Sammys Glamour Boudoir Experience at Avalon City Imaging

Well, we often make friends with our clients by the end of their photography experience. It's just how photography works. Our sessions can go for up to three hours, so it makes sense that by the end of it we know you pretty well. One instance of this was when we met the gorgeous Sammy, she clicked with us the moment she walked in the door. We won't lie, we super-friend-ed her a bit! So much so that she felt compelled to write this super lovely blog about her time in the studio... 
 

Hi, I’m Sammy and THIS is MY Avalon Experience..

I was modelling at a Wedding Expo in Port Adelaide, in between I was having a wonderful time scoping out all the amazing suppliers (because who wouldn’t?!) I came across Avalon and entered into a competition to win a Photoshoot worth $500! I never win anything so didn’t think much when I entered it, plus there were HUNDREDS of Bride’s To Be at this Expo so I definitely was NOT going to win BUT I love to get involved in anything AND you gotta be in it to win it, as they say!

Well.. Weeks later I got a surprise phone call from Caroline at Avalon.. I had WON the free photoshoot worth $500.. I couldn’t believe it! I was so excited :) I have seen Avalon’s images on Facebook and followed them for a while and I adored their work so I was very happy to have been picked! Caroline was so friendly and accommodating on the phone, knowing I work Full Time she organised a shoot late in the evening, hair and make-up was provided. Caroline shared my excitement with me on the phone, which was amazing! (Great Customer Services is like a dying art nowadays!)

The DAY had arrived, I had excitedly packed everything I needed for my shoot the night before as I had received a wonderful reminder email from Caroline, providing me some great ideas on what to bring and what to avoid! I arrived at Avalon (a little late, oops!) but I was still greeted with smiling faces everywhere in Studio! Mandy; my Hair & Make Up Artist got stuck into me straight away. I told her what I thought would look amazing for my shoot and she exceeded my expectations ten fold! She was super friendly and we had many things in common and loved talking about our pets together while she worked her magic which was wonderful :)

Dave (Photographer) came in and chatted while my hair and make up was being done; grabbing ideas from me, checking out my outfits, shoes and jewellery and taking a look at the example images I had for him. He made me feel very comfortable and confident in him and his skills and he complimented me many times about my hair and make up and how excited he was to get started on my Shoot! My hair and make up was PERFECT, the time had come and I was super excited to get in front of that camera and work with Dave!

A little bit about me? Well.. I am a curvy 26 year old blonde-haired blue-eyed BOMBSHELL (if you aren’t going to love yourself then who else will? Right, Queens?!)

BUT my life hasn’t been all rainbows, sunshine’s and lollipops and I definitely haven’t had this kind of confidence my whole life, it’s something I had to build! The last year of my life has been a very difficult one for me, lots of events had occurred that really tore me down and with this, I had lost 25kg in 7 months, I had gone from 100kg (14-16) to 75kg (10-12). I had become a new woman from this weight loss and all of these challenging life experiences, changes and hardships BUT I thought.. You know what?.. It is time for ME to SHINE MY LIGHT.. At the end of the day Queens, you create your own happiness and wellness in life and I needed this for ME, my confidence, my soul and to feel BEAUTIFUL again!!! What better way to do it then to put my trust in magnificent photographer and do a beautiful Boudoir Shoot?!

From start to finish Dave made me feel confident, happy, loud and most of all body proud, which is exactly what I needed because this shoot was quite revealing! I had no hesitations in front of the camera with Dave and it never felt awkward or unnatural, the environment that had been created in the Studio was relaxed and fun the whole time! There was music playing that Dave and I enjoyed many a duets too hahaha, it was truly a fantastic experience!

A big thank you to everyone at Avalon for an amazing experience from start to finish! A fantastic group of people :)

Mothers day is coming!

Pssst! Just a quick reminder, mothers day is fast approaching! Good golly didn't we just get over Valentines day? And Christmas? What about new year and Fringe festival? So much is happening!

We thought we would take the stress off finding that perfect gift this year with a gift certificate from Avalon City Imaging. You can purchase them off our website or give us a call on 0414427972. For the bargain hunters out there our $49 voucher is worth $390 (thats a whopping saving of $351!) and includes a hair and makeup pampering session for mum, a 1 hour photoshoot of your choice and a gorgeous 20x30cm archival photographic print (round about an A4 page size) as a keepsake from this special day. 

For an extra $10 you can have the gift certificate mailed out to you, or for that personal touch feel free to hand make your own! 

So what can you do with this $49 voucher? Mum's of the past have used it to get their sexy on in their very own boudoir or glamour session, Some have updated the family album with stunning new photos, new mums have used it for a newborn shoot. Whatever kind of mum you have, there is a shoot style to suit!

Hop on over to the book your shoot page to purchase!

Have a great day!
xx The Avalon City Imaging Team
 

Adelaide Annual Wedding Expo - Enter to win!

Today we are at Adelaide's Annual Wedding Expo! WOO!

For those brides to be, we have our Shine Bright Like a Diamond competition running all day. Come to our stall, have your engagement ring photographed and go into the draw to win an awesome photo-shoot Experience from Avalon City Imaging. 

If you cant get down there never fear! Fill in the below form to enter this weekends online competition!

Adelaide Pregnancy, Baby and Children's Expo - Enter to WIN!

The Avalon City Imaging team are out of the office this weekend at the Adelaide Pregnancy, Babies and Children's expo! We have a BUNCH of prizes to win at our stand so pop on down! If you are super busy and can't make it there never fear! Fill in the form below and enter to win your very own Avalon City Imaging Photo-shoot experience! 

We are at Wayville Showgrounds from Friday 7th – Sunday 9th April 2017
Doors open 10am – 4pm Friday, 10am – 5pm Saturday & Sunday

Find more info here: http://www.pbcexpo.com.au/adelaide/
 

Enter to Win an Avalon City Imaging Photo-shoot Experience here!

8 tips for rocking a killer body art photoshoot

Little known fact: Avalon City Imaging have the most badass body art specialists in the country. Our award winning team know how to bring the creativity to your shoot. 

Body art photography takes personalised photography to the next level. We love how you can have so much fun getting transformed into into a living canvas of any design. You can get super creative with your ideas. We will help you create unique images personalised to you.

It’s like getting a temporary tattoo that you can immortalise in artwork for years to come. But you get to wash it off!

To get you started, we have set out some tips to get help you make the most of this awesome experience.

A truly magical Poison Ivy

1. Let’s plan your design.

Our award winning team of of body artists have loads of ideas and designs to pick from.

They also love a good challenge if you want to bring along your own ideas! We have seen them transform our clients into Avitar characters, steampunk goddesses, the Terminator and tigers! Go wild!

Stunning asian inspired artwork

2. Get inspired!

If you have no clue what you would like to do, or are feeling overwhelmed at all the options, check out sites like Pinterest for great design ideas. We don’t want to rip off another artist's work but we can get a really great idea of the vibe you want to go for.
 

Choices are limited only by your imagination!

Incredible steampunk vibes shimmering under our studio lights.

3. Collect props...

We will spend some time with you about a week before your shoot, developing your unique concept, planning the design and helping you to make decisions towards which style of body art is relevant to you.

This is when we can think up any props that might come in handy too. Our studio has some limited props so you may like to bring some of your own from home.

We love this cute retro headpiece picked out for this flower inspired shoot

4. Figure out your boundaries...

Be aware that your body and skin will be on display for these shoots.  We will never dictate to you how much. You are 100% in control here. Some of our clients are super game and are happy to go fully nude, others would prefer to rock an implied look. If you would prefer an implied nude shoot bring along a skin toned g-string or skin toned underpants. A g-string is super easy to hide in photoshop if we need to, but if you bring underwear please be aware it may be in the photos. Our body artists have nipple covers if you would like.  
We have both female and male photographers, so if you are concerned about that kind of thing, let us know when booking.

Boundaries... this muse chose to go with an implied nude look

5. Getting your canvas prepped.

Let’s talk hair removal! We generally don’t tell you to make any decisions based on your body hair, that’s between you and your razor! But to get the best results, body art looks best on smooth skin rather than stubble or hairy bits.

Come along with no make-up on if you can and your hair washed the day before. This way you will be ready for some pampering with one of our amazing make up artists.

Smooth skin is the best canvas, consider waxing or shaving beforehand

6. What to bring.

Bring along a light robe if you have one, just to keep you covered and comfy if you need it.

You might also want to think about shoes! A killer pair of heels or kickass boots in the same style as your body art can make all the difference.

Raid your own jewellery and costume box! Costume jewellery, wings, feathers and hats, there is no end to the kind of props we have seen our clients bring in. When in doubt, pack everything but the kitchen sink! We love helping you sort it out.

Props! These peacock feathers really helped set the tone

7. The day of the shoot.

You will be here with us most of the day so keep your diary free on the day of your photo shoot. Depending on your design we have between one to two body artists buzzing around painting you, plus a hair and makeup artist to give you that extra glam glow. It can take up to three hours to make the creative goodness so feel free to bring a book to read or some music and podcasts to listen to whilst being painted.

We will make sure you get a lunch break in to keep that energy pumping. Our treat.
Once your hair and make-up has finished and you are a walking piece of art, the fun starts in the studio.

We love this terminator themed shoot...

8. Dealing with nerves

Our photographers and artists love what they do and know that the end results will be magic, but we all know that getting nude and painted for strangers can be uncomfortable. Feel free to talk it out with us, it’s a very normal part of the process. We always have our clients tell us how relaxed and fun our photoshoots are when the shoot is over. So never stress, we got this!

If you are interested in rocking your very own body art shoot you can pop on over to our "Book Your Photoshoot" page.

Much love everyone!
xx The Avalon City Imaging Team

Claire and John celebrate 50 years

Photography isn't just for the young whippersnappers! 

Last month we felt super grateful to have photographed Claire and John for their 50th Wedding Anniversary. 

Claire spent the morning having her makeup done by the gorgeous Hannah, whilst John hung out chatting and keeping them company. Then it was off to the studio for some contemporary fresh portraits of this incredible couple! 

Our favourite image was this relaxed image photographed outside our studio. We are so thrilled to have spent the day with you Claire and John! Thanks for visiting us guys!

8 tips for a STUNNING boudoir photoshoot

The Avalon City Imaging team LOVE Boudoir! We love it for all the reasons our clients do. It's super fun, it's empowering, it makes you feel damned sexy and it's just lovely to take some time out for a bit of pampering. Who doesn't love being fussed over?

To help out clients out, we thought we would share with you some of our hottest tips for rocking your Boudoir photoshoot. We hope you enjoy!

1. Personalise, Personalise, Personalise!

Props rock! Before your shoot think about the reasons you are doing this. Is it for you? Your partner? Maybe both? If its bridal boudoir for example, maybe consider bringing along the veil you will be wearing on the wedding day or any special things your partner loves. Brides-to-be often bring in their partners sports uniforms or favourite shirts. If this is for you, maybe you are a pinup queen and want to bring some vintage props, maybe its something that makes you feel totally sexy (we don't judge!)   It's entirely up to you! Think about what details will make this experience extra special to you!

This bride bought along her wedding lingerie, bouquet and veil for some extra personal touches. 

2. Play dress up!

It's not essential, but some of our clients love a shopping spree before their shoot! Get creative! For something truly decadent take a look at Agent Provocateur. For our friends wanting somewhere super body positive, we adore New Zealand based Lonely and their dedication to body diverse lingerie. Don't forget the age old classic for bodies over size 14 City Chic, For our friends on a budget Target have some pretty banging underwear sets. It's not about the money spent, its about how amazing it makes you feel! 

However don't feel pressured to spend up big. Have a look through your own wardrobe. It's completely up to you what you wear. Corsets, matching bra and underwear, cute stay up stockings, sometimes even those plain nickers you wander around the house in can look incredible.  You can also be daring go and nude! If you are feeling particularly nervous and unsure about the day, bring along a lacy robe or jacket you can pose with. Sometimes it's what we don't show thats sexy!

Sometimes it's what you don't show thats sexy!  This badass babe decided on boxing gloves and a hoodie for a deadly photoshoot experience!

3. Accessorise! 

Life is better with an amazing pair of shoes! We have seen everything from cowboy boots, stilettos, huge big black gothic boots, cute sparkly flats and fire engine red heels! Bring a selection so we can play around. Barefoot is awesome too! If you want to look taller and define your legs a bit more, heels work wonders.

Don't forget the bling! It doesn't have to be expensive to look incredible. We have been known to buy cheap costume pearls from the Reject Shop - it works every time! If you have any jewellery that's special to you (extra points for sentimental value, maybe your partner gave it to you or you treated yourself) pack that too. You can never pack too much! 

4. Research...

Let's get smart! Get a feel for the kind of images you want us to create by doing your research. We will never directly copy another photographers work, but have a look on sites such as Pinterest to find examples of the type of photos you want to make. This is a collaborative effort, so the more you show us, the better we can tailor your images to you. 

Rock some research! The stunning Cass loves books and a cup of tea,  so why not spice our shoot up with a bit of sexy librarian? 

5. Come Clean...

We know how tempting it is to throw on a bit of lippy or foundation before you leave the house, however our makeup artists have you covered. It's better if you have nothing on your face the moment you come in. Wash your hair the night before and we are good to go! If you are coming straight from work, we have wipes to remove any make up you still have on.

Behind the scenes of the incredible Mandy Nash working her magic on one of our amazing clients

6. Communication is key...

Like every good relationship, the more we know the better it's going to be. If you are uncomfortable, tell us. If you have an idea you want to try, go right ahead and let us know. If you have a disability that makes it harder to pose, we will be more than acomodating. Embarrassed to ask about photographing an idea you have? Truly don't be. We have seen it all! This is a 100% inclusive, judgement free environment. We want to make the best images we possibly can... so be wild! It's our little secret!

MEOW! Go wild! The absolutely STUNNING Jessie brought along a bunch of puuuurrrrrrrfect props for some kitty realness!

7. Plan in advance

Once your photoshoot is done, your order may take a while to process.  Especially if you want to create a gorgeous album or portrait box, we need time to create them. If you need this as a gift for your partner or if its time sensitive, book early so our worker elves can have them complete well before you need them. 
 

A selection of our gorgeous hand crafted Lafyette Boxes 

8. Relax... 

We couldn't talk about doing boudoir without talking about nerves. It's perfectly normal to feel uneasy or nervous about your shoot. Often you might get a few negative thoughts about yourself or butterflies in your stomach. Those thoughts often fade away super fast, but if its really bothering you, just chat to us about it. If it relaxes you a little you are welcome to bring a friend and have a few giggles. Deep breaths! You can trust us. We got this!

Relax... We got this!

If you are interested in a shoot of your own pop on over to our "Book your session" page

Much love everyone!

$49 Boudoir, Couple and Family photos

Valentines day is a celebration of love. At Avalon City Imaging, we personally believe in love in all forms... whatever your sexuality, whatever your relationship status, whatever place you come from. Love is love! Am I right? We all need a bit more love in our lives. 

So this one is for all the couples, all the singles, all the friends and all the families, let's take a moment out to celebrate how freaking great love is. It could be a loving partner, a bit of self love (The "I'm super great!" kind of love! What were you thinking?), or maybe you have the greatest family on earth. We want to invite you into our studio for a celebration.

This photoshoot package includes a beautifully art-worked 8x12 inch photographic print (its about the size of an A4 page, perfect for the wall!) a 1 hour makeup and hair pamper session for one person and a studio session with one of our three multi-award winning photographers. 

If your not convinced this will be a day to remember with your loved one (or yourself!) check out our 5 star reviews from our Facebook: 
 

“We honestly had the best time with Dave, he is such a pro and made sure we were comfortable and had the most amazing photo ideas, we are sooooo excited to see our images and take them home and share with our families and friends! Couldn’t speak more highly of a business, everyone is so welcoming!!!”

— Emille Tucker

“The day I came in to see my photos I fell back in love !!! A beautiful boudoir shoot just built my confidence up & I felt nothing but comfortable the whole time.
Ahh Dave you do such an amazing job. Made me feel super sweet & sexy at the same time in my shoot.
Such friendly staff from the moment you walk in. You can just feel that it’s going to be amazing as soon as you walk through those doors and you see the incredible photos hanging on the walls.
Can guarantee I’ll be back again.
Thank you again !!! Xx
”

— Breannah Longo

Bridal Boudoir Photography Session

A$500.00

Your Bridal Boudoir photography session includes professional hair and makeup for one person.

Up to two hours with one of our experienced Boudoir photographers.

The opportunity to change outfits up to 5 times (supplied by clients).

A portrait selection appointment with one of our image specialists and one 8x12 inch photographic print.

Additional images can be purchased at your discretion, during your portrait selection appointment.

Upon purchasing your shoot you will receive communication from our studio to arrange your session.

*All photoshoots are conducted within our Adelaide CBD studio. If you wish for one of our photographers to travel please call us before purchasing your shoot.

Add To Cart

We cant wait to meet you!

xx The Avalon City Imaging Team

Adelaide Wedding Pages Cover Behind the Scenes 2017

Oh my golly guys! Another year has passed and guess who got the cover of Adelaide Wedding Pages again? 

We are so excited to share with you this behind the scenes video of all the shenanniguns. Thanks to the entire team for your incredible efforts!

Credits:

Video and Photography by Avalon City Imaging, Photographed by David Markevicius, Assisted by Caroline Frearson, Video and Post Production by Gee Greenslade.

Dresses by Alexis George, Makeup by PRO Artistry, Hair by Mahiki Hair, Jewellery by Ashlee Lauren Designs, Models FTM Model Management

 

Behind the scenes Bridal Boudoir and Boudoir photographic session at Avalon City Imaging

We are so thrilled to introduce our Summer/Spring 2016 Boudoir and Bridal Boudoir behind the scenes promo video! 

Modelled by the incredible Virginia who has been the face of Avalon City Imaging this year. Ginny has been an amazing friend to us and supported our studio at bridal fairs and expos since March last year. 

Thanks for being a part of the Avalon City Imaging family Ginny! Catch her at the Fitness Expo this weekend at the Adelaide Showgrounds!

 

Valentines Day Boudoir Photography and Pamper Package Special!

Happy Valentines day everyone! 

So all of us here at Avalon City Imaging are rushing around making final plans for Valentines day. We recognise this is a super busy time in Adelaide, South Australia, especially with the Fringe opening tonight, So we thought we would help you all along with a fantastic opportunity for last minute gifting (and spoiling!) for that epic babe in your life.

This weekend only we have reduced the cost of our Boudoir and Bridal Boudoir Studio Photoshoots down from $390 to $95. Each shoot includes champagne on arrival, Haighs chocolates (A South Auzzie classic!) an incredible beauty makeover by our amazing styling, hair and makeup team and a 2 hour Boudoir or Bridal Boudoir photographic session with one of our highly experienced photographers.

These gift certificates can be booked in any time this year so long as we have the appointment available. 

For us, Boudoir is a genre that encompasses everything we love about photography. Its about empowerment, loving who you are (inside and out!) and embracing the power within yourself to do the things you always dreamed of doing. 

Scroll down to buy for yourself or your partner, (because hey valentines can be about self love too right?) and be transformed into a glamour queen in an incredible magazine style photoshoot. 

P.S: Boudoir isn't just for the ladies! Guys! Its time to get your sexy on!
 

Bridal Boudoir Photography Session

A$500.00

Your Bridal Boudoir photography session includes professional hair and makeup for one person.

Up to two hours with one of our experienced Boudoir photographers.

The opportunity to change outfits up to 5 times (supplied by clients).

A portrait selection appointment with one of our image specialists and one 8x12 inch photographic print.

Additional images can be purchased at your discretion, during your portrait selection appointment.

Upon purchasing your shoot you will receive communication from our studio to arrange your session.

*All photoshoots are conducted within our Adelaide CBD studio. If you wish for one of our photographers to travel please call us before purchasing your shoot.

Add To Cart

Have an amazing weekend everyone!

The Avalon City Imaging Team

Adelaide Wedding Pages 2016 cover shoot, Bridal Ideas expo and Shine Bright Like a Diamond

We are super excited to release our brand new website along with this fab behind the scenes video of the recent Adelaide Wedding Pages shoot! We shot the cover! 

Avalon City Imaging is in its 10th year of trading (WOW double digits!), so to celebrate we decided to shake things up with this beautiful sleek fresh website we created as a team. We wanted something simple, classy and all about the photos.  Stay tuned for more updates as time goes on, this is just the beginning guys!

Thank you to the fab crew at Adelaide Wedding Pages for styling this shoot for us, the two beautiful models from Tanya Powell and the incredible work of Eliza French who made the dresses. We couldn't have asked for a better day!

Not only that but we will be at the Summer Bridal Ideas Expo this weekend at the Adelaide Showgrounds. We have tonnes of awesome prizes to give away in our massive Shine Bright Like a Diamond competition. The team absolutely cannot wait to meet new friends and say hello to old ones. So come on down, have your engagement ring photographed by us, enter our competitions and meet some of our fabulous crew.

Also we have some amazing celebratory specials on our "Book Your Session" page, so don't forget to check that out!

Woah so much is happening! Thanks for joining us on this wild ride!

xx
The Avalon City Imaging Crew