Renee Giugliano Photography

Recently I applied to be added to the registry of  “Take off Your Mommy Goggles” (takeoffyourmommygoggles.com).  It was quite intimidating. Why? In order to be added, I needed to fill out an application, submit proof of my “legal operating” business and have my work & pricing reviewed by 3-5 professional photographers to meet the standards.

I WAS APPROVED! 🙂

So, now I am listed in their registry as an approved Professional Photographer that has done “the grunt work and gained valuable skills in a variety of photography and business aspects.”

And it’s true, I have worked hard. I didn’t just pick up a camera and hoped for the best. To this day, I am constantly learning, constantly challenging myself, constantly pushing myself to stand out amongst photographers, both legal and illegal that surround me. Now, don’t get me wrong… we all start somewhere. I wasn’t a “pro” overnight. But I didn’t start charging and call myself a “pro” because a few people told me I took good pictures.

So, this is where “Take off Your Mommy Goggles” comes in. Have you heard that expression? I did – A LOT. When learning the technical side of this business, I had to learn to not look at that cute smile and gorgeous eyes, but look at the image as a whole. Unfortunately, in today’s digital world, “Mommy Goggles” get fogged up and true artistic talent is bypassed for inexpensive & tolerable results.

“Take off Your Mommy Goggles” is for photographers and consumers. You will learn what it really takes, what it really costs and why. You will learn how to spot a true professional and why it’s important to invest your memories on someone who knows what they are doing.

I am proud to be on the registry. I have received wonderful feedback from the developers and look forward to putting their advice into action. So, check out “Take off Your Mommy Goggles“. Find a professional photographer in your area and/or encourage your current photographer to apply to be on the registry.

I was ready for this new year! I revamped the session plans, added new incentives, changed up my workflow, bought lots of new props and had lots of plans! Then POOF! I’m suddenly at a stand still. Houston, we have a problem.

What’s the problem?

Well, as every military member is quite familiar with: NEW ORDERS

I bet you are thinking, “Hey, when it’s time to transfer, you just got to get up and go – you knew it was time.” But we are NOT due to transfer, we’re NOT up for orders. My husband’s orders may be cut short due to some big changes in his command and because there is nothing available here that is beneficial to his career, we are most likely going to have to move in about a year. But because dates have not been released and we’re waiting for the official word, we are all just standing by. [This affects his entire squadron, not just our little family]

How does this affect YOU, my clients?

At the moment, it will not affect anyone. But to be cautious, I will not be able to schedule any sessions after August of 2012. I know, that seems far away and no big deal. But it is a big deal to families who wanted to be a part of any of my 1st year baby plans. Right now, the current clients on baby plans have nothing to worry about, they are fine. But I will not be able to accept any new babies on a 1st year plan if their 1st birthday falls after August of 2012. I will also not be able to accept any toddler plans. I’m so sorry for this inconvenience.

Because of this, I have decided to add Milestone Sessions. This will allow all those cute little babies to have their milestones captured without mommy and daddy having to worry about an incomplete investment in a baby plan. They are available now, click HERE for more info.

While we wait…

All sessions will continue as regular. I will continue with the plans I have made. When I hear official info, I will be sure to post it immediately here on the blog and through email.

Keep my family in your thoughts and prayers. The last time we moved, my husband & I were newlyweds with no kids, no furniture, no cars and no real possessions. Boy, that’s all changed now.