Wrapped gifts and listened to Christmas music. The boys love the Muppets 12 Days of Christmas!
Stop and see the lights 12/19
Day two of the snow!! S asked me to come back outside with him, and when I did, I got to working helping him build a snow castle. Well, he didn't want my help; he just wanted "company." (love) So, we worked side by side because I knew if just sat there and watched him, my biscuit would be back inside in about 5 minutes. He was hard at work on a super snow castle, and I started a snow fort (buckets of snow in a square - that's a snow fort, really). J came out to work on it, too. Soon, they were both working on the fort, and even darkness and falling temps didn't stop them. (I was back inside by this time. Not very 'stop and see the lights' of me, but it was cold!) Pictures soon!
We watched Elf after warming up. The boys had never seen it and they laughed out so many times.
It was fun to watch it with them.
It was fun to watch it with them.
MIA! Stop and see the lights 12/16-18
Just when I posted that we were going to see this through, something hit me like a Mack truck.
I was so sick, so quickly and better just as quickly. It was really strange.
I was so sick, so quickly and better just as quickly. It was really strange.
Anyway, we have some catching up to do. Thankfully, my sweet husband not only took care of everything while I was in bed (for more than a day straight!), but he also did a "lights thingee" for me!! So, here we go:
12/16 J took the boys shopping not once, but twice this evening and took note of all the lights on the way home.
12/17 Santa's Link drop off party and dinner with special friends. We saw Santa!
12/18 Snow, snow, snow! School was dismissed at 10:00, and they played until their noses were frozen. Recharged with hot chocolate and played some more. Not to worry, it's not all sunbeams and roses. The second round was brought to a close by two rogue snowballs (hmmm, I have two children....funny).
Creative Canvases
It's no secret that canvases are one of my favorite products (storybooks are tied with canvases for first place!). So when K said she'd like canvases but with a little twist, I was so excited!
These beauties are 20 x 20 with a 2" depth.
These beauties are 20 x 20 with a 2" depth.
Stop and see the lights 12/15
First off, I think we are going to be able see this through to the 24th. I'll be honest, finding time every day when so much on my to do list is looming has been hard (I'm sure my high school English teachers would cringe at the construction of that sentence). It has also been wonderful. I have had to literally pull myself away from the computer a few times. And the world didn't end. I hopped back on after my guys went to bed. I haven't had one of those "where did the day go" days in, oh, 15 days. So, I definitely plan to keep this up, after the holidays, too. I know we'll have days where it doesn't happen, but I don't want a life where a few calm minutes with my family most days isn't possible (ugh, double negatives..clearly my English skills are slipping).
Second, on to the fun stuff! Today the boys made a gift for someone who may or may not be reading, so that's all I have to say about that.
Stop and see the lights 12/14
Made cookies! Peanut butter cup and cinnamon sugar. They were the break apart kind,
couldn't really do a recipe on a school night. They were sooo good!
couldn't really do a recipe on a school night. They were sooo good!
Let me know what you're doing!
Stop and see the lights 12/13
Wrapped our first Christmas presents. It's hard for me to just let the boys wrap, but I kept myself in check (except for the octogan Bakugan case - I tackled that one).
Images coming soon, I promise. In keeping with the Stop and See the Lights theme, free time has been spent away from the computer. :)
Stop and see the lights 12/12
Shopped for our Santa's link kids! Will wrap their gifts this afternoon. Fun day!
Stop and see the lights 12/11
We adpoted our Santa's Link kids! If you are local, check this out! It's a wonderful way to help out children in the Charlotte area. Drop off parties are this Wednesday and Thursday, so there's still time!
Stop and see the lights 12/10
I was out of the house from 7a to 10p, so didn't see the boys after I dropped them off at school. J says they brought our puppy's bed inside for the winter and they love on him a bit. That counts, right?
Stop and see the lights 12/9
We (finally) took our Christmas pictures and celebrated with dinner at Jersey Mike's.
Stop and see the lights 12/8
We cracked open a pomegranate! Between the four of us, no one had ever eaten one before! The verdict was mixed. While we ate it we talked about our favorite Christmas food. The clear winner was snickerdoodles, just because no one else could remember anything other than that and gingerbread.
What did you do tday?
Great way to add depth to your wall images
Check out this Frame Riser from Pottery Barn.
From their site:
Designed to bring some frames forward over others, our metal bracket lets you layer photos, art and mirrors.
Designed to bring some frames forward over others, our metal bracket lets you layer photos, art and mirrors.
Love it!
Stop and see the lights 12/7
Watched both Charlie Brown Christmas Specials together (with popcorn, of course).
My favorite line in the second one is Peppermint Patty as a sheep in the play "Woof! Meow! Moo! Whatever."
Stop and see the lights 12/6
We decorated our tree, listened to Christmas music and
had fun remembering who/where all the ornaments came from.
had fun remembering who/where all the ornaments came from.
That's more like it. :)
Stop and see the lights 12/5
This was the kind of day I'm trying to have less of. We got lots of things done on our to do list, but we were all working separately. Hubs built the frame for the book nook in the rec room, I put up the outdoor lights and edited lots of images, and J & S built the Stars Wars that have been on my living room floor for a month. And the list goes on... So, lots of progress, but other than meals, no together time. I know that we don't have to spend all day, every day together, but I was sad to see how hard it was to carve out just a few minutes. We did find some time to read some (okay, two) of the boys' favorite Christmas stories at bedtime, basically because I said we were. Nothing like making your kids spend time with you. Tomorrow will be better.
Stop and see the lights 12/4
A little light decorating, aka no tree yet, but lots of other things!
Here is before:
After coming soon...be afraid. Be very afraid.
Stop and see the lights 12/3
Tonight I asked the boys about their favorite Christmas memories. Each said they didn't remember anything.
(I was proud of myself for not crying right away.) So, I asked them if they remembered things that we did
each year - decorating a gingerbread house, making Snickerdoodles for Santa, and I was about to go on
when they each started saying things they remembered. J said he loved walking around a corner at Nannie's house and seeing his new bike. He said, "Everyone could hear that I found it!" S said he remembered
getting his Leapster and using it right away in his new little chair. He said, "It was so long ago that I
don't know if it was dream or if it really happened."
(I was proud of myself for not crying right away.) So, I asked them if they remembered things that we did
each year - decorating a gingerbread house, making Snickerdoodles for Santa, and I was about to go on
when they each started saying things they remembered. J said he loved walking around a corner at Nannie's house and seeing his new bike. He said, "Everyone could hear that I found it!" S said he remembered
getting his Leapster and using it right away in his new little chair. He said, "It was so long ago that I
don't know if it was dream or if it really happened."
Stop and see the lights 12/2
Pancakes, scrambled eggs and clementines for dinner...on a school night!
What's yours?
Stop and see the lights!
Every year, December flies by in whirlwind of "we've got to get (whatever) done!"
Not this year! Each day, we are going to just S - T- O - P.
Stop running and rushing and do something purposeful together to celebrate the season,
even if it's just for a few minutes.
Stop running and rushing and do something purposeful together to celebrate the season,
even if it's just for a few minutes.
So, December 1 - counted Christmas lights on the way home from Scouts (an inauspicious beginning, but there you go). It was 33, by the way.
Post your "stop and see the lights" moments in the comments each day!
See you tomorrow!
Tuesday Tip: Fun and easy gift idea!
Instant Silhouette!
Take a picture of your subject's profile, print at your desired size, tape to paper and cut around the outline of your subject! That's it! A beautiful, easy, fun and personal gift! The great part is you can get really creative. I did these a few years ago for a traditional silhouette look, but this year, I'm going to use some fun patterned paper, either the silhouette in white on the fun paper or using the patterned paper for the silhouette itself. Happy cutting!
A sobering reminder for parents...
A fellow photographer shares her tragic loss in hopes of preventing another heartbreak.
Here is the link to the postcard if you'd like to share it.
Tuesday Tip 10.06
I have several friends who are wonderful cooks/bakers and two are that are pumpkin lovers as well. When I make pumpkin muffins (very often!), it is one of these two recipes because I just can't decide which I like better. And, yes, we've done the blind taste test. (Have I told you that I love pumpkin?) So, enjoy and let me know if YOU can decide!!
Jen’s Pumpkin Muffins
Combine in a bowl:
1 1/4 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 cup egg substitute
2/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup oil (canola or olive)
1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
Mix thoroughly and then add:
1 1/2 cups flour
1 t. baking soda
1/2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. cloves
1/2 t. nutmeg
1 t. cinnamon
Stir until wet and dry ingredients are incorporated but don't overmix--unless you like rubbery baked goods.
Using the ice cream scoop divide batter into 12 lined muffin cups. Take out your giant Costco bag of chocolate chips and sprinkle 4 to 5 chips on top of each muffin. This entices the children to eat the muffin without overpowering the healthful ingredients.
Bake at 350 for 20-22 minutes.
Cool slightly and enjoy.
Emily’s Pumpkin Muffins
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs, slightly beaten
2 cups granulated sugar (I use a little more than a cup)
1 can (15 oz.)Pumpkin
1 cup vegetable oil (If you use flax seed, you can cut this down to about 1/2 cup)
2 cups (12-oz. pkg.) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels (I use less)
PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Grease thirty-six 2 1/2-inch muffin cups or line with paper bake cups.
COMBINE all-purpose flour, whole-wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and salt in medium bowl. Combine eggs and sugar in large bowl. Add pumpkin and oil; mix well. Stir in flour mixture until moistened. Stir in morsels. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups.
BAKE for 20 to 25 minutes or until top springs back when lightly touched. Cool in pans on wire racks for 5 minutes; remove from pans.
Jen’s Pumpkin Muffins
Combine in a bowl:
1 1/4 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 cup egg substitute
2/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup oil (canola or olive)
1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
Mix thoroughly and then add:
1 1/2 cups flour
1 t. baking soda
1/2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. cloves
1/2 t. nutmeg
1 t. cinnamon
Stir until wet and dry ingredients are incorporated but don't overmix--unless you like rubbery baked goods.
Using the ice cream scoop divide batter into 12 lined muffin cups. Take out your giant Costco bag of chocolate chips and sprinkle 4 to 5 chips on top of each muffin. This entices the children to eat the muffin without overpowering the healthful ingredients.
Bake at 350 for 20-22 minutes.
Cool slightly and enjoy.
Emily’s Pumpkin Muffins
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs, slightly beaten
2 cups granulated sugar (I use a little more than a cup)
1 can (15 oz.)Pumpkin
1 cup vegetable oil (If you use flax seed, you can cut this down to about 1/2 cup)
2 cups (12-oz. pkg.) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels (I use less)
PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Grease thirty-six 2 1/2-inch muffin cups or line with paper bake cups.
COMBINE all-purpose flour, whole-wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and salt in medium bowl. Combine eggs and sugar in large bowl. Add pumpkin and oil; mix well. Stir in flour mixture until moistened. Stir in morsels. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups.
BAKE for 20 to 25 minutes or until top springs back when lightly touched. Cool in pans on wire racks for 5 minutes; remove from pans.
Tuesday Tip 9.15
Rule of Thirds
There is general composition guideline called the rule of thirds that can be applied to many visual arts. The quickest way to describe it is to imagine your camera's viewfinder is split into 9 equal parts - two horizontal and two vertical lines. Not confusing at all, right? Here's a visual since I learn much faster that way myself.
©Frame Away
The idea is to compose the image so that your important elements are either on the lines or at the intersections. Think about it the next time you watch a movie or television (or the next time you view a painting if you want to pretend that you don't watch tv): the action is rarely in the middle.
More often than not, the person or thing that is the focus is off to one side.
Check out these images. The image on the right is more interesting.
If the grid is too boring an example, then the Golden Ratio is another composition tool with basically the same end.
The idea with this cool nautilus type guide is to position your focal point within the golden rectangle at the curved end of the spiral. Turn it around and/or flip it in any direction, and the
golden rectangle is roughly the same as the intersecting points on the rule of thirds grid.
FYI-The Golden Ratio (or Golden Mean or Fibonacci Spiral or Divine Proportion - whew) has mathematical and philosophical purposes that I don't begin to understand.
If the grid is too boring an example, then the Golden Ratio is another composition tool with basically the same end.
The idea with this cool nautilus type guide is to position your focal point within the golden rectangle at the curved end of the spiral. Turn it around and/or flip it in any direction, and the
golden rectangle is roughly the same as the intersecting points on the rule of thirds grid.
FYI-The Golden Ratio (or Golden Mean or Fibonacci Spiral or Divine Proportion - whew) has mathematical and philosophical purposes that I don't begin to understand.
©Frame Away
With all that said, sometimes rules are made to be broken. The rule of thirds is like many other photographic lessons: Learn it, use it, and then you can break it. This image was intentionally centered.
With all that said, sometimes rules are made to be broken. The rule of thirds is like many other photographic lessons: Learn it, use it, and then you can break it. This image was intentionally centered.
So, as you're shooting, remember these guides to think of different compositions. Happy shooting!
Tuesday Tip 9.1
It's my job to see the light. Judging the quality, strength, direction of the light.
Ensuring my subject is bathed in it just so.
Sparkling eyes (yes, please). Flattering highlights (always). Moody shadows (sometimes).
But even more exciting than that is seeing the light IN a person.
It's there. People shine.
Ensuring my subject is bathed in it just so.
Sparkling eyes (yes, please). Flattering highlights (always). Moody shadows (sometimes).
But even more exciting than that is seeing the light IN a person.
It's there. People shine.
How they shine is what's interesting to me. The people I am drawn to most shine like the moon, not the sun. A reflection of kindness, grace, gratitude and joy can be seen in them. Instead of blinding you with repeated tales of how wonderful they are, you see it. They draw you in with their actions, their smiles and their generosity, and soon you can't help but shine, too. I know that we all have different spiritual beliefs, and I am grateful to live where each of us can explore that in the way we see fit, but I believe . . . no, I know that I am blessed beyond all I could ask for. And, I want to shine like the moon, too. To be constantly grateful. Consistently kind. Absolutely reflective of the light that I see.
I am very fortunate to have people like this in my life. My sister, who happens to be a stellar photographer, could toot her own horn all the time and be quite justified at doing so. But she doesn't. Her work and her works speak for themselves. As great as she is, she might not speak to me again if I post the picture of her that I wanted to post (Brooke, you + pigtails = cuteness. Admit it.), so here are our boys at the Georgia Aquarium this summer.
Gee, I guess there wasn't really a tip in there. So, here goes. Be the moon.
I am very fortunate to have people like this in my life. My sister, who happens to be a stellar photographer, could toot her own horn all the time and be quite justified at doing so. But she doesn't. Her work and her works speak for themselves. As great as she is, she might not speak to me again if I post the picture of her that I wanted to post (Brooke, you + pigtails = cuteness. Admit it.), so here are our boys at the Georgia Aquarium this summer.
Gee, I guess there wasn't really a tip in there. So, here goes. Be the moon.SLR vs PS
In the quest for the right camera for you and/or your family, you will want to first decide whether you want an SLR (Single Lens Reflex) camera or a PS (Point and Shoot) camera, also known as compact or subcompact cameras.
There are pros and cons to both, but it all boils down to your needs (or wants!).
Size
PS - small SLR - big
Speaks for itself.
Shutter Lag
Anyone who has taken a picture recently knows about shutter lag - that time between pressing the shutter button and the camera actually taking the picture. With an SLR, shutter lag is virtually nil. Not so much with a PS, but they are getting much faster.
Control
I was going to say that, with an SLR, you have more control over the camera and it's function, giving you control to produce the type of image you want. While this has traditionally been the case, PS makers are enabling some of these little guys with full manual controls and some other pretty cool features. So, really, the distinction now is how intuitive are the controls? Do you need to be able to change settings quickly? (SLR) Or will you set the controls and leave them for an extended period of time? (PS)
Lenses are also a consideration. With an SLR, you can change lenses, again affording you more control over your image. Not so with a PS, but (really big 'but') lenses are expensive.
So, basically, if your main determining factor is a small camera, a PS is for you.
If it's control and no shutter lag, an SLR is in your future.
Happy shooting (and shopping)!
In the quest for the right camera for you and/or your family, you will want to first decide whether you want an SLR (Single Lens Reflex) camera or a PS (Point and Shoot) camera, also known as compact or subcompact cameras.
There are pros and cons to both, but it all boils down to your needs (or wants!).
Size
PS - small SLR - big
Speaks for itself.
Shutter Lag
Anyone who has taken a picture recently knows about shutter lag - that time between pressing the shutter button and the camera actually taking the picture. With an SLR, shutter lag is virtually nil. Not so much with a PS, but they are getting much faster.
Control
I was going to say that, with an SLR, you have more control over the camera and it's function, giving you control to produce the type of image you want. While this has traditionally been the case, PS makers are enabling some of these little guys with full manual controls and some other pretty cool features. So, really, the distinction now is how intuitive are the controls? Do you need to be able to change settings quickly? (SLR) Or will you set the controls and leave them for an extended period of time? (PS)
Lenses are also a consideration. With an SLR, you can change lenses, again affording you more control over your image. Not so with a PS, but (really big 'but') lenses are expensive.
So, basically, if your main determining factor is a small camera, a PS is for you.
If it's control and no shutter lag, an SLR is in your future.
Happy shooting (and shopping)!
Tuesday Tip 8.25
Okay, so it's not Tuesday anymore, but I like 'Tuesday Tip' better than 'Wednesday Tip.' Sorry for the tardy tip, but school started yesterday! That's where my head (and heart) were yesterday. It's hard to believe my boys are so big!
So, in honor of a new school year, this week's post is about gettin' schooled! Or rather 'what to do and where to go when you want to learn more about photography.' There are so many different resources!
You really can choose your preferred method of learning and go to town.
Books
There are hundreds out there. My recommendation for a good first book is Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson. It is a nice jumping off point as well, because, while you may have different ideas and methods, his teaching is sound.
Classes and Workshops
You can take courses at your local college, online courses and hands-on workshops. I personally like workshops. They are usually in small groups and a bit more personal. You get to put in to practice what you've just learned.
Search locally for these.
Online Sites
Here's where it gets even more mind-boggling. The number of photography boards, help sites, forums, etc. is huge!
A great place to start is photojojo.
These are just the tip of the iceberg. Let me know if you want more resources. Regardless of the method you choose - practice, practice, practice! Never before has your homework been so much fun!
Speaking of homework, here are my guys on the first day of school. A great reminder that catching the moment is more important than the right background, perfect lighting and worrying about crazy reflections from the flash on the backpack stripes! My eldest said it looked like he has on a jetpack (hence the pose!).
And yes, it was dark when we left for school!
I don't remember school starting so early when I was a kid!
So, in honor of a new school year, this week's post is about gettin' schooled! Or rather 'what to do and where to go when you want to learn more about photography.' There are so many different resources!
You really can choose your preferred method of learning and go to town.
Books
There are hundreds out there. My recommendation for a good first book is Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson. It is a nice jumping off point as well, because, while you may have different ideas and methods, his teaching is sound.
Classes and Workshops
You can take courses at your local college, online courses and hands-on workshops. I personally like workshops. They are usually in small groups and a bit more personal. You get to put in to practice what you've just learned.
Search locally for these.
Online Sites
Here's where it gets even more mind-boggling. The number of photography boards, help sites, forums, etc. is huge!
A great place to start is photojojo.
These are just the tip of the iceberg. Let me know if you want more resources. Regardless of the method you choose - practice, practice, practice! Never before has your homework been so much fun!
Speaking of homework, here are my guys on the first day of school. A great reminder that catching the moment is more important than the right background, perfect lighting and worrying about crazy reflections from the flash on the backpack stripes! My eldest said it looked like he has on a jetpack (hence the pose!).
And yes, it was dark when we left for school!
I don't remember school starting so early when I was a kid!
Tuesday Tip 8.18
This week's tip is not really a tip, but more of an observation.
Yesterday, my husband and I celebrated our 13th wedding anniversary. So, I thought this post was fitting.
It seems like the longer a marriage "survives" these days, the more it is penalized. It is either made fun of for being routine & boring or ended by either spouse for the same reason because something or someone else is more exciting. Day to day routines are not the death of a marriage. They are a part of life regardless of your marital status, so relegating them to a marital punchline is just silly. It is how we connect, react and communicate with each other that makes a marriage or any relationship for that matter. In the following, Sandy Broyard puts into words yet another reason to value, cherish and respect marriages that are not shiny and new. Married couples are not jealous of newlyweds; just excited at the adventure that lays before them. A long marriage is not worse for the wear;
just better at short hand.
Yesterday, my husband and I celebrated our 13th wedding anniversary. So, I thought this post was fitting.
It seems like the longer a marriage "survives" these days, the more it is penalized. It is either made fun of for being routine & boring or ended by either spouse for the same reason because something or someone else is more exciting. Day to day routines are not the death of a marriage. They are a part of life regardless of your marital status, so relegating them to a marital punchline is just silly. It is how we connect, react and communicate with each other that makes a marriage or any relationship for that matter. In the following, Sandy Broyard puts into words yet another reason to value, cherish and respect marriages that are not shiny and new. Married couples are not jealous of newlyweds; just excited at the adventure that lays before them. A long marriage is not worse for the wear;
just better at short hand.
"In the dim twilight, I often see pairs of Canadian geese on the grass near the parking lot. A large reservoir on the other side of a busy road draws them to this suburban area. Today there are three couples. One of the females is eating grass, and her mate is a few feet away, keeping a vigil, on the lookout for any danger. I watched their interaction. It is minimal in its movements but intense in its awareness, one of the other. When one makes an adjustment, the other notices and immediately makes a compensatory shift. To an insensitive eye, these changes in direction of the body and head might seem random, but I know differently. This is a couple mated for life, and I had mated for life and had known and experienced as one does when one knows that the marriage is for life that the shifts and gestures need only be small. The intimacy of the relationship becomes this fine essence, a distillation of the earlier passion, but just as powerful.
In the marriage that endures, there is no need for grandiosity."
Excerpted from Standby by Sandy Broyard, 2005
Now for photography!
How do you get kids to smile? Mine won't even look at me when I take their picture.
First, a smile is not my singular goal during a session. True, I do love smiles, but I also want other expressions.
No matter the type of session, I aim for a combination of everything that makes a person unique.
So, go into it knowing that you get what you get. Or more accurately, what they give you.
Second, to get that myriad of expressions, you have to connect with your subject.
The easiest way to do this is (1) be yourself and (2) talk!
(1) If you are goofy, go for it. If you are pensive, bring them in. If you like practical jokes, pretend to fall down. The point is both kids and adults will know when you are being sincere and they will relax and be themselves, too.
Which brings me to (2) - get them talking. Ask questions and listen to the answers. Also ask silly questions.
You'll get some curious looks, some belly laughs and lots in between!
This was after I had asked her about six times if her name was Susie. You can just see the "No, silly."
After a few more silly questions . . .
Good to note:If your child is tired, hungry or just plain not into it, stop and try again later. Nothing will turn a kid away from the camera faster than an insistent parent asking for "just one more" for the tenth time. Trust me. I've done it.
Happy shooting! Leave questions in the comments or email me!
Tuesday Tip 8.11
You need (yes, need) a Magic Bullet. This thing is awesome. I use it at LEAST once a day. Making smoothies, milkshakes & margaritas. Grating hard cheeses, chopping nuts & making quick dips. As I write, I am sipping on a Frappucino-like concoction, except it is decaf (which Starbucks no longer makes) and I didn't have to use my first born as payment. Seriously, I do love me some Starbucks (and Dunkin' Donuts!), but some days, I just don't feel like going that route. Plus, the Magic Bullet is F-U-N!
You can get it at Target, Walmart, Amazon or the Magic Bullet site. If you already have one, let me know the yumminess you are creating. If you don't have one, you can email or call to thank me after you've used it once.
Onto photography! This week's tip is also about location, but this time, it's about finding a location.
A little backward since last week was about shooting on location, but there you go.
You can find pockets of perfect anywhere. You don't need a huge area. Some oddball places I've shot:
entrance areas of malls, banks, neighborhoods, restaurants, etc.
industrial doors (those cool ones with the horizontal grooves)
antique and salvage stores
schools
alleys
There are obviously eleventy-hundred more places to shoot,
but I just wanted to show you how quickly you can find a location.
I really want to shoot in a junk yard, but no one has been up for that yet!
This was taken in front of a furniture store!
FYI: Always ask permission. "Candy said so" will not get you out of trouble.
Happy shooting!
Leave questions in the comments or email me!
You can get it at Target, Walmart, Amazon or the Magic Bullet site. If you already have one, let me know the yumminess you are creating. If you don't have one, you can email or call to thank me after you've used it once.
Onto photography! This week's tip is also about location, but this time, it's about finding a location.
A little backward since last week was about shooting on location, but there you go.
You can find pockets of perfect anywhere. You don't need a huge area. Some oddball places I've shot:
entrance areas of malls, banks, neighborhoods, restaurants, etc.
industrial doors (those cool ones with the horizontal grooves)
antique and salvage stores
schools
alleys
There are obviously eleventy-hundred more places to shoot,
but I just wanted to show you how quickly you can find a location.
I really want to shoot in a junk yard, but no one has been up for that yet!
This was taken in front of a furniture store!
FYI: Always ask permission. "Candy said so" will not get you out of trouble.
Happy shooting!
Leave questions in the comments or email me!
Tuesday Tip 8.4
Hello all! Hope everyone is well! This week's Tuesday Tip is marry someone with cool parents.
Yes, that's what I said.
Not only was my mother in law cool enough buy these Empire Strikes Back (the best Star Wars movie, BTW) sheets
for her boys, but she KEPT them! Now, my boys have them on their beds. Very cool, indeed.
She has many other qualities that add to her coolness, but I had to share the sheets!
Yes, that's what I said.
Not only was my mother in law cool enough buy these Empire Strikes Back (the best Star Wars movie, BTW) sheets
for her boys, but she KEPT them! Now, my boys have them on their beds. Very cool, indeed.
She has many other qualities that add to her coolness, but I had to share the sheets!
Now, my father in law is high on the cool meter as well. Again, many examples, but the one that comes to mind right now (Sorry, Pat. It's almost time for lunch.) is his grilling prowess. Seriously, the man is a grillmaster. How he grills to my picky standards and still keeps everything perfectly tender is beyond me.
Don't even get me started on spices and marinades.
Don't even get me started on spices and marinades.
For the photography tip, here's an image and the pullback shot for Miss J. Her question was about shooting on location. You all know that I love details and faces and just plain gettin' up in your koolaid. That is also 1 of the 2 best ways to shoot on location if you don't have rolling hills, gorgeous scenery or awesome architecture to play with. Get up close.
Sweet and semi-cooperative subject
The pullback
The second way (and good for portraiture in general) is to open up your lens.
The smaller the f stop number, the larger the opening and the more blurred the background will be.
This keeps the focus on your subject and obscures distractions in the background.
Happy shooting! And leave questions for future tips in the comments or shoot me an email.
The smaller the f stop number, the larger the opening and the more blurred the background will be.
This keeps the focus on your subject and obscures distractions in the background.
Happy shooting! And leave questions for future tips in the comments or shoot me an email.
Fun news!
Hello all! I've been trying to find time to write some articles on some of the more frequent questions I get and just all around good stuff, but that Mr. Time is quite elusive. So, instead, I'll have little snippets on Tuesdays called . . . . .
. . . . . (wait for it) . . . . . the Tuesday Tip! I am as clever as ever.
I'm also going to include whatever is striking my fancy at the time because sharing is fun!
For the inaugural Tuesday Tip, I'm going to start off with a baking tip. But isn't this a photography blog, you ask? Yes, but you get the whole enchilada with me, folks! (Wow, the cheese meter is really off the charts now.)
Okay, when you make homemade frosting (and you really should at least once because it's quick, easy, inexpensive and a whole lot better for you than store-bought - and I know you're all thinking about healthy living when you're thinking about frosting), really let the butter sit at room temperature for a good while. If your frosting is clumpy, bumpy or otherwise bleh, it's probably because the core of the butter was still chilly. All is not lost, though! Leave out your frosting at room temperature for a good while just as though it were butter. When you're sure it's room temp throughout, mix it again. You should be all set to eat it with a big spoon. I mean ice your cake or cupcakes.
. . . . . (wait for it) . . . . . the Tuesday Tip! I am as clever as ever.
I'm also going to include whatever is striking my fancy at the time because sharing is fun!
For the inaugural Tuesday Tip, I'm going to start off with a baking tip. But isn't this a photography blog, you ask? Yes, but you get the whole enchilada with me, folks! (Wow, the cheese meter is really off the charts now.)
Okay, when you make homemade frosting (and you really should at least once because it's quick, easy, inexpensive and a whole lot better for you than store-bought - and I know you're all thinking about healthy living when you're thinking about frosting), really let the butter sit at room temperature for a good while. If your frosting is clumpy, bumpy or otherwise bleh, it's probably because the core of the butter was still chilly. All is not lost, though! Leave out your frosting at room temperature for a good while just as though it were butter. When you're sure it's room temp throughout, mix it again. You should be all set to eat it with a big spoon. I mean ice your cake or cupcakes.
If you don't have a recipe you love (or even if you do), try this one! I just found it last night under the heading 'Best Buttercream Frosting,' and it's not lying. You probably have everything you need already and no shortening!
Buttercream frosting (makes enough for 30 cupcakes, can be halved or quartered)
1 cup unsalted butter at room temp
6- 8 cup confectioner's/powdered sugar
1/2 milk
1 tsp vanilla (clear vanilla if you want bright white frosting)
Combine all ingredients, but only use 4 cups of conf. sugar. Beat until creamy (3-5 min). Add remaining sugar one cup at a time and beat for 2 minutes after each addition. Enjoy!
Now for some photography fun! For this tip, I'll post and answer a general question. We'll get into meaty stuff soon!
What kind of camera do you use?
I use Canon cameras for no other reason than that was what my first point and shoot in 9th grade was. It treated me so well that when I wanted an SLR, I leaned automatically toward Canon. I knew and trusted the brand. That film SLR was five cameras ago, and I'm still shooting with Canon. Digital camera R & D is really top notch these days, so you will get a great camera whether you go with Canon, Nikon or any of the other popular brands. I won't get into the Canon v. Nikon debate because, well, I say shoot with whatcha like and don't worry about what anyone else is doing. To answer the question specifically, I shoot with Canon 40D.
When you're looking for a camera, be sure to hold it in your hands. How does it feel? Are the controls within easy reach? Is operation intuitive? Do your research, yes, but before you buy, check it out in person.
Lastly and most importantly, a camera does not a photographer make. Your camera is taking the photographs; you are making the photographs. Corny, but true. Get a good piece of equipment, then use it.
If you have questions leave them in the comments for Tuesday Tips or email me. Until next Tuesday . . . .
On love and light
Years ago, my friend Wendy described a beautiful way to explain a family's love that involves lighting a candle with a lit candle (you) as an example of giving all your love. You still have so much love left. That newly lit candle (your spouse) and any other new candles (children) get all your love and none is diminished by the other.
I still remember her telling me this and thinking that it was such a concrete way to show how infinite love is.
I love my children equally. Equally, but differently because they are different people.
I love the way J still asks for our bedtime routine. The same one we've had since he was an infant.
I love the way S has to kiss me in the same place and the same number of times I kiss him.
I love the way J still asks for our bedtime routine. The same one we've had since he was an infant.
I love the way S has to kiss me in the same place and the same number of times I kiss him.
I love the children they are now, reminisce about the small babes they once were
and look forward to the men they will become.
and look forward to the men they will become.
But this post is about my youngest. Today is his birthday. My sweet little baby, who at 9 lbs 14 oz was never really little, is eight today. This passage from The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver takes my breath away every time I read it:
"But the last one; the baby who trails her scent like a flag of surrender through your life
when there will be no more coming after...oh, that's love by a different name.
She is the babe you hold in your arms for an hour after she's gone to sleep.
If you put her down in the crib, she might wake up changed and fly away.
So instead you rock by the window, drinking the light from her skin, breathing her exhaled dreams.
Your heart bays to the double crescent of moons of closed lashes on her cheeks.
She's the one you can't put down."
when there will be no more coming after...oh, that's love by a different name.
She is the babe you hold in your arms for an hour after she's gone to sleep.
If you put her down in the crib, she might wake up changed and fly away.
So instead you rock by the window, drinking the light from her skin, breathing her exhaled dreams.
Your heart bays to the double crescent of moons of closed lashes on her cheeks.
She's the one you can't put down."
Happy Birthday, my angel. I love you.
I talk too much.
Really, I do. I can hear the sarcastic chorus of "No, really? You?" Yesterday, however, after trying all day without success to get my boys to stop arguing, I stopped talking. Out of frustration or desperation maybe. I'm not sure. I just stopped talking, and since we were outside, picked up the bucket of sidewalk chalk. Without a word (not talking, remember), I set to work. And without a word of their own, the boys joined me within minutes.
Without talking.
Which means without arguing.
(Insert sigh of relief and wonder)
They did start talking after a bit, but it was "can I use the blue?" and "nice owl."
Half an hour later, we had this.
Our puppy enjoyed the idyllic scene from the cool garage floor.
Life is good.chp on Yankee Candles!
This has been in the works for several weeks now, and I was so excited to get my samples yesterday!
Yankee Candle is using two of my images for the promotion of their custom candles.
They make great gifts: birth announcements, retirement, birthdays, you name it!
Yankee Candle is using two of my images for the promotion of their custom candles.
They make great gifts: birth announcements, retirement, birthdays, you name it!
Both images they chose are of one my favorite little girls in the world.I know we are not technically related, but I love Miss L like a niece.
I have had the pleasure of watching her grow from a teeny preemie to the precocious almost three year old she is today.
(Take a look here and here. She is too cute!)
I look forward to years of that sweet smile. My boys love her, too. Thanks, Ash!
Thanks, Joy!!
Savannah: The Byrd Cookie Company
On our last trip to Savannah, we had two friends with us who knew the area better than we did. I had the good fortune to be with them when they ventured into The Byrd Cookie Company, a Savannah staple since 1924.
Two words: cookie heaven.
Two words: cookie heaven.
There are rows and rows of fresh baked cookies in cute little tins. And what is so special about that, you ask?
Well, in front of every single type of cookie (and there were lots) is a little bin with samples.
Samples, people! For a girl with a sweet tooth like mine, that is nirvana.
Well, in front of every single type of cookie (and there were lots) is a little bin with samples.
Samples, people! For a girl with a sweet tooth like mine, that is nirvana.
Not to be missed: Benne Wafers, Key Lime Coolers and Chocolate Mint Cookies. They were out of the Pumpkin Spice Cookies or I know that would have been on the list. That just means I have to go back!
Thanks, Lee and Jen!
Happy Father's Day!
Hope all you dads are having a great day! Call or hug yours if you haven't yet. And do it often.
© 1996 Bill Pharris It's birthday time!
My eldest turns 9 today! I have memories of things that happened before I was 9, but they are snippets - flashes of events and people. Nine, however, I remember 9 with clarity. So this, more than his height, more than his reluctance to let me kiss him, and more than the new teeth that changed his little boy mouth, lets me know that my baby is growing up. So, with a bittersweet mixture of nostalgia and excitement, I celebrate 9 nine years with my beautiful boy and 9 years as a mother. I am thankful for and humbled by both.
Happy birthday, my angel. I love you.
Happy birthday, my angel. I love you.
To mark the occasion, here is a poem written and performed by our friend Paul Childress, when I was pregnant.Ballad of J Howard
Floating, thinking unable to see
Who do you resemble in our fair Candy's belly
Perhaps Jason's ears coupled with Candy's hair
Oh unborn J that would be a nightmare
Maybe mommy's skin and perhaps daddy's feet
Little one at the sight of that most humans would weep
No dear boy you will receive the best from your parents
Your father's penny pinching and your mother's appearance
What must it be like for the first time to see?
Your sweet mother's face and your passed out daddy
I can just see the tears and also the laughter
As Jason Howard tries to change his first diaper
The ride home and the scary mobile above your head
The logic Jason gives Candy so he doesn't have to get out of bed
Little J Howard a child could only hope to be as lucky
To have such loving parents as you have in these
So raise up your spirits and cheer without end
For the miracle and joy bestowed upon our friends
Through a child's eyes
This morning I told my eldest that today would have been Poppy's birthday.
With the clarity of a child, he said, "It still is, Mommy."
To celebrate his birthday, the boys each sent him a note on a balloon.
To celebrate his life, please vote for my dream assignment! This is a photography contest with the winner receiving $50,000 to make their dream assignment a reality. Mine is to donate the $50,000 to Addi's Cure and then document the results. Please check it out, vote for me and pass it on to your friends and family. There are only two weeks left!
With the clarity of a child, he said, "It still is, Mommy."
To celebrate his birthday, the boys each sent him a note on a balloon.
To celebrate his life, please vote for my dream assignment! This is a photography contest with the winner receiving $50,000 to make their dream assignment a reality. Mine is to donate the $50,000 to Addi's Cure and then document the results. Please check it out, vote for me and pass it on to your friends and family. There are only two weeks left!
Snow Day!
Can you really call it a snow day when you can still see the grass? Either way, we had a fun day. My guys were out today anyway for a snow makeup day (ha!), so we started off the day with some waffles and pancakes.
Then we went outside to brave the elements.
If you can't play in the snow, then at least you can eat it. Ahh, the power of positive thinking.
Back inside to warm up, have hot cocoa, read to the dog, and of course, watch the inauguration. What a great day!
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