The days are noticeably growing longer. This is good as we or should I say I need the daylight to ensure a better mood. As I drove to my office today I was greeted by blue sky and the sun. Sometimes I feel like a pagen worshiping the sun when I see it during the winter because the appearances which it makes are all too infrequent and all too brief. This past week was difficult with respect to the weather. There was little sunlight and additional snow graced the area. I found myself behind the snowblower on several occasions. Friday’s frigid weather saw temperatures with wind-chills dipping below zero. My windshield cracked on Friday as I drove to work through those sub-zero temperatures. 

There were highlights to my week and included Saturday night with my son for the North Tonawanda High School Senior Boys Night. We first stopped at the Pearl Street Grille for dinner and refreshments. I love the atmosphere of the Pearl Street Grille and look forward to shooting my first wedding reception there this October. After we finished our meal we moved on to the HSBC Arena for the Buffalo Bandits game. I had never been to a Bandits game and when I heard they had lost the first four games of the season, I wasn’t too excited to see this game. I have a habit of looking for the positives in everything I do. I didn’t say I always found those positives, I said I always look for them. I knew I was spending the evening with my son and I looked forward to that. He’s such a surprising young man who has adopted a set of values that would make most parents proud. He is intelligent, introspective, respectful and helpful. He has a level of understanding for others that completely blows me away and when we talk I feel as though I am speaking to someone much older. The fact the Bandits won 11-7 was the icing on the cake. I still cannot believe Stephen is a senior and the trips we have taken to look at colleges all seem surreal. I look forward to him moving on to the next phase of his life and know whatever he touches will be better for it.

The other highlight of my week was spending a few hours with Kristina and Jason completing their engagement shoot. The couple left the location of the shoot up to me and I was excited to try some new locations. The locations were new in that i had never shot there before but they brought back a lot of great memories from my childhood. I knew it was going to be cold and we didn’t want to spend the entire time outside. Instead we drove to several different locations and spent approximately 30-minutes at each. We came away with some pretty amazing photos of a pretty amazing couple. A preview of the couple’s shoot is coming later in the week. I will share this photo from the Hamlet of Olcott, NY. I love this area and especially these shops pictured below.

I finished the week editing photos from the engagement session and watching the Grammy’s. Here’s to another week gone by and another week upcomimg. The days will continue to grow longer in duration, the temperatures will grow warmer and the sun will begin to make more frequent appearances.

Keep coming back and thanks for reading.

Christopher

Additionally I meditate every day. I write every day. I read every day and I listen to music every day. These things nourish my soul and without them I would not be able to achieve what I have achieved. It is important for me to take these daily steps. In many ways it is no different from the training done by a world class athlete.

January 9th I photographed Megan and Rob’s wedding. I edited those photos, burned DVD’s, put together an album, designed a website and uploaded photos to my blog, my main website, the couple’s website and my fulfillment site. I also delivered prints and an album for another couple. This is all in addition to my full-time work. .

Saturday, my son Stephen, his friend Kyle and myself drove to Washington, PA to visit Washington-Jefferson College. After a whirlwind trip there and back (8-hours) and meetings with coaches and staff we arrived home. Once I arrived home I cleaned camera gear and charged batteries and then passed out. Sunday morning I was off to Stockton, NY to complete an engagement shoot for Sara and her fiance, EJ. We were a little concerned about the weather being forecast for Sunday. After months of cold temperatures and snow, the forecast was for rain. Normally in Buffalo, NY in January the concern is about the snow, Sunday was about the threat of rain.

We met at the home of Sarah’s parents and the shoot went off without a hitch until we were about 5-minutes into the shoot when the rain started. We did the best we could do under the circumstances yet everyone walked away disappointed. I know Sara was disappointed but no one was more so than me. I make promises to couples to provide the highest degree of customer service and when I can’t complete a shoot I feel as though I’ve not fulfilled my end of the agreement. The weather was something out of my or anyone else’s realm of control but this has done little to relieve the concern I feel for my responsibilities. We will schedule another engagement shoot to make up for the one cut short by the weather.

As busy as the weekend was I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It’s the fact I have my camera in my hand that makes it all tolerable. Again, I’d like to give a shout out to all of my clients and say “Thank you.” Without you and your trust in myself and my abilities I wouldn’t be able to work toward making my photo business full-time.

Thanks for reading.

Christopher

I really can’t believe it’s 2010. I mean that’s just crazy. My kids grow older as do I only I don’t want to admit it. The great thing is, I don’t feel older. As I grow older a feel a sense of urgency to work even harder for my clients and to build my business. I have been so luck to be able to turn a fun hobby into a successful and growing business. I am even more stoked to be able to spend time with some of the wonderful couples who have allowed me the opportunity to be a part of their very special day and to capture those moments for them. I am grateful and thankful. The excitement I experience being able to document a couple’s wedding and then watch their eyes widen into a full-face smile as they see their photos is unmatched.

I have always loved to read and have been frustrated by my inability to finish books. I thought at first it was just the fact I have so much going on in my life. Then a friend introduced me to the Kindle from Amazon.com. Oh my God. I purchased one in August and have read at least two books each month since. I actually forgot my Kindle at my office the other day and when I discovered it missing I wasn’t quite sure how I was going to get through the night. I no longer enjoy reading. I LOVE to read again. Thanks Amazon.com. A friend turned me on to a website called goodreads.com. It’s a website where you can share your thoughts about the books you’ve read and read real world reviews from people about books which you might find interesting. Awesome website. Check it out.

One of my favorite things which happened this year was the development and renewal of some pretty amazing relationships. I realized how many people were out there and wanted to see my succeed and were willing to help out in any way they could. Again, I am so blessed to have these people in my life and thankful for their friendship, their help and their guidance. I saw my blog grow as I worked hard to post at least twice each week. I love to write and saw my writing improve and grow more personal. I have been told by several consistent readers it is this personalization which they have enjoyed the most as it has opened up my soul and made me more accessible to them. I have been told by the same readers it is this personalization they see in my photography and has helped me to book new clients. I have invested in others and they have in turn invested in me. This year has allowed me to see the fruits of that labor as those relationships have continued to blossom and to grow. I have also enjoyed the relationships I have been able to forge with my clients. The trust and appreciation has been incredible.

When I reread some of my blog entries and the ones which remain in “draft” format waiting to be finished, I am amazed at what I have been able to accomplish this past year. I know that with continued hard work and perseverance 2010 will be just as exciting and productive.

Thank you to everyone who has touched my life. I am also thankful for those who have touched my life in a negative way as I have learned from those relationships as well.

Thank you all so much for allowing me into your lives. I am so thankful to have forged the relationships I have and look forward to growing these. Have a great New Year and keep coming back to read.

Namaste,

Christopher

Wedding season has come to an end. Thanksgiving and Christmas come quickly on the heels of Halloween. December 21st, the Winter solstice, brings hope to those of use who struggle with the light shortened days. December 21st is the shortest day of the year. Everyday thereafter brings more daylight and the hope Winter will be coming to an end and warmer weather will soon follow.

Winter used to be a huge downer for me. I’d sit in the house and complain about the cold, the darkness and anything else that would cross my path. I rediscovered the outdoors through a return to skiing and snowshoeing. Snowshoeing fit my personality perfectly. I love the outdoors. I love hiking and I love the solitary feeling of being in the woods. I take a backpack and a thermos full of coffee, my hiking poles and my thoughts. I also bring a notebook and my camera. Several times along the path I stop to photograph with both my camera and my mind, the beautiful scenery laid out by God for my enjoyment. I hear snowflakes gently falling and settling on top of their dearly departed relatives.

As I make my way across the open field, breaking a path through knee deep snow, I look up toward the top of the ridge and I see it; “meditation rock. “Meditation rock” is how I refer to this rock which has provided me with countless opportunities to be introspective. The rock juts out from the ridge and appears to be ready to fall at any time. As I make my way out toward the end of the rock, I remove my backpack and ultimately my thermos. I sit and see other winter hikers below me. They do not see me. I am invisible to the world if for only the time I spend on the “rock.” As I sit I remove my notebook and pen from my backpack and try to capture the thoughts racing through my head begging to be written down. No one sees these words but I know they are there. They are my comfort. They complement my photography and combine to tell the full story; a story that words alone cannot capture. At some point I need to resume my hike. I don’t want to and a battle ensues within my thoughts. I know there is more beauty to see along the path but I am happy, content where I am. After a few more minutes I rise and replace my notebook and thermos. My backpack rejoins my back and I return to the path; the path used by others. I begin hiking and search again for that spot where I can find the quiet, the solitude and be comfortable with my thoughts once again. A smile crosses my face as I come to a bend in the path. I am familiar with this section of the path. It leads downward and comes to an abrupt turn where, as my eyes glace further along the path they spot a large stand of pine trees. I know these trees. They provide a similar sense of quiet and solitude as does “meditation rock.” As I leave the path my eyes search for another comfortable spot on which to find a perch. The sequence of removing my pack and its contents is slowly and thoughtfully repeated. I sit. I contemplate. I write. The feelings at times become overwhelming and I find tears leaving my eyes. I have thoughts of my grandmother who left us two years ago. I think of my family and the successes I have experienced. I think of the love I share with my wife and the tears of sadness turn to those motivated by joy and happiness.

The summer months accompanied by their long, sun filled days are an opportunity to get things done and to feel productive. There seems to be a natural slow down during the winter months. Weddings are still being booked but are not being photographed, especially at the pace they are during the summer.

Thanks again everyone for reading. I hope you find my photography and my writing inspirational. Please keep coming back and please leave comments at the end of the post.

Have a great Christmas. Be safe and God Bless.

Chris

The words escape me and most who know me know this is a quiet time of day for me. A time of quiet introspection and reflection.

I love this quote by John Muir. “I only went out for a walk, and finally concluded to stay out ’til sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in.” I cannot think of anything which captures the beauty of a sunset so spectacularly. For once in my life I am left speechless. I will allow the photograph to speak for itself.

Thanks again for reading and please scroll to the comments section below and leave a comment.

Chris

A number of speakers were slated to congratulate the coaching staff and the kids on an undefeated season and the achievement of the first State Championship in School and Niagara County history. I’m sure when the rain began many people assumed the victory rally would be cancelled and rescheduled. Not in North Tonawanda. The weather doesn’t bother us here. When the season turns cold and night falls earlier, we respond by turning on the lights and dressing in warmer clothing. After all, we’re Lumberjacks!”

The vernerable Dick Grapes agreed to change his schedule and emcee the North Tonawanda Lumberjacks 2009 Championship Victory Rally at the Lumberyard Wednesday night. Mr. Grapes as he is known to everyone, recently retired after spending the last 50-years as the “Voice of the Lumberjacks.” His voice is unmistakeable and his command of the English language remarkable.

Coach Eric Jantzi is flanked by Senators Robin Schimminger and George Maziarz. the pair read a proclamation from NYS Governor Patterson. The proclamation explained the members of the Lumberjack football team were invited to Albany and participate in a senatorial session during which time the lawmakers of NYS would recognize congratulate the team. How cool is that?!

This is a copy of the sign which will grace the major entrances to the City of North Tonawanda. Mayor Soos also proclaimed December 2, 2009 “North Tonawanda Lumberjack Football Day.” I know I’ve used this phrase once already, but “How cool is that?!”

The audience was moved indoors as the rain continued. If you can pick out my beautiful wife and/or Casey and Kyle Shreve’s grandmother (no family members allowed) I’ll give you 15% off any photo shoot package. 

The speakers for tonight’s event were numerous local dignitaries. Congratulations to Barb Zellner on her election to a seat in the Niagara County Legislature. Congratulations Barb! I’m sure you’ll do us proud! Barb is also the mother of Jeffrey Zellner who was an outstanding fullback for the Lumberjacks and graduated last year. Jeff now plays football at Utica College.

The cheerleaders kept the crowd involved.

Kujo, Kyle Shreve and Jimmy Rodgers. Kujo is sporting the pullover windbreaker all of the players received as a result of participating in the NYS Championship game on Sunday. This photo was taken in front of the “Wall of Fame” in the NTHS Student Center where I am quite sure a plaque will shortly be adorning the wall in honor of the 2009 Lumberjack Football team. The boys are overjoyed with their success. When I spoke with Kujo and Kyle after the  victory celebration both boys agreed “it hadn’t really sunk in yet.” Both of these boys like the rest of the team have maintained a level head and they haven’t allowed the win to go to their head.

I feel it is important to take a line from the book “Notes Left Behind” about how we measure time. I have caught myself many times as my children were younger saying “I wish this day would end” or “I wish my children were older.” Time has a way of sneaking up on us even when we don’t want it to. I wish now, as I grow older it would slow down. Stephen, or as everyone else knows him “Kujo” turned 17 on October 21st. He is my youngest child. I watched him grow into the fine young man he has become and smile with excitement at what his future holds for him. He has learned well and I have learned well with him. He does not know this but any good parent learns from the mistakes they have made as a parent. I feel as though I have done a good job. I will always be there to guide you. If you recall the lessons you have learned and apply them to your future you will do fine.

Congratulations boys! Let this Championship win be nothing more than a stepping stone to greater things in your life.

As I dressed for the day I glanced at the clock and knew I needed to stop by the cemetery to say a prayer for her and my grandfather. I am saddened by the fact neither one of them had an opportunity to see my children grow into adults but I know she cherished the time she had with each of them. I wish often my grandfather, a lover of football would have been able to see my son achieve the accomplishments on the field of play as well as off. He would have been proud. When I see my son have a fantastic game I often think of him and know he is watching over Stephen.

As I drove to the cemetery I saw there was a funeral in progress. As I approached the driveway my eyes focused on a flag draped coffin and I knew it was a military funeral. Something told me this was not a WW II veteran who had passed but a young man who had given his life in the fight for freedom. I entered the mausoleum and said my prayer for my grandparents but could not get my mind off the funeral I had just passed. I sat outside briefly basking in the solitude of the cemetery. like magnets my eyes were drawn toward the on-going funeral.  I witnessed two Marines enter their vehicle, a sign the service had ended.

I drove the long way through the cemetery brushing back tears as the memory of my grandmother repeatedly entered my thoughts. I was about to exit the cemetery as I glanced to my left and noticed the once flag draped coffin was now naked and sitting alone atop it’s perch waiting to be lowered into its final resting place. Mourners had left and others were still leaving. My thoughts drifted to the fallen soldier and the hopes he is not soon forgotten. My eyes focused on alone mourner who remained and stood at the side of the coffin of the fallen soldier. His hand was laid with respect on the smooth wood of the coffin now bare of the flag. I, on the other hand watched and looked at the coffin from a safe distance. I said a prayer for him and his family. He gave to this country what I am unsure I would be capable of giving. For his gift I am thankful. I did not know the fallen soldier but he has become linked in my thoughts with my grandmother and when I think of her I will think of him and all of the soldiers who have served and continue to serve.

It is easy for individuals to loudly praise their achievements but it is my belief it is more important to have one’s accomplishments speak for themselves. Watching Stephen reminds of the importance of humility. Watching Stephen reminds me of the importance to know what one is capable of accomplishing and to simply go out and do one’s job; to accomplish one’s goals…quietly and without fanfare.

Stephen does not gloat. He does not point out his accomplishments. He allows his actions, his behaviors to speak for him. It is this voice which speaks more loudly than any other. We found out the day after NT’s win against Lancaster he won “Player of the Game.” He never said anything and when we witnessed his on-field interview we figured it was a result of his on-field accomplishments.

Here’s to those people who go about their day quietly and without need for regard. You will be noticed as your fire will burn brightest. Congratulations ‘Jacks and Congratulations Stephen. Onward to the next goal. Go Jacks!

“I claim to be a simple individual liable to err like any other fellow mortal. I own, however, that I have humility enough to confess my errors and to retrace my steps.” -Mahatma Gandhi

I hope everyone has enjoyed my posts. I know some of you were struggling to see football related posts on a wedding photography blog but for me photography and football go together. Football is my son’s passion and photography is mine. It is wonderful when I have an opportunity to mix both passions and reward my son with memories he will cherish forever. I write football posts in the same fashion as I write posts related to weddings and engagements, with a high degree of passion and the goal being telling a story through my photography. 

It’s important for me to reach out and say ’Thank you” to those clients who have hired me throughout the year. Without all of you my ability to follow my passion and work toward turning it into full-time employment would be much more difficult. Thank you!

As most of my readers are aware, I have and continue to spend a significant amount of time giving back to my community. Giving back is not so much a part of me as who I am. 

It’s myvolunteer work especially with Make-A-Wish which helps me to remain grounded and focused. I enjoy sharing my photography with others and especially enjoy seeing the smiling faces of family’s who now have photographs to adorn the walls within their homes. I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to do something that I truly love and to give back.

To say “Thank you” I’ll be giving away a family portrait session to one lucky family. What I would like my readers to do is nominate one family who you believe to be deserving of such a gift. The one thing I ask is that you nominate a family who for whatever reason cannot afford the cost of a portrait session. From those submissions I will pick a winner. There is one important qualifier: The family must reside in Western New York. The nomination process will close by December 1, 2009 so I have an opportunity to photograph the family so they can receive their prints before Christmas.

If you know of someone who would love to have a free photo session completed, please send your nomination to me at christopherkijowskiphotography@gmail.com.

The Make-A-Wish Radio-thon is your chance to help grant a wish by making a request and pledge to hear any song you want, or bid during our hourly auction on some one of a kind rock and sports items.

The goal for this years radiothon is $250,000. When the radiothon ended at 10:00 AM over $240,000 had been raised for Make-A-Wish. The listeners of 97-Rock came through again and now more wishes can be granted. WOW! It amazes me how the people of Buffalo, NY come together and dig deep to help such a  great cause! Thanks to veryone who volunteered their time and a special thanks to everyone who made a donation of time and money.

Rian Lindell of the Buffalo Bills.

DJ Jixster

Michael is another “Wish” kid who overcame great obstacles with the help of Make-A-Wish.

Larry with Michael and his parents.

Larry Norton just twelve more hours before the end of the radiothon.