CTphotomemories

Cranel kickin' off a new year!!

2012-01-25T15:24:00.000-08:00

I'm always so grateful for the opportunity to document different events. I love the relaxed settings and just being able to capture people in their element. Cranel is a family owned/operated company that has become family to us as well. I have so enjoyed the relationships that my husband has formed and in turn, has allowed me to obtain.

These meetings kick off the new year...they begin with meetings and speakers that encourage and set the stage for the upcoming year...In the evening we are served a delicious meal while applauding those that have met quotas and have exceeded expectations!

It's a fun day into evening event! Thank you again Cranel, for allowing me to take part!

FORMER CLIENTS!!! Can ya help me out???

2012-01-23T16:16:00.000-08:00

Well, hi...welcome to 2012...

I know, I'm about 3 weeks late, but I suppose better late than never right?

I'm soooo looking forward to this year! My girls are getting older, we have some fun family things planned and I'm loving the continued opportunities that I am afforded with CTPhotoMemories...

Already this year, I've been able to purchase a new lens...which in turn allowed me to get some really insightful images during a business event...I've been able to photograph a sweet 3 month old and have had countless inquiries into "when can we book a session this spring/summer!"

I can't tell you how good it does my heart to hear that people cherish memories...that they want something special...that they are willing to save that extra bit of money and invest in something that they will keep forever...

I've been over the top excited about Snapshops and Click Its...sooooo many moms have received cameras and new software programs and are dying to figure them out...I have such a love for teaching and for showing moms how to capture their kiddos in timeless images...I've been there...I'm STILL there for heaven's sakes!

Anyhoo...Here's where I'm needing your help...even though $125 for a family session where you receive a CD of your images to use on facebook or email or blogs or whatever AND where you get a gallery set up so that you can order PROFESSIONAL prints for around the same cost as Costco or shutterfly AND where the composition of your photos are showing authentic connections, meaningful moments and memories caught for a lifetime...

I know that in this economy, it's STILL a lot of money for some...sometimes they need that extra "umph" to encourage them that it IS worth it...

Even though many moms (and dads) have invested "Mucho" moneys into a new DSLR camera for Christmas or as a "splurge" because of a new arrival to their family...they are nervous to spend that extra amount to "learn" it...and yet, the time that is wasted because you still aren't getting the shots you REALLY want...well, it's just sad:(

it's to THOSE people that I want to reach out!!!

You all know that I don't advertise...as in "pay" for advertising...because of this, I can keep my pricing lower and still cover my expenses...because so many of you keep returning and spread the news...and for that I am eternally grateful!!!

As I look ahead to 2012, I'm doing some revamping of my blog and just some other things behind the scenes...I'd love to have some quotes, reviews, and even critiques (wink, wink) that will not only help me continue to better this business, but to encourage others to try!!

So, here's what I'm suggesting:)...Between today, January 24th and January 31st you have an opportunity to enter a drawing in order to "win" a $15 Starbucks card! All you need to do is the following:

*email me at ctphotomemories@gmail.com with a review of a session you've had with me. It could be a family session, a newborn session, Senior session, Snapshop, Click It or even a wedding:) If you've had more than one of them, then write a review for each and you get entered for each review that you write. (that'd be up to 6...in case you weren't counting)

How was your experience, what were you happy with, what did you love, anything you wished was different??? ...please know that by entering, your words could be use as testimonials on my blog, etc.

In your email include the month/year that you had a session and type of session. Write: CTPhotoMemories Review in the subject line of your email just so that I can make sure I don't miss it amongst all the stuff in my inbox:)

On Feb. 1st, from all the entries, I will draw one name for the Starbucks gift card! I'll announce the winner here on the blog and on facebook. If you are chosen, all you need to do is get me your address so that I can send it off to you asap:)

***remember, please do NOT comment here or on facebook with your review...just send an email:)thanks a bunch! I'm so looking forward to "hearing" what y'all have to say!

Fun with Photoshop

2012-01-18T12:14:00.000-08:00

I practice as much as I can...I practice on scenery, on food, on my own children...and even shoes for heavens sake...

I figure that I can only improve with more practice...I try to focus on one aspect of photography and really hone in & work on it...

I know, it's difficult in between all the household chores, blogging, making dinner, reading books to little ones, ~~eating chocolate and playing on pinterest~~.... ahem

But, I try!

What I have learned is two fold...1) I'm getting better...I'm seeing things in different perspectives...I'm getting sharper images...I'm using what I've learned and taking it to the next level AND 2) I don't always get it right and that stinks! HOWEVER...I'm eternally grateful to photoshop:)

Where else can you turn a plain picture into works of art...(or just plain fun because you've just had enough playing with playdough and wanted to do something different:)

Same picture...three different ways! Yippee for photoshop!

CLICK IT OHIO

2012-01-10T19:22:00.000-08:00

Click It is the Photoshop class:) Click it, as in, you must click tools and click on multiple icons to get the editing effects that you desire...

For those of you rolling your eyes...hee hee...hang in there with me...it's been a wild day...If you've followed me on facebook you'll know that I've been dealing with a crazy cough-hack-refluxy-more coughing-ITIS or something like that...Long story short: I'm not "technically" sick, but noone really knows what is wrong...and so we're going down the "reflux" route until further notice:)

That said, after hitting a pot hole and flattening my tire on the way to pick up my daughter from school...well, that's where my whole "crazy" speech is coming from...so, I hope you'll bear with me:)

Just wanted to post a quick note about the Winter/Early spring schedule for Workshops!!! I know many of you are anxious to get started and others still want some time to see if you can figure it out on your own...kudos to you!

As I've said many times before...if you are going to invest the amount of money that is needed into equipment and programs...it's the BEST use of your money to actually LEARN what they are capable of doing...so, get out there and google search and read up on your camera and photoshop and fiddle with it...see what you can figure out...that's where it all begins...

Now, I also know, as a mom and crazy multi-tasker, that time is precious...and my kids won't stop growing!!! And so, I want to learn how to do those things A.S.A. P.

This is where workshops like Snapshop and Click It come in...I'm a photographer, but I'm a mom before that...so I "get" where you are wanting to head...I know what shots you truly want...(I also know it's crazy fun to create storyboards and cards for your kids, family and friends...and what's the best use of your time in that arena)

Here's a tentative schedule...I don't specifically nail down dates too far in advance because really, I want to try to accomodate as many people as I can...I don't conduct the classes often and I would be so sad if you had to wait 4 months to come to a class just because your child had a game on that ONE workshop date that you just couldn't miss! (remember, I'm a mom too!)

Therefore, I hope you will bear with me...I also understand schedules and the need to "get it on the calendar"...this is where YOUR HELP comes in as well...please feel free to email me at ctphotomemories@gmail.com with possible dates that work for you.

I try to do Click It's on the weekdays in Ohio just because I don't need the daylight to work on the computer AND, if you are like me, you like your weekends free and clear...BUT, I'm open to change as well...just let me know.

For Snapshops, I keep them to Sunday afternoons at present because my girls have basketball and soccer games on Saturday! However, if you have a suggestion, I'm open to it...I'm also open to possible Sunday dates that work for you!

OHIO DATES:

Click It will be Wednesday, February 1st from 6:30 to 9:00pm Early bird pricing ($65) for those that get payment to me by January 18th. Or you can pay the day of ($75)...email me at ctphotomemories@gmail.com to receive my address and more information:)

Snapshop TBA sometime in March...looking for possible Sunday dates that work best for your schedule. Early bird pricing will be put into effect 2 weeks prior to date for this as well.

GO HERE TO LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WHAT IS INVOLVED WITH A SNAPSHOP CLASS (plus you get a pretty nifty camera strap as a special gift from me:)

Snapshop II (for those that have already attended a Snapshop) will be smaller class sizes and only 2 hour sessions...(full description of class will be posted at a later date)

MICHIGAN DATES:

Click It (TBA) looking at the weekend of February 18/19
Snapshop (TBA) looking at the month of April
Snapshop II (TBA) loooking at the month of August

CLICK IT coming soon:)

2012-01-07T12:31:00.000-08:00

I was overwhelmed with "teacher pride" after receiving so many Christmas cards from past Click It attendees! And I mean overwhelmed! The creativity, the photos they included, the designs...it was awesome!

Some of you may have JUST received the SWEET gift of photoshop elements under your tree this Christmas...and I hope that you gave your loved one a giddy scream when you saw it...because, it is SOOOO worth it!

There are many options for learning photoshop...you can try to ask people who know, you can read "photoshop for dummies"...you can even purchase online tutorials that focus in on 1-2 "learning strategies" for each class...

You need to find what works for you...

However, I will tell you that IF you like the photos you see on this site...if you understand my personality and know that I'm a teacher...if you realize that I'm a mom first who values time and has the "please just give me what I need to know so I can do what I want to do!" mentality when it comes to new things...

THEN...perhaps you'll make the leap to take a Click It class with me.

In class we cover some basic post-processing editing...let's face it...after taking the Snapshop Workshop, you now have a greater understanding of composition and know HOW to get the pictures you want...the problem still occurs when LIFE hits in the middle of switching your manual settings...it's in THOSE moments that I am thankful for Photoshop. It is my ultimate goal that my pictures come out of my camera GREAT!...

...BUT, sometimes, my youngest is hanging on my leg, the chicken is boiling over in the pot on the stove and my middle kid looks so cute out there hanging from the monkey bars...so I grab the camera, run and hope for the best...and then try to put out the fire in the kitchen afterwards:)

With just some simple knowledge of photoshop, you can turn those "crazy moment" photos into something frame-worthy...We'll touch on those kinds of basics in the Click It class...

You'll get an overview of the program itself and discover some of the tricks that I use on a continual basis. Together we'll make the class to fit the needs of everyone so that we make the most of your time! For some, that will be honing in on editing pictures...for others it will mean learning how to create cards & announcements...

You receive full color notes with print screens so that you can remember where everything is located. You also recieve a CD of all the files that I use in the workshop so that you can practice again at home. I also give you a list of websites that I frequent for personal use that will get you on your way to creating incredible works of art with your images!

There is a "vote" going on over on Facebook through Tuesday...we need to finalize a date for the class...It is a 2.5 hour long class (that sometimes runs to 3 hours:)

Early bird pricing is $65 or you can pay the day of for $75.

Possible dates for a Delaware, Ohio class are:
Wednesday, January 25th OR
Wednesday, February 1st

You can comment here and let me know which OR you can vote over in Facebook. I'll post the finalized date on Tuesday. We need to have a minimum of 3 people attending, but I like to keep it small so that we can cover a LOT of information...so I will cap it at no more than 8.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Have a Wonderful Holiday:)

2011-12-25T11:09:00.000-08:00

From my home to yours!

Snapshoppers...this one's for you:)

2011-12-08T18:35:00.000-08:00

I never got a chance to do a blog post about the most INCREDIBLE Snapshop class in Michigan last month...Thanksgiving hit and I still had numerous family photo shoots to edit through...by the time I finished that, I was up to my elbows in Christmas lights and Advent books and I just never got back to it...

***side note: I DO plan on getting a post up here soon...with pictures even:) It just may wait until AFTER the holidays...if I am to keep my sanity (which some are questioning already...but I digress)

Anyway...tonight was my daughter's violin recital...You know, those lovely gymnasium environments with super high ceilings, "sweet" lighting and everyone crammed into a small space with dark backgrounds and parents craning their necks to make sure they get the best shot of their child...

Yes...it was one of THOSE evenings...

So, what's a "photographer" mother to do...I could whip out the external flash and blast all the students' as they're squinting to see their music whilst trying to get their fingers in the right place so that that audience doesn't cringe...

I will admit that I tried this...but the nice yellow tint that graced my pictures was less than stellar (not to mention the "looks" I received from my daughter:)...and so I decided to work with what I had:)

First off, I remembered my depth of field...I was sitting pretty far away, so I could actually lower my aperture to the lowest it would go on my lens and not worry too much about blur...my girl was only going to fill up a small area, so I was sure to get her in focus.

Next, I checked my meter and knew that I still needed more light...so I bumped my shutterspeed down a bit...I didn't want her bow to be blurred as she moved it, but at the same time, I knew she wasn't fiddlin' as if performing at the Grand Ole Opry, so it wasn't like we were needing super speed! So, I actually bumped it to 1/80th of a second.

Last but not least, I still needed more light, so I went into my ISO that had started out at 400...and I tried it first at 640, but as I closed in with that black background and her dark hair, I had to bump it again to 800...

Here's the result:

Now, granted, I need to do a little photoshopping and cropping down, etc...and I might even check it in black and white...but I wanted you to see what it looks like without that flash shadow...the fact that you can use your camera and make it work for you, getting the "story" and the "feeling" behind the moment!

I wish you the happiest of holidays as you document and work as "photojournalist" for your family this Christmas!

Blessings to you all!

p.s. if anyone happens to get Photoshop Elements for Christmas this year, be sure to watch for a January class posting for a Click It workshop...and if you are new to this site, and would like to learn more about your camera, be sure to follow on facebook and/or here on this blog to learn about future Snapshop classes!

Family Together-ness:)

2011-11-29T20:33:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving has come and gone and we are now approaching Christmas...for some that brings feelings of excitement and joy...for others it creates anxiousness and stress...and in some cases, it summons BOTH:)

Holidays are usually centered around family time...and inevitably, when you pack a house with grandparents, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and occassionally throw a dog in the mix...well, that's a LOT of people...you'd think you'd eventually hear a "conflict" or two break out...or perhaps an "Uh-oh, ____ just broke something!"...

Now, I can't vouch for the "I broke something" line, but I spent a considerable amount of time with this family and as I've now become accustomed to the incredible clients that I have, I got to see first hand all the different personalities and dynamics...and I watched (and listened) in awe at how cousins played, siblings laughed, in-laws teased, drama was diverted, FUN was had...and the occassional bark from a dog:)

I've known each member of this family for quite awhile... Since I know that I tend to drone on with words periodically, I'll give you the quick synopsis:)

The Patriarch/Matriarch of this clan were actually hosts to my long ago Puppet Team in college (you can stop laughing now at the mention of the fact that I was on a Puppet Team...it's another story for another time) Their eldest daughter is beautiful, and was yet another one of the many girls I envied in college for not only their flawless skin and gorgeous smile, but their ability to stay true to who they were made to be! On weekends, during my college days, I traveled to a church right outside Columbus, on the west side...it was close enough to get to, but far enough that you didn't feel like you were still on campus...Her future husband was the van driver!

I've already mentioned Kara and her family in a previous post...and I'm sure if I write anymore about how much I admire her, you might think I'm making it up...so I'll just let you go back and read it here and know that it's from my heart:)

Their brother knew who I was when I walked through the door...as soon as I mentioned my last name...My sister in law was his teacher, back in the day...All I can say is that I texted my sis on the way home with his words of admiration and encouragement and it completely made her WEEK!

Lastly, I need to bring up Steve and Christy...I LOVE watching these 2 together...You have to understand that Steve just makes you laugh...you can't help it...he has a gift with words...he is able to weave words and ideas together in a way that either makes you think or laugh...either way, you are stopped dead in your tracks:) And, I couldn't have imagined a more perfect match than his wife, Christy:) I love to watch them and see how they play off each other...I love the banter and the fact they are "whatcha see is whatcha get" sort of people. I got to talk just little with their eldest daughter...(how are we old enough to have teenagers? we're still in our 20s right?) and I was amazed at her maturity and her unabashed pride in her mom and dad...I saw the same in their son...

I saw it in all the kids...this family has tapped into something...they have passed down lessons and values and relationships that are being produced over and over again...I come away from my time with families like this with such hope and gratitude!

I know I must sound a little "over the top"...and I'm sure some member of this family will have a good time rolling their eyes at my little "schpeel"...but the thing is...you only get to see a snippet of what I see...and I can't help but show you my heart...

New Friends

2011-11-28T06:15:00.000-08:00

There's a whole long story/explanation behind all this, but suffice to say, I depend mostly on "word of mouth" as my advertisement for CTPhotoMemories:) It's a part of the reason I'm able to price what I do, but still have quality equipment and give sufficient time to photo sessions and editing...

When someone comes to me saying, "So and so told me about you...I saw their pictures..." My heart just swells...

Let's face it, what's the alternative, "Um, I saw those pictures...they were awful!" ???

There's a long line of where this family happened upon me...My daughter's teacher got married, I photographed her wedding in Florida...where I met her new sister in law...where I learned she was expecting and she in turn hired me to take pictures of her newbie when he arrived...where in turn, she showed said pictures to her neighbor (who also happened to be her dentist)...continue, continue, continue...and I receive an email in my inbox:)

I was overjoyed to meet them...Sweet older sister with 2 younger (and I can only imagine, ornery) little brothers:) Being a big sister myself, I know these things:) We had to rearrange our schedules a bit with the weather, but the day we met, it turned out perfectly...They all are incredibly photogenic...but, what I think I notice more, is the fact that you can "see" their hearts in the images...

Protective and calm dad, generous and loving mom, sweet & imaginative big sis, rambunctous & fun middle son, playful and curious youngest:) It's a beautiful combination that makes a family FIT together...I love the ties that bind relationships so strongly...just another reason why I love what I do...

A Year of Thankfulness

2011-11-21T06:14:00.000-08:00

I think it so appropriate that the Thanksgiving holiday is almost upon us as I take some time to post about this sweet little girl once again.

She born around this time last year and throughout the past 365 days, I've had the opportunity to watch her grow...it started with just her wee little fingers and toes...and then she learned to smile & coo...she started to hold her head up high and scoot her body across the floor...then she started pulling up and gave such a look of accomplishment in what she was able to do...

Now, she's running and exploring and her curiosity takes her everywhere...she is an absolute joy to her parents who relish their time with her...building a family of relationships that are strong and founded on respect, memories of loved ones and genuine love!

I am honored once again to be able to share with you some images of our time together...I have the utmost respect for this family...they have such a wise perspective on life...and because of that, time with them is so enjoyable...they cherish the things that are important and they let go of the things that don't matter very much...I learned from watching them in just the one year that I've gotten to know them...THANKYOU sweet family for letting me share in your life this year!

It's amazing how much they change in such a short time:)

Optimistic Hearts

2011-11-16T18:55:00.000-08:00

Okay so the title of this blog post won't necessarily match the first part of the "story" but, the way I see it...I walk myself around the barn a couple times before I get to the conclusion, so I figure y'all can just mosey on along with me:)

(can you tell that I spent a weekend down south??)

So, we're coming upon the close of the season...the leaves are nearly off all of the trees, the "fall back" makes it feel like the girls need to head to bed the minute they get off the bus from school...the air is getting colder and weekend weather is not cooperating...

Sounds ideal huh?

Well...that's where we landed with regards to this family photo session...but we did NOT give up...Tiffani puts a lot of value on captured memories of her family...(which is yet, just another reason why I adore her)

Anyway, we met midweek, right after school, just before AWANA at church...the kids were hungry, my girls had to tag along and it was still cloudy...

Boy, this is just NOT sounding good is it?

The amazing thing is, that even though it may have felt like the odds were against us...Tiffani never gave in...never got frustrated...never let an ounce of "doggone it SUN, just come out!" enter her thinking...

I heard her laughter, as I was scootin' after her kiddos and playing simon says...I watched her make the most of every moment and never let it get her down...and miracle of miracles...it is incredibly evident in her pictures...

Her laughter and optimism is contagious...and therefore she is able to undergird her young family, simultaneously being a helpmate to her hubby...and all the while, genuinely enjoying herself...

I'm serious, I was just in awe...and then when you top that with her generous spirit...I'm blown away...

I am privileged to know them, to be able to spend time with them...I've said it before and I'll say it again, my clients invest in my life, in much more than just monetary ways...I'm just so very thankful for them all...

I hope you'll enjoy the moments as they unfold:)

TEAM Family:)

2011-11-14T13:26:00.000-08:00

I will tell you that there is the "teeniest" bit of jealousy that arises in me when I meet moms that have sons.

Not having any boys, my household is different...we're a house full of princesses and dresses...shoes and DRAMA...tears and cuddles...

I spent a weekend with my brother, my sis in law and their boys recently and got to see first hand the "differences"...

And though I am grateful for what God has given me, and I know without a shadow of a doubt that my hubby and I were made to have girls, I do get that little "twinge" inside when one of my nephews comes running at me full force to grab me for a hug...

I met Chrisi at church and her youngest son is close in age to my older girls:) We had chatted back and forth about pictures and locations and all sorts of things...After a couple of reschedules, we were finally able to solidify a time to meet.

She came prepared to not only showcase her family (for christmas cards and such) but, to show them as they are in real life too:)

When those jerseys came out, I just had to smile!

It was as if the weather matched the complexity of families in general...We started off with casual, classy pictures...I couldn't have gotten a bad picture, even if I tried...these boys are "dreamy"!!!

And then all of sudden, the sun broke through the clouds and streamed the most beautiful light...

Out came those jerseys and the wrestling began...

However, never have I seen such playful and fun banter between brothers...it wasn't just "rough-housing"...you could tell that they just really like each other...they don't "put up" with each other...It was refreshing and FUN and I enjoyed every minute...

Yep...had fun right down to the last second when the youngest guy wanted to show me something related to football? ??? ((let us remember that I have girls okay)))

SARA: Senior Photos

2011-11-10T19:14:00.000-08:00

Sara and I have sung together on the worship team at church.

I am in awe of her voice...

It's just plain and simple...I'm more of the "doo-op" to her "lead"...she has some incredible talent and I've been privileged to be able to stand up there with her (slightly back with my mic turned down low:)

She's amazing...so when her mom and I were chatting in church one Sunday and she mentioned that they were thinking about senior pictures...Well, to say that I was downright giddy might have been an understatement:)

We got together just a couple weeks later...Sara and her entourage:) We sought out the railroad tracks, the little nooks around downtown Delaware and then found some incredible walkways & trees where the colors were amazing!

I'm excited to share with you this beautiful girl...both inside and out!

Bright eyes

2011-11-08T19:19:00.000-08:00

It seems like I keep coming in contact with so many new moms lately...it's just exciting, refreshing, endearing and just downright FUN:)

This bright-eyed beauty was nearly 2 months old when I first got to meet her...she wanted to stay awake the whole time and not miss a thing. You could tell that her mommy just felt comfortable and so at ease in her "role" and I can't tell you how refreshing it is to meet moms that just wholeheartedly enjoy being with their young ones...

Because I remember the sleepless nights and the crying and the "what am I doing wrong?" feelings that first plagued me in the beginning...I haven't met a mom yet that was as panicky and worrisome as me...and it just makes me so happy for them...they are able to take things in stride and enjoy the journey of motherhood right from the beginning:)

Here are just a few pictures from our day together:)

A, B, C and 1, 2, 3

2011-11-03T12:32:00.000-07:00

I'm a former teacher...I use the term "former" very loosely, because once you are a teacher, you are ALWAYS a teacher...you can't help it...you see "teachable moments" everywhere...sometimes you can't contain it and you end up reading stories to strangers' children in the libraries or offering your "knowledge" to kids in waiting rooms...

So, now that I've scared you from ever wanting to be in the same room with me for any length of time...whew...I want you to know that along with this "training", there comes certain "expectations" that you have when it comes to your own children.

Kindergarten around here is only 2 or 3 days a week...it feels more like an activity, rather than SCHOOL, persay...at least for the children...believe me, it doesn't feel that way for the teachers...However, when my girlies got to FIRST grade...the ALL DAY, EVERY DAY thing...well, that's when it hit me...

The fact that I was handing over my children to another adult for over 6 hours a day...a person that my child was going to model after, going to adore, going to talk about at the dinner table...this person was going to become extremely important in the life of my child...he or she was going to have an incredible impact on the heart and mind of my little girl...

I would be remiss if I didn't tell you that this held with it a bit of fear...so much so, that I actually homeschooled my eldest daughter for 1st grade...

My 2nd daughter is a completely different personality than my first, but also one that I probably worry about more...she internalizes much of what goes on around her...being an introvert, she watches more and talks less. When it came to sending her to first grade, my husband and I discussed the possibility of homeschooling again, but we really felt like God had a different plan and so with a few tears (on my side) and a deep breath, I put her on the bus for all day, every day first grade...

THIS is where this family comes in...

My little girl fell in love with her first grade teacher...and Mrs. "F" did not disappoint. I could not...COULD NOT imagine a better teacher for my daughter. I could just sit here and write lists upon lists of what makes her such an awesome teacher...and in those lists you'd see things that have to do with teaching...because she totally knows her stuff...but at the top of the list, would be...just HER...Her heart, her ability to "see" things that others may not, her genuine concern, her sincerity and her REALness. I am so utterly thankful that my girlie got to gleen from her for a whole year...

And to watch her with her own family...and new little boy...oh my...

I did tell her that I do have ONE MORE little girl heading off to school soon..:)

Hope you enjoy these pictures:

2011-11-02T18:40:00.000-07:00

I love living in a small town...

Okay, so living on the outskirts of a Columbus, Ohio MAY not constitute living in a small town...

So, how can I explain it...We live out in the "boonie" part of the city...is there even such a thing? I'm here to tell you that YES...there is...And what I love about it, is the atmosphere of family. You see people on their tractors and the farm machinery is always causing the "traffic" to slow all through the back roads... the school is located right smack in the middle of two big farming fields, right across the street from the railroad tracks...down the road from the horses...

All the kiddos ride the bus, "cuz otherwise they'd be walking uphill both ways with hot potatoes in their pockets to keep their hands warm"...

Are you getting the picture?

The point is, we're all out here together...and there's a sense of comradery that I wouldn't trade for the world...

It's how I met this family...their oldest and my middle girl are in the same class at school...and I was privileged to hang out with their whole family one afternoon...We had so much fun...I wish I could show you ALL the pictures...but, I had to settle on just a few...

I love how this family knows how to have a good time together...and I "might" just sneak in a sticking out your tongue one over on facebook...:) Hope "mom" is okay with that...considering SHE'S the one who did it:)

2011-11-01T11:33:00.001-07:00

Hope your Halloween Festivities were FUN!!!

October Frenzy:)

2011-10-31T18:33:00.000-07:00

October can be a rather packed month...it's full with apple picking, pumpkin patching, hay rides, and trick or treat...playing in the leaves, bonfires, and hikes in the parks...

And it's time for picture taking...and hoooweeee, did we have lots of picture taking goin' on this month. I am utterly thankful for the opportunity I have...I've said it before and I'll say it again, I have an awesome "job"...What is really great about it, is that it's still a passion and a love and NOT just an "occupation"...

Because of that, I am able to give of myself to my clients in a "real" and sincere way...it's been a jampacked month...and I'll be honest that I've had my fair share of panic attacks with trying to get the editing finished as quickly as possible...

Once again, I also have the best clients in the world...ones that are gracious and patient and know that I'm giving it all I've got...I am blessed beyond measure!

I had over 8 photo sessions last weekend and I'm trying to give everyone a fair share of equal time...I hope you will enjoy this sweet family of 3...I loved their energy, their spontaneity, and their laughter:) I hope you will enjoy seeing just a bit of what I saw through my lens:)

I had to throw some "outtakes" in here for fun...they were a class act!!

Sibling LOVE:)

2011-10-30T08:56:00.000-07:00

Hanging out with this family made me remember back to the days with my brother and I made up games to play...

Oh, we were soooo creative...we played things like, "brother and sister" make-believe, or rode our bikes or make tents in the backyard... (are you catching my sarcasm? I can't say that I was all the artsy way back when)

The point is, we had the kind of relationship where if ANYone "bullied" my brother or vice versa...we had each other's back...as in, we became these over-protective bears with strength we otherwise would never have shown...HOWEVER, when it was "just us", we would tease each other mercilessly:)

I LOVED having a brother...it makes me just a teeny bit sad that my girls will never know that, but, it just warms my heart when I get to watch brothers and sisters interact...

We had a glorious afternoon in the middle of October...the colors were vibrant and the sun made eyes twinkle!

2011-10-28T19:45:00.000-07:00

I started thinking about this post in my head as I left the park from spending time with this family...

I get to meet with LOTS of family every year...sometimes they are people that I've never been privileged to meet before...sometimes they are returning families from years before...sometimes they are friends from what feels like a lifetime ago...

Kara and her family fit into the latter category...

I let my thoughts glide back to those yester years...remembering our trampling through the dorm hallways during our college years...I even remember her talking on the phone to her "then" boyfriend, El, the big ole basketball star of our school's team! I admired her then...

We had Elem. Ed. classes together and I saw her heart as she sought out inner city kids...how she was always "real", in a "whatcha see is whatcha get" sort of way...and my respect for her grew even more...

Fast forward 15 years and we "catch up" once again...and I discover, yet again, how incredibly amazing this woman is:) It's not just her either...Her husband, who I watched from afar back then (did I mention he was a big basketball star???) I get to watch up close...and I see as he reads her, knows her, and LOVES her...I can tell that he leads this family and cherishes every moment...I watch Kara interact with her only daughter...I see the respect that she's instilled in her children...I listen and see how these siblings have been taught and how they genuinely care about each other...

That doesn't happen by chance...El and Kara have built a family on a strong foundation...it's inspiring to see...

I know that may seem silly..."how can you see ALL THAT in one little hour of a photo shoot ???" All I can say, is that when people are REAL...and they have a deep seeded confidence in who they were made to be...and they, in turn, diligently try to bolster that in their family...it's evident...it just is:)

I literally just have the most awesome "job" ever!!!

I hope you will enjoy just a few pics of this beautiful family!!!

SNAPSHOP MICHIGAN NOVEMBER 2011

2011-10-24T18:35:00.000-07:00

Okay, if there is one thing that I love doing outside of (of course...) being a mom, wife, friend, etc...and duh, taking pictures...I LOVE teaching...

Maybe it's the spotlight...maybe it's the "control"...maybe it's the fact that I get to hang out with adult women who actually "speak my language" and the time doesn't involve me cutting up pizza slices, tying shoes or listening to cries as I brush out snarls in little girls' hair:)

Whatever it may be...the fact remains, that I love me some "teachin' time"...all the better when I get to share about something in which I have a passion!

It's about memories...capturing life...being a "photo-journalist" for my family...giving the gift of the "story of their lives" in pictures to my little girls...

If you plan on attending this Snapshop (this LAST one for 2011) you won't regret it...and here's why:

First off, if you are even interested in the idea of this class then that means that you probably own a DSLR camera...which means that you're already pretty serious about the types of pictures that you are wanting for your family...it means that you want more for yourself and your family. to learn more, to know more...yes, there is some vulnerability in that...and faced with "technical/photography words and lingo" it can be intimidating at first...
That's okay...these things are big pieces of equipment and the thought of learning every nit-pick little thing in one afternoon would be overwhelming...but, if you truly have a passion for wanting to capture your child's personality, the twinkle in their eye, their curiosity, the way they see life...then you also, deeeeeep down, have a desire to know HOW to do just that with that same piece of equipment...

I'm a wife and mom first....I "get" that desire...I know where you are coming from and as a teacher, I want to instill in you the courage to explore that creativity inside you...to teach you the mechanical side of things so that you can produce what your heart and mind already sees...so that, when you put it together, you come away feeling empowered and not fearful of missing a shot. You can approach a family outing or just family moments with expectation and confidence....knowing that you have a storehouse of "ideas and tricks" so that you can showcase your kids...

Please watch this short video/slideshow of past snapshops to get a "feel" for what it will be like.

WHAT TO DO NOW:
#1- if you haven't emailed me already, then please do so ASAP, as there are limited spaces available. Email at ctphotomemories@gmail.com

#2- I will send you my address so that you may send your $25 deposit (or full payment of $125) that needs to be received by November 5th to secure your spot.

#3- Once I receive your deposit/payment, I will email you again with the specifics of location & a "get to know you" questionaire.

#4- Come on November 19th ready to have fun, learn lots, eat some good food, enjoy great company and come away feeling transformed in your abilities and creative spirit!!

Here is the link to more specific information about the Snapshop as well...i.e. what to expect, what you get, time allotment, etc... SNAPSHOP

Friend of a Friend of a Friend...

2011-10-21T19:36:00.000-07:00

Jen and I met through a fairly unconventional way...but, I suppose we can thank social media for bringing us together...

You know how there's some saying somewhere about how if you go searching through who knows who you'll always end up with Kevin Bacon?

Okay, so maybe I'm the only one that has heard that...but the point is, that it's amazing how news travels...and in this case, it was a picture...

Somewhere along the line I took some pictures of my nephews and my brother & sis-in-law...she posted them and a friend saw them...who in turn told her friend and somewhere in the line, JEN found me...

I'm SOOO glad that she did...I have absolutely enjoyed getting to know her...I've not only been able to meet her through photo sessions, but she's attended both the Snapshop and the Click It workshops and it is a PLEASURE to spend time with her...

This time around, I got to meet her entire family...so we did some "reunion-esque" shots and then spend a little extra time with just Jen's family...I hope you will enjoy:)

Thank you again for letting me spend time with your whole family!

Chance Meeting

2011-10-20T12:15:00.000-07:00

I think I mentioned before that if not for feeling comfortable with a camera in my hand, there would be many people that I would never happen to meet. And if that were the case, I know that I would be missing out...

It's the relationships in life that matter most...not the scraping to the highest rung on a ladder...not the "he who dies with the most toys wins" mentality...it's about making the most of the time you have with those that you love...being in the "present" and living it to the fullest...

yes, that may mean doing laundry or washing dishes...or it may mean making a run to the grocery store or picking up socks at Kohls...

Believe it or not, THIS is where I "happen chance" meet Susan most of the time...She relishes in her role as wife and mommy...You can tell that their little family is most concerned about strengthening bonds and making a home...

What an honor it is to get the chance to snap a few moments for them to remember...as their little girl grows so quickly...

I hope you'll enjoy just a few of my favorites:)

Family Inspiration

2011-10-19T17:16:00.000-07:00

The opportunity to spend time with people that I might not have otherwise met, is one of the perks of being a photographer:) Being a people person...meaning, that I tend to be energized by being around people...creates in me a desire to invest in the lives of others...

Selfishly, I also realize, that I come away from these interactions encouraged because of the time spent with unique and inspiring individuals.

I have known this family for about 3 years now...Even in our small down in the Midwest, I doubt that our paths would have crossed if it had not been for a love of capturing moments on both our sides:)

I have enjoyed watching their daughter grow over the years...They have become some of my biggest encouragers and I love them for it!

Some of the most FUN that is had, is when families take time to just enjoy being together and letting curiosity get the better of them...there is such wonder in discovery:)

This little girl is OH SO loved...

Thank you again for making time for me every year...and for all the other sweet moments in between as well!

Snap, Snap, Snap:)

2011-10-16T18:37:00.000-07:00

I wish I could let you peek into my head so that you could "see" what it's like for me to watch people "get" a concept...

It really is the best part about teaching...the point in time where, after you have spent hours thinking of examples and putting together a plan and formulating all the information and trying to chunk it into "bite size" pieces so that others can "swallow", that the light bulb goes off...and you see it in their eyes...

You just wait...and watch...and let it "simmer" for a bit...and then comes the "AH-HA!"

Today was another Snapshop...a time when moms (and dads) who have invested a considerable amount of money into a piece of equipment that can do sooo much more than their old point shoot, take the opportunity to actually LEARN it's capabilities!

I was in awe of these ladies this afternoon...Some have newborns at home, others have still small ones...and they don't want to miss a moment...they want to give their children the gift of the story of their lives through photos...

They want their photos to be something that their kids will WANT to go through time and time again...where they will sit and remember the exact moment and feeling they had when the picture was snapped...not just stopping and smiling at a camera, but almost being able to "relive" the moment because the snapshot has taken them back in time.

I'll be honest, I throw a LOT of information at these attendees...We talk about storytelling and composition and framing...and all the mechanics: focal points, metering, light sensors, aperture, shutterspeed, ISO...

And yet, I've been in their shoes...I wanted so badly to figure out how to make my pictures be able to stand alone...and "tell" something...and I couldn't find someone to explain it to me in the way that I could understand...it just wouldn't make sense and I would get instructors frustrated with me...

Because of that, my heart is right there with these moms with young ones...I missed a few years of having some great shots of my older girls...and I am honored and inspired and amazed that these young women are tackling this sometimes intimidating journey of learning their camera...so that they don't miss a thing!

I just had a wonderful afternoon with them all...This was the last Snapshop for 2011 here in Ohio...I'm waiting to hear if we'll have enough for a last one in Michigan this year...Don't miss out:) I promise you'll have fun...you'll learn lots...you'll eat some yummy food...and you'll get a little extra something special as a reminder of our time spent learning together!!! Hope to see YOU at a future Snapshop!!!

thank you to my older girls for being models for all the ladies...they jumped, they posed...we blurred and froze action...it was awesome!

I truly love what I do!!

Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezey:)

2011-10-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

My daughter says this ALL THE TIME...

It never fails to crack me up...

It's usually when I've asked her to do something that her older sisters would normally do...like, "Honey, could you help me put the soap in the washing machine?" or "Lovie, I need you to try to buckle yourself up in the car."

It's not only something that makes me giggle, but it gives me that sense of "relief"...I don't know quite how to explain it...almost like, she's on board, she gets it, I get it...we're going to get the job done without a glitch!

I will be honest...even though I've been doing this photography thing for awhile, I STILL get butterflies in my stomach EVERY time I have a photo shoot...perhaps it's the people pleaser in me...maybe it's the incredible honor I feel that someone chose ME to capture memories for them...whatever it is, I approach a session with excitement and a little bit of "oh my goodness Colleen...do NOT screw this up!!!"

Am I being too vulnerable here? I'm being honest because I'm just a person like everyone else...and it is my JOY to meet new people each season...and since my photo sessions are about an experience and not just getting a cheesey grin, I figure it's best to just be myself...

so there you have it...that's my "normal" when it comes to a photo session...

However, it took about "point 2 seconds" after meeting this family to recognize that THIS was just going to be "easy peasy lemon squeezey"...I found them around the park area just having fun and being themselves...

What better way to start a session right? And it just got better from there...The boys were hilarious...Dad was easy goin' and up for anything...Mom is absolutely and utterly adored by ALL her boys...I was along for the ride:)

And I can't tell you how thankful I am that I got to be there...I hope you enjoy the moments...

Thank you again for making it such a great morning! Had such a great time...Easy Peasy!

Buckeye Baby

2011-10-12T20:38:00.000-07:00

For as much as I have a love for little girls, seeing as I have 3 of my own...

There still lies a place in my heart for baby boys...never having had one, but having my brother's 4 boys to dote on...well, when I get to spend time with the conglomeration of "frogs and snails and puppy dog tails"...it just melts my heart:)

This little guy's Mommy had lots of fun hats and ideas for his little photo session...He of course had other ideas during the first hour or so:) He was bright eyed and sooo into listening to his Daddy & Mommy's voices.

Once he felt all cozy and snuggled up with Mom & Dad...he drifted off to sleep for us:)

And then the fun began...his Mommy had such fun things to try on him...

I always marvel at how little and "squishy" they are at this age...and yet, how FAST they out grown it too!

We had a wonderful afternoon and I so enjoyed getting my "baby fix" for the day! Thank you little buckeye!

Randy Travis and Shania Twain???

2011-10-11T06:51:00.000-07:00

I bet you didn't know that I photograph celebrities...

Well, regardless of whether you are "actually" a celebrity or not, I feel incredibly honored that so many families would choose me to photograph their own family...that they choose to spend a segment of time with this crazy, artsy and often silly photographer that probably talks their ears off:...well, it's just humbling and I don't take it for granted!

What you need to know before I proceed is that...okay, totally being vulnerable here...it may even turn some people off, but I LOVE country music...I have for a longgggg time...I discovered it in college and haven't looked back:)

It would probably behoove you to know that I sang a Shania Twain song at my Dad's wedding and I pretty much had a crush on Randy Travis all through high school...oh my...did I just say that? What in the world! He had me at "Forever and Ever...AMEN!"

Okay...you can stop your smirking... BUT, you can imagine my surprise when the two of them showed up for our photo session on a beautiful afternoon:)

You both are such good sports for letting me "tell you who your doppelganger is":) I think they have such a great looking family...but MORE THAN THAT...they have incredible relationships that just shine through in everyday life!

I loved watching these siblings interact...watching Dad be playful and big sister being protective...seeing the love twinkling in Mom's eyes for her husband and children...They are raising a fantastic family...and once again, I am privileged to take a peek into their lives...

Thank you sweet family...I so enjoyed spending time with you!

Love in Little Packages...

2011-10-10T06:44:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it's the smallest gesture or tiniest package that comes the greatest joy...

You may remember this sweet girl...or actually, if you look above at the blog header, you'll see her sweet face:)

What is just so wonderful about this family is the fact that they just love being around each other...Big brother is so protective and fun...little sis gets everyone smiling...Daddy teases and brings out the laughter...Mommy gives out the kisses...I had a wonderful afternoon of sharing moments with them...They are doing a wonderful job of raising these 2 kiddos to be lifelong friends, along with actually being related!!

It is a joy to spend time with you! Thank you for letting me watch your family interact...it is so encouraging and inspiring!!!

Brotherly Lovin'

2011-10-06T12:51:00.000-07:00

Remember Amy? Well, she has a sister...and a brother in law and 2 adorable nephews:)

And I got to take pictures of them ALL!!!

These little guys were awesome...I loved their spunk, their laughter and their curiosity...This time of year, with all the leaves...it's just so fun...

Oh, to be a toddler again and relish in the wonder of colorful, falling leaves!

We headed out on a beautiful afternoon and I was able to snap some 9 month old shots of little brother:)...along with some family ones as well!

I love being able to capture moments too...they are only this little for just a short amount of time...

Just a little brotherly lovin'...

And I must leave you with this little face...he was smiling from ear to ear nearly the whole time and so we told him to just relax his face and just be natural...don't you just want to kiss those cheeks???

Thank you all for trusting me with some family memories!

Maternity: Amy (& Mike:)

2011-10-04T21:05:00.000-07:00

I'm just going to come right out and say it...I love this couple:)

I love how different in personality we are, but how we sooo enjoy each other's company! I love that Amy is the same age that my sister would be if she were still here. I love that she lets me borrow her steam vac too:)

I think she is a beautiful...and I know Mike seconds that motion as well!

They are about to embark on an awesome journey of parenthood...I started crying when I found out that they were expecting and I'm still on pins and needles waiting for the call that their little one has arrived...

I"m so thankful they let me shoot a few pictures BEFORE the little guy gets here...

Come soon little guy..we can't wait to meet you!

And then there were SEVEN!

2011-10-03T10:28:00.000-07:00

I met Melody almost a year ago...actually met her through her eldest daughter who knew my daughter at school...Their family moved up from down south to this WONDERFUL cold and rainy wonderland:) They landed in our neck of the woods and our kids all attend school together...and a few church functions too!

To hear Melody talk you know, beyond a shadow of doubt, coming away from your conversation that she is utterly and madly in love with her entire family...she adores her hubby, dotes on all her kids...all FIVE of them...

Their newest little addition just arrived at the end of summer...just in time for some beautiful fall weather:)

I was so thankful that Melody let me snap a few pictures...she knows full well how FAST these little ones grow:

And then I got to photograph the whole gang...each one of her kiddos has a different personality...and they all love their new baby sister...

I love to get the opportunity to spend time with families who show, in such practical and evident ways, that they value relationships...responsibility, respect, and FUN...it's all taught in their house!!

Thanks again gang, for a GREAT afternoon!!!

Making Memories

2011-09-24T17:12:00.000-07:00

I had a session with this family a year ago...and I was BEYOND humbled and encouraged that they chose to come back this year for another round of family pictures...

This little lady has grown sooo much:)

I adore Tiffany...I've only met her 2 or 3 times, and had a few conversations via facebook, but she is energetic, enthusiastic, creative...she's just plain inspiring! I love the ideas and the vision she has for her family. She is upbeat, and FUN!...

And her family follows suit!

We met up a Highbanks park and out came a bunch of big, red helium balloons!!! (did I mention that she's creative?)

I was so excited to see them all again and to have the opportunity to photograph them as they interacted and had fun together. I love that Tiffany and Dave don't just see this as a chance to get a quick smile and a few snaps of their children...they make it an experience...I am able to photograph them in their element...seeing them interact with their kiddos...

She had scouted out the exact place she had in mind and we went from there...

After our fun with the balloons...we headed toward a little creek and got our feet wet (literally)...It was sooo fun to see the kiddos search for fish and splash in the water...Sometimes they noticed the camera and other times, I was able to just capture curiosity and MOMENTS!

Thank you sweet family for such a GREAT time!

SENIOR: Megan

2011-09-23T12:02:00.000-07:00

Everytime I have a photo session with a senior girl, my heart feels like is squeezes in my chest...

It's because I have DAUGHTERS...and I watch these senior girls through my lens and I am reminded that I'm just a mere 8 years away from my eldest girl being in this same position...

I'm so thankful that the clients that seek me out, are ones that aren't just in it for a pretty picture...they are people that cherish memories, just like me...they want the experience to remember...they enjoy letting their personality shine through...

It's in THOSE moments, that you get the images that will stay with you forever...

I so enjoyed my morning with Megan and her mom...(and her little sister:)

She had such fashion sense and knew what to wear in the right environment...and then she let me capture different sides of her personality.

We went to multiple locations...and we hit the light at JUST the right time...oh my goodness, this might be one of my all time favorites:)

Time went by so quickly, but we raced downtown to get just a few more pictures with a different feel and fun textures...

Thank you ladies for a wonderful morning! Megan, you are beautiful!!!

Bang for your Buck

2011-09-21T09:36:00.000-07:00

For those of you that know me, you know I'm a frugal person...I like to get the best for my money...to get the best bang for the buck, so to speak...

However, I will admit that when I first got my DSLR camera, I knew that it had a bunch of buttons and doodads...but to be honest, I felt like those were for people smarter than me...

I mean, let's be real here...I"m a grown adult who still COUNTS ON HER FINGERS...there was no way I was going to be able to figure out all those switching numbers and fractions and big words like aperture and ISO as they related to numbers and photography..

I felt this way for 3 years with my camera...in that time, I did see improvement from my old point and shoot...but my pictures still didn't look like the professionals that I soooo wanted to be like...they weren't even close...(except on those few "LUCKY" occassions where I must have done something right) And the thing is, I HAD A BIG CAMERA LIKE THEY DID!!!

So, it was at this point that my "frugality" kicked...I shelled out QUITE a bit of money for a camera...and I only understood how to use about 25% of it's capability...THAT was not getting the best bang for my buck...

I decided to try to take some classes...I saved up more money only to be disappointed in many of the teachers...because, underneath it all, I was a mom who wanted to capture her kids...I wanted "frame-worthy" pictures so I never had to go to JCPenney Studio again:) I wanted someone to speak to me in a "language" I could understand!!!

That's when the teacher in me gave me a good kick in the pants and I started doing what I did best...I started researching and networking and asking questions and surfing the internet and reading books...I threw out the stuff that I knew I didn't need and I developed creative ways to remember the things I DID need.

**********************************************************

Soooooo...are you like me? Did you invest in a big camera but never REALLY learn it? Does your understanding and knowledge match the capability of your camera? If not, I feel your frustration...I've been there...BUT, I also know that it's NOT a good use of your moneys spent to just sit on that incredible piece of equipment and never fully understand what you CAN get from it!

Here's an example of what I'm talking about:

The picture on the left is SOOC (Straight Out Of Camera) using AUTO...I just turned my camera on, put it on the green AUTO dial and snapped the picture...

The picture on the right is also SOOC (no photoshop, no enhancements, nothing) However, I controlled the settings in this one...I set my own aperture, shutterspeed, and ISO...

Now, the picture on the left isn't bad...(it better not be for the amount I paid for my camera:) HOWEVER, when you compare it to the one on the right and KNOW that YOU CAN get THAT type of result with the SAME camera, SAME lens...and all you have to do is have a little better understanding of yoru equipment...OH MY!!

October 16th is the last Snapshop offered for 2011 in Ohio. The last one before the Christmas holidays and fun times in the snow! The last one before Halloween and jumping in the leaves...

It is a one of kind workshop...I'm a mom who is concerned about capturing moments, about teaching to specific learning styles, and especially about balancing a budget...

For only $125 you get 4.5 hours of instruction from a former public school educator and a stay at home mom who is also in the midst of soccer games, laundry and dirty dishes...

I'm all about the "cute" too...so I also give you a "treat" with one of my custom made camera strap slip covers...

You also get a creative booklet to keep in your camera bag to be a quick guide for those moments that you need some extra help, but don't want to try to figure it out by flipping through your mega camera manual!

In side you'll find all sort of helpful tips and photo recipes...I even give you a quick guide to Photoshop Elements if you've invested in that program as well:)

To secure your spot for October 16th, your deposit of $25 needs to be received by October 1st. I've been to LOTS of different classes to learn photography...I've searched the internet for other opportunites like this and I haven't found one to match it...the price, the gifts, the food:), and the instruction...it's worth your time!!

I hope to see you in October...email me at ctphotomemories@gmail.com asap!!!

Kirk & Kate: engaged:)

2011-09-13T19:17:00.000-07:00

Kirk is my hubby's cousin. Whenever my husband's family would get together through the years, it was always Kirk to whom I'd gravitate...he's into photography too and we could sit out on Gram's lawn and talk lenses and cameras for hours.

This past summer we had another family reunion and I was able to meet Kate for the first time...oh my, talk about a perfect match! They compliment each other so well and share so much in common...she's genuine, funny, eager to set others at ease...she and Kirk are so easy to be with and talk to...she's just got one thing on Kirk though...hee hee...she's BEAUTIFUL! (sorry dear cousin, I had to throw that in there...what's family if we can't tease?)

Being that Kirk is a photoshop master, he will be taking some of these images to create an incredible Save the Date card...I can't wait to get it and hang it in my home!

I'm excited to share with you just a few of the snapshots we got while we hung out last weekend!

THIS is why I love them so...

Really and truly though...you make a beautiful couple:) So excited for you!!!

Last Snapshop of 2011 (in Ohio)

2011-09-03T18:30:00.000-07:00

Hope to see you at the Snapshop...contact me via email at ctphotomemories@gmail.com by September 7th to let me know if you are interested...we need a minimum of 5!!!

September Schedule

2011-09-01T13:39:00.000-07:00

Here is the first part of the month's schedule...being dependant on weather, I want to be sure not to inconvenience others with rescheduling...thanks so much for your understanding and patience. As we near the middle of the month, I'll begin putting out the next few weeks schedule...

Can't wait to see you...first come, first serve...and first choice in location:)

Newbie:)

2011-08-29T18:11:00.000-07:00

I did things a little bit differently this time around with this sweet little newness:)

Normally, I'm much more focused on candid, relationship interaction, etc with new ones...but, when the Mommy is a teacher (like yours truly) and she has all these incredible hats and props and such....well...

Let's just say that Brecka and I had wayyyy too much fun "playing with this doll" than anything else. So you'll have to forgive the many wardrobe changes and the gazillion poses...

Rest assured, since her Mommy & Daddy are a part of our lifegroup, I ended up having her over again a couple weeks later in order to get some "real" pictures...like all those sweet details and snuggling with Mommy...sweet touches and gentle kisses:) In other words, I stayed on task, more true to my "norm"...

Regardless, I think you'll at least enjoy these outcomes because, really...who can resist a newborn with bright, twinkle-y eyes???

Lastly...hello little smooshie...

Getting out of GREEN...aka: auto mode

2011-08-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

The example above shows the difference between auto and manual settings.

I went and got my old Nikon D70 (which has an auto option) and snapped a couple pictures of my eldest daughter. I took one on auto and the other with the manual settings that I chose. If you just look at the one on the left and cover the "manual mode", it doesn't look bad...but when you take a look at the blur in the background and the brightness of her face on the right...well, you see what it COULD be!

Though I normally use photoshop to enhance the color in my images, I did not use it at all, to show actual results with my manual settings on the right. And although, photoshop fixes are helpful, especially on crazy days when laundry is pushing me out of my home...it's a whole lot faster when you can get pictures to come straight out of the camera just RIGHT!

Just another good reason to take a SNAPSHOP class:)

Or, if you feel like you've got a good enough handle on those manual settings...perhaps you have time and want to be able to fiddle with them in photoshop...here's an example using the same picture from above...I didn't do much to it...and definitely didn't do what the Photoshop Program is capable of, but it's enough to make my picture POP enough to enlarge it and hang it on the wall:)

Maybe we'll see YOU at a Click It class in the future!!1

Almost ONE...

2011-08-26T18:46:00.000-07:00

Only a few more months and this little beauty will be ONE...

time sure has flown...I am always amazed after a year has passed and just how much has changed in such a seemingly short period of time. Now, granted, I'm sure there were moments in these past 9 months (and I would say moments coming in the future) where it seemed like the situation would NEVER end...

but it always does and time continues on...

This little girl has some pretty incredible parents...they are not just in love with each other and their little girl, but they are passionate about capturing all her changes...all the moments...

They both joined me at the last Snapshop that I held just a week ago. They want to learn how to capture the opportunities that only they can as they watch her grow day in and day out.

I can't tell you how honored I am that they chose me to document even just a small segment of their lives. I hope you enjoy and can see the story unfold...

The End:)

Vulnerable

2011-08-26T13:20:00.000-07:00

Okay...so I'm going to be completely honest and vulnerable here!

It's not that I'm trying to put up appearances or be something I'm not...we ALL know that NOONE is perfect...we all know that everyone makes mistakes...Everyone is on their own life journey...

Part of my "journey" involves photography...and with that comes stretching and growing and learning...I'll admit that there are times that I surf the internet and find other photographers and think, "Oh, they have sooo arrived!" And, maybe they have...but the thing is, I'm always finding different angles, different views of life through my lens...different ways to capture a moment and make it shine...

This all takes practice, learning, asking questions, trial and error...

It's part of the reason that I've started teaching Snap Shops and Click Its...Goodness, if I had been offered those opportunities about 7 years ago, oh my, what a jump start I would have had on my "journey". I want other moms to have the opportunity to let all that knowledge start to sink in...so that by the time their littlest ones are kickin' the ball around the soccer field, they've got their settings nearly mastered...and then they can spend time continuing their "education" in other areas, whilst still "capturing the moment" to the fullest...

Does that make sense?

So...where was I going with all that? Well, I want you to know that most people (especially when they are trying to sell something) are going to put their best foot forward...or in my case, I'm pretty much only going to show you the AWESOME pictures that I get...I'm not going to show you the blurry ones, the ones where people blink, the ones where my exposure was way off

YES...I JUST ADMITTED THAT MY SHOTS DO NOT COME OUT OF THE CAMERA PERFECT! YIKES...I sincerely hope I don't lose clients over that admission, but reality is...as I stated before...I'm on a journey...I'm constantly learning...and I definitely have FUN along the way!

However, this time, I wanted you share with you what I've been "learning" and just how it has impacted my photography.

Newborn photography is probably the most challenging aspect of this "job"...It may not seem like it, in that they basically stay still for you and you're in one room for a longggg time...I would normally think family photos would be more difficult...where you are chasing 2 and 3year olds around a grassy area trying to get a perfect shot...and though that IS challenging at times, I find it FUN and exhilerating...

Newborns are precious, new little ones...everyone is hushed and watchful...everything in me wants to capture every little thing for this new mom...and she wants those pictures to be perfect as well...but, just like the TV adds about 10 pounds to an actress...images capture baby acne, red blotches, peeling skin...the works:) And though that is part of package, it's not really what mommies "see" when they look at their angels...and so, I feel it's part of my job to do my best at showcasing what their heart sees...

WOW...what a lengthy post just to show you this before and after picture:) But, I hope you enjoy it nonetheless! Have a great weekend!

It's Not Everyday...

2011-08-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

that TWINS turn ONE!

I was able to take some photos of these beauties just a few short months ago...but NOW, they are ONE year old!

Such sweet girls...each one has her own little personality...I love that they will probably grow up being best friends, but will so obviously be each other's opposite:) What a beautiful and marvelous gift!

I wanted to capture specific moments this time around...of course, it's always my goal to "tell a story" and to make images communicate personality and feeling...but I wanted relationships to really shine this time...

This age goes by soooo quickly...their size, personalities...it will all change with seasons...and I wanted this little family to be able to look back and see...REALLY see the bonds that started at even an early age!

I hope you can "see" it too...enjoy:

Rebecca: Senior

2011-08-23T05:46:00.000-07:00

Rebecca came all the way from Chicago to have some photo time with me:)

Well, and visit her Aunts & Uncles and cousins and other extended family...so I suppose I can't really take credit for being the REASON she came...but, regardless, we had a great time wandering around the city and snapping pictures...

The lighting was incredible while the sun was setting...we scurried along through parks, alley ways, and other beautiful settings to capture her in the just the right lighting...

I had such a difficult time chosing just a few to post...each image showed a different personality or side to her person:) Thank you again for such a great evening!!

Interview with a Snapshop "graduate"

2011-08-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

Let me give you a little background...

You are about to "meet" Beth...

You might remember her here:

She came to my very FIRST SnapShop class. She and her family have been my "guinea pigs" for many years...and I can't thank her enough!

I was so excited when I learned that she actually had her own SLR camera and it's what got me thinking about creating classes...I watched this mom, only a few years behind me in her season of life...and I didn't want her to miss a thing...I wanted her to be able to show the story of her life to her little boys as they grew...and I knew that's what SHE wanted too...

Out of this "heart" grew the Snap-shop:) (or photography workshop if you will)

Recently, I asked Beth a few questions about her experience and if it was worth it...if I had created a class that actually took people to the next level of their learning...if they came away feeling confident about capturing life to remember...

Here's what she had to say:

1. What attracted you to take a photography class and why Colleen's SnapShop?
I bought a digital SLR camera for my birthday last fall but had only used it in auto mode... while it took nice pictures, I wanted to learn more of the possibilities of what it could do and how I could capture more moments of my boys (and have the pictures look better!)... also just tips on creating a good photo
2. Were your expectations met? If so, how or in what way?
YES! I learned how to use my camera in manual mode, learned the photography lingo so I understood how to capture what I wanted (changing the aperture to blur or focus, shutter speed to capture fast movement, etc.), and how to set up a good picture--how you're able to capture such cute pictures by tilting the camera, framing your subject, getting the right light, etc.

3. Have you seen a difference in the way you take pictures now compared to before the class?
Yes! I know I still can't take great pictures inside my house (too dark!... still waiting to buy a nicer lens with lower aperture), but I know that I need good light, and have been able to get lots of cute pictures outside!

4. How has the class helped you in being a photo-journalist of your family, specifically your boys;)?
Rather than taking a wide shot of all that's going on, I've been trying to zoom/focus in more on the boys and what they're doing, or their adorable face close up, or their hands playing with worms in the mud or digging into Legos... things that I think make a better picture and tell more of a story... I easily have 20 great pictures of Jackson's slimy hands covered in mud and worms oozing all around them and the smile on his face as he plays with them, versus one tall shot of him with tiny hands playing with worms (where it's too hard to even see the worms!)

5.What would you say to other moms that have the big SLR cameras but have never learned what it is capable of?
Take Colleen's class! A teacher at heart, she does an awesome job of explaining how your camera works, how to capture/set-up the picture you want, how to change your camera settings to get the right picture... all in a fun and easy-going atmosphere where you can practice and have all your personal questions answered! And when you're finished, take the photoshop Click-it class! Learn how to take your pictures to the next level (or fix what you messed up when taking the picture), and how to make holiday cards/birth announcements/birthday invitations, etc.

Here is something she created after taking the Click It class as well...You'll see her pictures prior to a Snapshop Class and what she's taking NOW!!! SOOOO AWESOME!

Thank you so much Beth! I LOVE to see your little "men" and how they are growing...you aren't missing a single moment! Love you!

Gaining a Heart of Wisdom!

2011-08-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

We had another SnapShop success today...

I can't tell you what it does to my teacher heart to hear it said over and over again during the course of this 4.5 hour class, "Ohhhh, I get it now" or "okay, the lightbulb totally just went off!"

I thoroughly enjoy teaching people how to use their cameras...I see sooo many people with the big SLRs...especially at classroom parties at school or on the soccer field...and more times than I can count, I KNOW they have it on AUTO...

So...who cares? what's the big deal? The deal is..when you have your camera on AUTO and you don't have enough "light", that little pop up flash comes up no matter what and you often get blown out faces, shadows on the back wall and photos that aren't quite what you had planned...

When you come to a Snapshop class, you learn how to "control" your camera instead of letting the camera control itself AND deem what IT thinks is best in a given situation...you lose the "art" of the moment...you lose the ability to capture some emotion when you keep it on AUTO. Yes, you DO get lucky sometimes...

But, these ladies (and one gentleman) didn't want to just "sometimes" get it right...they came prepared to learn some tools to make their images tell a story, capture a moment, evoke an emotion...

and learn they did!

I even finally remembered to get a class picture!!!

My hubby madly cleans our house while I set up little touches here and there...

These were made by Sandy from her store on Etsy...see her things HERE

I had fun sewing the camera straps this time around...I had some real favorites in this batch...

Once again, my hubby comes to the rescue and prepares an incredible spread for the class attendees...

After they sit and listen to me talk and teach and talk some more...we get to actually APPLY what we've learned...

We go outside...then inside for indoor lighting...we explore different angles...

Had a husband/wife couple this time...they had literally gotten their camera in the mail less than 24 hours prior to class...they were troupers and caught up fast!

We had a marvelous afternoon...so thankful for all these friends that came today...Looking forward to seeing your pictures in the future!!!

Boy times 2

2011-08-18T13:28:00.000-07:00

My very first photo shoot I ever attempted was of this family. They were gracious enough to let me run around after there firstborn and even let him splash in a mud puddle...all in the name of "capturing moments"!

Fast forward a couple years, add another little boy and presto: we've got cuteness doubled and FUN written all over the place!

I love watching this Mommy & Daddy interact with their boys...

I'm pretty much going to assume that there is never a dull moment at their house...at least if their photo sessions are any indication:)

I'm excited to watch them grow! I know that both Danny & Beth are going to model for them, integrity and strength...right along side all their fun and lovin'! I love you all!!!

it's Reunion Time Again!

2011-08-12T19:45:00.000-07:00

Family is what it's all about...

RELATIONSHIPS...it's what we were created for!

Sometimes they can cause frustration, sometimes sorrow, but hopefully, in most cases it brings joy and happiness...family relationships are strong bonds that through thick and thin, you are together!

Reunion photo shoots are fun for me because I get to watch the many dynamics of an ENTIRE family! It's also great because everyone goes away feeling like they got what they were after, plus they get a little extra bonus with their little immediate family units:)

These folks welcomed my little family into the neighborhood about 5 years ago and they have been such a source of encouragement and love to us. Our neighborhood is made up of wonderful folks and the fact that I can allow my girls to play out back and I know that everyone is keeping an eye out for them is just a blessing!

Mary is my zucchini-knowledge extraordinaire person! She has helped me tremendously with ideas for cooking up yummy things for my family. I am so honored to know both her and her husband. It was a joy to be able to meet her children and grandchildren...it was a HOT day, to say the least...but everyone was out there giving it their all because of the love they have for them!

Here's the whole gang...

I had fun with the grandkids of course....

I think THEY had fun with Grandpa...

And I enjoyed getting a few shots of individuals and little families...

Thank you all for a wonderful evening! It was a pleasure being able to joke and play and capture some moments!!!

Family Reunion part 3 of 3

2011-08-07T15:23:00.000-07:00

My girls were ecstatic to see this little guy again...

We had visited them on our way from our whirlwind vacation to Williamsburg, Jamestown, Mt. Vernon and D.C. back in early May and my girls fell in love with this little fellow!!!

He found such delight in small things...this included the tiny holes from which the water comes out on a slip and slide:) and ice cubes on a hot driveway! His expressions were priceless...if you happen to be my friend on facebook you'll see our reunion slideshow and more of his cuteness on "show" there!

I just wanted a share a few family pics for them on this site though...

Thanks Megan & Erik for letting me snap a few before you headed on your long drive home! Wish we lived closer!!!

Family Reunion part 2 of 3

2011-08-07T14:09:00.000-07:00

So, to continue my thoughts with our "reunion visit" a couple weekends back, I will tell you that I enjoy seeing the 'next' generation getting along and playing together. It must bless the hearts of the "oldest' generation as well.

Tricia and her little family are some of the cousins that are in our "age range" and the same with their kiddos as well (are you keeping all this straight?") My two eldest daughters enjoyed watching Tricia's older girl and playing all day...let's just say that buckets of ice water, chalk paint and cartwheels may or may not have been involved:)

There is quite a span in age between her 2 girls, but this sweet baby lights up with big sis is around...and vice versa!

I'm glad that Tricia asked to get one last picture of her and her eldest...they have a sweet relationship...I hope you know that I'm watching and learning from you cousin! You are an incredible mom!

Thanks Tricia for letting get a few pictures of you and your sweet family! I love to see how God continues to bless your life!

Family Reunion Part 1 of 3

2011-08-04T05:21:00.000-07:00

Last weekend our family had a reunion over yonder in one of those eastern states:) Because of weddings and (sad to say) funerals, we've not had an official "reunion" for quite awhile...so to say that we were excited to see everyone again and just hang out would have been an understatement.

We packed up the girls with all their sleeping paraphenalia, including blankies, stuffed animals, pillows, sippy cups, more stuffed animals and believe it or not...sleeping eye masks:) (don't even ask:)

We arrived in a flurry of activity which later included a big ole slip and slide and a silly game of "washers"...

In the midst of it all, I was able to spend some quality time with some of my husband's cousins, of whom I've very much come to love as my own! They all are kind, generous, thoughtful and plain FUN to be around...

And trying to talk them into letting me take their family photos was like pulling teeth...they were so "worried" about me and me being able to relax...

What they may not have realized is that I am energized by family and people in general...and especially so by those that I know love me for me...that value what I do and don't take it for granted...

I am blessed beyond measure to have these people in my life!

So, for round one of the Reunion Time...we have Jupiter and Kristen!

Let's first take a look at their beautiful children:

Thankyou all for letting me snap a few pictures of you during our family time together! I sooo enjoyed it!

You are Blessed...

2011-08-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have such a unique opportunity when I get to photograph reunions...

It's the coming together of siblings who've carved for themselves a new pathway in life...countless additions to little family units and personalities that are as vast as the stars...

And let's face it...trying to get a BUNCH of people together, all dressed nicely, with all those dynamics in full force...well, it calls for much patience and a good sense of humor...

I have worked with this family for 2 years now and I can tell you with full confidence that they are blessed beyond measure!

I get to watch first hand as husbands love their wives...cousins interacting and playing with each other...friendly sibling banter...the occassional melt-down or two:)...but mostly, I get to watch love being given out immeasureably...

I can't imagine how incredibly thankful all these family members are to Susie & Spencer for valuing family and wanting to document it for years to come...the legacy that they are passing down...the treasure of relationships...

I am honored and blessed to just be there to witness it all:)

Here are just a few of my favorites from each family unit...I hope you enjoy the story told in each image:)

I couldn't resist those curls...

I'm sure you remember this beauty from the first post...I had to include her "ornery" face too...she is adorable...I don't even know what else to say about it:)

She has lots of fun with her big sis...

and if you EVER want to tug on my heart strings...show me a daddy that cherishes his little girls...

Onto family #3 in this Reunion mix...

This lovely lady shares my name, only spelled very uniquely (I'm rather jealous if you must know) She is in a household of all boys...and yet she carries herself with gentleness & grace...I loved seeing them again this year...I loved being able to get another image to document the relationship that they have...

We may or may not have started referring to this guy as Mr. G.Q....hello heart breaker!

Everytime this picture comes up on my screen, I get a huge smile on my face...I can't help it!

again...melt me...daddies lovin' on their kids...

you probably remember these sisters too...I had too many cute ones to choose from...I've already posted a few on facebook, so I split the wealth and posted different ones here:)

introducing baby sister...

You KNOW I'm partial to families with ALL GIRLS:)

And finally...to the ones that started it all...

Thank you Spencer & Susie for allowing me to participate in your family fun! I am honored to know you!

Summertime Get-Together!

2011-07-24T12:31:00.000-07:00

Oh my...had a blast last Sunday working with a very large family reunion...such great friends and it was so nice to be able to see how all the kiddos had grown. I'm diligently working on getting those photos up here...but until then, I hope you'll enjoy this little sneak peek:)

Can't wait to show you his brothers...they are ALLLLLLL into golf and tennis...let me tell you! It was a FUN morning to say the least!

She held tightly to her little lamby and her precious expressions made me melt!

You can tell these beauties enjoy being sisters...I heard stories of them sharing their bedroom and all their play times together! Such darlings!

This adorable sweetheart has curls just like my little girl...and I couldn't get enough!

This little guy only liked his hat for a leeetle bit of time...but it was worth it...can't wait to share more of him!

I'll be back with more soon!

Last scheduled Snapshop for the Summer...

2011-07-19T06:04:00.000-07:00

SnapShops for MOMS! (and Dads)

You did it! You bit the bullet…you invested a good amount of money into a “big” camera. You know the types of pictures that you want…you know that sometimes those point and shoots miss the action b/c the clicker just doesn’t CLICK when you tell it to…In your mind you can see the images that you want to capture, and like many of us, you are willing to go to a certain point to obtain what you want…

The problem is that you get this camera and sure, the pictures are better than before…but you’re shooting hundreds of pictures…you’re trying the continuous shutter so that you don’t miss a thing but STILL…you’re getting a good shot MAYBE every once in awhile and even those aren’t those “frame-worthy” ones that you were envisioning in the first place.

So, what’s the deal? The deal is that you purchased a piece of equipment and until your knowledge and know-how starts to equal what that equipment is capable of, you’re only going to get “lucky” with your pictures instead of capturing moments deliberately!

It’s like buying a computer, but not knowing how to get into the internet. The computer looks great, the screen is large, you can type on Word and build your budget in Excel, but you just can’t seem to figure out how to connect to cyberspace…that would take some extra effort…a little more investment…however, once you get that router and you’ve got yourself some WiFi…goodness, you are off and running and there’s nothing stopping you!

It’s the same with a DSLR camera. Your camera has LOTS of buttons and crazy-exciting things that it can do. And maybe some of you HAVE spent the time, you’ve TRIED to sit and read through that long manual only to be baffled by big words and wondering, “what is really important here?”

I’ve been there! As a Mom who savors her time and moments like gold…I don’t want to waste it…but, I also don’t want to miss it b/c I didn’t bother to learn some tools to help me grow in order to capture it forever!

SnapShops are for YOU…those of you who have the equipment and just need the “know-how” in order to use it to it’s fullest capability…you just need a new perspective and a refresher on the philosophy of photo-journalism…so that you can document your life and the lives of your children in a way that tells the story of your life instead of just bits and pieces, here and there.

SnapShops are 4.5 hours long…you learn my philosophy of photography and capturing your children’s personalities…you learn how to look at life through a lens and how to focus in on important things and also how to dance between the bigger picture and zooming in close…you learn new angles and perspectives, shortcuts and ways to use your MOM-time efficiently and still get the pictures you want…you also learn about the mechanics of your camera…how to get it off auto and get the blurry backgrounds, not have to use a flash indoors so that you get a natural feel instead of blown out faces and begin to find out just what your camera can do!

Snapshops are only a minimal monetary commitment compared to the invaluable amount of knowledge you take away with you...in order to be a photojournalist for your family!

Class sizes are limited...Ohio Snapshops cap off at 14...Michigan Snapshops caps at 10...

What you receive:

*4.5 hours of instruction including question/answer time with the instructor
*Detailed Class Notes with exercises to practice at home
*spiral bound, color printed, 20 page quick guide booklet for your camera bag
*light lunch and snacks
*a custom made camera strap slip cover to fit your DSLR camera strap

Investment: $125

Minimum class size is 5 people.

Classes are first come, first serve and are offered during the following dates/time for the remainder of the 2011 year. Act fast by contacting Colleen via email at ctphotomemories@gmail.com for inquiries and/or to put in a reservation. A $25 non-refundable deposit is due 2 weeks prior to the class to secure your spot. You may pay in full, and if you are unable to attend, you will be refunded your full amount minus the deposit.

***pricing has changed over the course of past months due to increase in time to benefit learners and costs of extras that are provided in this one-of-a-kind type workshop***

2011 Schedule for SnapShops

Sunday, August 21th 1-5:30pm Delaware, Ohio

November (TBA) Woodhaven, Michigan

***possible Sept or Oct date may be scheduled, and would be held on a Sunday afternoon***

See HERE for information on the CLICK IT classes as well!

Don't just take my word for it...read testimonials HERE

Teacher's Sweetness!

2011-07-18T16:03:00.000-07:00

We changed schools this year and my middle girl began her school career of going ALL day, EVERY day! With all the changes and "newness" of it all, we could NOT have been more pleased with her teacher. She is not only kind-hearted and sweet, but organized and has some incredible insight...especially when it comes to her students.

When we all discovered that she'd be having her OWN little one, we were ecstatic. I was honored to have the chance to photograph this sweet new arrival...a mere 3 weeks after he was born...AND, he was only 5 lbs. 6oz.

I can't tell you what it did for my heart to just cuddle this sweet little bundle. I could have just "shooshed" him and rocked him all day!

We had lots of fun with this little basket because he was such a peanut, he fit so snuggly and would just cuddle down inside and sleeeeeeeep away!

We went outside b/c it was gorgeous and he was just as happy with the warm sun shining down.

He is a wonderful blessing to a wonderful teacher & her husband. We are soooo thankful for them all!

Processing Thoughts

2011-07-15T18:02:00.000-07:00

I will be the first to admit that I have NOT arrived when it comes to the photography world! I think that's the challenge of it...and the FUN...there is always room to grow and change and follow different paths...

I will say that I do enjoy the versatility of digital though...and with all the options and diversity comes CHOICE...

being a most IN-decisive person, I will tell you openly and honestly that THIS is where I struggle the most...

I have a philosophy that pictures should tell a story...some are able to stand alone and others need a few in a row to get the whole "meaning" across. Because of this, I tend to look at each image on it's own...

The struggle comes when I take a bunch of pictures together and I start wanting to process them differently...

This may sound like mumbo-jumbo to some of you...but if you've ever taken my Click It class and/or are familiar with photoshop, you will know that these programs have endless capabilities...

Let me show you...

The top picture is SOOC (straight out of camera)...I spent a few minutes just practicing with my 35/1.8 lens today with my girls. When I got back inside and looked at the pictures, I had so many ideas swimming in my brain...

At first, I really liked the boldness and vivid colors...and so I made them pop and adjusted some layers to make it happen...The bottom picture is the result...

But, then I started thinking about the sun and the way it reflects off my little girl's hair...and so I started fiddling with golden tones and hazy backgrounds...and it came out with a completely different look...

Therein lies my problem...I could sit for hours editing the SAME picture over and over again in a gazillion different ways...

In the meantime, I am enjoying the process..but I'll let you know if I ever come up with a solution!!!

Sooooooo, which one do you like better??? Summer hazy top image or vivid pop bottom image???

Michigan Area Photo Shoot

2011-07-15T06:40:00.000-07:00

A longggggggggg time ago...there were two young girls (pictured above)...The one on the left apparantly enjoyed wearing draperies as her chosen fashion statement...the one on the right had a much more refined sense of style which has carried her into the next generation...

I met Ang when I was 11 years old...our last names were close enough in alphabetical order that we shared homerooms all the way through Jr. High and High School. She was (and still is) beautiful, with long fingernails (I chewed mine off) and an artsy style. She was smart and funny...and tiny enough to be the flier on the cheerleading squad!!! And she was my friend!

I consider it a privilege to have known such wonderful people throughout my growing up years. Perhaps you don't realize what you have until time has past...what is that saying??? "hindsight is 20/20"

It's been nearly 20 years since I last saw Angie and when we "found" each other again on facebook, it was only a matter of time that we would meet up...I had the opportunity to meet the "men" in her life...from her incredible husband, to her adorable son! I can't even put into words the joy in my heart to see her so happy and living life as we could only dream about as teenagers.

Thank you Ang for sharing this evening with me...for letting me join in. I am soooo happy for you...it's a beautiful life!

SnapShop Michigan Review

2011-07-14T20:11:00.000-07:00

I can't tell you how much I enjoyed this past weekend...I can't even stop thinking about it!

The thing is, is that I absolutely love being able to help moms capture their kids in timeless ways...I know how much I cherish my pictures...so much so, that after my kids and hubby are safe in the basement during a tornado warning...you BETTER BELIEVE that I'm running back upstairs to grab my external hard drives and all my scrapbooks...

scary...but true!

I know that I already posted a "leetle" bit about the day...with that infamous cheerleading shot by Ms. Bev:) Let's just not get into that...Okay?

However, I was so thankful to have my friend Jen from Jennifer Gamet Photography come and take some pictures of all the "action" going on. She and I have had many a'chat over facebook and email about photography and just finding your "niche"...It's amazing how diverse the realm of photography really is...it's really just an expression of self and how you "see life through the lens"...Many photographers have been able to zero in on their passion...for some it's newborns...for others it is weddings...

I will tell you that combining my passion for photography along with my love for teaching and people has been the most fulfilling and inspiring part of this journey!

Thank you Jen for sharing your "art" with me...and for capturing personalities and moments...

Thank you gals for attending and for making it such a GREAT day! I'll be checking in with you all soon to see how you are progressing...and I'll continue to post more helpful tips throughout the remaining summer months...I'm currently starting to create a Snapshop/Click IT Part TWO that I'm looking to offer next spring...be sure to keep watching for information and shoot me an email if it's something you'd be interested in!

***all photos in this post by Jennifer Gamet Photography....be sure to "like" her page on facebook HERE as well!

Click It Gals...UNITE! :)

2011-07-12T21:16:00.000-07:00

Okay...so that's a corny title, but it's wayyyy late at night and I am munching on gumballs, so what can I say?

First off..hi there Click It Gals...

I handed out a TON of information last weekend about Photoshop Elements at our Click It workshop. Many of you were thrilled with what the program can do and others of you didn't quite know where to start...I understand the feeling:) Hang in there though...you'll start to get a flow here pretty soon...

I thought it might help some of you to kinda get an idea of where I start when it comes to post-processing...You have the Workflow guide in your handout, so you can sorta follow along once again...but I'll try to walk you through a picture that I just recently took...

Here's straight out of the camera or SOOC:

It was bright sun...can anyone guess where my ISO was set? I had to run for my camera and I knew I wanted to freeze action. Here's another question for you...so which did I care more about at this point: shutterspeed or aperture? In the end, I bumped both up really high because I needed the picture fast...it was hot and water was splashing everywhere...so I just kept moving my settings until I metered out!

I like the picture...it's funny and captures a personality, but I didn't quite frame it up when I took the picture...dont' worry...this happens and that's what makes photoshop so much fun!

The first thing I did was to crop the picture...using that crop tool (see your handout guide) I drew my crop and then tilted it a little bit more...cuz you KNOW I like the tilt!

I then just looked at the picture...what did I want to convey? What is most important? For me, I wanted just the girls to POP...so that meant that I needed to look at color and contrast first. It looked a little drab to me...so that's where I went first...

I made a Levels Adjustment layer in my Layers pallette. I moved my sliders accordingly as I met them up with my histogram (again, check your handout). Then I went and grabbed my Smart Brush for Blue skies and I painted THE POOL! Yep...totally left out the sky here, but I figured, "hey, it's only a computer, it won't know the difference between water and sky"...I was right! Wa-La: BLUEST blue water!

Finally, I did a little Blur the Background (see page 7 of your handout) Remember to duplicate your layer and either make a layer mask or just blur it and use the eraser tool....I zoomed in close to get them in sharp focus, but left the background more blurred. Let's say it together: "black conceals, white reveals"

Here's the end result:

Now, I'm a bit addicted to actions and I know that they can give an image an even greater KICK if you use them just right...I gave you some links to learn more about them in your handout...I just recently purchased some Pure Photoshop Actions and so I ran them...and this is the Final FINAL result! It's subtle, but I think it makes things all the more colorful and draws your eye even more to the girls jumping! I know that they'll love it!

You can see the progression here:

I hope that helps to give you a little bit of an insight into how I approach a picture SOOC and how I know where to take it from there...

Remember girls...just focus on one thing at a time...as you go along you'll start to notice different things and learn new tricks and shortcuts...I'd love to see your pics soon...please be sure to upload a few to the facebook page so we can all share and learn!

All in the Family...

2011-07-12T11:30:00.000-07:00

My brother in law's little sister graduated from high school this year. I don't think I actually put two and two together to realize just how much older he was from his baby sister...

Once soccer starts in the spring and then again in the fall, combined with the winter weather season...I don't get back "home" to Michigan very often anymore. However, this past weekend, since I was heading up for the SnapShop class, I had some "downtime" beforehand and was able to snap a few pictures for her graduation party coming up soon.

Seniors are such multi-faceted individuals...so many sides to their personalities...it's almost impossible to process their images in one consistent way...each image stands on it's own to depict an inner attitude and personality all their own!

Here are just a few from our time together:)

SnapShop Michigan

2011-07-11T06:52:00.000-07:00

I went into the teaching profession for a number of reasons...but close to the top of the list was really, quite honestly, a selfish purpose...I love the feeling you get when you have taught something to a young mind and the lightbulb goes off. I can't do justice with words to explain the pure exhiliration I get from watching my students get giddy because they have finally figured out something that, to them, a mere 5 minutes prior was confounding their understanding.

I was honored and humbled once again to instruct another SnapShop class in Michigan this past weekend. As is typical for me, I approached the class on Saturday morning with butterflies in my stomach. I always want people to come away from interactions with me feeling like it was utterly worth their while.

In my herat I know I can not guarantee this, but I do my darndest to put myself in their shoes and try to imagine ways to illustrate points, make people feel special, encourage and inspire!

I have come away from each of my classes feeling blessed to have met the ladies...AND, I also love that I come away learning too. I learn things not only that I can improve upon, but the fact is...I'm a MOM too--and there is just something about getting a bunch of moms together that when you do, you enter this bond of sorts and you come away feeling empowered!

The Snapshop is different than other photography classes--in one obvious way because your instructor (yours truly) is a bit on the eccentric side...it is NOT below me to jump off chairs in a dress or make up character voices for my camera (strictly teaching purposes of course, wink wink)

please do not print screen, copy/paste, or use this photo for ANY purposes...thx!

for those of you wondering WHY would an instructor be jumping off a chair, in a dress no less, in the middle of class? was she celebrating? did she see a snake? was it a dare? Umm...nope...just trying to demonstrate the process of shutterspeed settings...class participants obviously "froze the action" as I jumped off the chair for them MULTIPLE times! Kudos to Bev who caught this one!!!

Thank you ladies for a wonderful time. As with all Snapshops and Click Its, you have my information and can contact me at any time for additional help if need be...

I am in the process now of developing and Snapshop/Click It II to take everything to the next level (again, as per Snapshop surveys from past attendees). I will finish out the 2011 year with a schedule of the future Snapshops offered in Ohio and in Michigan. Additional time is going to be added to the classes due to survey suggestions from participants and the need for extra one on one time for attendees. I think that past participants will vouch for me when I say that it IS worth your time and your money...if you've already made the GRAND investment into your camera...these additional class time amounts pale in comparison to the value and the information that you will glean to make you a better photographer and "photojournalist" of your family!!!

Be checking this site and the facebook page for the schedule coming out soon!!! There is limited space and it is first come first serve...so act fast when you see a date that works for you!

Hope to see YOU soon!!!

Sunshine Summer

2011-07-04T21:25:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy that the sun has finally decided to come out and stay for awhile...

Don't get me wrong, I enjoy a good rain...and it is ever so good for my garden, but I have to be honest and say that it was getting me a little gloomy. I just wanted to be able to play outside with my girls and enjoy the warmth for awhile...

I'm happy to report that the sun has, in fact, decided to stick around...at least for alittle bit...

And in that time, I was able to meet up with these lovely little ladies and snap a few pictures...with the sun sparkling through the trees, it glimmered in their hair and twinkled in their eyes...

I had a very hard time trying to decide which pictures to actually post because I had so many favorites. The littlest lady had a "thing" for the camera and I couldn't get a bad picture of her...NOT that I was trying! And big sis, she had some poses all thought up and ready to spring on me!

We had a lovely morning...a quick wardrobe change...and lots of giggles and smiles!

I wanted to capture their "sister" bond and thought the black and white version made it all the more sweet:)

Here wwe had a quick wardrobe change...Mom had Little Sis dress in the same sailor suit as Big Sis did when she was that age...

I couldn't resist giving it a vintage spin...she looked adorable!

Thanks for a wonderful morning little ladies! I had a lovely time!

My UN-Twin

2011-06-27T20:10:00.000-07:00

Do you remember when facebook did that whole "doppelganger" thing? It's the concept that you find someone that looks identical to you...most often, a "celebrity twin" if you will...

I have never really found my doppelganger, but really, I have MUCH more fun finding people that are NOT like me than I do with finding those with whom I share much in common...

I would consider Tracey my UN-doppelganger friend...First off, we look completely different...she has beautiful tanning skin, dark hair that NEVER frizzes, deep chocolate brown eyes...If that wasn't enough...she birthed three BOYS...as opposed to my three GIRLS...

She's confident, upfront and honest...I admire her strong spirit...she amazes me with her unending energy and incredible desire to show her love to her boys by just giving everything that she's got!

I was excited to be able to just get a few shots of this "Tomboy Princess" in a house of all boys!

Couldn't resist a little black and white with this beautiful Momma!

Thank you Tracey for a great morning:)

Gratification:)

2011-06-09T11:32:00.000-07:00

There is simply something to be said for working really hard for something and having it turn out well...you just feel good...

These little cuties had me workin' hard recently. This is what I love about family photo sessions...no two families are alike...I'm never bored and I never know who I"m going to meet or what I'm going to have to do to get the shots that I want:)

Big brother was Mr. J Crew...he had poses and stances and he was workin' the camera for me...

Little Miss had a different idea all together...fortunately, Mom brought along some "props" to hold her attention...I made some faces, made some "noises" and acted quite...ummm...I'm not sure there is a word to describe it...all this to get this princess to not put her hands over her sweet face:) I don't have to have kiddos looking at me for pictures...I know Moms and Dads like that, but sometimes the best pictures are ones that just capture a personality or a moment...turns out that we were able to get a little of both:)

But, it was GREAT to see her laugh and smile and show me her whole face:)

And they even compromised with me so that I could get them together for at least one shot for Mom:)

Yep...because after that...THIS is what she thought about my idea of getting together again...

"Seriously..."

Snap Shop (#2) success!

2011-06-05T12:37:00.000-07:00

We had another successful SnapShop class this weekend and it was incredible! Not only did I just love the ladies that attended, but I was honored to get that feeling every teacher craves when her students "get it"...

Oh my...the light went off and these gals were off and running...they got some blurry backgrounds, they were figuring out their camera settings...it was all starting to come together...

Thanks to Tracey for snapping a few pics of me in the middle of the class...just getting me in action once again...

For those unfamiliar with this class and maybe just need a little more information and understanding before you take that big plunge into the realm of MANUAL on your camera...here's how the class works...

We start off with a welcome where you receive a packet of information. I slowly go through the class notes so that you understand the basic flow of the class. Also inside your packet is a booklet that I wrote that acts as a quick reference guide for you...you can stick it in your camera bag and refer to it as needed. The ladies this weekend used it quite a bit when we got outside and started practicing...

Then we get down to business. Being a visual learner, I use a slideshow to show examples of everything that I'm talking about. You have your camera with you 100% of the time...we work through examples and I use lots of word pictures to help you gain an understanding of how your camera works.

I go through my philosophy of photography and how it applies to being a photo-journalist for your family. I'm first and foremost a wife and mom who adores her family...I want to help other people learn how to document their lives and the lives of their children...I have a heart for those wanting to capture moments that can stand alone in an image...

After this section of the class we work our way into the mechanics of our cameras. We haul out the manuals and the lenses and anything else that will help us better understand what we are about to undertake! I teach you all about words like aperture, shutterspeed and ISO and how they work together...I don't use big techie words...and if you ask me about some specifics of "why" something works a certain way, I probably won't understand it myself, but I CAN tell you what it actually does and how it works for YOU.

I tend to be a little eccentric and lively:) I do anything and everything I can to help you understand and then be able to apply what you are learning!

After I've talked so much and your head may feel like it's going to explode and your toes are tingling b/c you just can't wait to get out there and use what you've learned...we grab a quick bite to eat to store up on some energy and then we head outside to PRACTICE...

Yours Truly acts as your model and we set up different situations like full shade, full sun, indoor lighting, catching action and/or getting those "bokeh" blurry backgrounds...

Once class is finished, you leave feeling empowered with information and confidence to go home and capture LIFE through your lens. It really is worth the time and moneys...

If you are interested in a SnapShop class in the future, please email me, leave a comment here on the site or head over to my facebook page and leave a comment there. I'd love to set up another SnapShop here in the Columbus area sometime late summer or early fall.

I am looking to schedule a SnapShop and Click It class in Woodhaven, Michigan on July 9th. Please email me asap ifyou are interested!

Be sure to inquire about CLICK IT as well...Adobe Photoshop Elements is an excellent tool that you can use to not only enhance your photos but take them to the next level so that you can create storyboards, cards and more for yourself and your extended family.

NAEPE 2011 with Cranel Imaging & Versitec

2011-06-01T19:12:00.001-07:00

Just a little taste of what's been going on this week! It's that time of year again and Cranel, Inc. hosts an incredible gathering...this year's theme centered around a "caribbean" feel. Customers, Vendors and Sales Reps partaking in golf, wine tasting, cooking classes, skeet shooting and of course, the Muirfield Memorial Tournament. I've been busy capturing all these events and enjoying every minute!

Spring Wedding

2011-05-27T07:58:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out CT PhotoMemories Weddings to see more images of this amazing couple!!!

TWINS!!!

2011-05-25T18:52:00.000-07:00

I'm always amazed and inspired by families that have twins...

The closest I have been to seeing a "household in action" with twins, is with my brother & sister in law...and I have the UTMOST respect for my sis...she is amazing with those boys...

So, when these cuties "strolled" (steered by mommy & daddy) into the park, I was giddy and excited to get some pictures of these sweet girls.

One thing I do know, that though twins may share the same birthday and some may even "appear" identical...that is (most of the time) the ONLY thing they have in common...

These girlies were no exception...when one was giggling, the other was cautious and checking out the situation...it wasn't hard to see their personalities start to appear almost immediately...

It was such fun just to play and get these little ones enjoying the outdoors and feeling the grass for the first time!

It was a wonderful way to spend the afternoon on one of the first SUNNY days in a long while! I think this little sis enjoyed it as well!

Time is flyin' by...

2011-05-24T17:48:00.000-07:00

I met this sweet little girl back in November of 2010...

Six short months later and I can't believe how much she's grown...

There are some things that haven't changed though...

Her beautiful eyes...her contagious smile...that precious personality that is just bursting forth with each new month...

And it hasn't changed just how much she is loved...except maybe in the fact that the love keeps growing as well...

She just makes you want to smile!

I am honored each and every time I am called upon to capture this sweet one's happy face!

Photographing a Vacation

2011-05-16T11:31:00.000-07:00

In the past, I've come back from vacations with less than stellar photographs...

Sure they "sorta" remind me of my visit, but more oft than not, I got a teeeeny tiny speck in one corner of my picture with LOTS of scenery OR, I got close ups of things that I couldn't remember where I was or for what reason I took the picture...

We recently took a trip with our girls to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and DC. We had a couple of purposes in going...First off, we love history and the girls LOVE to dress up in this time period. Secondly, we wanted some good, quality family time...Because of this, I kept my camera close in certain situations and other times, I left it at the hotel so to be sure to just BE in the moment and not try to "document" every tidbit of our time away.

So what are some things to remember when you are on vacation...in order to get pictures that "tell the story" of your visit without having to sit through the "slideshow" and "explain" everything? Here are some tips that I discovered on the way...

1) Know your purpose: As I mentioned before, I wanted to come away from this vacation having had fun interacting with "history" but wanted to make sure we focused on "together" time..therefore, when I look back on this time, I want to remember those types of moments...so, when I start looking for "pictures" to capture, I keep this in mind.

Of course, you always want to get a cheesy, all together picture in front of the main "site" (in our case, the Governor's palace) And really, you're not going to be giving a photography lesson to some innocent and gracious by-stander who offers to take the picture...so, in some cases, the post-processing can add a little "oooomph" to your picture if it's not as great as you'd hoped...

However, for the rest of my "purposed-pictures", I kept in mind the theme of "historical learning" and "togetherness"...

When I set up my pictures (yes, there are some that I "pose) I think about the composition as well...in this one, I could have gotten their entire dresses and the whole palace green...but my focus was of our time together and so I opted for getting close up on their faces, the smiles that never seemed to wavor...with that palace blurred slightly in the background...

2) Tell the Story: This means that each picture (that I end up keeping out of the over 600+ that I took last week:) should be able to stand alone...I want to be able to not only look at the image and remember, but it should "say" something on it's own...I keep in mind what's in focus and what is blurred, I sometimes shift my subject to one side to show the "action" taking place...(***if you come to a SnapShop, you'll understand even more what I'm talking about here)

sometimes it even means focusing in on the little details of the day:

When we headed off to Jamestown for a couple hours, the girls changed out of their colonial gowns and got to climb around in the Indian boats and such...I wanted to capture their curiosity in different ways...at the same time, watching them take it all in...

3) Crop & Editing: As I took my 600+ pictures, I tried hard to make every shot out of the camera something awesome...but in reality, it just doesn't happen that way.. Yes, I get a few that are really nice, but more often than not, the sun came shooting through the clouds just as I had my settings ready for clouds OR I tripped over my dress and didn't get the angle that I was hoping for...not to worry, that's what photoshop is for...and if it can't help in certain situations, that's okay too:) The main thing is to enjoy, experiment, but most of all engage with your family...even if it means putting the camera down for awhile...that's why God gave us a brain and the capability to store memories:)

Both of these were taken in really low light...I will probably go back and fiddle with them even more by adding textures and such...but the point is, I had fun, my girls had fun and I have a few pictures that they can enjoy and will help them remember our time together as a family.

So to recap...when you head into vacation season this summer...remember to think about some things before you start snapping away:
1) know WHY you are there and think about how you want to portray those purposes in your images
2) tell the story through your composition...whether it mean tilting your camera a bit or focusing in on details...try to see "life" happening through your lens.
3) you can always try to "fix" in photoshop with cropping and processing the images, so don't fret too much if you aren't seeing your idea of "perfection" on the LCD screen.
4) put your camera away for awhile and just BE with your family...THAT is what is most important!

Happy Vacationing!!!

Colors...Twirling...Giggles and Smiles

2011-05-04T01:48:00.000-07:00

This sweet family came to me via referral from a friend who knows my sister in law up north...goodness, social networking just completely overwhelms me...and yet, it is so special to find out connections and trace relationships back to a common starting point...

When I saw these two little girls climb out of their car, I just smiled...not just because I'm a mom to all girls myself, but it just always does my heart good to see "twirly" dresses and colors and to hear princess talk:)

They were all set to show me their twirling skills and I loved every minute:)

There is definitely something special about sisters...whether it just be that "female" understanding or the fact that there is a deep sense of loyalty...loves shows itself in tangible ways with sisters...

I loved watching this family interact and love on each other too...The girls were precious and I could have photographed them twirling and dancing all morning...but, then we would have run into some major dizzy spells:)

Thank you for trusting me with your family photos...

What a beautiful "rainbow" to these rainy days we've had!

Family Matters

2011-05-02T06:57:00.000-07:00

You might remember this family???

I always have such a great time with them b/c each one of those kiddos are completely different and it's fun to capture them in their element!

I especially love to take pictures that are surrounded by an event...and when family members from far away come to join in the celebration...

These are just a few pictures from our time together...

Thank you again for the opportunity to have FUN with you all!

Love of Family

2011-04-23T15:30:00.000-07:00

We met at a sweet little park on the ONE sunny day coming from a long line of rain and cold...

This little guy was ready to go with his action figures and and eager spirit!...I love when I get to photograph families that just like to BE...they are just natural and comfortable in their own skin and have a comfortable-ness with each other (is that even a word?)

You can tell that the "boys" like hangin' out...

but, they will always love "Momma" with all their hearts...

It was an absolute joy to spend time with this fun family...not to mention, it was wonderful to be outside again in the sun and to watch the colors just starting to pop out this spring!

Thank you again...

And now there are 5

2011-04-07T20:14:00.000-07:00

I met them this past summer at a wedding I was shooting in Florida...little did they know that just 9 months later, their family would expand from 4 to 5...

This cute little addition was welcomed to their home just a few weeks ago.

I had the opportunity of walking into their beautifully decorated and welcoming home when he was just barely 2 weeks old. His big brother and big sister were oh so proud to show off their new little bro!

Their dad had done a phenomenal job of creating an entirely new room for the little guy...complete with built in shelves and BEAUTIFUL wood flooring! I was completely oohing and ahhing over the entire set up!

He was such a sweet little thing...slept so soundly and then opened those bright peepers for a few moments now and then...We couldn't resist wrappin' him up in a little cocoon made by Grandma...

It was a wonderful afternoon...spent making memories and capturing expressions and tiny toes...things that seem to disappear in just a matter of weeks...

Please head over to CTPhotoMemories Facebook page to see more images!

SNAP-SHOP Workshop with CLICK-IT

2011-03-30T12:09:00.000-07:00

Do you own a big DSLR camera? (aka a big ole camera with a removeable lens) Did you purchase it with the hopes of shootin' out some spectacular photos like the pros, only to discover that though the quality megapixels might be nicer, the images themselves weren't quite up to par?

This SNAP SHOP is what you need!

If you have invested the money into a DSLR, you probably are getting a good idea of what type of pictures you are attracted too...and they have something to do with the crispness, clarity, bokeh-blurry backgrounds, and countless other things that make an image POP!

It has to do with the settings or "mechanics" of the camera...and although green AUTO is a good place to start, figuring out words like shutterspeed, aperture and ISO can make a HUGE imact in taking your photography to the next level!

However, those settings can be intimidating...I KNOW...I've been there...

But, as a former teacher and someone who regularly uses words like "thingamajig" and "whatsamacallit" I also know how to break it down into everyday language (and probably some other made up words:) and not the scientific mumbo-jumbo that gives some people the jitters...

Also, as a mom, who is passionate about documenting her children's lives through the years, I have made it a priority to learn over time how to capture MOMENTS! It's not just about getting a group shot of everyone saying, "CHEEEEESE"...it's not just about snapping the "event"...

It IS about the personality...the expression...the STORY of their lives...

The SNAP-SHOP workshop is planned for

Saturday, June 4th at 9am - 1pm

In this time we will:

* talk about composition and how to "tell the story" through your image

* de-mystify your camera by learning about all those settings that make an image come to life.
* discuss aperature, depth of field, shutter speed, ISO and how they correspond with the images you want.
* learn about lighting, how to locate and use the best light
* give some lens suggestions
* have some practice time along with some questions & answers

Directly after this workshop, the CLICK-IT workshop is available...it's the very next step to taking your photos, enhancing them to print worthy and also changing some into works of art!

Let's face it...even though I've taken time to learn my camera and it IS my goal to have my SOOC (straight out of camera) photos be perfect...when my girls come running in from outside with something "cool" to show me and I'm up to my elbows in potato peels...I'm not necessarily thinking about correct exposure and I just grab my camera and run!

It's in these everyday moments of life that I don't want to be anxious and hurried...life is NOT an emergency...it is to be lived and savored...and though I'll always give it my best to get a great photo, I have confidence that even if I'm not quite there, I can usually get it "fixed up" in photoshop:)

Can I hear an "Amen"?

CLICK-IT is Part 2 of the photography workshop series...This is when you take everything you've learned from the SNAP SHOP, have a bunch of images and choose what and HOW to print them!

In Click It, we'll follow a basic workflow:

The CLICK IT class is scheduled directly following the Snap Shop on Saturday, June 4th 1:30 -3:30pm

In this class we'll:

*enhance our SOOC images using adjustment layers to brighten, contrast and fix colors

*learn how to crop and make our subjects the focal point of an image using edge burns

*be introduced to the world of brushes, fonts and selective coloring

*discover how to create your own digital scrapbooking page to journal & document family life

***PLEASE NOTE: If you are a hands on learner, it will be in your best interest to come with your laptop loaded with the Photoshop Elements software. Laptops will not be provided at the class, however, notes can be taken and the "class notes" will be distributed in order to follow along. If you do not own a laptop, and would like to consider private "tutoring" with photoshop, please contact me and I'll do my best to set up a time that we can work together:) (different pricing applies)

***Click It is an introductory class to photoshop...more advanced classes can and will be offered at a later date for those desiring even more in depth knowledge of photoshop elements, such as clipping masks, running actions, texturing images, etc. Please be sure to contact me if interested.

DETAIL SPECIFICS:

Snap Shop: $100
includes 4 hours of instruction, question & answer time, brunch, full class notes, Ebook quick guide, and a customized camera "goody" (TBS-To Be Surprised)

Click It: $60
includes 2 hours of instruction, question & answer time, CD of already created scrapbook pages/layouts to get you started, class notes with easy direction guide for take home

Attending BOTH combined: $150 ($10 discount:)

Class size for each workshop is limited to a maximum of 14/minimum of 5. Spots are given on a first come first serve basis. Please email at ctphotomemories@aol.com to save your place and indicate if you are attending one or both classes. Payment is due by May 28th. Once Classes are full, a wait list will be created for a future date and/or replaced by emergency cancellations prior to May 28th.

WHAT PEOPLE SAID ABOUT THE LAST SNAP SHOP...

***if workshop cancellation is unavoidable, moneys will be refunded in full as long as cancellation happens prior to the day of the class. Should a no-show occur, a $25 fee will be kept back from the refund***

Remember When???

2011-03-16T17:09:00.000-07:00

Moments are fleeting...it is a joy to be present in the wonder of NOW!

Do you remember this little beauty...from about 4 months ago?

It's amazing to me how time just slips by...I am reminded of a quote that "life is carried in the hands of the unhurried" Those of us who are able to stop and savor...we are able to really live!

Already 4 months have passed...she can lift her head and stretch her legs strong...she is learning to sit up supported...she "talks" and coos...she smiles and giggles...

all this in just a few months time...

how precious to be able to capture the moments...it won't always be like this...I know, in the middle of the night with feedings and teething, it "feels" like it will never end...

but it will...and the little chubby legs will be gone...the drool, a thing of the past...staring into your eyes with pure delight for moments on end, well, time just keeps sweeping away...

I am just loving watching these little ones grow...thank you sweet family for allowing me to be a part of the process of remembering...

***please stop over at the facebook site to see more photos from this session along with some storyboards and collages***

Longevity

2011-03-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

I have so appreciated Cranel, Inc....not only for their integrity and drive for excellence, but also for their ability to go the distance. They also make sure that they honor those that have those qualities in their "person" as well. Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph their gathering to honor and award those that had been with the company for 5, 10 or more years.

There is ALWAYS a good spread when you come to one of their functions:

The Vision was presented and awards handed out...

the people at the office are always so friendly and encouraging...I love to capture their faces as they sit intently listening:)

Thank you Cranel for allowing me the opportunity to once again come and capture the moments...I appreciate your company and it's many hard working employees!