Hours Change Sat Jun 20

Due to staff illness and a wedding that we will be shooting this afternoon... we must close the studio early today. We will be closing at noon instead of 4 PM. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you. Thank you!

Another Puptakes Day!

We are very happy to welcome, again, our guest photographer Lynn Heinitz for our next Puptakes Day. Bring in your furry friend for their very own session. Family is welcome to join in too of course!

Sat June 20th... noon until 4pm only. Spots are booking up fast so call soon!

Hours Change for Mon May 11

Due to an off site professional development seminar, the studio will be closing early on Mon May 11. We will be open 10-1:15 instead of until 3pm. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. We are open Tuesday May 12 for our normal hours.

Phones working again!

Yippee! The phone systems are working again! And the voice mail too! What a hassle Bell caused. Please call to your heart's content!

Phone systems down Wed May 6

NOTE!!

Bell is working on our phone lines and we have no phone for part or all of Wed May 6th!

We have been assured it will be live again by this evening at 5PM.

Please email, as we can still receive emails, or contact us on Thurs May 7th.

We are sorry for the inconvenience.

Mom's Day!! Win a $250 gift cert and much more!

Dream Catcher Photo is proud to be a part of the 97.5 EZ Rock Mother of the Year contest for 2009!

One grand prize winner will win over $2000 in prizes -- including a $250 gift certificate for Dream Catcher Photo!

Click here to enter: 97.5 London's EZ Rock

Good Luck to all our amazing Mom's!!!

Easter Monday

Just a note that we are closed Monday April 13 for Easter Monday . We will resume regular hours on Tuesday April 14.

Run for Retina Proofs Live!!!

The Run for Retina Photos are now LIVE!

A big THANKS to our Dream Catcher volunteers, to the Run for Retina committee and volunteers, and to the Running Room. Not to mention thank you to all participants, sponsors and donors for making this year’s Run for Retina a big success. We hope to see you again next year!

Go to our website www.dcpcanada.com and click "view proofs". Your code is: retina
Follow the instructions and enjoy the photos!
Remember, if you do decide to order any prints, Run for Retina participants can order with no minimums and get 30% off all a la carte items 11x14 or smaller and 30% off all print packages.

Please note: due to many factors, we had to load photos up by camera rather than by time…. so please take your time and review the images when searching for your friends and family. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

And a note that the photos called “liam001, etc.” were taken by the 9 yr old son (Liam) of the owner of Dream Catcher Photo (Jules). We want to give him special credit as he wanted to volunteer for this event and we think he has a great talent. It’s hard to believe he is only 9 from the images he took – except for the fact that there are many duck and animal shots, he’s an animal lover. Thanks for your community spirit Liam!

Run for Retina

Thank you to all the participants, sponsors and volunteers who participated in the Run for Retina on Sunday April 5, 2009. We arrived at 7:15 in the morning so we could capture all the preparations. Hours later... we wrapped things up and are currently editing the truckload of photos we took!

The images will be uploaded on Thursday April 9. On or after that date, please go to our website www.dcpcanada.com and click "view proofs". Your code is: retina

Follow the instructions and enjoy the photos!

Remember, if you do decide to order any prints, Run for Retina participants can order with no minimums and get 30% off all a la carte items 11x14 or smaller and 30% off all print packages.

We made our best attempt to get a photo of everyone that participated, but with almost a 1000 runners/walkers... it is inevitable that some are missed.

One more thing... a big thank you to Kim Spriet (Run for Retina) and Barry Smith (Running Room) for welcoming Dream Catcher Photo at this special event. It was entirely our pleasure to capture this amazing day.

Keep up the training, and we'll see you again next year!

Puptakes

We have a very talented guest photographer, Lynn Heinitz, coming in on Sat Apr 4 to take photos for our Puptakes day. There are a few spots still available but they’re going fast. So if you want the special furry friend in your life (even though it’s called Puptakes… feline friends are welcome too!) photographed give us a call. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Facebook group

We now have a Facebook group. So if you're a Facebook junkie... log on and join our fan club! Post your comments, photos, and tell everyone how much you LOOOVVVE Dream Catcher Photo!

We'll also be using this as a forum to get ideas and feedback from our fantastic clients about new products that they want to see, new backdrops, and any other suggestions.

The group is simply called Dream Catcher Photo... Go take a peek!

Happy First Birthday to Us!

Happy Birthday to Us!!!

Although we've been around for quite a while as a home based business... Dream Catcher Photo has been at our studio for one year!

To celebrate we want to give YOU a present to say THANKS for making it a stellar year!

Until Jan 31, 2009..

You can reorder any previously ordered prints (prior to Dec 31, 2008) at

33% off our a la carte or package pricing.

• Prints must be ordered in same size/colour format as originally ordered.
• The entire package/order does not need to be ordered... you may pick and choose from your order using our a la carte menu if you wish.
• Order must be placed by midnight on Sat Jan 31. To place order, please contact Dream Catcher Photo.
• Valid on sizes 8x10 and smaller only. Other sizes or products not eligible.
• Taxes applicable after discount is applied.

So go ahead... open your birthday present from us... and you didn't even have to get a year older to get it!

Valentine Fast Track Photo Day

Valentine Fast Track Photo Day

Sat Feb 14th **BY APPOINTMENT**

Been a while since you had a nice photo of the two of you? It's time for an update... Sat Feb 14th come in for our Fast Track Photo Day with the one you love. It will only take 15 minutes and we have a minimum purchase of only $30 (before taxes).

Call or email Dream Catcher Photo to set up your appointment right away. Our Fast Track family photo days last fall booked up fast... so call early!

Happy New Year!!

Thank you.

Dream Catcher's studio is almost one whole year old and we are grateful for a wonderful year. We have caught so many memories for brides and families, met so many wonderful people, and watched so many past clients have their families grow. It is truly an honour to be a part of our client's lives in this way.

We have many exciting things planned for 2009... but we'll tell you more about that later. For now, we want to wish everyone a prosperous, safe, and healthy 2009.

Thanks again
from the Dream Catcher Team
Julie, Sarah and Leslie

Home for the Holidays - Extended Family Photos Sat Dec 27

Home for the Holidays - Extended Family Photos Sat Dec 27

Is your family getting together over Christmas?

Sat Dec 27 we are open by appointment for extended family photos. Has it been a while since you had a nice group photo? Is the family scattered across the map? Take advantage of this opportunity to update that old family photo.

30 min sessions with our regular retainer of $97 towards prints. See our portraits page for pricing details here.

By appointment only 9am to 5pm on Saturday December 27th. Call Dream Catcher Photo at 519.488.5201 or email us at smile@dreamcatcherlondon.com today to book your family shoot.

Santa Coming Sat Dec 13th!!!

Santa is Coming to Dream Catcher Photo!

THIS SAT DEC 13.

10:00 am to Noon AND 1:00pm to 4:00pm

Come to the studio to see Santa!

• Drop-In only (no appointments).


• No purchase required.


• No minimums.


• If you decide to purchase prints they will be be purchased without previews available (sight unseen) using our a la carte pricing list. Sizes 11x14 and under are 40% off regular rates!! All sales final.


• Prints available on Sat Dec 20 for pick up.

WAAAYY better than the mall Santa photos! HO HO HO... see you then!

Greeting Card Templates!!!

Finally... click here to see a pdf of our card templates...

Fast Track Family Photos - No minimum retainer!

The Holidays will soon be here! Get your holiday family photo on one of our special Fast Track Photo Days - in studio.

• mini-sessions
• 10 minutes each, booked at 15 minute intervals
• one pose only with our Basic Black backdrop
• No minimum retainer or session fee!

Perfect for that holiday card shot of the the whole family, or maybe just all the kids for grandparents' gifts.

By appointment only on the following dates and times:
Sun Nov 16 12-4pm
Sat Nov 22 10-4pm

Call the Dream Catcher Photography Studio in London at 519-488-5201 to set up your appointment now!

Dream Catcher Photo... your department store alternative.

Greeting Card Sale Now On!

Greeting Cards now on sale!

Two styles:

5x5 Folded Note Card
Using a wide variety of ready made designs... print inside and out with a custom message from your family or business. Price includes envelopes.
1st set of 20 cards -- Regular $85 Sale $70
additional set of 22 cards -- Regular $55 Sale $40
Need more than 100 cards? Inquire for large quantity pricing.

5x7 Photo Print Cards

Printed single-sided on standard 5x7 print paper using ready made designs. No envelopes.

1st set of 22 -- Regular $77 Sale $52
additional set of 10 cards -- Regular $29 Sale $17
Need more than 100 cards? Inquire for large quantity pricing.

One image/design per order. Additional photos or custom design work available, please inquire. Samples available in studio. Cards available for Holiday Greetings, Birth Announcements and more.

Halloween Kids Portraits for London Food Bank

Halloween Charity Photo Day & Cutest Kid Contest!

On Thursday Oct 30th… bring your children into Dream Catcher Photo’s studio at 1656 Hyde Park Rd. London for a FREE 4x6 photo of them in their costumes in exchange for a minimum of 1 item for the London Food Bank per child. No appointments, drop in only.

• Three drop in time frames available: 10am to noon, 1pm to 3pm, and 5:30-8:30pm.
• One print per child. (Parents may choose to have all their children in one photo instead of, but not in addition to, individual shots.)
• 2-3 shots will be taken.
• Dream Catcher staff will pick the best one and print a 4x6 that will be available on Thur Nov 5 for pick up.
• Children 12 and under only.

(After receiving their initial print, families may purchase additional copies using our a la carte or package options. No minimums apply to reprints. Packages or a la carte menu may be used.)

At the shoot... those parents/guardians wishing to participate can enter their child into our Cutest Spooky Kid Contest. We are currently working out the technical details of having your child's photo online for everyone you know to vote for! The child with the most votes will receive a plaqued 8x10 enlargment of their Halloween print, ready to hang.... FREE! (Plus bragging rights, of course.)

Come on out and support a local charity plus get a studio shot of your little Princess, Pirate, Pumpkin or Penguin! We can't wait to see all the costumes!

Dream Catcher and the 3K 6K Gobbler Gallop and Kids Giblet Job

3K and 6K Gobbler Gallop and Giblet Jog.
Dream Catcher Photo is proud to be working with Running Room for this fantastic family focused race day that benefits the London Food Bank. Kids 5 and under can do a wee run in the Giblet Jog and with their race number they get into Storybook Gardens Free! Everyone else can participate in the 3K or 6K Gobbler Gallop. A small registration fee and non-perishable food item required to participate. Dream Catcher will be taking photos (candids and finish line photos) that will be available for purchase online at discounted rates. Thanksgiving Sunday, Oct 12, 2008. Storybook Gardens. Jog at 8:40, Gallop at 9:00. More details available at Running Room.

Outdoor Fall Family Portraits in London Ontario

Fall Family Photo Days

Sunday Oct 5 and Sunday Oct 26 join us at the Old Courthouse in downtown London for your outdoor fall family portrait session.

Perfect timing for holiday portraits. No session fee, just the same $97 retainer fee that applies to in studio appointments.

Appointments are 45 minutes, booked on the hour, every hour. Some spots already booked so call soon!

Rain plans will be discussed at time of booking. Cheque or cash only onsite or pay in advance with credit or debit at the studio. No shows will be charged a missed appointment fee.

MamaAssist - Childbirth Classes at Dream Catcher Photo

MamaAssist London Presents:

Just Like Labour™ - Comfort Measures to Ease and Progress Labour
In this one-night interactive class, two experienced birth doulas will share their labour support secrets with you. An intense ice labour simulation provides a realistic labour experience and is a fun, unforgettable way of preparing for childbirth. Designed for a pregnant woman and her partner, you’ll spend two hours learning the best, tried and true techniques, positions, and comfort measures. You will remember the birth of your baby for the rest of your life, make sure the memories are wonderful!
Only six spots available for each date and pre-registration is required.
Duration: One Class

When: October 22nd (Register by Oct 19th) or October 29th (Register by Oct 26th) from 6:30pm to 8:45pm

Where: Hosted at Dream Catcher Photography on Hyde Park Rd.

Cost: $47 for mom-to-be and one partner, $10 extra for an additional partner

Please visit www.mamaassist.com for more details or to register online, or by phone at 519-601-2662

Mini-Sessions - A Tea Party on the Studio Lawn - ONLY $35

Victorian Tea Party Mini Portrait Sessions

August 9th and 10th join us for a Victorian Tea Party Portrait Session on the front lawn of our beautiful century-home studio!

We will have a child sized "tea party" ready for your little one to say "One lump or two?" while we snap a few priceless moments.

ONLY $35 !! *

The session cost is $35 and includes session fee and two-5x7 prints from one image. Images will be put online 48 hours later and you (and family and friends) can choose whatever prints you wish, with no minimums or extra administrative fees. If you just want the 2-5x7's included in this special session pricing... that's fine too! No pressure to buy any extra prints.

Sessions are by appointment, with a 10 minute time slot booked every 15 minutes. This promotion runs Saturday August 9th from 1pm to 7pm and Sunday August 10th from 1pm to 6pm. Spaces are already booking up fast so call or email now to book your $35 mini-session! Some walk-in spots may be available, so stop by or call last minute if you would like to see if we can squeeze you in.

We recommend wearing sundresses or other dress clothes (for boys, for example). We have some props and costume accessories (i.e. hats, and gloves), but children should arrive in their "Sunday Best". We will have some teddy bears and dolls participating in the tea party, but of course there is always room for your child's special stuffed friend.

No extra fee for multiple children in the same session. To do each child individually would incur extra fees, please inquire. Three children maximum per session.

Be sure to tell your friends and family so they can take advantage of this great opportunity to see the Dream Catcher difference for only $35!

See you there!

The Dream Catcher Team

www.dreamcatcherlondon.com
smile@dreamcatcherlondon.com
1656 Hyde Park Rd. (Just North of Gainsbrough Rd.), London
519.488.5201

Introducing..... Sarah West, Portrait Artist

Sarah West is passionate about little grins and round bellies! Her true love when it comes to photography are families which makes Dream Catcher Photo the perfect place for her! Sarah started with Dream Catcher some years ago as a co-op student while she was completing her Photography Diploma at Fanshawe College. We loved her so much that we couldn't let her go and now that we have the studio, we are very lucky to have Sarah here as our very own Portrait Artist. You will find Sarah at the studio on Saturday's.

Victorian Tea Party

On August 9 and 10, 2008 our century old studio will come to life as the location of our first ever Victorian Tea Party Mini-Portrait sessions! For only $35, clients receive a mini-session including 2-5x7 prints! More info will be posted here in the coming weeks... check back soon or sign up for our newsletter and receive the juicy details right in your inbox! So, join us for the cutest little pretend tea party ever where your child can ask... "One lump or two?"

Work at home (WAHM) business for sale!

NOTE: THIS BUSINESS IS NOW SOLD!! CONGRATS TO THE LUCKY NEW OWNER!

Calling all Moms! A perfect work-out-of-the-home opportunity has fallen into your lap!

There is a site that I have told many of you about in the past that I love called PinkPowerSuit.com A friend of mine, Natasha, is the brilliant owner and she is selling this exceptional business. Very reasonable price too. Please take a look and pass along to any friends or family you may have that might be interested.This is the ebay listing...http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320256732582

Julie

Professional Photographers of Canada Convention

Wow... what a great week. I've just completed a whirl wind week at the National Convention of the Professional Photographer's of Canada.

There was a terrific trade show where I found some great suppliers. One product I'm sure my clients will love is a piece of crystal that has the photo embedded in it. It's gorgeous and I think I can bring it to you at a reasonable price too. I'll follow up on that.

I also had the absolute pleasure of seeing so many wonderful speakers. Just a few include...

Arthur Rainville, the chair of the Portrait Department at the New England School of Photography in Boston, taught a wonderful seminar that had me in tears at the end with a focus on the “art” and emotion of portraits but also on the technical aspects of producing a great image.
John Woodward… a preeminent photographer, having photographed the Pope, several presidents and prime ministers, and worked for clients such as Viacom, the New York Yankees, all major TV networks, Paramount, Hyatt and more… taught a fact filled course on mastering lighting and analyzing faces so they put their best look forward.
Hanson Fong.. one of the premier wedding (and portrait) photographers in the US… taught a jam packed course that covered several topics but focused on mastering posing techniques.
I also learned some great digital print enhancement techniques from David Cuerdon, one of the world’s first, and highly respected, digital fashion photographers. His clients have included Playboy, Glamour Magazine and Neiman Marcus. This poor man was stuck at customs all night right before his bright and early 6 a.m. seminar… and he still managed to teach SOOO much!
I also had the immense pleasure of listening to a wonderful wedding and portrait photographer from Toronto, Storey Wilkins. Storey also had me in tears as she imparted her feelings on the value and importance of the portraits that we produce for our clients. A truly inspirational person.

So, I'm back and ready to use all this information to ensure my clients ( the most wonderful clients in the world!) continue to get quality portraits of their babies and children at real people prices. I am so honoured to be able to have such a fantastic job.

In addition to the official events, there was also much merry making and I met so many wonderful people. Some new friendships were formed... and old ones renewed. It's an amazing profession that we are so supportive of each other.

Thanks to all the speakers and organizers. I look forward to seeing you all again in Regina at next year's convention!

Julie

Mother's Day is coming up fast!

Just a reminder that Mother's Day is May 11. Portraits make the perfect gift for Mom and Grandma. If you would like prints ready in time for Mother's Day gift giving... the deadline to have the photos taken is April 23. Remember... with no sitting fee and mix and match print options, you don't need to wait for a once a year holiday portrait... Mother's Day is the perfect excuse to stop in at the studio!

Spring Portraits!

At the risk of jinxing this warm-ish weather we are having... it's time to THINK SPRING!

Our Enchanted Forest set is perfect for Spring/Easter Portraits or choose our classic and contemporary portraiture.

Happy almost Spring!

My Grandad: Beloved Man Wm. Henry (Harry) Myers 1918-2008

William Henry (Harry) Myers. Eldest son of Madge (nee Glover) and Wm. Frederick Myers. Born September 20, 1918 in Hindley, Lancashire, England. Passed away on the 1st of March, 2008 in Oshawa, Ontario from an injury suffered in an accident on the 29th of February, 2008.

Joined the Royal Canadian Navy as a boy seaman in March 1936 and retired in March 1966 as Lieut. Commander with 6 years in rank. Pursued a successful career in Social Services for the Ontario Government until his retirement in 1981. A proud member of the Masonic Lodge since 1945; an active member of the Shriners; and, a member in good standing with the Canadian Legion.

Married Eileen Mary Sinnott in 1942 and from that lifelong union he has left the legacy of 4 children (Harry, John, Janet and Stephen), 13 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren (noted below with their respective families).

D.R. Harry Myers and his children Jason Barron and Chantal. John F. Myers (and wife Maureen) and their children Adam (and wife Gosia), Michael (and wife Gabby; and children Zoë, Lucas, and Noah), Paul, Rozlyn, Luke (and fiancée Katie), and Mark (and fiancée Erin). Janet E. M. Myers-Malloy (and husband Larry); and her children, Julie Duggan (and husband Daniel; and children Liam, Cade, and Quinn), and Heather. Stephen D. Myers and his children Alexander, Harrison and Sabrina. He is predeceased by his siblings John F., Charles E., Ruth Alyse, and Lillian Elsie. Special thanks to Father Lincoln Mckoen.

Harry was an honourable man, loving husband, gentle father, and a youthful grandfather and great grandfather; and, all those who had the honour of knowing him are better for it. He is missed immensely.

Dreamscape Portraits Are Here!

Our Enchanted Forest for our Dreamscape Portraits is ready for little princes and princesses!

I have wanted to do this for years but of course couldn't when all my work was done on location. Now, with the new studio space, I have dedicated one room to being our Dreamscape Portraits set. This set will rotate every once in a while... so if you want a specific set, please be sure to get on it quick! The current set, Enchanted Forest, will make a regular return though because it will certainly be VERY popular. We have literally dozens of costumes (for boys and girls)... so come and have some fun!

Belly Casting Special Offer

The wonderful doulas of MamaAssist have graciously offered my Belly Goddess Portrait clients $5 off a belly casting session. And... they'll even come to the Dream Catcher Studio and do it right after your portrait session! Convenient... easy... and fun too. And, yes... you will find somewhere to put it!

I am so happy I had one done for my last pregnancy. Now when I look at it, I can't believe that was really how BIG I was! So, pregnant mamas... come to Dream Catcher Photo for your pregnancy photos and then get casting done so you can truly preserve this special time. Thanks Tiffany and Rachel from MamaAssist! http://www.mamaassist.com/

Looking for your cool junk

Thinking of doing some cleaning up around your house to start off the New Year right? Well...

WE'RE LOOKING FOR: Neat and unusual items and furniture for use as props.

Do you have a collection of hats that is collecting dust? Maybe an old Victorian-ish armchair that is sitting in a corner of your basement? A funky rug or stool that you have NO idea what to do with? A classic baby toy? Do you have an item that you now look at and think... WHAT was I thinking?!? Dream Catcher Photo is on the lookout for interesting and unique props and maybe our next favourite thing is something from YOUR attic or basement!

Submit a pic and/or description to us and, if we can use it at the studio we’ll give you a coupon for a free 8x10 to be used the next time you come in for a session with Dream Catcher Photo. (A note though... we have to actually WANT your item to get the photo and coupon... it might be cool... but we might not need it.)

In addition to pretty much anything but the kitchen sink (or maybe we could find a use for that too.... hmmm...) please keep in mind that we are currently working on developing sets. Some sets may include forest themes, beach themes, princess/fairy/knights, seasonal themes, etc.).

Come on… it’s a new year and time to clean out all the stuff you don’t use or need… recycle and let it take on a new life!

THANKS and Happy 2008!

Julie

Happy 2008!

Happy New Year!

It is going to be a fabulous 2008! Our new studio is now operational and we are just putting on the finishing touches.

The GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION is set for Fri Jan 25 and Sat Jan 26, noon to 6 each day. There are lots of great door prizes, free coupons for 8x10 prints, and even a draw for FREE SESSIONS. We’re also giving away, to the first 250 children each day, FREE child ID kits complete with fingerprinting and photo ID. Dream Catcher Photo is grateful to be a part of the London community and we don’t just want to capture your children’s portrait memories, we want to help keep London kids safe too. Keep an eye on our website (and on this blog too) for more details about the great prizes and sponsoring businesses.

Dream Catcher Photography wishes you a wonderful 2008. May all your hopes and dreams come true (and we can’t wait to photograph those hopes and dreams for you!).

We're blogging! Wow, this is so new for me. I'm only just new to reading blogs let alone writing them. But, here goes...

OK... first, you'll have to forgive my complete lack of knowledge of blogger language. I type words... not codes. I don't know what a DH is and I've just found out what "fisking" is. It's a whole new world that I promise to try and learn bit by bit. Many thanks in advance for your patience as this old dog stumbles through the ropes of this new trick.

Next... let me tell you who I am. My name is Julie Duggan and I own Dream Catcher Photography in London Ontario. I have been at this for many years now while raising my children and I am now, finally, in a position to move my business from a home based one to a brick and mortar commercial property. Yippeeee!!!

After a long time of looking... I have found the perfect place. It's an old Victorian home that has been converted into a commercial property in the Hyde Park are (right on Hyde Park, just north of Gainsborough Rd.) The house was built around 1890 and is over 1800 sq. ft. It is a dream come true to be able to offer my clients so much more than I ever could before.

There are lots of plans for the place. Please stay tuned and I'll reveal them on this blog and my main site at www.dreamcatcherlondon.com I'll also keep you informed as new staff is hired and we grow... thanks to all our wonderful clients who allow me (and my future staff) to capture all your dreams come true on film. It's an honour I don't ever take for granted.

Although we have begun to operate out of the studio already... the finishing touches are being put on and we are in the middle of planning our HUGE Grand Opening Celebration. More details about that in a future blog entry. Look for entries from the dream catcher photo team in the future too. This is no longer just a one (wo)man band!

OK... that's it for my first ever blog post. How did I do? *grin*