Van's Portraits

2011-03-08T16:43:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all our participants of the 2010 'Kids Book of Victoria & the North Island"! This year’s book raised over $5,500 for the Help Fill a Dream Foundation (HFAD)!

We look forward to creating the Kids Book of 2011 and helping dreams come true for the brave children of Help Fill a Dream (HFAD).
If you are interested in registering your children for the 2011 book or know someone with some great kids up to the age of 16, we are taking registrations for the 2011 Kids Book! This includes Kids from Victoria and the North Island Area (Comox, Courtenay, and Campbell River etc.)

Jerry Van donates his time each year to take these heartwarming portraits. The families who participate, (children; newborn – 16 years), pay a $75 registration fee to Van’s and 100% of the proceeds are presented to the HFAD at the end of the year when the book is complete. This year you also receive a $50.00 credit towards your first print order that you may use at your first viewing.

Van’s Portraits is looking for everyday kids for the 2011 edition!

Call to register your child today!

Main office in Courtenay 250-338-5666 - or - our Victoria office at 250-382-5666.

For more details on the Kids Book of Victoria and the North Island, please visit our website www.vansportraits.com or www.kidsofvictoria.com

For more information of HFAD please visit www.helpfilladream.com

Childrens Portraits Courtenay and Victoria

2011-02-25T16:29:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of kids from last years Kids Book. We have published this years volume and are now taking registrations for our 2011 edition. Once again we will be photographing in the Comox Valley and in the Victoria area. If you would like beautiful portraits of your children and help to support Help Fill a Dream get in touch with us. Your $75.00 registration fee goes to HFAD and you recieve a tax reciept at the end of the year. We raised $5500.00 last year and with your help we can raise more! I will post some of the boys next week.

Here are a couple of kids from last years Kids Book. We have published this years volume and are now taking registrations for our 2011 edition. Once again we will be photographing in the Comox Valley and in the Victoria area. If you would like beautiful portraits of your children and help to support Help Fill a Dream get in touch with us. Your $75.00 registration fee goes to HFAD and you recieve a tax reciept at the end of the year. We raise $5500.00 last year and with your help we can raise more!

Business Portrait Courtenay

2011-02-25T16:25:00.000-08:00

The team from the law office at Bush and Co. came by the studio for an update portrait session. we had a fun time, I even arranged for a police siren to go by to put smiles on their faces! Ok maybe that was just lucky.

This is a great time of year to update your business image.Some are using their portrait for their website, others for facebook and some for new marketing materials. If you are a professional and your face is part of your business (you have it in your marketing materials, business cards and websites) then you really should get a professional headshot done and try to update at least every year. If you are using an old photo from your last passport, we need to talk!

Engagement Portraits Courtenay

2011-02-16T14:55:00.000-08:00

Wow what weather we get to enjoy and work in. Greg and Dani were all set to head to the beach for their engagment portraits but the rain changed all that last Saturday! We braved the southeasters and found some great spots around downtown Courtenay for the portrait session. They managed to stay dry for most of the time, I on the other hand looked like a drowned rat by the time we were done, I had a hard time working my camera, my hands got that cold. Ah but it is always worth the effort. Next time they are out visiting from Saskatchewan we will get to the ocean, I promise.

Family Portrait South Africa

2011-02-09T11:53:00.001-08:00

Wow what a trip we experienced. Ruth and I brought Emma, my daughter, to Joe and Denise's 50th wedding party. What an amazing place to celebrate. Mom and Dad are living at Rob Roy retirement community located just outside Durben in the Valley of a Thousand Hills. This is the view we enjoyed from the party house.

Unfortunatly I was feeling under the weather on the day and wasn't able to enjoy the meal but I did rally in the 28c heat and photographed the family gathered round. I then made my way to bed for a nap and felt much better. Turns out my system doesn't like the beef here! Ah the joys of travel, it was all worth it.

Holly Smokes this is tough to keep up!

2010-07-23T09:33:00.001-07:00

Ok once again it comes down to what is most important, taking care of our clients portrait needs or updating the blog. Not a difficult decision. I have lots of things to catch up, our office is open in Victoria now, for several months actually!. We had a great visit to England, here are a couple of images to tide you over till I get some of the many recent portraits up.

Speaking of portraits I have to head out right now for an other session. Stand by folks, more info to come in the next week. For now enjoy England.

Cheers Jerry

Heading to London!

2010-02-24T14:30:00.000-08:00

We are heading off to England to visit Ruth's girls. This will be Emma's first really big trip so we are all getting really excited. We will be staying downtown London for some of the time as well as the town Guilford. If it works out we may even take the train to Paris. I just love going to Europe, the ancient buildings and wonderful atmosphere makes me fell like I am coming home. Maybe I lived here in a past life. We are leaving on March 6th and coming home on the 23rd. The office will only be closed for the first week but back to regular appointments for the rest of the time.

Outside the Tate Modern, what a cool place this is, right off the Millennium Bridge.

Here is Covent Garden, tons of people and shopping.

Why this thing stays up is a mystery to me!

This is what you would call a fixer upper here in York. What a wonderful city to explore.

If you know any one that would like a family portrait we may be able to fit that in. I will be able to set up a contact in the UK for our future trips. How fun would that be, offices around the world! I will post so new images when I get back. All of these were from last Febuary's visit to South Africa and England. If I get the chance I will put a couple of favorites from South Africa soon.

New home show displays

2010-02-20T10:56:00.001-08:00

These are just two of our super cool looking display banners that I designed and printed in house. The dimensions are 39.25x83! We will have them on display at next months Home Show, March 26th to 28th at Comox Valley Sports Centre. We are also show our portraits at the Campbell River Show April 30th to May 2nd. We will also being using an LCD TV for your viewing pleasure. This will be one of the most visually pleasing display to date. Lots to see. If you have been planning to have family portraits in the next year make sure you pick up one of our Home Show Specials, such a good deal you have to call the Studio to get the details, 250-338-5666!

Over the years we have seen many displays at these shows and I hate to say it but many are less than impressive. We can make these banners for people that believe their business is worth the investment. From the photography to design and printing, we can help you to the next level in your company's image.

Studio portraits Courtenay

2010-02-03T13:52:00.000-08:00

The very relaxed Mrs.J came in to the studio today for a special birthday portrait.
Her kids organized the session and we ended up have a great time playing with several different backgrounds and looks. One of the best parts of this work is meeting all the interesting people and sharing their life stories.

Thanks for sharing yours J!

As a side note as pointed out by Carolyn just now. This is the fastest portrait session to be posted to the blog. That is pretty funny, maybe there is hope for me yet:).

Victoria childrens portraits!

2010-02-02T13:30:00.000-08:00

VERY EXCITING NEWS!

We are opening an office in Victoria. Yes this is really great. I love Victoria, we go down every month or so just for a change of scene. The place is beautiful with all the cool old buildings in the downtown, not to mention the great food you can find. I found an office space and I'm just waiting to confirm the lease arrangements before I spill the beans on the downtown location. As you know the Help Fill a Dream Foundation is based out of Victoria. They asked me if I would be interested in producing a Kids book that would raise much needed funds for them on the south Island. After thinking for about 2 seconds I said yes!

Things are starting up now with the early promoting and registering of kids. We will start the sessions the beginning of April. I am also looking for someone to run the office on a part time basis. If you know somebody that loves people and children, living in Victoria let them know to contact our studio in Courtenay. More information to follow on this. Our Victoria phone number is 250-382-5666.

The web site is http://www.kidsofvictoria.com/ have a look and let us know what you think.

B+W portrait

2010-02-02T13:21:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of cool head shots I did with a real nice guy. It was a fun session and I like what we got, it neat to mix the mood a little. If you want to have head shots done for business or a portfolio give us a call.

More recent Comox Valley Portraits

2010-01-21T13:43:00.000-08:00

Wow, these are the most post I have done in one day. I just wanted to show this beautiful family portrait to you. Van's Portraits are know for the look of our large family group portraits. It is a fun challenge to get this many people together and look great. I think it worked! I love knowing that some of these images will be traveling back to Japan! We have portraits all around the world, how cool is that.

I'll be back with more exciting things that are coming up this year.

Comox family portraits-Kye Bay

2010-01-21T10:33:00.000-08:00

I photographed the Campbell family down at a very windy Kye Bay. It was the last session of 2009 and what a great way to end the year. The girls look great and nobody froze, always a good thing. Jay's mom and dad also came along and we capture a sweet one of the two to them.

It's great to include grandparents in your family session. If it weren't for them none of us would have been out at the beach, thanks! I am looking forward to going back to the beach again this year rain or shine.

Introducing Elysia...finally

2010-01-21T09:53:00.000-08:00

A delayed introduction for you. Elysia has been with us for the past three months, where does the time go, and she has quickly become one of the team here. With here warm personality it feels like she has been here a lot longer. I am very lucky to have such a great staff here at Van's.

Their session was fast and very wet. Elysia, her husband Todd along with their puppy dog Lulu braved a heavy rain for the session. The umbrellas and rain coats were thrown aside and we worked fast! The colors just look great when things are wet, you just have to be fast and not wear any silk. The pokka dot effect looks odd.

Please don't hesitate to call if you would like to do a rain portrait, it is just about waiting for the weather lol.

2010-01-14T09:37:00.000-08:00

This was a fun session with some very special kids, well young adults really. It has been great watching them grow up while hanging out with my kids as well as going to school. Thanks for letting my hang with you. We were down at good old Puntledge Park. It is a great place for portraits, it's different everytime with the change of water levels as well as the seasonal changes.

Campbell River portrait

2010-01-13T13:38:00.000-08:00

I had a great time connecting with Donna for her families portrait. We went to school a few years ago, ok maybe a bunch of years, it was fun catching up! Getting to the beach was easy, just walk across the road and start having fun. These guys are great smilers which always makes things easy. We got super luck with the weather here as well, missed the rain by one day.

Here is a peak at what we got.

Where have we been!

2010-01-09T12:18:00.000-08:00

OK, I am back. I haven't been here for a long time. It has been dozens and dozens of great portraits since we were last on here, sorry about that. It is about priorities and serving you our wonderful clients in person that comes first so the blog has been lonely.

There have been many changes here, a new person, Elysia, has started working here and is fitting in just great. Elysia is handling the promotions we do as well as networking with the many charities we help. If you need to raise funds at your event give her a call.

Making it through the last year was my goal and I did it. Time to move forward and continue growing both in my business as well as personally. I, Jerry, will be handling the blog from now on. Keltie was in charge before she left to go back to school. It is definitely better for me to share the stories of the many portraits we do here. I have many images to post and will endever to do so in the next weeks. Hang in there if you are still with us:). I sometimes wonder if there is anyone out there, please let me know you are and maybe that will ensure more posting, what a deal.

Ok time to get back to an image or two, then I must go till next week at least.

Here is a cool panel we put together from a session I had fun photographing down at Seal Bay.

The next is the cover of our latest Kids of the North Island book. It looks just great, if you would like to be part of the 2010 book project we are now accepting nomiations.

Photo Update!

2009-08-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

Here at Van's Portraits we've been busy, between the studio being busy, and holidays we just haven't updated the blog. Today that changes. Here is a photo update of some of the sessions we've had recently.

The White's had their family portrait session done at Kye Bay.

The next 2 were both done at Filberg Park in Comox.

Next we have Airforce Beach in Comox. The 2nd image is fantastic!

Then some from Goosespit.

These ones were taken for the Kids Book fundraising project at Puntledge Park.

When Andrew and his grandma came in for his grad portraits, they wanted a couple outside if possible. Right when they got here the clouds rolled in and Jerry got some amazing shots just in the field by our studio, here's a favorite!

I'd like to introduce you to...

2009-08-07T11:25:00.000-07:00

TEEKA!!

Teeka is Jerry's new puppy - she is 9 weeks old, and is a soft coated wheeten terrior. Teeka is a great dog - she sits, stays, and most of all loves her new family. Isn't she beautiful? My favorite image is the one with the tube!

At the river

2009-07-09T09:27:00.000-07:00

When Jerry came back from this shoot with the Stigants he was totally pumped, he said the little girls were a blast to photograph. This is the family portrait that was chosen and it is beautiful.

2009-06-27T12:48:00.000-07:00

The Logans came in for their portrait and wanted something a little different. An alley way in Cumberland was the choice of location and it was a great one. I absolutely love the different textrues of the buildings, the rugged look of them. Here is one of the images of the whole family!

When choosing location, we love when you bring your ideas to the consultation. Location is a very important part of the portrait, and we love working with you to choose the perfect one for you and your family.

Just the 2 of us...

2009-06-20T10:49:00.000-07:00

The Stewart's came in for their family portrait, but also wanted some great images of the kids. The portrait was taken right here in our studio. This panel of the 2 kids was created for them.

The neat thing about the little girls dress is that it was made from her moms wedding dress material and beading. What a special keepsake for her, something she'll treasure for many years to come!

Storyboard panels are one of the many great products we carry. It gives you the chance to display several images from your session in one place, and really can create a story of the session.

JUMP for joy!

2009-06-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

This little guy can sure jump high and he gave his best jump for this image!! This portrait was taken at airforce beach, and Jerry came back with some awesome images from the session. This one is a favorite. So without further ado...

Just a reminder that our Mother/ Daughter Display is up at the Comox Mall until next Tuesday - so be sure to check it out!

Mother & Daughters 2009

2009-06-18T11:25:00.000-07:00

Just in case you haven't made it to the Comox mall to view our "Mother/Daughter 2009" Display (which we strongly hope you do!) Here are a few more images from some of the sessions we had!

Mother/Daughter Display at Comox Mall

2009-06-12T11:08:00.000-07:00

First of all, I'd like to invite you to view our Mother/Daughter Tribute 2009 Display, which is on display at the Comox Mall until June 23rd.

Next, I'd like to share one of our mother and daughter sessions. Dawn came in with her daughters and Jerry captured some beautiful images of the 3 of them together, and some stunning ones of the girls alone. I love this image it shows the closeness they share, they look relaxed, and you can tell they are having fun!

Thank-you for all who participated in this years event, it was great to work with you and to create lasting memories of you and the special women in your life!

A day at the beach!

2009-06-05T11:32:00.000-07:00

When Jerry came back to the studio from this shoot, he was really excited! He was excited to put the images on the computer, and to work his magic to get this amazing image. He had a vision of what this image would look like, and did it ever turn out great!

This images is an HDR (High Dynamic Range) image, the same portrait is taken at multiple exposures creating different lights. Then the images are placed together to create 1 image. With this technique, as you can see, you get a lot of definition in the surroundings (the clouds, the wood, mountains etc.)

We have this image up in the studio in a great canvas wrap if you are wanting to stop in and check it out, and if you want to see some more of Jerry's HDR images, check out www.vansportraits.com and go to the "something else" gallery.

Some BIG baby eyes!!

2009-05-29T09:56:00.000-07:00

Malcom came in for his 11 month portraits, his big sister has some taken at the same age, so now it was his turn! This was sure a fun shoot, he came with character, giggles, wonder and of course those BIG baby eyes!!!

KID'S WANTED...

2009-05-22T13:44:00.000-07:00

... to be featured in a book!

We're looking for everyday kids!

This is not a baby show, nor is it a model contest!
A very special limited edition coffee table art book will be published at the end of 2009 featuring stunning photographic images titled,

"Kids of the North Island, a portrait of a generation"

This is your chance to have your child included in this exciting project!

A nomination fee of $50.00 per child or $75.00 per family with more than 1 child, ensures your child's participation. Each child ages newborn - 16 years old photographed will be featured in the book with proceeds donated to the

Help Fill a Dream Foundation

Throughout 2008 together with families of the North Island we raised $6125.00 for the Help Fill a Dream Foundation, which has helped them to continue to fill dreams for Kid's of the North Island!

Jerry Van of Vans Portraits with Marty Schubert of the Help Fill A Dream Foundation

Together we can help make a difference - Call us Today to ensure a spot in this years book!

"While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about"

-Angela Schwindt

To see MORE images from the 2008 book - check out our website http://www.vansportraits.com/

Mothers and Daughters and cherry blossoms too.

2009-05-21T10:29:00.000-07:00

Cheryl is a long time client of ours, Jerry has had the chance to photograph her son Cohan and daughter Eberle since they were just new babies (We posted a couple images of Eberle's 2 year images a few posts back), and he photographered their wedding a few years ago too.

This year, they participated in the Mother/Daughter event, and this is one of the great panels that was created from the session.

When clients continue to come back and share their family moments with us it is always a huge encouragement, and a lot of fun, to get to see the change and to be able to remember the last time they were in!

We still have a few spots open for the Mother/Daughter tribute so if you or someone you know would be interested give us a call today!

An 80th Birthday Celebration!

2009-05-20T11:07:00.000-07:00

Happy 80th Birthday! That is the celebration that brought the Mitchell family together on one April day. It was the perfect opportunity to capture some beautiful memories of the family together.

First I'll introduce you to the whole clan, this is a 4 generation shot!

There were so many great images to choose from, and we created some awesome story boards but above all I want to share with you some very cute kids!

I love all the expression in this one

And now for some big brother - little sister love...

A brother shares childhood memories and grown-up dreams

2009-05-19T14:58:00.000-07:00

First off, I'd like to introduce you to Nate, he came in for 1 year portraits and he didn't fail to impress. He was full of big smiles, great expressions, and of course brought along his teddy to share in the fun. Here is the amazing panel that was created for Nate.

Next big brother Jack got in on the action and a 20x20 storyboard panel was created of the boys together. I absolutely love the image of them laughing.

As you can see these were taken right here in our studio, and it's a great place for little ones, you don't have to worry about outside elements, and bundling them up to stay warm or dry. In the studio we have a variety of props and backgrounds to help create the perfect portrait for you!

A walk in the woods

2009-05-15T13:45:00.000-07:00

When the Larocks came in for their portrait consultation, we realized that Jerry had photographed them years ago. It is always fun when clients come back years later and Jerry gets to photograph them again, and he is able to see how the family has changed.

There were so many good ones from the session, and I couldn't resist sharing this storyboard panel of their kids.

And here is one of the whole family.

The portrait session was held near Forbiddon Plateau, at their fathers wood lot and really encompassed the nature value that this family holds. The location was almost the exact spot where their last family portraits were taken years ago. We always encourage you to chose a location that is important to you and your family as that can bring a lot to the portrait.

New bambino!!!

2009-05-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

This new little babe entered the world and already had admirers 2 big sisters, and 1 big brother! The image was taken when the little baby was just a few weeks old!! I love the tender moments of this image - You can tell they are all intrigued with this new baby, and have so much love already. I love the little hand on the head, it just melts my heart!

Congratulations on your new baby, and thank-you for choosing Van's to share these precious moments with you!!

A walk on the beach.

2009-05-02T11:03:00.000-07:00

The images in this storyboard were taken at Airforce beach a few weeks ago. Jerry came back to the studio and was thrilled with the images that he got! He said it was a great family to work with and that they were laughing and having fun the whole time! When they came back in for their viewing this is the storyboard that was created, I just love the individual images of the kids!

There were so many great images to choose from and a storyboard is a great way to have multiple images in 1 place, and we can't say enough how much they really do tell a bit of a story from your session!

Cousins x 11

2009-05-01T11:09:00.000-07:00

The portrait was done last fall - and when Jerry left, it was a drizzly-cold day... and when he came back, he had caught 11 smiles on camera, had lots of great images, and was so happy with how the shoot went.

When it was time for their viewing, they came in and this awesome storyboard was designed!

This is a great example of why storyboards are so great! The larger image is all of the kids together, and the smaller ones are images of each set of siblings. What a great way to display them!

Smiles that beat the cold!

2009-04-30T13:58:00.000-07:00

Stephanie & James were in last year to get portraits done with her parents, and this year they came in to get portraits done with James' parents. It was great to photographer them again!

The portrait was taken out at Kitty Coleman and when Jerry came back into the studio he said that it was a very cold session (it was done the beginning of March) but that the cold didn't dampen their spirits or cause them to stop smiling!

Here is one of the images from the session - I love that when you look at it, you can sense that they are having fun!!

A Mother's Treasure is her Daugter

2009-04-29T11:22:00.000-07:00

This is one of our 2009 Mother/Daughter shoots, and it is fabulous! The 2 girls wanted to do something for their mom, and this was the perfect thing!! The shoot was down at Airforce beach, and it was a windy day, but the wind didn't cause them to skip a beat. Jerry came back into the studio just beaming and very excited to show off the images from the session!

The 3 lovely ladies were just in last night, choosing which images to order! There were so many favorites! This is one of the favorites from the session!

There is still room for the Mother/Daughter Tribute, so if you or someone you know is interested in participated, give us a call today!!

A portrait speaks a thousand words.

2009-04-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

As I sit down to write about this image, I am lost for words. The image really speaks for itself. They are relaxed, comfortable, and definitely enjoying their time together, what family portraits should be about.

The portrait was taken at Kin Beach, which is an awesome location! I love the background, and the little red house peeking through on the left.

Graduation!!

2009-04-24T10:12:00.000-07:00

Graduation is a very special time in life. It is a moment in time that we look forward to from a young age. Graduation is a moment from when you move from childhood to adulthood, and the world is open to all we desire. It is also a scary moment, when we enter the land of unknows and often no longer knowing exactly what we will do, but know we will one day find out. It is a time that is full of bitter-sweet moments.

It is very important to capture these moments as they too quickly come and go. Here we have one of our grads form 2008, and she is stunning! The portrait session was done at Filberg Lodge in Comox, and it was the perfect venue.

Here is a quote that I heard when I graduated - "I hope your dreams take you to the corners of your smiles, to the highest of your hopes, to the windows of your opportunities, and to the most special places your heart has ever known."

Happy 90th Birthday!!

2009-04-23T14:59:00.000-07:00

This portrait was scheduled around Daphne's 90th birthday, when her family came for the weekend to celebrate! It was a fun session from the moment they walked into the studio! They all have good humour, and the session was full of laughter. You could really see the connection between the family.

Below we have an itty-bitty, which are custom created to go with images from your session. When you look at the family image you can see in her face, how proud she is to have her sons, daughter-in-laws, grandchildren and great-granson here with her. My favorite though, is the one of Daphne laughing!

Time at the beach.

2009-04-18T16:31:00.000-07:00

The Whites came in for their family portrait before their oldest was leaving for college, last summer. We always tell our client of the importance of doing family portraits of the family before it starts changing, you'll always value the image of the core family before it changes. The other thing is that in years to come, as children go their own ways, making it work for everyone is always harder, so this is something that they will value in years to come.

So enough talking.... here is a beautiful image from their session! They all look so relaxed, especially Dutchess, their beautiful dog.

We always encourage people who have dogs to include them in the portrait, they are definitely a part of your family and your life, so its important to have them in the portrait that is going to hang on your walls for years to come!

Family fun x 12!!

2009-04-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

This family portrait is multi-generational, and it's wonderful! Everyone looks like they are enjoying themselves, and you can see the relationships they share!

Getting multi-generational portraits done is a great thing to do, as you can capture a moment in time with everyone in your family. They are something that becomes even more important in years to come, as the family changes, and you are able to look back and remember these times together!!

Everything is perfect from her head to her toes!

2009-04-09T11:06:00.000-07:00

When Abygail came through the door, she didn't fail to impress. This little beauty gave us wonderful smiles, sweet baby noises and lots to 'ooh' and 'aah' at! She was just under 2 months here, and already had so much personality.

The image is incredible - it really captures the bond between a baby and their parents! She has locked eyes with daddy, and you can tell mom just loves to admire her little girl.

Family time at the beach

2009-04-07T14:25:00.000-07:00

This family came in last year to have their 2 beautiful girls photographed for the kids book "Kids of the North Island - A portrait of a generation" and it was then that we learned they had been wanting to have family portraits done too. They had a lovely session down at Kye Bay and Jerry came back into the studio with so many amazing images from it. This is one of the images that I just love, it really shows the strong bond that they share.

10 little fingers and 10 little toes!!

2009-04-04T10:50:00.000-07:00

I would like to introduce you to this precious little guy! He came in for his 1st baby plan session, and did not fail to impress. He was full of smiles, giggles and sweet baby coos. There were so many images to choose from, so I thought the best way to share them would be in this awesome storyboard panel that was created.

Storyboards are a great way to show multiple images from your session in one place and really do tell a story of the session! You'll get to see more of this little guy over the next year as he is part of our "baby plan" which he'll be in for a 3, 7 & 12 month session to capture his cuteness! At the end they'll leave with a baby panel which will have one image from each session, showing the changes over his 1st year.

Family Time

2009-04-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

This multi-generational family portrait has so many wonderful things about it, first this image represents 3 generations, next the session was in the families yard, and that blue car - has attended most grad's and wedding's for the family.

It is so neat to see families who still all get together and get portraits done together. Family is always changing and growing, so it's wonderful to see this image with all of them together.

The next image is one of the smaller groupings, and is a beautiful portrait, everyone looks comfortable and you can tell they really enjoy eachother! We just had this one up at the homeshow, and everyone loved the little dog (which is one thing that we always encourage, if you have a family pet, bring them along!)

Let it rain... let it snow.

2009-03-28T09:47:00.000-07:00

A little rain didn't stop these two!! Toward the end of their portrait session, they asked if they could get some fun ones with the umbrella, and are they ever great! Portraits are meant to be fun, to be a true representation of who 'you' are, and I think that this image really brings out the playfulness these 2 have with eachother.

Next we have an image from a session that was shot in December, remember, when we had all that snow! Well, the snow didn't dampen their spirts, and Jerry came back to the studio with all sorts of great images.

The images are incredible, and really capture what a beautiful place we live in, even when it snows!

Check us out...

2009-03-27T11:49:00.001-07:00

Last night we had our 1st annual book release party for "Kids of the North Island - a portrait of a generation". Which is a kids book, that was created to help raise money for the Help Fill a Dream Foundation, and in 2008 together with over 80 families in the Comox Valley we raised $6125.00!

Tonight on Channel 12 at 6:30p.m. the event will be on the news, so if you have a chance, you should definitely check it out!

We are starting up the 2009 book now, so if you or someone you know would be interested give us a call. Nomination fee's are $50 per child, or $75 per family with more than one child.

"I'm 2"

2009-03-26T13:46:00.000-07:00

When this little sweetie came in to pick up the images with her mom, she looks at me and say's "I'm 2". These are her portraist from her 2 year session. Jerry has had the opportunity to capture moments for this family for years!!

From all the images you know that this little one knows she is cute... here is one from the session that is a favorite!

Down by the river!

2009-03-19T15:36:00.000-07:00

These beautiful portraits were taken near the river, and what a wonderful background it is! You can tell by the images that the family is comfortable together, enjoys eachother and values their time together.

The storyboard panels are a very popular way to display more than one image from your session in one place, the parents, the kids, the family. It turned out beautifully!

Family Time

2009-03-07T10:30:00.000-08:00

After shooting, Jerry came back into the studio and told us about the little white dog being a 'posing machine', and really worked the camera the whole time! How fun is that?!

This portrait was taken at Stotan Falls in Courtenay, what a beautiful place, the colors are amazing!

And We're Back!

2009-02-20T11:43:00.000-08:00

Our studio is open again, and it feels great to be back!!

If you are interested in family portraits, please give us a call so we can help you create lasting images for you and your family.

Wishing you a Happy 2009!

2009-01-15T11:51:00.000-08:00

Wow, 2009!! It is hard to believe that it is here - and already 2 weeks have passed.

All of us here at Van's would like to wish you a Happy New Year and wish you all the best in 2009!

Our studio will be closed until February 17th, and then we'll be back and ready to go! If you are thinking of getting family portraits this year, and are thinking that spring would be the best time - definitely give us a call, leave a message and we'll call you back once we are back in the office to start planning your portrait session.

Precious moments...

2008-11-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

Precious moments like this can not be replaced, you get to enjoy these moments just once! What a great way to remember them! When looking at each image you can see the joy and excitement this little baby has brought the new mom and dad! What a wonderful feeling, what a wonderful moment!

These panels are a great way to display several images in one place - it helps tell the story of what happened that day!

Family time!

2008-10-31T09:32:00.000-07:00

"What wonderful kids they are" is what Jerry had to say about this shoot! The teenage boy, he said is just so full of character - and he was pretty thrilled to get him to smile! Jerry even got the dog to look at the camera for the portrait!

You'll often notice a lot of our portraits that have animals in them - if you have a pet that is important to you, Jerry is great with animals and can often incorporate them perfectly!

2008-10-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

This portrait is all about relationship! It isn't a close up, it isn't of their faces - but what is IS of is the special moments that they share together.

But they also did want the close ups - the beautiful faces of their family, and don't they look great.

When they came in to view, they wanted something a bit more artsy - and what great pieces to walk away with a panaramic portrait, of relationship - and a storyboard panel, showing off their personality!

Posted by K.

Sisters are Forever!

2008-10-30T13:47:00.000-07:00

This portrait really shows the tender moments of a big & little sister that are part of life right from the very biggining. The big sister so gently leans up to her new little sister. I also love the fact that mom is in the portrait just enough that to me it looks like she is encouraging the tender moments of the new sister relationship.

Studio portraits are great for lots of different looks, are especially great for new babies!

It's all about Family

2008-10-30T13:43:00.000-07:00

This family portrait is done in Royston, where the family has lived forever. What a great place to have your family portrait taken, right where you've grown up, made memories, and spent a lot of time!

Our on locations portraits can be taken almost anywhere - so if there is a place that is important to you, let us know and we'll see about making that the perfect place for your portrait session!!

And now there is 2

2008-10-30T13:22:00.000-07:00

First I'd like to introduce you to this preciuos little girl -- Jerry photographed her earlier this year for the Kids of the North Island Book (to be released in December). The hat she is wearing is her favorite engineers hat - she especially loves to wear it when travelling on the rails!

When the portrait was taken, her mom was just pregnant, and what a surprise it was when we got a phone call that baby Jack had arrived 3.5 months early - and was now home and doing great, and ready to have his portrait taken too! So finally I'd like you introduce you to Jack.

Front porch looking in!

2008-10-23T16:39:00.001-07:00

What a great place you have your family portrait taken -- the front porch of your house! A home is a very important place to a family, so incorporating it in the portrait is a neat way to carry that on.

This is a great long portrait (panaramic shot) which are becoming more and more popluar!

Posted by K.

Growing up...

2008-10-23T16:33:00.000-07:00

Jerry has had the opportunity to photograph these cuties since they were babies, and it is always a pleasure to see them again! The family came over from the mainland for the session, and these were taken at grandma & grandpa's farm. What a great place for kids to play!!

The storey board panel is a great way to share more than one image in one place... it truly does tell a little storey!

Posted by K.

2008-10-23T16:21:00.000-07:00

This portrait session was done at Goose Spit, in Comox and it is just incredible!! Jerry came back after the shoot and just though so highly of these kids, and couldn't get over how cute they were, and how much fun they were to work with!

Outdoor portraits are a great way to include a special location in your portrait, be it your favorite beach, favorite trail, or favorite park!

Posted by K.

When 2 are almost 3

2008-10-21T14:15:00.000-07:00

This is such an incredible portrait portraying the strength of dad, with the soft gentle beauty of mom.

This session was done right here in our studio - and it turned out awesome!

Posted by: K

Years later...

2008-10-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

It's always neat for Jerry when he gets to photograph families as they grow and change... and it is really neat when he has clients who he photographed when they were young, and now gets to photograph their family.

That's the case here -- Jerry photographed dad when he was younger, and now he got the awesome opportunity to photograph his family! How cool is that?

And, what precious moments in life... a new baby!!

Happily Ever After!

2008-10-16T10:41:00.000-07:00

This is a long time client of Jerry's. He has had the opportunity to photograph the kids since they were babies... and was excited to photograph their wedding too!!

It is not often that Jerry photographs many weddings, but for this one he just couldn't pass it up!!

A favorite of ours is dad and the little guy on the bike! There is just something so special about it!!

It was a fabulous day, a beautiful bride and a happy family!

Congratulations to you!!

The spark remains!!

2008-10-15T14:40:00.001-07:00

Don't they look happy? It's because they are!! 50 years of happiness that is!!

Jerry photographed this sweet couple, and said it was so wonderful to see that after all these years, they still have that 'spark' that people so often speak of!

I think in all of these portraits you can really see it, don't you?

This storeyboard panel, is a great way to display more that one portrait from your session, and like it's name, it really does tell a bit of a story!

Posted by K.

Most recent...

2008-10-15T14:35:00.001-07:00

Jerry has had the opportunity to photograph this family many times over the years, and for him that makes each 'new' time even more fun from the last!

This is the most recent portrait for them!! It was taken on a trail on the way to Goose Spit in Comox.

What a great portrait to have!!!

Posted by K.

All smiles!

2008-10-10T14:35:00.001-07:00

This portrait was done here in the studio, and it is just fantastic! This is Grandma and her grandkids, what a great way to show off what you are most proud of!

The littlest guy on the far right, during the shoot always HAD to be with the boys, he just wanted to do what they did... how sweet.

A shoot like this which carries so much meaning for everyone involved is just a lot of fun, everyone was full of smiles and laughs!

Posted by K.

2008-09-11T11:10:00.000-07:00

These images are such an awesome way of portraying a child's playful nature. This family moved from the city to give these 2 little guys a different place to grow up... and here it is, all these images were taken right their yard!!

It was hard to choose which ones to share as all of these are so great. They are are some of the favorites taken from an ablum that we created for them. What a great way to display portraits for everyone to enjoy!

Posted by K.

25 Years of Beautiful Memories

2008-08-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

Look at these beautiful little guys. Just awesome portraits. This is really cool...Jerry actually photographed these kid's parents years ago when they were kids. Their dad was 12 years old when Jerry photographed his family. Pretty incredible history! Speaking of history, Jerry is celebrating his 25th anniversary of capturing family memories in the Comox Valley. Look for our upcoming 25th Anniversary Portrait Certificates. Available to the first 25 callers for $25.00. That's something you won't want to miss.

2008-08-07T13:54:00.000-07:00

Valley Idol 2008

2008-08-07T13:13:00.000-07:00

Here are some fantastic images from the shoots for the Valley Idol 08! Enjoy!

2008-06-28T11:09:00.000-07:00

We had to share more of the kids we've been photographing for the Kid's book. Meet Sydney and Levi. These guys were awesome to photograph. The best looking kids in town as their dad was sure to point out when viewing the images!

2008-06-19T13:58:00.000-07:00

Mothers and Daughters 2008!

2008-06-13T11:29:00.000-07:00

These stunning images are from our Tribute to Mothers and Daughters 2008.

This fantastic image was shot at the Courtenay Air Park. The image has such sparkling energy and great color!

The rich green grasses of Goose Spit beach are the setting for this image. This is beautiful.

Many ladies enjoyed the fleeting days of pink blossoms at the Port August Park in Comox. This is what mother and daughter sessions are all about. Capturing times of laughter and fun like this.

Popular again this year was Filberg park in Courtenay. The variety that the park offers is incredible. From beach grass to rustic buildings, enchanting walkways and blossoming trees. The filberg park remains a favorite location for Mother and Daughter portraits.

Enjoy the images there is more to come!

Posted by C.

The Ladies Take to the Beach..

2008-06-13T11:21:00.000-07:00

We had to post these gorgeous beach portraits from our Mother Daughter Event. These were shot at two of our most popular beaches Kye Bay and Goose Spit in Comox.

Five Generation Mother Daughter Session

2008-06-13T11:17:00.000-07:00

It was a privilege to photograph 5 generations of lovely ladies. These are spectacular!

Mother and Daughter Session Featured on A Channel News!

2008-05-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

Vancouver Island’s News group followed Jerry as he photographed ladies in a four generation Mother daughter session to feature on the A Channel News. The Jones families session was shot around their own beautiful property. The lovely grounds were the perfect setting for this fun session of laughter and fun. The ladies depicted beautifully what Mother and Daughter sessions are all about. Each lady was interviewed and given an opportunity to share how special the occasion was to them. Grandma shared how much family meant saying "if you have family, you have everything".
Jerry shot at his usual quick pace capturing each moment and keeping things moving. He orchestrated pose after pose and made sure he got every possible grouping. The story depicted our bustling photography studio with an especially unique idea. We didn’t want anyone to miss out on seeing the clip so we have posted it above. Check it out and please leave comments. We’re excited at the buzz that the Mother Daughter event has created this year. And for good reason….it is a fantastic idea and we’re creating some really awesome portraits. The ladies have been thrilled with all the portraits. Don't miss the Tribute to Mothers and Daughters Portrait Exhibit June 26th at the Driftwood Mall.

High-Spirited Fun....

2008-05-09T13:43:00.000-07:00

...and Charm

2008-05-08T16:40:00.000-07:00

More fantastic images from the Kid's Book sessions. You can always tell when Jerry has been shooting a kid's session because he gets back to the studio brimming with excitement and energy. He has many stories of their high spirited fun and little charms. He loves it when the kids know his name, "Jerry look at what I can do....or watch me Jerry...." One time one of the little guys that Jerry had photographed since he was a baby came in the studio door shouting "Jerry, are you home?" So precious! No wonder he loves his job.

2008-05-08T15:29:00.000-07:00

We just had too much fun with these brothers in their sessions as part of our Kid's Book fundraiser for Help Fill a Dream Foundation. We've done some great kid's sessions. We cant wait to see them all together in the book.

Something Special for Mom...

2008-05-08T15:17:00.000-07:00

These portraits of this brother and sisters made a fantastic storyboard panel and were a really special keepsake for their mom. I can't think of anything that a mom would cherish more! The portraits look awesome!

Posted by C.

The perfect Grandma!

2008-05-03T14:55:00.000-07:00

I love this image! This lovely lady said that this was how her grandchildren knew her so this was the portrait she wanted. That's what portraits should be. Very beautiful.

Posted by C.

Back to blogging...

2008-05-03T14:27:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since we've posted on the blog. We have just been overwhelmed with family and mother daughter sessions this spring. It's a good thing and we're thrilled.....just very busy. So here are some lovely couple's shots. These stunning images were shot at two of out greatest beach locations - Kye Bay and Air Force Beach in Comox. The first two images were shot at Kye Bay a versatile beach location offering the look of beach sand and logs but with rich greens in the trees as well. There are some trails in behind the beach which also photograph beautifully offering deep tones and a forest setting. Kye Bay has to be one of our most popular beach locations this year. You can see why when you see all the variety it has to offer.

The final image was the very first portrait session Jerry shot with his new camera! He's so impressed with the detail and clarity he's able to capture with faster speed allowing for nonstop shooting. It's just spectacular! It's exciting to be using some of the most cutting edge equipment with his brand new camera and printer. The new printer is large enough to produce our newest product - the canvas wrap art print.

Posted by C.

Too much fun...

2008-03-28T16:50:00.000-07:00

We had to share this awesome panel from one of our Kid's of the North Island sessions. I just love the image of the lil' guy by the tree. Too precious! Love it!

Posted by C.

2008-03-20T13:26:00.000-07:00

We had to share this little darling. So precious!

posted by C.

2008-03-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

And the final image from Dancing with our Community Stars III.

Moms and Babes...

2008-03-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

There's lots of fun and excitement with these sessions for Moms and their little ones. Everybody has to move fast and work hard but it's so worth it. These shots are gorgeous.

Posted by C.

More From Dancing with the Stars!

2008-03-13T16:19:00.000-07:00

It was so exciting to photograph Derek and Allison in our brand new studio. They are absolutely stunning dance partners and really lit up the room with their dramatic and sizzling tango.

Dancing with the Stars!

2008-03-01T14:04:00.000-08:00

We'v had a lot of fun with the photo shoots for the participants of Dancing With Our Community Stars III. It was great to capture each couple's charisma and flare for the dance that they are performing. Don't miss the big event, Dancing With Our Community Stars III, on March 29th at the Florence Filberg Center in Courtenay. For more information contact www.valdance.com

Kid's Book Project! "Kid's Of The North Island, a portrait of a generation"

2008-02-08T11:18:00.000-08:00

We're very excited to be launching a kid-centered fundraising project in support of Help Fill a Dream Foundation of Canada. We are proud to be creating a coffee table art book filled with stunning images of kids newborn to 12 years photographed on location throughout Courtenay, Comox, and Campbell River. This is not a model search or competition of any kind. We're looking to capture everyday moments of kids enjoying being kids in this incredible community and beautiful place that we live. For more information about the project and how to have your kids nominated to be in the book, give us a call at 250-338-5666

2008-01-26T13:16:00.000-08:00

And when the weather is just too cold for the kids, we take to the studio for some family fun. It was great to design one of our new albums for the Bobby family. It looks fantastic!

2008-01-26T12:45:00.000-08:00

It was our privilege to do a CD cover shoot for a local musical artist Mary Murphy. The colors against this white background are just stunning! Visit Mary's website at www.marymurphy.ca

2008-01-26T12:09:00.000-08:00

And the winner of the worst portrait weather of the year award is.....The Manthey Family! They had it all - driving wind, heavy rain, and next to freezing temperatures! But you wouldn't know it looking at the portrait. They look awesome, great colors and rich tones. I love this look with the road in behind and the really cool fence.

Busy Times, Exciting Changes!!

2008-01-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

Well we're in the midst of one of our busiest Januarys ever!! It has been a fantastic holiday season, we've fought through some of the worst portrait weather ever, and had real troopers to photograph. The end result has been awesome family portraits and we're so glad that we were able to just "get er done" (as Jerry would say) despite the obstacles of weather and busy family schedules. It has been a lot of work but so worth it when we see extended families taking advantage of their one opportunity to have a family portrait together. Its a privilege to create beautiful images of family memories.

As for the exciting changes....WE'RE MOVING! Yes, it's the time to upgrade to a much larger studio space! We've been shooting portraits like crazy and we've just run out of room. It is so exciting to be designing our ideal studio and work space. Jerry is beside himself with all the room in his new studio and Carolyn and I are pretty happy about MORE SPACE in our work room....yeah.....no more bumping and kicking things and people that shouldn't be bumped or kicked!

The new studio is located at 4655 Madrona Place, off the Lerwick Connector and Mission Rd.

The renovation is well underway and you will find us in our new location in the beginning of March 2008!

Enjoy these next few portraits. They're the crazy weather shoots we've been doing. From driving wind and rain to freezing temperatures....we've seen it all!

It's All About Kids!!

2008-01-11T14:30:00.000-08:00

We're really excited about our next big photography adventure. It's all about kids and is a fantastic way to support sick children in our community. We'll have all the details soon. You won't want to miss this important opportunity! Enjoy the next few images of some of the great kids we've been photographing!

This panel is totally awesome. Meet Lauren, Logan, and of course their dog "Lucy"!!!

2008-01-11T14:28:00.000-08:00

Speaking of precious! Here's a couple more treasures from the studio.

2008-01-11T14:19:00.000-08:00

We just had to share these little ladies. They are so precious! I can't get enough of the hugging image. This is a pretty awesome keepsake for the two of them. Imagine 15 years down the road how valuable this will be to the girls and mom and dad.

2007-12-22T10:02:00.000-08:00

More from the studio. We just can't get enough of these cute little girls.

Posted by C.

2007-12-22T09:55:00.000-08:00

What a gorgeous family! Another great example of how you can capture so much with a storyboard panel. This awesome portrait was shot at one of our most popular beaches this year, Kye Bay in Comox.