Family of 4+1+perfect setting= Estatic Photographer

This was such a beautiful family.  The weather was questionable so we "played it by ear."  The weather cleared and since the mommy was very close to her due date we decided to take the pictures at their house.  Little did I know they had a perfect little brook in their back yard. 

Spring is in the air!

Imagine a perfect March afternoon where everything is bursting into bloom. Now throw in this beautiful family in front of my camera and I was in heaven. We had so much fun together. This was my first time shooting at Shasta Historic park. To me it is a perfect blend of nature and history.

Full Circle

 When I decided to start building my portfolio, I knew immediately that I wanted to experiment with maternity pictures being that is when I first discovered great photography.  Even though this shoot was totally out of my element being indoor photography, it made me realize I truly have a passion for maternity portraiture.  Thanks Jenae for being incredible patient and giving the nudge I needed to start this venture.  Doesn't she look amazing and this is her third pregnancy.  Jenae's family session coming soon....

The Faith Takers

This was my first ever shoot with non-family members.  I wanted to see if "strangers" looked great on film too (how nostalgic that I say film...when everything is digital).  I had so much fun with this couple during the shoot.  It was the first "high" I felt taking pictures.  They took a leap of faith that their afternoon with them would not be in vain.  Hopefully it paid off!  After editing these photos is when I thought:  maybe I really can do this.

The Beginning

Everything has a beginning. This is mine.  Why did I start this photography venture? My eyes were opened to 'good' photography when I was pregnant with my boy/girl twins. A photographer in the Dallas area (where I was currently living) did my maternity portraits. Yes, I did have a talented wedding photographer, but I don't think I truly appreciated the art of photography until I met Nikki. You can find her blog here. You would be insane not to hire her if you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Shortly after the twins were born, we moved to Northern California. I searched for a replacement photographer with no avail. Yes, there is talent in the area. But it came with a price I was not willing to pay. I hired one photographer (she had a great portfolio and did a decent job), but having no kids of her own wondered why my 3 month old twins could not sit up on their own (seriously). I believe you need to know your audience especially if you advertise as a baby photographer.  So I gave up and bought my own SLR camera. I have had no previous training/courses. I started taking pictures of my little munchkins Fall 2009. Wow. These pictures were great. Of course every shot did not have a flaw of my little perfections. So I decided to try to take pictures of "strangers" that would give me a chance....  This story continues in the continuing posts.  But first, why did I start this venture?  I wanted to offer people what I wanted:  great photography at an affordable price.