McNeely Garden Studios

Sherman’s Trail Yard Sale

2011-02-16T16:51:00.001-05:00

Between Atlanta and Savannah,
find small town treasures, antiques,
and gifts for sale…

May 7th and 8th (Mother’s Day Weekend)

There’s only 79 days to make plans! Whether you plan to be a vendor (and sell your stuff) or a buyer (and buy other people’s stuff) there’s no time to loose!

Go to www.shermanstrailyardsale.com and find out who the contact person in your area is…and contact them!

It’s going to be a lot of fun. And a great way to spend the day with your mom!

I am the contact person in Davisboro, GA. McNeely Garden Studios will be the ‘go-to-spot’. For info : call Laura @ 478.348.6579 or mcneelystudios@pineland.net

For the Love of PHOTOGRAPHY

2011-02-16T16:30:00.001-05:00

You are INVITED!

Come join us at camera club! Enjoy your camera more…

The Jefferson County Art Guild Photography Club will meet Sunday, Feb 27, 2011 @ 2pm at the The Fire House Gallery. Laura McNeely, Richard, Denise and Robert will be presenting the 2nd of a 3 part series, ‘Capture~Storage~Create!’ which is geared toward new digital photography enthusiasts.

For more info : 478.348.6579 or mcneelystudios@pineland.net

Always welcoming new members!

Photo Contest Awards Reception

2011-02-16T13:11:00.001-05:00

February 26th at 7 pm at MGS!

Take a virtual tour of the photographic talent exhibited in our year long photo contest. http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/collections/72157623651702208/

Then, come SEE it in person! Feb 26, 2011 at McNeely Garden Studios, Davisboro, GA at 7 pm. Over 250 entries have been printed and matted. They will be on display as all of our winners are awarded their ribbons and ALL contestants will be able to take their matted print home as a ‘thank you’ for participating!

For info : mcneelystudios@pineland.net

478.348.6579 See you there!

MGS 2010 Fall and Christmas Memories Photo Contest Judges

2011-02-16T13:00:00.001-05:00

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/collections/72157623651702208/ go on a virtual tour of our entries and judges!

As the final segment of our year long photo contest is being judged, let us take this opportunity to introduce you to the judges.

George Lepp

George Lepp is one of North America’s best-known contemporary outdoor and nature photographers and a leader in the field of digital imaging, Lepp is the author of many books and the field editor of both Digital Photo and Outdoor Photographer magazine, where his “Tech Tips” column is widely read. His work is extensively published and exhibited, and his stock photography is represented by Getty Images, Corbis, and Photo Researchers. Lepp is one of the first members of Canon USA’s Explorers of Light and Printmasters programs, featuring the industry’s most influential photographers. Lepp has presented hundreds of lectures and led workshops all over the world. A founding board member of NANPA, Lepp has won many awards for his work, including the Photographic Society of America’s prestigious Progress Award. First trained in wildlife and wildlands management, Lepp later earned a BA and an honorary MSc from Brooks Institute of Photography. George and his wife Kathryn have just released a new book, Wildlife Photography: Stories from the Field, published by Lark Books (Sterling). George lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado and can be contacted through his web site, www.GeorgeLepp.com.

Angela Carson

Angela Carson has been creating fine portraiture, with a specialized clientele of families and children, for over twenty years. Angela's award-winning images reveal her creative style blended with her special "human touch." Toss in a seemingly limitless energy level, adoration for children, and her contagious personality and it's easy to discover why Angela's clients keep coming back.

Angela began photographing weddings 25 years ago, while learning portrait photography in her "spare time." At the ripe old age of 25, Angela's opened her first studio. It was small, but it was a start. Within the first year of opening her studio, Angela's client base went from predominantly photographing weddings to almost exclusively photographing children. Angela quickly realized a natural tie in with children's photography is family portraiture. In the past few years Angela has also become a seasoned High School Senior Photographer as many of her past clients have children that are growing up and graduating high school.

Angela’s studio is in Northville, Michigan. Her studio is located in a 110-year-old Victorian home in downtown Northville. Angela photographs 125 custom portrait sessions of families, children and high school seniors, annually. Her innovative and unique portrait styles have made Angela Carson Photography a leading studio specializing in custom designed wall portraiture in the Detroit metropolitan area.

Angela is a frequent lecturer to numerous professional photographic organizations, including The Professional Photographers of America National Conventions; PPA’s Marketing and Management Conventions, The Chicks that Click Conference, Wedding and Portrait Photographers International conventions, and numerous State and local PPA affiliates. She has had numerous photographs and articles published in The Rangefinder and The Professional Photographer magazines. Angela has also had several photographs selected for inclusion in the Professional Photographers of America's prestigious traveling Loan Collection.

Marc Evans

Known as ‘Clearlight’, Marc lives in California. We are waiting for his bio. I would not even attempt to list his accomplishments and contributions to photography, so stay tuned for HIS words!

THANK YOU to our judges for their precious time and coveted expertise. It has been a privilege working with you all.

Meet the Summer Judges

2011-02-16T12:47:00.001-05:00

Here at McNeely Garden Studios in Davisboro, we have been hosting a year long photo contest. The Awards Reception will be on Feb 26, 2011 at 7. To see a virtual tour of our entries and judges, please visit : http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/collections/72157623651702208/

A great big ‘THANK YOU’ to our judges for their time and expertise!

Bambi Cantrell

Bambi Cantrell Biography
World renowned wedding and portrait photographer, Bambi Cantrell, is one of the most decorated and
celebrated professional photographers of our time. After 25 years of photographing some of the most exquisite
and breathtaking wedding and portrait images from around the world, three best selling books entitled “The Art
of Wedding Photography,” “The Art of Digital Wedding Photography,” and “The Art of People Photography,” and
countless awards and accolades, Bambi Cantrell is virtually a household name.
Awards:
• Recipient of the prestigious “Golden Eye” award in 2008 from the Russian Federation of Professional
Photographers.
• One of the “10 Best Wedding Photographers in the World” said American Photo Magazine in 2007.
• First woman inducted into Microsoft’s elite “Icon of Imaging” program in 2006.
• Winner of the United Nations “International Leadership” award in 2003
• Honored by Wedding and Portrait Photographers International in 2001 with a “Lifetime Achievement”
award.
Workshops/Conventions/Schools:
Bambi is highly regarded in the photographic industry as the foremost expert on lighting and posing and spends a
great deal of her time educating photographers from around the world on her unique style and techniques that
have brought her fame and success. She is a member of both WPPI (Wedding and Portrait Photographers
International) and PPA (Professional Photographers of America), and is sponsored by some of the industry’s
leading manufacturers of photographic equipment including Epson, Microsoft and Nik Software.
Bambi Cantrell is a guest speaker at dozens of workshops and conventions around the world every year including
the annual WPPI Convention and Trade Show where for the last 10 years, 1500+ photographers have come to see
her speak. She has also been a print and album judge at the annual WPPI Print Competition, chairing the Album
competition in 2005 and 2006, and then in 2009 and 2010, Bambi was the Chairman for the Wedding print
competition. In 2006 Bambi traveled to Japan for a 4 city photography convention sponsored and hosted by
Asukabook, which saw over 3,000 professional photographers in attendance. In 2007 she spoke at the Russian
Federation of Professional Photographers convention to over 2,500 attendees. She was also a guest speaker for
the Professional Photographers of Australia in 2003 and at the PhotoPlus Expo in New York City for the last 4
years.
Bambi is a guest lecturer at a number of photography schools around the country including the Center for Digital
Imaging at Boston University in 2009, the Julia Dean School in Venice, California where she spoke in both 2007
and 2009, the Microsoft Summit in 2006 and the Santa Fe Workshops in 2000 and 2001. She has also been asked
to speak at the prestigious Brooks School of Photography sometime later this year.
Bambi Cantrell also hosts a number of her own workshops every year, typically offering at least 1 workshop per
quarter to a limited number of attendees. Photographers from around the world will travel thousands of miles to
take part in one of Bambi’s workshops where they will typically pay upwards of $1,500 to attend. These
workshops usually sell out within weeks of the announcement.

Jay Fletcher

Jay Fletcher Internationally known photographic artist, Jay Fletcher, remains a steadfast and loyal native son of Atlanta, Georgia. While often invited to teach other professional photographers around the country, Jay remains a portrait artist at his core. His unique style and unrivaled eye for tone and texture raise the level of his work to that of a true art form.

As well as being one of the leading black and white portraiture artists in the country, Jay has also established his reputation as one of the most prestigious and creative photographers of his time. His inimitable portraits have earned him the respect of his peers and captivated his clients, who include local Atlantans, major political figures, entertainment personalities, and foreign dignitaries.

Having been a successful portrait artist for almost 30 years, this native Atlantan has built a thriving business through his studio, Fletcher Portrait Artist, which is located in the heart of Buckhead.

During his 29-year career, Jay Fletcher has consistently produced superior images for his clients, and his talent and passion for his work have earned him the respect of his peers and accolades from corporate leaders, world dignitaries, and Nobel Prize winners. Considered by his photographic peers to be an expert in his field, Jay is in continual demand for teaching and lecturing within the professional community.

Most recently, Jay focused his camera on the Haitian people and the relief efforts going on there following the recent earthquake.

Over the past 30 years, Jay Fletcher has become internationally known for his stunning black and white portraits. This year he was honored to be invited to participate in the unveiling of his remarkable portrait of Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki in Nairobi. Additionally, he has photographed Ambassador Andrew Young and his wife as well as the presidents of Tanzania, Mozambique, Rwanda, and The Congo. He has also photographed numerous members of the entertainment and business sector including Sidney Poitier, Bert Reynolds, Chris Tucker, Kenny Rogers, Usher, Ludacris, Donald Trump, Ivanka Trump, Earl Klugh, Chaka Zulu, and others. In Atlanta his clients include Joel Katz, Norman Schrutt, Chosei Komatsu, Coca Cola, IBM, Greenberg Traurig, Evander Holyfiield, Jim Mora, Jr., Frank Ski, Arthur Blank, Bernie Marcus, Olga de Goizueta, and numerous others.

Summer Photo Contest Winners

2011-02-16T12:40:00.001-05:00

What a great summer of creative minds! Our Summer contest entries were phenomenal! Here are the winners!

For a virtual tour of the McNeely Garden Studios 2010 Photo Contest, visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/collections/72157623651702208/. Our Awards Reception will be Feb 26 at 7. Ribbons will be awarded and all contestants will receive their entries printed and matted! See you there!

First Place : Suzanna Hodges

Second Place : Caroline Harvey

Third Place : Chadwick Collins

Honorable Mentions awarded to : Jessica Lape, Hurley Marie McNeely, Suzanna Hodges, Joel Tillirson, Anna-Grace Veal, Luanne Brooker, and Ruthie Turner.

Congratulations!

MGS Spring Photo Contest Judges

2011-02-16T12:25:00.001-05:00

Thank you to our judges for their time and expertise. Great job!

Katrin Eismann is the chair of the MPS in Digital Photography Department at the School of Visual Arts. She is an internationally respected artist, teacher and author specializing in creative digital photography and the impact of emerging technologies upon professional photographers, artists and educators. Author of Photoshop Restoration and Retouching and Photoshop Masking and Composition and co-author of The Creative Digital Darkroom and Real World Digital Photography. In 2005, Katrin was inducted into the Photoshop Hall of Fame and her images have been featured in numerous books, magazines and group exhibits. She received her BFA degree in Photographic Illustration from the Rochester Institute of Technology and her MFA degree in Design from the school of visual arts. To learn more about Katrin, please visit http://katrineismann.com/

Judy Host

Judy has won numerous awards for her photography, has been featured in several publications for her outstanding environmental portraiture. She was featured in Rangefinder magazine as one of “Today’s Top Children’s photographers.” Her work has been selected for National Exhibition by the Professional Photographers of America from whom she has received a Masters and Craftsman degree. Judy has received three Kodak Gallery awards and many of her images have been exhibited at Epcot Center and are part of a traveling loan collection. She spent five years working with In Style Magazine capturing moments at the Golden Globes as well as working with several Foundations and traveled to Africa and all through out Asia to bring home imagery to help resolve poverty issues. Judy travels the world teaching a series of workshops on the “Art of available light” and “Creating your own style.”

Jerry Ward

We are honored and grateful to have Jerry as one of McNeely Garden Studios distinquished judges for our 2010 Spring Photo Contest. Thank you.

Jerry Ward’s Bio
A native of New Orleans, LA, Jerry has been in photography since 1977. His career has been rich with diversity. He has been employed by Canon from 1985-1989 and again from 2006 until today as a Professional Market Specialist in the Pro Products Division. He has had the opportunity to create images for every major newspaper in the United States. He has been published in easily recognizable magazines including Sports Illustrated, News Weekly, and People. He frequently enjoys photographing the New Orleans Saints and the savory creations of Emeryl’s, Lonestar Steak House and Del Frisco’s. Hotels, such as the W have sported Jerry’s images in their advertising.
Now relocated in Cappell, TX after Hurricane Katrina, Jerry is active in his commercial imaging and fulfilling his rolls at Canon.
Contact him at : <a href="http://www.jerrywardphoto.com" rel="nofollow">www.jerrywardphoto.com</a>

MGS Spring Photo Contest Winners

2011-02-16T11:42:00.001-05:00

We have been really impressed with your entries. The images submitted for the 2010 Spring Photo Contest at McNeely Garden Studios have been breath taking, imagination provoking, humorous and startling! Congratulations to our winners!

First Place : Dana Wiggins Smith

Second Place : Suzanna Hodges

Third Place : Layne Harvey Kitchens

Honorable Mentions Awarded to : Maranda Ganas, Joel Tillirson, Randy McNeely, Johnathan Hellyer, Layne Kitchens, Georgia Raiford, Maria Anders, Luanne Brooker, Hurley Marie McNeely.

All entries have been printed, matted and are on display at McNeely Garden Studios in Davisboro. Our Awards Reception will be held on Feb 26 at 7. Winners will receive their ribbons and all contestants will be gifted their matted print as a ‘thank you’ from us for participating. For a virtual tour of the MGS 2010 Photo Contest, visit : http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/collections/72157623651702208/

Photo Contest Awards Reception

2011-02-16T10:24:00.000-05:00

SAVE THE DATE!

McNeely Garden Studios’ year long Photo Contest WINNERS will be awarded on Saturday, Feb 26, 2011 at 7, McNeely Garden Studios, downtown Davisboro, GA. Info : 478.348.6579

Come congratulate our winners.

Info : 478.348.6579 or mcneelystudios@pineland.net

Take a virtual tour here http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/collections/72157623651702208/

Winter Photo Contest WINNERS!

2010-05-15T23:13:00.003-04:00

Thanks to everyone that competed in the 2010 MGS Winter Photo Contest. We had 65 entries! The diversity was staggering. Snowy scenes, urban decay, wildlife, holiday festivities, bare winterscapes and a little comic relief!

Thank you to a judges for making some very difficult decisions.

Now to announce to the winners!

First Place : Luanne Brooker, Sandersville, GA

Second Place : Sandra Kate Hendrix, Vidalia, GA

Third Place : Robin Usry, Gibson, GA

Honorable Mentions included April Dickerson, Tennille, GA

Andy Webb, Sandersville, GA

Sammy Hall, Wrightville, GA

Georgia Raiford, Sandersville, GA

Ray Irwin, Sandersville, GA

Hurley Marie McNeely, Davisboro, GA

Joel Tillirson, Sandersville, GA

Suzanna Hodges, Sandersville, GA

John Dalton, Bartow, GA

John Swint, Warthen, GA

Danielle Baucom, Sandersville, GA

All entries were printed, matted and displayed for a reception to award ribbons to the winners. Lots of food, fun and sharing of ideas were enjoyed.

For a virtual tour of the 2010 MGS Photo Contest, visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/collections/72157623651702208/ Plan to come and enjoy our Awards Reception of all four 2010 Contests February 26, 2011

Gallery Reception in Louisville, GA

2010-04-17T07:52:00.000-04:00

The Arts Guild and Fire House Gallery in Louisville, GA did a wonderful job with last night's recepion of artists and prospectors. There was a wide variety mediums displayed this season. Sculpture, wood work, paintings, pencil. 3D, photography. I saw many artists cross over into different mediums this time too! It was very interesting to see people that have made a name for themselves in a medium like photography, emerge as a talented painter or pencil artist!

Please enjoy the rest of the photos from the evening's events,

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/sets/72157623874098334/

Let Us Introduce Our Winter Judges

2010-03-20T10:31:00.003-04:00

The Winter segment of the MGS 2010 'Send Us Your Best Shot' Photo Contest was a wild success! We had 65 entries! Represented were some of the most beautiful of snowy scenes, children with flush cheeks, a glimpse of the harsh realities of winter, fantastically detailed birds on bare branches, even comic relief, a 'Heinie' (beer) in the snow! Our judges are deliberating on the winners as we speak!
So, let's introduce our judges while we wait...

Eddie Tapp

Eddie Tapp is an award-winning photographer, lecturer, consultant, and author on digital imaging issues. With over 25 years of experience in computer technology, Eddie has been actively involved in educating and consulting corporations, studios and agencies in the applications of digital imaging workflow, color management, pre-press and digital photography globally through workshops, seminars, on-site consulting and training. He's the author of Photoshop Workflow Setups and Practical Color Management, the first two in a series, Eddie Tapp on Digital Photography, published by O'Reilly Media.

Eddie is Director of the Institute of Visual Arts in Maui, Hawaii, an Explorer of Light and Print Master with Canon USA, and is on the Photoshop “Dream Team” with National Association of Photoshop Professional where he was recently inducted into the “Photoshop Hall of Fame”. He served 6 years as the Chairman of the Committee on Digital and Advanced Imaging for the Professional Photographers of America, where he holds the Master of Photography, Master of Electronic Imaging, and Photographic Craftsman degrees, Approved Photographic Instructor and is a Certified Professional Photographer. He also served as Commercial Council representative to PPA for the Georgia PPA. His articles have appeared in The Professional Photographer, Rangefinder, Shutter Bug, Photo Electronic Imaging, Southern Exposure & Digital Capture and more. He also has served on Adobe’s Photoshop beta team.
Corporate clients include Epson, Eastman Kodak, Foveon, Polaroid, and Apple Computer, as well as many other international corporations and government agencies. He has also served as print judge at many professional photographic competitions and is a Nationally Qualified Juror for the Professional Photographers of America association in Electronic Imaging.

Eddie hails from Atlanta, Georgia and has been accused of using his southern charm to put his students at ease. His teaching philosophy is simple: solve people's problems by giving them straightforward answers in clear language. http://www.eddietapp.com/

Steve Inglima

Steve Inglima is currently the administrator for Canon USA's Explorer of Light program, a professional photographer support and advocacy group.

The Explorers of Light are some of the most talented,recognized, and accomplished photographers in the United States, and I am their liaison with Canon. In addition to administering their contracts, payment, and image submissions, I supply them technical and presentation advice for their activities, and coordinate the orders for their cameras, lenses, and accessories.

I also coordinate their appearances at trade shows and organizations across the US. I also review many portfolios and applicants for inclusion in this program...
Prior to my working at Canon, I was the large format technical adviser for Schneider Optics, and the Horseman Camera product manager. Being involved with large format was a life goal, and being able to teach the fundamentals of this historically important genre was indeed a privilege.
Having been an independent contractor for Konica, and and government sales manager Megavision and others led me to my first experiences in professional and casual use digital imaging.
I was a technical adviser for Tamron Lenses after their purchase of the Bronica Medium format camera company in Japan. This was a natural progression of my having been the technical manager for the second distributor Bronica, GMI Photographic. Other product responsibilities included Philips Englargers, Forte Enlarging Papers, Paterson Darkroom Supplies, Sea & Sea Underwater Cameras, Cullmann Professional Tripods, and others.
Prior to this, I served years as a technical correspondent at Ehrenreich Photo Optical Industries, the first distributor for both Nikon and Bronica, after having started a carreer as a professional photographer.
I was also a part owner of a darkroom and studio rental business, Horizon Photo, where I taught black and white darkroom and enlarging skills.

Jeff Greene

Jeff Greene is a veteran professional photographer and digital imaging consultant with over 25 years of experience in photo journalism, studio portraiture, and commercial photography. He is a member of the Professional Photographers of America, the National Association of Photoshop Professionals, and the American Society of Media Photographers. His award-winning images have been featured in American Photo, Outdoor Photographer, PC Photo and Petersen’s Photographic magazines as well as in Tim Grey’s bestselling Photoshop books Color Confidence and Photoshop CS2 Workflow.

He can be contacted with your questions and comments at: jeffreymgreene@hotmail.com

Thank you to all our judges for their unselfish gift of time and sharing their expertise.

Plan to join the winners...enter one of the next 3 seasons of contests. It's easy and it's free! There are great prizes for each segment : 1st Place is a Framed 8x10 Print of the winning image, 2nd Place is a set of note cards of 2nd place image and many honorable mentions awarded. As you can see, our judges are the BEST Imaging Professionals in the business and all winners will be honored with a Gallery Reception in January 2011!

Stay tuned for the dates of the Spring Contest....and the results from our judges for the Winter Contest!

Egg-citement!

2010-03-13T18:36:00.002-05:00

We've had egg-citement here at the 'McNeely Garden Studios' GARDEN!
In October of 2009, we adopted 20 - one day old chicks.

And today, 20 weeks later (and right on time) we found 3 beautiful eggs!

McNeely Garden Studios is a fun place to be. The name embodies 2 properties. Our indoor Portrait Studio, in downtown Davisboro, is in a 1916 Apothecary which has been beautifully restored. This is where we capture Fine Art Photography, the building houses our Design Service Department and showcases our many original and hand crafted Boutique items. The other property, only 2 blocks away, is maintained as a Portrait Garden...an outdoor venue for Portraits, Produce and Peace.

MGS is a division of 'The Sunshine Estates Enterprises', a broad umbrella which envelopes all of our profit bearing endevours.

A wide variety of goods, produce and products are tended, harvested, cottled, assembled and manufactured here. I remember one summer afternoon I was walking through the garden with my apron doubled over carrying a cumbersome bundle of tomatoes, squash, peppers, parsley, plums, 3 eggs and the last strawberry. I was asked, 'did someone come by and give you all that food?'

'No', I replied. "It's all growing in our Portrait Garden!'

By the way, EVERYONE here works hard to make you happy!

AND, if you're interested in a really cool idea... Rocking A Sustainable Farm is the most nutritious way to suppliment your grocery list! Check 'em out! We have been delighted with the compliment of produce and baked goods they offer to what we have around here! No man is an island, we need each other. Together, we can be healthy, happy and fulfilled.

http://rockingafarm.blogspot.com/

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It's the least expensive and most important commadity you possess.

Davisboro is the PLACE to BE...

2010-03-09T11:49:00.001-05:00

Davisboro is the place be, especially on April 24, 2010!
There will be something for everyone!

And SAVE THE DATE!

Davisboro's Independence Day Celebration

will be on Saturday, June 26, 2010

It's always a good time!

MGS work on display at the Brown House Museum!

2010-03-06T19:35:00.000-05:00

McNeely Garden Studios Goes Historical (....NOT Hysterical)!

'The MGS Girls' went on an outing today, March 6, 2010. We went to the Brown House Museum in Sandersville, GA (Washington County) to see the fruition of the creation of their new Exhibit of Pottery by 1800's Washington County Potters.

We have been priveleged to work with this project for 3 years now. My first experience (Laura in 2007) was a client contacted me to photograph pottery outdoors at a 'secret' location. That's all I knew...over the river and through the woods we went. I was sworn to secrecy. There was so much conversation of the importance of this location's geographical coordinance not be divulged, I almost expected the blind folds to come out at any moment! The truth of the matter is, it is so remote, I couldn't find it again in a million years! Fortunately, it wasn't too scary, as I have known these clients for years. Wonderful, elderly people...I have reflected on that experience ever since and mused at my safety in today's world of Helter Skelter crimes.

Another couple years of negotiations with pottery owners, insurance policies, building and transporting exhibit cases, fine tuning decisions, printing, museum mounts and copy jobs. Finally, the room preparation and heated debates about how to afix displays to the walls without causing damage....wow.

Well, it's finally ready to be viewed and enjoyed!

Take a tour around the room at http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/sets/72157623442655349/
It was worth the wait. History is FASCINATING!

Easter Specials!

2010-03-05T11:32:00.001-05:00

Don't miss out on EASTER Specials

Make your appointment today

478.348.6579

Silhouette Artist Coming to MGS!

2010-02-23T13:46:00.000-05:00

The Silhouette Shoppe, Savannah, GA will be coming to MGS on April 17, 2010!

A timeless memory will be hand cut by artist, Beth Pray. With 5 years experience at Walt Disney World and 20 years total, she will amaze and delight you, only takes 5 minutes!

Just in time to strike you and your children's likeness for Mother's Day!
Call and make your appointment today.

A Victorian Theme will accompany the whole day.

There will be refreshments, new products unvielled, and a new look to the studio! Come spend some time in the 1800's with us!

We would love for you to share this event information with your friends!

Published Again!

2010-02-23T13:34:00.000-05:00

MGS had the wonderful oppurtunity to cover Drift In '09 this past summer in Cherokee, NC. ROK (Riders of Kawasakis) Magazine, 'Accelerate' published our images as the COVER, CALENDAR PAGE, and 2 PAGE SPREAD and words for the article. It was quite an honor. We thank you, ROK!

Check it out for yourself!

http://www.kawasaki.com/ROK/Accelerate.aspx

Snow at the Studio! And Winter Photo Contest!

2010-02-23T13:13:00.000-05:00

A fairly rare event occurred on Friday, February 12...it snowed! We get snow in Davisboro about once every 5 years and it lasts about 24 hours. This was our year! It is always very exciting! We go out and play in it, photograph it, try to drive in it (have some mishaps) and our Northern friends make fun of us...

In honor of the snow and the dedication of photographers who braved it to create beautiful images, MGS is sponsoring our first PHOTO CONTEST.

the MGS 2010 Winter Contest

will be judges by some of our countries leading Imaging Professionals.

A Canon 'Explorers of Light' from Atlanta, Canon Technical Services Director in New York and Texas, Prof Photographers Assoc Expo Educators from California and Digital Imaging Expert from Washington State! So, you see, submitted images will be taken seriously.

Images shall be submitted digitally accompanied by an official entry form.

Great prizes too! Winning images printed and framed, made into personal notecards and an oppurtunity to be 'discovered'!

Our goal is to host 4 contests this year. Then invite all winners and honorable mentions to show off their work at a Gallery Hosting at McNeely Garden Studios in Davisboro, GA.

For information, call us! We'll be happy to inform and assist you!

478.348.6579

Arts Guild in Louisville, GA

2010-02-23T12:54:00.000-05:00

Thank you for another successful show from the Arts Guild in Louisville, GA! After a lovely reception, patrons purchased their favorites. MGS sold 3 Framed - 10x20's of 'The Shepherd Tends His Flock' printed in a metalic medium for pop.

This image is available for sale (unframed) at http://www.mcneelygardenstudios.com/ from the MacGallery. Framed in a rustic barnwwood or contempary black, please call 478.348.6579.

We have had a wonderful response in the past with other MacGallery Prints :

'Old Rusty'

and 'Caymen Await'

Thank you for your support.

See you at the Spring Show coming up!

Camera Club Craziness!

2010-02-23T12:34:00.000-05:00

MGS hosted Camera Club Dec 2009. There was a slide show of our studio work and recent travels for study. After food, drink and merriment, we gathered in the camera room for trials in lighting and posing. Many of our members had never 'shot' people in a studio environment. Even more fun was trying to teach photographers how to pose THEMSELVES! We had a lot of laughs!

Check it out on flickr! http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/sets/

Thanks for a great time!

A Busy Season

2010-02-23T12:17:00.000-05:00

Thank you to everyone that braved the nasty cold and rain and attended our Christmas Reception! It was a blast! Everyone enjoyed fellowship, seeing our new products and services and bacon wrapped filet and shrimp!

McNeely Garden Studios: You are Invited

2009-11-13T09:50:00.000-05:00

McNeely Garden Studios: You are Invited

You are Invited

2009-11-13T09:45:00.000-05:00

You are Invited to MGS Christmas Reception. Sunday, Nov 22 at 6:00. A Meet, Greet and Eat with lots of Fun and Door Prizes. See you there!

Christmas Portraits and FREE Postcards of Your Family!

2009-10-15T15:25:00.000-04:00

It's time for Christmas Portraits!

Our special this year is mindful of the financial pinch many are experiencing.

$65. gets you 1-8x10 and 2-5x7's to share and 100 custom postcards on which to mail your Christmas wishes (only $.28 per stamp!)

No time to waste! This special is only good until December 1!

So, wash the dog, get the boys a hair cut, iron your favorite outfit and come make some memories. Everyone will love to receive a postcard with your family photo on it!

It's time for Christmas Pictures!

Remember to :
Count your Blessings,
be always with a happy heart,
pay favors and opportunities forward and
be safe until we meet again...SOON!

McNeely Garden Studios
Davisboro, GA
http://www.mcneelygardenstudios.com/
478.348.6579

Exclusive Offer For MGS Blog Followers!

2009-10-15T14:28:00.000-04:00

Print your 'Mac CHIP Cookie' today!

An exclusive offer for all McNeely Garden Studios Blog followers!

Just print at home, present your 'Mac CHIP Cookie' coupon at your order appointment and we will pinch off 1 chip for each $10 you spend. When all your chips are pinched, you will recieve a $50 Gift Certificate toward your next order!

These will not be printed and distributed.
The ONLY way to take advantage is to add your name to our blog 'follower' list, print and SAVE!

Make an appointment TODAY!
http://www.mcneelygardenstudios.com/
478.348.6579

For your convenience, PRINT the smaller, portable version on the right.

Got a little 'Ketchup' to do !

2009-10-13T15:25:00.011-04:00

The good news is, here at McNeely Garden Studios, we have been REALLY busy shooting, traveling and creating beautiful things for wonderful people!

The bad news is, reporting it to the fine individuals of our audience, got placed on the back burner...did you feel left out? We got a little 'KETCHUP' to do!

Early in 2009, MGS found ourselves at PPA's Imaging USA conference in Phoenix and then at WPPI (a Professional Wedding Expo) in Las Vegas. There are always so many fresh new ideas to collect and tips to perfecting techniques and work flow......

Attending the professional convention of your chosen field or interest is ALWAYS a good idea! Try it! You will be amazed at how jazzed you are when you return!

The good new for MGS clients, you get ALL the benefits!

Spring brought to warmth the garden needed to emerge. Many families came to enjoy lemonaid and the peaceful atmosphere of blooms wafting in the breeze during their portrait sessions! We put up colored Christmas lights this year for ambient lighting after dark...we were amazed to see that the red ones were heavily courted by the hummingbirds!

In March, we launched our TOP SECRET session, 'For His Eyes Only'.
Top secret because we did not advertise it until we had done 30 sessions referred by word of mouth....and even now that we talk about it, no images are ever shared. That's because we consider it very personal. Knowing your privacy is fiercely guarded allows for a freer and more complete experience!

This session has become wildly popular!

Sessions are appointed in the evenings so that there are no time restraints or pressures. Adult beverages are allowed and encouraged, as long as a driver is arranged. We encourage bringing the clothing, props and music that make your relationship SPECIAL. Sessions are usually 2 hours of shooting - starting with a lively party atmosphere that evolves into a softer more delicate mood...
The images are then artistically sculpted into a 10x8 custom story book.

Oh! Would we love to share! Our ladies have had some fantastic ideas!

We CAN share some comments from our 'For His Eyes Only' clients :
* 'That was so fun! I want to do one every year!'
* 'We had the best time just planning what to bring! I modeled everything in my closet for him - twice!'
* 'He begged me to let him come watch, I'm so glad I did!'
* 'He begged me to let him come watch, I'm so glad I didn't!'
* 'He was so surprised with his book! He loves it! The thought that I would do a session like this for him really got him excited!'
* 'I believe this whole experience has boosted my self esteem!'
* 'I am so glad I did this, I am younger now than I will be tomorrow and MGS just makes you beautiful! It will be fun someday to look back on....'

So what are you waiting for? Don't let all those other ladies have all the fun!
Your man loves you now, just the way you are...
You leave your worries at the door. We will only photograph you in a flattering manner. You will be delighted!

As for time spent not shooting and designing 'For His Eyes Only'...weddings, reunions and babies growing up in the 'Grow with Me' program are all ongoing joys for us...
Thank you for sharing your lives with us!

McNeely Garden Studios
Davisboro, GA
http://www.mcneelygardenstudios.com/
478.348.6579

Celebrating 3 Years!

2009-01-28T12:49:00.003-05:00

Thank you for 3 wonderful years!

When we opened McNeely Garden Studios 3 years ago,

we had no idea how many true friends we would

accumulate!

We have shared the joys of your wedding days and watched

your families grow. We have documented your businesses,

your reunions, your anniversaries and retirements. Children's recitals, accomplishments and sporting events.

We were their to help blow out your senior family members

100 candles and provided images to ease your pain when

their candle was finally extinguished.

We appreciate the oppurtunity be a part of your hopes

and dreams...we appreciate being allowed into your lives

to enjoy you as FAMILY!

As times are presenting more difficult circumstances,

and some of our families are taking oppurtunities in other communities

...some near, some very far...

As people move away, it will be more difficult to coordinate a FAMILY PORTRAIT.

We would like to say THANK YOU, by providing images of your families TOGETHER

at prices that will be easy to justify.

The end result : images of togetherness that are PRICELESS.

McNeely Garden Studios, Davisboro, GA

www.mcneelygardenstudios.com

478.348.6579

Imaging USA in Phoenix, AZ 2009

2009-01-25T00:11:00.011-05:00

Visiting PPA's Imaging USA in Phoenix, AZ was an enlightening coarse of study.

I enjoyed some real epiphanies about our nation's economy and how I can be of service to my clients. There were volumes spoken about helping our client's make valuable decisions.

The theme seamed to follow my personal concerns for my clients, now and always... MGS focuses on QUALITY rather than QUANTITY.

It even fits with our whole Green Theme...surround yourself with the BEST of what life has to offer, while consuming little, recycling the rest. You deserve the best, especially if you are conducting yourself responsibly.

Soon there will be a 'MacGallery' on my website http://www.mcneelygardenstudio.com/ where these type images will be available to grace the walls of your homes and businesses.

Santa Came to Town

2009-01-01T14:41:00.003-05:00

This is the picture of Santa letting me know I

"made the NICE list"!

It's gonna be a great year!

Thanks Santa.

Utah POWDER!

2009-01-01T11:13:00.014-05:00

Watch out for that SNOWBALL!

A trip to Utah over the holidays yeilded fun, relaxation and breath taking scenery. What a joy to photograph such a majestic place! The beauty at every turn made it worth hauling and protecting 40 pounds of gear 4100 miles (round trip)! A new collection has been added to my Flickr account for your enjoyment. http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/sets/72157611807671908/

It was great fun to watch the excitement in my child's eyes as we left the ground for her first flight...as she wadded up her first snowball, poured it full of maple syrup and tasted it...as she discovered that snowballs really do grow larger as you roll them! We built a snowman each day, tried many new culinery delights, and went snowshoeing. Learning to ski turned out to be her most thrilling and challenging experience. She accomplished the basics quickly and moved on to an obstacle coarse and small jumps! A pizza and a 8 o'clock bed time was just the ticket that day!

I trust your holidays were enjoyable and spent with loved ones.

We look forward to seeing you at McNeely Garden Studios to document new chapters in your lives.

And we wish you a prosperous and healthy 2009!

Published Again!

2008-12-31T23:13:00.003-05:00

It's always flattering to see your own images and thoughts in print!

The December mail brought the Accelerate Magazine (Kawasaki's Publication for Riders of Kawasaki -ROK) which sported many of my images from the 2008 Drift-In, Maggie Valley, NC this past summer!

BTW, that's Ran, Laura and "Sweety" (my Canon 5D) on "Chief" (Ran's Drifter which is dressed out as a 1950's Indian) on the lower right of the 3rd page page above(!)

Three New Collections, One Great Trip

2008-12-12T17:13:00.008-05:00

November was busy and exciting!

I attended the Epson Print Academy in Atlanta , Ga. It was a wonderful event. There were 2 Tracts addressing different levels of expertise and need. Greats in photography, such as Andrew Roney, Greg Gorman, R. Mac Holbert, Jeff Greene and Jeff Shewe were in attendance. There were excellent excepts of technical advice, workflow suggestions, great vender presentations and inspiring works of art...check it out at http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/PrintAcademy/pa_home.jsp

While there, I took advantage of the oppurtunity to do some "Field Research" for a pending project : a new MacMural at Extended Care Facility at Washington County Regional Medical Center. Two bathing facilities were to be beautified. One with a garden theme, one with an aquarium theme. So... I went to the Atlanta Botanical Garden and The Atlanta Aquarium to photograph some images for inspiration.

A new 'City Collection' of Atlanta materialized that can be viewed at

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/sets/72157609012687654/

The murals came out beautifully. http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/sets/72157607587147080/.

Laura McNeely Composes a Symphony of Art

2008-12-11T10:35:00.003-05:00

The Sandersville Progress recently featured my work from the collection I created on my trip to New York City. I traveled there to study for my Masters at the Photo Plus Expo. I was able to capture images that exhibited expertise in Fashion Art, Architecture, Landscape, High Contrast B/W and Time Lapse. Some were modified with Digital Post Production using CS3. Enjoy the whole collection at http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/sets/72157608458859413/

I LOVE NY

2008-10-29T16:00:00.005-04:00

Just arrived back to the studio from attending The Photo Plus Expo in New York City. It was a wonderful event.

One theme seemed to stitch together my experience. A new and exciting arena of photography that I had never entertained ~ Fine Art. Art that is hung on the wall for pure enjoyment. A piece that transports you somewhere, stirs a feeling within, or just fills you with warmth. I was afforded the pleasure of attending the Apeture Foundation's Annual Fine Art Gala and Auction. An ingenious array of beautiful pieces were displayed in a gallery setting for a silent auction while we enjoyed cocktails, hor duerves and wonderful company. Then we adjurned to a magnificent meal and live auction. I met so many pleasant and ultra-talented people. It was truely a memorable experience!

As classes and demonstrations at Javits Convention Center unfolded before me, more Fine Art oppurtunities arose. I walked the expo hall, finding one friend to re~aquaint with after the other. It got comical, I was greeted with, "I'm glad you're here, I have someone I want you to meet because you do the kind of stuff they're looking for" (!!) Am I dreaming? Two Gallery owners and a magazine editor later, I floated back to my hotel to ponder my next move.

The stresses of having buried a family member, leaving my beloved and grieving family to travel to this event, and being "on" for 2 weeks took its toll. As I rose to dress for the day, much more casual clothes seemed to beg to be worn...hind sight suggests I made a good decision to take the morning off ~ and just go shooting! I met so many great people! I made images of NY icons and restored my tired spirit. Enjoy the entire collection at http://www.flickr.com/photos/25117564@N08/sets/72157608458859413/

My trip was full of fantastic people. All wanting to help each other. As I attend these events and find myself surrounded by the "Rock Stars" of my industry, it is hard to keep the star dust out of my eyes. It never takes long to refocus and realize some of those same people came over to sit with me ~ ME ~ because they wanted to...because in some small way they remembered last time we met, I put them as ease. What a wonderful way to flatter someone. The gift of peace, tranquility and security.

2008-10-15T09:42:00.010-04:00

This has been a busy week at MGS!

Cool weather always gets everyone MOVING! Fall activities kept schedules full...and we photographed them all! Check out pics: http://www.mcneelygardenstudios.com/ , PhotoGallery and click the link on the left. Bet you see someone you know!

The county fair brought hotdogs, elephant ears and popcorn. The Himalaya thrilled again with gut-wrenching g-forces and ear bleeding prose from Nickleback. The best part for me was winning Blue Ribbons for my Photography, Digital Art and Pen and Ink! The fair is always a 'good old fashioned time'.

Homecoming is always a great time with the Tailgate Party, catching up from a long summer away from school activities and FOOTBALL! Complete with bouncing cheerleaders, enthusiastic parents and football players blowing off competetive steam. The Homecoming Queen was crowned and we won the game!

The Image of the Week :

Warthen, Georgia - the Oldest Jail in Georgia. A tiny wooden structure with a row of 'bars' at the top for ventilation still stands and is showcased in this proud community's Historical Walking Trail. MacChallenge: go visit a historical spot near your home this fall. Take the kids and a picnic. Enjoy the MOMENTS of your life.

Finally, McNeely Garden Studios has finally accomplished a 2 year goal of instituting a Recycling Program in our area! We have secured a company willing to handle our collections and a Drop Off Center will be constructed on our property behind our studio. Now the big challenge: educating donors of the parameters and benefits!

Reminder: Appointments for Christmas Sessions and Gift oppurtunities are filling up FAST! Make your appointment today!

Welcome to the Wonderful World of McNeely Garden Studios

2008-10-10T00:54:00.000-04:00

Mantra : If you can't have FUN, there is no point in doing it.

Your Host, Laura McNeely

www.mcneelygardenstudios.com

10-10-08 **Image of the Week

A pinwheel was spinning frantically in the fall wind. Photographed and massaged, it became therapy for a trying afternoon.

** Always Remember : the people you

surround yourself with mold your future,

sometimes your very existence.