Just Us

Parenting is work - hard work - point blank. When you do it right, it's even harder. When you do it right, as the sole parent in the home - it's harder still. Working with this single mom and her son warmed my heart. I've been accquainted with both Mom and Son for quite some time; however, working with them, shooting numerous pictures, for two hours throughout the city, I learned things about them I never would have imagined could be. They have been through so many struggles and obstacles. Through it all, Mom's faith remains strong. This pair is also featured in "Possibilities." During this session, Mom said, "...God will open doors to new opportunities for us." I am happy that I was able to provide an opportunity for them to see the beauty of their family, to celebrate mom and son. I wish them the best.

"Just Us" will be a part of a silent auction, beginning on December 3rd, which will benefit the Riverwalk Theater. "Just Us," as well as contributions from several local artists, will be displayed at Deckers Coffee Co. Money raised will help to purchase lighting for displays in the Riverwalk. Be sure to check it out. Luv ...

My First Art Show

I never thought I would get this opportunity, but here it is! Today I delievered two of my favorite pieces, "Grow" one of a series of three digitally manipulated photos, and "Possibilities," to the Hope Borbas Okemos Library. I ran into quite a few obstacles getting these pieces ready, but they made it by the deadline - with 2 minutes to spare.


I'm so excited! I can't wait to see if my pieces will sell. I am thrilled at the thought of someone, I don't know, purchasing a piece of my vision, my experience to put in their home, give as a gift ... whatever the case may be, I can't wait!





Grow

 

Possibilities

 

A Child in the Garden

On a recent visit to a nearby college's children's garden, I met a young mom and her baby. The mom asked me to take a picture of her and her baby in front of this huge bird/chicken thing... Well...Mom's camera was, of all things, a Cannon! (No offense, Mom...lol) Regardless of the camera choice, I wouldn't give up the opportunity to photograph this cutie pie for the world! So, as I lift the camera to my face, Miss Cutie Pie begins to fuss. Mom tries to comfort her, but she is simply not having it. After a few clicks, Mom decides this is it - time to go! Not, however, before I ask if I can take a picture with my camera (affectionately known as Nik Nikon - I know, I'm corny...lol). And Mom is kind enough to say yes.

Now I'm feeling a little worried because I think Ms. Cutie Pie is going to cut up. To my surprise, this time, when I lift my camera to my face, Miss Cutie smiles a big pretty baby smile. She is a Nikon lover ...go figure! I found out later on that Mom has a Nikon, too! I knew I liked her for a reason. Thanks, Mom, for allowing a stranger to photograph your beautiful baby and allowing me to post the final photos, as well.

Eye Adore



Eye Adore

 I was at a friend of a friend's house last night. She had some people over, and I ended up taking pictures of two couples there. One couple in particular was a little more eager to take photos - this was not the couple - smile. The couple to the right - although not desperate to be photographed, allowed me to work with them long enough to take 4 pictures - literally! Just when I thought I would only have snapshots of this couple (instead of a true photograph), the husband did something that instantly caught my attention: as he walked away, he gave his wife a hug, pressing the front of his face against the side of hers. It was a very touching moment - and a very natural one ... simply beautiful.

Gina & Hoppy

"Why would you want to take pictures of us?" Gina asked me this when I approached her about photographing her and her husband, Hoppy. Married for over 50 years, this couple has what many people dream of having when they decide to spend the rest of their lives with someone: friendship, romance, a family, essentially - lasting love. So my response to Gina was that she and Hoppy are an inspiration for these couples, as well as other married couples. This brief excerpt of their photo session demonstrates this perfectly.







What I loved most about photgraphing Gina and Hoppy was the stories! While we were doing the indoor portion of the shoot, I asked Gina to put her hand on Hoppy's leg. Well ...that led to Hoppy saying, "Dat's what dey used to call, Hillbilly Handholdin'." Gina laughed and laughed .... and blushed and blushed. I would love to feel that way after 50 plus years of marriage, wouldn't you?



The Story of Marriage: Keith & Aziza

Keith and Aziza were so much fun to work with. Despite the rain and it being 10pm, they had tons of energy. Their love for each other as friends and spouses was obvious. My mission that night was to help them tell the story of marriage through our photos: the good, the bad and the ugly. 

Kiss Me