pulp out of each other. Most girls I shoot get into that as well!

Thanks Susanne and John.

The B. Family

2010-10-15T22:01:00.006-04:00

Nancy and Frank's girls were a lot of fun. We met at a local nature trail and the girls had a lot of fun running around and walking out on rocks on the stream. Thanks Nancy and Frank. Hope you like your sneak peek!

Thank Heaven's ... for Little Girls!

2010-07-12T22:06:00.003-04:00

Angie's girls were a hoot! Her little one is so full of spunk and the older one, would pose and call me over to take her picture. The first picture, I asked if they were ready and they each stuck a hip out ... they were totally ready!

BTW ... I tried a new technique late in the shoot ... off camera flash. I think those pictures came out kind of cool

Angie, hope you like them. These are only a few ... more to come after vacation.

Dilly's Recital Practice - Part 2

2010-07-01T08:09:00.002-04:00

After Dilly's group finished their practice performance, Dilly and I headed outside to some shots. I so much like shooting outside better. Dilly really turned it on for me!!

Dilly's Recital Practice - Part 1

2010-06-28T11:26:00.002-04:00

Dilly is one of my favorite kids to photograph. She is so much fun and she really turned it on for her dance recital practice. I can't wait for my daughter to have her first one next year ... so CUTE!

1st Annual Client Appreciation Party

2010-06-13T20:46:00.007-04:00

My friend Pam is a realtor extraordinaire here in Bergen County. She held her first annual client appreciation party two weeks ago and asked me to photograph it for her. It was a really fun party ... pool, inflatable obstacle course, tattoos (for this kids!), an ice cream truck, sand art, dunk tank, good food, good drinks (hello Mojito!!) and an awesome DJ. A lot of fun ... can't wait for next year's party ... hint hint!

Summer ... almost booked .. fall just opened

2010-06-02T21:37:00.002-04:00

There are only a few weekend dates available this summer. Let me know if you are interested ASAP!

I just opened the books for fall, it's a first come first served basis ...

Check out my website. There is a new calendar feature where you can check availability and request appointments.

Thanks!

Alicia

Joey's Communion

2010-06-02T20:56:00.005-04:00

Joe is one of my best friends' son. I am sorry, Joe, but your sisters and I have a bond and there are far more pictures of them for your communion than of you ... Maybe the tables will be turned for their Communions.

Ava's Communion

2010-05-19T21:12:00.014-04:00

Yes ... I've been a blogger AWOL ... I'll address that another time ...

This post is all about Ava. Ava and family are friends of mine. I was thrilled to run over on her communion day and take her pictures. She looked like a little bride and was so cute and happy. I hope to see her again in a white dress ... but not for a LONG time!

Lovin' My iPhone

2010-02-27T20:08:00.003-05:00

The more I play with it, the more I love my iPhone camera. Not only do I always have it with me, but because it is so low-tech, I have to think about what I am doing. I have also investigated apps that I use to edit my images and have loved the results so far. This, on a regular camera, would have been an ordinary photo of my daughter painting on her easel. But playing with my iPhone, turned it into something (I think) extraordinary!

Tristan Came to Visit Me Again

2010-02-18T21:07:00.006-05:00

This little guy was one of the first babies I ever photographed. His face looks exactly the same to me. The only difference is that Tristan is FAST now. The last time he was here he wasn't even sitting, but sitting is the last thing he wanted to do. I tried to get shots of him on the backdrop, but gave up, followed him around and he finally obliged by the window. See you again soon Tristan!

Valentine's Day Mini Sessions - Part 3

2010-02-17T10:18:00.000-05:00

Tricia's daughter loves coming to have her picture taken. The last time she showed me her swimming form on my backdrop, this time it was yoga poses and dancing spins. Loved it!!

Thank You Aunt Lucretia

2010-02-16T13:03:00.000-05:00

Aunt Lucretia came through for me today. We are stuck inside because of a big snow storm. I went outside to get the mail and low and behold there was a package outside for the kids. Aunt Lucretia sent the kids a package for Valentine's Day with a gift for each. For me, the best one was for Anna, a bunch of Fairy Pens on necklaces and a Tinkerbell book to write in. Anna loves to write with pens, so she spent the better part of an hour sitting in the window seat of the family room quietly writing. Thanks Cretia!

Valentine's Day Mini Sessions - Part 2

2010-02-08T20:41:00.000-05:00

I love minor holidays ... Valentine's Day ... Halloween ... 4th of July... these are the days that you can accessorize and dress up ... always a blast. Here are some of my favs from this week (more are to come!):

Excuse my Blog

2010-02-07T22:08:00.000-05:00

It's experiencing growing pains and it's going to take a little time to figure it all out!

Valentine's Day Mini Sessions - Part 1

2010-02-07T21:37:00.000-05:00

Jen's kids showed up ready to party. They picked up the props and went for it. Kate and I have a bond, and she will do whatever I say when I am behind the camera. I said "Put on the glasses and give me your biggest, sauciest yell." ... and gosh darn it ... she did!

Look Ma, No Hands!

2010-02-04T14:35:00.001-05:00

What a difference two months make! This time in November Anna was clinging to me like white on rice ... and now look at her! Not even three years old yet and she can skate! Woo hoo for my girl!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Valentine's Day Mini Sessions!

2010-01-26T19:43:00.000-05:00

Celebrate with a 20 minute Valentine's Mini Session for the kids!! The session is $60.00 and will include a 20 minute studio session (for up to two kids), 5-10 final images to choose from for your (2) 4x6's (1) 5x7, and a set of (24) Valentine's Day cards showing your choice of picture. Call or e-mail me today to reserve your date and time. I will be offering these mini sessions on Tuesday, February 2nd from 9:30 am - 11:00 am and Friday, February 5th from 3:30 pm-5:30 pm. Don't forget to wear your pinks and reds in honor of Valentine's Day! All images and cards will be printed and delivered in time for your special Valentine's Day!

Rainy Day Activity

2010-01-25T11:51:00.000-05:00

We're stuck home not just because it's raining cats and dogs, but because my sweet girl is sick with a cold/fever. We pulled out our paints today, and my sick, crabby baby became a little happier.

A Day at the Natural History Museum

2010-01-18T20:50:00.001-05:00

I fully intended to take awesome pictures at the museum today. I even checked that I had a memory card in the camera as I left the house. Too bad I didn't check the battery...dead. So here is another from the iPhone.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

It's Not About the Camera

2010-01-17T17:08:00.000-05:00

It's a frequent compliment/statement I get. "I love your pictures. You must have a great camera". It's not the camera! Ansel Adams made the most incredible art from little more than
a box with a hole in it!

For the last couple of posts I have used only my crappy point and shoot (and believe me, it's terrible!) or my iPhone camera. The shots aren't art by any stretch of the imagination, but it's a great exercise for me to work with what I had and make a good picture.

My Daughter, a Marketer's Dream

2010-01-16T09:46:00.000-05:00

She will go to bed only wearing character pajammas (Princesses, Dora or Tinkerbell ONLY) with three small Dora plush dolls, one baby Ariel doll and one Dora doll that sings good night. She recently added these slippers to her bedtime collection. We had to nix her wearing her Tinkerbell hat and gloves to bed. I can't wait to see what else she tries to add.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Who knew?

2010-01-15T13:08:00.001-05:00

That you can edit your iPhone pictures in the phone (with the help of an app) to make them better?! You learn something new every day!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Yes She is Skating!

2010-01-14T17:25:00.001-05:00

Anna was actually skating without help today! That is, for the first 20 minutes. Then she laid down on the ice for the next 40 minutes and wouldn't move!

Good-bye Christmas Tree

2010-01-10T09:30:00.000-05:00

I'll miss you.

Photoshop Rocks

2010-01-05T20:45:00.000-05:00

I have been immersing myself in Photoshop CS4 over the last couple of weeks. It's been fun. I have been able to make some crappy out of the camera shots look a lot better. This picture is from our little skating outing this weekend. I brought my little crappy point and shoot (trust me, it's terrible ... it even got terrible reviews!) because I didn't want to risk falling on a big camera. One, that might hurt me and two, it might hurt the camera!

Great exercise in editing for me!

Havin' Fun with Photoshop

2010-01-04T20:51:00.000-05:00

I took this picture of Peter yesterday and didn't like it at all. But then I decided to take another look at it and played with it a little in Photoshop. I think it's better, still a snap, but cooler.

#3 in 2010 - Anna in her Bath

2010-01-03T19:16:00.001-05:00

Late in the day and I realized I didn't have anything for my post. I had taken the old point and shoot to the ice rink and was very disappointed in the pics (birthday is coming up ... hint hint Joe). Later in the day, got the kids in showers/baths and pulled out the good camera (one that doesn't suck!). It was a good test for me. The light is low, so I had to pump up the ISO, open up the aperture and give it the old college try. She looks pretty good to me!

Day #2 ... Do You Think She Likes Leaves?

2010-01-02T17:24:00.000-05:00

This wasn't taken today, but I spent a lot of time today going through pictures from the past few months of my own family that have been neglected for far too long. I love this shot because Anna LOVED the leaves this fall.

January 1, 2010 - 1st Post

2010-01-01T21:35:00.000-05:00

This is the official start of the post a day. I can't promise I'll post EVERY day (I have a feeling I might run out of ideas sometime during the year) but the idea is to challenge myself.

I took this picture of my daughter Anna today with just the light coming through the window in my mother-in-law's kitchen. Anna wasn't too pleased to be inside with all the boys outside, but she insisted on wearing her brand new sparkly shoes and the yard was a mess of mud and melted snow. We tried entertaining her, but she wasn't really happy and no smiles were forthcoming. Still not too bad.

Board (or Bored) Game Day

2009-12-31T12:07:00.000-05:00

OK ... a little late today for yesterday, but the year hasn't officially started, so I am in the clear!

My 3 nephews slept over my house night before last and yesterday we played a bunch of board games. A lot of fun for them, and a chance for me to practice of course!

I'm Cheating Today

2009-12-29T13:00:00.001-05:00

I will admit I didn't take this picture today. It is bloody cold outside and the wind is kicking up to 50mph gusts .... not picture taking weather or going anywhere weather for that matter. I did re-edit this picture though. It was part of a group family shot I did for my friend Jen and she loved the way her daughter looked, I cropped everyone else out for her. At least I am practicing with my new Photoshop CS4 program!

Getting used to the Pic a Day Post

2009-12-28T18:33:00.001-05:00

I am trying to get into the habit of taking, editing and posting a pic a day. Like I said, it might not be a work of art, but a snap of my kids doing everyday things, someone I know, etc.

This is one of the kids who takes hockey skating lessons with my sons. When I showed up for hockey with no toddler in tow and a big lens, all the moms I know wanted me to take pics of their kids. Good practice; that long lens is a beast! I also whipped out the super-duper flash and was able to zoom the flash to go as far as the lens. I got some decent shots and when the kids are really playing hockey, I'll be ready!

New Technique I am DETERMINED to Master

2009-12-27T16:17:00.000-05:00

This is a technique I am studying called Off Camera Flash. It's really cool. You'd never know this picture was taken at 2:00 in the afternoon on a very sunny day. I love the possibilities! My son just thinks he looks cool!

Getting Ready for a Pic a Day

2009-12-26T10:19:00.000-05:00

Here is a picture I "snuck" of Peter. He wasn't happy for me to be intruding in his "private time" when he realized what I was doing. I just loved him sitting in the window seat quietly reading his book and had to do it. Tough luck kid ... you'll have to get used to it this year if I am going to do a picture a day for a year.

Lofty Goal for 2010

2009-12-16T20:00:00.000-05:00

Here it is, the end of the year and what a difference a year makes. One year ago I was toying with the idea of going pro, and lo and behold here I am ... working with great people and proud of what I have done!

That being said, I have a goal in mind for this coming year and that is to take and post one picture a day on my blog every day. It might be a snap ... it might be a work of art, but it will push me to pick up that camera EVERY day and we all know if you want to improve at your craft, practice, practice practice!

To all my friends and followers out there have a happy holiday season!

Alicia

Kate and Craig's Kids

2009-12-01T21:37:00.000-05:00

These are Kate and Craig's kids. I have known their oldest Christopher, since he was in a 3-year old program at nursery school with my oldest. I have known the twins, Emily and Zach, since their mom was pregnant with them! I LOVE this family! Christopher loves to hang with my boys, and they love him right back. In fact, right after this shoot, he jumped in my car, came home with me and stayed for dinner. Love him!

Thanks Kate and Craig! You know I love your kids!

I LOVE her glasses in this next image. They are so Emily!

Little Lucas

2009-11-29T20:40:00.000-05:00

Lucas came to see me and have his picture taken just shy of turning 1 week old. This little guy is content. A good thing too, this is mom and dad's third child, so they need an easy baby. He was content to be laid down, fussed only to be fed, didn't mind having all of his clothes removed and only got cranky towards the end. No biggie though, he was wrapped in his favorite fluffy blanket and lo and behold, happy again.

Good luck Nichole and Ben. I hope this little guy stays as easy going as he is!

David and Linda's Daughter (and Dog)

2009-11-29T13:09:00.000-05:00

I met up with David and Linda, and their daughter and their new dog. It was freezing, windy and I had my three kids in tow. It was fun to say the least! There was a lot of laughing, coordinating, and yelling (on my part!) for my kids to stay out of the pictures.

David and I go WAY back (twenty + years is a long time!) He and I recently got back in touch (thank you Facebook!) and it's nice to reconnect with old friends.

Thanks for sharing your daughter with me, David and Linda. She is really cute.

Oh ... and Fred (the dog) is too!

JeanMarie & Ed's Family

2009-11-27T21:22:00.000-05:00

JeanMarie and I have known each other for a long time ... we were in Newcomers together, our kids have gone to the same preschool .... and now on to grammar school, middle school, high school ....

Her kids are too cute ... her daughter has the most soulful eyes, I just want to keep photographing them! Her son really warmed up to me when I showed him the climbing tree ... all the kids love it!

Thanks JeanMarie and Ed. I hope you like the preview!

The new website is here! aliciasimonephotography.com is online!

2009-11-26T06:54:00.000-05:00

I did it, I got a website finally. I signed on to show my work at a local holiday crafts show and realized I needed new business cards, that made me realize I needed a website to put on the cards and yadda, yadda, it's here.

aliciasimonephotography.com

PS ... stop by the Moms Making Style Holiday Boutique sale.

(I stole the following writeup from Caty Wolfe's Facebook invitation - says it all to me perfectly!)

This annual arts & crafts show is the premiere holiday gift fair (at least in my humble opinion) in Ridgewood. You'll find a selection of exquisite gifts (mostly handmade) including: apparel & assessories, jewelry, home goods, toys, etc. This is the perfect place to take care of a big chunk of your holiday shopping, so you can spend more time cookie-baking, caroling, football-watching...whatever your particular vice may be.

A portion of every sale goes to the Social Service Association of Ridgewood, a not-for-profit private agency funded primarily through the generous contributions of individuals who live and work in Northern Bergen County. The SSA provides a range of services including: food and clothing vouchers, emergency rent/mortgage and utility payments, child care scholarships, adult education assistance and holiday programs (e.g., Thanksgiving baskets).

Thursday, December 3rd
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Christ Church (across from the Stop and Shop)
Ridgewood, NJ

Wendy's Girls

2009-11-23T22:11:00.000-05:00

Wendy is a fabulous knitwear designer I know from my previous life as Newcomers to Ridgewood. We both joined Newcomers and attended knit night (that was when I had time to knit and needlepoint!) Her work is fabulous ... but by far her best work is her girls. We did this shoot as a surprise gift to her husband for Christmas. I hope he likes them and doesn't find out!

Wendy --- I have only gone through half of your pics! There are so many great ones! Thanks!

Jill and Jon's Familly

2009-11-21T21:38:00.000-05:00

Jill is one of my closest friends and it goes without saying that I will take her holiday card pic! This is her son Ryan. He knew he was going to see me and was disappointed that his friend Peter (my son) wasn't at the shoot for a playdate. Sorry Ryan ... I promise next time!

Thanks Jill and Jon ... I had a great time!

Have Studio ... Will Travel

2009-11-19T22:08:00.001-05:00

My sister-in-laws have been asking for pics for holiday cards. I kept this date open, knowing we would all be in Long Island all day; in Lucretia's fabulous back yard and I would bang all their picture out one after one and be done. Little did I know that Mother Nature had different plans. Rain ... all day. So I packed up the studio as best as possible and trekked out to the Island. I think it worked out GREAT!

So without further ado ... the Simone Grandkids!

William

Peter (my middle guy)

Michael (my oldest)

Matthew

Madeline

Daniel

Brandon

Blake

Anna (my baby girl!)

Andrew

Amanda

Amy and Mike's Family

2009-11-18T21:22:00.001-05:00

I met up with Amy, Mike and their kids this past weekend at Indian Trails. The scenery is to die for up there, but nothing beats their kids and their fabulous personalities. They are as close as I hope my kids will be (when they stop fighting!) and so cute together.

FYI people --- when I pick pictures for the sneak peak. They aren't the "best" shots necessarily. They are the pics I LOVE. I can't explain it, they just speak to me.

Thanks guys, I had a lot of fun!

UPDATE: When I wrote "when they stop fighting!" I meant MY kids! These kids were awesome! I reread the posting and wanted to make sure I got it straight!

Certain Pictures Speak to Me ... This One Did ...

2009-11-17T21:34:00.001-05:00

All my hopes for Dilly are in this one picture. I hope you can find a person you love and trust for with your life as much as you do as your big brother in this picture. If we could all be this secure in our lives as you are in this picture ... the world would be a better place.

You have to admit ... these are the cutest albums!

2009-11-10T20:37:00.000-05:00

This is a new product at Alicia Simone Photography. These little accordion albums come in a set of three (all the same). Wrapped in a ribbon ... this is the perfect gift for Grandma and Grandpa, and since there are three, Mom and Dad get to keep one too! Other cover colors are available (like pink if you have a girl - or all girls!). I showed these to some previous customers and they had to have some for the holidays!

There are images printed on both sides. I will have more "fancy" designs soon ... stay tuned!

Honestly ... I can't pick a favorite!

2009-11-09T21:36:00.001-05:00

I usually have a favorite image from a shoot, but I honestly can't choose my favorite of this group. Joe and Meredith's daughter was a pro! She gave me all I wanted and more. It didn't hurt that her parents are some of the coolest people I know and the most creative. I haven't even looked into taking furniture with me to shoots yet, and here they were hauling a chair from their house and into the middle of town.

Thanks Joe, Meredith and Hailey ... I had a good time!

Yes, their eyes are THAT blue!

2009-10-31T21:15:00.000-04:00

I took pictures of Kate's kids almost a week ago. I LOVE her kids. They are so much fun (but then again so is Kate, so it's a given!) They have the bluest eyes of any family I have ever met. Almost electric. Also, the kids LOVE the camera and putting on a show, so it was a totally natural fit. They were so cool. All I did was follow them around their yard and ask them what they wanted to do and Voila ... magic!

Thanks Kate and kids!

FOUR Boys!

2009-10-29T21:29:00.000-04:00

Allison and Jeff have four (yes I said FOUR!) boys. I only have two and I couldn't EVEN imagine two more. I give them a lot of credit as parents for still being able to put sentences together at this point! Their boys are a lot of fun and I think I need Allison to send them over to my house more. I need to get more fit and I think running around after the 4 of them would fit the bill!

Thanks Allison and Jeff ... your family is great!

Pam's Kids

2009-10-24T21:22:00.000-04:00

Pam and I have the same demographics when it comes to kids ... two boys and then a girl. These girls learn early to be the center of the family and they do a good job of it! Pam's daughter is the cutest and she and her brothers know it! She has curls I can only wish I had!

These kids were a lot of fun! Thanks Pam ... I had a blast with your kids!

Laurie & Paul's Family

2009-10-06T21:18:00.001-04:00

I have known Laurie since our oldest were two years old. 5 years later ... I just feel old! We had a great time taking pics and there were many fun times and great shots (Paul I wanna see the double hula hoop again!) but I always have favorite pics of my shoots and those are the ones take make it to the blog/sneak peek pics for the moms. They may not be the ones the parents love the best, but they are the ones I think are the coolest.

Laurie and Paul ... thank you. If I need a model for anything I do, Amber is definitely on my short list. She LOVED the camera!

Ellen and Joe's Family

2009-09-29T21:28:00.000-04:00

I photographed Ellen, Joe, their son Kobe and their dogs Hemi and Hooper (who didn't want to cooperate) this weekend. Ellen and I are good friends and Joe is in big trouble for the trick he played on me recently, so I am going to edit his pictures to make him look like he is naked (Joe - make sure you check this blog daily for the rest of your life!) Kobe was like a typical 2nd grader, too cool to take pics until I let him handle some gear (the reflector) and took pics of him playing sports (tennis). He's a great kid!

Three Sisters

2009-09-21T20:00:00.001-04:00

I have a strong affinity for sisters. I have two myself and we are as "thick as thieves" (hey, I am from Staten Island after all!). These girls made me feel like I was looking into a mirror into my life a long way back (don't make me count the years!) Very close, very in tuned and very everything else ... wait, are your names Adrienne, Alicia and Allison? Are you sure??!!

I have to thank my friend Christine for the glimpse to the past. Your girls are beautiful, bright and fun! Ali, Chloe and Lauren's dad: get ready for the teenage years and make sure you have that shotgun ready!

Ann, JP & Family

2009-09-18T09:38:00.000-04:00

Ann, JP and the kids and I met up at Indian Trails, a pretty club in Franklin Lakes, NJ. Great place to take pics of a terrific family. The kids are all super nice and fun. They loved jumping, hiding in the reeds, getting in the sand (all except the youngest daughter, who didn't want to get dirty!) and hamming it up for me. Thanks guys!

Blake

2009-09-09T21:50:00.000-04:00

Blake was born 2 days before my Anna, so I literally watched him grow along side of my daughter. He is full of personality and a lot of fun. When Anna and I had to head out of a family ceremony (for obvious reasons - ie. we call her the beast) and Blake did too, I grabbed the camera and started shooting at the two of them on the playround. As they say, the cobbler's kids have no shoes, so there are no shots of Anna. All Blake! FYI, not ideal shooting circumstances. Full sun at noon ... ugh! Some cute ones of blake though!

Madeline

2009-09-07T07:52:00.000-04:00

My niece Maddie is one of my favorite models. She loves the camera and it loves her back. This weekend the whole family got together and I tried to get some shots of all the grandchildren for my in-laws. That didn't work out (11 cranky kids at the end of a long celebratory day ... definitely don't try it at home!) but Maddie was willing! She is going to be gorgeous when she grows up!

Newborn Sessions

2009-09-04T17:32:00.001-04:00

Just a shout out to all you expecting moms .... if you are interested in a newborn shoot, the best time to do it is within the first week. They still have that newborn snuggliness. If you're interested, let me know when your due date is and call me as soon as you deliver or get home from the hospital ... we will make it happen!

The question I get asked most is ...

2009-08-30T20:11:00.001-04:00

What should we wear? I have many bookings for the next couple of months and I think about half of them asked me for clothing advice. You can do the matching (all white shirts, or all blue, etc.) but I LOVE color and texture. I have put together a couple of looks for the family. Two are from a combo of The Gap and Old Navy and the third is from Nordstrom. This is just a guide ... the best rule of thumb is to wear what you like and what you (and more importantly the kids) feel comfortable in.

Here they are ....

Fall appointments are going fast

2009-08-25T18:12:00.000-04:00

I am already booked through September, so if you want to schedule your family for a fall/holiday picture session, let me know! (201) 838-8894 or aliciadsimone@yahoo.com.

Pump up the ISO

2009-08-17T07:34:00.000-04:00

You would never know by these pictures, but it was almost dark outside. I was playing with the camera as the kids were running around playing a game of Manhunt on our last night in Cape Cod. I pumped up my ISO, opened up my lens all the way to 2.8, brought my speed down low and started panning. It was a fun exercise for me ... and they had a good time too!

Cape Cod Rail Trail

2009-08-15T15:16:00.001-04:00

One of the things we have wanted to do for years was the Cape Cod Rail Trail, a 24+ mile bike trail that goes through the center of the cape. Naturally, we didn't do the whole 24+ miles (more like 9, but still respectable with 2 little kids cycling with us and one on the back kicking me the entire way) and stopped for lunch at a little restaurant right along the trail.

It was nice to see another side of the cape. The lakes that dot the interior landscape are really pretty and serene and the bike trail was a nice diversion after many days on the beach.

Sadly, my idea of a good restaurant, is one that provides crayons.
And this one did ... two thumbs up!

Vacation - Part Deux

2009-08-14T12:07:00.001-04:00

One day on the beach the kids (and that includes some of the supposed adults) had a raucous water fight. Everyone had a bucket and the only thing that kept me dry was yelling "NOT THE CAMERA!!!"

Jen and Dan's Kids + 1

2009-08-13T13:03:00.001-04:00

My friend Jen asked me to take a quick picture of her kids and a cousin for their great-grandmother's 95th birthday present. I took a 15 minute break on Sunday from canning tomatoes and plopped all the kids on my front lawn. Voila ... Grandma is going to love it!

I've Been Bad ... I Know

2009-08-13T08:34:00.000-04:00

Blogging hasn't been high on my list of priorities lately, but it is going to get higher on my list ASAP.

I finally edited ALL the pictures from our 2 weeks in Cape Cod. 3o0+ pictures took a long time to sort through.

Here is a first set. There are so many, I am going to post a few per day.

For one minute, no one was whining, no fighting and no crying.
I had to capture this RARE moment!

Has it been a month??!!

2009-07-23T13:19:00.000-04:00

Yes, I have been a blogging delinquent for over a month. I have been super busy with the kids and life and now that we are on Cape Cod, I have picked up my camera again. I am going to try to blog at least every other day from the cape ... we'll see.

The weather has been 50/50 like it can be up here. Even though it is very overcast today, my boys are digging in the sand and making the largest trench I have ever seen them make. Their cousins Joe and John are helping them and watching 5-year old Peter annoy his 12 year old cousin John is very amusing. I was joking around with John and I said to him "You love Peter, you know you do" and his reply was "Only off of the beach." Priceless.

Here is a quick one of Anna at the playground this morning. She definitely has my crazy hair!

Silvana AND EJ'S Newest Baby

2009-06-18T13:36:00.000-04:00

I just took pictures of Silvana and EJ's FOURTH child. Gabriella was almost a week late and I was starting to wonder if she would ever come out. She was a good baby for me. She really liked the lights. I think I'll send them to Sil's house so she can catch a break.

Welcome to the world little Gabby (that's what I am going to call her!)

I have to thank Pascale Wowak for this first shot ...
she gave me the idea for this pose.

Peter's Preschool Graduation

2009-06-13T19:04:00.000-04:00

My little guy is off to kindergarten this fall. He's the one who still wants to be with me 24/7 (we don't call him the velcro kid for nothing!) He wants to be held, hugged, kissed, etc., all the time. I guess it won't last long. It will be soon that he doesn't want to be seen near me.

Excuse the many pictures. When most people see me with my camera, they ask me to see if I can snap a picture of their kid. I try to accommodate, but that day my flash was acting all wonky and cycling really slow (note to self: carry extra batteries ALL THE TIME!) I did my best.

Peter's Idea of a "Good" Mother

2009-06-12T09:13:00.000-04:00

Peter's teacher asked all the kids to draw a picture of their mom and them and why they loved their mother. This is why he loves me:

Not because I gave birth to him, feed him, clothe him, kiss away all of his boo boos. Nope, not my boy. It's because I buy him toys.

End of School Parties

2009-06-11T17:17:00.000-04:00

Peter's preschool ended for the year yesterday (sniff!) There were many parties and celebrations this week and last week. Here are some pictures from the parties. I still have one more party tomorrow and 110 pictures from his moving up ceremony to go through ... looks like some late nights for me!

ALL the Prom Pics

2009-06-03T22:24:00.000-04:00

Here they are ... whew ... that was a ton of editing ... and I loved every minute of it!

Ridgewood Prom

2009-06-01T20:18:00.000-04:00

I photographed a prom party as a gift to Miss Debbie. If you live in Ridgewood, and have small children, you know Miss Debbie. She has been teaching my kids for years. It was nice to be able to give back.

Her daughter is beautiful and a sweetie. Her son ... well, I'm just glad my daughter is only 2. I just can't remember EVER looking this great in high school. But then again, I was a teen in the big 80's and our hair was big, our dresses were poufy and we wore toooo much makeup.

Congrats Brittany and friends and thanks for the preview ... now I know what my life might look like in 10 years when my kids are going to the prom.

Brittany & Louis

The next one is my favorite picture of the day.
Many years from now, Brittany will really appreciate this picture.

This is Debbie's son. You can see why I am glad why my daughter is 2!

One Fast Baby!

2009-05-31T21:22:00.000-04:00

Man was this was kid fast! Put him down and --- zoom --- off he was. I guess it makes sense. His mother IS a triathlete. The mom, Sara, was the first person to trust me to take pics of her kids and I will forever be grateful to her for that. So Sara, I hope you like these. I think I have improved a little since our first time ... ;-)