Red Pants Studio: Blog

2017 HBA of Greater Austin Benefit home

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 16:51:55 GMT

The Benefit Home is the annual construction of a home built mostly – if not entirely – through donations of construction management, materials, supplies, labor and monies of the members of the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. The majority of net proceeds from the sale of the home on the open market benefit local charities as designated by HBA.

The Benefit Home offers the HBA a unique opportunity to give something back to the larger community, specifically to designated beneficiaries who are significantly and positively impacting the Greater Austin community. What’s more, it’s a perfect example of how the 750+ members of the HBA contribute to the economic impact of the communities in which they build and make a direct impact on worthy causes within those communities

This year’s Benefit Home is in the Santa Rita Ranch (North) community, located at 116 Strata Drive, Liberty Hill, TX 78642. The lot was generously donated by the developer, SRKC, LLC!

$392,990
4-Bed, 3.5 Bath, 2-car garage
116 Strata Drive, Liberty Hill, TX 78642
Scott Felder Homes in Santa Rita Ranch
MLS# 7541722

The HBA has selected the following beneficiaries for the 2016 Benefit Home:

Mobile Loaves & Fishes (Community First Village)
Dell Children’s Hospital
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas

With this partnership, the beneficiaries will not only receive a contribution but a year-long partnership and promotional opportunity with the HBA’s, builder’s and developer’s efforts in public relations and outreach.

Many thanks to:

Anchor Ventana

Austin Contractors

BMC

Bonded Builders

Caesarstone

CalAtlantic Homes

California Closets

Calvin's Electric

Capitol City Insurance

Cedar Park Overhead Doors

Daltile

D & H Roofing

DuPont/Tyvek

Espinoza Stone

Exclusive Windows and Doors

Factory Builder Stores

Ferguson

Floor King

Gary Raesz Flooring

JJ Orion

Kelly Moore Paint

Kent Moore Cabinets

Key Insulation

Lauren Concrete

Lighting Inc.

Mary DeWalt Design Group

Parrish & Company

REW Materials

Royal Bath

TexMix Concrete

Barton springs infill residence by foursquare builders

Mon, 26 Dec 2016 17:55:27 GMT

"This infill residence is simple, and beautiful. It features a multi-leveled stone-scaping front yard, complete with cement slabs for a walk path from the street to the entry. The magic happens once you enter the home, you feel as if the kitchen and family room serve dual purposes, first a space for gathering, dining, and relaxing, the other is a well designed pathway to the back yard. The large windows and sliding glass doors which you can view the pool and covered patio help create that unique feeling. More in the mood for a glass of wine and a book? There is a space for that also, walk out onto the screened-in porch, off of the family room, which host the reverse side of the open fireplace, private, cozy, and still a great view of the multi-level back yard. On the second floor, two open decks continue the pull back to the open air. The sliding glass doors in the master suite open to the private porch the backyard."

Completed in 2014 by Foursquare Builders, designed by Burton Baldridge Architects.

Pictured above:

Foursquare Builders and Red Pants Studio had just started working together to capture the progress of construction on all of their projects mid year 2014. This infill project designed by Burton Baldridge in Barton Springs was just about complete when I first came alongside. It still stands as one of my favorite projects to see completed. The earliest onsite visit was in December of 2013 and back again in April of 2014.

Zilker residence by Architect James Harkrider

Fri, 16 Dec 2016 16:13:20 GMT

2016 greater austin parade of homes stud party

Mon, 24 Oct 2016 14:48:15 GMT

Every year the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin celebrates the kick off of the Greater Austin Parade of Homes™ by hosting a party early in the construction phase.

The "stud" party is always a big hit for builders, designers, the development, and the product reps, The party introduces the development, sometimes for the first time, to the public. This is and has been for many years a great and beneficial social event for the industry.

Here is a video take from this year's party, if you missed it. If you came out to the event you may just see yourself.

The HBA of Austin has showcased the best of the best, and has for over 60 years. Make sure you get your tickets today.

Builders include:

Arbogast Custom Homes

Lake Travis Builders

Sommerfeld Construction

Sterling Custom Homes

Development

Caliterra

#austinarchitecture, #archidaily, #paradeofhomesatx, #valueofdesign, #residentialdesign #caliterra, #redpantsstudio

Landscapes of the 2015 greater Austin HBA parade of homes

Mon, 17 Oct 2016 22:29:26 GMT

We've taken some time to look back at the interiors of the homes featured at the 2015 Greater Austin Parade of Homes.

This week I want to take us back outside to these homes for a look at the curb appeal, landscape architecture, and pools of these homes. These five builders gave us a taste of five unique life style choices in the way they built these homes and the design of the yard, both front and back yards.

Any luxury home featured in a parade requires collaborative effort from many skilled artisans and craftsman to give them the sizzle and shine we have come to expect from a Parade of Homes, and with the outside being the first visual of the home its important to make it pop, its safe to say landscaping plays a very major part.

What would the house like without the appeal from the curb? And in Central Texas what else would we expect to find in the back yard of your luxury home but a pool?

So our hats are off to the men and women who dedicated many hours in design, and many more in labor to deliver yards that are fit for these luxury homes which are nestled on the side of one of the many hills in the Texas Hill Country.

Images featured from the air are captured by the large platform drone we fly which carries a Nikon D800.

Eppright Custom homes

Matt Sitra custom homes

VII Custom homes

Masterstouch custom homes Texas Custom Construction

Here are the links to the Builders of the 2015 greater Austin Parade of Homes

Eppright Custom Homes

Texas Custom Construction

Matt Sitra Custom Homes

Seven Custom Homes

Masters Touch Custom Homes

8 design looks from the 2015 greater Austin HBA parade of homes

Mon, 03 Oct 2016 14:40:41 GMT

Each year the Home builders association of Austin showcases some of the area's builders at the annual Greater Austin Parade of Homes. Together the builders and the association hosts a three weekend eye-popping, display of current trends. These, must see, homes feature current trends in building techniques and materials, and highlight today’s trends in area's such as lighting, furniture, floors, and counter tops, just to name a few.

With less than a month away from the opening of the 2016 Greater Austin Parade of Homes, I want to continue to look back at the photos I captured of the homes featured in the 2015 Parade of Homes. This week I want to highlight the interior design, furniture, and some art as well as build techniques.

If I’m honest it’s the design trends I go to see, interior design, the architectural design, it's the form and the function, it’s the art of design and creative display that I enjoy viewing. Well, It's also my job as a photographer to see these things, and help communicate the collaborative process that architects, builders and interior designers go through to assemble any project.

For more information on last years parade http://paradeofhomesaustin.com/2015_homes/

The Builders included: Eppright Custom Homes, Texas Custom Construction, Matt Sitra Custom Homes, Seven Custom Homes, Masters Touch Custom Homes

Owner's suites-bathrooms- of the 2015 greater Austin HBA parade of homes

Mon, 26 Sep 2016 01:48:30 GMT

Last week we took a look into the Owner's bedrooms of the 2015 Parade of Homes , this week let's take a look into the luxury of the bathroom inside the owner's suite. Below are photos from the five beautiful homes from the 2015 Greater Austin HBA Parade of Homes. These one-of-a-kind homes feature a little luxury, privacy, comfort, and a space for pampering.

We didn't always enjoy these luxuries. However thanks to centuries of civil engineering, today we enjoy such things as indoor plumbing, flushing toilets, heated water, electricity, and ventilation. These “luxuries” in our bathrooms are a result of two simple required functions, cleanliness and toilets. We have come a very long way from the Roman bath houses, and ancient civilization public toilet systems. For the most part, our modern concept of privacy in the toilet in relatively new. What will the future look like for us?

The Builders include:

Eppright Custom Homes

Texas Custom Construction

Matt Sitra Custom Homes

Seven Custom Homes

Masters Touch Custom Homes

#austinarchitecture, #archidaily, #paradeofhomesatx, #valueofdesign, #residentialdesign

Owner's suites 2015 greater Austin HBA parade of homes

Fri, 23 Sep 2016 16:17:36 GMT

It should be no surprise the owner’s suites of the 2105 Greater Austin HBA Parade of Homes are some of the grandest spaces presented. We all know, and expect, the owner’s suite to have all the best, after all this room is where we spend most of our time resting, escaping, and recharging.

The interior designers definitely expressed for us what we could use in our own space. From the bed placement, to the use of furniture, and lighting, these talented designers put on a display of color and texture.

Side note

Although the larger size of the owner’s bedroom began to increase post WWII. The birth of the “owner’s suite” came in the mid 1980’s while “McMansion” homes were being built. Large homes were more affordable as the energy costs were down. (“McMansion”— a phrase coined by architect Sarah Susanka ). Owner’s suites came to be more desirable as home owners started to look at homes less as shelter and more as a retreat. They have grown to be a private oasis inside your personal paradise. While much has changed in the years since then, owner’s suites continue to grow in demand, and functionality.

The Builders include:

Eppright Custom Homes

Texas Custom Construction

Matt Sitra Custom Homes

Seven Custom Homes

Masters Touch Custom Homes

#austinarchitecture, #archidaily, #paradeofhomesatx, #valueofdesign, #residentialdesign

family rooms 2015 Greater Austin Parade Homes

Mon, 12 Sep 2016 15:53:14 GMT

Introduced to us by George Nelson and Henry Wright in 1945, the term “family room” was used to described the "room without a name", or what was the biggest room in the house that could serve as the casual-multiple needs room. (Tomorrow’s House by George Nelson and Henry Wright). Well, 70 years after the vision of the all-purpose gathering space, we are living up to their description-only a few differences. See what you think – “The family room is designed to be a place where family and guests gather for group recreation like talking, reading, watching TV, and other family activities. Often, the family room is located adjacent to the kitchen, and at times, flows into it with no visual breaks. A family room often has doors leading to the back yard and specific outdoor living areas such as a deck, garden, or terrace.”. I think they nailed it 70 years ago as they described the modern home needs moving forward.

During the 2015 Greater Austin HBA Parade of Homes five builders showed us the visual definition of a family room. Open floor plan, common-informal-space, in the heart everything family.

The Builders include:

Eppright Custom Homes

Texas Custom Construction

Matt Sitra Custom Homes

Seven Custom Homes

Masters Touch Custom Homes

#austinarchitecture, #archidaily, #paradeofhomesatx, #valueofdesign, #residentialdesign

dining-rooms-2015-Greater-Austin-Parade-Homes

Tue, 06 Sep 2016 16:40:26 GMT

Current trends show we are “opening” our kitchens to accommodate our daily lives, adding to the Kitchen Island, or building islands that accommodate. Today, families are on the move, counter tops are for homework, science projects, office space, the junk pile, and occasionally for eating.

However, numbers show that we still love our dedicated dining rooms. Its idyllic visions of big gatherings for holidays, or just having friends over. It’s what we want to do, but rarely end up doing.

In the 2015 Greater Austin Parade of Homes the architects, builders, and designers showed us the freedom of having our cake and eating it too. These wide open floor plans allow for a formal space and a family space to enjoy life either way, on the go, our sit and stay awhile.

Below are the photos we took last year.

Above pictures feature these builders in order:

Eppright Custom Homes

Texas Custom Construction

Matt Sitra Custom Homes

Seven Custom Homes

Masters Touch Custom Homes

The HBA of Greater Austin sure knows how to showcase the best of the best, and has for over 60 years. Make sure you get your tickets for this year’s Great Austin HBA Parade of Homes in the beautiful Caliterra neighborhood of Dripping Springs

Kitchens of_2015-Greater-Austin-Parade_of_Homes

Mon, 29 Aug 2016 16:16:07 GMT

Kitchens, one of the most popular and well used spaces of any home. Just think, where do your family and friends congregate when you entertain. Having seating, counter space, and room for everyone is a demand for any new home, and interior design remodel.

In the 2015 Greater Austin HBA Parade of Homes, five builders and architects gave us a look at these open design floor plan kitchens. Featuring some of the best in floors, cabinets, countertops, lighting, and one, who has a beautiful ceiling treatment.

It's my honor to show you the photos we took of the kitchens in each of these five homes

The Builders include:

Eppright Custom Homes

Seven Custom Homes

Matt Sitra Custom Homes

Texas Custom Construction

Masters Touch Custom Homes

Click here to see which awards each home won.

In order as seen above.

#austinarchitecture, #archidaily, #paradeofhomesatx, #valueofdesign,#residentialdesign

2015-Greater-Austin-Parade_of_Homes-featured-builders

Sun, 28 Aug 2016 14:02:44 GMT

The Builders from the 2015 Great Austin HBA Parade of Homes included: Eppright Custom Homes, Texas Custom Construction, Matt Sitra Custom Homes, Seven Custom Homes, and Masters Touch Custom Homes,

These 5 homes have breath-taking views in the Los Colinas Estates in Serene Hills.

Don't forget to Come by and be inspired at this year’s 2016 Greater Austin HBA Parade of Homes. For more information check out the links below.

#ParadeofhomesATX

Follow me on Facebook, instagram, and twitter, as we show off a few of my favorite pictures of these homes over the next several weeks.

Looking back 2015 Greater Austin HBA Parade of homes

Mon, 22 Aug 2016 18:21:08 GMT

Pictured above-Eppright Custom Homes. Winner of peoples choice, and many more awards.

As we ramp up for the 2016 Greater Austin HBA Parade of Homes, I want to take some time to look back at the great designs of the 2015 homes.

These Luxury home builders pulled out all the stops to showcase the trends both inside and out of any Hill Country dream home. They displayed the colors, interior design, textures, home automation and landscape design that they saw trending at that time.

The Builders included: Masters Touch Custom Homes, Texas Custom Construction, Eppright Custom Homes, Seven Custom Homes, Matt Sitra Custom Homes

Below is an image of the Eppright Custom Home that was featured in the 2015 Greater Austin Parade of Homes, and winner of the Best of Show voted on by all of you.

These 5 homes not only had some of the best interior features, they also have some of the best views in the Los Colinas Estates in Serene Hills.

Come by and be inspired at this year’s 2016 Greater Austin HBA Parade of Homes. For more information check out the links below.

Please Follow me on Facebook, instagram, and twitter, as we show off a few of my favorite pictures of these homes of the next several weeks.

headshots/and a little fun

Thu, 18 Aug 2016 16:55:05 GMT

Today, social media and the digital age allow you and your company to be seen by millions of people with just the click of a mouse. Here at Red Pants Studio we like to remind our friends and clients of the importance of an updated headshot can do for you and your business and the impact that will make for you, however, let's take that a step further, and take a "customer point of view" at your company or business. What will you-your customers see? Will it only be the professional side, or can it be more?

Many companies are seeing the value of having a "softer side" set of photos added to professional headshots, these photos can show a little more of the corky, silly, or lighter side to your company and still have taste. These days, I see many industries working towards the opportunity to show off the fun side of who they are and who makes up their company when they can. Its called "humanizing" your business for your clients to see.

Pictured below are a few fun clicks from the day we worked with or friends at smart touch interactive. They are a top notch provider to of digital real-estate marketing solutions, and offer great options to agents and builders. Come by their website to learn more about them. www.smarttouchinteractive.com/about-us/

By the way we do offer corporate rates on headshots, and we can come to you.

Those who deliver/details/foursquare builders/watercliff/concrete/3-5-16

Fri, 18 Mar 2016 22:00:00 GMT

When building modern luxury homes every detail matters, from the design to the finish no detail can be overlooked. Getting those details right means getting the right hands for the job.

There are those who talk about, details ...

and there are those who deliver them

How updating your headshot keeps you current.

Wed, 16 Mar 2016 17:21:24 GMT

From a personal and social perspective, having an updated profile picture indicates to others that you’re active with social media. It also sends the message that you’re current with technology, and if you’re on the job market, it can help reinforce the picture you’re trying to paint of yourself to prospective employers – if you take a little bit of time to do it the right way.

One trick we recommend is to use the same image across social media platforms, websites, emails, and print as possible, this helps people recognize you and build that full image of you I mentioned earlier. If a potential employer is looking for you online and sees the same photo of you on your blog that she sees on a professional or academic site related to your field of work, it confirms that you’re active in your field.

Tribute to craftsman_Foursquare builders_concrete crew

Tue, 15 Mar 2016 22:39:46 GMT

"Foursquare Builder's Project Managers choose ONLY the BEST SUBCONTRACTORS for our projects. This video is dedicated to our Concrete Crew, who are the Best in the Business-because. Modern Architecture demands no less."

I could not agree more with the words above from Foursquare Builders.

When it comes to pouring concrete there is no substitute for hard work and a rock-star team, that is what I learned from spending the morning with this crew. From the dark of the morning to the sunshine of mid day this crew made this tough and long task look easy.

I was surprised and excited to learn that the foundation you watch them pour is not just a foundation, but the actual, visible, floor of this home. Thats right, no wood, no polish, nothing will lay on-top, just straight concrete. I am excited to follow this project designed by Dick Clark and Associates with the cameras.

I hope you enjoy my tribute to this team, they are true craftsman, and artisans

Please keep watching for videos on our website, youtube and vimeo channel. They are sure to include more of this home, O and J concrete, and the Luxury Modern Home Builder, Foursquare Builders

Also, make sure to stop by and see us at

Facebook

twitter

instagram

Searsucker in Austin Texas. Re-inventing the new american classic

Thu, 21 Jan 2016 18:36:15 GMT

Re-inventing, Relaxing, Social Dining Experience are just a few words that Searsucker uses to describe the the resturaunt in general. I have to agree with that, this is a great place to meet up, hang out, and share time with friends and family while downtown Austin.

Friendly staff, professional mixologists, and the food, well you'll just have to go experience it for yourself.

Just to put an idea in your mind, Farm bird lollipops.

"The Hand off" from 8-4-2014

Tue, 08 Sep 2015 15:32:02 GMT

It's hard to believe that it was a year ago that James Bruce and I took a little road trip to Valhalla to have the masters of golf sign a painting that would help raise funds for Els for Autism.

Our client, Robert Stephens Homes, would later auction the painting to raise funds and awareness, and would also be donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of his Luxury Home Magazine Tour of Homes property to the Els for Autism foundation and the the local, Austin, affiliate, The Austin Autism Society.

Funds help further their world class research, development, and community, support in treating Autism.

"it is, at the heart of, who we are to give" For some it is friendship, others, advice, time, friendship, financial support, or most powerful, love.

2015 Austin Parade of Homes, Serene Hills

Wed, 20 May 2015 14:29:07 GMT

Each year, the HBA presents the newest and best of home building standards. This year 5 builders are showing off their skills, and the industries current trends. These homes are standing atop one of the beautiful hills nestled in the Texas Hill country inside Serene Hills. Serene Hills is a short drive from downtown Austin, in the Lakeway area.

This years builders are:

Eppright Custom Homes, Masters Touch Custom Homes, Matt Sitra Homes, Texas Custom Construction, and Seven Custom Homes.

The homes are on display for the next three weekends.

Check the website for my details.

Adding the personal touch

Tue, 21 Apr 2015 14:55:59 GMT

Photographing architectural spaces is not just about documenting a space, it's also about creating an environment where potential, and future clients for builders and architects find feeling - find home.

Adding the "personal" touch to an architectural image can help create scale and size to the project. However it adds more than that, adding a person into an image(s) adds to the composition a warm, personal, and inviting feeling. It speaks to the "how" of the space. "How" will the space be used, "how will the user interact to the space, and "how" will I feel in this space.

The above photo was taken for Arbogast custom homes.

To see photos from that project on my website.

adding a personal touch

2015 parade of homes-Masters touch

Sat, 10 Jan 2015 13:00:00 GMT

Featured as one of five builders in the 2015 Parade of Homes, at the beautiful and scenic Serene Hills, Masters Touch Custom Homes will feature a Parade Home fusing contemporary design—floating staircases, floor-to-ceiling glass walls, industrial steel interior roof supports, and flat-panel cabinetry with modern hardware—with signature elements of traditional European design. The exterior will boast sleek lines with curved roofs, smooth stucco with warm block-cut stone, and oversized Art Nouveau windows. Homes will be available Spring 2015.

"Masters Touch Custom homes was founded in 2005. Our founder Michael Gotcher, a native Texan (formerly Master’s Touch Construction) and his wife Beverly, moved to Austin to re-establish a family heritage of tradition dating back to the Mexican inquisition at the Alamo. Together with Matthew Bailey VP, we combine our strengths and building careers of more than 50 years; our passion is to build high quality unique custom homes.Attention to detail is critical, but we take greater pride in the friendships and long term relationships with our trusted trade contractors and clients.We work with many well respected architectural designers and interior decorators.

If you’re looking at building a custom home with us, we would work side by side with you. Starting with selecting the right building site, and a plan tailored to your needs. In our companies history we have built many different styles of homes including; Colonial Plantation, Mediterranean, Tuscan, Old World, and Traditional Ranch Homes. Building in Austin, Lakeway, and Lake Travis.Michael and Matthew visit the job sites everyday along with our superintendents. They manage every step of the quality and detail that goes into each home. Our goal is 100% customer satisfaction from the time of contract signing, construction, and well after move in. We keep our customers goals, and dreams as our first and foremost thought throughout the building process"

Text from: Austin Parade of Homes

Masters Touch Custom Homes

Bluff House at 2600

Tue, 06 Jan 2015 16:30:13 GMT

Designed by architect David Webber of Webber + Studio and completed by Foursquare Builders in 2009, the Bluff House offers great flexibility to suit a wide variety of lifestyles. The design features elegant materials, clean lines, a smart layout, beautiful details, and phenomenal views, along with substantial green building elements that are silently incorporated into the home. You’ll find approximately 6,800 square feet of indoor space, plus nearly 3,000 additional feet of decks and other outdoor rooms that extend the home’s living area into the outdoors.

(Text from: http://2600modern.com/the-homes/the-bluff-house/)

Kerbey ln renovations by Brian Dillard Architect

Mon, 24 Nov 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Following the 2014 AIA home tour, I had the great honor to put my camera to work on this beauty. Many thanks to Brian Dillard and Mari. If you missed the tour this year, so sad. Just plan to be out for the 2015 AIA home tour.

Designed by Brian Dillard Architecture, this 1940’s cottage in the Brykerwood neighborhood of Austin Texas has acquired a near seamless addition of a master suite and art gallery. Renovations completed by Foursquare Builders. Featured in the 2014 AIA home tour.

Professional head shots

Thu, 20 Nov 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Often the first contact people have with you is a digital one, online. Especially now we're all so active on social media. Profile pictures create the first impression of you and you’re business. Why not make it a good first impression, and show others that you care about the details.
Contact Drew Rice today to update your headshot at 512-998-3672 or at [email protected]

What should you do once you get a new professional, and approachable headshot?

* Find everywhere that you've used your old one and replace it!
It's important that you change it everywhere, that means every online account you have, Twitter, Google+, Linked In, your Blog avatar, Forum profiles, account profile photographs, everywhere you have a presence online, your professional headshot should be there creating that positive first impression! Consistency is key in creating trust, and recognition, you do want people to recognize, and remember you.

Remember, communications aren't just verbal, or in text, they come in visual format too; your logo, and your headshot amongst many other visual communication tools.

What's up with the name

Mon, 27 Oct 2014 14:34:23 GMT

Red Pants Studio is not just a cool, catchy, awesome name. It has history (no not that old) The story is of the red pants themselves. The pants are real, and I grew up and then out of them. But still the remain as a part of my life even today. They carry with them many years of trial and learns, and good judgement-acquired from bad judgement. The red pants and the lessons will continue on for many more years.

Come check out some places we have been together.

Enjoy the view

Fri, 24 Oct 2014 02:10:04 GMT

"The Wall"

On the cul-de-sac I grew up on, we had a brick wall that stood as high as you could see. But when you are 5 years old a 5 foot tall brick wall looked like an impassable wall. Climbing to the top and then across it was so much fun as a child. Having the neighbor lady call my mom on us wasn't so much, but we did it all the time anyway. Looking back today, its amazing to me now the life lessons I learned as a kid.

The walls we face today may seem impassable, there not. Climb them now and enjoy the view.

Texas Outdoor lighting 8th st, Austin Tx

Sat, 20 Sep 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Another beautiful lighting job by the team at Texas Outdoor Lighting, on the Phillips-bremond-Houston House, designed and built by the revered and famous Texas architect Abner Cook.

Scroll over the image to see what great lighting can do for you.

This historic house is located in the Bremond block in Downtown Austin. The Bremond block was added to National Register of Historic Places in 1970 is considered one of the few remaining upper-class Victorian neighborhoods of the middle to late nineteenth century in Texas. These houses were built or expanded for members of the families of brothers Eugene and John Bremond. They are located within the square block bordered by west Seventh, West Eighth, Guadlupe, and San Antonio streets.

What can Exterior lighting do for you?

Mon, 15 Sep 2014 16:17:18 GMT

Landscape lighting offers more than light to your home, it presents the true beauty of your home.

Texas outdoor lighting is committed to providing customers with clear, bright, innovative, and affordable outdoor lighting solutions. Their products are made from the highest quality materials. When you purchase any one of the products they offer, you can rest assured that you will receive the best on the market

Scroll over the image below to see what a difference great lighting did for this Austin, TX, home

Foursquare Builders project in Rollingwood underway

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 18:48:15 GMT

Foursquare builders started this project designed by Cornerstone Architects in Rollingwood, TX. by first demolishing a home that stood since 1981. (You can check out the progress on Red Pants Studio here.) As of today they are now underway with the foundation of the beautiful new home. One of the massive holes carved into the Texas Lime stone is for the, over 25,000 gallon sistern. Oh Yes they did!

under construction

Wed, 10 Sep 2014 13:00:00 GMT

I have always loved long shutter clicks that happen late at night. This construction project is well underway here in Bee Cave, TX. I drive by this project often and always wish to stop. Monday night I did stop.

What caught my eye first was the crane poking its boom out from over this building with the full moon as the back light. So I tuned the camera and lens into this view and... well here you go.

Lakeway Modern Update

Tue, 09 Sep 2014 18:47:05 GMT

Update photos of the Lakeway Modern project being finished by Foursquare Builders, designed by Gray Form Architecture. Looking great here in Lakeway

Friday Night Lights at Vandegrift

Thu, 04 Sep 2014 21:00:00 GMT

Pictured above is #50 and yes he is cradling the ball, the center does have a fondness of the ball.

The day you have waited on is almost here, the 2014 Vandegrift HS Football program is going to be out in full force this Friday (September 5th). With the formal release of the 2014 Football program, the individual images are being released, and will be available for purchase starting Saturday morning ( September 6th). Parents, and students will have the opportunity to see and buy the photos in all their glory. 255 pictures of the Varsity players, 400 pictures of the two Junior Varsity teams, and 197 pics, of the freshman teams. Yes, we will have the tree groups broken out, and the are all in numerical order for viewing ease.

Out of pure excitement, we have leaked a few pictures over the past few weeks, you can see why now. What a great group of young men.

To view the photo albums please click here. To purchase, follow the directions inside the albums.

Reserve at Lake Travis, and Stonewood Homes

Thu, 04 Sep 2014 16:59:46 GMT

James Bruce and I had the great opportunity to have a meeting with a representative from The Reserve of Lake Travis, and Stella Flegas of Artista Interiors on Tuesday at this beautiful home built by Stonewood Homes. The meeting was to decide which rooms to, and what to stage the home with for photography. I am really excited to see what great photos James delivers on the home, and the off the chart cool photo of the... oops, you will just have to wait and see what they do.

Pictured above Is a scouting photo taken by yours truly.

head shots for your social media

Tue, 19 Aug 2014 22:19:08 GMT

We like to see people having fun in studio, however more important for me is to show the out takes from time to time.

Why? as professionals we want to portray that confident yet approachable look for our Linked in or Facebook, website, business cards, or flyers. Yes that is the reason for a great head shot. Yet lets never forget who we really are. We have fun, we laugh, we make others laugh, we are who we are. LET IT SHINE, LET IT SHINE.

Meet Patrick, marketing professional, social media guru, friend, and the lead mind behind Home Style Austin. Drop by their site, or follow them on any one of their social media sites. FACEBOOK LINK.

congratulations-foursquare-builders

Mon, 18 Aug 2014 20:12:03 GMT

Congratulations to our friends at Foursquare Builders, who received 10 total awards at the Texas Association of builders Texas Star Awards, including the Grand Award for 2014 Custom Home Builder of the Year.

This statewide tribute to excellence in the home building industry recognizes builders, remodelers, architects, designers, sales professionals, marketing professionals, construction professionals and industry leaders in Texas and the Southwest.

Awards include:

* Grand Award: Custom home builder of the year

* Best print ad

* Best sales brochure

* Best billboard

* Best online advertisement

* Best new custom home

* Best kitchen over 1 million

* Best master bathroom over 1 million

* Best outdoor living space over 1 million

* Best architectural design over 1 million

Congratulations to Wes, the team, architects, and all the support that make these dream homes become a reality.

Click here to reach Foursquare Builders about building you dream home

Kids-Masters of paint

Mon, 18 Aug 2014 16:04:27 GMT

So why was I at Valhalla? Besides taking cool pictures. Simple! I drove down with James Bruce and two large pieces of art to acquire signatures from past PGA champions. Yea that sounds like a great time, and, oh it was. But the story only starts with Golf Champions and a road trip.

These beautiful pieces of art were started by local artist, Carlos Ortiz, than remastered by local Austin children, several of which wrestle with Autism. Autism awareness is the real story for these pieces of art. With a growing number of children and families impacted with Autism it is more than ever needed to raise awareness and open our hearts to these families. ( One in 68 U.S. children has an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a 30% increase from 1 in 88 two years ago.)

These two beautiful, creative, and amazing pieces of art will be auctioned off in the future. The sale of the art will help raise awareness and financial support to both to Els for Autism and for our local Autism Society of Greater Austin.

All thanks goes to Rob Swett of Robert Stephen Homes who has commissioned the art project as part of his Autism awareness campaign. Trust me when is say there is a much bigger story behind this story.

Please keep following Robert Stephen Homes for the auction date here

wing this touching story at Robert Stephen homes, and right here at Red Pants Studio

the hand off

Mon, 11 Aug 2014 12:30:00 GMT

In the days leading up to the PGA Championship at the Valhalla golf course in Louisville KY. I had the great honor to meet with some of the past Championship winners while hanging out at the beautiful Valhalla golf course. I had one very important task. To acquire signatures of the past winners of the famed Wanamaker trophy, the coveted trophy handed to the winner of the PGA Championship, on a beautiful piece of art representing the trophy. Well we (James Bruce of James Bruce photography & I) did just that, and so much more. We had access to some fun places out of reach to the public, and access to many of the public places. We had a chance to spend two days moving around 18 holes with a couple of the pros and click our cameras away.

However the story is so much more than the road trip with two gigantic pieces of art.

But you'll have to wait for the rest later.

Early Tuesday Am this image was captured. Titled the Hand off, it represents so much to me, and maybe so much to you.

Thank you to the sponsors

Wed, 02 Jul 2014 13:02:23 GMT

My friends and family at the Nation Kitchen and Bath Association of the Puget Sound celebrated and honored its own design members at their 10th Annual Design Competition and Awards Gala with style. Thanks to all the sponsors, both Chapter, and Competition Sponsors.

Thank you to our chapter sponsors:

Consentino - Silestone

Ferguson builder and plumbing supplies

Parr - cabinet design center

Thank you to our Design competiton and Gala Sponsors:

425 Magazine

Abbrio kitchen and bath Solutions

Contract furnishings Mart "CFM"

FloForm - counter tops

Oregon Tile and Marble

Pental - Granite and Marble

Willis - Distribution

Wood Mode - Fine custom cabinetry

Thanks again to all the great sponsors, support, and friends of the NKBA Puget Sound

aerial photography

Mon, 23 Jun 2014 13:00:00 GMT

_16A2889 Just a reminder:

Red Pants Studio offers low altitude aerial video, and photography.

Call me schedule, or for more details.

Facebook: Tagging people and pages in your posts

Wed, 18 Jun 2014 12:00:00 GMT

Facebook: Tagging people and pages in your posts is easy and can give you and them more visibility.

Talking to others is usually more exciting than talking to yourself, well it is for me. It is for that reason I like to use "@" when posting on my Facebook business page, it allows others to be part of a conversation.

To Tag someone in your post, start typing their name and then select their profile from the drop-down menu that appears (make sure to capitalize the first letter of their name).

To tag a Page, type the “@” symbol and then start typing the Page’s name.

When you comment on a post, you can link to someone in your response by following the same steps as above. Comment links create a link to that person's profile and may send them a notification so they can stay up-to-date on the conversation. Delete a comment to remove a comment link.

Try it out on facebook this week and see what happens

#facebook, #friends, #redpantsstudio, #tag

NKBA 2014 Awards

Tue, 17 Jun 2014 13:20:10 GMT

I am so excited to once more be a part of this years NKBA, Puget Sound, 10th annual Awards Gala In Seattle on June 26th. The NKBA Annual awards gala brings many great and talented designers together from the Pacific North West. Each year designers around Seattle honor their peers as they choose the top 3 projects from the year past. It is really a great treat and honor to have photographed many of this years projects. I hope we do as good as we did last year. FYI we did get 5 awards last year, 3, first place and 2, 3rd place awards.

These top designers are getting more and more attention both in a regional and National Platform, In large part to the support and recognition they get from their peers and industry providers. The National Kitchen and Bath Association is home to many great designers, designs, and providers Nation wide. Among one of the top regions just happens to be the Puget Sound chapter.

NKBA pulls together more than designers, it also includes industry providers, from hardware, to plumbing, counter-top, glass, and many others, not to over look the photographers. Having a community and resource like this is rewarding and priceless. The Puget Sound chapter, like many others, reaches out to JR designers and students of the industry, they help train, encourage, mentor, and friend these up and coming stars, who are also recognized through their hard work and dedication to the craft at the awards gala.

Last year I had the great opportunity not only to photograph the event and these great professionals, but to watch as 5 of the projects I had photographed won awards.

My friends Will and Wayne of William and Wayne KB took home 3 awards: 1st place for Large kitchen, 1st place for Small/medium Bathroom, 3rd place for Large bathroom

My friend Kayron Brewer of Studio KB took home 2 awards: 1st place for Large Bathroom, and 3rd Place for Small / medium Kitchen.

I cant tell you how excited I am to go back to Seattle next week to be part of this event.

Good luck to all designers. And many thanks to all the sponsors that make this event possible. See y'all in a week.

To look at the projects and award winners, to meet my friends click on this link to honors and accolades.

Barton Springs Residence completed

Thu, 12 Jun 2014 17:17:45 GMT

In December I gave you a quick peek at a residence designed by Baldridge Architects , being constructed by Foursquare Builders. Well the day of completion has come. This infill residence is simple, and beautiful. It features a multi-leveled stone-scaping front yard, complete with cement slabs for a walk path from the street to the entry. The magic happens once you enter the home, you feel as if the kitchen and family room serve dual purposes, first a space for gathering, dining, and relaxing, the other is a well designed pathway to the back yard. The large windows and sliding glass doors which you can view the pool and covered patio help create that unique feeling. More in the mood for a glass of wine and a book? There is a space for that also, walk out onto the screened-in porch, off of the family room, which host the reverse side of the open fireplace, private, cozy, and still a great view of the multi-level back yard. On the second floor, two open decks continue the pull back to the open air. The sliding glass doors in the master suite open to the private porch the back yard. To see the process drop by the photo gallery.

Yea! It is a great design for any downtown dwelling Austin-ite

Memorial Day 2014

Mon, 02 Jun 2014 16:36:38 GMT

Memorial Day 2014 brought a road trip to Louisville KY. for my daughter and me. Saturday to Dallas, Sunday to Louisville for Memorial Day on Monday with the whole family. It was great to have all three of the brothers together with our mom and dad. But even more fun was having all of our kiddos together, watching the cousins play was awesome. In the afternoon Matt and family headed home and a few new friends and family members came by. For more of our family photos, and to see our new friends come by the website.

I cant resist funny faces.

It was a very short trip but a very important one. Phil, my little brother, and his family are leaving this month for the mission field. They will be spending the next five years in Romania. To read more about their heart for God and their calling to serve, come by their website [YMI Rices]. Please be aware many missionaries need to raise their own funds year after year to serve, It is no different with Phil and his family, they are always fundraising. You can partner with them at [YMI Rices partnering]

Family Fun

black and white wednesday

Wed, 21 May 2014 12:00:00 GMT

MTWPRO.COM

I sure do love black and white images. Simple and clean, black and white images carry, create, and remind us of many things including emotions we felt that day ,

This was shot at White Rock Lake in Dallas Texas.

laughter, its good for the soul and for my camera

Fri, 16 May 2014 17:36:25 GMT

It's good to surround yourself with people that make you laugh. Just make sure your not in-front of my camera when you loose it. I might just take your picture.

Brad is a good friend of mine, and go back many years. As you can imaging we have some stories, however here is where I might just say "DOT DOT DOT" or in text " ... " Brad needed to update his head-shot, as many of you do" so we found that chance this week. But as the title says, be careful where you crack-up, I might take the picture.

Brad is a BICSI Certified Telecommunications Technician/Manager, Project Manager, and is an accomplished Communications and Field Service Manager with over 11 years of combined experience in Telecommunications and High Speed Data Technology, and Cable/Wire Installation and Maintenance

All that to say, some technical stuff is what he does.

Please be reminded that: A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. (Proverbs 17:22)

Happy mothers day

Mon, 12 May 2014 05:28:39 GMT

Thank you mothers everywhere for the love you give your children.

To my mother

Thanks for all your prayers, from our births you have loved all three of your children in the good bad and ugly times. You trusted your prayers would be heard and they were. And Thanks to your never ending prayers, God has done great things with all three of your children, he trusted you to make it possible for us to be who we are.

Matthew-Andrew-Phillip and families.

PGM Design + build, contemporary. Part 2

Thu, 24 Apr 2014 20:41:41 GMT

Last week I showed you a house in Overlook Estates, Yea, you remember that one! Well I stopped the car for one and got a "two-for-one" deal out of it. This home is just up the street, like a stones throw up the street. Another beautiful home by the duo at PGM Design Build.

To see additional exterior photos of this home, and additional exterior photographs by Drew Rice, Click Here.

Information on the home you see above:

listing info here.

PGM Design + Build

And is currently for sale with:

Laurel Prats of Turnquist partners.

"Great opportunity and price point for modern home in upscale community close to Downtown. Built by award winning parade build PGM Design + Build. Amazing architectural features, floating concrete entry, oversized glass pivot door, walls of windows, metal floating stairs, custom built ins, tankless water heater and more. Must See!"

PGM Design + build, contemporary

Tue, 22 Apr 2014 16:49:35 GMT

While on a project for a client last week in Overlook Estates, I drove past this house. The home stuck in my head for some reason, it was only as was leaving neighborhood I figured out why.

Later I searched the house online and found additional information on the house that I want to share with you.

I really liked the "instagrahm" style photos the agent used to list the house, I wished they had sunshine for the photos though.

To see additional exterior photos of this home, or additional exterior photos by Drew Rice, click here.

Information on this home

Listing info here.

PGM Design + Build

This home is currently "pending"

Laurel Prats of Turnquist partners.

"Cutting Edge Contemporary on half-acre lot with very private backyard. Incredible modern design & finishes, with open living spaces & walls of glass. Features cantilevered ceiling, polished concrete floors, carrera kitchen, custom contemporary built-ins and much more. Incredible master suite with sitting area/library/study, huge custom closet, and lavish bath with walk in shower and floor to ceiling glass wall. Master bedroom opens to pie deck overlooking pool. Nothing else like it!"

Lonestar roundup 2014

Mon, 21 Apr 2014 19:36:19 GMT

With so much going on lately, I almost forgot about the 14th Annual Lonestar Round up back on the 17th and 18th of April. You know the phrase "a mechanic's car is always the last to be fixed", well, it is also true about this photographer. So without any more delay...

This truck was a personal favorite of mine. This is a Jimmy Hervatin built, Keith Weesner inspired, 1951 F1 Ford Pickup called "LIT UP".

more information about this truck can be found here.

For some snapshots of the event click here

Our Friend Joe Paul Reider of Home Style Austin

Fri, 18 Apr 2014 03:14:57 GMT

Recently my friends over at Home Style Austin contacted me to update Joe's head-shot. SO I DID! That means that I need to take this opportunity to introduce you to my personal friend Joe Paul Reider of Home style Austin, (and show off my head-shots). I have so many great things to say about Joe. Not only is he a great friend, but the Real Estate agent that helped us by our house here in Lakeway. Without further-adieu, ~~stolen~~ copied directly from his website...

"Joe is a native Texan who brings over 20 years of large market business operations and marketing knowledge to his expertise as a licensed Realtor® with Keller Williams Realty here in Austin. Joe has a strong devotion to delivering high quality customer service and leverages emerging digital technology to help people find or create the homes of their dreams.

Joe loves “all things pertaining to the home”. His personal passion is home restoration, having accomplished significant restorative improvements to his 1920s Tudor-style home including a variety of energy efficiency upgrades.

Joe relocated his family to Austin from just up the road (Dallas), so he has first hand experience and insight about transitioning to the area - Austin’s unique and emerging neighborhoods, top food destinations and it’s wildly diverse entertainment districts".

Y'all drop by the website and say hello to my friends, and soon to be yours.

Lunar Eclipse April 2014

Tue, 15 Apr 2014 16:46:40 GMT

Total Lunar Eclipse aka "Blood moon" of April 2014

Late last night the moon took on an eerie "blood-red" hue during the first lunar eclipse of 2014, the sight, hopefully, awed by you and many others last night. (Sorry guys its seems it was for north and south america).

The total lunar eclipse lasted about 3.5 hours last night. This amazing sight of the so-called "blood Moon" took place when the Earth's shadow slowly darkened the moon. As I understand it, the red moon is created when the light from the sun is blasting through the dust particles of the earth's atmosphere and that color is reflected back to us from the moon.

Lets not forget that last night was also the night that Mars was closet to earth in years.

The Next Lunar eclipse of 2014 will occur on October 8th, followed by another on April 8th 2015, and the last total Lunar eclipse of the current tetrad on September 28th, 2015.

Fox Field underway

Mon, 14 Apr 2014 20:39:44 GMT

What a treat and an honor it is to be shooting aerial images and project photos for our friends at Foursquare Builders. Pictured here is the Fox Field project. You may remember seeing this project, it was the feature in a video we did of a foundation being poured late last year. (Click here for the youtube video). Much has been happened on this build since that day. Current they are finishing the framing of the house and the separate garage/indoor parking. I caught a couple of guys working on the roof top, can you spot them in the photo?

I will bring more updates on this house as I capture them. Stay tuned.

Picture this! Kitchen and bath design news

Mon, 31 Mar 2014 19:56:05 GMT

It should not surprise anyone to find this bathroom project by Studio KB featured on the cover of the March 2014 Kitchen and Bath Design News. Congrats to you Kayron, and keep up the great work. In the "Bath Report" Kayron is asked about the design goal, and what she see's trending in the industry. Get your copy to find out what she has to say on that issue. Very interesting!

This bathroom also won Kayron first place this past year for large bathroom/master suite at the NKBA Puget Sound Chapter. Drop by their sit and check out the other winners, and see more of our friends.

Kayron Brewer holds a certification in both bathroom and kitchen design through the NKBA, and is a member of the Puget Sound chapter of the NKBA. Drop by her website at Studio KB, or her page at Houzz to check out more of what she is doing and how she meets the needs of her clients.

FYI: Would it surprise you to know that I shot this. Just thought i would let you know.

Hawaii 2014, Setting 3 Guinness World Records

Fri, 28 Mar 2014 17:30:38 GMT

AND I WAS THERE!!!

This year on MArch 14, La Quinta Inns & Suites was at it again setting three Guinness World Records titles by creating the longest Human Towel Chain with 1,113 participants, the longest High-Five Chain with 1,110 participants and the largest Towel Mosaic that formed a 26,390 square foot U.S. flag. All three records were achieved in 90 minutes by attendees who were in Hawaii for the company’s annual conference. The records were made official by GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS adjudicator, Alex Angert who was present at the Waikoloa Bowl during the event.

The more than 2,500 red, white and blue towels used during the event were provided by La Quinta’s partner, Standard Textile, Inc. and donated afterwards to Fisher House – Tripler AMC in Honolulu. Fisher House Foundation is best known for a network of comfort homes where military and veterans’ families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment. These homes are located at major military and VA medical centers nationwide, close to the medical center or hospital they serve.

Check out the Video from the World Record Event: http://youtu.be/-a1l8KqXrco

Check out some of my fav's from the Guinness World Record event here: working in Hawaii

Also included in that gallery is some of the closing ceremony, and images around the Hilton hotel.

Hawaii 2014, family

Tue, 25 Mar 2014 17:53:54 GMT

Fun in the Sun, Hawaii 2014

Hawaii 2014 Family fun in the sun

To say that we had fun would be an understatement. Don't get the wrong impression though, it was not all fun and games, I did have work to do (stay tuned for more). However, we took every opportunity to play, it was lil birds spring break and all, so we broke routine for fun in the sun. In the gallery of photos we take you with us to several places, including the one we visited over and over again, the pool's at the Marriott resort, this is where we called home for the week. One of the places we visited was Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park where we saw Kilauea Caldera, we stood in the steam vents, looked on in awe from the outer rim of this incredible and active volcano. At the park we witnessed the power and movement of a long past lava flow at the Thurston lava tube inside a rain forest. (You will notice that lil bird is starting to take pictures of Sarah and I).

Lil bird was not always excited to see the beaches, but she really liked the black sand at Mahaiula Bay in the Kekaha Kai State park, and seeing the sea turtle there was a highlight for me on that beach. Our family favorite beach became Hupuna Beach, where we swam, caught waves, got hit by waves, and played for hour's. (Water images shot with lil birds camera.) Some of my favorite images came from the south side of that beach, (look for the surfer on the cliff).

One of my favorite stop's was to Greenwell Farms. From 1852 to current this family owned and operated farm has produced coffee, and other produce. They still have trees growing from 140 years ago to provide seeds for new coffee trees. While I had work to do, Sarah and lil bird shopped and did other "girls day out" things, like visit the zoo in Hilo, witnessed the power of falling water at the Kahuna water falls surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, and the 'Akaka Falls, which plunges 442 feet into a stream eroded-gorge. They also did some relaxing.

We traveled to the north, south, east and west side of the big island, it was amazing to see so many new sights. But at the heart of all the fun and the sun, the best part of the trip was spending so much time with my wife and daughter.

Here is a link to the Photo Gallery.

standing out in the crowd

Wed, 12 Feb 2014 13:00:00 GMT

First impressions and headshots go hand in hand due to the ever growing use of the Web. First impressions are lasting and powerful, no doubt vital for business. And a great headshot is more than a picture, it is a story of who you are and what you represent. No longer just for business, head shots have become our online presence, which might just be our lasting, first impression. Making that first impression powerful, means standing out from the crowd.

Pictured on the left, Chris is holding up ~~his~~ my mug shot board. This board is the X-rite color checker classic. The 24 color spot board tells me what the true color is for the photo session. Having an image with a client and the board allows me to control color digitally once the photo session is finished. Correct color helps ensure you stand out in a crowd for all the right reasons.

Red Pants!? The where and when coming soon

Mon, 10 Feb 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Where did the name "Red Pants Studio" come from??? What is behind the great name???

Questions like these and more will be answered soon. However you will need to stay tuned to our news page for those answer's and for my up and coming adventures.

Hint: Andy is still the key

Lining room w/ studioallegory

Thu, 06 Feb 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Another Great hit from the mighty mother, daughter duo of Studio Allegory. Rock'n the color and style of the "L" for the living room.

You can imagine the movie nights and popcorn.

Check out the team at Studio Allegory

dining in the shade of blue

Wed, 05 Feb 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Check out the styling duo of mother and daughter, Jeanie and Elizabeth, as they take this dining room to another level. From floor to ceiling they have tied color and style together to give a one-of-a-kind dining space.

To check out this duo on-line, drop by their sit at Studio Allegory

Barton Hills and Modern Architecture

Thu, 30 Jan 2014 16:46:52 GMT

What would you do if you found out the foundation of your South Austin remodel is beyond repair?

For architect James Harkrider of Studio D + Form, spend a weekend drawing plans for a new residence, scrap the remodel, and turn an “oh-no” into a one-of-a-kind Austin Modern home.

What was a 1949, 780 sq. ft. 2 bed room 1 bathroom is gone and what is there now is a 1700 sq. ft., 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom dwelling. His design focuses on an integrated living room/kitchen combo featuring high a ceiling, and a custom fitted stainless steel commercial kitchen. This kitchen is not just for looks it was designed for functionality, and usability. From this open space, two extra wide sliding glass doors create a natural transition into the backyard, great for entertaining, hosting, or just lounging.

True to keep Austin weird, this modern home is nestled in the Historic Barton Hills neighborhood which is built of mostly post war “contemporary” style homes. The neighborhood was featured in the 1956 Austin Parade of Homes as “the largest air conditioned sub-division.” (For more history stop by the Barton hills website)

It really is no surprise this home was featured in the 2013 Modern Home Tour Austin.

New-Year, new direction

Thu, 09 Jan 2014 19:16:52 GMT

As 2014 starts it brings with it the idea of moving forward and places the past behind us. The year starts with excitement, hopes, dreams, opportunity, and growth. As you start your new year, start it with a new look, both professionally and personally. Updating your "so last year" profile photo for your online avatars can start you in that New Year direction.

Your in luck. You know a head-shot photographer. My studio is here in Lakeway, Texas. I offer both the professional and social media style photos for you. Just call to schedule your appointment. I look forward to seeing you here in the studio. We also offer on-location and environmental portraits. Check out more of our head-shots here

Barton Springs residence in process

Thu, 19 Dec 2013 19:26:37 GMT

Rear Exterior

This soon to be beauty is one of the many homes Foursquare Builders is currently assembling. They are working closely with the team at Baldridge Architects who designed this home. Attention to detail and precision craftsmanship are more than words for both of the companies, they are expectations. I personally cant wait to see the final home.

This "Barton Springs Residence" is is one of the projects I will be following and sharing more of as 2014 gets rolling, so stay tuned right her at Red Pants Studio.

Thanks to NKBA Puget Sound

Fri, 06 Dec 2013 20:11:02 GMT

It was a real honor to celebrate with the NKBA of the Puget Sound last night for the 2013 member appreciation and Holiday party at Salty’s on Alki. Many, many thanks to the sponsors, members, and friends of the NKBA Puget Sound chapter.

Thank you NKBA for allowing Red Pants Studio to share this night and all the events of 2013.

A very special thanks also to all of the members that shared their projects with our camera’s in 2013.

I look forward to capturing more projects in 2014.

click here http://www.redpantsstudio.com/year-end-2013

NKBA Puget Sound Chapter

Lap of Luxury, or at least the back porch

Mon, 18 Nov 2013 21:33:30 GMT

What will you look at from your back yard?

Building a beautiful home takes more that materials. Imagination, talent, vision, and skill are a few of the requirements when creating a space to live in. This builder pulled a handful of skills out for the homeowners.

Head shots and social media photography

Fri, 08 Nov 2013 18:55:42 GMT

How many potential clients will go to your online profile before ever contacting you for service? What will they see when they do?
Updating your head-shot and social media presence with great images is easier than you think!
Contact Drew Rice today. 512-998-3672

Inside Houzz: An Interior Design Match Made Right Here

Fri, 18 Oct 2013 23:28:30 GMT

Inside Houzz: An Interior Design Match Made Right Here

Architecture, interior design, and more ∨

Consider a versatile murphy bed when looking for a guest bed, find home office chairs, and work with a contractor in your area to create a fun yet functional home office.
Find new home builders who can help you create a dream kitchen, complete with kitchen island, a large dining table set and a creative kitchen cabinetry design.

Head-shots

Mon, 14 Oct 2013 01:26:48 GMT

HEAD SHOTS and SOCIAL MEDIA PORTRAITS

We have all seen them, some us use them, and many just don't know what we should be using. The link below is from theladders.com. It is the "Top 10 places to include your head-shot". I hope it will bring some focus as to what we should use and how we should us it. The bigger issue behind this is to remember that everyone can see you before they ever meet you.

http://www.theladders.com/career-advice/top-10-places-include-headshot.

PLUG: contact me to update you head shot.

project updates and recognition

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:58:00 GMT

Many thanks to the great team over at Sound Kitchen and Bath for the recognition I received on the Tami Michaels remodel project. It is a real honor. You can check out the progress on the Sound Kitchen and Bath projects page.

Stay tuned for more to come.

People of integrity

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:56:00 GMT

Thanks to my camera, I have the opportunity to shake hands with professionals from many trades. The images I capture may not always illustrate their dedication, principles and passion, but they never-the-less they live those characteristics.

I recently had the opportunity to photograph two professionals who embody their mission statement (see below) and have truly mastered their trade. Builders Owen Roberts and Bryan Wygal are not just committed to their craft, they are passionate about it. And you can see that in the photos hanging around their office. Their fingerprints can be found on many beautiful homes and business' here in the Northwest, and I'm looking forward to learning more about the company when an interview of Owen is posted on the NW real estate forum

Roberts * Wygal Mission Statement

We believe that truly superior homes are built by people of integrity – whose simple, timeless principles direct both the building process and their own personal lives. These principles include impeccable honesty, attention to fine detail, clear communication among all participants, and a dedication to doing things right the first time. Our goal is to create homes that embody our ethics and make a lasting contribution to the quality of life in our community.
Robert Wygal

Moving forward with a quick look in the rearview mirror

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:48:00 GMT

One year ago my family and I moved away from Austin, Texas. Traveling to our new home in Bellevue, Washington, I had the great opportunity to make an adventure out of the road trip. If you haven’t seen them, check out some of my favorite photos from that drive.

Over the past year, we have seen opportunity and growth. We have had challenges and found the power to overcome them. And, we've also met lots of new people and made some great new friends.

My year was dedicated to building my photography business here in Seattle. While it’s been challenging, it’s presented some opportunities, too. I've learned more about me personally, and so much more about the business and craft of photography.

I’m grateful for the lessons and events of this past year. Although I started off photographing Interiors, I was also able to explore other areas like portraits, and editorial work. Thank you for allowing me to share this exciting journey with you.

Traditions and The UT Longhorns

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 09:08:00 GMT

Austin Texas is a great place to be especially when its time for kickoff. At thanksgiving The University of Texas has a match up with Texas A&M, some might call it a football game. When your from Austin its more of a yearly showdown. More than a game, its a 119 year tradition that has been a very important part of both schools. This year is the last of the great show-downs.

The University of Texas has a tradition of lighting the tower when any of the sporting team wins. After the victory over the Aggies of A&M they lit the tower. It is must see, and experience.

It was great to be home to watch the showdown, it was awesome to drive into town to get a picture of the tower after this game. But is was extremely powerful to share it with my family. Even our daughter screamed during the game.

lump of coal or a diamond?

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 11:52:00 GMT

One of the most common questions a good sales person asks is: "what will it take to sell this [insert product here]?" The answer: "Present the features and the benefits in a way that's quick and easy for the consumer to understand and apply to themselves."

The same scenario applies to interior design. And, one of the quickest and easiest ways to promote a design feature is through photography. Good photography, that is.

Have you ever seen a jeweler use a lump of coal to sell you a diamond?

Troll's come out at night

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 21:37:00 GMT

The Fremont troll is no doubt a colossal statue, the head-and -shoulders is 18-feet tall and weighs in at a mere 13,000 lbs. He is made from 2 tons of messy ferroconcrete. The troll took up residence on Halloween of 1990, under the north end of the Aurora bridge, and hasn't left since. He was sculpted by four Seattle area artist -- Steve Badanes, Will Martin, Donna Walter and Ross Whitehead -- a team calling themselves the Jersey Devils. The Fremont troll took about seven weeks to complete.

Party with a Purpose time lapse

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 22:08:00 GMT

from time to time I have an opportunity to be creative, help a cause, and meet great people. Party with a Purpose was one of those times.

Party with a Purpose was the must attend event of the year for young Seattle professionals. 1,000 savvy Seattleites had the opportunity to dress up, dance, and network with the Seattle global health community and beyond at McCaw Hall.

After a great night of shooting it was really a lot of fun to watch the night with this time lapse
please enjoy.

Why Hire a Professional Photographer

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 10:22:00 GMT

Why hire a professional photographer?

Clients hire professional photographers for several reasons.

Photography is first effective and creative. Ultimately, the purpose of photography is to create an image that will sell something.

Most Often for Interior design and architecture a great portfolio is the reason, however often it is to become the "iconic" image of the business. Other reasons to get a project photographed are to document a project, publications, or for marketing and advertising. However due to the ever increasing number of potential clients looking at you online, online presentation is a must.

To sum it up. Your image is everywhere! Make it a good one.

love for black and white

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 12:36:00 GMT

Many may not know, I have a love for black and white photography. My early start with photography was with a great Nikon F and a 50 mm lens handed down to me from my father. Although I don’t know why the strange love for b/w photography, I do know that many a great photographer inspired us with it.

Recently I have been reintroduced to the great and simple beauty of black and white, I wanted to take some time to pull a few images from the past year for you to enjoy.

On-line Presentation

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 21:42:00 GMT

Recently, my wife and I were in the market for a home. Like many buyers, we started researching homes online. Why not, the services are easy to use, and can be used on your schedule. What we found was not surprising. There were a lot of really really bad pictures.

But we did what 90% of the market does. We searched online first. The online sites allowed us to set parameters to help narrow the search down to the specifics. From there, we used pictures to narrow it further. If the front of the house or the interior were not appealing, we moved to the next house. Did we miss out on some good homes? WHO CARES. But... when your weeding through thousands of homes you have a much better chance of seeing "the one" when you weed out the ones that are less appealing.

This process started over again when we started to work with an agent in town. He helped direct us to some neighborhoods we hadn't considered, we saw homes we never would have found. But we had to weed through another round of pictures online. As a buyer, it was extremely hard to look at the pictures of the mess, but it really helped to eliminate homes.

I would like to never think that there are bad homes on the market, but if the bad pictures are any indicator, then a lot of bad homes on the market. Pictures online included dirty clothes, dirty dishes, pictures of a messy bed, a picture of a vacuum cleaner, but the best was the zoomed picture of the toilet, filthy, and they left the seat up. Really? Which agent in his/her right mind does that?

However, when we get to the point of narrowing the options the real questions are these: How do we feel about the house? Can we see ourselves in this house? And how will our furniture look in this house? That's when the presentation starts to really leave impressions that later become emotions. If we have to look through "stuff" to see what our things will look like, we are distracted and our attention is lost leaving a bad impressions. If we like what we see, we focus our attention on the house and save that as a favorite.

Hear me out on this, people don't buy homes online, but the homes are sold online.

As for the result of our search the the house we chose was first on the pictures, then the walk through. The marketing was done right which made us became emotionally tied.

Creating Emotion

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 13:59:00 GMT

Recently, I have taken the opportunity to catch up on long over-due reading. First to find out how I could better use the ideas I have rolling around in my head, and next to better use the images that I create.

One of my favorite blog sites brought to mind a topic that I have taken for granted: pictures should move us. They should create an emotion inside of the viewer, take us to another place, motivate us, draw us in. The phrase "a picture is worth a thousand words" is really true. Few words can describe what we feel at that exact moment we see something. But a picture can take us far away.

At the moment of writing this, I am in a happy place mentally and physically. I am at a place I enjoy going, and I am having my favorite iced beverage. Watching the rain fall on the parking lot and rain drops bouncing off the cars, people dancing in and out trying not get wet. I have the internet playing Pandora radio when a song Suffocation Keep by The Slip came on. Although I have never heard the song, it just adds to the feeling. I found myself transported to where I had once watched the rain come down this much. As I start to feel the joy of that place, it makes me smile inside and out: Ft. Wayne Indiana. My childhood home.

As I think of all the great places and people back there, another song plays and takes me even further: Send Me on My Way by Rusted Root.

Transported, I stare out of the window which is framed as if it were a camera lens. The words are true, a picture can take us away. It can create an emotion.

Home in Seattle

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 22:53:00 GMT

An old bus parked on the side of the road this morning offered itself up for a photograph. I thought it was only fitting after the road trip from Austin to Seattle the crew and I made just a month ago.

Multnomah Falls

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 16:37:00 GMT

Multnomah Falls, about a half hour's drive East of Portland, Oregon.
This set of falls was referenced in a book I had read lately, "The Shack"
This is Just about what I had pictured in mind.
WOW.

Recap

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 07:47:00 GMT

As most road trips go there are great days when everything is smooth and easy and the sun shines on you, there are then the days that seem like work. Yesterday was that day of work. The drive time was only 10 hours but it seemed to take weeks. The clouds were thick and low, or maybe It was just the higher elevation, for a majority of the drive it was spitty, almost rainy, and the sun never did appear. The roads through the mountain passes were wet, the temperature low in the 30's. Winding mountain passes, freezing temps, and rain ya it was never easy.
After all was said and done I never once reached for my camera, so today the post is a recap to bring you up-to-date.
From Austin Texas West to Southern California, up to Portland or just south of it. I have just about 2600 miles in so far and 5 days down.
I hope today brings much more excitement and joy, and more images from this trip.
Our new home is just around the next pass. And I cant wait to see my family.

drive time

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 09:44:00 GMT

Stop and smell the roses

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 07:46:00 GMT

Jill + Sean-0164

I am on the road exploring the southern US and West Coast. For One week, me and the crew are on the way to Seattle. I have enough time to slow down but I feel I have to go.

As I hit the road yesterday, my next stop was going to be in Southern California which was only a few hours of driving. So I did what anyone would do, I took a 4 hour detour.

The Grand Canyon was only an hour north of the highway, so why not.
Once I arrived at the the "Big Gorge" I knew that stopping was truly a must. You don't know until you see it for yourself but wow it was more them worth the stop

I know the phrase all too well, "stop and smell the roses", but I don't live it.

This week really needs to be about smelling the roses.

Sun Set in Santa Fe

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 06:53:00 GMT

502filter

This set of pictures would best describe the area of Santa Fe to me, WOW what a gorgeous place.

Road Trip

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:57:00 GMT

Elly&Nancy-1184
One from the road.
As many know, I am on my way north to Seattle. Taking the opportunity along the way to snap a few pictures and share them with you.
Stay tuned this week as I post one a day or more.

Fun at work

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 14:13:00 GMT

Not long ago I had the great opportunity photograph a home for some friends of mine, they were selling their home and knew hiring a professional photographer for the photos was a must!

With little to no hesitation they called me. I was so excited they called, I had really wanted to photograph this home. This was a project I had looked forward to for several reasons, First I knew their house would look really great, from furniture, to the art, I knew it would be clean and it would have been staged. Next the architecture and story of the house was unique. And then selfishly I wanted to shoot the house because the pictures would server as a great set of images to show off on my website or as a portfolio piece. But most importantly It would give me the opportunity to have fun with the house.

Yes It sold quick, and Yes you have seen the images used on my website. Thanks Guys for trusting me to make it happen.

color-vs-black and white

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 22:02:00 GMT

All of the work I do keeps me in color, but there are days i just want to push something through that's black and white, it brings something to the table that's missing.

When I look at this stairway I flash back to the old books on Architecture, and my mind says this is suppose to be in black and white. However what sells a house is the stained floors, the wood steps and the metal rail all the way to the top, i doesn't hurt that the blue sky and green tree is in the window either
As we move back into the style of yesterday there is more and more of this appearing. And i enjoy seeing this.
I am thinking about this but what do you think?