Vancouver Family Photographer | Holiday Mini Sessions

Holiday Mini Sessions have been something that we have been doing at Gemini Visuals for many years now. It is always fun to see familiar faces come into the studio for their holiday photo session. Some have been coming for over 8 years – longer than we’ve even had a studio! This year has been a mix of repeat clients, new families, kids and as always, pets too. 

gemini visuals creative, holiday mini sessions, studio

This year we added 3 new holiday backdrops to our studio specifically for our Holiday Mini Session photos. The blue icy backdrop with snow is more cool tones, whereas the red Holiday window backdrop is gorgeous reds and and warmer toned accessories. The rustic wood and trees backdrop looks great with more minimal accessories, and we also have a plain neutral backdrop available for families that are interested in using their mini session photos year round. The new backdrops were a huge hit this year, and perfect for accommodating larger groups. 

gemini visuals creative, holiday minis, christmas photos

Every year Adrienne likes to try a variety of different things to make each set of photos new and different for our clients. Different props and backdrops plus the addition of client ideas as well. Some clients dress similarly, or do a set of pajama photos for fun. We also welcome your ideas, and if candids are your style, we can do that also.

It is always sad to see some groups missing their 4 legged family members  this year, but we are always happy to capture the new chapter in their lives. Pets are always welcome for photos at Gemini Visuals Creative Photography.

We are already planning our sets for Holiday Mini Sessions in 2019! In the meantime, we will be doing a variety of different packages and sessions in the Spring, including Creative Dance Mini Sessions, starting in January. 

Read More

Vancouver Dance Photographer | Private Dance Photo Sessions Available

Private Dance Minis, dance collage, private dance mini sessions

Buying Holiday gifts for your tweens and teens can be a challenge every year. For the last few years, right after Christmas, we have been offering Mini Creative Dance Sessions to our dance clients. These are open to both male and female dancers of any skill level. Whether dancers want to develop a professional portfolio, or simply have fun and creative photos for their social media accounts, we love to have them in our studio for sessions.

Private Dance Minis, dance collage, private dance mini sessions

This year we want to be able to offer parents and dancers the opportunity to pre-purchase gift certificates for a session to give as gifts. This new Private Dance Session includes one hour of time with Adrienne in front of the camera, plus 5 high res files and one 8 x 10″ print. 

The Details:

$300 sitting fee (including taxes)

Must be booked between date of purchase and April 1, 2019.

*Sale ends December 24, 2018.

  • Head shots + creative/costume shots for one dancer
  • 5 high res files & an 8×10 professional print
  • 1 hour session time
  • 2 outfit changes allowed (3 outfits total including head shot outfit)
  • You’re welcome to use our fabric/outfits/skirts although you’re equally welcome to bring your own wearables (favourite costume, favourite warmups, etc.)
  • Online private gallery to select your images from with the option to upgrade to digital files, prints and print products as well. You can find more info on our prints, products, & files HERE

 

Private Dance Minis, dance collage, private dance mini sessions

Our sessions are creative and fun, and our studio has high ceilings which are perfect for leaps and jumps.  If your dancer needs professional headshots and action shots to submit to auditions, we can cover both within this private session. Adrienne’s own dance experience plus her passion for dance helps her to guide your dancer into their best technical poses, perfect for their portfolio or just as a beautiful art keepsake. 

Private Dance Minis, dance collage, private dance mini sessions

Contact Emily at emily@geminivisuals.com to purchase your gift certificate in time for the Holidays. Capturing memories is always a perfect gift. 

Read More

Surrey Photographer | Behind the Scenes with Adrienne Thiessen

adrienne thiessen, gemini visuals photographer, photographers questions
 
As the owner and creative vision behind Gemini Visuals Creative Photography, Adrienne Thiessen doesn’t always have time to share much about herself online, as she is often busy shooting and then editing your photos. The team at Gemini Visuals has been hard at work this season, sharing more behind the scenes images and sneak peeks on social media so that you can get a better idea of the inner workings at Gemini Visuals. 
 
We though it would be fun to share a bit more about Adrienne, so you can get to know her a bit better. Following is a quick Q & A, with more questions to follow in the coming weeks.
 
adrienne thiessen, gemini visuals photographer, photographers questions
 
What does an average week look like for you?
 
It varies depending on the time of year. Every week is different every day is different. Some are spent in the studio all day, some are racing around to various shoots, others may be dance school mayhem.   Some may be spent chained to a computer for 12 hours, or into the wee hours of the morning. But I still sneak some time to walk the dog to the beach as often as I can, try to take some me time, and work out.
 
Did you always want to be a photographer?
 
Pretty much yes. Since I picked up a camera at 16 years old, its all I’ve ever wanted, and its really all I know.   
Vintage Adrienne Thiessen, photographer, behind the scenes
 
 
What is the most fulfilling part of your job?
 
The people I meet and  getting to be apart of people’s families – capturing their most precious memories, and watching people grow and change is very fulfilling.
 
Name your dream travel destination? 
Right now, it’s Croatia! But my bucket list is long. I want to go back to Bali, and Costa Rica. I want to go to Belize, Curacao, Spain, Portugal, Greece. Basically anywhere that there is a beach, really!
 
What would you tell other aspiring photographers?  
 
That its not as easy or glamorous as it looks. Most of your time is spent in front of the computer. The work doesn’t just fall into your lap, you must go out and find it and it is not easy because you have to stand out from the rest. You also have to love it, or you will grow to hate it.  
 
Another thing it to realize that not every client is your client forever. You can’t take it personally, as hard as that may seem. It is hard to see them go, but it will happen. And that not every shoot is going to be an easy one. More often then not your vision doesn’t happen because things go sideways, or you are faced with some tough situations.
 
Oh and also to charge properly!! Doing a shoot for $75 and then spending 4 hours at the shoot then 10 hours editing, means you aren’t making any money. In that case, you may as well pay the clients!
 
Chocolate or vanilla?
 
Neither? How about vanilla with chocolate almonds? 
 
Which emoji do you use most often?
 
The kissy face blowing a heart.
 
adrienne thiessen, gemini visuals photographer, photographers questions
 
What is the biggest hurdle you have had to overcome in business?
 
Poverty, debt, long hours…oh wait, I haven’t overcome the long hours yet! 
 
What’s the best career advice you have ever received?  
 
Respect and value yourself, and others will do the same.
 
adrienne thiessen, gemini visuals photographer, photographers questions

To book a photo session with Adrienne, contact our office here or at info@geminivisuals.com.

*We are still booking private Mini Holiday Sessions until December 1st 2018.

  • 10 high res images of your choice on CD or digital download.
  • 2 Holiday backdrops plus 1 neutral backdrop.
  • Up to 30 minutes of private session time.
  • A holiday e-card from your session delivered via email for you to send to friends & family with the option to upgrade to copies for snail mail.

The Private Option is $300 (taxes INCLUDED). Up to 5 people and pets always are welcome!

Bookings to be completed by December 1, 2018

 

 

 

Read More

Vancouver Dance Photographer | Dance Season Wrap Up

dance 2018, gemini visuals, creative dance photos, dance photos, Richmond academy of dance, RAD

Courtesy of Richmond Academy of Dance

This past year has been a terrific dance season for all of our clients, and for us at Gemini Visuals. We welcomed new schools to our client roster and met dozens of talented dancers throughout Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. 

dance 2018, gemini visuals, creative dance photos, dance photos, the landing, vancouver dance

Courtesy of The Landing

We love working with dancers and the dance school staff and many of my own staff has come from working with them through dance schools. I met Meghann when she was nine years old at Richmond Academy of Dance and Paige just a few years ago at Essence of Dance. Even though dance school photo days are long and can be a lot of work, watching dancers grow up and seeing them year after year is one of the joys I get to witness as a photographer. 

dance 2018, gemini visuals, creative dance photos, dance photos, Richmond academy of dance, RAD

Courtesy of Richmond Academy of Dance

The talent in the Lower Mainland as a whole is simply outstanding. The young dancers that I have the privilege of meeting are not just terrific at their sport but amazing athletes as well. The entire sport has truly grown over the past dozen years and it’s exciting to witness the talent that is out there.

dance 2018, gemini visuals, creative dance photos, dance photos, the landing, vancouver dance

Courtesy of The Landing

Thanks to all of my team that assist on location and behind the scenes during dance season. I couldn’t do it without the assistance of Meghann, Lisa, Heather, Emily, Paige, Laura, Keyana and Scarlett.

While we have wrapped up the 2018 dance year, we have still a few spots for dance schools for 2019 and beyond. We also offer creative dance sessions and dance headshots and can do on location, or in studio for both individuals or groups.

Contact our office at info@geminivisuals.com for more information, details and pricing. We hope to see you and your dancers in 2019.

dance 2018, gemini visuals, creative dance photos, dance photos, the landing, vancouver dance

Courtesy of The Landing

 

Read More

Vancouver Portrait Photographer | Model Portfolio

vancouver photographer, model portfolio, gemini visuals, model portfolio, surrey photographer

Sometimes through our work photographing dancers at their dance studios, we make connections with families that can turn into other photo sessions. This beautiful gal Grace, in addition to her dance, is pursuing a career in modelling, and her family loved some of the creative dance action shots we did. As a result, her mother knew that she wanted Gemini Visuals to shoot her first model portfolio.

We did a variety of different poses, and the final edits include both black & white and colour photos. Many of the different agencies have specific requirements when it comes to portfolios, so if you are hiring a photographer to shoot for your own portfolio, always come with the agency’s instructions in mind. 

vancouver photographer, model portfolio, gemini visuals, model portfolio, surrey photographer

 

This gal is only 14 and so we did a few different looks that were suitable for her age and what she will be representing in her work. If you are an older model, we can shoot a variety of different looks depending on the type of work that you will be targeting. We can do a basic headshot session or a modelling portfolio session – whichever suits you best. We also offer group rates for dance schools that book group headshot or glamour sessions. 

vancouver photographer, model portfolio, gemini visuals, model portfolio, surrey photographer

While there can be limits on the criteria required for modelling portfolio images, we can always extend the session to include some action shots or creative headshots for more images to choose from. One thing that many clients say is that they wish they would have brought more outfits or changed their looks throughout the shoot in order to have more selections to choose from. Once you have made the commitment to a photo shoot, you may as well make the most of your time behind the camera.

One thing for sure is that Grace is certain to have a great career ahead in modelling. As you can see, she is a beautiful girl with a unique look and is very comfortable being in front of a camera. Adrienne was honoured to be the photographer to shoot her very first portfolio for Numa Models.

To contact us to book, find us through our website here or call 604-312-6330. 

Read More

Photographer | Mini Sessions for the Holiday Season!

holiday minis, south surrey photographer, photographer, surrey photos, family photos, celebrate

It’s hard to believe that the Holiday Season is already just around the corner, but soon enough it will be time for eggnog lattes and winter coats. 

Our popular Mini Sessions for Holiday are now available to book!! To book a spot, CLICK HERE.

holiday minis, south surrey photographer, photographer, surrey photos, family photos, celebrate

This year, we will be offering several different background options and a neutral option as well. All packages receive high res images of your choice as well as a holiday e-card from your session delivered via email for you to send to friends & family.

holiday minis, south surrey photographer, photographer, surrey photos, family photos, celebrate

The dates this year for mini sessions are November 11 & 12, 2018.
We have several backdrops for this year’s minis in addition to something neutral! These are great for those who want to update their family photos but aren’t overly interested in the holiday themed backdrops – and amazing for headshots too.

holiday minis, south surrey photographer, photographer, surrey photos, family photos, celebrate

What you will receive:
  • 15 high res images of your choice on CD or digital download.
  • PLUS an optional holiday e-card from your session delivered via email for you to send to friends & family with the option to upgrade to the real deal for mailing.
  • Up to 30 minutes private session time (or up to 45 minutes for The Group Package)
Sessions will take place at our South Surrey studio located at 15-15515 24th Avenue in Village Center
 
holiday minis, south surrey photographer, photographer, surrey photos, family photos, celebrate

All sessions are up to 30 minutes, except for The Group Package which includes an extra 15 minutes of session time.

“The Duo Package”  $224  (taxes INCLUDED)  
Two person package (pets welcome!).

“The Family Package”  $245(taxes INCLUDED)  
For 3-6 people (pets welcome!). 

“The Group Package” $385(taxes INCLUDED) 

For groups between 7-9 (includes 15 minutes extra session time). 

Are you ready to book? Click HERE to reserve your spot!

holiday minis, south surrey photographer, photographer, surrey photos, family photos, celebrate  

 

Read More

White Rock Photographer | PAH Maternity Ward Winner

peace arch hospital maternity ward, gemini visuals, baby's first year, 9 months, family photography

As a partner of the Peach Arch Hospital Foundation, we offer 2 gift certificates per year to a family that has had their baby in the Peace Arch Maternity ward.  New moms have to enter their names in our lock box on the maternity ward in the family room, and then we choose 2 recipients per year. This little cutie came in to our studio for her session this summer at age 7 months. We offer our Baby’s First Year packages for milestone session but we also can photograph babies of all ages, not just newborns.

peace arch hospital maternity ward, gemini visuals, baby's first year, 9 months, family photography 

This little girl was such a little sweetie, and was all smiles and cooperative for her session. Her mom said that she is an amazing sleeper and an all-around happy baby. But don’t worry, over her many years of experience, Adrienne has photographed all types of babies, and even if your baby is fussy, she can figure out how to photograph them in order to get the best shots.

peace arch hospital maternity ward, gemini visuals, baby's first year, 9 months, family photography

Gemini Visuals also donates a gift card for the PAH Maternity Ward’s patient survey. If you are having your baby soon and haven’t booked your session yet, don’t forget the multiple ways that you can potentially win a gift certificate with our studio. 

We also offer discounts for parents of Peace Arch Hospital babies! Our cards and details can be found in  the parent room inside the maternity ward. Gemini Visuals photos and featured through the ward and the hospital itself. We are proud to be a partner of the PAH.

peace arch hospital maternity ward, gemini visuals, baby's first year, 9 months, family photography

At the end of our session, this little one decided she was done! While she barely cried, her mom said this was a sign that she was hungry and ready to finish. This is our favourite shot of the entire session! 

For more details on booking, contact us through our website. 

Read More

Vancouver Photographer | Lifestyle Musician Photo Session

Richard Tichelman, musician photos, white rock musician, gemini visuals

Not very often do we get the opportunity to photograph a lifestyle session for a local musician. Surrey local, Richard Tichelman is a 19-year-old singer/songwriter, who’s original songs range in pop/folk/country genres. This talented young man has been playing for the last several years all over the lower mainland, and it was a delight to photograph him in our local area doing what he loves. 

Richard Tichelman, musician photos, white rock musician, gemini visuals

2018 has been a big year for Richard. He started off the year with a trip to LA to record 3 new songs, and has been working on progressing his music journey with Big Billy Clark at his side. His shows this year have him performing at the Roxy Cabaret, Rocking Abby Strong Fundraiser, Cloverdale Rodeo, Calgary Stampede, Rockin’ River Music Festival, our White Rock Sea Fest & Canada Day and other local performances. Richard also won the Don Weldon Memorial Award for most promising performer at the Calgary Stampede along with a duet partner, Madison Bell.

Richard Tichelman, musician photos, white rock musician, gemini visuals

It was a pleasure to photograph Richard in one of my favourite spots, under the overpass located at King George and Colebrook Road. The location is the right mix of outdoor and urban and we have shot a variety of different sessions there. There area number of great places to shoot lifestyle photos in the South Surrey, White Rock, and Langley areas depending on what final look you would like for your photo session.

Richard’s photos are being used for his promotional materials and on his website – take a look at www.tichelman.com to see more of this talented young man and his music. 

Richard Tichelman, musician photos, white rock musician, gemini visuals

Read More

White Rock Photographer | Fall Mini Session Announcement

Mini Photo Sessions, Fall Minis, Gemini Visuals,

Fall Mini Sessions are here!!

For a second season, we’ve designed our mini sessions this season to work with YOUR schedule. We want to give our clients the best possible option to suit your needs so there is no need to worry about not being able to make to a pre-assigned dates. However the catch is, you must act fast – we are only able to offer 8 spots this season due to our busy schedule.

CLICK HERE to book your session! If you have any questions, please contact us.

Mini Photo Sessions, Fall Minis, Gemini Visuals,

PRICE: Sessions are $290 INCLUDING tax.

Sessions are 45 minutes to 1 hr (booked for one hour but if everything goes quickly we will be done in 45!) so lots of time to get fabulous photos. Sessions are for up to 5 people (4+ months only). The location is your choice of one of our local location options (including our studio!). You will receive 15 high res (printable any size) digital files

For groups larger than 5, we’re offering a Larger Family Mini for an hour and half session time and 15 high res digital files for $560 (including tax).

Mini Photo Sessions, Fall Minis, Gemini Visuals,

SCHEDULING: Sessions may be purchased between now and September 25th 2018 and must be booked by November 1st 2018. Dates are subject to Adrienne’s availability, but she will work to try and accommodate you. 

  • Derby Reach Park (Langley)
  • Stewart Farmhouse (Crescent Road)
  • Elgin Heritage Park (South Surrey)
  • Crescent Beach/Blackie Spit (South Surrey/White Rock)
  • Campbell Valley (Langley)
  • Let Adrienne choose for you from one of the above (or she may pick somewhere else fun!)OR a local location of your choice (approved by Adrienne first) for $30 more

Due to Adrienne’s schedule with regular shoots, we only have 8 spots available this year so book FAST to secure a session spot. 

  • *Sessions must be paid for in full at booking, via credit card or e-transfer. We cannot hold spots without the payment.
  • Sessions are weather permitting and will be postponed if the weather is not cooperating.
  • Payments will be transferable and sessions may be extended until February 15, 2019 if necessary. Package is images only, no prints included. Print packages are available to order through our studio for an additional cost.

Read More

White Rock Photographer | White Rock Princess Party & Contest

White Rock Princess Party, gemini Visuals Photography, White Rock Photographer, Contest

On the last Saturday in July, Gemini Visuals was one of the official photographers in attendance at the White Rock Princess Party. The White Rock Princess Party was founded in 2009 by spirited community member, Myra Merkal, in hopes of creating a fun event for children while also giving back to the White Rock/South Surrey area.

This year Myra decided to pass the magic wand on to Peace Arch Hospital Foundation as she steps back from her duties to spend more time with her family. The community enthusiasm and support continues to grow and the ticket sales reflected another royal success.

White Rock Princess Party, gemini Visuals Photography, White Rock Photographer, Contest

Over the past eight years, in partnership with the White Rock Firefighters, this event has raised funds for an All Abilities Playground on East Beach. It has grown from a little party in a local hall to selling out the arena and raising $140,000.

In 2018, all funds raised are supporting the Foundation’s new All Abilities and All Ages Playground, being built in Ruth Johnson Park next to Centennial Arena. This playground is the first phase of a park system that will eventually lead to the proposed East Beach playground.

With activity stations that include a cake walk, t-shirt colouring, card making, hair and face painting, and a special interactive medical clinic with local paramedics demonstrating their work, the kids had a great time while practicing the virtues of caring, generosity and courtesy.

White Rock Princess Party, gemini Visuals Photography, White Rock Photographer, Contest

New this year was a special VIP Ticket which included access to a VIP room and one-on-one interactions with a princess, a White Rock Princess Party t-shirt to colour, complimentary snacks and a personalized photo that the kids will receive by mail from the princess after the event. 

White Rock Princess Party, gemini Visuals Photography, White Rock Photographer, Contest

After a very successful 2018 White Rock Princess Party, the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation has partnered with us, holding a Contest for a Gemini Visuals Gift Certificate.

Would you like to win a gift certificate for a maternity or newborn photography session? To be entered to win:

  • Follow White Rock Princess Party on Facebook and Instagram
  • Tag 2 friends who you want to bring to Princess Party next year!
  • Draw will be held at Thursday August 16th 2018 at noon PST 

Good luck! 

White Rock Princess Party, gemini Visuals Photography, White Rock Photographer, Contest

Gemini Visuals

Read More
page  5  of  18