Stacey Cordes Photography

{Dust and Hay} Minneapolis, MN Lifestyle Photography

2012-01-22T09:10:00.000-08:00

The answer my friend is blowing in the wind,
the answer is blowing in the wind.
-Bob Dylan

Last night the Valley was blowing in the wind. It was comfortable and irritable at the same time. It inspired me pull up these pictures from a field trip I took to an apple orchard with my son last October. The dust was blowing hard, kids were grabbing onto handles and scarecrows so they wouldn't fly away. I don't think any of us could see with all the dirt in our eyes on the bus ride back.
Seems the wind finds it's way no matter what direction you head.

{When They Meet} Mesa, AZ Wedding Photographer

2012-01-09T13:02:00.000-08:00

“Laughter is carbonated holiness.”
― Anne Lamott

Another shot from my dear friend's wedding. This one jumped at me as it was right after they were joined in front of the pastor at the beginning of the ceremony. The laughter, love and joy practically jumped into my camera and clearly displays the start of something beautiful. And yes, I do, on a side note, believe that laughter is indeed holy:)

{Saturday Inspiration}

2012-01-07T06:09:00.000-08:00

Source: instagram.heroku.com via Kelly on Pinterest

{To my Gal}

2012-01-06T11:13:00.000-08:00

To my beautiful strong creative daughter. I love you to the moon, milky way and back.

xoxo
Mom

Source: tumblr.com via Stacey on Pinterest

{To my Guy}

2012-01-06T08:06:00.000-08:00

For my sweet sweet true love Henry. Love you to the Milky Way and back

xo
Mom

Source: Uploaded by user via iseethemoon on Pinterest

{Lady in White} Mesa, AZ Wedding Photography

2012-01-04T11:34:00.000-08:00

“Silently, one by one, in the infinite meadows of heaven,
Blossomed the lovely stars, the forget-me-nots of the angels”
― Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

I will be soon posting a bigger preview of this amazing wedding between Rose and Craig but alas 1000 pictures takes some time. So to my amazing AZ angel. Thank you for the day. Blessings and love on your new journey as you so assisted and still do in mine.

{Timeless} Mesa, AZ Wedding Photographer

2012-01-02T10:30:00.000-08:00

“A friend is one that knows you as you are, understands where you have been, accepts what you have become, and still, gently allows you to grow.”
― William Shakespeare

Just had to post a sneak picture from the lovely wedding from yesterday. These two lovely women have been friends since well, forever. I have learned so much from both and watching the love they have for each other.

{A Rose by any other name} December Gratitude Challenge

2011-12-31T14:49:00.000-08:00

“We have to recognise that there cannot be relationships unless there is commitment, unless there is loyalty, unless there is love, patience, persistence.”
― Cornel West, Breaking Bread: Insurgent Black Intellectual Life

Thankful today for the beautiful friends like my dear friends Rose, Brandy, Nadina,Kathy, Alan, Emily,Michael, Earl, The Finley Fam, Kolby, Lisa, Sarah, Owen Fam, Joshua ,My parents, Jessica, Barb, Vicki and others who thick and thin and messy and tears stuck by me during this messy and nasty divorce. Not many have the virtue of loyalty, myself included, at times. But hold the ones that do have close to your heart. Tightly. And I know I left out many including the fine people I met on the road...

Tomorrow, I have the privilege of photography my lovely friends wedding. I could not be more blessed.

Happy New Year and blessings!

{Dog. Meets. World} December Gratitude Challenge

2011-12-29T13:00:00.000-08:00

“I hate to hear you talk about all women as if they were fine ladies instead of rational creatures. None of us want to be in calm waters all our lives.”
― Jane Austen, Persuasio

Thankful today for rough waters, the strong women in my life and in the world, for my strong daughter and for my son who loves strong women.

{Seaside} December Gratitude Challenge

2011-12-28T10:18:00.000-08:00

“Te amo como se aman ciertas cosa oscuras,
secretamente, entre la sombra y el alma.
(I love you as certain dark things are to be loved,
in secret, between the shadow and the soul.)”
― Pablo Neruda

Thankful today for the sea. For self discovery. For poetry and movement. For the low and high tides. For grace.

{Ir. Vine} December Gratitude Challenge

2011-12-27T17:16:00.001-08:00

“Expose yourself to your deepest fear; after that, fear has no power, and the fear of freedom shrinks and vanishes. You are free.”
― Jim Morrison

Thankful for the Fineley's in Southern California
Thankful for safe travels and laughs
Thanful for Bop it
Thankful for Father Frank Finley

Most of all thankful for new starts....

{Coaster} December Gratitude Challenge

2011-12-23T14:51:00.000-08:00

“Life is truly a ride. We're all strapped in and no one can stop it. When the doctor slaps your behind, he's ripping your ticket and away you go. As you make each passage from youth to adulthood to maturity, sometimes you put your arms up and scream, sometimes you just hang on to that bar in front of you. But the ride is the thing. I think the most you can hope for at the end of life is that your hair's messed, you're out of breath, and you didn't throw up.”
― Jerry Seinfeld

Today thankful for the ride called life and all the amazing people in my life from my roommate to my neighbor to friends far and wide. Happy holidays and hold onto that handle bar. Life is a crazy wonderful ride!

{Checkers} December Gratitude Challenge

2011-12-22T14:50:00.000-08:00

“Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make man a more clever devil.”
― C.S. Lewis

Merely thankful today for the beauty of the day

{Tests} December Gratitude Challenge

2011-12-21T17:16:00.000-08:00

“Sometimes I lie awake at night and I ask, "Is life a multiple choice test or is it a true or false test?" ...Then a voice comes to me out of the dark and says, "We hate to tell you this but life is a thousand word essay.”
― Charles M. Schulz

Thankful today for warm sun, a talk with my children, an invitation to photograph a dear friends wedding. Happy Holidays!

{Dream a little Dream with me} December Graditude Challenge

2011-12-20T14:59:00.000-08:00

“Listen to the mustn'ts, child. Listen to the don'ts. Listen to the shouldn'ts, the impossibles, the won'ts. Listen to the never haves, then listen close to me... Anything can happen, child. Anything can be.”
― Shel Silverstein

What more is there to be thankful for than children. I love mine, of course, but children seem to take the must nots, should nots, and can nots and realize it is a bunch of bull. Today I am thankful for our world's children and of course my own. May you stay children as long as you can, and may as adults we come back to the child inside us.

{Raindrops on Roses} December Gratitude Challenge

2011-12-18T12:04:00.000-08:00

The truth about the rain
Is how it falls, how it falls, how it falls
-Dar Williams {Beauty of the Rain}

Even in the desert there is need for rain. I am thankful for a cozy day to relax, edit, rest and recharge. The sound of the rain calms me. May it calm you too. And on a side note....Go Steelers!

{Sunrise, Sunset} December Gratitude Challenge

2011-12-16T17:00:00.000-08:00

“The sun burnt every day. It burnt time.”
― Ray Bradbury, Fahrenheit 451

Simply thankful today, after a bit of a break, for making it home and the many blessings along the way.

(December Photo/Gratitude Challenge)

2011-12-10T18:04:00.000-08:00

"The truth does not change according to your ability to deal with it" Flannery O'Connor

No picture again today as I drove13 hours

I am thankful for humanness . As I travel I meet the most amazing people. See the most amazing things. Truly blessed by the beauty of the human soul. For better or worse.

(December photo/gratitude challenge)

2011-12-09T15:45:00.000-08:00

"if you reject the food, ignore the customers fear their religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home" James Michener

No photo yet again today as i am on the road but thankful for
Sweet goodbyes
Safe weather
Good friends and family
Cheap gas
Goodbye hugs from my kids
A warm bed in Nebraska to rest my head

Peace out

(settling down) december photo challenge

2011-12-07T14:08:00.000-08:00

Walk like you are kissing the earth with your feet-Thich Nhat Hanh

No picture today but thankful for my lawyer, settling down and finally feeling both feet touch the ground. And cannot be said enough but the never ending love and support from family and friends.

{First Comes Love, Then Comes...} Scottsdale, AZ Maternity Photographer

2011-12-05T08:13:00.000-08:00

“When a child is locked in the bathroom with water running and he says he's doing nothing but the dog is barking, call 911. ”
― Erma Bombeck

Fun, Fantastic and Fabulous Session with and old friend from ASU. What a lucky guy to have parents that are smart, sweet, have a wicked sense of humor and don't take life or other stuff too seriously, very refreshing in these times. Easy going, I even had them at one point stuck behind a palm tree. Thank you for having me photograph this session. It was a true honor and I cannot wait, much like them, to meet the new pint of joy.

{December Photo Challenge} Chandler, AZ Photographer

2011-12-04T08:34:00.000-08:00

Rien ne se cree
rien ne se perd.
(Nothing is born
nothing can die)
-Antoine-Laurent Lavoisier

Today I am thankful for waking up to these beautiful views. The contrast struck me. How daily the same view can change, minute by minute, perspective, light and contrast.

{December Photo Challenge} Chandler, AZ Photographer

2011-12-03T11:03:00.000-08:00

We're all bozos on the bus,
so we might as well sit back
and enjoy the ride.
-Wavy Gravy
(from the book Broken Open)

Today I am thankful for all those bozos on the bus. For the book written by Elizabeth Lesser called Broken Open that discusses how those points that brings us to the edge are the ones that can heal us if we turn to it instead of away. I am also thankful for my quick trip back to the tundra this week so I can kiss my cute kiddos faces. May you all have a great day.

{Saturday Inspiration}

2011-12-03T07:21:00.001-08:00

Source: thatgirlkate.wordpress.com via Stacey on Pinterest

{December Photo Challenge} Chandler, AZ Photographer

2011-12-02T08:32:00.000-08:00

“Someday, somewhere - anywhere, unfailingly, you'll find yourself, and that, and only that, can be the happiest or bitterest hour of your life”
― Pablo Neruda

Today I am thankful for my beautiful children. For the slow process of rediscovering myself after years of hiding. I am thankful for the autumn leaves, the colors that I see in technicolor, and the precious messages I get from my kids over the phone and Skype.

{December Photo Challenge} Chandler, AZ Photographer

2011-12-01T07:48:00.000-08:00

“Do you ever think if poeple heard our conversations they'd lock us up?"
All the time.”
― Wendy Mass, Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life

Today I am thankful for good friends who understand my somewhat morbid humor, the run and biking I did today and for the lovely crane that is quite the view from my balcony. I think I heard a rumor that it will be wrapped in holiday lights soon. Perhaps a Santa on the top?

{Almost December Photo Challenge} Phoenix, Arizona Photographer

2011-11-30T11:33:00.000-08:00

“Democracy must be something more than two wolves and a sheep voting on what to have for dinner.
(often misattributed to Benjamin Franklin)”
― James Bovard, Lost Rights: The Destruction of American Liberty

Thankful today for the right to be free, speak my mind even if it shakes and comes out stupid, protest, not protest, walk the streets without fear. I am thankful for the many family member and friends who have served to protect that which I often take for granted. Blessings.

{Stacey Cordes Photography Open House} Phoenix, AZ Photographer

2011-11-28T12:35:00.000-08:00

Examples of mini-sessions and fine art

{Almost December Photo Challenge} Phoenix, Arizona Photographer

2011-11-27T04:23:00.000-08:00

“For things to reveal themselves to us, we need to be ready to abandon our views about them.”
― Thich Nhat Hanh, Being Peace

A bit tired today so no big words or deep thoughts. I am grateful for the power of daily renewal. I was blessed to have been asked to photograph a wonderful baby shower in Scottsdale filled with loving people, laughter and old friends. This morning I am grateful for the daily power of healing and renewal....and my warm cup of coffee:)

{Almost December Photo Challenge} Phoenix, Arizona Photographer

2011-11-26T06:34:00.000-08:00

“Instructions for living a life.
Pay attention.
Be astonished.
Tell about it.”
― Mary Oliver

Every year I embark on a 30 day photo challenge or selfie challenge or some other thingabob on Flickr. Inevitably I fail, lose time, pitter on facebook or my new obsession Pinterest. But not this time. I have been going through a rather challenging time and spent it wallowing. Well I am done with wallowing cause as stated above their are too many beauties in life to wallow. I am going to post a picture a day til the holidays of what I am blessed for. Below is a beautiful Arizona sunrise. Pretty much straight out of camera. I am blessed I could wake up, drink my coffee, endure the cold (yes my body took about 3 days to adapt to 50 degrees being cold...laugh away) to take and breathe in this beauty. The mountains. The golden and pink sunrise. The quiet of the desert.
In times of challenge solitude of the desert brings peace.

{Count your Blessings} Chandler, AZ Fine Art Photography

2011-11-24T04:36:00.000-08:00

For my children who share a special place with me at the sea, for my wonderful parents, sisters, relatives galore, friends that are too many to count. I am truly thankful for your constant love and support for better,worse, and when I could not offer much in return. I am thankful today that my life is rebuilding inch by inch and while I try to practice staying in the present....I am hopeful about the future has in store. Enjoy your Thanksgiving day, may it be a full of grace, love and joy.

“For Equilibrium, a Blessing:

Like the joy of the sea coming home to shore,
May the relief of laughter rinse through your soul.

As the wind loves to call things to dance,
May your gravity by lightened by grace.

Like the dignity of moonlight restoring the earth,
May your thoughts incline with reverence and respect.

As water takes whatever shape it is in,
So free may you be about who you become.

As silence smiles on the other side of what's said,
May your sense of irony bring perspective.

As time remains free of all that it frames,
May your mind stay clear of all it names.

May your prayer of listening deepen enough
to hear in the depths the laughter of god.”
― John O'Donohue, To Bless the Space Between Us: A Book of Invocations and Blessings

{Sit Down} Chandler, AZ Fine Art Photographer

2011-11-22T14:00:00.000-08:00

“The purpose of life is to be defeated by greater and greater things.”
― Rainer Maria Rilke

Daily dose of humor...

2011-11-19T07:32:00.001-08:00

Source: weheartit.com via Emily on Pinterest

{Kolby Granville for Tempe City Council} Tempe, AZ Portrait Photography

2011-11-18T12:13:00.000-08:00

“Few are willing to brave the disapproval of their peers, the censure of their colleagues, the wrath of their society. Moral courage is a rarer commodity than bravery in battle or great intelligence. Yet it is the one essential, vital quality for those who seek to change a world that yields most painfully to change.”
― Robert F. Kennedy

Check out the website of this up and coming leader....and rock the vote.

Kolby Granville Tempe City Council

{ready.to.bloom}

2011-11-17T22:57:00.000-08:00

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
― Maya Angelou

{Mama love} Minneapolis, MN Family Photography

2011-11-09T16:07:00.000-08:00

All that is gold does not glitter,
Not all those who wander are lost;
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.

From the ashes a fire shall be woken,
A light from the shadows shall spring;
Renewed shall be blade that was broken,
The crownless again shall be king.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring

just breathe

2011-11-08T12:33:00.000-08:00

{Times to remember} Minneapolis/St. Paul Photographer

2011-11-08T12:02:00.000-08:00

Life is an opportunity, benefit from it.
Life is beauty, admire it.
Life is a dream, realize it.
Life is a challenge, meet it.
Life is a duty, complete it.
Life is a game, play it.
Life is a promise, fulfill it.
Life is sorrow, overcome it.
Life is a song, sing it.
Life is a struggle, accept it.
Life is a tragedy, confront it.
Life is an adventure, dare it.
Life is luck, make it.
Life is too precious, do not destroy it.
Life is life, fight for it.”
― Mother Teresa

{Stacey and the City} Minneapolis/St.Paul, MN Artist

2011-11-07T03:41:00.000-08:00

"Later that day I got to thinking about relationships.There is those that open you up to something new and exotic, those that are old and familiar, those that bring up a lot of questions, those that bring you somewhere unexpected, those that bring you far from where you started, and those that bring you back. But the most exciting, challenging and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you can find someone to love the you, you love, well that is just fabulous"
-Sex and the City

{The space between} Minneapolis, MN Artist Life

2011-11-05T01:54:00.001-07:00

The space between the tears we cry
Is the laughter keeps us coming back for more
The space between the wicked lies we tell
And hope to keep safe from the pain

But will I hold you again?

These fickle, fuddled words confuse me
Like, will it rain today?
Waste the hours with talking, talking
These twisted games we're playing

We're strange allies with warring hearts
What a wild-eyed beast you'll be
The space between the wicked lies we tell
And hope to keep safe from the pain
-Dave Matthews Band
The Space Between

{The start of something new...} Fine Art Photography

2011-11-03T03:10:00.000-07:00

Isn't it rich?
Are we a pair?
Me here at last on the ground,
You in mid-air.
Send in the clowns.
Isn't it bliss?
Don't you approve?
One who keeps tearing around,
One who can't move.
Where are the clowns?
Send in the clowns.
Don't you love farce? My fault, I fear.
I thought that you'd want what I want -
Sorry, my dear.
But where are the clowns?
There ought to be clowns.
Quick, send in the clowns....

-Stephen Sondheim
Send in the Clowns

Clients and friends, please be advised all back orders from July 2011 on will be sent out mid-November. Holiday orders should be placed before Thanksgiving and will be at your door by beginning of December. Prices and packages will be changed at the end of year. All orders placed after the holiday deadline (which I will announce a firm date by November 8th will be subject to new pricing.) Thank you for your patience and kindness during this difficult transition in my life and with my family.

Stacey

{Insert)

2011-10-22T12:42:00.000-07:00

A movement is only composed of people moving. To feel its warmth and motion around us is the end as well as the means.
Gloria Steinem

{Falling Slowly} Fine Art Photography

2011-10-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

“Weird doors open. People fall into things.”
― David Sedaris

{Update on Business and Photographs}

2011-09-24T12:58:00.000-07:00

I wanted to let my clients know that it has just been one tough summer personally, professionally and with my family. I do not want to get into too many details but I appreciate everyone's patience during this hard time. My family is very important to me and right now I am trying the ever ending quest to find the right balance in keeping everyone healthy,safe and loved. This summer has taken a toll on my business and I apologize to my clients for the effect it has had on your pictures that you are so patiently waiting on. If you have direct questions please email or call directly. I am working as fast as I can to catch up while dealing with other matters of concern.
Enjoy this beautiful fall day. Thank you.

{Dust Storm} Mesa, AZ Fine Art Photographer

2011-09-15T17:32:00.000-07:00

But still, like dust, I'll rise.
-Maya Angelou

just random from the brillant shell silverstein

2011-09-13T17:03:00.001-07:00

Source: pinklemonadedesign.blogspot.com via Pascale on Pinterest

{As the cookie crumbles} Traveling Lifestyle and Fine Art Photographer

2011-09-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

"You're never as good as everyone tells you when you win, and you're never as bad as they say when you lose."
— Lou Holtz

Have you ever had one of these days,weeks,months, summers where the cookie just does not just crumble but is smashed in half by a sledge hammer.... I have but, as crazy as it sounds, enjoy them as much as the days where you bite into a wonderful fresh cookie and a enjoy a nice cup of coffee with and the sky is the limit. These moments break you down, open you up and make you stronger (wishy washy former school counselor warning...)
I wanted to update my clients and friends that I will be back in Minneapolis September 19th through most of October. I also continue to appreciate the patience as I catch up on back photographs from previous and currrent clients.
Please let me know if you are interested in a future session. I am booking fast and if last year is any indication, winter started mid-October...oye!
More updates to follow.
Til then I hope when I return I don't bring the rain and clouds....I seem to do that these days.

Stacey

(Announcement)

2011-09-02T15:47:00.000-07:00

First of all I want to thank all my clients for their patience as the concussion/broken nose drama lasted quite awhile. It was very hard for this busy body woman to sit still and do nothing. I love to work, run, swim, move, hike, play with m kids...etc etc...and was stuck laying on the couch watching really horrid television. Although I did discover Modern Family so I am happy about that. As of now, I am happy to say that I have doctor clearance to work and even did a walk/run of 3 miles the other day.

I am excited to announce that I was published in this months issue of Minnesota Monthly. I took a head shot of the new senior curator of the Walker Art Museum. The Walker is very lucky to have her and I was very honored to have been chosen for the work.

Last but not least, not to be confusing, my business number will stay as 612-418-4665. I will be traveling between Phoenix, AZ and Minneapolis, MN as I have built a great client base in both states. I will be leaving for Phoenix tomorrow for work but returning around Sept 19th and staying for 3-4 weeks. I am booking fast so please email or call if you are interested in a session. Thank you again and hope to see you all soon. And to all those kiddos out there Good luck with the start or hope the start of your school year went great!

{All The Jazz} Eagan, MN Senior Portrait Photographer

2011-08-29T04:43:00.000-07:00

Come on babe
We're gonna brush the sky
I bet you lucky Lindy
Never flew so high
'Cause in the stratosphere
How could he lend an ear
-To All That Jazz
{All That Jazz from the Broadway Musical Chicago}

What happens as a photographer when you show up to a senior portrait session for a fine young man and realize you were his school counselor when he was in sixth grade?
Now standing in front of you is an incredible young gentleman entering his last leg of his school experience.
Drop your camera bag in shock?
Yes?
Feel rather old?
Yes
Realize how fast time goes by.
Absolutely.
Congratulations to Connor Swanson, Eagan High School Class of 2012, a classy, talented, bright student whose year and future will take him to the moon and back.

{Announcement}

2011-08-24T16:49:00.000-07:00

I have been given many opportunities to travel with my photography and will be traveling between the Midwest and West Coast for photo sessions. I am currently booking a month in advance and will have more details to follow. I am honored, humbled and blessed by this opportunity to experience my dream. My contact number while on trips is 612-418-4665. Email is the best way to contact me which is cordesphoto@gmail.com

I will publish my calendar as I pull together the great opportunities that have been given to me.

Thank you again,
Stacey

{Grace} Phoenix, AZ Family Photography

2011-08-23T17:35:00.000-07:00

the moment I let go of it was the moment
I got more than I could handle
the moment I jumped off of it
was the moment I touched down....
thank you india
thank you providence
thank you disillusionment
thank you nothingness
thank you clarity
thank you thank you silence

Alanis Morisette

100 degrees farenheit {Mesa, AZ Fine Art Photography}

2011-08-21T21:16:00.000-07:00

"The two most powerful warriors are patience and time."
— Leo Tolstoy

{Sleepin to Dream} Fine Art Photography

2011-08-16T15:50:00.000-07:00

It's just a little a lullaby to keep myself from crying myself to sleep at night
Oh just a lullaby to keep from crying myself to sleep
Oh just a, just oh, just a little lullaby,

Sleeping to dream about you
And I'm so tired
Of having to live without you
And I'm so tired
Well i am so tired....

Jason Mraz

{Broken Open} Fine Art Photography

2011-08-15T12:43:00.001-07:00

Today like every day other day
we wake up empty
and frightened
Don't open the door to the study
and begin reading
Take down a musical instrument
Let the beauty we love be what we do
There are a hundreds of ways
to kneel and kiss the ground
-Rumi

me

2011-08-10T09:11:00.000-07:00

"I write emotional algebra."
— Anaïs Nin

me

2011-08-08T12:44:00.000-07:00

…she remembered watching a summer sunset from this very spot. Not so long ago; just a lifetime."
— Sharon Kay Penman (When Christ and His Saints Slept)

Eventful Summer Update

2011-08-07T08:34:00.001-07:00

"No one ever said life was fair. Just Eventful."
— Carol Burnett

First announcement: I have new phone number for my business please no longer call my cell number. The new number is:

612-225-1677

Second announcement:

It has been an eventful summer for this photographer. I am still on pace to get out photographs to clients but due to a chase after my beagle who decided to "explore the neighborhood solo"I had to dart out the door, running full force in chacos. Of course with all my grace (insert eyeroll) I tripped and ended flat on my face. Literally.
Leading to yet another trip to ER (on a side note, I have been to a few and can give you advice on quality service, comfort of sheets, pillows, etc...). Kidding aside, I suffered a minor fracture that set me back a few days. I still am working my hardest to get these disks and proof books to my wonderful clients.
And watch out for those city sidewalks they have a way of sneaking up on you.

Please call or email with any questions. Thank you and have a wonderful day!

And of course no post is quite right without a picture....

{The Meaning of Life} Stacey Cordes Studio Session

2011-08-04T11:34:00.000-07:00

"The world is not comprehensible, but it is embraceable: through the embracing of one of its beings."
— Martin Buber

Yes when you come to stacey cordes photography we end with deep thought provoking discussions such as what is the meaning of life, what came first? the chicken or the egg...With all jokes aside. I adore this picture. Just had to post. And I also love Martin Buber....and that folks is a photographer taxi cab confession but I do. I love philosophy. Love it.

{grace} Minneapolis, MN Family Photography

2011-08-01T12:22:00.000-07:00

"One, remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Two, never give up work. Work gives you meaning and purpose and life is empty without it. Three, if you are lucky enough to find love, remember it is there and don't throw it away."
— Stephen Hawking

reflection and thanks

2011-07-28T16:17:00.000-07:00

"Just when you think it can't get any worse, it can. And just when you think it can't get any better, it can."

miracles happen. she rocks. she was/is...will always be...my friend, mentor, the lady who hid my car..a counselor who gave for years in a state that could give a flying f=cl..but the kids did and learned and grew....too bad Minnesota...u are 50 out of 50 for counselor to student ratio. your loss...MN nice is MN denial. School counselors well...look up ASCA...

— Nicholas Sparks (At First Sight)

(Hungar games) Twin cites fine art photography

2011-07-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

Men like me can never change
Men like you can never change
No,
24601
My duty's to the law - you have no
Rights
Come with me 24601,,,
Every man is born in sin
Every man must choose his way
You know nothing of Javert
I was born inside a jail
I was born with scum like you
I am from the gutter too!
-Les Miserable
Can you never no another struggle unless you step in his or her shoes...
And i believe in change.
God gave us free will.

{stars} the life of art. at least mine.

2011-07-25T22:15:00.000-07:00

I'm selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes,
I am out of control and at times hard to handle.
But if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best."
— Marilyn Monroe

{The Luckiest} St. Paul, MN Family Photographer

2011-07-23T20:00:00.000-07:00

And where was I before the day
That I first saw your lovely face?
Now I see it everyday
And I know

That I am
I am, I am
The luckiest
-Ben Folds
(The Luckiest)

A year ago I had the joy of photographing this family.
How time moves so quick. I still cannot wrap my mind around this idea as naive as it sounds.
Perhaps that is why I love photography. You freeze the moment. You stop time.
To look back and remember.
How great it is to come back and see the joy, changes, fun that happens as life moves forward.
Thank you for bringing me back.

{few announcements} Minneapolis/St.Paul Lifestyle Photography

2011-07-20T11:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Hot Summer! I hope everyone is staying cool in this weather and not vote me off the island when I say I love it:)

I sent an email to most clients saying that I am running a bit behind with editing due to a month where everything that could go wrong did. Good news is it's all good and I am now in full editing machine. Please check your emails for more detailed explanation.

Second, I am proud to announce the opening of my studio division. You can find a more detailed description of the studio options at this sight.

Studio

I am two openings left for July and two for August.
July through Aug 10th I am running a studio launch special.
A family session is $150.00 plus tax and shipping. After this time regular prices go into effect.

Full custom sessions are still available for families, seniors and children. I am booking out 3-4 weeks in advance. With full custom session, I have added print and digital collections. Otherwise the pricing is the same through the year.

Thank you again for your patience, understanding and inspiration. I am very lucky to have and work with such great clients.

I also am lucky to have hired a great intern/save my life /artist extraordinaire named Meg. She is not only a super lady, artist but the daughter of a great family. You will see her at many of my sessions. I cannot speak more highly of her!

{the start of something new} Minneapolsis/St. Paul Birth Photography

2011-07-18T11:59:00.000-07:00

"We dance for laughter, we dance for tears, we dance for madness,
we dance for fears, we dance for hopes, we dance for screams, we are the dancers,
we create the dreams."
— Albert Einstein

{An Ace I can keep} my life and what I think....

2011-07-15T21:55:00.000-07:00

Every gambler knows
That the secret to survivin'
Is knowin' what to throw away
And knowin' what to keep
'Cause every hand's a winner
And every hand's a loser
And the best that you can hope for
Is to die in your sleep
And when he finished speakin'
He turned back toward the window
Crushed out his cigarette
And faded off to sleep
And somewhere in the darkness
The gambler he broke even

And in his final words
I found an ace that I could keep
Kenny Roggers
The Gambler

{The Days are long. The Years Short} Minneapolis, MN Family Studio Session

2011-07-13T22:46:00.000-07:00

"Wisdom, Happiness, and Courage are not waiting somewhere out beyond sight at the end of a straight line; they're part of a continuous cycle that begins right here.
They're not only the ending, but the beginning as well."
— Benjamin Hoff (The Tao of Pooh)

What beauty and privilege it is to watch a family grow over the years.
Thank you for inviting me back over the years it has been a great blessing.

\

//////,,,,dots....

2011-07-09T21:05:00.000-07:00

"I think women rule the world and that no man has ever done anything that a woman either hasn't allowed him to do or encouraged him to do."
— Bob Dylan

{more questions} Minneapolis, MN Fine Art Photography

2011-07-07T20:59:00.000-07:00

Someone is on your side.
Someone else is not.
While we're seeing our side-

Maybe we forgot:
They are not alone.
No one is alone...

--the brilliant
Stephen Sondheim
Into The Woods
No one is alone

{She Said} Woodbury, MN Senior Portrait Photographer

2011-07-06T15:57:00.000-07:00

"Whether you succeed or not is irrelevant, there is no such thing.
Making your unknown known is the important thing."
— Georgia O'Keeffe

I think that after meeting and working with this young lady and artist.
She is wise and talented beyond her years.
She also creates art. Along with other amazing things.
They say a great artist must be comfortable with the unknown...
She's got it.

p.s. she needs coffee as much as i do to start the day...an art thing ya know....

{Blooming} Inver Grove Heights Seninor Portrait Photograph

2011-07-05T16:30:00.000-07:00

"Never interrupt someone doing something you said couldn't be done."
— Amelia Earhart

no stopping this lady
i think she gets it from...
part genetics
part spirit
perhaps her spitfire mom?:)
and an amazing calm that is ready
for adventure...

Oh and did i mention i knew her when she was 13. she is still as incredible.

{All that jazz...} Twin Cities Fine Art Photography

2011-07-05T12:14:00.000-07:00

"I never liked jazz music because jazz music doesn't resolve.
But I was outside the Bagdad Theater in Portland one night when I saw a man playing the saxophone.
I stood there for fifteen minutes, and he never opened his eyes.

After that I liked jazz music.

Sometimes you have to watch somebody love something before you can love it yourself.
It is as if they are showing you the way.

I used to not like God because God didn't resolve. But that was before any of this happened."
— Donald Miller (Blue Like Jazz: Nonreligious Thoughts on Christian Spirituality)

{A Kiss to build a dream on...} Minneapolis, MN Fine Art Child Photography

2011-07-04T11:57:00.000-07:00

"I hope our wisdom will grow with our power, and teach us that the less we use our power the greater it will be."
— Thomas Jefferson

Thank you to all you have educated, served, loved. learn, grow to give us the independence we celebrate today.

{Jump Jump} Minneapolis, MN Studio

2011-07-02T20:56:00.000-07:00

"Our truest life is when we are in dreams awake."
— Henry David Thoreau

bliss

2011-07-01T22:08:00.000-07:00

{grace, strength...} Minneapolis, MN Family Photography

2011-06-29T18:42:00.000-07:00

"It's really a wonder that I haven't dropped all my ideals, because they seem so absurd and impossible to carry out.
Yet I keep them, because in spite of everything
I still believe that people are really good at heart."
— Anne Frank

This family has the grace and strength that makes me believe

They drove from Albert Lea.

People, farmers, mom, dad and a legacy I admire for so many reasons-hard work, , life real....

And if i am sappy because i am former counselor.

Switch....roles

They inspired me.

A year ago A tornado -devastated their town, farm heritage. Hard work. Family.

Their strength, which i wish i had are rebuilding that what was torn away.

I was humbled. Life has no destination. It is a journey full of life, love, loss and so much.

What a gift.

they inspired me and graced me more than i could give in a photograph...

Thank you-

Adventure...and pure spunk and grace. Senior Portrait Fine Art

2011-06-28T21:10:00.000-07:00

{Head in the Game} Minneaplolis, MN Lifestyle Photography

2011-06-28T12:10:00.000-07:00

I want to thank again all my clients who are so patiently waiting for this pictures from the last couple of weeks. I was pretty sick for most of the week and now better than ever. Today I had a wonderful session with a former co-worker and friend for her daughter who is graduating this year. Two years ago I photographed her son. I was blessed to have such a lovely family to work with. The other day I had another great senior session with a former friend and colleague. Those previews are yet to come.

For now, Here are some previews for clients from the studio over the last few weeks.

More to come. I will keep you posted but until then enjoy the most perfect summer day there is today. I can't stop grinning!

{traveling...not destination} Fine Art Photography

2011-06-26T17:26:00.000-07:00

"This is what youth must figure out:
Girls, love, and living.
The having, the not having,
The spending and giving,
And the meloncholy time of not knowing.

This is what age must learn about:
The ABC of dying.
The going, yet not going,
The loving and leaving,
And the unbearable knowing and knowing"
— E.B. White

Raindrops on Roses...

2011-06-25T20:46:00.000-07:00

Sale and Event Update

2011-06-23T12:49:00.000-07:00

Here are some examples of pieces selling at the sale, fine art and also photographs from the studio. I will be posting a link of fine art and other examples of pictures tomorrow.

Clothing from baby to 8 years old. Adult clothing also. Brands include gap, j.crew, matilda jane and other custom made clothes displayed below.

Examples of studio shot inside and out. With props and wardrobe closet.

Example of fine art photography

Link below of fine art for sale. In all sizes, shapes and prints. Many will be available at sale and be custom ordered.

fine art gallery

Event Announcement-

2011-06-22T07:23:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, June 25th from 8am-2pm my neighbor and myself will be hosting a Garage Sale that will have many wonderful items such as baby/children clothing,toys for boys and girls, furniture, jewelry and other household items. A local artist will be displaying necklaces that she makes with her great talent. I will also be displaying and selling my fine art prints and featuring the new branch of Stacey Cordes Photography which is starting to book sessions in July. This branch of my business will be a great way for clients to receive beautiful portraits at a lower cost than a full custom photography session but still receive the same quality and care. Full custom session are still available and have not changed in pricing for this year.

In the next few days I will be displaying pictures of sale items, jewelry, the fine art work and examples of this branch of my business. More information of booking sessions for the studio package (which involves indoor and outdoor shots, if desired) will also be made available. If you scroll back to the portrait sessions done over the last month you can get an example of these sessions also that were done in limited quantity over the past month with wonderful clients I have worked with over the years.

The sale will be held in the alley behind our houses.

The address is 5252 37th Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55417

Time will be from 8am-2pm.

Watch the blog for pictures that will be posted daily til the sale, beginning tonight!

Oh and the post important part! Lemonade will be served by two cute kiddos!

just the beginning...

2011-06-20T21:14:00.000-07:00

Now we're back to the beginning
It's just a feeling and no one knows yet
But just because they can't feel it too
Doesn't mean that you have to forget
Let your memories grow stronger and stronger
'Til they're before your eyes
You'll come back when they call you
No need to say goodbye
You'll come back when they call you
No need to say goodbye
-regina spektor
the war

Stars...Happy Fathers Day

2011-06-19T13:12:00.000-07:00

"The best way out is always through."

— Robert Frost

I love you my wonderful husband and dad. Thank you for giving me light.
to all men, women, humans that serve love, truth, help...
happy day....

to be human

2011-06-18T20:46:00.000-07:00

"I've known rivers:
I've known rivers ancient as the world and older than the flow of human blood in human veins.

My soul has grown deep like the rivers."
— Langston Hughes

{Home Run} Minneapolis, MN Nokomis Studio

2011-06-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

"Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game"
— Babe Ruth

and i reapeat....
so many great pics
hard to choose.
But this family is fun, familiar, fresh and fantastic...:)

Working with children is a gift that started with a psychology degree and opportunity to work with kids as a counselor and photographer some
psychology degrees online or have a degree in
early childhood education or anything to appreciate the mind of a
child. You just get to love them.

{Fly Away Little Bird} Minneapolis, MN Nokomis Studio

2011-06-12T12:58:00.000-07:00

"Truth is so rare, it is delightful to tell it."
— Emily Dickinson

{Tenfold} Minneapolis, MN Nokomis Studio

2011-06-11T12:59:00.000-07:00

Laugh at the night,
at the day, at the moon,
laugh at the twisted
streets of the island,
laugh at this clumsy
fool who loves you,
but when I open
my eyes and close them,
when my steps go,
when my steps return,
deny me bread, air,
light, spring,
but never your laughter. "
— Pablo Neruda

bliss...love..humor...
Life...
And this mom and her kids...
are it....:)

{Amazing Grace} Minneapolis, MN Nokomis Studio

2011-06-10T17:08:00.000-07:00

how sweet the sound....
especially with three children...
amazing grace...
no one could have it or handle better...
certainly...not me...
grace, patience, love, etc...
i have that...
but two is enough...
wasn't that a name of a show?

i digress...i love this family...can't wait to meet the new babe which they will name after me...since i have a pretty gender neutral name....
and if she was really my friend she would do it..:) Kidding.
can u tell where we met?

and this is the oldest...i remember when he was in diapers..sniff sniff...

may i? return to the beginning...

2011-06-09T21:39:00.000-07:00

We all dream alot.
Some are lucky, some are not.
But if you think it, want it, dream it,
Then it's real.
You are what you feel....

Andrew Lloyd Weber/Tim Rice
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream coat

{Look, Love, Laugh} Minneaplis, MN Nokomis Studio

2011-06-08T23:18:00.000-07:00

I lay this suitcase on my chest so I can feel somebody’s weight.
And I lay you to rest just to feel a give and take?
I got a new interpretation and it’s a better point of view,
you were looking for a landslide I was looking out for you,
I was looking out for you, someone’s looking out for you ....

when you’re outside looking in you belong to someone
when you feel like giving in and the coming of the end,
like your heart can break in two,
someone loves you....

-Brandi Carlile
My Song

It was so hard to choose what pictures to post. So much fun, play, giggles.... I adore these ladies....
I adore the entire family:)

{Summer} Minneapolis, MN Child Photographer

2011-06-07T20:59:00.000-07:00

"Life is pure adventure, and the sooner we realize that, the quicker we will be able to treat life as art."
— Maya Angelou

{Fins or....a trip to Walgreens for yet...another pool} Minneapolis, MN Lifestyle Photography

2011-06-07T08:49:00.000-07:00

“I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each.”
-- T. S. Eliot

I won't lie.
I posted this deep quote because i have huge ego complex about motherhood and I know what my kids need...
Yup. More than them.
Yup.
WHATEVER....
So i wanted laughter and deep deep empathy (dramatic insert)
when I posted this quote and pics.
For years I have been a sucker for those cheap Walgreen blow up pools.
For years I buy and fail. Not this year.
Which are a (insert adjective of choice involving frustration anger rage) to blow up....
But i feel this obsessive, stupid need to conquer this cheap pool like and make it work....
Crazy.
Waste of Money.
Killing our new sod grass...
Dumb.
Selfish.
Yup. Yet I plow or (pump) on...
Guess what Walgreens. I did it with your cheap air pump that broke right after.
I did it despite having almost a heat stroke...and begs from the kids for the sprinkler...
but it was 98 degrees...
and the end
justified the means...
for me at least
-and that folks is a stacey cordes taxi cab confession...oye!

{Language of the Kiss} Minneapolsis, MN Fine Art Photography

2011-06-04T19:27:00.000-07:00

When we last talked we were lying on our backs
Looking at the sky through the ceiling
I used to lie like that alone out on the driveway
Trying to read the Greek upon the stars
The alphabet of feeling
Oh I knew back then
It was a calling that said if joy then pain
The sound of the voice these years later
Is still the same...
Unforgiving the choice still is
The language or the kiss
-Indigo Girls
Language or the Kiss

I had so many amazing sessions today that I cannot choose.
Everything was beautiful.
Selfishly I posted this.
Cause last night ...
with horrible insomnia
I looked at these lights...
felt calm and fell asleep
more to come...
I have beautiful pictures to post...

{glimpse} A Preview of something new...

2011-06-03T19:43:00.000-07:00

Affection is responsible for nine-tenths of whatever
solid and durable happiness there is in our lives.
C. S. Lewis

this is the just a preview
of a beautiful
family session...

{Know. Listen.} Fine Art Photography

2011-06-01T19:12:00.000-07:00

It won't be easy
You'll think it strange
When I try to explain how I feel
That I still need your love
After ll that I've done
You won't believe me
All you will see
Is a girl you once knew
Although she's dressd up to the nines
At sixes and sevens with you

I had to let it happen
I had to change
Couldn't stay all my life down at heel
Looking out of the window
Staying out of the sun
So I chose freedom
Running around trying everything new
But nothing impressed me at all
I never expected it too

-Andrew Lloyd Weber
The Musical Evita
The Song "Don't cry for me Argentina"

{Lucky Seven} Minneapolis, MN Child Photography

2011-05-31T16:29:00.000-07:00

I used to live in a room full of mirrors; all I could see was me.
I take my spirit and I crash my mirrors, now the whole world is here for me to see.
Jimi Hendrix

In 10 days my daughter will be a 2nd grader. At a new school.
Her brother will be with her as a brand new Kindergarten Learner.
It is closer and is our neighborhood school, fits our lifestyle.
I believe in Neighborhood Schools.
It builds Community, Peace, Relationships...
Her old school is great.
School Choice is tough.
Oye.
We are in, not lost in Translation.
As I picked her up today,
We walked past the Peace Garden
I stopped. Looked. Whipped out the camera.
Embarrassed the bunches out of her...
Savored
every last bit...
Cause her new school is great...
But doesn't have a Peace Garden...

{Empty Chairs, Empty Tables} Memorial Day Tribute

2011-05-30T14:19:00.000-07:00

There's a grief that can't be spoken,
There's a pain goes on and on...
Empty chairs at empty tables
Where my friend will sing no more....
Empty Chairs at Empty Tables
The Muscial Les Miserables
Claude-Michel Schönberg & Alain Boublil

Today I started complaining about the weather. No sun. Too hot. Kids whiny...
Then I remembered what today is....
Because of a fellow brilliant artist, not by my own "a ha" moment.
Thank you Amy for the kick in the ass.
Thank You my friends I have known and not.
I miss you.
I cannot understand the sacrifice.
I struggle.
I am humbled.
And grateful.
Blessings.....

{Soft} Minneapolis, MN Fine Art Photography

2011-05-29T19:36:00.000-07:00

"They thought I was a Surrealist, but I wasn't.
I never painted dreams. I painted my own reality."
— Frida Kahlo

{Tropics and Manilow} Phoenix, AZ Lifestyle Photographer

2011-05-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

Her name was Lola, she was a showgirl
With yellow feathers in her hair and a dress cut down to there
She would merengue and do the cha-cha
And while she tried to be a star, Tony always tended bar
Across a crowded floor, they worked from 8 till 4
They were young and they had each other
Who could ask for more?

-Barry Manilow