A couple more 'secrets'

-- too cute not to post! Enjoy.
Peekaboo!

Sleepless in Seattle . . . .

So much to post on!! Where do I start?

Earlier this month, I had the absolute pleasure to attend the Secret Workshop in Seattle, hosted by the very talented and very business-savvy Cheryl Muhr. I learned ALOT. Graciously, Cheryl shared all of her experience and her 'secrets' in a very hands-on workshop . . . and she surprised us with a 'secret' guest that knocked everyone's socks off. The one, the only Tara Whitney! Are you gasping? Check her stuff out and you will be.

I was star struck. I honestly don't think that has ever happened to me before. I so admire the spirit in which Tara captures families in her work. Her images often leave me happily teary-eyed as you can truly feel the emotions in her images. I honestly had trouble falling asleep the night before the course because I was SO excited to meet her. I was sleepless in Seattle.

This is Tara during the child model shoot portion of the course:


We had the amazing opportunity to observe both Cheryl and Tara work. It was simply awesome and inspiring. And then we had the chance to shoot the child models that were there. These kids and their parents were total troupers in crazy hot weather with a bunch of crazy-making photographers running around. Here are some of my shots:

This little girl was a total sweetie, so shy and gentle.

This little guy was a cutie-patootie and made me work for it. Good on him.

And these two sisters were infectious with their giggles!

I had a total blast being surrounded by fellow photographers and a couple of great friends (shout out to Dana and Steph). I have LOTS more to say about Seattle . . . to be continued!

And then there were five . . .

I had a Sunday morning walk in the park with this great family. It reminded me of why, someday, I would like more children. Seriously. Every moment holds something new. Somebody is always needing a hug or cuddle or a boost. There were limbs everywhere. Total fun.

It also made me realize that I haven't shot many families with lots of kids (well, more than two) and there are challenges that come along with that perfect family shot. But here's the thing. Imperfect is perfect. What family with three little ones really sits still and smiles directly ahead? This, I love:

And the kids all had such distinct personalities, as little ones always do. Big brother 'B' and I could have chatted for hours about all things kindergarten and Playstation. Check out these eyes . . . And I always immediately identify with the middle child (gee, I wonder why?). 'S' was a bit of a tough one to catch with the lens - I do have lots of sweet shots of her face, but am drawn to the ones where you can sense her shyness . . .
Baby 'P' was a sweet 'P' for sure -- so cute. So on the go . . . .

Thanks guys for a great time, can't wait to get the rest done for you. Enjoy the summer sun!