The Answer To Mother’s Day

 

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A mother is the most important lady in our life. Many of us consider the woman from whom we were borne as our mother first and foremost, and as the person with whom we share the strongest bond in our life. This connection is the beginning of a relationship that is unique from any other, and special to each and every one of us. A mother is a person who has committed her life to taking care of her children; seeing that their needs are met, inspiring and loving them unconditionally. Patient and forgiving, she is someone who is always there for them. Husbands will also cherish these qualities in their wives. For many of us, we find this caregiving quality in the woman who brought us into this world, but even still, some of us will find motherly connections in grandmothers, non-biological mothers, aunts, older sisters, teachers, and other women close to us. These women are defined by their grace and unconditional love.

Out of curiosity, I asked the guys in our office how they feel about their mothers. Eternal love was one description along with admiration of her strength, independence, and constant source of inspiration. Another likened his mother to the steadfast light that guides one through the storms of life. “She always has good intentions, no matter what, she always wants the best for me,” said John. During our conversation, us women brought up the thoughtful ways in which our mothers say I love you. Little notes in a lunchbox or a letter in your suitcase before flying abroad are some examples we shared.

In adulthood, there may be times when these connections feel distant, maybe because you live in different locations, or even across the world from each other. Ups and downs come in the natural progression of any relationship, especially so with our mothers as we continue to grow and choose new experiences. Nevertheless, the love of a mother is always with you.

So whomever your lady may be, know that her unconditional love is something to celebrate. Mother’s Day is when we express our gratitude to the mothers and wives in our lives. Common gifts to our mothers have often included flowers, dinner, and (of course) chocolates. It’s a day we set aside each year to honor our mothers, and treat them to the great comfort, or luxury, they have so lovingly given us our entire lives. I truly believe that a mother should be treated like the queen she is, and that means giving her nothing less than the absolute best.

“What is the answer to Mother’s Day?” you may be wondering. The answer is simple: A gift of Love, A gift of Meaning. Give the mother in your life the tangible gift that encapsulates the intangible, a professional photography session with me. In my sessions, I am driven by the quest to capture the essence of the relationship and the true character and personalities of each individual. I do not settle for the typical posed shots we have all seen before. It is the energetic, soulful, and whimsical qualities of the moments I photograph that set my sessions apart from others. Present your mother with a gift that is both priceless and timeless… one she can enjoy now and in the future. Whether you are shopping for your spouse or your mother, a professional family photography session with Lucille Khornak is a gift that will truly last forever.

Call or email us for your gift certificate today!

(888) 858-1827

studio@lucillekhornak.com

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It's Time to Move

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Well, it has been awhile since my latest post, the reason why is I have been extremely busy clearing out my storage units as my company is moving to a new building in the coming months.

 When I started clearing out the space I came across a multitude of stuff: all of the slides I’ve taken over my career, cases of my print ads from my time as a commercial photographer, props, boxes of receipts, client proofs from the days of film, empty computer boxes, Christmas ornaments, home goods, large pieces of wood for installation projects, and the list goes on. Seeing all these items brought back so many memories. All in all, it has been nice to see my evolution through all these years.

 So I’m sorting through all my stuff and I began wondering “Why did I keep this or why did I keep that?” Well, at a certain point those items held an importance or there was something useful about holding onto it, however as the years go by it is easy to forget about all these things you’ve acquired. I realized how long overdue I was for a clean out!

Amidst getting rid of all the stuff I no longer need, I’ve been looking at all of the work from earlier in my career, ads I completely forgot about and other work that holds incredible meaning to me. Looking back, I actually became impressed with all the work I have done. I rediscovered all the articles that were written about my first book, “Fashion: 2001.” The publicity I received was unbelievable, it was nice to remember that. As I’ve had a long career, it’s been awhile since I’ve thought about some of my accomplishments. Even some of my staff who have known me for years said to me, “Wow, I had no idea you had all of this work!” We’ve been enjoying looking at it all.

So, we will be showing some of this past work on our new website. The new site is set to launch in a couple weeks or so. In the meantime, I am posting some of the ads here for you to view.

Givenchy

 Richelieu

 Yves Saint Laurent

Cleaning out has felt like a breath of fresh air. I urge you to do the same!

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7 Historical Destinations on Long Island

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If you're a Long Island native, you know that Long Island has much more to offer than solely it's scenic, sandy beaches. There are many beautiful and interesting historical destinations on the island, especially out east. If you're in the mood to explore your surroundings, head to any of these places listed below and discover the array of different adventures Long Island has to offer. Bring the whole family for a fun and educational new experience together while staying local! You may be pleasantly surprised at what you discover!

1. The Pollack Krasner House and Study Center – Located in East Hampton, the Pollack-Krasner House was once the home of abstract-expressionist Jackson Pollock and his wife Lee Krasner, who was also an artist. Built in 1879, the house still maintains the same appearance as it did at the time of Pollack's death, including the original furnishings, his favorite possessions, and his personal library. The property is considered a national landmark and attracts people from all over the world. You can even schedule a tour of the house and outdoor studio, where Pollack created some of his most famous artworks in his signature style.
2. The East Hampton Windmill – The 'Hook Windmill', located at Old Hook Mill in East Hampton, was constructed in 1806 and operated until 1908. The well-known landmark, found on North Main street, is included in the National Register of Historical Places. This location is open daily for visitors.
3. Fairview Farm – Located in Bridgehampton, Fairview Farm is a family-run business. The farm features a vast array of fresh meats, vegetables, fruits, herbs, fresh-cut flowers, and honey. Visitors from all over Long Island flock to Fairview for its delicious produce and historical nature.
4. Gosman's Dock – Founded in 1943 by Robert and Mary Gosman, the Montauk location started as a small chowder stand specializing in lobster rolls. The restaurant now serves a variety of delicious dishes that attract tourists from across the state. Gosman's Dock features a beautiful beach-front atmosphere coupled with clothing and gourmet food shops.
5. Deep Hollow Ranch – Run by Patrick and Cate Keogh, Deep Hollow Ranch is known as the 'birthplace of the American cowboy' and the oldest working ranch in the United States. The location includes preserved areas of coastal land and welcomes travelers from all over the world to learn more about America's rich history while enjoying trail rides through the beautiful Montauk landscape.
6. Camp Hero State Park – Consisting of 415 acres of gorgeous beachfront terrain in Montauk, Camp Hero State Park offers winding trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding through the beautiful forest and freshwater wetlands.
7. Montauk Lighthouse – 'Montauk Point Light' is the lighthouse located near Montauk Point State Park and marks the easternmost part of Long Island. Montauk Lighthouse stands as the first lighthouse to be constructed in New York and is the fourth oldest lighthouse in the United States. This location features a museum, areas for fishing, picnicking and surfing. For only 10$ per adult and $4 per child, you can enter the lighthouse and climb its spiral staircase – truly a walk through history.

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Not Ready For Your Close-Up? Tips For Looking Great in Every Photo!

Elisa Zied, nutritionist and author, photographed by Lucille Khornak.

Before the days of social media, a bad photograph was just a bad photograph. It could be thrown away, swiftly deleted and never worried about again. Now, with the existence of Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, there is no escaping the embarrassment of an unflattering photo! With friends and family constantly snapping photographs for their social media accounts, it is not uncommon to wake up to find you've been tagged in a cringe-worthy picture post, displayed for all the world to see. We've all had someone take less-than-becoming photos of us at some point and, despite our subtle hints or blatant protest, post them on social media for everyone's eyes. If you dread taking photographs with others in the fear that you won't be happy with the result, here are a few simple tricks that may increase your photo- taking confidence and stop you from running the other way every time someone pulls out their camera.

• Know your angles. Everyone has a 'good side'. Figure out which angle is most flattering for you and pose accordingly in group photos.
• Go for a more natural makeup look. Foundation that is too heavy or not the right shade will make your features appear flat and distract from your true beauty. Lightly emphasis the eyes and lips and use a sheer highlight and contour powder on the cheekbones for a healthy glow. Lipstick can also help you look good.
• Remember that dark-colored makeup can age you, so avoid brown or deep red lipsticks and heavy blush. Set your look with a light mattifying powder to avoid excess shine in photos.
• Smile! A smile that is natural and not forced will always look best. If you can't think of something funny before the picture is taken, smile or laugh a little. Happiness is always beautiful!
• Enlist the help of a professional!: When in doubt, consult a pro. Skilled professional photographers know exactly how to capture their clients so that a perfect picture is possible every time. Their knowledge of angles, lighting and posing can prove to be infinitely helpful when trying to capture flattering, high-quality photographs.

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How the Arts Can Help Your Child Grow

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It is never too early to introduce your child to the arts and so easy to incorporate creative activities into their everyday life. With countless studies proving that simply picking up a crayon or paintbrush can aid in your child's healthy development, it is no wonder why parents are beginning to encourage artistic ventures with just as much vigor and enthusiasm as standard academics. According to these studies, it is recommended that children should engage in the arts while their cognitive skills are developing. During this time, the left and right hemispheres of the brain are still growing. The left side of the brain controls logical thinking, dealing with analytical processes such as math, reading and science, while the right side of the brain controls emotional perception and creativity. It is important that both sides of the brain develop equally during this time in order to reach a healthy balance in which both regions can work together simultaneously.

According to the New York Center for Arts Education, integrating artistic activities into your child's life can have many positive effects that can last an entire lifetime. Listed below are just some of the benefits of introducing your child to the arts at an early age. While you may have been aware of some of these positive effects, others will truly surprise you! Read on to find out how the arts can impact your child's life in an amazing way!

1. Strengthened motor skills: As your child holds a paintbrush or pencil in their hand, they are actually improving their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, which can be incredibly useful later in life.

2. Language development and visual learning: Drawing or painting with your child will spark opportunities for them to learn new words for colors and objects and correctly associate each word with an image. By doing so, your child will be able to recall what they've learned with greater ease and use this new information properly in everyday life.

3. Improved confidence and self-esteem: Creating something yourself or expressing yourself artistically can spark feelings of accomplishment and pride – personal characteristics that are incredibly important. Let your child create whatever they imagine and acknowledge their efforts. Feeling good about yourself – even at a young age – can go a long way.

4. Strong sense of dedication, focus, and improved decision-making skills: Bringing their ideas to live in a fun and creative manner can help your child learn to follow through on personal projects, make their own choices and stay on task.

5. Healthy expression of emotion, strong sense of creativity and inventiveness: You may have guessed that engaging in the arts can enable your child to become more creative and inventive, but did you know that exercising the right side of the brain through artistic activities can help your little one to learn to understand and express their emotions positively? Strong emotional intelligence is an excellent quality to have, playing an important role in leading a balanced, happy life and forming positive relationships with others.

6. Teamwork, collaboration, and sense of community: Working together with friends and family will teach your child how to interact with others in order to achieve a common goal. Participating in local art programs can demonstrate the importance of community and togetherness. In addition, fun, creative group activities can be an incredible bonding experience for you and your child.

7. Increased academic performance: Children who frequently participate in the arts throughout their lives tend to do better in school and are proven to score up to three times higher on standardized tests such as the SATs. In addition, they are more likely to have higher scores in attendance, participate in community service and after-school programs and receive awards for their achievements.

8. Cultural awareness and open-mindedness: Acknowledgment of the different ideas, emotions and viewpoints of others can be learned through artistic collaboration and art education, which can help shape an open mind.

Now that you are more familiar with all the fantastic things the arts can do for your child, you may be asking yourself how and when you can begin. The answer to that question is easily and right now! There are many ways to introduce fun, artistic and rewarding activities into your child's life and your family's schedule. Remember that the arts include painting, drawing, music, theater, sculpture, writing, dancing, photography – there is something for everyone to enjoy! Here are some simple tips on how to get started:

Always have arts and crafts supplies available to your child. Celebrate your child's artwork and display it around the home. Put together a designated 'art studio' or creative space for your child. Read aloud to your child – be dramatic, energetic and act out the plot together. Play all different types of music for your child and expand their knowledge of different cultures. Make a scrapbook together. Book a professional family photo shoot and turn the family into a work of art!

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Why Collect Art?

Buying or collecting works of art is about much more than purchasing things we find to be aesthetically pleasing from time to time. It's about actively supporting the arts and playing an important part in the art world. It's about acquiring a uniquely personal collection of works that reflects one's own perspectives, ideas, interests or desires and the thrill of the hunt that comes with it. By purchasing a work of art, you are supporting the artist in their creative efforts and acknowledging the time, skill and thought that went into completing the piece. By collecting artwork, you are helping the artist to spread their influence and, in return, are able to own a special piece of art history, safely preserving it from the damaging effects of time. You are also helping to support galleries, which work with artists to help them display their works for the public to observe and enjoy.

There are quite a few additional benefits that come with collecting artwork. For one, you get to own a beautiful collection of meaningful works. Buying artwork is also a wonderful investment since original pieces that are kept in good condition have the potential to grow in value exponentially. Who knows which new artist will become the next Jeff Koons, Chuck Close or Jasper Johns? As a collector, you are playing a part in the history of art. Without the patronage of collectors, the art world could not exist. Think of what the history of art would be like without those who collected and preserved the works of Picasso, van Gogh or Pollack? By supporting artists whose work you cherish, you are taking on a very important role. You are also creating something yourself – personal collections of works of art can begin to tell the unique story of the collector's ever-evolving tastes and mirror aspects of their lives, personal experiences, and innermost dreams. These distinctive and customized collections can add visual interest and character to the interior of the home. They can also be passed down for generations, serving as part of one's legacy, forever telling the story of one's passion and dedication towards the arts. Are you interested in collecting artwork and beginning your own personal collection of pieces?

It begins with browsing galleries and brushing up on your knowledge of art. You can choose to concentrate on a particular artist, style or period, as many collectors do, or you can simply search for pieces that spark something inside you. Finding works that represent your own ideas or perspectives on the world can be viewed as a treasure hunt, an opportunity for growth and an enjoyable challenge! Collecting artwork is – above all things – a passion, a mission, and an adventure!

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Don't Forget Fido! Include Your Pets In Your Next Family Photoshoot

If you're a proud pet owner, you know that your favorite furry friends are without a doubt an important part of the family. Pets seem to tie the whole family together, providing us with laughter, happiness and comfort during the good times and the bad. Their unconditional love and loyalty are truly remarkable, which explains why so many pet owners wish to celebrate their beloved little companions every chance they get. This tradition is especially popular in the Hamptons, where you see families with their dogs year round, taking walks together around town on sunny days. It really is a heart-warming sight.

Some of the best family portraits are those that feature the entire extended family – including the family pet! Including your dog in the photoshoot can offer some of the best candid shots and countless opportunities for great photos. Pets add something special to the photo session – a certain element of warmth and humor. They bring a playful energy and add an extra element of fun to the experience. The kids will love posing with their favorite animal and looking back on these photographs when they are older.

We love our pets and want to remember them forever, just as we do with our friends and family. Next time you are planning a shoot for the family or looking to create beautiful seasonal holiday cards, remember to include your family pet. For an extra special treat, have some pictures taken of just your pets. I am great with animals and I know exactly how to incorporate them into your photographs. These prints can be hung as artwork in the home to create a warm, loving atmosphere or featured on special greeting cards to send to all your family members and friends. Remember - Your pet is a family member.

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The Misconceptions and Downfalls of DIY Photography

Photo: Pinterest

Though nowadays we all have the luxury of having a camera on hand at all times, it is important not to forget that photography is an art form. Though anyone can snap a photo with their camera phone, not everyone is a photographer. Just as everyone can pick up a pencil and draw, not everyone can be considered a professional artist. The idea remains the same. Becoming a professional photographer takes years of education, practice and experience. A talented photographer possesses both learned and innate skill, having a trained eye and keen artistic intuition. Working with accomplished icons such as Georgio Armani, Yves St. Laurent and Andy Warhol, I've strengthened my technique over the years to deliver a level of quality that cannot be duplicated and used these experiences to transform the field of family portraiture. When I capture a client's family, the end result is much more than a photograph – it is a work of art.

The equipment and editing software that is used in the creation of our portraits is top-of-the-line and generates the most beautiful and natural results. The talented designers we employ at our studio put a great amount of time and effort into perfecting each photograph and this is evident in the portraits we produce for our clients. The irreplicable quality of our prints, unique artistic style and ability to bring fun and excitement to each photo session are what keeps our clients coming back year after year.

It's always saddening to see professional photographers lose business due to the ever-increasing presence of modern day technology in our lives. It is also worrying to see so many people documenting life's most important moments on their iPhones. Towards the end of our lives, the photographs we've kept over the years will be our way of looking back on all those magical, happy moments we've experienced. These preserved memories will be passed down for generations and serve as our everlasting legacy. When I think of how important these photographs will be to us, I wonder why so many people resort to do-it-yourself photography, serving as their own photographer. Besides for the unfortunate fact that the quality of amateur photography is sub-par, it is risky to store all our photos on unreliable technological devices. In just a second, a lifetime of photos could be lost on faulty laptops or cellphones. Photographs should be tangible, in my opinion – displayed as artwork around the home so they can be cherished daily, adding warmth and character to your living space. Our special family moments are so precious to us, it is a shame to keep them stashed on our computers or social media profiles rather than treating them with the importance they deserve. Though taking your own photographs may be convenient, it may have a negative impact in the long run as it does not do our most beloved moments justice nor preserve them in a reliable way. Enlisting the help of a professional photographer will not only provide you with the high-quality portraits you deserve but will also allow you to truly celebrate life's best moments and all those that we love.

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Behind the Scenes at the Lucille Khornak Photography Studio

Long Island City. See more photographs on Facebook and Instagram. 

The weather is growing cold and crisp and the city is already adorned with its usual seasonal décor, igniting the holiday spirit within the hearts of its inhabitants. In a spacious building in Long Island City, my studio is alive and buzzing in preparation for the holidays. The space gives off a professional and creative atmosphere, each workspace featuring top of the line technology and the finest editing software. While an experienced team of designers diligently work to perfect festive holiday cards and flawless portraits for a long list of clientele, I attentively supervise while working with my team.

Everyone seems to be working towards two main goals here: artistic perfection and client satisfaction. I am adamant that each photograph coincides with the highest standards of quality, making sure every last detail is polished. Operating with a tireless sense of determination, positivity and enthusiasm, I offer my professional opinion every step of the way, using a trained eye to help achieve undeniable perfection. Each client's order is truly a team effort, utilizing the talent and artistry of each designer to deliver an elegant and soulful final product. When preserving priceless family memories that will be treasured for years to come, you shouldn't have to expect anything less.

At the busiest time of the year, my Photography Studio team really shines. So much time and effort are put into ensuring that each photograph is truly a work of art, going above and beyond clients' expectations. It is an eye-opening experience to see firsthand what goes on behind the scenes. A great amount of heart goes into the production of the beautiful images you see displayed across the walls of my galleries at Southampton and Bridgehampton. I mix incredible artistry with a remarkable dedication to quality and client satisfaction, it is no wonder why my business continues to flourish and the list of clientele grows each year.

My team and I transform intimate family moments into luxurious images that can be cherished forever, serving as constant reminders of all the love we share with our loved ones. Book your photo session today and see the difference quality can make in your photographs. I guarantee that you will love my photographs.

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Life's Special Moments: Capture Your Engagement

Marriage is one of the biggest, most anticipated moments in our lives. It goes without saying that an event as incredible as a wedding should be preserved forever through photography. But what about the initial proposal? The exact moment that changes your lives forever? You will both want to remember this second in time with unwavering clarity and definition, no matter how many years pass by. By enlisting the help of a professional photographer, you can revisit and relive this amazing moment together time and time again, reminiscing with your special someone and reawakening the strength and beauty of your love for decades.

Capturing a marriage proposal through photographs allows you to share a once-in-a-lifetime, intimate moment with your closest friends, family – and even your children and grandchildren one day. Your loved ones and dearest friends will undoubtedly adore looking through these photographs with you, honored to be invited to experience such a magical and personal moment in your lives. Life is so precious and time is fleeting – we must document every remarkable experience we encounter, especially those that remind us that life is a beautiful gift.

Artistic, high-quality photographs of your marriage proposal can transform an already priceless moment in life into a work of fine art, serving as a gorgeous reminder of your love throughout your lifetime. These photographs will tell the story of your journey together and deserve only the highest standards in photography. I know the importance of preserving life's special moments. With a trained eye and years of experience, I will capture every candid moment with elegance, whimsy, and soul, delivering flawless photographs that truly come alive, shining with color, emotion, and personality.

Our shared memories are what keeps our relationships going strong over the years. Though our lives do not last forever, the love we share will always live on. When it comes to capturing your marriage proposal – one of the life's most awaited moments – choose a photographer that will deliver only the best.

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The Importance of Quality Corporate Photography

Giorgio Armani. See more photographs on Facebook and Instagram. 

If you're a working professional or a self-starter, you know how important it is to actively promote yourself in order to grow your business and increase your clientele. You only have one chance to make a good first impression on potential clients and investors – and when this first impression can dramatically impact your own success, it's important to get it right!

Many may not realize the sheer importance of quality corporate photography and just how much it can contribute to the success of one's own business ventures. A corporate headshot is much more than just a photograph as it possesses the ability to either strengthen or diminish the prosperity of your brand. You see, your corporate photos speak volumes about your business, playing an integral part in reaching marketing goals, generating good publicity and shaping a positive public opinion. These photographs immediately influence the views of others and impact how your business is initially perceived and remembered, leaving a lasting impression. Flattering, high-quality corporate headshots will help your business be seen as professional, valuable and trustworthy – ultimately increasing the sales of goods and services. Images that appear sub-par, amateur or unflattering, on the other hand, will have the opposite effect. A bad corporate headshot can even deter potential clients from wanting to work with you.

It's importance to keeping your corporate photos up-to-date in order to demonstrate a commitment to quality, pride in your work and appreciation for the customer. When you show you care about your own personal image, you communicate your dedication to your company, to professionalism and to client satisfaction. These images can be implemented in many different ways – featured on business cards, company websites, brochures and many other forms of media – all of which can help your business grow. It is for this reason that your corporate photographs should be seen as an investment, only to be provided by a trusted, experienced professional photographer.

A lot of work goes into capturing the perfect corporate headshot. Such a feat requires only the finest in professional equipment, lighting, and editing software. Most importantly, however, is enlisting the help of a professional photographer who possesses the experience, artistic ability, and technical skill to achieve your vision for your business. Everyone is unique and must be photographed a certain way depending on angles, lighting, posing and desired effect. Different occupations require different expressions of personality, fitting backdrops, and appropriate wardrobe. An acclaimed professional will be able to effortlessly assist you with all these detrimental factors, resulting in appropriate corporate headshots that present you in the best way possible, going above and beyond the highest standards of quality.

As a business owner, I recognize the importance of quality marketing and have worked with many companies to provide them with the corporate photos needed for lasting success. I understand that every business professional has a vision and takes the needed steps to ensure this vision is clearly communicated through every photograph. Are your corporate photographs looking a bit outdated? Do you only want the best for your business? Contact us today to arrange a customized photo session or I can come to your company and provide corporate photos for your entire team!

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Destination Travel

Vacations can provide us with some of the finest lasting memories. What could be better than getting away for a while with the ones you love most? With so many exotic and beautiful landscapes for us to explore across the globe, the vacations we take together provide us with unique opportunities to see and do new things. We are also able to become even closer, taking delight in each other's company while basking in a refreshing change of scenery. Whether you're traveling with your entire family or embarking on a well-deserved romantic getaway without the kids, you'll undoubtedly want to capture every moment. After all, the best part of returning home after an amazing trip together is sharing your travels with all your friends and loved ones!

The scenic backdrops and exciting new experiences that travel destinations offer to create countless opportunities for gorgeous photographs to be captured – making it quite difficult not to spend a considerable portion of your time reaching for your camera rather than relishing in the present moment. Have you ever felt like you spent more time snapping photos on vacation than actually enjoying yourself? Do you worry so much about preserving every wonderful moment that it interferes with the experience? Are you often the one taking the photographs, leaving you missing from most of your vacation photos? There's always the option of asking a stranger to take the picture for you, but by the time they figure out how to use your camera and quickly snap the pic, you're often left with a stiff and unflattering photo.

You shouldn't have to choose between fully enjoying yourself or preserving once-in-a-lifetime memories. When you're miles away from your obligations at a luxurious location, you shouldn't have a care in the world. This is why many of my clients invite me to travel with them across the globe, some have their own private jets. I devote myself to capturing every special moment so that they can be cherished time and time again. Utilizing years of experience, a trained eye, and a strong artistic vision, candid vacation moments are instantly transformed into breathtaking works of art, appearing even better than you remembered! I know the best way how to make my clients feel comfortable, relaxed and ready for some fun – effortlessly snapping photographs that will show you in your best light. You will love sharing these beautiful, top-of-the-line photographs with your friends and family. With colors so crisp and vibrant, these high-quality photos will have you feeling as if you've drifted back in time, re- experiencing each treasured moment. These incredible photographs can be hung as artwork in the home or used to make elegant prestige albums that can be passed on for generations.

To have me (Lucille) accompany you to your next travel destination, contact us at lucille@lucillekhornak.com.

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The Power of Photography

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As we get older, we become more aware of the impermanence of life. This is a feeling that is bittersweet. Things are always changing – people get older, families grow and the world around us evolves before our eyes. It's truly a remarkable thing, but because everything seems to happen so quickly, it's important not to let life pass us by and to remember to savor the company of our loved ones and all things we hold dear throughout the years. In a fast-paced, ever-changing world like the one we live in today, photography is more important than ever. Many people are unaware of the critical role photography plays in our lives, as it possesses a power unlike any other and a purpose that goes far beyond recreation.

The power of photography is its ability to seemingly freeze time, immortalizing a special moment so it can be remembered forever. Photography is the only way to quickly capture a second in time and turn it into a tangible, lasting image with true-to-life accuracy, unlike many other art forms. Photography enables an experience to be shared and communicated with others without any barriers. In this way, photography helps us stay close and connected with family and friends, regardless of any distance that may be between us. By intimately sharing our lives with friends and loved ones through pictures, we are able to bond and relate to each other on a deeper level.

As you may know, the photographs we leave behind are an important part of our legacy. Photographs tell your story and will continue to do so for generations. This is why it's so important to document your life with professional photography. Capture every moment you wish to remember  and not just the highlights. Know that these pictures will be passed on to future generations and that you will live on through them. Choosing the highest quality for your family portraits is incredibly important. These pictures need to endure the test of time. They should coincide with how you would like to be remembered – whether you'd like to showcase your personality or give off a feeling of timeless elegance with a more traditional style.

If you are looking for a professional photographer, visit my website and Facebook page. Email or call our studio to book your session!

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A New Family Tradition: Customized Holiday Cards

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It's never too early to start getting excited about the holidays! Now that the air is growing colder, thoughts of Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah and New Years begin to dance happily through our heads. No matter which holiday (or holidays) you and your family choose to celebrate, they all seem to revolve around one main thing: family. The holidays are a fantastic time to send your love to relatives and friends. There really is no better way to send season's greetings than to send customized holiday cards of you and your family to those you love.

Customized holiday cards are a unique and festive way to celebrate the season. I offer beautiful, personalized cards for every season and every occasion, guaranteed to make your loved ones smile! With the highest standards in quality and artistry, these unique cards are unlike any other – undeniably elegant, timeless and soulful. When your friends and family receive a special greeting card made by the Lucille Khornak Photography design team featuring photographs taken by me, it will be something they cherish forever. We have heard from our clients that everyone saves the card and they get rave reviews.

Start a new tradition with your family this year and send out gorgeous holiday cards that everyone will remember! Not only do we guarantee you'll love the photos, the process of designing your cards is a fun, one-of-a-kind bonding experience the whole family will enjoy. Everyone knows the feeling you get when you receive a heartfelt card from a friend. Share the importance of family, love and togetherness with everyone you know. These cards are made with love for those you love!

To join the long list of clients who have made their season even brighter with personalized greeting cards, stop by our Southampton gallery this weekend or contact me at 888-858-1827 Lucille Khornak Photography ( email: lucille@lucillekhornak.com) and book your family photo session today!

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How Digital Photography Changed the Photography Business

The invention of the digital camera has had an incredible impact on the field of photography, revolutionizing how professional photographers operate their businesses and opening up the realm of photography to millions of interested amateur photographers. Such an incredible change has transformed photography from an exclusive art form reserved for trained artists into something that is accessible to everyone. In this day and age, everyone owns a camera – it is actually difficult not to – as they come conveniently built into our cell phones, laptops, tablets etc – ready to snap a photo with the simple push of a button. What did the switch to digital mean for professional photographers in the business? I took a moment to reflect on how the invention of the digital camera has shaped my business into what it is today.

Before digital, I had an assistant and a secretary. I had the same cameras for years. Today, I have ten people that work in our Long Island City studio to help process clients' work. I have to buy new cameras every two years as there are only so many clicks on a digital camera. We have to keep up with the monitors, calibrate them for the color and continuously buy new software as everything gets upgraded. As you can see, digital photography became a more costly endeavor.

Behind the scenes of my photography business, there is a lot of work that goes into ensuring that each client's portraits are top-of-the-line in quality and unlike any other. Though this work is time-consuming it is carried out promptly with expert precision and attention to detail, and only the best is presented to my clients. As technological advancements are made, the same cameras cannot be used throughout the years. They must be upgraded to keep the business up-to-date with the newest alterations in equipment. In this way, digital photography requires many additional costs which are all fundamental in the process of producing luxury photographs.

There are many positive aspects of digital photography as well. With digital, there are a seemingly infinite number of alterations that can be done to the file. Imperfections can be corrected, wrinkles can be softened  and the best shot of each person can be combined into one flawless picture in which everyone looks their best. A team of graphic designers at my studio in New York City are skilled in making sure that every edit looks natural and seamless. I have several professional photo retouchers, a color correction specialist, designers that create the holiday cards and prestige photo books, and a tech person to back up the extensive archive of files and manage the network of computers that is necessary for running the business.

Since the film is not used in digital photography, more photographs can be taken at once without worrying about wasting film, making the quest for the perfect photo substantially easier. The raw, unedited pictures from each photo shoot are considered to be the 'negatives. Theses are very large files that we immediately back up. We make a smaller file for clients to view during the selection process as large files take too long to open up.

These are viewed as the unfinished product and are not given to clients since they have not yet met standards of the Lucille Khornak brand perfection. Because I appreciate our clients and feel honored to be a part of preserving their happiest memories, we only want to give our clients the best. Photographs of this quality are works of art – they are made to be framed, used in a design for a gallery wall in the home or put into prestige books to pass on in your family for decades.

What continues to keep successful photography businesses alive and flourishing regardless of the changing tides of technology is a strong dedication to a level of quality that cannot be imitated and the sheer skill of an experienced artist with a trained eye.

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Halloween Art

Community, Art, Children, a great combination.

Yesterday I was photographing a client in Rye, New York. I stopped in the town for a hot chocolate as it was a very cold day for October.

I was amazed to see all the great artwork done by the children that live in the area. Each painting was the same size and it was on the outside of all the store windows. Children could draw and paint as they please.

Good to see the town promoting art and especially the budding artists while nurturing community spirit.

#RYE

Here are some examples.

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Halloween in the Hamptons

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It's almost that spooky time of the year again! Halloween is quickly approaching and the festivities are already beginning! There are so many things to do around the Hamptons this Halloween. If your kids are already eager to break out their costumes and have some fun, there is good news: they don't have to wait until the 31st to get into the Halloween spirit! Listed below are some great local events for the whole family to enjoy. So break out your most creative costumes and get ready for your best Halloween yet!

Bridgehampton Lions Club's Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest: On Monday, October 29th at the Bridgehampton Community House, the Bridgehampton Lion's Club will be having their annual pumpkin carving contest. Carve your best pumpkin masterpiece and you may receive a prize ranging from $20-$150. Don't forget to grab some delicious cider and donuts and stay for the puppet show!

Southampton Chamber of Commerce Annual 'Rag-A-Muffin' Halloween Parade: Join the fun on October 25th during the Southampton Chamber of Commerce's Annual 'Rag-A-Muffin' Halloween Parade for children ages nine and under. Don your best costume and arrive at 1 pm at Lake Agawam Park on Jobs Lane to begin the parade! A large turnout is expected. There will be a contest for best costume, the winner receiving a prize! After the parade, children and parents are invited to participate in the Southampton Pumpkin Trail, in which local merchants will give out treats at their shops on Main Street and Jobs Lane. Participating stores will have a special paper pumpkin in their windows. In the event of rain, the activities will be held at Rogers Memorial Library in the Morris Meeting Room at 91 Coopers Farm Road. Stop by our Southampton gallery at 77 Jobs Lane during the Pumpkin Trail event for a special treat!

Quogue Enchanted Forest Trail: On October 17, 11am-2pm, and October 25th, 12pm-3pm, the Quogue Wildlife Refuge at 3 Old Country Road will be hosting an enchanted forest trail. Children two to seven years in age and parents are welcome to meet whimsical and educational characters while walking the refuge's forest trails with a guide. This event will be full of games and activities. Dress up with your family and attend this one-of-a-kind experience. Reservations are required, so call Kimberly Stever at 631-653-4771 to reserve a spot. Reservations are $10 per person.

Mulford Farm's Festival of Frights: Grimm Scary Tales at Haunted Milford Farm: Mulford farm in Easthampton promises your family the spookiest festival of the season. Walk through the 'haunted' farm for the cemetery tour on October 27th at 6 pm, hosted by the Easthampton Historical Society. Tickets are $10 per family, or $5 for adults and $2 for children. Come and see some fantastic costumes and be prepared for an educational yet terrifically creepy experience!

Haunted Path and Ghoulish Games at the Southampton Youth Center: On October 30th, 7pm-10pm, the Southampton Youth Center (1370A Majors Path, Southampton) will be hosting the perfect gathering for children in grades six and up. Navigate through their spooky walk then compete in some festive and fun activities such as a mummy race, zombie basketball, and ghost dodgeball! At only 5$ per entry, this event is great for the active family who doesn't mind a bit of a scare!

Enjoy Halloween all month long with your family and make this October the best yet! Lucille Khornak Gallery wishes your entire family a safe, spooky and memorable Halloween!

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Fall Activities for the Family

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Though summer has come to an end and long days at the beach may now be behind us, there are still many opportunities for festive family fun on Long Island. The changing of the seasons brings us colorful leaves to play in, pumpkins to pick, cider to drink and hay bales to climb, evoking a sense of wonder and excitement in children and adults alike. The cool autumn weather and approaching holidays always seems to bring families even closer together. Make this season special by participating in some of the family-friendly fall activities listed below! Each activity is simple, stress-free and great for creating new memories together – perfect for the kids and kids-at-heart!

Go Apple Picking Together: The chilly weather marks the beginning of the fall harvest, meaning the apples are ripe and ready to be picked off the trees! There are many local, family-owned orchards on Long Island to choose from, such as 7 Ponds Orchard in Watermill and Harbes Family Farm in Mattituck. Engage the kids by playing games while picking. See who can find the largest apple and award the winner with a small prize. At the end of the day, make caramel apples together using a simple at-home kit from your local grocery store.

Attend Local Farmer's Markets: Going to the farmer's market is not only a great way to buy incredibly fresh produce while supporting local farmers, it's a lot of fun! Take the kids to your local farmer's market and let them help you select some crisp fall fruits and vegetables. This new tradition can even get them excited about healthy eating. The Southampton Chamber of Commerce Farmer's Market will be open Sundays throughout the month of October, from 9am-2pm. The Market is located on the east side grounds of the Southampton Arts Center at 25 Jobs Lane. Over 25 vendors will be featured selling farm-fresh produce, baked goods, jams, spices, teas, gluten-free and vegan products, wine from local vineyards, natural skincare products, soaps, artisan jewelry, natural pet treats and more! While you're in town, stop by our Southampton Gallery right down the street and say hi!

Make Your Own Apple Cider: There's nothing better than a warm cup of cider on a cool autumn day. Follow this easy, kid-friendly recipe to make your own hot cider at home.

Book a Family Photo Session: Fall is the perfect season to book your family photo session. The scenery is beautiful and makes for incredible pictures! A photo session with Lucille is an experience the whole family will enjoy and remember forever. Have one- of-a-kind holiday cards made to send to all your loved ones this year – it's a special gesture that friends and family will cherish!

Go Pumpkin Picking: Make a day out of it and attend a local farm with many other attractions. Hank's Pumpkintown in Watermill offers corn mazes, wagon rides, pedal cart races, animals, games, education stations and more. As a safer and less messy alternative to pumpkin carving, paint your pumpkins with the kids and put them out on display!

Homemade Halloween Costumes and Decorations: Spend an afternoon making festive arts and crafts with the kids to use as decorations around your home. Let them unleash their creativity by putting together their own Halloween costumes this year.

Whatever you decide to do with your family this season, make sure you have as much fun as possible together. With all the festive activities that this time of year has to offer, you may just fall in love with autumn!

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Express Yourself to Better Health!

Do you make time for creative self-expression? In today's world, busy work schedules, daily obligations and the general hustle and bustle of the everyday leave most of us unable to find time to engage in the creative activities we love. Though many can recognize the great impact of self- expression throughout human history and the influence of the arts on our culture, not enough find time to participate themselves. Recently, however, scientists are discovering the many health benefits of creative self-expression, which includes writing, painting, dance, photography, drawing, playing music, ceramics, sculpture and anything in between. Read on and you may decide to join the many individuals who are now making time in their schedules for some fun, artistic endeavors.

In an article published by the American Journal of Public Health in 2010, entitled The Connection Between Art, Healing and Public Health, one hundred different scientific studies were reexamined to further understand the impact of creative self-expression on ones mental and physical well-being. Each of the one hundred studies chosen included 30 participants who suffered from chronic illness and cancer. The results of these studies showed that visual arts activities impacted the psychological and physical health of participants in the following ways:

• 'Art filled occupational voids and distracted from thoughts of illness'
• 'Improved medical outcomes and decreased depression'
• 'Improved well-being by decreasing negative emotions and increasing positive ones'
• 'Reduced stress and anxiety'
• 'Improved flow and spontaneity, expression of positive identity and social networks'
•  'Improved immune system by strengthening the body's defenses on the cellular level'

Many recent studies further validate that exercising our creativity is good for us. Such findings have lead to the emergence of art therapy, which utilizes the process of creating art to facilitate healing, increase positive coping behaviors and improve an individual's health status. Studies have found that activities like painting and drawing aid in healing by externalizing stress and trauma. Singing, on the other hand, releases chemicals in the brain that serve as natural pain-killers and increases the 'bonding hormone', which makes us feel a sense of trust. Expressive writing can lead to a more positive mood and fewer illnesses while dancing can decrease stress, increase energy and improve sleep quality.

It is amazing to think that all these benefits can be reaped by simply picking up a pencil or paint brush and putting it to paper. By finding even just a few hours a week to express yourself in an artistic manner, you can nurture both your body and mind – now and in the future. The best part? There are so many easy and fun ways to create, all of which can be done alone or with friends and family. Because there are so many different types of art, there is something for everyone. It is important to remember that you don't need to be a professional to express yourself creatively – the health benefits of art are for everyone! Worry less about the finished product and more about the process. Expressing yourself creatively to benefit your health should be viewed as an enjoyable, stress-free, therapeutic activity, so don't worry about your level of skill or achieving perfect results. You don't need to be good at art for it to be good for you. So pick up that pencil and make something! Be creative! Your body will thank you.

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Creating a Gallery Wall in Your Home

Family photographs are now assuming a more stylish role in the world of interior design. Hanging portraits of your family in your living space is an excellent way to add personality to your home décor. Displaying beautiful, professional photographs of your loved ones will warmly welcome guests into your household and serve as a reminder of the importance of family ties. There is no better way to commemorate your family's close bond than to display your finest memories together as works of art. By incorporating your favorite photographs of loved ones as elements of interior design, the love you share will radiate throughout your home.

An excellent way to display your framed professional portraits in the home is through the creation of a gallery wall. A gallery wall serves as a designated space to exhibit these photographs as works of fine art. The space you choose should provide you with enough flexibility to arrange your photographs. Over time, your collection of captured memories will increase and your gallery wall will grow. Your whole family will love to see themselves on display.

A family wall is very important. Art is great and I personally love art. However making space for a statement of family photographs can be very powerful and say a lot about you.

I have one client who is a big art collector and she tells me when she has company no one ever comments about her art. When they see the large family blowups of the children they always comment on the impact of the photographs.

Find a space that is appropriate. A hallway, an entrance to your home, a staircase to the second floor and let's start. Many people are lost in how to display. This can be very daunting. If you find that you are not a “creative person” and do not feel comfortable making these decisions then I would recommend hiring a professional. Lucille Khornak Gallery offers this service. We can layout your photographs and do a wall layout sized to your space.

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