Eric Vest Photography - Official Blog

Chad & Christie's Wedding Preview

2012-01-13T23:56:00.002-06:00

Wow, things are crazy busy here at Eric Vest Photography! Consults with brides, working on new marketing plans (exciting news with this one coming SOON!!!), and as always, editing and getting pictures online for you all to see! Here is a quick sneak peek from Chad & Christie's wedding from a few months ago...

Blessings & Enjoy!

Christmas Day Silhouettes

2012-01-11T18:37:00.005-06:00

On Christmas Day, my Sweetie and I decided to head down to the lake at my parents house to watch the sunset and to try and get some fun shots! Here is what we got!

Blessings & Enjoy!

Tony & Veronica's Wedding

2012-01-03T20:45:00.003-06:00

Tony & Veronica's wedding was unique and beautiful! I had the fun of traveling to Crown Point, Indiana to shoot a wedding with my friend Britton Felber. We had an absolute blast and got some really fun pictures. The wedding took place in the old historic Crown Point courthouse and the day was perfect! I just had a few minutes to go through their pictures and pull a few of my favorite highlight pictures to show you!

Watch the blog here for some fun updates coming soon and some exciting promotions that we are doing this new year!

Blessings & Enjoy!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T20:30:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas from Eric Vest Photography!!!

Isaiah 9:6 - "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

Downtown Minneapolis

2011-12-09T14:36:00.003-06:00

I was just looking to see what I could give you all an update on and get some pictures on the blog for you to see, and I realized that I never posted these! These were a few photos from an extra night photography session that Britton Felber and I did when we taught the wedding photography class this summer! We brought all the students down below the 5th Ave. bridge and got some really really fun shots! Here are a few for you to see...

Watch for more updates coming up as well! I have pictures from 5 weddings from this year still to post, so watch for those!

Also, a big THANK YOU to all the viewers of my Flickr photostream! We just hit 50,000 views thanks to all of you!!!!! Those of you who have not seen it, you can check it out here - http://www.flickr.com/photos/ericvestphotography/.
Blessings & Enjoy!

The Kingery Family Band

2011-11-29T11:09:00.004-06:00

For the past few years, I have had the fun of doing the photography and graphic design for the Kingery Family and "their" bluegrass group. I say "their" because it is no longer "them," but is now "us" and my wife and I get the fun of playing music together with the family! So this year I was not just behind the camera, but in front of it too! We were needing some new pictures for the website, possibly for a cd, and other exciting things we are working on! Here are a few pictures we got just the other day!
Blessings & Enjoy!

Amanda's Senior Pictures

2011-11-14T17:29:00.003-06:00

A couple of weeks ago we had the opportunity to get one more senior picture session in before all the leaves fell off the trees! We found a wooded area down in the Lake Minnetonka area that ended up being the perfect setting for Amanda's senior pictures. Amanda was great to work with and is an up and coming photographer, so watch for her great work!
Time to get back to editing, so until soon...
Blessings & Enjoy!

Jason & Linnea's Wedding

2011-10-21T19:09:00.003-05:00

As a photographer, my job is to make the couple, the bridal party, the parents, and everyone involved to feel as relaxed as possible throughout the day. That can be tough in and of itself, but to do that while you're sick?... even harder! Friday evening came around and my wife and I headed off to rehearsal. I wasn't feeling the best, but I figured I was just tired or something. We pushed through rehearsal and got home that night to discover that I had a high fever! I was not going to leave the couple out to dry now, so I headed to bed earlier than I have since... I was probably 8 yrs old! The next morning I woke up, still sick, but ready to push through the day. I never let the couple know how sick I was as we shot for 11 hours and we just focused on making their day go as smoothly as possible. I think to this day no one picked up on the fact that I was sick. I don't say this all to puff myself up and say how tough I am. No. I simply want anyone who gives me the privilege of shooting their wedding to know that I will be there for them, ready to make their day go smoothly, relaxed, and we'll have a blast doing it!

The other exciting things about shooting this wedding was that my wife was my trusty second shooter! She did an amazing job and got some amazing shots! What a blessing she is to me! She is so supportive and just keeps me going!

Keep an eye on the blog... more posts coming up soon!!! Blessings & Enjoy!

Eric Vest Photography is on Facebook!

2011-10-15T18:53:00.004-05:00

Hey everyone! Eric Vest Photography is on Facebook! We would be honored if you would "like" us and let all your friends know! We get excited for each new fan and follower we get and would love it if you would spread the word! Be sure to watch our page for updates, pictures, and news! Blessings & Enjoy!

Zach & Beth's Wedding

2011-10-03T16:26:00.003-05:00

And we're back! Wow, what a perfect 6 weeks!!!!! I am now married to the woman of my dreams and could not be happier!!! She is the best wife, ever! It has been a fantastic month and a half of wedding prep, wedding, honeymoon, settling in our new home, working, doing tons of photography, and just getting to be together with my wife every single day!!!! Two days ago we had the most fun time shooting our first wedding together and my wife did amazing! A sneak peek to those pictures will be on the blog soon! We can't wait to show them to you!

As of now, I'm editing like crazy. Trying to dive into the thousands and thousands of pictures I have to work through! Zach & Beth's wedding pictures are coming right along and I just had to post a few since it's been so long! Here you go! Blessings & Enjoy!

Tony & Veronica - Sneak Peek

2011-08-16T00:21:00.004-05:00

I had the awesome privilege of shooting a wedding with my buddy Britton Felber a few weeks back! After I hosted his photography workshop here in Minnesota, we headed right over to Indiana to shoot a wedding that weekend! We had a total blast! The wedding was in an old, historic courthouse... here is a sneak peek!

But before the sneak peek, I have something exciting to tell you!!! :) This will be my last post as a legally single man!!!!!!!!! Next week, I am marrying the girl of my dreams!!!!!!! :D I have never been so excited in my life!!! When we return, we will be posting full versions of these sneak peeks from these recent weddings, so you can be looking for that! Until then...
Blessings & Enjoy!!

Lightning Storm

2011-07-30T23:05:00.002-05:00

The flash of lightning over water are somehow so impressive! This lightning storm was rolling right toward me tonight and I could not help but grab my camera and get some shots! Here is my favorite one!
I've heard people say that the sound of thunder is angels bowling in heaven... well I like to think of lightning as the flash from God's camera as He takes pictures of His marvelous creation!
Blessings & Enjoy!

Zach & Beth - Sneak Peek

2011-07-30T17:50:00.002-05:00

Last weekend was a blast!!! I was up north in Bemidji, MN shooting a wedding in a beautiful country church! I have lots more to say and TONS of pictures to share, but for now I just wanted to give a sneak peek picture! This one just captures the day and their sweet relationship! There will be many more photos to come... and I'm restraining from just sharing a whole bunch right now! But for now...
Blessings & Enjoy!

♥ ONE MONTH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ♥

2011-07-26T18:49:00.006-05:00

ONE MONTH from today, I marry the girl of my dreams!!!!! ♥ If you are wondering if I am excited, wonder no more!!!!!!!!!! Just a couple days ago a friend posted some pictures of some light painting they had done recently and it sparked my memory - over 2 years ago, I was up on the North Shore of Lake Superior out with my camera at night doing some long exposures and I had my flashlight for a little light painting. Well I wanted to write something in a picture, something meaningful, something from my heart. The following picture is what resulted!!! I knew back then that Anna was the one I loved. And now I love her far more than I ever imagined possible back then! Alright, I'm going to stop before this gets into a personal love letter... I'll save that for just my Love!!! :-D So here is to ONE MONTH to go!!! ♥
Blessings & Enjoy!!

Happy Birthday Amy!!!

2011-07-25T17:59:00.003-05:00

So, today is my sisters birthday and we got outside and had a fun photoshoot! The picts are fresh off the press from just hours ago! So here's to my amazing sister - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!
Blessings & Enjoy!

Hartzell Family

2011-07-19T18:07:00.007-05:00

A few weeks ago, I ventured south of the Twin Cities to do a family photoshoot, not knowing the fun we were in for! We started out doing the basic shots that everyone wants and then got more and more creative! We ended up with half the family up in a huge tree and the rest on a picnic table just below! I love it when my clients suggest fun, creative locations and poses! All the kids outfits were amazingly coordinated and the planning that went into this shoot really helped it be a success. Here are some of the results!
Blessings & Enjoy!

(We had just started walking to our next spot to shoot and I looked back and saw this happening in the background! I love seeing married couples that are so in love with each other!)

2011 TEACH Graduation Ceremony

2011-07-09T01:19:00.004-05:00

Once again, I had the honor this year of photographing the TEACH High School Graduation Ceremony! It was a blast to shoot and I always enjoy running into old friends and people I have not seen since the prior years graduation ceremony. But this ceremony was way better than last years for two reasons - my amazing fiancé was there with me <3 and my soon to be sister-in-law was in the graduating class! I also had the honor of doing the videography for the ceremony and I was able to have one of my great second shooters run that for me! I hope you like what you see... the mass load of over 50 DVD discs will be in the mail shortly! Here is a quick preview!
Blessings & Enjoy!

Sunbeams

2011-06-28T00:05:00.004-05:00

I'm in the midst of editing pictures from all sorts of events and photoshoots at the moment, but I had to share a few pictures I took just the other week. I was in the midst of a busy evening when I looked out the window to see sun beams streaming up, into, and across the sky! I stop and looked for a second as larger and more beams began to shoot out, so I ran for my camera! The moment I got down to the lake the beams were everywhere and patterns and forms developed and disappeared as I stood there on the beach taking pictures! It was so amazing and God's beauty and glory shown everywhere!!! Here are a few of my favorites!
Blessings & Enjoy!

Twin Cities Workshop Recap!

2011-06-06T22:09:00.006-05:00

A few weeks ago, I had an incredible blast hosting a photography workshop here in the Twin Cities for my good friend, Britton Felber! He brought his amazing skill and knowledge base to help teach the simple foundations to the advanced details of wedding photography. Even though I wasn't a student, I came away refreshed and inspired to put more and more energy and enthusiasm into the weddings I shoot! So, if you're in the Chicago area, you have to go to Britton's workshop!!! If you are in the Twin Cities or surrounding area... keep a weather eye in 2012 for the possible wedding workshop returning with team Photography by Britton and Eric Vest Photography!!!!! Plus... we are kicking around other workshop possibilities and options that would be SO much fun! Keep tuned! :)
Well here are some of the images from the workshop! What a blast it was...
Blessings & Enjoy!

- Britton, showing the students how it's done -

- Our crew! -

- I love this picture - here is Britton showing the students how to pose a bride! -

- You have to find the unique angle that no one else is willing to make the effort to get -

- Teaching the students how to make the best use of the worst lighting situations -

- More posing ideas and guidelines -

- Your instructors!!! - :)

Little Baby Grant

2011-05-31T18:43:00.002-05:00

I just had the great privilege of doing a photo session with a super cute, very cooperative baby - little Grant! When I first saw this kiddo, I was blown away with his amazingly long, blonde hair at such a young age! At just a few weeks old you could brush it to the side, giving him the adorable appearance of a "little gentleman!" Here are a few picts I got!
Blessings & Enjoy!

Nate - Senior Pictures

2011-05-23T23:53:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I had the fun of shooting senior pictures for a good friend of mine! We were able to get outside in between spots of rain, sun, clouds... you name it! Nate was a super easy subject and, of course, lots of fun to hang out with! And the photoshoot was just plain amazing since I had the world's best lighting assistant and 2nd shooter, my fiancé!!! :) But before I get to showing you our work, I have to explain the story behind this first picture!

After the rain ceased and we began walking around outside getting pictures, we were just headed toward the main barn I wanted to shoot some close-up shots against and it started raining and raining! So we got stuck inside the barn!!! Not wanting to waste any time, I had to get my creative juices flowing and try and work up some shots. After a little barn reorganization, we had a very cool set up on our hands! Hence, the picture that follows, which I ended up pretty excited about! What do you think?!
Blessings & Enjoy!

EVP Update!

2011-05-20T17:08:00.002-05:00

Hello all! I'm so sorry I have not been able to post more over the last month! Things have been super busy and I am just storing up blog posts that I am super excited to show you! Watch the blog as I will be giving lots of recaps to things that are happening here! Things from weddings, newborn baby portraits, graduations, senior pictures, photography workshop recap, and more! I have to run now and set up things in the studio for a baby session. But as I do, I had to share a picture I quick shot two days ago following an on location videoshoot! This little guy made me smile!
Blessings & Enjoy!

Natalie - Senior Pictures

2011-04-23T22:34:00.003-05:00

The snow had just left the dreary Minnesota ground and out we went to capture Natalie's senior pictures! Despite a little drizzle and cold wind, we were able to come away with pictures that made it all worth it! Here are a few of Natalie's senior pictures. Special thanks to - siblings and friends, for assisting in making our subject smile; Panera Bread, for donating a changing room; and Caribou Coffee, for warming fuel! :)
Blessings & Enjoy!

- For more pictures from Natalie's album click here -

Lake Itasca Family Music Festival 2010

2011-04-13T01:07:00.009-05:00

The time has come and the pictures from the 3 day Lake Itasca Family Music Festival 2010 are rolling out! I was so excited to get this contract and had so much fun shooting these pictures - I really hope you enjoy seeing them! I picked a few of my favorites to share with you here - and if you would like to see more you can click here. If you would like to find out more about this awesome festival, go to http://www.familybluegrass.com/.
If you are a musician in any of these pictures and are interested in photo use rights, contact me at eric@ericvestphotography.com!
Blessings & Enjoy!

Marjorie McNeely Conservatory Flower Garden

2011-03-10T13:54:00.004-06:00

A couple weeks ago I had a day off to spend with the family and we ended up going to the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory flower garden! I could not help but bring along my gear since there was a flower show going on! Here are a few of the picts I was able to snap.
Blessings & Enjoy!

Devotional #1 - Sample Pictures

2011-03-05T15:02:00.004-06:00

A little ways back I mentioned that I had the privilege of working with two great authors on a project they are doing to create a series of devotional books! Well devotional #1 is just about to go to press and I thought I would share a few of the images from that photoshoot! Here is a sampling!
Blessings and Enjoy!

Photography Workshop - May 4th & 5th, 2011!!!

2011-03-01T21:30:00.002-06:00

Hello all! It is with great excitement that I get to announce that Eric Vest Photography is hosting a photography workshop in the Twin Cities on May 4th & 5th!!! My great friend and amazing photographer, Britton Felber, will being bringing his awesome workshop up from Chicago and teaching here in the Twin Cities! I can tell you from experience that this guy does amazing work and has a great knowledge for photography itself and for the market - two things that are foundational to having a successful photography business. I have had a blast shooting with Britton and I know this workshop will be something you do not want to miss!
We are teaching a very small group (6 people) with the intent of having a small teacher/student ratio so all questions can be addressed and answered! Registration is opened now and hurry before all the spots are taken! I cannot wait to see you there!!!

- Workshop Info -
TOPICS COVERED
Hands on shooting while we learn for a few hours; How to work with people and keep them comfortable; Learn to think like a wedding photographer who has to perform magic with only 5 mins to do it in; File handling and processing in Lightroom 3; How to use online proofing while giving yourself a more professional finish; Anything and everything else you could want to talk about!

WHAT KIND OF PHOTOGRAPHERS COME?

I work with mostly amateur to intermediate photographers who are still trying to figure out how to establish their own style to how to get their business rolling. So at my workshops we talk about things that have worked for me and things that haven't and how they can best make a living doing it to simple things like how to use their cameras.
Everything comes from a wedding photographer's perspective. It's what I am!

HOW LONG?
2 days, starting at 7 in the morning and go till dinner with really no breaks at all. But it's fun and we all are best friends by the time we are done.

COST
$350 for 2 day workshop in the Twin Cities!

ONLY 6 SPOTS AVAILABLE
Only 6 students are allowed to attend this workshop at a time. This way we can learn at everyone's level and we become best of friends. I like safe learning environments where we can be vulnerable and learn from each other.

I hold nothing back at my workshops!

SPONSORS
I'm proud to be sponsored by Zenfolio. All students who attend my workshop will receive a code worth up to $50 off their membership with Zenfolio for attending my workshop. And their are other cool giveaways from them as well.

DATE and LOCATION

Twin Cities—May 4-5, 2011.

Hurry, spots will go fast!!!

To register or if you have questions about the workshop, email me at eric@ericvestphotography.com and I will be glad to help! You can also leave questions/comments in the comment area below and I will get right back to you!

This Twin Cities workshop will be hosted by Eric Vest of Eric Vest Photography, LLC, based out of the Twin Cities! - www.ericvestphotography.com -

- Want to learn more about Britton Felber and his work? Check out these cool places online!

♥ Valentine's Day ♥

2011-02-14T19:09:00.004-06:00

As a photographer, Valentine's Day is the perfect day to post pictures of a recent romantic engagement session or wedding - and this Valentine's Day I will do no different! I usually keep my blog for just my professional photography work, but today is definitely worth the exception to switch over to the personal side of my life!! :)

Every year Valentine's Day comes as the holiday to celebrate love and all the special people in one's life. And while it is so fun to see heart shapes plastered all over buildings and signs and it is fun to see people all dressed in red - this Valentine's Day is a bit different for me and it is more meaningful! Actually a lot more meaningful! This year I get to celebrate due to the fact that I got engaged to the girl of my dreams last week!!!!! And today we get to celebrate our new life together!!! ♥

So this post goes out to my true Love, Anna Kingery! I love you with all my heart!!!!! :)

(Thanks to my dad for these awesome picts!)

Bradley - Senior Pictures

2011-02-11T23:47:00.005-06:00

Whenever a photographer has 191 final photos after a shoot and they are all liked enough to hand edit individually and to give to the client - it has to signal the result of an insanely fun, successful photoshoot! This fall I had the privilege of working with Brad to capture his senior pictures! We ended up downtown Minneapolis, MN for a good few hours and the surrounding area. I am so excited to show you a few of the picts! Let me tell you, it was super hard to pick just a few to put on here, but I hope you enjoy the ones I chose! Blessings and Enjoy!

Sneak Peek - Brad's Senior Picts

2011-02-06T22:55:00.002-06:00

The picts from my favorite senior photoshoot of 2010 have just been finished, sorted, and I'm in the process of putting them online! Watch for a post within the week... here is a sneak peek of the CD cover! I cannot wait to show them to you!... Blessings and Enjoy!

Utility Energy Partners - Brochure

2011-01-21T22:23:00.005-06:00

Today I had the fun of creating photos for a new brochure for Utility Energy Systems, Inc. I went to the shop and worked with the guys to set up action shots of the things they do with the company. There were so many fun shots, but here are a few of them for a little sampling! Blessings and Enjoy!

Coffee Table Devotionals - Summary Snapshot!

2011-01-15T16:00:00.008-06:00

I have had the huge privilege of working with two great men on a series of "Coffee Table Devotionals." They have a vision to create family style devotionals that are visually captivating and profound. Part of that is through words, design, and layout - but the largest part is through stunning images! I have been granted the great task of finding, setting up, and shooting these images to complete their masterpiece! While it has been stretching my creativity like no other project before, it has been so incredibly fun! The first book in the series is scheduled to be printed and released this spring, so watch for updates on that! There are hundreds and hundreds of images going to the final stages of layout and I will be posting some here now and then for you to get a sneak-peek at! Here is one that I shot that just makes me smile when I see it!
Blessings and Enjoy!

New Videocast Series Release

2011-01-14T10:51:00.002-06:00

Eric Vest Photography - video?! Yes, you got it! We also do videography for our clients that need all around media service! This is the first video of a "videocast" that we are doing for Loving the Lord Ministries. It is fresh off the press as it was released this morning! Email us if you have questions about photography or video pricing and service! Enjoy!

Merry Christmas!!!

2010-12-25T22:59:00.006-06:00

Merry Christmas from Eric Vest Photography! In the closing minutes of this day on which we celebrate the coming of the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, I hope this day had the impact on you that it did on me. What a day to refocus on the reason for not only this day, but our daily lives. We have so very much to be thankful for and most of all, the salvation that was brought to us in human form - Jesus. What a gift!

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." -Isaiah 9:6-

Psalm 16:11

2010-12-17T01:17:00.004-06:00

"Thou wilt show me the path of life: In thy presence is fullness of joy; In
thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."
-Psalm 16:11-

Product Shoot - Propane Tanks

2010-11-27T00:13:00.005-06:00

I had the unique opportunity to work on a project that needed propane tank pictures for mailers and websites. I got a little carried away with the "abstractness" of the systems…

Interested in purchasing a propane tank or a back-up system?! You can check them out at www.farmpropane.com!

...Because of the Brave...

2010-11-15T01:40:00.003-06:00

Yesterday I had the honor of shooting a "Veteran's Dinner" event in the south-western part of Minnesota. I have a fresh gratitude and respect for all of those who have, and are, serving our country in each and every branch of the service. This event made me, along with many others, realize how under appreciated those who serve our country are... so with gratitude more than words can fully express, "Thank You!"

Gulbranson Family

2010-11-13T11:19:00.007-06:00

What an honor and privilege I had to work with the Gulbranson family! There were so many fun family dynamics that it was impossible to go wrong shooting with them! The love of Christ shone through each relationship and it was such a breath of fresh air! Here are a few of my favorites from that day... Enjoy!

November Update

2010-11-08T23:42:00.002-06:00

Hello all! Wow, what a whirlwind season in my corner of the photography world! I am realizing that every full day that I shoot, that is a day that I cannot edit and get pictures out! So here is a quick update since shooting is slowing down a little and my time editing is going into full swing! This is a picture I snapped while doing a family photoshoot a couple weeks ago. More from that shoot to come soon! Enjoy!

October - Family Portraits

2010-10-18T03:07:00.003-05:00

October has by far been my busiest month of photography yet this year! Senior pictures, family portraits, school portraits, yearbook head-shots, children pictures... you name it! It has been so fun, but now I have more than a ton of sorting and editing to do! Here is a little update... some pictures I took for a great family today... Enjoy!

CD Graphics!

2010-09-26T21:39:00.003-05:00

I just had the privilege of working with the Kingery Family on the photos and artwork for their new CD. We finished up the layout and the album was released on Monday! It was a quick turn around project that we had a blast working on. Here is a preview of the pictures/layout we did. Hope you enjoy! Be sure to check out their music at www.TheKingeryFamily.com!

September Update

2010-09-20T21:01:00.002-05:00

Quick update! I've had the priviledge of shooting a bunch of events in the upper-midwestern states these past few months and I am so excited to share some of those pictures with you! Saturday I was shooting an event when I spotted this shot off on a distant hill! Just had to share it with you all... check back for pictures that will be rolling out soon! Enjoy!

Loons & Wildlife

2010-09-08T00:31:00.006-05:00

This last month of August presented the fun opportunity to be involved in a photo contest. With categories from many outdoor spectrums of photography, I latched onto the wildlife/water wildlife category as I ventured onto a chain of lakes to seek out some water dwelling birds! I was blessed to be able to sneak up on some loons that put on quite a show for me as they preened and cleaned their feathers for an extended period of time. Here are a few of the shots I got, along with a few other wildlife contest pictures. Enjoy!!!

Family Summit 2010

2010-08-28T16:03:00.005-05:00

The Family Summit 2010 was an event held at Camp Lebanon in Upsala, Minnesota from July 16-18th. It was sponsored by Loving the Lord Ministries and Vision4Living. Here is a recap through my eyes...

- See more by clicking here -

Stephen & Tara - Wedding

2010-08-01T03:15:00.003-05:00

At the end of May I had the great privilege of heading down to Texas to shoot a fabulous wedding. The day was jam packed with special moments that I was so blessed to be able to observe and capture. It was one of those wedding ceremonies that you just come away from feeling blessed and excited. It was so awesome to meet new people and some excellent photographers. Stephen & Tara's testimony of God's love and faithfulness was so beautiful and encouraging to all who came. Here are just a few pictures from that fabulous day. You can view more on my Flickr site here. Enjoy!

Stephen & Tara - Groom's Dinner

2010-07-23T18:54:00.004-05:00

Well it's about time I posted some pictures from the beautiful wedding that took place on May 22, 2010 in Conroe, Texas! I am just finishing up the wedding ceremony pictures, but I thought I would post a few picts from the Groom's Dinner. Very cool beach theme with brilliant accent lights made the setting awesome! Watch for a post from the wedding within the next few days! Blessings and enjoy!

Happy 4th of July!!!

2010-07-04T23:54:00.006-05:00

I hope you all had a fabulous Independence Day as we thank the Lord for the country we live in. This evening I was able to shoot a few pictures of the White Bear Lake firework show from the sandy beaches of the lake. Hundreds of people and innumerable police officers on land and water all gathered around. Here are a few shots, enjoy!

(I just finished shooting a few huge events and have spent days in the digital darkroom! Next on the list, wedding pictures from a beautiful day in Texas... check back soon!)

GA, FL, AL, MS! - The South!

2010-06-13T21:30:00.000-05:00

Next, we flew to Atlanta, Georgia and headed to the coast down through Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, and back to Georgia before flying straight to a wedding I shot in Texas. Many wonderful sights and some stormy weather along the coast presented some fun shots to capture. Here is just a small sampling. I hope you enjoy!

When I return from Canada - Texas Wedding, TEACH Graduation, and instructional posts to follow!

View more pictures from my south trip here!

Upstate New York/Niagara Falls Canada

2010-06-03T13:38:00.000-05:00

Stepping out of New York City and into Upstate, New York is like traveling to a different world. One moment you are surrounded in constant noise and action with buildings that to reach to the sky and the next moment you are in a quite, beautiful farm country. Then up to Canada...

Niagara Falls is absolutely amazing as it reflects the power and awe in nature created by such a powerful God. The first evening I was able to get some shots from a high vantage point... 36 stories up I think it was. Amazing sights as they lite up the falls. The next day I was able to grab a few shots, despite the rain. Incredible beauty!

- View the whole New York Gallery here -

Next Post - Georgia to Florida - The South!

New York, New York!

2010-05-28T10:30:00.009-05:00

Wow! What a whirlwind trip! A few days ago I returned from a trip that went through 8 states and Canada! After 6 flights, I am glad to call land "home!" Due to the volume of photographs, this trip will be broken into multiple posts!!!

Starting in New York City! Endless possibilities for photos in this bustling city! We were so blessed with great weather and plenty of good sights. From the evening of 5/8 to the morning of 5/11 we ran around seeing sights like Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Wall Street, Ground Zero, UN Headquarters, Carnegie Hall, Central Park, Madison Square Garden, Times Square, the Empire State Building, and (of course) the B&H superstore! Here's a few snapshots from the time in this amazing city!

And finally, a 6 picture panorama - View bigger by clicking here.

See more New York pictures on Flickr

Next Post - Upstate New York/Niagara Falls Canada

Diving Gull

2010-05-07T17:04:00.005-05:00

Here's a series of shots I got yesterday. I was working by the lake and noticed a gull diving hard into the water so I had to grab my camera and snap a few shots. Once I got back with my camera, he only dove two more times before flying off, so I was grateful to get a good sequence! Enjoy!

(For those of you wondering... that is the end of a dock and a docked pontoon boat in the background)

Exposure time: 1/640 sec
Exposure bias: -0.3 step
F-stop: f/4.0
ISO: 500
Focal length: 90mm

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Also keep an eye out for upcoming blog posts here - this month holds many exciting travels (Including New York, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia) and a wedding I will be shooting in Texas in two weeks! Blessings!

Earth Day 2010

2010-04-24T00:20:00.003-05:00

Well, today is Earth Day and it just happens that I was out taking a few snapshots of the fresh spring budding that is taking place around my house. The incredible detail that is displayed in each plant and each new bud, causes me not to stand in awe of earth itself, but to stand in awe of the Creator of it all! You simply cannot look at some of the sights I saw and tell me there is no God. His majesty is on display all around us and I encourage you to take a moment to stop rushing in your busy life and take a walk outdoors and soak in the love and care that our Maker is wanting to show you. Here are a few snapshots of what I saw today...

NDHSA 2010 Recap

2010-03-27T12:11:00.004-05:00

Loving the Lord Ministries - NDHSA 2010 Recap Video from Eric Vest Photography on Vimeo.

Again, I had the privilege of working with Loving the Lord Ministries, Inc. on filming and putting together this recap video from the North Dakota Home School Association. Enjoy!

Executive Portraits

2010-03-23T14:09:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I had the privilege of working with a great group of lawyers here in the metro. Here are a few snapshots from the on-site photoshoot we did. Enjoy!

Grand Canyon

2010-03-14T00:54:00.007-06:00

"The Climb 2010" landed me in Grand Canyon National Park two weeks ago! On this 3rd annual backpacking trip taken to different locations around the U.S., I was able to see some amazing views and sights as we hiked to the bottom of the canyon and back up. 4,800 feet down and 21.5 miles in the canyon provided many different, breath-taking pictures that I attempted to capture. Also, driving through 8 different states created some fun shots taken along the way. I hope you enjoy browsing these pictures as much as I did taking them. For the full gallery of pictures check out - Grand Canyon Gallery on Flickr.

Valentines Day

2010-02-12T21:18:00.004-06:00

Thinking of Valentines Day being right around the corner reminded me of a picture I took this past summer that tells a story of love with just two sailboats...

- click here for larger version -

Cowboy Gallery

2010-02-08T23:45:00.002-06:00

I am happy to inform you that the Cowboy Gallery has been updated and is ready for viewing if you click here! It contains photos from many levels of rodeo competition, including professional circuits, MN state high school championships, expo rodeos, etc. I hope you enjoy browsing the gallery! Here are a few shots from the archive...

Washington Expedition

2010-01-20T00:00:00.003-06:00

I had the priviledge of going to Washington State a few months ago and have just found time to sort and edit the pictures. While I was there I shot two conferences but in the mean time I was able to get out and explore some local nature trails. I was even able to do a day hike into the Mount Baker/Mount Shuksan area and get some shots. I hope you enjoy the photo's below and if you would like to see more, you can check out the gallery on Flickr. Enjoy!

Winter Sports

2009-12-26T00:19:00.003-06:00

Here is a little sampling of some sports photography I did earlier this week. The snow and drifts were perfect for hitting some early season jumps. I hope you enjoy!

Real Estate Photography - Wayzata

2009-11-19T09:16:00.004-06:00

I had the privilege of working with the owners of the completely redone 155 Central Ave home in Wayzata, MN. Here are a few of the photos from yesterday's project. Be sure to check out their listing on Craig's List for more information. Click here for the entire album of pictures for this property.

Executive Portraits

2009-11-16T10:38:00.002-06:00

Here at Eric Vest Photography we work with your company's employees to create quality and professional studio portraits. These can range from close, head and shoulder shots to full length portraits with props. Contact us for package deals and pricing. Here are a few examples taken a few days ago. Enjoy!

Loving the Lord Ministries Promo Video

2009-10-25T16:12:00.002-05:00

Here is a promo video that I filmed and put together for Loving the Lord Ministries. It gives examples of the different ministry events put on by this ministry and gives the overall theme and heart of the ministry. Be sure to visit www.lovingthelordministries.org for more information on this great organization. Enjoy!

D + R Wedding

2009-10-12T00:04:00.003-05:00

September 19, 2009 was a beautiful summer day for an outdoor wedding in central southern Minnesota. Here are a few snapshots into the great celebration that took place. Enjoy!

TEACH Yearbook Pictures

2009-10-09T10:49:00.002-05:00

September 26th we had a great turnout for the TEACH Orientation in Whitehall, Wisconsin! We shot lots of students pictures and I will post a few examples below. If you had your picture taken and would still like to order the studio prints, click here to download an order form. Enjoy!

S + B Wedding

2009-09-25T12:45:00.003-05:00

Here is a quick glimpse into a wedding I shot a couple months back. It was a day full of much love and laughter. It was hard to pick just a few pictures after 10 hours of shooting but I did my best! I hope you enjoy!

- Memorial -

2009-09-07T20:28:00.002-05:00

This weekend I had the honor of visiting my Grandmother's grave at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in St. Paul, MN. I miss her greatly. As this picture shows, there are many others who have suffered the loss of a loved one also.

Summer Sunset

2009-08-27T21:57:00.002-05:00

Taken with:
Canon EOS 50D
Canon 17-40mm f/4L USM

f/4
1/125 sec.
ISO-640
40 mm

Nature - August

2009-08-24T13:44:00.002-05:00

Here are some nature pictures that I took within the last two weeks. Hope you enjoy!

I took this first picture thinking it was just a neat mushroom - then that night it rained and in the morning this second picture is what I saw!
I noticed these little bugs flying above the surface of the water and it took a few attempts to get a shot that was in focus and sharp. Here is a zoom view of what I got!
This following picture was taken on the night of August 11 during the Perseids meteor shower - which peaked the night of August 12. I saw numerous meteors that night and caught this one on film. An airplane also decided to get in on the picture!
I just love pictures that show the North star and the pivot point in creates on earths rotation. My most recent capture...

Minnesota ZOO!!!

2009-07-31T21:40:00.010-05:00

With 2,700 animals, 449 species, 500 acres of land, and over 1 million visitors annually, the Minnesota Zoo presents a great place for photography! I had the privilege of going and seeing all these amazing creations, firsthand. Here I will share that experience through my pictures... enjoy!

To see more pictures from my zoo excursion, you can visit my Flickr page by clicking below:
Eric Vest Photography - Flickr - Minnesota Zoo Set

Farmers Market

2009-07-25T20:48:00.006-05:00

Today I was able to go downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota for their big rendition of Farmers Market that is held under the 94/394 bridge. It was a great place to get some fun food product shots and pictures of the people that give their lives to bring fresh food to the public. Here are some of the shots I got... Enjoy!

Northshore Minnesota

2009-07-13T15:18:00.002-05:00

The beginning of last week found me up in Lutsen, Minnesota along the North Shore of Lake Superior. The night photography up there presented some amazing scenes to shoot. I am just quick posting some highlights as I need to get to work on the events shot over the weekend and a few different graphic design projects in the works. Enjoy!

The above picture was taken with a light drawing technique - and completely unedited.

Softball

2009-06-23T16:49:00.002-05:00

f/2.8

1/2000 sec.
ISO-500
95mm
Pattern

Southern Minnesota

2009-06-11T00:11:00.006-05:00

After a busy weekend of photography just over a week ago, I hit the state parks of southern Minnesota with my photography gear! Everything from night photography, sneaking up on deer, chasing raccoons at night (a new experience!), hanging around cliff swallow nesting areas, old bridges, stairways, remote hiking trails, and my beautiful dogs. It was relaxing and a blast! I'll post some for you to enjoy!

- TEACH Graduation -

2009-06-10T00:49:00.002-05:00

May 30th brought a day of intense photography of the TEACH Graduation that took place in Moundsview, Minnesota. 4+ hours of shooting and a result of lots of fun pictures! Here is a quick sampling of the photos from the event. If you have not placed your order, you can print off an order form by clicking here, and send it into Eric Vest Photography with your payment.

Congrats grads!