D Rose Photography Blog

Abby {proofs}

2011-11-11T14:01:00.001-08:00

My kids love this young woman. In fact, the last time we were brainstorming fun things we could do as a family, Sammy said "How about you and Daddy leave and ABBY comes over!", and the rest of the kids cheered their approval of her plan :-)

Abby is smart, beautiful, kind, compassionate, and loves the Lord. Oh yeah, AND she's a musician. This girl has the world by the tail! Can't wait to see the work of art her life will grow to be.

BTW - these are proofs only. When final picks are made, I'll touch up stray hairs and make final white balance adjustments.

First Comes Love, Then Comes Marriage...{Sneak Peek}

2011-05-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

I so enjoyed capturing this beautiful day....a family was made, and I got to catch it with my camera. Doesn't get much better!

Cassie {Proofs}

2011-04-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

The website isn't letting me log in, and this wonderful lady is waiting patiently for her pictures. Pardon me, while we use this blog as a proofing gallery :-)

Meet Emery Grace {sneak peek}

2010-10-09T14:56:00.000-07:00

This sweet little peanut was such a good sport this morning! A sleepy baby is a bit easier to photograph at this age, but she was determined to stay up and take in all the action :-) She's just 12 days old today - isn't she gorgeous?

I had a little helper during this shoot - Emery's big sister. I'll bet you can't guess how old she is ;-)

Portrait Painting

2010-09-14T14:05:00.000-07:00

Oh boy, I've found a new obsession! I recently captured this portrait of a beautiful little 6 month old little girl:

Today, I gave it a painted look, and it just took on a whole new life! I can just see this printed up on a 16x20" canvas:

Sunny Summer Flower

2010-09-09T18:26:00.001-07:00

I LOVE this sunflower! My little Sammy planted these little sunflowers in her garden this year, and we've all enjoyed the joy they bring to the little plot of dirt. I'm absolutely printing and framing this one - what a great addition to my office it will be! :-)

Notecards {a perfect gift idea}

2010-09-02T21:34:00.001-07:00

I've been having the time of my life designing notecards!

In this age of electronic and instant communication, a beautiful hand-written note means so much. Please look through my designs and let me know which one is your favorite - and if you can, buy a handful to bless your friends and family (either drop them a note, or give them as unique gifts).

An Honor {sneak peek}

2010-08-30T21:52:00.000-07:00

God's Artwork

2010-08-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

I've been discouraged lately - shooting out of obligation instead of for the joy of it. It's amazing how a few days can bring such a change in perspective! I decided to get back to the basics a little bit. I pulled out the good old camera. I tinkered. I adjusted settings. I played with the self timer. I shot in manual more than I usually do.

I had FUN taking pictures like I haven't had fun in a really long time.

I just shot what I saw. I prayed "Lord, show me please. Show me beauty where I've been missing it." I didn't have to look far.

Two of my wonderful babies:

A sunflower about to burst into color:

The onions growing in my garden. I've never had luck with onions...will this be my year?

A delicate speck of prettiness resting on the grass:

Like I said, I played around with the timer. It pains me to put this picture up. I mean REALLY pains me! But I'm trying to be honest here...sort of honest, anyway. Maybe next time I can put a picture up of myself without brushing some wrinkles out first ;-)

We took a family stroll that evening, and I brought the camera. My girl scooting through the neighborhood:

The little ones enjoying a summer treat:

My cautious oldest - being sure he doesn't get sprayed:

There was something about the pattern and texture to the rusty storm drain cover that caught my eye that night:

Having this child in my life just makes everything a bit more joyful (and loud and chaotic, but it's worth it). Here he is, sprinting toward me to show me his treasure:

"Look Mama!"

Shot from the hip as I held hands with my baby girl and she told me a story:

It didn't take long for someone's little legs to get tired, so my husband took the kids home and I kept walking. We have a wonderful little path that winds out of our neighborhood and through some undeveloped land. The sun was getting low and setting the fields to glow. I love evening light.

I can't describe what this color does in my soul...I think it has something to do with a dream I once had:

Southern Idaho is an arid place. If not for irrigation, the whole place would be dried grass and tumbleweed. Somehow, I even saw some beauty in the tumbleweed:

Seriously? This all happened by chance? Coincidence? Luck? I think not. My God - He is a spectacular artist.

I'm loving textures and patterns lately. There's just something about a plain old chain link fence - it brings my childhood roaring back...the tingly feel of my fingers and the jingly sound as the fence rattled while I ran down the sidewalk with my fingertips skimming the fence...the smell of honeysuckle creeping up the edge of the fence...the vines that tangled themselves in the links as they reached for the sun.

When I run, I often take this same path, and I always eagerly look forward to getting to the spot where I have this as my view. It's especially stunning in the evening because the mountains are lit beautifully, and the clouds have a little extra something as the sun sets:

As the sun set, I hardly knew which way to look! To the west, the sunset was a blaze of light and color:

And to the west, my favorite mountains with the fields aglow and the sky saying goodnight.

Thank you, Lord, for loving us so much to show us your beauty. You are Awesome.

"The heavens declare the glory of God;

the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

Day after day they pour forth speech;

night after night they display knowledge.

There is no speech or language

where their voice is not heard."

Psalm 19:1-3

Addie {6 months}

2010-08-16T14:56:00.000-07:00

Do you remember little Miss Addison? I've had the honor of photographing her since she was just a couple of weeks old.

It was easy to see that she'd be a beauty from day one. And then, at 3 months, she wowed me with her sparkly eyed smile. But now...oh, NOW...she's chatting at sitting up and being all sort of little-lady-ish. What a doll!

I can't wait to see you in another few months, Addie!

God is an Artist: Summer Flower

2010-07-15T14:35:00.000-07:00

I think I see some new notecards in my future :-)

Summer

2010-07-14T07:03:00.000-07:00

Oh, Baby!

2010-07-13T09:53:00.000-07:00

My favorite photography subjects? NEWBORNS! Please call me to schedule a photo shoot for your new little super-star!

Rainy Day Rose

2010-06-20T21:12:00.000-07:00

We got some rain today - couldn't resist this beautiful rose with drops of rain decorating it:

Rose

2010-06-16T22:04:00.000-07:00

Wedding Reception

2010-06-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

I am crazy about this sweet couple. Beautiful. Fun. Hilarious. Wicked smart. Watch out world! The were married a couple of weeks ago on the east coast, where Julia and her family are from. Mike and his family are based in Arizona. I was so honored when they invited me down to shoot the reception they had in AZ to celebrate with the family and friends who were more west than east. Here are a handful of my favorite shots from that beautiful day:

Can You Guess??

2010-06-02T16:18:00.000-07:00

How I got this shot??

That's right...get up on the ROOF. When the client told me what he was after...and that he has a "really tall ladder I can use"... I was speechless for just a second.

Okaaayyy.

Then I realized I had a dress on. I like smiles in photos, but there are only so many things I'm willing to do to get laughs. None of them involve flashing my subjects. So, what to do? Naturally...borrow a pair of Bob's shorts. Seriously.

This is the first time I've done a photo shoot on a roof and with my client's Umbros on under my dress!

Luke had fun taking pictures of me while I shot the reception. I think he loves me ♥

Oh, Baby!

2010-05-26T21:29:00.001-07:00

I mean, really. Can a little girl get cuter?!

She Did It Again

2010-04-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

Remember the last time I photographed this beautiful woman? Well, we decided to give it another go with straight hair this time. I really can't decide which look I like best - she's gorgeous either way :-)

B&W Mini-Shoot

2010-04-08T22:04:00.000-07:00

I did a shoot yesterday with a simple black background. When I was done, the kiddos had fun taking turns on the stool. What fun! (gotta get my boys up next)

Oh My, I love This Job

2010-03-31T19:51:00.001-07:00

Can you imagine my joy when this beautiful woman walked in my door today? Good grief - she's positively gorgeous!

She asked me to help her build a modeling portfolio. Apparently, she's had several people suggest that she pursue modeling. Well...YEAH!

She's a natural. I scarcely needed to give her any direction or coaching - this standing around looking stunning comes completely naturally to her.

She likes to joke that maybe she can be an "old lady model", with a wink and a coy little smile. If this is what "old lady" looks like, I say I can't wait to be an old lady!

Check this smoldering look out - boy, if looks could kill ;-)

She's coming over again tomorrow to do a shoot with straight hair. I can't wait!!

I'm having a hard time choosing between the B&W and color. Which do you like best?

Precious Addison {Sneak Peek}

2010-02-12T15:12:00.001-08:00

Oh.

I can hardly stand to even look at these amazing photos! They tug at my heartstrings so....it's almost painful! Have you ever seen anything so beautiful? Just look at those lips!

I was blessed with the opportunity to photography beautiful little Addie. She's an adored (and rightly so) first child. How do I know she's adored? I offered many times to just take her home with me, but they were adamant...they're keeping her. Hey, it doesn't hurt to ask ;-)

That, and the look on this beautiful mama's face. Can you just see it in her eyes? Joy - peace - contentment...adoration.

(I also got some sweet shots of Addison's Daddy holding her, but he struck me as a fairly private man, so I'm reserving the shots with him for their private gallery. Sorry! Trust me....his eyes...they melt when they gaze on his baby girl.)

I had fun playing with various finishes on this next shot - I settled on this "aged photo" look. It's so soft and sweet. It seems a perfect compliment to how sentimental this shot is. Addie is resting on a blanket that was her Daddy's blanket when he was a child, and she's covered with a gorgeous blanket knitted just for her by her grandma.

And finally, the toes. It's so amazing how uniquely expressive a baby's hands and feet are. I love 'em.

Thank you, wonderful and beautiful family! I loved spending time with you and snuggling your sweet little blessing. Stay tuned - I'll get your full gallery up in about a week.

Baby Fever {Sneak Peek}

2010-02-01T14:38:00.000-08:00

I did a photo shoot yesterday with one of the sweetest and most beautiful families I've ever met! I knew it was going to be fun, when I was met at the door by these amazing little eyes:

I wasn't mistaken either - walking in to their gorgeous home made me feel as if I was stepping into the studio of my dreams with it's rich colors, fun patterns and accessories, and loads of natural light (when I build my first studio, I'm totally calling you Jessica...for your help and a list of stores where you shop!). I said a quiet prayer of thanks as I looked around.

The home was beautiful and peaceful, which was a perfect reflection of the amazing family who lives there:

This little angel stole my heart with his tiny fingers and perfect mouth. He was such a good sport to model so sweetly for me.

As I processed this shot, I just kept thinking "texture". I love the smooth clean and

crisp lines of the un-textured piece, but how cool does this texture look?! :

Thank you for your patience and for blessing me with your business, wonderful family!

Stay tuned for the rest of your gallery in the next week or so.

:: Miss Emma ::

2010-01-07T18:10:00.000-08:00

Take one beautiful little girl, a handful of adorable clothes, a pinch of a fun location, and add a photographer who feels so blessed. What do you get? Well, see for yourself...

I just love the sweet far-away look she has in this one:

Oh boy, can you believe how CUTE this outfit is? As you can see, I had fun playing with different finishes with her photos.

As you probably know by now, I can't resist getting creative with great photos. I love this collage. I can just see it in a big 30x30 canvas!

As we were shooting, we saw plenty of wonderful little girl spunk. Her mom mentioned doing a "naughty & nice" Christmas card...what a perfect use for silly faces! I loved designing this card for her. She ordered it in a gorgeous, rich pearl finish. It turned out amazing!

(I think you can click on the image to see it larger)

Happy Client, Happy Me!

2009-11-20T08:39:00.000-08:00

"Thank-you again for doing our Christmas cards this year! I am so excited to mail them out and have my family & friends enjoy them! I LOVE how you package them...from the tissue paper that is wrapped so neatly in the box to the box itself and the bow...the bow! Just too precious! Thank-you!"

~D.P. 2009

Country Kids

2009-11-19T15:02:00.001-08:00

Well, howdy pardner!

Are these some of the most beautiful kids on the planet, or what?!

Creative Juices

2009-11-19T14:45:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite things in life is finding creative uses for beautiful photos. I recently did a family shoot at a rustic barn with all sorts of beautiful textures and shapes. This collage was inspired by the unique front gate on the property - perfect little frames for shots of the kids!

Shooting this family was such a joy! We got such a selection of great shots, I thought it would be nice to put a handful of them together in a family collage.

This family definitely has a fun and silly side. I chose a couple of shots and a fun phrase to highlight just how fun they are. (you should be able to click on any image to see it larger)

And finally...this couple. They are such a sweet pair! Silly, honest, fun, beautiful. I was thrilled that they let their guard down a bit to let me capture a few shots that capture who they are. Of the three, I think this collage might be my favorite:

Thank you wonderful and beautiful family! I had so much fun - thanks for sharing your afternoon (and great smiles) with me :-)

I Don't Like It...

2009-11-19T14:09:00.001-08:00

One of my kids' favorite dinner-time conversations happens when I ask them if they enjoying dinner. Well...I should clarify...it happens when I make something they approve of. Otherwise, there's no conversation to be had since it's difficult to converse with jaws locked shut ;-)

It goes something like this,

"So, what do you think? Is it yummy? Do you like your dinner?"

"NO! I DON'T LIKE IT!" (with a pretend scowl on their sweet little faces)

"Oh no! You don't? I'm sorry." (with a pretend concerned look on my face)

"NO! I don't like it...I LOOOOVE it!" (giggles all around)

I've been reminded of this sweet banter lately as I chat with clients.

"I got your gallery on line. Let me know what you think once you've had a chance to take a look."

"Oh wow! Those pictures are great! Thank you so much!"

"Oh good. I'm so glad you like them."

"No, you don't understand. I don't like them. I LOOOOVE them!"

It makes my day every single time :-) I'm so blessed.

Goodies (with a pretty ribbon, even!)

2009-11-19T13:55:00.000-08:00

I'm hooked. Taking beautiful pictures. Designing creative uses for them. Clients who love what I do. Add to all of that...a beautiful package tied with ribbon. I love this job!

Remember when I showed you some of the cards I've been designing? Well, hot dog, someone actually BOUGHT some! And they turned out absolutely beautifully! See what I mean when I say that these are not your standard grab-em-from-the-one-hour-photo-place-for-super-cheap cards? These are custom designed cards that no one on God's green earth has ever had before.

Fresh, unique, and beautiful...that's what I strive for, and that's what these cards are. Give me a call or drop me an email, and I'd do a card for your family too!

Perks

2009-11-19T13:39:00.000-08:00

One of the advantages of having a photography business, is that I have to get some of my cool products for my own home. You know...I have to be able to show clients what this stuff looks like in person ;-)

I adore canvases. They are absolutely beautiful, so I decided to take the plunge and order some of my own children. These beauties are big - they're each 16x24". I love how they look grouped on the wall in a collage, don't you?

When people see them for the first time, it always goes something like:

"Wow!"

...and then there's an exaggerated pause while they stand in my living room and just...LOOK. Sometimes their mouth is agape. Sometimes I have to remind them to blink. Sometimes there's even drool.

And then there's another (usually whispered) "wow..."

I love it!

Now I need to paint those poor bland living room walls...

Happy Client, Happy Me!

2009-11-19T08:46:00.000-08:00

"I don't just like them...I LOVE them...Oh, and BTW, we love, love, LOVE the pic of Zac...it is so hard to get a genuine smile out of that kid, but you got it and he looks so handsome. Thank you!"

~J.P. 2009

Good Clean Fun

2009-11-11T22:27:00.000-08:00

(Click on image for a larger view)

I am so addicted to creating collages and cards lately! What do you think of this collage...fun, eh? It's designed to be printed up as a large 24x30 piece (but could be printed smaller, although you'd have to pay extra for breaking my heart) ;-)

I think it would be positively spectacular as a canvas wrap.

Beautiful Red-Headed Babies

2009-11-11T15:50:00.000-08:00

Remember this wonderful family? Well, don't they just have the most beautiful babies ever?! I think so :-)

Happy Client, Happy Me!

2009-11-11T08:58:00.000-08:00

"Hey Daiquiri: Thanks again for everything! You wouldn't believe how many compliments I have been getting. You have helped me kick start my new career in a positive way!"

~M.M. 2009

Well, Thanks!

2009-11-10T09:08:00.000-08:00

"WOW - you are really talented! You don't just take a picture - you capture the mood and personality that comes through in every shot."

~J.M. 2009

Down on the Farm {Sneak Peek}

2009-11-09T20:33:00.001-08:00

Wow, did I have a fun weekend! I got to spend a couple of hours with some of my favorite people in the whole wide world. And I got to spend those hours with them here:

I couldn't resist the antique finish for this photograph. This is just a couple of miles from my house, but it looks and feels almost other-worldly. Isn't it spectacular?!

And what a beautiful group of fun loving people! I can't remember the last time I laughed so hard during a shoot. I'll share more great shots of this family, but I think the next post will have to be "out-takes". Man, did we laugh!

And what a sweet, loving couple. No wonder all the kids are smiling...it's hard not to when these two are around! (I probably just made the teenaged girls roll their eyes...but girls, come on, you KNOW it's true!) ;-)

It's families like this that make me think...I LOVE this job!

Happy Client, Happy Me!

2009-11-05T08:49:00.000-08:00

"Daiquiri! Those are BEAUTIFUL!! Well done:) Thank you for putting them up so soon! We are so excited to see the rest. I bet they are just as great!...

A. and I really love the shots you got of us together (we had a horrible wedding photographer so these are our first really nice pics of us together)."

~M.K. 2009

First Comes Love, Then Comes Marriage...{Sneak Peek}

2009-11-02T21:15:00.001-08:00

I had the time of my life shooting this beautiful little family this past weekend. The good times started when this sweet family stepped out of their car and I saw all these gorgeous sparking eyes, red heads, and adorable clothes (not to mention those delicious baby cheeks!).

They were all such great sports. Patient, cheerful...just good kids all around!

We took lots and lots of pictures (more to come shortly), but some of my personal favorites were those of the parents together.

Is it me, or does it seem like you can almost read this man's mind in this shot? I look at those eyes and I hear "I am crazy in love with this woman."

They are a beautiful couple...and not just on the outside. Being around them made me feel like going home and squeezing my hubby ♥.

Thank you, wonderful and beautiful family! I can't wait to show you more...

Happy Client, Happy Me!

2009-11-02T09:12:00.000-08:00

"Thank you so much. I never thought I would ever like a picture of myself, but it looks wonderful."

~T.P. 2009

Hello, My Name Is Daiquiri...

2009-10-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

...and I'm addicted to card design.

I was actually sitting down to work up another Christmas design that's been tumbling in my brain, when these baby announcements were born (hehehe...nice pun...I think it might be time for me to step away from the computer).

Aren't these adorable? Almost makes me want to get pregnant again!

Or not.

At all.

The little guy who's my model in these cards though...now HE gives me baby fever :-)

Remember, I can make you cards with photos that YOU have taken! Pop me an email and we'll work out the details.

My Favorite Holiday Card Yet!

2009-10-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

There's something about this pretty blue color for holiday cards...so fresh and crisp and cheerful. Add a little pattern and an an embossing look to it, and you have a beautiful card! Can you see how the photos sort of look like they have some depth?

I don't know if I'm going to have this one for sale...I might have to reserve it for my family!

That brings me to my dilemma...I want a beautiful family picture of MY family...who am I supposed to hire? :-)

Goodies

2009-10-25T13:37:00.000-07:00

Oh boy, am I having fun getting creative with the photos from my post recent shoot! I just love to build custom collages for clients - it's a great way for them to showcase many photos grouped together in a meaningful and beautiful way. I LOVE them big and on canvas - so gorgeous and unique!

Here are the two collages I designed today. This first one uses one of the images with a slightly lower opacity as the background - cool! (click on images to view them larger)

This second collage has a patterned background that makes the fall colors really pop:

And what a great use for a collage...Christmas cards! I'm so hooked on making cards lately :-)

Brothers {Sneak Peek}

2009-10-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, when I look into a little boy's eyes, I just see the future. Boys can be so rough and tumble...dirty and rambunctious...goofy and fun. And then they *pause* for just a second, look me in the eye and I see a flash of what's to come. I see the young man in him for just a moment, and I think "Wow, little man. The whole future

is yours. Go big."

That's the moment I try to capture with my camera. Document the little boy that he is today...but grab that LOOK. The look of peace and contentment and quiet strength that's buried way down deep in a well-loved boy's soul.

I had the [FUN] privilege of playing with these little boys a few days ago. We ran around and jumped and threw leaves and sang songs. And somehow in there...we got some great pictures too :-)

Oh, Baby

2009-10-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

Remember this little love? I've been having a ball building a collage with his portraits. And it just so happened...that the collage looks gorgeous as a baby announcement too!

Which announcement is your favorite?

#1 - Diagonal Stripe

#2 - Funky Flower

#3 - Vertical Stripe

#4 - Cris-cross

There's Nothing Much Better...

2009-10-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

...Than watching your joyful little girl playing in the crisp fall leaves. Life is sweet.

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down

from the Father of the heavenly lights, who

does not change like shifting shadows.

James 1:17

Even More Cards

2009-10-18T19:05:00.001-07:00

Okay, I might have to quit my day job and become a card designer - it's so fun! :-)

(For more card deigns, click HERE. For card prices, click HERE.)

As you can see, these cards are actually all the same design with different pattern options. This is my favorite card to date....I love how so many different photos can be incorporated, so the real personality of the family comes through.

Just a reminder ~ if you see a card style that you like, but you're not crazy about the patterns or colors, just let me know! I can customize any card to suit your preferences.

Also, a note on photos ~ You do not have to be one of my photography clients to order your holiday cards through me. I will happily use photos that you've taken (heck, I'll even touch them up for you for free!).

If you have photos taken by another professional photographer (ahem!), I can use those photos too...but ONLY with a copyright release form from your photographer. If your photographer doesn't offer cards for sale, they will likely give you a release to be used for your holiday cards ~~(and you should call me for your photos next year, since no one cares about your quality photography experience and product more than I do).~~

Here are those cards....my thanks again to this family who is beyond wonderful for being my models!

Crazy For Christmas Cards!

2009-10-17T14:44:00.001-07:00

I've been having loads of fun designing Christmas card templates. All the cards you see are 100% customizable...everything can be changed to suit your tastes including the choice of photos, fonts, text, patterns, and colors.

So far, I've just been working on flat 5x7 cards. The come in quantities as low as 25, and come with envelopes.

What's different about these cards? Why not just run to your local lab and choose one of their card templates? One word: Quality. The colors...richer. The paper...a variety of finishes. The designs...unique. In fact, if you'd like to work with me on designing a card for your family (and your family ONLY), I'd be happy to do that for a minimal design fee.

You can find prices for my custom cards by clicking here.

PS. My sincerest thanks to these wonderful and beautiful families for allowing me to use their portraits as samples :-)

Cards, Cards, Cards!

2009-10-16T20:00:00.000-07:00

I've been busy designing card templates lately....Christmas, Baby Introductions, Engagement, Save the Date. Oh my! It's so fun!

I'll be sharing some of my customizable templates with you soon. I can use photos I've taken for you, or you can email me a photo that you've taken and I'll pop it into the card of your choice. Easy as pie!

In the mean time, I thought I'd get my card price list out there. That way, when it's time for you to choose your card, you have all the info you need to make a decision. I'm thoughtful that way ;-)

UPDATE: Uh Oh! It's too tough to keep every price list copy updated, so I've decided to take them off my blog and website. If you'd like to know my prices, please email me at DRose@DRosePhotos.com (you can just click on my email address over there in the sidebar of this blog), and I'll be happy to send you the most recent prices :-)

Facebook

2009-10-15T13:50:00.000-07:00

You can now find D Rose Photography, LLC. on Facebook!

Click here to be directed to the page.

Don't forget to become a "Fan" so that you can get the very latest updates, product offerings, and special promotional deals! I'll be doing some specials for Facebook Fans only, so it will be worth your while to sign up.

See you there!

God Is an Artist: Fall

2009-10-15T13:27:00.001-07:00

My Favorite Military Family

2009-10-02T15:50:00.000-07:00

I had the wonderful experience of taking family portraits for this family a couple of weeks ago. Remember their sneak peek?

Well, I finally made my way through the rest of their shots, and got their gallery up. It's always such a relief when the client tells me that they love what we captured. I wonder if I'll ever be 100% confident in my abilities to do this? :-)

Before we met, I had a vision for a shot I wanted to do of their family. Dad is often off fighting for our country, and I wanted to take a shot that represented what he does and what this family is about. I took this shot (top shot in the following collage)...Dad in uniform, Mom and kids playing together, Dad standing off to the side and out of focus...sort of a "there but not there" feel to it.

And then I snapped a shot of the kids doing a spontaneous pledge to our flag, and this collage was born (the flag in the background is the flag in the park that day):

We had lots of romp-around fun and silliness in the park with these boys. What great little buddies they are!

Sneak Peek ~ Fun Family Shoot

2009-09-22T12:23:00.000-07:00

(click on any image to see a bigger version)

Oh my, did I have fun with this family! We met in the park on a perfect (almost) fall day, and we had a blast playing and climbing and exploring. These boys are all energy and fun. And such little gentlemen! Kind and obedient and joyful...what a pleasure and honor to be a part of their day :)

The highlight of the shoot (and my entire day) was when this little love walked up to me, wrapped his arms around my legs, and gave me a big unsolicited {HUG}. Sigh. I love this job!

And this little guy! So darn smart and kind. I told him all about my little boy who is his same age, and by the end of the shoot he was asking me to "please bring Ben the next time you take our pictures" :) And check out these amazingly beautiful...ahem...handsome...eyes! I love them!

Of course, happy and good children don't come from just anywhere. They come from really great parents. In this case, really great parents who happen to be nuts about each other.

Seriously - the love of the Lord just radiates from this family, and I feel so honored that they chose me to do their portraits.

Clara Rose

2009-08-19T08:32:00.001-07:00

Sweet Stella

2009-08-14T20:06:00.000-07:00

Oh my.

This is my neice, Stella. Could she be any prettier?

Fix It Friday #3

2009-08-07T13:24:00.000-07:00

I just love "Fix it Friday" over at I ♥ Faces. I just can't resist a good "before and after". Here's the sweet little before shot:

Beautiful little guy in beautiful surroundings - love this. I especially love his chubby little fingers and sweet curls.

I started in Lightroom where I cropped, and adjusted the levels (blacks and contrast were too low for my taste). I also decided to add a slight vignette and to desaturate the entire image a bit to give it more of an antique look. I like how his features pop just a little bit more now:

Then I went to PS Elements, where I added a pattern layer to give it a little bit of a textured canvas look - I'm so into textures lately. I also added a couple of different frames. Which version do you like better? What would you have done differently?

Happy Client, Happy Me!

2009-08-05T09:15:00.000-07:00

"WOW! What can I say, you are making me start to cry just looking at them. I love them all! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!"

~A.G. 2009

Ben & Alanna are Engaged!

2009-08-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

I met this sweet couple and their adorable pup at my favorite park. We hit it off right away - what a fun and sweet couple! And their baby, sweet Gabby, had a great time exploring the park and kicking up birds. Good girl!

There was no shortage of laughter with these two...I was hard pressed to sort through the shots to find some where I could see their faces - there were bunches of fun throw-your-head-back with a good belly laugh shots. It was fun to spend time with a couple who enjoyed each other's company so much :-)

When we'd had enough of the park, we headed down town for a little more of a funky look. Alanna emerged from their truck dressed to the 9's - surprised me with her gorgeous brown dress (I got the scoop on where she got it...headed there this weekend!).

What can I say, I have a thing for feet...

These two...they have a bright and joyful future ahead of them. And guess what? They surprised me my asking them to photograph their wedding! I almost cried, I was so touched! Now....just to work up the courage...

Thanks, Ben and Alanna. I had a great time doing your engagement photos!

Coming Soon: Ben, Alanna & Gabby

2009-08-02T20:12:00.000-07:00

Had a ball doing an engagement shoot with a wonderful couple this weekend...can't wait to show you more!

Baby Daniel

2009-07-20T16:22:00.000-07:00

s it just me, or do these photos almost enable you to smell this little angel's sweet head...to feel his soft cheek against yours...to hear his soft "cooo" when he smiles? (or do I have a serious case of baby fever?)

Busy Boys ~ Sneak Peek

2009-07-17T09:59:00.001-07:00

Boy oh boy - this family was so much fun! Every now and then I get to spend a couple hours with a family like this...I love my job!

Mom and Dad were frustrated with trying to get nice shots of their busy little guys in a studio setting. After spending some time with these kiddos in a big park with lots of room to run and play and explore...I can see how a confining setting would be a stressful situation (as it is for most families with young kids).

These boys are so sweet...

It was especially fun for me to see the relationship between the boys and their fun-loving and patient parents.

These busy and joyful little boys sure made me hustle to get shots of them....but it was so worth the effort. A loving family is one of God's greatest gifts ~ thanks, Renae and Chris, for sharing yours with me :-)

PS. This product (or something like it) would make a great fit for your faimily's photos.

Happy Client, Happy Me!

2009-07-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

"WOW is about all I can say. When I saw Jessica I was speechless, how gorgeous! The pics are absolutely beautiful! You have such a talent, I am so blessed to have met you. You are so wonderful, thank you so much. I can't wait to see more! Believe me I am telling everyone about you, it was such a great experience!

God bless you!"

~C.M. 2009

Baby Blues ~ A Peek

2009-07-15T20:02:00.001-07:00

It was several months ago when this little girl's eyes made me gasp. Seriously - look at those incredible blue eyes! Add some wispy blonde curs to frame that beautiful face...I simply HAD to photograph this little girl. Thankfully, her mom agreed :)

She's not the only one with those incredible eyes - she has a couple of very handsome (and sweet and spunky) older brothers. I was in heaven...

And THEN...there was this little guy. Their new cousin has those eyes too!

This photo shoot simply could not have been more fun. Thanks so much to these wonderful families for sharing their beautiful little ones with me. I can't wait for you to see the rest of the photos - I'll get a gallery set up for you in the next couple of weeks.

Wisconsin...

2009-07-14T20:54:00.000-07:00

...is positively gorgeous.

Freckles

2009-06-12T09:18:00.000-07:00

Gotta love these freckles, sparkly blues, and sweet curls. What a beauty!

New Product - So Cool!

2009-06-11T19:33:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited about this new product!

This is such good stuff! I just found templates to easily build these amazing collages - aren't they gorgeous?

Each photograph is on it's own beautiful canvas. I've always thought that canvas is the very best way to display great photos - so rich and classic. But put together like this....just incredible!

They're a bit on the spendy side (start at around $450), but this is the kind of thing you keep forever. And don't forget...with a standard print, you have to pay for a mat and frame (which can be hundreds of $$), but with these you don't need frames.

I love 'em so much, I think I'm going to build one for my wall. I'm thinking of one group shot of all my kids together, and then individual shots of each child.

Are you ready for a new, interesting (and stunningly beautiful) way to display your family portraits? Oooo - OR if you're looking for a photo series on any subject - Call me please! I'd love to do a custom shoot of your family - or of the local farmer's market for a great kitchen or dining room piece - or of your sweet and lovable pet - or of your flower garden. And then we can build one of these amazing collages for you.

Just beautiful.

I love this job :)

Sweet Summer

2009-06-05T13:37:00.001-07:00

More Of My Favorites

2009-05-07T14:03:00.001-07:00

Wow - did we get some great shots, Jessica! I'm having so much fun processing your shoot...I can't even choose my favorite :-)

I've experimented a bit with different finishes. Let me know if you'd like a particular photo in a certain finish, or if you'd like something different all together. There are a small handful of other shots that I'll include in your catalog (on my website). I'll contact you with your password when the catalog is ready to go.

Thanks again for choosing me to do your photos - I had a blast with all you beautiful girls!

Sneak Peek

2009-05-05T06:56:00.000-07:00

Did we have some fun, or what?! As I drove to our location, it was raining. Thank God...the rain cleared up for an hour while we shot...and immediately started raining as soon as we were done. I'm convinced the Big Guy was gracious enough to answer my prayers :-)

These three little girls are so sweet. And B.U.S.Y. Man, they made me work for it! It was so much fun - we were picking flowers, tossing stones, and balancing on the little rock wall. What an adventure!

Thanks, Jessica, for letting me be the one to capture your beautiful family! More to come soon...

PS. Note to self - fill the parking meter next time to avoid parking ticket down town.

Lovin' Spring

2009-04-24T22:45:00.001-07:00

Fun Creation

2009-03-02T21:37:00.000-08:00

Isn't this a neat collage for an adopted child? (name intentionally blurred for privacy)

The text is small in this format...it says "A Gift To The World" and then his birth name, date and location. In the far left square it says "A Blessing To Our Family" with his adopted name and date. And the bottom square...you can probably read that one :)

A Few Of My Favorites

2009-03-01T15:03:00.000-08:00

I've had the honor, joy, and blessing to call this sweet family my neighbors and friends for the past few years. And man...do they have some beautiful children!

I had so much fun playing and chatting with these two dolls. Their little man just turned one, and has blossomed into a chatty, busy little boy since they adopted him. What a gift he is!

And their oldest daughter...when I look at her through my camera, I just catch my breath! She is so gorgeous with that perfect skin, sweet freckles, and twinkling eyes. She wants to be a mom of many (like her mom) and she wants to work in a pet shop some day...she loves cats and dogs :)

Thank you so much for letting me be your photographer, guys. I had so much fun, and can hardly wait to come back and capture the rest of your little blessings on "film"!

~ Daiquiri

PS. I know you were excited to get a quick peek of what I captured this morning, so I decided to put these (some of my favorites) up for you. Please keep in mind that the final processing on these shots has not been done!

Unofficial Shoot

2009-02-03T20:17:00.000-08:00

I was chatting with the wonderful mom of these beautiful kids today about taking some shots of her kiddos. She'd like some *giant* canvas gallery wraps of her kids to put up in their living room. I can't wait to work with them for "real"!

I grabbed my camera today and snapped a few quick shots while they told me about what they want to be when they grow up. This beauty wants to be a vet who specializes in kitties :)

(Please keep in mind that these are minimally processed and very off the cuff shots)

And here's her little brother. He's not sure what he wants to be when he grows up quite yet, but he sure loves to talk about the rock climbing wall he's been learning to climb at his preschool (cool preschool, eh?):

Is there anything better than a genuinely happy kid? I think not...

What Little Boys Are Made Of

2009-01-30T07:10:00.000-08:00

I think the popular rhyme about little boys is all wrong, and this precious guy is proof...nothing but sweetness here!

I've been doing a monthly shoot for this family to document this little one's first year (I'll add photos from the other shoots to this new blog soon). Here we are at 5 months already! Time flies...

Those chubby little hands just make my heart go pitter-patter!

This next picture is one of my favorites because it documents the stage this little guy is in. You know, the drooling and everything in the mouth stage! He also has a twinkle in his eye like he has something to say.

Little Miss Sydney

2009-01-29T22:07:00.001-08:00

Was this little angel made for the camera, or what? They just don't come more sweet or spunky than her!

Her parents were especially happy to see that I'd captured this look, which they simply call "The Look". She wasn't really angry with me...her daddy was in the background encouraging this special face:

She's at home in front of the camera. It's amazing how a simple game of Peek-A-Boo can get some of the best giggles.

I love toes. Don't you wonder where these sweet tooties will land some day?