ARPcrew

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."   Jeremiah 29:11

This verse helped us take a leap of faith to start ARP in the fall of 2003. We have no doubt that this is what we are supposed to be doing with our lives, and we're blessed by it everyday. God's got it all figured out -- just ask Him.

Here's a little info about me -

I'm originally a Star, Mississippi girl, and my experience with photography started at a very early age. I was always fascinated with images, and my favorite book was The LOOK Book.  It was a compilation of images from LOOK magazine -- images that told stories. I loved how everything felt so real. As I got older, my interest in photography grew, and so did I.  It became very evident that I was tall, and this meant that at the age of fourteen, I ended up in front of the camera.  To my surprise, it was a great deal harder than I thought it was going to be. Being in front of the camera really taught me that in order for images to look real and natural, they must be carefully created and captured.

During college I followed my heart and entered the world of Photography and Design.  After graduating from Delta State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design and another in Photography, I began my career as Art Director in the Memphis advertising industry where I met my husband Jeff.  I was honored to work at several Memphis ad agencies, including Good Advertising, Sossaman & Associates , Archer Malmo, and RedDeluxe.

After years of hiring photographers to shoot images for my design work, I decided to shoot my own. In July 2003, I made an impacting career move and decided to start ARP. Because of my experience, I cannot help but shoot with a Designer's eye. I'm looking for color, texture, composition, and, most importantly, emotion. My approach is different, and so is my style. I'm watching for the seconds between the seconds - that's when the magic happens! I'm extremely passionate about what I do, and I feel blessed when I'm asked to make memories and tell stories for families.

Let me take a second and introduce you to the rest of the ARPcrew!!!

Jeff is the quieter half of this Rodgers duo -- my sweet husband.  Six months into ARP, I realized that I needed help. The business was growing faster than I ever expected, and I was about to hire my first employee. When I started to figure out what talents and mad skills this person needed to have, I realized that someone like this was right beside me -- literally. Here were some of my requirements: a great designer -- Jeff Rodgers, a MAC connoisseur--Jeff Rodgers, someone who understood what I was trying to accomplish creatively -- Jeff Rodgers, and someone who would work as if the business were his/her own -- Jeff Rodgers.

Jeff and I were both Art Directors for several advertising agencies in Memphis before ARP, and on more than one occasion we worked under the same roof. 

Owning and running a business together is difficult and rewarding at the same time - we make a great team. We can give you something that I know is impossible to find anywhere else -- with our Design/Photography education and background we are dedicated to designing and creating artwork that is uniquely yours. My name may be on the door, but don't let that fool you. I am only half of the lead creative force behind ARP.

Studied Graphic design at Art Institute of Atlanta

Nick's sister was one of our 2008 seniors, and Nick joined her during her session. We talked about design and the agency world, and when he left I thought - we need to hire this guy. He is an extremely talented designer who can follow my lead or autonomously run with an idea and wow us every time. He designs our custom press products, as well as all books/albums. 

He's the "Mr. Design Machine" and our daily source of laughter.  Thank goodness, Jeff has another guy at work, although he does whine on trash day. 

Hollie and I first met when I photographed her beautiful daughter MadelIne at four months. We instantly had a great rapport with one another because of our appreciation of good design. She "got" what I was and still am trying to do, and she agreed with it. Hollie is a highly recognized Interior Designer who left her full-time job to spend more time with her children and to work with us! How awesome is that! Not only is that great for me, but it's great for you too. Hollie handles our Ordering Appointments and who better to do that than someone who can help plan the design of your images around the style of your home.

Memphis Graduate : Major--communications, minor-- film&video production

Also affectionately known as Ms. Deb Deb. (I think Fable gave her that name -- She actually used to call her Ms. Betty -- We're not sure why.) Ms. Deb Deb answers the phone, helps schedule all of your appointments, and takes care of many, many other very important things that help keep ARP running smoothly : like our daily chocolate fix:). Ms. Deb Deb has a way of soothing a fussy baby or an emotional mommy with her patience and sweet nature. We are so blessed she is with us here at ARP. I promise you -- She's my biggest cheerleader besides my mom... My babies absolutely adore her, and yours will too!