Be inspired. Be inspiring.

Just a Touch of "Soulful" Texture

2010-09-15T16:52:00.001-05:00

I often get asked about the textures I use on images, so today I'll share!

The image above needed just a touch of something extra to give it a special look. Using layers in Photoshop, I added a texture from Tara Staton's "Soulful" texture pack. (I used texture #11 on this image.) After lowering the opacity, I then erased the texture from the model's skin.

The result is 'soulful'. :)

Twins

2010-01-01T14:33:00.002-06:00

I just had to share this twin shot. It melts my heart!

It's the same guitar if you were wondering, I had to photoshop this one together!

Angela Smith Photography

Free Textures until 7.23.09

2009-07-21T13:18:00.003-05:00

on my blog:)

PS Wow this blog is NEGLECTED!!!! I need to get back with it!

Hafta laugh at myself

2009-06-29T20:44:00.001-05:00

Okay, so these aren’t art-quality photos…but I have a point. There was a time when, if asked to take a couple pics of stuff to sell on Craigslist, I would snap a shot of each item and upload them directly to Craigslist. No more.

I had to laugh at myself, and I hope my husband was laughing too. He wanted a couple photos of a door he wants to sell, so we went out to the shaded carport (so we didn’t have harsh sunlight) and he held the door up. But wait – there’s going to be a hotspot on it from the sunlight coming through right there…move to my left a bit…a bit more…okay, turn it a bit…there! Okay, shoot. Wait…bad composition…shoot again. Oh – move the wagon…shoot again. Whew. Now the other side of the door…just a sec – there’s something on the door…okay, it’s clean…shoot – oops, I clipped the corner…shoot again…one more shot just to be sure. Whew again!

If that’s not enough to drive my husband crazy, before I can send them to him for Craigslist I must edit! Adjust levels, sharpen for web, crop out the distractions…okay, I’ll let him post these, but I’ll still call them “snapshots!”

I’m such a dork!

Looking for a new forum home?

2009-06-15T21:42:00.001-05:00

I love me some Phaunt!!!! Free for the month of June!
Come check it out:)

{Jumpin' Spider}

2009-06-02T19:49:00.002-05:00

I just took this of a huge jumpin spider that found some warmth on my modem...he was about the size of a quarter...see the catchlights?

settings: ISO: 100 AP: f/4.0 SS: 1/60 bounced flash used

Awesome senior posing guide!

2009-05-30T08:57:00.003-05:00

Natalie Bacon of Natalie B Photography has made this awesome posing guide for seniors! I went to a workshop that she held and she gave me this as a gift! It is great to tuck into your camera bag and glance through when you are stuck. I just love mine! You can contact her through Senior Solutions... http://www.seniorsolutionsguide.com/
to get this guide.

Layer of Lights- Special Offer from Kaleidoscope

2009-05-28T17:26:00.006-05:00

OMG! I am in love with these! It's a collection of (truly) unique overlays & sunlight textures for photographers! Just launched and so awesome!!

Kaleidoscope

Patti is just the sweetest and so talented! Right now she is offering a special discount if you purchase by June 15- You can go to her site and check out some awesome examples.. Here a couple of mine..I used various ones!! The after/befores.. Hurry.. won't last long!

Here is the deal.. You save 30% if you enter the discount code light. Again.. Here is her site

Go get em' !!

Green and Pretty {Molto Bella Photography}

2009-05-21T14:29:00.000-05:00

Going green? That is what I play over and over in my head on an almost daily basis. When I first decided to bring my business into that direction I never thought it would be as difficult as it has been. I love the boutique look but I also want to be green. So merging the two in to one has been a challenge. When I think of boutique, I think of fun and beautiful packaging to go with amazing one of a kind products. Well I knew I could give my clients the one of a kind product, but what to wrap it up in and present it in was a chore. So after months of collecting I am finally able to start making pretty and green packages!! I have a large collection of lunch and grocery bags. Old fabric I don't want nor need, torn up clothes that have lost their appeal, mint tins, cards, fun jars, and a list of other things that can be used to make your packages pretty. I also use only recycled materials, the higher the percentage the better. And if it's something made in the USA even better!! So we wrapped up our first "Green and Pretty" order and we are so pleased at what we came up with!! Here is a sneak peek of what we came up with so far. More to come!!!

My Sunset

2009-05-20T11:24:00.003-05:00

I know that this isn't nearly as cool as most of the sunsets that I see but I wanted to share it anyway. I took this in my moving car after a senior session a few days ago.

Free Quickbooks Simple Start Download

2009-05-18T13:08:00.000-05:00

http://quickbooks.intuit.com/qb/products/common/direct_download/email.jsp?scid=qbkm_ssfe_hero3_getfree&skuId=sku0000000000006360737

I just downloaded my copy, hope it works well!

Home Made Accordion Album

2009-05-10T23:14:00.009-05:00

Some here share a link for a tutorial to make an accordion album, so I decided to give it a try, OK it is not the best and the perfect as you get from the lab, but this is home made and inspiration from my head ;)
(here in Venezuela, no one prints accordion album :( so bad )
I enjoyed doing it and it was a realy nice Mother's Day present. they all love it..

Twins!

2009-05-08T21:25:00.002-05:00

Been a long, slow winter, but I'm finally busy again! Here's some from a recent session I had with newborn twins. My first with twins!

Great video on OCF!

2009-05-03T23:02:00.001-05:00

http://www.stansphotos.com/My%20Videos/Lighting_Tutorial.wmv

{Lilacs are blooming...}

2009-05-03T13:21:00.002-05:00

and the sun is shining...just a few snaps of the lilacs and my neighbors tree...

Sorry I haven't posted in a while.

1. ISO: 100 AP: f/4.5 SS: 1/50

2. ISO: 200 AP: f/4.0 SS: 1/160

3. ISO: 200 AP: f/20 SS: 1/80

Pounds Lab

2009-04-29T11:52:00.002-05:00

Found a really cool lab that I tried- You can get 1/2 off your first order! They offer proof finishing samples in a bound book... The color is great... Mounting is great- Prices are good.. service is excellent... Give them a shot! http://www.poundslabs.com

They use Roes software. Very simple- Lots of products available.. *You must have your tax I.D. number however to get set up... Give Jim a call 901-603-8522 or sign up on the site...

Have fun! xoxo- Char

My 2 Cents!!!

2009-04-29T09:27:00.005-05:00

this is a photog friend that so willingly put back on her wedding dress and let a few other fellow photogs snap away at her. I think the important thing to remember is....although we are always behind the camera, it's good to get in front of it every now and then. So, moms get some shots with your kids, brides to be or brides been get out their and model those dresses, capture you and your spouses relationship...don't get so busy capturing everyone else that you forget about your important moments in life too!!! That's my 2 cents worth and I've got to pocket it as well!

Interview with Matt Nicolosi

2009-04-29T00:55:00.002-05:00

Have your heard of Matt Nicolosi? If not, you really should check out his blog, it is full of humor and inspiring images.

Anyway, he's been interviewed by Soul Sista's. Take a look!

A pretty cool site!

2009-04-28T19:31:00.000-05:00

http://www.photoinduced.com/

giveaways, reviews and lots of info!

Popular Photographer magazine 89% off

2009-04-19T22:48:00.003-05:00

Click Here

Plus use code X8N4C7E for an additional 10% off

Enjoy:)

I know, I know... bad blogger!

2009-04-15T14:23:00.002-05:00

Wow - e, I have enjoyed the few posts that have been here and there. Sorry for slacking! Hope you are challenging yourself to grow as winter fades away and spring comes slowly. I have challenged myself to pick up my camera and take a photo everyday, my blog has the results.
Here are a few,

An interesting article on marketing

2009-04-08T20:04:00.001-05:00

I found this very helpful. I hope someone else does too.

http://blog.marathonpress.com/post/view/id/16

Task Management

2009-04-07T15:05:00.003-05:00

I haven't had a chance to try it yet but it sounds perfect for me

http://www.giveawayoftheday.com/fusiondesk-deluxe-12/

from Giveaway of the Day Blog:

FusionDesk is project management and time tracking software for individuals and small teams. Its power is well disguised behind a simple and elegant user interface. Its flexibility allows it to adapt to your way of doing things, instead of forcing you to adapt.

Message from the publisher (Virtuoza Software)

FusionDesk Deluxe is a version not yet available from our official web site. It will cost $59.95 but only today you get it for free thanks to GiveawayOfTheDay.com.

In functionality it sits between our Starter and Pro version.

In addition to all features available in the Starter edition it contains:

Reminders: Normal and Recurring
Work Timers
Filtering
Smart Views
Manual Sort

It does not include the following features that can be found in the Pro version:

Dozen different reports
Sharing
Sync with Outlook
Sync with Smart Phones
Import & Export from many formats
USB Drive Deployment

Important! Today you can also get 50% discount for FusionDesk Professional. Click this link to purchase the software with special GAOTD discount coupon.

You have to download and activate it today! They have a daily freebie so you may want to bookmark them!

Kayla

Gorgeous New Line of Books

2009-03-30T18:27:00.003-05:00

IRISbook is a Canadian based boutique-style photo book company for professional photographers. I haven't ordered from them yet but I'd love to soon! They print the photos on fine art silk paper and have linen covers in black, cream, red, green, robin's egg, and taupe. Up to 100 sides and you can choose from slip case, clam shell case, or presentation box, You can even get custom die cut on your covers. Check them out at http://www.irisbook.ca/ or follow their blog. It looks like they offer 50% off of studio samples, email them for a price list. I'm really impressed and going to have to try them out!

Kayla

DIY Accordian book

2009-03-30T18:06:00.002-05:00

I came across this project today and may have to try it soon!

designspongeonline.com

I borrowed the image from their DIY Guide to show you how cute it is! They have lots of other great projects and design ideas. And a book out "Show Me How: 500 Things You Should Know Instructions for Life From the Everyday to the Exotic" that looks like an awesome resource.

Kayla

More cute camera straps

2009-03-30T17:56:00.002-05:00

Another photographer shared this on a forum and I thought I'd share here

http://phatstraps.com/

Really cute camera straps, wrist straps, lens bags, even guitar straps and lanyards. You can even get them custom embroidered with your studio name for a great price "Embroidery is $8 for up to 10 characters, $12 for 10-20 characters and $16 for 20-30 characters." Use code MPIX15 for 15% off at checkout.

Kayla

1000 FREE Business cards!

2009-03-26T20:34:00.002-05:00

This is a good offer that will only last until 3/31/09

All you pay for is shipping.

http://www.uprinting.com/Free-Business-Cards-KickStart09/

You can also visit the main site http://www.uprinting.com

I hope everyone takes advantage.
You have to register and you will get a code in your welcome email;)

I just ordered my duck cards size 4x4 inches, matte finish, double sided cost me $11;)
ENJOY!

Hormonal Horse: Day two

2009-03-24T23:11:00.001-05:00

I was bitten by a cranky hormonal pregnant mare yesterday and boy does it hurt, mind you not as much as yesterday but it's still tender. Here is what I look like on Day two.

Settings:

ss: 1/125 ap: f/5.6 iso: 100 bounced flash used.

{Just to inspire you... some maternity pics}

2009-03-24T00:41:00.003-05:00

here are the latest maternity pics that I took in a session!
they were in a Beach in Puerto La Cruz, Venezuela, nice place to live but horrible during vacation, very crowed (because of the wonderful beaches)
I hope you like them all.
Have a great day

Twin Maternity

2009-03-21T10:50:00.002-05:00

I really wanted to incorporate the "twins" into this photo session, I think we came up with some good idea's, and I searched around on Flickr for even more. Here are some of the shot's from the twin maternity that I did about 2 weeks ago. The babies are due any day and I can't wait, I am going to have my first twin newborn session!

Photo Series?

2009-03-20T13:30:00.001-05:00

I already do POTD. But feel like I need to do more.
http://www.jenaphotography2009.blogspot.com
I'm wanting to do several photo series.
I just have no idea of what.

Trees and flowers are out as they started blooming last week already.
And tomorrow the grass will already need to be cut.
It's definitely spring here in Southern Indiana.

{Shabby Straps}

2009-03-20T11:19:00.002-05:00

I ordered two straps from Shabby Straps and I must tell you I was super pleased! If you want a fun way to add personality to your camera check these straps out. They not only have straps for SLr's but they have wristlets for point-n-shoot cameras too.

I love how professional they look! I will soon be doing a give-a-way with one of these straps as the prize! (keep checking my blog for more details)

BUBBLES & SUNSET

2009-03-18T00:45:00.001-05:00

I have more on my blog of tonights bubble fest.

Settings: ISO: 320 AP: f/3.5 SS: 1/100

Settings: ISO: 100 SS: 1/250 AP: f/5.0

50% off custom flash drives, exp today!

2009-03-15T20:55:00.001-05:00

http://www.pexagontech.com/index.php

I just ordered 5 1 gig drives in brown with my logo and custom engraving as well as key rings for them for $39.xx shipped!

I think that is a great deal and is what I was looking for for my seniors!

{curlie hair girl and a boy in a dock}

2009-03-12T10:18:00.007-05:00

Just to share a pic that I really like, here is my oldest son with a friend during the carnival break in the beach with some friends
They really enjoy the time, but my son continue NOT cooperating with pictures at all, what can I do, I guess he is already tired and sick of being picture all the time lol...
Hope you enjoyed them

A helpful article

2009-03-10T21:23:00.001-05:00

I found this article at Digital Photography School to be helpful...

http://digital-photography-school.com/posing-for-portraits-a-quick-way-to-get-inside-your-subjects-head

I hope you do too!

SEO- How do we?

2009-03-09T17:14:00.002-05:00

I am starting to search information on Search Engine Optimization. I need to draw people into my website. I have stumbled on some information that I thought I would share. If anyone has anything helpful it would be much appreciated! My area doesn't have many photographers in it so this would be very beneficial to me. Thanks!

http://www.seochat.com/c/a/Search-Engine-Optimization-Help/Search-Engine-Optimization-Website-Development-and-Search-Engine-Spiders/

~Newborn Session~

2009-03-09T10:13:00.004-05:00

I did my first newborn session a couple of weekends ago! And I totally loved it! I wasn't sure how I would like it, b/c it takes a lot of patience to get the right shots & you have to work around babies schedule! But it is so worth it! I really enjoyed myself! Here are a couple of pictures from the shoot! Sorry, there are so many! I couldn't decide which ones to put up!

Giving is Awesome

2009-03-05T23:07:00.002-06:00

Giving is Awesome was founded in December of 2008. It was a simple premise: photographers give a portrait shoot and products to a family who deserves it, but can’t afford it. In the twelve weeks since then, over 530 photographers have donated over $550,000 worth of custom portraiture to families who couldn’t afford it.

Artists in places as far flung as Australia, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, and Mexico joined in. Giving is Awesome is also featured in this month’s issue of Professional Photographer magazine, and we’re looking to continue to spread the word about giving. Lenovo and Microsoft are sponsoring the ‘Name Your Dream Assignment’ contest, which grants $50,000 to the photographer who wins to shoot whatever/wherever they would like.

What better way to spread the word than to load 12 photographers into a tour bus and hit up cities with Giving is Awesome shoots? The blog traffic generated by the tour would easily reach 50,000 photographers per day, thus multiplying the number of photographers who sign on for the 2009 version of Giving is Awesome. (The goal: 15,000 photographers for the 2009 edition.)

…but how would we decide who to shoot for those tour bus Giving is Awesome giveaways? Why, we would rely on our friends at ConKerr Cancer, an international charity, to provide our subjects: children currently living with cancer. We’d be bringing awareness of both utterly smashing organizations to light, spreading the photographic love, AND rockin’ a tour bus! Now we’re talkin’!

What if this project doesn’t cost $50,000? Easy! ConKerr Cancer receives the funds to purchase cameras for their chapter coordinators, less the expenses of the tour. This allows the impact of the tour to go much further than the people on the bus, or even the photographers associated with Giving is Awesome. It’s the ripple effect in its truest form, giving sparking giving sparking giving.

For more information about the organizations mentioned:
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http://www.givingisawesome.com
&
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http://www.conkerrcancer.org

DIG IT? GO VOTE! Click that little 'pic' button in the upper left of the assignment details, when you get there. (You’ll have to register to do so, but I promise it’s worth it! Pretty please, vote?)

GO!! : http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http://www.nameyourdreamassignment.com%2Fthe-ideas%2Fgivingisawesome%2Fgiving-is-awesome-tour%2F

(wording by Kristin of 'Giving is Awesome')

Discount for Pro Photo Blog Theme!

2009-03-02T22:33:00.003-06:00

Thank you Pro Photo!!!! You guys are the best!!!! Super long story short... CMD (my web hosting) had the hardest time getting me set up with my new blog layout from Jared - Finally with his patience, he got it all worked out. If you are thinking of getting a "killer" blog setup, Go with the ProPhoto Blog for Wordpress! The new one is awesome, super user friendly, and that is alot coming from me... I stink at all this... Anyway- Jared has a great handheld package for those who need the extra help, which I am SO glad I took on.. Did I mention Jared Rocks??? Ok so here is the deal...Here's code to get you a discount!! CSTRINGER939 just click the Pro Photo link to get started! and Take peek at my blog too! PRO PHOTO LINK You will not be disappointed!!

Picture Frames

2009-03-02T13:39:00.002-06:00

Hi everyone, I just wanted to share this link with you all: http://www.pictureframes.com The name says it all, they do picture frames. But what is cool about it is you can upload your own photos and see what it would look like with different frames and mats. You can also get everything you need for framing your picture, including the photo printed, through them. Not that I would recommend printing from them, I've never had them print anything for me and can't say if it's good or not. Your own lab is probably better for this. Also, I have not actually ordered a frame from them yet either, so I can't speak about the quality of their frames. I plan to in the near future, I will let you know my thoughts. Or if some here has ordered from them, leave a comment on your opinion on them. I'm just posting this link because just the feature of seeing your photo with different frames and mats is helpful, not matter where you get your frame from. It can give you an idea of what colors would look nice. Anyway, I hope you find this useful.

2009-02-28T00:53:00.002-06:00

Hey, I think this is my 2nd post. Doh! Sorry Heather.

Anyhow, I just wanted to display what so many of us experience with Photoshop. It still amazes me, at how much a picture can change in the post-processing stage. It is helpful to see what pictures looked like in natural format and where they went ... so here is my share.

This is a quick snap of the Austin Skyline this week.

SOOC (straight out of the camera)

A 10x20 crop, some sharpening, a b&w conversion and major contrast boost. I added a brown-toned action at the end to give it a little more depth.

I entered a contest!!

2009-02-25T20:07:00.005-06:00

I rarely enter any type of contest but I thought why not go ahead and humor yourself. The prize up to win is super sweeet!!. I’m hoping that this photo of my daughter letting loose on my current bag will win me a great new shootsac camera bag for my newest camera. So everyone keep their fingers crossed and wish me luck! If you want to enter, just go to http://mcpactions.com/blog/2009/02/10/shootsac and enter for your chance to win too!!!

2009-02-22T16:05:00.002-06:00

I haven't shared in a while, so I thought I had better share some from a recent session. I love this family, and the girls are just so adorable. I did this session for the baby's 6 month pictures and she was teething a lot, she had 4 teeth coming in all at once, and while she was a little fussy she did awesome!!

So brilliant!!!

2009-02-22T10:10:00.002-06:00

This was first featured on Scott Kelby's blog! Then I saw it again posted by Kylie on the Phaunt form, then today I saw it again on Deb Schwedhelm's blog and it was then that I thought I would finally watch it! And I am SO glad I did! It is truly brilliant & totally inspiring. If you haven't seen this video by Zack Arias then I strongly suggest you do! It is something that I will watch again too!

Here is the link: http://www.scottkelby.com/blog/2009/archives/3433

Color Inc.

2009-02-20T20:56:00.002-06:00

Ok so this post isn't so much inspiration...more of a shout out. I just place my first order with color inc. I got lots and lots of prints in different sizes and mounts (styrene and standout) and everything looks FABULOUS. The most awesomest part though is there was a hand written note in with my order thanking me! That was so unexpected and such a nice touch. I actually walked over to my hubby and showed it to him and he said...did any of your other labs do that for you...um that would be a nope. So if your looking for a new lab or wanting to try out a new place try www.colorinclabs.com you get 50% off your first order too....so make it a big one and get lots of different sizes, mountings and textures!

{SUNRISE}

2009-02-20T09:53:00.000-06:00

This was what I saw on my drive back home after dropping the boys off at school.
SETTINGS:
ISO: 100 AP: f/32 SS: 1/80

Free Textures

2009-02-19T20:04:00.002-06:00

While reading Ginnie J Photography's blog http://ginsphotos.blogspot.com/ this morning, she gave 2 great links to some free Textures! Here are the links, enjoy!

http://textureking.com/

http://cgtextures.com/

Making a Willie!

2009-02-19T12:10:00.002-06:00

That's what I'm going to do this weekend!

What's a Willie? A Willie is a little goofy character that you can slip the over your lens when the kids you are photographing start to loose interest in the shoot. This should grab their attention for a bit and make them giggle!

What do you need to do? Hop on over to Walmart and pick up a couple fabric scrunchies (think the 1990's kind) then grab some pipe cleaners, googly eyes and felt and make a little crazy face with antenna!

Have fun!

In need of a makeover!

2009-02-18T22:33:00.000-06:00

So the blog is boring..I know. lol what do yall think it should look like? I thought maybe something fun like zebra stripes and a bold contrasting color...what do yall think?

Lighting Diagram

2009-02-18T19:45:00.003-06:00

hey all!
i haven't posted lately, i've been super busy with seniors and lots of cute kiddo's! anyway, i get asked from time to time about my lighting set-up, so i thought i would share a little bit about that. i use 1 alien bee 800 with a giant alien bee softbox. i also use their cybersync triggers and lurve 'em! i typically use seamless paper for my backdrops. i'm going to attach a diagram of my set-up and then also a shot achieved using this set-up, well, pretty much my whole website and blog is with this set-up, but you'll understand when you see how cute the baby is i'm going to post.
okay, back on topic. you'll see in my diagram that i have "IF" you need a reflector, i do NOT use a reflector, even with up to 6 people i've not used a reflector and my images have come out great. so basically, if you're using that large of a softbox, you don't need a reflector if you're positioning your light correctly. when your setting up, you want your light to be perpendicular to your backdrop, and then go stand in front of the backdrop, right by the light. grab hold of the back edge of the softbox and get about an arms length away from it, let go and take one step back.. this is where you want your subject to be. i use my softbox so that its parallel to the ground. you'll also have to determine how high or low to position the light, and if you turn your modeling light on, that can be fairly easily. you want to catchlights to be in about the 10-11 o'clock position if light is on the left, and 1-2 o'clock if on the right. make sure to check that the light is in the correct position for the most flattering portrait. meter your light and your good to go!

David Jay Presets

2009-02-18T10:28:00.005-06:00

I recently purchased some new ACR presets and I must say they RAWK! Here is a link to them. They are from David Jay. There is also a video to show you how to edit your pics in Bridge without ever moving them to Photoshop. I shot a wedding in January and it usually take me a good 3 to 4 weeks to get all the pics edited(having to stop and work on other sessions). With these presets I was done editing and had the bride her proof book in under 2 weeks! Check them out I'm sure you will love them just as much as I do.

Don't forget Jodi from MCP Actions latest offering All in the Details action set. I looove them!
Here is a mixute of the presets and one of Jodi's actions soft color. Hope I helped you spend some money today! :)

Kyla

A few shots in my little studio

2009-02-17T20:01:00.001-06:00

I had just a few minutes for some shots in my studio. Here are a few...nothing spectacular...

Why does it seem like only one of these kids is feelin' the love?

For someone who wanted her picture taken, Kristi (in pink) sure wasn't very cooperative!

It seems that it's been very quiet here. Has everybody been off doing something fun? My oldest daughter and her family came to visit us for a week, so we're having a great time with them. She's a photographer too, and I'm really enjoying discussing photos, business, and computer stuff with her!

So what's inspiring everyone else?

6 week old

2009-02-12T16:37:00.004-06:00

What do you do when you have a stubborn newborn and feel you don't have enough shots? This baby was such a stinker! She would barely sleep, didn't like her tummy, wanted to eat the whole time. I feel I should have had more of a variety of shots. Anyone have tips for situations like this? I told the mother when she was pregnant to schedule the newborn shots for the first couple of weeks of life. She procrastinated and now we have an uncooperative baby. Thought this might be a good "what you don't want to happen to you" post. :)

He sleeps

2009-02-12T12:01:00.002-06:00

I haven't posted in a while - things are very slow while it's freezing outside, so I thought I'd share these fairly recent shots.

My older son insists on falling asleep with a light on. I bemoan the power bill, but it does give me a chance to sneak in and take photos of him while he sleeps. (The first time I did this, I showed them to him, and he was so irritated that his eyes were closed - he insists he sleeps with his eyes open!) Nothing spectacular, but I'm glad I've got images like this to hold on to:

And just to be fair, here's my younger son, who makes me jealous every single day with these amazing eyelashes:

A few more of the twins:)

2009-02-11T20:51:00.002-06:00

These are a few more of the twins from last week, I have another set tomorrow...a boy and a girl. I'm excited!

Where I live

2009-02-11T19:47:00.001-06:00

I just wanted to share this photo of the area I live in. I live in the Bitterroot Mountains of Montana...this is part of Blodgett Canyon:

(ISO 100; f/7.1; 1/400; 50mm)

~Maternity~

2009-02-09T21:41:00.005-06:00

I did this session for my Cousin. He and his girlfriend are expecting this month! Here are a couple of pictures from his session!

Free 10 Week Photoshop Class

2009-02-09T16:29:00.001-06:00

Yes, this is completely free - 10 weeks of Photoshop classes, definitely worth a look.

Free Photoshop Course

Portrait "Rules"

2009-02-09T15:25:00.002-06:00

Ever wonder what the "rules" are for posing? I came across this page that has some great tips! Sadly I have so many tabs open I honestly can't remember how I got there but I seriously recommend it! http://lumitouch.com/benstudiotutorial/rules.html Be sure to also look at the other lessons on there as they provide some great tips as well.

Kayla Renckly

Prop Alert!!

2009-02-07T21:01:00.003-06:00

Hey everyone! Don't miss out!! These babies were at my local Walmart (the suckers, not the kiddos!) in the Valentine candy isle! The big ones were $1.00 each and the little heart ones were 2 for $1.00. The little heart ones came in different colors too - purple and white, red and white, pink and white, etc....
Yummmm!!

Perks for Senior Reps

2009-02-07T11:23:00.002-06:00

Hi Everyone - I have been out all week at a Technology Education conference. While I was there - I spoke with a vendor that sells personalized thumb drives. They are available in many colors and you can add your own custom logo. I think this would be a great way to give the Senior Reps a gift for their service. I am going to get some of the small Jellybeenz drives and have my logo placed on them - then I will place watermarked images for facebook, myspace etc. The company is called Pexagon Technology Inc They are based out of Connecticut. The president and business dev. ppl were great. They are offering discounts to photographers through a special website that will be up and running soon. Contact emails are tmerola@pexagontech.com and bcampbell@pexagontech.com

A book recommendation...

2009-02-06T20:14:00.003-06:00

i know for most of you senior season is long over, but down here it seems like seniors wait longer to get their portraits done. you know, like in their senior year.. or in the case of my seniors, 3 months before graduation, lol! so it's this time of year i start thinking about posing. during the rest of the year when i'm photographing babies and kids, i don't much think about posing.. i mean, a baby or little kid looks cute no matter what! a teenager, however, will not. so it's for these sessions that it's so important to know a thing or two about how to pose. that's where this book comes in so handy.. it's called "Posing for Portrait Photography: a head to toe guide" by Jeff Smith. Click HERE to view it at amazon.
oh, and since i didn't really say it, i do recommend this book, i've found it very helpful!

{Austin Photographer} 9 day old twin girls.

2009-02-06T19:41:00.002-06:00

This was my first time photographing newborn twins, it was a bit of a challenge but I had a great time! It was funny because they were opposites, one was the pee-er, one didn't pee on anything, one was sleepy, the other mostly wide awake, one curly one flailer (is that a word? Oh well it is now ;)) But I got some great images for their mommy and daddy:) I've only proofed the one so far!

11 day old {L} - Take 2!

2009-02-06T18:07:00.002-06:00

Angela Smith Photography

Other fun newborn props:

2009-02-06T15:27:00.003-06:00

I'm on a bit of a newborn prop kick lately so I thought I would share my recent finds with all of you.

First one is an awesome looking shaggy yarn blanket, check it out on etsy here.
Second one(s) are some adorable hats - also from etsy here.
Third one is selling some gorgeous newborn wraps and knit diaper covers here.
And last but not least check out these gorgeous flokati rugs here.

Enjoy!

2009-02-06T04:15:00.003-06:00

I know I mentioned PPSOP yesterday, but just had to post this link. There is a monthly competition and January's theme was "Smile" - The winning posts here certainly made me do that :)

Smile Winners

2009-02-05T17:48:00.002-06:00

I am actually going to start posting some pictures here soon - as soon as I find a bit of space. In the meantime, if anyone fancies doing an online course, I highly recommend these people:

Perfect Picture School of Photography

This is Bryan Peterson's outfit - the author of "Understanding Exposure".

I have done 2 courses so far "Compelling Photographs" and "The Art of Printing & Selling your Art". They are both excellent but the print one has probably paid for itself because now I can print pretty much what I see on my monitor..............first go!!

{Jumpin' Spider}

2009-02-05T14:16:00.001-06:00

We had a little visitor this afternoon...

SETTINGS:

iso: 100 ap: f/3.5 ss: 1/60 bounced flash used (can you see the slight catchlights?)

P.S. I started a blog just for my template creations you can find it HERE. I have several Freebies there as well. Come an check it out & leave a comment letting me know what you think!

P.S.S. You can also do invoices w/paypal as well. It's under merchant services and it's free too.

Send invoices for free!

2009-02-04T19:41:00.002-06:00

I just used Curdbee for the first time tonight to send an invoice to a client. What a great experience! It takes just a minute to sign up and no credit card is needed! You log in, add your clients info, the total and off you send it! You can also link it to your paypal account if that is they way you want your client to pay:)

Good stuff!

Do you back up?

2009-02-04T17:42:00.001-06:00

I have an external hard drive that I currently back up to, but I've been thinking - what if something happens to my house or my external? I ran across this site recently - Backblaze - and I'm wondering how they are. Anyone use them? I might try them, because the price seems reasonable. I'd love to hear anyone else's thoughts.

{Overnightprints.com & Mckennapro.com}

2009-02-03T08:17:00.004-06:00

This offer from Overnight prints will expire February 8th, 2009.

Get Free Gloss coating & free rounded corners w/coupon code: NEWRC

Get unlimited free folding (perfect for menus, pamphlets and more! use coupon code: FOLD

February specials for Mckennapro. No special codes required. I love their products! between Mcenna & WHCC I have my clients needs covered.

How to batch process in Photoshop CS3

2009-02-02T20:47:00.003-06:00

I stumbled across this today and holy cow, I cannot even tell you how kick ass this is. I am wondering how on earth I did not know this?!?!?!
Anyway go to file>automate>batch

Seriously that easy.

Have fun and save some time on your processing!

<3 Heather

One month old {C}

2009-02-02T17:57:00.002-06:00

Angela Smith Photography

Valentine Special - Snaptotes

2009-02-02T15:13:00.001-06:00

code: redsnap09

use before: Feb. 5, 2009

I though I could inpired you with my boy!

2009-02-01T15:43:00.003-06:00

Just a few pics that I took to my baby boy about 3 weeks ago, he turned out 2 month last January 25th!
Hope you like them

Have a great day everyone!

Jeannette Chirinos Photography

My postcards.

2009-02-01T13:14:00.003-06:00

Since Kara asked, these were my postcards that I got for free from overnight prints. I wish I would have switched up the color photo to bw though:( They also sent me a $10 coupon off my next order...no idea what I want to get though.

rules...

2009-01-31T20:04:00.002-06:00

so most of us know there are rules in photography, rules that separate a snapshot from a portrait, but what are those rules? most of us know about the rule of thirds.. but ever wonder what the "other" rules are? i came across this site through ILP, and thought it was pretty interesting. so go learn those rules so you can purposely break them!
RULES
oh, and since i haven't posted anything in a while, here's one from a mini-session today!

~Hope

10 month old {S}

2009-01-31T19:37:00.002-06:00

This is the third time I've photographed this little beauty and this time, she kept me on my toes with her mobility. She wants to walk so bad... and is very close.

Postcards

2009-01-31T18:40:00.002-06:00

I jumped at the deal for the 100 postcards from Overnight Prints. Here is what I put together.

I am intending to distribute it to florists and bakerys! Got any other suggestions? Anyone else print any.. would love to see them!

{Austin Photographer} 6 days old

2009-01-31T16:03:00.002-06:00

This sweet little punkin was my newborn session this week. Another girl (3 in a row each week this month)! I had spent the night watching some videos on You Tube and this session just went so much smoother. For some reason I was more relaxed than I have been lately. It helped that Miss A was very sleepy and bendy and gorgeous. Here is one of my favorites so far.

Three day old {L}

2009-01-30T23:26:00.001-06:00

Same baby as below, at 3 days old:

Birth Photography

2009-01-30T23:24:00.001-06:00

Born Sunday, January 25th @ 9:38 AM

A Newborn Photography link

2009-01-30T12:32:00.001-06:00

I saw a link to this on OPS and I thought I'd share it here. There is some good info on newborn photography in here! There are also links on the side to other videos that might be helpful.

http://www.lookgoodinpictures.com/episodes/all/55

Experiment!

2009-01-29T22:05:00.000-06:00

I haven't put myself out there business-wise since November and haven't even picked up my camera much since then. I hit a creative wall. It was time to get back to it so while I am revamping everything, I started looking for a new subject. Lucky for me, my baby brother just got engaged and they wanted to do photos before he goes to bootcamp next month. We spent 8 hours together, most of it spent walking, and got to try knew stuff. It was so great to have a willing subject! Anyway, my point is that when you get in a slump, take a break to regroup if you need it and then try something new. Whether it's off-camera flash, a new location, a new post-processing technique, or even just a different time of day. Here's a few of my faves:

Kayla Renckly

The Long Road

2009-01-29T19:12:00.003-06:00

The Long Road to nowhere. This is the road that doesn't lead to the Ghost town in Baxter TX. Baxter TX. Where is that you ask? Well I would tell you that it is 10 miles out of Athens TX. Now several people here in TX have asked. "Where is Athens?". That makes me think that everyone here lives in a city cave. If it ain't big, we don't know where it is. (I hope that came out sounding texan.) Anyway. Here is the road that was supposed to lead to a ghost town. It didn't. We never did find the ghost town. You can see more pictures from our trip to Baxter at my new blog: www.destinationinspirationimages.blogspot.com.

Maternity - I really do work!

2009-01-28T23:43:00.009-06:00

I've felt stagnant for awhile, it's good to post some actual "work". Before this session I had quite a few "bad" ones, felt horribly untalented, uncoordinated, etc as I was working indoors due to the cold and fumbling around with the speedlight. I was pleased to see these turned out well.

The thing with me and images - beauty - people are just beautiful, all people, all people are equal in an image because you can look into their soul. My clients take my breath away because of their beauty, and I don't mean their looks. Looking into their soul through photography inspires me, and I hope they are inspired by what they see. If I've moved them, I've achieved my goal.

Great Photoshop Magazine - Photoshop Creative

2009-01-28T06:43:00.004-06:00

If you can get hold of one of these magazines, do so - very inspiring and well worth every penny (or cent!). I am in the UK so I subscribe and every month I am amazed at how much they pack into each and every issue. It comes complete with a CD with free fonts, brushes, textures, hi res stock image and more.

I know it is sold in the States, I have heard that Borders stock it.

Here is the website to wet your appetite.

Photoshop Creative

Magazine Content Page

Calumet Photo - Free shipping until Feb. 2nd

2009-01-27T17:36:00.002-06:00

Calumet Photo has Free UPS ground shipping until Feb. 2nd on everything. No code needed! Time to stock up on the heavy stuff..like seamless especially the 107"!

Let me know what ya bought:) Have fun shopping!

Anyone need some new papers??? :)

2009-01-27T16:51:00.003-06:00

So being cooped up indoors in the freeeeezing artic is NOT fun!!! Nope NOT at all!!! So lately i've been dabbling in paper making!!! A fun new addiction to be sure!!! :P I don't find myself very inspiring at ALL lately so i've come to SHARE!!! Let me know what you think!!!! I'll share a few new ones every few days! I'll try to at least!!! Today i'm thinking some polka dots are in order!

http://www.mediafire.com/?sharekey=1322a057392d85f291b20cc0d07ba4d2905c66d57f07ee79

Let me know if anyone has issues with the upload ok??? Happy Tuesday!!!

My favorite newborn prop is on sale....

2009-01-27T14:54:00.002-06:00

I purchased this fun bobble blanket from Target awhile back, and just noticed that it went on sale.
I just love the texture of this one, so fun and and so comfy and soft for baby. :-)
Check it out here - Target Bobble Throw
And here are a couple of my recent newborns using this throw -

{Central Ohio Photographer} Stephanie Moon Photography

2009-01-27T14:00:00.004-06:00

Hi, I just want to introduce myself. My name is Stephanie Moon. I am a mother to a 4 year old boy. I have been married to my wonderful husband going on 13 years! (can't believe it's been so long). I started my photography business a little less than a year and a half ago. It is slowly growing. My interest in photography started shortly after I returned to Ohio 8 years ago after living in Maine for 3 years. Now how I wish I was into photography while in Maine. I hope to go back someday and capture the beauty of the area. Anyway, I mostly photograph children and families but my true love is horse photography. I have been picking up more work in that area. I do love children's photography though and will always want to do that as well. So I hope I can contribute something to this blog. I have already gotten a few great tips here, so thanks everyone for sharing. You can visit my site and blog here: www.stephaniemoonphoto.com

What makes a photo perfect?

2009-01-27T12:22:00.006-06:00

That is a question I have asked myself a hundred times.....What makes a picture perfect? Is it the lighting, the smile the environment? Everyone of us might have a different answer for this, but for me I think the answer is, why does it have to be perfect? Life is far from perfect so why do our pictures always have to be perfect? If it makes your heart smile then that should be good enough, right? Of course there are exceptions, for example, doing shoots for clients, you don't want them to be blurry, underexposed or overexposed, ect. But sometimes I think we (well I do anyways) always think that every picture has to be perfect. I for one need to work on this & just remember that we are learning all the time and not to get frustrated if you don't get that perfect shot! Just be grateful that we will have these memories for the rest of our lives & our children's lives!

I thought I would share a couple of pictures of my little ones! I hope you enjoy!!

Sue Ann Holland - Athens, GA

2009-01-27T12:06:00.002-06:00

So, Heather is threatening to kick me off if I don't post soon... :-P

I haven't posted yet because I haven't felt all that inspiring lately. You all know how it is this time of year... after the Christmas crazies are over and it's cold out and everything is just so blah...
Thankfully I have had some business going on though and that's what's keeping me going, getting me through the dreaded winter slump.

I guess an official intro is in order and then later when I'm feeling much more inspiring I'll come back and post again. I'm Sue Ann Holland and I run Holland Photography in Athens, GA. I bought my studio lights two years ago and have been working hard over the last two years to grow and improve as best that I can. I'll post my site link in a bit and you all can decided for yourself (although if you think I need to hang it up than by all means, someone tell me...nicely of course! LOL!). I do both studio and location photography - some days I prefer studio because of the control, some days I'd rather shoot outside because of the almost limitless possibilities.

I have a wonderful husband and two kids - Gabe (3) and Layla (14 mon). They are my life. I also love the outdoors - we love to camp, hike (well, when I was in shape that is), fish, hunt, etc... just enjoy what God put here for us to enjoy you know?

I'm just going to post ME here and then a link to my site. Feel free to check me out and thanks for having me here!

National Association of Professional Photoshoppers

2009-01-26T23:08:00.002-06:00

NAPP is a great resource for anyone who uses photoshop. It is $99 for the year which makes it a bit over $8 bucks a month...such a deal but right now use the coupon code BHNAPP at checkout for $10 off your NAPP membership and a free DVD - Adobe® Photoshop® CS3: Automating Photoshop for Photographers. There are online forums and Photoshop user magazine is included in your membership...best of all NAPP members get FREE shipping from B&H! How cool is that? Just think of how much it costs to ship your items (it was $17 alone just to ship my camera!) and NAPP will easily pay for itself!
Enjoy:)
<3 Heather

Shutter Sisters: One Word Project

2009-01-26T08:54:00.002-06:00

Amongst the many blogs in my blog reader, I came across this today. I know many people do the 365 thing. But this takes it one step further. A 30 day challenge, you pick one word and focus your shots around that word. check out the details (and get lost in the inspiration) here: http://shuttersisters.com/home/

LuLu Lamb

2009-01-25T23:47:00.000-06:00

I got my hands on the cutest little chair, can't wait to use it on some newborns!! This is LuLu Lamb, a babystyles chair, and I have to say that I think I am in love! I tried to get some pictures of my little guy with the chair, and while I got a couple it seemed that our cat was more into the posing than my son (I also was able to get a little practice in with my alien bee, always a bonus!) So, most of these pictures of are the cat! I have another chair coming as well, it's a bear, and as soon as he arrives I'll be posting some pictures of him as well!

Iowa's Indiana Jones

2009-01-25T23:24:00.003-06:00

I admit - I get tired of taking winter pictures because my kids are wearing the same thing in them. It's not like summer when no matter when we shoot they are all dolled up in dresses or something. But with winter, for me, it's hard to be inspired when sweet faces are covered in the same fluffy hats, scarves, and coats.

....along comes Iowa-Indiana Jones - my wonderful neighbor. Ya know the one who helps you with small projects that your husband just can't seem to get to - he's helped me with dozens. On this particular day he had just finished snow blowing my and another neighbor's driveway (I'm one of the few on my street who still uses a shovel). He's already so full of character, this hat just added to it.

watch for those moments of perfect light

2009-01-25T21:07:00.003-06:00

I just HAD to snap this pic of my little one today. The light was too perfect to pass up.

Blogs of Photogs

2009-01-25T13:42:00.004-06:00

Do you love looking at other artists work for inspiration? I do! Check out Blogs of Photogs Mary chooses a new great photographer[s blog to showcase each week! You might want to grab a cup of coffee because your sure to be browsing for awhile!
<3 Heather