Happy Holidays

Our 2009 holiday posting is featuring KOBO's official mascot, Chester! He has really become a seasoned model and sat still for about 20 shots wearing his New Years hat. Here is the image that we used. We wish you all a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

New Album in the Gallery

We're always rotating the albums in our gallery. This week we've added an album from Michael Bonfigli. Featuring a stunning bride and The White House in the background, it is one of our recent faves. Click here to see it!

Ciras Photography

Our client, Ciras Photography, has been sending in some gorgeous, romantic images! A recent session in New York yielded some beautiful sunset shots. A husband and wife team based in Boston, we can tell that Jesse and Heather set their clients at ease and love what they do!

This week at KOBO...

Our studio has been working on some really interesting images this week. Artistically enhancing images to be used in a "pin-up" calendar for one of our clients, a destination wedding in Jamaica and we set a new record this week for album designs. KOBO is growing, but don't worry our awesome image and customer services will remain top-notch. Here is a before/after for a few of the calendar images courtesy of Richard Overtoom Photography.

Kuddos to Cheryl Ungar Photography

One of our awesome clients, Cheryl Ungar, was recently featured in the Summer/Fall 2009 edition of Rocky Mountain Brides and will be in the Fall/Winter 2009 edition of Brides Colorado. Additionally her photography is featured for Monteverdi in Tuscany!

Lesa Van Meter ~ Shadowlands Photography

New client, Shadowlands Photography in Fort Wayne, IN, had a great first-time experience with KOBO. See her first album with us and learn more about the talented Lesa Van Meter. Here is our recent interview:

How would you describe your first experience with KOBO to someone who has not tried us?

I am very hands-on with my photography clients. I work hard to understand my clients' personalities and compatible product needs. So, as a first time KOBO customer, my 3 primary concerns revolved around the timeline of design process, the "listening ears" of the KOBO designers and the quality of the end result. Because I've always designed my own albums from scratch, my fear was that when I would receive my 1st round of proofs they might need several rounds of edits prior to showing the album to the client. I was truly blown away when I opened up the proofs. Sherry did a fabulous job of laying out an album using photos that fit my clients' style and showcased my photos in a way I have been unable to do myself. The "Wonderful World of KOBO" really IS all it's cracked up to be. Now, we all know that saying and doing are 2 very different things. KOBO promises that "each album is individually and uniquely designed to best enhance the photographic story of the day." There is no question in my mind that they delivered on their promise and that they brought my artistic vision to life through their album design services. Using KOBO album design services saves me priceless time and energy, allowing me to get out and shoot more instead of being stuck behind my computer.

Tell us about a recent favorite wedding...

Oooh. Tough question. Can I choose all of my weddings from this summer? Ha, ha. Ok...2 weddings I shot this summer really stand out. One in Huntington's Sunken Gardens (http://shadowlandsphotography.blogspot.com/2009/06/martin-lindsey-fairytale-wedding-at.html) and one in an amazing backyard in Defiance, Ohio (http://shadowlandsphotography.blogspot.com/2009/07/adam-brandis-outdoor-wedding-in.html). First of all, let me say that I LOVE photographing outdoor weddings. Both weddings were outside and both couples paid meticulous attention to detail, chose outstanding colors, dressed to the nines, added tons of their own personalities to their day and were tons of fun to work with.

How did you become involved with Operation Smile and Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep?

I became involved with Operation Smile (operationsmile.org ) through my membership in the PPA. Every October, my studio participates in Family Portrait Month. FPM is sponsored by PPA Charities (ppacharities.com) and is a tool to raise money for Operation Smile. The PPA invites participating photographers to donate a portion of their session fees to Operation Smile. Each year this incredible organization of more than 6,000 volunteer doctors, nurses, dentists, and specialized health-care professionals, perform free reconstructive surgeries for children suffering with cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities. More than 100,000 children are born with a facial deformity each year in Operation Smile’s 26 partner countries. Operation Smile is a wonderful charity because of its ability to positively change the lives of children around the world.

NILMDTS (nowilaymedowntosleep.org ) is a beautiful organization which was founded in April 2005 by Sandy Puc' (one of my heroes) and Cheryl Haggard. I am one of nearly 7,000 volunteer photographers in The Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep Foundation (NILMDTS) which administers a network of photographers in the United States and 25 countries. At a family's request, a NILMDTS Affiliated Photographer will go to a hospital or hospice location and conduct a sensitive and private portrait session. The portraits are then professionally retouched and presented to the families on an archival DVD or CD that can be used to print portraits of their cherished baby. Our entire network of affiliated photographers donate their time and talents to our families and we are proud to be able to offer our services at no cost. The soft, gentle heirloom photographs of these beautiful babies are an important part of the healing process. They allow families to honor and cherish their babies, share the spirits of their lives, and to grieve and acknowledge the life of their child. To pretend the tragedy never happened is a worse tragedy yet. I love Psalm 139:15-16 which states "My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." Every day of life is precious and ordained, no matter how few or how plentiful.

Longwood Gardens

During wedding season KOBO employees work 6-7 days a week. We are proud of our turnaround time and work hard to get your images and albums back to you as fast as possible. On a recent day off, Lori, KOBO's Studio Manager, visited Longwood Gardens. Here are some faves!

Michael Bonfigli Photography

Today's posting is a brief Q&A with one of our clients, Washington DC photographer extraordinaire, Michael Bonfigli. You can view his work at http://www.michaelbonfigli.com  or

click here to see a recent album that Michael photographed and KOBO designed.

1) On your email you note "Among DC's top photographers, 2000-2008" -Washingtonian Magazine * Grace Ormonde Platinum List 2007" Can you tell us more about those awards?
The Washingtonian magazine (now the Bride and Groom magazine) has a preferred vendor list that lists the top photographers and other vendors in the DC area. It's based on client and other vendor reviews. Its a great honor to be on the list for 9 years running.. really helps my business and its free! Grace Ormonde is an honor to be on their Platinum list because you have to be invited but it does cost money to be on it.

2) Is there a wedding or event that you've photographed that stands out from the rest?
My last wedding stands out because it was a beautiful wedding outside in the country, beside a big barn, you could hear the river running nearby, the birds etc... a perfect day and a perfect place for an intimate small wedding amongst friends. After the 20 minute ceremony everybody had a casual dinner some standing some sitting, it was all about being together and sharing in the moment. Simple but beautiful.

Also, loved a Georgetown wedding where the couple got married at the Georgetown chapel then everyone walked of the the Halcyon House for a big party reception. Everything from the flowers, to the lighting, to the DJ to the cake was just amazing. One of my favorite albums of all time was designed by KOBO from my photos of this wedding. Spectacular!

3) Can you tell me about your style?
My style originates from my training as a photojournalist. I worked many years with newspapers, including the Washington Post and the Christian Science Monitor. But my style has evolved into a more well rounded photographer who can shoot and capture all the wonderful moments but also can create beautiful, artistic and natural look portraits of the couple and their family and friends. I like to think that I am non obtrusive yet I am right where the action and the special unique moments are happening. I don't like to miss a thing!

4) How has working with KOBO helped you/your business?
Last year I had the most album orders ever. In part because of the way I market my packages and the other part is that I knew I was working with Kobo in designing my albums so I didn't have to worry about the work load and quality that I demand. It was a perfect match for me. The personal one on one customer service is amazing.. (sorry ..hope you guys don't get too big too fast as I really love how Sherry still answers the phone almost always the first time I call!!).
Anyway, the album design, the service, the quality and the turnaround times are amazing! Also, Sherry has a great sense of humor and is always keeping me on my toes with great suggestions and a few funny remarks to keep everything in perspective... What can I say I am a KOBO loyalist and it took me 8 years to decide to give up control of my album design... next step KOBO will be doing my color correction and posting to my website.. who knows I may just have them do it all.. can you guys shoot too?? (just kidding).

I continue to work on my documentary projects such as working in Asia and Latin America on causes that are very close to me. I have a website dedicated to that work, its: www.bonfigliphoto.com.

The Newlyweds

We see a lot of awesome images from our clients. Some are just gorgeous, some make us cry and some make us smile! Today's image is from Richard Overtoom. This certainly must've gotten a few laughs at the reception.

Dog Days at KOBO

One of the perks working here at KOBO, is that we bring our dogs to work. Chester and Cooper had a great time playing in the yard. Cooper is Jeanne's new puppy, he is a cavalier and cocker spaniel mix. All the employees dogs get along great and we can often be found taking several dogs for walks at lunchtime.

Cheryl Ungar Weddings

We recently had a chance to catch up with Cheryl Ungar, owner of Cheryl Ungar Weddings, a small boutique wedding photography business based in Colorado.

Tell us about your photography style

My unique perspective for wedding photography came from my early days as a photojournalist at a daily newspaper.  It is all about creating a story: wide shots, tight shots, medium shots, look at the subject from all angles and study the light. Most often, these are intuitive, split second decisions as I capture the moments and create permanent memories of your wedding day. I have been told that I have an uncanny ability to see the world differently than most: I see in compositions, I notice light. I recognize poses, I capture the unseen. 

Over the last 25 years, I have perfected my craft by shooting for some of the world's most renowned publications and clients, such as The New York Times, This Old House magazine, Allure magazine, Harper Collins Publishers, Anheuser-Busch, Mision La Serena in Cabo San Lucas and Monteverdi in Tuscany, just to name a few. 

PS - Cheryl wanted us to mention she is interested in partnering with other KOBO clients. Having had the privilege of working on many albums for Cheryl we highly recommend her. You can contact her through her website at http://www.cherylungarweddings.com

Love KOBO's music? Meet Nancy Falkow!

We are frequently asked about the KOBO theme song and music on our website, slideshows and phone system. All of our music is provided by Nancy Falkow. Nancy spent many years in Philadelphia as a Singer Songwriter, a session vocalist, an entertainment publicist and recording studio manager.  After the release of her 3rd solo effort, the acclaimed "Clear View," Nancy fell in love and hightailed it to Dublin, Ireland.  She currently lives there with her husband and daughter and is celebrating the release of "Under the Stars" with her latest project Sunflow, a duo with writing partner Fran King and producer Duncan Maitland. We recently caught up with Nancy, on Easter Sunday, and interviewed her for the blog. Click here for Nancy's new video!

How has living in Ireland affected your music?

Dublin is a lot harder of a nut to crack than Philly was, or maybe I was just in Philly long enough that I became a big fish in a small pond. There are A LOT of singer songwriters here and the opportunities in my opinion are fewer and further between, or maybe I just haven't been at the right places at the right times.  Since I've had my little girl, I've been performing a lot less.  I am just grateful that I met Fran & Duncan and had the opportunity to make a record that I am ridiculously proud of, so I don't feel like DOING LESS, means less.

What project(s) are you currently working on?

I just released "Under the Stars" a collection of lullaby-esque songs with the band Sunflow. After I had a baby, I was inspired to write songs for other parents to listen to that didn't want to make them put ice picks in their ears!  My friend, also a Dad to 2 kids, Fran King, wrote a bunch of songs too, we enlisted his good friend Duncan Maitland....and Sunflow was born.  The album came out in November and is doing great, we love the feedback from real parents who put their kids to bed with it and tell us how much they enjoy it (and how it actually works!)

What do you miss most about the US?

TARGET, is that so wrong?  Well, I must be honest, I'm here 5 years and I'm used to NOT having some things, but still import others.  It's all about the products.  I have a lot of American friends here and we're always bargaining to get each other to bring light weight items back with them since they've stopped the slow boat postal option.  There is no kind of discount-ish store like Target here. And let me tell you Ireland is EXPENSIVE.  I miss the certain conveniences America offers. And screens on the windows. I miss having screens on my windows.

Do you have any advice for aspiring singers?

I'm all about following your dreams, but if you don't have a large pile of money to fall back on, it's not crazy to be a singer AND get an education. Practice a lot and be as creative as you can with as many people that you can meet. Don't be afraid to do Open Mic's, you may meet some life long musical friends and get a lot of experience.

LINKITY GOODNESS:

www.nancyfalkow.com

You can buy all Nancy's solo albums at:

http://cdbaby.com/all/popmoosic

You can buy and listen to Sunflow:

http://www.itsaboutmusic.com/sunflow.htm

Indie

Indie was born on Independence Day 2004 and was named "Miss Independent" after the Kelly Clarkson song. Boy, did we get her name right! She is one strong minded dog. She is an accomplished counter surfer and carb addict. She has eaten such things as a 1# bag of Hershey Kisses, many loaves of bread and a birthday cake. She is a Bernese Mountain Dog and lives with Lori, her husband and two children.

Chester

With all the talk of Bo, the Obama's new puppy, we thought it was a good time to introduce some of the pets of KOBO. First, our official mascot, Chester! You may recognize him from our holiday emailings and other promotions. Chester is a great model and he lives with Sherry, her husband and their cat Molly.

Jack Randall Photography

"Sand and Surf" is a compilation album that we recently designed for California client, Jack Randall Photography.  A showcase of recent weddings, this will make an awesome sample album to take to Bridal Expos!  A larger version can be viewed HERE.

Margarita Wars

Ok it's time we come clean....margaritas are the official drink of KOBO Services. On a recent trip to Mexico I emailed Sherry the image above of a pitcher of margaritas on our patio. She promptly emailed me back her New Jersey deck margarita shot. Sherry gets bonus points for her homemade calamari!

Richard Overtoom Photography

Richard Overtoom is a KOBO client working and playing in Switzerland. Stunning couples and spectacular landscapes make his work so enjoyable for us that we should be paying him! Click here to see his latest album.

finao rocks!

There are a lot of great album companies out there, but we recommend finao! Their Armour and Ice Covers are sure to wow your bride and groom. Awesome quality, reasonable delivery and options galore! Albums, guestbooks and image boxes that will surpass your expectations...and maybe even your imagination. Click here to check them out!

Milk & Honey Productions

Great photographers are always looking for great videographers to partner with. We recommend Milk & Honey Productions in New York City. Considered one of the best, they deliver unbelievable, emotion packed videos every time. With clients from New York to Singapore, their innovative videos and top-notch service sets them apart from the rest.

Southwark Restaurant

A favorite restaurant in Philly that we want to turn you on to is Southwark. Hip, hot and delicious! Featured in Food and Wine, Gourmet and Esquire magazines you have to check them out - be sure to tell them KOBO sent you!

Super Bowl Trip

Our first blog posting is from Sherry's trip to Super Bowl in Tampa last week. Be sure to check back often so you don't miss anything!