leahlorna {photography}

this one time...

2012-01-24T11:42:00.001-07:00

I failed. Not like failing angry birds level 42 for the 33rd time in a row. The devastating kind. I sat staring at the computer screen in utter disbelief. I failed?? UM... no. Couldn't of happend. Let me just hit refresh. Yup. 67 was staring, no blaring right back at me. I had to go back and review what had just happened in the last 5 minutes. I had gotten the email from RCM saying my mark was finally ready to be viewed. I RAN to the computer. I just knew I had passed. I started preparing myself for a 72 or 73 because I did know I would of just barely passed. I'd only waited what felt like the longest 3 weeks but in reality was maybe 5 years of anticipation for this mark.

and I failed?

Growing up my mother put me in piano lessons. It was just what happened. You turned 5, started kindergarten and began the weekly trek to Leavitt at ridiculously early hours every Tuesday morning. It took me 10 years to fall in love with music but when I did? I fell hard. I decided in high school to forget trying to claim I played basketball because lets be honest, the only reason I played in grades 7-9 was due to my early growth spurt where I was a foot taller then the rest of the girls in my class. I had no real skill. I decided to do my grade 9 piano exam instead of play high school ball with my friends because I somehow had that perspective to know that I wasn't going to be using my basketball skills later on in life that's for sure! I didn't make the decision to continue pursuing my certificates in piano until later on in grade twelve. When I told my mom, she scoffed at the idea. Yeahhhh right was probably more of her thoughts. It's good to have goals but lets be real. You hated piano. It's true, I did. I truly and utterly did. I haaaated this thing that stole away my childhood because while other children were running and playing outside I was glued to my piano bench until I had finished playing my songs each 3 times which equaled about 45 minutes at the rate I played. I would usually whine, complain, scream, cry, throw a fit, try and sneak away, rip up my books, hide my books religiously, you name it? I did it. The point I'm getting at here is I never really tried. My mother got me what talent I did. She pushed me to practice, drove through blizzards to lessons, insisted on piano exams each year and rewarded us with a dinner at any restaurant of our choosing afterwards which was a BIG deal growing up because we neverrrrr ate out. never. ever. Point is she supported, disciplined, believed in and worked me to get the talent I have now.

So fast forward, or rewind I guess, to June 2011. A friend in my ward had gotten engaged and their wedding was June 11th and I was SO excited to shoot their wedding. My advanced pedagogy exam was just 2 days later. I knew it was a recipe for disaster potentially but if I knew if I prepared myself in time I could easily do both no problem. The problem is I didn't prepare. I crammed. I was pulling 4-5 hr practice days in late May. If any of you are familiar with studying upper level piano music is you can NOT cram. I didn't even try til it was too late. I gave it my ALL just too little too late. Not to go all jojo on you but it's the truth. I deluded myself to think I had done enough. I had scraped up enough practice time to at least pull a pass. I wasn't looking for honors, first class with distinction or nothing, I was only hoping for a pass. Is that too much to ask?

First, I was angry. LIVID. annoyed. embarrassed. hurt. sad. then finally accepting. This didn't happen in the span of a week it took months. I'm still barely into the acceptance stage now.

So what does this have to do with me now? Everything. It's defined who I have and still am trying to become.

Failing that exam has become the best thing that I wish I never let happen to me. It was devastating. One of the hardest things I brought upon myself and then had to overcome but what came later was the greatest thing that has happened to me. Drive, desire and discipline. I've made decisions in my life now that are going to help not hinder the goals I set for myself. This morning I laid in bed for an hour and it was GLORIOUS. I then rolled out of bed and began practicing. I've practiced more in the last 4 months (consistently) then I probably have in the last 14 years. I know the reason why I failed was my own doing. I do not want to fail on my dreams ever again. So I really believe that all I need to do is try. I'm going to try to blog more, put myself out there more, try to take more pictures and see things in a new light every day. I'm going to try being a photographer. I'm going to try and get uncomfortable and try to not settle.

I'm gonna try because what's the worse that could happen? I fail? Been there. done that! Maybe it could be the best thing that I wish never happened to me. Either way I really do believe it's better to of tried and failed then to of never tried at all.

yup. that's my piano. In all it's disorganized chaotic glory.

a wedding to remember

2012-01-12T15:10:00.003-07:00

I met with Morgan and Riley just 5 days before their wedding. I couldn't believe how relaxed and laid back they were. I left so excited I left my phone at Starbucks. I noticed when I went to call my sister to tell her how great they were. For this reason and so many more this will always be a wedding to remember!

ps. they got married December 28th. HOW LUCKY did we get with that weather?!

Sorry to interject your picture viewing but i HAVE to give a HUGE shout out to my sister Pam for coming along and assisting me on this wedding. I owe her my life. Don't worry, she reminds me of this often :o)

But really. She's the best. Especially when she points out this huge pile of debris the temple had collected ever so nicely for us.

and now, go on.....

yup. yup we did :o)

Morgan and Riley thanks for picking me to capture your amazing wedding day. Hope your enjoyed your Mexican Honeymoon and the lovely stack of photo's headed your way :o)

1, 2, 3, 4 I declare this ART war!

2012-01-09T15:31:00.002-07:00

Sometime I feel like photography is a bit like high school. There's that "other" school who you by nature are supposed to hate. Who's triumphs in basketball and football were that much more epic. You stand your ground at any moment of confrontation with members of that school and you stay true to your hometown. Maybe this was just for me? Maybe I was the only person defending my schools posters at a local zones basketball tournament from 5 bulky jocks from the said "other" school? Maybe I was the only person who broke up with my 9th grade boyfriend for talking to the girls from the "other" school.

Maybe I was the only person who took high school WAY to seriously??

Ha but back to my first point. I feel like there's always this war between so many things in photography. Nikon vs. Canon, Film vs. Digital, Wordpress vs. Blogger vs. Prophoto, Me vs EVERYONE and the list could go on and onnnnn.

Well that's all gonna change now. I'm here to help make everyone friends. My sisters even both shoot Canon and I don't discriminate :o) I'm working on trying to stop comparing myself to everyone and their dog who has a camera and feeling 10X worse about myself. I'm wondering if I should just come to terms with this cycle that comes about every 4-6 weeks. It's my favorite. ps italics is the new font for sarcasm. Spread the word! Run and tell that homeboy homeboy.

I recently ~~stole~~ I mean borrowed my parents old film camera. It's a Canon (say whaaat) AE-1 and I finished off the film that had to of been sitting in it for probs 3 years or more! Some of the exposures work? Others not so much. But can I mention HOW FUN it was picking up my developed film?? It's like Christmas but as often as you want.

Dear Film,

I think we're gonna be fast friends.

Sincerly,

me.

ps. Thanks to all those who commented on my last post/entered for the itunes cards giveaway. I'll be contacting winners this week with your address to send the little present your way!

fabulous fri find

2012-01-06T02:02:00.000-07:00

New years came and went. yay! Sorry to be a buzz kill but I strongly dislike new years eve. I've never enjoyed any holiday with hype. Maybe one day? It's good to be an optimist.

I do, however, like tradition and setting new years resolutions is always great. Healthy even. I've tried to set goals that are more attainable this year and one is weekly visits to blogger. I've recently made some decisions in life that open more time for what I truly love and I can't wait for 2012. I also really like even numbers so I have a real good feeling it's gonna be a good year :o)

A new tradition I hope to actually keep is something I've thought about for a while now. A weekly post where I document and share my "lessons learned" or something neat-oh. Todays I want to share some websites I frequent.

1. Jango.

It's an internet radio station I listen to while at work and it's helped me find such good music! A few of my favoite artists I like to put in are William Fitzsimmons, James Vincent McMorrow, Feist and Ray Lamontange. These amazing artists were basically all brought to my attention via my lovely roomates. My house is bursting with hipsters. And cat paraphernalia although the later is not by my choosing.

2. Side reel

I spend a lot of time staring at my computer screen. Second resolution is watch less, read more! I've read from a book every day this year! I know. immmmpresive. I do all my online watching of shows from this site. You type in your show of choice. Then find your season and episode of choice, click search links then you'll see this screen

Choose megavideo.com links. Some work? Some don't. It's a trial and error kinda of thing. Have patience. You'll also have to close a few ad windows. They're the worst!

3. Megashare

If your up for a movie too then this is your site. There's also tv series on here also.

Now I've shown you how to watch movies, tv shows and listen to music free of charge I want to give back a little to the entertainment industry. I'll be giving away THREE $10 itunes gift cards. You may or may not loose sleep over such an exciting giveaway so let me just tell you how to enter.

All you have to do is become my friend :o) Hopefully that's not too painful for you. I am the worst at telling stories. I'm always going off on tangents but I do have wicked skill at coming back to the main point. Like now for instance. Anywho... Just leave a comment saying hello and/or like my page on facebook so we can be FB official. I'll pick 3 lucky winners by random unless I only have 3 friends comment. Awkwaaaard. Tidbit two about me? I think most situations are awkward even when they're not. I'm working on that.

Oh and happy 2012 to you and you and you!

Sneak a Peak

2011-12-31T15:26:00.000-07:00

There's something about this photo that I love. Can't quite pin point it. It's usually not my favorite photo. Any photo that is like a standard shot isn't. Yet even though there's many more photo's of the bride and groom exiting the temple just like this one it's personal to them. Morgan and Riley I hope your enjoying Mexico and if your saddened to see this as your sneak peak I'm sorry :o) Full post coming soon.

ps anyone else DYING over her cardigan?? I love love LOVED it.

twenty to the twelve!

2011-12-30T13:01:00.000-07:00

Oh how I don't appreciate the good things in life until their gone. Like internet and service. I spent my Christmas break in a DEAD zone aka my parents house. It was a very humbling experience. Christmas was great though! Short story about one of my favorite presents. Well, thankfully my mother has a foot stool fetish and purchased me a collapsible foot stool that I about died upon opening! Ha it's SO HANDY on photoshoots! I was seriously so so so excited. Did she buy it for that purpose? Ha nope! She just has a things for foot stools. If you invited my parents to your wedding chances are your gift would be a lovely stool and you'd be even luckier if it got a bow on it! Presentation's never really been her "thing" but practically is her middle name. Bless her heart!

Loved me some time at home though. Spending time stuffing your face with chocolate and doing absolutely nothing is good for the soul. I'm sure of it.

Now to share a gift with all of you I gave my sister and her adorable family. She had this BRILLIANT beyond BRILLIANT idea. I won't say much more and let you all judge for yourself. Are we creatively cute or crazy?

We think it's just crazy cute! Happy New Years! May your 2012 be all you dream and more!!

We are a happy family!

2011-12-19T01:19:00.002-07:00

It's that time of year again. When the Christmas Cards fly and the family pictures shower the refrigerator.

So on a completely personal note, I want to share my Christmas letter with all of you.

Dear Friends and Family,

Can't believe 2011 has almost come and gone. Everything is just going great in our little neighborhood. Although we love living in Marda Loop it's quite the adventure for winter. The hill we live on creates quite fun parking situations but what's life without a little challenge here and there.

Forgive the quality. We were working on the old D90 (backup cam) and indoor mixed with outdoor lighting.

Therese here is just full of Christmas cheer. If she's not home enjoying a cup of tea she's been working away at a near by salon called Allure hair studio. If your in the Marda loop area and looking for a trim be sure to stop on by and say hello. Tell her Leah sent ya ;o)

When Kristen's not out running the hills she's either studying the gospel , doing her school work, or spending quality time with her fiance! She enjoys vintage shops, a good bowl of popcorn and making you smile. (no this is not a personal ad)

Alida. OH dear ol' Alida. She's been busy knitting up a storm and thrifting up some amazing additions to the house. The lovely amazing portrait behind our first group photo was her astounding find! Come on over and give it a feel for yourself. It's smooth and sensational touch is something you'll have to feel to believe.

Layla aka miss crafty has just been whipping up some delicious Christmas goodies, knitting fashionable scarfs and fastening some adorable pillows! As she works as a massage therapist up at Strathcona Chiropractic. During this crazy busy holiday season I suggest you give her a call to help you relax and enjoy this beautiful season.

As for myself? Ohhh I've been busy. It's been a great first few months of teaching and my students are all working so hard. I too have been busy practicing my time away and can really say I've learned and grown a lot this year.

If it looks like we're crazy and weird? That's cuz we are. If it looks like we are a good time? That's cuz we're that too. If it looks like we have loads of fun? That's cuz we do :o)

To each of you I wish you all the happiness in the world. I hope your 2011 has been grand and your 2012 will be even more memorable and glorious.

Merry Christmas one and all!

I got my baby BACK!

2011-11-24T23:08:00.001-07:00

ever write a post only to find it DELETED the next day? ya. that's the worst. you may not feel like writing it again but I do! ;o)

Something I don't do much cyber talking about is piano. I hit the jackpot with the best students everrrrr! Meet two of them. We took a break from lessons one day for a little shoot for a Christmas present for their Dad and Grandparents. Oh but trust me, they're used to me bossing them around ha

In other news I got my baby back baby back baby BACK! My camera had been sent away to nikon for repairs and I finally got it back last week. oh happy day!

Dallinda

2011-11-14T19:00:00.000-07:00

Meet Dallinda. aka Dallen + Marinda. The funny thing about these photos is they started out as "non engagement" engagement photos. But Dallen proposed this past weekend however so now they will confuse people a little less I think :o) We started the day out at my brother's farm where I work in the morning book keeping. It was a bit funny being there on a saturday but def WAY more fun then working behind a desk!

one of the first shots of the day. You know you've got naturals WHEN!

Dallen and I have been friends for about 3 years now. Although he fell off the face of the earth for 2 of them. He's been a good friend to have around. He's kept me in check. I now know who Darwin is. I'm a better person for knowing you Dall. Long story short. We were in Sunday School when someone quoted Darwin and really I thought they had just made this "Darwin" person up so I turned to Dallen and asked, "Seriously? Who's Darwin!" The look on his face made me realize, uhhh I really should know who this person is. He bet me $20 bucks I couldn't find another person at church who didn't know who he was. Don't worry, I proved him wrong. I asked my 9 year old niece. Ha, SHE didn't know either. Anyone else with me??

You'd be shocked to know how many of these poses Dallen himself came up with himself. Unless you know Dallen then you prob wouldn't be that shocked at all really. I knew he would study before hand. typical.

I know what your thinking. Model much???

Love this one!

Dear Dallen. Congrats! Your practice paid off!

Dear Marinda, Your a smoke show!! Dall's the luckiest guy evah!

I asked Dallen who Marinda looks like/reminds him of. His answer? A greek goddess. ha awww! Ya I think he loves her. Just a bit :o)

For the later of these pics we finally crossed something off my bucket list! To shoot at a golf course. For my protection I won't say which one BUT it is closed and Dallen wouldn't let us walk on any of the greens so all was preserved and protected. Seriously though golf courses were MADE for photo shoots. Cute little marshes, foot bridges, paths everywhere, lots of open green spaces and groves of trees! I seriously wish I could just shoot at one each day. You'd always come up with some new ideas!

Just adore these two. Loved spending the day with them. I really truly couldn't be happier for these two.

really.

truly.

happy happy happy!

cuz really, truly, it's about time :o)

WELCOME!

2011-11-12T18:08:00.001-07:00

If I had HALF the talent my sister does. I'd be just like Al Pacino, happy as a clam! NAME THAT MOVIE!

...and 5 points to you if you got it!

So welcome. To my NEW and IMPROVED little home on the web. I'm in love. LOOOOOOVE. This has been a work in progress for a while and when I say that I mean work I mean my poor sister has been working like a mad woman on this blog into all hours of the morning and then loosing sleep over what she hasn't got done. When she told me her idea I was flabbergasted. I usually am with EVERY single.one. of her ideas. I honestly don't know how she comes up with them! You should head on over to pamheggie.com to just get an idea of her design flare. You can even purchase some of the amazing things she's created on etsy!

UPDATE: the new furniture on the blog isn't just my background it's also my header. When you click on certain objects it'll take you to different links.

The laptop takes you to my Facebook page.

The Antlers/couch take you to my sisters blog.

The Temple picture directs you to mormon.org which shares more about my beliefs.

The Phone takes you to my contact me page.

The Portfolio in the frame takes you to just that, my portfolio.

The Prices to my investment page.

The bag and camera to my about me page. (which I haven't filled out just yet.)

Well, over thanksgiving we went out for a little mini shoot. I hummed and hawed if it was worth it or not because you see, I had forgot my favorite boots! I had to resort to the uggs :o( but I'm still glad we went. It's so very refreshing/awwwwkward to be on the other side of the camera.

Go on over to my sister's blog here to check out some more of the pics.

Thanks for stopping by! Come again soon :o)

ll.

Fabulous Fisk Family!

2011-10-14T00:08:00.001-06:00

Note to readers. I love alliteration. Had you noticed yet? This family is just adorable. Fabulous, fun and fantastic fit them so perfectly. So sweet to each other they were. We shot at Riley Park and if you can't notice, the light was deeeevine. Why can't every season just be summer. Fist pump for car starters installations next week! Whoop whoop! BACK to the pictures. Hope you enjoy Fisk Family!

These two are adorable. I hope my husband and I still have this much chemistry in the chaos of raising 5 kids!

I love these two shots my awesome room mate and second shooter Therese caught. They're exactly why it's the best being the youngest. I think she may have them wrapped her little finger :o)

HAPPY FRIDAY!

Frantastic!

2011-10-07T11:46:00.000-06:00

Five cheers for FRIDAY! I feel... I feel... I feel happy of myself!!

Let's start this Friday post with my fav pic from this session. This LIGHT, her ADORABLE little stare.

Loved it all.

It was so fun to see these guys again since I went to high school with them. If you can't tell they were/still are the best looking couple ever. Him the football star, her the GORGEOUS girl on his arm.

Ya never was I never jealous of Laurens life. or her hair. neverrrrrrrrrrrr.

ps i'm lying :o)

Thanks for the fun on the farm guys! You guys were troopers through what looked nice outside but in reality not the case. Typical Southern Alberta. Gotta love the wind chill.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING WEEKEND ALL!

pintresting

2011-10-03T12:43:00.002-06:00

I have a kinda like, mostly am annoyed by but does have cute things on it kind of relationship with pintrest.

It bugs me.

and confuses me.

But so does twitter and millions of people use both websites so I'm sure there's something that people must like about it.

and besides, my roomate Therese is borderline obsessed with the site (pintrest) and I like her so I'm giving it a try. I may even pin something someday soon. Who knows.

But I did find this cute little video on it and thought I'd share.

Today is a good day

2011-10-01T21:18:00.001-06:00

Try and not have a good time around Joe and Alex. Just tryyyyyy.

Ha I loved the single days with smalex. (even though I was a social hermit who didn't talk to people and she was the polar OPPOSITE!) She stuck up with me and for some strange reason and kept me around.

not sure know why...

I miss you in my single life but love you and your gorgeous family and am so happy to still have you crazies around!

all because two people fell in love. haha

Seriously?

2011-09-21T14:03:00.002-06:00

rolllll up the rim to win! I'm on a roll with these shoots and posts!

OH. KAY. cuteness overload.

So Macy loved me at first. I was this interesting person who was fun and new!

But trust me. I grew to lamesauce status FAST! Luckily mom was ready with a little Taio Cruz!

Ha and this just makes me happeeeeee! 10 outta 10 for enthusiasm Brook!

lurrrrrrrve.

And thank you pintrest! Although I have a kinda like, kinda hate relationship with that website. It's fun for an inspiration shot here and there!

Brook your families adorable!

Seriously.

from meglee to a family!

2011-09-19T23:55:00.000-06:00

Ummm Dear Megan,

When did you grow up and become the most gorgeous mother alive??

I mean really. It seems like just yesterday you were helping me organize my top 5 and calling my current crush as I listened in on the other phone in your kitchen while you asked, "So... would you ever date Leah?" You da best.

I mean really. It seems like yesterday I was saving the tinfoil potato you placed in my microwave and the exploding pop bottle from your confused grasps.

I mean REALLY. It seems like yesterday we were making synchronized swimming routines, air bands to disney sound tracks, having countless sleepovers, playing night games, going for slurpee runs and attending mutual activities and summer camps.

Some time between then and now you went and found yourself an amazing man who is going to make an amazing dad.

So happy to see you happy. But I could go back to days spent laughing away in your basement any day!

v+j=happy happy happy!!

2011-09-13T11:15:00.000-06:00

Veronica and Jay had a perfect wedding day. Complete with clouds and cool weather! Clouds=perfect wedding days in my eyes! They were married in the Edmonton Alberta Temple on June 25th 2011.

I miss Veronica's emails. Just the sweetest bride to be ever she was! Spending the day with them was glorrrrrrious.

Jay = most "styled by groom" award. He put great care into his details!

Veronica=the sweetest, prettiest, genuine, down to earth person everrrrr.

Hello SMOKESHOW!

They're personalities are perrrrfect for each other. NO dull moments with these two!!

my fav.

I wish happy happy moments X ten for these two. Thanks for allowing me to spend your day with you, laugh with you and hike with you :o)

I'm off to see the wizard... the wonderful WIZARDING WORLD!

2011-08-26T14:00:00.001-06:00

I'm happy to say I'm flying over the continental US of A currently right now. That is if this posts at the correct time however. I'm off to Orlando Florida for a week of relax, shopping, swimming and gosh darn it there better be SUN! Hurricane Irene can go fly a kite!

I'm off with two of my besties for what will be me and ashley's dream come true!! (and tracy will get a good kick outta us to crazies and some sun/shopping/r&r!!)

We are going to.....

THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER!

Go ahead. Mock me for all I care. I am one avid fan of Harry Potter. I may or may not of attended a party for no special occasion held by Ashley that may or may not have included only me and her and also may or may not of included harry potter napkins, plates, posters, backpacks, bedspreads, stickers and maybe even home made wands. Be jealous. Be SUPER jealous. I'm about to have every dream come true as I walk the streets of hogsmeade drinking butterbeer, eating chocolate frogs and riding the hogwarts train! Seriously, this is gonna be bigger then all Christmas' put together.

Best. Day. EVER!

Just thought you outta know...

2011-08-25T01:37:00.000-06:00

Just so you know. I'm just gonna begin this post without giving the usual blogger "I can't believe it's been so long since my last post! I promise I won't ever go that long ever again without posting" lame sauce excuse+promise.

I'm just telling ya. I won't give that excuse. No lame sauce exists in my existence.

Cue beginning of actual post!

If I told you their age you'd have to pick up your jaw from off the floor! These pics are not recent, nope! I had two options. Just throw them on my hard drive orrrrr SHARE em! Hopefully your glad I chose the latter of the two.

This shoot was different for me. About an hour before I got some news that pretty much shifted my current world. Yes I'm gonna leave it open ended and be annoying like that but maybe I'll share later.

It was also different because I had my friend Layla join me as my second shooter. When I loaded her pics later that night I was so excited to see pics like these.

These are my lifestyle pics of something I love to do. I'm such a sellout attaching photography to the end of my name but I love it. I'm not sure at what point I'll be done feeling like a sellout but hopefully soon. It's the fear of what others are thinking and their opinion that only holds me back. It's been a summer of learning I have to stop giving others that control. Super easy lesson right? ha yeahhhhh I wish! ok. Unloading of thoughts done!

ps I'm just finalizing my September schedule so email away if you wanna be on it :o)

Happy Thursday!

Home is wherever I'm with you!

2011-08-11T00:51:00.000-06:00

High 5's allllll around! If your still following me and still have faith in my postings then from the bottom of my heart THANK YOU! It's been an interesting summer. If anyone finds my motivation to work please return it to me asap. That'd be awesome :o)

So my sister told me a story today that reminded me of something... I have still to share Becca and Mike's gorgeous reception decorations and their video. The gym was seriously packed with the most antiques ever! There were gems seriously everywhere I looked! I most def wish I got a shot of the entire gym because it looked AMAZING!

They had a breakfast buffet! Sooooo yummy!

mike+becca=a GOOD time!

guess who's back

2011-08-03T22:16:00.001-06:00

leah's back. tell a friend.

I just got back into town from wasaaaaaa B!C! British Columbia does deserve exclamation marks instead of periods because it's that! amazing!

except HST. boooo HST.

anywhos. I needed a good 4 days with family to relax and soak up some sun rays. We laughed, swam, ate, swatted mosquitos, mocked each other, ate, played games, fought during said games, made robots, swatted mosquitos, went on bike/long board rides, went down a homemade waterslide, sat by the fire swatted mosquitos and ate some more.

I'm still uncomfortably stuffed, sunburnt and mosquito bitten but already miss it and my family.

Lucky for me, I live in my brother's basement. I'm cool, I know!

your all my best friends and I love you all!

2011-07-25T11:38:00.000-06:00

A friend accepts us as we are yet helps us to be what we should. Author Unknown

I know. I'm soooo deep. Ha I found this quote when I googled friendship quotes. I also found these gems.

Friends are like a box of crayons. Each one is different from the others separately, but put them together and they make a rainbow.

Friends are like stars, they come and go, but the best are the ones that come out and glow.

A friend is a gift you give yourself.

Friends are like kisses. Blown to us by angels.

Wam BAM! I know. They are all soooo inspiring ;o)

All joking aside, photographing these 9 best friends was so great. Reminded me of the times I spent with some of my best friends growing up. I was lucky. Reminds me of how great my best friends now are. I'm so lucky. My best friends ARE the BEST around. I'm sure of it. I'm sure all of your are great too though so don't worry.

So thanks girls for reminding me how great friendship is. A lot of laughing and smiling was involved :o)

ps I tried super hard to avoid the cheese in this post but it was too darn hard.

besides, it's my blog and I can cheese if I want too ha!

Ronnie...your turning into a punch.a.holic!

2011-07-21T13:43:00.000-06:00

I really think I need to relearn how to vacation...

Since I've bought a laptop, SLR camera and started a photography company I've kinda forgotten.

But good new Cosie! I'm almost done your pictures :o)

ps who else thinks I need some serious time in the SUN! You almost can't tell where the towel ends and my legs begin haha

jayne+bryce

2011-07-14T18:31:00.000-06:00

So if/when you saw Jayne and Bryce's engagements you must of noticed by how adorable they were and just new they were gonna be the most beautiful bride+stunning groom ever riiiight?

right.

So, for a typical LDS wedding, this is typically the first picture photographers get with the bride and groom.

ps HOW many have gasped so far on how ridiculously gorgeous Jayne's dress is!! seriously... it only gets better from here I kid you not.

So Jayne and Bryce got married at 1 pm. That would normally leave little time for pictures.

Except....

Jayne and Bryce did..... A FIRST LOOK!

Best.day.ever!

I also got the chance to shoot with a great friend and great photographer Lene. I know, Lene and Leah. We go sooo well together. It was perfect though since she was able to catch Bryce's view for the first look and I got Jayne's.

Isn't it cute how excited/nervous he looks :o)

Lene's view

My view.

This was such a sweet moment. I highly highly HIGHLY recommend all bride and grooms do a first look. There was so much excitement yet so calm and peaceful. I wanna go back!

We went into full picture taking mode.

Our first picture that was printed for their decorations at their reception.

go ahead. Hire me for your wedding. I climb tree's :o) NBD!

yes. All these pictures were taken BEFORE they got married. They could of called it good right then and there.

oh and one great shot of the back of her dress. SOOOO GORGEOUS!

But don't worry. We most def did not stop! :o)

I want to ride my biiiiicycle. I want to ride my bike.

yep the cutout birds from anthro... I DIED!

I was nervous Jayne was gonna throw the pie right in Bryce's face! ha the girl has spirit! :o) no worries though. no white shirts were harmed in the cutting of this pie...

Merry Christmas everyone. I hope you enjoyed their pics as much as I enjoyed taking them.

Jayne and Bryce I can't thank you guys ENOUGH for letting me be part of your day.

It honestly truly was.... the best.day.EVER!

i just won the lottery.

2011-07-12T01:14:00.001-06:00

I most def believe in luck. I won a Lord of the rings in grade 8, a radio cooler from a convenience store promotion contest (gotta love reddi mart!) I won $400 from a radio station pay your bills contest and $80 from the slot machines at the vegas airport! (the only time I gambled in vegas basically) but tonight I won the lottery. I mean just LOOK at my blog!!! Ever since I started this blog I've basically felt like a sell out. Don't get me wrong I loooooove blogging and photography and especially all my readers BUT I've felt like every other tom, dick and harry with a camera and a blogspot blog. I worked and worked to improve my photography which I'm now FINALLY a bit happy with but still felt soooo ordinary. Which is really bad for creativity's sake. So. I finally made a decision. I needed to revamp my blog/site and branding.

I had a few options I hummed and hawed over.

Should I get a show-it site? Nah, I didn't want to pay a monthly fee & then have to waste my time trying to design something that just wasn't cute. I also didn't have three to five grand sitting in the bank to pay a web designer for help either.

Should I get a blu domain website? I just couldn't commit to any template. This still didn't solve my problem of feeling like every other photog out there. Too plain jane and just didn't reflect me or my style.

IN COMES MY AMAZING SISTER to the story. I finally found a designer who could fix all my problems. She was closer to my price range and everything. Problem was she was booked til sept with a waiting list fee and a hefty revamp fee also. She was also going to put me in touch with a graphic designer for my new logo + branding. A(blog design)+B(rebranding)=very expensive but I knew it was soooo very worth it. I told my sister about my plans but at that time she was venturing into a new addiction. Blogging.

Side note: I'd like to take credit for finally getting my sister to join the blogging world. Ok ok some other people help convince her too but since she's joined... the blogging world will never be the same. Seriously if you don't follow her then slap yourself. She's THE most creative, logical, funniest, amazing person ever. So go, go RIGHT now.

Anyways, she was calling/texting/emailing me at all times in the morning as she had become obsessed with figuring out blogger, designing and writing code basically. She's turned herself into the most knowledge blogspot blogger I've ever come across and I've searched high and low for someone of her caliber. If your looking for someone who can help create a super cute blog that reflects you then GO NOW to her blog www.pamelapumpkinpie.blogspot.com and email her quick because she'll soon have a waiting list too. So chop chop! Oh and I'd love it if you leave her some love about how amazing this new blog of mine is. She's basically the bomb.com!

Before

and of course your looking at the after. It's like a Mr. Clean commercial. If I had sound effects you would of heard a chorus of angels once you opened my blog today. My dreams have really come true :o)

Rumor is...

2011-07-11T00:24:00.000-06:00

Yes I'm still alive.

Yes I'm loving my summer break.

Yes I finally tried sushi and yes I love it.

Yes I bought a long board and YES I'm obsessed.

Yes I've got LOADS and LOADS of amazing photos to show you.

Yes I'm going to HARRY POTTER WORLD in Florida at the end of August.

Yes I've got an amazing sister who's working on a new revamped blog for me that'll debut soon!

Yes I'm back. posts with pics coming soon to a blog near you!

snapshot from recent night of long boarding. please never end summer.

18...

2011-06-15T13:14:00.001-06:00

...the number of times a day I check RCM examinations website for my exam mark.

Last weekend was the busiest weekend of my entire LIFE! Yes I'm that dramatic.

Friday - performed at 3 piano recitals (also got to hear my students play which is completely rewarding!)
Saturday - shot a 12 hr wedding (that was magically blissful I might add!)
Sunday - Nieces baby blessing/family dinner (loved seeing my family but tried to ignore looming stress clouds over me)
Monday - my ARCT Advanced Viva Voce Pedagogy exam (yes, it really is as intimidating as it sounds)

I've never experienced the level of exhaustion that I did Monday night. My head felt like a bag of bricks! I'm so happy to finally be done the exhaustion that is recital month and now, I just have to get through the 16 of my piano students who have exams and I will be relatively stress freeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

photo via papertissue

If your a bird, I'm a bird.

2011-06-12T23:52:00.001-06:00

jayne + bryce ...sitting in a tree!

2011-06-08T00:28:00.001-06:00

k.i.s.s.i.n.g

After I met Jayne she quickly became my favorite. Doesn't matter who you are, your gonna love Jayne. Poor Bryce never stood a chance! I was obsessed with her outfits. I went to church just to see what she was wearing. Other things too got me there but it was a stroooong factor to my attendance.

I went to high school with Bryce but barely recognized him since he's been downing miracle grow since graduation.

Together, they're my FAVORITE!

They are the that ridiculous cute couple you can't help but enjoy to be around. I have an opinion that couples that look related always end up together. Ha it's creepy but I believe it's the secret to success I'm sure.

Well, they fit so well together don't they! ;o)

mmmmm peeling wallpaper...... anyone else get a buzz from things like this?

Bryce failed to mention he secretly models part time for GQ. I busted him of that one REAL quick though!

and with this, I fell in love. nikon+me=love everlasting :o)

where bryce proposed!

OH and guess what? Jayne has a bratty side! I know! Who knew?? (she tickled him mirthlessly for me to get this cute lil candid)

no worries. he loves her still!

Can not WAIT for their wedding Saturday. I secretly wished on the evening star that they would pick me for their photographer! Turned out it WORKED! Now, I wish I may, I wish I might, find a SECOND SHOOTER to join me on their special night! ha who KNEW I was such a poet!

Anywho, I can't offer you things like money BUT I can offer you experience and the pleasure of hanging out with me AND bryce and jayne here. The opportunity to capture a first look oh and did I mention you get to hang out with me?

I would/WILL jump at any opportunity to second shoot. I actually really really really want too. So, let it me known if there a.n.y.o.n.e who is willing and wanting to join me please don't hesitate to contact me. Also, if there is any local photographer who is wanting and willing to have me join them! Please don't hesitate to contact me!! I'm all about spread the love. Weddings are exhausting so please look forward to keeping me/me keeping YOU entertained/energized.

ps. NO camera or experience necessary to second shoot/assist with me this weekend. I have a back up camera and will just teach as we move. I like to throw people in the deep end of the pool and just see how well they swim.
pps. part two of becca and mike's vintage wedding coming this week!

ppps. video of becca and mike's vintage wedding coming next week!

pppps. the end of my stressed out state full of piano recitals and exam coming on Monday!

ppppps. a giveaway where everyone wins coming this summer to a city near you!

pppppps. I got nothing......

lovee dove dove

2011-05-27T13:14:00.001-06:00

I'm sitting here listening to the rain outside as I go through these pictures and I'm remembering Mike and Becca's wedding day weather. I got a sunburn. It was glorious. As I prepped for them to exit the temple and MR and MRS I was flipping through my prep book reviewing some details when I came across this quote. "I need to remember why I want to take pictures. I want people to remember the feeling in that moment that they were happy." I wrote it while listening to the amazing Jasmine Star's seminar on creative live a while back. I'll expound more later. This post is all about Mike and Becca and how HAPPY they were on their wedding day. I hope these pictures help them remember it. They stole more kisses in between pictures then any other couple. Laughed and joked around with me for a solid 3 hours. Yep, that's how amazing they are. They gave me 3 hours to take pictures. They're the best. nuff said. Shall we?

one of my fav's!

Remember Mike when you didn't tell us about the gardener snake you saw? Thanks again. Cuz if you had we wouldn't of gotten this shot. High 5!! I'm not even mad. Your amazing ;o)

Two of my favorite photo's I've EVER taken.

helloooooo glorious light!

nailed it Becca, NAILED it :o)

Now if your from cardston or surrounding area and are aware of the Cahoon hotel and it's step frequenters you might be shocked we took pictures there. Let me just say, yeah we did. Those steps are RARELY free but the power was out in town so everyone was down on main street so we booked it on over.

love. love.

umm sweetest rings EVER! you'll get to see more in the video

The best thing about these is it's just one sampling. I am dividing this wedding into two post because the details at this wedding need one special post dedicated just to them. I'm talking antiques like you've never seen before. I legit almost tripped over myself when I walked into the reception. It was I'd died and gone to antique heaven.

so stayed TUNED! plus their video is coming too :o)

love love this job thingy called wedding/lifestyle photographer.

love.love.love.

why do today what you can put off to tomorrow??

2011-05-25T01:48:00.000-06:00

I just got home from one long and progressfull weekend. Yes I know that's not a word and No I don't care because it perfectly describes my weekend. It was full of progress! I spent some quality time with my family, especially my parents. It got me thinking, You know when a baby is born and you ohh and ahhh and comment over who the baby looks more like? Well, now that I'm older I usually wonder who I ended up more like. My mother, bless her heart, is a special kind of lady. My sisters and I often joke who is more like mom and sadly it's usually when we do something outlandish or crazy. Now my dad, well he's one of a kind as well. He said this line over the weekend though when my mom was nagging him to plant the garden, "Why do today what you can put off to tomorrow??" And with that sentence ladies and gentlemen, I realized, I take after my dad!

Ha, well to end this, even though today turned into tomorrow, I got to take pictures of my adorable new niece and I'm getting them up! Please feel free to ohhh and ahhh in the comments below.

Strangely all of these uploaded weird to blogger and I can't be bothered to fix them. Go on over to my FB page as they seemed to turn out great there.

ps to all photoshop users out there. I am planning on making an action where you just blink and all your pictures magically load into blogger perfectly and easily and just how you imagined them in your head. I plan to make millions.

I'll keep you posted.

i'm coming home!

2011-05-17T22:08:00.000-06:00

For everyone in the southern alberta area who have emailed me about shoots this upcoming summer season, I will be coming down to the Cardston area for May long weekend. Saturday and Monday I will be doing shoots so email me about getting booked in :o)

On a side note, I planned on writing a post about online cyber bullying as my amazing sister was the victim of one of the worst online bullying I have EVER seen or heard of! It is down right ridiculous. I hope all my readers have the same sense of respect that I do for people. To have/own a blog and to put your family on it does open you for criticism and I know people are judgmental and everyone is entitled to their opinion but please do so respectfully.

Thanks!

mike + becca {sneak peek}

2011-05-15T17:28:00.000-06:00

dearest camera,

i love you.

dearest light,

i adore you.

dearest mike & becca,

i thank you.

more delightfulness coming soon!

my baby you'll be!

2011-05-14T18:40:00.000-06:00

YAY for working blogger! I can finally post these since blogger is now back in business! I love love loooooooooove lifestyle shoots. They're my chocolate to my strawberries. OH and I've also been off all sugar, carbs and starches for 4 weeks now. I'm doing great in case you were wondering. Not going through any withdrawl at alllllll.

Meet the Waltons. Ash is my long time friend, a part time model & overtime mom. It's so cute/still a little strange to see my friends moving at different paces in life. So fun to watch Wyatt grow up though! He's one smart and entertaining little cookie! mmmm cookies....

ok, pictahs!

eye yae yae's! those piecing baby blues!

this was all to help remember when baby Jake Owen was born. LOVE that name!

LOVE those lips!!

LIKE I said, part time model!!

over time mom :o)

thanks walton fam! let's do this again sometime ;o)

Mother may I?

2011-05-08T20:38:00.000-06:00

If my mother even knew how to look up my blog, I'd be amazed. If she even knew how to open the internet, I'd be amazed. If she knew how to turn on a computer, I'd be amazed.

I love her still. She's been such a rock in the gospel and such a supporter of my music. If it wasn't for her encouraging/forcing :o) me to wake up each Tuesday morning for piano lessons I would of gone no where with my music and it's one thing that I am so grateful to have. Happy mothers day mom. I love you, a bushel and a peck.

Another mom who is just an absolute doll and someone who's kids couldn't be luckier is you Ash. Hope you like your preview. Your family is adorable and I love seeing it grow.

Happy mothers day everyone!

beiber fever.

2011-04-25T18:04:00.001-06:00

Last week I attended Never Say Never with some friends. It's been out forever and we made many plans to attend but something always seemed to come up. Well, needless to say I suffering from some strange kind of fever. It's a strange kind of obsession. You know the song on Hercules no no I won't say I'm in love? Well, that's how I feel. I don't want to admit it but I'm smitten. For some reason this infatuation makes me want to go to the nearest staples and get a life size doll of him and take him for walks and on romantic dates. I'd just tape an Ipod on the back so he can serenade me while we watch the sunset together. I know it's completely unhealthy so I'm trying my best to move on. So I've wrote him a letter in hope that I can break this fever of mine. I warn anyone who does not want to be stricken with this beiber fever to stay far far away from that movie.

Dear Justin,

Why are you sooooo dreamy? Why do you make me want to squeal like a pre teen and not stop screaming. Why does squealing feel like the only cure to show you how much I care? I am fighting it oh so much to not fall asleep dreaming of you singing, baaaaby baaaaby baaaaaby ohhhhhh, to me while we blissfully stroll hand in hand down the street. I try and put other cd's in my car but for some strange reason I can't eject the mp3 I made with your discography. Why did I make an mp3 of your discography? Why does my stomach lurch when I hear your name mentioned? Why do I spend hours googling images of you. Why do I suddenly really dislike Selena Gomez?? Why do I want to run my fingers through your luscious hair? Oh why do I dream of that pretty little face of yours. Why? Why? Whyyyyyyyy? Can you write a song about that mister?? It's super unfair you do this to girls and WOMEN all over the world. It's pretty selfish don't ya think? That's it beibs. I'm sick of your selfishness. Honestly, you've done nothing but make me feel like one heck of a lonely girl.

I'm done. DONE!

Sincerely,

super high temperatured belieber (crazy my spell check came up on that word!)

ps. WHY did you make me do THIS!

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

I am currently seeking help. So please, if you know of any ways to break this fever please don't hesitate to comment!!! I'm thinking it's time for a date or two :o)

kami + mark {i do}

2011-04-23T16:56:00.000-06:00

I said their engagement session was easy? Well, their wedding day was a piece of cake! Why? Because they really are so in love. I'm a big talker and I'm also a bit bossy. So when I'm with a couple or family I'm always like giving instruction but these two silenced me. Which is a huge feat. I was just there to click a button.

my fav.

Kami and Mark booked a package with photo's and a short video. I may be amending my packages soon to include videography separate. I do love it but I want to be able to give my full attention to it. It's kinda sorta exhausting trying to be a photographer and videographer all at the same time haha. So, although this I feel isn't my best work, I just hope it helps people remember the day and the moments together just a little better and shouldn't be left untouched.

earth day.

2011-04-22T20:50:00.000-06:00

So, this is my back yard. I share it with many. I don't mind though because I'm not one to hoard pretty things. So this earth day, I took my bike out for it's first spring ride in my back yard. Between stops for pictures, which were really also a lame excuse to stop for a breath, I really took a second to think how lucky I am. Today was a me day. I don't have many of them and I know someday in the (far) future I will hardly have any when my 4 kids are running around me when I'm just trying to have a nap and my husband is hungry for supper. Although I'm sure I'll love that day as much as today. But today, I felt content and was just so happy with my me day.

It was a good Friday :o)

so glad to be born.

2011-04-18T22:58:00.001-06:00

I arrived home late last night after one long, sleep deprived, exhausing, AMAZING celebratory birthday weekend. I was sung to a plethora of times, ate food like it was going out of style and partied like it was 1988. I even purchased my own ice cream cake then brought it to a party for all my friends to eat with me. My favorite part was when they asked me what name I wanted on my cake at DQ, I simply asked "Can you just write, to me?" slight pause... "to you? ha for you? ha uhhh ya ya we can do that!" they all just continued to giggle and smile at me as they finished my cake. Maybe it was outta pity? I wondered if they thought I was just going home to eat my newly purchased present all by myself.

What can I say? Some girls buy themselves size -4 clothes as presents to themselves... me? I prefer ice cream, cookies and fudge please!

perched.

2011-04-11T02:00:00.002-06:00

two little lovebirds sitting in the a tree.....

i'm coming home

2011-04-04T02:09:00.001-06:00

busy as a bee i've been!

I'm just packing up after a trip to utah for the weekend. It's been, uhhh, an adventure!

It included an er trip, getting kicked outta walmart, of course getting lost, almost being homeless, me getting PINK EYE, snow storm/hail storm ticket obtaining

bless peoples heart who try and take pictures for me.

where are my waterwings?!

2011-03-24T23:27:00.000-06:00

So there's a saying I say to my piano students all the time. It's what I say when I give them a new song they don't know yet. I make them sight read it, hands together, counting outloud, no practice and no preparation.

"Alrightie, Let's throw ya in the deep end. See how well you swim!"

I'm not sure where it came from but after I say it, my students get this look in their eyes and they play the song with this determination and attitude of, "Let me show you!"

Well, I've recently purchased Lightroom 3 and let me tell you.

I'm in the deep end.

and I'm sinking FAST!!!

greased lightening!

2011-03-22T00:53:00.000-06:00

I went from having .20 GB of space left on my computer to 45 GB of space left on my computer. The difference is from NIGHT to DAY! Seriously. I click on things and they just POP right up! It's amazing. I'm not even mad!! one mac + one hard drive = one happy photoshop/computer user! If your computer is running slow give it a good cleanup! I highly recommend it!!

I also highly recommend a good dose of cuteness for ya too. Allow me to give that too you. This couple was a dream to photograph. Dreeeeeeam!

OH and it helps that their wedding day in MARCH couldn't of been nicer! It was so warm and gorgeous and GET THIS. ready? NOOOO WIND! I was happy happy happy. I of course could of asked for maybe a few more clouds but I was pleasantly pleased with what I got!

more pics of course coming soon!

ha I feel like I'm giving you a bit of a chocolate bar then telling you to wait til later on this week to finish it. It's a cruel and mean joke us photographers play on people give them sneak a peeks!

I apologize for this.

but a little chocolate is better then no chocolate riiiiight?

john + allison

2011-03-17T02:41:00.002-06:00

Tomorrow I get to shoot another wedding. It's a mixture of feelings on the day before. It's excitement! nerves! anxiety! happiness! humbleness! but most of all excitement!!!

Well, this day brought about the realization of not sharing my last wedding.

Remember this fun, adorable couple?

They got married on December 21, 2010. So close to Christmas I was scared to freeze to death as well as everyone else be frozen statues for all the pictures. The weather couldn't of been more beautiful.

I still wore my new UO gloves I got for the occasion though, just in case :o)

Al, you are so darn beautiful and I hope you know it!

OH and remember that one time I totally dropped the Allison's ring while taking pictures?! My life STOPPED for a solid 2.3 minutes!!!

this is prob my fav shot from the entire day

Allison will always hold a special place in my musical little heart. She is SO talented. She is my jelly to my organist peanut butter and I miss her like crazy.

Spring ahead?? yes please!

2011-03-15T02:41:00.000-06:00

I hate winter.

{side story}

I tried snowboarding to remedy this hatred this winter but things like said side story below would happen. If you've rode the purple chair at Westcastle you may see this sign after you get off. oh and side note to my side story I hate the chair lift! Haaaaaate it! With Pam, I clung to her for dear life and it worked for us minus the one time I took the chair lift straight to my face but that was a different issue. When I went with some friends they informed me I was not allowed to cling for dear life. I rarely listen however and almost pulled my friend James down, thrice. One of the final times up though I went with 2 of my good friends James and Dallen. They took pity on me since I fell every time so I held onto Dallen while James held me up also. TEAM + WORK! I didn't fall! YAY! but I headed straight towards this sign at such a rapid speed I couldn't step out. (stepping out is sacrileg!!) I careened straight into it and THEN fell over.

awesome.

{side story over}

So last week I went to get into my car to leave for work.

cah-put cah-put

it would NOT start. So I quickly plugged it in and then set this all up!

What's underneath this blanket you might ask? My roomate's handy dandy space heater.

This contraption has worked for me before so I thought to try again. While I waited for my battery to "warm up" from the -30 ridiculousness I widdled my time away with pictures. It was the longest half hr I'd experienced in so long.

Needless to say it didn't work. I had was low on gas ergo my motor wouldn't turn over. Who dah thunk?

lessons learned.

2 fist pumps for winter being all but OVER and spring being all but HERE! I haaaate loosing sleep but gaining more sunlight? Yes please!!

I'm with the band...

2011-03-11T14:38:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went to a concert. At a casino. On a Sunday. shhhh don't tell Peg!

It was Joshua Radin. I had heard about 3 songs of his prior to this concert but when my friends wanted to go I wanted to tag along. I love love love live music so I thought why not!

Needless to say I LOVED it! His opening acts were amazing also.

My favorite thing about going to concerts is acting like a total groupie! I'm the concert goer who dances like no one is watching. Actually that's every where I go ha it's a problem if you ask my sisters.

We had a contest of who was the most excited. I think Braden won that one for sure.

The popcorn was sooo delicious! Couldn't get it down fast enough!!

See being a groupie pays off! We gotta meet and snap pics with Joshua himself!!

ps I'm aware I look like a total freak in this pic but the memory behind it is what counts riiiight?

surprise!

2011-03-08T10:05:00.000-07:00

Growing up I was the kind of friend who when you played house or barbies, I told you everything you had to say. I had so many things scripted out in my mind and I just thought naturally you will want to play out the story in my head because it's the best! ha I just never understood when you didn't want to follow my every instruction. I was so lucky to have two best friends that put up with me and my demanding imagination. I don't know how/why they did it cuz I was honestly a lot of work haha

So Kate didn't know I did this. At least I don't think she knows?? Anyways it's only a partial video because I was there to do a lifestyle photoshoot not lifestyle video too but Hakon was just playing with Spencer and I thought it was too cute to pass up.

everything from Leah Lacey on Vimeo.

i love love loooooove doing these videos! So anyone out there who wants to capture their kids/family/life in this moment please don't hesitate to contact me!

i love lamp.

2011-03-07T01:21:00.000-07:00

I'm aliveeee!

....barely I feel. I'm recovering from the weirdest weekend sickness. It overtook me but don't worry, I'm a fighter and I fought back!

My weapon of choice? Oil of Oregano. I feel the need to share with you all the beauty of this product. A friend of mine told me about it.

She also told me these same sentences.

"Ok, so oil of oregano you can take it with water but if you do you'll never get the taste out and it's the sickest taste ever!"

"Oh and when you take it, take it with food cuz it'll burn your stomach if you don't"

"Try putting it in a pill capsule but don't get any on the outside or you'll taste it and remember it's the sickest taste ever!!"

Needless to say, I was petrified to take it and thought, meh not worth the hassle. Those were my thoughts Friday morning but by Saturday night my thoughts had changed!

SO. I gutted banana chunks, put the drops inside and then put the banana guts back inside the chunk then chased them(the chunks) down with water. Fell asleep and woke up feeling like million bucks!

Try it. It's a miracle worker!!!

kate + her boyssss!

2011-03-02T14:27:00.000-07:00

It's def not this cute when I yawn.

Taking Rylan's pictures was so perfect. I got to spend time with two very good friends and fawn over this adorable baby!

More pics on my FB page!

Kate just had her second baby so after the newborn pics we moved right onto the lifestyle shoot.

ps wanna know how many times I've seen tangled? too bad. I won't tell you. You'll prob think differently of me. It's a lot though, I'll tell you that much. I'd say more then 20 less then 50.

I love this picture it reminds me of this.

Here comes the smolder!

hiiii, how's it goin? wanna have a play date later??

Kate, your in trouble when this handsome little boy gets older!

fix it fryyyday

2011-02-25T12:58:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've ventured over to

But I did today for fix it friday since the picture had green grass in it. I'm getting desperate for summer!!!! I'm still editing on CS3 even though I haven't been able to shoot or edit my raw files since I upgraded my camera. I need CS5 baaaad cuz shooting jpeg has been driving me nuts!

So here's my edits for you viewing pleasure.

original

my edit

the edit I can't help but do....

bw + crop

I'd loooooove it if you could tell my your favorite cuz I hate picking!

Happy FRY-DAY!!!

it's like high school in my mouth

2011-02-24T01:20:00.001-07:00

I need a long weekend to recover from my long weekend.

It was great but I'm exhausted still.

A couple of friends and I retreated away from the city for the weekend. Did you know Cardston's Reddi Mart has penny candies? Actual candies for a penny!

We made fires. Well Layla made a fire. I held the match, then enjoyed it!

It included making button earrings, quadding, enjoying Layla's amazing cooking, Alida's amazing cd making, hot tubbing, shopping and even my first deep tissue massage.

best weekend in a looooong time.

congrats to.....

2011-02-22T12:20:00.000-07:00

THANKS THANKS THANKS to everyone who entered. I'm sorry that only 1 person gets to look at this post with excitement and the rest of you with despair. I honestly feel horrible about this fact! Please don't you worry though because I've got a giveaway coming up where EVERYBODY WINS! More info to come after my official launch date and by official I mean my new blog should be ready by then and it's my birthday so it just seemed fitting. APRIL 16th!! Pencil it in now! Thanks again to everyone for all your support and comments! Also know you can still book your own lifestyle shoot now as my prices are still 50% off until April 16th!

ps I am surprised that I really am kinda depressed that you couldn't all win. Sad day. Why do people do giveaways anyways?? It's just a mean trick. I apologize for this now and again promise my next giveaway EVERYONE will win! Can't wait!!!

OH and pps here is the proof of Ashley's winnings!

IT'S a GIVEAWAY!

2011-02-18T12:38:00.000-07:00

This family I really do love. My sister has one of those homes that makes you angry almost when you enter it. It's so ridiculously cute and so well put together, you get angry that yours never will be as cute. Seriously, it's straight outta a magazine!! She also has 3 of the CUTEST little boys you ever will meet.

Shall we?

I apologize if you are sick of seeing Pam and Derick's adorable little family now. I've got a solution. Let's get your family on here!!! Cuhhhhzzz it's a giveaway!

I am going to giveaway one lifestyle photoshoot!

To take place in your home, in your backyard, at a park, on your vacation to hawaii (you just gotta pay for my flight, food, hotel, spending money, etc etc) you get the idea. It may be your family of 4, you and your spouse, you and your friends, you and your roomates! Whatever your lifestyle may be I wanna shoot it!

TO ENTER

1. Become a follower! (either through a google reader or via blogger) If you already are then you've already qualified for one entry! yay!

2. "Like" me on FB! If you already have then you've qualified for an entry too! (If your a follow and liker then that's TWO entries! whoa hoa!

3. BONUS time. For a third entry either share my blog on your blog or your personal FB page OR share my FB photography page on your blog or personal FB page. Super simple and not at all confusing right? RIGHT! Long story short, share me with others. Don't be stingy now!

Just leave your name and email in the comment section of this post or on facebook.

Entries will close Monday February 21st at 11:59 PM!

**small print**

Family shoots are open to immediate family members only.

Giveaway shoot to take place in Calgary AB. If you win and live in southern alberta, you'll have to wait until I happen to be in southern alberta. (I go down fairly often) OR feel free to pay for my travel and I'll come down any time!

don't you like me??

2011-02-16T11:23:00.001-07:00

Just to share a bit more about myself. I'm the youngest of 6! Which means a lot of whining for attention and tagging along. I thought naturally my siblings would want me around. I'm fun! I was shocked when that wasn't true. Not the fun part of course (I've never doubted that!) but for some reason they didn't want me following them around 24/7. Go figure! It made me question who I was back then.

"uhhh, but don't you like me?"

"No now gooooo away!"

Conversations like this really make you stop and think. Luckily, I had great friends who put up with me at least.

Soon, I became cool again. (and by soon I mean, after graduation!)

None the less, I have issues with people wanting me around. I don't like to talk about myself really. I'm more of a listener I'd like to say so sometimes this blog feels like I have to go against my nature. It's tough carrying on a conversation when no one is responding. I feel like I'm in a big room talking outloud and a bunch of people are just staring blankly back at me. Hence why comments are sooo vital to my blogging salvation.

Also, I've got big news! I've ventured into FB land!

So go "LIKE" me.

uhh please? I will be posting a little something something on there Friday! So spread the word! I'll explain more then!

OH lets talk about something else. I am wanting to expose my lifestyle photography shoots a bit more. Here's a hint of what they look like.

just a little, "what time is it mr wolf??"

LUNCHTIME!

and I'm serious when I say, this is just a hint! There's still a TON more pictures!

iLOVELOVELOVEthese.

THIS is why I bought my camera. To take pictures of my family in our setting, our home. I wish I had pictures with my grandparents playing checkers or sorry, or sitting in their kitchen eating jello crystals. I wish I had pictures with my dad as we watched saturday morning cartoons together.

This picture of my mom and I was where we would sit and she'd snuggle me singing, I love you a bushel and a peck! It's overexposed yes but means more to me then anything!

It's pictures where all you do is what you normally do as a family.

Best idea ever? I think so :o)

xoxo

2011-02-14T02:27:00.001-07:00

This shoot was just easy. Leading up to it was a bit of a gong show which included a cold snowy ride down south from Calgary where once arriving to Cardston I met up with the rest of my family who were planning to attend the temple. I then hauled 11 children and 2 baby sitters (yes all in one vehicle, in a 9 passenger vehicle) out to my parents house to turn around and come back into town to meet up with Mark and Kami. We immediately headed out. They were picture perfect! So easy and comfortable! It was FREEZING outside too! Mark was so good to make sure she stayed warm and even carried her over the super snowy parts.

More then anything it's so fun to see a moment people can have. Engagement shoots are just soooo different from regular shoots. They're full of excitement, anticipation and full on happiness!!

These pictures might not have a beautiful wood door behind them, or a rustic barn but they hold more meaning in the moment behind them.

Mark opened the door for Kami every time. She wrote notes on his truck window for him reminding him she loved him...

and this moment? Completely happened on it's own. He just grabbed her hand and with no music playing just began to dance. They were standing in harsh lighting and it's not the most technically perfect picture. But I love it.

Truly can't wait for their wedding day.

i win.

2011-02-13T03:09:00.000-07:00

Never say never

2011-02-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

I hadn't laughed that hard in a loooooong time.

Oh the year of being single when you and your friends get together and do things you'll probably regret in a few years time.

And because we didn't think we were pretty enough.

I wonder if the person who invented photo booth was single and had nothing better to do on a Friday night....

Dear Disney,

2011-02-03T14:58:00.000-07:00

Thank you for completely warping my sense of romance. I know that "someday my prince will come" and that when he does, we'll live happily ever after. I just finished watching Tangled. uhhh cutest movie everrr! I freakin love Disney. I really really do. My friends and I are also on the biggest Despicable Me kick. We'd watch it once a week if we didn't feel like big losers. We quote it to each other at least every other day though. This brings me to want to share my movie reviews!! This should be a weekly thing I feel like I go to so many movies these days.

Despicable Me - 5 stars, 2 thumbs, 7 wahoo's, 18 tomatoes or whatever movie critics use. I love this movie!!!

Tangled - One super big awwwww that was adorable!

No Strings Attached - LOVED it! 12 inappropriately funny jokes + incredibly funny and charming ashton kutcher = perfect chick flick comedy! seen it twice!

Country Strong - OH I don't know about this one yet but I will sooooon! My friends can't stop talking about it and Layla's seen it twice already!!

Oh and I'd leave you with a picture but as much of an editing machine I've been lately I just don't have a full post quite ready yet BUT what I've got is much much better.

Honest.

I came across this JEM via facebook from a friend sharing to another friend! And it came from a future ll photography bride I get to take pictures of! Becca, you just went waaaaay up in my books!

and through is all, I did it myyyy waaaaaay!

2011-02-02T13:26:00.000-07:00

Whoa 2 posts in less then an hour??? Ok. Be prepared to get sick of me. I've held back on blogging. until NOW! I would seriously lay awake at night thinking of things to blog about then I'd open my computer and stay blankly at it the next day.

Can I write that? blink, blink

Should I say that? blink, blink

Will people think I'm funny? blink, blink

Does it sound like I'm trying to hard? blink, blink

I had my piano lesson yesterday. My teacher always gives me such good advice that pertains to all aspects of my life. We were talking about how to motivate students amidst despair and laziness. What she doesn't know is I was really asking, HOW am I going to get my butt in gear to practice for my exam! Instead I tell her about this student I just can't seem to motivate for the life of me! I'm sooo sneaky. She told me of a conversation she had with a colleague once and asked, "How can some students change and progress but others can't and just don't ever seem to listen?" His response, "Easy, they have to want to."

ahhhh THAT's my problem. Well that's an easy fix! blink, blink

No, no it's not. But it's a good thing to be reminded of.

I'll ask myself DAILY. What's the difference between me and every other GAZILLION photographabloggapher out there? And now I'd like to invite you all to join me for my pity party I love to throw! I'd say, "NOTHING! Your pictures aren't anything special. Your focus is off half the time. Your composition is just random and you look like you fell of a ladder most of the time. Your no Tina Wilde in the funny department ergo your blog is sooo boring. Just shut your computer and do everyone a favor and roll back over and take a nap. Your such a good sleeper. Mays well do something you KNOW your good at."

I'm not fishing for compliments. I'm just being honest.

and THEN I realized....

everyone else isn't me. WHOA! I know, I know. That's so profound!

OH, aaaaand they don't have a brilliant sister named Pamela Colleen Heggie.

I'm building a business here people. It's gonna be MY business done MY way. IF you don't remember my great rendition of my way performed at nanta's karaoke please find it below! It helps keep my centered.

I do want this. I mustn't not care what other people think. If you don't like my pictures, that's ohhh kay. If you think my prices are too high, that's ohhh kay. I have to do things my way and that includes putting a price that makes it worth my time. The last thing I want is to over work myself and under cut my pay. I love picture taking and I want to keep it that way.

SO I've updated my blog with prices and pics. I hope you enjoy my new blogging style but it's ok if you don't.

more pics from this e.session that included freezing temperatures, sinking snow/sand and profound readings coming sooooon!

seriously. soon!

patty cake patty cake

2011-02-02T12:14:00.000-07:00

Baker here has been the boss in my sister's family the past few months with his sleeping schedule. Her and Derick have been tag teaming their naps so they can keep their sanity.

So it's a very good thing he's SO cute :o)

I wanted to share these today to help remind them how cute of parents they are. Pam is the most organized mom when it comes so many things. Don't ask me how she does it. I can't even organize my room. no joke. Derick does SO much to help. Honestly, they're the best team!

and she's one great sister!

ps these photos are from what would be considered a lifestyle photography shoot. It was shot in their home while they did day to day activities and I'll just snapped away with my camera like a fly on the wall!

email me for more info if your interested!

you smile, i smile!

2011-01-25T14:30:00.005-07:00

You know that girl in high school who you knew to just be always so happy, bubbly, SO cute and SOOO nice? I kidd you not, that's THIS girl right here! I think she just has a smile permanently on her face!

I'd like to say I'm an adventurous person, the Prince family would have to be also! We went off roading for a bit even! SO fun ;o) ps even when Monica is "getting" after ryan for getting stuck, she's doing it while laughing and with a smile on her face! Ha loved it!

We had our best drivers behind the wheel!

OH and whoever said photography wasn't a dangerous sport was lyyyyying! Snow drifts combined with boots that aren't mine = danger! So I go off looking for a possible shooting location while everyone else remains watching me from the car and then I completely EAT it! My face and camera land straight into the snow bank and I end up limping around that night and following day at church. It's ok though, I got the shot :o)

rolling with the homies

2011-01-23T23:09:00.000-07:00

Well my weekend as part time mom to 4 kiddo's who are four and under is coming to an end. It's been a fun run and I'll miss coming home to little kiddo's who are SO excited to see me but it'll be good when my sister returns home.

I don't know how you mom's do it! Don't get me wrong, it's got it's perks but I realleeeee like sleep. Like ALOT!

So high5 to all you full time mom's!

Full post on this family shoot coming soon to a blog near you!

and yes I'm watching clueless. Be jealous. Unless you own it then I'm jealous!

Dooonnn't smile!

2011-01-21T01:36:00.008-07:00

ah heeeeey.

long time no talk?

Just in case you were wondering, it hasn't been over a week since I posted. Nope! They were just invisible posts. You needed special Justin Beiber 3D eye glasses to view them. So sorry if you didn't see them. I see now that was pretty rude of me. It won't happen again, I promise.

So class, what do I have to share today? A story. You know when your so mad at someone so you give them the silent treatment?? Either they stole your blanket, maybe didn't give you a treat when you wanted, didn't let you play the game you asked for?? Isn't that the WORST!

OH, and then they have the audacity to try and make you smile and you want nothing more but to hold your grimace and show them who's boss??

Meet, the boss.

Oh and trust me, he's just as tough as he looks!

More pics soon. I promise they'll be visible to all eyes this time!

:o)

i thought i was goofy...

2011-01-08T01:54:00.000-07:00

I've never been so aware of every muscle in my body as much as I am tonight! Actually that's a lie, I have been once this aware and it was after the 1st time I ever snowboarded. It's just been about 6 years since then... so I kinda forgot til I was brutally reminded tonight.

I just got back from Whitefish Montana where I went shopping and snowboarding with my sisters. Boarding was super fun but also a gong show at the same time. First we drove up the windiest road everrrr and by the time we get to the top I already felt sooo nauseous. The rest of the day included my sister forgetting her snow pants and her having to board in sweatpants. Me thinking I was regular, then trying goofy only to find out I am indeed regular (left foot dominant) and then getting smacked in the face by the chairlift, dropping my glove on the chairlift, belly flopping onto a snow bank to stop me from tumbling down the side of the mountain BUT I ended up doing about 7 runs and even did 2 turns and ended up carving quite well actually and kinda got good? So it was fun! and exhausting...

kk enough about me though pictures!! Meet Layla. She's my other part of l.squared which is the secret girl group I'm a part of. Except I just told you all about it sooooo not so secret anymore ha. She is great. OH SO great. She's the pb to my jelly. The mac to my cheese. The sun to my shine. The wind beneath my wings and that's all the corny things I can think of right now... She let me get her in front of my new camera just so I could test out it's capabilities and it was FREEZING! Why you might ask? Cuz she is just OH SO great. I plan on posting more about what I've learned later and until then..

Here's some eye candy for ya!

ps did everyone notice the two logo's?? Yes it was on purpose. I'm in the middle of branding and I would always appreciate more input. So vote, everyone and anyone!

20-10 things I learned in 2010

2011-01-01T17:43:00.000-07:00

I learn something new each day. For example, yesterday I learned there's a green light speeding camera at the intersection of 16th ave and 10 st NW as I cruised through at 80 km/hr ( and it's a 50 zone) and a pretty little light flashed behind me. For the most part, I love cameras. But green light speeding cameras should DIE!

So I've been working on this list for a couple of weeks now and at first the post title was 210 things I learned in 2010 but then THAT wasn't gonna happen. I hate new years resolutions but I do like to use a new year to reflect on the year I just had and wanted to share some little tidbits of info I learned.

1. When you go to a Micheal Buble concert be prepared to laugh your face off cuz he's not only an immensely talented musician he's freakin hilarious!
2. Insurance companies are the devil.
3. When you can't plug your car in and it won't start, just put blankets over top of your hood and insert a space heater by your battery and your car will start up in a jiffy!
4. Moving 30 kms from work and your friends will be the best/stupidest decision ever.
5. Lasers shooting into your eyes is the greatest thing you could ever ask for.
6. Moving SUCKS! as in the actual packing and hauling of all your belongings
7. Emotionally perfect pictures trump most technically perfect pictures.
8. Zoom lens' are super tricky to focus with. Don't even bother renting them anymore cuz you don't like them.
9. Social lives aren't over rated.
10. Social lives bring drama!
11. Warm/steamed egg nog is the yummiest thing ever!
12. Diet Dr Pepper is so great!
13. Darwin founded something and is someone kinda important.
14. Modern family is the funniest show everrrrr!
15. Candy corn is not yummy.
16. Having a garage to park in is glorious!
17. Make up primers are the best kept secrets!
18. Meeting new people is fun!
19. Pizza is actually kinda yummy
20. Some wings are worth the work to eat

They're random but I'm random. So be prepared for a while bunch of info coming to the blog soon. I'll be posting my pricing this week and I have 3 new posts of pictures to share including one beautiful model friend, one amazing wedding, and a lifestyle photo shoot where I learned lots and smiled lots!

And now, 210 pictures that didn't make it to the blog that I took in 2010

Ok so I lied. There's not 210 pictures. That'd be exhausting! And I'm aware there is no order whatsoever but that too would be exhausting! You also have seen some of these but this kinda turned into some of my favorite pics I've taken in 2010. Ha and some of them are even from 2009. But you didn't know that :o) I'm just missing spencers pictures since I've already moved them off my computer :o( But I loved them too Kate!! I promise!

MERRY NEW YEARS EVERYONE!

merry christmas to me

2010-12-20T00:07:00.000-07:00

I feel like I've just completed a marathon that took 4 months to run! It's been a crazy fall semester and I've been so stupid busy it's ridiculous. I am being a whiner right now thats for sure but I've been waiting a solid 6 weeks for this day to arrive and be over! I was able to take my NEW camera for a test drive this weekend though and I'll be sharing more from this outing.

OH and MERRY CHRISTMAS everyone!

when bad photoshop happens to good people....

2010-12-17T00:06:00.000-07:00

my waaaaaaaay!

2010-12-09T14:33:00.003-07:00

I'd have to classify myself as a musical person. Not that I'd want to which is a wierd thing but I have always LOVED to sing. I dreamed of being in musical theater but was turned down for the 2 plays I auditioned for and then just never did anything else. Except bob she bobs. Anywho last weekend some friends and I went to Nanta the Korean Karaoke Bar and I seriously lost ALL sense of control of myself. Give me a mike and a stage and I'll go nuts!

Those two pictures are NOTHING compared to the video and shots other friends got. Seriously after my turn each time I would just hover by the stage front and if no one got up in the first 10 seconds of the song I was up there!

I sang about 10 songs in total. I duet-ted with 2 random fellows. There may of been lap sitting, swaying, twirling, crumping, and hand moving along as I sing Whitney Houston style. So consider this a disclaimer when taking me out to sing karaoke. I will probably embarrass myself beyond reason but I will most likely be a form of entertainment!

Being musical and having the ability to play piano has been a blessing and a curse some times in my life. December has been crazy. I am singing in 4 performances coming up and accompanying a total of about 20 songs. One is the institute choir's Christmas concert which all are encouraged to attend.

Oh, and I also quit my job. Lots of reasons have gone into this decision. I'm FINALLY going to have some time for myself and for working on my degree (my piano teaching arct with the RCM). Tuesday I was gone from my house for 13 hrs and then came home and played the piano for another hour. My schedule was like this last year too. Something had to change and soon! So I can't wait for January when I finally have time to focus on my website and branding and everything photography! Wahooo.

So expect pricing updates soon and I'll be updating with more pictures too! Just for those interested in business plans OR have any questions please ask away here! It's a new questionaire thingy my sister told me about and think it's just great! Seriously ask away. Anything at allllll! They can be photography questions, editing questions, business questions (what I plan on charging and why, will I offer prints or cd's, why do photographers only offer prints sometimes) whatever you'd like!

best decision ever.

2010-12-01T13:48:00.000-07:00

There are two things in my life I consider the best decisions I've ever made.
1. Laser eye surgery. I don't regret this in the slightest! It was worth every single stinking penny! I probably wouldn't of paid more to be honest with you. Just don't tell Lasik MD that though. Plus did you know they have trays and trays of free cookies in the waiting rooms? If someone had told me this I would of been in that office even sooner!!

2. Buying my camera. Changed my life. I can think of my life in two separate times. BC (before camera) and AD (after diving into the photo world) haha

To say photography has become an obsession is probably an understatement. I just wanted to make a list of things I wish I would of known back then. Things I wish someone would of told me. Luckily my sister was there to basically do that though haha

*A clearer difference between Canon and Nikon.

It's the only thing I researched before I purchased my camera. I knew I was either going to buy the Canon 50d or the Nikon D90. I found lots that talked about each brand and how they are both great camera makers, but then came across a great compare and contrast by Karen Russells via my sister. Click here to read it. My opinion now is Nikon's focusing system is much better in their upper end cameras especially then Canon's but the Nikon lens selection is nothing compared to Canon! Seriously, Nikon needs to get itself in gear!!

*Don't buy the kit lens. I walked away with my D90 and the kit lens 18-105mm f3.5-5.6 G ED VR lens and I remember when I called my sister and told her what I'd done she made me immediately regret my decision. I remember she asked me "Do you even know what at f-stop is??" I didn't. I really didn't want to admit it either. So I listened to her explanation (which went right over my head basically) and then followed her instructions to go back and I purchased the 50mm f1.4 lens. I love love love this lens. This could be my 3rd best decision ever. I am obsessed with this lens. I hate zoom lens' and don't know if I can ever purchase one....

*Take an course. Either it be online, at a local college or from a local photographer just take something! There are SO many resources where you can learn about how to take pictures. I'd recommend Karen Russells the photographers workshop but it's a long long waiting list. Any type of course do give you some creditionals if you do want to step into the buisness side of photography. Not that many clients really want/care if your credited or not. They only judge you by your pictures. A course fast tracks your knowledge though and therefore will fast track your skills.

*They say your first 1000 photos are your worst so take as many pictures as possible and think of them as one more down, 999 to go!

*Have some PATIENCE. One day you will be more confident with your photos. I actually remember knowing that I would get "there" but I was just so annoyed I had to wait to get "there"! I finally stopped comparing myself to professionals and would start keeping a folder for inspiration of other pics that I liked and would jot down poses that I would like to try and would spend my time learning something new rather then sitting and staring at so and so's work thinking, what's the point, I'll never be as good as them!

*Stop whining and get to work. Storytime. This past couple of weeks I hit a wall with all my upper level piano students. Were cramming for the Christmas recital and it's been stressful! I finally got every single one of them to admit that they didn't honestly believe that they were any good at piano and that they probably never would be great at piano. I then lectured them. If they weren't gonna believe they were any good then they wouldn't be getting better any time soon. They then decided they did want to get better and I made them say it out loud to me til I believed them. Ha I like to torture them. I then gave them the tools to improve their songs. I have been AMAZED by their work. Every single one of them came into lessons the following week actually excited to learn and had improved so so much!

If your not excited to learn or don't have a desire to get better well then enjoy sucking! Quit throwing yourself a pity party and just get learning!!

*No talent sits idle. Your either improving or your slowly digressing. Whether it be cooking, photography, scrapbooking, teaching, dieting, doing your hair, doing your makeup, working, reading, playing your piano, or seriously anything?! If you don't water a plant it doesn't just sit there until your ready to come back and give it attention! No. It will die. So practice practice practice! :o)

*Don't be afraid to take others pictures. I was terrified to take people's family pics! I took only my friends pics so it was way less pressure but instead of stressing about how I was going to ruin them I wish I would of focused on just how to improve them!

and prob the most important

*STOP thinking about what others might think. Who cares if someone see's your taking pictures and mocks you for jumping on the photography bandwagon and that your not any good anyways! Seriously, WHO CARES! Your having a blast with your camera and have loved learning a new skill and just overall learning something so new and unknown to you. So screw what others think. If they want to waste their time and breath all concerned about your time and talent then thats their problem.
I still have to remind myself of all these things and this post was just for my review basically but thought others might get insight from it also.
SO, I have news! I'm now going to give someone else the opportunity to start this journey all in time for Christmas.
I'm selling my camera!!!!
It's upgrade time! So I will be selling my camera, body only for $500. It retails for $680 + GST. I will also sell you my lens which is the 50 mm 1.4G for $500 which is only $20 cheaper then retail. ( Only because I will basically be going to buy the EXACT same lens. I LOVE IT! I honestly think it's the only lens that's truly needed for the everyday photographer. I'll also be including my UV filter and camera bag. I have original packaging also.
So email me if your interested or have any other questions at leahlorna@gmail.com
ps less then 1 month til I get to shoot this fun, cute, adorable, amazing friends wedding! wahoooo!

pps why didn't anyone tell me it'd been two weeks since my last post? Sheesh!

I dreamed another dream...

2010-11-15T13:42:00.000-07:00

Last night I had the craziest dream. Me and Kenzie (pictured below)

we were galavanting all over the country side looking for areas to shoot her bridals. We climbed ravines and I carried her on my back so her dress wouldn't get ruined.

We ran into poachers and I bargained with them so that they would give me their hunting area and I wouldn't report them.

We then ran into a farmer who lived in a hut by the most beautiful tree and I wanted to shoot that tree so I bargained with him he let me shoot the tree. (with my camera turned gun)

Needless to say, It was a crazy dream!

But reminded me to blog these pics!