Shutter Sisters

Rockin’ New Year

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Is it just me or as we get older do holidays lose a little bit of their kick? The big events we looked forward to as children (and even young adults) tend to loose some of their magic as time goes on. I hate to even say it out loud, but I think it’s true. Even our own birthdays are often swept under the rug with minimal fanfare. What is it about growing up that causes us to grow out of our excitement for momentous occasions?

 

Perhaps it’s because we often experience more stress than enjoyment from some major holidays. Or that practicality gets in the way and leaves no room for childish enthusiasm. I mean many of us toss out making New Year’s Resolutions just to keep the disappointment (and even guilt) of our own realities at bay. Self-preservation I guess.

 

How about doing something a little different this year. No, I am not going to insist that you make a New Year’s Resolution, I promise. But, I am going to take this opportunity on the last day of 2008 to encourage you to take a look at the past year and amidst all the ups and downs that the year may have dished out that you claim your inner Rock Star. That’s right, you heard me; you are a Rock Star.

 

Maybe you dusted off your camera and tapped into your long-lost love of photography, maybe you started (or expanded) a blog, maybe you treated yourself to new equipment, maybe you got a photo published or got paid for shooting a session. Whatever creative accomplishment you choose to focus on today, celebrate it. And whether you have plans to ring in the New Year with lots of bells and whistles or in quiet reflection, do it like the Rock Star that you really are.

 

 

You didn’t think we’d forget our very last giveaway of the year, did you? We’re ending the month of giveaways with a bang as HP is offering one of their awesome All-in-One printers to a lucky reader. Leave a comment today (in true Rock Star fashion) for your chance to win. Comment by the stroke of midnight to be entered in the drawing. Best of luck and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

 

The Truth Revealed

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Just over a month ago I had the privilege of meeting the enchanting singer/songwriter Dana Parish at an event we both were involved in. I fondly and vividly remember a story she shared with the audience introducing her song She Laughed.

 

She painted a picture of a late dusky afternoon rollerblading in her hometown of New York. In the distance she caught a glimpse of a man on a bike riding full steam ahead. As he got closer and closer, it appeared that he was headed right for her at an alarming speed. Her immediate reaction being fear for her own safety of course quickly changed to anger. Angry that he would be lumbering down the crowded bike path with such reckless abandon. He—and his bike—were rapidly approaching and as she formed a string of choice words together in her head for him, something surprising was revealed that changed everything.

 

From behind the man came two little arms outstretched like wings. Two arms of this man’s daughter flying from her rear bike seat with the freedom that only the top speeds of her daddy’s bicycle could offer. A wave came over Dana as she was reminded her of her own father; the father that would do anything for his daughter; anything at all to give her the wings to fly.

 

And as any good singer/songwriter would do, she went home and wrote a song about it with her equally charming partner Andy (whom I also had the pleasure of meeting).

 

How quickly things can change from what our minds have led us to believe to something totally different. It always amazes me at how sure we see one thing in one moment, and the next, the whole picture changes leaving us with a new perspective. It only takes something small sometimes to put our original ideas on thier ear.

 

Have you ever seen something through your lens in one way and then somehow it transformed itself into something else entirely? It’s the exact feeling I had when I was shooting the series of photos of our peach tree during the chilly days of winter, as featured above. After shooting for a while, they began to look like angels. Share with us the visions that opened your eyes and heart to something beyond what you ever imagined.

 

 

 

The talented and charming Dana Parishis offering a signed copy of her newly released CD Uncrushed. Leave a comment today for your chance to win the gift of Dana’s enlightening music.

the light fantastic

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It’s a Small World this holiday at Disneyland

When the days are short and the nights are long, lights play a big role in keeping our spirits bright. Whether it be candle light, twinkle lights, or the blaze of a crackling fire, capturing the glow of the season isn’t always easy and takes some trial and error but from what I have been seeing in our flickr pool, it’s well worth the effort. I am delighted with visions from amp’ed, ArtfromM, Nikki P, the clikchick and andie.

 

How do you light things up? Illuminate us with the pride and joy of your collection from the season.

 

 

And speaking of collections, our giveaway today is a gem from the collection of Her Southern Charm. The Click necklace is very special perfect for us Shutter Sisters. The word on the sliver circle says “click” and has a little camera charm with it. How cute is that? Thank you Jennifer.

 

Congratulations to Shelli, Mama of Letters for winning both Stephanie’s book and the Snaptotes Bucket bag.

The Glow of Good

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Sometimes the planets align and everything we put our time and energy into comes together even better than we could have imagined. There’s really no way of knowing when a plan might happen like that but it’s always and pleasant and welcome surprise when it does.

 

A few weeks back a group of some very special Southern California women gathered in a loft in LA and enjoyed a night of crafting (see photo above), conversing, savoring, and sharing. We talked about photography, creating meaningful (and affordable) gifts and living a life that makes a difference in this world. We feasted on tantalizing delicacies and divine music but above all else, we sincerely enjoyed one another’s company.

 

During the rush of the season, I wish you evenings of memory making and magic where the glow of good company warms your heart.

 

 

 

In light of the goodness that was shared at the memorable LA event, HP is giving away one of their adorable and super-fun Compact Photo Printers to a shutter sister. You know the drill; leave a comment here to be entered into the random drawing. Good stuff!

 

And… speaking of the magic of a great event, if you think a Shutter Sisters gathering would be something you’d like to attend in the future, let’s hear it. I think a Shutter Sisters Summit in 2009 sounds pretty good to me, what about you?

one sweet shot – november 2008

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The feeling that I get from this image is unsurpassed. I feel a freedom and lightness that fills me with hope. The perspective makes it seem like we’ve happened onto something intimate and almost sacred as this bird takes flight right before our eyes. Of course, it makes it that much better that it was captured my lovely and talented sister (as in birth sister and shutter sister). Thanks Jessica for sharing it with us today. It is certainly one sweet shot!

 

 

 

And here are the other honorees this month:

 

Shawna of Bella Luna is honoring this shot by Maine Momma

Jessica is honoring this shot by vivacreativa

Karyn is honoring the shot in a post called River by Mary Carroll

Jenny Rebecca is honoring this shot by seasassyme

Ane is honoring this shot from Linda

Celia is honoring this shot and this shot from brenda magos

Jen Lemen is honoring this shot by goddessleonie

Georgia is honoring the first shot in a post by red or gray depends on the day

and Joanne is honoring this shot by Misty Mawn.

 

Inspiring work for sure. Enjoy the creative clicks.

 

 

To help capture some exciting and surprising images, you have the opportunity to win a super-cool and stealthy spy lens courtesy of the amazing Photojojo. The stuff they have in their store is awesome and the spy camera is no exception. Can you just imagine what kind of sweet shots you could capture with that little gadget? For your chance to win it just leave a comment here. And if you’ve got a sweet shot to honor you can leave a link in the comments as well. Good luck!

lensbaby – a resource and a giveaway

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I am beyond giddy to tell you that we are giving away a Lensbaby today.  I know, you’re jumping up and down too, aren’t you? isn’t it so exciting?

Ever since I heard about the amazingness of Lensbaby Lenses it was instant infatuation. And then I got my hands on one and it’s everything I had hoped for and more; the ideal photography partner of the most fun and creative kind. Each time I use it I am delighted by beautiful surprises and irresistible unpredictability. I can only liken it to photographic poetry. Look at that bokeh up there. Are you swooning yet? And what about how well it translates to black and white? Sigh. I even take my baby on vacation with us. That’s how much I love it. I’m just sayin’.But you don’t have to take my photo word for it. It seems there are some Lensbaby fans in our Flickr Pool too. Check out these gorgeous images by Lifeography, Jamza, Donna and work2snap. Wow!

Of course, a lot has changed since the birth of theLensbaby a few years back. They have a brand new site that is a pleasure to explore and a variety of babies too. Not to mention cool accessories. Everything you ever wanted to know and more about what Lensbaby is all about is offered at the site. If that’s not enough to have you yearning for your very own baby, I’m sure today’s giveaway will.

One incredibly lucky reader will get a $270 credit to spend at the Lensbaby web store any way they’d like. It’s heaven I tell you. Just leave a comment here to be entered in our random drawing.

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And for another slice of heaven, pay a visit to Design Mom today. She’s featuring Shutter Sisters as she kicks off her 12 Days of Christmas and hosts a giveaway that’s near and dear to our photography hearts.  For a chance to win a Shutter Sisters Flash Bulb Necklace or an All in One Wireless Printer by HP click over and leave a comment there as well. It’s like the best pre-holiday celebration ever, isn’t it?

what’s the word

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To tie up our great greetings! series, let’s end with a few simple ideas on how to come up with the best message for your holiday card. A good photo isn’t the only element that will set your card apart. The right message is essential to making it memorable and meaningful!

I like to go simple. That’s my thing. So, just one word has done the trick for me for many years of holiday cards. I take a good long look at my favorite photo and start free associating. It’s all part of the process for me. And the right word can come quickly and obviously. Peace, Love, Cheer, Joy…those are all timeless classics. I have used a few of those. But other words need to be pursued, discovered, uncovered, if you will.

The frolic card didn’t come quick. I think I even used my trusty thesaurus for that one. I think it went something like, fun, laughing, running, playing…no wait, what’s a winter word for all of these…ah ha! Frolic! Don’t hold me to it but it was something like that. Try running through the lyrics Christmas carols to find fitting holiday words or phrases. And of these a word that you love try looking it up in the dictionary to see if the definition adds to the message. They don’t always add anything but sometimes they’re perfect.

I like phrases too. I used “And Heaven and Nature Sing” a few years ago. Big hit. It’s really good when you have a pet in the photo too. And then there’s the quotes. Everyone loves quotes. Perhaps my all time favorite was used when my first daughter was only 2 years old. “Nothing is worth more than this day.” by Goethe. I STILL get compliments on that one and it’s been years! I’m serious.

If you like the idea of incorporating your message in the photo you can write it in the sand or make a sign or two. Brilliant. Or you could adorn your babes in the appropriate message strewn clothing like the Joy Jersey’s shown above. These words melt my heart and I promise you will make your card extra special. It doesn’t take much effort to match your great photo to the perfect message, just think outside the normal verbiage and try something new.

And if you haven’t already decided on what holiday card company to use this year, the cool chicks at Cool Mom Pickshave offered up a list of folks they recommend using so click around and see what they have to offer.

Fin + Roe

Groovy Paper

Minted

My Good Greetings

Ruva Cards

Tiny Prints

Ringo Baby

 

Be sure to share your ideas and holiday handiwork over at our great greetings! flickr group! We want to see what you come up with!

Now…about today’s giveaway…one clever reader will get the chance to spread the word! Joy is giving away one of their Joy Jerseys (made of an organic cotton and bamboo blend ) for a special little someone in thier life. Couldn’ you melt right now? Just comment on this post and you’ll be entered in the drawing.

Congratulations to Renee of FIMBY for winning yesterday’s giveaway. A copy of Ordinary Sparkling Moments: Reflections on Success and Contentment..

in an instant

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Last night my daughter took a tumble and landed teeth first into the leg of a chair. I know. Ouch. The incident had all the makings of a total emergency room disaster. But we were lucky enough to avoid that. Thankfully. But, there was the fear, some pain, tears (no blood believe it or not) and a front tooth that was knocked back just enough to make my little girl look totally different than she did not a minute before the fall. And from what I can tell, the displaced tooth is either staying right where it is for a while or it’s getting pulled. This is yet to be decided as we have a dentist appt on Monday to get an x-ray and assessment. At this point, I am thankful. It could have been worse. A lot worse. But even still, the whole ordeal has left me shaken.

 

I am the mom who will forever try to convince you that I’m OK with my kids growing up. And I am. Most of the time. I feel like now that my kids are independent and much more self-sufficient I am a better mother than I was in the early days of total dependence. I recognize how much I need my own autonomy and how much I enjoy time to myself. But this whole tooth thing has been a wake-up call.

 

I look at my daughter today and see a different girl. A growing, changing girl. It might sound dramatic and I realize that part of her metamorphosis is the fact that she’s swollen and somewhat discolored by the inevitable bruising but even when that fades, her tooth is still in a new place and it’s changed the way she’s always looked. Sure she’s going to be loosing her teeth in the next year or so anyway—my husband keeps reminding me—but somehow I realized that part of me is in no way ready for it. I am not ready to let my baby grow up.

 

The emotions I have experienced over the last 24 hours have blindsided me. I didn’t feel melancholy when she started Kindergarten a few months ago, so why now? I guess there’s just no way of knowing exactly what it is that reaches in and finds our most tender spots, our soft parts, the place in our heart that aches with the pain of life’s losses. Although this is a small scale loss (very small I know), I feel that ache deeply today.

 

There might not be another photograph I take of my daughter where she looks like she did 2 days ago. That’s a strange and surreal thought. More than anything I am grateful for the photos I have already captured, the ones that will always remind me of my babies, my children as they were, as they are and as they will never be again. Photographs are the only history we have besides our memories and our stories and it just reminds me that I will never regret a single picture I ever take. In fact, I will only celebrate them more.

It’s Picture Time

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It’s Great Greetings! time again. This is the tip list for when you are actually ready to get this holiday card portrait all wrapped up. This one is especially for the moms out there. Ready?

 

 

Don’t give it away– if you’re attempting a holiday ‘session’ with your children, you don’t have to tell them about it. I have been known to lure my subjects to the location of choice, dressed and ready with no one the wiser. They’ll usually figure it out one way or another but you could get the perfect, relaxed shot before they do.

 

Get Help– Enlist a friend, sister, mother, whoever. Just get help. You’ll have more fun with an extra pair of hands (and some extra silly jokes).

 

Get down and dirty- Even if dressy clothes are involved, I encourage you to let your children have fun; this means getting dirty. Don’t take your children to the beach or the park and not expect them to want to play. When kids play, they have fun. That makes for great photos. Bare feet, sand in the toes and fingers, the whole bit. Come on, they’ll love it. And so will you.

 

Look for the light- I love soft, somewhat flat light for my family portraits so I don’t shoot in direct, shadowy sun. I look for open shade or shoot in early morning or late afternoon soft light. I think the most important thing when shooting photos of your kids (or of anyone for that matter) is paying attention to the light on their face and eyes. The eyes tell you everything. If the eyes look light and bright, you’re usually good to go. If your subjects have dark eyes (no light) or dark circles under your subjects eyes, try repositioning them until you get some illumination.

 

Rules of Engagement– These are a few tips to getting children to cooperate without stress.

 

     Use the magic mirror– when you use this trick (which for the record is my favorite and most effective trick to date) you have to be ready to shoot quickly. Ask your kids if they can see themselves in the ‘magic mirror’ of your lens. I guarantee they will try to see themselves in the mirror and when they do, they will look adorable. You can also throw a few jokes in there while you’re at it to get them smiling and laughing but the key is that they will squeeze in cheek to cheek and it makes for one of the best kind of portraits ever.

 

     Lay them out-

Tummy time– I pose kids on their tummies. It gives them something to do and keeps them in one place for a while. It works really well too if you have a baby in the mix. It gets the older kids down to baby level. And if the baby sits up they can sit but the older kids can still be on their tummies next to the baby. If nothing else, you’ll usually get the baby excited about having his or her siblings on the floor with them.

Back down– Laying babies and children on their backs can work too for the same reasons as the tummy. Just be sure to have your camera strap around your neck and then stand directly over the top of them and shoot straight down. It’s a cute and somewhat unexpected angle. It’s kind of entertaining for your older kids too.

 

     Play chase– This is one I’ve perfected. My youngest daughter has wanted to run from the camera since she could walk. So, to get her having fun and laughing I would have to play chase. And of course I yell Booyah when I’m clicking away. It never fails. And it even makes me laugh. Don’t forget to shoot photos from the back as well. Shots of your kids walking out into the wild blue can be priceless.

 

     Get Happy (and silly)- I know it might open a can of worms here which is why I save this one until the end. Once the silliness begins it’s not always easy to reign in. But, I will say that once your kids are allowed to get silly you might catch the aftermath of laughter and laughter is a good thing.

 

Celebrate individuality– There’s no rule that says all your subjects have to be in the same photo together. Sometimes people need a little space to really be themselves. If you find you’ve captured perfect portraits of your subjects individually then use those together on your card. You don’t even have to know how to work collage magic on your own either. Many of the card companies give you collage options now where you can drag and drop a whole bunch of photos so you don’t have to pick just one. Be sure to include one with you in it too! Good times.

 

But if you really want to be a part of the card photo and you want to use one great photo, then you can try Karen’s trick using a large mirror to capture a unique and fun family self-portrait or test your self-timer skills. It’s takes a little practice but something tells me you’re up for it.

 

Be sure to share your own tips and tricks here in the comments today or if you’ve got lots to say on the subject, share on your blog and then leave the link here so we can click over and read all about it. And don’t forget to post your photos (from years past or for this year) in our Great Greetings Flick group.

a resource alive with possibilities

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Every so often I get this overwhelming feeling to begin again in the form of what might be considered a creative reinvention. The promise that a blank canvass can present energizes and entices me. For quite some time I have been musing about reworking my online offerings; updating my portfolio, redesigning things, switching over to a new blog platform for my personal blog, the list goes on and on. I know I am not alone here. I get emails all the time from many of you looking for some guidance as you are also in the midst of doing the same things.

When I come across resources like liveBooks it makes the idea of change something that feels pretty doable–they have designers to help you in your process. When there’s a lot you want to change, doable and help make a good combination. And then I find out that they are having a huge sale TODAY on their website packages. A 24 hour sale. What luck! I was giddy to share it with you.

Whether you are looking to launch or grow your career in photography or you just need a little nudge toward your own reinvention, today might be just the day to make a fresh start.

If you chat with the fine folks at liveBooks today please be sure to tell them you came by way of Shutter Sisters.