CHRISTmas through the eyes of a child! {My Inspiration}

My littlest is going to be two in January and anyone that has met her knows she is the energizer bunny in disguise.  I try to keep up with her on a daily basis and she seems to out do me every time.  What I would give to bottle up 1/4 of her energy, especially this time of the year!

With life being so demanding, the holidays snuck up on me quickly! It did not take long and I had fallen behind on gift purchasing, decorating, and merely enjoying the season and holiday I call Christmas.  I realized I had bought my daughter an adorable festive outfit, yet had not taken one photo of her in it.  I decided why not put EVERYTHING aside and play dress up.   Little did I know my daughter would be the one to open my eyes and remind me to slow down and reflect on the true importance of CHRISTmas!

Looking at this image flooded me with emotion and I knew right then purchasing the perfect gift, making the holiday party on time, or indulging in the many amazing holiday desserts had nothing to do with the true meaning of this wonderful holiday.  Christmas is called Christmas for a reason and it is because we are celebrating CHRIST and the day he was born.  Like many, I found myself getting caught up in the stresses of life and was slowly losing sight of the real meaning of this beautiful holiday.  Sitting on the floor with my daughter and playing with blocks was much more important than fighting traffic to search the stores for the perfect cabbage patch doll.  Our dress up day allowed me to see Christmas through the eyes of a child. This is just another reason why I fell in love with photography.  Every year I will look at this image and a little something inside me will sparkle.

 I wish you all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and don't forget to slow down every once in while and enjoy the many blessings around you.  

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Adrenaline Cheer [Katy, TX}

I often find myself getting so busy I tend to neglect my blog.  The new year is right around the corner, and I want to make an extra effort to sit back, relax and share with you some of the many events that keep my life exciting.  Whether this be my two year old daughter, Kamryn, filling the house with smoke from melting markers in the toaster (true story) or Kenna, my six year old scoring a 100 on every single spelling test so far in the first grade.  These are bits of my life and "My Inspiration!"

Of course I will still post client blogs, but this tiny section of my blog is going to be devoted to getting a little more personal.  So if you don't already follow my blog make sure you jump aboard because I typically do not experience many dull moments!  :)

I could not think of a better person to brag about than my six year old daughter.  She has always been a very active child and really takes after her daddy when it comes to being a "natural athlete." A year ago she decided she wanted to try out tumbling.  It did not take long, and we knew this was for her.  She loved going to class and excelled rather quickly for her age.  After one short year, her coach informed my husband and me that he was taking a coaching position at a more competitive based gym.  He had been a competitive cheer coach for many years prior and was going to be one of the main coaches at a new gym opening in the area.

The day I informed Kenna that "Coach JJ" would no longer be at her current gym was the day I realized just how much one individual could influence a child in such a short amount of time.  She absolutely adored her coach and worked so hard to make him proud! It crushed her to hear he was no longer going to be her coach.  She begged to follow him and venture over to the new gym.  The commute was a bit more than I planned, but I saw the importance of stability for a child her age and after some thought decided we would give it a try.

It did not take long for Kenna to show interest in cheer. This was a HUGE commitment on all of us, and I wanted to make sure she understood and grasped that.  As a parent, I explained when you join a team you are part of a link, and the team cannot function if it has a missing link.  This meant if she made the decision to be a part of the team quitting was not an option.  I know this may sound harsh for a six year old, but I know life does not just let you quit when things get hard and she needed to learn this right from the start.  We sat down and explained just how much time and dedication she was going to have to put in if she was serious about being on a team.  Not only was it going to be a commitment for her;  it was a commitment for the entire family!

Well of course she was adamant she could handle it and assured us she would give 110% for her new team.  Just as I had anticipated she quickly realized this was not just tumbling which came natural to her but rather much more.  She was the youngest on the team and had no clue about keeping on count or staying in sync with the other girls.  Everything was NEW to her and extremely frustrating!  Did the word "quit" ever come up, of course, remember we are dealing with a fresh six year old.  Was quitting an option-- no and she knew that because she had made a choice that not just effected her but 11 other girls, she calls her "teammates!" Children are very smart and she understood this was not going to come easy, but she was not going to give up.  I watched this group of girls every week for several months and the progression came bit by bit.  By the time the first competition arrived they were ready and I remember looking Kenna in the eyes and telling her "win or lose you should be so proud of yourself because you stuck by your teammates and together you all helped one another get where you are right now!"  That day I watched a brand new team of twelve girls walk out on a competitive gym floor most of them for the very first time, and hold their own against more experienced teams.

It is exciting to say the girls have had two competitions so far and took home second place at both as well as best overall pyramid at the last competition, but realistically I would have been just as proud had they come in last.  To me it is not always about winning or losing but what you learn from the experience.

A huge thank you to to everyone that has supported Kenna and her team.  This includes but does not limit her family, coaches, friends and sponsors that have made it possible for her to be a part of this AMAZING team!!! GO ADRENALINE TEAM POWER!!!!

Sorry for the bad phone video didn't realize I should have turned my phone horizontal, but hopefully you can still see.  This was the first time K landed four in a row!!!  Now onto to back tucks!  

   

Texas Choice Pageant {Galveston, TX-Portfolio Photography}

I am thrilled to announce one of my clients entered the Texas Choice Pageant in Galveston, Texas.  With prior consent her mother entered the portrait I took of her in the "Most Photogenic" category and she she took home the BIG WIN!!!

I would love to see your little one win a contest with one of my images, but please remember all images are protected by the USC title 17 Copyright Law.  You must obtain the express written permission from the photographer to use images for competitions, commercial use, or editorial purpose.  I often see images floating around and wonder if the correct steps were taken to protect all parties.  Please do not misinterpret and think if you purchase the image this does not apply.  The bearer of the image has rights to reproduce the images for personal use only, the copyright stays with the studio.

I wanted to blog this information to educate on an issue that should not be taken lightly but unfortunately often is.  Please respect photographers artistic work and achieve consent before unlawfully using a copy written image.  I was thrilled to give permission for my image to be entered in the pageant, but more so because the proper steps were achieved prior.

Now take a look at the stunning image that won this sweetheart the title "Miss Photogenic."  I know I cannot take the credit, she is an absolutely GORGEOUS little girl.  Not only did she take this well deserved title, she also went home with "Miss Personality" and 1st Runner up to the "Miss Galveston" title.  She will now go on to the state competition and I can't wait for her portfolio shoot.

  

Elkins Family {Richmond, TX-Family Photography}

I always have a pre-consultation before my sessions.  This is an essential part of the photography experience because it allows the client and I to collectively gather ideas and discuss details like attire and location.  Many times your choice of attire can greatly influence a location choice.  As a photographer I want your session to represent you and your family.  Discussing your interest, style, and home color scheme can really add to that perfect shoot.  This family recently moved into a new beautiful custom home with a warm earthly tone.  They chose an attire that accents the home decor and color scheme exceptionally.  Now they can proudly display timeless memories throughout their new home!  What a beautiful family!!!  

 

Cooper {Richmond, TX-Newborn Photography}

I have to admit I felt very honored when I was asked to shoot baby Coopers newborn portraits.  His grandma was my daughters preschool director and is close friend of myself.  I knew how excited she was to welcome this precious gift from God, and to choose myself to mark this memorable time filled me with joy!

We originally scheduled the shoot for October, but little Cooper had his own plans and was coming with or without approval.  I know many prayers were sent out for this little guy and he arrived not only healthy, extremely LOVED!!!

And yes for those of you that know my husband he was not thrilled I allowed a future Cowboys fan in the studio, ha!ha!  GO TEXANS!!!  

Wieringa Family {Richmond, TX- Maternity Photography}

I don't even know where to begin when I talk about this family.  Kari and I have known each other for a little over a year and we have become extremely close within this short time.  We live two streets from each other, go to the same church and are both photographers.  Kari's two boys are close in age with my girls and they all have become just as good of friends as her and I.  I was ecstatic when she called to tell me her new edition to the family was going to be a little GIRL!  It is obvious from the images that she is going to be just as stylish and cute as the rest of the family.  "Baby M" is due any day now and I cannot wait to meet her. I know Im going to love her just as much as I do the rest of her amazing family!!!

Make sure you check out this HOT mama's work at http://www.zanderandbreck.com/  she is so talented and we have enjoyed sharing our love of photography with one another!!!  I am so thankful we met and look forward to our lifelong friendship!!!

Emma {Richmond, TX Child Photography}

Meet my dear friends little girl, Emma.  She is a blue eyed brown haired beauty!  Not only is Emma a gorgeous little girl she is so sweet, always welcoming you with a smile!    Emma has reminded me of a porcelain doll since she was born and Im so excited I get to watch her grow and change throughout the years.  I always joke with her mama that my youngest is going to teach her all kinds of GREAT things ;)    Im sure she will learn to use those big blue eyes to keep her out of trouble!

My Family {My Inspiration}

It is not very often I post another photographers work on my blog. but this particular photog is a very dear friend of mine and she took our family portraits this year.  She is the owner of  Zander&Breck Photography and at a whooping 8 1/2 months pregnant she ventured out into the woods with us to make sure we would get some great images before her bundle of joy arrived.  Kari I cannot thank you enough for hanging out with us and capturing amazing memories I will treasure for years to come. Your the BEST!!!

So meet my family.  Kenna just turned six and entered the first grade this year, and Kamryn is my youngest turning two in January.  My husband and I are high school sweethearts and it is because of him I was able to pursue my dream of becoming a photographer.  He is my biggest supporter and best friend.  I thank GOD everyday for bringing these three AMAZING people into my life, we are so blessed!    

          

Ava {Richmond, TX-Child Photography}

Ava is my daughters age so I was well prepared for her to love or hate her session. Eighteen to twenty-four months is a very unpredictable age.  One day they will love being a little model, whereas another you just have to understand it is not going to happen.  This particular morning Ava was not having it!  She looked adorable in her little petti romper and matching headband, but was not the least bit interested in being in-front of the camera.  I tell you this because looking at her images you would have never guessed it, correct me if Im wrong.  Sometimes the BEST images of your children are the ones where they are not posed smiling, but being themselves and doing what makes them happy.  Ava just wanted to be a kid and do what she thought was fun, reading a book, not posing for a picture.  Thanks to her mom for hanging in their with me and trusting me when I said "let her do her thing!"  We were mere spectators in her little world :)

Gavyn {Sugar Land, TX-Child Photography}

I did Gavyn's portraits last year and we had a blast, so of course I could not wait to see him again.  It always takes him a bit to warm up, but once he is comfortable he becomes your best buddy!  We hung out and talked about all kinds of BOY things.  From turtles to football, you name it Gavyn could tell you something about it!  When we first arrived at our location I told him to keep an eye out for rabbits because I had seen them venture out from the brush the last time I was there.  Our session was drawing to an end and I was starting to worry because I knew he had his heart set on seeing a rabbit.  Just as I started to give up hope what peeped out from behind the brush, YES the long awaited rabbit!!!  The look on Gavyn's face was priceless and of course I caught it on camera!  I loved that not only did we get Gavyn's moms some amazing images to display in her home, memories were made and we had a great time making them!  Not very many six years old boys are interested in going to a photo shoot, but if you find a way to relate to them and have FUN, the outcome will be amazing!  Thanks for letting me see the world through the eyes of a little boy, your one of a kind Mr. Gavyn.  

    

Cami {Richmond, TX-Senior Photography}

Meet my Austin High School Senior Rep!!!  Cami and I had a GREAT time hanging out and searching for new hidden locations during her shoot.  Im pretty sure you can tell by the looks of her images she "ROCKED" the session!

Remember if you are a Senior this year do not wait to schedule your Senior Session. I am limiting my sessions per month which means spots fill quickly!!!  

Abigail {Sugar Land, TX-Child Photography}

This little BEAUTY is celebrating her 2nd Birthday!!!  When you say two year olds are active that is an understatement for this little munchkin!  What I would give to have half  her ENERGY!!!  She quickly found a hill to run on and this could have kept her occupied until the sun went down.  Unfortunately we had some images to get of the birthday girl, so other means were pulled into play to keep her attention!  I would have to say Abigail had a great time just being her, which is what I love to capture!  By the end of the session we were best buds!!! Thank you for choosing me to photograph your little one at such a precious time in her life.

Ava's Closet {Richmond, TX-Commercial Photography}

If you have not paid Ava's Closet a visit now is the time to do so!!! I got the opportunity to photograph the new clothing and you are going to love what Jennifer, the owner of Ava's Closet, has to offer.  Here is just a sneak peek of some items she has on-line and in "Tiara's and Tutu's Boutique" in downtown Rosenberg.  Make sure you mention this blog post to receive a 10% discount on your purchase.

You can shop at your convenience on-line at www.shopavascloset.com or visit "Tiara's & Tutu's Boutique" located at 808 3rd Street, Rosenberg, TX 77471