Lisa Wareham Photography

What places are near and dear to YOU in Butte?

What church were you, your parents or grandparents married in that has meaning to YOU?

What bar did you frequent in college?

What historic figure of Butte fascinates you?

What restaurant do you celebrate at every year?

What are some iconic buildings, bars, restaurants, churches, and historic figures of Butte that you think would be great for my time travel series? I'll be working on new art in the next week or two!

The M&M is a priority on my list, and is something I've tried but didn't love so need to re-work/re-photograph.

Drop them in the comments below, please!

Historic images from the Butte-Silver Bow Public Archives used with permission.

[Will you Time Travel with me every month?]

Have you ever stood in the streets of Butte, wondering what it must have been like back in its heyday?

With that feeling of standing where there are all of these layers of stories, layers of people's lives and the events that happened?

Their best moments. Their worst moments. Those iconic moments, like the copper Elk on Broadway street.

Those iconic people, like Gerty the Baby Seller and her “adopted triplets.” (HINT, they were NOT triplets)

The July street scene of women in massive coats.

The catastrophic wind-storm that blew down the IC church steeple being built.

I wonder a lot. I imagine a lot.

And, in case you weren’t aware, I’ve been creating “Time Travel” art over the past few years combining historic images from the Butte Archives with Today.

And now?
I’m inviting you to travel along with me every single month of 2025 with my brand new Time Travel in Butte Calendar.

This 11x17 calendar (8.5x11 folded) is just $19 when you pre-order today (full retail will be $29 when the order arrives!)

I’m offering this massive discount for pre-orders so I can gauge how many to buy, and don’t get stuck with a LITERAL truckload of calendars once 2025 has passed us by!

Each month features a Time Travel image along with the historic image and “today” image with a brief history of the scene and photograph.

And do yourself a favor - get one or 100 holiday gifts taken care of early on!
These calendars make GREAT gifts for:
- Anybody from Butte
- Anybody who LOVES Butte
- College kids that are away from Butte
- Your family
- Your friends
- Your employee’s
- Your co-workers
- Your boss
- Anybody who loves art
- Anybody that loves history
- And of course, don’t forget yourSELF! (I saved the best for last, didn’t I)

Get-em while they’re pre-order at this link:
https://lisawareham.com/product/2025-calendar/

Historic Images are all from the Butte-Silver Bow Public Archives

Its a chilly morning at the farmers market, but the sky is clear and it's supposed to get up to 80 today!

Would love to see you stop by, there's only one farmers market left!

- Fitness -
"Oh my gosh...you're ripped!" I said to Melissa Kindt after witnessing her back and arms when the light grazed across her muscles.

Congrats to you, my friend, for getting 2nd place in your FIRST EVER bodybuilding competition recently!

Melissa is the owner of Kinetic Fitness - an AWESOME gym I'm glad to have gotten to know her through (after knowing her a bit back in the day during high school!)

These photos are taken in the Anselmo Hoist House - Joe is spraying "ambiance spray" to give it that bit of fuzz in the background, and I'm using some Godox Global light tubes to add the colored light left and right.

[Turns out, I never fell out of love with photography ]
I just forgot why I loved it. I neglected its creativity, its playfulness, its ability to inspire.

And as in ALL types of love? “Spicing things up” is key ;)

Some of you may have noticed I stepped out of the photography world some years ago, but I always kept a toe in the door.

And now I’ve officially waved goodbye to my hiatus and stepped back in full-force with even more creativity, passion and inspiration! 🌟

But, oh, let me tell you, the road back here was quite the journey, sprinkled with a bit of a creative crisis that might remind you of a story about Mozart.

Now, I’m no Mozart. But did you know that Mozart, amidst his legendary career, faced his own share of creative doubts and blocks, as detailed in the book Mastery? When he wasn’t able to create for himself and in his own style, he withered away. Much like him, I found myself in a creative rut, where photography ceased to be my muse and instead felt like a looming job. I didn't understand it at the time, but I had locked myself in a prison of "same-old, same-old." Same locations...same lighting...tried-and-true poses... And while my work was consistently good? It lacked NEW. It lacked creating something just for the “just because of it.”

And my creative flame disappeared. At the time, I thought I had just "fallen out of love" with photography. My camera gathered dust, and I photographed only a handful of sessions every year.

But then last Fall the allure of my camera slowly started pulling me back in, and I embarked on my own "Mozart" moment to break this "creative crisis". I started to play, experiment, and break the rules. The blend of modern portraits with the time travel element of historical imagery, the dance of funky shadows created by multiple gels on my lights, and cinematic shots created with colored light sticks and haze spray – my instruments to paint ambiance and mood.

This experimentation re-ignited my creative flame.

I didn’t fall OUT of love with photography, I had just stopped experimenting and being creative. I had stopped “spicing things up.”

I’ve never felt more inspired photographing high school senior, family and tween portraits. 🔥

If you’re interested in booking a portrait session for you, your child or children - send me a DM and let’s chat about creating some one-of-a-kind photographs.

[P.S. Oh, did I mention I’m BACK in my old studio space in the Casey Block on Granite Street? This building must have some kind of siren song on me or something, but I just LOVE it, adore the owners of the building, and the location just can’t get any better.

Also thanks Ana for taking the behind the scenes photo for me!]

- Josie -

As I was setting up my lighting, Josie says, "I want something kind of cinematic." My jaw about dropped, and I got super excited. Creative lighting, telling a story, and a moody atmosphere is what I LIVE for! 

Josie came with amazing ideas, and a willing to try whatever, including throwing cards at me!

Somehow the Queen of Hearts is captures mid-air on her last portion of being a poker player playing 52-card-pickup!

And her mom Ana was a big part of it, spraying the atmosphere spray behind (what looks like dust/fog in the background).

The location was meaningful as well- the 100-year-old original cabin at Georgetown Lake showing at left (those logs!) that was built on to, and even the painting in the background is of the cabin (a bit blurry to see).

If you're looking for something a bit different, with a twist, cinematic, etc, for senior or family portraits,  DM me and we can chat. 

Come see me at the Farmers Market tomorrow (Saturday)! I'll be showcasing my Time Travel Photography featuring mostly Butte, but a little bit of the Black Hills, Bozeman, etc.

I've got small matted prints, postcards, framed wall art, and the kids MIGHT be selling baked goods depending on how after school time goes.

The market is on Park Street from 8 am - 1 pm.

The photos are today mixed with historic photos, most of which are from the Butte-Silver Bow Public Archives

Zoom in a bit - you'll see the headframe's right side doesn't match up perfectly with the ghost image.

The sidewalk is close - but not exact.

But the American Flag? Is right where it should be - centered and on top of the head frame's "spike" as I like to call it...it looks sort of like the antenna of the whole thing.

This was one of those situations where there weren't really any landmarks to do this "then and now," except for the head frame, sidewalk, and where the statue of Marcus Daly used to be (in front of the federal courthouse, which is where I'm standing for the photo).

Any ways...
There once was a Machine Shop, Shoe Repair, and Drug Store here - and now there is nothing but the view of the Original Mine and some weeds / tall grass / a parking lot.

The statue was moved...

But?

The head frame is still there, even when years ago the frames were being torn down.

Not ALL of our history is still here - but MUCH of it is still, even after efforts of "modernization" and the like.

I wonder what Main Street will look like in another 100 years, in 2124?

--Copyright Lisa Wareham Photography 2024, historic photo from the Library of Congress, 1939.

I'm hearing its this lovely young ladies birthday today! Happy 13th Birthday Kenzlee! Some of my favorite quotes from her Tween session earlier this year (though there are SO MANY OTHER GREAT ONES!!!)

"Stay authentic to yourself! You are an amazing human and you have so much to offer this world. Times get hard, but you are stronger than anything that comes your way - smile, grit your teeth, and work through the hard times, because the good times that follow will be worth it!" - Mom Amanda Swenson

"Kenzlee is very smart and absolutely stunning. I am glad she's one of my best friends." - Averie

"Never Quit." - Dad

"Kenz- you're an incredible young lady! Always remember who you are and whose you are" - Rachel

"I love how witty Kenzlee is, her willingness, drive and excitement about learning new things. How kind, loyal, and loving she is to her friends and family." - Ryan

"We all see your strength, spitfire, and beauty yet there's so much undiscovered." - Andrea

I need your feedback!- Who are the ICONS and the INFAMOUS of Butte?-

And who would be interested in collaborating on this project? (hair, makeup, locations, props, etc.)

For a few years now I've been toying with the idea of creating a new photography project JUST for the fun of it, and recreating scenes of Butte.

These might be ACTUAL scenes that happened (mine strike, etc), OR just historical figures where the scene is more imaginative (Gertie the Baby Seller, Frank Little, Copper Kings, etc)

The style?
More of a cinematic approach, creating a scene and telling the story with period clothing, locations, ambiance and dramatic (yet realistic) lighting.

Anyways - let me know what historical figures and locations YOU would like to see in this project - and if you or someone would be interested in collaborating?

-- Images are past image, and not part of this project! The Gertiephoto "Time Travel" image is using a photo from the Butte-Silver Bow Public Archives with permission.

- Beauty & Soul in Off-Script Moments-
Amidst our quest to look just right for the camera, smile just right, pose just right… It is often the spontaneous moments that unveil the most profound beauty.

The “flaws” of a fallen chunk of hair turn into the opposite - flawlessness…

This whimsical, soft black and white portrait of Kenzlee tells a deeper story - one about finding beauty in the unplanned.

A single eye peeking through her tousled curls offers a gateway to her spirit, teaching us to cherish the beauty in life’s little quirks.

This serendipitous mishap, her favorite portrait from the session (and also mine!), beautifully encapsulates her soul.

What off-script memories or photos of your high school senior or tween have captured your heart? Share your stories in the comments.

🎥 Ready to Add a Personal Touch to Your Family Portraits?

1️⃣ **Embrace Your Everyday** - If glasses are a staple accessory for you or your family members, wear them proud in your photos. They're not just an aid; they're a part of your identity. Let's capture the real you, in every look and glance! If you're worried about pesky glasses glare? Don't worry - I've got you covered.

2️⃣ **Harmonize, Don't Homogenize** - Forget the era of carbon-copy family outfits. Opt for an ensemble of outfits that coordinate in color or theme, allowing each family member's individuality to complement one another beautifully. I love what Stacey Lee Bauer and The Bauer Family did here, mixing black, brown, and a black/brown plaid.

3️⃣ **Journey Through Time** - Add a delightful twist with a "Time Travel" portion of your session. Choose a location that has meaning to you be that Uptown Butte, a specific building, or a specific mine. Historic photo used with permission from the Butte-Silver Bow Public Archives

💬 Now, it's your turn to share! Which tip resonates most with your vision for a personalized family portrait session: 1, 2, or 3? Drop your answer in the comments!

{Clinking Champagne Glasses have replaced Clanking Metal.}
Dancing the jig has replaced dancing around dynamite (if that was such a thing).
Weddings have replaced funerals…

Welp, that sure got dark fast!

There were 43 mine deaths at the Original, according to the sign, which operated from 1878-1976.
How many weddings at the Original?
I have no idea, but back in my wedding heyday I photographed at least 2 or 3.

I’m sure the modern day festive events like Montana Folk Festival, the 4H Fair, Weddings & Pumpkin Patches have far outdone the number of deaths by now.

And as depressing at it may sound to think of the tragedies?
It also reminds us of the past history, and how this city was built. On hard work, comradery, and a bit of tragedy.
And, it makes us feel grateful for what we have today.

An incredible outdoor venue for jolly-good times, set against a background of not just massive mountains, but against the industrial story of Butte’s past, including the good, the bad, and the ugly (though I think the piles of slag piles aren’t ugly, but quite impressive!)

Side note:
I’ll likely be at the Farmers Market this Saturday selling matted fine art prints of this series! Stop by and say hi!

[ANSWER ME THIS:] What are you grateful for in Butte's landscape today, that could be seen as negative? Comment below.

- Historic Photo from the Library of Congress, 1905 -

Ever wondered why the stars of Hollywood's Golden Age looked so sculpted and stunning? Hint: It's all in the lighting. 🌟

Old Hollywood “Butterfly” and “Loop” Lighting are some of the most flattering setups for all face and body shapes, and are a PERFECT addition to high school senior portraits.🎬

These glamorous lighting techniques, once a secret of vintage cinema legends, bathe your face in a natural, sculpting light, enhancing your unique features and adding an ethereal glow.

But here's the twist - while this method brings unmatched depth and texture to your photos, it also means blemishes may be more visible, unlike the "flatter" lighting styles that smooth out the skin. But not to fear - a bit of post-production on our end will make your skin flawless!

Why, then, do we opt for this rarity in our studio and on location? Because it tells a story, adding drama and a hint of mystery to your look, offering a range of expressions that flat lighting simply can't match. 🌟

Not every photographer ventures into this territory, as it demands precision. The light must be perfectly placed to create the “butterfly” shadow under the two women’s nose. It also must be placed differently to create the “loop” lighting of the two men, with the nose shadow to the side.

It requires precision in the play of shadows and highlights.
It requires lighting to be brought on-location (we’ve got you covered!) OR to be photographed in a studio.

And, the commitment to enhancing features rather than concealing

✨ Curious how you'd shine under the spell of Hollywood's golden age, sculpted cheekbones and all? Leave a comment or send a direct message !

Hello, beautiful souls! ✨ Here are three little-known facts about me, your time travel + family & high school senior photographer:

1. **Dreamy Wanderlust in Uptown Butte**: There's something absolutely magical about meandering through the historic streets of Uptown Butte. It's not just a walk; it's where I draw a deep well of inspiration. Imagine the stories these streets could tell if they could speak! This is the place where I connect with my creativity, envisioning the perfect backdrop for portrait sessions, and new ideas for time travel photographs.

2. **Morning Rituals with a Twist**: My day kicks off with not just any coffee but an iced americano sprinkled with a dash of cinnamon. It's my little secret to starting the day with zest, and it's as integral to my morning as capturing the golden hour is to photography.

3. **The Digital Wizard Behind the Scenes**: While my camera is my companion, Google Docs is my silent, steadfast ally. This powerhouse is where my ideas come to frolic; it's where brainstorming, writing, and meticulous planning come alive. Yes, even in photography, the pen (or the keyboard) holds immense power, especially when it’s about crafting the perfect session for you.

Now enough about me, I'd love to hear about you! 🌟 What's the one app you find indispensable in your day-to-day? Share your digital secret weapon below, and let's inspire each other!

- Mt Con Cleanup! -
This park is such a lush, green, beautiful area now.

While I LOVE all of the historical structures, and the textures of the wood from the historical photo, I am also so grateful that we now have this beautiful landscape with walking trail (if you look closely you can see a woman walking their golden retriever).

Now...do I wish they kept more of the structures? Absolutely. The wood fence, maybe using the wood in some sort of flowers/planter, etc., could have added a LOT.

My husband Robert had mentioned how hard he and others fought to keep some of the things, like the small structure to the right, and the red fire house at the top (not visible here).

Our history matters, and I'm very proud that Butte has created places like this park where we can be active around the old mines and the incredible, spectacular, sometimes infamous history of this city.

Photo from the Library of Congress. "Compiled after 1968" so I'm unsure of the year. Photographed by Jet Lowe, Historic American Engineering Record.

- A Stroll at Copper & Idaho Streets - 1905

Sometimes I wonder how legally Idaho Street can exist at the grade/steepness it is at!

What you're viewing is Copper Street, however at right is where you have to actually walk up a flight of metal stairs to go from the Eastbound lane of traffic to the Westbound lane.

Parking on Idaho Street just feels WRONG even with the parking brake on!

You feel like your vehicle is going to roll downhill as you are trying to get out of the driver's side and push the door shut with all of your might.

But on another note:
I have always loved this historic photo (created by William H. Rau, 1905, Library of Congress).

There was still a bit of this wooden sidewalk left on Copper Street until recently (I believe last year, could have been the year before). It sadly was torn up.

View more of this Layers of Time / Time Travel Series at: https://www.lisawareham.com

- Our Buddy Marcus Daly on Main Street -
Summer of 1939 (According to the Library of Congress)

It's been a while since I've done some of these "Time Travel" aka "Layers of Time" images, and what better time to start this up again than last night, with a perfectly blue sky with speckles of clouds, and a warm evening glow.

Info:

The Marcus Daly Statue later found his new home on Park Street on the Montana Technological University campus.

I figured since he's currently "homeless" (removed for construction for a bit), this was timely.

View more like this at:

https://www.lisawareham.com

Historic image from the Library of Congress, taken by Arthur Rothstein.

Part of the Office of War Information. Overseas Picture Division.

"Kyndri is an amazing girl. When she walks into a room she lights up everyone's face. Her only intention is to make the world a great place." - Mom

About the photo: While she's serious and her game-face on in THIS photo...she was bubbly, upbeat, dancing and laughing most of the time!

Find out more about the Who I Am project for Tweens here: https://lisawarehamphotography.com/

-- Mood Booster Alert!!! --
Reading through these heartwarming notes from kids to their moms, and moms to their kids...

Not only can I not stop smiling, but it turned my otherwise "bla" of a day into joy, happiness, and feelings of love and appreciation for my own children and mother :)

Celebrate Mothers 2024 - here are the image+word collages.

https://www.lisawareham.com
..

- Megan -
Lover of Dance and Basketball! We also played around with a bunch of glitter, more to come later!

Here's more about the Who I Am Project:
https://lisawarehamphotography.com/tweens

- Alivia K -
This one's pretty meaningful.

"The candlestick is a Montana hardware stick made in Butte, Dustin purchased it from an estate sale in Virginia City and gave it to Livi.

It's been in and out of a few pretty cool spots with her, her dad, and Dustin over the last few years."

Sadly, Dustin passed away earlier this year.

Would love to hear some stories about this Matt!

- Alivia I. -
She loves competitive cheer - and all we had to do is turn on some upbeat music and she showed s***k, sassiness, and her high energy!

Here's more about the Who I Am Project:
https://lisawarehamphotography.com/tweens