Category: art

“That’s the year I fell in love with myself.”

Post author By Christine Wolkin
Post date June 11, 2021
No Comments on “That’s the year I fell in love with myself.”

Recently, Erika and Mike had the honor of photographing one of Allebach’s own, someone many of you will recognize through her work with us at the studio – the lovely Paige!

“It seems as if Allebach Photography has always been a part of my life.

Even before joining the Allebach Photography team a few years ago, Mike and I had crossed paths on more than one occasion and something just clicked. His people were my people. I enjoyed the freedom, fearlessness, and badassery of the brand from day one. From clients to staff and all of the people we meet in between – I can’t think of a better group.”

Paige describes herself as an incredibly persistent and independent 26-year-old and, despite becoming recently engaged and being in the process of moving cross-country with her fiancé, she says her dog and two cats are the true loves of her life.

There, she hopes to find joy in being a professional dog-walker in a giant yellow raincoat while also advocating for families and couples to have the most enjoyable lives and understandings of each other as possible.

Though Paige enjoys sharing trivial facts about herself, there is a more serious issue she wanted to bring up.

“The one thing that I think is important to bring to attention is the fact that I struggled with an eating disorder and body dysmorphia for the last 15 years of my life,” Paige revealed.

Since the end of 2020, she’s made a true effort to challenge her bad habits and finally begin to heal.

Paige was talking with a close friend one night who was struggling with body image when she realized she was in a positive place for both her body and her mental health and ready to do her own boudoir session with Allebach.

“Really hearing myself speak honestly for the first time about how I felt about myself and how I got there…I felt powerful, I felt in control, and I felt hot as shit. Just giving advice that I realized I’d already taken myself…I had this realization that I didn’t hate my body the way I used to and I was so stoked about that.”

She continued, “I remember wondering how I could ever have felt any other way except totally in love with my body. It’s gotten me through literally everything. It’s strong, and beautiful, and worthy, and all mine. I wanted something to commemorate not only that feeling of worthiness and respect, but also something to mark when it happened: something I could look back on and say, “Oh yeah! That’s the year I fell in love with myself.” After wasting more than half of my life on a mentally, physically, and emotionally debilitating disease – I was ready to have photos of the new beginning. Kind of like if you married your high school sweetheart and you go back and look at old photos of you in your first year of dating. I wanted that kind of memory of my love for myself down the road.”

Paige’s session felt deeply unique and personal because not only was she celebrating her defeat against body dysmorphia, she was doing it with someone who had been by her side through some of the worst of it.

“I think I was just as excited for Erika to photograph me as she was to do it. If there’s anything I can say about her, it’s that she’s just so genuinely caring and empathetic. I had a really rough year in 2020 (besides the obvious) and at the time, I shared some of this with her. I don’t think I’ve ever had the kind of support she offered me. When I was finally in front of the camera, it felt like I could almost feel the energy we were sharing. It felt like we were both screaming, “This is it, you did it! We did it! You’ve outplayed your bad hand and it’s only going up from here. This is healing. This is freedom,” said Paige.

One of the things Paige did this year to help battle body dysmorphia and gain more comfort with her body was buy a bunch of lingerie and so for her session that’s exactly what she brought to her session.

“I mean. A BUNCH. And that’s what I wear around my house on the regs (I live alone) or with my closest friends (why can’t we have lingerie parties and celebrate our bodies while also binging horror movies and drinking wine?). Seeing myself like that almost every day was definitely a huge boost to my self-confidence, self-respect, and self-love. So, the day of the session, I blindly grabbed a few outfits from the lingerie closet, and my roller blades, naturally.”

Being back in the studio for Paige, on the other side of the experience, was truly a fun and comforting experience.

“I’m always cold, but I felt totally comfortable the entire time. The session made me feel like I was having fun with my friends. From the hair and makeup artist all the way through to my reveal, I just felt like I was having an amazing time with my best friends. We were talking about music, cracking jokes, catching up – it felt like home.”

When Paige saw her photos revealed, she tried hard to keep her composure.

“I was really trying not to be emotional, and I think I held it together pretty well.

But my initial reaction was, ‘That’s fucking ME!’ Not in a ‘I-don’t-believe-it’ sort of way, but in a, ‘Yes! You captured me perfectly,’ kind of way,” she said.

Though she had complete confidence in Allebach’s mastery and talent after having seen so clients go through the process, Paige was surprised at how in her photos she looked not only like herself, but also sexy.

“I am NOT a professional model, my face looks goofy more often than not, and I’m usually doing something weird just because. Each moment captured was exactly the person I am. I was also shocked by the sex-factor I gave off. I was never a sexy person. Or rather, I never felt like a sexy person. Cute? Yes. Adorable? Absolutely. Sexy? Nah. I felt as if I gained a sort of sex factor I was completely unaware of until now,” she said.

Paige chose an album with a velvet cover because 1.) Velvet, duh?! 2.) Because she’s a total bookroom and looking forward to proudly displaying her book among her favorites and 3.) After building so many in the past she’d always wanted one of her own.

“This session was also very much about me for me, and it’s something that I want to make sure I can speak to when I choose to share it versus someone happening to notice it on a wall. That and I knew I’d be back for couples boudoir and some serious wall art,” she explained.

Since her session Paige has been much more relaxed with herself.

“I’ve accepted that the issue I occasionally face isn’t with my body at all – but my brain. And it’s really helpful to look back on my photos and remember that I chose them for a reason. That I felt and still feel beautiful in them. And if there’s a reason I don’t feel that way today, it’s all in my head and we can let it take up some room until it passes.”

Though Paige is moving cross-country and has phased out of working with Allebach Photography, she says she has and always will be a strong advocate for the studio and its crew.

“Aside from the quality experience you’ll receive, the people are phenomenal. They CARE. They actually care. When I flipped through my album and started tearing up, so did Erika. Like it’s blatantly obvious this isn’t just your everyday photography business. There’s so much emotion and passion that goes into what is done at that studio with that team. There are plenty of people out there who take good photos. These people do that too, but in a life-changing sort of way. “

To book your own boudoir session with Allebach Photography, call 610.539.6920 or visit http://allebachphotography.com/contact/

Tags body image, body positive boudoir, boudoir photography, boudoir stories, mental health, tattooed

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Beautiful, Powerful and Sexy, Inside and Out

Post author By Christine Wolkin
Post date June 10, 2021
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Melissa is still reeling over the solo boudoir session she had with us the other day.

“It’s still pretty fresh, but over the past 24 hours I’ve been reflecting and looking at myself differently. I have found a new appreciation for myself. I always said my beauty was on the inside but I felt so beautiful and powerful and sexy when looking at my photos,” says Melissa, who not only works as a digital marketer, but as a chef at an Italian restaurant and is a published poet.

A mother of two teenagers, Melissa has spent the last few years focusing hard-core on self-love.

“Somewhere along the way, I had lost myself. As I became a wife and mother, I started to forget about giving myself the proper love and care. Before I knew it, I didn’t even recognize myself anymore,” she shared with us.

Like so many of us, Melissa had developed some insecurities over her body and self image (which can be hard to believe when you think of all that she’s accomplished over the years!). She found herself being super critical of herself and self conscious about the weight she’d gained over the past several years.

Luckily, a friend of hers introduced her to the Allebach Photography VIP Facebook group, and from there she fell in love, both with the content as well as with herself.

“I read about all the wonderful experiences that people were having and I was super intrigued!”

So Melissa decided to take the plunge and schedule a solo session with us.

She was so excited and nervous!

“I wasn’t sure what to expect. I felt silly for being so nervous because Erika and Mike made me feel comfortable. I had so much fun. It was weird for me to let people make something all about me. I’m usually the one catering to others.”

Melissa brought with her pieces to wear that she never thought she would have the guts to wear in front of anyone. She even surprised herself by how quickly she was willing to get naked in front of the camera!

At her photo reveal, “I teared up a little. The reveal was very moving. I had never seen myself in this way before. I chose images for my album that I can look back on to remind myself how awesome and beautiful I am. I want to order some wall art!” she said.

Melissa had not only kind words for herself, but for us too!

“I just want to thank Mike and Erika for this experience. For helping me look at myself more positively and helping me appreciate my curves! They really are invested in helping you see yourself. I mean really seeing yourself and appreciating your body. They are always kind and a lot of fun!”

For anyone considering a solo session, Melissa urges them to give it a shot.

“I would say stop thinking and just do it! Life is too short to deny yourself such a healing and unique experience. Life is about experiences and adventures. “

Let us help you see the real you too! Book your session by calling 610.539.6920 or by visiting http://allebachphotography.com/contact/

Tags boudoir, solo boudoir

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“I am beautiful exactly the way I am and nothing can change my mind”

Post author By Christine Wolkin
Post date May 28, 2021
No Comments on “I am beautiful exactly the way I am and nothing can change my mind”

Zoe budgeted for her solo boudoir session with us and says it was worth every penny!

“Back in December I decided not to go with Allebach Photography because of the cost. I was still paying monthly for school so I couldn’t afford it at that time,” says Zoe.

“That was my biggest obstacle. However when a chance came up to be a model and do a session that way it was a no brainer because of how incredible the work is! It is worth the money!”

Not only did Zoe budget her finances accordingly for the session, she also budgeted her time. This girl is busy; she’s not only a firefighter and an EMT but a nursing student as well!

“I have also been a waitress since the time I could walk because of a family business and it has taught me many personable qualities and a hard work ethic. I tend to overwork myself and put all my energy into other people so I got into doing this session for myself!”

Last semester she’d had an entire class on self-care and it made her realize the better she takes care of herself the more she can help others without feeling so drained. We’re thrilled that boudoir sessions are quickly becoming all the rage in the self-care world!

From the moment she walked in Zoe says she was so excited because of all the awesome set options there were in the space.

“I was completely unsure of what the session would be like and all I knew was that I would leave feeling beautiful. I was really happy that Erika was there because a woman being your hype girl is the BEST possible thing to have genuine pictures that you feel good about. No offense to men, but it’s just something about compliments from a woman that means more.”

Zoe brought a Calvin Klein outfit with and paired with a colored leather jacket and lace up heels.

“This outfit was my absolute favorite because it was sporty and edgy and made me feel sexy in more of an athletic way without being too exposed. I’ve always been on more of the conservative side so it was very comfortable and the colors looked amazing in the various sets!”

She also brought a high waisted red and black heart two-piece lace set with her, the perfect balance between elegant and romantic.

Though she had a blast during her session being pampered like a true queen and model, Zoe says her favorite part was the big reveal.

“When I first saw my photos my jaw literally dropped. I was so blown away with how amazing I looked. I couldn’t believe it was truly me. I felt like with each scroll I got more and more excited and happy. I never thought I could feel that way about my own body. You always see the models on Instagram and think wow if only I looked like that…. BUT I DID!”

She continued, “My favorite part of the experience was hands down seeing my photos. It was like a cinematic premiere and all I was missing was popcorn! You never know how the photos are turning out as they are taking them so seeing the end result is astonishing and reliving.”

Zoe wanted to choose every single photo, but she wisely stuck to her budget and selected a few of her very favorites.

“I decided to go with photos that highlighted different pieces of myself and made me feel not only comfortable showing others but blown away with my figure, features and outfits.”

Since her session, Zoe finds herself no longer comparing herself to others on social media sites like the Gram.

“My life was impacted in the way that I’m not constantly comparing myself to others anymore. After seeing myself on the jumbo screen I can say I AM that girl on Instagram. I am beautiful exactly the way I am and nothing can change my mind,” she said.

To those thinking about booking a session Zoe says, “If you have the money to spend it is worth it! And if not budget some money monthly in order to make it happen later! The amount of power and happiness it brings you seeing yourself in that way is the finest form of self-care when it comes to body image and insecurities. Everyone needs a little self-care in their lives and everyone should do a boudoir shoot. It was a perfect opportunity! And so worth it.”

Convinced yet? Book your session by calling 610.539.6920 or by visiting http://allebachphotography.com/contact/

Tags body image, boudoir, calvin kleins, solo boudoir

art body image Boudoir Center City Moms North Wales

“I Am A Strong and Confident Woman”

Post author By Christine Wolkin
Post date May 11, 2021
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Bobbi Jo’s recent solo boudoir experience has not only given her a new perspective on herself, but on her relationship as well.

“A few days after my session I found out my husband had utterly betrayed my trust. He’s had innumerable affairs over the years, but this time what he did was unforgivable,” Bobbi Jo shared with us.

“Before my session I would have accepted it, like I have for years. But no more. Seeing myself as a sexy, confident, STRONG woman awoke something in me. I’m worth so much more. I deserve so much more. I AM a strong and confident woman and it’s about time I acknowledge it!”

The mom of two beautiful boys admits life can get so busy, she can forget about herself sometimes. Not only is she a mother, she is also the owner/baker of Renegade Baking Company, as well as an elementary school administrator.

“I rediscovered a side of myself that I had almost forgotten. I’m strong, I’m confident, I’m sexy. I deserve the best in life and I’m not letting anything stand in my way,” she said.

Bobbi Jo is a repeat customer of Allebach Photography. Before her first session with us, she admitted she was scared.

“For my first shoot I was petrified! Body image is something I struggle with constantly,” she explained.

Having a session with us before this one, allowed her to feel completely at ease with the process, minus just a little voice nagging her in the back of her mind.

“There were some nerves. What if I’m off my game today? What if I end up hating the way I look? That sort of thing.”

She quickly put those thoughts aside though, as she reminded herself she felt complete trust in our abilities! “Allebach has THE BEST photos out there, hands down!”

Bobbi was surprised at how immediately comfortable she felt.

“I figured I’d take some time to get into things, but nope, instant comfort.”

She brought plenty for us to work with, a corset and jeans, a strappy black number, a burgundy bodysuit, a bra and thong, and of course her best outfit, just herself!

By the end she felt like a rockstar, an absolute goddess and a total badass!

“Mike and Erika are hands down the best at what they do. The images they create are top notch. You won’t get an experience like this anywhere else. I know there are boudoir photographers popping up everywhere, but there’s something to be said about experience and personality. They’re so easy going, so relatable, so encouraging, and it shows in the art they create,” Bobbi Jo says.

When she first saw her images, she cried.

“It’s so empowering to see yourself as others see you. We pick out our flaws so often, that we forget that we’re the only ones that really notice them,” she said.

Bobbi Jo opted for our portrait box. “I wanted to be able to frame some of these for my bedroom. I ended up purchasing more than intended because I just couldn’t decide on my favorites!”

When asked what her favorite part of the entire experience was, Bobbi Jo says the whole thing!

“If you’re going to make me choose, I’d say it was how much FUN it was. It’s an interesting experience to be mostly naked and be laughing, dancing, playing in curtains. It was a blast!”

Come and see what Bobbi Jo is talking about! Book your solo session by calling 610.539.6920 or by visiting http://allebachphotography.com/contact/

Tags boudoir, divorce, empowerment, mom

art body image Boudoir Center City

“I love myself. I love who I am. I am beautiful.”

Post author By Christine Wolkin
Post date April 8, 2021
No Comments on “I love myself. I love who I am. I am beautiful.”

Crystal has very few qualms about her life. She’s looking forward to celebrating her 40^th birthday in a few months, she’s happily married to the same man she fell in love with when she was 15 and she has three incredible kids – a nearly married Marine, a seven year old son with autism who is her everything, and her five-year-old daughter who is too smart for her own good.

Still, she says she lives a far from perfect life. Like many people, Crystal manages bipolar disorder.

“I have bipolar disorder and the depression and anxiety hit hard sometimes and often puts strains on my relationship with my husband. He does his best to be supportive but I don’t always make it easy for him. With the support of my family, friends, and an extremely supportive therapist I am working on dealing with the depression and hard days one day at a time,” she explained to us.

Crystal says she made two changes in her life that have given her a new and extremely fulfilling purpose and helped balance her depression; 1, she started her own business, and 2, she joined some positive, pay-it-forward groups through Facebook, one of which was our Facebook group for VIP members.

“It’s all about positivity and good energy…reaching one end of the country to the other in an ongoing circle of kindness that is just spreading further and further, is an incredible feeling. In the process of starting these new journeys I have made friendships with some of the most incredible people…the groups have helped some of our members, like when some were down and thinking of suicide or in a rut. The group helped them find a reason to keep going and put those thoughts and feelings behind them, and those stories are what let’s you know you are serving a purpose greater than your own.”

Crystal says our group definitely helped get her into the mindset of her second shoot (yes she had such a great time the first time she just had to come back and see us again!).

“I did a couple model call before and I absolutely loved everything about it. I was so comfortable with Mike the first time. With such an amazing experience it was easy to decide there is nowhere else I would go for my solo shoot,” she said.

Crystal came to the studio in the evening for one of our night sessions and she says she was on the edge of her seat all day waiting for it!

“I had an evening session which was amazing in itself, I love the dark, so that alone put me at ease, but the session itself was amazing! Erika and Mike are an amazing team together. They have this energy and vibe that you just gravitate to. They make you feel like a queen and you leave absolutely believing you are one too.”

For this session, Crystal brought a ton of options, from booty shorts, to lingerie and she even surprised herself by doing a few topless and nude shots.

“Before I left the house I wasn’t even sure I wanted to do topless shots but since I need to be more comfortable with that part of my body, I wanted to make sure I stepped out of my comfort zone. I’m so glad I did, the photos were amazing and so worth it. Mike and Erika made me feel so comfortable with them and myself that I decided to do some nude photos,” she said.

When the time for her big photo reveal came, Crystal was speechless.

“There is nothing that can top getting to sit down and watch the slideshow as the music plays, to set the most perfect music! I was just in awe of how incredible they were. How incredible I looked.”

She chose 15 images for an album, 15 reminders that she’s a badass!

“I feel better about myself, I am proud of myself, and I am still feeling the high from my session three days later. When I get down, I remember what Erika had me repeat to myself, ‘I love myself, I love who I am, I am beautiful, I love the bitch I am.’

She continued, “I think about how good I felt and how amazing the photos came out.. I have a new sense of self-pride and confidence! I just want to thank Mike and Erika for everything! You both are incredible at what you do and I will be forever grateful for everything you have done for me!! A level of therapy my therapist could have never given me!”

Ready for your own therapeutic solo boudoir experience? Book your session by calling 610.539.6920 or by visiting http://allebachphotography.com/contact/

Tags boudoir photography, doylestown boudoir, philadelphia boudoir studio, solo boudoir

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Mom Lights Up Seeing Her Boisterous Sons Look Like Angels

Post author By Christine Wolkin
Post date March 12, 2021
No Comments on Mom Lights Up Seeing Her Boisterous Sons Look Like Angels

Katy, who is not only a full time working mom but is also in a doctorate level academic program, knows her time with her sons is precious, which is why we truly appreciate her making the time to bring her boys in for a Renaissance session.

“We keep a very busy schedule so the time we spend together is precious,” says Katy.

When she’s not working or studying, Katy enjoys building block towers and art projects like coloring and playing hockey outside with her three year old and her nearly two year old.

Katy had seen some of the photos of families and children from our Renaissance sessions and she became quickly convinced that she needed to do a session with her boys.

“I saw some of the photos online and loved the look of them as true art, like a painting. They were beautiful and like nothing I’ve ever seen before. The renaissance photos looked like actual paintings in a museum,” she shared with us.

The day of the session Katy says she was excited but had some nerves, as she knows how tricky it can be to photograph young children! She was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly the session went.

“The session far exceeded my expectations. Working with children can be stressful and you are wanting to have them look cute and smile, and sometimes they just don’t want to cooperate. Erika was very gracious and could not have been sweeter with my boys. We really had a fun time and they kids were laughing with Erika and thought she was a blast. She really exceeded my expectations of patience and grace. And of course the photos came out wonderful!”

Some of her favorite photos wound up being the ones where her boys were caught in the moment just being silly and laughing.

“You can’t deny the innocence and smile of a child. Seeing my boys portrayed as angels was perfect.”

She also loves the ones where each of her boys is giving her a kiss.

“It just makes me shine on the inside. To see that they love me and I love them and to have it captured is really special. Sometimes the mom is the picture taker instead of the subject, so this was really nice to have some pictures of me with my boys.”

Katy is so happy to have some lasting memories documented that they can look back on.

“I just wanted to have something like this to have to look back on the time when my babies were little. In the end, I purchased an album because there were just so many images I wanted to have forever. I picked it up yesterday and it is beautiful. I’ll cherish it all my life,” she said.

Katy had such a positive experience with us she says she can’t wait to return for future sessions!

Are you ready to turn your own family into a work of art? Book your own session by calling 610.539.6920 or by visiting http://allebachphotography.com/contact/

Tags family photo session, family photography, mom in the photo, north wales, renaissance of mom

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Montgomery County Family Photo Session

Post author By Erika Schoof
Post date February 19, 2021
No Comments on Montgomery County Family Photo Session

Back when we were known as the Tattooed Bride Photography Studio, Laura followed our Facebook page and got to be a part of a “tattooed stories” model call. So much has changed since 2015, especially for Laura and Glen who now have 2 beautiful kids; Emma and Benjamin.

When we launched the model call for the Renaissance of Mom, Laura was nervous but excited. Once the session started, Laura let all those nerves go.

“I really felt beautiful and comfortable as soon as we all got changed and the shoot started!”

“Getting to experience [the shoot] first hand after seeing so many other’s photos, it was so fun! We got to listen to music and be silly and be ourselves….it was less posed than I had anticipated but the results were amazing!”, Laura shared.

When the family first saw the images, they were blown away.

“It looked like our family just popped out of a magazine! I thought ‘how am I going to choose which ones go on the wall?!’ And seriously how are these so incredible?!”

One of the best parts of the experience for Laura was how it changed her relationship with her husband, Glen.

“I felt it brought my husband and I closer even though it was a family shoot, because he was so nervous and didn’t want to do the photos at first, then after the experience he raved about how fun and amazing it was and how amazing the photos were!”

“They are beautiful memories that you will literally have forever! Money comes and goes, but these gorgeous memories cannot be replaced, it’s literally like a beautiful amazing snap shot in time in your life”, Laura added.

What is it you’d love to get from an experience like this?

I’d love to hear from you!
http://www.meetme.so/allebachphone

Erika Schoof has over 10 years’ experience as a photography studio and production manager. Learn more about our studio at allebachphotography.com or by texting 610.539.6920. Join our facebook group here

Tags family photo session, family photography, family photos, mom in the photo, montgomery county, phildadelphia, renaissance of dad, renaissance of family

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Travel Back In Time With A Fine Art Photo Album

Post author By Erika Schoof
Post date February 10, 2021
No Comments on Travel Back In Time With A Fine Art Photo Album

One of our clients’ favorites ways to be transported back to the all the feels from their experiences is through our custom, fine art albums.

During the cinematic reveal of your photos, you’ll laugh and cry and work with your photographer to choose your absolute favorite photos.

You may have those top faves that you know are PERFECT for that space in your home so you can see them every single day.

But what about all of those other moments? The candid ones. The funny ones. The romantic ones. The naughty ones even.

Together, they tell a story. A story of your relationship with your partner, or the way you play with your kids, or the journey you’re on right now… how you want to see yourself every single day.

What would it mean for you to be able to go back in time and relive a day where you felt truly empowered, strong, connected, and loved? That’s the power of the printed photograph. It’s a moment in time that holds worlds of emotions and memories. It’s an anchor to a time you cherish.

So, if you’re thinking about booking a session with us, and you aren’t sure how you want to memorialize these moments, a keepsake album is always a solid choice and an investment worth every penny.

I’d like to leave you with a question to ask yourself…

If you could step into a time machine right now, what are those moments you would want to relive all over again?

When you have your answer, let us know http://www.meetme.so/allebachphone

Tags boudoir album, family album

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Couple Could Not Wait To Install Artwork In A Prominent Space In Their Bedroom!

Post author By Christine Wolkin
Post date January 30, 2021
No Comments on Couple Could Not Wait To Install Artwork In A Prominent Space In Their Bedroom!

Sometimes couples are destined to cross paths twice, like with Kristen and Adam, who reconnected after a six year gap of not seeing or talking to each other.

“We met many moons ago at an afterschool program. Adam was a grade ahead of me in high school, so we always went to school together. Funny story we worked at Subway together throughout high school and may or may not have been ‘seeing’ each other after work!“ says Kristen.

Kristen then went off to college and the two lost touch.

She continues, “When I moved home, I had been hanging out with my best friend at the firehouse where they had belonged. Her husband had been on my case about hooking me up with this really nice guy. I was totally not ready to start dating after just getting out of a relationship. When he told me who it was, I just laughed! I was like, ‘absolutely not’! Well, after months of hanging around the firehouse, where Adam was a lieutenant, we saw more and more of each other. I had absolutely no interest in even giving him a shot. Months later I finally agreed to hang out, one thing led to another, and here we are eight years later, married for two!”

Kristen loves that Adam keeps her grounded. “I am the person to jump and ask questions later and he is able to reel me back in, to think before I act in certain circumstances. He puts up with my crazy, yet allows me to be exactly who I am. He has held me through some of my toughest days and tries his best to understand me.”

“The thing I love most about you is your dedication to your business, the time and effort you put into your team and helping others. Your constant drive to do better and do more for both us and your business,” Adam tells Kristen.

For their couple’s boudoir session, Kristen had ordered multiple items online that didn’t arrive in time due to the holiday/pandemic USPS shipping madness.

“Outfits, honestly, were a nightmare. Thankfully, I was able to pull it together. I was able to pull an outfit from my own business inventory. My favorite outfit was a simple black bodysuit off Amazon. I typically walk around our house in a crummy old white t-shirt and underwear, so my third outfit was Adam’s favorite underwear and a tight, white crop top!”

Though they both started out nervous, they both warmed up quickly and went with the flow as they got into poses.

“We were both pretty nervous going into it. The drive down that morning we were both on edge, but thankfully we had a blast and the nerves left pretty quick. Mike and his staff were awesome!” says Kristen.

Adam says that his favorite part of their session was their steamy shower scene.

“We loved the down time after the shoot to reconnect and play the card games upstairs. The reveal of the photos, um… I wish I had words. The music Mike played was the perfect fit. In a company where I empower and educate women everyday (she works as a director at Pure Romance), the music and photos almost brought tears to my eyes as I felt so beautiful and so empowered watching the spool of photos, and I am not a crier,” Kristen says.

Adam agreed. “I was speechless when it came to the photo reveal.”

The couple ordered artwork for both their bedroom and master bath, along with a portrait box of 25 photos, which they said arrived more quickly than they expected, and they were just as quick to add them to their walls.

“We planned for a corner in our bedroom but after bringing them home we decided right across from our bed. We couldn’t put them in a corner to hide, they are way too beautiful. It didn’t take long to hang them, they were both up within an hour of getting home. It’s beautiful to wake up to in the morning,” Kristen says.

Kristen says she hopes this session leads to them spending more intimate time together.

“Having those pictures on the wall is a reminder that we need to make time for ourselves…that outside of our everyday busy lives, we still have each other and that is one important piece of keeping our marriage strong.”

Adam says he hopes the session makes his wife more comfortable wearing sexy lingerie! He also added that it was great foreplay and pregame for their upcoming vacation.

The couple says they cannot wait to return one day at a different period in their lives. We can’t wait to have you again, Kristen and Adam!

Book your own couple’s boudoir session by calling 610.539.6920 or by visiting http://allebachphotography.com/contact/

Tags boudoir photography, couples boudoir

art Family Moms

She’s Here! A New Renaissance Album

Post author By Mike Allebach
Post date July 8, 2020
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If you’ve been to Allebach Photography, you know how much we love artwork; from the statement pieces displayed in the most prominent spaces in your home, to the coffee table artwork meant to tell an intimate story.

Since the launch of our Renaissance of Mom campaign, which is now relaunched as a new model call for families, I’ve been excited to create a two-tone cover, sample album to have in our studio!

This new upgrade is such a beautiful way to add a little pop and personality to your album, so you can’t help but want to hold it and relive all of those beautiful moments captured together.

Ready for the gift of family portraits? Let’s chat and get started! Schedule a time that works for you at http://www.meetme.so/allebachphone

We serve people from all 50 states! Our studio is located 1 hour from Lancaster, Philadelphia, Allentown, Delaware County, Berks County and a short drive from Lansdale, Doylestown, King of Prussia

Tags family album, family photography, renaissance of family

art best photographer Family Moms North Wales

The Renaissance of Family

Post author By Mike Allebach
Post date June 30, 2020
No Comments on The Renaissance of Family

We’ve primarily focused on one parent up until now.
It’s time to focus on the whole family!

We’re looking for 6 families, to come model for the day! The spots will go quickly. First come, first serve.

Your session would take place at Allebach Photography in North Wales, PA. For modeling you will receive a complimentary photo session and an experience designed to celebrate you and your family! As a special thank you for participating, you will also receive $200 towards artwork.

If you’re interested, please email Erika at hello@allebachphotography.com with what an experience like this would mean to you. Submit your story by July 7th.

Tags family, family photo session, model call, renaissance of family

art Boudoir couples boudoir

Special Session Fee Available Now for Body+ of Fine Art Sessions

Post author By Mike Allebach
Post date December 20, 2018
No Comments on Special Session Fee Available Now for Body+ of Fine Art Sessions

Special Session Fee Available Now for Body+ of Fine Art Sessions

At Allebach Photography, our Body+ of Fine Art sessions (or what’s more commonly known as ‘Bodyscaping’), transform parts of your body into unique pieces of art.

“It’s great for people that aren’t sure if they want to do boudoir because it’s so abstract, it really does have a unique transformative power over people,” said the owner and head photographer Mike Allebach.

Boudoir Bodyscaping by Allebach Photography. Studio Photography in the Philadelphia Suburbs.

During a Body+ of Fine Art session, the human form is artistically expressed using lights and shadows to convey the impression of abstract landscapes or pieces of nature.

“I think that the bodyscaping was appealing to me because it is so hyper-focused on the human form that you truly get to appreciate the beauty of the human body,” says Emily Morales.

Morales recently did a Body+ of Fine Art session in conjunction with a boudoir shoot.

“Since he photographed my wedding, I became obsessed with his work and when I saw the bodyscaping on Instagram I thought it was so gorgeous,” Emily says.

While Emily has always had an appreciation for the beauty of all bodies, in her past she admits she’s struggled with accepting her own body, having overcome body dysmorphia and an eating disorder.

“I do believe that all bodies are beautiful, but I needed help seeing it for myself. I booked the session on a whim because in my heart of hearts I knew that it would help give me a boost and help me heal.”

“The bodyscaping, for me, was a way for me to see my body in its rawest and most real form. There was nothing to hide, it was just me. I think that seeing myself in that light was incredibly important for my journey to self-acceptance,” she continues.

Another client agrees. “Leading up to my session with Mike, I felt a mixture of equal parts terrified and exhilarated. I had never experienced a photo shoot where my partner and I were the sole subjects, let alone one where we’d be completely naked. The moment the shoot began, however, I realized how unfounded my fears were,” says W.G.

“Once the photos were developed and I saw how creatively and gorgeously he’d created landscapes out of my body, I felt a profound sense of gratitude for having had the opportunity to be a part of this project. I was able to see my body, with all of its imperfections, as gloriously perfect as it is. I felt beautiful, empowered, and more body-positive than I ever had in my entire life,” said W.G.

“I can’t emphasize enough how much more comfortable I feel. Seeing the bodyscaping shots in the reveal was almost an out of body experience. I couldn’t believe that it was me!” says Emily.

Body+ of Fine Art is an experience for couples, men, and women and gives you the opportunity to see your figure in a way you’ve never seen before.

And now for a limited time, all bookings made in 2018 will get a special session fee of just $100.

Let’s talk about creating amazing artwork! Contact us here or call at 610.539.6920 to get started!

Tags bodyscaping

art

An Open Letter to Young Aspiring Artists (and Old Navy)

Post author By Mike Allebach
Post date December 30, 2015
No Comments on An Open Letter to Young Aspiring Artists (and Old Navy)

“Every child is an artist until he’s told he’s not an artist.” – John Lennon

Dear Young Aspiring Artist,
By now you’ve seen the Old Navy t-shirt with the words imprinted “Young Aspiring ~~Artist.~~ President.” Those words hit me because I believe it’s hard work being an artist. Some how I want to believe the person who created it was trying to convey this. Or maybe I’m being kind and Old Navy just wanted to sell a design the helicopter parent demographic would buy. Either way since nobody really talks about the cost of creating art, I wanted to share this with you.

Art is Scary. Art is Sorcery.
I believe art is sorcery. The good kind – I swear but still it’s scary. Art has the ability to change how the future looks. 8 years ago I had this crazy idea my

business could be built around photographing brides with tattoos. I loved the idea of punk rock brides. Back then this was unheard of. People thought I was weird and asked “why would you want to do that?” People still don’t understand what I do. I did it anyway. I photographed brides with tattoos and put it all over my website. Art is sorcery, it changed me. It changed my path. I remember graduating high school and I wanted to be a computer programer. I somehow ended up in this world where I get to photograph all of these super fun people. Clients I love. I realize today it’s not as much of a big deal to see a bride show off a tattoo but back in 2007 it was. Art creates new realities and can envision a future which doesn’t yet exist. It did for me.

“May your coming year be filled with magic and dreams and good madness. I hope you read some fine books and kiss someone who thinks you’re wonderful, and don’t forget to make some art — write or draw or build or sing or live as only you can. And I hope, somewhere in the next year, you surprise yourself.”
— Neil Gaiman

There is no such thing as an “aspiring” artist.
You either are an artist or you aren’t. In order to be an artist there is only one requirement, you must create. Once you put your creation into the world, YOU are an artist. When the pen hits the paper, the brush hits the canvas, when you print the screenplay YOU are an artist. I’m guessing if you are reading this YOU are already an artist.

But…if you selfishly keep your ideas. If you hold onto them – never sharing them with the world, you sadly aren’t. Artists create.

Before you start asking questions, let me make this perfectly clear, you do not have to go to art school. You can even support your art with a job. Or you can make a few extra buck by selling your art on Etsy. There are no rules to being an artist other than creation. Spending an hour on creation work doesn’t make you less of an artist than spending 50 hours. In fact many people are much happier when they don’t have to rely on their art to pay the bills.

Create. That is it, create something and show us. Please, please, please don’t hold back.

“If you find yourself asking yourself and your friends, “Am I really a writer? Am I really an artist?” chances are you are. The counterfeit innovator is wildly self-confident. The real one is scared to death.”
― Steven Pressfield

The obstacles within
I want to let you in on a little secret I’ve learned: Every artist I know gets scared. At some point in the process of creating things worthwhile you will face fear.

Sometimes we as artists feel unworthy to create. Sometimes we go through dry spells. Sometimes artists don’t feel one ounce of creativity. Don’t think it will get easier if your art somehow makes you famous. When you get to do what you really really love, and get recognized for it, the more of a fraud you think you are. You’ll probably wonder if your success is a fluke. Imposter Syndrome. Maybe you’ll even convince yourself you don’t deserve this notoriety. Amanda Palmer talked in depth in her commencement speech to the New England Institute of Art’s Class of 2011.

The critic
If you decide to make art you will face critics. Now your critics might be imagined or they might be real. Jon Acuff explains critic math as 1 insult + 1,000 compliments = 1 insult. Be prepared for it. Realize when you are just imagining it. For some critique is helpful. Maybe you love your art being critiqued. I don’t. During the learning stages it can be great to find out the proper way to hold a brush, take a properly exposed photo or sing on key. Sadly, many times criticism can be destructive, even if the giver was trying to be constructive.

“If you ask me what I came to do in this world, I, an artist, will answer you: I am here to live out loud.”
— Émile Zola

The Reward
There is nothing more beautiful than knowing a creative work is finished. When you overcome the obstacles of fear within and the critic we imagine outside, there is a reward. I’ve told you all of the obstacles you will face in hopes it will prepare you to create. We need you to practice your art. We need you to show a future we can’t yet see. Evoke love and anger and passion in our soul. We need your art to see beauty invisible to us. I promise if you are willing to let it, art will reward you for it.

Create art.

Tags Aspiring Artists, Old Navy