Sweet newborns
Kiddos
Couples 
Family
Posted on April 7, 2011
Hello all! It’s April 7, 2011. It’s Thursday. It’s also almost the weekend! Wahoo! I’m stoked for our weekend. We have a carnival Friday night, then we have our family pictures of Saturday. Oh yes, you heard that right. We’re having our pictures taken, and I’m pumped. I love actually being able to be in the pictures with my family, and I love our photographer, Cathy Hengst. She’s one of my close friends, and I love that my kids love her! We always have fun during the session, and this year she didn’t get to see what the girls Matilda Jane outfits are ahead of time, so I’m excited to see what she thinks.
Okay, so it’s Thursday, and that also means it’s time for Talk To Me Thursday!! The photographer being featured today is actually a photog that lives close to me, yet I’ve never been able to meet her. I’ve known her for awhile from another photography forum, and from how she sounds on throught the internet, I know she would have me cracking up. She’s come down to my area quite a few times to catch up with a close mutual friend of ours, but I wasn’t ever able to meet up. She is such a sweet gal, and one of these days, we will definitely have to get together. Another fun piece of info on her…she’s expecting a little girl this summer! How exciting!!. Hoping to be able to get together with her and her wee one, and do a little session. 
I know Dayna will be wanting to join as well. So, how about we meet her. Sound good to you?
Let’s introduce…
Rachael Hutchinson – Rachael Hutchinson Photography
Houston, Texas Photographer
www.rachaelhutchinsonphotography.com/blog
Where are you from? Where do you currently live?
I’m from Houston, Texas. I was born and raised here, and I have lived here most of my life. We spent a short time in San Antonio, but we moved back to Houston as soon as we could.
What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography?
To me photography is a way of telling a story. The pictures I take capture stories. They may be short like a birthday party, or long like an entire childhood, but all of the images add up to tell a story. I have always loved being able to capture memories and stories with still photos.
Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area?
I specialize in birth photography. I love standing back and capturing events and moments and going unnoticed, and I loved the idea of being able to capture the hours surrounding a baby’s birth. I think much like a wedding, a birth is a beautiful and amazing life event that should be captured and remembered forever. I decided to give it a try and I fell in love. I feel like I’ve found what I was meant to do.
How long have you been a photographer?
I’ve had a camera in my hands starting as far back as I can remember. I started out with a LeClick disc film camera, and I have rolls and rolls of film from when I was little and I took pictures of everything. I hate to think how much money I cost my mom over the years developing a hundred rolls of pictures of my cat! As for actually being a professional photographer, I’ve been doing it seriously for about four years now.
Is it only you with your business, or do you have an assistant?
It’s just me! I do work with another great birth photographer on a backup system in case one of us has an emergency and can’t make a birth.
Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you?
I’m self taught. I’ve never taken any classes, but I am a member of Lyndsay Stradtner’s Birth Experience and it’s been one of the most valuable resources I have found for my birth photography. I have learned a lot from the seasoned birth photographers there.
Morning or night owl?
I’m usually a night owl, that’s when I like to do most of my photo editing and catching up on the tv shows on the DVR. Although lately I can’t stay up past about 9pm, so I’m sure not being very productive!
If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be?
I think that would be really different for births versus portraits, so I’m going to describe my birth photography. Real, emotional, moving, beautiful
Who is your family? Include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs.
I’ve been married to my husband, Chad, for 8 years now. We have two children, Mason and Scarlett. Another baby girl will join us sometime in June! Believe it or not I only have one family photo of all of us together. One of the hardest things to do as a photographer is get yourself in your pictures. Next spring we’re going to have someone do some real family pictures of us…I guess we were procrastinating for a reason, we didn’t have everyone yet!
What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography?
Since I’ll be busy starting this summer with the new baby, I’d like to take advantage of having a newborn and baby subject at my disposal 24/7 and try a lot of new things with my little model. I’m excited about getting to spread out the newborn photos that you usually have to work really hard for in a four hour session over the course of a couple weeks and having fun with it!
How do you balance work, and your family?
Right now as a mom of young children, they are my first priority. Aside from births which can come at any time, I do all my shooting on the weekends when my husband can stay with our kids. Until our kids are all in school my photography will remain part time so I can devote most of my attention to them and their needs.
We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without?
I shoot with a Nikon D700. My favorite lens has always been the 50mm 1.4. I love the focal length, I love shooting wide open with it, and I love the sharpness of it. I also have the 24-70 which I love for it’s versatility. I recently switched to Nikon from Canon and although it was a very hard decision to make, I’ve been very happy with the results.
If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why?
Honestly, and this is probably a very boring answer…I’m just happy to be photographing my own family. There is nothing I’d rather capture than their childhoods and our life right now. It’s what makes me happy, and it’s why I love photography. I’ll take my kids out and do a session with them any day. They of course don’t think it’s as fun as I do.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
I’m not really sure. I knew after having my first baby that I didn’t want to return to the corporate workplace, so I’d probably just be a stay at home mom who takes a lot of pictures of her own kids! Maybe I’d be an event planner…I’m really good at coming up with all these ideas for projects and things but never starting or finishing them.
What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you?
Caring, genuine, artistic, indecisive (it’s true, I over-analyze everything!)
What helps keep you motivated with photography?
Shooting often. When I have a few days where I don’t pick up my camera, I start to feel like I’m moving backwards. Just picking up my camera to photograph the little every day things helps keep me looking for something new.
Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)?
Photography related, I’d like to get my little studio room all decorated and set up to where I can bring clients into it. Right now I just use it for personal photos and friends and family, but I’d really like to use it as a working studio some day.
What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)?
When it comes to photographers, I stalk Bobbi+Mike (http://www.bobbiandmike.com/blog/), Lyndsay Stradner (http://www.lifeinmotionphotography.com/photoblog), and Emily Weaver Brown (http://emilyweaverbrownphoto.com/blog/). There are so many more talented photographers that I stalk, I just can’t list them all! When it comes to non-photo related things I love Annie’s Eats for healthy non-processed recipes (http://annies-eats.com/) and Anna White because I want to build everything on her site! (http://ana-white.com/)
When you’re not shooting, what are you doing?
Usually taking a kiddo to school, soccer practice, or something else. I’ve entered the busy stage of motherhood where you are pretty much a taxi. I didn’t expect it to come so early, my oldest is only 5 ½! I’d also like to get started with my little garden that I’ve been planning for a couple years. Procrastinating…something I’m really good at!
Where is one place you would love to travel to?
I spent three weeks in Australia the summer before I went to college, and it will always be hard to top that! I’d love to go to a pretty beach with blue water and white sand.
What is one thing that you want to do in your life?
I’d like to learn to love cooking. Maybe take some cooking classes so I’m better in the kitchen. I love good healthy food, but I’m not really great at cooking that food!
What is a quote that means a lot to you?
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt.
If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why?
That’s tough because there are a couple photographers who I would love to photograph my family. If I had to pick one I’d say Bobbi+Mike. I just love their style and the way they interact with their clients.
If you could photograph one area of photography for a day, what would it be, why? (Something other than what you photograph, i.e. architecture, food, boudoir, birth, etc.)
I’d like to do some wildlife photography. I always had dreams of being a photographer for National Geographic when I was little! I don’t really have the equipment for it considering births are on the super wide end of lenses and wildlife is on the super long end.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be?
Take your images and ask for constructive criticism so you can learn and grow. Don’t be hurt when you absolutely love an image and people point out the mistakes. You can still love it and keep it, but learn and grow from that advice to make the next image even better. I still have the very first images I ever took with my Rebel, and although I can look back and see the many things I was doing wrong when I was starting out, I still love those pictures.
What magazine could you not live without?
The only magazine I get is Rangefinder for photographers, and it’s free! I’m not really a magazine kind of person. I love to read, but I have very little time for reading these days.
Please include some of your favorite images….
Thanks so much Rachael for being our featured photographer! Your work is absolutely gorgeous and seeing your birth photography really makes me want another baby! I love your style and can’t wait to see what stuff you come up with for this new little one coming. It will be fun and exciting for sure.
Thanks again for coming on the blog this week Rachael! It was fun getting to know you more! I really do love these questions we have. They seem like such easy questions, but I love seeing the answers from people. 
Thanks again.
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Posted on March 10, 2011
I have been waiting for this feature since I asked the photographer to do it. Why you ask? Well, because I had a neat little tid bit of information on how I knew this photographer, before I actually “met” her. I’ve never been able to meet her in person, but rest assured she is also one that I would love to meet. I’ve known her almost 2 years from a forum we’re both part of, but the first time I saw her was a couple of years before that. I used to be big into scrapbooking, but since photography has taken over, scrapbooking has been put on the back burner. Anyways, onto the story. I remember looking at one of my scrapbook magazines (can’t remember which one, but I know I do still have it), and seeing this cute couple. It was a girl and her boyfriend. Well then you look over to the right, and there they are again, but older. I saw the scrapbook page and thought: “That couple looks so cute, sweet and so in love. Oh, and that’s a brilliant idea for a page.” It was a page from then and now. I can’t remember the years that had lapsed, but remember thinking it was such a cute page. So then fast forward a couple of years. I see this photographers face on the forum we’re part of, and think: “Wow, where have I seen her before?” I start going through my memory bank, and then realize that I’ve seen her in a scrapbook magazine, and SHE was the one in that page I loved. I specifically kept that magazine to go back to for inspiration on a page for me and Brett. I will tell you, this photographer is just as sweet of a person as she looks in pictures. Oh, and we can’t forget…she was also voted as Best Photographer in 2011 for the Fife/Milton/Edgewood area. So, since I have you all very curious as to who this gal is…let’s introduce her.
Let’s all say hello to…..
Angela Marvel – Angela Marvel Photography
www.angelamarvelphotography.com
Seattle/Tacoma, Washington Photographer
Where are you from? Where do you currently live?
I am originally from Federal Way, WA and currently live in Fife, WA
What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography?
I love being able to capture memories and moments in time. I love that it is a record of our lives right now. I first was interested in photography strictly as a record of memories. I use to carry a camera with me everywhere, as far back as junior high. When I got interested in scrapbooking a few years ago I wanted to have better photos to scrapbook, so I then was attracted to learning how to have better photos and once family and friends started to have families, I became attracted to portrait photography.
Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area?
Babies, Children and Families. When I started out, I tried just about everything and found I enjoyed working with the little ones the best. Probably because my kids were and are young and I am use to shooting those under age 5.
How long have you been a photographer?
I have always loved taking snapshots, but got serious about the quality of my photographs in 2003 and have been in business for 4 years now.
Is it only you with your business, or do you have an assistant?
It is only me On a rare occasion I use my husband as an assistant.
Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you?
I am self taught. I have learned the most from searching the Internet, books and online friends.
Morning or night owl?
Big time night owl. You can often find me awake and editing until 1-2am.
If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be?
Creative, sweet, clean, and fun
Who is your family? Include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs.
My husband of almost 10 years Chris, my son Brett who just turned 4 and my youngest son Alex who is 22 months.
What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography?
I would love to get fully caught up on our family albums. I create blog books for each year and still need to do both 2009 and 2010 J
How do you balance work, and your family?
Some days I don’t. I am lucky that my husbands goes to bed early and my kids sleep in to an acceptable hour so I can edit at night, but some days I don’t get everything done.
We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without?
I have three cameras, 5d, 40d and Xt. My main lenses are: 50mm 1.4, 85mm 1.8, and 70-200 F/4L. I could not live without my 50mm 1.4 lens. I shoot a lot of babies and photos of my kids indoors, so its on my camera more then any other lens. However my 85mm lens is a very close 2nd since I love it for outdoor photos.
If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why?
I spent a lot of time on this one. At first I was thinking a celebrity. Maybe a sports celebrity like a football player. Or maybe another photographer. But honestly I think I would be too nervous if I did any of these.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
I was a paralegal before being a SAHM and I really loved that.
What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you?
Loyal, creative, shy, stubborn
What helps keep you motivated with photography?
Looking at others’ photos, coming up with new ideas to try, and trying to push myself to think outside the box.
Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)?
Eventually I would love to buy a bigger home, so I can have my own dedicated work space. In the shorter term, I want to keep working on becoming a little faster at editing so I don’t have to spend so much time in front of the computer.
What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)?
I don’t tend to go to blogs much anymore since I can see everything on facebook now.
Some non photo ones I follow are:
www.realitysteve.com gotta get all my Bachelor spoilers and love his articles
www.have-you-met-ted.com I am a big How I met your mother fan, so each week I stalk this blog
When you’re not shooting, what are you doing?
Family time, playing games with the boys, watching TV (I love to watch TV), going out to eat, crocheting, being a mom
Where is one place you would love to travel to?
I really want to go to Italy.
What is one thing that you want to do in your life?
Visit all 50 states. I have 15 down, only 35 to go : )
What is a quote that means a lot to you?
“If you can dream it, you can do it.” -Walt Disney.
If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why?
Tara Whitney, I love her style and way she captures family relationships. I have been following her for years and am always inspired by her.
If you could photograph one area of photography for a day, what would it be, why? (Something other than what you photograph, i.e. architecture, food, boudoir, birth, etc.)
I love the raw emotion of a birth. I have photographed one before and it was one of the most moving experiences of my life.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be?
Practice and keep at it. Photography does not come to you overnight and it doesn’t come all at once.
What magazine could you not live without?
I don’t get any magazines. But I do like People, Real Simple, and National Geographic
Please include some of your favorite images….
Well, there we have it. Another fabulous photographer that we had the chance to get to know. I really do love this feature, and have enjoyed it a ton. A lot of the photographers have said how they feel honored that I have asked them to be featured. What’s funny about that, is I feel extremely honored that they want to be featured by me. Like I’ve said before, I love this industry and all the amazing people I have the opportunity to meet. I’m extremely grateful for this industry, and the amazing people in it.
Angela, thank you so much for being featured this week, and I hope you found my little “story” funny, or amusing. Thanks again for letting us get to know you better, and of course being able to see your awesome images!
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Posted on February 24, 2011
What, it’s already Thursday again? Wow, these weeks are flying by fast. Which is a good thing for me. I have a child that is ready for summer time so they no longer have to go to school (I can hear it in my head…man, I’m so ready for summer, I’m tired of school, I just want it to be done, so I can relax), then I have my other kid, Molly who is ready for school to be done, so she can play with her friends. Wait…did you guys catch that little joke. I said I have a child who is ready for school to be done, then I also have my other kid Molly. Did you get it? HA HA. That was my attempt at humor. However, it’s so true around this house though. Molly and Brett are both ready for school to be done. Brett has been going to school for forever, and will be done with his Bachelors Degree in Finance in May!! Wahoo! He also has a degree in Accounting, but I personally think he likes Finance more. Why do you ask? Well, b/c Accounting around here means, you get to be my personal accountant and take care of my taxes. He hates tax time. He hates dealing with my taxes, and likes to remind me that they’re a pain in HIS butt. Yea, how do you think I like them Brett? He’s great though. He complains, but does them anyways. He did however ask me how much I was going to pay him next year…I politely told him I will get him a pass to go with me to a convention next year. Lol.
So…..onto the really fun part of Thursday. The feature. While talking to a friend today, she asked who I was featuring. I said: “I’m not telling you”. I like to keep them secret until Thursday. I feel it helps the excitement. I do have another fabulous photographer today. She does amazing work, and there is one image in particular that I love. It just speaks to me. All of these photographers that I have featured so far, are rock stars, and the inspiration they give is amazing. Their work fascinates me, and their personalities are WONDERFUL. So, let’s meet this rock star!
Meet….
Brooke Beasley Engstrom – Brooke Beasley Photography
Bay Area / Central Valley California Photographer
www.brookebeasleyphotography.com
Where are you from? Where do you currently live?
I was born in Illinois and now I live in the middle of the East Bay and Central Valley CA
What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography?
Photography means freedom for me. I am able to freely express my creative side and share it! I have always been around photography, growing up my uncle was featured in National Geographic and I have always played around with it. I love giving something to others that they can enjoy for years to come.
Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area?
I don’t really specialize in any one thing. I am still working on deciding that. I really love seniors and kids, but I love seeing people in love at weddings….see I can’t decide
(This is my favorite image that I was talking about. You can tell this couple is in love, and the colors are gorgeous. Nice, calm, and beautiful. )
How long have you been a photographer?
Professionally? I am starting my 3rd year.
Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you?
I am self taught and also friend taught haha. I love researching everything and I believe you can find almost anything through practice and research. I have never been to a “workshop” just a class here and there.
Morning or night owl?
NIGHT OWL!!!
If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be?
Clean, Fun, Real and Pure
Who is your family? Include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs.
I have two boys Brenton and Barrett or Brent and Bear and an amazing hubby, Travis
What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography?
Actually FINISH my 52 week project!
How do you balance work, and your family?
I am still working on that! I’ll let ya know when I get it all figured out!
We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without?
I shoot with a 5D MarkII. I usually shoot with a 24-70 but my true love in a 50 1.2.
If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why?
Annie L…….mostly because I could hopefully absorb some of her talent and wisdom through our shoot, lol.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
Probably a hairstylist or designer of some sort.
What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you?
Creative,fun, loyal, and maybe a little crazy. Haha
What helps keep you motivated with photography?
Trying new things and making myself shoot even when I don’t feel like it.
Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)?
I want to be able to find more what my favorite things are to shoot and really cater my business around that. I also want to be able to set myself apart from photography when I am not working and focus more on family. Learning to balance is really gonna come in handy!
What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)?
Well, I always read The Maternal Lens…I always enter to win their awesome contests, but I lose. 
I look at too many photography blogs for sure, which can make you go crazy on self doubt! I also love reading about my awesome friends and keeping up with their blogs.
When you’re not shooting, what are you doing?
Being a mom, editing, cleaning…it’s all very glamorous, lol.
Where is one place you would love to travel to?
Bora Bora. I am a sunshine kinda girl so anywhere warm is my style!
What is one thing that you want to do in your life?
I have so many things I want to do, I guess a big one would be to have more kids.
What is a quote that means a lot to you?
I have the worst memory when it comes to remembering quotes. There is one that I like and I can’t even remember how it goes but something along the lines of
“Say what you mean and mean what you say.”
If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why?
Oh really? Ahhhh I have so many fabulous friends that I swap with and I love all their images. I might say Barb from Jinky Art because I want to see how she catches all that magical light. For the most part I just want someone to be able to capture who “we” are and I really love any photos someone can get of my boys together because I never can!
If you could photograph one area of photography for a day, what would it be, why? (Something other than what you photograph, i.e. architecture, food, boudoir, birth, etc.)
I really would love to be on some over the top Vanity Fair photo shoot someday. Even if I’m just a fly on the wall.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be?
To really know yourself. This is tough industry and you need to know your art and stand by it. This is something I struggle with but I have also gotten stronger because of it.
What magazine could you not live without?
To be honest, I don’t really read a ton of magazines but I do look at Vogue, Vanity Fair and Elle for posing inspiration, but if I see a US Weekly or People I have to read it haha.
Please include some of your favorite images….
Once again, this week featured another fabulous photographer. In this industry, I have the opportunity to meet tons of fascinating people. When I say that, I’m talking about everyone I come in contact with…clients, other photographers, vendors, etc. I meet tons of people online, and always hope to one day meet them in person. Brooke is no exception. She is a fabulous gal. She totally cracks me up with the things she says, and is a huge inspiration to me. So she is now another photographer that has been added to my list of hopeful meet-ups. Brooke, thanks so much for being featured this week. It was a ton of fun, and I loved seeing your images. Thanks again, and keep rockin’!
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Posted on February 10, 2011
Our featured photographer this week is a photographer that I met through one of my forums that I’m a part of. She was so excited to do this, and it was great to see that she was! She’s a fantastic photographer and a hilarious gal! Keep the keys out of the freezer!
I’m excited for her to be featured this week, and for all of you to meet and read about her! So…let’s not keep her in the dark much longer. Meet…
Michelle Massey Barnes – Michelle Massey Barnes Photography
www.masseybarnesphotography.com
Ann Arbor, Michigan Photographer
Where are you from? Where do you currently live? I grew up on the West side of Michigan, traveled a lot through out college, went to grad school out East and ended up back in Michigan. Now I am more on the Southeast side of the state, not to far West of Ann Arbor.
What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography? Photography is an artistic expression of beauty. I feel like each time I photograph someone I am given the opportunity to capture that person’s essence and that person’s beauty. But it gets better. Then I get to show the person the beauty and the light that I saw in them while I was behind the camera. I love the way that a beautiful photograph can make someone see themselves and their loved ones with new and fresh eyes.
Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area? I love photographing high school seniors. I think they are so much fun and full of ambition. They are usually very willing to be themselves in front of the camera. I also love photographing young children. I think babies are so special and I have never met a baby that I haven’t loved. LOL. Raising a young child can be so challenging. I love giving the parents beautiful photographs that help them remember the joy of parenting and the beauty of their child. When times are hard (and sometimes they are so all of us), it can be tough to remember just how much joy a child brings into our lives. I think that images that capture the beauty of each stage freeze time for parents and give them a chance to see the joy without all of the tantrums, melts downs and hard work. Parents get to revel in the beautiful moments of loving their children.
How long have you been a photographer? When I was a young girl, my mom got a Canon AE1. Although I loved it and followed her everywhere while she was using it, I didn’t want to learn how to use it myself. It wasn’t until much later when I moved to Southeast Michigan and fell in love with Sandhill Cranes that I felt myself pulled into photography. More than anything I wanted to learn how to photograph these beautiful birds that live out here.
So my real journey as a photographer began about seven years ago and it focused mostly around nature photography. I love photographing the ebb and flow of nature and the seasons. I love returning to the same place over and over again and each time seeing it through different eyes. Nature has taught me to never take a moment for granted. You can’t go back the next day and expect to have the exact same experience. The clouds won’t be the same, the lighting will have changes, the field full of wildflowers might be past their bloom. The same is true in life. Soak it in as it is happening.
As you can imagine, I don’t have a lot of quiet time in the woods these days. I am sure I will return to my roots, but most of my work is portrait based right now. I can say though, the beauty that I am seeking to capture in people is the exact same type of beauty I captured in natural world. A true, authentic and pure beauty of just being yourself.
Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you? I have a lot of formal schooling– a masters degree in comparative religion from Harvard Divinity School– but not in photography. My time in grad school did teach me how to research, how to teach myself, and how to find all of the resources that I need to accomplish whatever it is I have my heart set on. Right now, my heart is set on my camera.
Morning or night owl? Night owl. For sure. I love to be up with the moon & stars.
If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be? Emotional. Authentic. Artistic. Vibrant.
Who is your family? Include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs. My husband, my son Logan (6), and my daughter Annabelle (2.5). Love you guys!
What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography? Each year my husband and I take our kids camping in the mountains. We are even planning to try a backpacking trip this year. As you can imagine, I have so many photos. I would love to write about camping with children and teaching children to love nature. I would love to get some of these photographs published. {And I am open to suggestions on places that might want a submission or two of this kind of work!}
How do you balance work, and your family? The honest answer is some days I balance them better than others. It’s hard. I miss out on sleep & sometimes on showers. I don’t read as much as I would like to. I think this is true of all parents though. Not just working parents. I do block out Sundays as a special time to spend with my husband. We go climbing at Planet Rock. I do my best to make sure I have special time with my kids each week.
We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without? I shoot with a Canon 50D. I have a 50mm 1.8 (which I love), an 85mm 1.8 & a 16-35 2.8 L. Although I love shooting prime, I enjoying playing with the way that a wide angle lens can bend images.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be? Well, in addition to being a photographer, I am also a yoga instructor and a birth doula. As a doula, I get to work with families prenatally and then support them during the birth of their children. It is amazing work- both to be supporting such a precious rite of passage and to be present at the birth of a child. If I wasn’t a photographer, I would keep doing this work. 
What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you? Well, I asked him. He’s what he said, “Motivated. Intelligent. A good mother. Creative.” When I told him that I was a surprised that he didn’t say stubborn and strong willed, he laughed and said, “Well that goes without saying.” LOL, that too.
What helps keep you motivated with photography? There is always something new to learn and I can always find places where I can improve. I am the kind of person that thrives on challenge and personal improvement. I love learning and having the opportunity to explore something new and continue to get better at it is all the motivation I need. I love it. If I ever run out of things to learn, it will be time to look for a new passion.Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)? We have spent many camping trips at Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. Long’s Peak in the tallest peak in this park and the mountain dominates the skyline. It is a 16 mile hike to the top and back and you have to begin the hike at 2am so you are off the summit before the risk of afternoon thunderstorms. Our goal is to climb it as a family. We will have to wait until Annabelle can carry her own pack. Right now, she rides in mine.
What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)? I spend so much time looking at blogs that I could be a major, major stalker. But I’m not consistent. I jump around a lot. I love to be inspired by others people’s work and seeing all of the variations in vision and execution keeps me feeling creative. So I have a slew of blog bookmarks and I jump around all the time.
When you’re not shooting, what are you doing? Climbing rock walls at Planet Rock, an indoor climbing gym in Ann Arbor. I am wishing I was climbing somewhere in Colorado but Planet Rock is a close enough second to keep me happy. I also love hiking, biking and exploring nature with my kids. I used to love watching (and photographing) birds. Until some quiet time returns, I won’t be doing that so much.
What is one thing that you want to do in your life? This is random, but I would like to have a bird of prey (an owl or a hawk), fly across a field and land on my fist. Yes, of course it would have to be a trained bird and of course I would want to wear a glove. Hum. I need to find my way to falconer.
If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why? Pick just one photographer?? Really?? There is so much talent out there. I do love love Angie Moson of Simplicity Photography. I love the way her work is influenced by the colors of the landscape in Utah. I love the bright colors, the way she plays with light and the expressions that she captures. I love her processing.
If you could photograph one area of photography for a day, what would it be, why? (Something other than what you photograph, i.e. architecture, food, boudoir, birth, etc.) I would like to spend a day photographing from the summit of a mountain. I would love 24 hours dedicated to exploring the light and shadows across the vista as the sun moved up and over the mountain and then back down. And of course the light of the moon and stars. The moonrise on a mountain top is magical.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be?
Find your passion. Even when you are not sure exactly what it is, look for it. If you make a conscious effort to find what you are passionate about, you will know when you are there. You will love what you are feeling.
Please include some of your favorite images….
Thank you so much Michelle for being a featured photographer! It was a blast getting to know you better and also learn what interests you about photography and life in general! Your work is fabulous!
Thanks again!
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Posted on February 4, 2011
Okay, so yesterday was supposed to be the day for this fabulous feature. However, with a crazy day that was yesterday, and me not getting home until 5 yesterday afternoon, it didn’t happen. So it’s going up today. I’ve managed to finally get sick with all this stupid changing weather that South Texas has had, and let me tell you..it’s not fun. Lucky for me, the hubby was home this morning, but now has to go into work, so I have to pull myself out of the nice, warm, bed and be a mom. On top of that, we were let out of school today due to “snow”. I’m still wondering where that snow is.
So…today’s feature is a fabulous and ubber talented gal who I love to pieces. She has been a huge help to me throughout my photographic journey, and I also like to call on her when I need some design help. She was the fabulous person behind all of my marketing pieces, and also the fabulous gal behind my logo. Love her to pieces I tell you. She’s also a lot of fun to talk to just about “stuff.” Hopefully one day I get a chance to meet this beautiful lady, she rocks!
I’m assuming you would like to meet this photographer now, eh? Well, here she is…
Farrah Jobling – Farrah Jobling Photography
www.farrahjoblingphotography.com
Denver, Colorado Portrait Photographer
Where are you from? Where do you currently live?
I am originally from Aurora, CO and I currently live in Aurora, CO
What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography?
Photography means the world to me….it gives me a chance to capture memories out of my busy life that I might otherwise forget. I also love to help others to remember every moment of their kids’ lives…not just the day of the photo session, but whatever else is going on around that time, I want them to look at their photos and and say “remember when…”
I’ve been taking photos as a hobbyist for over 15 years, and used to scrapbook a lot. I was attracted to portrait photography when I was pregnant with my son and knew that I didn’t want to miss a single second!
Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area?
I mostly photograph babies/children and families. I think we all specialize in the age range of our own children, just because that’s what we know the best….but really, my absolute favorite sessions are newborns.
How long have you been a photographer?
I have been a hobbyist for over 15 years, but have only been in business for the last 7 months.
Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you?
I am self taught…I have learned so much from online message forums and local photographer friends.
Morning or night owl?
Morning…well…not really morning, but more day hours for sure.
If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be?
Clean, crisp, fun, and sweet
Who is your family? Include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs.
My husband of 5 years is Mike and my children are Nicholas (4) and Claire (1.5)
How do you balance work, and your family?
Some days, I have no idea!
We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without?
I’m a Canon girl…I have a couple of bodies and a variety of lenses…my favorite combo is the Canon 5D Mk2 with the 85L lens or the 24-70L
If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why?
I just need that one shot of some celeb in some compromising position that I can sell and pay for all of the photog equipment I can dream of….LOL…ok, seriously, I would LOVE to photograph a celebrity for a magazine or some other high profile shoot.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
LOL…that’s a good question
What helps keep you motivated with photography?
I love browsing for new ideas and trying to get new inspiration anywhere I can. That odd day that my own kids cooperate can keep me going for weeks! =)
Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)?
I would love to say that I have it all planned out…that I have a 5 year plan and a 10 year plan, but I don’t. I’m trying to do the best I can for now and hoping that a few things fall into place for the future.
What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)?
http://www.laurafarrisphotography.blogspot.com/
http://www.laurabrettphotography.com/
http://www.amyrobertsonphotography.com
and I stalk everyone else on Flickr or Facebook!
When you’re not shooting, what are you doing?
My day job is in research. I’m a microbiologist. And, I have a handmade prop business, Hats, Wraps, and more that I do while carpooling to work…and of course, my number 1 job is MOM! =)
Where is one place you would love to travel to?
Italy
What is one thing that you want to do in your life?
Good question
What is a quote that means a lot to you?
Happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong. The amount of work is the same. ~Francesca Reigler
If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why?
Lisa Lucky
If you could photograph one area of photography for a day, what would it be, why? (Something other than what you photograph, i.e. architecture, food, boudoir, birth, etc.)
I would love to try boudoir photography for a day…there’s nothing better than making someone look and feel like they are the most beautiful person in the world!
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be?
Practice, practice, practice!
What magazine could you not live without?
I’m not really a magazine kind of girl. Gasp but I do get a couple, but certainly can live without them.
Please include some of your favorite images….
Farrah it was a blast to be able to have you featured on my website. You’re an inspiration to me in so many ways. You totally rock! Thanks again for being the featured photographer. Leave Farrah and the post some love. We all know how much we love to leave love! Alright, it’s off to make lunch for the kiddos, and then have a movie day. That’s about all mommy is good for today.
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Posted on January 27, 2011
Okay, so I’m posting this a little late today. Man, life gets busy, and then you’re left wondering where your day went.
So, this week’s featured photographer is someone that I think is fantastic. I can’t ever say that one particular one is my favorite, because honestly, they’re all my favorite due to their own special characteristics. This one this week makes me drool in tons of ways. Her personality is funny, and sweet. her photography is fantastic, and her props and clothing choices are to die for. Seriously, she has a closet of Matilda Jane that clients can choose from. Those earn her major cool points right there. One of these days, if I make it out to Utah, I promise I will be stopping by to chat with this awesome lady. So be ready!
Well, now that I’ve given a short description of this fabulous photog, let’s get to business. This week our featured photographer comes from Lehi, Utah. Let’s meet this fabulous gal….
Skye Johansen – Skye Johansen Photography
Lehi, Utah Baby Photographer
1) Where are you from? Where do you currently live?
I’m from Hill Spring, Alberta, Canada, a town of 200 people where I grew up on a farm. I now live in Lehi Utah.
2) What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography?
Photographing newborns and babies is just so rewarding, it means so much to me to be able to capture these moments for parents. They are already head over heels in love with their baby/children, pictures are just the icing on the cake.
3) Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area?
I photograph newborns, babies and young children. When I first starting doing pictures for people I did everything, families, wedding, a few seniors, but I quickly realized what my passion was. Sweet innocent babies!!
4) How long have you been a photographer?
Five 1/2 years.
5) Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you?
I am self taught, I’ve never been to a workshop or seminar, although in October I got to spend an afternoon with the amazing Shannon Sewell and learned about shoot concepts.
6) Morning or night owl?
NIGHT OWL.
7) If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be?
soft, innocent, rich, sweet
8 ) Who is your family? Include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs.
My husband Ryan, our kids, Gracelyn (8) Jace (7) Maguire (5) and Saylor (almost 3!!)
9) What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography?
I’m always wishing I had more time for projects but being a mom takes up most of my time, my clients take up the rest! Right now I’m just surviving! haha.
10) How do you balance work, and your family?
I shoot in the morning while my kids are in school and edit at night when everyone is in bed. I don’t get as much sleep as normal people, but it’s what I have to do so I can be a mom/wife first.
11) We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without?
I shoot with a 5D mark ii, my favorite lenses are the 50 mm 1.4 and the 85 mm 1.8. I also have the 100 mm 2.8L macro lens and I love it!
12) If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why?
I don’t know! I can’t think of anyone! ( I will pick someone for you Skye…as long as I get to come along…George Clooney).
13) If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
I would be a NICU nurse.
14) What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you?
Money-blower (it’s a word), crazy, procrastinator, beautiful. (I hear all of these things from him almost daily….)
15) What helps keep you motivated with photography?
I don’t know, I just love it and get so much satisfaction from making parents happy!
16) Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)?
To raise happy healthy children! That’s my main goal and all I can really think about right now!
17) What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)?
I like to read these blogs
www.pastelphotography.com/blog
18) When you’re not shooting, what are you doing?
Raising four kids!
19) Where is one place you would love to travel to?
Probably Paris or somewhere cool like that.
20) What is one thing that you want to do in your life?
Go on an amazing trip with my husband! We always head to Canada every chance we get to be with our families but we are due for a crazy awesome trip together!
21) What is a quote that means a lot to you?
The lazy man does the most work!
(my husband says this all the time and I HATE how true it is!) Like when I don’t wash dishes because I don’t feel like it, but the next day it’s 10 times harder to get them clean!
22) If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why?
Mindy Harris of Pastel Photography.
23) If you could photograph one area of photography for a day, what would it be, why? (Something other than what you photograph, i.e. architecture, food, boudoir, birth, etc.)
I would like to do some birth photography, maybe when my kids are older and I’m bored.
24) If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be?
You can read all you want, but it’s practice that really helps you learn!!
25) What magazine could you not live without?
I don’t read any magazines. I get excited when I get a Pottery Barn catalog in the mail though!
Please include some of your favorite images….
Thanks so much for joining us this week Skye! You’re a fabulous photographer and I love your work. I definitely have to say you described your work to a tee.
Thanks so much for taking the time to be our featured photographer. It has been a blast to get to know you better! Like I said earlier…be ready if we ever get to head out that direction. Thanks again.
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Posted on January 20, 2011
Yes, it’s once again Thursday. Which means we get to feature another photographer for this week. Our featured photographer for this week is from Sin City! However, she is one of the funniest, and sweetest people. I got the chance to meet this photographer this past weekend at Imaging USA in San Antonio. Even though she didn’t bring me a cupcake, I still think she’s awesome.
So…who is it you ask. Well, let’s go on and introduce her. Drumroll……..
Kelsey Anderson – Kelsey Anderson Photography
www.kelseyandersonphotography.com
Las Vegas, Nevada Photographer
1) Where are you from? Where do you currently live? I was born and raised in Seattle Washington. I moved to Las Vegas 4.5 years ago.
2) What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography? Photography to me means capturing moments in time for my clients and myself that we can cherish and enjoy for years to come. What attracted me to photography? That is a good question and one I don’t really have a great answer for. Honestly I got my D40 for my 26 birthday and started taking pictures. I couldn’t stop. I read forums and websites on photography. Learning how to shoot. Learning how to edit. Everyday I wake up excited to learn more. It was like something inside me came alive once I picked up my camera. That probably sounds incredibly dumb but it is so true. I found a new piece of myself with photography.
3) Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area? Up until recently I specialized in everything. Lol, I was trying to find me. What I enjoyed and what I didn’t. I knew early on the type of sessions I didn’t enjoy and the ones that got me giddy. However, I thought I was too new to photography to be picky about what I photographed and what I didn’t. I was wrong.
This November I made a decision that has made me so super excited for the year to come. I am focusing on what I love. What drives me and makes me giddy. Maternity, Seniors, Boudoir, Engagement and Weddings. I cut out what I didn’t truly love. Though this is my ‘job’ I don’t want it to feel that way. Photography is my art. It is my passion and that is why I will only shoot what I love and nothing else.
4) How long have you been a photographer? I got my first DSLR end of June 2009. I am one of those types that jumps in head first. I started my biz in Sept. 2009 and here I am a year and a half after getting my first DSLR having a fabulous time!
5) Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you? I am self-taught with the help of incredibly generous photographers and forums. I have participated in one workshop which was with the ever so talented Marta Locklear. I took her workshop fall of 2009 and met some amazing ladies.
6) Morning or night owl? I am forced to be an early bird because of my children but I am a night owl since that is usually the only time I have to work on photography stuff.
7) If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be? Dreamy. Light. Dramatic and Romantic
8 ) Who is your family? Include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs. My family is my hubby Jeff and my 3 amazing children Haylee, Hayden and Hudson.
9) What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography? I am currently doing one with Marta Locklear. Each week she posts a color and texture for us to photograph. It is free so go join in. Other than that I have nothing planned.
10) How do you balance work, and your family? Good question and like many others I am still trying to find that balance. It is hard because you feel like you are being pulled from every direction. So finding balance so you are neglecting anyone or anything is hard. If you have any tips please let me know.
11) We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without? I shoot with a Nikon D700 and my back up is the D300. My lenses are 50 1.4, 85 1.8 (upgrading to 1.4 this year) and the 60 Macro that I am just now really playing a lot with for my Creative Journey that I mentioned above.
12) If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why? Robert Pattinson… shirtless preferably. Why? Really do I need to answer that question? Lol.
13) If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be? What I am still during the day a Stay at Home Mom.
14) What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you? Loud lol, energetic, devoted and outgoing.
15) What helps keep you motivated with photography? What doesn’t really. I haven’t had a moment where I wasn’t motivated to get better.
16) Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)? To always be present in my children’s lives. To be there for them whenever they need me and for them to know that I am always there.
17) What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)? Jasmine Star, Creative Mama, Style Me Pretty and Perez Hilton.
18) When you’re not shooting, what are you doing? Taking care of my babies.
19) Where is one place you would love to travel to? I would love to go to Italy.
20) What is one thing that you want to do in your life? Travel
21) What is a quote that means a lot to you?
“Those that mind, don’t matter. Those that matter, don’t mind.”
22) If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why? Angie Warren. I came across her work when I was first starting out and fell in love immediately. Her style is dreamy but real. I am actually hoping to have her photograph my family if we make to San Fran this coming year.
23) If you could photograph one area of photography for a day, what would it be, why? (Something other than what you photograph, i.e. architecture, food, boudoir, birth, etc.) Food… as long as I got to eat what I photographed.
24) If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be? Ask for constructive criticism that is the only way you’re going to grow. Your friends and family are always going to tell you your work is wonderful but ask people who aren’t emotionally invested in your feelings to tell you what they think of you work and listen.
25) What magazine could you not live without? Us Weekly love me some celeb gossip lol.
Please include some of your favorite images….
Thanks so much for joining us on this fun feature Kelsey! It was a blast getting to know you better, and being able to see your fabulous images. Love your work Kelsey!
Thanks again.
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Posted on January 13, 2011
The photographer that is being featured today definitely holds a special place in my heart. She has been my mentor through my journey of photography. She has helped me with numerous things, and has always done it with such happiness. She hasn’t ever been rude, or seemed bothered. She has helped me in various aspects of my business. She’s such a wonderful person and artist. I truly love her work. Pst…she’s even our photographer. Oh yes, photographers have other photographers photograph them. She works miracles with my girls, and they absolutely love her. Last year, Molly even wrote about her and going to her for our pictures. She is a wonderful person and I’m so grateful that I’ve had a chance to get to know her as a photographer, and a friend. So, without further adieu, on to our photographer feature of…
Cathy Hengst – Cathy Hengst Photography
www.cathyhengstphotography.com
Montgomery, Texas Photographer
1) Where are you from? Where do you currently live? I am from Spring, Texas. Lived here my entire life (pretty boring, I know). We just moved to Montgomery, Texas and are loving it. A little bit slower paced life we hope is in store!
2) What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography? I love capturing life, those moments that you will soon forget and can be remembered by one image. I think with as fast paced as today’s life is we miss out on so many little things. Like the way your baby looks with that drool dripping down their sweet chin. Or those rolls on the back of a toddlers legs. Those are the things I know I never want to forget. I go back to those images of my own children and remember so many sweet times. Photography for me is the hope of creating those memories for another family. A natural smile, a stare into space or a silly look that is just “that” child.
3) Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area? I specialize in children. I feel my gift is working with kids and making them comfortable so that we can have fun. I also adore newborns. I love being able to spend time chatting with a new Mommy and soothing a newborn to sleep.
4) How long have you been a photographer? I have been shooting professionally for 4 years now. Really it seems like yesterday, but yep it has been 4 years.
5) Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you? I am mostly self taught. I have attended classes, workshops and seminars and love getting together with photographer friends to talk shop. Lots and lots of reading and practice is what really got me started.
6) Morning or night owl? Morning for sure, give me a vanilla DP and I am ready to GO!
7) If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be? Clean, simple, carefree, fun
Who is your family? Please include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs. Hubby Lance, Daughter Layne, and Son Ethan
9) What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography? Would love to work more with Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep.
Click on the text below to be directed to this wonderful organization.
10) How do you balance work, and your family? I work while the kids are at school, and then at night once they are in bed. The fall and holiday seasons are crazy and the entire family has to be onboard and they all pitch in to help out keeping things going on the home front.
11) We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without? I think my favorite lens has to be the 85mm 1.2, however I tend to use the 24-70 2.8 the most
12) If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why? I would photograph for Compassion international. There is something about missions and photographing the needy that tugs at my heart. I would pray that my photographs would help produce more sponsors for kiddos.
13) If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be? NICU nurse
14) What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you? Kinda a scary question. His response was Articulate (hummm), Artistic, Driven and Dedicated.
15) What helps keep you motivated with photography? The thank you notes from clients, the joy on their face when they receive their prints and the hugs from my lil’ friends after, before and during a session!
16) Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)? I am pretty content where my business is right now. I am able to balance it with my family life and right now that is such a blessing.
17) What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)? Used to do this often and found I was wasting so much time. So I have cut down so much on this. I mostly look at decorating, and friends blogs when I have time.
18) When you’re not shooting, what are you doing? Lunch with friends, being soccer Mom and keeping the household going and happy.
19) Where is one place you would love to travel to? Bald Head Island, North Carolina
20) What is one thing that you want to do in your life? Live simply, enjoy my family and travel
21) What is a quote that means a lot to you?
“Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.” Dr. Seuss
22) If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why? Audrey Woulard, LOVE her!
23) If you could photograph one area of photography for a day, what would it be, why? (Something other than what you photograph, i.e. architecture, food, boudoir, birth, etc.) Birth for sure! I would love to get into that once my kids are older.
24) If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be? Take it slow, practice practice practice, do not start a business selling a CD of images for next to nothing, know what your time and art is worth.
25) What magazine could you not live without? People, I love to sit and read mindless articles, well and BODEN. I am addicted to their boys clothing, then there is Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn which are favs as well.
Please include some of your favorite images for us Cathy….
Thank you Cathy for being our featured photographer! I’ve really enjoyed reading this and getting to see these gorgeous images. Cathy’s website is at the top, but if you just want to be able to click on it here, here it is:
www.cathyhengstphotography.com
Thank you again Cathy! It was a blast!
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Posted on January 6, 2011
Hello Hello! Well, today will be the first day of our new feature here at Melanie Ashcraft Photography. It’s called Talk To Me Thursday. What is it you ask? I will tell you. Every week, I will be featuring a photographer here. I send over questions to them, have them fill them out, and send them back. Along with that, I also ask that they provide images to be shown. I ask some photography related questions, and also non-photography related. I’m extremely excited about this feature and plan to have it going for a whole year. WOW! Oh yes, and I already have January filled. If any photographers would like to be featured here, please shoot me an e-mail through my contact section and we will get you set up.
You may be wondering why on earth I would want to feature a photographer on my website. My husband was quite curious as to why I chose to do this. So I will explain and then get to the first featured photographer. The reason behind this is a win-win for both photographers. For the photographer that is being featured it allows for them to get their name out there more, and also to kind of reflect on themselves. Some of these questions may be light, but others may make them really think about things. Now the reason, why it’s a winning situation for me. Well, it allows me to get more readers as well. People will see their name being tagged for the interview on Facebook, and then want to come check it out. Another reason why I was wanting to do this. I love getting to know other photographers. Seriously. I love getting to know them, and also hear how they got into photography. It’s going to be a fun feature, and one that I hope everyone will enjoy. So….onto the featured photographer for this week.
I figured that some people might like to get to know me as well, so I’m kicking off the feature. So onto my interview. It was quite interesting interviewing myself. I had some awkward moments of talking to myself. Ha! Totally joking…And here we goooooo. Who can guess what movie that line is from? Anyone? Anyone?
Melanie Ashcraft
Richmond, Texas Photographer
1) Where are you from? I was born in Missouri. I’ve lived in Oklahoma, Missouri, and Texas.
Where do you currently live? Currently, I’m living in Richmond, Texas. I’ve lived in Texas the last 13 years, so I guess you could consider me a Texan now.
2) What does photography mean to you? Photography to me is a way of freezing the emotions I see and feel in certain moments. You have memories of what has happened in your life, but pictures are a way for you to be able to be in “that” moment forever.
What attracted you to photography? I love that with photography you have the ability to freeze time. You will always have those “moments” that you want to keep for a lifetime. I always loved taking pictures and would take tons. I got the real attraction to go further than “just taking pictures” when my youngest daughter was born. That is when I bought my first DSLR. A pretty Canon Rebel xti. I was in love.
3) Describe the area of photography you specialize in? I currently shoot families, newborn, babies, younger children, and have dabbled in engagements. Why did you choose this area? I love interacting with people, and watching how others interact with each other. I love that I can interact with other families, and watch their dynamic. I love that I can take pictures of a sweet newborn or a shy child and help freeze those moments.
4) How long have you been a photographer? I’ve been in business for a little over a year. I’m really excited to continue to grow and be able to have my wonderful clients along for the journey.
5) Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? Self-taught, but have learned a ton from other photographers. Like a massive amount. I would love to one day have some type of schooling, and plan on becoming a CPP one day.
What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you? I absolutely love Sandy Puc. She is a fabulous photographer, and is able to keep bring a room alive. There are a ton of workshops/seminars that I want to attend though. That list is pretty long. I will be heading to the wonderful Imaging USA next Sunday with 3 other photographers, and am really excited about that!
6) Morning or night owl? Night owl sometimes, morning owl….not so much.
7) If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be? Fun, relaxing, clean, with a little bit of a vintage feel.
8 ) Who is your family? My family includes my husband Brett, who has been a great support to me in this journey. Then we have Miss Molly who just turned 8 and is all about DSi’s and Ipods, and Lily. Lily will be 3 in March, and is one of the most easy going kids. She loves everything and anything. Can you please include some pictures of your family, since we know that they are always on the other end of the lens.
Here is my wonderful husband Brett. He is a little easier to convince to sit down for a shot. I don’t have to give him a snack, or a sucker afterwards. Every now and then he likes to try to grow out a mustache. That quickly gets nixed.
Now we have Molly and Lily. They have the best relationship. Molly is so protective of Lily, and Lily adores her big sister. This is one of my favorite images. This was the image that was on the front of our Christmas card this year, and will soon be blown up and hung on our wall.
9) What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography? I’m trying really hard to do Project 365. That’s where you take a picture everyday for a year. I’m kind of falling behind (yes, I know it’s still the first week of January). I may end up going towards Project 52. I’ve also really liked seeing what is going on over at Marta Locklear, but haven’t had a chance to participate yet. So maybe I’ll play catch up soon.
10) How do you balance work, and your family? Do what? Balance what? Well let’s just say that there are late nights on my end quite often. I will try to do some work during Lily’s nap, and while Molly is at school, but the majority of it is done at night. When everyone is asleep and it’s quite. My family is my number one priority, and I don’t let things become more of a priority than them.
11) We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? In my bag I have a Canon 50d with a battery grip, and a 24-70mm 2.8L attached to it. I also have a 50mm 1.8, and a 70-300 IS USM lens in my bag.
What lens could you not live without? As of right now…my 24-70mm. That might change once I get a macro lens however.
12) If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why? If this person were still alive. My grandmother with my grandfather. I was very close to her and my grandpa. I would love to be able to photograph her and him together. I took a photo of my grandfather the other day, and realized how I would love to be able to photograph them, and be able to see the love between them “frozen” in time.
13) If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be? Other than a stay at home mom, which I already am…I would love to do something marketing related. I love the marketing side of things, and my husband said it’s because I don’t care how much something costs, as long as it’s beautiful. Which is wrong. I do care how much something is, but I also understand that it takes money to make money. In order to make money, you have to make something pretty, and appealing.
14) What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you? Beautiful, talented, loving, kind. Such a sweet guy he is.
15) What helps keep you motivated with photography? All the new things that I learn every day. Also, wanting to provide clients with beautiful images that they will treasure for a lifetime. I love hearing the first reaction from a client when they see their images for the first time.
16) Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)? Photography wise – keep learning. Don’t ever stop soaking everything in. Personal – Be happy with my family, watch my kids grow and enjoy them soaking up life.
17) What blogs do you love to stalk? Oh goodness. This list could be huge…The Picky Palate, The Savvy Photographer, Clickin Moms, Creative Mama, The TomKat Studio, and Jasmine Star.
18) When you’re not shooting, what are you doing? Hanging out with my family, and probably trying to plan our next cruise. I’ve been on 8…love them.
19) Where is one place you would love to travel to? Fiji, it looks absolutely beautiful and seems very romantic.
20) What is one thing that you want to do in your life? Always strive to be a great mom and wife, and continue to live life. Try to not be so worried about things I can’t control. Also make sure that I never take anything for granted.
21) What is a quote that means a lot to you? I can’t remember where I heard this but it’s so true…
“Laugh as much as you breathe and love as long as you live.”
22) If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why? Jasmine Star, she actually shoots engagements and weddings, but I would love to have her photograph my family! She is amazing and has an awesome personality. I think she would be a blast.
23) If you could photograph one area of photography for a day, what would it be, why? (Something other than what you photograph, i.e. architecture, food, boudoir, birth, etc.) Honestly… Boudoir. I would love to get into Boudoir photography. It’s very mysterious and I’m just drawn to it.
24) If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be? Don’t think that it’s just the camera that takes good pictures. You have to have a knowledge of what it takes for an image to turn out fabulous. Practice Practice Practice, and soak up any and all information you can. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
25) What magazine could you not live without? I have a couple. I love Professional Photographer for my business magazine. For just good, easy reading…Redbook, Good Housekeeping, and anything celeb gossip.
Please include some images of your work…..
I hope everyone enjoyed the first interview of this new feature. Make sure to join us for one of my favorite photographers next week. This one is dear to my heart and she has helped me so much along this journey! Who could it be…..
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Posted on December 20, 2010
I said that updates would be coming, and they are. For the first update…I would like to post about Miss A. This little cutie is one of my favorite little girls. Why you ask, because she is my cutie patootie niece. She is at the wonderful 6 month stage. She is at the age where she can sit up on her own, and at the time of this shoot, couldn’t crawl. She did however have tons of drool going on. She has been drooling and chewing on her fingers for awhile, however she still has no teeth.
She knows that when she sees her aunt, that a little mini session is in store. She’s absolutely fabulous, and always does such a great job for me. You should have noticed the cutie pie newborn with the striped hat throughout my site, or my galleries. That is Miss A when she was a teeny baby. We had her newborn session when she was a tiny 4 day old baby. Goodness, she has grown up so quick.
So enjoy looking at the cutie pie Miss A with drool and all!
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