Second Class

Last night was my second scheduled "Beginner's Photography Class". Although the turn out was smaller than anticipated, I still walked away feeling like it was successful. This group of students had a little bit of experience under thier belts, and I was almost afraid I would be boring them. All in all we had a good time.
I am gearing up for the third class on August 24th. I am beginning to think that this will be the class I had imagined in my mind. Now that I've had the chance to go over my outline twice, I can refine my discussion and be even more prepared. If you get the chance - this is a great deal... $10 for a jam-packed session!

More Little Isis

It's hard for me to believe that Dawson was ever this small. Not only was today a great experience for me to continue evolving as a photographer, I also got my "cuddle a teeny baby" fix. She was just soo scrumptious! Call anytime if you need a sitter erin, I mean it! :)

Princess Isis

I still get goosebumps just writing this... I had the most amazing opportunity recently. My friend and coworker Erin just had a beautiful baby girl, Isis. The planets aligned, and it just so happened that I was able to meet her at the hospital after work to get a few shots of the new little angel. After having my son, I get so excited for new mothers. There is something absolutely amazing about witnessing first hand the entrance of a new life into this world. I feel so blessed that I was able to be there to capture a moment in time that will mean so much to Erin and Jay.

Camera Class

Word spreads fast. Several of my coworkers have discovered that I am now "doing photography on the side". It seems strange to say. It's such a mixture of passion, learning, and struggle for additional income. I had soo many people approach me about learning how to use their camera, I decided to go ahead and put a class together. I love photography, I love teaching, I love sharing with other people the things I've learned that are interesting to me... this class was just my style. I put together an outline, bought a door-prize (tripod), and even made little place-setting keepsakes (mini bottle of lens cleaner and soft cloth). Although only 4 of the 10 expected guests arrived, I think it went very well. I am planning to do another on July 31st.   As long as people keep asking, I'll keep teaching!

The Twins

What an adventure! So I had been working with Miss Mollie to get our crazy schedules together... when we finally did, I decided to try my brother-in-law's "big lens" for some great bokeh. It worked, but it was not easy. Chasing two toddlers when you are zoomed in and holding a heavy lens, requires plenty of breath holding. It sure helps to have such adorable subjects :)

Thwarted by thunder

Natural light is a blessing and a curse. If you can catch the sun at just the right moment, it trumps flash every time. Although it can be modified to improve your shot, inevitably, You are still at it's complete mercy, waiting and praying to be in just the right position at just the right time.
Tonight was supposed to be a much anticipated "sweet sixteen" shoot for miss Olivia. I left home at 6:15pm with the sun blazing down at 90 degrees. When I had reached our rendezvous point, the bottom fell out. With the wind blowing and the rain pouring down, Dawson and I hunkered down in the van, hoping it would pass soon.
Needless to say, the photo shoot was post-poned. Lesson of the session? Even the best made plans...

Portfolio Building

Practice, practice, practice. I'm sure everyone would agree that the only way to improve your skill is to practice. I've been long awaiting this opportunity. I have been planning several different portfolio building sessions. Yesterday was my first one. I had the good fortune of putting together the people, place, and props needed for a no-pressure chance to experiment with what I've been learning this past year. I am so pleased with the results!