Sweet newborns
Kiddos
Couples 
Family
Posted on May 26, 2011
Wow! Hello there! It’s been 2 weeks since we’ve had a Talk To Me Thursday and I will fully blame it on craziness. Well, if you’ve been reading, you’ll know that my husband was getting ready to graduate, and it was crazy around here. Indeed, it was. We had to get ready for graduation, plus his graduation party, and we had family in town. Needless, to say mix all that craziness with end of the school year craziness for my oldest dd, on top of sessions (which I still need to post on the blog), yep…surprised I made it out with my head still attached. 
However, we do have an awesome photog with us this week, and this will not be the last you will see of this sweet gal. Oh no…we will see her again.
Well, I will give you one guess as to how I met this photog. I haven’t met in her person, so where else could I have met her? Oh, you guessed it…a photography forum. I remember she was the first person to respond to a question I had, and she is always so helpful to me and others. Her work is fabulous and her macro photos make me drool, and want a macro lens even more. I knew she was going to have to be with us for Talk To Me Thursday when I saw her work. She’s a sweetie for sure, and cracks me up with “how she rolls.”
So, why don’t I introduce her to all of you…let’s say hello to…
Crystal Samson – Life. Captured. Photography by Crystal
Treasure Valley, Idaho Photographer
www.lifecapturedphotographybycrystal.com
Where are you from? Where do you currently live?
I was born in Wyoming, but have lived in Idaho for most of my life.
What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography?
Photography means capturing memories, capturing life. I’ve always loved to take photos of my family…and I love taking photos to share with others.
Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area?
Babies and Ladies (Maternity, Birth, Newborns & Boudoir). How can you not love newborns? Oh wait…you mean the poop & pee and 4 hour sessions? Well…maybe not so much…feedback from my clients about their beautiful baby and how I captured them so perfectly? Priceless. I also think every woman deserves to feel beautiful and sexy no matter what time of her life she’s in…whether it’s growing a baby, having a baby, or after the kids are grown and gone. Women are beautiful, and we’re so hard on ourselves. I think every woman deserves to have a boudoir shoot just so SHE can see how amazing and special she is.
How long have you been a photographer?
Well….I’ve been photographing since I was a kid…but I purchased my first DSLR last year and really got serious about it then. Learning how to really use my camera, and creating with it instead of it doing what it wants
Is it only you with your business, or do you have an assistant?
Just me. My hubby helps out sometimes…he’s nice like that.
Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you?
I can’t say that I’m self-taught…I belong to a forum of great photographers, hobbiests, and really just nice people called Clickin’ Moms, and really, they’ve helped me learn, grow and progress all along the way. I’ve taken one workshop, but have had no ‘formal’ schooling. But I practice. Alot, and I’m always trying new things.
Morning or night owl?
Night, definitely. I can’t even function in the morning.
If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be?
Fun, simple, real…..ok that’s all I’ve got
Who is your family? Include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs.
My family is a group of handsome boys. They are easy to get along with, and will usually cooperate without too much complaining when I need models. They are even getting to where they like me to tag along so I can take photos of them doing what they do (bikes, skateboards, snowboards, anything boy-related).
What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography?
Hm…more births! And to keep making sure I take time to shoot for myself. It’s so much different shooting for a client, making sure everything is just as it needs to be….which I love, but taking time to shoot for myself keeps me grounded, creative, and still loving photography.
How do you balance work, and your family?
Not very well…haha
We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without?
5D classic, Tamron 90mm macro, 50mm 1.4 and Tamron 28-75 2.8. I don’t think I could live without the 28-75…it has such great range…it’s perfect for an everyday lens to tote around with my family, but it’s sharp as a tack and works very well for a portrait lens as well.
If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why?
My family…all smiling together…in a gorgeous location.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
Some kind of crafty Etsy handmade seller. I love crafting…sewing (not good at it, but I try), & scrapbooking.
What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you?
{pain in my a**} hahaha…then he said creative, intelligent, artistic, passionate. (Why does it seem like the first one is also what my husband was thinking when I asked him this question for my interview? Lol –Melanie)
What helps keep you motivated with photography?
Um…I think I kind of already answered this one…hahaha. Shooting for myself, shooting things I love (babies & ladies) and finding great light.
Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)?
To have happy kids, and be able to do photography full time…shooting what I love. Totally generic sounding…but it’s me….
What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)?
I really don’t stalk blogs….except the Pioneer Woman. She is amazing. I don’t really ‘get’ the whole RSS thing…so my blogs are limited to what is emailed to me each day (which surprisingly is a lot…but PW is the one I look forward to everyday).
When you’re not shooting, what are you doing?
Practicing, learning, hanging out with my hubby & kids. I’m trying to make sure I’m moving more, so we’ve been going on walks. It’s really nice.
Where is one place you would love to travel to?
Just one??? Probably Bora Bora…it looks so beautiful, and peaceful, and warm.
What is one thing that you want to do in your life?
Stop being afraid of rejection, and just do things! I am constantly holding myself back.
What is a quote that means a lot to you?
You are responsible for yourself. I am constantly trying to teach this to my children.
It doesn’t matter what someone does or says to you. You cannot control them, and how they
behave, you can only control yourself, and your reaction.
If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why?
I don’t really stalk blogs, and I don’t even know who alot of the famous photogs are…but Bobbi + Mike seem pretty cool. I like their style, and how they interact on their blog.
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.)
People on the street. It terrifies me, but I want to do it sooo bad.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be?
You don’t have to be everything to everyone. You do this because you love it, don’t allow others to ruin it for you by compromising your time, your values, your vision, or your heart. Some will get it, and some won’t. Move on to the ones who will.
What magazine could you not live without?
None. I don’t read them.
Please include some of your favorite images….
Amazing images Crystal! Thanks so much for joining us this week for Talk To Me Thursday! It’s great to have you part of this fun project! Can’t wait to have you join us again….SOON. 
Thanks again!
Well, everyone I’m off to get ready for a busy next couple of days. While you’re here on the blog, check out the post below this one, and grab the FREE Summertime Subway Art. I’m loving these gems right now, and can’t wait to get this one printed and displayed. So glad summer is actually here and we have an excuse for the hot weather we’ve had for the last year. Oh yes, our winter was pretty much non-existent this year, so might as well embrace summer now. Have a fabulous Thursday!
Make sure to leave Crystal some love for her feature and awesome images.
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Posted on April 21, 2011
It’s Wednesday as I’m writing this but, by the time it posts, it will be…..Talk To Me Thursday!! I’m totally loving this feature. It’s so much fun getting to know these photographers better, and it’s also helping me learn to ask people for things. I’ve always been the type that has worried about asking people things, b/c hey, they could say no. However, they can’t throw anything at me, so guess what…if they say no, they say no. Everybody has been excited to do it, and it’s been fun. This photographer today has been a pretty loyal reader of Talk To Me Thursday, unlike SOME people (cough cough Dayna) . I thought that since she loves reading it, and I love checking out her work, she would be a great one to feature. So, let’s go ahead and meet this wonderful gal, shall we?
Say hello to Rebecca!!
Rebecca Morfeld – Rebecca Morfeld Photography
www.rebeccamorfeldphotography.com
Jefferson County, Missouri Photographer
Grab a snack and your drink of choice…I tend to get chatty. lol! <—- —-words from Rebecca!
Where are you from? Where do you currently live?
I currently live just outside Festus, Missouri…a town about 30 miles south of St. Louis. I was raised in another small town in Missouri, only about 10 minutes (if that) from where I live now. I’ve never lived anywhere outside of the same county.
What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography?
It sounds so cliché, but what photography means to mean is being able to capture a moment in time. I’m a hoarder, so to speak, of sentimental memorabilia…be it ticket stubs, birthday cards or drawings my daughters gave me when they were younger. I can pull out these items and remember the time and the place, the event, or whatnot.
Photos do the same thing for me. I want to remember everything, so I take pictures of everything. Maybe one day, when I look at a photo of my remote control, it will spark of a memory of what television shows I liked to watch. At least, I hope I’ll remember! J
Wanting to have better photos for my scrapbooks is what first attracted me to photography. I was also frustrated with the shutter lag on my point and shoot camera because I kept missing shots. My husband bought me my DSLR camera for Christmas on year and at first I just shot on auto and the different shooting modes. Then, I decided if I was going to have this “fancy” camera, I might as well learn how to use it. lol!
Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area?
I don’t specialize in any one area right now and I don’t know if I ever will. Right now I’m just enjoying capturing memories for whoever will allow to me to be a part of their lives for a little while.
How long have you been a photographer?
If you mean how long I’ve been actively involved in photography, the answer is about 3 years. If you mean how long have I been in business…7 months.
Is it only you with your business, or do you have an assistant?
It’s just me, but my husband and my daughters are very supportive and help me out with ideas.
Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you?
I’m self taught in the sense I haven’t had any formal schooling in photography. I’ve learned thing on my own by reading books and reading tutorials online. However, if it weren’t for kind and generous people sharing their knowledge on a photography forum I belong to, I wouldn’t be where I am today. (Hello, Peas!!)
Morning or night owl?
Ummm… mid morning to afternoon person.
If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be?
Good question! Lol! Sometimes I wonder if I even have a “style”. I like my images to look natural, pretty close to how I saw them when I snapped the shutter. Every once in awhile I’ll play around with different or funkier processing, but I’ll do a “clean” edit of the same image as well.
I’m coming back to this question after thinking on it for a bit: my 4 words would be:
simple, natural, emotional and fun.
Who is your family? Include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs.
My family includes my husband, Ernie…we’ll be married for 20 years this July. We were high school sweethearts, so we’ve actually been together for 24 years. I have two daughters, Heather, 19 ½ and Wendy, who will be 11 in a few weeks. Also in the family is a fat orange tabby cat, Rufus, and Heather’s white mouse, Moose. (who is a girl).
What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography?
I’m doing a 365 project this year. So far I’m doing pretty well. I’ve only missed a few days here and there that I’ve had to make up for. I also want to be better about printing and displaying my personal photos.
How do you balance work, and your family?
I strive to make family always come first.
We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without?
Well, really, I don’t have much in my bag. I have 3 lenses: an 18-55mm, a 55-200mm, and a 35mm (1.8). I’ve had the 35 mm less than a month, but it’s already the lens I couldn’t live without. I also have a flash and some macro filters I like to play around with.
If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why?
Let’s see, at the risk of sounding too far out there, I’m going to say Jesus Christ. Why…because, well, He’s Jesus. Lol! And He is love. Can you imagine capturing an image of tangible love? I realize that may sound sappy, or whatever, but I’m just being me.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
A librarian. So, now you know…I’m a geeky sap. Lol!
What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you?
It’s a good thing I asked him because what I thought he would say was incorrect. He said: perky, easy going, loving and artsy.
What helps keep you motivated with photography?
Seeing all the amazing work from other photographers…it makes me want to shoot more and better.
Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)?
Photography wise, one of my long term goals is to be successful enough in my business so I don’t need to substitute teach anymore. (If any of the teachers I sub for are reading this…I’m sorry!! J ) Personally, one of my long term goals is to be published. I’m a wanna be children’s book author. I have several manuscripts collecting dust in a file drawer.
What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)?
My blog reading is very random. Someone will post a link, I’ll go to that blog, read it, love it, bookmark it, then forget about it. lol! Then, one day I’ll remember, go back and read and it starts all over again. I do have 3 I visit almost every day: The Pioneer Woman, Bits & Pieces (scrapbooking, Cathy Zielske’s blog) and Cake Wrecks.
When you’re not shooting, what are you doing?
Laundry. Lol! Okay, okay, substitute teaching, knitting, editing, cooking, reading Facebook.
Where is one place you would love to travel to?
Germany. My husband’s family is from Germany, and I also have ancestral roots there. 
What is one thing that you want to do in your life?
Oh, gosh! Another hard question! There is SO much I want to do. I really can’t answer.
At the beginning of the year, I made a list of 40 things I want to do or accomplish this year. Some of the items on the list are serious, most are not. Haha!
What is a quote that means a lot to you?
Philippians 4:13 -
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why?
I would love to have any of the fabulous photographers I’ve had the pleasure to meet (both in person and online) do a session for my family. It would be so fun to have lots of different photos all done in different, unique ways.
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 often photograph food, but I think it would be fascinating to spend the day watching and participating in a food shoot for a magazine or some other publication. Um….holy heck…this looks yummy. Thanks Rebecca!
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be?
Don’t give up…sounds so “high school commencement” speech to say it, but it’s true. There are times when learning how all the different aspects of photography work together will be incredibly frustrating. You might feel like throwing the camera out the window. Don’t, it cost too much money. Just take a break for awhile. Or put the camera in Auto and take pictures just for the fun of taking pictures, not for learning.
What magazine could you not live without?
I don’t really read many magazines. We subscribe to The Organic Gardener and The Missouri Conservationist and I read them…they have great photography. I don’t know if that constitutes “can’t live without” though.
Please include some of your favorite images….
Thanks so much for being our featured photographer Rebecca! I loved getting to know you better, and loved seeing your food, I mean, images.
I really do love getting to know these photographers better, and I love how when they type, you can almost hear them actually saying, it and laughing at the parts you would really laugh at in person. I love the beginning where you warn us that you can be chatty! Thanks again Rebecca!
Well, it’s now Thursday, yep, started before midnight, and it’s now waaaaaaay past my bedtime. I haven’t stayed up this late in a long time. I also get to be a chaperone for a field trip tomorrow. Let’s hope I get an adrenaline rush for tomorrow.
Goodnight, or good morning to some that are waking up now!
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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 17, 2011
Our photographer for this week is joining us all the way from Germany! Oh yes, Germany. I actually met her through a photography forum that I’m part of. The first boudoir photography I ever saw was hers, and I was hooked. I always thought that boudoir was risque, however these thoughts were just from hearing the word mixed with photography. Once I actually saw what it was, I fell in love. This photographer does an amazing job. You can feel the emotion in her photos. I’ve never met her, but from her e-mails, and comments on the forum she sounds like a hoot, and someone that would definitely be fun to hang out with.
So, let’s get on with introducing this awesome photographer…
Kim Kravitz – Kim Kravitz Photography
Heidelberg, Germany Photographer
http://www.kimkravitzphotography.com/
Where are you from? Where do you currently live?
I was born in Oklahoma, raised in southeast Kansas, and now live in Germany.
What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography?
I’ve always had a creative side. My outlet used to be cheerleading, twirling, and dance. Once I had kids, though, and was out of school, those were no longer my outlets. One day I discussed getting a camera with my husband, we went to Best Buy to test some out, and I came home with a shinny new camera. Seems like now I always have a camera on hand.
Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area?
I specialize in boudoir, seniors, and couples. I never really had a feel for shooting families or children. After I’m done shooting a boudoir, senior, or couple my clients always seem to be on cloud nine. They loved their session and they can’t wait to see their images. I love their excitement that they have. I never seem to get the same feeling from my family/children clients, so I’ve decided not to openly advertise for those two types of sessions.
How long have you been a photographer?
I started shooting in October 2008, so I’m going on 2.5 years. J
Is it only you with your business, or do you have an assistant?
It’s only me for now. There are times when I will seek out an assitant for a session but those are few and far in between.
Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you?
All self taught! I did a mentor session with Jessica Edwards Photography back when I was JSO. Since then I have taught at the Mpix Meet-up and “attended” a few on-line workshops. Most of what I know is done through trial and error.
Morning or night owl?
I would say both. When my husband is deployed I’m definitely a night owl. It’s so much easier to get some work done when the kids are in bed. When my husband is home, I’m a morning person. I get up with my oldest to take her to the bus stop, so I have about a good hour after that that I can sit down and get work done.
If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be?
I would say my style is clean, bright, candid, and moody. My colored images are definitely bright and clean, but my black and white images are definitely moody. I would say most of my images are “candid.” I just don’t do the whole “sit and pose” thing.
Who is your family? Include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs.
I have two daughters Mac and Keclie, my wonderful husband Aaron, and our dog Ringo.
What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography?
Gah! I have so many! Lol I would really like to get all of my images in my portfolio to be cohesive with each other. I feel like I’ve recently found my “style” and want my portfolio images to convey that style.
How do you balance work, and your family?
Good question. I don’t feel like I have them balance yet, but I do feel like I am more balanced than I was just a few months ago. I have become a list maker. The night before I make my photography “to-do” list and try to stick to it. Being a SAHM and a WAHM, I have a very “terrible two” year old here. I have to use nap time and my mornings well. If I do not stay on task it doesn’t get done. White boards have, also, become my friend to help keep my to-do list in my face and keep me on track for the day. As for scheduling sessions and what not, I do most of those on weekends. I’m a low volume type of person, so it’s easy for me to keep my families priorities number one.
We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without?
Ha! I just upgraded to the Canon 5D Mark II. I still have my Canon 50D as my back up. I really wanted video. I think it’s the new “in,” especially with senior portraits. I shoot with my 50 mm 1.4 and my 24-70 mm 2.8. Since getting the new full-frame camera, I have lens lust for the 70-200 mm 2.8. My 24-70 just doesn’t zoom in there close enough anymore lol.
If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why?
The President. Any of them. I would love to be the White House photographer. With this position, you really are capturing history!
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
A cop or something else in law enforcement. Before I met my husband I was going to school to get my criminal justice degree. With moving so much with the Army, being a cop just isn’t a realistic dream anymore.
What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you?
Ha! I have totally asked him this question before. I believe his answers were driven, stubborn, and something else and something else. I would ask him but it’s the morning here and he is still snoozing.
What helps keep you motivated with photography?
Everything and anything. After raising my prices, I have yet to get burned out. During the “down time” in the winter months, I try to keep my photography club very active shooting 2 to 3 times per month with them.
Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)?
Hm. Never really thought about the long term goals yet. That’s what you’re supposed to do when you grow up, right? Lol I definitely do not feel old enough to have a long term goal. I guess if I had to pick a few right now, it would be to make sure I still feel the need to learn something. When I get to the point that I think I know everything, I need to give it up. Photography is constantly evolving and there is always something new to learn. I would, also, like to have a steady flow of clients. I’ll take 4 to 5 per month. Nothing too major. And for a personal goal, I would love to go back to college and get my degree. Haven’t decided in what yet. Business, criminal justice, and of course photography all tickle my fancy for the time being.
What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)?
I don’t really have the time right now to stalk a lot of blogs. I’m more of a forum junky. J A few blogs that I really enjoy are http://www.vickielanphoto.com/, http://www.thedivasblog.com/ (love their youtube channel!) and http://www.bumblesandlight.com/.
When you’re not shooting, what are you doing?
Chasing around my “terrible two” year old. She definitely keeps me on my toes. Also, running our oldest to wrestling practice. Yeah, random, I know. Her dad convinced her, after watching too much WWE, to do wrestling instead of cheerleading this year. J She loves it so fine. Lol. And I play army wife here and there.
Where is one place you would love to travel to?
There are so many! Being in Europe, I would love to go to Pairs. It’s so close. Like a 5 hour drive. I don’t know why we haven’t done it yet lol. I, also, want to go to Ireland. It’s on my bucket list, so I will go there before I die. And, lastly, I must go back to Jamaica. That country rocks!! It’s so carefree and absolutely gorgeous!
What is one thing that you want to do in your life?
Tough question. There are so many things that I want to do in my life, but which one is the most important one to list here lol. I would like to build my own studio someday. And not your average studio. I want a white wall, one bed, all natural light studio. I have this vision for my boudoir portraits and this type of studio would help achieve that vision.
What is a quote that means a lot to you?
I’m not for sure if I can think of an appropriate one to share. Lol I have a terrible sense of humor that most probably wouldn’t get unless you spent some time with me in person.
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 this one is a tough one. There are so many great photographers out there! I really love Sarah Wilkerson’s lifestyle photography. She knows how to capture those aw moments that makes a mother’s her skip a beat.
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.)
Combat/war photography. I would love to capture the good, the bad, and the ugly of what our troops are doing down range. Not for sure if I could really explain why I want to do this so it would make sense for everyone, so we’ll just leave it at that.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be?
You don’t need to buy everything out there. Do not get caught up in all the craze. Master your camera first. Once you know how to properly use your camera, you photography journey can really soar!
What magazine could you not live without?
Hm. I’m not really the magazine type. I have a bad habit of buying books and magazines and never finishing them lol. I was never really the reading type.
Please include some of your favorite images….
Thanks so much Kim for allowing us to get to know you better and have you featured this week! You definitely had some awesome answers, and I’ve never thought of what it would be like to be the White House photographer. That would be an interesting job indeed. You totally sound like me when it comes to college. I would love to go back once the kids are all in school, and I have a list of things I wouldn’t mind getting a degree or two in. I have a couple of artsy related ones, then some more “grown up” type ones. Lol.
Thanks again Kim! It was great having you, and I don’t think this will be the last we see of Kim on the website. Just sayin’.
Don’t forget about the giveaway going on right now either! It ends on Tuesday night at 11:59 p.m. You can find it here The big 28 + 3 Birthday Giveaway!!!
Super easy to enter!!
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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 March 3, 2011
It’s Thursday, and I feel like it’s starting to go towards Spring/Summer weather finally. Oh wait! That’s what is has been this whole year. We just got to have about 20 days of cold to tease us. The weather would probably be the ultimate reason as to why I feel like I live on allergy medication. Ahhhh….HOWEVER, today is not the day to talk about weather.
It’s Thursday and anyone that follows this blog knows what Thursday means…..
ANOTHER FABULOUS PHOTOGRAPHER!!!
Oh yes, and this talented gal is no exception. She’s funny (I’ve laughed quite a few times reading her interview), totally rocks her camera, and is so stinkin’ nice. She has totally rocked seniors this year, and she has definitely made me want to get into photographing them.
She doesn’t live that far from me either, well, in Louisiana, but hey, that’s not far at all. She is definitely on my list of people I would love to meet. You will love her!
So, without further adieu, meet…..
Jessica VanDerMark – Jessica VanDerMark Photography
Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Houma and Thibodaux area Photographer
Where are you from? Where do you currently live?
The swamps of Louisiana! Spent some wonderful years in So Cal {would LOVE to go back}, a few years in Massachusetts and I’ve been back in Louisiana for the last 4 years.
What does photography mean to you? What attracted you to photography?
I’m not sure what attracted me to photography, because I’ve been drawn to it for as long as I can remember. Like most photographers, I love the ability to capture and freeze a moment in time. Life moves so fast, now more than ever, it brings me peace to be able to just stop in the moment when looking at an image frozen in time.
Describe the area of photography you specialize in? Why did you choose this area?
The business side of photography is still new for me. So, I’m not sure I could say that I have a specialty yet, BUT I do know that I would LOVE to make Senior Photography my specialty. I’ve been blessed to have a successful year photographing Seniors and I love it. They are fun, fresh and eager to participate in creating their images. It’s such a big moment in a person’s life and I am so grateful to be a part of capturing it. I love watching them transform from shy kids to rockin’ models by the end of the session. It’s so much fun!
How long have you been a photographer?
I supposed it depends on your definition of photographer. If it’s something you “do”, then less than one year. If it’s something you “are”, then since my first camera in elementary school.
Is it only you with your business, or do you have an assistant?
Only me. Though, the thought of an assistant is marvelous!
Are you self taught or have you attended formal schooling? What workshops/seminars have you found useful to you?
Though I have not attended any formal schooling, I don’t like the words “self taught” either. I feel like it discredits all of the amazing photographers that have had a hand in my journey. Plus, I’m still learning…don’t think I will ever be finishing learning. It’s part of the appeal of photography to me. Endless possibilities with every session, every image, every location, every lesson, every person you meet.
Morning or night owl?
Pre-children..NIGHT OWL! Post-children, morning! =)
If you could describe your style of photography in 4 words, what would they be?
I. Have. No. Clue. Lol Seriously, I really don’t know how I would describe my style…perhaps I’m still trying to figure it out!
Who is your family? Include some pictures of them since we all know that our family is always in our photographs.
I’ve been with my husband since the day we met 11 years ago. Literally. In fact, he bought me a camera the very first Christmas we celebrated together. It was a 35mm point and shoot! My existing camera was broken and he surprised me with a new one for Christmas! The picture of us is from the night we met…see how special photography is?? It’s a bad, grainy photo…but it’s a photo none-the-less from the night we met. I am so glad to have it and it was all because I never leave my house without a camera in hand! Then there are my amazing children! Brice – 16, Joe – 14, Maddison – 12, Katie Grace -7 and Hayden – 3. Calm down people, I didn’t give birth to all 5. Two of them were a wonderful bonus that came with my husband! =)
This is why you totally crack me up Jessica! The comment about “Calm down people”. Love it.
What is a project that you would like to do this year with your photography?
I would like to do a self portrait of the day project. Because my worst fear is that my kids won’t have any pictures of me to share with their kids, and their kids, and so on and so on…
How do you balance work, and your family?
Balance??? You mean, it’s a real thing?? Oh my…I thought that was just some Cajun French folklore!
We all want to know…what’s in YOUR bag? What lens could you not live without?
I use a Shootsac for my sessions and LOVE it! I currently shoot with a 50D that hangs from a Black Rapid strap and LOVE that too! {Hoping to get a Marky Mark soon} My lenses include 50 1.4, 85 1.8 and 70-200 2.8 – Though I can’t imagine giving any of them up, I would have to say I can’t live without my 70-200! It serves me for both sports photography and portrait sessions.
If you could photograph any person in the world, who would it be? Why?
Gosh, I could think of soooo many people I would love to photograph! But let me see if I can narrow it down.
James Franco Why??? Do you have to ask? Seriously, yes…he is easy to look at, but I think he would be up for anything and that would be so fun.
Natalie Portman…that face is perfection.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
My husband and I have a marketing company, so technically I guess I am something else!
What are 4 words your husband would use to describe you?
I asked him and he said Smart. Thoughtful. Beautiful. Interesting…and then he rambled more words and I told him to follow the rules!
What helps keep you motivated with photography?
Other photographers definitely…their art inspires me to keep pushing myself to see what I can discover.
Tell us about some of your long term goals (with photography or personal life)?
Long term goals.. hahahahaha… I don’t know if this is a good quality or a bad quality, but I really don’t have long time goals…I’ve always tended to just live life. I believe if what you are doing today is good and you are doing good by people, your path will take care of itself. My husband is not like that at all and I think it drives him a little crazy! Hee hee
What blogs do you love to stalk (doesn’t have to be photography related if you don’t want)?
I’m not much a blog stalker but I do have some photogs that I LOVE!
Kirk Voclain…incredibly proud that he is from my home town.
Michelle Kane – amazing! If you love color, you will love her!
http://michellekanephotography.com/photoblog/
Kelly Moore – Most people rave about her bags (understandably so) but she also rocks her camera! http://kellymoorephotography.com/index2.php?v=v1#/home/
MarK Eric : http://www.markeric.com/
Blair Phillips : http://www.blairphillipsphotography.com/
Jerry Ghionis : www.jerryghionisphotography.com
When you’re not shooting, what are you doing?
Bringing my kids to hockey, softball, basketball, cheer….cooking, working, spending time with family…listening to music…whatever I can squeeze in!
Where is one place you would love to travel to?
I can never narrow down anything to only one option. Just not possible for me! I would love to travel to the little town in France that my ancestors are from. I would also love to go to Tuscany…Fiji sounds nice…..Belize wouldn’t be so bad…I could swing a trip to Brazil while I’m at it. Seriously, I have no clue how to pick only one!
What is one thing that you want to do in your life?
I think I’m doing it now. I’m in a happy marriage, with great kids doing what I love. What more could I ask for? However, I would love to give back more. I really would like to leave my mark on the world by making someone’s life better as a result of my actions. That would make me feel like I’ve really accomplished something.
What is a quote that means a lot to you?
I love quotes…again, don’t know if I have a favorite. But my mom sent a good one to me today. It’s from a book by one of my grandfather’s favorite authors.
“ There will come a time when you believe everything is finished. That will be the beginning. ”
Louis L’Amour (1908–1988) American writer
If you could pick one photographer in the world to do a session for you, and your family, who would it be and why?
I think I would pick Blair Philips … he seems like he would be so much fun and I would love to do a very non-traditional session with my family!
Recently I had a conversation with Kirk Voclain about how I wanted to go to him for my Senior Portraits, but my mom shot me down and he invited me to his studio this summer to get the session I always wanted! I’m beyond excited about that! What a great guy!
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.)
A military assignment would be amazing. What an honor that would be to capture the men and women of our country who are putting their lives on the line to preserve all that we have.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in photography, what would it be?
Take your time to learn light! I truly believe that nothing else you learn in photography matters if you don’t take the time to learn how to read light. I wish someone would have told that to me. I’m still on my journey to really learning how to read it, how to manipulate it and make it work to my advantage. But with every little nugget I learn and apply, I watch my photography grow.
What magazine could you not live without?
Not much of a magazine reader, but I do get Rangefinder in the mail and look forward to every edition!
Please include some of your favorite images….
Once again, this week I was able to get to know another fabulous photographer. I’m so incredibly grateful to be part of this industry. You meet some FANTASTIC people. I think my husband is also glad I’ve met so many great people, because then he only has to “talk shop” with me sometimes. Right Brett?
Jessica, thank you so much for being our featured photographer. You had me laughing at quite a lot of your replies, just b/c I could almost hear how they would be said. Especially, “Calm down people.” I had a great time getting to know you better, and of course being able to see how you rock your camera. Thanks again.
Well, I’m off for now. Going to meet one of my wonderful friends for a little Round Top Collection date.
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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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