Friday, March 30, 2012

march madness...with bated breath.

March is coming to a close, and with bated breath, I’ve been waiting to reveal the surprise I’ve had in store this month - my new online card shop! Many of you know that I love writing letters. As kids, my mom instilled letter writing in us, expressing that a simple gesture can be full of thoughtfulness and meaning. In our fast-paced world, there is nothing sweeter than a handwritten note shared with a faraway friend.  Whenever the mail is delivered, I immediately open bills, notices, etc… But, if I receive a letter, a real handwritten letter, it is set aside for later. I save it for a time when I can sit down with a fresh cup of tea, and have a small moment with a friend or family member, even if they are miles away. And when I send out a little hello, I smile at the idea that my words and thoughts are on their way to someone “just because.” I suppose that’s why I’ve wanted to open this little shop of cards. It will continue to grow, so I hope you’ll have a chance to visit.
In celebration of this new endeavor, I am giving away a complimentary  ::: SET OF POSTCARDS:::!
How to enter: Share this shop (www.honestlykimberly.bigcartel.com) with a friend. Then, leave a comment on this post, twitter/facebook or you can email me at honestlykimberly (at) gmail.com by Wednesday, April 4th by 5pm PST to let me know how you shared. Feel free to spread the word through blogs, twitter (must include @kimikolba), facebook, or better yet, a handwritten note! Thanks so much for celebrating with me this month. It’s been a blast! Hope you have a fantastic weekend. The winner will be announced Friday, April 6th. Until then…

Friday, March 23, 2012

orange blossoms.

I will never tire of the fragrant orange blossoms. 
(Their sweet scent is one of my favorite things.)
Hope your weekend is simply beautiful or beautifully simple.
Photo from a recent visit to Arizona. More from that trip coming soon...

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

march madness...the fires burn bright.

Keeping the celebratory fires of March Madness bright, and as part of my quest to get things off of the screen and into print, I am now offering ::: free shipping ::: on all photographic print orders! Imagine - a real print to hold in your hands. The sale begins today and ends March 31st, 2012. All you have to do is enter the code "march" to receive the discount. If your online gallery has expired, feel free to contact me to view your images and receive this special deal.  I can't wait to share the next March Madness celebration... be sure to tune in next week for our last hurrah!
Don't miss out on the specials that have been running in March. Here are your friendly reminders: 
* Did you enter the giveaway? If so, you are eligible for a portrait session at 20% off.
* Are you getting married? All weddings booked by March 31, 2012 will receive ::: $100 ::: off of the  wedding photography package.
* Enter the code "march" in your online gallery and all print orders will receive * free shipping. *
* Portrait sessions, weddings, and print orders must be booked and/or placed by March 31 to receive these limited time offers. 
* Please feel free to contact me at hello@kimikolbaphoto.com with any questions. Thank you!

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

hello spring.

Hello spring! Today marks its official beginning. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we tend to hibernate during the winter months. It may be weeks before you see your neighbors. I am looking forward to resurfacing and saying hello to all of the beauty this season brings. I did see a smattering of snowflakes yesterday, but I feel hopeful about warm sun (I know, I know – spring rains) and fresh blooms.
Here are just a few of the things on my list this season:
  • plant a garden
  • spring cleaning (i love to clear the clutter – mentally and physically)
  • drive out east
  • make more photographs
  • plan to visit an old friend (or two)
  • bask in the cherry blossoms
What about you? A lovely spring to you all! 

Friday, March 16, 2012

29 ways.

A little inspiration for your weekend. Enjoy it!
Found this here.  

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

march madness...in the name of love.

Wedding season is on the horizon, and before the whirlwind begins, I’ve taken a little time to reflect during these quieter months. When I sit down to meet with couples, I am asked about my approach and how I began documenting weddings. In the spirit of honesty, (this is honestly kimberly) when I started my journey in photography, which was over ten years ago now, I shied away from weddings. The knowledge I had of wedding photography was very traditional, what I knew as stiffly posed, staged photographs. I found these images a bit flat; I always wanted more. I wanted to hear the laughter, witness the crazy aunt on the dance floor, and see the couple secretly having a moment away. I should state that I’m not saying that there is anything wrong with this traditional type of photography, as it takes great skill, patience, and talent, and I do admire those who pursue it. I just knew it wasn’t for me, and my heart was interested in what was happening in the wings. 
With time and an open mind, I discovered that there was a story to be told, and even though it was unconventional at the time, I could tell that love story with a creative eye, and through my natural style of photography. With my photojournalism and fine art background, this was an idea that really excited me. I could get behind this type of wedding photography – wedding photojournalism. And so I stuck to my guns, knowing full and well that this approach wasn’t for everyone, and realized that this was how I loved to photograph weddings.
When documenting a special celebration, I strive to make those memories tangible through my photographs. And during the process, I’ve realized (and continue to realize) what an honor it is to be able to document that for someone – to be witness to two people committing to a life together. It is such a privilege to be present during this type of celebration, to capture the beauty, togetherness, quiet nervous moments, raucous laughter and happy tears.
I am the first to say that I’m not the photographer for everyone. I know that, and I feel it’s very important to recognize. When I was a beginner, it was difficult to find that voice, and express that individuality, knowing it wasn’t of universal interest.  But as I grow, I realize how important it is to work with like-minded souls to do the job to the best of my abilities. I am with a couple for very intimate, emotionally charged moments throughout the day, so I find it important that a comfort level is found for both parties. I describe myself as an eager observer, meaning that I’ll mainly exist in the background, but step forward when needed. That’s why I feel there is value in getting to know the couples that I photograph and allow them to get to know me. Let’s share a meal, or a cup of coffee and conversation. I want to know what makes you tick, what’s important to you, and what you hope for in the days ahead. Because all of this matters. For me, making beautiful, soulful photographs is rooted in trust and collaboration.  
Your wedding day happens fast. It is truly fleeting. When you look back at your wedding photographs, I want you to feel as if you were there. While reminiscing, I hope that the emotions you were experiencing that day are palpable through the imagery. I document the day as it unfolds, finding beauty and wonder throughout the celebration, capturing genuine moments, and showing that the love between a couple, and close friends & family is anything but ordinary.
To continue the celebratory March Madness month, all weddings booked by March 31, 2012 will receive ::: $100 ::: off of the wedding photography package!   
Offer valid for 2012 weddings in & around the city of Portland.  We do travel for love, so please feel free to inquire about the details. To view love + wedding images, please visit www.kimikolbaphoto.com. Thank you for looking. xoxo

Friday, March 9, 2012

the merriment continues...winner announced!

The first order of business is Happy Birthday to my little brother! For his birthday gift this year, I found a little book of pictures I made for him when I was 11 years old. The last page included a photo of him dressed as Batman and in black marker, I had written, "Bobby, you are my hero!" Well Bobby, you still are and I'm so proud to have you as brother and friend. Sending you lots of love & laughter today.
And secondly, thank you so much to all of you who entered the giveaway, shared your birthday love, and for your thoughtful and kind comments. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about your birthday traditions and how you've honored the day (or month) over the years. I usually keep things simple - a good meal shared with friends and family, and I always have to make a wish. And, that wish is made while blowing out a candle atop of a deliciously sweet treat. It's always been the little things for me.  But, after reading some of your comments, I feel like I need to make some plans for something unique in the coming year. Thanks for all of the celebratory inspiration.  
Without further ado, congratulations to the winner, Colleen, who made the 2nd comment! After much deliberation, I found it impossible to choose a winner, so I decided to use the random method.  
This was difficult as I'd love for everyone to win. So, to show my appreciation, I am offering 20% off any photo shoot to those who entered. Your session must be reserved by March 31st, 2012 and bookings are available from now through the month of July 2012.  If you were interested in giving your session to a friend, gift certificates are available. Colleen, please email me at hello@kimikolbaphoto.com and we can figure out all of the details for your shoot! Congratulations! Thank you again to everyone for your participation, and for sharing your comments about your memories and merriment. You've made this month of March that much sweeter.

Monday, March 5, 2012

march madness (my way)

Last week, I mentioned that I was ready to celebrate, and what better time to do so than the birthday month of yours truly? In the past, I’ve had a tendency to be a little shy about my birthday, but as I grow older (and hopefully wiser), I’m realizing that life is short, and it’s something to be celebrated. So, this month will be a different kind of March Madness, full of special offerings, as well as a little surprise towards the end of the month. I have lots in store for you! It’s been quite a while since I’ve had a giveaway, so in the spirit of the festivities at hand, it’s time.
 ::: WIN A FREE PHOTO SHOOT :::

How to enter: Leave a comment on this post. That's it!   
Just let me know how you love to revel on the anniversary of your birth. What are your annual traditions or your favorite things about it? Please leave your comment by Thursday, March 8th by 5:00 p.m. PST.  The winner will be announced on Friday, March 9th. Please find all of the details below. This one is for the locals. With that said, if you live outside of the area, you can always give away your session as a gift to a Portlander. I get by with a little help from my friends, so please feel free to spread the word. I wouldn't be here without your support and I thank you for that!
The nitty gritty:
* Session includes a 1-2 hour shoot, and a selection of high resolution edited images on disc. Must take place in and around the city of Portland, groups under four preferred, and offer expires in 6 months. It will be fun!
* Please, only one comment per person.
* To view more work, please feel free to visit www.kimikolbaphoto.com. Thank you!
 Photo of yours truly and my beautiful mama.

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