Nothern California PCH 101

Here are some images I never posted from my trip to the Northern California a couple of years ago. I wish I had them at a higher resolution, but I thought I would share them in spite of that. The first image is of Big Sur, CA and the second is of an area called Paradise Point in the state park nearby. The forth image of of the famous surf spot called "The Mavericks". It doesn't look to intimidating on this particular day, does it. :)

The Costons

US Magazine Lighting Project

I have been looking at US magazine for years and have always wanted to master outdoor flash with the same dramatic feel that I keep seeing in their publication. My "patient friend" Jennifer Breeden and my "always ready assistant" Nancy Shelton helped me to finally take some time and hammer out the details of how to do this. Jennifer is known for her expressive face, however the mood of the lighting lended itself to the more serious shots. I threw in one smiling, because that is just simply Jen. Thank you both for taking your free time to help me with this year's first personal project.

Returning from Myrtle Beach

Home again, home again! I just got back from Myrtle Beach, SC where I spent some time with my family and a couple friends. It was cold and windy, but so clear and beautiful I had to get my camera out and take a few shots. Things have changed over the years in Myrtle Beach and there is new construction everyday. Our extended family stayed here every other summer for several years while I was growing up. I miss those days. My cousins and I have all grown up and there is a new generation visiting Sunset Beach, NC which is very cool too. I enjoyed getting to look back at Myrtle Beach with my dad and remember what it used to look like. I am only included one picture because my dad is not known for patience in front of the camera. I'm surprised he humored me at all. My dad loves his Rockport shoes. :)

Scouting Locations...

Scouting locations has always been one of my favorite parts of being a photographer. I recently drove over to Sampson's Hollow to see one of my future wedding locations and to watch the sun go down. I can't wait to add the bride and groom!

Workshop with the McLellans!

I am just surfacing from a great visit with Mel and Sean McLellan of McLellan Studio in Franklin, TN. Mel and Sean are a husband and wife photography team that really define the word team. It was great watching them shoot and process the images at the same time. Mel's list of strengths are endless, but I keep thinking about how much energy she puts into making sure you feel comfortable. Sean will eventually be known as the Secret Ninja Photographer because he is shooting from every angle when you least expect it, keeping everything natural. I know this first hand because they photographed me for use on my blog. Being on the opposite side of the camera is always a good experience, making me remember how it feels to be one of my clients. I appreciate their advice, talent, and warmth! Thank you guys! Here are a few of the images from the session:

A Room Without A View

Today I am lucky enough to be cleaning out a large room at a good friend's house. Most people would not be too excited to say that, but this will be a new studio space for me. I plan to keep all of my shooting on location, but keep this space to make a mess and leave it. A space for me. Honestly this will be my new place to take ebay pictures! Ha! I used to shoot commercial and sometimes I miss it, so this will give me a chance to shoot some promotional items or sample shots of albums. My friend is even going to let me paint it. How great is that? Nancy is not just a good friend, she's a great assistant and incredible costume designer. Her house is more like a shop of all sorts. I think Santa's elves would like it over there. So a special thanks to Nancy for giving me a great room without a view! :) Maybe when it's fixed up I will throw some pics up.

Price Change and Resurfacing

Thanks for stopping by the blog! Your comments keep me going! I am currently being harassed by a good friend of mine to update my blog more often. She's right. It's good to have strong mentors! You know who you are. I'm been on blog hiatus getting my new prices organized. I think every photographer disappears in the winter to do this. My new prices are updated on the web and I am excited about not only shooting weddings and seniors, but also shooting more personal projects that I plan to unveil on the blog. I have had so many fun ideas piling up since I decided to start the business, that now I plan to make time to shoot those ideas and share them with you! I titled this post Price Change and Resurfacing because I am just now resurfacing from my trip to Ohio and Missouri. I love to go to Ohio because that's where most of my photography friends are. It's a great chance to compare notes and sort through new ideas. My best friend Michelle is always there to support me and problem solve with me. She would make a great counselor because she is such a good listener. Her husband Steve is a part-time secret ninja that can fix any problem you don't feel like dealing with and he makes it look effortless. Their dogs are also supportive by checking on you several times a day and seeing if you need a break to play fetch or tug of war. I spent most of my time in Missouri visiting family and former co-workers at the commercial studio, Rockafellow Photography. We had so much to catch up on. I get to see more of my family in Myrtle Beach, SC later this month. I realize this is February, but any chance to be at the beach is good for me. I will be playing catch up on housekeeping things for the business for awhile, but my goals are in place and it's going to be a great year!

Introducing Cody Ratliff...Costume Designer!

Here are some images from our shoot that Cody will use for his promotional pieces including a new business card.

New York bound...Alicia Reynolds!

Singer, Actor, Dancer, MODEL! Mallory Good!

Welcome to Luckenbach, Texas where Sarah and Buddy got hitched!