Studio threesixty5

Epic Giveaway at Crave Photography--5 minutes left and a lot of hope!

2011-04-27T00:56:00.000-05:00

Seriously---check this out over at Crave Photography!!

http://cravemyphotography.com/blog/world-wide-giveaway

[Fix it] Fridays #86 | I Heart faces | {Studio threesixty5: Day 43 of 365}

2011-02-12T17:11:00.007-06:00

This week for me has been one of those where you just long for the weekend. Thank goodness it's Saturday. This morning, I awoke to snow falling (again). I frowned at the sight, rolled over to view the time and panicked when the alarm clock greeted me with a 10:00! Then, I remembered it was Saturday. Ahhh....Saturdays, I love you!

Last Monday, I announced that part of my newest project for Studio threesixty5: the idea of educating my clients and readers on the great world of photography and digital editing. I also shared an amazing website that I adore called iheartfaces. Part of the reason I enjoy this website so very much is because of the way it challenges today's digital photographer all while balancing the idea of improvement and having fun. In my opinion, this is ingenious because the last thing you want is your photographer to become burnt out on "work." With this, I also introduced the newest wave of photo contests: each Monday, iheartfaces releases a subject matter and you let your imagination run wild on how to execute the idea into your photo.

(This is something that I never struggled with in the past, but have recently found myself not as satisfied with simple props and editing results. The contest makes me push my boundaries. They throw the subject out there with expectations of results out of the box. My ideas step out with it too. Get it?)

So- back to today's post. Every Friday iheartfaces posts a photo from another photographer's shoot that would normally be thrown into the "archive" group. The idea of the challenge? Change it from a "toss" to a "keeper." Make sure to check out their link and submissions HERE. It's always neat to see how each photographer has their own style.

Posted below is my submission for the editing contest. Alicia, I had to add the vintage layer just for you!

The breakdown: The SOOC file (Straight out of the camera)

Step 1:

Step 2:

Step 3:

Step 4:

Step 5:

Final picture - Cropped

What a beautiful little girl. I know that mom/photographer,

Rachel, must be oh-so proud of this sweet little angel. Thank you for such a fun opportunity!

I {Heart} Faces | Mondays {Day 38 of 365}

2011-02-07T18:22:00.003-06:00

After last week's photo contest, I quickly realized an important characteristic about those who hire photographers: they love photographs just as much as the ones who take them. Most experiment with their own photos, but either lack the time, creative effort or money to jump into the business. I also began to see that there are a lot out there who enjoy the "behind the scenes" element to the scene. It's a little like learning the secret to a magic trick. Once you begin to understand the trick, the truth revealed behind it all is that it takes a lot of practice and there never really is a true "perfect." Until you realize this, you never fully appreciate what goes on behind the scenes. I also think that is important when it comes to clients, it is always better to educate. I'm never afraid to show pieces of how it really works. Because I feel so strongly about this, I have decided to add in a few new things to Studio threesixty5. I am making a promise to my clients and readers to build my business based on also educating you with how and why we (photographers) create our magic.

I promise not to fill your minds with just great blog filler. Instead I will try to share fun and educational reading material. I also think it is important to back up exactly what I have to say. For example, in order to build a firm foundation for my business on WHY I might do something, it would only make sense that I follow up with a creative way for you to ask me questions! :0)

Lucky for me I am able to build my business during the most technological time in history with advances such as Formspring. For all of you tech savy friends, ask away by clicking ----> http://formspring.me/melslegacy (and see answers from other questions too!).

Now on to example numero dos: HOW things work. I'm super excited to introduce to you all a wonderful online community, iheartfaces. This site is loaded with wonderful photographers of all levels. While some photographers frown at the idea of teaching the magic to just "any" digital camera holder, I tend to think the opposite. Granted, I'm not going to show you how I do everything (that's why I'm the professional), but I feel that it will help give a little extra push - okay more like a shove - for those who want to know and grow more in photography.

.

Something I have always struggled with when it comes to my own work is that I am my worst critic. Unfortunately, too much self criticism is never a good thing. (Trust me.) As a result, I have decided to give myself less opportunities to leave it up to just "me" for improvement. To get the ball rolling, I will be submitting more of my work to other photographers with similar styles to better myself as a professional.

Every Monday, iheartfaces offers a weekly photo contest with a different themed challenge each week. The contest is open to aspiring photographers of all levels. They have several strict guidelines for participation, but you'll soon see that it is purely for bettering yourself. I firmly believe that through the challenge this will help me break out of "the box" and channel my inner creative juices. With that, I truly hope that it will open a new door to all of you who seek more in this area too!

This week's challenge is "Hearts." Here is my {first} submission {ever}. Wish me luck!

I call it "Obvious Tee" for many obvious reasons. Thank you to sweet little Addison Byrne for being an angel that day and her mommy, Valleri for letting her be my muse. Hopefully I will be able to get my hands on her next bundle of joy coming soon too!

In the meantime, let me know if you hop on the photo bandwagon over a iheartfaces too!

Until next time. . . happy shooting!

~Mel

Drum Roll {Please?} | Photo Contest Winners Announced

2011-02-01T12:30:00.003-06:00

Are you as excited as I am? I have been giddy since Sunday when I received the results back from my guest judges. It has taken everything in me not to announce it sooner. (What's the world without surprises? I'm pretty sure it wouldn't be nearly as much fun. Don't ya' agree?) Before we get to our winners, I must first say it would not of been possible to hold this event without these three special people. I encourage you to take a moment to view their beautiful work on their websites and blogs. A big thank you to:

Trina Riggott | Trina Riggott Photography
www.TRiggottphotography.blogspot.com

Stephen Holmes
gallopinggreen.com

Andie Freeman
www.andiefreemanphotography.com

Photo credit: Becka Robinson, Studio222 Photography, Orlando FL

--Side note: Nate and Becka of Studio222 are the most
magnificent team photographers out there.
They are my all time FAVORITE for weddings.
That's a complete blog on its own though and will be shared on another day--

Trina, Stephen and Andie, I am truly grateful for your time. A sincere thank you for lending an eye to view the finalists as well as sharing your expert advise to help them improve their photography skills.

Okay...moving on! I promise not to hold you at bay any longer.

The first place winner of this year's Studio threesixty5 Annual Photo Contest is. . .

Marta Balusek with ODaiba Ferris Wheel

You will receive a coupon for aFREE session with $50 print credit - a $200 value - Congratulations!

Our 2nd Place Winner is. . .

Jodi Olson with A Day at the Lake

You will receive a coupon for a HALF PRICE session ($75 value)

&

Third Place Winner is. . .

Crystal Schneider with My Thumb

You will receive a coupon for your choice: $50 off your session or $50 in prints
(Must specify when appointment is made)

Also, our other Top 5 finalists, Rich Garber and Teresa Lochbaum will receive one free full resolution picture (free of rights) of their choice -a $35 value- when ordering prints.

All winners prizes are good a year from today: February 1, 2011

Thank you again to all who participated. There is more exciting news to come next Monday, February 7th. I've decided to start sharing tips and information weekly on how to improve your own photos as well as a few places online to get a glimpse "behind the scenes" of how things work. You (really) don't want to miss it.
(I mean it. Darn it.)

Until next time, Happy Tuesday!

Announced | Top 5 Finalists

2011-01-30T11:14:00.000-06:00

WOW. What a great week! Thank you to the fans that submitted such gorgeous pictures. All week, I've had people stop me to tell me that the entries were breathtaking. You guys make me look so good. You simply R - O - C - K !!!

This morning my sweet daughter, Katie, helped by tallying up the votes as I called them out to her. Future Threesixty5 employee? I think/hope so!

So, without further adieu, I (proudly) announce our 2011 Top Five finalists in our first (ever) Annual Photo Contest:

(In no particular order)

Rich Garber | Falls

Jodi Olson | Day at the Lake

ODaiba Ferris Wheel | Marta Balusek

Angel Wings | Teresa Lochbaum

My Thumb | Crystal Schneider

Congratulations, guys!

Thank you again to my honorable mentions: Heather Spencer, Heidi Martin, Tori Boomsma, Jeff Balusek and Emily Burton. You guys were (really) very close.

SO- What happens next?

Here's the exciting part:

(wait for it...)

You've heard the expression, "Two eyes are better than one," right? Well, in my case, I believe six is even better. Each Top 5 finalist will have their photo critiqued by three talented professional photographers: Trina Riggott, Andie Freeman and Stephen Holmes. Each individual has their own unique style to their art and will bring a different perspective to the judging process. In addition, I decided to be a tad "fancy" and provide them each with an official judge's score sheet straight from the Association of Texas Photography Instructors. By doing this, it helps streamline the process and ensures that each photo will be judged by the same standards accurately and with precision.

Each honorable mention will receive a free 10x13 print coupon ($20 value) good through February 1, 2012. If you were mentioned, I will be sending it to an inbox near you later this week. To the Top 5, check back here on the blog, February 1st, to see who will win.

Good luck to you all!

~Mel

PHOTO CONTEST | Sleep + Photography {And other things I miss}

2010-10-27T23:59:00.000-05:00

For the past two weeks I have barely slept. I read once that people are legally tortured for up to 11 days in some countries, while in a mere fourteen days (only 36 hours later) is usually the max a body can take until you will die from pure exhaustion. (Oh, the little strange trivia our brains pick up along the way.)

It amazes me how I know that I need sleep, yet, I still can't make myself do it. It has to occur unconsciously. Think about the few short minutes, even seconds, prior to the moment that you drift into unconsciousness. Very few can recall what happened the moments before nor figure out what made the process easier that go 'round. These bouts of insomnia with me only occur when one of three things happen: sick child, sick me or researching my photography during my evening down time. I bet you can guess this episode of sleeplessness evolved in recent days. (;

Since our move to Wisconsin, I've missed my photography. So very much. Over the Christmas break my family came to visit and my baby sister, Cynthia, brought her new cutie patootie boyfriend with her to meet the fam. We (of course) just loved him. I was excited when she asked me to take a couple of pictures of them before leaving to drop him off at the airport. Little did I know what I was starting.

A few snaps later, the whirlwind of my love for that quick shutter sound simply reminded me of the empty void that I have been suppressing over these past few months. I face a long road of building clients again, adding the option of studio lighting and swallowing the fear that it could all fail, but with the support of my loving husband, family and friends, I have a feeling that it could possibly be one of the best decisions. Ever.

Today, I am posting the pictures submitted last week for the Studio threesixy5 photo contest. Here's where you can help: voting. Tell your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, mail carrier, and grocery store check out lady (Trust me. They'll want to see too!). I must warn you, this isn't going to be easy. They are all fantastic shots.

I've decided to post the directions to voting in a FAQ style. It's fun. It's different and it will (hopefully) cover your questions without boring you to death. *grin*

1.) How do I view the photos submitted?

A: I will post the pictures below with a number, title and the photographer.

2.) Easy enough. How many votes do I get?

A: Three.

3.) Can I vote for the same photo three times?

A: No. Each vote must be for a different photo.

4.) How do I place my three votes?

A: There are two ways:

Numero Uno:

Head over to our facebook page - Simply click the facebook badge on the right of the page to connect.
Click the "Photo Contest" tab
Fill out the form. Be sure to include the THREE photo titles in which you would like to place your vote in the "Message" section.

Numero Dos:

Comment on this very blog.
Please be sure to enter your name, email address and the THREE photo titles in which you would like to place your vote.

Please do not leave any information out of your vote or it will be disqualified.

5.) When does voting end?

A: Voting ends on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at Midnight

6.) When will the winners be announced?

A: Tuesday, February 1, 2011

7.) What do they win?

1st place: FREE session with $50 print credit ($200 value)

2nd place: 50% off session ($75 value)

3rd place: $50 off session or $50 in prints (Winner's choice)

Now, without further adeiu I give you this year's 10 contestants:

Jodi Olson - A Day at the Lake

Angel Wings -Teresa Lochbaum

Untitled - Heather Spencer

Just Being Me - Emily Burton

Falls -Rich Garber

Kyoto Garden - Jeff Balusek

My Thumb - Crystal Schneider

Sassy Girl - Heidi Martin

Wakiki Beach - Tori Boomsma

ODaiba Ferris Wheel - Marta Balusek

And there you have it folks! The photo contest voting is open until Saturday, January 29, 2011 at Midnight (CST).

See you guys again on February 1st with the winning announcement!

~Mel~

The Three L's

2010-10-04T12:28:00.000-05:00

Five. Yep, five is the magic number! (Apparently.) That is the exact amount of months it took for me to find me again. In those five months, the novel of my life changed in a way I would of never imagined it to unfold. Because I made a new life decision:

To get up and live life again, not let life live me.

When most people come to this sort of conclusion, it usually comes about by a horrible tragedy or loss. When thinking about how far I've come and what could of happened to get me here, I consider myself one of the true lucky ones. Now, I'm not saying that my journey has been easy. It's been far from that. But, to consider the alternative, one has to take a deep breath and reflect and be thankful that I can stop and see that the cup needs to be looked at as half full because it could be just empty.

In Georgia, life was one where I constantly volunteered myself for bake sales, chair positions of clubs, taxi-driver of multitudes of children, girl scout leader extraordinaire, photographer of many things (more things that didn't pay any). I'd hear the phrase, "We really need help with this or that. Even though it wasn't directed at me, I'd feel guilt creep in that I wasn't jumping up and down saying "Pick me! Pick me!" After what felt like ages of straight silence and chirping crickets, I'd always slowly raise my hand and say I'd do it. Next thing I knew, the volunteering, what had started out as a way to spend more time with my kiddos, soon became my nemesis. It now prevented me from enjoying those special moments with my kiddos! I'd find myself feeding my kids something quick for dinner because I had overbooked helping out with a library book sale or my house was a complete disaster because I was too tired to clean it from the other errands. I was drained. Worn out. It was crazy to say the very least.

Let's go back in time for a moment. Years ago, I sat down and mentally wrote out my three "L" list: "Living Life Large." I was consumed with music and known for pin-pointing the newest fashionable trends. It was me. That's what I did. On that list?

1.)Take voice lessons
2.) Get married
3.) Have at least two kids
4.) Live out of state
5.) Learn to play the violin
6.) Become a photographer
7.) Travel the US, then then Europe

Until today, I had never officially written it down, but I could quickly recite it like a five year old does their Christmas list.

To me, living in Georgia meant the two inevitable points on my list had happened:

Married + Kids.

You always have several on your list that you must make attainable so that you don't quite feel so- well- pitiful. (: They were BIG goals, so I still felt that I had made some great progress. However, if you know me, and know me well, you'd find that I have never been one to just settle for one of two items.

I must have it all!

Therefore, in a mad effort to "get the ball rolling" I jumped into the photography world again. For a brief moment I felt the way I did all those years ago when I first started the "L" list.

New. Young. Even vibrant!

However...

Those things played into chaos that surrounded me. Then enters unhappiness. In the seasons of my past five months of life there has been a collaborative effort between friends, family and my own attempts to keep me sane and healthy. Whether you believe it or not, everyone fights this battle of ups and downs daily. After the news that we were to move twelve hundred miles away from home, my very own outlook became a little easier when I adopted the (now self-proclaimed) mottos: "The best thing in life is to LIVE it" and "Only you can make the decision to be unhappy. Experiences can be unpleasant, but it is ultimately your choice of how to react." It also helped that I could pack up my life and start anew. That opportunity doesn't come everyday. I was also simultaneously accomplishing another "L" from the list. Bravo for me. Bravo for life.

What now?

This is the hard part. This is where I must decide to step out of my comfort zone. I must fight my old tendencies and grow. Will it be learning the violin? Um, no. But I will. One day. Just not right now.

And that's okay.

I've learned that time is of the essence. As a result of that, I have now added three things have been added to my "L" list: weekly meals, budget and schedules. If you too have experienced the daily chore of household management, I'm sure you're cheering me on.

I definitely have my work cut out for me. However, once those three items are accomplished, I'm pree-tty sure I will know the rest of the list will seem like a piece of cake.

New life.

2010-05-14T21:57:00.000-05:00

Every mother knows how precious pregnancy is- you hate it, but you love it. There are good days and then there are bad. I think that some of my best moments in pregnancy with both Hannah and Owen were the days when I first started to feel them move. They call it the "awakening" when you first feel it. Early on midwifes dubbed it as when the soul enters the body. From the first time I was told this, even until now, it still gives me goosebumps. In a since that, yes, God is real and yes, life, indeed, is one of his greatest miracles.

Several weeks ago I had the great pleasure to photograph one of my dearest friends, Alicia. Her body embraced pregnancy, and she was just glowing the last few weeks before we were greeted with little Sage Wren. (Newborn/announcement pics are coming soon- our shoot is next Tuesday)

If you missed the pictures on facebook or you're not "one of those types" (you know who you are...lol), I'd like to share some of the beautiful pics of my dear, dear friend.

Miss "V"

2010-03-25T00:07:00.000-05:00

If I wouldn't of already had three, I would of taken little Miss "V" home this past Sunday. It was quite a fun session. This gal knows how to work the camera already at a young age. I mentioned earlier in the week in the Maddox sneak peek that I had the pleasure of taking pictures for several friends that I've known since grade school.

Miss "V" is the beautiful product of two high school sweethearts, Tiffany {Franklin} Murdock and Daniel Murdock. I can remember as far back as elementary playground torments with mister Murdock himself. Boys had cooties and girls went to Jupiter to get more stupider. :D

Tiffany and I met in middle school and somewhere in the depths of my closet at my parents house sits a picture of our "gang" on friend picture day all compete with somewhat similar matching outfits and our wonderful faded blue jean jackets. Those were the days of innocence. I hold them so dear to my heart.

So, last Sunday, as I drove up into the home of Tiffany's parents in Watkinsville, I couldn't help but feel the whirlwind of emotions as I thought about how this session would capture a new era in our lives: parenthood. It was quite a moment for me and I was so very honored that they chose me to be a part of it.

Sometimes Sacrifice is what's Breast

2010-03-02T00:05:00.000-06:00

Thought it was a typo? Nope! If you know me and know me well, then I'm sure you're not the lest bit surprised to read my title. Make no mistake, I am a huge advocate of breast cancer awareness and I show no shame. It is the very reason I am the person I am today.

I first heard the word cancer when I was twelve. As I sat in our living room with my two younger sisters, I tried to understand as my mom and dad told us the news- mom had breast cancer. Trying to look strong and brave, they calmly explained to us what that word meant. I can remember trying to process the information. Cancer was still so new back then...all I knew was that I loved my mom and I didn't want to lose her.

That memory will be forever engrained. As scary as it was to hear that then, I never knew that experience would change my life in such a way that I could actually do something to try and prevent any other parent from having to explain such a horrible reality to their children. Now that I am a mom, have a new outlook of her bravery. She was a mother of three, who faced with a deadly disease at the age of 42. I can hardly imagine what she went through.

Fast forward to today. It's 2010 and she just celebrated 13 years in remission. Without someone's help in the research towards treatment that some 11 odd years ago, I might not have my mother beside me. She is my hero and I can now do something to help. In 2008, I set out on a journey that would change my life- the Atlanta Breast Cancer 3-Day. With the help of 6 brave teammates (Team Miles & Memories for Melons)we raised $11,000 that would be donated to the Susan G. Komen and the research to end this nasty disease.

Walking in the 3-day changed my life. I started out not knowing how I would raise the money and ended up more scared about the walk! Day after day I would receive an email with the subject of "A Donation was made on your behalf" and each time I'd cry. I'd cry for those who had lost their battle and the donation was a little too late. I'd cry for the ladies that were currently going through chemo, radiation, surgeries and re-construction. I'd cry because I feared that I, or one of my daughters that might face the disease might not have to face it. It was the most unexplainable feeling, yet, I wanted everyone to feel it just as much as I did. Then I walked. I didn't even think about what was happening...instead I just kept thinking, "This is only one step, and then another. Repeat."

I was honored to walk among the survivors. I was excited to meet those who were just as passionate about fighting this nasty disease. I was humbled when asked to speak in front of the walkers at dinner on Day 2.

Most of those who I met are those who will remain in my life forever. The experience was amazing. Through the networks in the breast cancer family, I met a dear friend, Joanna. She is an amazing person; one of those people who are real from the moment that you meet them. From moment one she was Joanna. It was a breath of fresh air and even today, she still is! We bonded over an overnight camp out at Stone Mountain that pushed the very being of my will to walk. (Forty miles in one weekend around a mountain is not the easiest thing to do!) Next there came the actual 3-Day. By the end of 60 miles through glances of tear filled eyes in a crowded room, we held our shoes up(that had carried us through rain, cold, mud, and finally sunshine) proudly up and smiled at each other in triumph. We did it! We raised our money. We trained. We fought the fight against breast cancer. We made a connection.

What's the next chapter? Until last October, I really had not thought much about it. My team raised close to $11,000. That was enough right? WRONG! How'd you guess that one? ;) Joanna and I decided to be a part of what helped us make it through the 3-Day: the supporters: a cheer leader, a "walker-stalker" (one of the many 3-Day "words"). After baking around 200 cookies we decided to head over on the last day of the 3-Day and cheer on the walkers. That's exactly what we did!

Little did we know that day would give way to many more miracles. We met a handsome bald guy in a cowboy hat and bra. Definitely got our attention.. (: As it turned out, this "guy" happened to be Dusty Showers of The Second Basemen. It's an amazing group of breast cancer awareness supporters and icons that help those who are going through it, have been there or recently diagnosed.

Last Saturday, The Second Basemen had their first meeting in downtown Atlanta at STATS Bar and grill. (The food was fantastic. Make sure to try their mac n cheese. Seriously.)

I was honored to take pictures for such an amazing night.

I am also happy to announce two VERY exciting things:

Drumroll, please...

ONE:

Studio threesixty5 {aka me} will be participating in
Atlanta's Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 2010 this coming May.
You can visit my page and donate HERE ( :

TWO:

10% of any session (Seniors and Weddings) booked in the month of May will go to support breast cancer! Specifically, it will go to a 3-Day walker team Kat's Courage. Kat and Scott Dickerson are most known for their icon, "The Double Bubble" a beautiful re-furbished VW van, painted in a beautiful bubble gum pink. In addition, you will receive one free 8x10 from your session as a thank you for your "donation."

On behalf of myself, The Second Basemen and the Atlanta Breast Cancer Community...
Thank You!!!

Snow Beautiful! {2010: Day 44 of 365}

2010-02-25T03:00:00.000-06:00

It's not often that Georgia is graced with the presence of {snowflakes}. The recipe of weather conditions that it takes to give us the occasion to make it stick is pretty complicated. The rare ingredients formed some sort of {miracle} a little over a week ago and decided to compile a beautiful, magical afternoon. It was amazing. Here are some of the photos to prove its fairytale-like existence.

My {sweet} Katie as she walked in from the bus.
(Yes...she does have leggings on; she is not in bare skin.)

Warning! {Rare} photo. Picture of a Georgia bus running
with an inch of snow on the ground. Thank goodness for our
amazing bus driver, Desiree, who takes extra caution
when driving in these conditions. :)

Owen's first touch of snow. This will be his {first} memory of it.

I actually remembered to take a picture of all three of the
kiddos together. Enter second {miracle} of the weekend. :D

The stinky {boots} that Owen insists on
wearing day in and out actually came in handy.

{Jackets} became sleds...

...as did {beach} boogie boards.

{Hats} and {fluffy} coats the newest "fashion."

Group {snow angels} were a "must have..."

...{snowballs} were plentiful...

...and {hot chocolate} by the gallons!

All in all~
I think you can say {everyone} lived "Happily Ever After..."

Studio threesixty5 Sneak Peak at {Addyson}

2010-02-23T01:28:00.000-06:00

Almost ten years ago I met Addyson's mom, Valleri. We instantly connected. Why? We were two blondes (back then it was still a natural blond for me *sigh*), we both had TONS of energy, and our personalities just clicked. We hung out two times with a mutual friend and that was it. Five years later we met again (fate had it written in our books, I guess) and we worked together at Cingular (now AT&T).

Vallerie, it has been a privilege to know you as such an amazing woman, become my friend, Mike's wife and now Addyson's mother. You are one of those unique people who you just can't pass up in life. I'm truly blessed.

Now it's time for me to share your precious little angel with my friends, family, clients and (maybe one day) fans:

Clearly, my dears, she is indeed "Loveable."

Two months is usually quite an awkward stage for infants,

but little Miss "Angel" Addyson just shined that day.

Looks just like a porcelain doll, but, truth be known?

I only had to remove one slight scratch on her chin!

I've got several other great sessions up my sleeve to share this week, so be sure to keep an eye out for my updates on facebook. This week's special, receive 1 free 8x10 with any session that you book. Just mention this Addyson's blog.

Thanks again to those who have recently sent me referrals. Remember that with each referral you get $25 credit toward your next session! :)

twenty-nine valentine epiphanies

2010-02-14T20:03:00.000-06:00

*I discovered this valentine booklet in Stillwater, MN last month on my anniversary trip. It is circa 1930...A husband and his son made it for the wife/mom... her birthday just happened to fall on Valentine's day as well. Needless to say, it quickly became my souvenir. :D*

Valentine's Day. For years I've dreaded the beloved holiday. It not only is the day that all love is supposedly bestowed upon each other, but it just so happens to be the day of my birth. As a child, I adored the advantages. The energy that was in the air-, the anticipation of class parties, a traditional exchange of valentine cards...even the adults were a little less stressed on this day than the other days. In the simplicity of my childhood, it was marvelous.

As years passed, the magic from childhood experienced holidays soon lost its glimmer. My birthday became Valentine's day. This was a day in which friends were too busy for dinner because their boyfriend (of the week) was taking them to dinner or the restaurants were too crowded to get a reservation. I admit that some years were celebrated with the excitement/anxiety of boyfriend gift swapping, but, for the most part it was not the happiest day for me.

The reason I chose to tell you this is because today, February 14, 2010, marks my twenty-nineth birthday and I've learned quite an ironic lesson. Twenty-nine is an age that's been hard for me to swallow. Next year, the big three-o hits and my twenties have passed.

All week I've kept myself busy; launching the new business name, website, blog and valentine's activities with my three lovely children. All were activities were welcomed and shamelessly transitioned into attempts to ignore the approaching birthday. The irony of it all? I never would of guessed it would be one of the best birthdays yet.

It all started on Thursday, when my life team (aka bible study group) met and surprised me with this beautiful, chocolate masterpiece:

On Friday, I quickly learned that my hubby had not quite lost his romantic abilities and one of my besties is an amazing godsend. They both conjured a terrific, unbelievable story of how Hunter was going to take me to dinner with five kids in crazy amounts of snowfall, only to be pleasantly surprised to a trip around the block and dinner at her house. The night was complete with slow smoked homemade BBQ pork and ribs mad by her talented five star chef hubby. It was shortly followed by my (now favorite) birthday cake- white cake with raspberry filling in the layers and butter creme frosting. Let's just say there's only one piece left of it left and in about ten minutes I can say that it will be no longer. (;

I also was ecstatic that my beef with stemless wine glasses was solved. I've been wanting some for a {l o n g} time, but hated that you couldn't tag them to distinguish who's was who's during a dinner party. Check out these awesome chalk board glasses.

(Bet you can guess who meat 'n' taters is...lol.)

I can now cross that off one list -aka "things that annoy me"- and add it to another -aka "gotta buy it, NOW! For those inquiring and annoyed minds, they can be purchased @Pier1.

My point here is that I've discovered a new meaning behind my Valentine's birthday and aging. The irony of it all? The very day that I despised, is the one I need to try and live everyday. We only get one life and the point is to live it and love it.

Twenty-nine years to learn this, but it was worth the wait.

I've been taken back by the magnitude of birthday greetings, phone calls, cards, texts, and especially facebook comments. I assure you I've read each and every one. It is truly humbling and means the world to me. I can assure you that it is never overlooked and my heart melts with each one. I'm blessed with your love and because of that, I am richer than all the money combined. That, my dears, is only provided through love. Hoping your valentine's day is full of this love. The real love.

This passage is great for reflection. Even if you've read it a thousand times; it's always a great reminder:

If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."

-1 Cor 13:3-13 NIV

Behind the Pictures: The Charles Family-Good people come in great packages

2010-02-11T11:50:00.000-06:00

Several years back I met the quietest, wittiest, quick-humored mom I know. It's not that often that you run into a quiet mom that can say one sentence with the straightest of faces and have you rolling in laughter (and tears) in under thirty seconds.

It all started when we moved into our house and shortly after, Kim and family moved in next door. About six months later our kids were playing in the back yard and she and I struck up a conversation. It started with small talk, but quickly moved to a more interesting subject. It went a little something like this:

Kim: You guys really like living here, huh.

Me: Yeah, it's nice. It's crazy how many young families there are here.

Kim: There are...that is nice. So, we kinda have gotten to know each other pretty well, right?

Me: Yep. Couldn't ask for a better neighbor!

Kim: That's nice. Well, um, we can tell each other neighborly things and be cool, right?

Me: Uh...yeah. What's up, Kim?

Kim: Your blinds on your bathroom window do not shade at all.

Me: (Eyes wide open) I guess we do know each other really well!

Kim: Yep. I know Hunter wants to show off his great butt, but um, I don't know if you want him to!

Enters laughter uncontrollably.

After that, I decided she was a keeper. Since then we've had quite a blast, hitting NKOTB concerts VIP, my son has decided that he absolutely loves his Kim-Kim. I'm blessed to have her. Neighbors aren't always a good thing, so I consider myself blessed.

Therefore, you can imagine my delight when she asked that I take some pictures of her family this past November. Her grandmother suffers from Alzheimer's. This disease is one that hits close to home. (A dear family friend that taught me piano as a child was diagnosed with it and it's just hard to imagine loosing all of your great memories. This is the very reason of my being. To capture these moments. It brings me deep fear about the possibility of loosing my own moments one day, thus one of my motivations to continue to shoot.) She asked that I capture some moments of her and her family while things were still good. I was overjoyed!

The picture couldn't of happened any better than I imagined. It was one of the easiest ones of the whole session. I feel that it just captures the kids' love for their great-grandmother. And that, my dear, is priceless.

New name. New level. The official unveiling: Threesixty5 days a year!

2010-02-10T10:00:00.000-06:00

I know you're not here just for good reading. You are here because I've kept the new studio name secret for quite some time. Why? Well, some for suspense. The other? To make sure it was what I wanted. I've came to a conclusion that it is. It describes my passion in its name and gives you the reassurance that I mean business. No pun intended. ;)

Why now? It's the new year. Fresh start. A new plan. It's taken time to get to where I'm at. I value what I do. To be honest, I've learned a lot about photography in the last five years. Three major important rule that I have posted on a sticky note at the bottom of my computer.

One? Relax.

Two? Don't doubt what you are good at; instead, find what you don't like about yourself and ask someone who is good at it and see what works so well with them.

Three? When life gives you lemons; make lemon cake, pie, strudel, or ice cream. Lemonade (the same old solution) isn't always the answer.

What does all this mean? It means that I feel like I'm ready. Ready to embark on one of the most important journeys I've ever taken: capturing your life. Sounds big, doesn't it? Well, for me, it is!

When you visit your grandmother and ask about your family history, relatives, etc. the first thing she usually pulls out are the photos of who they were/are and memories of great stories are told from there. When a family requests that I take their photos, fo

r me, it's like asking to become part of your family's legacy. Because of that, I feel very passionate about my job. I hold my standards high and understand just how important your family's pictures are for you.

Five years ago I worked for a national studio that is growing in the new realm of digital photography. Our studio location was considered a "model" for the company and was one its highest profiting studios. It was exciting at first. Meeting so many families, children, and professionals. However, the fun quickly became "that job" that you wish you could put your own personal touch...only without the 70 hour work week that it demanded. In the midst of all of this family tragedy struck and my oldest daughter, Katie, lost her biological mom unexpectedly after the birth of twins. I left the craziness of the studio world and became a homemaker; taking care of my sweet little girl who had suffered such a huge loss. We moved her into our home full-time and focused on being a family. Photography was then put on the back burner.

Fast forward to today, I'm the mother of three beautiful kids who grow with each passing moment. I've slowly built my skills on the new realm of digital photography. Something that I could never learn enough about! I could literally sit in front of the computer researching, talking to other photographers or nose stuck in a book 24/7. Learning about it intrigues every little piece of me. It's what I like to call "photocrack." Seriously, people. It is a passion. I live it, breathe it, dream it- everyday.

I'd like to say it's a healthy "habit." The high that I get from viewing my pictures and my clients' reaction is priceless. To know that they've entrusted me with their legacy is the one of the greatest compliments I could take.

Thank you to those who trusted me from the beginning. You will always be a dear part of my life, soul and business.

In celebration of the unveiling, I'd like to offer any who reads this and books a session, Buy one, get one free prints from their session. (Available for mini sessions too! Minimum order of $100 please) Just mention the code: "PASSION"

You can visit the new website to view my work and pricing at www.studiothreesixty5.com