Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

*I have had training on how to use my camera and am confident on my skills there, but all this Photoshop and computer stuff I have had to teach myself and learn as I go. In truth, I know just enough to get myself in trouble :) My old methods of posting on blogger worked nicely, but apparently that has changed and I am not as pleased with my current results (talking about this post). The photos have lost their "punch" somewhere in the translation of me getting them from PS to the web. If anyone has any tips, or know what I can do to make it better, PLEASE let me know! Thank you!

Summertime, When the Livin's Easy.

It is easy in the Pacific Northwest to long for the summer just moments after it has left. It is far too short! With little warmth and sun, my ipod took me back to summer for a short moment. You know how music can transport you back to any place and time? Well, these two songs take me right back to spending our summer vacation at our family cabin in Montana. My husband, Sherman, downloaded the first song as a surprise for me onto my ipod, in my workout mix. The second song is my response. You can get a real feel for our different tastes in music. ENJOY!

PS. Despite our fights over the radio dial, I love you babe!

FOR HER:



FOR HIM:

Thank You Wyman Family!

When the Wymans called to schedule their shoot, Heather was worried about the dog misbehaving. I was all prepared for the dog but no one prepared me for her husband! Just kidding Joe! I brought my husband along to help everyone smile, but this family turned the tables and had us laughing!
Thanks again Wymans for a fun morning. Our prayers were answered and the weather held out long enough for us to get some great shots. I know I am posting a lot, but I had a lot that I loved. Hope you enjoy them too!
PS. Aren't these kids the cutest?!


Labradoodle Dandy! Yeah, I said it.

What More Could You Ask For?

I have had it really good, many times. But, I have to say, this was my easiest shoot to date! The littlest dude was the cutest! His family had practiced with him before hand and when I would count to three, he would look straight at me and say "CHEESE!" It was so dang cute and made the whole family laugh, giving them genuine smiles as well. Not only was I in great company, but somehow we managed the most perfect weather as well. Thank you "L" family for a great morning!

For Michelle

While doing this photo shoot, I was reminded what I am in for with having a boy. As we were helping the kids to their places on the rock, Michelle and I took a big step sideways when the kids started yelling and asking us, "what is that?!" We looked by our feet (just inches away from stepping in it) a DEAD POSSUM! We both screamed and grabbed each other, like you would expect most women to do. "N" was so excited and asked, "Mom, can I poke it with a stick?"
HA! I couldn't stop laughing! What is it with boys, dead things and the need for a stick? I know my turn is shortly coming and I can only hope my little guy turns out as sweet as "N." I love photographing these two, they cooperate so well and you can't beat the beautiful smile and model like poses from little "L." Thanks guys for another great day!

All I Need to Know I Learned From Models.

A few months ago, I had the opportunity to take a lighting workshop from Mark Wallace. He really is an amazing photographer, but some of my most valuable lessons I learned from the models. So if you are thinking about high school senior photos, you might want to take notes.
*Even though these are not watermarked, I do still claim them as my own.

Lesson #1: Dramatic/Harsh lighting can be flattering.



Lesson #2: If all else fails, rat your hair and try a pose from America's Next Top Model.



Lesson #3: Photographers can be models too (thanks Wade).



Lesson #4: YES! You CAN finally pull out those turquoise spandex you have been saving for a special occasion.

Batterries Not Included

My daughter started Kindergarten! Before school started, her teacher asked all the parents to create a "users manual" for our child. Here is the diagram page out of Sarah's manual.

K.I.R

I recently returned from a fabulous day listening to some amazing photographers at Seattle’s WPPI Road trip. I have so many new tools and ideas in my tool belt just waiting for me to put them to work. But, in the words of my “Photog. Idol”, Jasmine Star, I have to, “Keep It Real.” I know she was directing her tag line to all those who are about to make their mark in the industry, reminding them to keep their feet on the ground. But for me, it took on a much different meaning.

After a long drive home in Seattle’s rush hour traffic, I had time to play with my big ideas and dreams of where I would love to take my talent and little business. Ideas were flowing and I was getting more and more excited by the minute. I realized with more work, time and learning, I had all the capabilities needed to make my business as large as I’d like. At this same moment, I had to ask myself, “at what cost?”

Keeping it real for me may mean putting my big dreams aside for a season and doing the job I previously committed to do, be present for my children. Is this a copout for not putting the work in needed to follow my dreams? I don’t think so. Is this a self-righteous judgment call on other working moms? Absolutely not! When I create something I want to give it my all and see that it is done right, and it consumes my mind. I just know that I have to control my obsessive self and remember that my time will come. I will get the opportunity to perfect my craft, but that is not today. Today I need to carefully balance my day between three growing children and a loving husband. So do I abandon my craft all together? HELL NO! In this delicate balance I also need time for ME to grow, even if that means minutes a day. In those stolen minutes, I will happily plug away at any shoot that comes my way and I will celebrate every inch of growth as a huge milestone. Is it a sacrifice? I don’t know, maybe I will find out thirty years from now.

Seattle Wedding

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to second shoot a wedding with Wade. I was grateful for the opportunity to have a fun full day of shooting without the pressure. Here are a few samplings from the day.
PS. The "Throttle Rockets" flask was a gift from her roller derby friends, LOVE it!

3 Months Old!

I took these photos of my babe at our cabin in MT. This was my "Papa G's" chair. I took this the last night we were there, I couldn't stand the thought of leaving and not capturing anything.

Summer Time

Look Who's 1

My friend's little girl turned one and we decided to make her a cake and have some fun! I have seen other photos like this done and it looked like too much fun to not give it a shot. With eyes like hers, I could photograph her all day.

Carpe Diem

I tried to seize the moment when I saw the sun shining through my bedroom window, both girls dressed, hair done and baby was fed. I have been wanting a photo of my kiddos on my bed for a long time. My husband made this bed for me as a wedding gift with only a draw knife and his pocket knife, beautiful eh? Well, my moment was short lived, and I was asking too much to have all 3 happy for the photo! When the stars all realign, I will attempt this photo again.
But, I am happy to say I am back from my husband's mandated "maternity leave," and starting photo sessions again! I am already booked for the rest of July, but am completely open for August and September. NOW, is the time to start thinking about those Christmas card photos to beat the rush and seize the day with the good weather!

Thank You Green Family!

This may be the absolute most patient family in the world! Not only were they rained on for half of their shoot (and kept smiling), but I went into labor 4 days after the shoot, when I thought I still had three weeks to go! Long story short, they are seeing their sneak peek after 3 weeks rather than 3 days!
Thank you Green family! Your patience and understanding are greatly appreciated. You have been awesome to work with and as everyone can see, wicked cute too ;)

BFF's: What else do you title a shoot of 15 yr old girls? :)

While on our Christmas vacation, my niece asked if I would do photos with her and her friends. I was happy to do it. They were a blast to work with and as you can see very photogenic. All I can say is, I hope all their fathers own shotguns and keep them by the front door! Thanks girls for a fun day!