amanda baker photography

2011- A Year of Artistic and Personal Growth

2012-01-02T16:04:00.000-07:00

Thoughts and Reflections- 2011 meet 2012

2012-01-02T13:05:00.002-07:00

Wouldn't luck have it! I get sick about twice a year, and I feel sick to my first 2012 illness on New Year's Eve. So this post comes a little late because my thoughts were running like muddy waters for a few days. I'm on the up and up, with a raspy, and sexy baritone voice. I am excited for the new ventures in 2012, and wanted to share some of my thoughts.

Now I know that some people feel like the New Year is just another day on the calendar, but a lot of people feel like this is a new start, a clean slat, and a chance to get refocused and set some new goals. This year I decided to set some goals, but not your norm. Not the empty promises of going to the gym more or eating healthier all year. I decided to set some goals based on some successes, and failures of mine in 2011.

My 2011 Wedding season was a good one for me. I had some amazing clients that hired me for their weddings and I had a blast! I really feel like I am beginning to embrace my shooting style, and technique more and more with every wedding, or photo shoot. I am really loving what my style is evolving into to, and what I am growing into. As a photographer, there is always this little voice in the back of your head reminding you how everyone else does things. One of the biggest triumphs is being able to say to yourself, "I admire how they do it, but I am going to do it a bit different." This really hit home after the Free to Create photo workshop. I really began to see how every photographer, working in the exact same location, with the exact same model, views things differently. No two photos looked the same. In my years of shooting, I am also realizing that most of my passion comes from shooting, not just making money to pay the bills. For me, it's about finding the balance between being a creative person, and being a creative person who owns a business.

For the past two years I have done at least two, if not three, charity shoots, or fundraisers to help those less fortunate. Last year I shot the 6th Annual PJ Day which is a huge fundraiser for Denver's homeless organized by Mile High United Way, Denver Road Home, and many other terrific sponsors including Governor Hickenlooper. Last year they raised over $800k to help misplaced persons and families and I was the lucky photographer that documented the entire event, alongside my amazing assistant Anna Lusby.

Just when I was looking to do another charitable event, I was presented with a great opportunity to work with the lovely ladies who created A Vote & A Vow, an organization that supports the equality rights of the LGBT community, back in October. Some very talented and giving photographers came out to donate their time, including myself, to support their Shoot out Hate fundraiser. The proceeds went to Dane Hall, a man who feel victim to a horrific hate crime outside of a Salt Lake City gay club. The proceeds of this shoot were donated to help pay for his astronomical medical bills.

In November of 2011 I came across what will soon be my new studio space in mid-January. It is located in the historic Laundry on Lawrence building, a beautiful and industrial feeling space that will be the new work space/play space for photographers, web designers, graphic designers, and much more! When I came across this space, it was undergoing a major face lift and was in the full demo phase. I fell in love with the building, and the idea of the artistic community I will soon be part of. I am excited for this space for so many reasons! I will no longer have to cart around all my studio samples, portfolios, and other odds in ends to meet clients in crowded coffee shops or restaurants. I will be able to create an environment that is both comfortable and 100% me. I will be able to participate in monthly art shows, and any other events that take place, including the Laundry on Lawrence Grand Opening held on January 27th, 2012. This, in and of itself, is one huge factor in my goal assessments for 2012.

All that being said here's some of my objectives for 2012.

Embrace my studio for all the potential that it has. Make each client meeting as unique, and comfortable as possible for potential clients. This space is a huge blessing, and I will utilize it as a place to grow, both personally and professionally, to network, and I will meet some new and inspiring people!
Book more weddings based on who my ideal client is.
Shoot more portrait sessions in a photo-journalistic way.
Create a photo timeline with my new Bridal clients.
Network, network, network, and network!!!
Focus on some new marketing techniques.
Make new contacts with vendors.
I will (see #20) participate as much as possible in The Space Creators monthly Second Saturday Art Shows.
I want to shoot more personal work, and work with film!
I need to schedule out my days, down to when I take lunch, or take a Facebook break, and stick to it! I have always struggled with staying on track during the slower months.
With the help of Siri, I will be able to manage all those little tasks that pop-up through out the day. (I am totally loving this new phone, and Siri is pretty hilarious).
I would love to shoot a story. . . more details to come!
Learn more new lighting techniques.
Practice shooting once a month with people.
Focus on one task at a time. It is too easy to feel overwhelmed when you bury yourself in projects, and how productive is multitasking anyway?
Stay focused and stay positive! Let's face it, we are all our own worst critics, and I think artist might be especially hard on themselves.
Travel by train to somewhere new. Maybe SF?
Make personal time for myself.
Make personal time for myself, my husband, and our dog, Bacon.
Use words like 'will', and 'when,' instead of words like 'hope,' 'try,' and 'if.' Plant a positive seed from the get go when taking on new endeavors.
Vacation in a new country.
Listen more and talk less, in all aspects of life.
Keep positive people in my life and filter out those who bring me down with negative energy.
Remember the things to be grateful for.
Share more of myself (on a personal level) with those around me by communicating better, and opening up more.

Matt, Robin, Kelan, Koston- A Day in the Park

2011-12-02T14:03:00.001-07:00

One thing I love about Colorado is one day will be gloomy, cold, or unpleasant, then you get a day like this. Sunshine, warm temperatures, and calm winds. What a perfect day to get the kids out to the park and get some great formal portraits, and some fantastic candid photos.

I really enjoy letting kids be kids, and started off the session with fast paced formals, to keep their attention, then we moved on to some less traditional photographs, that focused on Kelan and Koston being kids. I enjoyed letting them play, and moved mom and dad into their playtime, and got them to work around them.

Everyone did an outstanding job! Their kids were feed, happy, and excited to get out into the sun. I was so pleased to see how well behaved everyone was, and this session went off without a hitch! I always have so much fun with my clients. Thanks for the great afternoon filled with laughs, and it was great catching up with you all.

I think I am getting the knack of family sessions! Here are a few of my favorites from the day.

Andy, Lynsey, & Harper

2011-12-01T12:31:00.001-07:00

Doesn't it just figure that the day of our family session in Washington Park was incredibly chilly, and super windy?!? (The rest of the week was high 60's and sunny. Good ol' Colorado weather for you). We had a back up plan fortunately, because everyone was frozen after 10 minutes in the park, and sweet little Harper is not a fan of the cold. Cold + Harper = Tears.

After playing in the park for a few, we all decided maybe it would be better if we headed to Lynsey and Andy's house, warmed up, and just let Harper be Harper in an environment that was more comfortable, both warmth wise, and familiarity.

It was such a pleasure to see you all together, and look into your lives for a few hours. Andy and Lynsey, you have a beautiful family and I look forward to more photo sessions as Harper grows. I also learned I need to work on my stuffed animal and hand puppet voices. Maybe you could coach me on this, or loan me that fish puppet for practice? :)

California Dreaming in Venice Beach

2011-11-23T14:08:00.001-07:00

So the husband and I mixed some pleasure with our business trips and stayed in California for a few extra days to celebrate my birthday, since we were both out there for work anyway. I had never been to Venice Beach, but Brad promised me no shortage of people watching. I was eager to get out too, because the previous day had been rainy and windy.

My husband and I took a nice little stroll through Venice Beach, where one of our favorite shows is filmed. In my High School Photography class, (Yikes! That seems like forever ago), one of my favorite things to shoot was people when they didn't know there was a camera on them, and I always enjoyed the little things through my lens. We did some serious people watching, and got some good shoots. This was such a nice break from creating a photograph and having control over most the elements. I stood between 70-210mm away, and shot away. Here's a little sampler from our Venice Beach experience!

The basketball court on the right is where "White Men Can't Jump" was filmed.

Practice Makes For a Fun Shoot with Darcey and Jb

2011-09-30T13:16:00.003-06:00

So there's an old saying that practice makes perfect, but I think we all know that once you have really mastered something, there is nothing left to learn. I love what I do, and what I love most about it is there is always something to learn. New shooting techniques, new gear, new posing techniques, new lighting, new venue, new clients, new city, new state, and my favorite, seeing something new in something I have done before.

I have recently decided to undergo some changes, both personally, and with my business. I have decided to be more open, talk more, share more, put myself out there more, meet new people, set new goals, and really look at my business, and myself, from a different light. So far, it has been amazing, and a little scary.

With all that being said, one of my goals is to just get out there and practice shooting people. I get to work with people all the time, but I never get to just practice. I honestly can't remember the last time I went out with a couple and had no specific goal other than to work with them, work the angles, work the lighting, and not work while under any sort of time constraints.

Thank you Darcey and Jb for taking some time out of your day and going out with me to shoot. Thank you for your patience while I toyed around with new lighting techniques, and we jumped from spot to spot. I really enjoyed the day with you guys, and I really loved your 'surprise prop.' I will admit I had no clue what it was, nor did I think it would be something that spectacular. I wish I could shoot every couple by your mom's VW Bug! Here are a few of my favorite photos.

How great is the 'surprise prop' ?!?!?

Ashley Bangs & John Houston- Omni Interlocken Resort

2011-09-19T15:25:00.000-06:00

The day began with a relaxed bride, Ashley, and a room full of close friends and family. There is nothing better than walking into a room, and seeing the bride-to-be laughing, and smiling. I was taken aback by Ashley's classic beauty, and her ease in front of the camera. There were beautiful decorations everywhere, the flowers were absolutely gorgeous, and this couple really went all out for a unique, and gorgeous wedding. This day really went off without a hitch, and we enjoyed chatting with Ashley, John, and their guests after our work was done.

This was also my last wedding with my wonderful assistant, Anna Lusby. I would also like to thank her for being my right hand woman for the past two years, at many weddings, and some other great shoots. It was such a pleasure working with you, and I hope Seattle treats you and the family well. I will miss you in years to come!

Thank you John & Ashley, for having us as your photographers!

Scott Walker of Allan Perry Floral - Flowers

Chaelynn Pacheco- Event Planner at the Omni Interlocken Resort

Shamane's Bake Shoppe- Cake

Dwight Howe- Class of 2012

2011-09-08T17:16:00.000-06:00

I have not shot Senior Portraits since I shot my own in 1998, and my sister's back in 2002. This was long before I knew, or even wanted to be, a professional photographer. But enough about me, let's talk photos!

I had such a fun time shooting with Dwight. He had struck me as quiet, reserved, and maybe even a bit shy the first few times I had met him. I was so incredibly wrong! He's outgoing, funny, and surprised me with his outgoing sense of humor. This was an incredible experience, and I found myself laughing throughout the entire shoot, and again in post-production.

That being said, I am looking forward to working with more Seniors! It was such a fun change of pace for me, and I really enjoyed shooting without time constraints, or the fear of being a bit silly myself. Here are a few from the shoot.

First Ever (for me) Photo Booth!!!!

2011-08-29T17:21:00.000-06:00

This was so much fun! I was laughing so hard I was near tears, and there were even a few times when I had to step back and take a breather to avoid a laughing fit. No one was even remotely shy about using the props, and having some fun. As the night progressed, things got really wild. People were standing in line, waiting their turn. Anna, my assistant, and I, were even invited to do a few shots with the group. My first ever photo booth was a hit, and I plan on doing it again! Thank you Leah & Pete for making this all possible.

Free to Create Workshop- A Quick Video on the Day

2011-08-22T16:08:00.001-06:00

Thank you Stortyline Cinema for coming out for this fun day, documenting it, and sharing this video. Take a peek inside a day of a photographer.

Free to Create Workshop 2011 from StoryLine Cinema LLC on Vimeo.

I Heart Faces - Pet Week

2011-08-22T13:34:00.002-06:00

My husband and I spoil this little mutt! Meet Bacon, and just one reason we love her.

Free to Create- A Photoworkshop in the Country

2011-08-19T10:19:00.000-06:00

What happens when you put a handful of talented, and fun loving photographers together in a stunning location with multiple models, tons of camera gear, and new tips and tricks? Well, you end up with a bunch of photographers running around like overgrown kids at Disney World!

This industrious location held some amazing gems- old railroad tracks, a dilapidated factory, old cars, rusted out farming equipment, silos, crates, concrete and brick walls, and the places to shoot go on and on! We kicked the day off with a little session focusing on off-camera lighting, then learned some fun off-camera flash tricks for Nikon users, a fun photo challenge, and some great light painting demonstrations by Rj Kern. Afterwards, all the photographers disappeared to their favorite spots for hours to take some photos on their own. Here are a few of my favorite images shot at this workshop. It was well worth the 800 miles I drove in 24 hours to make it to this! Thank you Scott, Aylssa, Ross, Rj, Angie, and Andy, (just to name a few), for sharing your knowledge, jokes, and equipment.

This workshop was organized, and hosted by, Scott Stebner, and his lovely wife Alyssa in Sterling, Colorado. Documented by StoryLine Cinema, LLC.

Lisa looking beautiful.

Two of my favorites of Jodi.

Jodi making the sunset look good!

Chrissy Coffinger, an Elegant Bride and Amazing Do-It-Yourselfer!

2011-08-16T14:39:00.006-06:00

Andy Wise & Chrissy Coffinger's DYI Approach.

Chrissy Coffinger is a truly talented designer, and artist. She handled some serious business making her own table runners, seating charts, floral arrangements, sign in board, and place cards, just to name a few. I love her style, and approach to all their wedding details. I especially loved their old photographs in lieu of a traditional photo slideshow. Here is a little taste of what made their wedding so unique.

Andrew Wise & Chrissy Coffinger- A Wedding at Boettcher Mansion

2011-07-08T00:00:00.006-06:00

This was an interesting week. Everyday at about 5 p.m. it seemed as though though the sky split open, and poured, no, more like dumped, rain. It flooded many places throughout Colorado, closed major roads, flooded homes, and caused some serious traffic delays. We all felt a little nervous about the outdoor ceremony the following day, or at least I did!

Upon finding Chrissy incredibly relaxed on her wedding day, I soon forgot about the dark clouds moving east towards us. The entire room was filled with smiles, tears, laughter, and love that could outshine any cloudy day.

Thank goodness the rain came to a stop right before their ceremony, and gave us just enough time for some outdoor shots before starting up again. Everything went off without a hitch! As the sun came back out during dinner, we were amazed to see sunny skies and a beautiful rainbow. It was really quite a poetic day. A big thank you to Andy & Chrissy, their family, and friends, for making it such a remarkable day! It was such a treat to work with everyone.

Venue: Boettcher Mansion

Events Coordinator: Laurie Vogt

Catering: Hillary MacArthur at Gourmet Fine Catering

Florist: Susie Web

Dress: Vera Wang from Anna Be

Hair & Makeup: Deona Hurd at Bad Kitty Salon

Custom Rings: Tin's Designs

Personal Trainer: Sara Cook at Mind Body Battalion!

Kathi + Shad + One on the Way = A Fun Day in the Park!

2011-05-22T17:30:00.008-06:00

I have been lucky to have known Kathi and Shad for many years now. They're such great people, and it was an absolute hoot to get to photograph them during their pregnancy.

We all got together on a sunny Sunday, and played around in the park. We took a less conventional approach to capturing their pregnancy, along with their dog Zoey, and we got some great shots! I might add that Zoey is the most amazing dog, ever, to work with. She was always exactly where she needed to be, with no direction on our part. I'm so glad to have gotten this opportunity, and I can't wait to meet the little lady that will soon be on her way, and into the loving arms' of her Mom & Dad. Thank you so much Kathi & Shad. (I would also like to thank the talented Anna for coming out, and shooting with us too)!

Kellie Lutz & Josh Manson

2010-12-06T14:35:00.002-07:00

The final wedding of the year, and I couldn't have asked for better lighting, fall colors, or a cute couple! While Kellie was getting ready, her sweet little dogs wanted in on the action, and decided to participate while she was getting into her dress. We laughed as she got dressed, and with a little coaxing with dog treats I was able to clear the area. Thanks Kellie & Josh, for sharing your day with me!

Lost Vegas Collection

2010-12-03T14:44:00.003-07:00

Thank you to everyone that attended, and helped support a great cause! 12 pieces were sold raising $500.00 for Physicians for Peace | Seeing Clearly. The artwork will remain up through December at The Hornet. All photographs are printed on Kodak Metallic Photographic Papers, and are mounted on 3/4" Masonite for a dramatic standout affect when hung. All prints are available for purchase, and if the one you like has been sold, please contact me and another can be ordered! Here's a slideshow of the photographs, and the opening reception. I must admit, the prints look much better in person! Hope you enjoy!

(first ever) first friday: new photographic works by amanda baker

2010-10-29T22:20:00.009-06:00

I am excited to announce that I will be displaying my photographs for the first time ever! The Old Strip in the Fremont District of fabulous Las Vegas is the inspiration for my most current collection.

Amada Baker’s “Lost Vegas Collection” will be showing at The Hornet Restaurant, November 5th through December 2nd. An opening reception will be held Friday, November 5th from 6-9pm.

All proceeds from these photographs will benefit the Physicians for Peace: Seeing Clearly Program. I couldn't imagine what my life would be like without the gift, and ability to see clearly. This Charitable organization was brought to my attention by VonZipper Sunglasses and their Charity for Clarity program. I found their cause to be very inspiring, and began to think how fortunate I am, and wanted to pay it forward.

Here's the skinny on Physicians for Peace | Seeing Clearly

In the developing world, faced with a dire crisis in health care, access to vision care and treatment is often a low priority. Yet in most cases, a standard vision exam and access to prescription glasses is all that is needed for a patient to see clearly, often for the first time in his or her life.

The Philippines is a perfect example of a country facing this situation. Spread over 700 islands, access to decent medical care is almost non-existent for a large percent of the population. When care is available, people may have to travel hundreds of miles to receive it. The Seeing Clearly Program created the first eyeglass bank in the Philippines in 2004, and an optometry clinic in 2006. Through the program and facilities, medical professionals are trained to use sophisticated equipment to determine the prescription strength of donated eyeglasses and to provide comprehensive eye exams to patients, who then receive either appropriate medical treatment or a pair of prescription glasses.

Eric Wiebusch & Michael Krikorian

2010-10-15T19:34:00.042-06:00

Eric and Michael are an amazing couple to work with and even better to know! I have worked with them on multiple occasions, and it has always been a great time. The couple began their preparations at the Oxford Hotel, followed by a touching Commitment Ceremony at Translations Gallery. Their family and friends gathered to share this day with them with smiles on there faces, and laughter in their hearts. Dinner was an array of sweet, and delicious breakfast items like Lucky Charms, Scones, and, my favorite, French Toast on a stick. It was such an experience to be around so many generous and kind people!

Patrick Kelly & Valerie Gass

2010-09-22T11:51:00.020-06:00

A beautiful day spent in downtown Denver, and then an amazing cocktail hour on Coors Field with plenty of time to work with this amazing couple all around the field! It was a first for me, being on home plate, the pitchers mound, the guest locker room, the dugouts, and the bullpen. Quite the photo opp, and it couldn't have been with a better couple!

Javier Rodriguez-Winter & Thelma Briseno

2010-07-30T16:00:00.041-06:00

Such an spectacular Wedding! The day began in Toledo, Ohio's impressive Botanical Gardens. The plants were lush, green, and there wasn't the slightest chance for rain. Javier and Thelma have a very eclectic style that could be seen in every detail of their wedding. It was a day filled with laughter, tears of joy, family, friendship, and love. It was such a fun day I barely remember the insects that dined on me, the 92˙, or the 90% humidity! It was such a great event and I feel very fortunate to have been part of so many memories. Thank you Javier and Thelma, for having me as your photographer in Toledo!

Anna & Patrick Lusby

2009-09-07T13:00:00.009-06:00

I spent some time with Anna and Patrick right before their little baby girl was born. They are an adorable couple and Anna looked fabulous four weeks before the baby was born!

Josh & Jodi Niernberg

2009-09-05T15:34:00.006-06:00

On September 5th, 2009, Josh and Jodi shared their heartfelt vows with their friends, family, and each other at the Four Mile Historic Park in Cherry Creek. The reception followed at Space Gallery where Josh shared his culinary diversity with me. Now I know why Jodi gave me look of hesitation as I ate some strange pate on a cracker. Had I listened more carefully to the things she will never eat, it could have saved me a minute of embarrassment as I politely informed Josh it wasn't my cup of tea. I had a amazing day shooting with Josh and Jodi!

It's Been A While. . .

2009-08-31T15:50:00.000-06:00

So far this summer has been great! My Husband Brad and I tied the knot on June 13th, 2009 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. We got married in an intimate music venue called Wasted Space. It was offbeat, simply beautiful, and really fit Brad and I's style and taste! Having met at the Gothic Theater at a local show, this venue just really made sense to us.

We had a sensational wedding coordinator named Christie of CLM Wedding & Events , who has since hired a Colorado coordinator by the name of Alex Hatch. You can even check out some of our wedding photos, shot by the talented and extraordinary Eric Asistin, who everybody loved!

Everything really went off without a hitch, thanks to the outstanding staff of The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, especially Brandi Payne.

Having recently gone through the joys and hurdles of planning a unique wedding, and trying to make as many people happy as possible, including us, has really changed my perspective on shooting weddings. It has given me a greater understanding of the euphoria and stress a bride-to-be, groom-to-be, family and friends can really go through during this time.

So cheers to all of you planning weddings! I wish you all the most amazing day ever!

-Amanda
Amanda Baker Photography

Nick and Melina Gotelaere

2008-08-08T15:15:00.001-06:00

August 8, 2008
Nick and Melina exchanged vows on August 8th, 2008. The weather was gorgeous throughout the whole wedding ceremony. We had a blast shooting the Bridal party at the Denver skate park, where all of Melina's and Nick's friends joined them in the bowl. I had a great time with this couple, and all their friends and family. Thanks guys! Want to see more photos from their wedding? Click here.

Lynsey Long & Andy Mcmullen- April 25, 2008

2008-04-25T15:57:00.000-06:00

April 25th, 2008

Friends and family of Lynsey and Andy gathered at St. Peter & St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Denver, Colorado to share the emotional union of this amazing couple. The festivities continued at the Westin Hotel, Tabor Center, with cake cutting, good eats, and tons of dancing. I had an incredible time, and there was no shortage of wonderful images.

Lynsey Long & Andy Mcmullen Engagement

2007-12-04T15:34:00.001-07:00

Lynsey and Andy braved a cold December afternoon to get some great shots in. We all laughed through the cold, and slippery, afternoon. They were a blast to work with! Thanks guys, you're my first blog post.