And the winner is …

I want to start by sharing a story.  Not too long ago I was sifting through my mail and came upon an envelope from a local publication – Madison Magazine.  I opened it and then my jaw hit the desk.  “Madison Magazine wishes to congratulate Sweeney Photography as the Gold Winner in the BEST Photographer category for 2013!”  (Okay, just typing that got me a bit choked up.)  My first thought was – wow that’s so wonderful!!!  Followed by – I wonder who the big winner is?  I quickly went to their website and realized that the big winner was indeed me.  A smile formed, a tear fell and a silent WOOHOO rang out. Why silent?  I had to keep this fabulous and truly unexpected news to myself until today.

Today I finally get to share it and say THANK YOU Madison Magazine!  THANK YOU Madison Magazine Readers and Voters!  THANK YOU Family and Friends for your support the past 11 years!  And above all – THANK YOU to the Brides and High School Seniors and Families and Babies and Professionals that have allowed me to share their special moments, days and events!

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http://www.madisonmagazine.com/Madison-Magazine/July-2013/Best-of-Madison-2013/Best-of-Madison-2013-Arts-Entertainment/

Grooming tips for the big day

I have spent a bit of time over the last 11 years retouching the images I’ve taken.  Thousands of images, thousands of hours spent removing blemishes, stray hairs, double chins, opening closed eyes – switching heads from one image to another.  You name it I have done it.

While retouching portraits of several different handsome men today I noticed that I was spending quite a bit of time on facial hair.  I can easily fix a stray nose hair but the mustache/beard area is a whole other thing.  This for me is one of the trickiest areas to do.  In one click the portrait can go from realistic to mannequin.  This made me stop and ponder the issue.  Maybe they just need a few tips on what to do and when to do it before their big day.  Do they know that a proper shave by a professional can change their life?

So here you go fellas.  I did a bit of surfing with the help of Google today and found a site/page to help you out.  I liked this one because of the tips are plain and simple – no fuss.  Ladies – feel free to share with your guys so you can make sure your wedding day photos are stunning!!!

http://themurdockman.com/5-grooming-tips-for-the-groom/

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Weddings all around the world

I’m always eager to see what some of my fellow photographer friends are doing all around the world.  I’ve known Melissa for a few years and love to see her images.  She is super creative and I love the way she captures the spirit and individuality of her bridal couples.  I was excited to start my wedding season this month – but now I”m SERIOUSLY excited!!

“There are so many fantastic ways to share the fine details about your special wedding day, if I have photographed your wedding and you have shared it publicly online, I would love to see it.

Here’s one from “Polka Dot Weddings…Inspiring Weddings Blog” from Maura and Steve’s whimsical 1940’s inspired wedding…”

 – Melissa Thorburn Photography, New Zealand

http://www.polkadotbride.com/2013/02/rustic-1940s-polka-dot-wellington-wedding/

 

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The most wonderful time of the year … for me

Share Random Photos Wednesday

Festival season officially began for me last night with the kickoff meeting of the Summerfest Street Team.  Anyone that knows me knows that I have a love of music that is somewhat … passionate.  And my love of the World’s Largest Music Festival is a part of what keeps me going through the long, cold winter here in Wisconsin.

I’ve been part of the Summerfest Street Team for several years – a team leader for the last two.  I’ve had such a blast getting to know the people that organize the festival and the fans that love it.  I can’t imagine not being a part of it.  Why do I love it so much?  There are many reasons – the music, the food, the people I meet.  The diversity of all of those things.  There truly is something for everyone at Summerfest.

If you want to know more about the festival go to summerfest.com and follow me on Facebook and Twitter (links below).  I will post updates, photos and let you all know where the Street Team will be so you come by and say Hi!  We always have some free tickets to give away.  Plus, this year we are hoping to have some events here in Madison.  Woohoo!

I’ll be sharing photos I’ve taken over the years on Wednesdays from here on.  Let me know if you recognize anyone on stage or off.

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