The Lewis Grandchildren

Jon's thoughts:  I first met Larry and Sue Lewis while displaying my art at a recent Home Show and we hit it off immediately. It turns out their grandson and my daughter were cast mates in several theater productions at CFHS. It was incredible photographing their family!  Despite their varied ages, the cousins are all best friends.  I instantly knew I would create an image that showed their wonderful relationships. In addition to photographing beautifully artistic images of the family we created this serene portrait of the cousins that Larry and Sue have proudly displayed in their entry.  Thank you Larry and Sue family for allowing me to share such a fun afternoon with you and your family.

From Larry:  Every time I walk by the beautiful picture you took of our seven grandchildren at Agua Caliente Park it puts a smile on my face. You took a candid shot of the kids by the lake playing with the ducks and turned it into a work of art! This was a bonus we did not expect as we were there for a family portrait that also turned out beautifully. Our entire experience with you that day was exquisite. Your calm demeanor and patience with the children allowed us to keep everyone on track that resulted in terrific pictures of everyone. We ended up with a set of family portraits that we will cherish all of our lives. Thank you and God bless you.

-Larry and Sue Lewis

The Carlson Family

Jon's thoughts: I LOVED photographing the Carlson family! They greatly enjoy being together as a family and Gisele and I got to share in this joy.  The grandchildren adore their grandparents so it made sense that we create this beautiful art piece of the kids for Jim and Chris to enjoy in addition to their portrait of the whole family. The timeless images we were able to capture continue to be a source of pride for a loving family that lives in different states.

  
From Chris: With Jon you get more than a portrait, you get a work of art. His attention to details -- including selecting the best sites for your photos as well as the best time of day to shoot them -- are just examples of how meticulous Jon is about making the finished product a memory that you will treasure forever. Our family loved working with him and cannot be happier with the results. 

-Jim and Chris Carlson and Family 

The Cameracraftsmen of America

Jon recently traveled to St. Augustine, Florida for his annual meeting with the Cameracraftsmen of America.  The CCA is a 106-year-old invitation-only organization limited to 40 active members who are among the most gifted photographic artists in North America and Europe.  They meet each year in a different picturesque location to share creative ideas and hone their respective skills.

Jon was inducted into this prestigious group in 2000 and is both honored and humbled to be included in this incredibly talented and inspirational group of photographers. 

Although Jon loves photographing the beautiful scenery and architecture of wherever his travels take him, creating interesting portrait art of the natives has always been his favorite part of the journey.  Jon loves to photograph people.  Featured below are a few of our staff's favorite faces that Jon captured from his meeting in Italy a few years ago, Alaska last year, and from Greece where he met with another photographic group last year.

Angels

Jon's thoughts: Some clients already have a vision in mind when we first meet; such was the case with the loving grandmother of the girls pictured below.   She saw them in white, she said, with bare feet.  When I met them I found they were the angels she had described.  I discovered four different personalities that together were best friends. 

The lollipop?… sweet contentment for the youngest.

From Jon's Staff: When Jon designs an heirloom art piece, he dedicates hours of creative planning and process before, during, and after the session.

He begins with questions, taking notes, exchanging ideas, and asking more questions; getting to know you in a way that allows him to capture the essence of your personality.

During a session Jon rushes nothing, his playful manner relaxes everyone and we can hear the laughter from down the hall!

Jon creates portraits that families enjoy for countless years.

Cherished for generations...

   Shouldn’t you have a Jon Wolf in Your Home?

CFHS presents: The Producers

"Where Did We Go Right?"

Not everything Jon creates is for his wonderful clients.  As a parent of a Catalina Foothills High School theater student, Jon was proud to be able to donate his services recently to the school’s performing arts department when it presented the musical “The Producers."  He created a fun video of images from opening night, compiled them on a DVD, and donated several copies to the theater department and their wonderfully talented director Mr. Terry Erbe.  In fact he took hundreds of photos that night and for a $15 donation to the CFHS Falcon Players, parents can get a copy of the entire set!  Just contact Mr. Erbe to find out more.

JWP is proud to have donated all expenses and work for this project with all proceeds going to the Falcon Players.

The St. Louis Family

Jon's thoughts:  I met Joe and Tania at a dinner party and we clicked immediately.  They are a warm and loving couple, always laughing.  They live for their boys and that devotion to family moved me to create a series of affectionate, joyful images using their stunning property as a backdrop.

The lush desert landscape provided me with multiple opportunities to seek out unexpected angles and hidden wonders.  Being photographed at home was meaningful not only to Joe and Tania but also for their boys, as one day they’ll be able to share their childhood memories with their own children through these portraits.

From Joe:  Jon has a really amazing ability to capture emotions – the way the people being photographed feel about each other, the bond between family members.  I find myself coming back to the photographs of my wife and sons again and again, and finding something new there almost every time.  It is an amazing thing to see your family turned into a work of art.

The Matthews Family

Jon's thoughts: I could tell when I first met Clint and Alison they have a loving relationship with their sons.  Clay and Jake are both star baseball players and their parents make sure they attend every game to cheer them on.  In an homage to an important part of their lives, I created a canvas art piece showing the intensity of the brothers against the batting cage that their Dad built for them. I was so creatively excited when I saw the Matthews’ beautiful home with so many areas in which to photograph.  As the owner of Bonita Steel Builders Inc., Clint knows steel.  He designed and built an architecturally gorgeous rusted steel ramada showcasing the entry to their home.  The front and back have impressive planters made from matching steel.  Certainly we had to use these elements in some of their portraits.  I had such a blast photographing this wonderfully close family in their exquisite home. 

From Clint and Alison: From the very beginning Jon told us he doesn't take pictures, he photographs our feelings.  And when we first saw the results of his work during the viewing of the proofs with a slideshow, it was an emotional experience.  He did it - he captured our souls!  He turned a two-dimensional medium into a three dimensional magical record of our journey to get the family portrait.  Jon is the consummate professional.  From the first minutes of the interview, to the help he provides in the selection of clothing and set location, to the easiness in which he shoots our images, and during the selection of the final pieces, he made sure we got what we wanted.  Thanks Jon for making us "feel good."
 
P.S. We were extremely impressed with the "magic" you pulled from that tired old batting cage.

The Matthews - Clint, Alison, Clay, and Jake

Desiree Herndon

About Gisele:  Many people think that because Jon is the name on the sign he is the star of the studio, but Gisele has been photographing for over 25 years.  She is the first woman in the state of Arizona to be recognized by the Professional Photographers of America as a Master Photographic Craftsman.  Gisele was Arizona’s Best of Show photographer and has won numerous National and State awards.  She has influenced photographers across North America during her teaching of professional seminars from coast to coast.  She is also Jon’s beloved wife of 22 years.

Gisele's thoughts:  Desiree and I have been the closest of friends for nearly 15 years.  Our children have grown up together and I love her and her family as my own.  For some time I have had a vision of an art piece I wanted to create for Desiree of her and her children that would convey each of their dynamic personalities.  Desiree is such an incredible mother nurturing a unique and beautiful relationship with each of her three children.  Our kids are all growing up now, our eldest daughters just graduated from high school and are now off at college.  I was so thrilled to have been able to capture these precious moments for my dear friend.

From Desiree:  During the photo shoot, I wept tears of joy and overwhelming love as I held each of my children so closely.  Gisele intuitively recognized the unique, loving and special relationship I have with each child.  Every portrait beautifully exposes our unique bond.  These exquisite black and white portraits intimately convey the warmth, love, and gratitude I feel for my family.  Thank you Gisele!

Dick and Ginny Morrison

Jon's thoughts: Having owned wonderful dogs my entire life I am overjoyed whenever I have the chance to show the loving relationships between people and their furry children. I was tickled to see the incredible affinity that Dick and Ginny have with their beautiful dogs. These exceptionally regal Golden Retrievers are full of strength and intelligence. The affection between the four of them was heartwarming. “Buddy” and “Sweetie” are truly their family. I love the way the end-of-day light dances across their luxurious fur in this portrait. We created unique art pieces for both their Tucson home and their home in Rhode Island. I feel fortunate for the opportunity to create for such a warm and loving couple.

From Dick and Ginny: Jon Wolf is a true professional. His mastery of late afternoon sunlight is reminiscent of Dutch School painters like Rembrandt. He worked exceptionally well with our two Golden Retrievers who were constantly distracted by local wild fowl at the scene. Jon was able to evoke just the right amount of casual affection that we wanted our portraits to show. Our experience was as pleasant as it was gratifying. It was a “once in a lifetime" occasion, the results of which will be shared with our children and our grandchildren.
With much gratitude and appreciation.  - Dick and Ginny Morrison

Deborah and Jaelin

Jon's thoughts: I was thrilled to have the opportunity to create for Deborah and her stunning baby girl Jaelin-Hiilani.  When I met Deborah I was immediately struck by her daughter’s gorgeous blue eyes.  Jaelin has an equally beautiful personality; bubbly, intelligent and very loving.  Deborah is an inspiring single mother with strong emotional ties to Hawaii.  She shared with me that Ohana (inked on her shoulder) is a special Hawaiian word for family, emphasizing the compassionate bond between relatives.  Her personality embodies the aloha-spirit of love and harmony.  Jaelin’s Hawaiian name Hiilani means “held in the arms of heaven.”  It is apparent that her daughter is her world, and that she is the world in her daughter’s eyes.  The incredible connection between mother and daughter is evident in the art that I created for them.

From Deborah: I am so grateful that Jon Wolf immortalized such a special moment in time for my daughter and me.  Children stay young for such a short time and I wanted very special, very unique portraits to reflect my love for my daughter.  I feel Jon Wolf's artistic interpretation and representation of our special bond was something I could not get just anywhere.  These beautfiul portraits are now part of my legacy to my family for generations to come.

Anthony and Sadie Felix

Jon's thoughts: Anthony and Sadie are serving our country in the Air National Guard. They as well as their six other children take loving care of Johnny, the baby in the family. I am impressed by the determination Anthony has to keep himself in such phenomenal physical shape and ensure that he will be around for his children for many years. (He is probably in better shape now than when he wrestled in high school.) This art piece captures both the love and protection a father feels for his children. I am thrilled to know that many years from now Johnny will be sharing this powerful portrait with his children.

From Anthony:  I would just like to say Jon Wolf's manner during our portrait experience was fantastic. He really took our family step-by-step through the whole wonderful process and made everything fun and exciting. Thank you Jon! - The Felix Family

The Ho Twins

Jon's thoughts:  I just created portrait art of Emily and Natalie for the second time. Four years ago we created gorgeous traditional heirloom images in the studio and recently I had the great joy of photographing these beautifully close twin sisters around their home. Their father Don owns a successful business and takes lots of time to be a loving father whom the girls adore. Norma is a dedicated mother to all three of her angels (including their adorable dog Cacho). When I am with Norma and her girls I can sense the deep-rooted connection that will last their lifetimes. Having two close daughters myself, I am always touched by the bond between sisters. While the girls each have their own unique and stunning personality it is obvious that as twins they share a closeness and intimacy beyond what most siblings experience. It was so rewarding to be able to capture the love between the two sisters as well as for their devoted parents

Nancy & Burt Kinerk and Family

Jon's thoughts: Around the holidays I had the wonderful experience of photographing Nancy and Burt Kinerk, their three children and spouses, and eleven grandchildren. If you have been in Tucson for more than a few years you know of Nancy and Burt. They are admirable Tucsonans, greatly involved in numerous local charities and organizations; Tu Nidito, Casa de los Ninos, and Community Foodbank to name just a few. As a family they laughed continuously enjoying their moments together. Their love and respect for each other was unmistakable. It was especially meaningful to capture their portrait in front of the home that has been in Burt’s family for years. Experiencing the closeness this family shares was such a treat for me.

From Nancy: I hardly know where to start exclaiming about our experience with Jon and our family portrait. We have a large family that we’re extremely proud of, and Jon undertook the challenge of capturing that in a picture. To call the finished product a picture doesn’t even begin to do the process justice. Jon’s attention to detail, his artistic eye, his patience…all of this and much more, produced a work of art that we proudly have hanging in a place of honor in our home. Our children also have portraits of their individual families for future memories. Thank you, Jon, for the treasures you have given us!

The Dyson Family

Jon's thoughts: Wow!  I delivered six exquisite art pieces (and lots of 8x10s) to the Dysons just last night.  Both doctors, both deeply spiritual, Duane and Senait are dedicated parents highly involved in their children's lives.  I loved the obvious closeness of brother and sister.  Please watch the beautiful video of their images.  I am proud to share their family with you.


From Drs. Duane and Senait Dyson: Our family is captured beautifully in Jon Wolf's work.  Every detail of confidence, humility, innocence and life is displayed in each of the dozens of pictures we have inherited from Jon.  Each portrait is a treasured reflection because of Jon.

The Smyth Family

From Sam: We love our pictures! Each one looks like a special painting and everyone has been impressed with the huge portrait, we all look so natural in the setting. That had to do with Jon's ability to put us at ease. Jon did a great job at the photo session getting us to relax and enjoy the whole experience together. He did beautiful work with the lighting as well as capturing different facial expressions on each of the children, expressions that we never could capture on our own. These are portraits to be treasured by us for our lifetime. Thank you! -Sam and Stephen Smyth

 

Holiday Gift Certificates

 A Jon Wolf Gift Certificate used for a family portrait is a holiday gift to be enjoyed for generations to come!  
Call (520) 296-7100
to find out more!

The Staples Family

Jn's thoughts: What an incredible experience it was for me to get to know Bill and Lissa Staples and their sons.  Everyone is so active and yet it was so emotionally exciting for me to feel the bond the boys have with each other as well as the love they show their parents.  Michael was on vacation after just graduating from West Point.  He is now serving our country as an officer in the Army flying huge attack helicopters.  Douglas is doing well at the University of Arizona getting ready for a career in protecting our ecology.  Conor is a Foothills High School impressing everyone with his theatrical skills singing and acting.  Those who know Lissa may have been fortunate to hear her talents as a professional singer.  I love the way their images capture the joy, warmth, and love they share with each other.  As a bonus we discovered we are neighbors and have gotten together socially.

  

Frm Bill and Lissa:   Jon was the consummate professional in staging us and preparing us for our portraits. His great sense of humor allowed us to be at ease and have fun with our session. We deeply appreciate the considerable time he spent with us selecting the best images and finishes. His expertise in creating a wonderful family feeling is evident in his work. Jon’s portraits are pure art. Our family will enjoy them for generations to come. -The Staples Family

How to Look Good in your Portrait

Bold prints and colors look terrific in person...but a picture lasts longer than a fashion trend.  Choose tones and colors that flatter your skin and choose classic styles.  Jon's family loves his opinion on their clothing and you will enjoy Jon's input as well.


Jon is great with colors and clothing, he'll be happy to help!


And thank you for choosing Jon Wolf Photography!

The DiChristofano Family

Who said you can't wear black for a black and white portrait? Jon Wolf is a master at capturing tone from the darkest dark to the lightest light.

"Art in Black & White"

Jon's thoughts: I am impressed that both Mike and Laura DiChristofano work hard at their business and for our community and yet I discovered they devote a lot of time for family as well. Laura is continually active in volunteering for many Tucson charities (including Tu Nidito for which I have supported and photographed for years).  Mike and his family are successful at maintaining the exceptional reputation for which Volvo of Tucson has been known for over 35 years. (My sister LOVES her beautiful new convertible and talks non-stop of her positive experience!) It was instantly obvious how close their sons, Nick and Tony, are with their parents. They touch and hold each other in a way that genuinely shows their love for each other. It was endearing to watch such loving parents.  Mike's main priority was a B&W portrait of Laura and their sons, which you see above.   If you are in the neighborhood drop by Volvo of Tucson and ask to see this incredible 40 inch art piece in Mike's beautiful office. He will be proud to share this with you.


From Mike:  "The gorgeous portrait that Jon created of my wife and sons, on display in my office, helps the long work hours go by quickly. Thank you for your thoughtful attention to detail and artist's eye for capturing their personalities on canvas." -Mike DiChristofano

How to Look Good in a Portrait

Most women, and some men, think they never look good in a photograph. Well, you can trust Jon to make you look your best, but these tips that we occasionally throw your way will help you look good every time.


Do you think you look heavy in pictures? Lose POUNDS with a simple turn: angle yourself three-quarters to the camera. Choose an area where the light accents the subject from a 45% angle instead of from behind the camera. Also, darker colors, long sleeves, simple or no patterns will help to slim.


All of Jon's sessions include planning time with loads of personal tips to ensure you will love your portrait!

Bill Frey

This portrait of William Frey inspires us every day. We actually have a miniature of this art piece in our work space... just to make us smile. Jon not only captured the twinkle in his eyes, but the essence of a man who lived life to the fullest. Jon read the story in his face and transferred it to this work of art. Jon has created personal art for The Frey family for over 20 years.
- The Jon Wolf Staff

 "Our International Clients" 

Jon's thoughts: I have enjoyed calling Michael and Monica Frey friends for over 30 years. Michael had top dental practice in Tucson but the family chose a more leisurely lifestyle in Queensland, Australia several years ago. The last time they were in Tucson we created an updated portrait of Mike's entire family. We photographed near Sabino Canyon with a backdrop of beautiful mature saguaros and a purplish-gold sunlit mountain. We had such a great time creating several beautiful compositions.  As we were getting ready to leave, I noticed Mike's father Bill resting on his walking stick, the soft end-of-day light beautifully accenting his eyes. When he looked at me I could feel the confidence and strength that Bill maintained through his life. He and his wife Mary Lou are a proud example of over 50 years of love, friendship and commitment to their family.  I just love the glow from his wedding band signifying that Mary Lou is always with him. Sadly, Bill passed recently. His memorial service was packed with friends and family sharing wonderful stories and saying goodbye. The portrait you see above was displayed at the front of the service.


From Dr. Michael and Monica Frey:  “Jon captured a moment in time with our family’s first portrait that grew more valuable to us as the years passed. So many changes had occurred in the ten years since our first Jon Wolf portrait that it just seemed like a good idea to stop the clock again. Jon exceeded our expectations for a second time and I know we will cherish his work for many years to come.”

How to Look Good in a Portrait

Of course, you know what colors and clothing look best on you, but Jon gives great advice offering personal suggestions for making you look incredible.


RELAX! Have fun. The hardest part is just showing up. Once you do you will be impressed with Jon's ability to relax you and your family (He LOVES kids!). Jon points out that he does not photograph just your face, he captures your feelings as they are reflected on your face. The more relaxed you are the more likely you'll look natural and show your best smile.


Everyone loves their time with Jon!

The Fohr Family

So beautiful it looks like a painting! The people, the pooch, and the peaks are all perfect.  Jon has a way of bringing out the best in everyone...and yes, even Mother Nature!  My favorite part of this shot?  The little dog's attentive expression!  I'll bet Jon was barking at the dog (he's been known to) in order to make him alert like that!

"Why we love Tucson"

Jon's thoughts: Bruce and Janet Fohr have enjoyed Tucson as their home for 30 years. Their son Rob met beautiful Christine at Seminary school in Kentucky and a few months prior to their wedding they asked me to create this family art piece. It turns out we have a friend in common and they asked these wonderful people if we could use their "back yard" for portraits. As you can see they have an amazing view living right next door to Sabino Canyon. Their daughter Emily insisted on adding "Peluche" to the portrait and since I love dogs, I was delighted!  The whole family has a great sense of humor and we laughed nonstop.  One thing I have always enjoyed in creating portraits outdoors is finding a direction of light that accents the background while flattering my clients. We waited until the glow on the mountain was just so.


From Bruce and Janet: "What more can we say than 'thank you' for the outstanding job you and your Jon Wolf Photography studio did in producing our family “heirloom” portraits? From our first consultation with you, to the incredible location, to the enjoyable photo session — you were amazing, including your special, unique way of photographing dogs — to our final meeting in which you helped us select just the right frames, you truly brought out the 'best' in our family—including our son, Rob, his wife, Christine, our daughter, Emily, and her little dog, Peluche. We really think that you produced a masterpiece and some beautiful individual portraits of our entire family. You are the consummate photographic art professional." -Bruce & Janet Fohr and Family

Welcome to Jon Wolf Photography!

Welcome to the Jon Wolf Photography blog. We'd love your feedback, so feel free to leave comments and questions; we'll do our best to answer you promptly -or- you can always reach us the old-fashioned way, at (520) 296-7100.