Kelly Baxter Photography

It's Coming........

2012-01-18T20:53:00.000-08:00

I can feel it...........

HOPE

2012-01-11T21:43:00.000-08:00

It is the middle of winter and this chocolate rose sits outside in my garden not ready to give up. It is determined to keep blooming and growing no matter the winter woes that come its way. It doesn't give up hope and let nature put it to rest until the seasons say it's time to come out and play again. It says, "I'm still here, and as long as I'm alive, I won't back down." I choose to hope.

When the world says, "Give up."

Hope whispers, "Try it one more time."

-Author Unknown

Sisters........

2011-12-31T01:26:00.000-08:00

These two beautiful young ladies are like my family......... my nieces. I've had the pleasure of watching them become the amazing girls that they are. They are both unique individuals and have their own special gifts to offer. I enjoy the time I get to spend with them. They always greet me with hugs and put a smile on my face. Love you guys!

My Kiddos.....

2011-12-27T00:15:00.001-08:00

I got to spend an afternoon with my beautiful nieces and nephew...... My brother wanted to surprise my sis-in-law with these for Christmas. We had to be verrrrrry sneaky. We even pulled the kids out of school during lunch to do these so my sister-in-law wouldn't be suspicious. And it worked! She was totally surprised!

Mine............

2011-11-16T19:06:00.000-08:00

This is my subject... You would think that being a photographer, I would have tons of pics of my own kid all over my house, right??? WRONG! First of all, I have to pay him to let me take pictures of him. Yes, pay.....money! And he bargains until he gets the price he wants! And even with doing that, I still can't get a straight face out of him! He won't hold a pose for more than a second and he complains the entire time. AND, he won't stop making the goofiest faces EVER! I even threatened to do a bloopers post of all his goofy faces so everyone could see what I have to deal with............didn't work.

But, even though I can't get more than one good picture out of him, I'll take the goofy kid that he is because it's who he is and he makes me laugh and smile every day...... I'm the luckiest mom ever!

N.F.L. = Nutrition & Fitness For Life

2011-10-05T22:54:00.000-07:00

We had an exciting weekend this past weekend... This past year, my son attended classes at Virginia Mason called "Nutrition & Fitness for Life". The class is sponsored by the Seahawks who fund the class in an effort to teach kids and their families a balanced, healthy way of living. Each NFL season, a few kids are picked to be a junior co-captain at one of the Seahawks games and this season they chose my son as one of them because they just saw what a great kid he is. As a junior co-captain, we got club level seats, VIP parking, and a jersey of his choice. When we got there, we were led onto the field where we got to spend the hour before the game watching warm-ups!!! I could reach out and touch the players!! They are HUGE!!! GIGANTOR! What I want to know is what their mamas fed them when they were growing up! Who makes people that BIG!? (Anyway, I was in photography heaven down on that field!) Then, after both teams took the field for the game, my son was taken to the sidelines with the Seahawks players where he first met and shook Pete Carroll's hand. Then Pete took him around and introduced him to other players on the sidelines like Marcus Trufant and Tarvaris Jackson. After a lot of hand shaking, he stood on the sidelines with Trufant until it was time for the coin toss. Then my boy got to go out on the field for the coin toss with the team captains!!! While he was running out onto the field, the announcer introduced him while they put his picture up on the big screen. It was SOOOO cool!!! It was quite the experience for him..... Something he'll remember for the rest of his life!

A few of these shots were taken by the Seahawks' photographer... I am so thankful he took them and sent them to us because I wasn't positioned on the field in the right spot to capture them. The rest are shots of the fun I was having on the sidelines during warm-ups. I'm thinkin' I need to do this for a living!! I could handle being down on that field capturing all the raw moments that happen during a game. Can anyone hook me up???????

And for you menfolk visiting my blog, don't worry, I didn't forget about you......

Selena.....

2011-09-13T22:28:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am not afraid to admit that I went to the Selena Gomez concert at the Puyallup Fair last night..... me and a thousand screaming little girls! I guess I shouldn't comment on the screaming little girls since I was one of them at an Andy Gibb concert when I was about 11 or 12. I screamed the entire concert and at one point broke down into a sobbing pile of mush...... I just remember my mom looking at me like she was going to have to haul me off to the looney bin. But ya gotta admit, Andy Gibb was pretty darn hot! And when he took his shirt off.... well, that's about where the looney bin came into play. I did keep my composure last night though. No screaming or tears. I was very proud of myself.......... so was my mom.

Selena put on a great show. She's very talented and very sweet. But, I mostly enjoyed watching her bass guitarist, Joey Clement. He has this fire red hair complete with matching guitar. And, he loves whippin' that hair around. It was AWESOME!!! So, I just had to share some pics I took last night. I know.... you wish you were there with me, singing along to "I love you like a love song, baby....."

"Peace out....."

The Other Side of Me

2011-08-29T03:31:00.000-07:00

Hiding behind my camera is one of the things I do best. I'm not real fond of having my picture taken, so there aren't a lot of them laying around. Since I'm quickly approaching that "spot-on" mid-forty mark, I thought I better get on the other side of the camera before the sagging starts! (Or maybe I'm already there, but nobody has told me yet!)

Honestly, I had a REALLY hard time leaving my thirties. My fortieth birthday was a really hard one for me. But what I have found is that at age 44, for the first time in my life, I am the most comfortable I have ever been with being me. I feel good about myself and the person I have become. I'm happy with what I've accomplished in my life and where I am today. So, while I was really depressed about turning forty, I'd have to say that the forties have been my best years so far. They say the forties are the new twenties.......I'd have to agree. The 50's??? I say, "Bring it!"

Love........

2011-07-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

"Success is waking up in the morning and bounding out of bed because there's something out there that you love to do, that you believe in, that you're good at - something that's bigger than you are, and you can hardly wait to get at it again."

What is it that you love to do? Or maybe it's not a "something", but a "someone"................

The Seattle Mariners!!

2011-07-03T19:32:00.000-07:00

Have I said that I LOVE BASEBALL????!!!! We decided to spend a beautiful Seattle evening at the Mariners' game last night. I was most excited to go watch Dustin Ackley play!!!! to find out that he was spending another game on the bench because of a minor injury. He is my FAV Mariner, so I was very sad.... (can I get an "Awwwwwwww!!!") I pouted the whole game and my hubby just laughed at me and said I was worse than a kid! But, I guess that means we'll have to go to another game....or two, darn it! Fister did an amazing job pitching for us and ended up pitching a complete game! The shot below of his pitching stats was taken right after he threw his very last pitch of the game! He did face one batter that should've had a 2-2 count on him, but there was a mistake on the count and they had him at a 3-2 count and the next ball resulted in a walk on an actual 3-2 count, and a walk against Fister. It was the only walk Fister had all night and that batter scored the only score of the game. Might have been a different ball game if the mistake had not been made... They need Kelly Baxter to sit in the dugout and scorekeep for them! HA! Of course, with all those ballplayers around me, I would probably be a little distracted........... Hope you are all enjoying your 4th of July weekend! Play safe!!!

52 Fridays, Week 24: "Growth"

2011-06-27T22:35:00.000-07:00

When I was trying to decide what to do for this week's theme, I knew the perfect thing! A couple of years ago, I had gotten this really creative kit from a marketing/branding/design firm called "think2a". I've been holding on to it and often read it for inspiration. I think it's just the ticket for cultivating and growing your dreams..........

52 Fridays, Week 23: "Looking In"

2011-06-15T22:22:00.000-07:00

"I won't be happy until we have every boy in America between the ages of six and sixteen wearing a glove and swinging a bat." -Babe Ruth

Now head over to Hannah Mayo/West Palm Beach FL Lifestyle Portrait Photographer to see her take on this week's theme!

52 Fridays, Week 22: "Simplicity"

2011-06-09T23:44:00.000-07:00

Just thinking how this one simple dandelion only needs a breeze to spread its seeds and create an abundance of new life............

Head on over to Krista Keller/Bay Area Photographer to see her beautiful 'Simplicity' images!!

52 Fridays, Week 21: "Abstract"

2011-06-06T23:24:00.000-07:00

I am playing catch-up this week, so this is last Friday's post. I didn't make it in the loop with the other gals, but I still wanted to challenge myself and get out there and try some abstract photography......... I've never tried this type of photography before, and I must say I had just a little bit of fun as it stretched my creativity. Hope you enjoy.........

52 Fridays, Week 20: "Flowers"

2011-05-26T15:02:00.000-07:00

This week's theme of "flowers" was an easy one for me..... Every year I wait for the Cherry Blossoms to show their pretty pink flowers! They line the streets with their cotton candy color as if to say, "It is now officially Spring!" They seem to always know how to put a smile on my face...........

Now click on over to Krista Keller/Bay Area Photographer to see her take on this week's theme!

52 Fridays, Week 18: "Water"

2011-05-13T11:01:00.000-07:00

This week's theme of water was tough! I really wanted to do something creative, but just didn't have the time. I had taken this shot of this water fountain at a wedding I did a couple of years ago and it is still one of my favorite pictures. It was taken at dusk and the lighting on it made the water sparkle........ it was really beautiful. Hope you all have a happy Friday!!!

Now head over to Hannah Mayo/West Palm Beach FL Lifestyle Portrait Photographer to see her take on this week's theme!

Childhood......

2011-05-09T22:46:00.000-07:00

My family came to my son's baseball game tonight.. I heard my niece yelling, "This is the BEST DAY EVER!!!!" from behind me. When I turned around, I saw this! What I love about little ones is that they find fun in the simplest things in life and they don't seem to have a care in the world. They just live in the moment. As adults who get caught up in the busyness of this world, I think we can learn from them. I think we should all take a few minutes of every day to just breathe and find something to do that makes us laugh and smile! I'm starting tomorrow...... how about you?

Seth/Class of 2011

2011-05-06T16:09:00.000-07:00

What can I say about Seth.......... He and his family are special friends of ours, so I've known him since day one of his life. He is and has always been an amazing person! I just can't believe he's eighteen and graduating from highschool! The time has flown by! After being homeschooled for 3 years, he's been attending Running Start at Highline where he will be graduating from highschool and receiving his AA Degree in June. Then he's made the decision to attend Capernwray Harbour Bible School in British Columbia next year and will most likely be attending CWU after that. I know his parents are very proud of him and so are we!

Seth is also by far one of the coolest teens I know because he bought a sweeeeeet '65 Stang which I know he's going to hand to me when he's tired of it! HA!

52 Fridays, Week 17: "Rainbow"

2011-05-05T21:54:00.000-07:00

I don't think I need to say anything........ Hopefully it speaks for itself!

Head on over to Krista Keller/Bay Area Photographer to see how she interpreted this week's theme!

52 Fridays, Week 16: "Mother Earth"

2011-04-28T19:49:00.000-07:00

This week's theme is "Mother Earth". I grew up in the Puget Sound area of Washington State and while I complain about the rain we can get (and it's been a lot lately), I actually feel very fortunate to live in an area that has a pretty mild climate. We have it pretty easy here compared to others who have been dealing with all the natural disasters that have been happening lately. My heart goes out to the people whose lives have been shattered by the hurricanes, earthquakes, and last night - tornadoes. I just can't even imagine what these people have gone through, losing their homes and loved ones. So, I will quit complaining about the rain and enjoy each day as a blessing - because each one really is. From where I live, I can step outside and not only see the Puget Sound, but I can smell the salt water and hear the jet skis on summer days. Then on the other side of town, I can see this majestic view of Mt. Rainier. I don't know where else I could live and have water on one side of me, the mountains on the other, and be a drive away to the countryside. It's really a beautiful place to be and I can't imagine living anywhere else.

Now head on over to Hannah Mayo/West Palm Beach FL Lifestyle Portrait Photographer to see her take on this week's theme!

Cool!

2011-04-27T00:57:00.000-07:00

This baseball season, I am our team's scorekeeper.... which means that I am benched for games and unable to take pictures and it's KILLING ME! Actually, I am loving doing the scorekeeping. It's really fun! But, I am missing the camera. So, my hubby is trying to grab some shots for me at the games. This is one he took on Saturday that I love! I played around in photoshop and love this as a black & white! Just thought it was a cool shot to share! I'm teaching my husband how to do the scorekeeping so hopefully I can get off the bench for a couple of games to catch some action shots! Missing you D90! xoxoxoxoxoxo

52 Fridays, Week15: "Time of Day"

2011-04-21T23:34:00.000-07:00

I'm back after missing last week's "52 Fridays".... Life has been a little crazy lately!!

This week's theme is 'Time of Day' and I decided to go with my 'favorite' time of the day which is baseball time!!! I LOVE baseball! My son is in his fourth season of baseball and enjoys every second of it. He'd practice and play every day if he could. But, sometimes I think I love it even more than he does! While I always love watching his games, I think I like to watch his practices even more. It's in those 2 hour practices that I've gotten to really watch him progress over the years. He has come such a long way and it's been fun for me not to miss a single moment of it. This is his last year of Little League...... while I'm excited for his new adventure in Juniors, I'm also sad to be leaving behind a few teammates and the BEST coach ever! I can already feel the bawlfest that's going to come at the end of this season!

This week, head on over the Krista Keller/Bay Area Photographer to check out her take on the theme! Have a great weekend!

52 Fridays, Week 13: "Black & White"

2011-04-07T19:32:00.000-07:00

This week's theme is my favorite so far because I am black & white crazy! There really are no words to describe my love affair with black & white......really. To me, it's timeless..... it can be gritty...... it's romantic..... it can change the whole feeling of a photo. At times I have thought about being strictly a black & white photographer. (But, I know there are times when color serves its purpose.) I have realized my obsession for black & white started long before my photography. You see, I draw. But, guess what....... I only draw in pencil! I have never liked adding color to my pictures..... Only shades of black, grey and white. My passion for drawing really started in my early teens. I chose to share this picture with you because it has a story behind it. I drew it when I was a sophomore in high school. And yes, I know it's Frankenstein and you might be thinking "CREEPY!", but I chose this particular picture because there are really no lines in it - it's mostly drawn by shading; and I was attracted to the deep shadows and grittiness of it, not so much the subject. When I finished, I decided to hand it in for a project in my drawing class. Well, the day I took it in, I handed it to my teacher and told her it was my project. She just smiled and handed it back to me and said, "Yeah, right." I handed it back to her again and said, "No, really, this IS my drawing and I'm handing it in as my project." She gave me a look I didn't care for that said I was a liar, handed it back to me, and said that she didn't believe that I drew it and accused me of trying to turn in someone else's work. So, I took it back and was totally deflated and hurt. Looking back, I should've told my mom (who watched me draw it), and had her call the teacher to let her know she was wrong! But I didn't. I just tucked it away. Now I think of her rejection as a huge compliment because she thought my picture was too good to be drawn by a 16 yr. old. So today, I say, "Thank you Mrs. Frink!"

This week, I am sending you off to Hannah Mayo /West Palm Beach Lifestyle Portrait Photographer! Our group is mixin' things up a bit! So, be sure to visit Hannah's b&w shot and then continue on through the rest of the group! Have a great weekend!

52 Fridays, Week 12: "Food"

2011-03-31T18:40:00.000-07:00

If you're ever in Seattle, I HIGHLY recommend stopping at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory! Even if you don't go in, just stop and take a look in the window at all the amazing different caramel apples. They are beautiful! Then I dare ya not to go in!

Now go take a peek at what Shea Parker/Clinton Mississippi Child Photographer has waiting for you!

[FRAMED]

2011-03-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

Okay all you photogs......... have you heard about [FRAMED]??? If you haven't, you need to know about it! TRUST ME! It IS addicting! Here's a little intro from their site:

"Lets be real. Photography is addicting. It’s an intoxicating craftiness that truly has limitless potential for those that crave the art. It is in its own world of ever-changing possibilities and is constantly evolving. With that being said, we decided to create a show. A free, weekly broadcast that captivates as well as educates. Every week we will bring different photographic talents to you that will share a piece of their wisdom, their work, their process, and their art.

[FRAMED] will take you on location to local, national, and internationally known photographers for the purpose of bringing a behind-the-scenes view of photography to your computer. All we ask of you is to share, participate and jump on the train of inspirational photography education to inspire you to be unique. Be careful, you might get addicted."

I have tuned in from day one and have been sooooo... inspired by the amazing, creative photographers that have been featured! And to add to the fun, they have weekly giveaways! This week they are giving away a Red Leaf Studios' online workshop!!! Entrants must post a photo on their blog that "tells a story". So, this is mine. I think I'll let you interpret the story for yourself. If you want to leave your version of "the story" in the comments, I would LOVE to hear how you see it...........

If you haven't already, make sure you go and check out [FRAMED], and be sure to become a fan on Facebook and Twitter.

52 Fridays, Week 11: "Close-Up"

2011-03-24T21:39:00.000-07:00

I missed joining in with our group last week, but life has been just a little bit crazy! But, I'm back this week and excited to be here! While I was trying to think of a "close-up" shot I wanted to do, the only thing that kept coming to mind was Spring and finding any little sign of it here in Seattle. I am sooooo tired of being cold! They say that Robins are the first sign of Spring and they were all over our yard today. So, I grabbed my camera, determined to chase one down! Well, I found out they don't really like that. So, next I tried pretending I was a statue, hoping they'd come right up to me! That didn't work so well either! (Smart little buggers!) Then I came around the corner and caught this little guy by surprise! I had about 2 seconds to snag the shot and then he was gone! Lucky me - I got it! His belly feathers look a little ruffled - he didn't take his eye off of me for one second! Then of course, I had to find ONE flower in our yard! That was it! ONE! Come on sunshine! I'm waiting! (P.S. Forecast calls for rain for the next 10 days straight! UGH!)

Make your way through our group by next visiting Shea Parker/Clinton Mississippi Child Photographer. Can't wait to see all the "close-up" shots!

52 Fridays, Week 10: "Vintage"

2011-03-22T23:07:00.000-07:00

I am a little late getting last Friday's post up..... so I didn't get into the loop this time with the other photographers, but I still had to get my post in!! For vintage this week, I pulled out The Oregonian, dated August 15, 1945, announcing the ending of WWII. I figured it was plenty vintage! It's really fascinating to look at all the different headlines and stories that are featured in it. I can't even believe we have this! We also have the April 12th, 1945 Orgonian announcing Roosevelt's death and Vice President Truman's oath into office. I tried to highlight a couple of the stories for you. On the front page is a picture of the celebration in NY Times Square! Enjoy.......

52 Fridays, Week 9: "Texture"

2011-03-09T22:28:00.000-08:00

This week's theme was a favorite for me. I chose this photo because I love everything about this photo. I love the lighting, the subject, the location, and the natural textures. This is probably one of my most favorite images I've taken yet. It just has a special place in my heart.

Continue through the circle by checking out Shea Parker/Clinton Mississippi Child Photgrapher for her take on the theme!

52 Fridays, Week 8: "Books"

2011-03-04T02:04:00.000-08:00

It's Friday again! This has really become a fun project for me. It's challenging and something I'm doing to help me grow in my photography. Thanks to the girls on the Bloom Forum for letting me join their group!

This week's theme of books was really easy for me. My husband has all these old books!!! We even have a set of encyclopedias from 1902! But this book is my favorite, for so many reasons! It's my father-in-law's record of his time in WWII. It's b&w photography! It's old!! (Can you tell I LOVE LOVE old, vintage things?) It's history! - and not just history you find in a textbook - but someone close to us who lived it! My husband will forever have the memory of what life was like for his dad during the war through his dad's eyes. And what a gift for our son to be able to have that part of history in his own home. My father-in-law did a pretty good job of writing on the back of most of the pictures... so I shared what he wrote with you and some of my favorite pictures. I wish you could see all of them - they are amazing! The first picture is the book with the jacket my father-in-law wore as part of his uniform in WWII. Hmmmm... I'm thinkin' vintage photoshoot with someone in that jacket! That may be on the docket for later! Hope you enjoy..........

Okay, now click on over to Shea Parker/Clinton Mississippi Child Photographer to see her take on "books". Then follow the link on her blog and keep going until you end up back at me.....

52 Fridays, Week 7: "New/Beginnings"

2011-02-23T20:32:00.000-08:00

It's Friday again! For this week's theme, I chose to focus on something new. Just thought I'd show y'all my new ring! Thought it would be a fun share for all you girlie photogs! It's my camera that I wear on my finger. And of course, it's a Nikon! Naawwww... just kidding! I got it at my most favorite online shop ever!! - Ruche. I LOVE LOVE LOVE their vintage-style clothes and accessories! And when I saw this ring, well.. it was a must-have! It's pewter and has a rhinestone in place of the lens! If you must have one for yourself, it is currently sold out, but here's a little hint: keep checking their "Back in Stock!" section and I'll bet it'll show up there again. But, items that are popular sell out QUICK! So keep a good watch if you want to snag one!

UPDATE: It's back in stock!!!

Okay, now go peek to see what Shea Parker/Clinton Mississippi Child Photographer has in store for ya!!

52 Fridays, Week 6: "Love"

2011-02-17T20:00:00.000-08:00

I had a few different ideas for this week's theme of "love"... but, the weather in Seattle didn't cooperate!!! So, had to go to a plan "B". After playing with a few indoor ideas, I got frustrated and ready to give up! I turned around to pack up my gear and found this "love note" left by my son on the table. He's always doing little things like that! The cards I get from him are the best. He tries to go for the "cry factor" and it works every time! There's lots of ways to say I love you, and I don't think you can say it enough to the ones you love. And for me, I love it when it is said in little notes that I find around the house. They are little surprises that make my day! Oh, by the way, have I said that I'm the luckiest mom in the world? No, really..... I am!

Head on over to see what Shea Parker/Clinton Mississippi Child Photographer did for love!

52 Fridays, Week 5: "Motion"

2011-02-11T00:04:00.000-08:00

This week our topic was "motion". I had just a little too much fun playing this time!! I had lots of ideas, but ran out of time to do them all by today! So, these are my favs for this week.....

This is water dripping out of my kitchen faucet.....

And I saw this train shot totally different in my head, but it turned out better than what I had envisioned!

Now go check out what Shea Parker/Clinton Mississippi Child Photographer did for motion - too cute!!

Aubrey - Senior 2011

2011-02-08T15:23:00.000-08:00

I got to meet up with Aubrey this weekend to take a few yearbook shots! I'll just say this...... WOW! Cannot wait to do her full senior session!

Store of Hope

2011-02-07T01:11:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, I visited the Store of Hope down at Kent Station. The Store of Hope was donated to the King County Animal Care & Control by the nice folks at Kent Station. Every Saturday and Wednesday afternoons, KCACC brings some of the adoptable cats and dogs down to the store where people can spend a pleasant afternoon mingling with the animals.

If you are interested in any of the animals on my blog, you'll need the number I reference for each one of them. You may reach the shelter at 206.296.PETS.

The is Barney (#A055606). He is a 2 year old, Clumber Spaniel mix. If you are looking for a big teddy bear, he is your man! He is sooooo..... cute! He wasn't too into the whole posing for pictures thing, so this is it for him!

And then we have Fred (#A055698). His is a 2 year old Basenji mix. This dog had me at hello! Fred is so happy and so full of life! He greeted everyone that came in the door with a smile on his face. But what really tugged at my heart strings was when I watched him hug the shelter sergeant. He has such a big heart! And then there were the ears! Those ears... My husband and I were smitten. Both of us wanted to take him home. If we could, I would go pick him up yesterday! He was a little more up for posing for me, so I took advantage of it!

Is he NOT the cutest thing ever!? Hey! I just had a birthday! I wouldn't be too upset if someone gave him to me for a belated birthday present! Any takers?? Anyone?

52 Fridays, Week 4: "Signs"

2011-02-03T23:51:00.000-08:00

This week, our theme was signs......... While winter is still all around us, these daffodils are always our first sign that Spring is right around the corner. As they find their way above ground through the piles of dead leaves, they are a sign of life and warm days to come. My husband's father planted these daffodils when my husband was in highschool. He lost his dad a year before I met him, so I never got to meet my father-in-law. But it sounds like he was a great man and father! So, every year at this time, my husband gets to look outside our kitchen door at the gift his dad left for him.........a memory he will always cherish.

Now, head on over to Shea's Parker's blog and check out her adorable "signs" photos!

LOVE!

2011-02-03T11:36:00.000-08:00

My favorite from a mini session I did yesterday.........

52 Fridays, Week 3: "Warmth"

2011-01-28T00:35:00.000-08:00

Okay, these are going to be a little more challenging than I thought they would be! They are forcing me to really think outside the box! I really had a hard time with this week's theme since it's the MIDDLE OF WINTER! and FREEZING outside! And the only warmth happenin' inside our house are the fevers of 102+ that we've been running for the past 4 months!!

So, I'm down to the wire on coming up with SOMETHING! ANYTHING! and I walked into my son's room to get something and there was my picture, laying on his bed! We adopted Marbles a few years ago... She was a stray with a litter of kittens and she was really underweight and malnourished when they found her from not being fed and having hungry babies... She very quickly bonded with me and is my little shadow. She follows me everywhere... all day! If she wakes up before I do, she sits in my bedroom door and won't go downstairs until I'm up and joining her.. She waits for me to go to the kitchen to have breakfast together. She sleeps with me and likes to be spooned........NOT KIDDING! She truly is the sunshine in our family and warms our hearts with the love she gives us every day.

Okay, now hop on over to Shea's blog and check out her Friday shot! And at the end of her post will be the link to Lisa's blog, and so on..... Have fun looking!

New Adventure!

2011-01-26T22:37:00.000-08:00

I am really excited about a new project I am doing called "52 Fridays". I am hooked up with a group of photographers from all over the world who have come up with a list of themes or ideas for each week of the year. I will post each week's photo on Friday with a link to the next photographer in the group. Then her blog will have the link to the next photographer, and so on... If you continue to click on each link under each picture, you should see all the other pictures in our group and eventually make it back to my blog. There is some amazing talent in this group! You will want to tune in every Friday to check them out!

So, I am a little late joining in and missed the first weeks' assignment.....which I was asked to do............. a self-portrait............ darn! I can't even tell you how much I do NOT like being on the other end of the camera! But, I guess it helped me to understand what my clients go through so maybe I can be a better director and help them to feel more at ease when they are having their portraits taken. So, with a little help from my son with the shutter, and without further ado...... (no laughing allowed!)...........

Now, head on over to Shea Parker's blog to see her beautiful self-portrait......feel free to leave her a little love!

Adopt Me PLEEEEEEEEASE!!!!

2011-01-07T23:33:00.000-08:00

It's a new year!!! I've had some time off to relax and spend the holidays with my family! I've been thinking about my photography and where I want to take it this year. One of the things I've wanted to do is volunteer regularly at an animal shelter to take pictures of the animals that need a good home. I want to do my part to try to ensure happy endings for these amazing animals that just want to be loved. Have you seen the ASPCA commercials?? Yeah, well I can't get through one of those without bawling! So, this effort has been pulling at my heartstrings for quite awhile now. So, today, I popped down to the King County Animal Care and Control shelter and signed up to volunteer as a photographer for them. And, of course, I brought my camera... ready to start! So, I started with cats today! I almost went home with 10, but knew my kitty waiting for me at home would not approve!

So, these cats are up for adoption. If you are interested in fulfilling one of their dreams, you'll need the number I reference for each one of them. You may reach the shelter at 206.296.PETS. I didn't know this, but they have a shop down at Kent Station called the "Store of Hope" where you can meet pets that need a home on Saturdays and Wednesdays. So, on to today's adoptables..........

This is Lady Bug (#A051521). She is about 2 months old and wants out from behind her bars VERY BADLY! She just wants to be set free!!! Someone has got to get down there and get her NOW! She is BEGGING for it and would make the sweetest family member!

This is Atticus (#A051660). He is very friendly and loveable!

This dolly was adopted while we were there! But I just had to put her picture on because she did such a good job posing!

This is Rosalina (#A05160). She's a sweety!

This is Zelda (#A051309).

This is Pumpkin (#A051940). Very loveable!

This is Cookie (#A051638). I didn't think I was going to be able to get a good picture of her. She was soooooo.... busy petting herself on anything she could rub against, I couldn't get her to hold still! But, I got one!

This is Cherokee (#A051513). She's beautiful!

And here's Lady Bug again (#A051521)..... out of her cage where she is in her happy place. Look at that face!!! Don't you just want to run and get her RIGHT NOW!?

*For all you photogs - because I didn't want to use flash, these were all shot with an ISO of 1600 on my ROCKIN' Nikon D90! LOVE my camera!!!

Happy Fall!!!!

2010-10-25T23:02:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a safe Halloween..........

Benefit Auction

2010-10-21T12:05:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate to be able to donate a photography package to the auction that was held for the families of the 4 Lakewood police officers that were shot and killed last November. This generous family donated and won a few different items, including pictures with me. And I'll tell ya, these guys had me at hello! They won my heart from the second I met them! They reminded me why I do what I do!

It's All in the Family!

2010-10-10T00:14:00.000-07:00

Can I just tell you how much I LOVE what I do!!! I can't believe I get to do something that is so much fun! These girls hold a special place in my heart. I grew up with their mama - she's basically my sister, without all the "belonging to the same family" stuff - but what does that matter.....across the street is close enough to be in the same family! So, these girls are kinda my nieces. They are both truly amazing girls.....er, um teens! They have the kindest hearts and are really a joy to be around. And I get to be their photographer! How lucky am I! And this location was AWESOME! Everything I've been looking for - tall grass, old red barn, old pick-up truck, old little school bus.... they even had an old-fashioned fire engine! I was in vintage heaven!! The owners were kind enough to let us invade their property for our fall shoot. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I'll be back to take pictures of Scooby!

Tots Illustrated Bathing Suit Issue

2010-08-31T19:22:00.000-07:00

My niece turned three this summer and wanted to do a bathing suit photoshoot! I think she only has about 10 different bathing suits! So, here she is, doin' her thang..... Watch out Sports Illustrated models!

Then we moved outside for a couple of shots.........

Featured in Rangefinder Magazine!!

2010-08-30T00:24:00.000-07:00

I am totally honored to be featured in the August issue of Rangefinder Magazine. Rangefinder is a premier monthly magazine for professional photographers. I can't wait to get my issue every month in the mail! I sit and read it cover to cover as soon as I get it in the house! It's full of inspiration and amazingly talented photographers. So, when I was told they were going to do a feature story on me for this month's issue, I about fell out of my chair....... and then I called my husband and asked if he was sitting down!

You are welcome to read the article here. (It's now in the archives, so to read it, just find my name in the list on the left-hand side on their website.) Bill Hurter is the editor of Rangefinder Magazine and has published some great books on photography that I have read and re-read. He is who I have to thank. Thank you, Bill!!

Jack!

2010-08-29T23:39:00.001-07:00

This is my ADORABLE nephew, Jack! I had a blast taking his pictures. He was bringin' it BIG TIME! He's taking guitar lessons and is already crankin' out Cream's "Sunshine of Your Love". He has the most amazing green eyes and I love his long curly blonde hair! A very fun subject! Oh! And someone just happened to graffiti the name "jack" on a post that I didn't even notice until I was editing his pictures. So, his name is in one of his shots! I know he is anxiously awaiting to see these - here ya go, buddy!

Kayla's Bridals

2010-08-07T14:27:00.000-07:00

Kayla just celebrated her 2-year anniversary! And two years after her wedding day, she decided to put her dress on again for a bridal session. How fun!!! I loved the idea! Who says we have to box up our dresses and put them away forever after our wedding day is over! You go girl! She is absolutedly beautiful, and I love her dress! Happy Anniversary Kayla!

Sarah & Adam's Engagement Session

2010-07-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

When Sarah called and asked me if I'd be interested in doing their engagement session, I said, "YES!" of course! Then she told me their idea.............. Adam is a Surface Warfare Officer for the U.S. Navy and they just brought back the old uniforms from the 60's. In fact, he now wears his father's uniform that he wore when he served in the Navy in 1962 (the Vietnam era). How cool is that!? So, they were thinking a retro engagement session with his father's/his uniform and her flight attendent uniform!!!! My little brain went, "Did she just say retro!!!??? Oh my gosh! My most FAVORITE kind of session eva!!" So, a little lightbulb went off in my head and I asked her if they were up for driving 2 hours to Fort Worden to do them!!??? And guess what she said, "YES!" Fort Worden is where they filmed "Officer and a Gentlemen". Perfect location? Oh yeah! And did we have fun! They were up for anything I wanted them to do!

Did I mention they were up for anything??? I asked them if they wanted to try this shot from the April issue of "W" Magazine with Jennifer Aniston and Gerard Butler, photographed by the amazing Steven Klein......... They rocked this shot! Rawr!

Travis and Mariah - Port Gamble, WA

2010-07-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of shooting my niece's wedding. They got married up in beautiful Port Gamble on the Olympic Peninsula. The weather started out sunny and warm and we crossed our fingers that it would stay that way. As soon as they started seating people..........drip, drip, drop! And by the time the ceremony started, it was pouring! But, somehow the rain made it magical! They decided it was tears of joy from the loved ones that were watching from above. Congratulations Mariah and Travis!!!

One thing I love most about Mariah and Travis is that they are always joking and laughing together! And their wedding day was no different. Here's a few outtakes!

E Session........

2010-07-07T17:48:00.000-07:00

Love this guy and love the location!!! Very fun!!!

Tara Staton Workshop

2010-07-02T01:22:00.000-07:00

Last week, I had the pleasure of attending a Tara Staton Photography Workshop. Tara opened up her home to 8 of us who all gathered to soak up her wisdom. It was my first workshop, so I didn't really know what to expect. I was very impressed with her! She just moved to Sequim a year ago and has already built up quite the business there. Not surprising with her stunning images. Tara had 2 - 3 hours of classroom time each day for us, and the rest of our time was spent out on photoshoots with kids, brides and teens. She arranged 5 on-location photoshoots for us over a 3-day period. What impressed me the most, is that she didn't set up poses for all of us to take turns shooting..... She said we wouldn't learn to do it ourselves that way. Instead, she had 2 to 3 photographers to one model and made us go off and set our own shots up. Then, she'd walk around and answer questions, give us tips, and demonstrate different ways to use the lighting we had. It was fun to hang with other photographers, and I found that I was among a talented group of ladies! Here are some of the images I took during the workshop:

We started with kids.......

then an evening bridal session..............

the next evening was teens.............

and then ended with kids in Port Angeles.......

Fashion Camp!!!!

2010-06-21T23:39:00.000-07:00

For you senior girls that are graduating in 2011, Rosaline Hampton is having a "Fashion Camp" this summer!!! What is "Fashion Camp", you ask?? First, here's a little information about Rosaline from her website....

"Rosaline Hampton is an established celebrity stylist, makeup artist and image consultant. She invested the first four years of her career developing a solid foundation in her craft while pursuing an elite education at the International School of Protocol and Cosmetology. After graduating with honors, she landed a prestigious apprenticeship with Master Stylist Justin Monroe at the Salon Syndicate in Los Angeles.

Through her education and vast experience in working with celebrities, photo shoots, runway shows and the like, Rosaline is recognized as an expert in a wide array of stunning hair styles, flawless makeup application and innovative wardrobe styling. She believes in building strong relationships with her clients by cultivating an attractive, polished image that resonates with their inner beauty. "

So, she has put together this week-long camp for girls entering 8th through 12th grades to learn about fashion and style from the very best in the industry. Monday is about hair, Tuesday is wardrobe, Wednesday is make-up, Thursday is accessories, and Friday is graduation with model coaching and a runway show! OOOOH, I wish I was young again and could do this! It sounds like SO MUCH FUN!!! To check out her website for more information and the full agenda, visit here!

I Feel the Need.........

2010-06-16T01:57:00.000-07:00

Look at these totally cute aprons from Anthropologie! LOVE THEM! I think I need one for each day of the week! Check them out here.......

A Few More.......

2010-06-06T23:26:00.000-07:00

I just finished up Ryan's senior pics and wanted to share a few more of my favorites..........

Port Ludlow

2010-06-01T18:58:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my niece got married up on the Olympic Peninsula in beautiful Washington State! We stayed at the "Inn at Port Ludlow". This is the view we drove up to Friday night.....

and this was the view from one of the rooms..........

If you've never traveled to that part of Washington State, I highly recommend it! It's breathtaking!

Toree - Senior 2010

2010-05-27T18:44:00.000-07:00

I had a LOT of fun with Toree! She's such a beautiful girl, both inside and out. And those eyes........WOW! She sure made my job easy! She is headed off to WASU this fall - go COUGS! A girl after my own heart! I know she is going to do great things with her life!

Ryan - Senior 2010

2010-05-13T20:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have to tell you about Ryan's senior session. I have been wanting to take someone down to this old mill I found. There are "no trespassing" signs up everywhere at the mill, so I went down and talked to the owner and he gave me permission to do a photoshoot down there. I was SO excited! And I knew Ryan was the perfect fit!!! So, we get down there and start walking around to find that it is the STINKIEST place EVER!!! It's an old feed mill, so I don't know what the stench was, but it was awful! And boy, do I mean AWFUL! I almost threw up at one point, and I don't throw up! Those words are not even in my vocabulary. It was so bad, we couldn't help but laugh about his senior pictures experience. But, he was a trooper and never tried to make a run for it. I know I would have! I thought about it!

My family has gotten to know Ryan over the past 9 months or so, through baseball. He is the nicest person! And he is an amazing baseball player. He has a couple of colleges after him for his baseball talents, and I know that whichever one he chooses will be lucky to have him. Be watching for him! I know someday you will see him in the major leagues..........

Alex, Senior 2010

2010-05-07T03:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, this girl's eyes are to die for! And those freckles - LOVE THEM! Alex wanted to do her senior pictures with her horse. What a treat for me! I love horses. He was beautiful and did such a great job doing what we asked of him. Alex did too, of course. I really had a lot of fun with her - she's smart and knows what she wants to do in life and has her game plan on. Thank you for sharing this part of your life with me!

Sports Spectator

2010-04-21T12:33:00.000-07:00

My favorite kind of baseball fan! At Monday's game, we had 3 Boston Terriers and they were sooooo..... cute! Last night, it was this little guy! LOVE the outfit! It's so in this season!

Alexis, Senior 2010

2010-04-19T22:59:00.000-07:00

I got to spend an afternoon with this beautiful senior. She's sweet, funny, and has such a bubbly personality. She's someone you just want to be around because she rubs off on you and you can't help but be in a good mood. Right now her thoughts are law school - can't wait to see what her future holds for her!

Easter

2010-04-04T13:21:00.000-07:00

He is alive! "In just a little while the world will not see me again, but you will. For I will live again, and you will too. When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you." (John 14:19-20) Happy Easter!

Fun Times Two!

2010-03-25T13:17:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with these two kiddos! Boy, did they make my job easy! Future models? Oh, yeah!

Jake!!!

2010-03-21T13:29:00.000-07:00

This is my little friend, Jake. He is the sweetest thing ever! I fell in love with him when our friends first brought him home as a puppy. He's still a puppy, just a little bigger! He hangs out with us at baseball and so badly wants to go play with the kids on the field! Just look at that cute little face..........

Mr. Brown Eyes

2010-03-14T23:28:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of photographing my friend and her son. She is a single mom and does an amazing job holding her own while being the best mom ever! Our children are such a gift! And you can truly see how much she loves and treasures hers.

Having More Fun.....

2010-03-13T00:39:00.000-08:00

Love the contrast, textures and lighting in this one. McKenna was a trooper, letting me try this shot with her.

Senior 2010

2010-03-12T19:14:00.000-08:00

She's back!!! You may remember McKenna from her "cowgirl" photoshoot. There just really are no words that describe how amazing and talented this girl is. It was an honor to get to shoot her senior portraits. We went out to an old abandoned gas station, complete with peeling paint and she rocked her session! It was just way too much fun! Thank you McKenna!

Miss "H"!

2010-03-12T17:32:00.000-08:00

My beautiful niece let me snag a few shots of her. I can't get over how quickly she is growing up! She's an amazing person and I'm proud to be her Auntie!