We're happy to announce our newly updated Web site, www.mangiantephoto.com, which we launched Sept. 19, 2008. The new Web site features a blog through Wordpress, rotating testimonials on each page, downloadable PDF fact sheets, some new biographies on our staff, a company fact sheet, a news section and a clients list. We would love to hear your thoughts!

Michael Spikes, Operations Manager

We have given many practical tips on improving your photography in our past newsletters - things like using flash outdoors, using the Rule of Thirds and others. My next tip is more ethereal than those. Please read on.

When I was younger and beginning to get into photography, I was curious what the difference between an ordinary snapshot was and a photograph that was considered "creative." In the early years of photography, there was much debate about whether photography was art. The act of pushing a button seemed too easy to be called a creative process and the mere act of recording what was there was certainly not creative.

There is a lot of information on the subject by people with initials before or after their names - many of them better-suited for the task of deciding what art is. The way I choose to define it is consideration. Consideration is taking into account all the visual elements of a subject or scene and making active decisions about where to place them in your viewfinder. Consideration should also be taken in regard to what angle to photograph from.

Also, consider the intent of the image. Will you sell it? Is there a story to tell? What do you want the viewer to know about the subject or your feelings on it? All these things make for an image that has been thought out. I am sure there are art people who feel my definition is too limited and they might be right. However, I have found when I stop to think about it, I produce images that I can be happy with and being happy is an art all to itself.

"When I want high-quality photos, Mangiante is who I call. And they deliver professionally with excellent customer service."

Dawn Newberry - Memphis City Schools

A big fan of picture day in school, Elizabeth stands behind the fact that everyone loves to get his or her picture taken and, secretly, everyone wants to see how they look! Once she saw how Mangiante Photography worked, Elizabeth had to be a part of the genuine customer-driven focus and excitement all around. And it helps that she loves meeting new people and building relationships with others.

A native Memphian, Elizabeth brings more than 15 years of sales experience to her position at Mangiante and has an equal amount of experience in coaching area church and sports leagues. She joined the company in September, focusing predominantly on forming relationships in Mangiante's school and sports markets.

Contact Elizabeth

Mangiante Photography is proud to welcome our newest clients!

• Bartlett Youth Sports
• Shelby Youth Sports - Ellendale
• Houston Middle School Competitive Cheerleaders
• Houston Middle School Pom Squad
• Christ the King Lutheran School Athletics

The future of our business truly depends upon the satisfaction of our customers, and we are happy you have chosen to become part of our family. We strive to provide all of our customers with fast, efficient service, along with the highest quality products available.

If you are interested in our products and services, please contact us for more information!

Gene Mangiante was recently featured on Eyewitness News Midday. The topic was "How to prepare for your school portraits." If you would like to view the segment, check out our news page!