One for the Wall Photography

One for the Wall has....MOVED!

2010-01-15T10:28:00.000-08:00

Please join me at my new location!

www.oneforthewall.ca

Thanks for all of the good times on blogspot!

Hilary

A new year - a new little life!

2010-01-08T09:29:00.001-08:00

Happy 2010 to everyone!!
Where to even begin?! I enjoyed a wonderful Christmas break with my family - most of which we spent skiing. Now that the girls are back in school - it is full tilt to get the business ready for year TWO. The new blog has been purchased - the big reveal should happen in about two weeks. I am working on pricing and info packages for clients as well. I should be ready to hit the ground running for April 1st. I just have to stay focused. That - I am not very good at. The Bachelor is back on and I started reading Twilight. What more can I say?

I have some brave souls booked for winter family shoots - that calls for a round of starbucks hot chocolate after for sure! I actually love outdoor shooting. I started my business in the snow so my heart is always a little drawn to this season.

For the next three months I am looking to expand my newborn portfolio. Please contact me for package details at oneforthewall@rogers.com. I have some brand new baby hats that just left the US today - I am looking forward to using these!! It is best to photograph newborns in the first ten days.

And speaking of newborns and a new year! It's a BOY! I did call it on M and P's blog post. They, too, were certain it was a boy. I was just thrilled to get the e-mail that he had been born. What a pleasure it was to see him and to photograph him just before Christmas. He is absolutely precious. My sincerest congratulations to you all! (I hope you are getting some sleep too - wink wink!)

I will be pressing the rewind button soon on my blogposts to take us back to September. I have over 40 families to blog so get set! Enjoy!

A BOY!!!

Merry Christmas to all!

2009-12-23T06:58:00.000-08:00

Hello to everyone!
How is it that it is now Christmas eve day and my "to do" list is longer than it was yesterday? I couldn't leave for holidays without posting one more blog before years' end. Too much to say!
What a year it has been!!! I thought I would post a few pictures from the fall/early winter sessions that I haven't even begun to blog. I know I am missing pics from lots of fams (all my teens, moms and dads and babies!) and I will blog them - I promise!! I am looking forward to the break this winter to work on my new photo blog and to spend some time going through those wonderful memories again. These are just a glimpse of the incredibly beautiful and charming little ones that I had the opportunity to work with. I just smile when I look back at them all.
I would like to thank the over 130 families that put their faith in me in my first year of business to take their pictures and of course give you "One for the Wall". I have enjoyed every minute with all of you and I sincerely hope you have loved your images as much as I have. I appreciate the many people that take the time to read my little blog that could and take a moment to e-mail me with comments. It means a lot!

Onward and upward for 2010!!

Thanks once again to Christine of CLICK photography. If it weren't for Chris taking me under her wing - this dream would not exist. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
And to Angela Smith for all of her incredible design work and unwavering support on this journey. I have these two incredible photographers behind me - helping along the way...I could not have done this alone. I am grateful each day that I am able to work in a field that I am passionate about. I have finally found my "thing" and there is no better feeling.
I could not forget to thank my hubby and two amazing little girls. You are my world and I am grateful that you love your "tophographer" (this is what Kate calls me for those who missed that post a long time ago!) wife and mommy!

I will start up my thank you column again in January. I have a million more of them to give.
Merry Christmas to everyone and enjoy the holiday season!!
Much appreciation,
Hilary

Gift Certificates

2009-12-16T18:33:00.000-08:00

Hello to everyone!!
YES I am still here...barely!! One of my wonderful clients just messaged me this..."I have this image of you in green leotards, a Santa hat and bells on your shoes working hard in the shop". This put a big smile on my face. It's been a crazy week with print and card orders going out. But this being my first Christmas with my little business I must say that I am very excited and touched that so many people will be receiving the images I created this year with my clients. This warms my heart. I know the look on my Mom's face last weekend when she opened a storyboard of her grandchildren. There is no better feeling.
And gift certificates!!! I must say I am surprised at how many of these have gone out so I thought that I should perhaps put them on the blog. Ang put together this cute and "swanky" little gift certificate (as another one of my new clients called them when she received it!) .
Don't hesitate to call 519-404-2672 or message me at oneforthewall@rogers.com if you would like more details. I know it's getting late BUT I just started and finished my Christmas shopping today so I know there are some late shoppers.

I will be blogging more shoots very soon. Happy Shopping!

Remember September?

2009-12-06T20:41:00.000-08:00

Hello to everyone!
I will attempt to keep this short as it is way past my bedtime! I happened to be scrolling through some pictures on my computer this evening and came across this shoot from September (4 families left from September to blog and we are into October fams - hang tight!). What a stark difference from the shoot I did this morning under a sunny sky that shone on the freshly fallen snow of December! It took me back to this incredibly beautiful day in September when we met in the morning under grey skies and a light misty rain. We decided to try the shoot for later in the day and wow did we luck out! The rain dried and the sun came out and we spent two solid hours moving around locations with this beautiful (and very funny) family. Dad had a couple of shirts hanging in the car to choose from - this made me laugh. There had been some discussions that morning on what Dad should be wearing - I was to be the deciding factor. I always chuckle at the stories that come out from families at the end of shoots. Like the wrangling over what clothes to wear, shoes to put on and how the hair should be styled. Because I am behind the camera I do forget how stressful those hours leading up to a shoot can be with children. Please don't let them fall and scratch their faces!!!!! That would be the number one stress - outside of spilling chocolate milk all over their new GAP outfit ten minutes before the shoot (this didn't happen at this one though!).
However, the younger sister DID loose her tooth within hours of the shoot. Mom was hanging onto that one until we got the shoot wrapped up!
Thanks for an incredible two hours together. Your family is beautiful in to out! Happy memories when I look at these pictures.

No housekeeping this week...oh except for my "blog boards". Ugh. Somehow those got royally messed up. Still working on getting those restored. Oh the technical.....#$%@!@%@$@#$@#@!!!!!!
Enjoy!

My Fall Fur Babies!

2009-12-03T06:35:00.000-08:00

Hello to everyone!
My apologies for being so delinquent on blogging. It weighs on my mind everyday! This is my first season of fall sessions and I can honestly say I was not prepared for how incredibly busy I would be. The behind the scenes work on editing and fulfilling print and Christmas card orders (with Ang!) has had me working around the clock. I am down to the last three shoots and last 8 editing jobs on the desk. I can see the light!! That would be the Christmas tree lights and our tree with no decorations on it. I actually turn the radio dial when a Christmas song comes on. I won't allow myself to get excited for Christmas until my desk is clear. Then I can really celebrate!
Speaking of celebrations...ONE FOR THE WALL photography did celebrate it's one year anniversary on the 28th of November! My one year wrap up post is coming in the next couple of weeks. I cannot wait to share some stories and some thank yous with everyone.
Soooooo.....I was up past my bed time last night thinking about my little blog that could and my need for a proper website. I have just over 50 families that I have not blogged about. I am still working on September blogs! I have made the executive decision as the master of my own ship that I am going to post my favs from various shoots over the next few weeks but will be focusing my time and attention on loading my galleries for the new website and new blog for launch at the end of January. This was always my goal from day one - to go an entire year without a website so that I would be able to fill the galleries with numerous images. My little blog that could has served me well and I love all of you that follow it! I will continue to blog so don't stop checking back in but I will be spending the next two months working on the new site. A very proud moment that will be):

Today's post! My fur babies. I took a shot of my daughter, Claire, last winter when I first started my business in a fur hood. I cannot get over how many of my clients make comments on that shot to this day. It kind of spurred a "demand" for the fur hood shot. I thought I would share with you my fall fur baby clients (with a few of my own fur babes). Sooooo cute!

More minis!

2009-11-15T17:38:00.000-08:00

Hello to everyone!
These two little girls had to be two of the "giggliest" little girls I have ever shot. They would not stop smiling and playing with one another. What pure JOY to photograph! In order to get one shot of the most perfect smiles I did need to bribe them with a quarter. Yes - that's right - I have brought money into the equation on some occasions. But it worked like a charm! And the girls were thrilled to get their quarter at the end. And a trip to McDonald's with Mom. There are some serious perks to having your pictures taken with me!

Christmas Mini's Begin!

2009-11-15T15:12:00.001-08:00

Hello to everyone!
I have been so excited to start blogging my Christmas mini sessions! They started back in September and have been hugely successful.
This group of three was so much fun and their little puppy was adorable. He loved the camera just as much as the kiddies...well after I warmed the boys up of course!

Enjoy the mini sessions to come! Off to spend the evening editing....and eating.

More Family!

2009-11-14T07:38:00.000-08:00

Hello to everyone!
Today is November the 14th. A momentous in my life. A year ago today I left my job as Territory Manager for Labatt Breweries after eight and a half years. I have a long note in the works (surprise) that will look back over the last year. I will post that in early December once I get some time to finish it. It was a big decision to make a life change into the unknown but it was by far the right thing for our family. So when I dress in jeans and my rubber boots to go to "work" - it is a far cry from my polyester black pant and high heeled boot days. I loved my time in the world of "pop" sales - as my girls would say but I have truly found my life's passion. Photographing children.

So, this is another branch to this wonderful family! Little did I know during the shoot but Mom is pregnant! How excited was I to hear that? Another little one to photograph in a few short months! This little girl is as sweet as she looks in these photos. She could not have looked cuter in her GAP dress and little knitted hat. Thanks again to you for having me out and I look forward to the arrival of baby number 2!
After the shoot the ladies and I sat around the kitchen and chatted about photography and I secretly drooled over the smell of dinner cooking in on the stove. BUT...I was sent away with brownies!! I CANNOT believe I forgot this part of the day - two of the brownies didn't make it past the first concession (lol) and the rest were sniffed out by my girls. That was a first for me! Thanks Mom C!

I am off to assist Christine Kufske of CLICK photography on this beautiful November day. This will be the sixth wedding I have assisted and her last wedding for the 2009 season!! So much to celebrate today!

Cheers to one fun afternoon!

2009-11-12T04:05:00.000-08:00

Hello to everyone!
I find early morning blogging much more satisfying and easier on the stomach and behind. No cravings for ketchup chips at 6:15 am!
I am officially two weeks out from my last fall photosession. November has been a like a surprise birthday present. The temperatures have been beautiful and rain hasn't been an issue. Thank you Mama Nature! Christmas card and print orders are in full swing so it's been a very busy week but I could not sit on the post any longer and the timing is perfect for this one.

I want to make the day of this beautiful Mom and her family. Not only is she incredibly fun and kind but she is likely one of my biggest supporters. I appreciate her very much and want to say that I am thrilled to know you are feeling better. Mom has been very ill the last week with H1N1 and pneumonia. It's been a long haul for her and her family to get each other through. All of the family has been sick to some degree and between she and her incredible husband working around the clock - they are all on the mend. I know you started your Christmas decorating yesterday! The challenges of the last few weeks will be behind you in no time! I am so happy to know you are all well again.

Where do I start with this post as you are likely wondering why those handsome men with the beer in hand are on the blog! This was one of 3 shoots I had one Sunday afternoon in September. I was a rain dodger that day - literally pulling up in rain and within minutes it would stop and we could shoot. These shoots were also in the "rural" parts of Southwestern Ontario. They are not that rural but rural enough for me. Townlines, concessions...ahhhhh!!! Where are the house numbers?!!!! I love to shoot on people's farms. The pride and history is enormous on these family farms and the opportunities for different backgrounds are endless. This was a family affair as I also photographed some of the extended family (that post to come in a couple of days). We all moved around the property in a big group. The ATV's came out, the dog roamed around and many laughs were had. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for having me out to photograph your family and little ones. SOOOOO...cheers to the handsome Dad's...and Grandpa - you are one sweet man!

Swing!

2009-11-08T14:07:00.001-08:00

Hello to everyone!
I am feeling much better (after a second small bout of that nasty bug) and so does my computer! Funny how both myself and my computer were under the weather last week. My MAC has a whole terrabite (sp?!) of space. Fancy name for a lot more memory to store your family images! No real housekeeping this week - except might I say that this momentary spike in temperatures reminds me of September!! Who knew when my clients booked their November shoots that we would have lucked out with such incredible weather! Hoping for one more week of this to take me to the end of my fall family season.

The glorious weather at this shoot (still working on September blogging) reminded me of weather like today. Warm and sunny. Sigh. I actually thought this shoot might have to be rescheduled due to rain but the sun came out just as we were arriving to our location. Mom said - "let's get this done!" It's a good thing we didn't miss this opportunity. As a photographer there are so many things I see differently about the season changes. I am not only a temperature watcher but I also pay closer attention to light and nature. I do love the flowers that come with fall. This beautiful little girl loved her time in the flowers. These images are some of my favourites from this fall. I also love it when families tell me about activities they like to do as a family and "swinging" their little girl is one of them. I am sure that this time next year her little brother will enjoy the very same ride!
Thanks to you all for a wonderful photosession!

ps- Big thanks goes out my friend, Silvia, who came to assist with me at this shoot. Silvia has a passion for photography and reminds me a lot of myself a year ago at the beginning of my journey. She is wonderful with children and has "the eye" as they say. I know she will be very successful in her photography career! I am looking forward to sharing her work with all of you in the years to come. I, personally, am forever grateful to two very talented and incredibly giving photographers (more on them later) for helping me along the way and I feel blessed to share what I have learned to other aspiring photographers. I wouldn't be where I am today without them. Can't wait to celebrate my one year anniversary in a couple of weeks and to look back on the last 12 months. Oh that will be a long post! Get out the kleenex!!

Still working on September!

2009-11-02T17:28:00.000-08:00

Hello to everyone!
I could not be any happier to be sharing my fall shoots on the blog. Is it possible these beautiful September days are already behind us? It's hard to believe that in 4 short weeks I will have my 2009 fall season wrapped up. It feels like it just begun.

Housekeeping! I am much better this week (that was a rough flu bug). However, my mental state is questionable. For those of you that read my ramblings...know that all things "technical" are not my thing. So why is it that it's always my equipment that has all the problems? I am preparing this evening to part with my MAC for 48 hours to fix the "software issues". I have cleared as much work as I can to make way for a two day hiatus. It's probably not the worst thing as it forces me to hit the sheets before 10 at night.

Two other small items...it's not too late for Christmas card orders. Please look through the cards under the September heading and you can e-mail me for information on ordering. I cannot wait to share the cards! My very dear friend and designer, Angela, has been doing an incredible job showcasing my photographs on everyone's Christmas cards. Thank you!

And don't forget the Clickin' Mom's contest!! There is still time to send me a little note as to whom you would like to give thanks for helping you get to a goal or dream of yours. I will choose the winner at the end of the month.

It is my hope that my families know how sincere I am when I make kind comments about them on the blog. I am blessed to have such a wonderful and kind clientele. This shoot was also at the University of Guelph back in mid September. This family was beautiful. This family was loving. This family adores pictures so it makes me love them even more! Thank you so much for a fun couple of hours together in the warm September sun. Enjoy and stay well everyone!

Big time laughs!

2009-10-30T10:01:00.001-07:00

Hello to everyone!
Housekeeping...my season has come to a screeching halt for a few days as I lay sick with the flu. I was so confident that I wouldn't get sick. More vitamins, more sleep, 100% job satisfaction and a pretty stress free life...but there is still no escape for me. I have always said my mind and ambition does not match the body I was born into. So for now I am able to do a blog post and reschedule some weekend shoots. I am bummed to say the least but determined to not be down for long! I have a season to finish!! And so many incredible families to blog about in the weeks to come.

Where do I start with this family? Kind, gracious, cooperative and FUN! This was another shoot from my University of Guelph day (thanks again Shannon for coming out to assist!) back in mid September. The weather was incredible and this family came with their photograph game face ON. This brother and sister team loves to laugh...don't ask what it is that really makes them laugh though. That might not be appropriate. But it works! I could not have enjoyed my time with this wonderful family more. Thanks for a super day - you made these images what they are.

Keep well everyone):

More sister love!

2009-10-22T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hello to everyone!
I am a blogging machine this week. I have had a few days to just edit and play at my computer. It's felt good to catch up in my office with orders, bookings and editing this week. I don't love being at my computer (as my growing behind will tell you) but it's a part of the photography gig. Sigh.
My little blog that could looks different today thanks to the MCP actions blog boards and my technical support team..Christine and Angela! Thanks ladies....I learned something new everyone! Time to crack open those chip bags! My goal over the winter is to take my editing skills up a notch and to find better ways of presenting the images for you to see. This is my start...
And...I have finally figured out how to add a link to my "fan" page on facebook! Feel free to join...I have really out done myself today.

More sisterly love! Photographing little girls is so much fun! Probably because it's close to my heart. I have known this family since Claire was a wee one in daycare as well. These young ladies are not only beautiful but incredibly articulate, fun and kind. We spent two hours together having fun with the camera. Mom and Dad could not have been any better to work with as well and it shows in the pictures. Thanks so much for a wonderful morning together and I am so happy you are enjoying your pictures girls!!!

DETS for the giveaway!!!
I am a proud member of Clickin Moms! It's an incredible forum for photographers of all skill levels to discuss everything from equipment to editing to posing. It's also a hot spot for vendors to showcase their designs, props, printing etc. as well. I have spent more time on their lately since I have been in my office and it is an incredible website for information and connection to other photographers.
Kendra, from Clickin Moms, has offered a one year membership giveaway (value $50). This is where my thanks and inspiration theme comes in. Just e-mail me (oneforthewall@rogers.com) a little note on who or what has inspired you to reach a goal and the thanks you would like to give. I will choose one winner and will award the membership at the end of November.
Contest closes November 29th and you must NOT already be a member of Clickin Moms. I will post the winning entry on my blog on November the 30th. Oh I am soooo excited!! So get typing!!

Little Boys

2009-10-20T20:06:00.000-07:00

Hello to everyone!
Does it ever feel good to be blogging again! I have so many fantastic families to post from the past 7 weeks. It's hard to sit on these images and stories!
Housekeeping...back to the spirit of learning something new each week! I spent the day with Christine of CLICK photography learning to edit in photoshop. I am really looking forward to blogging what I learned and some of the images we worked on. But that will have to wait! I wish I could rejoice in my new found skills but when I returned home I could not apply what I learned. After several distress signals sent over the blackberry and two phonecalls to Christine I have resigned myself once again to my weaknesses. Anything and everything technical. How hard can it be to build a storyboard for my little blog that could?! Apparently quite difficult. After spending all evening and now into the middle of the night...I have no board to display. Sigh. I am not giving up...just in for the night. I know I will eventually get it and we can all celebrate together!

Tonight's post! This shoot dates back to mid September when temps were still in the low twenties. This was an exceptionally beautiful fall day at the University of Guelph. I had a wonderful shoot with this incredibly kind and cooperative family. I think I have mentioned before how lucky I am to have such great clients. Sure I take the picture...but they make the image what it is. Thanks to all of you for making my job so much easier! Looking foward to our October date next year!

One other behind the scenes side note. Those of you that follow my blog know that I have been assisting at weddings this summer. Never did I image that a) I would be inspiring other photographers or b)ever be worthy of an assistant. But for this shoot I had an assistant! Shannon, a friend of mine, has recently taken up photography and came out with me for my day at the University of Guelph to observe and learn more about photographing families. We had a super day together and I want to thank Shannon for helping me out with the kiddies and the gear! You can find Shannon's work at Snapped by Shannon. Best wishes in your budding business!

And one more thing...!!! I am going to be running a contest. I have never done this before but when I saw the opportunity I jumped at it. Next blog post I will be announcing the details and the prize. So, until that time start thinking of someone you would like to thank. Everyone knows how much I like to credit and thank those who have helped me or inspired me in my photographic journey this past year. Now I am giving you the chance to thank someone in your life that has helped you achieve a goal. Start thinking and I will give you the dets next time....! Enjoy!

Start of the Fall Portrait Season

2009-10-19T05:48:00.000-07:00

Hello to everyone!
It's so hard to believe it's almost been a month since I blogged last. What an incredible fall season this has been. Mama Nature has been very kind to me with only 2 rained out shoots this entire fall. I was concerned when we were in the single digit temps last week. I wasn't expecting that so soon! This week is looking glorious! I am loving the colourful fall sweaters and the cute knitted caps my little clients are showing up in for their shoots.
Housekeeping...I am taking a photoshop course tomorrow with the area's most amazing photographer - Christine Kufske - of CLICK photography. I am really looking forward to spending the day with her to learn more about the technical end of editing... so that I can smooth out that skin for you ladies! I still have so much to learn and I am so fortunate to have a wonderful mentor behind me. I could go on about Christine...but I am saving that.

On to this weeks' post. I have known this beautiful family since Claire was 18 months old. Our little ones were in the same daycare and we have remained friends ever since. I was so humbled when Mom contacted me to do pictures for her. It's one thing to have people you don't know contact you for shoots and it's another feeling when your friends reach out. It's the biggest compliment!
This shoot kicked off my fall season....and dates back to the day before school started (yes that is how far behind I am!!). We had a gorgeous afternoon and a very successful shoot. I love these little girls...they are just as sweet in person as they are in the pictures.
And a little story behind how to get a successful shot - bribery. Yes. I am 100% in favour of bribes during a photoshoot. We had the girls pull their little toys to Dad who was off to the side. It works like a charm! Enjoy!

Little Miss P!

2009-10-05T04:21:00.001-07:00

Hello to everyone!
Well, this marks the halfway point through the fall portrait season. I am so behind on my blog posts! I have so many sessions to share with you in the weeks to come. If I would only stop TALKING so much in my blog posts I might be able to get a few more posted in a week. I tell myself to keep it short but I sit down and remember my clients, our time together and laugh and smile. It all starts there.
Housekeeping. I wish I could say that I am learning something new every week but there just isn't time. Unless learning to tread water counts? I never imagined ONE FOR THE WALL photography would be so well received. I know I have said it numerous times but I am blown away by the kindness and willingness by my clientele to participate in making the images the best they can be. The couple on the post today is no exception.
Welcome Miss P! Oh how I am loving the babies and bellies shoots. They are a challenge and not as easy as they look! It can take up to 3 hours between feedings, diaper changes and rocking the baby to sleep (oh and me chatting). But the time and effort is well worth it. This gracious and gorgeous couple welcomed me into their home to capture the first few days of their new family together. It was one of those times when the "stay at home mommy and the small business mommy" worlds collided. No sitter for Kate spelled...you are coming with me. She was good for the most part. A few snacks and some treehouse tv passed the time away for her. Kate was quite taken by the dog and did take a run at the cat but the cat was smart enough to hide.

It goes without saying that Miss P is a beautiful baby girl. A little tug at my heart as I looked over at Kate. She is four years old now. People told me as I held both of our little girls for the first time that they would grow up fast. You don't believe it at the time. The sleepless nights, dirty diapers, vomit and tantrums seem like they will never end. But they do. Miraculously when you open your sleep deprived eyes and look back all you remember is the cute diaper bum, the soft and chubby cheeks, the little voice that sounds like it's on helium permanently and the little arms around your knees....how did I get off on this sappy track?! Just wait until I post about my first summer assisting with Christine Kufske of CLICK photography! Those little girls grow up and get married....I am not ready to go there yet.

Congratulations M and S and thanks for a memorable morning together! Kate and I thank you!

Boy or Girl?

2009-09-29T19:29:00.000-07:00

Hello to everyone!
Let's get to it! Housekeeping. Not much has changed in my life since last week...outside of a brand new pair of black polka dot rubber boots I bought. And editing, editing, editing! Mama Nature has still been on my side. I have my fingers and toes crossed for all of my October clients that we will have some gorgeous days too!

I have been looking forward to blogging this shoot. I really love photographing bellies! M and P. Mom and Dad to be. So in love and so much fun! I took them on one wild ride that day. We covered 5 locations in two hours. Oh and one pitstop to Food Basics for a washroom break. One pregnant woman and one woman who has birthed two children equals 2 week bladders.
I cannot express enough what a great time I had with this couple. They were so cooperative and open to trying new ideas. Here is a mix of my favs from the day. All the best to you both for a safe and speedy delivery! I am looking forward to photographing your little one in November. Thanks for a fantastic day M and P!
Oh and I think BOY!

Bacon and Cheddar Flavoured Crickets

2009-09-23T18:16:00.000-07:00

Hello to everyone!
Right to the point...housekeeping...one word. Editing. Outside of my family, sleeping, eating and grabbing the odd shower here and there - life consists of shooting and editing. I am over the moon at the response to my work over the last few months! I am two months shy of celebrating the inception of ONE FOR THE WALL photography. What a celebration that will be! Perhaps I will treat myself to some ketchup chips and a winter break. I have a website that needs to be launched and more photo editing courses to be taken in preparation for year two. I appreciate everyone's kind words (gush gush) and patience as I fly by the seat of my pants this first year. The opportunity so many of you have given me is humbling. I still have so much to learn, new skills to hone and more technical challenges. Beyond all of that though....it really is about your little ones. The children I meet and connect with every week. The ones whom I freeze in time for you to look at year after year. Those EYELASHES (we all know how much I love those), the little noses and beautiful skin. Ok, ok....that's enough Hilary. Gorganzola anyone?

On to this week's post. BOYS. I do not have much experience with them. I have two little girls. The back of my car has atleast one pair of fancy flip flops in it at all times, a purse and some lipchap hidden away from Mommy. I might not be able to see it - but I can smell the fresh application girls!
So, when I arrived at this home I was...well...not sure what to do! In the first five minutes we had two of the boys washing their tongues from their coloured lolly pops and one giant Sprite explosion on a clean shirt. Hmmmm....this was going to be interesting. After some coaxing all the boys loaded up between Mom and I's vehicles. And we were off. Or so I thought we were. Nope. Mom stops the car and runs up to the house. Ooopps. Front door was left wide open. Ok - now we are off. Sorry Mom - that was too good not to share!
I have not ever posted a picture before my blog entry but this is the only way to give you all a sense of 3 boys in front of a camera. Enough said. These boys are incredibly bright and handsome young men. They were all troopers and endured 2 locations and a lot of mosquitoes in order to get my shots. We had so many laughs with the boys and of course their adorable pup. Thanks for your patience Mom!
Oh and the bacon and cheddar flavoured crickets? Forgot to mention that the boys were eating flavoured bugs when I got there. Real bugs. I politely declined the dried out cricket.

Kindness

2009-09-21T09:15:00.001-07:00

Hello to all!!
Where do I begin...oh yes. Housekeeping. Not much to report there other than holy cow - IT'S BUSY! I am thanking Mama Nature for an incredible weekend to get myself and my wonderful families through their portrait sessions. Six in total (only one to reschedule - that darn hockey - what is that anyway?!). The logical part of myself says to just write one liner blog entries to keep up with blogging throughout this busy time. But once I sit down at the keyboard I feel a huge sense of calm. Blogging about a family is like the last step of the process with hiring me to do photos. I am thrilled with how willing families are to be "blogged about".
This family kicked off my first marathon weekend of the season on Friday night. Let me tell you this. What an incredible way to start off. Dad was already outside when I pulled up - all smiles. And then the twins came out on the porch to greet me with rollers in their hair (yes - both of them). And then their mom. Gorgeous both inside and out. Oh and the dogs...there are two of them. Maddie and Molly.
What struck me most about this family was how warm they all were and kind. Incredibly kind. I took them on one of my wild location adventures (the kiddies actually thought we were on a Dora adventure - but with a crazy photographer lady instead). They were all so patient and cooperative (those who have been photographed by me know how location centric I am and fussy about background stuff). We spent two and a half hours together until we started to loose the sun and warmth of the day. It was well worth it for the kiddies as their hard work earned them not one but TWO kinder eggs (I scored them the second one).
Thanks to all of you for a wonderful experience. It truly is people like you that make me love what I do even more. Have I said lately how lucky I am to have such great clients?!

A to Z

2009-09-15T17:44:00.001-07:00

Hello to all!
Housekeeping...a couple of things. Fall portrait sittings are in FULL SWING and cross your fingers...the weather has been cooperating. I have 7 shoots this weekend so it had better hold out. And by the way...blogging and eating blueberries is just not the same as ketchup chips. But I really don't want to fit into that Santa suit by Christmas. I promise to try to keep up with the blogging but it is getting incredibly busy. I might have to sacrifice some of the writing to deliver the pics. But knowing me..that won't happen. Brevity is not my strength.

My early blog readers will know that I used to include a weekly thank you to someone for helping me out along the way in my business. I haven't said thanks in awhile and I thought tonight would be a good time to say it again. I still get support or inspiration every week in some form from someone. I have thanked my dear friend, photog pal, designer and neighbour, Ang, before. But I need to give her another shout out tonight. She showed me the way with creating folders this week, taught me how to make a "duplicate" copy of a picture on my computer and showed me how to clean up my desk top jobs. Apparently, I almost made her sick when she looked at the screen. I know. Heavy. But I will tell you this. Those 3 things have made a big difference to a dinosaur like me. A big thanks Ang.

On to this weeks' blog post. Miss A and Mr. Z. HOLY CUTE!!!! I had so much fun with these two AND Mom and Dad behind the scenes. Dad is really into photography so I took it upon myself to give him a tutorial. I talked their ears off. But I apologized.
Miss A is an incredibly articulate 4 year old. She loved the camera and was actually giving me pose ideas. Now that was a first and she really did have some great ideas!

It's time to think...Christmas Greetings!

2009-09-09T21:31:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone!
It's once again quite late...and my lime flavoured nacho chips are gone. I am quite confident at this rate that I will be wearing the Santa suit this year quite comfortably. This late night blogging and eating thing is not good. I can see the t-shirt now..."Don't eat and blog". I will be the first to purchase.
As promised here are the offerings of Christmas cards for 2009. And behind everyone good photographer is an even better designer! Thanks so much to my photog pal and designer friend, Ang, for putting these fantastic cards together for me. We will need all orders in for Oct. 31st to ensure they arrive back in time for Christmas. If your shoots are scheduled after that date we will put a rush on them, however, the fewer we need to process the better. It's going to be one busy fall!!
I suddenly feel like I am working in a women's clothing store. Always one season ahead of what really is going on. What a bummer! I always dread seeing the Halloween candy go out after school goes back in and the Christmas decorations out before the candles in the pumpkin have been blown out. My favourite line to our girls is "Live in the moment". This being ahead of Christmas is really forcing me to think ahead. This could be a real challenge for the last minute Sally in me. Merry early Christmas! Ugh!

Ode to my own!

2009-09-08T07:03:00.000-07:00

Hello to all!
Well, summer as my girls knew it is officially over with back to school. Routine is now a verb in our house. Off goes to television and up go those bed sheets. Chop chop!
It would likely surprise most people to know that I take less and less photos of our girls as the years go by. Mainly because I photograph other people's little ones for a career and it takes up all of my extra time outside our girls. I am actually kind of embarassed when people come over. I have two framed pictures on the floor in our bedroom...ready to go up. Intentions are there!
Last week I had a short shoot in Stratford so I thought the girls would enjoy a little day trip with me. Best of all I could do a little shoot of my own in front of some very cool doors on York Street. When I am out shooting I always want to return with my own girls for the neat backgrounds. I wasn't going to pass up this opportunity! And this opportunity was especially good due to the fact we were right in the bribe zone. A park across the street, York Street sandwiches steps away AND best of all...an ice cream parlour. And surprise! I bribe my own kiddies just as much as you (and I) bribe your own during shoots!!!! I was full of the lines..."you won't get your ice cream if you don't look in the camera"..."just do this for mommy"...."I hardly ask you for pictures anymore...PLEASE?!!". AND to my utter embarassment I looked up and there was a young gentleman watching us from the fire escape. Ugh - had he heard me sounding like a freak with my camera on these two innocent young things?!! Atleast they were my own. And so you have it...a little shoot with my own darlings on our last day of summer holidays together. They got their picnic in the park and their ice cream...and mommy got her shots. Now to get them hung....

As sweet as chocolate!

2009-09-04T06:07:00.001-07:00

Inspiration. That is all I can think about this week. I attended a babies and bellies seminar in Toronto a couple of days ago with my most favourite photographer friends (we got lost on the way there because someone was talking too much and didn't watch the cut off signs...hmmm...who might that have been?!) We went to hear Sandie Puc' (an extremely successful portrait photograpaher from the US) speak on photographing babies and bellies and marketing your photography. This is the first time I had attended something like this so I wasn't sure what to expect. I certainly knew I would come away equipped with some new information to apply to a baby or belly shoot but I certainly didn't expect to feel so uplifted and inspired. Sandie was funny, extremely knowledgeable but most importantly she was passionate about people and the business of photography. It was surreal to sit there amongst over 100 photographers from across Ontario and believe that I was there. A year ago this was all but a little itch to do something different with my life. There was no needing to pinch myself though as the second door prize of the night was drawn. Ah...Hilary...C A M I L L E R I. Oh crap! Oh no! I had to stand up in this big room in front of all of these people. Smile nicely at her, look down and claim your prize Hilary without embarassing yourself is all I could think. Thank heavens she didn't attempt my last name. THAT could have been really bad.
So, after a three hour ride home in one lane 401 traffic and one pit stop for gas and a bag of ketchup chips we arrived home at almost 2 am. I quickly checked my business e-mail (while polishing off the rest of the ketchup chips) and opened one up from a woman that lives in Los Angeles. She said started by saying that she had stumbled upon my blog a couple of months ago and enjoys reading it and looking at the photographs. She then went on to say, "You have inspired me to begin a blog of my own - I photograph as a hobby but it is quickly turning into a passion and I made a goal (like you) to learn something new every week...". She then had some questions about getting started and ended by saying that if she was ever in Ontario she would book me for a shoot. All I could think was...I am inspiring? I have inspired someone? Little old me? 35 year old technical dinosaur, stay at home mom in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada has inspired someone? I was humbled and flattered to say the least. But really that is how it starts isn't it? We see or hear something that inspires us and that is how we kick start our goals and dreams. And if that person happens to be little old me than I will accept it and embrace it. Of course - ever so excited - messaged her back with all kinds of information to help her on her way. I look forward to reading your blog and watching you grow your passion for photography!! And thanks for your e-mail. To be inspired is a powerful feeling.

On to this week's post. Newborn babies!! I have to say I find this type of shoot the trickiest of them all. But I am intrigued by the challenge to become a better newborn photographer. I was so pleased when the parents of this incredibly beautiful baby girl messaged me for a shoot. We spent a relaxing Saturday morning together in their beautiful home talking (of course) about babies, work, dogs and photography. They could not have been a nicer couple to be with and their little one was precious. When I was finishing her pictures all I could think of was chocolate in that brown finish. That she was just as sweet as pure chocolate. I look forward to watching her grow!

ENJOY!!

www.beautifullengths.ca

2009-09-01T17:50:00.000-07:00

Hello to all!
Housekeeping first...hmmm....checklist. Facebook fan page link on blog. I am grateful to Heather for showing me the way on how to link it. Just haven't had a moment to do it yet. I am merely impressed enough that I even have a blog, can operate a camera on manual mode and can edit to some degree. Believe it or not I really am a dinosaur in a 35 year old body. I still go into the bank to see the teller. I don't ever use a bank machine. And quite frankly - I like it that I know them all by name. For those who know me and have met me...I love to "chat". And the bank teller is another person along my days' travels that I can talk too. I can't talk to a bank machine.

The next thing I have to say is with all sincerity. I absolutely love all of my clients. I have been incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to photograph some wonderful moms, dads, babies and children over the last 9 months. I just needed you all to know that. And I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of the referrals. It is going to be one busy fall!!I am really looking forward to it. Fasten your seatbelts!
And thanks to one of my moms for pointing out to me that it was time to change up or add a new tune to the line up. I do take requests. But I do require the song be upbeat and happy or incredibly sappy. I am a cheeseball through and through.

On to tonights' post. I am refraining from eating while blogging tonight and by the way this marks my 60th - yes - 60th blog post!! Late night blogging and eating really isn't doing much for my figure these days. I need my friend Ang's boot camp to start again desperately. I messaged her the other morning with a one liner "when does boot camp start - I need it bad".

These are my cousins' beautiful little girls. I just adore them and love when their mom messages me for photos. This photoshoot and post is incredibly moving to me. Miss H used to have very long hair. Miss H is a loving, kind and generous soul to have had her hair cut off for Pantene's Beautiful Lengths program at the age of 5. Mom thought it would be nice to have some photos of her hair to remember this act by. I am beaming with pride for what Miss H has done. Please check out www.beautifullengths.ca for more information on how you or your little one can donate their hair.
And of course I could not resist taking a few pictures of the girls afterwards!!

Enjoy!!

Let's Go!

2009-08-28T18:18:00.000-07:00

As always housekeeping first. I think I do this in my blog posts to keep my mental check list - checked off. I am celebrating the ninth month of my little photography business and each week I take a few more steps in developing and growing both my photographic ability and my business processes. Each week I make it my goal to take on something new like finding out how to watermark or how to make my pictures bigger. This week I decided to create a "fan page" on facebook. I do love facebook by the way.
It feels mildly awkward to me to have "fans". It's not like I am some big famous photographer or anything. But I thought it would be nice to have somewhere that people who enjoy looking at my pictures could gather and be another part of my journey. There I can post sneek peek pictures and showcase upcoming plans (like Christmas cards!). So, you can now officially find ONE FOR THE WALL photography on facebook!! Now don't ask me to link you there from here because...well...I don't know how to do that yet. Baby steps everyone (refer to old posts to hear me vent about all things technical). I will have to either conference call, Amanda, in Listowel or message my virtual friend, Brian, from the US (a fellow photog friend from facebook of course). They will both know how to do that one. Perhaps that will be my goal for next week! But in the meantime, you can type the business name in and it will come up. Feel free to join!!

On to this week's post. The rain and cold are playing games with my shoots these days! This shoot was scheduled for 6 pm on a day that was all over the map with rain, sun and wind. The call was made approx. 5 pm that it was off. The rain was coming down in droves and we both thought that was it. Well, 5:59 came around and so did the sun. I frantically reached for my blackberry and messaged my friend to see if her girls had rubber boots for the cute outfits she had dressed them in earlier. Within 10 minutes we met in my driveway and it became a shoot about puddles and rainboots! The lighting was incredible and the humidity that hung around the air did wonders for the curls on these two beauties (not so much on mine though). I am so glad we made the "Let's Go" call for this shoot. You are very special people and I felt privledged to take your pictures! Their mom is probably - I mean - IS the most organized person I have ever met and after the shoot wrapped up said "my christmas cards are done". Looking forward to seeing these on your cards this year!

Enjoy!!

Happy 1st Birthday!

2009-08-25T19:40:00.000-07:00

Happy 1st Birthday to handsome Mr. C!!!
Doesn't everyone love the story behind the story? Well, I do. I love to tell the neat little "behind the scenes" things from shoots. There is just about always some sort of story! So...this gorgeous Mom is good friends' with one of my longest standing and closest highschool friends'. They used to be neighbours actually. Then a move took them to Texas. We met Mr. C and his mom and dad at a party for my highschool friends' hubby's 40th party a few months back. Theeeeeeeen...my hubbie meets Mr. C and his Mom in a US airport while travelling. Low and behold he starts chatting about my photography and tells her she should check out my blog. So she did and she books Mr. C's 1st birthday pics with me on a trip home from Texas.
Fast forward to the weekend...and Mr. C is sick! Now you certainly wouldn't know it by these pics except for the adorable little one at the end where he is sitting up holding "MONK". By then he was not having anymore of our antics. Thanks so much to Mr. C's Auntie for helping out behind the camera!! Happy 1st Birthday little guy! Can't wait to photograph the whole family when you are back in town for a visit!!
So...do you have to read my post 3 times to get "the story behind the story"?!?! I did.

Enjoy!!

Reunion Time!

2009-08-25T06:13:00.001-07:00

My whole life fall has always been the season I most look forward too; fall colours, Thanksgiving and turtle neck sweaters. Since starting into photography and coming out of the worst season of illness I have ever known...summer has now become my favourite. LIGHT - for hours!! WARMTH- for barefeet! HEALTH - no sickness!! Needless to say I have a new perspective on summer.

And summer means family reunions too! I had the pleasure of photographing this extended family back in July. Their family stretches from Ontario to Eastern Canada to California!! They all came together in Waterloo to enjoy a weekend together. It was so nice to see how much fun everyone was having and how sincerely happy they were to be together again.
And thanks to Ang for helping me out that day!

Enjoy!!

Bigger is Better.

2009-08-22T20:14:00.000-07:00

Well in this case it is!! A loud shout out to, Amanda, from Living Proof photography this blog post. Thanks to her incredible intellect when it comes to all things technical - I have advanced my little blog further down the road. A 7:30 am conference call between Listowel and Waterloo resulted in me singing her praises ever since. She is forever my html hero. I can't promise you Amanda that I won't ping you with a "help" what does that code error mean?!!!! I hope that everyone will enjoy the bigger photos.

The dog days of summer. I love that saying. It reminds me of all things August; corn (from Herrle's of course), tomatoes and humid evenings that don't require blankets to sleep. I refused to let my husband turn on the air conditioner through the recent hot spell. I suffered enough through a long winter of illnesses and waited far too long for summer to finally arrive. So gosh darnit - I was going to sweat. And I did. And it felt great.

Mom (who has to be one of the nicest women I have ever met) had warned me that a not so great studio photography experience had kind of left the kiddies traumatized. They were afraid I would stand them up in front of me to say "cheese" all night. Ten minutes into the shoot the kids and I shared a high five after a rip around a little red tractor and a jump on the trampoline. Oh and I had the youngest one at "stinker pants". The remainder of the evening the kiddies toured me around their beautiful farm. By the end of the night - they could not get enough of the camera. I think it's safe to say they have been transformed and I sincerely look forward to photographing these beautiful and extremely fun little ones again. If you can believe it the oldest two are twins!! And I musn't forget the dogs. The pictures would not have been complete without them. A handful of treats had them at our feet all night!
Thanks so much for a wonderful evening of laughs during the dog days of summer. And we don't have to tell anyone what really got you all laughing - and no it was not my donkey noises.

Enjoy!!

This is Shelby!

2009-08-19T06:55:00.000-07:00

For all of you dog lovers out there (this includes me!)...meet Shelby. A 13 year old golden retriever.

This shoot was all about Shelby. We spent the better part of a beautiful summer evening playing with her and loving her up! Shelby was perfect! She is loved to bits by her Mom, Dad and siblings. Shelby is getting up there in years and her family thought it would be nice to have pictures of her for their home.

This was my first "pet" shoot and I will tell you it was just like directing a little toddler complete with "bribe" food and toys. Thank goodness for Dad though - I could not have done this without him. He was most definetely the master behind me. Wherever he went - Shelby's eyes followed. Shelby's favourite hobbies include playing with balls, chewing on a brand new bone and napping in a sunny spot.

By the end of the night we had tuckered Shelby out. She is a beautiful dog with an incredible temperment. One lucky family they are.

Enjoy!!

So in love!

2009-08-17T19:08:00.000-07:00

All ready to blog. It's late, everyone is in bed, I have caught up with all my late night peeps on messenger and I have my blog food of choice beside me. White chocolate covered pretzels. Usually I go for the salt (ketchup chips to be exact) but I thought I would change it up tonight. All set.

So just want to address my horse noise antics. I stopped by my friend, Jen's tonight. She had been away on holidays and said that she spent a better part of today getting caught up on my blog. Giggling, she asked to hear my horse noise. And to my dismay she said I sounded like a donkey!!! But she was right. You would think that I would know the difference with two young children and a few years of Kindermusik under my belt. Geesh.

Drum roll please....look at this stunning and precious baby girl!!! I have been friends with her mom and dad for a number of years. We had a gorgeous morning with just the right amount of sun and cloud. I could not have been more excited to spend the morning photographing this family and their baby girl. All I could think of was how utterly in love they are with this little beauty. The love they have for her overwhelmed me. She is one lucky little one to have been born into this kind and wonderful household.

Congrats on Miss K! I look forward to watching her grow before the lense!

Enjoy!!

Little Miss S

2009-08-16T19:30:00.001-07:00

This is probably one of the most articulate 3 year olds I have ever met. When I would ask her to do things during our shoot she would shock me by saying ever so politely "no thank you". What a sweet and fun little girl whose big brown eyes and giggles love the camera!

Thanks for a fun night....thankfully no horse noises were needed.

Enjoy!

Let's Dance!

2009-08-13T18:46:00.000-07:00

Housekeeping first...oh the joys of learning all of this "technical" garbly goop that goes along with being a photographer and having a blog. I messaged my photographer friend, Amanda, to ask her how to get my pictures "bigger" on blogspot. She, being quite technical, e-mailed me back a fantastic explanation on how to do this. Easy...just edit the html!! Well, of course!! Here it is approaching 11 pm (my chips are all gone) and I am just writing this post now because I have spent all evening attempting to "edit html". And as you can see...no change on the pics. Over the course of the evening I changed everything but those picture sizes. Expect another message Amanda!! What doesn't kill you makes you stronger right?!!!

This cutie patootee looooooooooves to DANCE!!! And is she ever good. She is quite a decorated jazz, ballet and tap performer. And did we have fun together! She is incredibly animated and cooperative (you would have to be to succumb to some of my strange requests/locations during a photoshoot - famous last words "trust me" it's going to look great). I just love to photograph my young clients doing what they love to do. I was priviledged to get a personal tap show from this talented young lady too!

And how did I get her to laugh you ask? What on earth did I have to be doing to get those incredible laughing shots? Well - let me tell you. My other close photographer friend, Ang, just returned from a photography workshop in Atlanta last week. She got a great tip (well it's only great depending on what lengths you will go to for a laugh) to make a noise like a horse. I mean a loud, high pitched horse. So, I tried it. And it worked. If I can ever figure out how to attach a voice recording on this darn blog I will record myself. Or you can just book me for a shoot and hear for yourself. Thanks for the tip Ang!

Enjoy!!

Sweetness

2009-08-10T19:15:00.001-07:00

Couldn't you just stare at these precious little babes for hours? Doesn't it make you want not one but TWO....well not quite since I already have my hands full with 2 (who didn't come out together!).

Big congrats to Mom and Dad - first time parents times two!! This family has had a fantastic start. Mom and Dad are a little tired but doing extremely well 10 days in. I was so impressed!!!! Ten days after one...well let's just say I didn't get Claire's "newborn" pics done until she was 3 weeks old.

One little boy and one little girl. Life is good.

Enjoy!!

A Journey for the Soul

2009-08-08T10:37:00.000-07:00

A little housekeeping first.....for those of you that have checked into my blog since the beginning (a whopping 6 months now!) you will know that this blog is journaling not only my work but the ride through the first year of my little photography business. For those who are new to looking at my pics and reading the blog....I have not been at this very long.

I feel it necessary to kind of apologize for a few things...first how many pictures I have started to post. It seems with each new shoot comes more pictures to choose from and I am not so great at really "whittling" it down. I am starting some photoshop courses in the fall and will be learning how to collage my pictures so that visually they look a little more "together". And come this winter when things slow down and everyone's Christmas pictures have been sent out on their cards (hint hint)...I will be sitting down to sift and sort through a year's worth of my work to put together a website with proper galleries and online viewing for clients. I won't have an excuse, after being at this for a year, for not having things a little more together for people. I guess I have to get a little more "professional" in my presentation?! Laughing out loud for real.

For now...my little blog with have to do. I know the pics are small and that there are way too many - but hey - I am having fun!!

On to this week's post. This is another one of those shoots that I left grinning ear to ear. And not because I knew that I left with some beautiful shots in the camera but because of the story behind what and who I was photographing.

First off...I spent over 2 hours with these 3 incredibly polite, kind and beautiful children. Their mom and cousin (whom kindly looked after my Kate while taking the photos - thank you!!) walked us around their grandma and late papa's farm. Mom recounted stories of her wedding on the farm, the daisies in her bouquet (just like the ones we put in her daughter's hair) and the old tractor her father-in-law used to ride. It was a gorgeous summer day and I felt completely uplifted by Mom's sincerity and soulfulness. The farm meant the world to this family so photographing her 3 children here meant a lot. I spent the last half hour, alone, walking around the property and taking pictures of this beautiful place.

As I said before - Kate tagged along for this one. She played with her beads and barbie's (and of course left these things and one shoe on the farm - typical) and loved the kittens. Kate made herself at home by making some new friends and eating their food. Kate still talks about our visit to the farm to this day.

Thanks for a wonderful shoot and for sending me away with beautiful pictures to post and memories to hold.

Enjoy!!

Oh and I had to take this of Kate on our way down the path to the road... that wide open field was calling me...

Laugh out Loud!

2009-08-05T13:38:00.000-07:00

Where do I begin to write about this family? Sigh.

They smile. They laugh. They hug. They tease. They love. And they laugh some more.

This family was simply a joy to be around and to photograph. And I couldn't stop telling them that!

This is why I love my new path into photography. The people.

Oh and check out the pink heels and newly painted toes for the shoot!! This fam came prepared!! And speaking of coming prepared. They brought SMARTIES for the "bribe" food for their little guy. Well, he wanted those five minutes into the shoot. So, you will see him with the box in his hand and sneaking one into his mouth. What I loved most though was that Mom and Dad didn't care about the box in the picture, him eating in the picture or the chocolate on his face. "That's him right now". How wonderful?!

Thanks for an evening of laughs and a reminder of what family is really about.

Enjoy!!

It's belly time again!

2009-08-05T11:52:00.001-07:00

We have just returned from an incredible 9 day vacation in Cape Cod, MA. Stay tuned for a few pictures of our trip...but beware. I took 3000 photos (my hubby doesn't know it was this many but probably has his suspicions!). It will take me some time to sort through them all and to choose my favourites!

I do love photographing moms and their baby bellies! It has quickly become one of my favourite shoots to do. I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful expectant second time mom and adorable little girl. Unfortunetely, Daddy couldn't make the shoot but we will catch him once the baby is born.

Enjoy!!

Holy Toledo!

2009-07-23T14:40:00.000-07:00

You can all just imagine what I thought when this stunning family pulled up in a shiny blue '69 Chevelle...WOWZERS!!!! I had spoken in a previous blog post about my style and a family's vibe in pictures. Here is another great example about a family bringing their own personality to the shoot and in this case their 4th family member...the coveted car.

We shot for over 2 hours frolicking in the flowers and walking down gravel paths. But I would say the most challenging and nerve wracking part of the shoot was photographing the car. Dad had a vision in his head of how this "baby" was to look in it's pictures. I sure hope I did it justice!! By the end I had him placing me in the exact angle to which the car looked best for the shot. What a HOOT!!!

We all had a fantastic time. A most memorable shoot.

Enjoy!!

IT'S A BOY!!!

2009-07-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to announce that my cousin and his wife had a baby boy last week!! Mr. Peyton Alexander made a smooth and speedy entrance 10 days early. I had the absolute pleasure of photographing the whole family 5 days after his arrival. We had a very relaxing and fun afternoon with the usual diaper changes and feedings. There were many laughs and it was nice to see this beautiful family welcoming their baby boy into their lives. And if you scroll down the blog you will see the belly shots from three short weeks ago!

Enjoy!

Summer Sunday

2009-07-23T07:53:00.000-07:00

A sunny Sunday in July. What is that you say?! One of the rare days this summer when we could all be outside minus a sweater. Our adorable neice and nephew...both quite curious about their aunt who now is a photographer. Doesn't get better than this at their age...hanging with your cousins, playing in the backyard and climbing a tree.

Love to you both!

Enjoy!

Take two!

2009-07-17T04:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to this beautiful and sweet family!! I absolutely LOVE these little ones - it's easy to see why. I had a photoshoot with this fam a few months back. The oldest (little) one called me "Henry" the whole time. I thought this was hilarious and will never forget it! She has my name correct now and has a real love for the camera both in front and behind. Perhaps she will be a photographer someday?!

Enjoy!!

Picture Perfect!

2009-07-15T04:42:00.000-07:00

When I first set eyes upon this family at the door all I could think was WOW and instant excitement set in! This beautiful family was great to work with. I have learned by now that atleast one of the children at every shoot will have a "moment" but in the end the photos will look like they loved every minute of it!!

I am simply amazed at everything I am learning about being in a family photography business. I am not talking about the buttons on the camera...but about the people I photograph. Each family is so unique. Each family brings their own style and vibe. Photographers, in their forums talk endlessly about their "style" of photography. Somedays I think I see mine emerging. But sometimes it really is about the family's style and not so much mine. It should be obvious by now that though that I am a sucker for a really tight close up. Those eyes, that skin, those lashes those cute button noses!!

Of course I love photography and I love to take photos of people. But what I have discovered is that my business really is people. I just happen to have a camera in my hand to watch them through.

Enjoy!!

More family!

2009-07-13T07:15:00.000-07:00

I am proud to say this is my cousin and his growing family! I am humbled when my family contacts me to take their photos. This was a special shoot indeed, not only because my cousins' are expecting their second baby, but this was my FIRST belly shoot! And I loved doing this type of photograph.

We had the perfect overcast evening (July 1st actually!) with some light coming through the thick clouds. I drove through 6 patches of rain and thankfully we had dry skies. We weren't so lucky with the bugs though. My poor cousin! 10 minutes in we had to send my Uncle to the truck stop for bug spray. They ate him up!

Congrats and best of luck for a safe and speedy delivery. I look forward to taking the newborn shots!!

Enjoy!!

TWINS!!!

2009-07-06T18:11:00.000-07:00

All I can say is this beautiful Mom has her hands full (along with Daddy and the sweetest nanny ever of course!). What a fun morning we had...full of numerous diaper changes, bottles, tears and naps. Congratulations to you all on your incredible family! Looking forward to photographing your little ones later this year to see how much they will have grown!

Enjoy!!

Ma is getting married!

2009-07-05T20:08:00.000-07:00

I had the absolute pleasure of taking engagement photos for my mom and her beau. They are getting married in a few short days and the engagement shoot was a good warm up for the big day! Christine from CLICK photography will be photographing the wedding (we are thrilled about this!) and I will be assisting and taking pictures at the reception.

Congrats Ma and Lou!

Enjoy!

7:30 am Photocall!!

2009-07-04T16:44:00.000-07:00

What better way to spend a beautiful Saturday morning at 7:30 am than having a photoshoot for yourself?! This is just want Ang and I did. Ang is my neighbour, dear friend and fellow photographer and designer (you can check out her work at www.angelasmith.ca!!).

We both needed some headshots done of ourselves....well you can see what happened after an hour or so of snapping away. Thanks for a fun and memorable morning Ang!

AND....the biggest thank you to Ang for helping to set me up in photoshop - I can watermark now!!! BIG ACCOMPLISHMENT.

Enjoy!!

First Assistant Job of the Season!

2009-06-29T14:07:00.000-07:00

By now my loyal blog readers know how much I love Christine of CLICK photography. Just to refresh...I met her at a course she taught at the end of November. I e-mailed her promptly after the course to ask if I could possibly be one of her wedding assistants. I then took another private workshop with Christine in March and I am very proud to say that I am her assistant at 6 of her many weddings this year! I could not be any more thrilled or humbled by this opportunity.

Christine is not just an incredibly gifted photographer. She is kind, she is helpful and she is giving. She has an ease with her clients that is comforting and you can tell how much they love her and her incredible work. Oh and did I mention how much fun she is?! We do have a super time together. I am learning so much and she is very complimentary and supportive. It means a whole lot to me.

I didn't realize how nervous I was about my first big assisting gig until 1 am on Friday night - 13 hours shy of our meeting time. But my bladder certainly did. Let me tell you this (I will spare the details) I had to call Christine to tell her how worried I was that I wouldn't make it through more than a half hour without having to use the washroom!! How embarassing!! Typical Chris- calm and cool...tracing out our steps for the day and mapping out all of the "CANS" for the day. Magically, I made it through 10 hours with only 3 pit stops. There is always a story behind everything isn't there?

I was able to hold the bride's make up, tote around a ladder and equipment, fluff the dress a couple of times, hand over a battery and memory cards and most importantly...account for the car keys at all times. What an amazing experience. I loved every minute of it!

I took some pictures at the wedding and had the most fun photographing Christine at work. I am looking forward to my assisting duties this summer and learning from the best!

Enjoy!

Proud as Punch AGAIN!

2009-06-29T05:22:00.000-07:00

Once more...I get to show off my beautiful family! It's one thing when friends or referrals call for a booking. It's another when your own family calls to book a shoot! I am flattered that so many of my cousins have booked me for their families. More to come over the next 2 months!

A couple of things to note about this shoot. YES - my little cousins get along this well. They absolutely adore each other. No need to coax these two to play, giggle and kiss. It was quite amazing to watch and photograph.

Secondly, I just about landed in the river on this shoot. I got a bit too close and one of my legs went straight down a wall (not in a direction I have the flexibility for - that's for sure).

Needless to say my camera was held high in the air, my pants were smeared with some strange goopy substance and my groin muscle was sore for days. But it was all worth it and made for some good laughs!! LOVE TO YOU ALL and thanks for a fantastic morning!

ps- I can just hear my Aunt Heather crying at her computer now. Thanks for all of your support and kind words. xo

Enjoy!