Positive Images by Rettberg

$2,000 package winner.

2012-02-01T12:42:00.000-05:00

We have completed our wedding show circuit for 2012, and Positive Images by Rettberg
is pleased to announce the winner of our wedding package.

AND THE WINNER IS!

Brenna Coffey getting married on October 21 of this year. Brenna was an attendee at the Timonium Bridal show.

Congratulations to Brenna, and thanks to all of you who signed up for our drawing.

We wish all of you happiness always, and a wonderful wedding day.

Cruising into a new venture

2012-01-12T15:20:00.002-05:00

Let me say first and very emphatically that I am a fulltime professional photographer, and will continue fulltime in this profession for the next several years. The Positive Images by Rettberg banner will still be flying for long into the future....

Having said that, I would like to let everyone know about an exciting new venture I am now involved in, that I believe could be not only a plus in my photography business, but a fantastic service to people who know Bill Rettberg, or know of my reputation for honesty, and professionalism.

I have just finished my training for CRUISE ONE, one of the largest cruise oriented travel specialists in the country. I am now fully integrated into their system as an associate to Franchise ownwer Sara Perkins.

This new activity now affords me the opportunity to assist brides and grooms desiring one of the most romantic types of getaways available today. It also lets me reach out to clients of our sister company Images of Sommer, for the multitude of opportunities that family trips can offer.

Needless to say I am extremely excited to step out of the world of professional photography, be it only on a casual basis, but I would ask anyone who cruises; is planning a cruise; who is even thinking of cruising, who has never cruised, or knows someone who needs info or help in planning a cruise, to call me at 410-929-8805, or email me at w.rettberg@cruiseone.com.

I have full access to all cruise lines and can tailor the perfect cruise, land/cruise, or land only package. I can also handle air and all special needs. I can also be competetive through Cruise One's internal search engine which let's me see every offer on discounts being made.

Once again let me emphasize that I am and will continue to be a professional photographer, and that Positive Images by Rettberg will continue to offer Baltimore and Washington DCs finest photographic coverage.

Thank you and as always Positive Images by Rettberg leaves you with lasting images of your love... now we just want to add on some more of those images for you to cherish...
my Cruise One direct line is 410-979-8805
and my cruise one email address is w.rettberg@cruiseone.com

Baltimore wedding photographer time.

2011-12-08T08:01:00.002-05:00

Here we sit at the beginning of another silly season of bridal shows. The over saturation of this opportunity for couples to learn about wedding services is mind numbing. As Positive Images by Rettberg enters its golden anniversary year, it is time to reflect on the state of professional wedding photography in general.
To be blunt, it is badly damaged. The combination of digital technology, the economy, and a general feeling by the potential client, that it is just another commodity like their table favors has diluted what was once a very skilled profession.
Experience and client serviced have been side lined by economics alone. We all try to conserve in these uncertain times, but when selecting a wedding photographer, that investment becomes one that lasts more than a lifetime. To be sure, todays brides and grooms still see the value of "a photographer" but they are willing to accept far less ten they should.
When seeking a professional wedding photographer, always meet the person who will be taking the photographs. That sounds basically simple, but it always amazes how many times people do not know who their photographer will be.
Check their credentials... Do they belong to professional associations, and constantly update their skills. Study carefully the samples you see. Always request that the photographer show one complete wedding, as opposed to a bunch of random images from several weddings.Do they show a variety of indoor and outdoor settings. It is very different shooting in a dark reception hall as opposed to a bright sunny beach scene. How many years have they been in business, and how many weddings have they photographed. Do they have referrals from satisfied clients. Do they offer any kind of written guarantees. Do they have post wedding followup to help the client design their albums. What is the cancellation policy. What happens if the photographer requested becomes ill. Do they carry sufficient backup equipment. Can they offer a second qualified professional photographer if desired. How is delivery of the album handled. Do they offer any booking incentives.Study the personality of the photographer as you speak with the. Are they interested in what and who you are, or do they just tell you what they do period. Are they flexible in their pricing, and do they have payment plans that give you some leverage throughout the entire process.Use your gut, do you trust them and what they are saying. Everyone has the ability to weed out the phony. Make sure you use it. Do they have a knowledge of your ceremony and reception sites.
I could go on, but there is hopefully the challenge laid down for couples looking for exceptional professional wedding photography. It is a criteria that has led Bill Rettberg Jr. in his 42 years as a full time photographer.
As Positive Images by Rettberg enters its 25 years of existance, our hope is that clients of today hold all of their dealing with photographers to the standards mentioned in this article. One should expect no less

Inn at Sugar Hollow Farm

2011-11-05T06:44:00.002-04:00

Bill Rettberg Jr. and Robin Sommer along with their combined companies of Positive Images by Rettberg and Images of Sommer have launched a new business of Bed and Breakfast photography. There is a need for photography in website design, and bed and breakfasts rely heavily on internet marketing through websites and Social media such as Facebook, You Tube, and Twitter. Professional photography not only

enhances the appeal of the location, but can be a valuable source to the B&B for insurance purposes, and, other legal photography needs.The Inn at Sugar Hollow Farm in Crozet Virginia is our latest shoot, and shows the detail that Positive Images by Rettberg, and Images of Sommer pursue in making any commercial photography assignment a win win for them and their clients. Go to Positive Images by Rettberg's Facebook page to see additional images of the shoot.Professional photography is an art, a business, and a science. When seeking a Maryland photographer, or the best photographer in America, always remember that Bill Rettberg Jr. and Robin Sommer fit that description. Call us at 410-893-2620, or email sommer401@comcast.net or info@billrettberg.com for more details on how we can make your event, business location, or you look that much better.

Swan Harbor Farms weddings

2011-10-11T11:59:00.000-04:00

A hidden treasure on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay is the Harford County property at Swan Harbor Farm is one of the premier wedding ceremony and reception sites in the Baltimore/Washington area.
Positive Images by Rettberg, Baltimore's best wedding photographer lists Swan Harbor as its favorite reception site by the water.

The beautful gazebo area by the Bay is a must for couples looking for dramatic portraits with a stunning backdrop.
The permanent tent structure can acommodate up to 200 guests. There is also a beautiful mansion on premises that can serve as a cocktail hour setting.
The grounds anchored by a huge coffee tree make outdoor ceremonies stunning in scope. Caterers such as Pairings, Hunt Valley Caterers, Dean and Brown, Chef's Expressions, Signature Catering, and Event Catering all are authorized to work as Swan Harbor preferred vendors.

Positive Images by Rettberg encourages brides and grooms looking for an outdoor wedding ceremony site look no further than Swan Harbor Farm.

Album design service from Positive Images by Rettberg

2011-07-17T07:31:00.000-04:00

If you are looking for a beautifully designed, coffee table style album, and you own the rights to your images, Positive Images by Rettberg now offers its expertice of over 40 years.

We can create a beautiful album with all of your input included.

There are many photographers today who shoot weddings and just release a cd to the client.
Let Positive Images by Rettberg complete the service for you.

We offer a no obligation consultation to discuss what you would like your album to look like, make suggestions to you, and to view the images to make sure that they will reproduce properly.

You must own the rights to the images, and proof will be required.

Service will also include retouching of images, and delivery of final order.
Price will be based on album selection, and amount of work involved in the creative process.
We will also offer a computer only version of the design service, where we do the design work only, size the images to your specifications, and rease the finished product to you, so that you may use your own album

We are pleased to offer this service to todays couples in an era when sometimes they may want just a bit more than a disc filled reminder of their big day.
Contact us at 410-893-3620, or email, info@billrettberg.com for more details.

Tuxedo House Formal Wear

2011-05-18T06:53:00.011-04:00

Success and longevity go hand in hand in any competitive business, and no one has bigger bragging rights than Scott Furman and Fred Hiken@Tuxedo House Formal Wear in Timonium.
Tuxedo House has just passed its 100 year anniversary, having started on York Road in Towson, wear it became a landmark in the area.
Today's establishment guided by owner and president Scott Furman, and vice president Fred Hiken has evolved into a rental powerhouse, fitting over 9,000 people a year.
Tuxedo House is what it says.They handle mens formal wear only! Their vast inventory allows the customer to try on the tux they desire at the time they select it, assuring a perfect fit. This is a benefit offered only by Tuxedo House.
Scott Furman has a lifelong connection to the formal wear industry having started in
the business in 1977.It is still a family business with his semi retired father partially involved.
Fred Hiken,with almost 40 years in the industry, came to Tuxedo House in 1992 from the well know Hiken menswear organization, a four generation family business that was a staple of rentals for tens of thousands of men.
The combined experience of Scott and Fred, who actively work the store together, assures the client of superior customer service, and a first class look for whatever occasion requires formality.
Stop by Tuxedo House at 2135 Greenspring Dr. in Timonium, just off of Timonium Road exit of I83 east, and behind the racetrack. Hours are Monday thru Friday 9-7, and Saturdays, 9-5.
When you come into the store you will be greeted with a long corridor lined with photographs of hundreds of celebrities, sports figures, and politicians who have used the services of Tuxedo House. A further testimonial to the professionalism and reputation they have earned.
Bill Rettberg Jr. @Positive Images by Rettberg wishes Scott and Fred continued success and urges anyone looking for mens formal wear, to look no further than the Tuxedo House. 410-252-6220, fax no., 410-560-3233, www.tuxedohouse.com

Positive Images by Rettberg

2011-05-04T08:53:00.003-04:00

Positive Images by Rettberg sends a special thank you to Tom Gavin@DJdelights for the very nice bio piece in Tom's current e newsletter. It was a concise career review of Bill Rettberg Jr. and a great plug for Bill.
Anyone wishing to view it, contact Tom Gavin directly at tom@djdelights.com, and he will send it to you.

Positive Images by Rettberg

2011-04-22T12:43:00.000-04:00

Positive Images by Rettberg

Spring Renewal at Positive Images by Rettberg

2011-04-20T07:10:00.002-04:00

Every Spring brings a new sense of excitement as the bridal season swings into full gear.You can feel the emotion in the air as couples eagerly count down the days until that time when they join as man and wife.
Positive Images by Rettberg renews its own pledge to the couples it serves, to provide exceptional professional photography, and just as exceptional client service.
We wish all couples a fantastic wedding day, and a long life of love and happiness.

The Power of the Positive Image

2011-04-05T11:00:00.003-04:00

More and more professionals have realized that in this day of massive exposure through Social Media, it is critical to show yourself, literally!
Positive Images by Rettberg ha had a considerable uptick in both head shots for everything from website and all aspects of social media, to executive environmental portraits done at the office, factory, or on site locations.
What is the value to you?
Appearance...A professional portrait can enhance good features and minimilize less flattering areas.The whole world is your market, and you want to look your best.

Portability...Head shots and executive portraits are delivered on cd or dvd, giving the client the ability to use their images for whatever purpose they are neede for.

Flexibility... Positive Images by Rettberg and our portrait arm, Robin Sommer @Images of Sommer go where the client is, at their convenience. Portaits can be done seven days a week at virtually any time of day.

Cost effective... One time charge; no recurring fees for reprints as in film days.
Instant access... ability to have a working image the same day that it is taken.

Service...Positive Images by Rettberg hand delivers final cd or dvd to its clients.

Recognition... In this impersonal world, prospective clients put a fce to the name.
It gives you credibility when approaching new clients. They feel as thoug they already "know" you.

Personal... Many people never have had an exceptional image made of themselves. Too often, the image of a person who has passed away, is one that was taken decades earlier. Celebrate you! There are many people in your life who love and admire you. A quality image is a lasting piece of your legacy. A great image is forever.
Ask yourself what would be more important to you if you only had 5 minutes to get valuables out of your home before an impending calamity. Would it be the furniture, tv, money, or would it be photographs of people in your life that you have loved, and who loved you. The answer can be turned to say that there are people who want to always have more than just a memory of you.

Think carefully once more of the power of the image. It is the tangible proof that we were somebody.

End of bridal show season

2011-03-15T07:38:00.007-04:00

We at Positive Images by Rettberg have participated in over one dozen bridal shows and open houses since the beginning of the year. One thing is certain about this market. There are way too many people claiming to be professional wedding photographers out there.
I am sad that a profession that once had such a high skill level is reducing its quality at the levels I have witnessed. Tob e sure, the economy has been a big factor in the influx of "professional" photographers, but the main reason as I see it, is the perception that it is easy, and that anybody can get great quality wedding images.
There is truth in the statement that parts of the shooting end have gotten easier.
The ability to get instant feedback via the back of a camera is very helpful, but also, very dangerous.
It is a lazy photographers way of learning their craft. To keep shooting until something looks good is not being professional. Thinking that Photoshop or the myriad of other programs out there designed to enhance images artificially is professional is just wrong.They are tools not crutches.
Lets face it. Any amateur with an interest can do the same or better.
To be a true professional requires an advanced understanding of light and how it captures the images it sees. On weddings, the photographer must know how to arrange and embelish groupings of people, and to capture images of people in a flattering way that makes them feel as good looking at their photographs as they felt on their wedding day.
A true professional wedding photographer must understand client service, and deliver a product of high quality in a professionally crafted album. They must brand themselves by being consistent in appearance in what they present themselves as, the look of their promotional materials, and their demeanor in dealing with the many types of people they will encounter.
A true professional wedding photographer continually upgrades their own skill level through seminars, professional schools, attending conventions, and dare I say reading about what it takes to be a true pro.
Professional wedding photography is being reduced in its importance to todays couples
because our industry at the highest levels failed to differentiate itself from the amateur as technology changed. To be fair PPof A and WPPI, our two largest professional organizations are in full gear on the education of what it takes to look and act like a pro, but they let about six years of inferiority creep into the system. The prime focus of most organizations is to get large numbers of members to dangle in front of the industry's big vendors such as Canon and Nikon.
I don't see things really changing for the better until we can once again be charging a signifcant price for a quality product and service that people see not only value in, but equate with an item that only someone of a high degree of skill can produce.

Positive Images by Rettberg and Wedding 411 on Demand

2011-02-26T15:27:00.006-05:00

The video slide show @Positive Images by Rettberg's Facebook page features the two stars of Comcast Channel 888's Wedding 411 on Demand Brooke Stevens and Drew Vanlandingham.
You are seeing the commercial being created for an exciting new contest being offered by Wedding411onDemand.
Details of the contest will be forthcoming on www.wedding411ondemand.com and on the cable program.The final commercial will also be seen at both postings,
Drew and Brooke are lovely young people, and true professionals. Through several takes, they kept their cool and sense of humor.The results are wonderful as scene by us in the early edit sent to us.
Positive Images by Rettberg has teamed with Jay Buck, owner@wedding411ondemand,
Carla Williams, stylist and owner @So Serene Salon, and Marshall Levy, videographer and owner @Maverick Productions to sponsor and promote the upcoming contest.
The Doubletree Inn at the Colonnade in Baltimore will be the host hotel for all of the events surrounding this exciting endeavor.
Positive Images by Rettberg will be giving away free engagement sessions, and a grand prize of a $2,000 wedding package as our contributions to the program.
We look forward to working with this dynamic team of professionals as this new marketing venture moves forward.

Positive Images by Rettberg&Wedding411onDemand

2011-02-26T12:14:00.004-05:00

On Wednesday February 25 Bill Rettberg wedding photographer@Positve Images by Rettberg participated in the making of an exciting new contest being presented by Jay Buck owner@ Weeding411onDemand.
Participating in the shoot were Marshall Levy, videographer and owner @ Maverick Productions, Carla Williams, stylist and owner @So Serene Salon, and Stephen Nyitrai, General Manager @Doubletree Unn at the Colonnade in Baltimore.
Co hosts Brooke and Drew will host a new concept in marketing where brides will have the opportunity to win big prizes in a yearly drawing, but will also be winners in quarterly drawings featuring lunch with Drew and Brooke, a makeover at So Serene Salon, and an engagement portrait session offered by us @Positive Images by Rettberg.
More details are forthcoming, but for now enjoy the video slide show we put together from the shoot.

DJ Delights featuring Tom Gavin

2011-02-17T10:49:00.003-05:00

Positive Images by Rettberg has been priviledged over the years to work with an incredible array of vendors in the entertainment field.
One of the best established organizations is DJ Delights and its owner Tom Gavin.
Tom is a true professional in every sense of the word, and one of the best marketers in the wedding industry.His pursuit of excellence has resulted in a company that does over an impressive 1,100 jobs a year. Dj Delights also fields a staf of over 23 professionals. This is a powerful entity!
Mr. Gavin has spent his entire working life in front of a microphone.As a young 16 year old from southern Vermont, he got his first radio exposure there by just being at the right place at the right time.
Tom branched into radio management for a time, and after coming to Maryland, bought into a Bel Air Maryland radio station.
He began his dj entertainment phase in Maryland in 1981, gradually going full time in the profession in 1985.
His big breakthrough came during the 80's when he sold the powerful Martin's Catering organization on the benefit of having a house dj in an area still dominated by bands at the time.
As djs became more accepted as wedding entertainment, Tom Gavin's DJ Delights capitalized on its positioning with Martin's by being included as part of the wedding package by Martin's, became the house DJ for the caterers' multiple locations.
Never one to rest, Tom continually works networking groups, open houses, bridal shows, and even visits individual clients in their homes.
Gavin says that his is a continual quest for clients truly interested in a quality entertainment experience.
To that end, Tom Gavin personally still does over 50 affairs every year, and if he is not entertaining, you can believe he is on the road making sure his people are upholding his superb reputation.
Tom Gavin still enjoys seeing people have a good time, and that motivates him to make sure his company's contribution to that end is upheld.
Bill Rettberg has known Tom Gavin for thee decades, and besides being a friend, considers Tom one of the best entertainers in the Baltimore/Washington markets

Maryland Golf and Country Club Bridal Show

2011-02-17T10:42:00.004-05:00

Join Baltimore's best wedding photographer Positive Images by Rettberg as we participate in the first annual bridal show for the beautiful Maryland Golf and Country Club, in Bel Air Maryand on Sunday February 27th from one to four.
Positive Images by Rettberg will be offering free engagement portrait sessions to any couple attending.
K&B Bridals will be doing the bridal gowns, and a host of other high quality vendors, such as Jordan Thomas Salon, will be in attendance.
If you have never seen Md. Golf, and are looking for a truly outstanding reception site, February 27th should be a must see event.

Wedding Wire Winner 2011

2011-02-02T15:21:00.000-05:00

Why you hire a professional photographer! Please read

2011-02-01T09:28:00.003-05:00

Wedding News & Analysis: Assets of Bella Pictures sold to CPI, a subsidiary of Wal-Mart and Sears

Posted: 29 Jan 2011 10:19 AM PST

Bella Pictures at work

Readers of The Wedding Marketing Blog know that I’ve been no fan of Bella Pictures and its business model. Research of customer satisfaction via wedding message boards and services such as Yelp! demonstrate that customer satisfaction with Bella Pictures is an inverted bell curve. Lots of lows and highs. Not much in the middle.

In reading customer evaluations, one must realize that any praise and dissatisfaction is directed in several directions. The sales process, the company sales representative, the photographer, and the finished product. Sometimes, the comments name specific people. Mostly, the comments (good or bad) reference the company, Bella Pictures.

For those unaware of Bella Pictures, their business model is this: Bella Pictures is, essentially, a polished internet marketing store front that services as a sales service to the bride, and booking agent to independent photographers. Assignments are bid out to photographers as the wedding day approaches. Reality is that the bride may get a highly skilled photographer or a rookie. Hence, the wild swing in customer satisfaction.

This blog has railed against Bella’s misrepresentations in the media (TV) and on their website (awards), and fuzzy math… among others. The latter, continues to misrepresent, as of this posting.

About the sale:
You may hear that Bella Pictures was sold to Wal-Mart and Sears. That representation is not quite accurate. In fact, the assets of Bella Pictures was sold to CPI, a subsidiary of Wal-Mart and Sears. CPI offers boilerplate portrait photography at Wal-Mart and Sears at over 3000 locations.

Here is the official statement:

We are pleased to announce the acquisition of Bella Pictures assets by a subsidiary of CPI Corp, the nation’s leading provider of studio and portrait photography with over 3,000 studios across North America. CPI is excited to work with the photography and video communities to grow the superb base of talent established by Bella Pictures.

The digital capabilities and infrastructure of CPI combined with Bella’s talented network of photographers and filmmakers will help us achieve our shared mission of providing high quality, high value photography and video services to thousands of additional couples in a vastly expanded number of markets across the country.

What does this mean for you?
· Future growth of the business leading to more assignments
· Planning and assignment of the 2011 season will continue without disruption through the Assignment Desk
· There will be no disruption in the pay cycle

We look forward to sharing more details about the future opportunity that this acquisition will provide, and to growing the Bella business with you.

News Analysis and Opinion:
Bella Picture’s Assets: What does that mean, exactly? High-tech equipment, the business name and reputation, existing marketing, company procedures, past client list, existing photography contracts, roster of freelance photographers?????

First off, existing photography contracts are not an asset; they are a liability.

My sense is that CPI sees value in the marketing and outreach of Bella Pictures. CPI appears, currently, to offer on-premise portraiture. The acquisition would appear to be an attempt to widen their scope to off-premise photography at weddings and perhaps other events.

Ruthless Opinion:
What this means for the bride, other photographers, and the wedding industry

From my personal experience, working as a DJ Entertainer at close to 1000 weddings, I assert that there is no other bride-vendor relationship that requires positive personal chemistry than the bride-photographer. I’m certain that a poll of day-of wedding professionals would provide the same conclusion.

From that premise, the business model of having a photographer, assigned to the bride and groom, without a face-to-face meeting, was/is a flawed proposition. If CPI, for whatever reason, believes they can leverage this clunky model via Wal-Mart and Sears, they are employing wishful thinking.

This is not a shot at ALL big businesses. I’m a huge fan of some big businesses and a detractor of others. However, some business-customer relationships work better when the service is supplied by a small business. We would like to believe that all our sales become relationships, but most wedding sales are transactional, one-time propositions. A photographer, more than most, should have a connection and chemistry, with the client, that is more than transactional.

For photographers: (Andy’s snarky response to the bride) “You’re thinking of having your photography service from Wal-Mart? Are you looking to them for their reputation of fabulous personal service? I’m sure they’ll be worth every nickel.”

For Bella Pictures business partners: Shame on Marriott, Renaissance Hotels, Maggiano’s Little Italy, and Kimpton Hotels for being ‘partnered’ with Bella Pictures. These are, otherwise, excellent companies that have, in my view, put a financial relationship with Bella Pictures above the best interests of the bride. It occurs to me that these companies may think twice about being partnered with CPI, a photography service, based in Sears and Wal-Mart.

Final Analysis:
I think this acquisition may find some audience; however, in the main, I predict it will be a dismal failure.

When it comes to the documentation of a wedding, there is no greater asset than the vision and artistry of a great wedding photographer.

Andy Ebon
The Wedding Marketing Authority

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$2,000 wedding package winner

2011-02-01T08:17:00.003-05:00

We got all of the slips and final email entries in early so we are posting our winner now....

And the winner is, Lisa Pastella of Towson Maryland, getting married this coming November.
Lisa has until noon on Wednesday February 2nd to get in touch with us at our email address at info@billrettberg.com, or call us at 410-893-3620.

Congratulations to Lisa, and thanks to all who entered.
We congratulate all of you on your upcoming weddings, and wish all of you a life of love and happiness.

If professional wedding photography is still in your planning, take advantage of our no obligation presentation in your home.
You can learn about us also by going to our e-brochure at www.pibyrettbergbrochure.com

Again, congratulations to Lisa Pastella.

Drawing for $2,000 wedding package fast approaching

2011-01-26T14:44:00.002-05:00

For all brides who have entered for Positive Images by Rettberg's wedding package giveaway, remember it will be posted at 12 noon on Tuesday February 1st.
The Package includes:
5 hours of wedding day coverage,
an album of all highlight images of the wedding,
a hi resolution cd of all images taken,
website posting of your wedding images,
11x14 wall portrait of your favorite image...

Brides who have signed up at any shows we have been at in January are automatically registered.

If you did not sign up at one of the shows, but would like to participate, just email Positive Images by Rettberg
at info@billrettberg.com and give us your name and wedding date.. we will put your name in the pot.

Remember that the winner must contact us within 24 hours of the posting on Tuesday, or we will draw another name.
Good luck to all!

Positive Images by Rettberg

2011-01-06T07:26:00.000-05:00

Positive Images by Rettberg

Historic London Town & Positive Images by Rettberg

2010-12-13T12:53:00.008-05:00

Waterfront venues for weddings are among the most sought after locations for couples seeking beautiful and unique styling for their big day.
Positive Images by Rettberg has recently been introduced to a real gem of a location, Historic London Town and Gardens, www.historiclondontown.org, just outside of Annapolis in Edgewater Maryland.It is truly one of the most beautiful,dynamic, and functional locations we've ever seen for weddings.
London Town sits on 23 acres along the South River, featuring historical buildings, outdoor deck overlooking the river, charming trails with bridges and gazeboes winding through scrupulously manicured wooded areas.
Jean Shea, Director of Sales since July has embarked on a major marketing campaign to bring London Town to a wider base of couples seeking a wow experience. Jean says that even people living in the area are not aware of the location, an oversight she fully intends to correct.
There are multiple areas to hold a wedding ceremony including the historic William Brown House, a charming 18th century brick structure with its own stunning setting along the river. There is even a pier on the river, for those wanting to come by boat.
The reception facility itself is a combination of a permanent building, and a tent, or tents set up to accomodate up to 150 comfortably, but with an expansion capability of over 200. A great benefit is that you buy London Town for the day, with a block of up to nine hours. No other affairs will interfere with your experience.
London Town provides the tents, chairs and two on site managers the day of the affair.
A list of preferred caterers is at the couples disposal, and the caterers themselves are responsible for all aspects from cooking to cleaning up. Clients are allowed to provide their own alcohol if they wish.
Jean has had over 250 inquiries since taking the reins, and once she can get a prospective client on location, they are sold. Needless to say, this hidden gem will not stay in the shadows for much longer.
Positive Images by Rettberg, a professional wedding photographer serving Baltimore, Annapolis, and DC is sold on Jean and London Town, and enthusiastically endorses this venue for couples in any of the three metro areas.
Contact Jean Shea at 410-222-1919 x203, or email her directly at jeanshea@historiclondontown.org to arrange your personal tour of the grounds.

Special offer for brides to be

2010-12-01T10:13:00.002-05:00

Positive Images by Rettberg, baltimore's leading wedding photographer with over 41 years of experience, and over 2,800 brides and grooms photographed is offering a wonderful new service to couples planning a wedding.
Print out this blog entry, and present it at your in home presentation with Positive Images by Rettberg, and if you book any coverage with us, receive a
THis offer is only valid with this blog entry, so remember to print it out.
ALSO!
Good through December 31, 2010 redeem this notice for $100 off any of our regular coverages.
This offer does not apply to the internet special found at www.pibyrettbergbrochure.com.
Positive Images by Rettberg hopes that you will take advantage of these offers.

Check us out at the following 2011 bridal shows:
January 8 & 9 at the Timonium Bridal show...
January 21 at Turf Valley Resort, Ellicott City...
January 29 & 30 at THe Cloisters Castle Open House...
January 30 at Celebrations at the Bay...
February 19 at Signture Catering's Preston Room, Baltimore

Mary Ellen Otter...Looking into new opportunities

2010-11-05T11:04:00.007-04:00

In 2012 Positive Images by Rettberg will change directions and downsize to a much more compact operation. While I am going to continue doing weddings, I do not intend to pursue them at the same level I have done in the past. New opportunities for me are developing which will move me into new professional choices.
As such, Mary Ellen Otter, my longtime associate,friend, and confidant will be seeking new full time employment opportunities in 2011.
While Mary Ellen will continue to shoot weddings for me throughout the coming year, that position will be a part time occupation, so there will be a need for her to expand into a full time weekday job.
Mary Ellen and I have worked together for over 34 years, and there is no one I trust or admire more. My concern for her is that she is able to put her many attributes to work for an organization of the highest caliber who would appreciate her as much as I have.
Her work ethic is beyond superior, her interpersonal skills are professional yet personal, and her attention to detail, and ability to serve our clients has made me the success I am in this industry.
She brings a lifetime of selling and marketing skills to the table, and her customer service acumen is priceless.There is no challenge that she leaves unanswered, and when presented, these situations are resolved in the best interest of all concerned.
My goal is to assist Mary Ellen as I transition into a tighter niche market of weddings and portraits.
Anyone placing Mary Ellen on their staff will reap immediate benefits. Many people reading this already know her as a warm, caring individual, truly interested in the betterment of people around her.That is her nature, as I have benefited from for all of these years.
Besides all of the aforementioned attributes, she is a skilled photographer, working in what I don't say lightly, is the most difficult shooting environment in our industry...wedding photography.
One must keep a myriad of details in their head; multiple camera and flash setting changes; execute under the pressure of time constraints; highly emotional people; clients not used to being in front of a camera; and have an ability to work with several other wedding vendors. All of this, and then you must deliver a once in a lifetime event that pleases people once the wedding day has passed.
Mary Ellen accomplishes all of this magnificently.
I truly hate to let this talent leave my side, but I am at a point where I would like to expand on a personal level and reduce my photography footprint to a much more tightly defined market.

If you are looking for exceptional quality in a person, I urge you to contact Mary Ellen, or myself, to pursue adding the best asset you could possibly add to your staff.
Bill Rettberg
Positive Images by Rettberg
info@billrettberg.com
Contact Mary Ellen directly at rettbergwest@aol.com

New television commercial

2010-10-22T13:03:00.003-04:00

Baltimore wedding photographer Positive Images by Rettberg, www.positiveimagesbyrettberg.com is now on television.
Bill Rettberg Jr. and wife and partner Robin Sommer taped a commercial back in July for the new and exciting comcast channel dedicated to linking brides and grooms with top quality vendors in the wedding industry.
This new avenue for advertising is called Wedding411on Demand, and can be found on Comcast channel 888 under photographers. You can also see the commercial on their website; www.wedding411ondemand.com.
If you do not have Comcast, go to the website of Wedding 411 on Demand to see the extensive list of other outlets for their advertising.

Planners choice for Positive Images by Rettberg

2010-10-15T10:52:00.001-04:00

On behalf of Eventective, I’m delighted to let you know that your business is a recipient of our 2010 Planners’ Choice Award for Most Popular Photographer. Congratulations!

Out of the thousands of photographers featured on our site, 20 were selected to receive the Planners’ Choice Award this year. The top photographers across the United States and Canada were chosen based on various criteria including the number of times their listings were viewed by planners on Eventective. With the large number of photographers featured on Eventective, you should feel especially proud that you have been selected to receive this award by the people whose opinions matter most – brides-to-be, corporate planners and other potential customers.

For more information and a list of your fellow honorees, please read our press release, which was distributed yesterday, October 14, and has already been picked up by many online publications, including CNBC, Reuters, CBS, Yahoo, Kansas City Star and Earth Times.

The award logo has been added to your listing on Eventective, so that planners who see your listing will immediately know that you are a recipient for 2010. We also encourage you to publicize your award by contacting your local newspaper, announcing your inclusion on the list through social media outlets and adding the Planners’ Choice Award logo to your website. The HTML code for placing the logo on your site is below. The award logo is included within the code. Visitors clicking the link will be taken to your listing on Eventective, which is a great way to showcase the details of your business and the services you offer.

src="http://www.eventective.com/images/award2010photographer.jpg" border="0" />

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. Once again, congratulations on your award and thank you for being part of the Eventective community.

Best,

Traci Freed

Director of Marketing

Eventective

480 Congress Street

Portland, ME 04101

p 207.253.1653 x185

f 207.253.1900

tfreed@eventective.com

Father and Son reunion

2010-09-08T10:46:00.005-04:00

Positive Images by Rettberg
was formed in 1987 after splitting off from Bill Rettberg Photography which split off from Rettberg Brothers Photography in 1978.
Confusing?
In that time, my father Bill Rettberg and I have been in the same venue only once shooting seperate weddings, and that was in 1990 at Martin's East on Pulaski Highway.
That is until September 5 of 2010, when again a Martin's facility, this time the Valley Mansion in Cockeysville, had us cross paths.
There was a Greek wedding going on next to mine, and since he does more Greek affairs than anyone I know, I figured the odds were good that he might be shooting it,
Sure enough it was him.
Not one to pass up an opportunity for a good blog piece, I had my wife Robin, who was working with me, immortalize the auspicious occasion.
It may never happen again, but a little piece of family history fell into place Sunday night.

Our combined years as professional photographers totals 105 Years!
There is no one in the region that can top that, and I dare say it would be tough to beat anywhere in the country for any two wedding photographers.

K&B Bridals and Event Planning

2010-08-11T18:54:00.004-04:00

Positive Images by Rettberg has dealt with many bridal shops over the years, but has found none with the high energy and single minded purpose of pleasing their clients like K&B Bridals.
http://www.kandbbridalsandeventplanning.com/ .
Kara Brown[on left] and Bridget Nussle have formed a dynamic partnership focusing on giving the future bride and her family and friends an experience that will make the process of designing a wedding, and/or selecting that perfect gown as exciting an event as the wedding day itself.
Opened at the beginning of 2010, Bridget and Kara sought a location on Main Street in Bel Air,in a vibrant revitalized area of town, appealing to brides of all budgets seeking help in putting all of the elements of a successful wedding together.
Bridget first met Kara while interning with her at another bridal shop.When Kara left to begin piecing her own business together, she sought out Bridget, having realized the great organizational, and networking skills that Bridget would bring to any endeavor.
They complement each other very well, and are both fiercely client driven.
When a prospective bride calls for an appointment at K&B, she is about to be spoiled beyond her wildest expectations. The client has use of a 10x12 bridal suite for both her, and those attending with her. Light refreshments, and even samples of wedding cake from local vendors are available.
Bridget and Kara treat each client as an individual, educating them on colors, fittings, accessories, and a myriad of other details that encompass the wedding day planning. Choosing the right gown is not always an easy process, and the ladies at K&B are honest with their clients as to what will look best for them. With a top range of $1,500 for a bridal gown, K&B offers a boutique experience at affordable prices.
Even if a bride winds up going elsewhere for her gown, Bridget and Kara know that they have taught that client what to expect from a truly professional bridal shop.
It is best to call for an appointment to enjoy the individualized care that K&B offers, but walk ins are welcome.
No one is ignored, but if the staff is too busy, clients are asked to fill out a gown appointment questionnaire, so that K&B can contact the client for their own fitting and, if desired, their event planning session.On special occasions, Kara or Bridget will accommodate clients during non business hours, proving that their interest in the bride stretches far beyond a 9-5 world.
No matter where you are in the metropolitan area, it is worth a visit to K&B to experience what it means to be treated as wonderfully as you are feeling about the upcoming wedding itself.
K&B Bridals and Event Planning is located at 54 North Main Street, Bel Air Md. 21014.
Their phone number is 410-838-1135.

Loss of a friend

2010-08-10T07:30:00.002-04:00

Positive Images by Rettberg expresses deep regret at the passing of Gordon Wilz, accountant and friend of Bill Rettberg
for over 35 years.
Gordon was quite a character, and a passionate fan of Civil War history, and like Bill, a railroad enthusiast.
This is goodbye to an old friend. I'll miss you both personally and professionally. I am glad that your suffering is over, and hope that you are in a better place. RIP.

Wedding411 on demand commercial

2010-07-29T11:47:00.005-04:00

On Wednesday July 28, Positive Images by Rettberg, Baltimore wedding photographer, did its first foray into the world of television advertising. Bill Rettberg, and Robin Sommer were interviewed by former Miss Maryland Brooke Stevens, an absolutely beautiful and talented young lady.

The production team of videographer Todd Sacks of ToJo Professional Video Production Services, http://www.tojovideo.com/ , and Larry Bridge, well known videographer, and production director for the shoot. Also attending was Jay Buck, managing partner with http://www.wedding411ondemand.com/

Shoot lasted about 2 hours, and was a blast. Everyone made our participation stress free and fun.

Wedding411 on Demand airs on Comcast Cable channel 888, and is a new venture designed to inform and educate the future bride on quality vendors in all aspects of the wedding industry.

Positive Images by Rettberg truly believes that the combination of website/cable/socialnetworking is the future of marketing for all professionals seeking the most direct route to wedding clients.

The program is now running, and Positive Images by Rettberg will go on air in November 2010, and run thru January 2011. In a couple of weeks, the spot will be featured on http://www.wedding411ondemand.com/ .

We're excited about it!

Let us know what you think.

Engineers Club, Baltimore Md.

2010-07-19T19:03:00.001-04:00

Engineers Club, Baltimore Md.
Positive Images by Rettberg, Baltimore wedding photographer, will begin a series of videos on our favorite reception locations.
Our first featured venue is The Engineers Club, Baltimore reception site, and one of the most beautiful wedding locations in the region. www.esb.org

The Engineers Club

2010-07-19T18:58:00.001-04:00

Positive Images by Rettberg, Washington DC wedding photographer launches a series of locations we love. Today enjoy our job from July 4 at the Engineers Club in Baltimore.

Baltimore Country Club

2010-07-01T10:04:00.007-04:00

When Positive Images by Rettberg works weddings in the Baltimore/DC area, there is no more elegant setting then that of The Baltimore Country Club...www.bcc1898.com. Established in 1898, and currently hosting 2,800 members, BCC actually is two facilities, the social club located in Roland Park, and the golf club known as Five Farms, in the Lutherville section of Baltimore County.

These two venues host more then four hundred events a year. Everything from garden parties, pool parties, squash tourneys, tennis matches and golf outings, to elaborate weddings and their big bash, the annual Independence Day celebration complete with marching band and even skydivers on occasion.

The professional responsible for keeping the members happy, and the events running properly is Carmen Lennartsson, Director of Banquet Sales and Special Events.

Carmen and her excellent staff of seasonally between 150 and 300 employees oversee every facet of planning and execution of all of the affairs. She is quick to give the bulk of praise to her staff, saying that the line staff, and culinary and service groups are the real sales people, for it is their professionalism, and dedication that makes her job easy, and keeps her from having to micro-manage every affair.

Carmen is on site for member hosted events, member sponsored weddings, or any unique situation, but depends on her staff for the less demanding events.

The club handles primarily social rather than corporate functions on a roughly 75 to 25% basis.

One new addition to the staff is a bridal attendant whose sole job is to take care of the bride and her entourage on the big day.

BCC is a private club, so anyone wishing to have an affair there, and who is not a member, must be member sponsored, and that member must be attending that particular event.

Carmen was recruited directly out of college by Baltimore Country Club, and is now in her 13th year with the club. Her career has spanned 1 year in operations, 7 years in the banquet sales office, and in her 6th year in the current position. While being the bottom line in decision making, Carmen says that though clients/members require more time then ever in the servicing of their particular events, she is totally in love with what she does, and even feels spoiled to be in such a great occupation and working for such a top notch organization. In a business that is not known for long years of service, it sound like BCC and Ms. Lennartsson are having a record run.

For her part, Carmen will be at BCC as long as they will have her.

In addition to her full time gig, Carmen is president of the local chapter of NACE, the National Association of Catering Executives, showing that she is recognized by her peer group as a leader.

Vickie Preston and the Entertainment Exchange

2010-06-22T07:37:00.005-04:00

One of the better known vendors in the Baltimore/Washington metro areas is The Entertainment Exchange,WWW.ENTERTAINMENTEXCHANGE.COM, but its persona is reflected by its Director of Sales in the Baltimore office, Vickie Preston.

Vickie is well known to many in the wedding industry through her active participation in the National Association of Catering Executives, or NACE as it is commonly know, of which Vickie is the current vice president.

Her "real" job for the past thirteen years has engulfed her in every facet of entertainment for every type of affair. The Entertainment Exchange provides a stable of performers that includes everything from fire spinners to "greeting"camels, yes camels! at theme partys.

How do clients find Vickie?

Just like most people in the event industry, the website is the main point of contact for people seeking the usual or the absurd. once people visit the site, the majority of the dealings are just a series of phone calls. Bands are one of the most sought after forms of entertainment, and they are able to showcase their talents on the Exchange's site through promotional videos.

Vickie holds the schedules of several top groups, and can tell a prospective customer immediately if the particular group is available for the date of the function.

It is Vickie's responsibility to put entertainer in touch with client, once she has determined the right fit for both. Performers pay a commission to the Entertainment Exchange, so the bond between Vickie and artist must be one of integrity and trust, for it to be a win-win situation.

Vickie Preston realizes that her reputation, and that of The Entertainment Exchange rides on each assignment, and that means treating both artist and client with respect that keeps both satisfied and loyal.

The hundreds of affairs handled through Vickie every year are the true testimonial to the reputation she has established in this market as a true professional dedicated to the betterment of peoples lives through entertainment.Positive Images by Rettberg has known of the fine qualities of Vickie Preston for several years, and is proud to be able to offer this strong endorsement of both her and the Entertainment Exchange.

Contact Vickie directly: vickie@entertainmentexchange.com or call 410- 561-6798.

Office is located in Lutherville Maryland.

http://www.entertainmentexchange.com/

Rutland Beard Florists of Ruxton

2010-05-24T14:04:00.009-04:00

Rutland Beard Florists of Ruxton http://www.rutlandbeardweddings.com/ is one of the most established and reputable florists in the Baltimore metropolitan area. It's owner, Rutland "Rut" Beard Paal [in photograph]is a lifelong florist, and a third generation of carrying on the great name of its founder. There is actually a fourth generation of the family in the business, so the tradition will transcend well into the future.

It is this family oriented and involved business that has driven Rutland Beard to the forefront of the brides and grooms of today, when quality and superior customer service are the criteria they seek.Positive Images by Rettberg, Baltimore 's leading wedding photographer, gives Rutland Beard Florist it's strongest referral, and highest praise we can attribute to another professional.

While there are four locations throughout Maryland, those seeking beautiful bouquets and arrangements for their weddings should contact the Ruxton location for all of their floral needs on that happiest of occasions. Ruxton is where the excellent wedding sales staff can assist you best.

That location is at 7627 Bellona Avenue, Baltimore Maryland, 21204. Phone number is 410-321-1737.

Rutland Beard offers the highest quality and flexible pricing that should also entice any bride seeking to make her day just a little more special.

Winner of many awards over the years, Rutland Beard is especially proud of its "Best Of" ranking in Baltimore Magazine. No small feat considering the many florists that compete in this market.

Call Rutland Beard Florists of Ruxton today, or visit their website;www.rutlandbeardweddings.com to learn how best they can make your event better.

Erin & Michael, our bride and groom spotlight

2010-05-18T10:11:00.008-04:00

On May 8 Erin Connelly & Michael Winchester were married at the Grand Lodge in Hunt Valley Maryland. Positive Images was honored to a part of their celebration, and to give Erin and Mike lasting memories of their wedding day.

The ceremony was held in the magnificent upstairs meeting room, with a guest list of some 200 friends and family.

Catering was provided by the always exceptional Simply Elegant, and the musical entertainment was provided by long term veteran dj, Jason Burns.

Positive Images by Rettberg thanks Erin and Mike for letting us be a part of their lives at this once in a lifetime event.The Baltimore wedding photography market hosts dozens of excellent photographers, and to be chosen to preserve their memories humbles and gratifys us.

Congratulations Erin & Mike.

The Cloisters

2010-05-13T16:05:00.003-04:00

Baltimore wedding photographer, Positive Images by Rettberg features today one of the most unique venues in the Baltimore/Washington metro areas.

The Cloisters, or " The Castle" as it is frequently called is a beautiful structure located high on a hill with over 60 acres of preserved woodlands on Falls Road in Lutherville, just north of the Falls Road overpass over the Baltimore Beltway.

When one approaches the castle, you can't help but feeling that you are stepping back in time to a gentler age. Classic stone architecture, exquisite stained glass windows, an amazing spiral staircase, iconic courtyard, and ornate wrought iron railings throughout.

Annie Applegarth[pictured with her hand on "Millie" oversees a superb staff that includes Jennifer D'Uso, event staff; Melissa Day, Senior Event Staff Supervisor; and Castlelen Kimi Baldgeas.

These ladies assure clients, whether they be marrying couples,business party's, themed events,Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, holiday party's etc. that the excellence and attention to detail that have made the Cloisters one of the hottest places in town will extend to them and all of their individual tastes. Cloisters provides a list of some of the regions best caterers, who are sanctioned to service the venue.

The Cloisters averages 250 affairs a year, so careful planning is needed in selecting a date for that special event..

Besides hosting all of the private affairs, Cloisters has been featured in several movies and television shows. It's premier wedding was that of actor Will Smith in 1998.

Positive Images by Rettberg has worked at The Cloisters on numerous occasions over the years and considers it one of the most visually powerful venues anywhere, as a backdrop for that once in a lifetime event. To this day, we have not exhausted the photographic backdrops that "the Castle" has to offer.

Contact Annie or her staff today at http://www.cloisterscastle.com/; phone no. 410 821-7448.

You can email Annie directly: aapplegarth@promotionandarts.com.

The Perfect Wedding Guide/Karen Buck

2010-04-24T10:39:00.004-04:00

Positive Images by Rettberg wants to acknowledge one of the best known professionals on the Maryland wedding scene, and a publication that is without peer in advertising for vendors in any wedding related fields. We are of course speaking of Karen Buck, and The Perfect Wedding Guide.

Because of the territory she covers, most wedding professionals have been approached by Karen to be advertisers in PWG. When one meets Karen, they find a warm, personable professional who always considers advertisers as partners in a win-win relationship in the quest to be successful in the wedding industry. Her relationship building skills are superb, and she endeavors to learn what each of her prospective clients goals, and concerns are.

In a recent interview we turned the tables on Karen and thought you might enjoy learning that all of her success in her business has been earned through hard work, perseverance, and drive.

Karen Adler at one time had dreams of being an Olympic figure skater, and actually attended the University of Delaware to foster that goal.As fate would have it, she returned home with aspirations dashed, but new avenues soon opening.

In 1988, the national figure skating championships were held in Baltimore, and Karen wanting to stay connected to the sport, put together, sold ad space, designed, and published the souvenir program for the competition. She quickly realized that she not only had a talent for the publishing business, but that she loved it.

On her own, Karen borrowed $20,000, went to Omaha Nebraska, and bought the first Wedding Pages franchise, and brought it to the Baltimore market.She sold her first ad space to a local bridal gown shop for $610. Within six months she was out of debt and established as a successful marketer of wedding industry advertising.

During the years that followed, Karen worked her way up to regional sales manager for Wedding Pages, and came into contact with national sales director Jay Buck. I think we all know how that team tuned out!

Wedding Pages became part of "The Knot" organization, and both Karen & Jay moved out of that corporate structure and looked into a new publication on the scene called The Perfect Wedding Guide.

Opportunity in this market was abundant, and PWG was built into a powerful organization through the driving ambition of the now Mrs. Jay Buck.

At one time, the Buck's controlled six PWG franchises throughout the country, plus launching the Baltimore, and Southern Pa. editions.

The franchises were eventually sold and today PWG in Maryland concentrates on its core business here.

Currently the book boasts of 350 advertisers, publishes three times a year, with a total print run of over 47,500 copies. There is hardly a wedding related business in the metro area that does not have a copy of PWG on its premises. In fact there are over 700 points of distribution!

Karen is complemented by a staff of nine employees, and together they also represent PWG at over 50 bridal shows per year.

Jay also publishes Modern Babies, PWG's sister publication.

Karen also promotes education and networking opportunities to all wedding professionals through the Professional Wedding Guild. A wonderful series of luncheons at prominent locations throughout the area. These are must gathering for anyone wishing to stay successful in today's fiercely competitive climate.

Never one to rest on past success, Karen is moving forward with an exciting new advertising adventure that will appeal to today's media savvy bride,and the vendors trying to reach them.

That new enterprise in concert with Comcast Cable will be unveiled at this month's guild luncheon in Annapolis on April 28.

Karen lists her greatest strength as relationship building, and as Positive Images by Rettberg can attest to over the years, it truly is her truest attribute. We encourage anyone looking to tie on to a winning position when it comes to marketing their own wedding business, check out The Perfect Wedding Guide at http://www.maryland.pwg.com/, and contact Karen Buck or her excellent staff to further the growth of their own businesses.

The Hotel at Turf Valley/ http://www.turfvalley.com

2010-04-21T09:52:00.006-04:00

Positive Images by Rettberg,Maryland wedding photographer, works at many great locations in the State, but there are not many that offer brides and grooms the array of services and amenities that The Hotel atTurf Valley does. Carol Sirchio, Catering Manager, and Jenny Betlejewski, Director of Catering [pictured on right] oversee an operation that caters affairs from 35 people to several hundred. Turf Valley has a beautiful outdoor garden with a gazebo for an outdoor ceremony, or multiple ballrooms that can be set up to accommodate any size service. The outdoor area also boasts of several spectacular settings for photographs; another reason we at Positive Images by Rettberg enjoy shooting there.

The support for bridal couples and their families and guests is unparalleled. The hotel fields 171 comfortably appointed guest rooms, a fantastic restaurant, and a luxurious spa.

For the golfer there are two championship courses.

If you are looking for an all inclusive package when planning your happiest day, let The Hotel at Turf Valley put its 30 year plus reputation of excellence to work for you.

Contact the Turf Valley sales team at 410-465-1200 or visit their website:

http://www.turfvalley.com/ to learn best how they can make your once in a lifetime event one to remember for the rest of your lives!

Juliets Bridal

2010-04-15T12:41:00.003-04:00

Positive Images by Rettberg has had a wonderful relationship with Juliets Bridal for the better part of two decades. One thing that Juliets has prided itself on is customer service, and under current management, that tradition is alive and well.

Juliets was bought in 2000 by the family team of Laura Barnaba [in photo above]her sister Catherine Showalter, and their mother, Judy Muhl.These ladies bring a warm and caring atmosphere to a very personal, yet demanding business.

Emphasizing strong customer support, and backed by popular lines of quality gowns, featuring Anjolique, Pronovias, and Maggie Sottero, Juliets has secured such a following that over 90% of their clients come from the referrals of satisfied clients.

Further evidence of the respect they have earned, Juliets has won the coveted Knot magazine "Best Of" in the bridal shop category for years 2007 thru 2010. An award that is a testimonial to the loyalty they have garnered from brides willing to take the time to cast a vote for a favored vendor.

Juliets works to accommodate special orders in the gown lines they handle, and to serve clients better, they urge setting up appointments for fittings, though they will assist walk-ins if they are able.

The average cost of a wedding gown at Juliets is in the $1,000 range, but pricing obviously varies with the brides tastes.

Juliets offers convenient hours:Tuesday and Thursday 10-8, and Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, 10-5.

Check out their website at http://www.julietsbridal.com/, or call 410-882-0520.

Positive Images by Rettberg, Maryland's premier wedding photographer gives its strongest referral to the ladies who make Juliets such a success story, and one of Maryland' leading gown shops.

Embassy Suites/Baltimore-Hunt Valley

2010-04-13T07:56:00.003-04:00

One of the finest locations Positive Images by Rettberg has worked at over the past several years is The Embassy Suites in Hunt Valley, located at 213 International Circle in Hunt Valley Md.

Under the direction of their new Director of Sales, Colleen Wolfe, the hotel is once again aggressively pursuing the wedding reception market.

Ms. Wolfe comes to the hotel with a strong sales background rooted in her previous Marriott position. With assistance from her senior sales manager, Sherry Octaviano, Colleen is determined to make Embassy Suites a destination for couples in the market for a beautiful and different reception experience. The ballroom can handle up to 250 guests with a dance floor, and the beautiful Atrium located in the center of the hotel is a magnificent backdrop for photography. It also is a great setting for the cocktail hour, or even the wedding ceremony itself. Conveniently located off of the Shawan Road exit of I 83, and with the convenience of a hotel setup, Embassy Suites will once again be a must do wedding experience.

Positive Images by Rettberg encourages the prospective bride and groom looking for a unique and

dynamic location for their wedding reception, should give Colleen Wolfe a call.

Embassy Suites Baltimore/Hunt Valley...410-584-1400. Colleen's direct line is-410-527-4782.

The website is http://www.embassysuites.com/.

Reverend Alberta Eaton

2010-04-06T11:45:00.003-04:00

Many weddings in the region are held at non- denominational locations. Positive Images by Rettberg,being a leading wedding photographer in Maryland, is frequently asked how do you choose a minister when not having your ceremony at a church or other religious venue.

To that end we interviewed Reverend Alberta Eaton, a 12 year veteran of doing ceremonies all over Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.These are the States Rev. Eaton is sanctioned to perform ceremonies in.

The search for ministers such as Reverend Eaton begins with a call to her at, 410-256-5330, or checking out her website at http://www.revalbertaeaton.com/. The initial consultation is done at her home or mutually agreeable location. Couples can bring their own ideas of the vows they would like to say, or, solicit Rev. Eaton's assistance in their formation. She can also design a ceremony and email it to her clients for their editing or approval.

There is much flexibility, so couples can incorporate any religious beliefs they may have into the service, and even have a denominational minister, or Rabbi participate in the ceremony with her.

She works closely with the other clergy person to make the sacred event seamless, and meaningful to the couple.

Reverend Eaton does require a contract for her service, and fees can range from $400 to $750, depending on distance traveled, and any other special circumstances. While the average ceremony lasts twenty minutes, their are no time constraints involved.

Positive Images by Rettberg has worked with Reverend Eaton on numerous occasions and has found her services personal, heartfelt, and dignified.

She has our strongest recommendation.

Center Club Baltimore

2010-03-31T07:35:00.005-04:00

Featured this week is the Center Club, http://www.centerclub.org/, located at 100 Light Street in downtown Baltimore.

This is the finest private club in the Baltimore/Washington area. A recent multi million dollar renovation, and the best view in Baltimore combine to make this a must for professionals looking to entertain clients, or, for a special evening out at a most impressive venue.

A tremendous staff of professionals including Nancy Lindberg Sloane; Director of Membership,{pictured on the right,} and Kiersten Thomas; Assistant Director of Membership Sales and Marketing, personify the excellence you can come to expect at the club.

Positive Images by Rettberg, http://www.billrettberg.com/, and Bill Rettberg are not only working vendors at the Center Club, Bill and his wife Robin are also members.

We have discovered Baltimore's jewel, and hope that you do to. Give Nancy or Kiersten a call at 410-727-7788and set up a visit.It will be one of the best investments you could make.

Friendly Entertainment

2010-03-25T07:36:00.002-04:00

Positive Images by Rettberg, Maryland's best wedding photographer works with some of the finest entertainment organizations in the State. At the top of our list foDJs is Friendly Entertainment. http://www.friendlyentertainment.net/.

Frank Marsden, owner of Friendly Entertainment lives up to the name. Frank is extremely personable, and very professional, leaving satisfied clients feeling as though a personal friend had provided the entertainment at their event. Frank knows the music business, and his sense of timing paces any affair in a manner that moves the party along in a natural, and when needed, spontaneous mode that gives any party a well grooved rhythm.We enjoy Frank and Friendly Entertainment, and hope that you will too at some future function.

Jordan Thomas " Wedding Party" March 21, 2010

2010-03-22T10:40:00.006-04:00

Positve Images by Rettberg was a proud participant in the Jordan Thomas Salon & Spa wedding party on March 21 from 1 to 4. It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon with many quality vendors participating.There was an enthusiatic group of brides to be enjoying a bridal fashion show presented by K&B Bridals of Bel Air, and Francesca's Bridal in the Nottingha,/ Perry Hall section of Baltimore County. Jordan Thomas is an upscale hair salon, with many supporting spa activities to entice a bride to be, or for any woman looking to be pampered in the finest manner.

Positive Images by Rettberg, Maryland's leading wedding photographer, thanks Terry McGill, owner of JordanThomas, for letting us be a part of their wedding show.

Jordan Thomas is located at 111 Fulford Ave in Bel Air.

Phone: 410-879-6600

http://jordanthomassalonandspa.com/

Favorite Vendors aka "Frendors:" Hillendale Country Club

2010-03-19T09:54:00.005-04:00

Positive Images by Rettberg has the pleasure of working at many of the regions finest reception venues. As a tribute to the vendors we enjoy most, we are going to be presenting a feature on all of the people who make our job as a wedding photographer in Maryland, a much more pleasant Task.Reach Hillendale at http://hillendalecc.com.

Our first entry is for Hillendale Country Club.This is a fantastic facility with a large ballroom, beautiful scenery, and a top notch staff of professionals, whose soul purpose is to make your event an affair to remember.

LeeAnn White is Director of Sales and Marketing; the person who puts your day together according to your particular tastes. Lexie Chapman handles the critical food and beverage supervision and, Gail Koerber is the Clubhouse Coordinator.These ladies are the heart of Hillendale, and we are excited to say, that they uphold the highest caliber of professionalism that we at Positive Images by Rettberg also strive for.Thank you ladies for being our initial "Frendor."

Viva Las Vegas

2010-03-16T14:44:00.003-04:00

Always exciting Las Vegas is also host to the largest gathering of professional wedding and portrait photographers in the world. Our recent convention, WPPI, attracted over 13,000 participants, and over 400 vendors catering to the professional photography industry. Robin Sommer and Bill Rettberg Jr. attende both the convention, and an intense two day business program designed to boost sales, marketing, and client satisfaction.Positive Images by Rettberg, Maryland's leading wedding photographer now has many new programs to appeal to both its clients, and fellow professionals in related wedding businesses. This is always a great pep rally to get us prepared for the upcoming wedding season, and we look forward to another successful year.

Bridal Show at Ripken Stadium

2010-03-07T10:13:00.003-05:00

Positive Images by Rettberg will be participating in a bridal show at Ripken Stadium on Sunday April 18. This is a unique venue, and PI by R will be offering a unique opportunity for brides and grooms that day.
Positive Images by Rettberg will be set up in a suite with a complete studio for free engagement session for attendees. No strings attached, just stop by and have your free session. If the couple books with Positive Images by Rettberg, they will receive a Signature Board for all of their guests to sign. Mark the date... April 18 at Ripken Stadium Bridal Show featuring the best wedding photographer in Maryland, Positive Images by Rettberg.

Bridal Gown Shops in Bel Air Maryland

2010-03-06T07:57:00.002-05:00

We want to welcome a new business to the world of weddings.
K&B Bridals in Bel Air is an exciting new gown shop catering to brides in Harford County and the greater Baltimore area. Bridget and Kara, the two owners are energetic and customer service driven ladies, who are going to quickly niche out a place as one of the best Bridal Salons in Maryland. We support these ladies in their new endeavor, and encourage anyone lookinf for any type of ladies formal wear, to check them out. They are right on Main Street in the heart of Bel Air.

Training Days

2010-03-06T07:42:00.004-05:00

Robin Sommer and Bill Rettberg are attending the annual WPPI convention in Las Vegas, being hld from March 5 to the 11th. This is the largest gathering of professional photographers in the country with over 12,000 attendees.
This is a must for wedding and portrait photographers if they want to stay competitive in today's tough market.
While attending the convention, Bill and Robin are involved in the Business Institute.
This is an intensive two day session focusing on all aspects of the marketing of professional photography today. Topics such as branding, customer relations, SEO, and Social Networking are the key elements of this program.
While Vegas can be distracting to say the least, it is also a relaxed location to get away from the day to day work flow, and to reenforce why we love being professional wedding and portrait photographers.Staying the best wedding photographer in Baltimore, the State of Maryland, or anywhere else; Positive Images by Rettberg owes its existance to the good word of its clients, and works hard to maintain its ranking.

Djs in Baltimore area

2010-03-06T07:31:00.004-05:00

There are many fine djs in the Baltimore area, and Positive Images by Rettberg has worked with several. We want to give mention to a few that have trulty impressed us with the high level of professionalism and entertainment value today's client should expect.
We refer the following djs in the Baltimore area. Santana Entertainment,AJ Productions, Dedications featuring Jason Burns, Absolute Entertainment featuring Ken, John Paul, and Jason,
Funtime with Frank Marsden, DJ Carl Jr. featuring Carl Brashears, and Music Masters featuring Dan Hawkins.
All great people, and all serve their clients at the same level that we at Positive Images by Rettberg do.

Wedding reception locations in Maryland

2010-03-05T12:46:00.004-05:00

Positive Images by Rettberg travels all over the State of Maryland. Here are some of the best wedding reception sites in Maryland.
Ceresville Mansion,
Bonnie Blink,
Hunt Valley Golf Club
Hillendale Golf Club
Wakefield Valley
Turf Valley Resort
Celebrations on the Bay
Chesapeake Bay Beach Club
Top of the Bay
Overhills Mansion
Grey Rock Mansion
The Gramercy
1840's Ballroom
Rocky Gap lodge
Waverly Mansion
Embassy Suites, Hunt Valley
Valley Country Club
Positive Images by Rettberg loves all of these locations and enjoys being on the preferred vendors list for most of them. The best wedding photographer in Maryland ,Positive Images by Rettberg, only works with the best wedding reception site in Maryland.

wedding reception sites in Baltimore

2010-03-05T12:36:00.004-05:00

These are some of Positive Images by Rettberg's favorite wedding reception sites in Baltimore City.
Baltimore Country Club,
Marriott Inner Harbor Hotel in Baltimore
Marriott Waterfront Hotel
Rennaisance Hotel
Radisson, Lord Baltimore
Intercontinental Hotel Baltimore
Visionary Arts Museum
Museum of Industry
Baltimore Museum of Art
Engineers Club
Peabody Conservatory
Walters Art Gallery
B&O Museum
Governors Club
Pier 5
Sheraron Baltimore
Camden Club
Baltimore Hilton
Admiral Fell Inn
World Trade Center
The Belvedere
The Hyatt Baltimore
The best wedding photographer in Baltimore, Positive Images by Rettberg works all of these locations, and highly refer them to our clients.

Best wedding photographer in Maryland

2010-03-05T12:29:00.003-05:00

You don't thrive in wdding photography in Maryland in general, or wedding photogrphy in Baltimore in particular, without being exceptional at what you do.
For over forty years Bill Rettberg Jr. has solidified his credentials as the best wedding photographer in Maryland. Bill's warm manner, technical expertice, and fantastic customer service have endeared him to over 2,800 couples who have benefitted from his skills.Invite Bill into your home for a no obligation presentation today.

Wedding reception locations in Harford County

2010-03-05T12:23:00.004-05:00

These are locations Positive Images by Rettberg enjoys working at the most when doing wedding photography in Harford County.
Swan Harbor Farm,
Maryland Golf and Country Club
Residence Center at Bulle Rock
Liriodendron Mansion
Vandiver Inn
Bulle Rock
Jarrettsville Gardens
Richlin Ballroom
Positive Images by Rettberg
is the best wedding photographer in Harford County, and recognizes the above weddong reception sites in Harford County as the best for brides seeking the best venue for their celebration.

Getting an education.

2010-03-05T10:49:00.001-05:00

In Las Vegas at the annual WPPI convention. Tough location!
This is a great opportunity to learn new skills, and to find out what trends appeal most to today's brides and grooms.

Special offer!

2010-02-28T06:53:00.003-05:00

Anyone receiving an email from Positive Images by Rettberg is being offered $100 off on any coverage plan we offer.You need to print out the email ad you received from Positve Images by Rettberg, and agree to a no obligation presentation in your home. Present your print-out and if you book with us, the $100 credit will be directly applied to your contract.

DIY Photography

2010-02-11T14:42:00.002-05:00

Digital photography makes what a professional photographer does look easy. Just point and shoot,
and if it doesn't look good; delete it and do it again.
No doubt that digital has drastically changed the way wedding photographers in Baltimore, Maryland, or around the world shoot.
Unfortunately for the client who gets a friend or family member to photograph their wedding, that shoot and delete mentality does not work in the fast paced atmosphere of the wedding day.
Many moments of that day are once in a lifetime events, and the professional who preserves them knows that there are no retakes of the ring being place on the finger, or the look a bride and groom have on their faces as they come down the aisle.
Leave DIY for drywall repair, but never trust your memories to an"I can do it cheaper and better mindset."
There is no substitute for a professional wedding photographer. Just ask most who have tried to cut that corner and now wish they had not!

Wedding Photogaphers in Maryland

2010-02-03T06:17:00.004-05:00

Choosing a photographer in Maryland, or photographers in Baltimore in particular can be a daunting challenge. The combination of, the digital age, the economy, and the lack of experience of newer photographers has left the potential client reeling.
What should a wedding photography prospect seek out.
1] experience... weddings are fast paced, stressful, and emotional. An experienced professional photographer has to be calm, cool and collected through all fazes of the day. he or she must be technically proficient in getting a quality image at a seconds notice, or, have the skill level needed to maneuver groups or individuals efficiently, yet caringly in very short bursts of time.
2] referrals...The best wedding photographers in Maryland can produce a strong bank of clients who are satisfied with their service, and just as important, a list of professional vendors who work weddings with that photographer, and do not hesitate to refer that photographer.
3] personality... You need to like your photographer; be comfortable with them both personally and professionally. That person will be with you through the heart of your day, and will be the one that lets you enjoy your wedding for the rest of your life.
4]Pricing... Every wedding photographer in Maryland has a different price structure. Photographers are mostly very small businesses, so the price is based on all of the criteria listed above, plus time, personal appraisal of ones own talent, and materials involved. It is a very subjective part of the clients planning, since wedding photography has to be done well, but within a budget guideline they set for themselves.
5] Flexibility... Good professional photographers will work with you as long as you are reasonable in your requests. Not just in designing the plan that fits your budget, also, with the shooting priorities you present. Tailor special requests to people, setting, and events that "really" are important to you. Don't just tear a shot sheet out of a bridal guide and hand it to a photographer.
Most good professional photographers honor what is presented to them. If you hand out a cookie cutter request list, the photographer may become ham strung in their ability to preserve many once in a lifetime moments, trying to fulfill the items on the sheet.www.google.com

Portraits For a Good Cause

2010-01-29T12:03:00.002-05:00

Positive Images by Rettberg
will be participating In "Girls Night Out" at Confetti's on Glen Eagles Drive in Towson.
This will be held on hursday February 11, 6-9 PM.
We will be doing portraits of attendees with 100% of our charge going to the chidren's organization, CASA of Baltimore.
Visit www.baltimoresbest for more details of the event.
Come on out for a fun night, a professionally done portrait, and a contribution to a worthy cause.

Top Ten Reasons not to use Positive Images by Rettberg

2010-01-26T09:03:00.001-05:00

Cloisters Open House

2010-01-09T08:26:00.002-05:00

Come visit us at the Cloisters for a series of open houses at this most unique venue.
We will be participating in three of these events.
Saturday, January 16th, 11-5
Saturday, January 30, 11-5
Saturday, February 20, 11-5

Also, we are holding our own brides night out on Wednesday January 27 at the Event Library in Greenspring Station; Falls and Joppa roads in Lutherville. Free admission, Free engagement portraits, and refreshments will be provided. Contact us at rettberg401@comcast.net for more info on any of these events.

Favorite Image of the Month

2009-10-31T07:03:00.002-04:00

This is a beautiful image showing the couple in the Corpus Christi Church in Baltimore. The bride and groom are surrounde by the magnificence of the Gothic architecture.

Big Savings!

2009-10-31T06:59:00.002-04:00

Getting married in January, February or March. Print out this blog offer to receive up to seven hours of coverage, two photographers, an album with all images taken, and a cd of all images for only $2,000 plus tax.

Facebook forum

2009-10-31T06:53:00.002-04:00

Looking for answers as to what to ask a professional photographer when in the market for one for your wedding day? When you get past price and number of photographs taken, are you stuck?
You can ask Bill Rettberg specific questions about Positive Images by Rettberg here, or, go to Bill Rettberg's Facebook page and ask any general questions you want. Bill will answer in an unbiased manner strictly to help you understanfd this most important investment in your wedding memories.

2010 bridal shows

2009-10-31T06:46:00.002-04:00

Visit us at two of the best bridal shows in the area.
January 9 & 10 at the Timonium Bridal Show at the fairgrounds.
January 15 at the Turf Valley Resort.
Two of the biggest and best shows to learn firsthand who should be a part of your wedding celebration.
Mention this blog and we will give you a free engagement portrait session when you schedule a no obligation presentation of our service in your home.

Bridal Round Table Discussion

2009-08-04T14:20:00.002-04:00

On Thursday September 24, we will be hosting a bridal forum. This will be an opportunity for brides to be to be with others in the planning stages of their biggest day. This round table will be held at The Event Library in Greenspring Station at the corner of Falls and Joppa Roads, just above the north end of the Jones Falls Expressway.
This venue features all of the different elements of the wedding, and is a great place to view many vendors essential to making your day complete. Discussion will revolve around the best avenues to pursue when putting together the entire day.
Light refreshments will be served.
Reservations are a must since the group will be limited to a maximum of 12 participants.All participants will be brides to be only.
Call 410-893-3620, or email rettberg401@comcast.net to make your reservation.

Bridal shows for 2010

2009-07-30T09:06:00.002-04:00

We have committed to 2 bridal shows so far in 2010.
We will be at the bridal expo at Timonium Fairgrounds on January 9 & 10.
We will also be at the Turf Valley bridal show on Friday January 16.
Please stop by and say hi.

Facebook

2009-07-29T16:37:00.002-04:00

For all of our Brides that are on Facebook, please visit us on our fan page, "Positive Images by Rettberg", become a fan and we will post a video from wedding to share with family and friends!

Bulle Rock Bridal Show

2009-07-20T17:26:00.002-04:00

What a beautiful day is was yesterday at the Bulle Rock Bridal Show! They had a great turnout, and the brides really enjoyed talking with all of the wonderful vendors and visiting all the boothes!

Bridal show July 19

2009-06-29T13:43:00.002-04:00

We will be participating in a bridal fair at the new Bulle Rock Community Center from 1 to 4 on Sunday July 19th.
This is a beautiful new venue, and will be a wonderful opportunity to meet many top vendors whose sole purpose is to make the most exciting day of your life even better.
Tickets are $12 in advance, and $15 at the door.
For more info call 410-939-8887 ext. 5.

2009-06-29T13:42:00.001-04:00

Bulle Rock Bridal Show

2009-06-29T13:37:00.001-04:00

We are participating in a bridal show at Bulle Rock Golf Course on Sunday July 19. This will be a great opportunity to see this beautiful new location, and to meet several top vendors who can help you make that once in a lifetime event even more special. Stop by and say hi.

Hours are 1-4 and the cost is $12 in advance; $15 at the door.

For more information call,

The Event Library

2009-06-19T23:24:00.006-04:00

Please come see our new display at The Event Library, located at Greenspring Station on Falls Road. This is a unique store with some of the best merchants in the Baltimore area to help you with any event you may be planning!

2009-05-28T11:23:00.002-04:00

What a great trip yesterday to Combsberry Bed and Breakfast in Easton. Some of the leading wedding professionals were invited to tour the beautiful Inn and surrounding property. This would be a great location for a ceremony and reception! Their web address is www.combsberry.net if you are looking for a unique place to hold your wedding or event.

Bridal Show in July

2009-05-16T06:29:00.002-04:00

We will be participating in a bridal show at the community center at Bulle Rock Golf Course on Sunday July 19th.
This is a beautiful facility and will feature some high end vendors.
Come on out and check the place out, and stop by and say hi. It is a wonderful opportunity to see our work, and learn a little more about how we can serve you.

Knot Award For Third Year In A Row!

2009-04-30T15:39:00.003-04:00

We are honored to be chosen by our clients as a Best of the Knot for wedding photography for the third year in a row. This award is given as a result of an independently conducted poll solicited by the Knot magazine. Brides vote on their favorite vendors in each category.It is a continuing reflection on the quality of service, and the excellent photographic coverage provided by us. If you are looking for a wedding photographer, why not choose the best. Call us for a no obligation presentation in your home. Thanks to all who voted. We are truly proud of what you think of us.

2009-04-26T10:30:00.002-04:00

We have a busy week coming up getting everything ready for the bridal show at Mountain Branch Golf Club. The show is being held on Sunday, May 3rd. from 1-4pm. Please stop by and visit with us and all the other fabulous vendors that will be there!

The wedding season

2009-04-12T07:01:00.002-04:00

It's hard to believe that the 2009 wedding season is upon us! We are really looking forward to being a part of the celebrations of so many wonderful couples, and giving them a lifetime of memories of the happiest day of their lives. We will be featuring many new and exciting venues this year, and will be posting them for all to see. We also have some surprize bonuses for our couples that will manifest as the year progresses. Facebook will be playing a larger role in our outreach to the wedding community, as we have come to realize the value of its reach to a broad base of people.
Please let us know if we can be of assistance in helping anyone looking for quality vendors in other areas of the wedding field. We work with some of the best, and would be more than happy to pass on a bona fide referral

New booking bonus.

2009-03-24T10:10:00.002-04:00

Running now thru the end of 2009, if you book your wedding with us and mention you saw this blog posting, we will give you a free dvd of your 100 favorite images, put to music in a dramatic Hollywood style fashion. This is for clients booking after April 1, 2009.
You select the images and we do the rest.
This bonus must be mentioned at our in home consultation with you.
Call or email today for your no obligation presentation in your home.

Portraits for life

2009-03-24T10:07:00.002-04:00

For new clients booking weddings April 1 thru 12/31/09 we are offering our most exciting bonus ever!
A free portrait session once a year for life!
As your family grow, you can have a professional documentation of the changes as you develop.
This is a limited offer. Call today for details.

DVDS now available

2009-03-24T10:03:00.002-04:00

We are now offering dvds of your favorite wedding images put to music with titling and Hollywood effects. This gives a stunning rendition of the favoritr moments of your wedding day. Choose between 75 and 100 of your most treasured images and we will do the rest. Cost for this service is $125 plus tax and $4 shipping and handling. Call or email us with your order or questions.

Back From School

2009-03-24T09:58:00.002-04:00

Robin and Bill just completed one week of professional traing at the Triangle Institute of Professional Photography in Pittsburgh. It was a great opportunity to refresh our skills, and to learn new ways to best serve you, our clients. In addition, we got to meet many fellow professionals throughout the region to find out the current state of our industry.We look forward to using our expanded knowledge base to increase our viability to you.

Welcome all

2009-02-21T21:16:00.003-05:00

This is our first entry into the blogosphere and we are excited about using this format to communicate, educate, and share what it is to be a professional photographer with clients past, present, and future. We will do our best to keep this page lively and current.
From time to time we will also offer"blog only" specials, that will give clients we are or will be working with, special bonuses available only with this page.
This is also an opportunity to thank everyone who has contributed to our success. Without the confidence of hundreds of people throughout the year, we would not be able to maintain the high level of service you have come to expect.

Current News...

Bill and Robin are going back to school!
Yes, even 40 year career professionals are still learning.
From March 15th to 21st, we will be attending Triangle Regional Professional Photography School in Pittsburgh.
We will be studying with internationally acclaimed teacher, Hanson Fong.
Mr. Fong is one of the world's finest wedding photographers, and this is a wonderful opportunity for us to expand our own skill level, in order to serve all of you better.

New website!

We are in the process of completely redesigning both the PI by Rettberg and Images of Sommer sites.
The new site will still offer the same content so important to clients seeking the service of a professional photographer, but will add several new features to enhance both the visual and auditory experience of those visiting us in cyberspace.
We will keep you informed of our progress.

Awards for Positive Images by Rettberg!

We have been recognized by The Knot and Wedding Wire as a winner of awards based on the voting that really counts,
the brides we work with.
The home page of our site shows the awards we have won, but we want to thank our clients who thought highly enough of us to take the time to vote for us. It is truly humbling..

A passing thought......

These are tough times economically, and we are feeling it to, but may we remind you that life goes on and the memories you make today will be just as treasured as the ones you have made in the past.
For the momentous events of life, do not discount the service we provide. The money spent today will pay dividends long past your lifetime. Your legacy is left in memories, and photographs will always be the portal to the past.