Family Photos

 A few weeks ago I announced that we were heading to the farm to take some family photos before the yellow wheat turned green.  As you can imagine I was named Blessed Mother and flowered with kisses, hugs, and chocolate.  Actually I named myself Queen and told them that they would have happy hearts and smiles to match; and that I get to choose everyone's clothing for the event.  A couple of girls -who shall remain nameless-  balked at first but then concurred that mom does still have a wee bit of fashion sense in her old bones.

I also reminded them (including the big man) that the better they smiled and enjoyed themselves, the faster the torture photo session would be over.

Does anyone else have to use threats/bribery for a family photo session??

Maybe it's because they are so used to me taking pictures of them without posing that they're spoiled.

We really did have a good time...  Mostly at mom's expense, but I'm willing to sacrifice for a good shot.  I wore myself OUT trying to be the stylist, photographer, and be in the picture.  There were several times that I didn't quite make it to my spot before my camera timer clicked.

Where's Mom??

Since I had to catch everyone with clean hair/teeth, I decided to break my photo rule about daylight and go right after church.  I should have followed the rule.  The sun cast funny shadows and made everyone squint.  Note to self: 2pm is NOT a good time to take outdoor photos unless it's overcast.

This ended up being my favorite family shot, but again, the shadows.  Oh well, even the Queen can't have it all.   ;)

PS.  The Queen also can't seem to stop her prince and princesses from growing.  Sniff sniff.

Photography: Camera Talk

One of the things that spurred me on to write this little series is this most asked question:

What kind of camera do you use?  

I own a Nikon D3000. It's a DSLR, not a point and shoot (we'll get to those in a minute). The standard lens that comes with it is good... not my favorite, but definitely good for beginners (Nikon 18-55). It doesn't zoom much, but it is great for group shots or photographing a large space.
The zoom lens that I own is the Nikon 55-200. It gives a good crisp picture, but because it is only a zoom lens, you really have to back off to get a good shot.  It's not great for birthday parties etc, where you are trying to get a lot of people in the shot.  However, I love it for face shots like these.

If I did it over again, I would forgo both of those lenses and get this one: 

It is basically my two lenses wrapped up into one (18-200), so that would mean less baggage and lens trade-out in the middle of a photo opportunity.
*If you own this lens, please leave me a comment about how much you love/hate it.  I've been admiring it from afar, but I want to know your thoughts.
When you purchase a camera, you have the option to get just the base and build the camera (lenses) to your liking.  Or, you may find a great package deal like I did.  If you are looking for a package deal, I recommend purchasing it through Wolf/Ritz camera... it's really going to be pretty much the same price anywhere, but they have lots of free extras (processing, camera bag, classes).


 BH Photo is an AWESOME online shopping resource. I would definitely order from them again for extra lenses/accessories.  Or maybe Santa could order that lens for me...  Just sayin.

I have had my D3000 for 3 years and have often said it was one of the best investments we've ever made (and I HATE making big purchases). At the time the D3000 was the most basic/cheapest Nikon DSLR. I have not been disappointed. Some of the more expensive versions are much heavier, so while you will look cooler, your hand might get a wee bit tired. :) 

As far as brand goes, I owned a Nikon (film) camera previously, so I was used to their mechanics. Some people love Cannon. I think it's kind of like Coke and Pepsi. Pretty much the same thing even though some people swear they can tell a difference.  


If you are looking for a point and shoot camera here's my 2 cents:
1. Don't think you can't take great shots with a point and shoot.  Sometimes people say, "I only have a point and shoot."  The most important thing is to get a camera that you will use and be comfortable with.  
The first two pictures were taken on my trip to Germany.  I didn't want to haul a big camera around, so they were taken with a Sony CyberShot point and shoot.  The last two were also taken with a Sony CyberShot before I purchased my DSL.  

 

2. I don't know a lot about point and shoot cameras, simply because I rarely use one.  However, there are some REALLY great (and inexpensive) ones on the market.  Do your homework and find one that fits your needs: weight, zoom, durability


If I've totally confused you, or if you just have a question, let me know.  I'll be glad to help (as much as my limited knowledge allows!)    I asked a TON of questions (sometimes the same question, several times) when I was getting started.  Heck, I still ask a lot of questions.  


I will be doing one more post on some fun things/tricks to try.  I'll also give you a great link to the best camera tutorial I've ever read.  
Until then... snap those shots!

Photography: In Your Face

If your mother taught you to stay out of people's faces, she was right... except for when you have a camera in your hand.  That's the time to get close.  Sure I love the photos of my little guy in his favorite superhero costume, but it's the pictures like the one above that make my heart stop.  

But before I get all sappy on you, let's look at an example of why face shots are great.  The first picture was taken at a soccer game.  Sure, I captured a shot of my parents and my brother (with a guest in the background), but it looks like a photo taken at a soccer game.  Nothing more.    

But look at the awesomeness difference when I zoom in on their faces:

 Squeal!  It goes from ho-hum to frame-worthy!
Now that I've convinced you, let's look at some great angles to try out:

1. Get them on the ground:

Kids are much more likely to go for this angle than adults, so go for it.  Tell them to giggle, wrestle, snuggle.  Be ready to snap those shots.  Some of my favorite head shots are from this angle.

2. It's okay to chop off the top of their head:

I wanted to capture her chocolate lips that matched her chocolate eyes.  Who cares what her hair looked like that night?

My man loves a baseball cap.  Unfortunately, they usually have a logo plastered across the front.  No problem... go for the face!

 3. Side Swipe

There's just something so natural about a profile shot.  They aren't posing for the camera; they're engaged in the moment.. the moment I want to capture.

 That's snow, not dandruff  ;)

4. Not everyone has to be looking in the same direction.

This is one of my favorite shots.  It's not staged.  I don't know what kind of shoes they are wearing.  You can't tell where the photo was taken.  It is real life.  I didn't tell him to kiss her, so her reaction is genuine.  It's an up close shot of life being lived.

Sometimes you will capture a shot that you will be so glad they're not looking at the camera.  Sniff, sniff.

I took this shot at the beach about 7 years ago with a point and shoot.  It's my all time favorite.  Next time we'll talk about cameras.  I need a tissue after that stroll through memory lane.

Now go get in their faces!  

Photography: Daylight

Using Light To Your Advantage

So, did you do your homework?  Did you pull out your camera and act like a crazy person?  I'm sure you were a cute kind of crazy.  ;)

Today we are going to talk about light.  If you only walk away with one thing today let it be this:

Daylight is a photographer's best friend

1. There is a time of day that is called the Sweet Hour (I don't know if that's an official term but that's what I call it.  Should I get a patent on it?) It is about 1-2 hours before sunset.  If you want gorgeous pictures outside of your kiddos/dog/spouse/favorite dishcloth, this is the time to do it.  Or 1-2 hours after sunrise, but who is crazy enough to want to do it then??  Take your baby out on a quilt and take some shots at that time of day.  You will be amazed.   

2. One thing you have to be careful of is shadows.  Make sure the shadows of the branches above aren't making her face look like a puzzle:  

3. TURN OFF YOUR FLASH.  Who wants a shiny forehead?  By turning off the flash, you will have a much more natural glow... and no more red eye!  Use that natural light to your advantage.  I rarely use my flash.  Oftentimes, if you have your camera set on "auto" it will use the flash.  Try turning it off.  Sometimes Mr. Auto thinks he's smarter than he actually is.

If your life is anything like mine, that is the craziest time of day, filled with dinner and baths.  So here are some hints if you can't take the shots during the "sweet hour":

1. Water and sunlight make a gorgeous couple.  Much better than Brad and Angelina.

The best time is mid-morning or late afternoon, but don't put the camera away if you happen to be near water during mid-day ... you just might capture a fun picture like the one above.  :)

2.  Use the angle of the sun to your advantage.  Rather than having your subject face the sun and end up with the crazy the-sun's-in-my-eyes grin, try to have the sun to the right or left of their faces.  Look through the viewfinder to double check your subjects' faces.  Are they too shadowed?  If not, allow the sun to play off of their hair.  It gives a celestial glow :

3. Don't let an overcast day get you down.  It's actually a great filter for a good photograph.  Try it, you might be surprised.

4. Take advantage of the sunlight that comes into your home.  With the cold weather nipping at our heels, it's a good time to find a window in your home that has good light.  Often, when I want to do a still shot of something I will move it to my kitchen table because of the great natural light.

  To see my disclaimer and catch up on this little series go here.  Next time we'll talk about getting in their faces.  Did you know that when you have a camera in your hand, it's not rude?  :)

Photography: You Can Do It

I'm not a professional.  

I don't know all of the lingo.  

I'm still learning all kinds of things. 

 I'm really just a mom who loves to take photos.  

See?  Doesn't that make you feel better?  

I've had several friends ask me for advice on photography, so I thought I'd do a little series on it.  Even if photography isn't a hobby for you, you can still take great pictures of your family enjoying life.  So today I'm here to tell you that you can do it.  Beautifully.
Here's how:
1. Take the time to get your camera out, often.  The two photos shown today are from a couple of weeks ago when my kids were playing in the backyard.  We didn't coordinate outfits; we didn't practice poses; we didn't make it an event.  I just started taking photos while they were playing.  There were lots that didn't turn out, but that's the beauty of digital. In the photo above they were playing on the tire swing and I took a picture because they were being so sweet with each other.  My kids have gotten used to me taking pictures of them so when the camera comes out, it isn't awkward or forced.

2. Know your camera.  Even with a point-and-shoot camera (and, for the record, there's nothing wrong with a point-and-shoot) you can take gorgeous shots.  I know the owners' manual is overwhelming and annoying.  Start off by learning what the little icons on your camera mean so that you will be able to use them to your advantage.  If your life is uber crazy right now, at least figure out where the "no flash" icon is located and how to use it.

3. Capture the here and the now.  Don't save your camera moments for a pose on the top of a mountain you just climbed (yes, these shots are very important, but don't let them be the only ones on your memory card).  Take pictures of your loved ones as they live out the day-to-day.  The picture below is one of my favorites.  Would I normally choose a pink Cabela's sweatshirt for a photoshoot?  Um, no.  But this is who she is.  This is what she wears on a regular basis to play outside.  I look at this photo and the boots melt my heart.  Would I prefer her in striped tights, a corduroy skirt and cute cowgirl boots?  Sure!  But that's not what I wanted to capture that day.  I wanted to capture her in her backyard just as she was.

We'll stop here for today.  My goal with this little photography series is to encourage you.  Hopefully you will leave feeling less intimidated by the lens and excited to take some great shots.  So, go grab your camera!  It's homework time!  Start taking pictures and come back tomorrow ready to learn about using light to your advantage.

Summer...

Even though I often mention my love of cold weather, there is so much to love about summer.

What do you embrace about the season?

Photography: Seeing the Whole Picture

Since this is the month we celebrate 16 years of wedded bliss, I thought I'd scan in a photo of our big day.  When I took a look at the photo, I had to laugh.  And wince.

My parents made me feel like a princess that day.  They didn't hold back when it came to the dress, flowers, food, or photographer.  Looking at this photo, though, I think they should have gotten some of their money back from the photographer.  This is my favorite shot of the day of just us ... and the trash can in the background.

Really?  A professional photographer didn't look into the viewer and notice the trash can and plastic lawn chairs in the background??


I'm sure you have a photograph somewhere in your house similar to this one:
a once in a lifetime moment captured
with the less than desirable item in the background


Long before I became an MWAC (mom-with-a-camera) this photo bothered me.  Maybe because I'm a detail person.  Maybe because I'm picky.  Maybe because there is a TRASH CAN in my wedding photo.  

Now that photography is a passion hobby of my own, I have learned to make sure I am seeing the whole picture when I take the shot.  You never know when that quick little click might capture your favorite photo of all time.

Let your eye dance around the viewfinder of your camera before you snap that shot.
Watch out for plastic lawn chairs unwanted background items!  They may haunt you!

Hiding from the Camera

There's nothing like accountability for a good kick in the pants.  :)  I mentioned last week that I was going to make it a priority to take some pictures of just me and my man.  

On the way home from church, with my to-do list running a mile long, the last thing on my mind was a photo session.  I had 10 people to feed and a turkey to check on for Easter dinner.  Fortunately, my daughter said, "mom, we have to take some pictures of you and daddy."  So I grabbed the camera and headed to the yard for some shade and a couple of snaps by the kids.  We didn't even plan on matching our blues, it just worked out that way.  

A dear friend reminded me of the importance of capturing mom in the pictures of life because one day our kids are going to look back and not have any photo memories of us.  I'd much rather stay behind the lens.  It's safer (and more fun) back there.  If I'm real honest, when I look at pictures of myself, I become very critical (bad hair day, chubby arms, lines of life on my face.) But if I stay in my "safe" place, it's not doing my kiddos any good.

I had a Groupon to Lulu.com that was going to expire at midnight last week, so I threw a memory book together faster than you can fry a chicken.  It wasn't perfect, but I got it done in time.  One of the things I noticed was how few none of the pictures were of just the two of us.  Hence, my commitment to take more of the man of my life with his bride.  

What about you?  Are you being intentional about capturing your daily life?

Are you making sure YOU are in the pictures?  

I encourage you to pick up your camera and capture the everyday, normal life.  Sure, beach pictures are great, but unless you live at the beach, they shouldn't be the only moments captured.

Start clicking!  :)

Easter Morning Pictures

Do you try to get Easter pictures on Sunday morning before you leave for church?  We usually do them when we get home.  Needless to say, the lady with the camera (me) is not the most popular chic in the yard because my little bunnies are hungry enough to gnaw on their appendages.  This year I decided to go ahead and do our "Easter morning" pictures on Tuesday.  Before Easter.

I explained my reasoning to my kids and they happily donned their Easter attire and had great attitudes during our little photo session.

 I didn't have to worry about their outfits getting dirty because I knew I still had time to wash them again before Sunday, should the unexpected happen.  Fortunately, it didn't.

 Since we weren't trying to rush to Easter dinner, we had time to include some adorable props.

Rocko just wanted to help out with the natural smiles.

One of my favorites...

The only drawback of doing it early is not having my man and I in the photos.  Oh well, I've made a resolution to get more pictures of the two of us together.  Seriously, it is sad how few we have of just US.  So, I plan on snapping a couple of pics of us on Easter morning.  Assuming I can find something in my closet to wear...

Needless to say I didn't want my picture taken on a Tuesday morning in my favorite Wyoming t-shirt.  My little man snapped this picture of me and my girl.

 Ha! He may be the future designated family photographer.

One of the {many, many} things I've learned about photography is that I've got to make it fun if I want to capture genuine smiles and natural poses.  In the middle of the session, I told them to take their shoes off and dance in the wet grass.  They thought that was the coolest idea ever.

Hope you are enjoying this beautiful Easter week!

Sunday Rest

Do not add to what I command you

and to not subtract from it, 

but keep the commands 

of the Lord your God...

Deuteronomy 4:2

Sunday Rest

What a God we have! 

And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! 

Because Jesus was raised from the dead, 

we've been given a brand-new life

 and have everything to live for, 

including a future in heaven

—and the future starts now! 

God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. 

The Day is coming when you'll have it all

—life healed and whole.

1 Peter 1:3

the Message

Merry Christmas

Wishing you a wonderful day filled 

with JOY, BEAUTY, and PEACE.

As our family celebrates the greatest

GIFT

God's own son, Jesus, we hope

you have had a year filled with his 

grace and love.

Sunday Rest

Give praise to the LORD, 

proclaim his name; 

make known among the nations 

what he has done.

1 Chronicles 16:8