Pamela Strohl ~ Blog

Hold On Tight ~ An Extended Family Session

2012-02-09T20:40:00.000-08:00

I was just thrilled to get to meet BP, Liam, LuLu, Chochi & Shomie! (Your Aunties, Uncles & Grandparents were okay, too. :)) Thanks everyone for coming out, despite it being one of our colder days. When a family is all together in one place, there is so very much to celebrate. And yes, I was thankful that Shomie knew the word, 'cookie!' Blessings to you all (near & far), Pamela

Natalie is One

2012-02-07T17:20:00.000-08:00

Remy is One

2012-02-06T22:10:00.000-08:00

Anja's Newborn Session

2012-02-04T08:05:00.000-08:00

Gracie is One!

2012-02-03T20:06:00.000-08:00

Megan & Kevin ~ A Celebration

2012-01-30T12:25:00.000-08:00

Harper & Hadley ~ A Family Session

2012-01-28T19:46:00.000-08:00

Megan & Kevin ~ Reception

2012-01-20T14:59:00.000-08:00

Listening

2012-01-16T07:58:00.001-08:00

Megan & Kevin ~ Bridal Party

2012-01-14T06:07:00.000-08:00

Tyler & Zachary

2012-01-10T18:18:00.000-08:00

Megan & Kevin ~ Ceremony

2012-01-09T20:55:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to take a moment to thank my intern, Loren (a 'Learning Assistant' at Megan & Kevin's wedding), for taking some gorgeous, striking images. One of my favorite images during the ceremony is of Megan and her father walking down the aisle (shot from the balcony). Absolutely stunning, thank you, Loren.

Megan & Kevin ~ Preparations

2011-12-30T22:54:00.000-08:00

So, it's true, the kids may have stolen a bit of the show at this wedding, as Megan is the last of four siblings to tie the knot. Nieces and nephews were adorable and I couldn't resist. While Megan relaxed in the 'getting ready' room, she kept us all in suspense as to what she would look like in her amazing dress. While it was closest to the ceremony (in terms of timing) I've ever witnessed, I absolutely loved that she did it exactly how she wanted to. I love the images of the little boys and the big ones. And my favorite image that I almost missed in the culling process, is the reaction of Megan's sisters when she was in her dress and ready to go. More to come...

Bennett & Boden

2011-12-29T07:45:00.000-08:00

Olivia, Aubrey & AJ

2011-12-26T20:50:00.000-08:00

Megan & Patrick ~ Part Four

2011-12-18T13:43:00.000-08:00

Megan & Patrick ~ Part Three

2011-12-18T13:04:00.001-08:00

Eva & Luke ~ A Family Session

2011-12-13T19:35:00.000-08:00

Eating

2011-12-13T13:07:00.001-08:00

Megan & Patrick ~ Part Two

2011-12-11T08:10:00.001-08:00

Megan & Patrick

2011-12-07T08:41:00.001-08:00

Megan ~ Preparations

2011-11-30T21:42:00.001-08:00

Kailey

2011-11-29T10:42:00.001-08:00

Marion & Scott ~ Celebration

2011-11-29T06:56:00.001-08:00

Harper & Asher

2011-11-23T16:38:00.001-08:00

Marion & Scott ~ Part Four!

2011-11-23T09:03:00.001-08:00

Zach

2011-11-22T21:34:00.001-08:00

Marion & Scott ~ Part Three

2011-11-08T14:37:00.000-08:00

Anthony Michael ~ A Newborn Session

2011-10-20T10:21:00.000-07:00

Sweet pea!

Loved going over to visit this new one. Evening the numbers a bit, little Anthony joined a home with two adoring older sisters. I came over while the others were at school and watched the new bonds that were forming in their family.

Bliss.

How can you not love a face like this?

Anthony Michael you've joined a loving and fun family, we are so happy you're here!

Miss Pam

Marion & Scott ~ Part Two

2011-10-17T21:40:00.000-07:00

These two are so cute.

Marion with her vintage props & etsy details, Scott adoring her as a bride and enjoying their time alone (while the bridal party was doing who knows what!).

I often have a couple close their eyes for a few moments, while they are off taking their own photos. I know it sounds a little strange, but because most couples have been in overdrive the last few months and especially the last week, it can give them a moment to just listen, to think, to breathe. Whatever they might need in their day.

While this sometimes gives me an opportunity to take an image or two. I really do it for them. Scott sensed that Marion was ready to keep moving and encouraged her to just take a moment.

I loved that.

I love the images we were able to get by the lake. Thank you for taking the time, Scott & Marion.

(Huge thanks again to my assistant Kelli Kallish for her wonderful images, too.)

Lucas Ray ~ A Newborn Session

2011-10-12T17:51:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I forget how small babies start out. Lucas Ray seemed like a puppy slung over his momma's shoulder. We couldn't help but chuckle over how flopsy and bendable he was. Big brother, Cameron, seemed to be just fine with the addition. He had no problem being the big boy in the house. Tina, Chad & Cameron, congratulations on baby Lucas. He's a keeper.

Looking Back

2011-10-05T17:45:00.001-07:00

Marion & Scott ~ Part One

2011-10-04T20:28:00.000-07:00

What a gorgeous day for Scott and Marion as they got ready to meet one another.

Marion & Scott were all about the details, taking the time to make sure they represented who they were and what they were about, from clothing and jewelry to accessories and food. The details were beautiful and fun.

I was honored to be chosen to capture the day with their family and close friends.

(Thank you to my fabulous assistant- a north Chicago local, Kelli, who captured the images with Scott and the guys.)

Working

2011-09-27T11:45:00.000-07:00

Sarah & Bobby ~ Celebration

2011-09-24T09:23:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a stunning couple. I am truly excited for this pair & enjoyed spending the day with them, their families and friends! (Thank you, Curtis & Carrie!) Sarah & Bobby are one of those unique couples who actually met in elementary school. They grew up, reconnected & the rest (they say) is history.

Congratulations!

Maddie & Chase

2011-09-23T12:44:00.000-07:00

Here's a mom with her two loves.

Madison & Chase never seem to be out of ideas, smiles and fun for me. I'm so happy that their mom knows that a studio (and yes, I've gone to them, too) just couldn't exactly show or contain their vibrant personalities.

I love to mix professional photography with a lot of fun and images that will remind you of what they were like. Oh my goodness, they crack me up.

I hope you enjoy these forever!

Miss Pam

Sarah & Bobby ~ Part Two

2011-09-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

I think that Grandpa Bill and mom, Robin, are about as cute as you can get.

Family and friends gathered in the outdoor courtyard at the Villa Filomena for Sarah & Bobby's ceremony. Brother-in-law, Curtis, officiated (through laughter and tears, though you can never really tell with those Strohl boys!) and the rains held off while they professed their love and commitment to each other.

It was a thoroughly heart-felt, lovely afternoon. The rain didn't come down until the last of the guests entered the Villa for the reception ~ perfect timing!

I was so happy to be capturing the day...

Sarah & Bobby ~ Part One

2011-09-13T15:27:00.000-07:00

Isn't this dress stunning?

I think it's enjoyable to show some true shots of the ladies getting ready for a wedding. It can sometimes takes quite a bit of maneuvering to get a bride inside her dress.

Sarah was completely relaxed and took everything in stride, even when we were not sure if we would actually see her head pop out.

The guys were getting assembled behind the doors of the Villa Filomena courtyard, preparing for their entry to the ceremony.

I love all of the fun and anticipation.

More to come...

Taylor's Senior Session

2011-09-06T14:10:00.000-07:00

Photographing a Photographer

I was humbled to be asked to photograph Taylor for her high school senior portraits. I knew that she's been recognized by family, friends and neighbors as quite a talented photographer. She's had one dark room course and has another photography course this year, too.

I loved that her session was a combination of our efforts and I truly had fun trying things out. Taylor, it was so nice to meet you and I can't wait to see more of your work and what you discover along the way.

Sincerely, Pamela

Learning

2011-09-06T10:30:00.000-07:00

I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.

I've learned that people will forget what you said,

people will forget what you did, but people

will never forget how you made them feel.

-Maya Angelou

Megan & Kevin ~ Engaged

2011-09-05T10:10:00.000-07:00

I can't decide if Kevin looks like a young David Duchovny or someone else. Can't quite figure that one out. Chime in the comments section if you have a guess. Regardless, they are a beautiful couple.

Megan and Kevin let me try shooting at different angles with interesting and subtle lighting differences. It was a beautiful evening with folks out enjoying the summer night. I loved the variety of the locations.

When it's beginning to get wintery, Megan and Kevin will be getting ready for their big day. (I honestly love a winter wedding!) It will be nice to be able to look back on these warm, fun images to remember the summer.

I hope that you all are enjoying the long weekend.

Megan & Kevin, so nice to get to know you a bit. Many more to come...

Max's Senior Session

2011-09-03T12:49:00.000-07:00

This session reminds me how much I love where I live and the kids that live here. There are so many kind, hardworking kids (note the last shot of Max with his mom!). Max worked all summer at the city's boat launch and was up and working before most of us hit our alarms. I love my 'Short and Sweet' Mini sessions that a lot of seniors ask me about. We have just enough time to walk around one or two nearby locations. Not a lot of fuss, but some great shots. Thanks, Max, and have a great senior year!

Getting Together

2011-09-03T12:15:00.000-07:00

What sweet, sweet kids... all getting together at Grandma & Grandpa's house. I love when families get together and call me over. Thank you to Miss Amanda for arranging this photo get together. If you are in the Green Bay area and need a family, child or wedding photographer, don't hesitate to give her a call. Wes, Amanda & Maura, we will miss seeing you in our town (& hope you visit often!), but will try & see you up in the bay. Thank you so much to everyone for having me out. Sincerely, Miss Pam

Bria & Mike ~ Celebration

2011-09-01T11:43:00.000-07:00

Such fun I had with this bridal party, Bria & Mike, their family and friends. This is only a small taste of Reception and Celebration fun! Thank you's again to Rebecca Marie, Maid of Honor, best friend and photographer out of Chicago, the Miller Pavillion and Paul Raasch over at Zilli Catering. (It has been fun running into Paul both at Coast and the Miller Room, as I worked for him at Manchester East throughout college.)Enjoy,Pamela

Listening

2011-08-27T10:22:00.000-07:00

Stella & Camille

2011-08-25T07:41:00.001-07:00

These images feel a bit like a symphony of baby photographs!

Truth be known, I was in love with my figure drawing courses in college. I loved bends, curves, eyes, faces, little things that would make a person unique. I have been attempting with my camera to capture so many of the things I loved about those classes. The way a hand would rest or the shape of someone's lashes.

Enter in babies and toddlers and I'm sort of in heaven. So full of spirit and new life...

I always want to thank the parents for letting me spend time with them and having the chance to translate the art I see. Simply gorgeous.

Many more to come,
Pamela

Bria & Mike ~ Part Three

2011-08-24T21:20:00.001-07:00

What an absolutely gorgeous ceremony overlooking the lake. With sailboats and museums, sky and water, Bria and Mike pledged their love to one another.

There were funny ushers, the adorable flower girl, Gloria, being pulled by the very handsome ring bearers. While it was indeed very warm, we couldn't have asked for a better day.

I love the last shot of Bria and Mike as they looked at each other in amazement. The sun hit them so beautifully & I was happy to capture the moment.

Reception & Celebration photos to come,
Pamela

To be notified when the entire collection is available for viewing, click here.

Will & Ben ~ A Sibling Session

2011-08-23T06:09:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

I'd love to introduce you to my banker and her children. Bryn was so kind to help me set up appropriate business accounts at my local bank.

As I was showing her my cards and she was describing what it was like returning from maternity leave, we talked about our mutual love of photography. Especially, capturing the split seconds of children's play, expressions and laughter.

Bryn, thank you for setting up this session. I loved meeting your sweet boys and getting to know another cool person in my city.

Many more to come, Pamela

Listening

2011-08-21T09:51:00.000-07:00

Bria & Mike ~ Part Two

2011-08-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

Sometimes beauty happens in the waiting...

We wait for a lot of things in our lives. Actually, most people I know are waiting for something. Let these photos remind you that there is beauty that happens while you wait, reflecting and preparing.

There are friendships that have built over a lifetime, bonds that no one else understands. These are the types of things I really love capturing.

Don't miss what happens while you are waiting. It is in these small details that a life is made.

Gorgeous photos of Mike & Bria's Ceremony & Celebration to come!

Thank you for waiting,
Pamela

Together Again

2011-08-19T15:02:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness how times have changed. Little ones are here and growing, family is together again.

Some times in life are too important to let them go undocumented. When the grandkids are scheduled to visit, you could plan a short play session to capture those smiles and interactions.

Life is too short & very sweet. Thank you for having me over.

Of course, more to come,

Pamela

Bria & Mike ~ Married

2011-08-17T14:16:00.000-07:00

Right from the first time I met this pair, I knew I would love their wedding day. Sweet and dedicated teachers, they lovingly planned all aspects of their 'dreamed about' day.

Bria & Mike opted to see each other before their ceremony to take some photos ahead of time. Their meeting on top of the MAM bridge was exciting to behold.

I have a lot of respect for Bria & Mike and was honored to be chosen to capture all of the fun, beauty and love. They were completely adorable!

Many thanks to Bria's childhood friend & maid of honor, Rebecca Marie (in the greater Chicago area), who I met at last year's photography conference, for introducing us!

Much more to come, Pamela

Listening

2011-08-11T17:53:00.001-07:00

A Thoughtful Anniversary Gift ~ A Sibling Session

2011-08-03T10:37:00.001-07:00

If you happen to know the parents of Ali & Joel, Andrea, Mike and Mark, please don't share these photos with them!

The kids went ahead and scheduled a photo session without their parents having any notion of such activities.

They will present them the photos as a very special anniversary gift in September.

Thoughtful?

Growing up in Port Washington, the siblings decided to take photos at both the beach they grew up going to and a nearby park.

So glad little Masie could join us!

Ali, thank you for making this happen.

More to come,

Pamela

Miss Maura ~ Almost Three

2011-07-28T07:33:00.000-07:00

If you do not know what it is like to parent a 'spirited' child, perhaps you should look through these photos.

I tell Amanda & Wes each time that I see them that Maura seems just about ready to single-handedly run her own Fortune 500 corporation.

Take a look at how she speaks to both her parents and Miss Pam, behind the camera.

We hung out at their CSA, got to see some chickens and rest in the hammocks.

These photos are quintessential 'summer' images to me.

More to come,

Pamela

Elsie Anna ~ A Newborn Session

2011-07-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

"One day when you're older, and taller than me, I'll say I watched you grow like a beautiful tree..."

(K.Hill, Up to the Moon)

The quilt is made with love by mom & dad and is quite gorgeous.

Well, it was a great pleasure to meet and photograph the newest one, Elsie Anna.

She drifted in and out of sleep, a few outfit changes and a feeding. Isn't she beautiful? I loved watching Katie & Matt as parents. And I happen to think Elsie is one lucky kiddo.

May your days be filled with unexpected surprises as you grow together as a family.

Many blessings,

Pamela

Erin & Pete ~ Celebration

2011-07-18T10:02:00.001-07:00

What a beautiful night!

The Grain Exchange was a gorgeous space to celebrate in, with perhaps the highest ceiling I've ever photographed a reception in!

(Tangent: I haven't been in the Grain Exchange since my Junior Prom a couple of decades ago. It brought back memories!)

I get pretty excited to capture family and friends enjoying one another, saying the words they've been collecting for quite awhile.

Sweet moments all night long...

Click here & choose 'Erin & Pete" to be notified when the entire collection is available for viewing.

Sincerely,

Pamela

Natalie ~ Six Months

2011-07-15T12:12:00.001-07:00

I love the rolls! Six months is wonderful...

Allison & Brandon asked if we could change things up a bit and meet at their cottage for Natalie's six month shots.

As we started the session, she suggested that maybe we could try to capture this one face (where she scrunches up her nose and mouth in protest) that she will sometime make at them.

It is always fun to try and get what they are doing at home. I loved that in a moment, it came and went!

This is the first year that I am offering One Year packages (Expecting through One Year, choose your number of sessions), they include a beautiful print press album at the end.

If you have had sessions with me before & would like info on the album, it is really an heirloom to enjoy now & pass on to future generations.

Thanks again, Allison & Brandon, for sharing your time with me on the lake. I absolutely love this Fourth of July babe!

Sincerely,

Pamela

Erin & Pete ~ Part Three

2011-07-12T21:05:00.001-07:00

I love that this bride continues to send fun, smart, beautiful brides my way.

I think that Erin & Pete's bridal party may have had a little bit of fun. (Check out the last photo, I think they were ready for their reception!)

Erin and I were discussing locations for bridal party photos and I discovered (in my scouting & double checking) that the original park we had in mind was closed for construction.

I visited a few alternatives and she & Pete did as well. (So cute!) Wouldn't you know it, we came up with very same spot, with the same great waterfall.

My couples care about their photos, but are so relaxed about the details. Truly a gift on the wedding day...

Erin & Pete, I really loved capturing your day.

It was an honor,

Pamela

Remy ~ Six Months

2011-07-11T14:00:00.001-07:00

Little Remy is not so little anymore.

He is huge! He has fabulous rolls and sweet smiles.

Remy is very easy going with a propensity for eating. Anything. A finger, a toe... Anyone's fingers or toes. Yes, that little mouth will be erupting with teeth very soon.

We took Remy's six month shots at his grandparents home & they were invaluable in eliciting giggles.

Thank you to everyone. You have one adorable kiddo on your hands.

Pamela

Erin & Pete ~ Part Two

2011-07-08T08:52:00.000-07:00

Erin & Pete!

It was so exciting to capture your ceremony.

From Erin's lovely entry with her dad to Pete's gesture of kindness (and tissues), we loved capturing all the beaming smiles and sweet tears.

This one was extra special, as Pete's dad officiated and offered words of advice from personal experience (note Erin's grin at Pete's mom!).

Thank you to my assistant, Carol. I love seeing a different perspective through her eyes.

Next up, Erin & Pete's bridal party fun at the lovely Lake Park grounds.

To Erin & Pete, the newlyweds, "Cheers!"

Pamela

Watching

2011-07-03T07:58:00.000-07:00

Erin & Pete ~ Part One

2011-07-01T20:06:00.001-07:00

Here are the beginnings to Erin & Pete's fabulous wedding day.

The greens were so lush, the vibrant ivy had a magnetic pull on the photographers.

I really like the black & white photo of Erin steadying herself, for the photos, the day, seeing Pete?

They opted to see one another before the ceremony. Pete willingly let Erin make a few adjustments.

I loved Erin's interactions with her mom and dad, who you could tell were soaking in every moment of such a special day.

What gorgeous beginnings...

Many more to come,

Pamela

Jordan & Jodi ~ Celebration

2011-06-24T16:26:00.000-07:00

Here is a small taste of an amazing celebration.

I almost don't want to put any words with these images.

I was touched by the family's sincerity to one another during toasts & the celebration was beyond fabulous.

I hope to have captured the essence of a great, great night.

Sincerely,

Pamela

Thank You's to my extraordinarily talented assistant, Jeffrey Cleveland. The amazing floral & candle artistry team at Sendiks of Brookfield, the InterContinental staff, Orchestra 33 & last, but certainly not least Janelle Meyer-Brown, who tied every detail together.

Lydia & Drew ~ A Family Session

2011-06-19T13:12:00.000-07:00

Just one small break from weddings to share some images from another family...

I got to meet Lydia, Drew & their parents, Kelly & Dave, at Bookworm Gardens on the UW-Sheboygan campus. I'm thankful that Kelly suggested such a treasure of a place for the kids to play...

Lydia & Drew discovered books tucked in crannies throughout the gardens. It was fun to watch them bring the stories to life.

I photographed some signs for parts of the gardens. Others you will have to guess!

Happy Father's Day,

Pamela