The time has come.  Our lovely 2010 Seniors are focused on the end of the year which will be here in no time, and our soon-to-be 2011 Seniors are getting psyched for next year.  I’m so excited to meet and spend time next year’s class.  Let the fun begin!

I’m now searching for those who will represent Jess VanLue Photography over the next 12 months.  Being a JVP Rep not only gets you through the door first, but gives you great opportunity to earn free goodies and show off excellent marketing materials … not to mention receiving the hottest senior pictures around.

Who am I looking for, you may ask?  I’m looking for students who are well known in their class for being friendly, outgoing, and fun.  Someone who is able to encourage and inspire (and persuade).  Someone who isn’t afraid to give a good wrap for Jess VanLue Photography.  Someone who sets a positive example and is an excellent influence.

Is this you?  THEN APPLY!  The application process will be open through February.  All applicants will be notified when the Reps have been chosen.  CAN’T WAIT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

THE APPLICATION PROCESS IS NOW CLOSED.  THANKS TO ALL WHO APPLIED!

Changes are huge around here … new logo, new website, new branding.  Have a look around.  The wonderful team at Luxecetera has been working diligently with me over the past 6 months to put together a look and feel that truly embraces the style at Jess VanLue Photography.  I’m in love with it all, and finally feel at home with the brand.  Hope you enjoy it, too!  ~ Jess

Loads of great savings this winter.  Call early to book your January, February or March session.  Can’t wait to here from you!  ~ Jess

P.S.  Lots of recent sessions are soon to be posted.  It’s been busy madness around here.  I’m excited to share!

Congratulations to ASHLEY T. for being chosen to receive a FREE September Senior photo session!! Last month 2010 Seniors were invited to participate in the “I want a FREE Senior session REALLY bad!” contest.   Participants were required to either submit a brief essay explaining why they wanted the free session the most or submit a photo showing their desperate need for  a free session.  Lots of wonderful and deserving entries were submitted.  THANK YOU to all who took the time to enter.  I wish I could choose you all!

Here is a brief snippet from Ashey’s wonderful essay:

From the age of 6, I was dreaming of gold! I excelled in the sport and landed myself on the United States Gymnastics Associations Junior Olympic team. At the age of 10, I was training year round 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week. It was as much of a commitment to my parents as it was for me. My Mom always had to prepare ahead so I had home cooked food cuz it was a 50 minute drive to the gym. Therefore during school I ate dinner on the way and Mom had another one packed for me to micro at the gym for the drive home after a long practice. Also they made their work schedules around mine. Then we of course have to throw in the gymnastics meets too. Some even took us out of state. Not to mention the cost!
Then my dreams of gold were shattered when I was 12. I tore muscle down the right side of my body …
The choice is no longer mine. My parents and my body will no longer allow me to do gymnastics. My goals and purpose in life was gone. From my point of view that is. I started with a short temper and a bad attitude. Then my almost always A’s turned into not all A’s! I missed the gym so bad that I was so angry. Of course I took my frustrations out my parents. I wasn’t the sweet, happy, respectful or grateful kid anymore. I felt like my life stopped.
After 3 years of torture to myself and my parents, I had a breakdown that turned into a breakthrough. I tried 1 day of track practice and barely made it to the car once I looked at my Mom. My parents took me straight to my old gym to see my old gymnastics coach. We made the proven fact that gymnastics is in my blood. So I started coaching. I figured if I can’t do it, at least I can teach it. Then I will add some strengthening and conditioning to myself! Then I added walking that beam again. Then swinging a little on the bars, and you can get the idea of what’s next!
So here I am at the age of 16. I competed last season for the first time in almost 5 years. I did awesome! I missed going to States by only 3tenths of a point. I am carefully training now so my last Senior year, well all I can say is you should come to the VHS gymnastics meets to see!
As far as the rest of the other changes that happened to me, I’m back to that great kid that I once was!   I am entering this into your drawing for the September session give away because I have given my parents a” run for their money”!

Way to go, Ashley!

November has been reserved for Holiday Mini Sessions!  This year’s Christmas Cards are gorgeous.  Only a limited number of mini sessions will be scheduled November 1-20th.  Call or email today to reserve your date!