A LITTLE SUSSY

Blushing

2012-02-02T00:19:00.004-07:00

Make One Thing Perfect

2012-01-30T23:56:00.000-07:00

Now that I've decompressed from Alt Summit and realized that everything in my life does not have to change right this second (because all that enthusiasm, inspiration and talent can be overwhelming), I want to share a couple things from Ben Silbermann's (founder of Pinterest) keynote address because it was so real and personal... and because after reading my tweets, my dad thought I should share them with you. :)

+Discovering things about the world helps you discover things about who you are.
+I want to be known for the things that I make, not for the things that I say.
+If you don't bet on yourself, no one else will.
+Articulate what you love on Pinterest, then get out there and live it.
+The beauty of the Internet is no matter where you are in the world you are connected to the same things.
+Make one thing perfect.

Isn't he great? So wonderful to see someone with so much success who is still humble and driven. I wish I could spend even just 15 minutes of time on Pinterest each day, but even the little time I do spend is so inspiring. And collecting my favorite things is even better.

I love that Pinterest is my #1 referring site because it means you are pinning my photographs and that is so flattering. It's also interesting to see what you like! For example, the photo below is my top pinned photo. Who knew? Anyway, thank you for sharing what you like on here with others.

Kids Village

2012-01-30T11:51:00.004-07:00

Here are some photos I took for Kids Village this past summer. Kids Village is a private school for children ages 2-9. I was so impressed with their philosophy and creative learning, that I will definitely be enrolling Evie when the time comes.

ALT & YKL

2012-01-18T01:15:00.003-07:00

Kind of makes you want to take up knitting, doesn't it? Your Knitting Life (formerly Knitting Today) has all their magazine previews here. Here are a few of my images.

For all of you heading to Alt, have a great time! (I'm looking for a ticket to buy if anyone has one... my work plans changed last-minute.) But if I don't see you there, look for my assistant Kailee -she might have something special for you!

More Castings!

2012-01-17T22:17:00.003-07:00

Hair Models
Women 18-35
Babies 0-12 mo
Children 5-12 yrs
Women/Men 18-35
Girls 3-6 yrs
Pregnant Women

Bella Figura Wedding Invitation Line

2012-01-13T15:10:00.002-07:00

Coincidentally, another one of my clients (also a stationer) posted the images I shot for them this week, too! Bella Figura's letterpress are a completely different style than those I previously posted, which also called for a different style of photography and styling. Mallory and I styled these shots to give the invitations a more quirky edge. Aside from the first two shots, these are completely different than what I normally shoot and style, but it was a really fun assignment... and the animals were so nice!

I also whipped out the flashlight and completely lit half the shots with the flashlight alone. It was fun. I'll teach you how to do that soon!

Top 10 Best Apps for Baby!

2012-01-12T14:23:00.002-07:00

I used to silently judge moms who let their babies play apps on their phones. Then I had a baby and realized she was having so much fun learning colors, animal sounds and names, shapes and the abc's through these teaching apps. I've searched high and low for apps with great design and simple teaching concepts. Oh, and apps that can hold her attention. Here is Evie's Top 10 Best Baby Apps:

Animal Sounds for Baby

New Work: Dauphine Press New Website

2012-01-11T01:23:00.003-07:00

One of my favorite shoots of 2011 was for Dauphine Press. I shared a few images here, but Dauphine launched their new website yesterday and it's gorgeous. Being on set with Enjoy Events Co's beautiful styling and these stunning letterpress pieces made the day a complete dream shoot. Dauphine Press also has a great blog and they will be sharing our behind-the-scenes later this week. Here are some favorites:

photos: nicole gerulat, styling: enjoy events co, assisting: mallory ullman

To a New Year

2012-01-10T15:36:00.001-07:00

Part of Your World VIDEO

2012-01-09T14:14:00.002-07:00

I've been dying to show you this funny home video of me singing Part of Your World with my sister Nina. I finally figured out how to rip it from our video-to-dvd. There are sooooo many hilarious things about this video, including:

+ We were home sick with chicken pox. This video isn't the only one that we did... making my dad record everything I thought to sing. Mostly church songs. Did you know I was a child church star? I kid, but seriously... I did do a music video with my older sister when I was about this age to help little kids learn songs. I'll dig that one up for you too. You'll die laughing.
+ Sister Nina is totally "little sister," only catching the last word of every line, swaying her head side to side and giving crazy eyes. She steals the show.
+ My intensity is hi-larious. The shotgun vibrato is my favorite -as well as getting out of breath for the intense parts and scratching at my chicken poxed face. Oh, and I've definitely picked up a few things from watching Whitney Houston.
+ My mom laughing in the background.
+ Our crimped, scraggly hair.
+ I have at least 3 key changes.
Enjoy.

What's Available at NC Until March

2012-01-04T12:36:00.000-07:00

* New listing or new course added

PHOTOGRAPHY
~~Photo 101 : January : Sold Out~~
Photo 101 : February : Space Available
Photo 101 : March : Space Available
+ Tabletop Photography : January : A Few Spots Left!
+ Tabletop Photography : March : Space Available
~~Babies, Toddlers, Kids : February: Sold Out~~
+ Babies, Toddlers, Kids : April : Space Available!
Photo Workflow : February : 2 Spots Left!

PHOTOSHOP
~~Photoshop 101 : January : Sold Out~~
Photoshop 101 : February : Space Available
Photoshop Elements : January : Space Available
Photoshop Elements : February : Space Available
+ Photoshop Advanced Retouching : February : Space Available
Photo Workflow : February : 3 Spots Left!

ILLUSTRATOR
~~Illustrator 101 : January : Sold Out~~
Illustrator 101 : February : Space Available
+ Illustrator 102 : January : Space Available
+ Illustrator 102 : February : Space Available
Pretty Paper Products : January : Few Spots Left!
Pretty Paper Products : February : Few Spots Left!
Making a Pattern : January : Few Spots Left!
Making a Pattern : February : Few Spots Left!
+ Ornaments and Embellishments : January : 2 Spots Left!
+ Ornaments and Embellishments : February : Space Available

INDESIGN
~~+ Indesign 101 : February : Sold Out~~
+ InDesign 101 : March : NEW!

DESIGN
+ Principles of Good Design : February : 5 Spots Left!
+ Typography Basics : January : A Few Spots Left!
+ Branding Basics : January : Space Available

WEB
~~+ Wordpress Basics : February : Sold Out!~~

2011 Blog Recap

2012-01-02T23:02:00.001-07:00

JANUARY
Evie is blessed : Alice Lane Interiors featured : The OCP Pajama Glam party is featured : Evie & I go to NYC to meet with editors : I teach a Tabletop photography class at Alt Summit : I shoot Valentines for One Charming Party : Friday Feature with Alexandra Grablewski

FEBRUARY

A gorgeous yoga shoot : My photos for Tide detergent and the cover of Tennis Magazine : Interviewed on Studio 5 : A pregnancy and fitness shoot : An organic foods shoot : I start writing about Evie and being a mom on Babble.com

MARCH
We host our first book signing party at Alice Lane... it was a success! : The School shoot : The OCP Water Party is featured : Teach Photo 101 Crash Course in San Francisco and Newport Beach

APRIL
Easter Egg Dyeing shoot for Real Simple : Bathtime Babe shoot : Interviewed for Herman Miller : "A" is for Archie : A Knitting Today cover featured : OCP Dog Party shoot featured : HGTV Mother's Day Alfresco Lunch shoot : Evie's Easter dress : A spoof shoot

MAY

The Knitting Today nautical shoot : I shoot a wedding at the courthouse in SF : A Girl and Her Parrot shoot : The White House shoot : A Springy shoot : The OCP Bubble Party is featured

JUNE

The OCP Dinosaur Party is featured : I host and teach The Deer Valley Photo Retreat : The OCP County Fair party featured : Instructions for Sparkler Messages How-To : The OCP Mermaid shoot is featured

JULY

Fourth of July cake : An OCP Lemonade Stand shoot : Fourth of July Party for Real Simple : A Week Underwater, Part I shoot : A Week Underwater, Part II shoot : A Week Underwater, Part III shoot : A Week Underwater, Part IV shoot

AUGUST

A Week Underwater, Part V shoot : A KT cover : OCP Back to School shoot featured : I host a Shave Ice party : Bookish : Learning & Green Covers : I get my braces off! : Lake Powell by day and night : Kiwi Back To School cover and feautres : Evie's timelapse video falling asleep

SEPTEMBER

Tabletop Photography announced! : New cover and features for Crochet Today Magazine : Pretty Outtakes : Still Life: Nail Polish : New classes announced at NicolesClasses.com! : Still Life: Makeup : The Stylist's Sources : My favorite salad shoot

OCTOBER

I announce my new reps, Big Leo! : New cover for Kiwi + features : Shabby Apple dress shoot : NC releases holiday card templates! : Dauphine Press shoot : Photographed 21 kids for Aquatopia! : I hire a personal assistant! : Pillows by Poppy shoot : Parent's Magazine Thanksgiving shoot : Another interview for KSL's Studio 5

NOVEMBER

Make and Takes book on sale : Evie turns one! : 8 new classes announced at NC! : A Christmas Tree shoot for Real Simple : Another cover for Kiwi Magazine + features

DECEMBER

Knitting Today holiday shoot : Welcome to the North Pole shoot : Gold Stars shoot : The North Pole: Twins & Stripes shoot : Silver Bells outtakes : The Sad Gingerbread Man shoot : Reindeer & Candy Canes shoot : Evie hates Santa! : The North Pole: Reindeer shoot : The North Pole: Stripes and Presents shoot : Candy canes shoot : KSL Studio 5 Rave Recommendations Recap : The Hill Christmas card : Alice Lane's Jessica Bennett's home shoot

Evie Update

2012-01-02T16:09:00.004-07:00

It has been a while since I've posted an update on Evie. If you're interested in seeing more, I've been instagramming our daily life like crazy. Search for me: nicolegerulat.

The Christmas and New Year's break was wonderful. It was a much needed break for me (I barely worked at all!) and we spent it all with family. We loved watching Evie play with her new toys, we played lots of Bananagrams and Rook, put together puzzles and skied in Deer Valley. My mom gave Evie her first haircut and with some products, we realized she's a curly -hooray!

Evie still loves reading, loves Tangled, and is obsessed with her baby piano she received from Santa.

Hope you all had a wonderful holiday break, I have lots in store for the Sussy & classes blogs so stay tuned!

Alice Lane Home: Jessica Bennett's Home

2011-12-28T15:12:00.002-07:00

Alice Lane's design skills constantly rock my world. I've learned so much about good design each time I shoot for them. AND, they are some of the nicest people I know. I was able to attend their Blogger Holiday Social (I'm sure you've heard all about it already) and met lots of talented, local bloggers. The girls at Alice Lane (and Kirsten from 6th St Design School) really know how to throw a great party! Thanks, gals.

A while back, I photographed Jessica Bennett's home of Alice Lane. I can't even express how stunning it is, but hopefully these pictures will show a little of it.

My favorite part was Chelsea James' paintings. She is absolutely my new favorite artist. Ah. If only I could afford one!

And now, Jessica's amazing place:

Merry Christmas & The Hill Christmas Card

2011-12-23T11:14:00.002-07:00

Oopsies. I went on break early and forgot about posting this week! Anyway, I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and I'll see you next week with my own little family's Christmas card.

As promised, here is the 2011 Hill Family Christmas Card. We are such idiots. I think this might be my last time making these ridiculous Christmas cards because I am running out of ideas. But, I have to say, my curly single sisters were really good sports on this one. Click to enlarge!

To see our other past Christmas cards, click the links below:
2010 Hill Christmas Card
2009 Hill Christmas Card
2008 Hill Christmas Card
2007 Hill Christmas Card
Studio 5 Interview on our Christmas Cards

The "Oh So Very Merry" script was designed by Alma Loveland. For a similar template, please visit nicolesclasses.bigcartel.com

Eat Some Peppermint Bark

2011-12-16T13:26:00.001-07:00

Hope you all have a very happy weekend!

If you have kids in the SF bay area, we are casting for a magazine shoot:

photo & styling: nicole hill gerulat, assisting: kailee

KSL Rave Recommendations Recap

2011-12-16T12:45:00.002-07:00

Ugh. I'm such a dork. Anyway, here are my recommendations! For the links, click here. Also, I cannot figure out how to resize this video the right way, so you can watch the original here. (If you can help me, please do --just changing the dimensions in html isn't working correctly.) I take pictures. I don't code. :)

KSL Studio 5 (Again:)

2011-12-14T17:04:00.002-07:00

Candy Canes

2011-12-14T00:32:00.005-07:00

I shot these today for fun because I've lately been obsessed with color, shape and stripes. Enjoy this eye twister!

and these are just because I love the color pairings.

photograph & styling: nicole hill gerulat, assisting: kailee

The North Pole: Stripes & Presents

2011-12-13T00:31:00.002-07:00

Others from this shoot:

The North Pole: Reindeer

The North Pole: Twins & Stripes

Welcome to the North Pole

photos & set design: nicole hill gerulat, styling: mallory ullman, hair: kathy hill, assisting: kailee, produced for ACME

The North Pole: Reindeer

2011-12-12T13:13:00.002-07:00

Here is another part of The North Pole photo shoot series I'm posting.... possibly my favorite! To see my other North Pole shoot posts, click below:

The North Pole: Twins & Stripes

Welcome to the North Pole

photos & set design: nicole hill gerulat, styling: mallory ullman, assisting: kailee

So... Evie Visited Santa Last Night...

2011-12-08T23:44:00.003-07:00

And she loved him.

Reindeer & Candy Canes

2011-12-07T23:24:00.003-07:00

Seriously, I have so many Christmas photos (taken mostly in July) that I can finally show you. Hope you don't get sick of them!

photo: nicole hill gerulat, styling: mallory ullman, assisting: brooke & cassidy

The Sad Gingerbread Man

2011-12-07T00:16:00.002-07:00

Silver Bells

2011-12-06T23:41:00.002-07:00

And here are some more of my "off-set" images, this time from this shoot.

The North Pole: Twins in Stripes

2011-12-06T00:27:00.006-07:00

The most adorable little twins in stripes I photographed for our North Pole shoot:

photos: nicole hill gerulat, styling: mallory ullman, grooming: kathy hill, assisting: kailee higgins

Gold Stars

2011-12-06T00:20:00.004-07:00

Also in response to the "what to I shoot for fun" question, I do sometimes shoot random things on set while waiting for the next shot, and here are some shots of a pretty, scattered gold mess from a shoot last week.

photo: nicole hill gerulat, styling: mallory ullman

Welcome to the North Pole!

2011-12-01T23:14:00.006-07:00

Today was a wild day with lots of little kids under 7 yrs old. My idea was to shoot a colorful scene at the North Pole and Mallory & Kailee did a great job helping pull it all together. We've been spending so much time on this one (check out my cool north pole I made in my garage) and we are completely exhausted. I haven't been styling my shoots lately, so it was fun to be more involved like I used to be in my shoots today.

In my form I listed a few posts below, I received some suggestions of showing what I shoot that is non-work. The truth is.... I don't shoot anything that isn't for work because I'm working so much. For me, my fun shoots are shoots like these where I am more involved from concept to pre-production, styling to post. I'll be posting more as the images are ready, but I hope they help you get in the holiday spirit!

photo: nicole hill gerulat | wardrobe & prop styling: mallory ullman | grooming: kathy hill | assisting: kailee & meagan

Knitting Today Holiday

2011-12-01T01:09:00.008-07:00

For the holiday shoots you see in magazines, they are typically photographed in the summer (if not the year earlier where there is still snow). This past summer, I shot 4 Christmas stories and 2 Thanksgiving stories. This shoot for Knitting Today magazine was shot on a muggy July day without air conditioning. Our poor models were so hot dressed in holiday & knitted wear, but were such troopers. I think the projects in this issue are fantastic and if you have a little extra time to whip up some presents, definitely pick up a copy of the magazine.

Photos: Nicole Hill Gerulat | Wardrobe & Prop Styling: Mallory Ullman | Assisting: Cassidy & Brooke

Let's Learn!

2011-11-30T00:59:00.004-07:00

I'm toying with the idea of having a teaching section on my blog where I share tips/tricks/techniques, so I've created this form I'd love for you to fill out and share with me what you'd like to learn. (I'm thinking photography-related, but if there is something else you're wanting to know that I might have a clue about, just let me know.) Click here!

my photo for Kiwi Magazine. Outtake

New Cover: Kiwi Magazine Holiday

2011-11-30T00:33:00.006-07:00

Another fun shoot for Kiwi Magazine! This is the holiday cover I shot for them that also included a little kids fashion story that was darling. To see the full story, snag a copy on newsstands or read the digital version here. To see other covers I've shot for Kiwi, click here, here, & here.

Real Simple Christmas Trees

2011-11-29T14:05:00.004-07:00

Last month I shot a few stories for Real Simple, including this story called Festive Christmas Tree Decorating Ideas that solves a lot of decorating problems. Here are a few of my favorites, but to see more, click here to read the story.

Our Biggest Sale Yet!

2011-11-28T01:31:00.001-07:00

Make and Takes for Kids Book Giveaway Winner

2011-11-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

8 NEW CLASSES!

2011-11-21T22:59:00.002-07:00

*If you would like to receive our Cyber Monday discount code Sunday night, please click here to sign up.

Upcoming Castings

2011-11-17T01:02:00.002-07:00

I have a bunch of upcoming shoots in UT for a variety of awesome clients (including a magazine). Here are my casting links if you're interested or know anyone interested:

My Friends Do Cool Things

2011-11-16T22:52:00.002-07:00

I have some really talented friends whose work is getting more and more recognized. Check out what's new:

Alma Loveland

Alma -our own Illustrator teacher- has teamed up with some other talented designers to create a new company called TryAngle Labs and they just released their first app for iPhone/iPad called Make It Pop! I downloaded this for Evie the other day and she loves it. The sweet educational kids games teach colors, shapes, counting and the alphabet. What I love about this app is it designed so beautifully, you want your child playing with it. To watch the video of the app, click here... otherwise, you can find the actual app here. Great job, Alma!

Georgia Pellegrini

Also known as "Girl Hunter," my friend Georgia has just released her second book! Though a classically trained New York chef, Girl Hunter shares her recent experience and recipes as she leaves the city and hunts her own food, learning more about sustainable food. Pre-0rder your copy of Girl Hunter and it will arrive just in time for Christmas! Congratulations on your second book, Georgia!

Welcoming Sponsor: Paper Coterie

2011-11-16T02:12:00.006-07:00

So happy to introduce A Little Sussy's newest sponsor, Paper Coterie -an online shop helping you preserve your memories through photos. Paper Coterie has many cute options for printing photo books, cards, calendars, recipe cards and more.

Holiday season is here! Visit Paper Coterie to find the perfect gift that is personal and will preserve memories forever. (My favorites are the books! You can also visit their blog where they share their inspiration.) Welcome, Paper Coterie!

all photos © Paper Coterie

Evie's First Birthday!

2011-11-15T11:32:00.008-07:00

Today is Evie's First Birthday! I can't believe it has been a year since I had that precious baby. Last night, we celebrated her birthday with our immediate family.

I didn't go overboard in planning, but really wanted to make these lamb cupcakes from Martha Stewart Baby since lambs are Evie's favorite. (I'll show you her sweet invitation soon!)

Evie was so funny with her cake. She was more concerned with licking the frosting off her fingers than taking handfuls of cake. Watch the video at the end!

Oh, and true to Evie fashion, she mastered another milestone on her birthday. (She always does a new trick on the monthiversary.) This time, she stood on her own for 10 seconds!

Happy Birthday, sweet baby! We love you.

Evie's rocking chair from Mommy & Daddy.

Inside her cake was lemon buttercream and lemon curd. Other cupcakes were vanilla and dark chocolate.

We didn't even have to take it away from her. When she was finished, she pushed it off the high chair.

The question was, who had more fun? The aunts, Mommy, Yaya or Evie?

After all the amazing presents from family, Evie played most with her balloons. :)

Punkin

2011-11-10T23:55:00.003-07:00

So sorry I've been lacking in the posting area. I've been traveling so much and spending every free minute with family. But, I have some fun jobs that I've done recently and will be posting them next week. In the meantime, here are some shots from our recent pumpkin patch date with Evie. Have a wonderful weekend and a huge thank you to all our brave soldiers who keep us free.

Make and Takes for Kids Book Giveaway

2011-11-07T14:09:00.005-07:00

Earlier in the year, I photographed 50 of Marie LeBaron's clever crafts for her brand-new book Make and Takes for Kids: 50 Crafts Throughout the Year. I just got my copies and it's really cute, with simple crafts you can do with your kids with items found around the house.

If you aren't familiar with Marie's blog, check out Make and Takes, your one-stop site for adorable and simple kids crafts. For more crafting, check out the book's publisher, Wiley Craft's blog here.

Kicking off Marie's blog tour, I'm giving away a copy of Make and Takes for Kids: 50 Crafts Throughout the Year. To enter, simply leave a comment here with your favorite craft supply.

You may enter once daily and each Facebook post, blog post, or tweet that links back to this giveaway will also give you another chance to win!

Deadline: Sunday at midnight.

photos by me, styling by mallory. Go team!

Halloween Costumes

2011-11-05T00:29:00.003-07:00

I'm wrapping up Halloween a little late, but still wanted to show you some pretty awesome costumes (and kids) I photographed today. I couldn't believe how many were handmade... they were so amazing!

Thank you to:
Cassidy and Kailee, assisting
All the models and their awesome mothers for tracking down costumes, paint and pulling their kids out of school for this shoot. :)

Happy Friday!

photos by me!

Halloween Is Not Over UPDATE Casting Closed

2011-11-02T23:58:00.004-07:00

I'm casting for a Halloween shoot this Friday (tomorrow) in UT county. Click here for the details:

*UPDATE*: Casting Closed --thank you!

Halloween pic of puppy-Molly and me from yyyyears ago.

Sasha Prood

2011-11-02T10:09:00.004-07:00

I'm currently inspired by Sasha Prood's illustrations, branding, typography and watercolors. Buy a print here.

all photos and design © Sasha Prood

Happy Wednesday To You!

2011-11-01T23:05:00.002-07:00

Lots of changes happening over in my world (good, organizational ones -nothing dramatic) and I'm just getting a handle, so my apologies for not posting until now this week. I hope you all had a wonderful Halloween and ate too much candy like I did!

I'm An Old Married Lady

2011-10-28T13:19:00.003-07:00

Monday was our third wedding anniversary and since it landed on a Monday, we are celebrating tonight (though I don't know where --suprises!) Leaving Evie with my parents and having a night to ourselves. It's going to be so nice.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

photo of us by Elizabeth Messina

Caitlin Wilson Textiles

2011-10-27T22:54:00.003-07:00

Big news everyone! My friend Caitlin Wilson has opened her textile shop! You can buy pillow covers and fabric all here. Congratulations on such a beautiful first line, Caitlin!

In Case You Missed It!

2011-10-27T15:38:00.002-07:00

Here's my bit on KSL's Studio 5 today:

Oh and ps... Don't be surprised if I don't do anything clever this year for our Christmas cards. I'm serious.

4 Spots Left! UPDATE Class is SOLD OUT

2011-10-25T23:52:00.005-07:00

*UPDATE: Class is SOLD OUT -Thank you!*

It looks like 4 spots have opened up for my November Tabletop Photography class! If you can't wait until January, click here to reserve yours!

Where's My Corset?

2011-10-25T23:49:00.003-07:00

Hey Utah! I'll be on KSL's Studio 5 again tomorrow (Thursday) at 11am talking about my family's last 4 creative Christmas cards. Set your DVRs!

Gobble Gobble!

2011-10-25T23:46:00.005-07:00

My recent spread for Parents Magazine is on newsstands for their November issue. It's an adorable kids party styled and created by OCP. I still haven't gotten my print issue, but it's beautiful on the iPad and I even shot video tutorials for the crafts.

Fall Nail Colors

2011-10-25T23:00:00.001-07:00

Here are my new faves:

Essie's Brooch the Subject

OPI for Sephora's Looks Like Rain Dear (sold out, but available in this mini pack.)

Pillows By Poppy!

2011-10-25T09:45:00.003-07:00

I'm so excited that Naomi announced her mom's new pillow line, Pillows By Poppy!

I got to photograph her collections a few weeks ago and saw firsthand the amazing detail each of these pillows hold. Poppy spends hours crafting these adorable decorative pillows and I'm dying over the tipis! The little leather flap opens up... love.

Anyway, I don't know how long she'll be making these so snag yours while you can (and before you see a bunch of inferior rip-offs surface. :)

photos by me for PBP

Personal Assistant UPDATE: No longer accepting resumes

2011-10-19T06:31:00.007-07:00

*UPDATE: No longer accepting resumes*

Hey Utahns! I'm looking for a part-time (4-15 hrs/week) personal assistant to join my team. I've been traveling so much lately, that I've been neglecting at-home things. If you are interested, responsibilities would include:

light light light cleaning (never any big cleaning)

major organizing

child care

personal and work errands

Job is in UT. Must have a car (will pay for gas). Must love babies! If interested, please email me at info at nicolephoto.com

pic of my awesome asst Mallory by me.

And The Winner Is....

2011-10-17T17:53:00.003-07:00

Congratulations! And thanks to everyone who entered the Shabby Apple giveaway from the dress line I photographed. Your comments were awesome!

Giving Girls a Better Future

2011-10-17T17:30:00.003-07:00

Daraja Academy is an all-girls school in Kenya that has provided secondary education, healthcare, shelter and food to their students. With an 80% dropout rate (from primary to secondary school) for Kenyan children, Daraja Academy gives girls the chance to shape their own future.

The Girl Effect (backed by Nike and the UN) has chosen Daraja Academy to participate in the Girl Effect challenge which could lead to the academy receiving portions of the Girl Effect fund in 2012.

Bottom line? These girls need your vote/donation (as little as $10 -just skip out on your lunch tomorrow and help some girls out?) so click here to vonate. The girls will love you for it.

PS. This is not a scam. Your donations will help out these organizations in need. My friend is on the board of directors and has been actively helping these girls. Thanks, everyone!

Aquatopia Shoot

2011-10-11T22:26:00.006-07:00

About a month ago, I shot these for a great client in NYC, Aquatopia Kids. Aquatopia makes memory foam products for playtime, naptime and bathtime. The shoot was over two days and I photographed nineteen 3-4 yr olds. It was the best (and exhausting) type of work! This is just a sampling, but you can see all my images on their site.

Best Soap

2011-10-11T17:25:00.001-07:00

Currently, my favorite bath soap. So silky.

Sneak Peek: Dauphine Press Shoot

2011-10-10T21:46:00.005-07:00

Last week, I shot in San Francisco for Dauphine Press (they are redoing their entire site -it's going to be gorgeous!) and we shot 3 invitation bridal suites plus a few extras. I'll be sharing the photos soon, but for now, check out some of the gorgeous flowers on set styled by Enjoy Events Co. It was a beautifully inspiring shoot!

Lookie Lookie!

2011-10-10T04:00:00.001-07:00

If you order by October 13, you can get 30% off by using the code "MERRYHAPPY"

Shabby Apple Giveaway!

2011-10-10T02:20:00.004-07:00

I shot this dress collection recently for Shabby Apple and wanted to give a dress away from this collection! If you'd like a chance to win, comment on this post (up to 1x/day) with the name of your horse (or what you'd name your horse if you had one). Deadline is Sunday night!

Ps... Here are all the names of the horses we've had (or have!): Commotion, Patches, Sampsonite, Indiana, Ellie, Tinker Bell & Sissy.

Nicole's Classes Holiday Cards!

2011-10-04T12:29:00.004-07:00

I'm so excited to announce that the Nicole's Classes store is expanding to feature products! On October 10th, we will have 25 beautiful holiday card templates for you to choose from -all at only $15! All you do is buy, download and insert your photo using PS or PSE! (Don't worry, we'll include instructions!) From there, you can have it printed at your favorite printer or photo store. We know you are going to absolutely love them and we are so pleased with Alma's amazing designs. Start choosing your photos and see you at the store on October 10th!

Please note that downloads will be available for personal use only. Reselling for business is not allowed.

New Cover: Kiwi Magazine Nov '11

2011-10-03T14:00:00.000-07:00

Here is my latest cover for Kiwi Magazine. (I just shot my 4th cover with them two weeks ago.) It was such a fun shoot because the morning was spent dedicated to the cover and a few insets (six 4-yr-olds!) and the afternoon was a great Thanksgiving food story that was beautifully food styled by Mariana Velasquez. See more of her work here... just beautiful. Anyway, two of my favorite things to photograph: kids and food!

My New Reps!

2011-10-03T12:02:00.003-07:00

I'm excited to share the news that I've joined the Big Leo family!

Big Leo is my new rep in NYC and we recently finished a large commercial shoot together that included 19 two-year olds! It was right up my alley. :)

I'm thrilled to be with them because they have such amazingly talented artists that I've admired for years, including:

Frank Heckers

Andrew Purcell

Carrie Purcell (you've seen their blog, Pictures & Pancakes, right? Delish.)

& Paul Lowe (of Sweet Paul Magazine)

To see my Big Leo portfolio, click here.

To follow Big Leo's latest shoots, including mine, click here.

Lately, My Favorite Salad Is...

2011-09-27T00:21:00.002-07:00

Spinach, Strawberries & Almonds with Poppyseed Dressing.
photo and styling by me. assisting by kailee and cassidy.

The Stylist's Sources: A Holiday Party

2011-09-26T22:22:00.006-07:00

I'm certainly no fashionista which is why I love learning about all the latest through the talented stylists I get to work with on my photo shoots. Sometimes, I'm buying pieces from them but more often, I'm learning different ways to style myself with clothes I already have.

On any photo shoot, there are at least 10 deserving outfits that the stylist has pulled that never make it on the model. So.... I'm starting a new series called The Stylist's Sources showing you some of the clothing worn in the shoots and/or the extras with links to where you can buy them. Sometimes, clothing and accessories are pulled from the model or stylist's personal closet so in those cases, the stylist will find similars for you. (There are quite a few similars here... it was one of those shoots where there were quite a few personal items!)

Anyway, I hope you enjoy this new series! A new one will be posted every 2 weeks.

photographs by Nicole Hill Gerulat
styling by Kailee Higgins
photo shoot for ACME

1, 2, 3

1, 2, 3, 4

1, 2

1, 2, 3

And the Winners Are...

2011-09-26T16:29:00.004-07:00

Thank you to everyone who entered the NicolesClasses.com Class Giveaway!

If you didn't win, remember you can use the discount code FALLFUN for 15% off all our fall classes! Click here to see the lineup.

Congrats to the following winners. Please email mallory@nicolesclasses.com to setup your class.

Happy Friday!

2011-09-23T10:55:00.003-07:00

Our Party Fashion story will be posted Monday. I'm excited about this new series!

Still Life: Makeup

2011-09-20T20:41:00.005-07:00

Here is round 2 of my new still life shots. You wouldn't believe how difficult it was to get these lipstick smudges to look this way. Let's just say there was a lot of sticky lipgloss on all our fingers after practicing.

And again, thank you to Cassidy and Kailee for assisting and help style these shots:

© 2011 nicole hill gerulat, all rights reserved.

Win a NC Online Class! -GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED!-

2011-09-18T22:52:00.006-07:00

We've added a few classes to our roster at Nicole's Classes® and I thought it was time for a giveaway! We will pick 5 winners to choose from any three of our new classes (including my sold-out Tabletop Photography class!) Check out our new classes:

ILLUSTRATOR 102
by Alma Loveland
for a course description, please click here.

PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS
by Mike Loveland
for a course description, please click here.

TABLETOP PHOTOGRAPHY
by Nicole Hill Gerulat
for a course description, please click here.

How To Enter:
You may enter the contest any/all of the following ways, up to 1x for each way, each day:

> Leave a comment on this post.
> Follow Nicole's Classes on Twitter.
> Mention this giveaway on Twitter.
> Like us on Facebook.
> Mention this giveaway (link or tag) on Facebook.

Entry Deadline:
Sunday at midnight.

Discount Code:
Don't want to participate, but still ready to learn? Buy any of our fall classes with our 15% off discount code: FALLFUN

Still Life: Nail Polish

2011-09-16T22:12:00.003-07:00

Had a lot of fun shooting these nail polish shots. Hope you enjoy all the fun color, too!

My photo shoots often involve a team to make them possible. I want to thank Kailee and Cassidy today for assisting and helping style these shots!

Happy Friday!

2011-09-16T13:48:00.002-07:00

Hope you all have a great weekend! I've been shooting like mad... and shooting all sorts of things. Yesterday was a pretty girl on a horse, and today I am on a teensy break on set shooting makeup. Here's a pretty lipgloss shot:

Evie Update

2011-09-15T22:30:00.003-07:00

Evie is 10 months! She has learned so much this last month, including crawling and standing. Here are my latest posts on what we have been up to:

Did You Get It? [VIDEO]

I Like Sippys

Wreckless Baby

We Have a Napless Stander!

Babies Hate Life Jackets

Pretty Pretty Princess

Mommy’s Ring [VIDEO]

My Baby Hair

My Longest Trip Away From Baby

Evie Falling Asleep [VIDEO]

Pretty Outtakes

2011-09-13T23:12:00.005-07:00

My client is letting you peek at a couple outtakes from last week's shoot. I loved this outfit and model and wanted to keep shooting. I love getting ideas from great stylists and sometimes can't help buying a couple things from them before I go home.

© 2011 nicole hill gerulat, all rights reserved.

Hollyhocks Floral Design

2011-09-13T16:32:00.003-07:00

When I was preparing to film my Tabletop Photography class, I decided I really wanted a floral arrangement to shoot. I spoke to Holly of Hollyhocks and she said she had seen the most perfect purple/taupe roses that were so unique, they would make a perfect, moody arrangment. She brought the 3 of the most gorgeous arrangements for me to shoot.

I've seen lots of Holly's work (she even taught Floral Arranging for us at The Art Weekend!) and she can do anything. Though a floral design studio based in Utah, Holly also does event planning. She's been in the business 10 years and has had her work featured on Style Me Pretty. For more info, please click here for her blog.

Happy Birthday, Alice Lane!

2011-09-13T16:14:00.004-07:00

I can't believe Alice Lane is already 3 years old! They have been a dream client (and sponsor) and I'm so proud of their work. Seriously, wait until you see my nursery that we collaborated on. It's unreal. If you are in the UT county area, stop by Thursday and Friday for treats and an in-store giveaway. Or, head on over to their blog for an online giveaway.

Here's a shot I did for them (check out their promotion!) that was shot in a corner of the studio I use. I love the texture against that pretty couch.

New Cover: Crochet Today Nov/Dec

2011-09-11T21:53:00.004-07:00

Remember how I had to shoot Thanksgiving & Christmas in July? I did this for 4 magazines and was seriously burned out on turkeys and ornaments. I love how quickly Crochet Today's issues come out (those chrochet-ers need to get their holiday stuff together now, apparently.) Anyway, this was a fun story I got to shoot in San Francisco, featuring granny squares in a more hip way. I loved our Michelle-Williams-lookalike-model.

Set design by Mallory Ullman -go Mallory!

The Meatball Shop Cookbook

2011-09-06T20:18:00.004-07:00

Friday, I was in Utah. Yesterday, I was in Vegas. Today, I'm in Brooklyn, and tomorrow I will be in San Francisco. Basically, I'm eating and shooting my way through the country.

Did I mention I have been eating and eating?

S'anyway, tonight I ate a Fennel Sausage and Fresh Ricotta Pizza at Paulie Gee's and a Spicy Pork Meatball Slider and Ice Cream Sandwich at The Meatball Shop. Yep, all in one night. I loved everything and was thrilled to find out that The Meatball Shop Cookbook is due out this fall and quickly pre-ordered my copy. Heads up: their secret is to use fresh white bread rather than breadcrumbs... keeps it light and anti-dry (I hate using the real word.)

Drumroll please...

2011-09-05T09:00:00.001-07:00

Tabletop Photography Online!

2011-09-01T22:18:00.008-07:00

I'm so excited to finally have an online Tabletop Photography class for you. It's been in the works for over a year and I finally shot all the videos yesterday.

Tabletop Photography is perfect for anyone shooting products -whether for your blog or for your business. This class includes lots of lessons, video tutorials and assignments to help you get better photographs. I feel like this is a tell-all class for me and think I'm probably sharing way too much information... stuff I learned the over years of shooting, I'll give you in a 4-week course.

Space is incredibly limited, but if you don't get in, I'll probably offer this class bi-monthly.

Registration for October and November begins Monday at 9am PST on our class shop.

Pictures below are part of the Tabletop course. I'll be highlighting the amazing vendors below soon, but here is a sneak peek:

Flowers: Hollyhocks
Jewelry: Goldsmith Jewelers photos © 2011 nicole hill gerulat, all rights reserved.

Evie's Nursery

2011-08-30T01:23:00.002-07:00

I cannot believe it has taken me this long to finish her room, but I finally photographed her nursery today and I think you're really going to like it. I love every single detail about it and can't wait to show you soon!

Evie's Timelapse Video Falling Asleep

2011-08-26T12:47:00.001-07:00

Too funny! Click here to watch.

Evie Update

2011-08-25T22:41:00.003-07:00

I know it hasn't been long since the last update, but I thought you might want to see how cute the Tiny was in Lake Powell. Lots of cute movies. She learned to crawl!

Evie's Cutest in Lake Powell [Slideshow]

The Downside of Crawling

Will Crawl For Food [VIDEO]

Almost Crawling [VIDEO]

Baby and Her Snacks

Inchworming [VIDEO]

Homemade Popsicles

Evie Takes Lake Powell [VIDEO]

Collaboration Casting

2011-08-24T22:15:00.004-07:00

I have a couple ideas for some shots I'd like to include in my portfolio and am looking for some people to test with me, or provide products. I put out a call like this a couple years ago and that's how One Charming Party and I met -needless to say, it worked out really well for both of us.

This would be a great way for you to get portfolio shots if you are a stylist, or great product shots if you are a small business owner. Currently seeking:

• Hair & Makeup Artists

• Food Stylists

• Prop Stylists

• Set Designers

• Children's Toys

• Floral Arrangements

• Interior Design

• Pastries & Cakes

• Potters

• Party Supplies

• Fabrics

• Sewing projects

* If you have an idea and it's not listed above, feel free to submit!

Shoots are in San Francisco, Utah and Manhattan. If it is a product being submitted, you can also send by mail. Please email info@nicolephoto.com if interested with the subject title: Collaboration Casting

photo by me for one charming party

Kiwi Back To School

2011-08-24T15:14:00.004-07:00

I showed you the cover last week, but here are some more cute photos I shot included in this issue of Kiwi Magazine:

Nugget's Profile

2011-08-23T01:25:00.001-07:00

Lake Powell By Day & Night

2011-08-22T23:37:00.003-07:00

I just returned from an amazing week with my family in Lake Powell. It's the one week where I get to unplug (well, sorta unplug) and breathe and kill my body with surfing, body surfing, water skiing, wake boarding, water wars and swimming. It's the best. I'll be showing you more, hopefully, but for now, here are a few scenics I took. We had a crazy storm that left the most beautiful light (2nd pic) and the last images are shot in the dead of night where you could barely see any light out. A suuuuuper long exposure lets you see the stars!

The Braces Are Off!

2011-08-22T11:57:00.002-07:00

Unless you saw me, know me, or follow my twitter, you probably didn't know that I had braces for the summer. Yikes. I looked 12 yrs old. They finally came off this morning so here is my best Toddlers & Tiaras baby pageant face:

PS... I absolutely recommend my orthodontist: Dr. Brian Graf -he's the best!

Evie Update

2011-08-17T17:53:00.005-07:00

We've been hitting lots of milestones over here -including clapping and crawling (more on crawling next week!) She is getting more and more fun every day, and is officially 9 months old! Here are my babbled posts on Lou-lou.

Evie is a Thrashing Sleeper

Pattycake [VIDEO]

Ah Boo.... [VIDEO]

Carter's Baby & Bath Set Giveaway

A Tummy Tickle [VIDEO]

Learning To Share

Well? Where's My Drink?

And They Call The Thing Rodeo

Teething Soother

Jacadi Summer Sale

Learning

2011-08-16T00:45:00.000-07:00

Green Covers

2011-08-15T00:43:00.000-07:00

Bookish

2011-08-14T00:27:00.005-07:00

Don't Forget! Tonight!

2011-08-12T10:46:00.001-07:00

Shave Ice Party!

2011-08-08T23:50:00.005-07:00

My dad brought the first shave ice machine to Utah in the 70s and started selling. Within a year, there were loads of copycats selling shave ice on corners. In 7th grade, I started up shop with my own shave ice business, carting my equipment in a blue wagon and selling my ice. I even had regulars coming for my shave ice...and I built up one really great bicep.

Over the years, our machine has broken and rusted but hurrah! It's fixed! (Thank you, Dad, Adam and FIL!) We have shave ice for dessert at least 4x a week now and I want to share it with you so I'm throwing us a party.

At first, I was going to wait until my braces were off, but I'd like for you to see me in my 7th grade finest. Details below, but I'd like to add:

•I have awesome flavors: Bubblegum, Cherry, Coconut, Lime, Pina Colada, Tigers Blood, Rootbeer, and I think I'm forgetting two more.
•This is technically cocktail hour and won't ruin your night.
•My sisters -including MIM- will be there. A Hill girl circus you won't want to miss.
•I'll have our textbooks there -on sale for $20. (You know I rarely discount the Photo 101 book, so I hope to see you there.)
•Don't forget to bring your textbook so I can give you bottomless shave ice.
•Shave Ice makes everyone really really happy.
•Pretty sure I'll set up Badminton too.
•You're cool and I want to meet you. See you Friday!

Back to School!

2011-08-08T16:25:00.002-07:00

Home Castings!

2011-08-06T23:42:00.003-07:00

Hey All! I have a bunch of shoots coming up and am looking for homes to shoot in.

• Accepting the following locations: San Francisco/Oakland (Bay Area), Utah (SL/UT counties), LA area, Las Vegas.

Will definitely make it worth your time. Looking for bright and light spaces. Please take snapshots in daylight and send photos to info at nicolephoto dot com. Thanks!

photo 1: pinterest, lovemaegan.com, original source unkown; photo 2: pinterest, original source unknown

New Cover: Kiwi Magazine

2011-08-03T21:29:00.004-07:00

Here is my latest cover for Kiwi Magazine. I had such a blast photographing 6 adorable kids. It was an overall easy day in NYC. Excited to shoot for them next week... and I'll post more of the photos when I get the mag in my hands.

New Cover: Knitting Today

2011-08-03T17:40:00.000-07:00

Oooh.. and while we're at it... here's a cover I did for Knitting Today -they are such a great client. I always enjoy working with them. Oh! I'll have you know, this was lit with one off-camera hand-held flash when our outdoor light turned nasty. Nice, huh? In a pinch, they aren't so bad.

Happy Birthday, Martha Stewart!

2011-08-03T11:13:00.002-07:00

I think most of us have been inspired by her magazines and crafts and that's definitely something to celebrate.

Here are some favorite tears from MS Baby:

all photos © MSLO

A Week Underwater, Part V

2011-08-01T11:53:00.001-07:00

And there you have it. Lots of underwater pictures for you. Do you feel refreshed? I am... and I'm ready to go back underwater. (Yes, I am actually underwater with my models.)

So here's the deal: I want to upgrade my underwater camera house and would be interested in shooting for you underwater. I never shoot client portraiture because I'm strictly a commercial photographer, so this is probably not going to happen again. Here are the details:

$350 for 20 min of underwater shooting.
• I email you all worthy gorgeous high-res files to keep and print.
• What you want me to photograph underwater, I don't care.
Could be a family, little kids, individuals, couples (hello, amazing engagements!), products -you name it.
• Will take place sometime in August in Utah county.

If you're interested, shoot me an email: info at nicolephoto.com

© 2011 nicole hill gerulat, all rights reserved.

A LITTLE SUSSY

Blushing

Make One Thing Perfect

Kids Village

ALT & YKL

More Castings!

Bella Figura Wedding Invitation Line

Top 10 Best Apps for Baby!

New Work: Dauphine Press New Website

To a New Year

Part of Your World VIDEO

What's Available at NC Until March

2011 Blog Recap

Evie Update

Alice Lane Home: Jessica Bennett's Home

Merry Christmas & The Hill Christmas Card

Eat Some Peppermint Bark

KSL Rave Recommendations Recap

KSL Studio 5 (Again:)

Candy Canes

The North Pole: Stripes & Presents

The North Pole: Reindeer

So... Evie Visited Santa Last Night...

Reindeer & Candy Canes

The Sad Gingerbread Man

Silver Bells

The North Pole: Twins in Stripes

Gold Stars

Welcome to the North Pole!

Knitting Today Holiday

Let's Learn!

New Cover: Kiwi Magazine Holiday

Real Simple Christmas Trees

Our Biggest Sale Yet!

Make and Takes for Kids Book Giveaway Winner

8 NEW CLASSES!

Upcoming Castings

My Friends Do Cool Things

Welcoming Sponsor: Paper Coterie

Evie's First Birthday!

Punkin

Make and Takes for Kids Book Giveaway

Halloween Costumes

Halloween Is Not Over *UPDATE* Casting Closed

Sasha Prood

Happy Wednesday To You!

I'm An Old Married Lady

Caitlin Wilson Textiles

In Case You Missed It!

4 Spots Left! *UPDATE Class is SOLD OUT*

Where's My Corset?

Gobble Gobble!

Fall Nail Colors

Pillows By Poppy!

Personal Assistant *UPDATE: No longer accepting resumes*

And The Winner Is....

Giving Girls a Better Future

Aquatopia Shoot

Best Soap

Sneak Peek: Dauphine Press Shoot

Lookie Lookie!

Shabby Apple Giveaway!

Nicole's Classes Holiday Cards!

New Cover: Kiwi Magazine Nov '11

My New Reps!

Lately, My Favorite Salad Is...

The Stylist's Sources: A Holiday Party

And the Winners Are...

Happy Friday!

Still Life: Makeup

Win a NC Online Class! -GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED!-

Still Life: Nail Polish

Happy Friday!

Evie Update

Pretty Outtakes

Hollyhocks Floral Design

Happy Birthday, Alice Lane!

New Cover: Crochet Today Nov/Dec

The Meatball Shop Cookbook

Drumroll please...

Halloween Is Not Over UPDATE Casting Closed

4 Spots Left! UPDATE Class is SOLD OUT

Personal Assistant UPDATE: No longer accepting resumes