VLC Photo

formspring.me

2011-08-31T01:29:00.001-04:00

Ask me anything and I'll promise to try and answer. http://formspring.me/vandsmedia

formspring.me

2011-08-11T21:56:00.001-04:00

Ask me anything and I promise to try and answer http://formspring.me/vandsmedia

formspring.me

2011-07-26T11:22:00.001-04:00

Ask me anything http://formspring.me/vandsmedia

Author photos like you've never seen them before

2011-05-03T00:18:00.003-04:00

How do you do author photos for an author whose identity is a secret? Well, as I learned, you can do ANYTHING and they are fun on a level that is full of adolescence and youth.

These photos I did for middle grade writer, Pseudonymous Bosch, were so much fun to do and we had a blast being goofy!

Check them out and tell me what you think!

Book Trailer for Melissa de la Cruz's WITCHES OF EAST END

2011-04-25T22:29:00.004-04:00

I really wanted to share with you a really exciting book trailer that recently premiered on Entertainment Weekly's Shelf Life Blog and I wanted to share it with you here as well.

I had so much fun working with Melissa once again and I really hope you all enjoy the book as much as I enjoyed reading and working on it!

It’s the beginning of summer in North Hampton, and beautiful Freya Beauchamp is celebrating her engagement to wealthy Bran Gardiner, the heir to Fair Haven and Gardiners Island. But Freya is drawn to Bran’s gorgeous but unreliable brother Killian, and sparks fly when the two decide to play a dangerous game, following an ancient story of love, betrayal and tragedy that harks back to the days of Valhalla. Witches of East End follows the Beauchamp family—the formidable matriarch Joanna and her daughters Freya and Ingrid. Freya, a sexy bartender, has a potion to cure every kind of heartache, while Ingrid, the local librarian, solves complicated domestic problems with her ability to tie magical knots. Joanna is the witch to see when modern medicine has no more answers; her powers can wake the dead. Everything seems to be going smoothly until a young girl, Molly Lancaster, goes missing after taking one of Freya’s irresistible cocktails. As more of the town’s residents begin disappearing, everyone seems to have the same suspects in mind: the Beauchamp women. Fraught with love, small-town secrets, and witchcraft, Witches of East End will capture any reader who craves a page-turning, heart-stopping story of myth and magic from an author who knows how to deliver.

Buy from Amazon Buy from Barnes & Noble Buy through Book Sense

I feel like I need to catch up...

2011-04-22T01:12:00.002-04:00

So I've been MIA from my blog. Though I wish I could say the same for twitter, where I've been on constantly and keep it updated. So if you find yourself missing me, head on over to TWITTER and follow me @ReverieBR..

But, I should at least apologize, and catch you up, right?
Well I've been trying to graduate. With any luck I'll be done by Tuesday. Which mean I am procrastinating right now and NOT doing my work, ie my portfolio and studying for finals. But what's new, right? Typical, Vania.

But I have been super busy work wise. I was recently in LA and shot some reaaaaaallly cool stuff I can't wait to share. Been shooting like mad some trailers and while some are out, others will be coming out shortly.

I will start with a quick update on this massive campaign Simon & Schuster, Cassandra Clare and I did. If by any chance you haven't heard of it, check out all the cool videos we did.

Previously in The Mortal Instruments trailer that recapped the last three books.
Extended Cut of the Previously in The Mortal Instruments
THE City of Fallen Angels book trailer. Can you spot the scenes now that you've read it?
We did a really fun video from the point of view of Simon's biggest fan, Maureen.
Also we had a sexy clip of a scene from the book, appropriately named the "Dirty Sexy Alley Scene"
Also the unedited and longer version of the DSAS
This of course doesn't include all the tweeting and posters and photos...
In fact the weekend of the shoot was a trending topic... #CoFATrailer FTW!

Also, recently the trailers for Lauren Destefano's WITHER was released and Hannah Moskowitz's Invincible Summer. Check them out below.

Some exciting news.... Melisse de la Cruz's WITCHES OF EAST END book trailer will premiere on EW.com's Shelflife blog. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled. So excited to share that one with you!

Speaking of rad authors, I recently did an interview with oh, so lovely Lisa McMann, author of the Wake Trilogy and the recent Cryer's Cross and forthcoming Unwanteds.

Check it out...

Anyways, stay tuned for some exciting trailers coming soon... and other goodies I can't share yet.

Teen Author Carnival!!!! Guess who's going....

2011-04-14T10:07:00.003-04:00

Ok well aside from me...

I am so thrilled to announce a few of the wonderful authors who'll entertain at this year's Teen Author Carnival!

If you haven't heard of TAC then you must check this out if you're in NYC on Monday May 23rd. Those going to BEA... this is a must!

So without further ado....

1. Carol Estby Dagg - The Year We Were Famous

2. Nova Ren Suma - Imaginary Girls

3. Carrie Jones - Need, After Obsession, Dear Bully

4. Scott Tracey - Witch Eyes

5. David Levithan - Every You, Every Me

6. Melissa Walker - Small Town Sinners

7. Michelle Hodkin - The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer

8. Elizabeth Scott - Between Here and Forever & As I Wake

Teen Author Carnival: Monday, May 23rd 2011

Follow @AuthorCarnival for more updates, news and information re: TAC!

Location: Mulberry Street Library

10 Jersey Street (Between Lafayette & Mulberry Streets)

New York, NY 10012-3332

Make sure to check out Kristi at the Story Siren announcing another great lineup of awesome authors who'll be attending this year's Teen Author Carnival!

And on Saturday, visit Novel Thoughts for the rest!

You excited? Will you be there? Mark your calendars and don't miss this awesome!

Authors, Want a book shoot? (Photo Contest)

2011-03-10T13:56:00.002-05:00

So, many of you know me by my book trailers, but back in the day I was solely a photographer and I wanted to have fun with that again and do some fun creative photography!

I am opening up this post for authors who want to win a book shoot.

Like this:

or this

Rules are you have to send a teaser in comments (or privately via email: vandsmedia[at]gmail.com). Must be at least agented.

Teasers must be descriptive, teasing, and visual or pertinent to the book. Nothing too abstract. I should be able to read and visualize a scene or character.

+ 1 ENTRY if you get a friend to follow my blog.

+1 ENTRY if you tweet/blog/shout it out somewhere.

The way I pick:

I'll read through all the submissions, then pick my top 3-5 choices I feel I can photograph. Then those extra points play a part in who wins since I'll randomly pick the winner. So the more people you bring in or the more you tweet/blog it, the more chances you have of winning.

Can't wait to read all your teasers!

What's your goals?

2011-02-13T17:09:00.004-05:00

"What are you all hoping to accomplish this year, artistically (or writerly, or whatever else you are fond of)?"

I saw this question on my friend and fellow photographer, Elizabeth May's FB page and I got to thinking...

In recent conversations I've come to realize I've been dang lucky. I've somehow still held onto my love of the captured image, still have managed to keep up creatively, still managed to keep shooting.

I still remember the first photos I took with my Dad's old point and shoot. Back when we used colored film. Kodak, specifically. Back when I admired my Dad's old black and whites from when we were kids. Back when he was teaching ME to shoot.

Oh how he got mad at me wasting all that film for "nothing" but those first few shots I took from the stolen camera during my lonesome and boring afternoon home from school were the first moments where I knew I wanted to shoot for the rest of my life. It wasn't anything special but a few shots of leaves and bark. But the fact is I was able to shoot something I LOOKED for. I was allowed to be creative.

After high school, and after taking photo classes, when my parents oh so kindly asked what I wanted to do in college, they were being hopeful... No, not hopeful I WILL go to college but hopeful I wouldn't choose photography. Fact is, they knew. They knew I had a love for it since I had already started taking portraits and was assisting a wedding photography couple. They were being very hopeful that I'd choose accounting, but let's face it, I am not one for numbers OR organization. I don't know where they got the notion I'd be remotely decent at it.

But while photography has taken me on a journey from portraits, to babies to weddings to event photography to now book trailers of all things, I am left wondering what the future will bring. I've had a twistedly good year and as I am about to crouch upon my 2 years of book trailers, I cannot imagine what comes next. But most importantly I have all of you to thank. All of you have been so patient with me, have been so gracious to put up with me and my crazy ideas, all of you who've been so forgiving and amazing all around. I've worked with amazing marketing teams and have been fortunate to be part of some way awesome schemes. I've had the privilege of working with the likes of Melissa de la Cruz and Cassandra Clare, to be in company with Melissa Marr and Kelley Armstrong and to have repeat encounters with friends like Kami Garcia (I still don't know why she puts up with me, but I love her for it!). I truly value the time and the opportunities they've given me, but most importantly for giving me a shot.

I wouldn't be here with that "shot" without that first shot with my dingy point and shoot in middle school, with that "shot" in high school when I aced the AP in photo, with that "shot" I took doing weddings or even that "shot" I took when starting book trailers.

So we'll see what this year and the next few years brings. But I do have a few goals in mind (as the original question from Elizabeth posed.)

1) GRADUATE already. Yes, believe it or not I am still in school, finishing my BFA in photo but with my severe case of senioritis ... well, let's just say it's an uphill battle.

2) Enjoy the people around me more. After my grandpa's passing and realizing that a few thousand miles can break one's heart... I've realized I need to treasure those around me more. I love you!

3) Enjoy my life. I work so hard and so long that I forget I need to take a day off. Running your own business a lot of times means working 24/7 and no vacations.

4) Meet new people. I love traveling and I love meeting new people. So hope this is the year we meet. Let's have some coffee.

5) Keep doing what I love. I had so much fun last year with all the trailers and events and traveling that I hope this year is just as fun. Here's to a great year and happy occurrences.

So what are YOUR goals this year? What do you hope to accomplish authors, bloggers, photographer and readers?

What I have been up to...

2011-02-12T20:24:00.004-05:00

I feel like it's been forever since I've updated my blog. I've been super busy with shooting two of my favorite book trailers so far this year for CITY OF FALLEN ANGELS and WITHER.

I've been busy reading some great books for upcoming trailers, like:

“It’s about a mother and two daughters who move to town and shake things up,” says de la Cruz. “There’s already a family of warlocks living there who aren’t too happy with their arrival…It’s based on old Norse mythology.”

"DIE FOR ME is the first of three books about Kate, a sixteen-year-old American who moves to Paris after the death of her parents. She finds herself falling for Vincent, who she discovers is not the typical French teenager he appears: he is something else entirely.
DIE FOR ME presents a new supernatural mythology presented in a city where dreams are sometimes the same as reality."

"At Winterhaven, Violet finally feels like she belongs. She quickly finds a close group friends and discovers that they too have psychic ‘gifts’—as do all the students at Winterhaven. But as soon as she feels settled she discovers the most intriguing and alluring boy she has ever met, and things quickly go awry. As the attraction between them grows, intense visions of the boy’s death start to haunt her. In her premonitions the secret he is unwilling to share begins to reveal itself. And to Violet's horror, she learns that their destinies are intertwined in a critical—and deadly—way."

Meanwhile I am working on a secret project and I need your HELP! If you like something or another of VLC Productions' let me know below... you might see your quote somewhere cool!

Also been shooting a bit too so check it out below:

We HEART Nook Giveaway!

2011-02-09T00:30:00.004-05:00

WINNER is Elie Nice!

Nook Giveaway Rules:

This is a multiple blog giveaway. Each blog is giving away a prize pack that will include an entry into the Grand Prize Nook giveaway. You can enter every blog’s giveaway, but each blog will have their own giveaway rules, so please be sure to follow them. Each blog will pick a winner – the winner will win the blog prize and an entry into the Nook Giveaway, which means it’s a 1 in 14 chance to win the Nook. If you enter every contest, you have the possibility of your name being added multiple times in the Nook giveaway.

ENTRY RULES:
US only
Must be 13 yrs of age to enter
Extra entry for followers (but not required)
No PO Boxes- the Nook is being shipped UPS
Giveaway ends at 11:59pm central time on 2/13

Grand Prize Winner gets:

A finished copy of Delirium by Lauren Oliver from Harper Teen
A $40 gift-card to Barnes and Noble
3 ebooks from Harlequin Teen

My Soul to Steal by Rachel Vincent
The Oracle of Dating by Allison Van Diepen
Past Midnight by Mara Phrunhagen

My Blog's Winner gets:

Paperback copy of The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

Finished copy of Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Derting

Papberback copy of Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

*****ENTER HERE****

Author photos and BEA...

2011-02-03T17:29:00.004-05:00

(not an author but a portrait nonetheless)

(not author but a good portrait example)

(just a portrait example)

I am almost hesitant to even bring this up knowing that BEA is a busy madness and everyone will be so busy. But it doesn't hurt to plan ahead.

So if you're an author, or industry person, and you are in need of new headshot or portrait or author photo (who knew a photo had so many names) this is your chance. I'll be in New York City a few days before and after BEA if you want to schedule a shoot. Knowing how busy you all will be I'm offering mini shoots that are bound to fit right into your schedule.

You'll get a CD with all the edited images that way you can choose which one suits you best.

For more info or if you have questions, email me at vandsmedia[at]gmail.com

For more author photos or portrait examples, click the links.

Heads up AUTHORS & PUBLISHERS

2011-02-02T17:31:00.004-05:00

This might seem early, but I thought I'd just give a heads up.

I will be out of the country in June and some of July, visiting family in Bulgaria and seeing some of Europe. Which would mean a few things:

a) no internet, or barely any

b) no phone, or well, we'll see

c) I'm not working

d) I'll be taking lots of pictures and having a blast

But with end of May being BEA, me graduating in Early May, and then Europe trip.... "C" applies to most of my summer and one of my busiest times.

So if you've thought about having me produce a book trailer, or anything else photo related, this is the time to give me the heads up and potentially start on it early. I don't want to miss out on any great projects!

So if you have a Summer or early Fall book and have questions, concerns or want to book your book's trailer, email me at VANDSMEDIA@GMAIL.COM

Have you heard of...

2011-02-02T16:23:00.002-05:00

DIVERGENT by Veronica Roth?

In Beatrice Prior’s dystopian Chicago world, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is—she can’t have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris, and struggles alongside her fellow initiates to live out the choice they have made. Together, they must undergo extreme physical tests of endurance and intense psychological simulations, some with devastating consequences. As initiation transforms them all, Tris must determine who her friends really are—and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes-fascinating, sometimes-exasperating boy fits into the life she’s chosen. But Tris also has a secret: one she’s kept hidden from everyone, because she’s been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers unrest and growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly-perfect society, she also learns that her secret might be what helps her save those she loves . . . or it might be what destroys her.

Excited yet? I've heard nothing but good things about it. Author Melissa Marr's been singing this book's praises and last week my local indie bookstore raved about it.

Check out her interview with HarperTeen and Check out her website.

Also enter to win a copy on GoodReads.

I am dying for it! (Book releases May 3rd, PreOrder it!)

Have you heard of...

2011-02-01T02:12:00.000-05:00

When Alexis’s little sister Kasey becomes obsessed with an antique doll, Alexis thinks nothing of it. Kasey is a weird kid. Period. Alexis is considered weird, too, by the kids in her high school, by her parents, even by her own Goth friends. Things get weirder, though, when the old house they live in starts changing. Doors open and close by themselves; water boils on the unlit stove; and an unplugged air conditioner turns the house cold enough to see their breath in. Kasey is changing, too. Her blue eyes go green and she speaks in old-fashioned language, then forgets chunks of time.
Most disturbing of all is the dangerous new chip on Kasey’s shoulder. The formerly gentle, doll-loving child is gone, and the new Kasey is angry. Alexis is the only one who can stop her sister — but what if that green-eyed girl isn’t even Kasey anymore?

The sequel comes out in June!

Check out Katie Alender's website

Order or Pre-Order her books: Amazon

TOTALLY check out her book trailer!

Inspiration Tuesday #4

2011-01-31T21:10:00.003-05:00

I am posting this a little sooner because it's making me bounce around uncontrollably.

Music is a huge part of my work. I've said it many times before, how music is so essential to setting a mood in any of my trailers. And so it'll come as no surprise that I listen to a lot of it and different kinds. I thoroughly enjoy every type of music but there's few times that I find those gems. Those breathtaking pieces of music that make me weep. Literally.

Have you heard of Adele?

Well you should.

She's brilliant. That is all I can say. Her music and lyrics are what we'll one day consider classic. Purely amazing.

Her latest single "Rolling in the Deep" is one I cannot for the life of my stop listening to. And when I saw her video (below) you'll see why I am even more in love with her. An artist's fantasy, guys. An artist' wet dream!

For the music part of blog tomorrow/Wed, stay tuned for a song that will make you weep!

Hey BEA-goers & Bloggers! Want some portraits??

2011-01-31T16:15:00.003-05:00

So been getting a lot of inquiry about some of you wanting your own VLC portrait. Want to use it for your Twitter or blogs? Well here's your chance.

I am offering mini-blogger shoots. For 20-30 mins I'll do a session with you. I'll edit the best 2 or 3 pics and give you those to use.

Catch is, that I have to book all the bloggers in one afternoon (to be determined) and in one location. I will pick a place where your picture's background and setting will vary. So you get your own unique portrait, unlike anyone else's.

I want to have fun and really do something you'd like and knowing bloggers work so hard pimping and reviewing books (and school and work) I thought I'd give you guys a huge discount!

$50 for 20-30 mins shooting, 2-3 edited pics and we'll have a blast in the process.

So if you'll be going to BEA and are a blogger(ish) and are interested in this one time shoot, send me an email to vandsmedia[at]gmail.com with your name, link to blog and a little about yourself. Just so I can get to know you! ;)

Music Time!

2011-01-25T20:49:00.001-05:00

I LOVE Jason Mraz!

In fact I loved him way before his album had come out. Fell in love with this song:

But I recently came across this song too. An EP that i download that is sooo amazing!

ENJOY!!

Inspiration Tuesday #3

2011-01-18T15:05:00.003-05:00

Inspiration Tuesday is where I share some cool snippets here and there of what I've come across that inspires me. Sometimes it might inspire a certain project, shoot, or what have you and if I can I will share. Sometimes it's just something pretty or unique that I want to share.

If there's anything that has inspired you, send me a link below or post it on your blog and send me a link to that.
I got this great little find for this week's post. I wil say that although the video's really neat it's inspired a trailer that I'll start working on in a few months. The book's called FORBIDDEN by Tabitha Suzuma. But you'll have to wait till this summer to see how this piece has inspired my book trailer.

What ya think?

Pretty Covers Wednesday #2

2011-01-13T19:06:00.004-05:00

I am a photography and book freak so the epitome of my passions is book covers. I dream of one day gracing the cover.

So I love finding and bringing to attention pretty covers and great books and authors. So with this new meme I will highlight just that. The gorgeous photos and covers in YA and elsewhere.

This week's cover is the GORGEOUS cover for Moira Young's BLOOD RED ROAD!

I have seen some hype for this book already and it looks GREAT! But what I am currently drooling over is the mood this cover sets. Dusty desert, one girl walking in said desert. The title treatment has a beautiful sandy texture and the overall scheme is lovely. Although the cover gives off a lonely feeling, it also screams "epic"!

Once again, Simon & Schuster, GREAT cover!

What do you think of this cover?

5 Songs I Can't Stop Listening To

2011-01-12T13:44:00.002-05:00

I am a song fanatic. Since I work so closely with music for the trailers anyways I have become to appreciate it and even crave it even more. And because I listen to so much music in my personal life and have to go through so much music for my work life I have come to love a very wide variety of music.

Here's my top 5 songs that are on repeat and that have served as great inspiration in my work.

Can't stop listening to this song. It's got such beautiful harmony and such angst. *sigh*

This is such a good angry-makes-you-feel-better-song. Plus I love the way it was shot. It's by far the most rockish song I listen to. But it's good.

This song is just addicting. Nuff said.

This is just so beautiful. In the right circumstances, it's made me cry.

This song is #1 in my books, forever. Why? It's soulful and passionate and the lyrics are beyond perfect. It moves so freely and just makes you sway and close yours eyes and you feel the music. I mean REALLY feel it.

OK and for good measure I am adding a song that I've been listening to recently that reminds me of a scene I shot for a project. I'm looking at you Cassandra Clare.

"Drop everything now
Meet me in the pouring rain
Kiss me on the sidewalk
Take away the pain
cause I see, sparks fly whenever you smile "

CRYER'S CROSS by Lisa McMann book trailer

2011-01-11T16:17:00.002-05:00

I kinda let this one slip just a little bit because I was busy with a long and extensive shoot but I wanted to share with you guys one of newest trailers for Lisa McMann's CRYER'S CROSS.

I had read her WAKE series and loved it so you can imagine my joy and excitement when I get a call asking to work on this trailer. Doesn't hurt that Lisa's a doll, either!

I LOVED this book. It's creepy and eerie and much like her previous series it has an egde that is so irresistible!

Best YA Book Trailer of 2010 is....

2011-01-05T23:51:00.005-05:00

Two Hundred and Seventy four votes later and tons of love I can finally announce the winners

OMG it feels weird saying this but thank you all who voted for Clockwork Angel and Linger and Beautiful Darkness! YOU ALL ROCK!

So to celebrate I am giving away this:

RULES:

All you have to do is be a follower of my blog (here) and Twitter(there)

Extra Entry if you tweet/blog/etc about it.

And leave a comment with your email

See? EASY!

Pretty Covers Wednesday

2011-01-05T13:32:00.006-05:00

I am a photography and book freak so the epitome of my passions is book covers. I dream of one day gracing the cover. No, not me, ewww... But maybe one of my photos. Who knows.

So I love finding and bringing to attention pretty covers and great books and authors. So with this new meme I will highlight just that. The gorgeous photos and covers in YA and elsewhere.

Today I am going bananas over Michelle Hodkin's THE UNBECOMING OF MARA DYER cover.

First and foremost it's eye catching and the lettering simple. The photo's a bit antiqued with a rustic edge. But what I love most is that hand that so gingerly graces the edge of the frame. *sigh*

Can you say NEED THIS BOOK?

I will now take the time to admit that I DO judge books by their covers and if gets my attention I'll look at the jacket copy...then I'd so buy this book!

I'm sold! SOLD I tell you!

Now go click on the cover and go pre-order on Amazon.

MARA DYER will be release September 27,2011 from Simon & Schuster

DESIRES OF THE DEAD by Kimberly Derting- book trailer's HERE!

2011-01-05T11:01:00.005-05:00

Can I just say, I loved working with Harper Teen on this. They were patient and so easy to work with! And it doesn't hurt that they like my wacky ideas!

When I was reading Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Derting I was once again in awe of not only her story telling but her lively characters. Oh how sweet Jay and Vi are! But what I liked most of all, is that she has a wonderful knack for writing a book that is HILARIOUS and sweet and yet dark and gloomy at the same time. Anyone who knows me, knows I'm fan of all things dark, so I latched onto the creepy and the strange in Kim's book. But I still wanted to have the sweetness that is Jay & Vi. What I really enjoyed was adding in all the echoes. Can you spot them?

Again, thank you Harper Teen for giving me the chance to revisit The Body Finder and work with you guys! :D
Kim, keep up the good work!

Desires of the Dead is out February 15. Go pre-Order and Buy it! A little over a month left!

Inspiration Tuesday #2

2011-01-04T06:31:00.002-05:00

If there's anything that has inspired you, send me a link below or post it on your blog and send me a link to that.

This week's inspiration is something that reminds me of all the dystopian books we've read in 2010 and that we will read in 2011. It has a cold distant feel that at least I associate with dystopian fiction.

Book I Can't Wait for in 2011- Sequels

2011-01-02T21:45:00.005-05:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE sequels. Why? You get to get closer to the characters you fell in love with in the first book or previous few. You get to know the world better. You get to deeper into the plot and characters' lives. Overall, it's great journey whether it's a second or last in a series.

I will be so sad to see Melissa Marr's series end. I've already heard from people who've read DARKEST MERCY that they've cried. A lot. But it will be SO worth it. Can't wait!

Not to mention that whatever the 3rd book in the Caster Chronicles will be called will be ridiculously good and unexpected! These books always seem to throw me off and give me totally surprising and stunning. Can't wait for this continuation.

I once heard Sarah Rees Brennan say that 2nd books in a trilogy are called makeout books so you can imagine I am STOKED for CLOCKWORK PRINCE. Bring on the smoochies!

Here's some more titles I am willing to go ninja on you for...I mean books I can't wait for!

What are you excited for??(clicky link for tons of great books coming in 2011)

Book I Can't Wait for in 2011- Debuts

2010-12-30T23:10:00.004-05:00

So sad to see that 2010 is mere hours away from going bye bye as we welcome the new year. Fresh and shiny new year that is sure to bring shiny and fresh new books.

Here's a few boks I can't WAIT for! Do you see the drool?

Best 2010 YA Books

2010-12-30T09:35:00.001-05:00

Since I don't review anymore and barely get to read as it is, I'd thought at least highlight some great reads of 2010.

2010 has been a crazy and wonderful year and the books have just been getting better and better. Here's a few of my favorite books of 2010.

This book blew me away. Don't let the fact that I got to touch this and read way early and even do do the trailer deter you. Holly has a way of weaving secrets and clues within her books that leave you very surprised at the end. Not to mention great pacing, enticing plot and oh so dark cast of characters. OH, and a swoony bad boy, Cassel, is so worth the read. So glad the paperback shows him off in all his glory!

I can't say enough about this book. Absolutely captivating with a twist of sinister. When reading it reminded me greatly of THE GIVER by my all time favorite authors, Lois Lowry. Which says a lot. Mark my words: Classic in the making.

PLAIN KATE is a rare gem everyone should read. It's such a heartfelt story full of old world magic reminiscent of gypsies and folklore. It's got a magical talking cat and what's not to love about that? Oh wait, a strong and powerful main character who overcomes the impossible. Seriously.

I rarely read contemporary realistic fiction. Even YA. But the allure of this book was felt all over the blogosphere and I couldn't resist its siren call. I couldn't help picking it up especially after Maureen Johnson, Cassandra Clare and John Green raved about it. And I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED. This books was swoony, full of some teen angst, European allure and once again totally dreamy lead guy. World, meet Etienne St.Clair. With a name like that how can you NOT be totally gorgeous and sweet and caring and considerate and... *cough*

Go read it.

I remember reading this early and having to message K&M almsot at the end of every chapter with what I call "s*** bombs." What are those? Well when you read something and your only reaction is "Oh, S***!" I was shocked and surprised at every turn.

A few of my other favorites are as follows:

Cirque Du Soleil- OVO

2010-12-30T00:51:00.005-05:00

My love for Cirque Du Soleil stems from my obsession with circuses. Who isn't fascinated by the pretty lights, colorful costumes, the music and the acts? I am in awe of anyone who can contort their body so their legs and arms are parallel. Or those who go flying through the air, only to land safely in their partners arms.

A few years back, Varekai was touring and sadly I couldn't make the show but what I could afford was a DVD of it and you bet I bought it watched it a few times and FELL IN LOVE.

Varekai is the story of Icarus but Cirque Du Soleil style.

Pretty boy, no? Icarus, ladies and gents.

But what Cirque does Oh so well, is make a magical experience with every show. They combine the acrobatic acts with characters and story, then pair that with gorgeous costumes and lights then sprinkle it with truly original and captivating music and you get Cirque Du Soleil.

Last night, at OVO I noticed that even the musicians area was roped off in pretty metal work. Who sees the musicians? But no, their attention to detail is impeccable and no wonder, with 25+ years of shows they know what is magical to the viewer and they give us just that.

I will admit that in my mild obsession with Varekai I learned what every creative person will drool at: Cirque goes out, finds talent that excels at something cool and then gives them free reign to come up with a cool act. Did you hear that, creative freedom? The acrobats and talent are there from the start of a production's conception to come with acts, the props involved, and therefore the story of the show.

So last night's OVO.... It was no different. A wonderful experience of colors and lights and flying, moving creatures. Loved the costumes that resembled bugs. And loved every single act, especially the ants (and their feet) and the loose rope walker. Yes, I said loose and by gosh darn it, he was amazing!

There were a few times, especially at the fabric-butterly act, where I found myself needing to grab my camera and start shooting away. The lights with the movements were a feast for my eyes. I couldn't get enough.

But with that said, I will say the one negative I had: the story was lacking. Previous shows had a plot that moved through and with the acts but OVO was just not quite all there with the concept. In fact, I had to come home and search what the meaning of the OVO- or egg was. I didn't see its significance and wished there was more of that magical storytelling the way Varekai and Kooza and others before it conveyed.

Despite the fact that even my mother and brother weren't impressed I was still completely impressed and enchanted and would go see it another dozen times if I could. In fact, I will see every show they ever put on and will one day make my way to Los Vegas to see the famous "O" production.

But don't take my word for it, check out some clips and the trailer for this production.

Cirque Shows coming to Atlanta soon:

Dralion

Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour

Inspiration Tuesday #1

2010-12-28T18:23:00.002-05:00

I thought I'd start sharing some cool snippets here and there of what I've come across that inspires me. Sometimes it might inspire a certain project, shoot, or what have you and if I can I will share. Sometimes it's just something pretty or unique that I want to share.

If there's anything that has inspired you, send me a link below or post it on your blog and send me a link to that.

This week's inspiration comes in the form of this truly innovative video that combines intricate paper cutouts, animation and stop motion. I am in awe!

Enjoy this unique short film by Leo Bridle called "Train of Thought"!

Beautiful Darkness stills... as promised.

2010-12-20T16:23:00.005-05:00

I realized I usually post stills from the trailer shoots but I had forgotten to post some from the Beautiful Creatures trailer.

So I have a few pictures to show but I'll start with the yummy John Breed. If you've read the book, you'll know what I mean. If you haven't, read it!

A cute pic of Ethan & Lena

Ridley:

And some of my faves:

And me playing around trying to do a little photo manip of Serafine:

So long those cold days...

2010-12-19T20:39:00.003-05:00

You wouldn't believe the crazy that's been happening here. I am gearing for a fabulous shoot for an equally fabulous book coming out this spring. I am itching to tell you all we have planned but you'll have to wait!

I know, am so cruel!

I recently finished shooting for Cryer's Cross and Desires of the Dead and Bloody Valentine and I can't wait to share all that with you.

Bloody Valentine trailer came out this week and I had taken a few minutes outside of the shoot for the trailer to capture some pretty pictures of my gorgeous model!

Also, did the same with Cryer's Cross because I can't resist a pretty photo. What do you think?

OH! And I havent gotten a chance to share this yet, but I took some pics while in Charleston a few weeks ago and here's some prettyness from that day.

Funny at how these pictures look so nice and warm yet it's been FREEZING! But then again, Georgia weather is quite unpredicatable!

It's kinda bittersweet that the year's almost ending and I can't believe ALL that's happened this year. I still pinch myself. But more on that another day.

So what do you guys think?

Vote for your favorite book trailer of 2010!

2010-12-16T17:04:00.008-05:00

Here's some trailers you have all voted for. Watch, then go to the bottom and vote.

You can vote for up to TWO trailers. If ther's any that didn't make the list you have untill Friday at midnight to add entries to the comments below. (Please leave link to enusre I add the right one)

What's your favorite YA book trailer of 2010?online surveys

Bloody Valentine Book Trailer is HERE!

2010-12-16T15:45:00.003-05:00

I am so excited to share this trailer with you all! It was so much fun to plot and translate from Melissa de la Cruz's new book coming out Dec 28. Just you wait till you read it! It's lovely and one of my fave books! It's swoony and we thought a swoony trailer would be best match! Don't you just love the song?

Thank you to my editor, Diabolical Toy and my awesome and GORGEOUS model, Fletcher! You rocked it, girl! See?

So without further ado, for those who didn't catch this already on Twitter...

BLOODY VALENTINE Book Trailer

I NEED YOUR HELP! TropFest 2011

2010-12-08T21:54:00.004-05:00

So I found out there's thing called Tropfest in Australia (and other international cities), a contest for filmmakers. For the hell of it I just decided 10 minutes ago to enter this....

Needless to say, while I can take pictures and shoot video, all my videos are based on other people's stories, because let's face it... I don't write. Tried many times. So I want your help...

I am having a contest. Write a short story that includes a key. Can be any kind of key. Can be a small detail or the main focus of the story as long as the story is short. the video cannot be longer then SEVEN minutes.

In addition to me filming your story for this entry, I will send you prints galore from the shooting and have your name all nice and shiny big in the credits. And probably other goodness I'll think of later.

This is a challenge for me since I haven't really done anything like this but figured it would be fun. So I can't do it without you! Let's make something awesome together!

Entries for the contest end December 20th.

Send in submissions to Vandsmedia[at]gmail.com

What's your favorite YA book trailer of 2010?

2010-11-18T16:31:00.003-05:00

This year there were MANY great trailers to grace the blogosphere and the interwebs and below are some of my favorite.

Chandra from Indigo Blog in Canada, and I were thinking of putting together a YA Best of 2010 for Book Trailers. Yeah.. yeah.. many of you think I am being biased, right? Well, hardly. I am keeping this anonymous because I truly am curious what you guys find cool or not and it will be good research for me. ;)

So here's my fave picks of 2010

Here's a few fave foreign book trailers:

So now YOU tell me.....

Scott Westerfeld Signing

2010-10-24T20:31:00.004-04:00

So usually when I got signings and author events I just snap pictures(minus the few times I DID do video). What can I say, I've been trained well....

This time I decided to do a video from this signing. Well, there's more to it then just that. See, this year I am graduating. And in order to graduate with a Bachelor in Fine Arts I have to a WHOLE YEAR of a portfolio and I decided to do something that I don't usually do... documentary. Some of you might wonder what that has to do with art and well... that's a topic for another time... BUT I will say that it's not as easy to do since my brain is automatically on "let's do something crazy and dress up and go swimming". Yeah, I am used to staging things and make up and hair and intensive plotting - hence the trailers. So having to think logical and have angles to my whole project is super hard. We'll see how it ends up.

So since I have all this other stuff to contend with here's what Scott Westerfeld's signing was like and a few photos too.

Doesn't she make you want to read the book?? Awwww *heart melts*

Winning Book Shoot....

2010-10-21T15:27:00.002-04:00

A few.. ok a lot of weeks ago I did a contest for a book shoot and got a huge response and SO many awesome teasers to choose from and one of the ones that grabbed me was Cory Jackson's..

I don't know if I can tell you much about her teaser (and maybe she'll share it on her blog!) but the character of her novel TOUCHED is a broken teenager that is extremely caring. I saw her as someone who's hiding (and she got reasons to) and would be probably escaping to deal with her issues.

So here's what I shot...

Tell me what you think.. and WIN!

2010-10-21T00:44:00.003-04:00

Once in a while I like to see how things are going, get myself a report card of sorts and so I turn to you guys...

Here's a little survey I would love it if you can fill out anonymously and then leave me a comment with your email addy and you can be entered to win..

An ARC of Crescendo

An ARC + Swag of Clockwork Angel

An ARC + Swag of Hunger

+ More!

I miss shooting...

2010-10-10T23:48:00.003-04:00

Book trailers take so much time and work from start to finish like reading (not that it's hard), making notes of characters, scenes, ideas as I'm reading, plotting out a story board, running it by client and elaborating on it with their script, searching for models, locations,costumes, props, shooting, editing, revising, editing video, revising video, passing it by the clients, editing some more........ And all this by myself. Usually.

You get the picture. So sometimes I enjoy just taking my camera and grabbing a friend (or stranger) and going off somewhere to shoot that isn't plotted out to the minutest detail. It's relaxing for me to just snap and not think and just let the camera, light and model guide the shoot and picture.

This is from one of those moments where I didn't think and we just snapped...

This Tuesday I have a friend and model, Amanda, joining me on a shoot. I started trying to plot it out minutely and just settled on planning the location. A lake. I'll keep you posted on what happens.

Should be an exiting day!

Also, Hilary Duff's book trailer is coming out this week and you should keep an eye on it and also her book, Elixir, comes out this Tuesday! As well as BEAUTIFUL DARKNESS!

Waiting for you to take me home...

2010-10-07T16:32:00.002-04:00

This is a follow up shoot to the Punk Princess shoot I did a few weeks back, perhaps before the tour?

I had posted some of them on Twitter, or maybe all of them... You know, I can't keep good things hidden for long.

Anyways, here's some pics from my other shoot.

enjoy!

Beautiful Darkness Book Video Trailer

2010-10-05T01:29:00.004-04:00

Have you seen this? Are you excited for it's release next week?

Pre-Order Beautiful Darkness

Catch up with Beautiful Creatures

See the other teasers and trailers

Check out authors' website for tour dates

Exclusive Trailer Coupon

2010-09-29T19:41:00.003-04:00

This year has been such a whirlwind and each month just gets better and better and I owe a lot of that to my blog and Twitter subscribers who put up with me after all this time and for spreading the love when trailers goes up, or photos are put up, or any of my nonsense goes around...

So to thank you all, especially my lovely authors, I am offering a HUGE bundle of awesome.
Here's what you get:
* A trailer for your book with 20% discount from the concept
*A swag design package of bookmarks and bookplates (or a poster)
*A strategy for best way to utilize your trailer so we get those hits hits hits!
*$50 off the total if you refer a friend.

Easy peasy, no? So this is a very limited time offer and only will go to the first two willing victims! :D

I love BLUE! ie Christine Johnson's Designs

2010-09-28T17:52:00.002-04:00

Recently I did some fun designs for Christine Johnson's book, CLAIRE de LUNE, and thought it's time I share them.

Bookplate Design

Bookmark Back

Bookmark Front

What you think? I personally can't wait to have one for myself!

Smart Chicks Kick it Tour

2010-09-20T01:47:00.003-04:00

First off, I'd like to apologize for not posting much updates. For anything more up to date follow #SmartChicks hashtag on Twitter or me as @ReverieBR for pics, gossip and just fun nonesense.

Secondly, HOLY MOLY how tired I am but yet am having such a blast meeting everyone and hanging with the chicks. I am surprised they haven't kicked my crazy ass out by now so at least for that I am indebted!

I was a bit awestruck on Monday as I made my way into the Austin secret signing/press area and introduced myself to Melissa. But behind all the awesome is by far the most talented and sweet and caring person I've met. ALL the chicks have been so great and HILARIOUS! I wish I can share half the jokes that happened while out with the likes of Sarah Rees Brennan, who I found out is a master story-teller. Or that Rachel Vincent is so cute and adorable, but don't ever mention that to her face. Or that Kimberly Derting wanted to be a trucker chick....

I would share all those jokes, but I am bad joke teller. All I can say is if you can make ANY of the final stops (see below) you HAVE to! These girls are beyond awesome and funny and worth the drive, or wait or weight of carrying all those books!

Here's some pics of who I've met and why I am still jumping up and down with excitement that I am even here!

AND... I got to meet most of my book trailer authors!

Lisa Desrochers and Kimberly Derting WHO I ADORE!!!! Love you girls!

And then Heidi Kling showed up and surprised me! I miss you already, hon!

And these two go without saying since they are like m family!

Stay tuned for more pics and a big post on where the chicks have been and done while on tour!

For more pics of the tour check out MY FLICKR.

For more info on the Smart Chicks Kick It Tour.

Remaining stops:

September 20th, 2010 6 PM @ VROMAN'S, Pasadena, CA
Melissa Marr, Alyson Noel, Kelley Armstrong, Rachel Caine, Melissa de la Cruz, Rachel Vincent, Margaret Stohl & Mary Pearson

September 21st, 2010 6 PM @ Encinitas County Library, hosted by MYSTERIOUS GALAXY, San Diego, CA
Melissa Marr, Alyson Noel, Kelley Armstrong, Mary Pearson, Rachel Caine, Rachel Vincent, Carrie Ryan, Margaret Stohl & Kami Garcia.

September 22nd, 2010 7 PM @ Wentz Concert Hall at North Central College, Hosted by ANDERSON'S Naperville, IL
Alyson Noel, Kelley Armstrong, Melissa Marr, Jackson Pearce, Jennifer Barnes & Carrie Ryan
NOTE: for this event, it is free with the purchase on one book by a featured author or $5 without purchase.

September 23rd, 2010 7 PM @ BOOKS & CO AT THE GREENE, Dayton, OH
Alyson Noel, Kelley Armstrong, Melissa Marr, Jackson Pearce, Jennifer Lynn Barnes & Kami Garcia.

September 24th, 2010 7 PM @ JOSEPH BETH Cincinnati, OH
Alyson Noel, Kelley Armstrong, Melissa Marr, Jennifer Lynn Barnes, Jeri Smith-Ready, & Margaret Stohl

September 25th, 2010 2 PM @ CHAPTERS BRAMPTON (52 Quarry Edge Drive) Brampton, ON
Alyson Noel, Kelley Armstrong, Melissa Marr, Melissa de la Cruz, Jeri Smith-Ready, Jennifer Lynn Barnes, Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

The punk Princess!

2010-09-10T02:34:00.004-04:00

Many of you online know that I have been dying to go shoot something fun and different that isn't work.

Now, that isn't to say I don't enjoy my work, not at all, I love it, but I miss doing easy one person shoots where I get to tell my story.

Today I kidnapped my friend, Sarah, put her in something fun and crazy, went to the nearest kids park and did this:

And it goes on and on. See the rest of the pics HERE

Personal Demons Trifecta

2010-09-09T02:51:00.003-04:00

I am so happy to say that with a week away (or less) all of the Personal Demons goodness is out! The hot boys of Lisa Desrochers' debut novel will make you swoon for sure! And poor Frannie is in such a pinch with having to pick between TWO boys!

But I digress. Because you will be able to get to know these characters just as well as I have VERY soon! In fact, the book's already been spotted in stores!

But have you seen the trailers? Yes, all three!

Lisa and I worked together to come up with a cool way to showcase the characters and get to tease you all at the same time! And I think we did just that!

Check it out!

So question now is, Team Heaven or Hell?

Nostalgia

2010-09-07T12:46:00.002-04:00

There's few things that being an immigrant mean. One is that you're far from home. You get homesick. You feel lonely. You hang onto memories like they will disappear. Like those flowers your husband gave you for your anniversary that are still sitting on the table in your favorite vase. Wilting. But there. A reminder of the lovely moments you treasured.

This morning I woke up to two emails. One from the wonderful publisher in Bulgaria who had interviewed me. Me in English, she in Bulgarian. Saying that there's some article up online. Needless to say it wasn't just up at one place (their blog) but everywhere and quite embarrassingly says some "funny" things. Things get lost in translation, I guess. But, it was still amazing to see. But that same email said that the interview will be in the Bulgarian newspaper. THE Bulgarian newspaper.

That same newspaper I stole from my grandpa after breakfast only to sit and pretend to read it. That same newspaper that I would see in newsstands lining the bazaar streets. The bazaar that my grandpa sold his few vegetables. That same newspaper we used to wrap our fragile belonging when we moved here to the states.

The other email was from a nice lady from the national Bulgarian radio. That one got a face like this ... 0_o .....

I am torn and broken over this one. It's sad to me to be on the same radio that I woke up to each morning in my grandparents' apartment. The apartment that I shared with my family, grandparents and cousin. And cousins sometimes. That same radio I remember as being loud and important but boring at the same time. (What 6 year old would want to listen to the news?) But that same radio played the few children's songs and I valued it for the few moments of childhood I can coax out of the box on the wall. But it's even sadder that my Bulgarian has been SO lost and broken that, although I can understand, I'll need a translator or else I might fumble through words. Just words. It will be a puzzle that needs to be put together and one with missing pieces.

But as these emails came and went and as I emailed my Dad who's currently there I realized that I miss it terribly. It's been 4 years since I've been there. And as my Dad emailed back saying "Just DO IT! I'm so proud of you!" I couldn't help breaking out the waterworks. Despite his small reminder to "not forget who taught you!"

Two sides of ONE shoot - Vania Stoyanova

2010-09-01T21:46:00.000-04:00

So yesterday the LOVELY Elizabeth May guest posted yesterday about her take on our shooting day mayhem. I gotta say tho in the short 30 minutes we accomplished AWESOMESAUCE!

Here's my take on the day.

______

The Day:

This is gonna be a huge fangirly post. Goodness me, when Elizabeth asked if I want to come shoot with her. I thought, “Sure I’d just site and watch.” But nah, I got to SHOOT! Ok let me back up a bit.

So yeah, Elizabeth was running late that day after already having rescheduled which was fine since well all of you know I DON’T sleep! So, I kinda got to sleep in…kind of.

But alas, we got in the car. I had NO idea what we were doing, where we were going…. Just went with it. She could have kidnapped me and I wouldn’t have cared. ESPECIALLY after I met Karen. Who was SO sweet, and had the coolest clothes and costumes.

The Clothes:

I agree with Elizabeth, Karen Deputy is so damn talented at what she does. I was in HEAVEN, guys! HEAVEN when she opened the trailer full of clothes. So many unique things and she literally had everything. Hats, belts, feathers, dresses, suspenders, shoes, period style stuff. DRESSES! And you know how much I LOVE dresses. So as you can imagine, Karen and I bonded deeply, as only a stylist and photographer can.

Oh! And not to forget the incredibly gorgeous models, Andrea and Justen who were so adorable, fun and easy to shoot. (Can I please borrow them, Karen?) I was stunned at how AAMZING they were! And my camera loved them just as much!

The Shoot:

I think at one point I happened to glance back and see Elizabeth hanging back… I got to excited I started hogging the shoot. We moved around shooting different variations of scenes and Justen and Andrea were such sports with whatever we asked them to do. There was a lot of “Andrea, wait! Don’t kiss him yet! Not YET!” It was fun bringing our story –a wealthy Victorian lady meeting up with her poor, but totally hot lover!

The Editing:

Unlike Elizabeth, editing doesn’t take that long. I use a few actions, or rather bits and pieces of actions. I let the photos tell me what to do. What kind of mood I want to portray. Sometimes it’s just black and white, sometimes it screams “summer” and sometimes it wants to pop (like her eyes). I love color and I like softness. (Most of the time.) So my images 9 times out of 10 will have a soft romantic look to them. This was especially true with this set. What I LOVE about Elizabeth’s editing is the consistency and the details she retains. I am too impatient to keep just ONE look. Hahaha

SO here are my photos from the session. I will post our two variations of the same scenario tomorrow so you can see her side and my side next to each other.

Two sides of ONE shoot - Elizabeth May

2010-08-31T23:43:00.000-04:00

Oh about a month ago or so I was in LA and happened to get to shoot with the lovely Elizabeth May who is BRILLIANT. I might have freaked out for a few days afterwards but we had so much fun that I thought we should share our experience!

I've never shot with another photographer (only as an assistant and that's not really shooting) so it was really neat to see who it all happens on the other side.

Elizabeth was so kind to put together a post on HER side of this awesome shoot we did and share her photos. Today it's her take... Tomorrow, mine.

Bear with us, it's long but fun!

___________

The Day:

As is the normal state of things in Southern California, any photo shoot requiring a trip from outside Los Angeles into Los Angeles (or even just within Los Angeles) is bound to be chaotic. Hell, meet Handbasket, thy name is LA.

The day I had originally scheduled to shoot with the lovely Vania ended in disaster. My wardrobe stylist’s dog fell ill and had to be taken to the vet, I was staying a half hour away in a hotel with my sister (a longer commute only exacerbates my lack of punctuality), and a gradual series of unfortunate events made the drive to Los Angeles impossible. I was quite distressed about it.

So, we rescheduled.

The next day, I was unusually punctual — mostly because my wardrobe stylist, Karen Deputy, picked me up at my hotel, so I was not required to drive anywhere. This was good, since I haven’t actually driven in the States in over a year, and had been getting over my habit of almost merging into the wrong lane. Karen and I stopped for coffee (my life’s blood) and headed to Los Angeles on schedule.

The problem with driving in and around Los Angeles is that, well, other people are driving in and around Los Angeles. It’s like a magnet. Or a black hole, if you will. Usually the best driving times are after the morning commute, which is when we scheduled our Vania Pick Up.

As a woman uninterested in sports of any kind, how the bloody hell was I supposed to know some Big Event was going on that day?

I can’t be bothered to remember which sporting event this was, but there were loads of people heading into the city, like a cattle herd of automobiles. So there my wardrobe stylist and I sat in inching traffic, hungry and immensely irritated with The World.

Finally, blissfully, Karen and I made it to the exit near where Vania was staying. The GPS wasn’t making any sense, as her robotic voice kept telling us to go in all these weird directions. Between the GPS (horrible hag that she is) and the Google Maps printout, we managed to find Vania’s place.

One hour late. (I’m sosososososorry!)

So Vania got in the car, and we hauled ass back out of the city, called up the models Andrea and Justen and told them to get ready. Vania had to be back in the city by 5:00PM, and our commute was not a short one with traffic.

Luckily, the traffic going out of the city was not so chaotic. We made it there with about one hour of time left before we had to go. We dressed Andrea and Justen, and drove to the location with about a half hour to spare.

There, the snapping was quick, as Andrea and Justen work exceedingly well together. Then we hauled it back to Los Angeles where, at the very least, we got Vania back on time.

And then on the drive home, I ate fast food. When I got back to my hotel room, I drank some ale and watched True Blood to recover. Being a photographer is hard work.

The Clothes:

Karen Deputy is so damn talented at what she does. Many people don’t realize that good wardrobe styling is not an easy job. It requires (especially in this case) the ability to throw together an interesting, beautiful style with time to spare. Karen and I had discussed possible looks to show Vania, and we had picked up some antique wedding dresses on Melrose that we hadn’t shot yet.

We put Andrea in one antique dress that didn’t really fit well on her. Vania liked the other one, so we had Andrea try it on and it fit her perfectly.

Boy clothes, on the other hand, are always a bit more difficult. Girls have plenty of things at their disposal: ribbons, lace, dresses, flowy bits. Especially in a less high fashion shoot, guys are always left with fewer options. We decided on something a bit a la Jack from Titanic. It fit with some story line of the lovely aristocratic girl falling in love with a not-so-suitable (yet sexy!) young boy.

The Shoot:

I try to approach taking photos in the most casual way possible. I always tell people I’m not particularly good at direction, and that’s because I prefer that photos come out looking as natural and unposed as possible. That’s especially important with couple photos, and where the goal is to tell a story.

If the poses and the expressions are natural, it brings out more of the emotions. And it makes the photos more realistic to the viewer. This is very important to me, as a photographer.

The Editing:

I take forever to edit; just ask my models. It’s not that editing the individual photos takes a long time (I do really minimal editing for most of my photos), but I have a certain editing style fit each shoot. I don’t use actions for this reason.

Also, I change my mind often. It’s a terrible habit. Before I get really into editing from a shoot, I often go through about 3 different versions of each photo before I decide on the treatment I like best.

For this one, it started off with quite a colorful background (you may notice one of these photos is not like the others!), which reminded me a bit of Victorian India. I kept that kind of style, and decided to mute the colors more with some blue filters and then added a tiny bit of a warm filter to give the photos a more antique look.

_____

Here's her photos from the day!

She's quite brilliant isn't she?

Personal Demons Teaser Trailer #2- LUC

2010-08-31T23:10:00.001-04:00

Ahhhh, LUC! who doesn't love Luc?

Oh, you haven't read about Luc? Well, see if you love Luc now, while you're waiting for the book.

For more info check out Lisa's PERSONAL DEMONS Blog.

Talk about inspiration!

2010-08-27T03:18:00.002-04:00

WOW! I stumbled across this AMAZING animation and now I can't stop watching it. Have you ever seen or read something that makes you just throw your hands up and give up because you can never do anything as brilliant as that? Yeah...

WOW!

A SHORT LOVE STORY IN STOP MOTION from Carlos Lascano on Vimeo.

So what inspires YOU?

Decatur Book Festival FAQ

2010-08-25T12:33:00.004-04:00

I am so excited about DECATUR BOOK FESTIVAL! I mean we've got some AMAZING authors coming! Are YOU coming?

So I thought I'd take a second for those of you readers who will be coming to kind of do a quick FAQ. If you got any other questions leave them in the comments or email me.

*Ok so yesterday I mentioned on twitter that in order to get Cassandra Clare's CLOCKWORK ANGEL signed you MUST buy it from Little Shop of Stories. Don't panic. You can buy it AT the event/panel from the book store and get it signed. You can also bring backlist books for signing too. As far as I know there's no limit on books but be reasonable. After all, you don't want to carry 50 books around with you all day.

*Like I already mentioned, the books will be sold at the events. Imagine, brand spankin new book from your favorite author, signed!

*Photography is allowed but don't be distracting. This is more of a pointer for me since I'll be there taking pictures and getting all overly excited. If you want your picture taken let me know your name when you see me and preferably an email so I can email it to you.

* If you're coming let me know. I am planning a meet up and would love to meet you!

So you excited to meet these awesome authors? I AM!

If you have any questions, let me know. Also check their site, Decatur Book Festival, for information as well.

Want Promo Materials? I got some new stuff for YOU!

2010-08-24T23:15:00.004-04:00

So many of you might or might not know that I do designs and promotional materials for authors.

Mostly bookmarks and bookplates:

But NOW... I am excited to announce that I am doing POSTERS! and buttons!

Can you imagine posters of your AWESOME BOOKS?

Can I just say I LOVE buttons? YES!

So if you would like to work with me on ANYTHING.. and I got more up my sleeve!... email me at vandsmedia[at]gmail.com

Personal Demons Teaser Trailer #1- Gabe!

2010-08-20T13:19:00.002-04:00

Can I just say how excited I am for this book? And the trailers? (yes, trailers!)

For one, Lisa's Personal Demons is so much fun and sexy and snarky and sexy. *cough* But in all honesty, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Lisa brings a fresh take on heaven and hell and romance. I mean, what girl wouldn't want to have two hotties fighting over her? Not to mention Frannie's a strong female character with such.. intriguing.. secrets!

Anyways, check out the trailer and go on ahead and pre-order the book. It comes out soon!

It's HERE! Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare's BOOK TRAILER!

2010-08-18T14:41:00.007-04:00

I am so excited to FINALLY unveil this awesomeness! MTV's Hollywood Crush blog posted it today at 2pm and well, you can imagine my excitement! Go check out the post, tell Hollywood Crush why you love the books (and the trailer) and then come back and tell me what you think of it.

Enjoy!

As always thank you to my wonderful people at Simon & Schuster and Cassie for the chance to do this and for my wonderful team at Diabolical Toy! You guys talked me off the edge more then once! lol And did an amazing job bringing it to life!

The Clockwork Angel Trailer....

2010-08-17T17:02:00.002-04:00

I am way too excited to make any sense of my own so as Cassandra Clare herself put it...

*passes out*

CLOCKWORK ANGEL Giveaway!

2010-08-11T18:58:00.006-04:00

As the CLOCKWORK ANGEL book trailer (AND BOOK!) near their release I thought I'd go ahead and celebrate with sharing some goodies, namely CLOCKWORK ANGEL ARCs.

The wonderful people at Simon & Schuster sent me three copies, somehow so I am sharing with you all! YES, THREE! But I won't give them out so easily!

Here are the rules:

I will start with one copy. All you have to do is subscribe to my YouTube Channel. Right now I have short of 100 subscribers. You have to leave a comment here with your youtube name at least. Bonus points for subscribing to this blog.

When I get to 150 I will add a second copy to the pile and a surprise book.

After we reach 300 I will add the last copy two more surprise books and a CLOCKWORK ANGEL poster and journal.

Books in pile for choosing: Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick, Fallout by Ellen Hopkins, Infinite Days by Rebecca Maizel, The Gift by James Patterson

US Only.

There will be three winners. Grand prize winner gets the poster and journal and first pick of the other books.

EASY, huh?

And stay tuned for the CLOCKWORK ANGEL book trailer unveil VERY soon!

Photo of the Day #7

2010-08-09T02:46:00.003-04:00

Today I got a little photo happy and editing happy and edited a photo I had taken haphazardly while on a little outing with my friends Margie and Michelle at the Georgia Aquarium.

I love the fishies and can probably spend all day watching them. Especially in the big tank. If you've been there you know what I am talking about.

Book Cover a la Vania- You decide the story

2010-08-08T13:13:00.000-04:00

DUDE! Who remembers me doing these?

It was like ages ago!

No rules this time. Just for fun! I'll post this random thing I did and you tell me what this story would be about. Whoever gives me the most creative submission gets a little bundle of swag from me.

READY? GO!

Author Photos- How I tackle them

2010-08-06T17:45:00.005-04:00

I don't understand this fascination I have with author photos. Maybe it's that I like to take a nice picture of the person that also captures their personality AND their book.

Kinda hard, huh?

I knew with Hannah's author photos we wanted to do something fun and cute and approachable. And although her book (BREAK) is of more serious nature she does have some more fun stuff coming out. After all, she's young and I wanted her photo to reflect that.

With Victoria we wanted something fresh and outdoorsy since her book takes place so much outdoors.

With Kami and Margie this time I broke it up. I still wanted to keep it comfortable, like the South, but give each lady their own style.

Margie is super laid back so we lounged around mostly and stayed inside.

With Kami we ventured outside but kept close to earthy tones like leaves and the wooden backdrops.

But at the end of the day I just hope the author has fun and is relaxed because no one wants to look at a tense picture of themselves for the next couple of years or on their books.

Book Shoot WINNER!

2010-08-06T17:37:00.002-04:00

First off, I want to apologize. With traveling and shooting deadlines I let the ball drop on this one.

I had some GREAT entries. Lots of kissing, I noticed. I'm looking at you Karla and Tracy!

But in the end a few grabbed me visually and one won out.

The winner is, Cory.

Which is ironic since she's been stalking the blog to find out the winner! Congrats!

Stay tuned for some goodies coming soon and a cool way I will be doing her teaser's shoot.

Hannah Moskowitz' AUTHOR PHOTOS = You Vote

2010-08-05T23:36:00.004-04:00

Can I just say I love Hannah!! Like SO MUCH!

And when I did her author photos she had this HUGE contagious smile and was so funny and FUN to work with!

I just hope she had as much fun with me as I did with her. I know it can't be easy being on the other side of the camera. But she sure is GORGEOUS, no?

She was so much fun that we're gonna have our own fun, now! We're gonna vote on her new author photos!

READY?

#5- SERIOUS!

Just leave a comment (and a number) on what you prefer.

Isn't she so cute??

VLC Photo + Kid's shoots!

2010-08-05T19:06:00.002-04:00

I used to nanny for almost three years and babysat for a couple more and my favorite part was watching the kids.

It's fascinating watching the mannerisms and the silly things kids do. Especially when they think you are not watching. Every moment is funny. Even when it's not. Even when their a crying or hurt. Why? Because kids do things in their own way. In their own strange and funny way.

For example, my friend's little girl is the funniest thing to me. She's silly as can be and super smart. It bugs her mom to no end but it's hilarious to me.

Like when I was taking pictures of her and the bargain was she gets a lick from her lollipop if she cooperates and stands still. She licks, runs to her spot across from me, stands still, I go to take a picture, and she's already running back for another lick. Ohh.. how smart this one is!

I can't blame her!

So, kids have always had a special place in my photography. No picture is a bad picture and every picture is a moment their parents will treasure. Even the silly crazy faces they make, because it is SO them!

I strive to capture personality and with these kids I think I did that!

VLC Photo Trailer on TV

2010-08-04T00:09:00.003-04:00

Ok this is semi old news but I am finally able to put it up and share this goodness.

Last year, when I toured with Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl (authors of Beautiful Creatures and Beautiful Darkness) at one of the stops in Charleston they had a morning TV show segment. Well, sadly I couldn't be there in person, so I got up really early, perched myself in front of the TV, waited for two hours to see their segment and

Notice the squeeing? Yeah, it took A LOT for me to stay still and record it. I gotta admit, my trailer looks good on TV.

But the girls did so great as well and I can't wait to tag along this year on the Smart Chicks Tour!

VLC Photo and Smart Chicks Tour

2010-07-31T17:12:00.002-04:00

I am beyond ecstatic to announce that I have been invited by the lovely and talented, Melissa Marr, to join her and all the other amazing authors on the Smart Chicks Tour. I will be the photographer for the SMART CHICKS KICK IT TOUR that hits the road on September 13th.

I will be attending the events and photographing all the excitement! Unfortunately, due to fall book trailer projects and my last year of college, I can't make it to all the stops, BUT you can find me (and get your picture taken) in Austin, Houston, Toronto, and most likely Jackson, MS. I am hoping I can adjust my schedule to make it to a few more stops, so I'll keep you posted. (You can find more info on their FaceBook page where many of the photos will probably end up!)

I am honored and excited to be part of this and THANK to all the wonderful women behind this project for making this happen. I am sure it will an unforgettable trip, and I can't wait to meet all of you!

Beautiful Darkness and ComiCon

2010-07-30T04:04:00.002-04:00

We met so many awesome people and thanks for everyone who came and picked up Beautiful Darkness!

Check out the rest og the pictures HERE!

I am so SORRY!

2010-07-29T13:53:00.001-04:00

Something happened and now A LOT of my photos are gone from my flickr. Because I use flickr to embed everything into my blog posts that means that many of these blogposts now have missing pictures.

I will fix and re-upload the pictures back into my posts. Which considering I'm still in LA might take a few days.

Thank you for your patience!

-V

New Project, Old friend!

2010-07-20T11:43:00.002-04:00

I have been holding on to this little piece of news for some time. Mostly because all the ducks had to be in order.

So I am beyond thrilled and excited to announce I'll be working on Kimberly Derting's sequel to THE BODY FINDER, DESIRES OF THE DEAD's book trailer.

For one, it's Kimberly Derting, who's first book I loved and who's become a sweet friend through us working together last winter on her trailer.

Second, I am excited to be working with Harper Teen on this trailer. They have such good taste in trailers and have such awesome books that I can only hope this isn't the first and last.

Third, DESIRES OF THE DEAD was freaking AWESOME! And that is all I will say.

Thanks HarperTeen and Kim! Looking forward to working with you!

EVERLASTING Book Trailer

2010-07-12T11:53:00.001-04:00

I am posting this a bit early because I am dying of anticipation but you should check out Angie's blog today because she's giving out some mad awesome stuff.

AND we're setting a goal because I know the internet rocks and you can do this. We're hoping you guys can help us reach 1,000 views. You can do it!

I am so excited for you guys to see this trailer and share it and hopefully read EVERLASTING because it's a great book filled with much love and romance but best of all it features quite an adventure. More please, Angie?

Enjoy, my lovelies!

Photo of the Day #3

2010-07-08T01:16:00.005-04:00

I am sorry my lovely readers for my neglect. I assure it's been for good reasons. No, REALLY! Been shooting mad trailers madly and furiously! And I can't wait to show you everything!

But it goes without saying, that I appreciate you reading my blog and so today I am sharing a cool picture I took the other day at the Atlanta Nationals for Fencing. Have you watched fencing?

Some of the best competitors are not only fierce and strong but their moves are so incredibly graceful and I didn't notice the fluidity and the almost gymnastic nature of the "fencing dance", as I am now dubbing it until I looked through my lens and clicked the shutter.

Tomorrow I am venturing back into the fencing world and this time will be photographing hot boys! What more can I ask for?

Coming Soon: "Everlasting" by Angela Frazier

2010-07-02T17:59:00.001-04:00

Stay tuned for a very exciting new trailer for Angela Frazier's EVERLASTING.

AUTHORS! Want a book shoot?

2010-06-30T23:38:00.004-04:00

So last time's winner... the lovely Karen Mahoney's book shoot will well, it now has special plans so sadly you have to wait.

BUT in honor of my book trailer-ness anniversary CONTEST I am opening up this post for authors who want to win a book shoot.

Like this:

or this

Rules are you have to send a teaser in comments (or privately via email: vandsmedia[at]gmail.com). Must be at least agented.

Teasers must be descriptive, teasing, and visual or pertinent to the book. Nothing too abstract. I should be able to read and visualize a scene or character.

+ 1 ENTRY if you get a friend to follow my blog.

+1 ENTRY if you tweet/blog/shout it out somewhere.

Infinite Days book trailer

2010-06-30T19:17:00.005-04:00

Let me tell you a little story, readers!

When dear Rebecca first emailed me about doing her trailer I was so excited! And then I saw it was about vampires. No wait wait.... hang in there with me...

So vampires, right? I mean, Twilight, House of Night, Vampire Academy? Ring a bell? Read them, love them, and so when Rebecca sends me her book and I start reading I knew from page one this was different. Ok, seriously! It's so good!

There's love, romance, loss, pain, some fighting, (and a girl fighting), and a kick ass heroine (who doesn't love that?) and beautifully written, well paced and totally unexpected plot. I devoured that book, which is a bit hard if you read it on a small hand held digital device. Oh!! and an ending that will leave your jaw on the floor and angry as hell. And that's a promise!

Best of all, as Rebecca and I started working together on this trailer we agreed on EVERYTHING from music, to the models for Rhode and Lenah and through it all we've become great friends and I can't wait to watch this book fall in the hands of readers and librarians who will LOVE it as much as I do!

Now all's left is for her to educate me on some goooood music! Jim Morrison anyone?

SOOOO Readers, I know you are dying to read it... And I have an ARC to share with you!

To enter go and follow Rebecca's awesome blog. She's got a shiny SIGNED ARC to give to a lucky one of you!!

Guardian of the Gate book trailer

2010-06-28T23:30:00.004-04:00

It's finally here! This trailer's been so great to work with for so many reasons but two of the main ones is that I got to work with one of my favorite publishers, Little Brown, who publishes some of my favorite titles! They such great taste and I was honored to do the sequel to Guardian of the Gate since Prophecy of the Sisters book trailer hold such a dear place in my heart! They have been so great and so patient to work with and I hope we get to do this again!

Thank you, Little Brown! Thank you!

Also, this trailer was a great collaboration with my wonderful team and friend Jeff and Gabriel who have not only been absolutely brilliant but have taken my work, my photography, and my trailer to a whole different world and you guys rock my socks! Looking forward to the next one!

And finally thank you to my models. You know who you are and why I love you to PIECES!

So without further ado:

Book Trailers vs Marketing

2010-06-28T16:07:00.002-04:00

I came across a rather interesting article this morning highlighting book trailers. Book trailer in Australia but it does apply universally.

Check out the article here.

The article writer, Melissa Kent, brought up a very good point when it comes to book trailers "Like all digital marketing, it only really works if it's interesting and engaging with a viral element." I couldn't agree more. In fact in speaking multiple times with my team, authors and publishers, they all agree on one thing: viral is key.

Karen Williams, a marketing director at Allen & Unwin says that although it's hard to measure the number of hits to books sold her main goal is "making one that is actually going to help sell it, rather than not," especially since anyone can make a book trailer.

So my next question is, what makes a trailer go viral? Its uniqueness? Its creativity? Its excitement?

What do you think? Especially in the YA genre that is so vast and varied what do you think makes a trailer viral? (We love links!)

ANNIVERSARY celebration!!!! CONTEST!!!!

2010-06-28T01:50:00.008-04:00

I have been sooooo busy these past few weeks shooting some of my fave books that it totally slipped through my mind( and fingers) that it was my book trailer anniversary. June 16th last year I debuted PROPHECY of the SISTERS book trailer.

After watching countless book trailers online I asked what if. Kinda like this ideas authors get when they start off writing their books.

What if...

I made a book trailer?

If people watched it?

If people liked it?

If I do another one?

If that author over there wants me to do one?

OH CRAP! and sure enough that one trailer that stemmed from pure inspiration spurred on some great relationships with authors, bloggers, publishers and readers, most of all.

I've had such great moments this year and as I post some myself and as others share in this craziness of a year I'd like to show mu appreciation and gratitude!

Soooo.. A CONTEST!!!! yes???

Ok so here's how this will go...

I call this PICK YOUR PRIZE contest!

This is how it works:

Comment on this post +1
or any other one - +1

Tweet this contest- +1
Blog- +2
Subscribe- +1
Comment on any of my trailers +5 :D

PRIZES that you can pick from include:

A header design
A button design
A print of your choosing (5x7)
A book shoot picture (authors more deets on that coming soon)
A promo material design ( bookmark, business card, etc)
Maybe other stuff added to the list I can't seem to think of at 2am.

So READY? GO!!!

And make sure to come back and check out some of my nutty stories this year.

Contest open to International unless it involves shipping..

Open until July 16th!

INFINITE DAYS- Book trailer teaser photos

2010-06-16T22:48:00.004-04:00

So tonight I wrapped up shooting for one of my fave books. And one of the most fun trailers. Can anyone say vampires are hot? OK this book is so not Twilight but a hundred times better then well 90% of the vampire books out there and I am so infreakingcredibly lucky to be doing the trailer. Not only is the book fantastic but the author is a a doll and SUCH a great friend! I met her at BEA and I already miss her!

COME BACK REBECCA!!!

But this trailer's been so much fun from the costumes, locations and models. And I am compelled to be mean and evil and tease you with a few stills as you impatiently wait the release. Maybe next week?

*sigh*

VLC Photo, Comicon and SCBWI

2010-06-05T20:17:00.003-04:00

Howdy faithful readers!

While I still have a day on my vacay I did want to share quickly that I'll be in LA end of July or roughly two weeks. I'll be at ComiCon and SCBWI. While I have experienced the wonders of SCBWI, I have yet to experience ComiCon which will not only be awesome but it will be madness.

BUT I did want to mention that in case anyone out there wants to do a photo session (kids, family, or even some portraits for your author photos.)

If you are interested email me at vandsmedia[at]gmail.com

Stay tuned for some southern piture goodness.

What do YOU think?

2010-06-01T01:05:00.005-04:00

As I said earlier today, I'll be implementing some grand and exciting changes to VLC Photo but before I start hacking away I wanted to ask you guys what you think. You read this blog, you comment, you retweet my posts so it's your opinion that matters.

What do you want to see more of?

What do you like or don't like?

You guys rock and I really appreciate you taking the second to chime in! *muah*

And because I appreciate you I am giving away (3) 5x7 prints of your choice. ANYTHING on my flickr.

VLC Photo update

2010-05-31T15:35:00.003-04:00

Now that VLC Photo is back from BEA 2010 it's back to business. And I mean it. I've got so many awesome things planned for you guys. Many, many photos. Many, many new and exciting additions to my trailers. Big announcements. And Big projects.

I am excited to get back into some exciting trailers for Lisa's PERSONAL DEMONS (which will have some cool new surprises,) for Rebecca's INFINITE DAYS (that has once again wedged itself in my brain and won't get out,) for Angie's EVERLASTING (which will be such a blast shooting not that I had that mini epiphany) and most exciting of all Cassandra Clare's CLOCKWORK ANGEL (which will be so new, unique and cool)

I'm also going to be announcing a new partnership and new trailer packages. In the next month or two there'll be GRAND makeovers and I cannot wait to share all this excitement with you!

But my favorite thing of all will be the book shoot contest that I will be bringing back once I finish up Kaz Mahoney's winning teaser/book shoot. So stay tuned!

ARE YOU READY?

Karma Bites by Stacy Karamer and Valerie Thomas- Book Trailer

2010-05-19T15:14:00.006-04:00

It's days like this that I truly love my job! When I've read a fun book and worked with great models and have had SO much fun along the way that whenI finish editing all I want to do is scream and show it to everyone!!

So I am not only premiering the book trailer for Karma Bites by these two lovely and so wonderful ladies but I am also giving away an ARC of their book.

So comment below. Leave your email address and you're entered.

For bonus entries post the video, link it, share it with someone.

And now... here's the totally cute and fun Karma Bites Book Trailer!

I'll shoot any chance I get...

2010-05-14T23:46:00.003-04:00

I love people and as far back as I can remember I've loved two things: people and light. Why? People show so much emotion and range of feelings well light can help convey a mood so easily if used right.

Hence why yesterday when I had the chance and "extra" time I shot extra pictures. Although Rebecca Maizel's trailer will be all live action ( I know.. how brave of me!) I decided to snap a few pics of out two main characters. Meet Rhode and Lenah from Infinite Days.

And a close up of Rhode!

And afterwards, my darling friend and model, Heather Leggett ( Of Sea book trailer and alter Ridley pics fame) came and got some pics taken because we were done, had a room and lights and time and well this happened:

Character Shoots- Ridley (Beautiful Creatures)

2010-05-12T09:00:00.004-04:00

I kinda decided to con one of my friends into modeling for slash getting creeped on by old men yesterday.

Heather and I had been talking for a while to do these pictures. She had read Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl and loved it! But most of all after talking we both agreed Ridley would be fun character to shoot and so yesterday we did.

And boy did we bring sexy back!

If Kami and Margie are spokespeople for DIET COKE then Ridley should be a spokeperson for Blowpops. Don't you agree?

I had such a great time planning and shooting this that I am now offering character shoots. For more information email me at vandsmedia[at]gmail.com

Want to do a photo session?

2010-05-11T14:49:00.002-04:00

I will be in NYC Mon May 24 through Friday May 28 and I have some down time and would LOVE to do a session or two!

So if you need some photos let's book a mini session!

Email me at vandsmedia[at]gmail.com for more info!

Auction Awesomeness

2010-05-10T14:45:00.002-04:00

Have you heard of the great auction that Myra McEntrire, Victoria Schwab and Amanda Morgan are doing?

Do the Write Thing For Nashville is the thing to do this week! If you have missed the first two days of items and bidding go there now and see if there's anything you can bid on.

This week I donated a book trailer to these efforts and last night up till the last minute it was a heated fight between Hannah Mosckowitz and Bree Despain! Oh and it was so much fun! Refreshing every second to watch the cutthroat bidding did not help me today when I was behind on studying for an important final.

But it was so worth it! Hannah won and Bree got a book shoot since the bidding reached well over $750!

Sadly I won't be able to tackle these lovely ladies projects for some time since, well, their books come out next year. But I will be eagerly anticipating them!

Either way, go check out DTWTFN and bid bid bid!

Karma Bites- Teaser!

2010-05-08T12:41:00.003-04:00

I am so incredibly excited for this project!

It's so different from anything that I have done (or read) so I am giddy with anticipation to get started on this! So much so that I am willing to forgo my studying for a final to go play with this footage!

So although the video will be all live action I took a few pics of my cute and totally awesome models!!!

Want a FREE Book trailer?

2010-05-07T10:12:00.003-04:00

OK it's kinda free. But I am donating a free book trailer to ANYONE (as long as you can cover expenses) to who ever gets the winning bid for D O THE WRITE THING FOR NASHVILLE auction efforts!

You have three days to bid!

GO! What you waiting for?

DO the WRITE Thing for Nashville

2010-05-07T02:08:00.004-04:00

For those of you who do not know or had heard a wee bit too late, Nashville's flooded and many MANY families are at great loss of home, shelter, food and a means to cope in the next few days and even months as the waters recede and their lives resume.

Atlanta flooded last year and although I was not affected my community and town was and I know what it feel like to feel powerless as you watch your home and belongings and life wash under and away.

So when Victoria Schwab, Myra McEntire and Amanda Morgan put together an auction to raise money for the relief work, I jumped on the chance to give back. After all, Karma's great!

Check out yesterday's auction items and bid... AND come back later today (Friday) as a cool little something something of an item pops up from me. A little bird told me my cool item goes up at 9am... WHOAH!

The auction will continue for 10 days or so. You have THREE days to bid on the items. Keep coming back because I hear they got some REALLY amazing goodies like Twilight secret item!

SHADOW HILLS by Anastasia Hopcus -- Book Trailer

2010-04-29T11:13:00.003-04:00

I am SO excited to share this trailer with you all!! First and foremost I'd love to thank the lovely Anastasia for not only being patient with me but also providing me with such great material! And boy did we have fun!

Second, if you go on Anastasia' new and sparkly site you'll see what the amazing Theo Black's done. The cool thing for me is the character wallpapers that I shot and he designed! He kinda rocks my socks!

I hope you guys like it like we do! Here it is and make sure to visit Anastasia' new site!

2010 Moby Awards - Book Trailer Award

2010-04-28T09:04:00.004-04:00

Hey you lovely readers! Sorry there hasn't been much of an update on here as of late but I got a cool little announcement.

Mellville House Publishing is hosting awards for the world's best and worst trailers. First off, that is awesome since us book trailer producers rarely get recognized like this. Second, you should all go nominate someone. Or me. :D

Here's the categories:

Best Big Budget Book Trailer (big houses, or more than $500)
Best Low Budget Book Trailer (indie houses, or less than $500)
Best Cameo in a Book Trailer
Best Performance by an Author
and the “Least Likely to Sell the Book” Trailer

There's trailers with Cameo's? Authors perform? HEL-LO! Any authors want to do a dance for my next trailer, just holler!

I'd really appreciate it if you go nominate your favorite VLC Photo trailer (or anyone else's) because we love doing these and hope to keep doing these and this is a great way to get recognized for our effort. Not that I have any chance against some of MY favorites that I'm nominating, but hey... we can try!

MUAH!!

White Cat ARC winner

2010-04-21T16:34:00.003-04:00

Today I am announcing the winner to Holly Black's WHITE CAT ARC contest. But first I want to say that this is a bit of sad day. The kitty you see in the trailer is sadly gone and we are all saddened by this. So leave a comment for Holly and kitty below! They'll really appreciate it! :(

Ok, so, the winner is....

TAMMY!

Tammy, I'll email you by end of the day to get your addy! Congrats!

But show Holly some love and comment, star, or favorite the trailer! For more info and to Pre-Order see Simon & Schuster's site!

What inspires you?

2010-04-17T23:14:00.002-04:00

I think I might make this a regular thing. Sort of like a meme. So you creative minds feel free to implement this and comment below with a link to your inspirational moment for the week below.

This week, my darling brother showed me this incredible video. Shot with a Canon 5D (a step down or up, I don't know from my Canon 7D) and with a favorite lens of mine, an L glass. But needless to say this short story of sorts is not only beautifully shot, but the score and story behind it make this a favorite video piece of mine now.

Tell me what you think...

"The Last 3 Minutes" From Shane Hurlbut, ASC from Shane Hurlbut, ASC on Vimeo.

VLC Photo- April Showers Trailer Promo

2010-04-12T13:04:00.004-04:00

You ready? This is gonna be BIG! I am excited to offer this spring's new promo! Available now through the rest of April!

It's quite a coupon!

Authors, for questions or to book your book's trailer email me at vandsmedia[at]gmail.com

SEA by Heidi R Kling's BOOK Trailer

2010-04-12T11:15:00.003-04:00

I cannot stress enough how much fun this project's been. Heidi's been incredibly sweet and patient with me and all the excitement has been well worth it!

After all the teasers on Twitter and all the cold, "rain" and kissing, I think we got us a sweet trailer!

Thank you to Heidi for letting me be a part of this and to my models, Keven and Heather who not only put up with a lot ;) but were soooo mcuh fun to work with and super hot! :D
You guys make my job amazing!

Enjoy!

Also: I have gotten quite some demand for me to interview the models so if you have any questions for these specific models leave a comment and I'll be doing a vlog with them soon!

SEA Prints are now on sale at my ETSY SHOP.

My Models ROCK!

2010-04-11T20:34:00.004-04:00

I have been so lucky to not only work with great models lately but also get to know some amazing people!

My friend, model and actress, Ryan Ashely has been a doll through and through and we have so much fun on shoots!

Here's her (maybe) new head-shot for her budding acting career and some of the shots we did last week!
SEXY!

Kate Hegarty's MIERADOME Teaser Trailer

2010-04-09T22:26:00.007-04:00

I am on a roll, here!!! White Cat's trailer last week, this week it's MIERADOME and wait till you see Monday's...

But I digress....

This is a teaser trailer. My one and only and it was such a blast doing and best of all it's for a sweet friend of mine, Kate!

Enjoy!

Bookmarks and Postcards.. a few of my favorite things!

2010-04-06T13:36:00.004-04:00

I really love graphic design but most of all I enjoy designing postcards, business cards, and bookmarks.

Here's a few that I've done recently.

What do you think?

Authors, for more info Click on the Author Promo Package tab up top or click here.

Inspiration

2010-04-04T11:30:00.003-04:00

What inspires you?

As a photographer and artists (though I hate using that word) I often think about inspiration. In the YA community, conversing with authors, published or not, it is usually a topic we all can engage in. In a recent interview with an author, when asked what inspires her, she said everything and anything. Well, while that may be true I'd love to hear how you get inspired, who and what makes the gears start ticking and the flow of inspiration and idea ooze out like a rush of water on a hot day.

I'll give you an exapmple:

Last year I had started a portfolio for one of my BFA classes. In this portfolio I used inspiration from a talented young photographer Holly Andres. Her use of color, and styling are key to her work. While I myself have not gone to such extremes to control so much as the wallpaper, I did think about control smaller aspects of a photograph like the photo below.

Now here's a little something: The whole mini series was inspired by some the book I've been reading. In fact, the series was an extension of some of the trailers I was doing as well.

But one thing that has been a major part of the work I do is that when taking a written scene and translating it, details matter. And those details might not always be mentioned in the book. So it's a blast for me to expand and imagine the scenes further!

So what's your inspiration? Where do you gain further insight from?