Tracy Anne Photography

Drum roll, please...

2011-06-01T13:44:00.002-05:00

I feel like Clark Griswold.

Clark spent hours finding and sorting Christmas decorations. Untangled every strand of lights. Checked every single bulb. Painstakingly hung lights and decorations. And then… it was time. He called the entire family outside to unveil his creation. All that work built up to one moment of anticipation. Certainly deserves a drum roll.

So here I am. Asking ya’ll to come out to the front yard in your pajamas to watch as I hit the switch.

Go visit my new site! www.tracyannephoto.com

It’s taken me months to work through this new blogsite. I researched hosting sites and available domain names. After a little digging, I looked up and realized I was in wayyy over my head.

I had no desire to tackle the technical aspect of the conversion to the new blogsite. The thought made my eyes hurt. One of my last posts was about finding other people who enjoy doing what sucks you into the mud. Enter Anitra, stage left. Anitra is my friend and former editor from my newspaper days. Recently she struck out on her own to start Blue Lake Websites. Um… HELLO! She did this sorta thing on a daily basis.

Enlisting her help was the best. decision. ever. I gave her my passwords and presto! Less than two weeks later, I was ready to start the design process. Anitra does some pretty amazing web design too. That just happened to be the part I was looking forward to the most. If you’re looking to create a website, check her out! You won’t regret it.

I knew the design was going to be a big task for a marketer and a perfectionist. And I love how it turned out. Love. it. A longggg time ago I surveyed (yes, I’m a nerd) my family and friends. Among other things, I asked them to pick a color that makes them think of me. Obviously green was the winner. And the second I heard green, I saw grass. Reminds me of all things happy: Summer. Adventure. Walking barefoot. Catching fire flies. Exploring.

The new logo might be my favorite part of all. I’m slightly obsessed with signatures. In high school I used to create signatures for other people. The margins of my notes in college were full of names, scribbed in various styles. Any name would do. My professors. My friends. My name along side the last name of the boy I was crushing on at the time. Needless to say, I perfected the signature of my married name before I was even engaged.

I’m completely smitten with how it turned out. Months of work totally worth it.

No longer will I be posting to this blog. So save www.tracyannephoto.com to your favorites and change your RSS feed. Head over to the new site - and let me know what you think!

Going quiet

2011-05-21T09:26:00.002-05:00

Here's the deal...

I haven't blogged much lately because I'm in the middle of a TOP SECRET redesign. With a real URL: www.tracyannephoto.com. And it involves switching from Blogger to WordPress, handled by my amazing friend Anitra at Blue Lake Websites. More blog-love for her to come after the new blogsite launch on June 1.

Anyway, back to my point.

Since I'm moving from Blogger to WordPress, anything I post between now and June 1 I have to post twice. Once here, and once on my new blogsite.

Considering the redesign is taking a massive amount of time on its own, I don't have a lot of time to blog... let alone post it twice. So I'm going to go quiet for a week.

I promise, it will be worth it!

Ariell & Jared: Part II

2011-05-11T20:54:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I let a week slip by between posting the details of Ariell and Jared's day before posting the faces! I don't like how that happened. As a result, I'm thinking about changing the way I post. Rather than details and faces posts, I'm thinking I'll do everything in chronological order and just divide the photos in half where it makes sense. We'll try it for awhile and see if it works.

Anyway, back to Ariell and Jared... Like I said in Part I it was gorgeous day. And Ariell was a gorgeous bride. Obviously Jared thought so too!

2011-05-11T20:51:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite parts of the wedding day is the time between photos and the ceremony. Everyone is having fun, and the energy gives you goosebumps. One final hair check and time to straighten a tie or two.

2011-05-11T20:45:00.000-05:00

Then the ceremony starts. A father giving his daughter away is my second favorite part of the ceremony.

My absolute favorite part of any wedding day... walking down the isle into their new life as husband and wife.

2011-05-11T20:40:00.000-05:00

Ariell and Jared, you are so blessed. For each other. For your families. And I am blessed to call you friends. Hope you had a sensational time on your honeymoon!

Mom

2011-05-07T12:33:00.002-05:00

I imagine she held me like this... once or twice. While I slept. While I cried. While I was sick.

And now she holds my son.

I'm sure she rolled a ball to me too. And then when I was older she signed me up for recreational softball. I loved her for it.

Now that I'm a mom, I understand she probably loved it more.

She showed me the world in my backyard.

And then she showed me the world.

Publish Post

Most importantly though... she showed me how to be a good mom.

Happy Mother's Day!

Ariell & Jared: Part I

2011-05-05T21:08:00.004-05:00

It was a gorgeous day. Not in terms of the weather, mind you. It was a gorgeous day... for love. For the love of two people getting married with a foundation firmly rooted in Christ. Not even cloudy skies and scattered showers can prevent that day from being gorgeous.

Ariell and Jared went calmly through the day with a ease that showed everyone they knew... They knew exactly what they were doing and what it meant. They knew it was perfect. It just needed to happen.

Like I said... it was a gorgeous day.

Here are the details of their sneak peek. Enjoy!

Ariell was surprised to discover her necklace came in a purple box that matched her deep purple perfectly!

2011-05-05T21:06:00.003-05:00

I loved shooting in the Elkader Grace Evangelical Free church. Loved. it. It's extremely well lit. I was talking to Pastor Mark before the ceremony, and he explained a local photographer belongs to the church and provided insight when it was being built.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Every church that's constructing a new building should involve a photographer!

2011-05-05T21:05:00.004-05:00

Another ring shot... I couldn't decide. After much debate, this is my favorite.

The people post coming soon!

Stuck in mud

2011-05-03T20:49:00.004-05:00

Growing up on my parents acreage, spring was always a muddy mess. The ground woke up from it's winter hibernation and left a thick layer of mud underneath standing water. The slimy sticky mess sucked off more than one boot and ruined countless pairs of socks. The entire horse lot was dotted with pools of water trapped by banks of mud. I say mud, but considering the horses spent a lot of time in there, it probably wasn't just 'mud'.

These days I feel stuck. Mired by my 'day job' and honestly... my photography business. Meanwhile, my most important jobs as wife and mother have barely been treading water. And let me tell you, "housekeeper" succumbed to the mud months ago. This post needs photos, but I'll spare you from seeing the mountain of laundry waiting for me or the dirty dishes piled on our end table.

Everyone's been there.

When we were little, my mom showed us kids how to use the heel of your boot to make channels in the muddy horse lot. Doing so let the standing water escape, and the ground dried up faster. For us it was pure fun. For my mom it meant not having to trekk through the muddy mess anymore.

The lesson here... find someone who enjoys doing what mires your life. I am.

One more, unrelated lesson, let go of the guilt.

I really hoped to get the photos from last weekends wedding posted tonight. But playing outside with my son this gorgeous afternoon was more important today.

Stationary love

2011-04-28T18:06:00.003-05:00

We just got a invitation to my cousin's wedding... and it is flippin cool! I had to share asap. The two sides fold in together with this cool square smack dab in the center.

Love that shade of blue and the monogram "T". I might be a little biased... you know, since Tucker was my maiden name for 20 some years of my life. I almost miss it. Until I remember I moved up in the world. From a "Tu" to an "Sc". And then I get over it. Oh, and there happens to be a pretty amazing guy attached to "Sc" as well. ;-)

Anyway, back to the invitation... all of their information was so well displayed without any extra cards or inserts. The accommodations and gift registry on one side...

With the main invitation and reception information on the middle panel. And an adorable engagement picture on the right side. (Note, photo NOT taken by me. Bugs me that I can't give credit to the photographer. I'll find out and update: Photo taken by Milestone Portraits)

Super cute invitation! Might just be my favorite one to date. And I'm super excited to attend their wedding in a little over a month!

Update

2011-04-25T12:12:00.002-05:00

I haven't blogged in awhile. But it's not due to a lack of content. Quite the opposite actually. I've been so busy DOING things worth blogging about, I haven't had time to blog about them. How's THAT, internet?!

1. Jubilee Wine Tasting event
The Jubilee Committee is a group of volunteers in our community that plan the various celebrations in our little town. I was on the committee for 2 or 3 years, and let me tell you this group is small but mighty! After our son was born I stepped off the committee, and since then I try to do what I can to support them. So when it was time for the second annual wine tasting and silent auction, Tracy Anne Photography donated a portrait session. And I stopped by to support the fundraiser by drinking my share of wine samples. Anything for a good cause. :-)

2. Meeting other photographers
Last week I met with two amazing Des Moines area photographers. I caught up with Caryoln Vaughn over lunch. Lovely lady. Much of her time during wedding season is spent in Okoboji, a place very near and dear to my heart after having lived there for almost 3 years. And I met Amy Allen at her (amazing) studio in the East Village. She's full of fire and fun. We talked for an hour - but I could have sat on her couch all day. (That was not a therapist reference by the way, although maybe it should have been becauses she gave me some pretty terrific advice!)

3. Easter and ear infections
After a sleepless Friday night, we took O to the doctor Saturday morning to find out he has his first ear infection. After a nap in the recliner, both of us were feeling a little better. O is a little fussier than normal, but considering his laid back personality he's tolerating it better than most. We struck out for Grandma's house on Sunday for Easter. O was such a trooper for not feeling well. Grandma saved the day and had an Easter basket for O since I didn't a chance to put ours together after an all-nighter and trip to the doctor.

Photo courtesy of Aunt Michele. I brought my camera, but with a sick little boy - it never made it out of the car.

4. Upcoming wedding
Jared and Ariell are getting married this Saturday! So there has been a flurry of emails, and my brain is starting to draft mental to-do lists. It's going to be such an amazing day. Can't wait.

Under a rock

2011-04-16T20:34:00.002-05:00

I heard this song for the first time today.

Yes, I live under a rock.

Anyway, I'm completely obsessed with it. Even more so now that I've seen the video. The slow motion dancer in the sand... the water glasses... and her voice. Oh, her voice! Melts my butter.

In a completely platonic way of course.

So for those living under a rock like me:

Today

2011-04-11T21:49:00.002-05:00

Today is perfect. Warm. Sunny. A rare spring day in Iowa. Yesterday I noticed this...

Hello spring bud! Hang on. It's going to be a rough week for you. They're forecasting highs in the 40s and snow later this week. When that happens, I will remember today. And I will look forward to May.

My latest addiction

2011-04-05T21:16:00.003-05:00

If you know me, you know I am addicted to chapstick and lip gloss. I'm willing to try just about any brand and flavor. But my go-to has always been Dr. Pepper Smackers. I keep it everywhere. One in my purse. One in my winter coat and my spring coat. One in my car. One in Ryan's truck. I cannot be without my Dr. Pepper lip gloss.

Oh, but recently I may have found a new love. . .

This is eos.

This is pure natural (90% organic, 100% natural) bliss for your lips.

My co-worker came to work one day with this tall tale about a guy throwing her favorite chapstick in a container of Ranch sauce at a restaurant. He pulled out one of these crazy egg shaped things and told her it would be her new favorite. Apparently he was the creator. She got his business card. One email later he sent her a few samples.

And she gave me one.

I bought another one.

And since then I've seen them at Walgreens, Target, and Walmart. I went back to my hometown over the weekend, and even my small town pharmacy carries them!

It hasn't replaced my Dr. Pepper addiction quite yet. . . but it's been the closest thing so far!

The RSVP

2011-03-27T16:36:00.007-05:00

This photo has nothing to do with this post. It's just pretty. And makes me think of spring.

Anywho. . .

My sister and I were married less than a year apart. She got married in October, and Ryan and I got married in September the following year. If there's any chance you can arrange something like this, I highly recommend it. Just make sure you're the one that gets married second. Why? Because I learned so much from her experience.

One of the biggest things we learned from my sister's wedding. . . no RSVP cards. Whhhat? No RSVP cards? But how did we know how many people were coming? Without a head count how did the caterer know how much food to make? How did the baker know how many servings to make the cake?

After my sister's wedding we learned RSVPs just aren't accurate. Typically RSVP cards are to be returned 3-4 weeks prior to the wedding date. That gives vendors enough time to work with the final head count. But in the world of life, 3-4 weeks is a long time. People who RSVP'd and said they were coming to my sister's wedding didn't. And people who said they weren't actually showed up. You can't fault people for it. Things come up. Life happens. Not much they - or you - can do about it.

Matter of fact, the last wedding I RSVP'd for was wrong. At the time I RSVP'd for 2.5 (although adorable, Owen doesn't exactly count). And the week before the wedding the weather changed Ryan's plans, and he wasn't able to attend.

My recommendation - trust your vendors. They know what to expect. If you give them the total number of people you invited, they'll be able to estimate the number of attendees based on a percentage.

And it might just save you some stress in the process. Especially if your guest list is approaching the maximum capacity for any of your venues. If most people RSVP saying they're coming you may panic thinking you won't have enough room, when in all actuality some of those people won't be able to make it last minute. In some aspects of wedding planning, ignorance is bliss.

Not to mention, it saves you money on printing, paper, and postage!

Rural Route 1

2011-03-24T17:28:00.005-05:00

I grew up in the middle of no-where. Okay, not really. My playground was 11 acres in northeastern Iowa. We were about 10 minutes from our small town and 20 minutes from a fast food place or a retail store. It took an hour to get to a mall.

And get this. . . the gravel road that ran in front of my house didn't have a name. I didn't have a cool street name like Adams or Maple. . . or even the somewhat less impressive numerical streets.

Nope. My address was:

RR1 Box 65

Rural Route 1.

I rode bikes and horses along that road. I dug tunnels in the drifted snow along that rural route. I considered the ditches my Terabithia and built bridges over the water in the spring.

When I was in middle school our street was named. A requirement of the 911 system. And then I lived on Crystal Road. Looking back. . . RR1 was way cooler.

*Note: this barn is not at my parents place, but rather my aunt and uncle's who lived just down yet another name-less road.

Wedding invite

2011-03-23T21:45:00.004-05:00

Two. The number of weddings I will attend this year and not photograph. I'm kind of excited. As much as I *love* photographing weddings, it will be a nice change of pace. Just for a couple though. And it's not like they can make me leave my camera at home.

We got an invitation in the mail for the first one, and my obsession with stationary means I have to share! This invite is very traditional. There's a second envelope with metallic purple lining. The invitations themselves were on a beautiful silver card stock. The semi-abstract hearts and design looks like it might be hand drawn.

Additional information included a reception card with details for the party and an RSVP card. The font matched the flowing artwork, and the purple matched the envelope lining.

Doesn't it look very elegant together? Really looking forward to J & A's big day!

Jealous

2011-03-23T21:43:00.001-05:00

. . . of my son's eye lashes.

Amber and Dan: Part II

2011-03-13T19:25:00.007-05:00

And now Part II of Amber and Dan's fabulous wedding. . .

2011-03-13T18:48:00.003-05:00

The handsome fellas. . .

I'm so fortunate in that ALL of my couples opt for a 'first look.' It's really common here in Iowa. Makes for really great photos.

The gorgeous ladies. . .

Anti-photo ring bearers make for some pretty cute pictures. . . whether they want to or not! Kyler walked out on us. ;-)

2011-03-13T18:45:00.003-05:00

The groom helping his grandpa with his boutineer. . .

Hello beautiful. . .

Ending on a good note. . .

Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. Wetzel! Here's to many more years of pizza and beer on Wednesday night. :-)

Amber and Dan: Part I

2011-03-10T21:58:00.009-06:00

Amber sipped her coffee while she chatted with her girls. If you listened, it was almost as though they were sitting around someone's dining room table on a Saturday morning. But if you looked around, it was obvious this wasn't any run-of-the-mill Saturday coffee. A wedding dress hung from the ceiling. Amber's wedding dress. The dress that would bring her to tears when she put it on and that day. . . their day, finally became real.

Dan hung out with his guys, Mountain Dew in hand. He was relaxed. Calm. Quiet. You'd never know this was a big day, quite possibly the biggest day. When the clock struck quarter til, he put on a tux - as if he did so every morning. That day was just another day. Because he'd spend the rest of his life loving Amber even if that day never came. Because to him, they had been real. . . for a long time.

Amber and Dan, I feel so blessed to have been able to play a small part in the biggest day of your lives. I hope you had a great time soaking up the sun on the seas on your cruise. Enjoy your 'Part I".

2011-03-10T21:57:00.003-06:00

Amber bought two pairs of shoes... one because she thought they would photograph better. And. . . that is why I love her. :-)

Her 'something old, something new, something, borrowed, something blue'. . .

2011-03-10T21:53:00.003-06:00

Mmm, the candy bar was amazing. . . to photograph and taste!

Amber's sister made the cake. Impressive! It was so pretty. And it tasted even better!

Part II coming soon!!

I heart... Ruffled

2011-03-08T20:38:00.003-06:00

Oh my gosh. I just discovered Ruffled. And it is by far one of the coolest wedding blogs I. have. ever. seen. Not even kidding. I've spent the last 45 minutes going back further and further to read more posts.

Why do I love it so much? Let me count the ways.

1. Today's post (and the first one I saw) happened to be about a wedding in Canada with a 4-H theme. And I heart... 4-H. I spent my childhood at the county fair. So I was smitten from the beginning. I realize this tid bit doesn't apply to many of you... but it is my list. ;-)

2. There's very much a vintage, indie, whimsical feel to the site. But they aren't all in your face about it. Some websites make it seem like if you don't have [insert cool new idea of the second] your wedding is less than perfect. Ironic considering they're telling readers to personalize the wedding as much as possible, and yet they're trying to mold every wedding into what THEY deem to be the hottest trend.

3. DIY. Ruffled is all about do-it-yourself. It's the focus of their 'real weddings' and they highlight the handmade aspects of every wedding they post. Not to mention they have an entire DIY section. Not only do they make it easy for you to find all of their DIY 'real weddings', but they also give you specific ideas, directions, and templates for all sorts of cool stuff!

4. Recycled weddings. This is BY FAR my favorite part of this site. This is what makes it completely different than any other site I've seen - granted I'm sure there are a lot of sites I haven't. So... what is "Recycle Your Wedding"? It's like Craigs List specifically for wedding stuff. Decorations. Invitations. Shoes. Dresses. Jewelry. It's fantastic!

If you're a bride, you need to check it out. If you're a groom, you should tell your fiancé about it. If you like looking at pretty pictures, take a look. If you like planning parties and love new ideas, definitely give it a once over.

And if you don't fit any of those categories, let me know. I'm sure I can come up with a reason for you to check it out.

P.S. Ruffled has NO idea who I am. Just wanted to make sure y'all know they aren't telling or paying (I wish!) me to say all these nice things about them.

Amber and Dan: Sneak peek

2011-03-06T16:15:00.002-06:00

Mmm... sweet peek is more like it.

I am so excited about this wedding. Amber and Dan did a fantastic job with the details - a photographer's dream! More to come soon.

Multiple answer

2011-03-03T17:59:00.003-06:00

I'm super excited. Guess why!

A. My first wedding of the year is in two days

B. I'm planning a new logo and website

C. I got a new camera accessory/lens

D. All of the above

And the winner is....

Are you ready?

You really wanna know?

ALL OF THE ABOVE!

I'm stoked about Amber and Dan's wedding this weekend. But I think I may have mentioned that... oh, a billion times.

A logo and an "official" website have always been a goal. And this year... this year they're going to come true, cyber friends. I have BIG plans. It's fun. And exciting. And scary all mushed up into one big pile of pure craziness.

And I made a fun purchase today. It was almost spur of the moment. I've wanted an extension tube since my friend Barbie let me borrow hers. It was more a of a "want" than a "need". And today it became MINE.

Most people know 'macro' in the photography world means taking pictures of very small things. Very small, like the veins of a leaf. As I rocked my son to sleep I saw macro photos of his eye lashes and fingers. Some lenses can get even closer.

An extension tube essentially turns almost any lens into a macro lens. Pretty cool, eh? And the devil's in the details. My new found ability to shoot super close-ups open up new doors when it comes to shooting the details of a wedding.

Like everything else, it's much easier to see for yourself.

This is as close as my 50mm lens will accurately focus on my wedding ring...

(If you love me, you'll ignore the dust bunnies.)

And THIS is how close I can get with an extension tube and my 50mm lens...

To my wedding ring... and my friends the dust bunnies.

Pretty cool, huh?!

185 years...

2011-03-01T18:47:00.003-06:00

I just discovered the first photograph was taken in 1826. It took eight hours to expose the negative made from a pewter plate. According to National Geographic anyway.

Eight hours! Can you believe that? Now a days you can take a digital photo, download it, and upload it to an online lab in less than eight minutes.

Needless to say, photography has come a long way in 185 years. Wrap your brain around that! I don’t even think I can comprehend a time span of that length. Anywho. The role of professional photographer has changed a lot in just the past few years.

Previously photographers served a dual purpose. Not only did they take photos, but you ordered prints through them as well. Those prints were how photographers made their money. But technology has changed the situation. After digital cameras came out the number of photo labs exploded! Every grocery store, retail chain, and pharmacy has a photo lab these days.

And then came the Shutterflies and Snapfishes (or is Snapfish plural too?) of the world. Didn’t take long for someone to realize the costly overhead of a brick and mortar retail store wasn't necessary to sell photo prints. When they went online, photo labs started marketing to individuals rather than photographers.

Let me pause right here. I firmly believe there is a distinct difference in the quality of a photo printed at your neighborhood store and those printed at a professional lab. I’m willing to bet 90 percent of the time the techs working in the photo labs where you can also purchase hair dye and a frozen pizza don’t know anything about processing photos beyond the ‘start’ button of the machine.

But, I choose to offer digital negatives anyway. Why? Because my rock star clients hire me to take photos. Not print them. Who am I to say they pay $80 for a professional quality 8x10 when they would be perfectly happy spending $5 at Walgreens. Especially when most of the time they have access to the same photo labs I do.

The flip side of that coin - why do I offer prints at all? Because the sheer number of photo labs available can be overwhelming. And ordering prints takes time. For someone willing to pay a little extra, I’m more than happy to take it on for them. And I do mean, a little extra. The pricing of my prints is not designed for profit. I get paid to take pictures. I can count the number of times I’ve placed a print order on one hand. My rock star clients want the CD of images, to the point where I’m considering making it standard.

Long story short, I believe the days of photographers holding onto the printing rights of their images with both hands is coming to an end. But ultimately, it will determined by the rock stars who hire us.

This is the incredible light fixture in the main entry of the Tournament Club of Iowa in Polk City.

Amber and Dan: Wedding invite

2011-02-28T19:59:00.004-06:00

Yipee! Dan and Amber's wedding is this weekend. So I figured it was a good time to share their wedding invitation. And because I love me some stationary and invitations.

I blogged their wedding save-the-date awhile back. The wedding invitation follows suit with the unique blend of traditional and modern.

The script font of the W and their names feels very 'old English'. And the two little love birds shilouhettes brings in a little modern feel. This photo is a little too far away to see, but there's a little green heart below the two birds that finishes it off.

I love the contrast of the angled ribbon with the straight edge of the card stock. And I love the fact that they took the extra time to loop the ribbon through so even the back looks 'finished'.

Getting the invitation always makes me even more excited for the wedding. And now it's just a few days away! There's going to be a candy bar - my first. And I'm way excited about it. Not to mention blue glass mason jars and skeleton keys.

Stay tuned - you aren't going to want to miss it!

My little guy

2011-02-27T21:18:00.003-06:00

He jabbers non stop. He has rolled over, but got lazy. He's only done it a handful of times since. He has two teeth. His nickname is Yoda. Stick out his ears do. He plays peek-a-boo. He blows bubbles with his drool.

And he's six months old.

It's so amazing to watch him figure out new things. Cannot wait to see what's next! I just hope it doesn't go by too fast.

Inspired

2011-02-17T21:14:00.007-06:00

This post is going to be really... random. It's just that I've been so inspired lately! By really random things.

Oh, life is good. For a lot of reasons. It's getting warmer! Last week it was 67 degrees. Yeah, that's right. 67 degrees. In Iowa. In FEBRUARY! And March is right around the corner. Needless to say the warm temps have my trigger finger itchin'. Cold winter months can be realllly long for a photographer without a studio.

My cousins benefit a couple weeks ago really put things in perspective. I've always felt very lucky to have been blessed with a terrific family. And it expanded when I married Ryan. But it was indescribable to watch them come together in support of my (second) cousin and his family. Not to mention I've been thinking a lot about my first cousin - Xavier's mom. I've been trying to wrap my brain around what it would be like to watch your baby go through chemo and bone marrow tests and spinal taps on a regular basis. I've only been a mom for six months, and my heart just aches for her. Because I cannot even imagine... or maybe I don't want to. The biggest 'problems' in my life right now are merely pebbles compared to the boulder their family is trying to move right now.

I continue to be inspired by the members of the Iowa photographers Facebook group. I joined less than a month ago. I appreciate the friends I've made, the things I've learned, the discussions we've had, and the things we've shared. The support I feel from that group is incredible, which is uncommon among a group of people many would consider 'the competition'. The members of the group make me question the way I do things, offer ways to improve my current work flow, and provide unparalleled support. It's truly an honor to be in their company.

I am in love with my life. Completely, positively, surrounded by love. And it's a good feeling. I have a great husband. I'm not exaggerating. He loves me despite my indecisiveness, puts up with my OCD, and even does the laundry once in awhile. I am falling more in love with my son every day. I watch in wonder as he discovers new things and experiences everything for the first time. I live for his giggles and cherish the rare seconds he wants to cuddle. I'm trying desperately to hold onto them but try as you might it's impossible to hold onto the past and look forward to the future at the same time.

Catching up on photography blogs. And wedding blogs. There are a lot of great things happening industry wide. the ideas and creativity has me really excited for wedding season. The first one in NINE days!

Life. Is. Good.

The day BEFORE Valentine's day

2011-02-14T16:26:00.004-06:00

Today is Valentine's day. Hearts. Pink and red. Cupid. A day of love. However, yesterday I felt more love than I think I may have ever experienced in my life.

You see... this eight-year-old boy is my cousin. Second cousin if you want to get technical.

The week before Thanksgiving, he went home sick from school. Less than 24 hours later he was fighting leukemia. Our family brought Thanksgiving to the University of Iowa Hospital cafeteria.

Yesterday a benefit was held for him and his family in my home town organized by a few of his teachers at my alma mater. One teacher raised $1400 by raffling off chances to cut his shoulder length hair, which was featured on the local news. Held at the church I attended as a kid, the confirmation class organized the breakfast as one of their service projects.

I posted about the benefit on my Facebook page a couple of times and the response was amazing! Friends from all over where buying raffle tickets, donating silent auction items, and contributing to the fund established at the bank.

Yesterday, I looked around Xavier's benefit and saw nothing but love. Fitting for the day before Valentine's.

Secret...

2011-02-09T20:59:00.005-06:00

I am completely in 'like' with the engagement photo guest book I posted yesterday. It's classic, elegant, and a fabulous way to preserve your engagement photos.

But I have a secret.

Are you ready for this? I didn't get it printed at a professional photo lab. *gasp!*

It came from Walgreens.com of all places! And it was only $25, which is what most people would pay for a guest book anyway.

While I do really like how it turned out, I'm just in 'like' with it. Not quite in 'love'. Why? The biggest reason is the 'leather' cover I ordered at a slightly higher price wasn't exactly what I expected. It looks nice but I've seen high quality textured paper that's pretty similar. I imagine this book will show its age in 50 years.

But considering we're talking about a grand total of $25 in the first place, I think my expectations were too high.

The other downside is the fact that the pages don't lay flat. It will be slightly annoying when people try to write their personal messages to the bride and groom.

But even more than the slight annoyance, the saddle stitched pages make for a pretty big gutter. Not the things that hang off the roof of your house. But the binding of the book at each spread. Because it doesn't lay flat, a portion of the design on the pages gets sucked into the stitching.

On most pages it isn't a problem because the design is either a pattern across the whole page, or the design elements are focused on the outside edges. But there is one page where the graphic elements fall in the gutter. Lesson learned and something to keep in mind.

Other companies make lay-flat albums, but they come at a premium price. Just like almost everything involved in wedding planning a bride and groom has to choose between quality and cost effectiveness. And that is often determined by where their priorities lie.

This is a great option for budget conscious couples. Offers the same product at a lower price point so they can splurge on real flowers versus silk, the killer decorations in the perfect shades of blush and bashful (name that movie!), or two more hours of photography coverage.

I have been waiting...

2011-02-08T17:53:00.004-06:00

SOOOO long for this! Not in the sense that shipping took a long time. But I've been waiting to actually get a chance to put together a guest book using a couple's engagement photos.

And I'm smitten. I love the idea of preserving your engagement photos. Sometimes people get them taken just to have something to publish in the newspaper announcement. But it's important to remember the two of you. Before the beautiful chaos of your future life together starts.

Whoever thought to combine that with a wedding guest book is a genius! And I was so excited to take a look at Ariell and Jared's for the first time, I took a photo of every. single. spread.

2011-02-08T17:49:00.003-06:00

The font is a little hard to read in the photo from this angle. It says "The Funks - Ariell and Jared"

2011-02-08T17:41:00.002-06:00

And they lived happily ever after! :-)

Rock stars

2011-01-28T20:59:00.006-06:00

I've expressed my distaste for the term "client" before. It makes me cringe. Client makes me think of suits and ties, meetings, and deadlines. Uggg! And that is NOT me or my photography.

So I've been racking my brain trying to come up with something else I can use instead. Friend is way over used thanks to Facebook. Not that I'm complaining. You're talking to a Facebook junkie.

The synonym function in Word has been my best friend. Customer, buyer, purchaser, shopper... all about as interesting as client. Pal, buddy, acquaintance, companion, comrade. All synonyms of friend and too cheesy for my taste.

I pondered using 'models' for half a second.

It surprised me. How difficult it was to come up with an alternative I mean. I consider myself pretty good with words, so it was frustrating. Never would have thought I'd get an idea off a card.

I've also mentioned how much I enjoy stationary. Kind of obsessed, actually. I was looking for a thank-you and one jumped out at me. "You're a rock star."

I call people rock stars all the time. Bring me coffee... and you're a rock star. Do the laundry for me... and you're a rock star. You get the idea.

And my clients - they are definitely rock stars! They let me do something I love every day. But a part of me is afraid of what it implies about my photography. Edgy, hard images. And sometimes my photos aren't that at all.

What do you think? Would you want to be called a 'rock star'?

What Not To Wear

2011-01-22T18:04:00.013-06:00

I may be the only one in the world... but I don't like the TLC show "What Not To Wear." I hate the fact that they ridicule and demean the person getting a make over. Shockingly they become their best friend after they have the "right" clothes, shoes, and bag. My opinion - there are better ways to teach people about fashion than making it come across as completely materialistic.

This coming from someone who's probably a great candidate for that show. I'd pick jeans and a sweatshirt over high heels any day. The other thing that irks me about the show... I'd have to shop at Goodwill in order to afford to get everything altered as they insist.

On a similar note, I find it difficult to answer when people ask about what to wear to their photo session. I completely understand their concern. They want to get the best possible photos and just want a little direction.

And some photographers are willing to give it. I've seen some photographers devote an entire page on their website to "What Not to Wear." But I've found it's always their opinion. Some like solids, others like bold patterns. Some suggest neutrals, while the brighter the better fits some photographers. Some even go so far as to recommend stores or brands.

I'm not about to tell you what to wear, and I'm certainly not going to tell you where to shop.

The truth is, I don't think there are any rules about what to wear to a photo session. I'm all about wearing what you feel comfortable in. Doesn't matter if that's a favorite t-shirt and jeans or peep-toe pumps with a little black dress. The photos are a reflection of... YOU. And if YOU don't typically wear skinny jeans and a sequined top, then don't. But if you are a fashionista (or fashionister) than by all means - glam it up!

And just to show you what I mean... here are a couple examples of both ends of the spectrum.

Ariell's rockin a cute dress and Jared a shirt and tie.

Whereas the Mueggenbergs are comfy in jeans and a t-shirt.

A line says a lot

2011-01-20T21:59:00.008-06:00

There are a lot of rules when it comes to photography. One of the most common is the rule of thirds.

When most people take a photo they put the subject smack dab in the center of the photo. But when you look at a picture your eye does not like the center of the image. The rule of thirds helps locate the subject in a place where your eye naturally goes.

To use the rule of thirds, picture a grid system on your photo. Three rows of three across the horizontal length of the photo. Most people will put the subject in the center square. But a more appealing photo puts the subject anywhere BUT there.

That's probably the most well known 'rule'.

I read a lot of photography blogs. It's how I've learned about 40 percent of what I know about photography. (The other 60 percent is constantly taking a LOT of photos!) Awhile back, I read a blog post by Katelyn James about line. I searched her site for hours trying to find it for you. But I couldn't. So I'll paraphrase. She explained how she tries to incorporate line into her images. Line that draw your eye to the subject. And it made sense to me.

As I looked through my images, I noticed the same thing... So it might be easier to show you.

Ariell and Jared's arms draw you in...

as does the train of Allison's dress.

Or the trim on her '57 Chevy get-away car.

Or a deck railing.

This was the only horizontal line example I could find. I think it works better with horizontal or diagonal lines, but this still works.

2011-01-20T21:56:00.008-06:00

The edge of the pool provides a great line right to Ariell and Jared.

As does the railroad track...

This one isn't the best example, but the isle between desk rows gives a hint of a line.

The rail of a porch.

Just a little info for those looking to take their photos to the next level.

Mike and DeAnne: Engagement photos

2011-01-17T20:40:00.006-06:00

Mike worked in Des Moines and had fun playing and hunting with his yellow lab, Tess. DeAnne spent her days studying vetrinarian medicine at Iowa State in Ames.

Life is unexpected. Just when you think you've got it figured out. It changes. And sometimes, it changes for the better.

A cross your fingers chance turned into a lifetime. After they met online, Mike and DeAnne realized they had mutual friends in common. They had just barely missed seeing each other on a couple different occasions. Fast forward to July and the two will be married in Dubuque, Iowa.

'Close calls' like this warm my heart. Ryan and I *almost* met several times before we were actually introduced.

I also love it when past clients come back. *Still working on a different word for client; I think I'm close.* Mike works for the Iowa Motor Truck Association. I photographed their Truck Driving Championships and their Management Conference. When Mike called asking about engagement photos - in the snow - I said yes please!

Considering they also wanted a few indoor shots, we brainstormed locations. Mike contacted the Tournament Club of Iowa in Polk City. The club house gorgeous. And the staff was so accomodating. I'll definitely keep that place in mind for the future!

And so, without any more delay... Mike and DeAnne. Enjoy!

2011-01-17T20:34:00.005-06:00

Doesn't DeAnne look amazing! The girl is beautiful.

She claims she's notorious for smiling 'weird' in photos. I beg to differ.

2011-01-17T20:29:00.003-06:00

Hello lovely white stuff...

And Tess. She's far too cute to leave out.

2011-01-17T20:23:00.003-06:00

I think...

everyone should...

take photos....

SLEDDING!

Thanks Mike and DeAnne. I had a fantastic time!

Sneak peek: Mike and DeAnne

2011-01-16T22:03:00.005-06:00

Ooh, am I excited to share these engagement photos. I've been waiting to do a session in the snow. So when Mike called, I pulled out the snow boots and Thinsulate. I'm not quite ready to share the whole session yet. Here's a little sneak peek to tide you over...

2010 Faves: Everything else

2011-01-11T19:07:00.005-06:00

And the last of my Faves from 2010 post. Everything else. The title makes these sessions sound less important. But quite the contrary. I just couldn't narrow them down. And thus - "everything else."

The O'Connor family

2011-01-11T19:04:00.005-06:00

The Hasbrouck family

Jess and Nate

2011-01-11T19:01:00.004-06:00

The Warg Family

Jameson's senior session

2011-01-11T18:57:00.005-06:00

Michael's senior session

2011-01-11T18:53:00.004-06:00

The Hulsebus family

Emily and the Mueggenberg's

2010 was very good to me. I can't imagine what 2011 will hold.

Faves of 2010: Weddings

2011-01-05T21:21:00.003-06:00

By far - weddings are my favorite thing to shoot. No contest. I've said it before, but I just love weddings. The fun, the excitement, but most importantly - the love. And for a split second I'm a newspaper reporter again, covering an event. Except it's so much more. It's an entire story - an ending, a middle, and a beginning - all wrapped into one day. And I get to choose how I document their story.

It is an honor, and it's extremely humbling. I. Am. So. Blessed.

Bobbier and Adam

2011-01-04T21:45:00.003-06:00

Allison and Terry

Faves of 2010: Engagements

2011-01-04T21:33:00.003-06:00

I'm not a fan of making New Year's Resolutions. They're over-rated in my opinion. But I firmly believe in reflection and setting goals based on what worked and what didn't.

And these engagement photos... they worked!

Here are just a few of my favorites from the year. I had such a hard time narrowing them down I had to create three categories. So look for future wedding and portrait faves too!

Amber and Dan

2011-01-04T21:30:00.002-06:00

Bobbier and Adam

Allison and Terry

2011-01-04T21:25:00.003-06:00

Ariell and Jared

Amber and Dan: Wedding save-the-date

2010-12-30T15:59:00.004-06:00

Here's another paper/font/stationary obsessed post for ya...

This save-the-date for Amber and Dan's wedding is so charming! I got it awhile ago and I've been waiting to post it forever. Now that my sessions have finally slowed down (snow will do that) I have time to post it.

Isn't it cute? I really like the "love birds" theme - but adore the fact that it's subtly implied. In my opinion, a theme shouldn't over shadow the meaning of a wedding. It's a lot like reading a novel - I don't want to be told what happens. I want just enough detail to figure it out on my own.

The combination of elegant scroll and serif fonts is a complementary twist of modern and traditional. Something pretty difficult to pull off well. Too often combining traditional and modern makes something appear disjointed. I think what seamlessly joins the two approaches on Amber and Dan's save-the-date is that the birds are traditionally shaped, but the silhouette smooths them out a little. Which transitions nicely into the branches with the modern touch of using circles and hearts for leaves. Kudos to their designer! Wouldn't surprise me if it was Miss Amber herself.

Like I've said before, save-the-dates and wedding invites give you a glimpse of what to expect on the big day itself. Pretty sure Amber and Dan's wedding is going to be amazing!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T22:21:00.003-06:00

While Ryan and I frosted Christmas cookies tonight, we talked about what Christmas will be like in a few years. Staying up late Christmas Eve to wrap presents and assemble bicycles. Watching Owen's excitement over Santa and his presents. Just thinking about the future memories, I couldn't help but smile.

Every year we get a new ornament for our tree. It usually represents the biggest event of the year. No surprise, this year's ornament is for Owen's first Christmas. Hallmark makes some stinkin' cute ornaments, don't they!?

Wishing you and yours a very merry Christmas!

Christmas photo project: Sneak peek

2010-12-12T21:56:00.001-06:00

A friend of ours asked me to put together a photography project for some of their Christmas gifts. It was a bit of a stretch for me considering I'm far more comfortable shooting people. But I really enjoyed the challenge.

Without spoiling the surprise of someone's Christmas present... here's a sneak peek:

I'll post the finished project soon.

When life hands you apples

2010-12-12T21:52:00.004-06:00

... turn it into a smiley face.

When I was a kid, my sister and I always had to help my mom bake pies. For Thanksgiving. For Christmas. Birthdays. For my uncle when he plowed us out after a snow storm. For the local milk hauler who brought us water in the summer when our well went dry.

It was our job to get an ice cube out of the freezer. That was her secret to making flaky crust - ice cold water. And my mom makes the best pies.

We watched and talked. About nothing really. Looking back it was just fun.

When mom had the first half rolled out, she lifted it up while we slid the pie pan underneath. It was easy and smooth. And prevented cracking the crust.

Then she'd trim the edges. This was the best part of pie making. We would snitch pieces of raw crust as fast as Mom would cut them off. Flour, salt, and lard. Yum-O! What we didn't eat we sprinkled cinnamon and sugar on and baked.

And to finish it off, she had to vent the crust to let the steam escape and keep it from bubbling over. But rather than cut boring slits, my mom always cut out a smiley face.

MIA

2010-12-12T21:46:00.005-06:00

I know... I know...

I've been ignoring the blog lately. Things have been a wee bit busy. There's the chaos of the holidays and with a new baby it makes things more complicated. Not even kidding - I started planning what we'd need to bring to my parents house for Thanksgiving an entire week before.

The good news is there are several posts in the works... and plenty of ideas for future posts! So just bear with me for a little while longer. I assure you regular blog posts will resume soon!

The Warg's: Family portraits

2010-11-14T17:59:00.005-06:00

I absolutely adore it when I get emails like the one I got from Jamie. "I loved the photos of so-and-so and want you to take picture of my family." I love it even more when they turn out to be as amazing as Jamie, Dan, and their son Beau (or Bo - I never did ask how to spell it.)

We were working with a limited time frame knowing snow could fall any day. When we scheduled the session for this afternoon I was praying for good weather. Novemeber in Iowa is a huge question mark. It could be 75 or 10 degrees. It ended up being a touch on the cold side. As in 45 degrees chilly.

Not even kidding - we cranked out this session in about twenty minutes. It was c-c-cold! But the Warg's are super troopers. You can't even tell their teeth are chattering in the photos.

Jamie, Dan, and Beau (or Bo) - I had a great time getting to know you. Thanks for braving the weather. Enjoy!

2010-11-14T17:56:00.004-06:00

Beau (Bo) is your typical boy. He loves to play in the dirt and race his dad to the car. His favorite subject in school is P.E., but he also likes art and music. And at five-years-old he's at that age where asking him to give his mom a kiss is like asking him to brush his teeth or clean his room. But he's so stinkin' cute!

2010-11-14T17:54:00.002-06:00

I think this alley is my new favorite location!

See what I mean?! Such a handsome guy.

Can't leave out mom and dad.

Such a great family! And a perfect way to - quite possibly - end my 2010 photography season. It's going to get even colder after all. All of the fabulous people I've been fortunate to photograph this year have been so incredible. I. am. blessed.

Questions YOU can answer

2010-11-04T19:38:00.003-05:00

I'm in a bit of a conundrum. This blog has been the heart of my photography business for... well, since it all started two years ago. At first, it worked really well. It gave me a chance to get my name out there and my clients to get a sneak peek of their photos. But honestly, the most important thing then was the fact that it was free.

It was very important to me that the business grow organically. So I started with a Canon D30 I bought second hand from an intern. I had one lens. And a free blog. As the business grew, I reinvested everything in equipment. Upgraded my camera, lenses, computer, and editing software. It's made my life so much easier.

And now, I feel like it's time to make some changes to this little 'ole blog of mine. It has served it's purpose. Like everything else, it's time to invest in an upgrade. I'm just not sure which direction to go.

To be honest, Google Analytics has been telling me for months that the number of hits here has been decreasing. So I'm not entirely sure anyone is even reading. And if you are I don't know it... because you don't comment. ;-) My hope for this blog was to create two-way communication between you and me. But most of the time I feel like I'm rambling into nothing-ness. Instead, the Tracy Anne Photography Facebook page has provided a better forum for the two-way interaction I was seeking.

So where to go now? I've thought about creating a website and deleting this blog. I've also thought about doing both - creating a new website and maintaining the blog. Or creating a hybrid of both, a "blogsite" that allows me to post and also provide the static general information people need to know.

The other option is to move the blog to Facebook. I hope you want to look at the photos - and I feel like I'm posting the same photos to both the blog and FB anyway. So here's my vision... I would restructure my photo albums so each session would have it's own album. Within the description I would include the content that I would have normally posted to the blog. I would also have an "Idea" album where I would post photos of wedding invites, cool do-it-yourself stuff I run across, and other ... ideas I want to share with you all. And there is always the "notes" feature of Facebook where I could bore you with all of my personal nonsense.

Regardless of whether or not I restructure the blog - I would LOVE to get the "discussion" section of my Facebook page hopping. So feel free to ask questions about ANYTHING. What clothes to wear to a photo session, camera questions, even personal stuff like why I have a collection of over 200 pens. (Oh yes, my friends. It's true.)

SO... I'm asking for your help. Leave me a comment with your thoughts. Do you love the blog? Would you cry into your pillow for weeks and weeks if it were to end? Then TELL me! Would it be easier for you to convert the blog to Facebook? After all, aren't all of us addicted to FB anyway? I'm writing this for YOU - so it's only fitting that you help me decide what to do.

Chances are no matter what we decide, I will be creating a "typical" website. And for that reason this change won't happen over night.

And... because posts are more fun with photos... here's a peek of my very unhappy duck.

PLEASE Comment!!

2010-11-02T20:22:00.005-05:00

And how could I forget Sami? She's a big part of the family and her mom and dad love her lots!

See, Sami even gets her own Hawkeye t-shirt!

Hee hee... this one just makes me giggle.

2010-11-02T20:15:00.004-05:00

Nate works at a golf course in Norwalk. So we had free reign of the entire place. It was fabulous!

Jessica and Nate: Portraits

2010-11-02T20:04:00.007-05:00

I know Jessica fairly well. After all we've spent eight hours a day, five days a week together for the past three months. (We work at the same office during the day.) I'd never met Nate before, but certainly heard a lot about him.

On a blustery Sunday afternoon I got to know Jessica and Nate. Together. And they are so stinkin' cute. Seriously.

Jessica and Nate: Portraits

2010-10-31T21:21:00.003-05:00

Last weekend I met up with Jess and Nate (plus Sami) at the Rolling Hills Golf Course in Norwalk, Iowa. The fall color was amazing! And I'm glad we braved the clouds and sprinkles because a couple days later the winds got up to 60 mph. Pretty sure all of the leaves from here blew to Oklahoma.

Nate works at the golf course, and I have a feeling this is how the three of them spend much of their time.

Full post to come soon!

The Hasbrouck's: Family photos

2010-10-26T17:27:00.008-05:00

If I didn't already have my own awesome family, I'd want the Hasbrouck's to adopt me. Becca and Jason are such great parents. They make their kids laugh, and laugh at their kids. They take time to listen to their dreams. I mean, it's not very often you hear parents encourage their kids to become an artist that paints or draws nature scenes when they show interest in both areas. They find ways to make a quick walk through the Story County Christensen Forest Preserve educational.

As a result, their kids are great! I had a very detailed conversation with Lilli about social studies and her favorite subjects. Logan, the oldest, is mature beyond her years, and even said she didn't want to venture too far ahead so she was close in case I needed her for photos. And Caden is ALL boy! He loves making faces, playing in the dirt, and throwing rocks.

Jason, Becca, Logan, Lilli, and Caden - I had a FANTASTIC time trapsing around the forest with you. Can't wait to hang out with you again! Enjoy...

2010-10-26T17:20:00.003-05:00

I LOVE this photo. Some day, when these three are adults, I hope they love it too.

It's completely organic moments like this that make me love my job.

2010-10-26T17:09:00.006-05:00

Hee... hee... walking through the tall grass seemed like a good idea, until Caden came out covered in seeds and leaves. :-) Like I said - all boy!

A little play time and you get photos like this...

(My apologies to Lilli and Caden for spelling their names wrong the first time I posted!)

The Hasbrouck's: Sneak peek

2010-10-22T20:42:00.004-05:00

I'm so in love with this photo. Becca's gorgeous smile. The way she leans into her kids, the way her kids are leaning on her. I love the grins on the kids faces. This - right here - is the definition of motherhood.

Sorry for leaving you out this time, Jason. You'll be in the full post - promise!

Making friends

2010-10-21T18:38:00.003-05:00

I don’t like the word “client”. It’s so… impersonal. Too stuffy and all business. In my world a business that has clients swoops in with their product or service only to vanish and never be seen again. Lawyers have clients. Auditors have clients. But I do not. They are so much more than that!

I’ve seen brides put on their wedding dress. I’ve held men’s sweat rags. I’ve wiped away boogers (I'm talking about kids here). I've carried cell phones, keys, and lip gloss. And I love it.

Most people would probably say being a photographer is about taking pretty pictures. In my opinion that's about 60 percent of my job. The other 40 is getting to know the people I'm shooting. As a matter of fact, if the people I photograph feel like a 'client' I've failed. Myself if nothing else.

So far I have left every wedding feeling like a guest rather than a vendor. I want my seniors to think of me as a cool – and only slightly older – friend. I hope the families I photograph want to adopt me.

I want to go WAY beyond having ‘clients’.

Why? Mostly, because it’s just who I am. I enjoy meeting new friends. I love the interaction between people. The stories. And you can’t tell adequately depict the passion of a story without getting to know people. But there are other reasons.

It makes for much better photographs. Putting things on a personal level rather than a strictly professional one puts people at ease. As a result the photographs are much more natural and far less contrived. The laughs are bigger. The love is more passionate. Who doesn't want that?
Sure, it's also a good business strategy. If my [insert word other than 'clients' here] feel connected to me personally, they are more likely to recommend me to others. They’re more likely to knock on my door when they need photos in the future. They're more likely to become a big fan of Tracy Anne Photography.

That's all fine and dandy. But honestly, I just like making friends.

So that being said, I've had a hard time finding a word that adequately reflects my *cringe* clients. "Friend" is wayyy over used thanks to Facebook. I'll have to to think about that one for awhile. Feel free to comment with suggestions!

Posts are more fun with photos, and I got a request to post more photos of Owen. This was taken October 6.

The O'Connors: Family photos

2010-10-18T21:58:00.006-05:00

This family laughs. A lot. They joke around and tease each other. I mean, there may or may not have been a couple piggy back rides in the parking lot - and it wasn't the kids! But it's all in good fun. Because behind the joking and teasing is love. A lot of love. The laughs come easy and their love is strong which pretty much makes the O'Connors unstoppable. I had the pleasure of meeting them last weekend in Huxley for family photos.

We had such an amazing day! Doesn't get any better than sunny and 68 degrees.

2010-10-18T21:55:00.002-05:00

There's nothing like having a sister. I'd say these ladies are pretty lucky.

Having cousins is pretty awesome too! :-)

And to think... it all started with Patrick and Gail.

2010-10-18T21:34:00.002-05:00

Right after that last photo was taken one of the little girls fell on the path pretty hard. After few tears and some kisses from mommy, she reluctantly agreed to take a few more photos. Such a trooper!

Patrick, Gail, and the whole family - thanks so much for the opportunity. I had such a great time meeting all of you! The world is always brighter with a little laughter and a whole lotta love.

Allison and Terry: Part II

2010-10-14T21:09:00.004-05:00

I love... love. I love weddings. I love the look on a bride's face seconds before she walks down the isle. I love the way (some) grooms pretend to be tough even though you can tell they're melting on the inside when they see their bride for the first time.

During Allison and Terry's ceremony, the priest said something that really stuck with me.

"Love is not simple... but it is possible."

Everyone says all things are possible with love. But love is a very complex thing. It helps a lot if you are fortunate enough to have faith, a good example, a strong support system, and respect for each other as well.

That said, love will make all things possible for Allison and Terry. You can see it on their faces.

2010-10-14T21:03:00.003-05:00

Have I ever mentioned before that I adore fall in Iowa?

2010-10-14T20:49:00.004-05:00

Grandpa and father of the bride in the get away car.

Walking down the isle...

Okay, so I was a little selfish. I took this next photo for myself. Allison is my cousin. So her grandparents are my grandparents. And I was sitting right behind them during the ceremony. When the congregation recited the Lords Prayer I couldn't resist the sight of my grandparents holding hands.

Terry and ALLISON McGraw!

Allison and Terry, it warms my heart to not only be there when you guys started your new life together, but I am honored to have been able to help you remember it for years to come. Because in 50 years you'll look back at these and know that love truly is possible.

Allison and Terry: Part I

2010-10-14T18:15:00.005-05:00

She was running late. But she breezed into the hotel room where her girls were getting ready, a smile plastered across her face. Allison was glowing. Because Allison was getting married. She sipped code red Mountain Dew and laughed with the girls. She was relaxed. Because Allison was marrying her best friend. The man of her dreams.

Here are the details from the day Allison and Terry started their grand adventure.

The pearls are the ones Allison's mom wore on her wedding day.

I shouldn't leave out the handsome groom's details!

2010-10-14T18:11:00.003-05:00

The gorgeous bridal bouquet.

Allison's hand-made center pieces!

And the beautiful cake.

More photos of the amazing people of Allison and Terry's day to come soon!

Allison and Terry: Wedding sneak peek

2010-10-10T22:13:00.003-05:00

Allison and Terry got married on a gorgeous day surrounded by their family and friends. As I was going through their photos, these two just begged to be posted.

I hope the McGraw's are having a fabulous time in Hawaii! Full post to come soon.

Emily - Family photos

2010-10-10T16:01:00.003-05:00

This little girl has been in front of my camera since she was born. From her newborn photos to her two-year-old photos this year. Since last year she's learned to tease people (thanks to her Daddy), has added a plethora of words to her vocabulary, and went from a baby to a little girl in the blink of an eye. She's smart and a total sweetheart.

So Emily and her parents (Holly and Jeff) headed out to a little park next to the local elementary. Em is quite the adventurer, and loooves to be outside.

Ask her to climb on a few pieces of wood and she won't think twice.

One of Em's favorite words is "NO." And she gets a little finger pointing action going on at the same time.

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When I'm photographing kids my shutter is snapping like crazy. You just never know when you're going to catch a fleeting smile. Or in this case, a really cute series. Holly told Em to show me her flower. And show me she did. :-)

Great photo subjects....

But even better friends!

Bobbier and Adam: Part II

2010-10-06T13:30:00.004-05:00

Back to Bobbier and Adam. I've shown you all the gorgeous details, and here comes all the gorgeous people. These two opted for a 'first look'. I know the tradition is for the groom not to see the bride until she's walking down the isle on her daddy's arm. But - luckily for me - these first looks are pretty common around here. Not only does it allow more time for photos, but it gives the bride and groom some time to themselves before the fast paced day gets away from them.

And images like this make breaking tradition worth it.

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Onto a few relaxed portraits

I don't remember exactly what the groomsmen were laughing at, but that might be a good thing.

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The rain stopped just in time for the ceremony, and it was perfect.

FINALLY - Mr. and Mrs.

2010-10-06T13:14:00.003-05:00

The Cranston's. Bobbier. Adam. And Sally - one of two ring bearers.

Johnny being the second.

There were so many amazing toasts about the couple. But the one I liked the most was the reading of a toast from Adam's grandma and grandpa's wedding.

It's not official until the first dance.

Bobbier and Adam, thank you from the very bottom of my heart. You are terrific friends, and I appreciate the opportunity to play a role in the start of your new adventure. Here's to many years of camping trips, Chicago deep dish pizza, and the love you deserve.

Bobbier and Adam: Part I

2010-10-04T16:15:00.007-05:00

Unwavering - Not wavering or hesitant; resolute.

Their original reception location had to be moved because the recent floods. They woke up on the morning of their outdoor wedding to gray skies and very dismal forecast. Cell phone reception was non-existent at their final reception location making it difficult to orchestrate a do-it-yourself wedding. And of course there were the typical mishaps and snags throughout the course of getting things ready.

But Bobbier and Adam... they were unwavering. Together they over came the location mishap, and plotted three different ceremony arrangements. They took the rain in stride, because ultimately they couldn't do anything about it anyway. And those little snags where minor in the grand scheme of things. Because their love is... unwavering.

And their wedding was beautiful. Starting of course, with - the dress.

2010-10-04T16:12:00.004-05:00

I always photograph the rings. They are such an important piece of a wedding and a marriage. Turns out Adam's ring is even more special - it was his grandpa's.

Mmmm... Bobbier's yummy (and comfortable) blue heels!

Bobbier and Adam are very natural souls. They love hiking and camping. So to bring a little piece of the outside to their ceremony they nixed the typical guest book and had people sign rocks.

Their color scheme was green, yellow, and brown. Sticking to the natural theme they used apples, lemons and limes to decorate. They placed these ahhh-mazing caramel and chocolate covered green granny smith apples at each place setting. And to top them off a hand made leaf tied with braided rope read "Bobbier and Adam - 3(2) squared / 5(2) squared / 2010" as a nod to Adam who's a computer and numbers guy (although I have yet to fully understand what he does).

Each table was labeled with a photo of a specific location that was special to Bobbier and Adam. Places they had vacationed, visited, their home towns.

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And these locations where written on the seating cards found on sections of grass on top of a table covered with burlap. (How cute is that?!)

The hall at Camp Hantsea is gorgeous. Vaulted ceilings. Huge windows along every wall over looked the park-like scenery laced with fall color.

More natural elements lined the aisle of the ceremony.

The cake was simple - and delicious!

I always have a hard time narrowing down photos to try to fit them in one post. I love photographing details and people. So I decided to do something a little different. I'm going to try doing two posts for each wedding. The first of all the great details, and the second of the people.

So stay tuned for more of Bobbier and Adam's big day coming soon.

Adjustment

2010-10-01T08:35:00.006-05:00

So this motherhood thing is pretty time consuming. Normally I'd be able to work through an entire wedding (200-300 images) in a week and a good solid weekend. But add a baby to the mix and my spare time for editing is limited to what's left over after feeding, changing, and entertaining Owen as well as sleeping, eating, and showering myself (in that order). It's certainly going to be an adjustment. Once our schedule maintains some normalcy I'll get this new life figured out.

Needless to say, I'm not going to have Bobbier and Adam's entire sneak peek posted by the end of this week. Since, today's Friday and all. So in the mean time, here's another teaser for your viewin pleasure.

I assure you the wait will be worth it! It was SUCH a gorgeous wedding, and these two just radiated happiness all day.

Sneak peek: Bobbier and Adam

2010-09-27T21:21:00.002-05:00

I'm in the middle of editing photos from Bobbier and Adam's wedding and ran across a couple I just had to share. The first because it shows the goofy side of this couple (plus an awesome pair of bright blue heels), and the second because it gives you a glimpse of the day without giving it away.

Full post with plenty of photos to come later this week!

Today

2010-09-11T12:54:00.003-05:00

Today many are debating the outcome of the interstate rivalry Iowa/Iowa State game. Not in our house. Today Ryan and I have been addicted to the History channel. They've been showing footage and documentaries from 9/11 all morning. It's so bizarre to watch nine years later.

Nine years ago tomorrow, I picked up newspapers documenting the events. The Iowa State Daily (I was a sophomore at Iowa State at the time), The Des Moines Register, and The New York Times.

As a journalism major I knew these newpapers would be a great documentation of the history unfolding in front of us.

These newspapers were in the basement and survived the flood of '08. Of all our stuff in the basement, it was these newspapers that almost had me in tears. Afterward, our basement looked like a printers office. Pages of newspapers spread out on every possible surface as they dried. I moved them upstairs after that incident.

I just hope everyone takes time to remember the day amid the fun and festivities of the Iowa/Iowa State game.

P.S. Go STATE!

My Owen's first photo shoot

2010-09-07T17:24:00.002-05:00

I've been dying to take newborn photos of my little Owen. So today was the day. I was hoping for sleepy photos of him all cozy, but he was wide awake. Since he was in a good mood, I took advantage anyway.

It's been just over two weeks now. We had both grandmas here to help us for almost two solid weeks. But they've since gone home, and Ryan went back to work. So it's just Little O and I all day. He amazes me more and more.

I love the little tuft of hair in these. I try to tame his hair, really I do. But it doesn't do any good. You should see it after a bath. You'd think the water would help keep it down, but he turns into a little fuzz ball.

This next one was just for fun... but I love his expression. Yes - I know, he can't 'smile' yet. But it's so darn cute!

In the meantime, I'm anxiously awaiting shooting Bobbier and Adam's wedding in a few weeks. Followed by my cousin Allison's wedding to Terry in October. So... you'll have more to look at than my son in a few weeks. :-)

Introducing Owen Edward

2010-08-27T15:57:00.002-05:00

Owen Edward was born Saturday, August 21. After nearly twenty hours of labor he arrived at 7:03 pm weighing 7 pounds even and stretching out at 21 inches. We came home Monday and have been adjusting to our new - drastically different - life.

Things I know about him so far... he has a lot of hair, even on his ears! He really enjoys falling asleep on his daddy's chest. Unfortunately, he's most hungry around 3 am. And he has completely stolen my heart.

Meet Owen Edward.

Amber and Dan: Engagements

2010-08-19T15:10:00.009-05:00

Amber.

Dan.

Amber and Dan. It just fits. She's an artist and a dreamer. Seriously... when I met up with them for photos, she had an old 1950s television. Why? To retro-fit with a digital photo frame of course. She saw it in a magazine and thought it would be cool. That's all.

Dan, however, is a thinker. He doesn't say much; he's too busy listening. And doing. Amber dares Dan to reach beyond the clouds, and Dan keeps Amber from floating off the ground. They are... perfect. And I'm lucky enough to call them friends.

On March 5 these two will become the perfect team. We met for engagement photos at the Guthrie County Historical Village in Panora, Iowa this week. The place was a photographer's gold mine!

A little close up of the 'bling'...

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Amber was wearing the cutest shoes! And I was super impressed with her ability to maneuver around the rocks along the river in them (photos later in the post).

I wish every town had an old train depot...

Amber is a teacher so the one room school house was a must visit on our photo excursion...