Jill Samter Photography

Nature | Beauty

2012-01-31T07:48:00.001-05:00

As much as I love to photograph people, my heart goes to complete mush capturing God’s glorious creation. Not only did He create things beautiful for us to enjoy, but He uses the minute details to remind us of His creativity and awesome love for us.

There is nothing anyone could ever say to change my mind that God has created ALL things. That He is in the detail business and knows all of us intimately way before we are ever born. We are His creation. Every single one of us is loved and adored by God.

When I entered into the birthing room in December to capture the baby being born, my heart was the most peaceful it had ever been. I stood in awe in that room. Not just because the birth mom was completely calm and filled with joy to overflowing. But because I could literally feel the hand of God in that room, like nothing I had felt before. The moments waiting for his first cry were awesome and powerful.

I absolutely love what I do and feel so blessed to be given this gift and talent, to ensure your extraordinary moments are cherished for generations!

Be still and know that He is God. He is taking care of the details in your life today. Don’t worry, trust in God today.

Be blessed and be a blessing,

Maternity Photographer | Spring is Coming

2012-01-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

I don’t know about the rest of you, but these warm temps in January are making me have the worst case of Spring Fever – EVER!!!!

Those thoughts, inspired me to share a few of my favorite maternity shots from last Spring.

To all the mom’s to be who are reading this today – let’s chat and start planning your future photo session! Maybe we can even catch the perfect snow fall and capture stunning photos of you in a field…OR we could go back to thinking about the SPRING and the gorgeous weather coming our way.

February and March Sessions available for maternity, birth and newborn sessions.

{in Northern VA., Frederick, MD. and surrounding areas}

I can fly!

2012-01-27T05:45:00.000-05:00

Well, I can pretend anyway, right?

After Lexi took some style shots for me, I ran over to the swing set. She wasn’t quite sure what I was going to do at first. I just told her to up the ss (shutter speed) and be prepared for what I was getting ready to do!!! he he he!

Who says getting older means you can’t still be a kid!!?

Please ignore the mud on my boots and it will all be GOOD! I was so mad at myself for getting them dirty the first day I wore them. But isn’t that what cowgirl boots are for? Sigh…

Just in case you were wondering, I’m loving my red hair! And yes, I love to pretend I can fly! Didn’t you when you were little? Kind of a funny thing to desire for a girl who hates heights!!!

Wishing you all a blessed weekend!

What’s Up? | Wednesday

2012-01-25T07:15:00.001-05:00

Welcome back to the funnest day of the week! I love writing these posts and sharing all the things that bring me joy, peace, hope, health and love!

Today, we are going to focus on a little bit about my thing for the color red!

#1 Especially red hair!!!!

I’m growing my hair out to a little shorter than these…

The first photo of Julia Roberts has been my muse for red hair and to grow it out for almost 5 years. I actually have it printed out and in my wallet. Where it has been for a long time!

When I was younger, people used to tell me I looked like Julia Roberts. Um, thank you! We are the same age and only days apart. Unlike her, I never wear make-up. Well, maybe just mascara and lip-gloss – but those don’t count right?

Well, I finally found a photo of her without make-up on and guess what? We really do, sorta, kinda, look-a-like! Minus the big smile and teeth. Sorry,Julia!

Well, after all the talk about red hair and going through tons of photos this week on Pinterest, I went to the hair salon yesterday and you guessed it, became a red-head once again! Only took 4 yrs to get there. My natural hair color is what you see above. I love it, but was ready for a change!

I snapped these real quick to show my husband and a few dear friends. I will share better self portraits later this week and a better example of all the neat shades of red and brown in my hair now. These are SOOC.

#2 Oh do I have a thing for hummus. If you don’t know what it is, sorry to say, but you are seriously missing out!!!! I think it should be it’s own food group. I love garlic and red pepper hummus the best. I eat an entire container almost every day for a snack with sliced up cucumbers and red peppers. No need to feel guilty about it either. Every bite is healthy and healing to your body!!!

#3 If you have been reading my blog for any length of time, then you know I love photographing nature. Two weeks ago the full moon was HUGE and orange. Which meant of course that I had to drive to my favorite spot to capture it.

#4 One of my favorite colors is yellow. I love yellow handbags, shoes, and clothes. I especially love yellow sweaters!!!!

I loved this handbag so much, that I tracked it down in Kentucky and Florida to get it in teal too! One of my dear friends was wearing it on a visit and I had to have it. Guess what? It only cost $42.00. Which for the quality and comfort of this bag is crazy reasonable!!!!!

It was absolutely freezing out during this quick mini session, which meant I needed to add my favorite black gloves and scarf to the outfit as well.

My fun, bouncy, and sassy curls were perfectly created by Lexi.

And of course no cute outfit is complete without a pair of boots. Especially during the Fall and Winter.

I bought these almost a year ago and they are by far the most comfortable shoes I own. So comfortable I just got them in black. They look great with many different outfits and styles. Which is a huge bonus to me!

#5 This is just because I think everyone needs to hear this each day – you are liked, special, smart, unique, wonderful, amazing, and beautiful. And…

#6 No good post is complete without a few wise words…

Wishing you all a blessed Wednesday! Make it an extraordinary day!

Birth Photographer | Joy Captured

2012-01-24T10:01:00.001-05:00

I can’t seem to stop going back to a few photos from the birth I captured last month, because they embody joy.

I still don't' have the words to describe what it was like for me to witness this and capture every first of this little one’s life.

A child is born and their life awaits them.

The doctor’s expression speaks volumes to my heart of her joy in helping each child enter into this world.

I am thrilled that this family sought out my services and allowed me the privilege to capture these moments, that their family will cherish for many generations.

If you are pregnant and would like to learn more about my birth experience sessions, please email me. I would love the opportunity to share more about this awesome time in your life. Don’t let these moments slip by without capturing them. You can never get them back once they are gone, but you can relive them again and again through photos.

Wishing you all a blessed Tuesday,

Is it too early?

2012-01-23T06:56:00.000-05:00

for a serious case of Spring Fever?

Our area has been hit with its first snow and ice storm.

Oh, how I long for warm weather, lemonade on the porch and children running around outside, filling our property with laughter!

Wishing you all a blessed week and warm sunshiny days!

My Style

2012-01-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Over the last two weeks I have shared a taste of my style from my Pinterest boards.

Today, I’ll share one of my favorite dresses and looks in real life.

Wishing you all a blessed weekend!

Just to make you smile…

2012-01-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

A month ago, I was practicing with the lighting in my new studio.

While setting everything up I had a very clever idea…

OK, at least it was a cute one!

Even tiny sock monkeys look adorable in the same poses as newborns! He he he!

What’s Up? | Wednesday

2012-01-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

Hey, everyone! I am totally looking forward to these posts each week Enjoy learning a little bit more about me…

#1Ok, so I might or might not be totally addicted to this tea! One a day isn’t bad right? No worries - it is healthy!

#2 My other favorite tea I enjoy usually after the kids are in bed, or when it is really cold outside. Tulsi tea helps build up your immune system and it tastes delicious without any sweetener. I only use raw honey or stevia.

#3 I love a good crunchy snack! Finding healthy ones that are GF (gluten free) is not so easy…especially if you want them to taste GOOD! These are both slightly addictive too. I try NOT to load up on carbs each day…unless it is veggies and some fresh organic fruit.

#4 At the moment I am listening to the following CD every single day and can’t get enough of it. I have been sharing many of her songs (videos) on my devotional blog over the last few weeks. Come to Me is my absolute fav!!!!!!

#5 A great quote to inspire you…

#6 I’m going to make these this week…anyone want to try them too??

#7 I’m on a seek and find mission for these boots…

Along with finding this jacket for Spring…

Until next week – make the most of everyday – count your blessings – stop to capture those you love and shine on!

Happy Gotcha Day | 3 Years

2012-01-17T14:00:00.000-05:00

For those who don’t know – we adopted 7 children internationally. Five are from Guatemala. Two are from Ethiopia. The day they come home is their official “Gotcha Day!” The kids love celebrating their special day and have so much fun loving on one another. It is part of their story and one more reason why I document all these special days for each of them. January is a busy month for our family – three birthdays and one Gotcha day! Yes, it is a super fun month around here – with lots of yummy pancakes, special dinners and wonderful desserts (all GF = gluten free). December has two birthdays and two Gotcha Days – not to mention Christmas! There are only four months in the entire year that we don’t have a single family celebration. Hard to believe with 11 people in our family. But its true.

This sweet boy has brought so much love into our family and his smile warms the heart of everyone who meets him. It is known throughout his school that the teachers seek him out on long days, to help their frown turn upside down!

Yes, our tree is still up. We love sitting by it at night. Not to mention yummy bokeh behind him! Both shots are SOOC.

Next week we will celebrate his 8th birthday! Time sure flies when you are being loved and having fun loving others!

Happy Gotcha Day sweet boy! We love you forever’n ever’n always!

Newborn Photographer | Blessed and Beautiful

2012-01-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

The title of this post says it all.

This momma is both!!!!

You have all seen this in my new header, however, it has quickly become one of my all time favorite shots.

…and one last shot of this sweet angel all by himself!

See you all tomorrow for What’s Up Wednesday!

Newborn Photographer | Mom and Son

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

As of mom of 4 boys, I can safely say my relationship with them is very different than with our daughters. They adore me in a way the girls never have. They have wanted to marry me They are quick to notice when I dress up for their daddy. They are first to notice my new haircut and color changes too. Yes, our sons never waste a minute to make sure I know how loved and beautiful I am to them. Their wives are going to be richly blessed by each of them. They are learning to adore women, care for them, and protect them.

I think that is why when I capture a newborn son being held by his mother, my heart smiles deeply. I know what awaits them both and all the love they will share in the years to come. It is magical to capture the depth of her love for her precious son as she dreams of his future.

Take a look…

Tomorrow I will share a few of my favorite shots of them together…

Newborn Photographer | Loved

2012-01-13T13:34:00.001-05:00

Blessed, is the best word I can think of to describe how I feel every time I share in the extraordinary moments in the lives of my clients.

To be allowed into the intimate moments that will be treasured for generations to come. Awesome!

To see the love and capture it. Priceless!

This next photo warms my heart on so many levels – it just oozes love!

These photos make me think of the following…

When you planned your wedding day – you would not dare imagine going through it without photos to remember every detail. That is how I feel about maternity, birth and newborn sessions. Each of those experiences are equally important if not more – because from you life has been born. A child who will one day grow up and desire to see the details of the moment he/she first met you.

I can’t tell you how many times our children have each asked me, “tell me about the day I was born?” Sadly, I can only tell four of them their birth story. And that is why I have made sure not to miss the many details of their lives since the day we first met. Adoption adds a whole new meaning to capturing all the extraordinary moments. Every photo is their story. Every photo reminds them how cherished they are. Every photo tells them their life has purpose and meaning and that all of their firsts here with us will never be forgotten.

So let me ask you, will you allow me to stop time, and capture the extraordinary moments so that you and your entire family for generations to come – can relive them over and over again?

Life goes by too quickly, newborns quickly become toddlers and toddlers quickly become teenagers. Trust me, I have every age now and life doesn’t slow down for me.

Who will you share this with? Who will you encourage to capture the extraordinary moments that will have meaning far beyond the day each photo was taken?

Newborn Photographer | Precious Bundle

2012-01-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

I can’t stop swooning over this sweet one’s little lips! Just look at them!

Doesn’t he look precious in this football cocoon and hat set. I think I squealed out loud when his mom first showed it to me.

I couldn’t decide on a favorite of this shot – color or B&W…what’s yours?

I just love everything about it – his sweet little hands by his mouth, his long eyelashes, the hint of red in his hair and those lips!!!!

Wishing you a blessed day!

What’s Up? | Wednesday

2012-01-11T07:40:00.001-05:00

Everyday without fail, my sweet husband asks me, “What’s up?” It is his way of beginning all of our conversations.

The funny thing is, I think it is the perfect way to begin a segment here with all of you.

What’s Up? Wednesday, is going to be {meet your photographer with a twist} a place where I will share bits and pieces about what is going on in my life, things I love, things that inspire me, my other passions and I’ll throw in some parenting tips too. Which totally makes sense having so much experience as a mom (9 children will give you all the training you need to mess up, and mess up again – then finally figure out on how to do it right – just to make a mistake again. It is ALL by God’s grace that I can do what I do each day!).

This is also a great opportunity for you to ask me questions – whether it be about photography, my favorite things, where to find them, and what life is like when you are living your dream! Feel free to ask your questions in the comments and as the weeks go by, I’ll begin answering them!

So let’s begin with:

#1 I am married to my best friend – who is an amazing husband and father. We moved from PA to VA last year so he could follow his dream to continue his pursuit of truth {studying God’s word and Philosophy}, and this fall he began a rigorous PhD program. This year we will celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary!

#2 I love good quotes! Like this one…

My heart and life belong to God, and I live all for His glory. Only through Him and because of Him – do I see the world one extraordinary moment at a time. When I struggle to see all things that way, His love and grace pour into me and I am once again refreshed to see it His way, and thankfully NOT mine.

#3 Each of one of our blessings teaches me more about love every single day, while making me laugh and cry. They also remind me of my need for God’s wisdom, strength, hope, peace, joy, grace and love!

#4 I was a vegan for 9 years and last summer I (well, all of us actually) began introducing organic animal protein and fish back into our diets. We are now GF (gluten free) and don’t eat any dairy. My health journey has taken many twists and turns since our oldest was born 17 years ago. I wrote a book and have shared many tips for reaching your personal health goals – here. If I wrote a health book today, it would have a slightly different take – but I still believe all that I shared in my book are the major keys to reclaiming your health. Then you need to transition into what I call “eating to meet the needs of YOUR body”. But that is a post for a different blog – on a different day!

I need to spend some time posting there again, because building my photography business, helping the children transition into a new school, supporting my husband with school and work, and watching a loved one fight the hardest battle with cancer has kept me away from sharing on there too often recently. However, it has enough posts and information to keep you quite busy for a while.

You will learn about my love for juicing and why I do it to cleanse my body -

You will find some delicious recipes and my favorite things too. I’ll begin sharing many of them here now.

#5 I don’t watch TV (at all). I’m not up on the latest shows – nor do I miss them. I don’t miss commercials or all the junk that is on TV. What fills our mind, fills our hearts and becomes a part of us.

We have family movie night – A LOT and love it. We buy series on DVD and the children love spending time together watching The Brady Bunch, Little House on The Prairie, The Cosby Show, and The Waltons. So far their favorite has been Little House and The Brady Bunch. Which has been a BLAST from the past. I never realized all the girls dresses on The Brady Bunch were SOOOO short – sheesh! LOL! We all get a kick out of their fashion. Mr. Brady wears the same clothes on almost every episode. Love those converse!!!! Carol’s dresses are coming back in style – big time. For a good reason – most of her dresses are seriously elegant and very chic. So, hold onto those classic clothes and some of the really trendy ones – they will be back in style…in 10 – 15 yrs. You can COUNT ON IT!!! LOL! However, we all know some styles just need to die – quickly!!! Good-bye pants that show off your underwear. Good-bye clothes that are so baggy you have no idea a person is inside. Good-bye micro mini skirts and belly tops. Seriously!

#6 Speaking of style – I share mine here! Which will lead you to my Pinterest board called Creative Things I ♥

Here is a sneak peak of what I like to call my style…”modest is hottest”! Is our family motto!! For good reason!!! Just look how cute it is…

#7 Shhhhhhhh!!! This is just between us right? I love, love, love, love – yep LOVE – real green tea from China. Nothing tastes as good. It is crazy healthy for you – boosts your immune system!!! I also LOVE – Tulsi tea. I’ll share my favorite flavors in the coming weeks with you. It too is super healthy and boosts your immune system…it also relaxes you! Which for me is a HUGE bonus!!! I don’t drink coffee. I haven’t had a cup of joe in over 10 yrs. I don’t miss it either. I love me some delicious hot tea!!!!!

Ok, until next time…please tell me how you like What’s Up Wednesday?

Newborn Photographer | Sibling Lovin’

2012-01-10T05:46:00.000-05:00

What could be sweeter than a newborn?

A newborn being loved on by his siblings, of course!

Especially when they are this CUTE!!!!!!

Get ready for some serious cuteness - overload!

The baby of the family is now the “big” brother, and he surprised all of us by loving on his little brother long enough for me to capture each of these precious moments!

These two boys are going to be best of friends! I just know it! Can’t you see the above storyboard in his room over the changing table?

This next shot just makes me SMILE!!!! BIG!

I am thinking this next one needs to be a huge canvas in the baby’s room! Sigh…♥ it!!!!!

Or this one!!!

I hope you are smiling now and filled up with their sweetness and lots of lovin’!!!!

Wishing you all a blessed Tuesday! More newborn sweetness coming up!

Newborn Photographer | Little Features

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today, we are going to enjoy on one of my favorite features on newborns…(little piggie toes!!!!)

Oh how I love seeing big feet and toes right next to little ones!!!!

Another reason I love capturing each sweet blessing, is getting to love on them!!!

After going through my favorite file for hours this past weekend…this photo is on the top of my list for so many reasons!

Now it is your turn to swoon over it! Enjoy!

More of this sweet baby coming throughout the week…

Birth Photographer | {Family Time}

2012-01-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

I think my favorite part of the birthing experience (outside of capturing the actual birth) was definitely when all of the family arrived to meet him. Watching his siblings welcome him into their family was priceless. I won’t forget these moments any time soon, and I know the family will cherish them for years to come.

Everyone was worried how the baby of the family would do with meeting his new brother –

…it didn’t take him long to take on the role of the wonderful big brother!!!!

I don’t know about you – but nothing melts my heart like seeing a newborn baby in the arms of his grandparents…these two are full of joy, love and wisdom! They will be doting over him for years to come! He is one very loved little boy!!!!

I’m so thankful for the opportunity to capture extraordinary moments like these – they truly make me a better woman!

Birth Photographer | His first cry

2012-01-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

Monday I shared the story about my first birthing experience, and how blessed I was to be in the room capturing every moment. Today, I am going to share some of his first moments that touched my heart….the look in the doctors face as the baby was being placed into his mamma’s arms for the first time, his sweet cry before being cleaned up, to the first time he was held in his daddy’s arms.

Could you feel all that joy in the room?

Ahhhh safe in his mommy’s arms and wrapped in her love!

Who can smell that newborn scent now? Nothing like it!

Have a blessed day! More extraordinary moments coming up…

Captured Moments = Priceless

2012-01-04T04:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I read a post (copied below with permission) and it touched my heart on a very personal level…

Maybe you know this about life – but just in case you have forgotten and are beginning to take it for granted – let me remind me you – it is precious! Tomorrow is not promised. Time doesn’t stop. Children grow-up – FAST! People we love grow old and pass on. People in our lives leave us suddenly and too soon. Life is full of treasured moments. But if you miss capturing them – they are often hard to remember or forgotten (especially through generations). We are but a moment in the grand scheme of eternity.

I sometimes get picked on for having so many photos of our children – yet, I will never regret a single memory captured. Having seven adopted children has given me a real understanding to the value of a photograph. Every photo that I have captured of them since the moment we met is in a photo book (at the moment I am over a year behind – the post below has set a new fire inside of me to get all the books done and caught up). They spend hours going through them all. They love bringing me a book so I can retell the story of the day we met. They love reminiscing about when they came home and all the firsts we shared together. Not one photo do I regret. Their value is priceless to them and me.

I make sure during every holiday and special event to capture us as a family together. The last two years I have made sure to capture our children with their grandfather so they never forget how much he loves them. He battle with cancer is coming to an end. When the hurt fades and we need to hold onto him – all of us will have photos to cherish of our family with him – laughing, loving and living together. We are blessed to have had time to walk through our good-byes – many don’t get that. In a moment everything can change – a car accident, or a sudden heart attack.

What would you give to have a photo to share with your children and grandchildren of the loved one they will never see again? What would you give to see their smile once more?

What excuse have you made as to why you are not ensuring that you capture photos of yourself with your children or just you as a couple?

Friends, I say this with all the understanding that hiring a professional photographer is a real investment – but not just for today – it is an investment for generations to come. It is the only way to share those we love with the next generation – a single photo can tell a story worth a thousand words. I fell in love with photography because it allowed me to never forget a moment in time that I wanted to stand still forever. It is the reason why I do what I do today – capturing the extraordinary moments in life for others!

A letter on my door step. portraits are more than paper.

Posted by jeaninethurston on January 2, 2012

There will be no portrait photos in this post. This letter wasn’t mailed – it was at my doorstep when I got home a couple months ago. I read it, I cried, and read it again – probably a hundred times by now. It wasn’t easy to read – and honestly, as much as it validates what I do for a living – I wasn’t sure I was going to share it either – Until today, when a past client said that my print prices were too expensive. If you choose to read through the letter, you will know why I’ve finally chosen to share it.

July 2nd, 2011

Jeanine -

Today I am writing for a couple of reasons. I have some quiet time at the moment and need to get a couple of things off my mind. I will leave this for my husband to deliver to you when he is ready.

You photographed my wedding, you photographed my first pregnancy and my first baby. I contacted you awhile back to photograph my 2nd child and family. After getting prices and realizing I would want all of the pictures as we love your work – I decided against spending $500+ – which is what I normally spend for portraits and prints with you.. Please know it is not because I don’t value your amazing eye, or how much we love the experience.

That week that I decided to NOT do a session with you, this is how I spent some money.

On Sunday I called and cancelled our session. Monday I went out and got my hair cut ($39+tip), and colored ($65), Thursday I had my nails done ($24), my family went out to dinner at a somewhat expensive restaurant for no particular reason costing us $79 + tip. This was just 4 days since canceling our session, already totaling over $200 for un necessary things. My nails only lasted about 2 weeks, my hair is gone, and seven weeks passed when I got the phone call from our doctor. It was not something I expected and the cancer has spread very quickly. I will be leaving my husband, my 6 year old girl and my now 2 year old – not by choice. It is very hard for me to talk about it which is why I need to write you.

I watch your Facebook page and your posts about the value of a photo and if I could give back all of those things that I purchased this few weeks after I cancelled my session with you, knowing what I know now, and have that session, well… I would do it in a heartbeat.

Now my time is done and there are no more chances for me. The next time someone cancels a session – my wish is that you forward this letter to them. Time is fragile, it is gone before you know you had it. If you charged $200 for one print it wouldn’t be enough for what it is actually worth. I cringe to think that my priorities were a manicure over a memory to pass onto my babies and husband.

My love and thanks for what you have given us from past photos. I am so sorry that I did not see it as more than paper until now.

Karen L.

It's funny, I've had people tell me all sorts of reasons for not wanting to have their photos done. Or couples who haven’t had a photo together since their wedding or the birth of their first child – because they “see no need”.

Here are some excuses I've heard: "I'm waiting until I lose some weight", "I didn't get photos done for my other children, why start now", "I can't afford it now", "We have too much going on right now", "I have nothing to wear", "I plan on it this year". Seriously.

Some put the value of a photograph at the cost of the "digital click" or the cost of the paper it's printed on. What a shame. I would give any thing to have more photos of me as a child to share with my children today. I would give anything to have photos of my grandparents who I never got to meet, because they passed away the year I was born. I'm sure there are quite a few of you who feel this way about someone special that you have lost.

If you have ever felt this way or have said any of those excuses, I urge you to think about all that was shared today.

May this true story be that soft voice in the back of your head to be in front of the camera, often – no matter how hard it is – don’t wait for tomorrow – it is not promised!

Don’t let the excuses stand in the way of you capturing memories that will be cherished by all those you love and love you!

Birth Photographer | Frederick, MD {It’s a boy!}

2012-01-03T04:00:00.000-05:00

When I first started taking photos for others (meaning not my own family) I knew I was venturing into something special – the moments I was capturing were touching me just as much as when it was my loved ones. Yet, nothing could have prepared me for what it would be like to capture a birthing experience. I’m still in awe. It was one of the most peaceful, joyful, beautiful and amazing moments of my life. I could feel God in the room – literally!

The mom spoiled me too! She didn’t labor long or too hard. She was quiet and joyful! She had her loved ones by her side and it was evident that they were equally touched by being present for this awesome experience. Witnessing a baby entering the world leaves one speechless. Well, it does for me. I stood in that room soaking in every moment – nothing needed to be said. Life is a miracle and such a gift. To witness a baby taking in their first breath, letting out their first cry and being handed to their mom – WOW – nothing is quite like it! I can’t wait to do it again!

I’m sitting here quietly once again – enjoying the moments over and over again – exactly why birth photography is such a blessing to the family! The mom who is focused on one thing only during labor and delivery can relive the moments just like I am now without missing a single second of the miracle of her child being placed into her arms for the first time!

I’m going to let the photos do the rest of the talking…

Welcome to the world little one! It was a pleasure and a huge blessing capturing your entrance! Praying all God’s blessings over your life, and that you may know Him and choose to walk with Him all the days of your life!

I look forward to sharing more of his first moments with you this week! Please share with your friends and family who may be interested in having me capture their birthing experience! I would be honored to share those moments with them!

Best SOOC of 2011

2012-01-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

As I begin 2012, I am very thankful to have the good to Wow challenge to reflect upon – I personally learned just as much as I taught throughout the year. I hope the tutorials I shared throughout 2011 helped you learn more than what “M” means, and that you can look back at how far you have come as a photographer (whether a hobbyist or a professional). I set a goal for myself and all of you last year: by the end of 2011 we would be able to capture technically perfect SOOC shots many situations. We learned how to shoot using backlight, full day sun, the early morning, dusk (blue hour), night shots, fireworks, macro, action, slow motion, how to set custom WB, how to capture emotion and get natural smiles from everyone in your life! I’d say we covered a ton of topics for one year!

My hope for all of us as we begin 2012 is to remember to NEVER stop learning and to practice pushing ourselves to try new things every time we set out to capture the extraordinary moments in life!

Here are my favorite SOOC shots of 2011…

We learned how to capture water-drops too – one of my favorites tutorials from the year!

I am grateful and thankful for all the editing tutorials shared by Ashley. I know many of you will agree they saved us time, while helping us understand how to edit a photo without it being overdone. I for one enhanced my own personal style by learning how to give my photos that simple extra pop. I learned a little bit goes a long way and that all I need is a quick preset that I created in LR3 and I’m DONE! I learned that I enjoy taking technically sound photos much more than I desire to behind a computer screen fixing them.

I am a photographer and that makes me happy! I am grateful beyond words for all that 2011 taught me and the blessings along the way. I am grateful for every single one of you who stuck it out with us and encouraged our group along the way. You have made me a better photographer, teacher and encourager! You have given me wings to fly and to soar farther than I ever dared to go – to dream bigger and follow my passion with everything I am!

Thank you!

Our winner for December’s best SOOC is Mrs. Malissa – please email me so you can receive your gift. Congrats!

Wishing you all a year filled with capturing memories that you will cherish for years to come.

My last pearls of wisdom before we say good-bye to our challenge – be still – don’t rush – find the light – get it all right – then embrace the moment and capture it one click at a time!

I looked forward to seeing your best SOOC shot of 2011!

Celebration | He stole my ♥

2011-12-31T14:00:00.000-05:00

It only takes one glance and that precious smile – and from there my heart melts into his little hands. Our time together yesterday gave me a renewed zest for life and parenting. All it took was his joy overflowing onto me and all through me. I couldn’t resist it – can you blame me?

With that I wish you a very blessed, love filled, joy filled and fully surrendered New Year to all that God, has for you in 2012!

Celebration | 5 is all the JIVE!

2011-12-31T05:00:00.000-05:00

I took him outside – just the two of us. But before we knew it – she joined us and couldn’t resist grabbing him tight!

She has his heart. He adores her. He looks up to her. He makes her giggle just as much as he makes her want to scream. He brings out the little girl in her and gives her plenty of reasons to laugh out loud – HARD! Together, they melt my heart…

Oh how I love backlit photos – yummy and the bokeh, OH MY!!!!

Again, these are sooc – shot with my 100mm 2.8L (still my favorite lens)!

Ok, enough of this serious stuff – these two were in a funny mood together and I was so glad to capture it! We brought out on of my favorite props and they did a fabulous job with them!

HA HA HA! Oh my, I love these shots! I hope they made you smile too!

Later today, you will see the shots of me with him – I handed my camera over to Lexi and I can’t thank her enough for capturing what she did for me. Little man you stole my heart today!

Celebration | He turned 5!

2011-12-30T21:13:00.001-05:00

I will never forget the day he was born. We were waiting for the phone call that he arrived. I guessed Christmas day and I missed by only 1 hour. He was born early in the morning the very next day. He was small, yet he was determined from the start to make his presence known. He is small for his age still and his personality has not changed one bit. This little boy steals your heart from the moment he smiles at you through his two front teeth. He is a cuddler and the best warming blanket around! He is a boy of few words. Yet, when he speaks it is full of his heart – from what he wants, needs, or prays about.

Today, I took him outside after much begging on his part to finally take his photos in the green shirt that I bought for him a month ago – perfect to capture this special day!

The lighting was gorgeous today right after lunch and he was in the perfect mood for our time together. Every shot of him is straight out of my camera and I love them so. Many from this session(that you will see over the next few days) will be hung in my studio and his room!

Next up, sweet giggles with his oldest sister! Oh my – melt my heart!!!! I will cherish these for years to come!

Happy 5th Birthday sweet boy – you are loved, cherished, adored and we thank God for you in our lives!

December Top 3 SOOC

2011-12-30T01:00:00.000-05:00

This is our final week of our good to WOW photography challenge and what better way to end it, then with picking our favorite photo for December. Monday, I will be sharing a collage of all my favorite shots throughout 2011 and one favorite! I look forward to seeing all of yours as well. Thank you all again for joining Ashley and me for this incredible journey!

Voting is open until Sunday afternoon and the winner will be announced on Sunday night.

#1 Snapshots by Michelle

#2 Mrs. Malissa

#3 chelseamiller76

Good luck ladies and thank you all for entering your photos into our flickr group each week!
Be sure to let your friends and family know that your photos have been chosen this month!

Now get busy spreading the word and vote!

See you all back here Monday for our best SOOC of 2011!

Blessings and grace! Have a wonderful weekend!

Happy and Healthy New Year!!!!

2012 Here we come!!

Glitter to the MAX

2011-12-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

Be careful if you get too close to your computer screen they might fly all over you! For REAL! I was literally covered in them by the time we were done taking our photos this past weekend. But don’t think for a second I didn’t love every minute – because I DID!!!!!

Now I’m warning you – I don’t look half as cute as Lexi did But that is OK – you will just keep being dazzled by all the glitter and not pay any attention to my silly faces! Right?

Then I realized the glitter was an awesome reflector and just had to try it out!

Tomorrow we will vote for the top 3 SOOC photos of December. Get ready for some beautiful shots to choose from! I will also be sharing some photos from our youngest son’s birthday – he just turned 5. Hard to believe that he is 5!!!!!

Next week I will have many birth and newborn photos to share! What an amazing two weeks of photo sessions. I’m beyond excited for all that 2012 has in store for me

Sugar and Spice

2011-12-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

Our girls are equally both…they are so full of joy and love too!!!! They always make me smile and fill my heart to overflowing! This little one gives us a run for our money 24/7!

This beautiful one loves to get the coolest hair cuts! I personally live vicariously through her! Yes, I dream of having short hair and how easy it is to get ready each day! I’ll keep dreaming because curly hair and short hair don’t go well together for me personally!

This photo is one of my favorites captured over Christmas! These two have the sweetest relationship…he follows her every move!!!

Wishing you a blessed Wednesday!!!

Glitter Storm

2011-12-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Forget blowing those noisy things – they never make you look pretty and only make a really obnoxious noise anyway. If you want to bring in the New Year with some fun – go grab a HUGE handful of silver glitter, go out into the sunshine and blow…

Just be sure you are outside and don’t mind covering your deck/patio or sidewalk with mounds of glitter goodness! Then you might want to close your eyes when you blow – because truly how many of us look good blowing? Oh, I sure don’t (you will see soon! LOL!)

When you are all done – your hands will shimmer with 100’s of glitter pieces

And the only way to get them off – is to dance of course – so shake it!!!! OH OH!!!!

Wishing you all a very blessed day – full of joy, laughter and love!

Week 51 good to WOW {SOOC}

2011-12-26T04:00:00.001-05:00

This is our final week to enter in December’s best SOOC. Please make sure that you enter your photo into our flickr group. Next week will be your chance to share your BEST SOOC for 2011 and a collage of your favorite photos from the 52 weeks of our challenge. Again, thank you all for joining us each week. It has been a wonderful experience. I trust you will all find new challenges to enter in the coming year. 2012 is shaping up to be a very exciting year for me and I look forward to sharing all that awaits me on my photography journey!

This week our theme/prompt is New Year’s – hello 2012 – I am so ready for you!

As some of you may know from reading my devotional blog, our family is walking the tough road of cancer. My father-in-love has been fighting it for a little over two years. Eight weeks ago, he was told it had spread throughout his body after being in remission for a year. The news was hard for us to hear, but not a total shock. Dad has fought with such dignity and grace. He is one of the most selfless men I have ever met in my life, and refuses to be a burden to anyone. Your prayers would be appreciated now as we walk out his final days here with us.

Saturday, my husband and I went for a visit – which turned into an emergency along our drive. He was rushed to the hospital due to some complications. He is still there and we pray he can come home to be with mom – where they both want him to be.

As we drove, I couldn’t help but want to stop time and make life stand still. It is why I love photography so much in the first place – we are able to capture life and forever have that memory. We left early enough that we were able to see the sunrise – most mornings I miss it driving the children to school. Not Saturday, my husband drove while I snapped away for about a half hour of the drive. Despite him driving about 70mph on the highway – I was still able to make time stand still and watch the sun take over the early morning sky. It was also Christmas Eve day and I couldn’t help but think of heaven as the sun peaked through the clouds and above them. Oh to see the glory of our Lord in His fullness! I can only imagine. God's glory fills the earth and I am so grateful for the peace I have even during a time such as this. I hope you enjoy seeing the morning through my eyes, as much as, I did capturing it!

I exposed for the brightest part in the sky – NOT the sun. I wanted to capture the different colors in the sky as well – so I made sure my Kelvin settings were right for each sky shot I was taking. I will not be editing these because quite frankly I can’t perfect what God already has! A brand new day filled with the glory of the Lord – spoke of good things to come in 2012. I look forward to all that God has waiting for me. I look forward to seeing every moment through His eyes of love!

I love the next two shots – I was so excited that I captured these as we zoomed on by! Boy was I thankful my husband just had his car cleaned or there was NO way I would have gotten any of these shots!

Of course I had to capture the bright sky behind me, because up ahead a storm looked like it was brewing!

We went from bright blue skies to this in a matter of 10 minutes! I had my ss pretty fast so I would have clear shots of every scene that we were passing. Oh I love the drama in this stormy sky!

Later this week I will share the photos of the sunset on our ride home.   It was just as amazing! Only God could paint the sky so perfectly!   No need to add a single thing to what He has done and can do for us!

Tomorrow, I will share some shots I have been hoping to capture after seeing a photo on *Pinterest a few months ago!   They definitely say Happy New Year!
This month I will be giving away a few cute camera gifts to our winner!   Be sure to enter your best SOOC shots into our good to WOW SOOC group.   Top 3 will be announced this week – remember to vote for your favorite SOOC of December

Now let’s see your New Year’s shots!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T04:00:00.001-05:00

From our family to yours – we wish you all God’s blessings in the coming year!

High Key Super Hero

2011-12-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

I never thought I would enjoy studio lighting and backdrops this much. It has been so much fun learning and playing with! I love how this series looked after I converted it to B&W. High key photography is grabbing my heart more and more! I truly swoon over B&W dramatic shots.

Wishing you all a very MERRY CHRISTmas!!!!

See you next week for our final SOOC good to WOW! Be sure you are entering your photos into our flickr group if you want a chance at winning December’s best SOOC.

Who is that Super Hero?

2011-12-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

I sure hope you are enjoying this series from our mini session, as much as, I am! Who else besides me is totally coveting his eyelashes?? Sheesh! LOL!

Tomorrow, I’m going to share my favorite shots of our little Super Hero in B&W!

A Super Hero that will make you smile!

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

He has a way about him that makes everyone smile!

Get prepared for cuteness overload!

#1 His smile lights up every room.

#2 He couldn’t be an ounce cuter!

#3 His eyes just shout joy and love!

#4 to infinity – because he is one of the greatest blessings in our lives!

Don’t you just love my new backdrop? I am so excited to have it and the others that just arrived!

I look forward to sharing more of our Super hero tomorrow with you! I hope you leave today with a smile on your face and lightness in your heart! JOY TO THE WORLD the LORD has come!!!!!!

Birthday Pancakes–6 Years Old

2011-12-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

It is always so hard for me to believe that this little guy is another year older. I remember the day he was placed in my arms for the first time, the day we brought him home, and how I could never put him down. I remember the hours of snuggles…he was and still is a momma’s boy. That is OK with me! The feeling is completely mutual! His hugs, giggles and lovin’ are the best!

As you know, our children actually ask me to take their photos. Yes, for REAL! Why? Because we have fun doing it. This sweet boy got a new shirt from a very dear friend and he knew it would bless her BIG time to have photos taken in it immediately. So that is exactly what we did. Melissa – thank you from the bottom of our hearts for lovin’ on our family so good all of the time! The kids miss you and can’t wait for you to come on back.

Enjoy a sneak peak into his special morning!

I caught him eyeing up the toppings for his special pancakes. These are all SOOC…thank you to my sweet, fixed 50mm 1.4 and morning light coming into our kitchen!

Mom and Dad – I am sharing these for you! We miss you and LOVE YOU!

Waiting ever so patiently for his birthday pancakes – made by daddy and topped to perfection by his big sister!

I couldn’t agree more with his facial expression when Lexi placed these in front of him! HA!!!!!

My husband is the pancake KING!

Time for presents – but first we were SOOO proud of him, he read all of his birthday cards to us! He only needed help on a few words. Mrs. Work, if you are reading this post I know you are smiling from ear to ear!

Tomorrow, join us for our giggle fest in my studio, in his favorite new shirt!

Week 50 good to WOW {SOOC}

2011-12-19T02:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome back everyone! Thanks again for joining us. The next two weeks of themes/prompts are at the bottom of my blog. Thank you all for joining us this year – it has been an amazing experience for me! I loved watching so many of you grow your skill set and push yourselves to try new things each week!

This week our theme/prompt is Holiday Traditions

Our family has a few that we do every year. One is our favorite meal – The Bethlehem Dinner (our children look forward to it all year long!) We eat on the floor – all the foods that would have been available during that time – pita, hummus, grapes, figs, olive oil, roasted chicken and vegetables. We focus on the story from Luke and allow the children to pretend we are literally at the last supper with our Savior. We talk about things that might have been discussed and how Jesus was willing to give His life for us. We usually do this on Christmas Eve or a few days before, depending on if we are traveling to be with family. Two of our sons celebrate birthdays this month so we incorporate them into this tradition as well.

The second is going to see Christmas light displays all together in our big bus.

This display was set to music and it was AWESOME! We arrived just before the line was probably an hour long to get into the mile long show. We finished in about a half hour and I was able to capture some neat shots along the way! Chell, do you see what I see?

It wouldn’t be a good light show without some beautiful bokeh…

This month I will be giving away a few cute camera gifts to our winner! Be sure to enter your best SOOC shots into our good to WOW SOOC group.

Now let’s see what your holiday traditions look like! Wishing you all a very Merry CHRISTmas!

Night lights…

2011-12-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

On a cold Friday night, the girls went with me to my favorite antique stores…

We ended the night sitting by the hot embers still burning bright…

Truly hard to believe that we are only a week away from Christmas! I pray you are having a blessed weekend and spending time with loved ones!

Maternity | Frederick, MD

2011-12-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

I met up with Jen and her three beautiful children Monday at a beautiful park not too far my house. You can bet it will quickly become a favorite spot of mine! Jen and her husband will be meeting their newest son next week. If all goes as planned, I will be capturing the birth of their newest blessing! To say we are both excited for that is an understatement!

Despite the chill in the air – Jen made it so easy and fun to capture her natural beauty!

She definitely has the pregnancy glow!

Jen your smile is so gorgeous!

This is my favorite shot from our time together – simply beautiful!

Here are a few of my favorite shots that I captured of Jen with her children!

I asked them to play ring-around-the-rosie around mommy…

OK, how absolutely precious, funny and adorable are they????

Thank you Jen for the privilege and honor to share in this amazing time of your life! I’m so excited for you and your family to meet your newest family member next week!

Week 49 good to WOW {Edit}

2011-12-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome back! Today, we will be linking up with Ashley for her editing tutorial.

Monday, I shared the typical light bokeh and today I am sharing some shots after following the tutorial! These are all SOOC an shot with my 35mm 2.0.

I love how these look like a Christmas ball ornament!

Because I used a wide angle lens it looks like I did vignette on them, I did not.

I love seeing your creative bokeh light shots on our flickr group!
Two more weeks and we will complete this challenge. I hope you have enjoyed it as much as we have!

Just Hanging Around…

2011-12-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

Oh how I love my little friend…he usually sits in my new studio

(his colors match perfectly in there, and he will be friends with many of the newborns I capture)

he usually sits in my new studio (his colors match perfect in there and he will be friends with all the newborns I capture)

Then my newest favorite model came to be with us…

But as you all know he gets bored of being the subject in my photos pretty quickly!

Then one of his big sisters decided it would be fun to join in…he wasn’t too impressed!

Happy Wednesday – wishing you all a very blessed day!!!!

Tree Glow

2011-12-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

I was so excited to capture this sweet moment of our youngest the other night. She was mesmerized by the tree and beautiful lights. She was asking me, “Where is our star?” Sadly, I ordered it but it never arrived. I will make sure it appears this week to complete our beautiful tree that reminds us all – “to let our lights shine before men, so that we may glorify our Father in heaven!”

Wishing you a blessed Tuesday!

Week 49 good to WOW {SOOC}

2011-12-12T05:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome back everyone! Thanks again for joining us. The next four weeks of themes/prompts are at the bottom of my blog.

This week our theme/prompt is Christmas Lights Bokeh

There are so many amazing bokeh lights tutorials out there – here is one of my favs!

It would have been a good idea to do the tips from the tutorial first, but I have been taking care of sick children and myself. I didn’t have the energy to do anything extra or crafty. But I will be doing the snowflakes this week and sharing how it turned out.

Until then, here are a few of my favorite bokeh shots from this weekend

This month I will be giving away a few cute camera gifts to our winner! Be sure to enter your best SOOC shots into our good to WOW SOOC group.

Now let me see all of your stunning SOOC bokeh shots – I’m sure you were all way more creative than me

It’s Beginning to Look

2011-12-10T11:41:00.001-05:00

A lot more like home around here! I spent the last few days redesigning my site, and I hope you like it just as much as I do!

I’m beyond excited to begin my new photography business in our new area – N. VA!!! I will be specializing in birth, newborn, maternity, couples (engagements) and seniors. Just in case you missed the announcement that my new studio is up and ready – here are some photos of my finished space (canvases and prints will be filling the walls shortly)!!

As you can see my studio gets tons of natural light, however, to ensure I always have the perfect light to work with I now have wonderful studio lighting as well. I have several backdrops and many beautiful blankets for newborn sessions.

In honor of my new design, studio and business all coming together for 2012 – I'm thinking this calls for a little celebration!

Invite your friends to come visit Jill Samter Photography fan page and leave a comment there {mention blog contest new studio} - then I will select a winner to receive one free mini-session in the month of January {maternity, newborn, or engagement ONLY}. Must live in the N. VA or Frederick, MD area (within a 20 mile distance from Lovettsville, VA)! Winner will have their choice of 1 free 8X10 print and one low resolution photo to be shared on social media.

*Print and digital collections are NOT included, prize only for free 1/2 hour mini-session.

**this contest is in no way connected to or sponsored by facebook.

Nothing like…

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Some hot chocolate and beautiful bokeh to warm a girl’s heart!

If you know me personally or have been reading my blogs for a bit, then you know I am NOT a cold weather girl at all. The older I get the more I don’t enjoy the cold. Not to mention it seems to get colder to me with every passing year. Brrrr! I will be spending a lot of time with hot drinks (namely green and tulsi tea) in my hands this winter, and every now and then a sweet cup of cocoa!

How do you keep warm during the cold winter months?

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Our winner for November is Sarah Coggins – congrats for being our best SOOC this month. Email me so I can have you select your gifts! Thanks to all who voted! Remember we only have two weeks left for our weekly challenge – make them good and get your photos up on our flickr group. I’m so excited to award someone with the best SOOC of 2011. We will do that the first week of January!

Have a blessed weekend everyone!

I see you…

2011-12-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

Don’t forget to vote for our best SOOC of November! Winner will be announced tomorrow

BE SURE TO VISIT ASHLEY FOR THIS WEEK’S EDIT!

I had no clue on how to edit my photos that I shared on Monday, so instead I’m going to share new tree shots that I love. Christmas lights are so beautiful and I have so much fun finding new ways to capture them!

I’m checking off my 25 days of Christmas photos list too – thanks Chell!

Wishing you a richly blessed Thursday!

Get Your Tree On!

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

I took the girls with me last weekend to the antique store we love – they were having their annual Christmas shopping night and every room was decorated impeccably! I had some serious tree envy!!!! If you haven’t decorated yours yet, I am sure these will get you seriously excited to do it soon! You might even be tempted to redo your theme

This next room literally took our breath away, and the girls wanted to move in – F O R E V E R! Can you blame them?

OK, raise your hand if you are excited to get your tree on?

Have a blessed day!

If you enjoy reading about Christmas and would like to join me in learning more about the reason for this season – follow me here.

Ornament{al}…

2011-12-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

There are many ornaments on our tree that hold deep sentimental value to me…these three were given to me by very dear friends!!!

And these were just too cute not to purchase this year….

Oh how I love light bokeh, oh yes I do! Mmmmmm…good!

Week 48 good to WOW {SOOC}

2011-12-05T06:00:00.001-05:00

I personally have been having a blast with this prompt – because I’m working on doing the 25 days of Christmas photos with my precious friend Michelle! How cute is this ornament we found at *Target* last week? It was a must have

For the rest of the month I will be sharing all of my favorite Christmas photos – I hope they inspire you!

Oh how I love Christmas light bokeh!!! Oh yes I do!

PLEASE - Vote for your favorite SOOC of November – our winner will be announced this Friday!

#1 Sarah Coggins from week 44 Macro

#2 Vanessa from week 44 Macro (you all rocked this week BIG TIME!)

#3 Gina – Chic Homeschool Mama

I will be giving away lots of goodies for our last good to WOW SOOC for the month of December. Then we will have our final good to WOW SOOC of the year 2011. Start going through all of your photos and get ready to show us your very best SOOC of the year!

I wanted to let you all know that starting January 2012, we will no longer be doing the good to WOW link up. My life has so much going on now, and I’m focusing on keeping it all in balance while starting up my business in a new area. I can’t thank you all enough for joining us each week, and I pray that this year has blessed you and your photography as much as Ashley and I have been blessed.

Now let’s see your Christmas/Holiday SOOC for the week….

Sit, Stay and Yawn…

2011-12-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

OK, these are proof for my sweet husband that our dog does take commands. He is not the most obedient dog, but we all love him even still!!! His cuteness and loving personality win our hearts every single day.

To keep it real this entire session lasted, oh about 3 minutes…and then he was bored!

I wasn’t quite done yet, but he was!

Right after this next photo he went to the door and pawed it to tell me to please let him out. Ha!

Have a blessed weekend and I look forward to seeing your Christmas and Holiday shots on Monday! Top 3 SOOC shots of November will also be announced then, too.

Groomed

2011-12-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

There is nothing like getting washed, blown dry and having the perfect hair cut! OK, maybe he doesn’t agree with me 100% on all of that – but he sure was willing to have his photos taken. He never stays when we try to take his photo. EVER!

But Wednesday night, he even followed me into my studio, and dare I say posed for me!!!!

All shots taken with my 35mm 2.0 – I’ve fallen back in love with this lens.

More shots of him tomorrow. Hey, I had to take advantage of a good thing while it lasted. Props to all of you pet photographers – getting them to look is way harder than all 9 of our children at the same time. Well, maybe if our dog was as well trained as our children I wouldn’t even be saying any of this…

Week 47 good to WOW {Edit}

2011-12-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

First, please don’t forget to vote in my poll above, it will really help me understand better what you like. Thank you!

Welcome back! Today, we will be linking up with Ashley for her editing tutorial.

Sorry no edits of the turkey shots – I loved them as is. To answer all of your comments (thank you for them by the way) – both turkeys were delicious!!!! Just so you know my oven is NEVER that clean – it is too old and not worth the effort trying to get it that way. But trust me when we get a new one – I’m working hard to try and keep it looking my mother-in-loves.

However, I do have the sweetest shots of our youngest son to share today. I’m still trying to wrap my mind around the fact that he will be 5 yrs. old at the end of this month. These were taken on Monday right after school, he was so proud to show me the Thanksgiving things he made the week before. He truly LOVES getting his photo taken and we both have so much fun together during every mini session! Yep, be jealous…he smiles like this with no effort on my part except, smiling at him first and telling him, “how much I love him.”

I did my super quick edits in LR3.

You only have until tonight to post your best SOOC shot to our good to WOW SOOC flickr group to be entered into the monthly give-away. This month and next will be surprises.

Tomorrow more studio shots – our dog was the perfect model for me after his grooming yesterday! He even stayed and listened to me!!!! Now that is worth bragging about. He is finally acting like a well-trained pup!

Oh Don’t Go….

2011-11-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

Please! Oh how I’m going to miss seeing these beautiful leaves that were seriously showing off the day before Thanksgiving. It was the only tree on our very wooded property with leaves still on it. Just look at it glowing….

Happy Wednesday friends…

Fall Flowers

2011-11-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

I mentioned yesterday, that I spent time capturing the details and these were to pretty to miss. I was shooting with my 35mm lens, as you can see it performed beautifully! These are SOOC.

Happy Tuesday everyone!

Week 47 good to WOW {SOOC}

2011-11-28T05:00:00.002-05:00

This week our theme/prompt is THANKSGIVING!

We have so much to be thankful for. If you want to read my thoughts about this holiday season – click here.

Now onto my SOOC shots – I focused on the details of the day – which equals me cooking two HUGE turkeys. They were delicious

Yes, the oven is that clean!! My MIL keeps it like brand new – puts me to shame BIG time. The inside was so pretty I had to capture it

Now, here is the beautiful turkey waiting to be sliced and enjoyed…mmmmm GOOOD – I’m getting hungry just looking at it!

Oh yeah - we TOTALLY enjoyed some pumpkin pie too!!!!

TODAY IS OUR LAST MONDAY of the month – SO MAKE IT GOOD and be sure to upload your photos to our flickr group so you can be entered into this month’s give-away for best SOOC - which is a surprise gift from me Only hint I will give you is – it is photography related…he he he!

I want to thank those of you who have begun to add your photos to our good to WOW flickr group each week. It has really helped me in viewing your SOOC shots (which means I can judge more entries for each months give-away!) and allows me to stay connected to our group. Please consider joining the group and linking us to your photo in the flickr group! Thank you!

To view it and join – go here good to WOW flickr group – you can upload one photo a week into the group pool. Please name it “week # and photo prompt” to help the group follow along. Thank you!

Are you just joining us? If so, then now is the time to start practicing shooting in M
(Manual) or AV (Aperture Priority) mode and getting each shot as close to “perfect” as you can in camera. SO, PLEASE keep learning all you can to capture the best shots in camera. I hope you are inspired by what I share here and from all those who enter our weekly challenge to learn more every month! I love seeing so much growth in many of your shots. This challenge has blessed me in many ways! Thanks for joining in and sharing this journey with us!

Thankful

2011-11-25T11:10:00.001-05:00

Two days ago, we took all 9 of our children back to PA to see our family. It is a long drive – but always 100% worth it when we arrive safely to our destination. I took some time capturing sweet moments of our time together – in between cooking two HUGE turkeys.

But this post is more of a thank you to our sweet dog Caspian – who normally spends the car ride heaving and tossing cookies the entire time. He was SUCH a good boy during the long car ride and you wouldn’t even know he was there at our parents. Bringing a dog to a new place can be stressful and yet, he made it so easy and enjoyable for everyone. He brought with him kisses and lovin’ that was needed many times during our holiday together. I’m thankful for all the ways this adorable guy blesses our family and loves us in the most unlovable times. Interesting how dog backwards is, GOD! God loves us no matter what, too!!!!

I’m amazed at that thought every single day. Thankful doesn’t even touch what I am to GOD for His unwavering, unending love for me!

These shots are SOOC and I’m totally cool with the noise.

I hope you all had a blessed and safe Thanksgiving! I look forward to seeing your SOOC shots on Monday! Have a wonderful weekend!!!

Beautiful Light

2011-11-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Isn’t always where or what you think it will be.

Meaning, you don’t need the perfect morning sun or evening sunset to capture gorgeous light.

Sometimes the best light is dramatic. Learning to see it and capture it, has truly helped create my own personal style.

I loved how the light played on the couple during our final moments of shooting at the workshop last week.

No reflectors or flashes were used during any of these shots. Just the available light coming in from the windows. It was a very overcast and rainy day around 1:30pm. I was shooting wide open f/1.6 and my ISO was around 640 – 800, with a shutter speed around 200.

Have fun looking for the light and creating magical moments with it! Wishing you all a fabulous and richly blessed Thanksgiving!

Into the Light

2011-11-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

Well, within minutes of having my studio lights set up…I had to call in our youngest son to try them out. He was all too eager and full of smiles for me. To say I’m loving the soft light and how it works in this room is a serious understatement. The natural light was almost gone and I figured out fairly quickly how to get the light right. I am still so in love with Kelvin WB settings. All I had to do with these photos was a boost of contrast.

Sorry about the dried up mess around his nose – just keeping it real and I don’t have time playing around with it.

Yes, I have no entered into the wonderful world of studio lighting! I’m so excited about how beautiful these turned out!

Week 46 good to WOW {SOOC}

2011-11-21T05:00:00.001-05:00

This week our theme/prompt is Gratefulness.

This first photo is not SOOC – I edited it a touch from last week. But I had to share it because I’m grateful to be their mom. I’m grateful for all the ways God uses them to teach me about what is important in this life.

I’m grateful for their love. I’m grateful for their trust. I’m grateful for their silliness. I’m grateful for the hard times together, because it draws us closer together as a family. I’m grateful for the way they make me laugh. I’m grateful for the way they make me cry. I’m grateful for their beauty that is much deeper than what you see on the outside. I’m grateful for the opportunity God has given me to raise them for His glory and my good.

I’m grateful for my husband who said, “yes” to adopt each of them and takes his role as the leader of our family very seriously. I’m grateful for the gift of his love over each of us. I’m grateful for all the ways he shows us what it means to lay down our wants and desires for God’s best for each of us. I’m grateful to be his wife and follow him right to Jesus. I’m grateful for all the ways he makes me a better woman and mom.

I’m grateful for these three little Indians this week, who made me smile because they understand what it means to sacrifice so that others can have!

I am sending my Canon 5D Mark II in for service again – it does NOT focus right.   I’m thankful and grateful to have my 7D as backup.   I have never been disappointed in that camera body.   I’m not loving my 50mm 1.4 lens and will begin saving for the next jump up – 1.2L.   My studio lights arrived this weekend and they are all set up.

All I’m waiting on now is the backdrops to arrive and I’ll be all set!
I’m very grateful for my husband, who has supported me on this amazing journey to follow my passion and dreams to become a professional photographer!!!!   I love you! Here are a few shots of the studio now that it is painted.   Soon canvases will be covering the walls, along with some really cool antique frames and a mirror! The quality for these photos isn’t the best, because I took them on my new *droid.

This wall is the most beautiful shade of grey. Over the weekend I had someone hang up a permanent backdrop bar. It can hold 2 five foot backdrops. Which will make my set up and breakdown very easy for every session.

Thanks for sharing my excitement with me!!!!

This month’s give-away for best SOOC is a surprise gift from me Only hint I will give you is – it is photography related…he he he!

Please remember to add your photos to our good to WOW SOOC group if you would like to be entered into our monthly give-away for the best SOOC shot!

I want to thank those of you who have begun to add your photos to our good to WOW flickr group each week. It has really helped me in viewing your SOOC shots (which means I can judge more entries for each months give-away!) and allows me to stay connected to our group. Please consider joining the group and linking us to your photo in the flickr group! Thank you!

To view it and join – go here good to WOW flickr group – you can upload one photo a week into the group pool. Please name it “week # and photo prompt” to help the group follow along. Thank you!

Are you just joining us? If so, then now is the time to start practicing shooting in M (Manual) or AV (Aperture Priority) mode and getting each shot as close to “perfect” as you can in camera. SO, PLEASE keep learning all you can to capture the best shots in camera. I hope you are inspired by what I share here and from all those who enter our weekly challenge to learn more every month! I love seeing so much growth in many of your shots. This challenge has blessed me in many ways! Thanks for joining in and sharing this journey with us!

Fabulous, Fun, Friendships…

2011-11-19T00:25:00.001-05:00

I just finished going through all of the photos I took at The Experience Workshop – led by Katelyn James Photography. I have been following her blog a little over a year and couldn’t wait to meet her. To say she is sweet and just as adorable as I imagined – is an understatement. Katelyn, is a complete joy to be around. I also had the pleasure of meeting her wonderful and supportive husband, Michael. His parents were also there in support of her first full day workshop. It was truly touching to be witness to their bond and love for one another. I also have to mention, I met 17 other amazing photographers from around the country. It is always amazing to be around so many like minded people (this time was a huge bonus – our group was all women!!!). I am blessed to say this workshop opened the door to a few sweet new friendships as well!

After each workshop I attend or take on line – I am reminded how important it is to never stop learning and investing in myself and photography business. What I bring to each session is the hours, months and years of skills that I have learned. I take my craft very seriously and desire to give each client the very best every single time! This workshop definitely boosted my confidence level that I am fully prepared to begin my business in our new area. 2012 is going to be a very exciting year for my photography and I look forward to all that it has in store for me professionally!

Well, now you know why I haven’t posted any photos the last few days. I’m playing catch up around here and working on getting my studio completely set up and finished. Photos of that coming soon. But for now here are a few of my favorite shots that I captured while at the workshop… (to see the whole set visit me on my FB fan page)

We were blessed to photograph a beautiful newly married couple (Ryan and Annamarie – their wedding was photographed by Katelyn three months ago)…oh and just in case you are wondering – NO, I will not be photographing weddings. I love portrait photography – newborns, maternity, engagements, and seniors. All shots were taken with only the natural light streaming in from the windows in each room. It was a very overcast day and we never used a flash or reflector. Once again, it is so important to learn how to see the light, use it and capture it!

Katelyn James I adore you, and thank God, for bringing you into my life. You are a ray of sunshine and so full of His joy!

Here is a list of sponsors that helped put together the workshop:

Hair/Makeup - Emily Hudspeth : http://www.emilyhudspeth.com/Home.html
Venue - Virginia Center for Architecture : http://www.virginiaarchitecture.org/vca_index.html
Florals - The Brides Cafe : http://www.thebridescafe.com/
Sponsors:
H-B Photo Packaging - http://www.h-bphoto.com/
Kelly Moore - http://kellymoorebag.com/
Leather Craftsmen - http://leathercraftsmen.net

See you all Monday for our 46th week of good to WOW SOOC challenge – this week our theme is gratefulness.

I leave with you this question to help you come up with a few good ideas to capture – who and what are you most grateful for?

Warmer and Funnier!

2011-11-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

After reading all of your comments Monday, and going back through the photos I took last wee. I realized the children really looked as cold as they WERE! So after school on Monday, I quickly had them change into their matching outfits again for a quick mini session before it got dark. They were NOT cold this time but they were begin attacked by tiny flying bugs. UGH! These are the bloopers, because the photos I captured are definitely going to be our Christmas card this year. So you will have to wait until they are mailed to see it. These are SOOC and I LOVE THEM!!!!

How cute are they? I’m so incredibly blessed!!!!

Four years and she still will NOT let him kiss her! Poor guy! Sheesh!

COMPLETE SATISFACTION!!!! Sigh…

Have a great couple of days, I’ll be off line learning more about photography, my studio and all things fabulous! Until then, I pray you are making the most of each day and capturing moments that will last a lifetime!

First Time

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

In my life to ever see snow during FALL. Three weeks ago it snowed here on the East Coast which means it was STILL October. Yeah, I’m thinking that isn’t right too!

However, it was absolutely gorgeous!

Now this is what I call a winter wonderland…

Even though I am NOT a cold weather girl (at all)! I have to admit the first snow definitely puts me in the mood for the holidays! If only it snowed once or twice and then Spring came…a girl can dream right?

Week 45 good to WOW {SOOC}

2011-11-14T05:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome back everyone! Thanks again for joining us. To those of you who are new to our weekly challenge please go here to learn all the details about how this works first. The next five weeks of themes/prompts are at the bottom of my blog. Also, everyone please do us a favor and read this post before entering any photo challenge…thanks!

This week our prompt is Family Portrait.   Over the summer I shared some of my tips on how I get all 9 of our children looking at the camera and smiling.   The tips are for all photo sessions where you want to capture natural smiles and the inner joy of the people you are photographing.   You can go here to read it.

Since our photo session is going to be used for our Christmas card this year, I’m ONLY going to share the bloopers.   He he he!   Our children were such troopers – it was freezing outside and super windy!   Yet, they played along so that I could capture all of them together.   I will NOT be editing any of the photos from our super quick mini session because they don’t need it.   I shot these with my 70-200mm 4.0L and LOVE them all!   I can’t thank KELVIN enough for making every shots WB perfect! Mmmm…hmmm! He is awesome like that!

You just never know what you are going to get when our youngest son is all together with his siblings. HA HA HA!   I didn’t notice any of this until I was looking at the photos on my computer

Now I feel bad for them looking at how cold they were!   It was super windy and COLD!!!!! I think this took us a whole 7 minutes and we were racing each other to get back inside.

OH MY that photo is epic and will bring a smile to my face many times over the years. He he he!

This month’s give-away for best SOOC is a surprise gift from me Only hint I will give you is – it is photography related…he he he!

Please remember to add your photos to our good to WOW SOOC group if you would like to be entered into our monthly give-away for the best SOOC shot!

I want to thank those of you who have begun to add your photos to our good to WOW flickr group each week.   It has really helped me in viewing your SOOC shots (which means I can judge more entries for each months give-away!) and allows me to stay connected to our group.   Please consider joining the group and linking us to your photo in the flickr group!   Thank you!

To view it and join – go here good to WOW flickr group – you can upload one photo a week into the group pool. Please name it “week # and photo prompt” to help the group follow along. Thank you!

Are you just joining us? If so, then now is the time to start practicing shooting in M (Manual) or AV (Aperture Priority) mode and getting each shot as close to “perfect” as you can in camera. SO, PLEASE keep learning all you can to capture the best shots in camera.   I hope you are inspired by what I share here and from all those who enter our weekly challenge to learn more every month!   I love seeing so much growth in many of your shots.    This challenge has blessed me in many ways!   Thanks for joining in and sharing this journey with us!

True Blue Beauty

2011-11-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

I am getting more and more excited by the day for my studio to be finished. These photos of Lexi really inspire me to push through the hours of sanding and painting that need to be done this weekend. I promise to post B&A photos for all of you to see. Until then, enjoy these taken two weeks ago…

And this could possibly be my favorite photo ever that I have taken of her…sigh I’m so in love with it!

I pray you all have a blessed weekend! I’m looking forward to seeing your family portraits for this week’s SOOC challenge!

My Funny Little

2011-11-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

CLOWNS!!!

Last week we drove back home to see our parents. While visiting, the children made their way into mom’s costume closet. Ha! Did they give us a good laugh

This little one was done watching her big brothers have all the fun – she grabbed the wig and plopped it on her head!

She is our little rainbow bright

But the wig that won her heart over and just had to come home with her was this one…

Oh yeah Karli, we have serious hair envy going on over here! LOL!

TGIF and HAPPY 11.11.11!!! How cool is that?

Week 44 good to WOW {Edit}

2011-11-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome back! Today, we will be linking up with Ashley for her editing tutorial.

I am so thankful for LR3 and the ease of editing in it. These literally took me less than 3 minutes. The longest part was importing them into PS and resizing them. I know I can do it in LR but I love the web action that does it all for me.

Don’t forget to add your SOOC photos to our good to WOW SOOC flickr group so you can be entered to win our monthly give-away for the best SOOC shot! This month and next will be surprises.

Now, wish me luck getting our annual Christmas card shot done this weekend – I have something really funny planned.

Perfect in Pink

2011-11-09T13:00:00.000-05:00

Some days this girl of ours loves being in front of the camera, other days NOT so much. This photo session lasted oh, about 10 minutes. Why? Because she was NOT having it – which quickly led to me saying that’s enough for today. It is always good to know when to call it quits with your own children. A simple tip from a mom of many! Make it fun before they are DONE!

Even with her not really being into this photo session – she is a complete delight to capture and a joy to be around! I’m blessed beyond measure by her love (and all of our children)!

Purple Delight

2011-11-09T05:00:00.000-05:00

The session with the girls was super rushed because the sun was going down. We just got home after their hair cuts and they raced inside to get on their “matching” dresses. Here are my favorites of our first 9 yr. old.

The lighting in these makes me swoon and the sunflare – ahhhhh!

This next photo tells such a story – the expression you see on her face was us talking through no tears. She had some self doubt at first with her new hair cut being short after one of her siblings didn’t say a very nice thing. Yes, my kids are can say icky things too. They are NOT always sweet. After a moment of mom talk, she quickly realized it didn’t matter what they said, because she really LOVES it and so do I!!! Oh how this photo makes me love her that much more!!!! She is strong and resilient in ways I pray she remains for her lifetime!

This next shot is one of my very favorites of her…

Next up our 2nd 9 yr old.

BFF’s F♥rever!

2011-11-08T05:00:00.000-05:00

These two make my heart smile. Truly from the moment they met six years ago, it was an instant bond and sisterhood for life! They adore each other and miss each other when one is not around. I love watching them as they grow up into beautiful godly girls. They are both 9 at the moment and that is fun every year for six months to share the same age with your BFF! Here is a cool fact for you – every year in our home we have many double ages for about six months at a time – right now we have two 4 yr. olds, two 7 yr. olds (these two are the same age only 2 days apart), two 9 yr. olds, and two 43 yr. olds. Pretty neat huh?

OK, I seriously digressed there. Sheesh! Back to two beautiful girls, and their infectious smiles and giggles!

They can’t remain calm together for very long. Nor can our daughter in pink help but to get them cracking up! It is very funny to witness. This time I had my camera ready to capture it all

Once they got the serious giggles out I was able to capture some like this…

Next up I will share my favorites of each of them individually…

A New Record

2011-11-07T21:01:00.001-05:00

Well, if it isn’t one it should be – losing three teeth in one day! One in the morning before school, and then two more before dinner. The best part is I didn’t have to pull one of them out. He is now old enough to do it himself. Which makes this mom very happy! In one week three of our children have lost teeth. Good thing we don’t practice the tooth fairy or I would be poor quick with the amount teeth they are loosing now.

So before the sun went completely down, we raced outside for the last bit of natural light – these are completely SOOC.

Allow me to introduce you to our newest toothless wonder boy!

Oh I love a toothless smile

Week 44 good to WOW {SOOC}

2011-11-07T05:00:00.001-05:00

First, congrats to our winner Ginger Hoffman your photo was voted the best SOOC shot for October – please email me so I can put you in touch with Gina I have a few surprise gifts for the month of November. I will not be sharing any details about it – but trust me you will be excited to have a chance to win one or more of them!

Welcome back everyone! Thanks again for joining us. To those of you who are new to our weekly challenge please go here to learn all the details about how this works first. The next five weeks of themes/prompts are at the bottom of my blog. Also, everyone please do us a favor and read this post before entering any photo challenge…thanks!

Our theme this week is macro.

Macro photography is photography magnified. It is generally recognized as “macro” when you are increasing the size of an object in your picture from about half life-size, as represented on the image sensor, to five times life-size.

Here are some tips I learned about shooting macro this year:

Good lighting is a MUST!
You need to get down low to your subject – in other words you need to be up close to your subject.
You need to be steady - if you are shaky then shoot with a tripod and shutter release cable. Since shooting nature can be tricky – shot with a higher shutter speed to help avoid blurred shots. Speed is everything when capturing any flying insect up close
Composition is everything - Simplify your image as much as possible.
Fill as much of the frame as possible with your subject. Macro photography is really successful when the image has a main point of interest and that point or subject is composed well within the frame.
Over-compensate for sharp focus.
Experiment with various angles to find the most aesthetically pleasing.
Be very aware of the background (which will be out of focus) and eliminate anything that will be distracting.
As a general rule you should use an f-stop no wider/larger than f/16 to get all or most of the main subject in focus. If you are photographing a subject that can’t be arranged more or less on the same plane, you will have to decide which parts of it you want in focus.
Experiment with wider/larger lens apertures, which will throw more of the subject out of focus and may produce pleasing artistic effects.

I for one have fallen in love with macro photography over the last year. I love how it allows me to see the tiniest details in all of creation – from dew drops in the summer grass -

…to the details of a flower that I never noticed before.

Who would have thought a weed we barely even notice could be this beautiful??

As you can see above, I love capturing the beauty in life that we so easily pass on by, and often take for granted.

Last week, I was excited to find new details in nature to capture for this week’s challenge – here are my SOOC shots…

I am excited to see your macro shots – you all inspire me to never stop seeking beauty all around me!

Please remember to add your photos to our good to WOW SOOC group if you would like to be entered into our monthly give-away for the best SOOC shot!

I want to thank those of you who have begun to add your photos to our good to WOW flickr group each week.   It has really helped me in viewing your SOOC shots (which means I can judge more entries for each months give-away!) and allows me to stay connected to our group.   Please consider joining the group and linking us to your photo in the flickr group!   Thank you!

To view it and join – go here good to WOW flickr group – you can upload one photo a week into the group pool. Please name it “week # and photo prompt” to help the group follow along. Thank you!

Are you just joining us? If so, then now is the time to start practicing shooting in M (Manual) or AV (Aperture Priority) mode and getting each shot as close to “perfect” as you can in camera. SO, PLEASE keep learning all you can to capture the best shots in camera.   I hope you are inspired by what I share here and from all those who enter our weekly challenge to learn more every month!   I love seeing so much growth in many of your shots.    This challenge has blessed me in many ways!   Thanks for joining in and sharing this journey with us!

This Little Frog of Mine…

2011-11-05T06:00:00.000-04:00

He loves to let it shine!!!! Oh how this boy can light up a room with his smile. The other day, when I was preparing for my photo session with Lexi for the costume prompt, our 5 yr old son came running to me asking that I take his photo in his new hat. Well, just take a look at how cute he dressed himself from head to toe!!!!

Here is a good example of why you must always get in the habit of zeroing out your camera – I forgot right before I took these photos of him, and the ISO was CRAZY high so these turned out super noisy because it was NOT that bright out. But I refuse to trash them because of some noise. He is too stinkin’ cute hopping all over like a little frog and lovin’ it!!!!

Not sure what made my look at the ISO so closely, but I was so thankful not to mess up all the shots of him. I want to print one of the following for his room!

Praying you have a hopping good weekend! Oh, yes I did

Don’t forget to vote for our best SOOC shot for October – poll closes tomorrow afternoon!

good to WOW {Top 3 SOOC October}

2011-11-04T01:00:00.000-04:00

I had so much fun going through the photos this month. Thank you all again who added your photos to our flickr group! You all did a great job, and I can see who is practicing all that I have shared each week, as we make our way to the end of our first year of good to WOW SOOC Challenge.

In no particular order here are our top 3 finalist – Congrats ladies! Be sure to share the link to this post so your friends, family, and blog readers can vote for you! Good luck!

#1 Selena Stoneyville

#2 Kimberly V Photography

#3 Ginger Hoffman

Does anyone have a photography related gift they would like to offer for November’s best SOOC? If so, please email me at inhisgrace7@gmail.com. Thank you! Gina thank you again for offering our winner this month one of your beautiful camera straps.

Here are the prompts for November…have fun making beautiful memories and photos!

Week 44 Nov 07 Macro
Week 45 Nov 14 Family {perfect for your Christmas card shots :-)}
Week 46 Nov 21 Gratefulness
Week 47 Nov 28 Thanksgiving

The winner will be announced on Monday. So be sure to vote and get your friends to vote for you too! Have a blessed Friday everyone!

Just a side note – start thinking about making a collage with all of your favorite shots taken this year. Our last link up this year will be of our personal favorite shots all in one collage (or two collages). In a few weeks, we will announce the new plan for this challenge. We are excited to do it a bit different and hope you will join us for another exciting year of learning together!

Week 43 good to WOW {EDIT}

2011-11-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome back! Today, we will be linking up with Ashley for her editing tutorial.

OK, you all know that I edit in LR3 and only use my presets – they are one click and done. Makes my post processing very fast, and now with Kelvin WB in my life – ahhhh it is a breeze!

I’m going to show you the before and after of my new JSPhoto Disney Color Pop preset…it is perfect for a studio costume shot! It literally did all the work for me and made the photos come alive! Which is what I wanted

Just in case you didn’t figure it out, I was the *Queen from *Snow White! How fun are fake eyelashes? Seriously, I am missing them already! I know it is not good to covet, but with 7 of our 9 children having the worlds longest eyelashes – seriously can you blame me for enjoying the time I had in the fake ones???

Here are a few of the kids favorites of me! We all love the shadow behind me – it helps with the good vs. evil thing I was going for!

But we all know the truth about good and evil – GOOD ALWAYS WINS!!!!!! THANK YOU GOD!!!!

Tomorrow, I will be posting our top 3 photos of October. Be sure to come back and vote for the winner – they will receive one of Gina’s from Chic Homeschool Momma -- beautiful camera straps. There will be no give-away in November unless one of you would like to offer a gift for everyone to shoot for! Just email if you are interested in giving something photography related away. I’m working on a really cool gift for December!

Self Portraits {B&W Fashion Photography}

2011-11-02T14:00:00.000-04:00

Oh how I love looking back at photos from the 40’s – the style was so pretty and elegant. That was my vision for this photo session. I think the B&W processing helps give each photo that style and keeps them timeless.

Photo Session TIP: Have a theme or idea planned before hand. Gear clothes, location, props, etc. all around that theme.

I will be posting more from our mini photo sessions throughout the week.

Self Portraits {Fashion Photography}

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-04:00

After my session with Lexi, it was time to turn the camera back on me. I set up the camera and flash for her. Then I held up a reflector so that we could get the effect I was going for, despite it being completely dark outside, and dealing with the horrific lighting in my soon to be studio. This just goes to show you, bad lighting situations really doesn’t have to = bad photos. Nor did I need to turn the ISO up high (these were all at ISO 125 with my 50mm 1.4 at 1/50 f/2.8). One more reason to learn how to ROCK your equipment and create the best SOOC shots you can.

After looking at these I am reminded how age is truly just a state of mind. As I draw closer to 44 yrs. old, I appreciate my inner beauty that shines from deep within so much more! It’s a joy unshakable and an everlasting love that I see in my eyes and smile. Thank You God for giving me what no one can ever take away – nor can any life situation steal! You are my joy and all in all! I am NOTHING without You!

This first shot is SOOC and as you can see my presets just give them that little extra wow factor!

Then I decided to create a glam style preset. I think they turned out really fun! Not to mention I loved having long eye lashes again! He he he!

After I perfect all of my presets I will be selling them in a bundle collection. They are really close to becoming one click presets for all styles of photography and lighting situations.

If you have tack sharp, high quality SOOC shots that you would be willing for me to try out my presets on, please email me at inhisgrace7@gmail.com. Thank you in advance!

More of my mini session coming up!

Lexi {Fashion – B&W Photography}

2011-11-01T14:00:00.000-04:00

Earlier today I shared photos from our mini-session in color. Well, here are my favorites in B&W. Oh how I love high key photography. Now I can’t wait to get my studio lighting in! These were all taken with only a 580EX Speedlite.

We had fun dressing up, and laughed a bunch putting on fake eyelashes.

This next photo of her reminds me of a younger *Mariah Carey* – what do you think?

Oh yeah, I caught the bug for high key photography! Mmmm….hmmmm!