Children are a Blessing

Before taking a mini-family vacation to celebrate the 4th of July, I had the pleasure of photographing one of the most beautiful families I have ever seen. It's a level of beauty that goes beyond the skin barrier. These parents' love for their son could be seen and heard from miles away. With every camera shot, I was reminded of why I love my stepsons so much. This family's infectious laughter made them a joy to shoot...and the radiant sun and comfortable temps didn't hurt either. Here are a few sneak peeks, especially of their precious son, of that day.

Eyes are Windows to the Soul

...well...at least Orion's eyes are. Don't they just pierce your heart?

New Banner

Now that I've taken a look back, I realized that I didn't like my logo and banner anymore. It was almost to the point of becoming an eye sore for me. So...I played around a little bit...and...VOILA!!...and I think I like it.

Recent Shots

People

DH's Sports Display

Landscape

Objects

I'm back and in full effect

It's been almost a year since I last updated this blog. I put it on hold while I focused more on my writing, which is going quite well. I have some time on my hands again, so I want to jumpstart this passion of mine for photography. I have taken many, MANY pics lately, but I need to upload them. I'll be back later this week w/ my latest work, and hopefully, you all will think that my skills have improved. :)

Say "Hello" to my Little Friend

A shot of my oldest SS and our precious Orion. As crazy as this shot is, I absolutely love it!

More Randoms

You know...I came to the realization weeks ago that my photos just won't improve until I purchase another lens and a flash. Currently, I am only using my built-in flash (it's good sometimes, but I need a flash that will bounce) and the Quantaray 18-200mm OS.

I purchased it b/c of some reviews and recommendations I've read...that the 18-200mm Nikkor lens was "THE" must have all-around lens. When I compared the Quantaray version to the Nikkor, there wasn't a difference in the photos. So, I saved myself some bucks and purchased the Q version. Yeah...it'll get the job done, but IMO, not well enough. The images aren't particurly sharp, and it's not a fast lens. Even if the shutter speed is increased, this may risk the exposure, resulting in not-so-sharp and underexposed pics. There are a couple of fixes for this, but it's rather bothersome. For instance, if I increase the shutter speed, I could just increase the aperture (which I wouldn't want to do, especially if I'm shooting from a distance). I could also increase the ISO, but that means adjusting the ISO frequently, depending on the shots, and noisier shots. AHHH!!! Why even bother?! I just need a new lens.

While I am drawn to the 17-55mm Nikkor Zoom Lens (it produces sharp images and performs great in low light), that $1300 price tag kills my buzz every time. After doing some research, it seems like the best alternative is the Tamron 17-50mm.

It's merely a third of the cost of the 17-55mm. W/in the next month, I'm going to purchase it along w/ a flash (preferably the SB-800 IF I can find it; it's been hard to find since Nikon discountinued it) so that I can practice on the kids this summer. By this time next year, I would like to transition into people and landscape photography. Eventually, I'll move into wedding photography (my ultimate goal), but I am certain that I need more experience and additional equipment b4 making that leap.

Here is a pic of our Orion over the weekend. He never sits still long enough for me to get any decent shots of him.

Here's a shot of my dad that I took several months ago. He's such a natural thinker; can't you tell?!

Random Shots of My Stepson

These were taken right before we sold our other home.

My First "Wedding"

My coworker/friend recently got married to the love of her life on April 9 at the Durham County Courthouse. I wasn't hired to take the pics, but I figured I would take the opportunity to practice...and of course, capture some special moments for the couple to forever cherish. Here are a few shots from that day.

Trying to Improve

I finally sat myself down recently to focus on my photography and to learn ways to improve my skills. I haven't really taken any pics w/in the past couple of months due to the wedding and my work. As soon as I meet these upcoming deadlines, I will focus more on photographing. By this time next year, I hope to extend to the professional realm of photography.

Currently, I'm focusing on lighting and saturation.

These are a few shots I took in Durham, where I work.