A very special friend and artist. Yeah, I'm going with people I know first. If you read last month's blog, you know that I'm going to be spending some time honoring artists whom I think deserve attention, credit, and praise. What better way to approach this than beginning with the talent you know well?
So this month, I'm going to introduce you to Joanna Barnes from Faery Floral. Before I forget, here's her FB page:
​
https://www.facebook.com/faeryfloral/?fref=ts

I met Joanna only a few years ago, but we both agree that somehow the fates meant for us to meet (though I am not into her type of crafting and know next to nothing, and she was not, at the time, serious about photography). Still, our paths crossed, and we built a friendship from nothing. She lives in MI, I in NYC. But we see each other once a year (definitely not often enough) and pack as much as we can into the trip, including her annual family photos!

Anyway, back to her work. I have yet to find more than a handful of truly special people in this world who put their soul, if there is such a thing, into their work. Joanna is one of these people. She is one of THE most hard-working individuals I have ever met, and the fact that she has been handed more adversity than any random sampling of people is what makes her even more special. She strives for perfection, delivers high quality, wants only a fair price and appreciation, and is self-taught. She really, really listens to what you want, and does everything in her power to make you crafts that fit your dreams. I can't tell you how many times both of us have photographed a color in a craft store just so we could match my dream to reality. I don't know about you, but I rarely see that kind of dedication.

Joanna will make pretty much any head piece, wreath, bouquet, or anything else you can think up. In fact, we are already planning my wedding flowers. Shh, I'm not engaged yet! Can't hurt to get a little excited, right?

It has been my privilege to know this amazing human being. I wish I could do more for her and her business. Please check out her work and give her the attention and business she deserves. Neither will disappoint.

Look out for my November blog as I continue to highlight inspiring artists.
WARNING: Next month's blog may also contain a plethora of mushy sentiments as it's my and my boyfriend's 2nd anniversary together and I crazy excited to give him his gifts. There has been a countdown for over 120 days. I'll just leave it at that...

Warmly,
Susan

P.S. I cannot wait for my pajamas!
P.S.S. I am dying to use my new pillowcases!!! 

Being an artist is, undoubtedly, far different than most people probably think it is. There are so many unknown (to the public) challenges. It takes another artist's words to sink in sometimes.
Recently, a friend and fellow artist, a baker, gave me some very positive and heartfelt public praise.  When I expressed strong and sincere gratitude, he said very simply that we needed to support each other. I was taken aback. I shouldn't have been. Why should I be surprised that someone else recognizes my hard work and talent? I tell her she's amazing and her cakes are addictive! Accepting compliments seems to be difficult for a lot of women. That issue aside, it made me think about how much more we artists need to support each other. Therefore, I am going to make a conscious effort and take time to acknowledge artists and their work. First up is Jenn, owner and head baker of Artistsic Cakes by Jenn. Jenn does not have it easy in life, but she does not play the victim. She works hard at this business, and at her personal business of raising three daughters (all of whom are awesome, warm, welcoming).
Now let's talk about this cake. Can I just say "holy shit!" Well, of course I can, it's my website! Bahahahahaha!!! But seriously, I don't promote cake I don't enjoy - and I'm a cake a person. My eyes literally start popping and I my mouth begins to drool when I know there is my favorite flavor nearby. Aside from the incredible yumminess within, the actual cakes are themselves, art. They are so beautifully handcrafted and special. Each of them is catered to your wants. I have never known someone with such talent where cakes are concerned. If you know me, you know I don't exaggerate or tell lies, especially in business. I really, really, really love this cake. I plan on hiring her to do my wedding cake! Shhh, don't tell her and get her excited. I'm not engaged yet! lol
Let's spread the word about artists we admire! There is always enough business for all! Everyone is unique and has something special to bring to the table. Be the change.
​
Check out her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/artisticcakesbyjenn/?fref=ts

Very warmly,
Susan

P.S. I'm SOOOOOOOOOO happy it's almost Fall! Fall is my happy place :^D

That's all it's about, and if you haven't got it, your photos will just stink.
Now, these people are special to me, and this is the third year in a row that I have photographed this family. And you can see it. There is so much love between Grandfather ("Pa"), and Grandson. It exudes from them, and they can feel how much I care and how happy I am to be behind the lens again. It also helps to have a compliant child. He's the easiest child I've ever worked with.

When you make a connection, and your client knows it's about the joy of capturing something priceless, and not about your paycheck, your photos will shine. Look at that intense, warm eye contact!

I love this job!

Warmly,
​Susan

Can you guess where I'll be headed this Saturday? Yup, the midwest! This will be my third annual trip to visit some family and friends in MI and IL. Growing in NYC, I knew carbonated beverages as "soda", though I never once saw anything but seltzer in my home. But when I visited my relatives in Michigan, it was always referred to as "pop". I guess it makes sense... but I won't convert.
Anyway, I'm super excited to get going, and it's mostly because I will get to snuggle a sweet four-year-old, and his delicious twin brothers who are just 16 months old. My god, they are so damn cute! I keep fantasizing about shooting them from behind, looking at each other, with their tiny tushies all smooshed in the grass. Eek! I really hope the weather cooperates for our shoot. Thunderstorms are predicted for Sunday. :'(
Everything is different in the midwest: the clouds, the rapidly changing weather, people's accents, and things I don't think about in NYC, like how close or far away something is by car. My friend laughs at me when I ask how long it will take to get there, and she answers: "It's close: 45minutes." Lol Enough said.

See you in August, folks,
​Susan

You may think that based on what we charge, we do one session a week and live the high life. But the truth is, many photographers have part-time (that's me), or even full time jobs in addition to being a photographer. Sometimes they're in the same field, but often they're not. Did you know, for instance, that I'm a substitute teacher in NYC? Yup! If I didn't work as a sub, I'm sorry to say I wouldn't make it (which thoroughly depresses me). This isn't a blog about people not understanding why we charge what we do (but that is a definite source of angst for pretty much every photog I know). This is just about gaining a little insight into our world.
With the popularity of cameras of every kind, and people's accessibility (I hate duck-lipped selfies), it has become very difficult for us to live off of our work without another source of income. Also, as technology changes and smaller cameras improve, people seem less inclined to hire out, as they think they can easily achieve the same goal as a pro. All you have to do is walk the long corridor of Port Authority going to or from the 7 train, to see those (I admit) incredible iPhone 6 photos. They're printed so large and have incredible lighting behind them that anyone would be convinced that they can do their family photos with an iPhone (I'm crying inside). Of course that's not the case. You are paying for someone's time, talent, travel, equipment, dedication, editing time, and of course, the shared unique vision of how you want your photos to look. But alas, I will lecture no further.
I am still looking for families to let me into their lives at one of their most special times: to photograph the birth of their baby. My offer still stands: a 100% free shoot with a cd of edited and images (they'll have my logo). Prints are not included, but can be purchased. You just can't beat that!

Please don't hesitate to contact me at: sbibula@gmail.com, and as always, check out my FB page. Just click on the icon at the top right of this page. 

Warmly,
​Susan

Nope, they're not the ones who spend the most, or even the ones who refer the most. My absolute favorite kind of client is the repeat kind of client. There is nothing more sweet and more rewarding than being invited into a family to capture their memories as they grow, and grow older! I am beyond excited for two sessions coming up in July because I have two repeat client sessions. One family even has delicious twins now! Ugh, I can feel my ovaries exploding as I type. Haha!
Be sure to check back in the next few months to see photos from those sessions. Of course I'll be adding photos to my FB page. You can check that out here:

https://www.facebook.com/SusanBibulaPhotography/

See you soon!
​Susan

So I've encountered a ton of confusion regarding what birth photography actually is. Many of you may already know that this area of photography is where my passion lies. Though I do love doing family portraits (I really do because you see all the gooey love people have for their kids), I have wanted, for several years now, to photograph births. And I've had a really hard time getting into the field. I thought I'd use this month's blog to enlighten some folks about what it is and what it isn't. So here's a rundown:

What birth photography is/can be

- photographing the family members and birth team as they prepare for the arrival of a new member
- capturing the emotions in the room of not just the mom, but anyone who is there to support her
- being witness to new life entering the world
- preserving the memory of it all, since most people will say a lot of it was a blur and wish they could recall   this or that 
- documenting a once-in-a-lifetime (literally) experience
- tasteful


What birth photography is not/should not be

- invasive photographing
- being a disruption/distraction to the birthing mom or anyone in the room
- photographing the baby crowning (unless by request)


I do hope this helps clear things up. Most often when I tell people I'm interested in shooting births, they have a very strange look on their face that only goes away when I explain that I am not, in fact, photographing the vagina directly, unless asked to. It is, in fact, a very intimate relationship that the photographer and birth client have. They must be a certain level of trust, a definite understanding of expectations and limitations, and above all, everyone's best interest at heart.

It is my sincere wish to photograph births and families throughout my life. I honestly feel that this is what will make me happiest in the world. Have you ever not experienced something, but know immediately and positively that this is for you? Well that's how I feel about birth photography. So here's my offer: you let me photograph the birth of your baby ENTIRELY for free. There are absolutely no hidden fees of any kind. The only thing you'll have to sign is a model release. You will also receive a CD with the best images from the birth, from which you can choose to purchase prints (they will be copyrighted and have my logo on them). That's it! I do hope that with this better insight into the field, YOU will be ready to take a leap and be rewarded with priceless images to look back on and share with your baby when she/he is old enough to appreciate them.

Very warmly,
Susan

Have you been itching to be amongst the flowers again? I know I have! I admit I'm partial to the season because I was born in May and I happen to think it's one of the finest months of the year. Go ahead, try and tell me I'm wrong!
What I love about the season is that (unfortunately) very short period in NYC when it's completely gorgeous before it becomes completely gross. Natives will definitely understand. Everyone is outside (that's a good and bad thing), you're walking less encumbered (far less clothing - also a good and bad thing), and it seems like the whole city is alive again. 
I love shooting the cherry blossoms and all the different kinds of trees in Central Park. I love making a picnic in the grass. I love watching the little toddlers toddle around as if the grass were a foreign thing. Basically I like Spring a lot. I'll be doing more shooting outdoors now. Woohoo! Hope to see you out there.

Warmly,
​Susan

About a year ago, I decided that I should actually document how I look for a change. Hardly one for selfies, most current photos of myself I wouldn't show anyone, let alone frame. I thought back to the 40s when pretty much everyone had their portrait done. I decided I wanted to capture what I look now, with no gray hair, teeth, etc. However, I am seriously camera-shy, which is perhaps why I'm so much better suited behind the lens. I could think of only one photographer friend whom I'd be remotely comfortable with. It look a long time to coordinate, as she's a pretty busy person. Well, it happened two nights ago. Poor thing, try as I did, I just wasn't the best subject. I was so stupidly self-conscious. By some miracle and her talent, she was able to get some great shots. 
Man, oh man, now I understand what my subjects have felt like in the past when I shot in the studio! I'm glad I had this experience. I was brave. 

Be brave,
​Susan
​

I don't know about you, but I look forward to big snowfall once a season. I especially do since I began my annual project "Snow: Transformed". Sadly, the buses weren't running when I wanted to go shoot, but that won't stop me this winter!
What do you love best about winter? Do you like being cooped up? Other than shooting snow, I have I really, really love Trader Joe's peppermint hot chocolate. It's a seasonal favorite of mine. Anyway, back to photography...
I am very excited to being continuing my project and I hope you'll stop by my FB where I will be adding to my snow album. I'll also blog about it next month. Until then, be safe, stay warm, play. :^)

Warmly,
​Susan

I don't know about you, but 2015 was a strange year for me. At times it felt like it would last a century, at others, days and weeks were gone in the blink of an eye.
I'm not one for setting New Year's resolutions. I like to set goals for myself whenever I see something that needs to get done. I admit I haven't achieved nearly what I wanted to this year. I guess life is just like that sometimes. I'm sure you know what I'm talking about. 
Well, whatever your goals and however you spend the holidays, I wish you safety, health, and gratitude.
All the best in 2016! I appreciate your loyalty and business.
​
Warmly,
Susan

First of all, I must apologize for the apparent glitch on the site. Last month's blog was definitely up (it's not showing now ).
Anyway, it's the time of year to say what you're thankful for. While I don't particularly like trendy things like a month of thankful posts, etc., I do think it's important to acknowledge what's special to you, so I want to talk briefly about what makes me grateful.
I'm so grateful for food, safe shelter, roommates who pay rent on time (a big one if you know my living history as  landlord), my paid-for-in-full camera equipment, my freedoms, a father who tries hard, and most importantly, a boyfriend who loves me and accepts me exactly as I am. This is rare. What we have is rare. To feel so safe and connected with another human being is the ultimate joy in life. I know I am lucky, and I am oh so thankful.
Warmest wishes to you during this holiday season. I hope this warmth stays with you all year.

Sincerely,
​Susan

My boyfriend lives on Long Island and until I met him, I really hadn't spent that much time there, save for a few painful family visits throughout my life. Well, let me tell you: WOW. I had no idea it was this gorgeous, smelled so clean, or had so much to offer (there is ALWAYS something to do). I'm proud to say that this NYC native has found out that though the stereotype certainly does exist out there, the majority of the people there are incredibly friendly, open, and warm. Having volunteered for the Huntington Lighthouse Preservation Society for quite a few years already, my boyfriend knows pretty much everyone. That was a little intimidating. I was amazed at how welcomed I was. After volunteering for just a day, I made awesome friends and am now one of the crew. It feels wonderful! 

This is a photo from the 9th Annual Musicfest that happened on September 5th. It was a ton of work, but totally worth it. There are several more photos to check out on my FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/SusanBibulaPhotography?ref=bookmarks


Enjoy,
Susan

My goodness, that connection completely melts me.
So last week I returned from visiting family and friends in IL and MI. My cousin recently had twins and with a three-year-old already at home, my presence was more than welcome. When I saw this happen, I nearly died from the sweetness. Little Malcolm loves his patient and oh-so-tender mama, and as I snapped away, my cousin said, "You know, I really wanted some breastfeeding photos." So there ya go. I'm in love with it!
If you're interested in doing a nursing session, go ahead and e-mail me at: sbibula@gmail.com. Special rate for a limited time!

Photographers! Yes, I totally have photographer crushes. Doesn't everyone? I love their work for different reasons and admire that they not only have their own style, but are professional as well (super important to me, and sadly, not seen enough in my opinion - especially online). So, without further ado, and in no particular order, here are the photographers I admire the most and whose work I think is just amazing (below are links to their FB pages):

Michael Kormos Photography
https://www.facebook.com/MichaelKormosPhotography?fref=ts


Milk & Honey Photpgraphy
https://www.facebook.com/milkandhoneyphotos?fref=ts


Rachel Vanoven Photography
https://www.facebook.com/rachelvanovenphotography?fref=ts


Sandra Hill Photography
https://www.facebook.com/SandraHillPhotography?fref=ts



Gail Jones Photography
https://www.facebook.com/GailJonesPhotography?fref=ts


Luisa Dunn Photography
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Luisa-Dunn-Photography/259153500761635?fref=ts



Picsy Photography
https://www.facebook.com/picsyphotography?fref=ts


Erin Tole Photography
https://www.facebook.com/newbornphotographers?fref=ts


Newborn Photography by Jade
https://www.facebook.com/newbornphotographers?fref=ts


Jade Beall Photography
https://www.facebook.com/JadeBeallPhotography?fref=ts



Leilani Rogers, Photographer
https://www.facebook.com/leilani.rogers.photographer?fref=ts



Kapuschinsky
https://www.facebook.com/kapuschinskyphotography?fref=ts



Ana Myer
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ana-Myer/920850714625888?fref=ts



Kansas Pitts Photography
https://www.facebook.com/kansaspittsphotography?fref=ts



Life in Motion Photography
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Life-in-Motion-Photography/65468333690?fref=ts


Obviously I have more than fifteen, but this is plenty to feast your eyes on. I would love to know who your favorites are! Comment below and inspire others to discover artists!

Warmly,
Susan

I'm sorry to say that until June 13th, I had never heard of Jamie Anderson. After all, Facebook has many, many talented photographers showcasing their work. When I saw that my newsfeed was suddenly bombarded by countless other pages writing about this loss, I had to check out what was going on. I was deeply saddened to learn that this young woman, wife, mother of five, and talented photographer had died of a brain aneurysm. I cannot even begin to imagine what her family is going through. 
From what I have read and continue to read, Jamie was not your average person. Since I did not know her, I will not pretend and list all the qualities I thought she had. Instead, I will share what others have and help lead you to a donation page:


http://www.gofundme.com/jamieanderson


Rest in peace, Jamie. I hope your family finds peace as well.
With deepest respect,
Susan

Yeah, I think I'll stick with 36. May 2nd was my birthday, Happy birthday to me! I spent the day enjoying great company, tons and tons of sprinkles, and a beautiful time in Central Park.

This Saturday I will be attending a wedding in what seems like far off New Jersey. No, I won't be the photographer, but I will definitely be photographing (how can I resist?). This wedding has brought up all kinds of thoughts and feelings ("Oh, god, will that relative be there?!"  "Is my dress ok?" - You must understand that I wear a dress maybe ONCE A YEAR. Lol! "Did I spend enough on the gift?" and perhaps most importantly, "Will I be in the way when I shoot?" (Only a photographer would ask that one, but you get the idea. Ah, the dilemma. This last question has made me remember what it was like when I professionally shot my first wedding. Weddings aren't my main thing, as you can see, but I happily obliged a friend's request (from high school). Wow, what a job! I had a new found respect for wedding photographers after that, and it wasn't the sore muscles that did it (ok, the muscles definitely added to the respect. Ouch!) It was what I encountered as a result of the times, and a pushy mother-in-law-to-be. Mother-in-law aside (which my friend totally warned me about, and was totally right about), it's a pretty difficult task shooting a wedding in this modern era with pretty much everyone and their pet guinea pig owning some sort of camera. While guests naturally want their share of memories and are eager to snap away, this behavior can actually have some fairly serious consequences for the couple and their professional photographer such as: flash issues (too many going off at once creating a completely blown out image), poor composition (people getting in the way, literally, of the shot, creating an unusable image, frustration on the part of the photographer (yes, even professionals have feelings), and ultimately, loss of a priceless day, since you can't exactly go back and re-shoot. 
I've found a few of these photos of gentle directions floating around on Facebook and thought I'd share. I think it gets the point across nicely!
So next time you're at a wedding, you might want to consider asking for permission before shooting, or even leaving your camera at home! You'd be surprised how much more you can see and experience when not looking through a view finder. Leave it to the pro ;^)

Warmly,
Susan

Last winter I began a project titled "Snow: transformed". It all began when I decided to fiddle around in Photoshop, which is quite atypical from my usual style of simple, pure editing that only involves minor corrections. However, as an artist, you accept that over time you grow, change, and develop your style as your technique grows, changes, and develops. I plan to continue this project every winter until I either move somewhere where there's no snow (unlikely), or I get sick of it. Lol! I hope you enjoy it. I would love your feedback! Make sure to visit my Facebook to see the growing album. Just click the link at the top right of the page.
See you out there in the abyss that is the internet!
~Susan

Gah. If you've ever photographed a newborn, you know how much sweat and ovary throbbing is involved! Haha! Every toe, every flake, every swirl of hair just makes your insides turn to mush. That was me last Sunday, and again today when I edited the photos from my latest newborn shoot. Go check out the album on my FB page!
https://www.facebook.com/SusanBibulaPhotography


See you there!
~Susan

Greetings, friends! Raise your hands if you're a fellow NYer who has been forced to stay home due to weather! If you know me, you know I rarely complain about winter (and I still won't because this hardly registers). I love the snow (admittedly because I don't have to shovel - I leave that to my landlord ;^p).
I think it's gorgeous and leaves a ton of potential for photoshoots. In fact, that's why I'm blogging today. Do you remember that awesome snow photo I posted on my FB page from last year? Well, I have decided to turn that into a personal  project! I don't really do those that often, so this is a big deal for me. I am very excited and really want to shoot more for this special project. However, the weather has foiled my plans once already (this past Sunday). We'll see about later today. Maybe I can get some shots in and get all my lovely fans revved up about winter! Until then, Happy New Year (again)! Please be safe out there, and be prepared!

Warmly,
Susan

As 2014 comes to a close, I reflect on 2014 both personally and professionally. It's been an interesting year, to say the least.
I want to thank each and every one of you who have supported me and SBP in whatever way you've been able to - it means more to me than you know.
My sincere wish for you all is a safe year, filled with love, goodness, and clarity about what really matters (and that's different for everyone). If you have plans to celebrate tonight, all I ask is that you please be safe. Never ever text and drive, and drink responsibly!

With deepest gratitude and best wishes for an amazing 2015,
Susan

Living in NYC sometimes requires that you just retreat for a while and enjoy some quiet time. That was my intention when I went looking for Fall (my absolute favorite time of year). Well, it turns out I wasn't the only one who had that idea, and I wasn't even the only photographer in Central Park shooting the incredible foliage (of course). Anyway, this will be a short post because, well, I'm tired. Haha! We've all been there. Just being honest. I did want to share this image of the most beautiful leaves I've seen (so far) this Autumn. I'm in love with the season! 
See you next month, fans.

Warmly,
Susan

It's true, I am not the photographer for everyone! This is something I've been thinking about a lot lately, and Lisa from Milk & Honey Photography in Canada (a series photo crush for me), has said many wise words on the subject. Rather than repeat what she's said, (because she's just said it all so well) I would simply like to help you, whether you're thinking of hiring me, or just simply wondering how you should go about hiring a photographer. So, here goes!

Questions to ask yourself:

1. Does his/her work appeal to me?
2. Would I want this work in my home?
3. Are her/his services in my price range? 
4. What are my goals for this session? Will the photographer accommodate them?
5. Do I want to bring any props or changes of clothing to the shoot? Will that be okay with the photographer (and ask him/her).

Tips:

1. Ask around. Do you know anyone who has used this person before? Were they happy?
2. Contact the photographer and ask questions. Though many provide detailed FAQ sections (I'm happy to say I do), you may just be new to custom photography and it could all be a bit overwhelming. A professional will be happy to spend the time it takes to quell your fears and answer those burning questions they may not have covered on their website (but you should definitely check their site first since, and I speak from experience, they did take the long to write out all those thoughtful answers ;^D ).
3. Make sure you know BEFORE you book an appointment exactly what you're getting. Fighting over services is never pretty, for either party, and as a photographer, I would truly rather spend my time shooting than arguing.
4. Pay your deposit ASAP to secure your date. You don't want to miss out because you didn't want to fork over cash you would have to pay anyway. A deposit lets the photographer know you're serious, and we like committed customers!
5. Plan ahead. I cannot tell you how many times I have seen people scramble, and it's always over clothing. The day of the shoot you want to be thinking about nothing but the excitement of capturing memories. Take your photographer's advice and follow their guide or verbal advice (I have a guide on my site because people are people and someone always gets overwhelmed about clothes).
6. Once you've made your choice, TRUST THE PHOTOGRAPHER! If you are nervous and/or uncomfortable, it will show. Believe in them, allow them to work freely, know that they have the talent and experience to do the job well. After all, you did choose them over all the others. Let them show you their best work!

I do hope this helps you. While I know I am not the photographer for everyone, I like to think I can photograph anyone. I'll let you be the judge ;^)


~ Susan