JB Photography

Don't forget Your Dads

2011-06-13T20:24:00.000-07:00

Father's day is just around the corner!! JB Photography can offer you quality photos at an affordable price. Mention this posting and receive an extra 10% off your session fee!

Life on a budget is not easy!

2011-04-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

In today's day and age it is so hard to take the time or the money to get family pictures done. Times are so tough right now and many are choosing to go to the retail stores, take their own photos, or opt out on pictures all together!

This makes me extremely sad, not only as a photographer, but as wife and mother. Many people wonder why and how do I work with those on a budget, well today I would like to tell you!!

First of all the why; in August of 2007 my family and I relocated to the area so my husband can pursue his education. At this time the economy was still strong and jobs were still out there. At the time of the move he did not have a job and our income consisted of the GI Bill which at the time was $1,126 a month. We are a family of four and as you can imagine this was not a very easy budget to live on. After graduation in 2009 we found that the economy had hit this area very hard, and after countless of interviews he was having no luck in finding a job. So in Jan 2010 my husband decided to go back to school. In 2010 he was unable to find a job, and no with the lack of trying. Thankfully 2011 is starting to look up for us, but the uncertainty of tomorrow we never know what could happen.

Now for the how. My business only gives you what you need. We won't sell you anything you don't want nor try to sell you anything extra. We also offer payment plans and many different options to receive your photos (disks, prints, by the photo and so on). So each session is customized to what you need. The key is to negotiate, if you don't think a price is fair just ask!!

I hope you find this post useful!
Best
Johnna

Great Homemade Photo Gift

2010-11-05T17:55:00.000-07:00

With the Holiday season upon us many of us are looking for inexpensive Holiday gifts.
So far my most favorite photo gift idea is Photo Coasters.
I have looked online and found several variations and this is what worked for me!

Materials:
4x6 pictures or 5x7
old Cd's
Card Stock
Spray adhesive (I used Elmer's Craft Bond)
Clear Glaze (I used Krylon Triple-thick Crystal Clear glaze)

Now the process!!!
On a piece of of paper lay your CD with the writing face down
spray on the adhesive and quickly place photo.
Do this for all coasters

Go Back and trim the picture to fit around the CD

Next take your stock paper and do the same process.

Last you take your glaze spray one side and let dry for an hour or more
flip and repeat.
You can add as many coats as you want.

Tips:
-If you prefer you can use laminating paper instead of glaze
-take your time and make sure glue and glaze dry before your next step.
-If it comes apart don't be afraid to spray more glue to attach it.
-Follow all directions on glue and spray's.

A lucky couple could earn Free Photography For Their Wedding!

2010-01-01T16:23:00.000-08:00

With 2010 here I am yet again offering one lucky couple a chance for free photography for their wedding.
The package will include:
Full days of service
Fully edited pictures with High Resolution pictures on a disk
Several consultations with your photographer
all at no cost to you

To qualify you must be:
18 or older
Be getting married in 2010
Location of wedding and reception must be in the Metro East St. Louis area
write a short essay, the topic: "How has the economy affected your wedding plans"
must answer a few basic questions:
1. Wedding Location?
2. Wedding Date?
3. Do you have another photographer lined up? (see below)

Terms: If another wedding photographer is lined up please do not apply for the contest. This contest is for those who do not have a wedding photographer. One entry per couple. For more information email: Johnna Bowker info@jlynnprophoto.com

We will never forget!

2009-11-09T15:49:00.000-08:00

My family and I would like thank all current and past service members. This past Saturday we went to St. Louis to watch the Veterans Day Parade. It was wonderful to see everyone come out and support of Veterans.

Daughter Like Father!

2009-08-31T16:31:00.000-07:00

As a kid growing up you often idolize the ones around you. In my case it was my father. As a child I remember him always carrying around his old Pentax film camera. Thinking how neat and big it looked as a child, I always was curious about the world of Photography. Finally, around 5th grade I became interested in my surroundings I decided to try to get a school newsletter together. My 1st thing was the photography! So I remember asking my dad if I could barrow his camera. After much begging and pleading he gave him. He gave me a short lesson on how to focus, and zoom and the next day I was out their taking pictures of kick ball games and other kids playing. After a couple of months, my dream faded as I couldn't get enough interest in my "dream" I decided to move on.

Then many years later after mother hood was a big part of my life, I began picking up an interest in cameras again. I remember, scared of what would in tale, I called my dad who gave me great advice; "read, read read" which is exactly what I did!! Now two years in business, I am proud to say that I am a photographer!! And I owe to my dad!!

Chris and Joanna's Wedding

2009-08-25T13:39:00.000-07:00

I had the wonderful pleasure of working with Chris and Joanna. Their ceremony was delicately picked at Pere Marquette Lodge. Tucked away on a small hill top, over looking the Mississippi river. Pere Marquette not only made for a romantic ceremony and reception, but made for a magical evening.

Joanna, looking as lovely as ever, and seemed sparkled though the excitement of her day.

Her visage was brimming elgance

Chris and his groomsmen were as excited as ever as the photo portrays.

And by the end of the day the couple showed there true love was everlasting.

Congratulations to both Joanna and Chris on there beautiful wedding!

Mini Sessions

2009-07-23T17:31:00.000-07:00

JB Photography is offering new mini sessions!
Mini Session are great for those people on the go! Also great for the little ones who can't seem to stay still!

In a Mini Session you get:

30 minutes of Photography time
A choice of one location
Up to 4 people in the picture
A disk with 4 photos for you to use to print and place on the Internet.
Plus proof site to view all photos taken.
All of this for only $65

For more information Contact: Johnna Bowker @ info@jlynnprophoto.com

Times are Tough and I feel Your Pain!!

2009-07-02T13:47:00.000-07:00

Times are hard nowadays, people are pinching pennies, cutting coupons, and finding ways to make it day by day. The economic outcome and our future, which use to be bright and glowing is now under turmoil and we never know which way our country is going. We are told it is going up, but many of us, (my family included) are having a hard time finding work, paying bills, and are living day to day.
I will admit I am not a political person, and I will not get into which side I stand for, and to be honest i don't feel it really matters, mainly because this country was built on different types belief systems, and that we are allowed to believe and feel what we want. I fear that many people don't realize how hard and stressful life can be until we actually live it, and to me that is the scary part of this whole situation.
I am a photographer, yes I love what I do! But I am a mother 1st, and taking care of my children is on the top of my list! My children depend on me for love, but also necessities to live and learn, and as i sit here, my husband and I fear that the needs they have may not be met.
This, alone can put a stress on a family, even a family as strong as mine! So, you may be asking your self; are you trying to get people to feel sorry for you? NO! But to show the world that I, just like you struggle everyday. And that if we all come together as a country, we could change this situation, and that we could become the country that we once were! But, it is going to take us all pulling together, helping each other out and showing love for each other!! We cannot depend on anyone, but each other!

So with that said, I do hope everyone has a wonderful Fourth of July, and that you will remember, even if its just for a moment, what this country was founded on. Freedom and Hope!

Senior Picture Time is Here!!

2009-05-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

Working with Seniors in High School is very rewarding and exciting for me. I find that their excitement and energy are endless, and that most seniors are looking to express themselves, but also to have some control over what they look like and how the pictures will turn out! This gives me a wonderful challenge, and a challenge is what I am always up for!

I had the pleasure last year working with Alyssa who wanted several different poses and a unique look to her photos. We started out in Gordon Moore Park and slowly moved to downtown Alton.
Making sure she was comfortable I gave her the options to pose her self, while giving her suggestions on what I felt would look neat!

I always suggest to my seniors to bring props, clothes, make-up and anything that would show their personality and to show who they really are! And with Alyssa, we captured her in a way that truly showed who she was!

Each year JB Photography seeks out seniors who are wanting creative photos, and are willing to Represent JB Photography! The session will include as many props, outfit changes, and locations as needed to capture there personality. We want to make sure that you are happy with your photos!!
If you are someone you know is graduating in May 2010, we are currently seeking seniors to represent JB Photography!
For more information email me at: info@jlynnprophoto.com

What Has JB Photography Been Up To!!

2009-03-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

Spring is officially upon us! The weather is warming up, the birds are chirping and the flowers are blooming! With the warmer weather also brings many couples together! I had the honor to photographer a proposal between a lovely young couple. The young man is on his way to Afghanistan.

I also had the privilege to photograph a brother and sister! They were very fun to work with!

Contgratulations to Joanna Abraham, Winner of The wedding Give Away

2009-03-02T09:15:00.000-08:00

I want to first of all thank everyone for entering JB Photography's 1st ever Essay Contest! I had so many entries and it was so hard to pick!!
After hours of reading though each entry I have made my pick.
So I would like to congratulate Joanna Abraham for winning JB Photography's 1st every Wedding Essay contest!

She will recieve a full day of photography service for her Wedding and a complimentary disk of all of all of her pictures!!

Pictures Taken For Free!!!

2009-02-26T09:44:00.000-08:00

Get Your Picture Taken For FREE!! April 18
Want Pictures of Your family?? Of Your self?? This is your chance!!JB Photography is offering its 1st ever Portrait Party!! When: April 18th 2009 (rain date: April 25th)Time: 9am-1pmWhere: Gorden Moore Park, Alton, IL Details: A Portrait Party is a fun way to try out a new photographer without the risk of loosing anything but your time!You will have 20 mins to have your pictures taken. After the session is up you will be given the link to my proof site. From here you will have the option to buy prints or order a disk with all the photos. The pictures will be placed on the proof site after the day events, they will be fully edited in color. YOU MUST set up an appointment time! Space is limited to 12 families/individuals!If interested please email me at info@Jlynnprophoto.com

Win A photographer for your wedding day!!

2009-01-28T05:40:00.001-08:00

Win a Photographer For Your Wedding Day!
Are you seeking a Wedding Photographer? Worried about the cost? Here is your chance to win a photographer for your magical day! JB Photography is Offering an Essay Contest for all engaged couples seeking a Weeding Photographer! To enter you must be an engaged couple. Getting Married this year and Don't have a photographer already lined up!! What you will win: A Full day of my time at no cost to you!A disk of all edited pictures and A print release to print your photos (no cost to you)!A free Proof Site to view your photos and to share with Family and FriendsAn Option to order prints or albums from me if you wish (but this is completely optional and there is no obligation to do so)How to Win:Type up and email a short essay Describing the Moment That you Knew He Was Mr. Right! Entries Need to be in No later than March 1st 2009!!Email address: Info@jlynnprophoto.comREMEBER: there is no obligation to purchase prints! This is legit!!! Have fun and I look forward to every one's essay!!

A new beginning

2008-10-14T19:05:00.000-07:00

Their is noithing more exciting than graduating High School. The memories that are gained are not only wonderful but everlasting. As a photographer part of my job is to capture the joy of the past and the hope for the future.

This beautiful young lady gave me the wonderful job of capturing such memories. And I am so glad she did!

The Secret in Print Prices!

2008-09-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

One of the questions I ask myself, is why do Professional Photographers charge so much for their prints!
The average photographer charges $30 for an 8x10 and often times the same for a 5x7!! But the question is why??
The answer is for profit! Granite, it is our business and our way of living, but at the same time how can people afford this? Don't get me wrong, even as a photographer and a business women I strive to gain profit, but the margin of profit isn't as big!
One of the things most Pro Photographer's will say is that "We use a pro printing company and that cost more!" Well, the secret is it only cost pennies more than what you can get at most chain stores!!
So, then you may ask, "why are you telling me this, aren't you a professional photographer?" Well, in fact I am, but even as a professional photographer I truly find it hard to believe that charging $30 for one picture is worth it, to both myself or the client. I, just like the other photographers out there use the professional printing companies and yes I look to gain a profit from my prints, but the margin of profit isn't nearly has much as others.
With this said, I am not saying to not use professional photographers!! By all means I encourage everyone to hire them! But, What i do suggest to everyone is to not only look at there work, but consider there print prices!!!

FYI: My prints run $12.99 for an 8x10. From what I am told this is even cheaper than Sears or Walmart!

JB Photography VS Chain Stores

2008-09-02T13:59:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have asked your self, "Why not go to a chain store? They are cheaper."
I will admit, chain stores are tempting, especially when you are on a tight income. I've been their many of times before, and I know how tempting the cheap portrait packages can be, as a mother of two on the limited income I have visited these said chain stores and found every-time to be disapointed.
For an example, on my daughter's 1st birthday, we took her in to get her pictures done. The 1st problem I found was that the photographer didn't seem very kid friendly. She tried her best, but didn't seem to know what she was doing. The poses were all the same, the backgrounds were far from realistic and pretty borning. Then after the pictures where done, of course she tried to sell us a bunch of pictures that we didn't need nor want! So two weeks later we went and picked up her pictures. Looking at the pictures you would have thought a child took them! You could see the border of the background the picture showed more background than my daughters face! Of course i complained and they offered to retake the pictures, but the problem was is my little girl was never going to be 1 again! And to retake these pictures after her said birthday just didn't seem right.

So you see, I have been disapointed with pictures taken before, and I know the feeling it can cause you, when you look at a picture and not be happy!

The differnce between JB Photography and Chain stores is this:

JB Photography strives to make you, the customer happy! If you find yourself not happy with my pictures, I will do everything possible to make you satisfied.

My main focus of the picture is you, not the background. I have also found that working on-location helps you or your children to be comfortable and relaxed.

I also make sure that for young children and babies get plenty of my time! There will be no pressure for you or your children to take the perfect picture right away! Children are often unpredictable and being a mother myself, I understand. My goal is to capture the perfect moment of you and your family!

I will also never try to sell you something you will not want! I never order extra pictures and only order what you pay for!

With this said, you may be asking yourself, what about price?
My average sitting fee (which covers time to take the pictures, travel time, and editing) is on average 75 dollars.
My prints range from 6.00 for wallets 10.00 for 8x10 and 15.00 for 10x13's
I have several print packages for 35.00 and custom packages can be made!
I try my best to work with you! If you have an event or a session you would like to discuss, I would gladly do so!!

My Website

2008-08-23T11:51:00.001-07:00

I have been told that some are having a hard time getting to my main website
please go to http://www.jlynnprophoto.com/
At www.jlynnprophoto.com you can view pictures, prices and other details on my services~!
Thanks!
Johnna

Art In the Sky!

2008-07-10T20:05:00.000-07:00

4th of July, is a day for us to celebrate America as a country. We all come together, near and far to watch fireworks, and to enjoy each other's company. This year, my family and I ventured to St. Louis, MO and I felt like a kid again. The energy was in the air! And of course as a photographer I wanted to capture the beauty around me. To me this was art in the sky!

About me and JB Photography!

2008-07-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

JB Photography, is my dream!

I am a stay at home mom to two beautiful children. I am happily married and my family time is very important to me. I run my business out of my home and prefer to work on location. Right now I offer weddings, events, portraits and any other basic needs you may need.

The reason for my business is not only for the love of photography, but to offer a chance for everyone to have quality photos for an affordable price. Being a stay at home mom, and with a husband in school, I know how important it can be to have pictures of our loved ones, and to capture those memories. The problem is, with today's economic standings, its hard to come up with money for gas, let alone pictures of your children, wedding, or event, but i strive to work with my clients to offer what they need, for a price they can afford. I try to work one on one and cater to what you need!

I'm located in Bethalto, IL and right now I'm accepting clients
you may view my website at
www.johnnabowker.webs.com

email: bowker785@yahoo.com

Pricing

2008-07-07T12:53:00.000-07:00

Sitting Fee is based on: Location, Number of Photos, and Number of People in the shoot.
Starts at $25.

Print prices are as followed:

Wallets: 7.00 (set of 4) For each additional set of wallets at $1.00
4x6: $3.99
5x7: $6.99
8x10: $12.99
10x13: $15.99
10x20: $30.99
20x30: $70.99

Welcome!!

2008-07-07T08:51:00.000-07:00

Welcome to J. B. Photography!
I am located in Bethalto, IL and I cover the St. Louis Metro area. My goal is to give everyone a chance to get quality photos for a reasonable price. I work on location (your home, parks ect) and willing to travel in the Alton, Godfrey, Bethalto area, other locations can be discussed.
I take pride in each and every one of my photos and strive to do all I can to make my clients satisfied.