My family and I moved here from LA 4 years ago now. While living there and working as an actor, dancer, pilates instructor… etc.etc.. I also worked as a photographer. I mostly shot actor headshots, worked special events and corporate photography but not really families, babies and kids. The funny thing is one of my first jobs out of college was working at a family and kids photography studio that lasted about 2 months. It was a factory type of studio- in and out as quickly as possible. Sometimes that was fine for some, but other times, not so much. I swore “Never again!” LOL…
During that time, I had my own company called Christine Retzer Photography (www.christineretzerphoto.com). I never had to advertise AT ALL!! It was all word of mouth + agent referrals. Never felt any pressure to compete with other photographers because there were enough clients to keep us all busy!!
Well, after moving to Illinois and NEEDING a creative outlet here in Batavia (aka suburbia-ville), I found a new, renewed spirit for capturing newborns, babies, kids and families. I have to admit, it’s consumed me and A LOT of my time! I’m learning to take it easier now, but I seriously just love it! Not sure if it’s because now I have children of my own or not, but I feel like I’m giving such a huge gift to families which genuinely warms my heart. These sweet, innocent, all too short moments go so quick and I adore capturing a sliver of these moments for people to cherish once their littles are older.
One time while living in LA, I was threatened by fires where we lived. When it came time to pack up my cherished belongings, I quickly grabbed my baby books and wedding album and that was it! They were the only things I would be absolutely devastated by if I lost them. I still feel that way about these moments in our lives. It helps us remember where our roots are and remember specific and special moments we had in our lives. Photos are stories of us. Stories we can share with our children and their children. And, that is why I feel like I’m giving people a gift. I’m capturing precious moments in their lives that will never be the same thereafter. Moments to share with their loved ones. And, moments their loved ones will hold onto once their parents are gone.
Anyway… I got off on this tangent because I wanted to share with you some pretty awesome news! After much reflecting recently, I decided to re-establish Christine Retzer Photographer as a DBA of Sugar Plum. I would like to incorporate more of my beginning roots in photography by offering family, high school senior and professional headshots to the tri-cities area under this name. I even started working with a FANTASTIC hair/ make-up person for anyone who desires this option! Christine Retzer Photography’s website is currently being updated, so in the meantime, I’d like to offer some amazing deals on HS senior sessions and professional headshots in order to be featured on my new, updated website.
*Book a HS Senior Session for $300! This includes up to 3 outfits, 20-25 edited digital photos + print release! Hair/ make-up $100
*Book a Professional Headshots session for $200. This includes up to 2 outfits, 6-8 edited digital photos + print release! Hair/ make-up $100
Contact Christine for more info.!!
