Just a quick entry to show some recent publication work. We had a great time working with a stellar group of people on this job and the final images are a testament to what great teamwork can accomplish! A BIG thank you goes out to the following:

Hair Stylist: Catherine Crum

Make Up: Sula Skiles

Floral Arrangement: Stacey Halstead

Gowns: Victoria’s Bridal

Enjoy the photos & don’t hesitate to call or email us with any questions!!

Cheers!!

Travis Duncan

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At Long Last … I have our workshop images POSTED!!! Yipppieeeee!!!!

Sorry it’s taken me so long, but we’ve simply been buried with client work, the holidays, destination weddings, and oh yeah … a BLIZZARD!!

In any case …

This fantastic workshop was hosted by the Greater Area – Kansas City PPA.

We had a great time, had some great models to work with, and had some good fun. We also managed to learn a thing or two and hopefully – we even came away with some nice images and new inspiration for all!

Now, I’ve gotten several emails and phone calls from many of my students wanting to see what we captured during the workshop, which is what we’re blogging about today.  I tried my best to illustrate some of what we discussed during the workshop … things like: composition, lines of interest, selective focus techniques, dodging and burning, etc … etc ..

Having said that, I know this entry is “less that complete” in terms of detailed descriptions on our technique … SO …

… let me know if you need any additional descriptions, or techniques described in greater detail, and I’ll be happy to assist. Maybe over the phone? So please … don’t hesitate to give me a call or shoot me an email or leave a comment!

Last but certainly not least … I’d like to give a special shout out & thanks to Jim Newell for all of his help and support during our workshop & especially for helping out with the gear!! Thanks Jim!! You made my life a LOT easier!

-tduncan

First and Foremost - Our Class Photo!

Now on to technique …

I tried to show a few different images that illustrate our “before images” … (in other words … “straight” out of the camera files)

… and then contrast those with our finals. (aka – images that have been processed in Lightroom & Photoshop.)

*Disclaimer … these images will look different from monitor to monitor, and I’m not 100% savvy with the sRGB color space, so please bear that in mind when going back through our results posted here. Thanks!

Before Portrait of our Wedding Couple

After Portrait of our Wedding Couple

Low Light Portrait shot at 1600 ISO

Before

After

Next thing I wanted to post were a few of our album design concepts we discussed during our workshop. Hopefully the photos will be illustration enough for you, but please don’t hesitate to call or email me if you have any questions about how & why etc … etc …

Our Album Design Software of Choice

I’m using the white line you see below, to help illustrate where the gutter would be in your design. Just FYI

Sample of splitting your group shots across two pages

Well that’s it guys!! I hope it helped, and please don’t hesitate to leave comments, or give me a call or shoot me an email if you have need for any additional help with these ideas!! – and thanks for reading!!

Travis Duncan

We had the wonderful opportunity to photograph BOTH – the 2010 and 2011 Miss Missouri Winners, during a very recent magazine shoot with HER Magazine. Ashley Strohmier & Hope Driskall (both from Jefferson City) and were chosen for the editorial cover content, in the theme of “Women of History” which should be on newsstands sometime in March. We’ve been very fortunate to have worked with both of these young ladies in the past, and wish them the best of luck in all their future endeavors.

-Thanks for the great shoot ladies!!!

~tduncan

Magazine Shoot – Nov, 2010 from Travis Duncan on Vimeo.

The first International Special Olympics Summer Games were held in Chicago in 1968. Anne McGlone Burke, a physical education teacher with the Chicago Park District, began with the idea for a one-time Olympic-style athletic competition for people with special needs. Burke then approached Eunice Kennedy Shriver, head of the Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation, to fund the event. Shriver encouraged Burke to expand on the idea and the JPK Foundation provided a grant of $25,000. More than 1,000 athletes from across the United States and Canada participated. At the Games, Shriver announced the formation of Special Olympics.

We have been very blessed to have worked with the Missouri chapter of the Special Olympics since 2006. With each new project and campaign that we tackle, we ALWAYS come away with a newly refreshed sense of joy and accomplishment! Special thanks goes to Mandy Steward for coordinating this wonderful shoot at the always beautiful Tan-Tar-A resort! We had a blast Mandy!!

Enjoy the photos!

tduncan

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We just returned from Isla Mujeres Mexico last week, and we’re still raving about it!

During our time on the island we saw and experienced many amazing things including; wonderful foods, amazing people, beautiful colors, fantastic crafts, cheerful sounds, and so MUCH more … but above all … we feel BLESSED to have been chosen to photograph the wonderful wedding celebration of Kelly McElroy & Chris Wallace. (yes … wedding photos WILL be coming soon, so sit tight!

– But until then –

I’m excited to be sharing some of my travel work with you!

This is the first of (hopefully) many entries to come in the field of travel photography. In this series, you’ll be seeing a variety of different styles and techniques that we normally don’t publish. Ranging from bright bold colour images, to a much more pastel & muted/distressed approach … the streets of Isla offered up so much in the way of inspiration! For me, it was almost impossible to photograph in a singular style, while maintaining the integrity of any given “sense of place”. To embellish the photos a bit – I also thought it might be helpful to give you a brief glimpse of the islands history via our good friends as IslaMujeres.net so here it is!

Long before Cancun was even a glint a developer’s eyes, Isla Mujeres open it’s arms to tourists from around the world. Some older residents of the island tell stories of tourists signaling from a make-shift dock near where Puerto Juarez stands today. Son’s of local fisherman would take small launches over to the mainland and pick up visitors for their stay on the island. Eventually, Isla established a regular ferry service, making runs to Puerto Juarez once or twice a day and in the last few years, every half hour.

Isla Mujeres is the easternmost point of Mexico, the frontier of eastern Mexico, and the Mexican Navy base was established in 1949 . Fishing was still the main source of income; it wasn’t until recent years that Tourism became a large part of the island. In 1967, the Mexican Government and its water department (C.A.P.A), with the help of many local divers, install an under-the-sea purified water piping system, the first in the world. The 6″ pipes were replaced with 8″ pipes in 1988 the same year Hurricane Gilbert hit the island, which partially destroyed the Mayan temple on the south point. The last few years have seen tremendous improvements to the island including an extensive drainage and sewer system, electric and phone service to the various colonias, paved streets that allow rainwater to drain and a high school.

The people of Isla Mujeres are proud of their history and hold in their hearts the magic of their island and the promising future. We found the locals of the island to be very warm, friendly and made us feel extremely welcomed. Needless to say, we’re excited to head back to Isla Mujeres Mexico as soon as possible!!

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Polaroid Transfer on Watercolor "Isla Mujeres 2011"

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I don’t often find myself working in bright bold colour, but I thought maybe one or two frames wouldn’t hurt, and would also be fun for this couple. (Shot in the Kansas City, West Bottoms) …

I had a great time working with [ Jenny and Bennett Wylie ] from Kansas City Missouri. – and guys … Look for your wedding images here very soon!!! Enjoy the photos! – tduncan

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Just a quick update to let everyone know that we are closing for the Holiday • Wednesday 24th – through – Monday the 29th to enjoy our family and bird feast!! We’ll be out of the office during these 5 days, but if you need anything … drop us a email at: travis@travisduncan.com – and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!

For our parting shot, I thought a family photo would be appropriate – so here’s a nice portrait I just shot of my Nephew Lucas, and my Niece Isabella last week.

We hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday!!

2010 BLACK FRIDAY Specials!!

Looking for that perfect gift this year? Well look no further – give the gift that will last a lifetime … Pictures!!

For 2010 we have a great variety of different gift giving ideas and options with special pricing you won’t find any other time of the year!!

**Reprints & Enlargements – We can still guarantee pre-Christmas delivery on reprint orders until 12/1 – so LOGIN to your proofing page website, and order some reprints & enlargements today as they’ll make EXCELLENT Christmas gifts. We’ve extended ALL photo websites for this Black Friday Special and we’re offering 10% off all new reprint orders placed online from today until 12/1/2010 as our Black Friday special! Reprint orders placed online ON OR AFTER 12/1 will be delivered in 2011 so don’t delay … ORDER TODAY!!

**Gift Certificates!! – Gift certificates are the perfect gift for that “hard-to-buy-for” kind of person. Our gift certificates can be used on any of the products or services that we offer, such as a new photo session, reprints, canvas prints, albums, and parent albums – you name it! This year we are offering a FREE 5×7 (for you) with every $75 gift certificate you purchase for someone else! (Limit 20 gift certificates per person, and not valid with any other promotion) Give our studio a call (573-893-9917) for instructions, or order online through your proofing website. *Our gift certificate program ends at noon on 12/18/10.

**Canvas prints – Our AMAZING Gallery Wrap Canvas, is the perfect gift to give a loved one! They offer a creative solution for displaying photos in a decorative manner at home without the hassle of framing! Just choose your favorite photo and let us know what size you need before 12/3/10 and you’ll receive 20% off all of these specific sizes & more!!

11×14 – Save 20%

16×20 – Save 20%

20×30 – Save 20%

30×30 – Save 20%

30×40 – Save 20%

Remember, order before 12/3 to place your canvas order for Christmas delivery!!

**Custom Holiday Greeting Cards – Are you looking for something different this year? Are you tired of all of those store brand greeting card templates that ALL LOOK THE SAME? We have the solution for you!! Our very own – CUSTOM (In house designed) greeting card line will provide you with a one-of-a-kind design!! Our custom greeting cards come in a variety and include a white envelope for each card. Each custom design allows you the opportunity to change text, colors, borders, add additional print, ensuring your card is a one-of-a-kind original!! Our custom greeting prices are already priced great, but add another 10% off the entire order for this Black Friday Promotion! Looking for LARGE quantities? Yes we also have large quantities available for companies who want to send cards to all of their clients this holiday season. Just give us a call for a custom quote!

Orders must be placed on or before 12/1 to guarantee pre-Christmas delivery!

Happy Holidays!!

- from all of us at Duncan Photography, Inc.

Travis Duncan

travis@travisduncan.com

573-893-9917

A quick update on our November workshop

Hosted by the Kansas City Chapter PPA & Sponsored by White House Custom Color …

We’re going to be teaching in Kansas City Missouri, this coming Tuesday [November 9th]

from 3 pm – to – 5 pm

[Safari Segment]

Followed by a dinner meeting (catered dinner) from 6 -to- 9

-and-

A Evening Program focusing on Lightroom & Photoshop techniques to finish your images!

*Cost is $35 per person which covers the class & dinner * We’ll be meeting at 2:45 pm on the corner of 3rd and Deleware for

our Safari Segment!

Hope to see you there!! ~tduncan

“Love of beauty is Taste. The creation of beauty is Art.”

I believe this was a statement by Ralph Waldo Emerson, and I LIKE IT!!!

So in the vein of beauty … I thought I’d post a few  images to give everyone a look at a [different side] of our studio work. Mostly we’re known for our wedding related commissions … but did you know, that we also do a fair amount of editorial, portrait, and several other areas specifically related to people photography? Well now you do!

- I think this area -

{Beauty}

is especially interesting to me, for many reasons. Coming from the world of commercial photography, I know a bit about many different lighting techniques, and shooting a beauty image is always fun because I think it lets me flex those different ideas in new and exciting ways. Below you’ll see:

a few different lighting, and finishing techniques – that allow us to create a couple different styles

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still allows us to create dramatically beautiful results …

••••

[Here's our Recipe]

… oh yeah, and for you photogs out there, if you’re wanting a lighting diagram for these, leave a comment and I’ll work them into a future “tutorial post” for a later entry!

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{Four Light Setup}

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{Three Light Setup}

••••

{Two Light Setup}

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Hope Driskill {Four Light Setup}

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Ashley Strohmeir {2 Light / 3 Light Setup}

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Ashley Strohmeir {Three Light Setup}

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Ashley Strohmeir {3 Light Setup}

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Hope Driskill {Four Light Setup} + Silver Reflector

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We had a great time photographing Emily and Trent’s wedding this past weekend (yes, more photos WILL come I promise) but for now – we really wanted to share this fun set of photos, and to give a quick SHOUT OUT – to one of our Vendor Faves!

Snapshots Photo Booth ROCKS!!!! They are so much fun, and if you’re planning a wedding or event of any kind, you should definitely give them a look!!!

Thanks for reading and feel free to Comment, Subscribe, Bookmark us for later, follow us on TWITTER or FACEBOOK – whatever it takes. We’d LOVE to have you!!

Thanks again,

tduncan

"Trav & Jen" kickin' it with Emily & Trent!!!

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Henry David Thoreau once said …

“The question is not what we look at, but what we see.”

- and when I look at Alison and Quinn Shortal of Jerseyville Illinois, I see an intelligent and sophisticated couple (not to mention a completely photogenic couple) that totally inspire me to “want” to capture the very best in all of my subjects! Albeit, it wasn’t terribly difficult to do with this particular couple – we still had our fairly normal set of challenges and hurdles to overcome when the reality of  “racing against the wedding clock” mentality kicked in. Despite the challenges that come with every wedding, we are constantly attempting to “raise the bar” both photographically and journalistically. We consistently strive to differentiate ourselves both in terms of style & quality – and I think we’ve successfully accomplished that goal once again, with this wedding!

Quinn … Alison … we had a GREAT time working with you as a couple on your wedding day!! You literally have hundreds of amazing photos, but these are just a few of my personal favorites!! I wanted to also say … thank you so much for the wonderful friendship, hospitality, and also for the humbling opportunity to share in this most memorable and amazing day!! To many years of happiness!!!

Cheers~

tduncan

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Well … we couldn’t have asked for a better weather forecast than the one we had on Gabrielle and Gregory O’Hagan’s wedding day! The weather was stellar, and the couple was absolute perfection!! I truly had a great time working with the couple’s respective families, and getting to know everyone couldn’t have been easier or more natural! (We really felt like part of the family!) Everyone was so gracious and accommodating … Greg was eloquent, and handsome -while Gabrielle … was simply STUNNING! (See for yourself in the photos below

I had a great time photographing this wonderful event, and I’d like to say thank you to the Doerhoff family (Cindi especially!!! – you did AWESOME!!) -as well as the O’Hagan family for putting on such a great event, and especially for inviting me in to document this fantastic day in your families life!

Enjoy the photos!! -tduncan

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[October] is FAMILY PORTRAIT MONTH!

This October – Duncan Photography, Inc. will participate with an elite group of photographers around the country in a very special family portrait promotion. Throughout *select dates in October, we will celebrate “Family Portrait Month,” a wonderful opportunity for you to update your family portrait (or portraits of your children), and help to support Operation Smile, which treats children around the world who suffer with cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities. Along with other studio members of the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), we have pledged to contribute $50 from each session to PPA Charities, which has chosen Operation Smile as it’s charitable partner.

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What’s more, we want YOU to benefit from this special offer. To that end, we are very proud to announce that in conjunction with Operation Smile, and during *select dates through the month of October … Our Family Sessions (or Children Sessions) are only $99! (Normally $275) – and $50 of that session fee will go directly to Operation Smile! On top of that, we are also including a 10% discount on all our regularly priced packages and products, and 25 FREE Holiday Cards with ANY size wall portrait purchase! What a great opportunity to capture those special relationships and also get your holiday cards taken care of early!

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Capturing the faces and stories of children & their families, is one of our greatest pleasures. That’s why we believe so strongly in the work of Operation Smile. Each year this incredible organization of more than 6,000 volunteer doctors, nurses, dentists, and specialized health care professionals, perform free reconstructive surgeries for children suffering with cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities. More than 100,000 children are born with facial deformities each year in Operation Smile’s 26 partner countries.

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We also believe that Family Portrait Month is a wonderful way to teach children the value of reaching out to others. Even small children can understand the importance of Operation Smile’s work, and they are eager to help these needy children.

We hope you will join with us in helping to make this vital work possible. To learn more about this incredible charity, please visit the Operation Smile website at: http://www.operationsmile.org/

As always, we look forward to creating some truly wonderful portraits of your family. This offer only lasts for a very limited time so please be sure to contact us as soon as possible to schedule your session! 573-893-9917

*Available dates in October: Sunday 3^rd, 10^th, 17^th – and – Tuesday 12^th, 19^th, 26th

-Call our studio to schedule yours NOW!

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What a wonderful and FUN opportunity we had in working with Alison Dickey and Kyle Hansen from Pleasant Hill Iowa!! I don’t remember a wedding day in the recent past that was as much FUN as this couples wedding was!! The ceremony itself took place on “The Beach” – at the Four Seasons Resort, and the reception followed on the roof-top patio of the Valencia Room! It was absolutely gorgeous and again – SO MUCH FUN!! I shot quite a bit of film on this event (more than usual – and I’m not exactly sure why?) – but the result from my being so shutter happy … simply means we walked away with TONS of stellar photos & it also means my album design might be a day or two later than originally expected. Therefore … we’re posting these few images here as “Teasers” — until I can finish the whole album and post it online for our happy new couple Ali & Kyle!!!

Enjoy the photos, vote for your favorite images, and leave some comments for the lovely Hansen Family!!!

- thanks for reading

travis

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I just love Kyle's Expression here!!

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Yes - Someone ACTUALLY asked Alison to KISS HER PRINCE CHARMING!!!!

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A GREAT Moment between Sisters!!! Love it!!

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What a great first dance you two!!!

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- and one of my ALL TIME FAVORITE - Father Daughter Dance Moments!!

What can I say other than …

… we had a BLAST photographing little Claudia Hayes for her 18 month session, (as we always do) and I think she actually had some fun too! Just ask her Mommy and Daddy (Laura & Brad Hayes of Eldon Missouri) – as I’m fairly sure … she eagerly nudged Mommy and Daddy to sing a song ABOUT ME (Taavis, as she so sweetly refers to me) after they left the studio … and she sang it ALL THE WAY HOME!!! TOO CUTE!!! (and I was afraid I scared her)

Well … I know one thing for sure though, she is adorable and SO SWEET!  – and the expressions she so kindly gave to us, are absolutely PRICELESS!!

So check em’ out …

INTRODUCING our NEW …

- ARTISAN KIDS -

(Line of Signature Portraits)

… and they’re HOT!!!

Just check them out and leave some comments or feel free to email me anytime!!

Thanks for reading …

and a VERY Special Thank You to Claudia for doing SUCH a great JOB!!

Cheers!

-travis duncan

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Artisan Kids Line - Claudia Hayes is our Model

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Artisan Kids Line - Claudia Hayes is our Model

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Artisan Kids Line - Claudia Hayes is our Model

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LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!

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Is this CUTE or what?!?!

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Love this one too!!

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Another - Artisan Kids Look

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Claudia

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Claudia Hayes

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Another SUPER CUTE expression!! Thanks Miss Claudia!!

We’ve been working over the last few weeks on our new proofing website and we’re excited to announce that it is just about completed!!! Most likely we’ll be launching the new site sometime next week, but we wanted to give all our readers a quick, inside peek, at some of the INCREDIBLE new features that will make your online shopping experience – MUCH, MUCH BETTER!!!

The first thing you’ll notice is the new branding & color palette that we’re bringing into our main site, as well as the blog and proofing site! The thumbnail images look great and it’s completely & logically categorized for easy browsing and easy shopping.

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Grid View Proofing Site

On the screen shot below, you’ll notice the new and improved Loupe Tool – for getting a “Up Close” and personal look. VERY helpful in finding people in your photos with the “Blinkies” – or just to check expression!! Very handy indeed!!

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The onscreen previews with this new system, yields a MUCH larger preview which is a feature we’ve been waiting for – several years now!! Another great feature to help with the online proofing experience!!

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Much Larger Previews!!

I LOVE THIS ONE!!! We’re now pleased to announce that we offer SECURE, online “Gift Certificate” sales for that “Hard to please person or couple”!! Awesome right!?! What better way to gift than a good ol’ fashioned gift certficate!! Available in $25 increments!! What could be better you ask … How about the newest and coolest feature (I think anyway) …

our NEW BRIDAL REGISTRY!!!

Yes that’s right …

now …

… right along with Pottery Barn, Dillards, Target … you can now register your event with Duncan Photography, and let your guest purchase any amount they choose to go DIRECTLY to your account to then use on your Wedding, or Engagement Photography!! How cool is that?!?! (Give me a call or email if you have any questions on how this works)

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Gift Certificate & Bridal Registry Now Available!

Another new great feature/addition with our proofing website, is now you have the ability to purchase so of our Fine Art Products that our current version didn’t have!! Very cool!!!

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Fine Art Products!!

… yet another cool – ultra helpful feature is the COMPARE tool!!! Yes, yes, yes!!! We NOW offer a comparison of up to 4 images on screen at the same time for your convenience to “CHOOSE THE BEST”!!! In the past, the previews just weren’t big enough and you had to navigate back and forth between them, which I felt was quite awkward and time consuming!! Now it will be a BREEZE to choose your favorites!!!

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Image Comparisons Now Available!

There are literally TONS of new – and GREAT features, but I just wanted to highlight a few here for you today!!

-thanks for reading

travis

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Very recently I had the honor and privilege of photographing Emily Skoza and Trent Brackenridge from University City Missouri! We had a ton of fun and created some wonderful images together!! So much fun in fact, I thought we’d post a short video here, highlighting the engagement photos we captured during their session!!

… a bit about the couple …

Emily and Trent actually met in a spinning class in Columbia MO, and they happen to be quite an active couple … both enjoy running, biking, horse back riding, among other things … and have planned to exchange their nuptials in Columbia Missouri on October 16th, 2010! I can tell already … it’s going to be a fantastic day & can’t wait to work with them again!!

Thanks for reading and enjoy the video guys!!

-travis

Check out this short video clip of our Italian Bookmakers – GraphiStudio! We are very fortunate and proud to be partnered with a tremendous company like Graphi, that offers these unique works of art! Not only are the BEAUTIFUL (uh, understatement of the year) … most importantly they’re made with the highest level of craftsmanship anywhere and I personally guarantee they will last a lifetime!

Now, another REALLY interesting tid-bit of information …

Of course we are EXTREMELY proud to say that we’ve been working with Graphi for nearly 5 years now, and as of today – we have put MORE GraphiStudio books into our clients hot little hands, than any other studio in the entire state of Missouri!! You heard it right … We’re #1 in the STATE with these raving beauties which is a big deal!!

If you’d like to see a few of them in person, just give me a call to schedule the appointment! I’d love to show them off!!

Thanks for reading and enjoy the video!!

-travis

Graphi Studio Wedding Albums from Travis Duncan on Vimeo.



I just wanted to do a quick post on a theme I plan to update randomly & frequently called “Pic from the Vault”

My intentions are to select random “favorites” of mine and post them here on the blog periodically. Some choices will be from current projects, while others will be from our archives that have not yet been published on this site.

My first submission is what I consider to be, an incredibly powerful portrait that I captured a few weeks ago of a Father looking over the wedding venue, just before the start of the actual wedding. I can only imagine what was going through his mind in this exact moment. It only lasted for about 5 seconds, but that was just long enough for me to grab two frames before he noticed me and then, consequently … moved quickly away from line of sight.

Let me know what you think by voting, or leaving your comments!!!

Hope you enjoy & thanks for reading!! – tduncan

I just love this documentary portrait! One of my all time faves!!!

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We had a great time this past Saturday working with Rachel and Dusty in the small, SMALL town – of Argyle Missouri!!

It was an AMAZING location for the wedding & really inspired me to capture a totally new look!! The day was HOT, but worth every minute we spent outside shooting these great images!! Check out a few of the portraits and details from the day and let me know what you think!!

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Thanks for stopping by and looking through our blog site & BIG CONGRATULATIONS to Rachel & Dusty on their beautiful Wedding Day Celebration!!

- and -

~Thanks so much for choosing Duncan Photography to create your wedding day images!!

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Here’s a short list of 8 different ideas that I truly believe will help you LOOK and FEEL your best in your wedding photos!!

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1. Schedule a (pre-wedding) Bridal Fashion Session

… with your photographer & make-up artist. Why is that important you ask? Well, let me tell you from my own experience what this appointment will mean to you. First off – not only will you be giving yourself the opportunity to work with your photographer in creating [and here it comes - a shameless photo plug] some fantastic additional gift portraits that consequently are very nice to give out on your wedding day – moreover, it will create an opportunity for you to go through a “Test Run” with your Hair and Makeup Stylist before the actual wedding day arrives. This is huge!

I currently have a great relationship with a traveling Hair & Make-Up Artist – Kandis Cunningham (Make -Up On The Move) and she’s worth her weight in GOLD!! We’ve had many past clients that were thrilled to set aside a specific day for all of these appointments (Hair, Makeup & Bridal Photos) – and LOVED the results! Because of the “test run” with your Hair and Make-Up Artist  – our clients have virtually eliminated the possibility of unexpected results & unforeseen time restraints on their wedding day. You might want to check with your Hair and Make-Up Artist, as they may offer a free trial run – already built into the wedding day fee itself. Even if they don’t, it’s well worth the small investment to have peace of mind on your big day!!

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2. Hire a professional wedding planner!!

This one can’t be overstated! Can you imagine trying to look your best while thinking in the back of your mind … “Where are the extra table linens that I ordered?” -Or – “What happened to the Cake? … and where is the Cake Topper?” In this scenario it would be nearly impossible to look your best for photos, when these types of thoughts are going around in your head. I mean unless you’re a professional actor, I would recommend letting a trusted and proven wedding planner take care of all the little details!! I’ve worked professionally with several planners in the Mid-Missouri area, and two of my personal favorites are: Natalie Imhoff of (The Bridal Solution) and also Stephanie Snofke of (Simply Elegant). Coming from a seasoned pro – I’ve seen first hand the difference an organized planner will make in your wedding day! By putting your faith in the hands of a great wedding planner, you can relax and live in the moment & be worry free! This mindset alone will create a wonderful atmosphere for all of your guests to enjoy, and will also give you the very best photo opportunities imaginable. After all, don’t you want to look your best!?! If you feel worry free … you’ll definitely look your best in your photography!

3. Remember to eat breakfast, stay hydrated & avoid too many salty foods.

This goes for the rehearsal dinner too. Nothing like the feeling of retaining water in your wedding dress. (Not that I speak from experience here, but my wife will back me up on this … and if you’re anything like me, you’ll need some fuel in your tank to avoid feeling cranky on your wedding day. You’d be surprised how many brides actually forget to eat the morning of the wedding. Don’t let it be you! I always work with an assistant, and will be happy to send them down the road to pick up some fresh fruit, granola bars & bottled water if you find yourself in the need of little pick-me-up snack!!

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4. Carry a touch up kit with you on your wedding day.

Try to include items like: powder, lipstick, lip-gloss, mini-can of hairspray and a mirror in the kit. (Put your maid of honor in charge of the touch up kit so you don’t have to keep up with it.) Just knowing & confirming that you look good, will give you that additional confidence – and confidence really SHOWS in your photos!!

5. Hire a full-time pro photographer.

I know often times it’s tempting, and sometimes even necessary to cut corners in your budget, but in most cases photography is NOT the place you should consider cutting back. There are many ways to “move the numbers around” in your budget, and I’d say again – referring back to number 2 in our list … a great wedding coordinator can really help you shine in this area. Professional photography is absolutely priceless and should be approached as such. It’s the one thing you’ll have 50 years down the road to tell your story. Additionally, a full-time pro-photographer or studio that orients themselves as offering “high end service” can no doubt take you through your wedding day step by step, easing your mind about what to expect next. Again, when you’re relaxed – you’ll photograph like dream! A full-time professional photographer can also give you advice “on the fly” during your wedding day – on how to look your best. The term “posing” often has a negative connotation to it, but the fact is … a seasoned full time pro photographer can give you little tips that will make a HUGE impact on the way you look in your photographs!! It’s our job and responsibly as a professional, to make you look your best!!

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6. Keep your feet happy!

Don’t forget to bring a change of shoes with you on your wedding day. A pair of flip flops, or any other pair of shoes that you find comfortable are definitely encouraged!! You also might want to walk around your house or apartment in your wedding shoes (several times) to adequately “break them in” before your big day.

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7. Engagement Photos!

This may not sound like a tip at first but think of the benefits in having a “practice photo session” with your fiancé. (That’s really what your engagement sessions is) Not only will you benefit from having a great set of engagement images (often times more timeless than the wedding photos themselves) – but you’ll have the added bonus of the extra confidence that comes with working ahead of time with your photographer! You’ll learn how to respond (as a couple) to your photographer – see how he or she works – and most importantly – your photographer will gain valuable information on what angles look best on you, and how to best photograph you and your significant other on your wedding day!

8. Relax and bask in the emotions of your day!!

Let your guard down and have fun in front of the camera! It’s a once in a lifetime occasion, and it’s your time to shine!! Those feelings that you have for your fiancé will be captured & preserved beautifully on film if you just clear your mind & live honestly in the moment!

Well that’s it for now. I might add to this list as time goes along, perhaps another segment altogether – so please stay tuned and check back with us. Better yet, you can subscribe to our blog at the bottom of this page and get all our updates via RSS or Email so you’ll always be up to date on our latest entries. I hope you enjoyed reading these tips and find them useful in planning your big day!! If you have any questions about this entry, or if you’d like to schedule a free no obligation consultation in our studio, please don’t hesitate to call or email. Thanks for reading!!

]]> http://blog.travisduncan.com/tips-photography-techniques/how-to-look-feel-your-best-in-your-wedding-photos/feed 0 http://blog.travisduncan.com/engagement-sessions/alison-quinn-engagement-part-2 http://blog.travisduncan.com/engagement-sessions/alison-quinn-engagement-part-2#comments Fri, 02 Jul 2010 23:36:13 +0000 travis http://blog.travisduncan.com/?p=369

Alison Raymond & Quinn Shortal are completely going the distance with our studio this year!! If you look back a couple posts, you’ll see a slideshow that we put together for our couple’s FIRST of TWO engagement sessions, and this post represents our second E-session together.

Later on this year, we’ll be shooting the wedding (obviously) – but we’ll also be doing a [bridal fashion session] with Alison – and later still – a [bride and groom fashion session] after the wedding!! We have clients doing this more and more these days, and it really makes sense. After all, how many times (and this is for all you photographers reading) do you have a couple spare hours to shoot really cool images images, with your bride in her wedding gown and your groom in his tux (on the wedding day?) Rarely, if you’re anything like me. Personally I’m lucky to get 30 minutes with a B&G on the wedding day, so MORE and MORE our clients are asking for extended services like  [Trash the Dress - or - Bride & Groom Fashion Session] a day or two after the wedding has wrapped!! Pretty cool right?!

So here are a few images that are totally different from our first session together. We were going for a more dramatic look, moody & sexy chic. I think we did pretty good too, considering we had ONE light to work with & minimal lights on our set. *Special thanks to Nichole Manner for the great job assisting & dealing with my HEAVY equipment bags!!! Thanks girl!!

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I just love the cool tone in this image with a POP of pink!!

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I just LOVE this image!!!

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… to Leather Craftsmen AMERICA!!

So what do I mean … well …

I just HAD to create a set of images of my favorite Leather Craftsmen Album & post them for everyone to see. Not only is this my personal FAVORITE album that we carry, it’s also happens to be one of the most beautiful destination weddings I’ve ever had the privilege of  photographing! We were honored to cover this event for Lindsay Perry and Brian Hartley of Jefferson City Missouri – back in October of 2008. Lindsay and Brian both decided on the “Dreams Resort” in Los Cabos Mexico and I have to say it was a great choice!!

In our choice however … in deciding on a book maker was a NO BRAINER … I went with Leather Craftsmen for this book!! Notice the “Spine Embossing” – a nice detail that not every bookmaker offers.  I LOVE this added touch of elegance and detailing. Only LC baby!!!! *Shown in the photo below … I decided on a 10×13 vertical book to permanently archive Lindsay and Brian’s memories – I went with the 300 “hingless” series, split edition which is absolutely gorgeous!!!

(shown inside the optional slipcase)

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In this photo – notice the black page gilding (another great detail you won’t find with many album makers)

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Here’s a overall shot of the book in it’s slip case.

*For the cover … I chose a Platinum Colored, Japanese Book Cloth for the primary material – mixed with a Euro Black Spine and Slipcase. I LOVE IT!!!! **Also notice the very classy “spine hubs” just above the embossed [Cabo 2008] – adds a great sense of style!

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Check out the vertical cover imprint on the Platinum JC!!!

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… another nice detail shot of the rich page gilding in black, and notice the rounded corner! SLICK!!!

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Intro spread into our story …

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Second spread in our book design … from our – TRASH THE DRESS SESSION!!!!

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I just love this two page spread of  our couple exchanging vows at the beach!!

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Here’s one of our most published images to date!! I’m STILL loving the pink umbrella in this image!

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… and our closing spread.

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Thanks for reading & hope you enjoyed the book!!! – travis

]]> http://blog.travisduncan.com/album-products/dreams-to-reality-from-los-cabos-mexico/feed 2 http://blog.travisduncan.com/engagement-sessions/alison-quinn-engagement-session http://blog.travisduncan.com/engagement-sessions/alison-quinn-engagement-session#comments Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:56:08 +0000 travis http://blog.travisduncan.com/?p=260

I had a great time working with Alison Raymond and Quinn Shortal of Columbia Missouri for their FIRST – of TWO engagement sessions!! The slideshow below is from our first session, and then I’ll post another entry later that encapsulates subsequent sessions with this GREAT COUPLE!!

Just a quick update to say Thank you to Myla and Mike Nunez from Edison, New Jersey! This awesome couple is our second client to receive a complimentary iPad – and if looks could speak volumes … I’d be deaf from Mike’s expression when he laid his hands on the new device!! Thanks so much guys … I had a great time shooting your engagement session, and thanks for the great trip up to the Manhattan Sky Line!!

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Here’s a look at some images I recently shot while on assignment for Central Missouri Bride Magazine. We had a great time shooting three models in wedding attire and bachelorette evening attire, in a wide range of locations. Enjoy the photos!!

-travis

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We very often have photo buyers calling in to our studio to ask about our products. Since it’s sometimes difficult to explain what some of them look like, I thought we’d create a short video “walk around” so you can see some of our studio space, and some of our most popular products!! (I’d recommend using the HQ version of this particular video to see the details a little better) Just click on the HQ logo down in the lower right hand corner, then click play … and you’re off and running!!

Thanks for watching!! – travis

I thought I should take a minute or two of your time to say welcome!

As many of you already know, the world of the web blog isn’t a new concept to our studio. I also think most of you already know that this is actually our third generation – of our specific flavor of a photo blog, and I fully believe … as they say, “Third Times A Charm”! Only with the wonderful help of a great graphic design firm (Creative Improv) – have we been able to finally land on a stable enough platform that’s both easy to use and has a nice aesthetic that compliments our new brand. In the months and years to come I am fully confident that we’ll be able to consistently deliver exciting information about our photography & personal journey through our life as photographers.

What you’ll find located inside the individual posts will range from our professional work in people photography, to our personal family photos, or any number of photographic topics and images that I find interesting. Additionally, I intend on sharing techniques for you other photographers out there that are reading. (It might be a camera technique, or a post processing technique that we use on a daily basis to create a specific look or style) *On that note, if anyone has a specific request to see a technique, or you are simply interested in “how did you create that image” … just leave me a comment, or feedback requesting more information. I’ll add it to our list of “content to be covered” and I PROMISE … I’ll post an entry related to your inquiry eventually. Just please be patient and understand that we are very busy, but I’m committed to education and sharing. So please leave feedback or comments on any of the posts – so that we together can build a great resource for others in our community!

Thanks again for stopping by and enjoy the new blog!!

-travis duncan