Michael Curtis Photography: Blog

2021 Portrait Masters Award Winning Photos by Michael Curtis Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 01:04:08 GMT

The Portrait Master's International Portrait Competition awarded these submissions with bronze level scores. Thanks Natasha, Ashley, Ava, Emily, Carlie and Brooke.

@michaelcurtis

HOCO - FOCO - FauxCO

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Sun, 18 Oct 2020 15:42:33 GMT

This Covid epidemic hits hard at the lives of our young students--no sports, no classes, no fun events and activities and little social time.

With homecoming dances being canceled, Michael Curtis Photography is offering this fun 'fake HOCO' event at our studio in Arlington. This is a 2 hour photo shoot for groups of 4 - 8 high school students. The session costs $300 and everyone gets a lot of great photos.

Here's samples from a recent HOCO photo party that was put on for a group of girls from Sedro-Woolley. Round up your posse of besties and book a 'fake HOCO' (FOCO / faux-CO) photo party. Break out your favorite dress and glam it up! Give us a call at 425-610-9098.

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Portrait Masters Award Winning Photos by Michael Curtis Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 16 Sep 2020 18:02:52 GMT

Judged by five master photographers, all the images that I submitted to the competition received bronze level awards!

It was such a pleasure working with all of you. Thanks Raquel, Malena, Jenna, Erin, Ashley and Sian.

Best Senior Photo Locations in the Seattle / Puget Sound area by Michael Curtis Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Tue, 30 Jun 2020 17:04:49 GMT

Best Senior Photo Locations in the Seattle / Puget Sound area for Senior Pictures by Michael Curtis Photography

The Puget Sound region offers an incredible variety of settings for senior portraits. We are happy to make recommendations based on your personality and the vibe that best matches who YOU ARE. We also encourage you to suggest locations that have special meaning and significance to you.

Fields, Flowers, Trees = Natural Vibe Parks, Arboretums, Nurseries

Brick, Glass, Steel = Cosmopolitan or Gritty/Grungy with Attitude! City, Alleys, Cafes, Cars

Arlington, Stanwood, LaConner, Conway, Anacortes, Edison, Snohomish, Lake Stevens, Sedro-Woolley, Burlington, Mt. Vernon and Bellingham offer great options for small town urban with nice street scene options, gritty grafitti alleys.
Seattle (downtown waterfront, Pike Place Market, Seattle Center), Bellevue Bellevue, Kirkland, Bothell and Everett offer more upscale urban settings.

Water, Beach, Waterfront = Just Chillin’
Park Beach, Urban Waterfront: there's no shortage of great beach locations for your senior portrait session
There is no shortage of great beaches and parks for senior photos. Meadowdale, Golden Gardens, Richmond Beach, Kayak Point, Camano Island State Park, Iverson Beach, Deception Pass, Bowman Bay, Cap Sante Park and Washington Park in Anacortes.
Seattle, Edmonds, Mukilteo, Everett, Ballard Locks, LaConner, Bellingham gives up top locations for senior portraits on the waterfront.

Studio, School = Fashionably Push The Limits Magazine-style fashion shoot featuring your cap & gown, prom dress, sporting gear or at school
Professional studio session for a unique magazine styled shoot. Not your stuffy, rigid studio sitting but a fun and lively experience that delivers contemporary portraits. Some of our senior portraits have won awards in the Portrait Masters international portrait photography competition.
Fly your school colors with your senior photo shoot at the school or in the stadium. Break out your sports gear for some pictures of you in your element on the field or track.
We also offer end-of-year prom dress and cap and gown photo sessions too - go out with a bang!

Keep in mind these are only a few of the many options that provide top settings for senior portraits. I am happy the explore other areas and always open to your suggestions on places you want for your senior pictures.

Let's get creative and make beautiful senior photos that capture the true and unique YOU!

Please call us at 425-610-9098 if you have any questions or need recommendations for your senior photo experience.

SENIOR PHOTOS | Why go with a professional photographer

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 22:16:31 GMT

Why go with a professional photographer? Great question!

The key to producing great images is a blend of making you feel comfortable in front of the camera, getting creative with the location, technical skills (camera, lighting, editing) and pose direction. With over 15 years of portrait photography know-how, Michael Curtis Photography will deliver a unique session, no cookie cutter formula, that produces epic photos!

Even experienced amateurs struggle with the more nuanced parts of portrait photography. The mastery of lighting, hiding undesirable features, and creating radiant skin tones are among the most difficult and most important parts of producing perfect portraits. When you hire a professional, they will put their years of experience and training to work creating images of you that flatter and look fantastic!

Behind the scenes, your professional photographer will have pro-grade equipment, cameras and image storage with backup copies, software for editing and years of training to deliver consistently great photos.

One last consideration when choosing your photographer is to take time to look at their portfolio and make sure that their style of photography and the way they process their photos match the look that you're after. Click HERE to visit my Senior Portfolio.

Professional makeup for the ladies is highly recommended; day-to-day makeup just doesn't show up as well on camera. Our makeup artists are highly trained and can achieve a flawless natural or glam look, to suit your style. Another part of having a professional makeup artist is that it's a special day and I think being pampered and having fun is a huge part of making you not only look great but feel great. That's the formula to having a great senior photo session!

A professional is invested in your satisfaction. As a professional photographer, your satisfaction with the images, service and overall experience are the highest priority for me. It is mainly through word-of-mouth referrals that I sustain and grow my business, therefore, I am fully committed to your satisfaction.

Please check out our Class of 2021 Senior Portrait Planning Guide for more information and tips or call Michael at 425-610-9098 to book your session or have any questions answered.

Award-winning photos by Michael Curtis Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 07:57:35 GMT

Award-winning photography by Michael Curtis Photography. Bronze-level awards in the 2020 international Portrait Masters Photo Competition. Thanks ladies for the opportunity to have you in front of my camera for these contemporary portraits. It's always exciting to be honored with these awards by such critical judges in the photography industry.

Pre-Prom 'Glam the Dress' Fashion Photo Shoot

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Fri, 10 Jan 2020 22:40:04 GMT

Take this opportunity to get more use out of your special dress. How about a pre-prom fashion shoot in the studio (or on location if you prefer)? This adds to the excitement of prom season and provides you with a unique magazine-style fashion shoot.

The 1 hour studio session price is $150. You will received 5 retouched digital images of your favorite shots. Add a friend for an extra $50 -- this adds 30 minutes to the session (they get 5 edited photos too).

Give us a call at 425-610-9098 to book your session.

BESTIES - Share the fun and excitement of your senior session with a friend

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 00:35:16 GMT

What better way to add to excitement and fun to your senior photo shoot than sharing it with a 'best friend?' Michael Curtis Photography offers a special 'Add A Friend' option to all our senior portrait photo sessions. Call 425-610-9098 for details. Besties - Michael Curtis Photography Besties -- Michael Curtis Photography Besties- Michael Curtis Photography Besties - Michael Curtis Photography

Emma | Meadowdale Senior Class of 2020 Ambassador for Michael Curtis Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 20 Jun 2019 06:31:06 GMT

Emma has been great to work with as one of my senior ambassadors. We did a chilly spring shoot in Edmonds and last week got to do a warm weather session at Gasworks Park in Seattle. Here are a few photos from both senior shoots.

The Portrait Masters Photo Competition Awards - Bronze Medal Winning Photos

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Sat, 16 Mar 2019 06:45:29 GMT

I was happy to hear that all 13 of my entries into the International Portrait Masters Photo Competition won a Bronze level award!

I feel blessed to have been able to photograph such a great group of people. I'd also like to thank my team who helped with hair, makeup and styling of these portrait sessions. A shout out to Emma Culbertson for her hair and makeup work behind the scenes and for being one of my subjects in front of my camera. A big thanks to Rebecca Elton for her professional hair styling and makeup work on several of these portrait sessions. Some of these awards were won in the high school senior category and some in the contemporary portrait category.

Ladies, I couldn't have done it without you! Thanks Abby, Ellie, Emma, Jan, Josie, Malia, Marcelle and Payton for spending time in front of my camera.

Cheers.
Michael Curtis
'Award Winning Photographer'

Bothell High School Graduation Cap & Gown Photos

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 13 Mar 2019 07:44:39 GMT

Class of 2019 - Book your special senior graduation Cap & Gown photo shoot!
Don't wait until the last minute to organize a little pre-graduation photo shoot. Do it Solo or make it a Group shoot. Plan a little get-together at a local park with your besties--it's the perfect way to get fired-up for the big event! There is limited availability so call soon to reserve the date - 425-610-9098. Book your Cap & Gown Photo Shoot Here!

Senior Prom Photos Stanwood High School

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 06 Mar 2019 00:11:31 GMT

Class of 2019 - Let's organize a special senior photo shoot for you upcoming grads.
Now is the time to round up your posse for a fun prom photo shoot with all your best friends.

Here is an example of a prom group shoot for Stanwood High School seniors that we did on a Camano Island beach. What a great group of grads getting preparing to embark on the next phase of their lives!

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Katelyn | Marysville-Getchell High School Senior | Portraits by Michael Curtis Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Tue, 05 Mar 2019 22:42:54 GMT

Marysville_Getchell High School Senior - Katelyn
It's great to have Katelyn as my Class of 2020 senior ambassador representing Michael Curtis Photography at Marysville-Getchell High School. We did her first photo shoot in early March in downtown Snohomish on a clear but chilly day. So chilly that we decided to visit the Snohomish Pie Company for a fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie. I'm looking forward to working more with Katelyn throughout senior photo season.

Ally | Anacortes High School Senior | Senior Portraits by Michael Curtis Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Tue, 05 Mar 2019 07:54:25 GMT

Anacortes High School Senior - Ally
I'm excited to have Allyson as my Class of 2020 senior ambassador representing Michael Curtis Photography at Anacortes High School. We managed to fit in one of her senior portrait photo shoots in Mt. Vernon on a nice day in February.

Annette & Aspen | Mother-Daughter

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Sun, 24 Feb 2019 08:20:39 GMT

I got to work with Aspen, an up-and-coming young model, and her mother on a recent photo shoot. Such amazing poise from this 13 year-old. Her mother was more nervous about doing the shoot but soon relaxed and we created some stunning shots of her too. Thanks too to Emma Culbertson for her fantastic hair and makeup work!

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Three Times the Fun - Taiya, Jalan and Lanae

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Sun, 13 Jan 2019 07:30:26 GMT

It has been fun photographing the senior pictures for three sisters who attended Arlington High School. Taiya, Jalan and Lanae each had a different vision for their photos which made for a unique adventure for each of them. We hit downtown Seattle and Pike Place Market, did a studio shoot and shot at Jennings Park.

Their mom had some nice things to say in her review of my services: "I have used Michael Curtis Photography for all three of my girls for senior photos! He is so professional and extremely talented! We highly recommend!" Thanks Alana--you have been blessed with these 3 lovely young ladies.

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The Little Things Floral - Wedding Flowers by Katherine Shipley

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 08:50:03 GMT

My friend, Katherine Shipley has be creating beautiful floral arrangement for friends for several years and has now officially launched her professional floral design business. Be sure to check out her work at thelittlethingsfloral.com. Be sure to stop by her booth at the Seattle Wedding Show January 12-13, 2019.

Ashley | Anacortes High School Senior | Senior Portraits by Michael Curtis Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Mon, 10 Dec 2018 07:50:19 GMT

Anacortes High School Senior - Ashley
Ashley, her mom (Holly) and I caught an incredible fall evening for some golden hour portraits. We were last to leave Bowman Bay at Deception Pass after getting this great series of photos.

PAYTON - Sedro Woolley High School Senior

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Tue, 30 Oct 2018 00:38:20 GMT

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The Portrait Masters Competition Award for Senior Photos - Bronze Medal Winning Photo

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Fri, 26 Oct 2018 17:00:50 GMT

This was the first time entering a photo competition and I was pleased to win a Bronze Medal from The Portrait
Masters for this portrait of Emma in the teens and seniors division. Thanks for the collaboration Emma who did
her own makeup and hair.

Digital Negatives

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Tue, 25 Sep 2018 20:59:42 GMT

I'm frequently asked, "What exactly are 'digital negatives' that I see in several of your photography packages?"
Digital negatives are a large selection of images from your photo session. The digital negatives are photos that have have had basic editing (white balance and exposure modifications) and delivered as a digital file as a download from the client's gallery or on a flash drive. These files are sized to provide optimal prints up to 8"x12" in size.

I deliver approximately 75 images per hour of shoot time.

Thanks to USB Memory Direct for the custom flash drives they supply me.

USB Memory Direct Flash Drive

Class of 2018 -- What a great group of soon-to-graduate students!

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 03 Jan 2018 08:57:15 GMT

I had a great season shooting senior pictures with an amazing group of young people from the Class of 2018. I want to thank all of you and your parents for the exciting sessions at the many great locations for senior photos. We pretty much covered it all from Seattle to Sedro Woolley, managin to catch some stunning sunsets, dramatic cloudy skies and even a few Pacific Northwest rain showers! Best of luck to you in this last half of your senior year!

Rachel Burch + Noah Encke Wedding - Blessed Sacrament Church - Woodland Park Zoo Reception

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 30 Nov 2017 09:35:39 GMT

What a great couple to work with. It was truly an honor to be a part of this special day. It was a fun and lively group. The attention to detail was impeccable. Blessed Sacrament in Seattle is a spectacular church and the reception at the Woodland Park Zoo brought out the 'animal' in the wedding party!

We were able to capture so many memorable images that they decided to upgrade their wedding album to 50 pages and stepped up to the album produced by my favorite printer in Italy.

In spite of their delay in choosing the photos for their album I managed to have the book produced just in time for their first anniversary. I schemed with Noah to surprise Rachel with the album at the cafe where they were enjoying their anniversary brunch.

Thanks for these kind words Noah & Rachel..."October 22nd, 2016 - We'll never forget this wonderful day and start to the blessing that is our marriage! A huge thank you to Michael Curtis for putting together a BEAUTIFUL wedding album for us (and delivering it to us personally on our one year anniversary yesterday, how special!) We couldn't be happier with this keepsake. In honor of our anniversary, Noah and I wanted to share the photos from the album with you. Thank you to everyone who prayed, witnessed and celebrated with us at our wedding last year, we are so grateful for you! ♥️"

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Thanksgiving 2017

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Mon, 27 Nov 2017 05:24:43 GMT

I'd like to thank all my great Class of 2018 senior clients who chose me to photograph their senior portraits. Every shoot was epic in it's own right. We got to visit some cool locations, enjoy stunning sunsets, hide from rain showers and stall tall against some blustery winds. I'd like to wish all my senior an epic final year of high school. Be sure to send your Class of 2019 friends my way.

BETH | Arlington High School Class of 2017 | Featured Upcoming Senior

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Tue, 24 May 2016 21:43:46 GMT

Beth West

What I look forward to most my senior year is, I will be attending a Sno-Isle program in Everett for medical assisting. I am very interested in the medical field and this is advancing me even farther into it. I also am nervous but excited to start applying to colleges and just start planning my future. Lastly, I look forward to my senior year of high school soccer. I have played soccer since I was very young so this upcoming year is partly an end of many years of playing with friends from 9 years old. It will be sad but I'm excited for all the memories to come and to see how far our team will go this year.

Be sure to enter the SENIOR WEEK Giveaway drawing for some great prizes. Open to all high school students in King, Snohomish and Skagit counties. ENTER HERE.

SENIOR WEEK - Class of 2017

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Tue, 24 May 2016 20:34:58 GMT

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What is SENIOR WEEK?
It is the one week each year that we celebrate the graduating Seniors and upcoming Seniors!

ENTER TO WIN GREAT PRIZES
Michael Curtis Photography is giving away amazing prizes to ANY high school student in King, Snohomish and Skagit counties. Enter the drawing to be eligible to win!
Grand Prize: $120 Gift Card for Merrell Footwear and Apparel
Runner-up Prizes: 3 Pistil Designs Scarves (comfy and stylish) valued at $30 each, 3 Pistil Designs Caps (summer savvy headwear) valued at $30 each and 3 Pistil Designs Headbands (pretty and practical) valued at $14 each.

BOOK YOUR 2017 SENIOR PORTRAITS -- And SAVE $100
We open up bookings for 2017 graduating Seniors with a HUGE early bird discount ($100 off senior portrait sessions). You must book your senior photo session during Senior Week to be able to take advantage of the sweet discount. Class of 2017 Senior Portrait Sessions may be scheduled for June 15 through September 15. Limited availability so lock in your session now.

Click Here to ENTER TO WIN.

Increase your chance to win with a bonus entry for sharing or tagging 5 friends on the Facebook and Instagram posts.

Facebook: Michael Curtis Photography - Seniors
Instagram: @michaelcurtis

#michaelcurtisseniorweek #michaelcurtisseniorportraits

Girls High School Senior Pictures by Michael Curtis Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 18 May 2016 00:28:51 GMT

We are approaching that time of year when this year's high school juniors (Class of 2017) need to be thinking about choosing their photographer for their 'senior picture photo shoot.' It is best to have your senior portraits taken during spring / summer and before the start of your senior year when life gets crazy in your busy final year in high school. Senior year is an important time in your life making it the perfect time to create images that preserve this phase in your life.

Summer is a great time for senior picture shoots when the weather is nice. Yes, it is possible to do your senior picture shoot in the fall but I suggest avoiding the 'last-minute' rush.

Schedule your summer senior shoot now with Michael Curtis Photography and take advantage of the SENIOR WEEK Early-bird Discount and Save $100 on your senior portrait session. You must book your session during SENIOR WEEK (June 5-11) to be able receive the discount.

We shoot at great locations in the Puget Sound area...urban sessions in Seattle, park settings and waterfront beach shoots.

High School Senior Pictures for the Guys by Michael Curtis Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 18 May 2016 00:25:16 GMT

We are approaching that time of year when this year's high school juniors (Class of 2017) need to be thinking about choosing their photographer for their 'senior picture photo shoot.' It's pretty common for the 'guys' to be forced by their mom to participate in a real senior picture photo shoot. I take pride in my ability to connect with the guys and turn their reluctance and hesitation into a fun and positive photo shoot. After a few minutes the guys let their guard down and get into the shoot which always results in the creation of amazing senior portraits.

It is best to have your senior portraits taken during spring / summer and before the start of your senior year when life gets crazy in your busy final year in high school. Senior year is an important time in your life making it the perfect time to create images that preserve this phase in your life.

Summer is a perfect time for senior picture shoots when the weather is great. It is possible to do your senior picture shoot in the fall but I suggest avoiding the 'last-minute' rush.

Schedule your summer senior shoot now with Michael Curtis Photography and take advantage of the SENIOR WEEK Early-bird Discount and Save $100 on your senior portrait session. You must book your session during SENIOR WEEK (June 5-11) to be able receive the discount.

Class of 2017 Senior MODEL CALL

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Sat, 07 May 2016 15:39:10 GMT

Michael Curtis Photography is looking for 1-2 girls (current juniors) from each of the local high schools (King, Snohomish and Skagit county schools) to participate in a group photo shoot. There will be three weekday evening sessions in late May. The purpose is to create 2017 senior promotional materials for brochures, website and social media.

Applicants must be fun, energetic juniors who are full of personality and love to take pictures. They also need to be active on social media.

A Model Release will need to be signed by a parent/guardian prior to the photo shoot. Parents are welcome and encouraged to join us for the photo shoot.

In addition to participating in the fun event, each girl will receive 5 professional photographs that are suitable for sharing on Instagram, Facebook and their other favorite social media. They also get a $100 discount from their senior picture shoot if they book their summer/fall senior portrait session with me.

Sound like fun? Interested? Contact Michael at 425-418-8127 or email michael@michaelcurtisphotography.com.

Spread the word. Hurry, final selection happens on May 17.

Rachel Burch + Noah Encke | Slide Show of Engagement Photos at Luther Burbank Park | Seattle

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 09 Mar 2016 22:51:57 GMT

Here's a little slide show of the photos from Rachel's and Noah's engagement photo shoot at Luther Burbank Park in Seattle. I cannot wait for their wedding day--they are such a fun couple and I'm sure the wedding photos will be as fun to shoot as their engagement photo session.

Engagement Slide Show -- check it out!

Rachel Burch + Noah Encke | Engagement Photos at Luther Burbank Park | Seattle WA

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Sat, 27 Feb 2016 17:32:16 GMT

We were blessed to have had perfect weather for the February engagement photo shoot of Rachel Burch and Noah Encke. It's not often that we have crystal clear skies and mid-60's weather in the Pacific Northwest in February. They had picked Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island in Seattle as the setting for their late afternoon engagement photo shoot. Daffodils were in bloom and some of the trees were budding out and producing springtime fragrances.

It is always fun getting to spend time with my wedding clients, getting to know more about them, seeing how they interact with each other and generally having a good time getting creative with photos of them. Sometimes that involves coaxing them to dangle their feet off the edge of the boat dock or climbing trees (nicely done there Rachel) all in the spirit of getting some interesting photos.

I am looking forward to their October wedding at one of my favorite churches to shoot in and being able to photograph their reception and a very cool venue (I will leave details for them to share)!

Emily + Joseph Kennedy - Wedding Day Slide Show

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:45:51 GMT

Emily + Joseph Kennedy wedding day! Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church | Everett WA | Anacortes Transit Shed | Anacortes WA | Michael Curtis Photography

Kennedy Wedding | Emily + Joseph | Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church | Everett WA

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 23:09:46 GMT

I have been fortunate to be able to photograph several weddings at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Everett WA the past couple years. In fact, one prior wedding was for Joe's older brother John. It was a honor to be able to work with Emily Rookstool and Joseph Kennedy in January. The weather was typical Pacific Northwest winter with rain and blustery conditions. That didn't dampen the spirits of this incredible couple, their families and friends.

Pre-wedding portraits of Emily and Joe.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Everett WA. Joe and Emily were fortunate to have long-time friend, Fr. Saguto from the FSSP marry them.

What a break! I had scouted this cool location near Anacortes WA for some creative bridal portraits and was excited to take Emily and Joe there for photos. When we left the church to make the 50 mile drive to the Transit Shed reception venue it was raining lightly. I'm thinking maybe portrait session could still happen if we moved quickly. About halfway in the drive the clouds unloaded in a torrential rainstorm. I tried to call Joe's chauffeur, best man brother Michael, to tell them that we likely will have to cancel the portrait shoot and head straight to the reception. The attempt to contact them failed as Michael's phone was turned off. Since I couldn't announce the change of plan I had meet them at the park where the shoot was to take place. As we drove to within 5 miles of the location the rain lightened up and on the final approach to Cap Sante Park had completely stopped. We had about a 15 minute window between rain squalls to capture Emily and Joseph enjoying a few quiet and loving moments together before heading to the lively reception.

Bridal portrait during a slight break in the rain storm. How's that for timing?

Time to party with friends and family at the Anacortes Transit Shed reception hall in Anacortes WA.

Emily + Christian | Wedding in Sedro Wooley WA | Michael Curtis Photography | Arlington WA

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 21:40:25 GMT

Emily and Christian were blessed to have descent weather for their January wedding in Sedro Wooley WA. It was great spending the say with the Swartz family (long-time residents in Skagit Valley) and Christian family who came into town from California. I learned from Emily's mom she and Emily's father had gotten married in the same church(Immaculate Heart of Mary) 35 years ago and that her father was an altar server there when he was a boy. Congrats to Emily and Christian!

Emily and the girls getting ready.

Christian and the guys preparing.

Emily and Christian -- 'First Look'

Time for the wedding of Emily and Christian at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Sedro Wooley, WA.

Party time at Sedro Wooley Community Center.

Michael Curtis Photography | EXIST IN PHOTOS (Part 2)

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 06:07:46 GMT

EXIST IN PHOTOS for family and friends
This past year my mother's older sister passed away. This aunt was an amateur photographers who had been bitten by the travel bug. Every year she and my uncle embarked on at least one amazing vacation either here in the USA or some distant land abroad. We were always treated to a slide show upon their return. I must admit that as a young child these 2-3 hour slide show were a chore to endure. As we grew older we came to look forward to their presentation of images and the stories. Their photographs and stories were straight out of National Geographic.

One of my cousins has recently taken on the task of sifting through the hundreds of boxes of slides and uncovering countless gems of photographs. In addition to the travel images, my aunt always had her camera in hand at family gatherings capturing pictures of all our families and documenting our youth. I was taken by surprise when my cousin posted a photo on Facebook this past Mother's Day; a shot that I had never seen of my mother holding me when I was just a few days old. It was very touching to see myself cradled in the arms of my mom. My cousin has promised to share more of these photos as the are uncovered in this archeological find of the many boxes of photos.

The major take-away of this reinforces why I love photography and being able to help future generations have a photographic family heritage. Exist in photos!

#existinphotos

Alyssa + Jesse | Garden Wedding in Kent | Seattle Wedding Photogapher

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 17:29:22 GMT

Another beautiful September Saturday in the Pacific Northwest -- perfect for a garden wedding. Congrats Alyssa and Jesse!

Time to bask in the Jamaican sun, toes in the water and sipping some rum.

Sneak Peek.
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Michael Curtis Photography | EXIST IN PHOTOS (Part 1)

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Tue, 07 Jul 2015 16:11:39 GMT

EXIST IN PHOTOS for family and friends
I was fortunate to be able to travel with my fifteen year old son to visit my hometown of St. Louis for a family reunion. As a Seattle wedding photographer with a love for photography I coaxed my mother to pull out her boxes of photographs. We invited my sister and brother who I rarely get to see over to look through a boxes of pictures. It was great fun looking at images from our childhood and recalling memories of family celebrations, vacations and and life as a child. We were all thankful that photography played such an important part of our life. It was truly a blessing to have so many photos of my dad who passed away a few years ago. It was especially fun to share with my son the stories associates with the photos and be able to visually show the family tree. I appreciate the value of the family heritage we have preserved in the many photographs.

Behind the Scenes | Michael Curtis Photography | Family Portraits | Seattle WA

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Tue, 07 Jul 2015 15:34:53 GMT

Family Portraits with Michael Curtis Photography | Seattle WA
A little 'behind the scenes' action of Ken and Carin Wilson enjoying their time in front of the camera at their family portrait photo shoot at Golden Garden Park in Seattle, WA. Little do they know that I was having just as much fun working with them and their lovely children and grandchildren.

Hill Wedding | Holy Rosary Catholic Church | Seattle Wedding Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 06 May 2015 04:18:12 GMT

It's a Joy to See the Daughter of Good Friends Get Married to Such a Fine Young Man -- Congrats Emiko and Peter!

It was a glorious spring day (sunny and upper 60s) for the wedding of Emi and Peter at Holy Rosary Church in West Seattle. In the unusual role of guest and not photographer I did my best to sit back and enjoy the ceremony and celebration without the pressure of being the 'hired gun' to shoot their wedding. I did click off a few photos of the procession and capture the emotional 'first look' as Emi and her father Keith walked down the aisle. The look on Peter's face was priceless as he saw Emi process in. Congratulations Emi and Peter!

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Mosby Wedding | Coeur d'Alene Resort | Seattle Wedding Photographer

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Mon, 13 Apr 2015 18:33:25 GMT

Spectacular Spring Wedding in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Congrats Elizabeth and Jack.

It was an honor to photograph another wedding for the Thrasher family. This time it was for Elizabeth and her now husband Jack.

The day started off with a lovely solemn nuptial Mass at St. Joan of Arc Church in Coeur d'Alene. We then headed to the Coeur d'Alene Resort for a festive reception on the shore of Lake Coeur d'Alene. I have to say that I have never attended a wedding where there were so many people brought to tears by the heartfelt and loving toasts. All this was topped off by the emotional note that Elizabeth had written to her dad that she had read during her 'father-daugher' dance. We should have bought stock in Kleenex last week as there must have been a ton of tissues used to wipe away tears!

It is truly inspiring to see such solid families brought together by the bond of marriage!

Congratulations Elizabeth and Jack.

Church: St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church - Coeur d'Alene, ID
Reception: Coeur d'Alene Resort
Photographer: Michael Curtis Photography | Seattle, WA

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Mckenzie - Martin Wedding | Brickworks, Friday Harbor | Seattle Wedding Photographer

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 18:11:29 GMT

March in Friday Harbor doesn't get much better!

Elly's and Chad's recent wedding at the Brickworks in Friday Harbor was an incredible day! The weather in March doesn't get much better than what they had for their wedding day. Wedding prep began at Harrison House Suites where they did a 'first look' session followed by a trip to the south end of San Juan Island to shoot photos of them at San Juan Island National Historic Park. We returned to the Brickworks for the ceremony and reception that culminated in a piggy-back race down the street!

Location: Harrison House Suites | Brickworks | Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, WA
Photographer: Michael Curtis Photography

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A very Happy Valentine's Day | Faulk Wedding | Arlington wedding photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Mon, 16 Feb 2015 18:56:31 GMT

This is going to be a Valentine's Day that Austra and Adam will remember forever!
It was a lovely wedding of a great couple!

Church: Immaculate Conception Church in Arlington, WA
Reception: Gleneagle Golf Club
Photographer: Michael Curtis Photography

Wedding Album Delivery -- Like Christmas Again | Arlington Wedding Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 06:16:22 GMT

It's always a joy when the UPS truck pulls up with a heavy box from my print lab. This typically means that wedding albums have arrived. It's like Christmas again -- opening the box and inspecting the freshly printed wedding albums and feeling the rich leather covers. Now to contact my wedding photography clients and make arrangements to deliver their books.

Kriegel Family Photos | Stanwood Photographer | Testimonial

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 05:13:13 GMT

I had no idea that getting all three families together for pictures would be so much fun! Only complaint was too many great pictures - all will be treasured for years to come. I say 'all' because we purchased quite a selection of digital prints. I put them into a digital album on great grandma's tablet - a great compliment to pictures the kids have printed.

Kriegel Family Portraits

Curtis Family | Michael Curtis Photography | Arlington Photographer

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 01 Jan 2015 06:20:08 GMT

I am so proud of my family and thankful for their love and support as we ring out 2014.

Here's to a healthy and Happy New Year - 2015! Michaels Family - 2014

Salomon Family | Arlington Photographer | Testimonial

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 01 Jan 2015 05:20:25 GMT

Hello Michael,

Happy New Year to you and your lovely family. Thanks again for the beautiful pictures of our family. We appreciate your great work.

God Bless,
Alain

Family Portraits

TJ | Meadowdale High School Senior | Lynnwood Senior Picture Photographer | Testimonial

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 01 Jan 2015 04:59:58 GMT

What a great photo shoot today!! So excited to see the pictures. Thanks for spending quality time with TJ....he felt relaxed, what awesome places to shoot. It was a pleasure meeting you.

Looking forward to seeing the photos....thanks again Michael!

Heidi

Derek S.| Meadowdale High School Senior | Edmonds Senior Picture Photographer | Testimonial

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 31 Dec 2014 20:06:38 GMT

Hi Michael,

The pictures are BEAUTIFUL!!! They make me cry when I look at them. Even Derek remarked, "How does he get so many great shots?!"

Harkins + Connolly Wedding | Engagement Photography Session | Edmonds Wedding Photographer

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Sun, 28 Dec 2014 08:49:35 GMT

The holidays tend to be a time of the year when a lot of engagements are announced. Congrats to any of you who have decided to tie the knot and are planning a future wedding!

Be sure to contact Michael Curtis Photography to learn about the all-inclusive wedding photography packages that we offer. All our wedding packages include an engagement photo session. Not only do the engagement photo shoots allow us to create amazing images and get to know you, but they are always great FUN!

Here are samples of photos from my engagement shoot of Marie and Mat in Edmonds, WA.
Click here to see more examples of engagement photos.

Jessie & Alex Lindsay Wedding | Seattle Wedding Photographer | Testimonial

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 00:53:21 GMT

July 2013 | Seattle, WA | Photography by Michael Curtis

It was wonderful having you there on our wedding day! Thank you Mike for taking our beautiful wedding photos!
We will cherish them and our album for a lifetime. Thank you! ~ Jessie & Alex

Connolly Wedding | Seattle Wedding Photography | Testimonial

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 23:38:09 GMT

June 6, 2014 | St. Mark Catholic Church | Seattle, WA | Photography by Michael Curtis

Thank you again for all of the time and work that you put into our wedding photos. We really enjoyed working with you!
And we appreciate all the care you put into capturing the day for us. ~ Marie & Mat

Melanie Zepernick + Paul Gibbs Wedding - Seattle Wedding Photography

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 21:33:49 GMT

Melanie Zepernick's and Paul Gibbs' Wedding

August 2, 2014 | Holy Family Catholic Church | Kirkland, WA | Photography by Michael Curtis

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Marie + Mat ... engagement shoot.

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 01 May 2014 05:53:05 GMT

Here's a link to the video slideshow from the engagement shoot of Marie Harkins and Mat Connolly in Edmonds, WA. Marie - Matt -- Engagement - HD720p Marie - Matt -- Engagement - HD720p

Nikki + Anthony -- Sneak Peek

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 23 Jan 2014 06:45:12 GMT

The trip to Santa Barbara to photograph the wedding of my son's two friends from college was amazing in several ways. It was a lovely wedding of two great people! The wedding ceremony preceded a traditional Catholic Latin Mass in the gorgeous Our Lady of Sorrows church in Santa Barbara--with sunny skies and daytime temperatures in the mid-70s (a welcome break from Seattle weather).

Congrats Nikki and Anthony!

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Young Helpers

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 26 Dec 2013 04:48:45 GMT

Young helpers at the wedding of Jessie and Alex Lindsay.

Party Portraits - Yukon Trading Christmas Party

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 26 Dec 2013 04:06:05 GMT

The Yukon Trading Christmas Party was great fun (as usual)! This year's event was held at the Wild Ginger restaurant in Seattle and provided the perfect blend of friendship, fun, spectacular food, yummy beverages, excellent service and... did I mention, yummy beverages!

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"Hats Off to Nico"

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 07:48:19 GMT

Little Nico stole the show at this family photo shoot.

Team Effort

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Sat, 07 Dec 2013 08:39:56 GMT

Some shoots become a 'team effort' as was the case during a family portrait session. Nico is a strong-willed observant 9-month old boy who was not interested in connecting with the camera but more inclined to check out the new surroundings. Luckily I was able to enlist the Uncle and cousins to create some commotion that finally attracted Nico's attention which resulted in some fun photos. Even more fun was the action that had been going on behind me. I thought you might enjoy the antics of "Team Make Him Laugh" from Nico's point of view.

Sisterly Love

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Sat, 07 Dec 2013 08:01:59 GMT

The great thing about photographing family portrait sessions is seeing and capturing the bond between siblings. Sometimes it's a couple of "rough and tumble" young boys and other times it's the gentle innocence of a sisterly relationship that takes place in front of my camera. Some family portrait sessions require a little coaxing to stir up the emotions that depict the love between siblings which produces great photographs. This was not the case at my recent shoot of Ellie and Lucy who simply could not contain their heartfelt friendship. Sisterly Love Sisterly Love Sisterly Love Sisterly Love Sisterly Love Sisterly Love Sisterly Love Sisterly Love

Michael Curtis Photography - "Selfie Promotion!"

(Michael Curtis Photography) — Thu, 28 Nov 2013 16:15:35 GMT

I really can no longer put this off given the growing interest in my photography. So, I am taking the opportunity to piggyback the launch of my blog on last week’s announcement that the esteemed Oxford Dictionary had bestowed the prestigious ‘Word of the Year’ honor upon the photography related term ‘Selfie’ and debatably the most embarrassing phenomenon of the digital age.

“19 November 2013, Oxford, UK:

selfie noun, informal
(also selfy; plural selfies)

a photograph that one has taken of oneself, typically one taken with a smartphone or webcam and uploaded to a social media website

Today Oxford Dictionaries announces selfie as their international Word of the Year 2013. The Oxford Dictionaries Word of the Year is a word or expression that has attracted a great deal of interest during the year to date. Language research conducted by Oxford Dictionaries editors reveals that the frequency of the word selfie in the English language has increased by 17,000% since this time last year.

Selfie can actually be traced back to 2002 when it was used in an Australian online forum. The word gained momentum throughout the English-speaking world in 2013 as it evolved from a social media buzzword to mainstream shorthand for a self-portrait photograph. “

The Michael Curtis Photography Blog Selfie. This inaugural blog post is not really about me (maybe a little) but more about the great people who have allowed me to photograph their life events (weddings, baptisms, graduations, sporting events) as well as capturing moments in their life through high school senior pictures and family portraits. It is truly an honor to work with my clients and create images that preserve their memories and emotions for themselves and the enjoyment of generations to come. There will be more posts showing images of the people who have hired me to artfully photograph them in a manner that a camera-phone selfie cannot.

Now I’m not out to bash the ‘selfie’ shooter – especially since most of us have likely taken an arm-length self portrait at one time. It must be pointed out that professional photography differs from the ‘Selfie’ snapshots in the quality nature of the image and the likelihood that it will be printed and given as a gift or used to create wall art that will stand the test of time. I’m not denying we are in the digital age, hence the online galleries and even this blog but the fact remains that there is something special, tactile and long-lasting with printed photos, wall art and photo albums.

I feel compelled to include my Selfie though not technically a legit Selfie since it was shot with my camera on a tripod since the lens I had on my camera that the time could not focus in the short ‘arms-length’ distance.

I hope you will check in from time to time and view current work of Michael Curtis Photography. How's that for a little "shameless-self-promotion' or more aptly 'selfie promotion?'