Jenny Drake Photography

Moving Day

2009-06-24T00:42:00.002-06:00

So, I've finally gone and done it. I've moved my blog! Find me here:

http://www.jennydrakephotography.com/blog

It's not quite finished (shocking), but I will be posting over there from now on. PLEASE change your 'favorites' tab or re-subscribe to the feed over there as I would miss you if you didn't!

And tell me what you think of my new digs . . .

Later skaters.

tuesday tune and a todd!

2009-06-16T14:24:00.003-06:00

an exciting day . . . my new little todd (my maiden name) niece or nephew is on his/her way as i type . . .

so kevin told me recently that you can tell a 'jenny' song by the presence of an accoustic guitar or ukelele solo and upbeat lyrics about love and happiness. bwah hahahahaha. but it's totally true.

this is julia nunes, a funky ukelele songstress who records covers on her ukelele and broadcasts them on youtube. she also throws in some originals now and then. i have followed her for a little over a year and i think she rocks! she has a MASSIVE youtube following because she is spunky and fun and hilarious.

i LOVE that she records in her messy dorm room in somewhereville, USA. and from her parents house. i LOVE that she is super normal and funny and young. her youngness makes me laugh and reminds me so of some of my friends and days from long ago (hello combo of dee, chris, and allison). LOVE that. she plays the melodica. LOVE that too.

so here is LOVE covered by julia nunes:

and little todd baby . . . L-O-V-E you too! we will meet soon.

the gratitude project

2009-06-15T22:43:00.004-06:00

my uber fun and fantastic friend, dana, is hosting a photography challenge! my other amazing and admired friend, tara, took up the challenge and the project was born. the task, to capture 5 images that express gratitude. the challenge was due today!

i was so excited to take part, but decided last night that i would sit this one out as my weekend adventures did not allow me time to breathe, let alone capture anything. but this morning, i decided that i am ABUNDANTLY GRATEFUL and this is exactly why i needed to take some time, no matter how short, to capture some tiny bits of my happy thanks. i had ten minutes in my kitchen and on my front step!

most simply . . .

i am grateful for my will. he makes me burst with pride and reminds me that the world is a good and gracious place. my little gentleman.

i am so very grateful for my baby boy. my sweet jack makes me laugh until i cry every day. he teaches me patience and curiousity and flat out love.

i am grateful that i can see and experience simple beauty in my everyday world. my senses are gifts that i try not to take for granted. some days, i feel like i am a guest at a big ole sensory buffet and i can't get enough! dee-licious.

and i am so very grateful for my home. in the place and time and circumstances in which i live. holy cow, am i ever grateful.

thank-you dana! loved it. needed it. will do it again!

p.s. yes, that is my newly painted red front door. but there has been a mishap
(oh no!) and i have since found out that the paint-store lady inadvertantly gave me the wrong base. i have to sand it down and paint it again!!!! but she kindly replaced the paint, so . . . . please excuse the streaky mess! but nice color, hey?

a tune and a tot.

2009-06-02T23:36:00.004-06:00

It's Tuesday . . . and apparently the only day that I can barely get it together enough to post.

Anyway!! This makes me happy all over. Thanks, Shauna-Rae:

So does this:

More from that little guy later. Night!

my front door and a ditty

2009-05-26T22:24:00.011-06:00

it's still tuesday and here i am! soooo . . . here is my door:

it's pretty much white. with dark grey trim and a silver kickplate. and surrounded by stucco. it has a wreath. i love wreaths, love circles. you can find them all over my home (and in my logo). and they are all moving clockwise in my mind.

i never really realized (until i just wrote it) that i see shapes moving directionally. huh, there you go! i do.

my front door is blah and bland and needs help. i want it to be warm and welcoming and friendly. i want it to welcome me into it's arms and say "hey jennygirl, come on in, you are home." and then shut ever so lightly behind me to reveal the joys of my house that are held within. hahahahaha. but seriously, i do.

moving on . . . here is a tuesday tune! i had a request for a more upbeat song (yeah, you amy), so i'm offering up a couple, actually. the first is an awesome remake of one of my favorite songs EVER (woo-hoo journey). this song premiered last week in an episode of fox's glee. i was ready to love the show - and i'm not quite sure if i did - but i LOVED the song. it hit #1 on itunes.

the second track just makes me happy. this is greg laswell singing how the day sounds:

i found that sampling through a blog i follow called untitled records. head over there and meet rachel. her taste in music is superb. just saying.

crazy lady.

2009-05-25T22:37:00.007-06:00

was there a crazy lady trespassing on your front lawn today taking pictures of your door?

do you live here?

or here?

oh, it was just me. i dashed around this morning and took pictures (excuse the snapshots, i was seriously running up, snap snap, running back) of doors that i like.

i'm starting a series of home reno projects in an attempt to bond with my house. we have alot of work to do, she and i. we're working on our owner-home relationship and we have a long way to go.

long-story short, i have never loved my house. i am madly, deeply, crazy in love with the people who live in my house, but not with the house. don't get me wrong, it is a much more than an adequate home. we are very fortunate to be able to call these walls our own. truly.

i was ready to love this house when we moved in, it just didn't happen.

among some amazing memories, the walls of this house saw some very sad days before we owned it (the prior owners are dear friends of ours and experienced profound loss in this home). and the summer that we moved in was one of the most difficult times we have ever experienced as a little family.

i think it is a little bit of their story, and a lot of ours, that has prevented me from settling into our HOME. we have been here almost four years. and i feel sure that we have found ourselves in this home for a reason. i just haven't been ready to consider it fully until now.

but, i'm ready. we're ready! yay! so here we go . . . we're starting with the front entrance. and you get to come along for the ride . . . i'll post a 'before' pic of our own sad door tomorrow . . .

oh yeah, i LERVE the teracotta door but our house lends itself to black . . . i need to find ways to say welcome and warmth with black. huh. help me out.

tuesday tunes!

2009-05-20T00:55:00.005-06:00

okay, it's technically wednesday. but i've yet to put a close to my tuesday, so i'm a startin' something new . . . . a weekly FEATURE!

i had a great conversation this weekend (resulting from a series of funny girlfriend emails) about the little snippets of music i've posted here. seems that some are in need of advice of where to spend their itunes currency?!! say no more!!! oh, i'm so so happy to oblige.

i'm not professing to have the most cutting edge, hip, or even good taste in music, but i do cop to a having a complete love of music. period. music of most genres. except really really BAD rap. post 1993. but i digress . . .

i find new music for my ears here, there and everywhere. i found this while watching mamma yamma this morning on Kids CBC. oh, yes, you moms out there know mamma. justin nozuka was crooning an accoustic version of golden train:

there is an official video of this song but it features justin with bad hair. and bad pants. i liked this live version better.

he's american but was raised in canada by a single mom. in a family of seven children. he had a big hit earlier this year that many would recognize . . . it's called after tonight.

mamma yamma has had lots of great 'canadian' talent on her little spot - ron sexsmith, barenaked ladies, and sarah harmer to list a few. there is even a mamma yamma compilation CD!

music finds me all different places . . . how about you?

p.s. more photography related posts to come soon. wink.

random . . .

2009-05-07T00:29:00.007-06:00

just a random late-night post. . .

i have had a recent bout of insomnia (for those who know me, this is UNHEARD OF). i have seriously started watching more television in the hopes that i will drift off to sleep. it is not working.

it has only served to remind me why i have diligently and purposefully cut my tv hours to a minimum. i become mindlessly and hopelessly addicted to any half-rate late-night show in about thirty seconds. especially if it is bad reality tv. tonight's fare: dog the bounty hunter, america's next top model, and as many HGTV real estate episodes that i can get.

did y'all know that sarah has not only a house, but sarah has a COTTAGE? i did not know. how could i not know about sarah's cottage?

aside from mind-numbing television, i also spend time listening to new music online. i quite often browse new stuff while i'm editing images. but tonight i dare not edit after too many nights of lacking more sleep than i usually lack (?!) but i found sanders bohlke. i like sanders bohlke.

and then i found this fan-made montage of grey's 'cristina and owen' set to my favortie bohkle song (so far):

let me be clear that i do NOT, i repeat, i do NOT consider grey's anatomy to be late night tv drivel. grey's and i have a standing thursday night date that does not get messed with.

and i think cristina and owen are tragic beauty together. hopeless romance. and who could not love sandra oh. oh, oh.

good night.

post script: 1:08 a.m. i have just discovered "tommy twitter" at Sarah Richardson Design. i will never sleep again.

sigh . . .

2009-05-01T15:19:00.006-06:00

oh, that sigh is for lots of reasons. here is a great one:

it's friday afternoon again (where or where did my week go?) and my vows to be a blogaholic this week didn't ring true.

truth is, i love to blog. i look forward to it and compose lots of little bloggy entries in my head daily. i want to share this, i think that. it just never seems to make it to screen.

i would have NEVER pegged myself as someone who enjoyed sharing ANYTHING about myself out there in cyber-space . . . but the blogsphere seems much more community-oriented than i ever thought it would be, and those who know me, know i like me a great community.

and i love to write. and chat. and connect. and this seems to combine all of the above. i have had many people tell me that they pop by see what i have to say, even moreso than to see what pictures i have posted.

and as much as this causes me to say WHAT? (and then to have a privately thrilled little moment where i think . . . really, you like what i SAY), i understand it as a blog-fan. i read many many blogs out there on a plethora of topics. art, photography, design, music, parenting, media, finance, i've got it covered.

i am a blog addict/stalker.

i usually connect to bloggers because of what they SAY and what they DO on a level that is larger than the blogosphere. and they are mostly visually and accoustically pleasing too, thank you very much.

so why am i telling you all of this? for a couple of reasons - number one, to publicly out my desire to blog more in the hopes that it will motivate me to actually do it . . . and, two, to let you know that i have a new blog in the works that makes me very happy.

and happy is as happy does, or so they say . . kind of. :)

sweet, sweet baby . . .

2009-04-24T13:43:00.006-06:00

Just a really quick one of the gorgeous Miss H who arrived in this fabulous world of ours about ten days ago . . .

She came to the arms of one of the finest mothers I know. And by that, I mean that she is now, and will always be, unconditionally encircled in love, in compassion, and in understanding of the unique and beautiful being that she is.

Her family is as much a gift to her as she is to them.

xoxoxo-

are we screw-ups?

2009-04-17T07:51:00.007-06:00

it's friday morning. before 8 a.m. i just saw this trailer. it made the biggest smile break out over my puffy little early morning face . . .

plus, the music in this trailer is an alexi murdoch song that i have recently grown to adore thanks to dana dana. it seems to be permeating my life.

i mean, we're 34 . . . 33 . . . and we don't even have this basic stuff figured out . . .

oh, me.

happy thursday . . .

2009-04-16T22:43:00.003-06:00

not much to report -- well, lots of things going on, actually, but mostly that which keeps me away from my computer!

yesterday I got this in the mail:
it just happened to arrive on the SAME DAY as did the precious little one who will be wearing it in the next week or so . . .

i so normally would not go for something with ears, but can you say baby bear? come on. it is too cute.

i bought it on etsy. through a lovely seller - karen - who has a little shop named beachwalkphoto. if you don't know what etsy is, you MUST check it out but be prepared to be forever converted to buying handmade. over the internet. frequently. while you salivate. and make small audible exclamations of "ooohhhh" "i want . . ." and "perrrrrrfeccct." seriously watch out.

Happy Birthday ROCKSTAR!!

2009-04-08T23:09:00.014-06:00

It seems like just yesterday that I was blogging about this excellent family and their gorgeous little guy. See that here.

If time has flown for me, imagine how quickly it has gone for them! Uh, can you say gorgeous mama?

Little P is one year old. His big gorgeous eyes remain big and gorgeous. His fuzzy peach hair has grown long enough to sport a mohawk. He has truly grown into a cool dude. Gee, wonder why?

I love taking pictures of this family. They just are. Perfectly them. It makes it easy to capture their joy. Sigh.
I have to say that these shots are totally random in terms of how much I adore them. I heart so many, many more from our shoot but grabbed these few to peek to the fam TODAY, on the BIG BIRTH DAY.

Okay, I lied. Not totally random. THIS ONE is one of my ABSOLUTE FAVORITES. A reminder of what awesomeness created the little rocker in the first place:

Family, I know that today your hearts are filled with momentous love for each other and most importantly, for the little guy that has changed your world. Can it only have been a year?

Congratulations to ALL OF YOU for growing a year older. Together. Wishes of balloons and cake and giggles for your whole year through.

Guess who is in my living room . . .

2009-04-08T15:07:00.016-06:00

Scrumptious.

Check out the gallery wrap on the corners . . .

An idea of the canvas texture . . .

Beautiful finished back, ready for hanging . . .

Talk about your child being a work of art! I can't say enough how beautiful these canvases are . . . .

Little Boy Blue

2009-03-27T16:24:00.013-06:00

Meet little boy blue. He is sweet, sweet, sweet and he reminds me why I love two year olds so much!

They have boundless energy, endless curiousity, and a love for their Momma that is simply the best thing there is. This little man is no exception . .

And let me tell you, the love goes both ways!

I have known his Mom since we were school-girls . . and although we don't often see eachother, our families remain connected in the ways that are important. In the ways that mean that when you see your school-aged friend in the eyes of her child, you can't help but remember that it was not that long ago that you both were as energetic and as curious and as full of love as he is now.
And how truly remarkable it is that the universe keeps great people in your life.

A&B, you have a gorgeous little boy who is so clearly cherished and adored. Thank you for sharing those baby blues.

p.s. This post was alternately entitled 'boys and their balls . . .' - A, thought you just might understand :)

p.p.s. Just in case you are wondering, these photos were taken at Mom's work - Athletes Nation - a supercool St. Albert fieldhouse/sports performance centre that is an off-season training home to the likes of Jarome Iginla and Fernando Pisani! Check it out -

And the winner is . . . .

2009-03-22T21:18:00.011-06:00

. . . . canvas #4!!

The little dude with the big brown eyes was one of my very first portfolio building sessions way back in May of last year. This year, he is awaiting the arrival of a new baby in his family and has grown leaps and bounds.

His Momma was a ruthless competitor and shared news of his canvas debut with many, garnering 76 individual votes of a total 236. She described herself as "shameless" as she distributed the link to many, many far and wide. Hello? I love it.

She will have a beautiful canvas of that image . . she chose the 11x14 size with plans to hang a second one of baby #2 underneath it in one more year. Can't wait.

So, none of the charity canvases won -- they were #5, #7, and #12. Thank you to those families for lending their images for a great cause! But I get to make the rules and I say that a donation is still in order . . .

I'll be forwarding a donation to CAIRD - the Children's Aid International Relief and Development Association. They are a Canadian humanitarian organization located here in Edmonton. They offer help to children who are orphaned and in need in Romania and South Africa. The programs and initiatives that they support are numerous. Their Mission Statement holds my heart:

One child is so much.

You can find CAIRD contact information here. Thank you to everyone who participated in the canvas contest. You made my first launch week so very exciting to watch!

Stay tuned this week for a quick mini-shoot preview of a super sweet two year old . .

mmm, mmm, mini-magic

2009-03-18T21:40:00.014-06:00

Wanted to share some previews of a little magic mini-session I had this past weekend! Mom and Dad in this case might laugh at me a bit for calling it magical. This couple love having their picture taken. They love it so much, they want to marry it. Ha ha! Right, guys?

But that's my point.

What made their session sparkly and glittery in my eyes was that it was happening at all. The magic comes straight from the fact that they understand that their babies are changing every day and they want to preserve and cherish that. And even more, that they know that it is important that their love for their children and each other is captured too.

Simple. Beautiful.

Part of what makes children so magical is how they move . . .

Tip-toe, tippity toe . . . so big.

I love love love the monster-truckin' in this image. Meet Mr. T's best buddy, Excaliber.

Oh, who am I kidding? It's pretty obvious who his best bud is:

And this is what it is all about. This image tells the story of sweet baby J who just turned one and got her first tooth. All at the same time, people.

Thanks guys! You did great (even despite the nutter in your living room with a camera of all things). Who invited her?

A little something else: OVER 200 VOTES ON THE CANVAS CONTEST!! Yay! In all of my canvas contest excitement, I've decided to gift the winner a bigger canvas! 16x20! That is exciting news!! Haven't voted? Scroll down and get at 'er . . . you have until Friday at 4 p.m.!

CANVAS CONTEST: Now THAT was fun - let's try THIS

2009-03-15T23:41:00.022-06:00

Woo Hoo. THAT was fun.

I had a complete blast putting my website out there over the weekend!! It was a chance to share a bunch of beautiful families and a bit of myself with lots and lots of people in my life. Now let's hope others take a peek . . .

I was nervous . . . but I want to say THANK YOU for all of the support and amazing emails that have been sent my way. So many of you told me that watching the galleries made you smile and laugh and cry. And oh, I did not want to make you cry, but I LOVE THAT YOU DID.

You see, aside from my love for photography, this work has enabled me to see children, families, and the love that brings them together in a way that breathes new life into me. Children are a precious gift, let me tell you, and I am so thankful to work with those who get that and want to capture it and hold those memories tight. Love it. Thank you.

And in keeping with the thank-you luv, I'm wanting to send some of it back at ya! I'm running a canvas contest this week for some of the families that helped me put together my portfolio (and hence website), over the last year. Many of these grace my website. Some are simply my faves. Others are the ones that people have told me over and over that they make them sigh.

Check out the 12, count 'em 12, entries below and VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE. The contest starts on Monday March 16th and will close on Friday March 20th at 4 p.m.! The image that receives the most votes will win a gorgeous 11x14 gallery wrap canvas of their image as a thank you from me!

Rules and regulations: YOU CAN ONLY VOTE ONCE. And believe me, I can tell if you cheat. If you want others to vote for your fave, send them over here to get voting! Vote in the poll box that is in the right hand column of this blog!!
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Also . . . there is more than one image in the running that if it wins, I will donate the proceeds (in lieu of the canvas) to a fave children's charity of mine. I'm not telling which ones they are . . .

Get voting! And thanks again . . .

EDITED TO ADD: Holy smokes!! 139 votes on day one! And so very few cheaters ;) Seriously. You guys rock - six countries represented, too many cities, provinces, states, islands (?) to count. A few people also dropped me a line to let me know what their connection was to the images, and that was cool too - throw a comment in there.

KEEP VOTING. SHARE THE LUV! MWAH.

It's Up!!!

2009-03-13T22:00:00.003-06:00

I'm officially official . . . . big huge drumroll for . . .

www.jennydrakephotography.com

I'm reeeaaaaalllly excited. And reeeaaallllly glad that I'm done.

Please please check it out and let me know what you think! Leave me a comment below or even better, shoot me an email through my fancy contact page!! Eeeeee. That's fun. Kind of feels like playing office at home when I was little with real staplers and highlighters my Dad borrowed from work.

And check back here this week coming up for some AWESOME RAD contests and giveaways. Seriously.

Hmm. I should say RAD more. And maybe SUH-WEET too.

Just about there . . . . .

2009-03-09T23:02:00.006-06:00

Hi!! So the website is in final completion stages. Almost, almost. If I were more computer-savvy, I could post a snapshot of my splash page right here:

But, no. It's one of those simple steps that I'm missing. Cannot pull the "how to snapshot a webpage" from my brain. It's there somewhere . . . painful . . . still no.

So instead, I will do a quick share of my new logo:

It made a brief appearance in my blog header a couple weeks back, but now it is officially on my site. I hemmed and hawed about a logo, and gawked and gandered at so many other lovely photography related logos out there.

Turns out, I wanted simple. Happy. Clean. Colorful. I had it designed by a graphic designer and am completely happy with the results. Suits me.

AND, I got word today that I have artist permission to use some equally happy and simple and colorful music on the site . . . so it was a good day.

AND the site will be up SOON. Just about there . . . .

p.s. if anyone can give me a jump-start on the snapshot thing, it would be much appreciated.

Aggle Flaggle Klabble! Snurp . . .

2009-03-05T13:25:00.012-07:00

ohmyword.

My family and I are so sick . . . turns out that when you opt out of getting the flu shot, you get the flu. Huh.

Don't worry everyone out there in the big world . . . we have kept our germs to ourselves and have been quarantined at home for the past week. I won't bore you with the gory details, but let me just say that our level of contagion and sickness has astounded me. My poor little boys. My poor husband (who doesn't have the flu but has to take care of us, which is worse?) But this too shall pass . . .

And strangely enough, turns out that one of the only things that seems to bring some sort of relief to my pathetic boys has been reading Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems.

He's always been one of my favorites, but we have this one (on loan from the library of course) with the CD and the boys will listen to it over and over again.

Aggle Flaggle Klabble! has become our saying for oh-my-goodness-every-inch-of-my-body-hurts-make-it-stop. Grab the book and have a read. Too cute.

snurp . . . .

Oh, and mini-session update! I had huge interest in the just because i want to sessions. Yay!! And even more than that, I had lots of people booking full sessions for spring and summer. Double yay!! I actually had more than one family book mini-sessions and then cancel, holding off for bigger sessions in the coming months.

So . . . why am I telling you this . . . this means that two spots have become available for mini-sessions . . . one on the 15th and one on the 21st. Email for more info if you are interested. And if you are interested in a session come spring or summer, send me a shout-out and we will get things rolling for that too!

And send us some get-well wishes. We need them :)

just because i want to . . . .

2009-02-17T21:10:00.007-07:00

So, it's been a little quiet from me out there in photography world, I know. I've been thinking. Percolating, really.

I'm really excited to talk about a few things in the works, but I don't want to get ahead of myself! I've finally put some time into my website and it will be up soon. Well, soon is subjective, but ha ha ha ha . . . .

And I'm puttin' a mini-session promo out there for those who are interested. It is a smaller-than-normal package for a smaller-than-normal price. It's limited bookings and for a short time only. And it has perks - email me at jennydrakephotography@gmail.com for more info!

If you ask me, it's a perfect way to capture those images that tell the story of your family, just as you are. No pressure for the marathon family portrait shoot - although the whole fam can bring it, for sure. It's a moment. It's now. It's about you. And it's just because i want to.

i heart hearts . . . .

2009-02-14T22:28:00.010-07:00

I love Valentines Day . . . or really, any chance I get to love up on the special people in my life. At my house today, we had heart shaped pancakes and sent singing telegrams. We wrote love notes and shared a Valentines feast with much loved friends.

The boys and I also attempted a freeze-our-buns off photoshoot on the front lawn. The hoarfrost was STUNNING (although I didn't get many pics of it as my sweet little guy fell and got snow on his face therein ending our snow romp). Poor Jack.

It was, er, brief. And cold. And pretty dark and gloomy ?! But cute.
I do need to mention that Will was also somewhat in the shoot . . . if you can count a brief stint of snow-throwing, then crying, and demands for hot chocolate. Ah, can you feel the love?

Happy heart day everyone. Love the ones you're with! I sure do.

The Valentines banner up there is also a little Jack tribute - those were his heart day pics from last year!!

"Oh Sweet Girl . . ."

2009-01-28T22:51:00.018-07:00

My niece hailey turned 6 (!!) a couple weeks ago and the boys and I had the pleasure of spending the whole day with her. I don't know why, but six strikes me as a pretty big deal, so we went all out, Drake style, and did up the day.

We had balloons and cake, streamers and songs, and all went out to get our hair done with sparkles. Hail and I painted our nails, celebratory style, and I actually just took off my alternating blue and purple hues today . . .

I was so excited to give Hailey a gift that I found for her quite awhile ago - a print by Manitobian artist/poet/hotmama/blogstress Kal Barteski. Click on Kal's name for her link.

As soon as I read it, I had to have it for my Hailey:

This is what the text says:

oh sweet girl
you live inside us all
don't you know
your beautiful princess heart
and glittery smile
make this world turn
you do.
hear with knowing
that you are
funny + beautiful
creative + smart
magically perfect
and loved
just as
you
are.

Captures Hailey's little girl magic perfectly. Thank you, Kal. So gorgeous.

And Hailey tolerated a two minute photoshoot (literally) in between various festivities and this is what we came up with.

The rascals eating cake:

I think it's cool that these were taken ON her sixth birthday.

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl! We'll have to do it again next year . . .

A little lady . . .

2009-01-13T23:35:00.011-07:00

This little angel should have most certainly graced these pages last year . . . why oh why have I been keeping her all to myself? Hmmmmmm . . .

This is little "O" . . . and she is divine. Her Momma's belly was featured many a week back - can you match the belly to the baby?

The hat, oh, the hat - I know it's in many of these shots, but you must remember that I have two little boys and simply cannot control my gushes over pretty and pink.
And I think little girl babies smell "girlier" too - it's a theory. Every time I see O (I'm fortunate enough to get a whif of her every so often as she belongs to one of my gorgeous mamma friends), I seriously have to control myself a little. A lot. She smells so lovely.

On the day that I photographed her, still so tiny and new, I was struck by how she already completely fit in her family . . . she is a little sister to two adorable big brothers and she is a match. A perfect little puzzle piece. Okay, I'm laughing at myself now cause I'm getting so gushy . . . ha!

Enjoy. And smell you later, O . . .!

More and Less . . .

2009-01-01T11:50:00.004-07:00

Happy New Year! I know I've been vacant for a little while, and more on that later, but hello 2009!! I've been doing alot of thinking about what 2008 brought me, and what it didn't . . . and even more thinking about my hopes and thoughts for 2009. Things I plan to do with resolve.

The last year brought a few surprises and few disappointments. That's good. I travelled more. Took more pictures. Met great people and a few not so great. I neither lost nor gained a family member. Hmmm. Watched less tv. Drank more Pepsi. I took a trip just me, for me. I watched my children grow. I bought jeans that fit. I sang more. I found an old friend. Then another. I found direction. Then lost it. Then found it again. I felt pretty in a really pretty dress. I was proud of my family. I surprised myself. I held young hands. And old. I stood up for myself. Let myself down. I was thank-full. Regret-full. Peace-full. Beauty-filled.

This year, I will laugh more. Cry less. I will try to only do things that ultimately bring me joy. I will read more. I will sleep more. I will sleep more. I will sleep more. I will take vitamins. Take an unexpected trip. Play my piano. Play my guitar. Hug my parents often. Listen to new music everyday. Run like I mean it. Learn more from my children. Learn more from my friends. I will give more, and expect less. Both of, and to, myself and others. I will find my feet. I will write more. Learn to let go. I will make beautiful art and see it that way. Share more. Have less. Touch more. Dance more. Definitely will dance more. I will teach a class. Reconnect with someone important. Be more congruent outside and in. Leave a lighter footprint on the earth. Declutter. Decide. I will be more genuine and less impatient. I will continue to be in love. Be brave. Be happy.

I also wanted to share some new music that just makes my day. I found out there in cyberworld. I adore this song. Enjoy "in love, in love, in love" by songstress Valeri Lopez. I sure do . . .

Happy New Year . . . .

Fab Four

2008-11-18T23:29:00.011-07:00

A quick preview for this fabulous foursome . . . .

I have to say that this family, collectively, have some of the MOST beautiful eyes I've ever captured. They are striking. Stunning, really. Take a peek: This is 'A' - I've been told that he is not a smiler. Yes, I have some of him smiling away, but this one seemed appropriate. He's one of those kids that when you see him, you say "oh, that one's gonna be a looker . . ." Do people say that anymore? Hahahaha. I'm sure somebody's gramma does . . .

And here's 'B' . . . . this kid cannot STOP smiling. And he shouldn't, either, cause it's gorgeous. These two are total cuties.

Now I'm realizing that I haven't posted a close-up of Mom and Dad for you to see where these peeps are comin' from. Oh, is it because maybe one or the other of them have their gorgeous eyes CLOSED in every shot? 'A & A' win the award for best staggered blinking ever. They were hilarious. And I can give them a hard time because they can take it :)

Here's the whole fam:
I have lots more that I can't wait to show you guys . . . until then -- thanks again for the fun!

Jenny

Little 'A' . . .

2008-10-26T22:06:00.011-06:00

Here he is, little baby 'A' !

The hair, the hair! The eyes . . . this little one wins the all-time award for most awake newborn during a photoshoot! But look at him, so calm and peaceful . . . he's just checking things out, I think.

His Momma belongs to the most recent beautiful belly posted below. But 'A' has settled into his new home out in this big world, and he has been welcomed with open arms. When I got to meet him, he was actually being welcomed by an additional 8!

'A' had four very proud grandparents around him during his first few days. What a lucky little guy . . . But I think all of the grandpoppas and mommas live a little ways away so 'A' needs lots of paparazzi to keep them all caught up! That's where I come in . . .

I love this shot with all that love around him. Wish I had one similar from when my little guys were born . . .

A quick snooze . . . .

And yes, I have lots with Mom and Dad too . . . .

Sneak Peek of a Sneak Peek . . .

2008-10-22T23:51:00.013-06:00

Okay folks, this is one of my most anticipated sneak peeks in a while as it is for my photographer pal, and guru extraordinaire, Dana. She and her family came just before Thanksgiving for a "trade-sies" shoot following an awesome shoot that she did for me in August. See that here. Whew . . now I feel doubly exposed. This is good for me.

Anyway, we had total fun despite the FREEZING COLD. The whole clan looked fabulous. We seriously shot in so many locations that I have a ka-billion favorites, but thought I would start with these!

Aw, someone is not feelin' the love . . . okay, now he's in there . . . .

I have to say that I really tried to focus on getting Dana in a lot of shots because as a photog, she's always on the other side. And here's what you have to know about Dana (aside from the great photographer part). Her laugh is the best laugh ever. And she laughs all of the time. I wish I could have recorded it to play along with these photos. Oh, and she can really sing too . . .

Total Pugh moment - goin' for a coffee and pumpkin loaf. This one is of Georgia before she did a jig for the afternoon coffee-sippers! Seriously. She stopped and did a jig for the entire place.

And Jack contemplating his outlook on life . . .
I love this one of Dana and her hubby, just wish I had gotten the coffee in Bob's other hand in the frame! Maybe I was distracted by getting bounced out of the coffee shop due to my paparazzi-like behavior . . .
And, no photo shoot is complete without placing small children in a shopping cart and running down a back alley.

Told you they're fun! More to follow . . .

The brakes and a belly . . .

2008-10-09T23:12:00.006-06:00

Hi! An incredibly quick update here. First off, want to let you listen to something:

SCREEEEECHHHH!!

Ha ha. That's me puttin' the brakes on a little bit. I haven't been blogging so much as I've been out taking pictures!! My fall got a little out of control on me there, so quickly so that I didn't even get to announcing my mini-shoots, etc. before they were gone!

I did get outside into the leaves and crispness, but also spent some time indoors with a couple of new babies. Oh, how I love new babies!!!! Their little scrunchiness, their downy little bodies . . . but don't let me get ahead of myself . . .

Before the babies, were the bellies. Here is a quick sample from one of my favorite belly-shoots to date. We had a totally great time and this couple just were so comfortable in each other's arms that they made it easy.

Are they not stunning? And then baby 'A' showed up within a week! Hmmmmm . . . I will let you see baby in coming weeks!

Also in coming weeks, my website. It's going a LOT slower than I had anticipated . . . for various reasons, not all (but some) photography related! My boys, Will and Jack, are keeping me hopping. Will turns four this week, can't BELIEVE it. My husband threw out his back. Oh no!! Poor Kev. And the list goes on, people! So I'm not booking anything further in October. As I have further info, I will roll it out to you!! But it may be a slo-o-o-o-o-o-w roll out. Slow is good, right?

I'm on my way to Saskatoon for a little prairie celebration with some of those that I love the most. Have a wonderful thanksgiving and may your hearts (and tummies) be full.

Playdate!

2008-09-29T13:19:00.010-06:00

So last week I had a playdate with two new little friends in East Edmonton. As I got out of the car, a little ball of three year old energy (who I had never met before), came running over yelling "Jenny's heeeerrrrrrrreeeee!!!" What a greeting! And her little sister came toddling right behind, looking for some fun.

We played, played, and played some more. Now, I have two active little boys right around the same ages and they can keep me pretty busy. But let me tell you, these two little ladies were not still for even a moment. Ha! But it made for some great action shots and lots of exercise for me (which is always lacking), so go go girls.

I love that these two beauties had expectations of me. There would be no standing still or sittin' pretty - that would be just plain old BORING. These girls expected me to keep up! And you can tell that it's because their great momma knows how to play and have fun. It's contagious, you know.

Look at these girls -- taking in the fall . . . .

Thank you ladies for a beautiful morning in the park and a totally fun playdate.

- jenny

Under the boardwalk . . .

2008-09-25T23:13:00.015-06:00

Okay, it wasn't a boardwalk, it was a bridge. But I think it's going to be one of my new favorite-ist places to shoot. And what is better than an awesome new location? Oh, I'll tell you - my first shoot with TWINS!

These little feet belong to two of the sweetest little girls I know. Truth be told, one of them is my 4 year old son's girlfriend from playgroup.

I personally think he is sweet on both of them because he talks about them all the time.

And let me tell you, these two have the type of wonderful imaginations that can only come from wonderful parents who help them experience the world all sorts of ways. I love to watch them all play together.

And, what I like most about spending time with 'A' and 'T' is that you can so clearly see their differences. I let them pick where they wanted to sit and they totally picked opposite art. Take Miss 'A' here, for example:

And now Miss 'T':

And their sameness comes in a shared peace, and comfort, in eachother's company. It's quite moving, really.

And look at my lovely friend Trish, with her hubby. In the time that we spent together, their love for eachother and their family was palpable and I think that rocks.

Thank you, gals & guy, for letting me capture your family. I cannot WAIT to share the rest . . .

Trish, see you tomorrow night for chips & dip and a whole lotta spandex! :) Man, great friends are priceless. Thanks, lady.

- jenny

From belly to baby . . .

2008-09-17T10:39:00.010-06:00

These recent shots are of my very pregnant friend, Shannon. Doesn't she look amazing?

I met Shannon through my prenatal class when Will, my oldest son, was born. Shannon's oldest and Will are not even a month apart! And they both share a particular shyness and sensitivity that have bonded Shannon and I over the years. I feel like she gets me as a Mom and more importantly, as a person. Yay me.

Anyway, we both have gone on to have another son and, now, she has a third! Oh yeah, you heard me right - she has her third little person. Baby has been born!!! But I won't spoil the surprise as I am hoping to get my camera on the sweet-pea soon . . .

Anyway, I am hoping these pictures come a little close to capturing Shannon's wonderful family and the deeply rooted love that they share.

Shannon is like . . . supermom . . . she and keeps me and the other mommies out there organized, on-the-ball, and convinced that we too can be as awesome as her someday. Really. She makes it look sooooooo easy. But I know that she works really really hard and has a wonderful husband who values the simple things as much as she does.

Okay, I think this shot is sexy . . . . woo woo, rock that beautiful belly girl!

Shan, thank-you to you and yours for being in my life. You are cherished. Really.

And welcome sweet one.

Fall is . . .

2008-09-12T13:48:00.003-06:00

I love fall. So much. Crisp morning air. Cozy sweaters and chilly hands. I've always felt that way . . . and while I would say that sometimes I'm not so good with change, I think it is the transition of fall that I adore.

And right now, I have a lot of changin' goin' on! I'm SO excited to have finally decided to officially start a small photography business . . .

I've spent time with some awesome families over the summer who have helped me to build my portfolio and learn just what it is about photography that I love. And while I feel like I am still learning everyday, my families have made feel that the work that I have done for them is valued and cherished . . .

So please stay tuned as I roll out what is happening with me! I am working on my website, my pricing, and the collections and product I will offer. I'm going to have a day (or two) of mini-sessions for those who want a few captures for Christmas cards and the like . . . those are going to have to happen soon! And amidst it all, I'm going to take a breath and enjoy fall. I hope you are too . . .

p.s. the bluejay image is for my son, Will - I know it's not the greatest shot, but it was his little thrilled face as we snuck closer that made it so beauty-full

Sneak Peek!

2008-09-10T00:12:00.013-06:00

So I was emailing this great Mom the other day about where we might take the pics of her boys. I suggested something close to home as she has two boys (like me!) and we needed a combo of child-friendly, yet fun.

And she emails me back that, pretty much in their backyard, they have a park, a tireswing, a tree-fort, a ball diamond, a hammock . . . hello? Little boy heaven! Or should I say photographer heaven? I love it when I can capture families in their own space . . . and this was perfect.

All of that and I made 'Z' lie down on an old deck!

This family family shoot was minus Dad who was away at work. We'll get you next time Dad! But Uncle 'D' stepped in and was a total sport! It was really awesome to take pictures of adult siblings. I never do that. I love this shot of big sister and little bro. Sorry about the rest of your face, D, but just look at how beautiful your sister is! I couldn't help myself.

. . . they reminded me of me and my little brother. It got me to wonderin' how we might behave together at a photoshoot? And this one should be entitled little brother. I love how their comfort with one another shows in their hands . . .

This is little 'S'. S is for sweet, sweet, sweet.

Thanks, 'Z', for the race and for hangin' out with me on the couch. Thanks Mom and Uncle 'D' for sharing the boys. I can't wait to share more than just a sneak peek!

Gotta have the feet . . .

A couple more 'secrets'

2008-08-28T00:12:00.007-06:00

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

Sleepless in Seattle . . . .

2008-08-26T00:05:00.011-06:00

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 . . .

2008-08-12T23:33:00.011-06:00

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!

Holida-ay . . .

2008-07-28T18:20:00.003-06:00

That was sung Madonna-style, if you couldn't tell . . . .

I'm going to be away for about a week -- lake-side, family-side, what could be better? So I won't be checking email during that time (well, I might cheat on Thursday as I'll pop back in) but I'm hoping that my mind will be elsewhere - a la relaxation mode.

So take care, have a cold one for me (I'll have one for you too . . .)

Big smiles,
Jenny

THE wedding . . .

2008-07-25T23:45:00.009-06:00

So the wedding I went to a couple weeks ago was GORGEOUS. We were in Chittenden, Vermont at the Mountain Inn and Resorts and it was an event.

The location:

The dress:

The newlyweds:

I have to give props to my husband Kevin for snapping pictures while I was otherwise detained . . . I was in the wedding party, groom's side, for my best friend Chris. I took to calling myself the "best woman" for most of the weekend.

And let me tell you, is it ever fun to be an honorary guy at a wedding! You eat, you drink, you show up in what you're supposed to be wearing, and then you go back to eating and drinking! Coo-ool. But I have to say that I had many other duties as well -- I of course toasted, cried, and danced the night away.

But the best part of all was watching my darling friend marry the absolute love and joy of his life. Megan, you are lovely. You make him sing. Love you, love you. Love you both.

The moments:

Sigh . . . .

Disclaimer: I do not shoot weddings as a general rule. I kept thinking "phew!" as I watched the wedding photographer running around taking thousands of pics. Love to be a guest, love love. Do not love the possibility that I may mess up capturing precious moments that could never truly be recreated. Cheers!

ROCK-a-bye, baby!

2008-07-12T01:20:00.008-06:00

Let me introduce you to a little rocker dude that I met a couple of weeks ago. Not only did he rock the session, he clearly rocks his parent's world . . . in the very best way!

The session with this family was great - they were up for anything! Love that. Clothing flew off . . .

. . . a little visitor flew in . . .

. . . and time flew by because we were all having such a good time. I had so many images to choose from, I thought I'd just preview a few.

Are these guys not gorgeous??

Thank you, thank you to little P and his parents for a rockin' good time. Can't wait to share the rest with you.

And a little sidenote - I won't be checking my emails for the next few days as I'll be at a wedding extravaganza (guest, not photographer). I'll be back next week -- until then . . .

Wee wee wee all the way home . . .

2008-07-09T23:44:00.010-06:00

Hello there. Just thought I'd give a quick update for those who may think I have forgotten them!

When I started seriously throwing around the idea of getting into the photography business, I kept running into the same advice from various people and sources: don't rush it. Take your time. Learn alot. Ask questions. Have balance.

So . . . that is what I'm trying to do. Dramatic pause. HA HA HA HA HA HA. No, seriously. That is what I'm trying to do. I'm taking it slow. I'm making sure that I learn something new every time I pick up my camera or turn on my computer. I'm asking alot of questions (but I should ask more). I am striving for balance.

And, I am also learning lessons (that I was warned I would learn) about not taking on too much (but I can't help it, it's so much fun!!!), and finding what it is in all this that I love. I'm blathering a bit - but the whole point is, I am getting a bit behind, because I want to do it all RIGHT NOW and I simply can't. So one thing at a time.

And if you think I have forgotten you, I really haven't. I most likely think about you all the time. Please be patient with me. You know who you are.

And, while I'm going on and on, I'll add this: thank you thank you thank you for all of the support and feedback I've been getting from many of you. I love the emails and the calls and the "so I checked out your blog" shout-outs that I am receiving. But hey y'all out there, throw me a comment (click on COMMENTS at the end of the post and make sure you type in the code word thingy AND use an identity/anonymous button). I would love to hear what you think - all of it, don't edit.

SO MANY people have said "I was going to leave you a comment" but didn't . . . uh, DO!!! And I know that there are those of you who I don't know directly, but who are checking out my stuff . . . I would totally love to hear from you too. Introduce yourself. Send me a picture that you have taken. Whatevuh -- I'm totally diggin' all of it.

Jenny

Miracle Girl

2008-06-23T22:53:00.008-06:00

Had my sweetums niece Hailey with me today. Grabbed five minutes in the back yard with her for some glam shots. These are my favorites. She is my poster girl.

Color or b&w? I have a strong favorite.

Anyway, had a day filled with playdates, doughnuts, bead necklaces, slides & swings, and swimming. Wowzers, I'm tired.

And ss always, Hailey kept us all on our toes. You go, girl!

Favorite moment(s) of the day: So at some point this morning, I told Hailey that she was a miracle. That all kids are miracles. She found this fascinating and asked for a full definition of what a miracle was. So I attempted to explain, and subsequently ended up singing several miracle-related songs all day long.

And tonight at lullaby time, after hugs and kisses and I love yous, Hailey looked me in the eye and whispered, "Auntie Jenny, you are a miracle."

Tears. Thanks Hail. Think you're pretty special too.

Baby's Next Top Model . . .

2008-06-16T22:23:00.011-06:00

So I was recently welcomed into a gorgeous home by a cool couple to photograph their suh-weet little guy. Finn's Mom and I go way way back, through our Moms' friendship, and even though we didn't grow up together, we grew up together. I was so thrilled when she got ahold of me to take some pics of her wonderful little dude.

Mr. Finn is absolutely a next top model. He started out the shoot strong, but a little camera-struck. But really, who wouldn't be? Some strange lady comes into your house . . . jumps around, clicks a camera in your face, and makes strange noises . . .

He handled it like a professional:

Once warmed up, we ripped the clothes off the little guy.

We went upstairs, we went downstairs. We moved furniture and opened and closed blinds. Then, after allowing only one short snack-break, we proceeded to pile back on the clothes and go tramping around in the woods outside. Finn soaked up the paparazzi. Here he is with two of his biggest fans:

A star was born. Heh-heh - all kidding aside, Finn did great. S&M - whoa, let me rephrase - M&S, we were able to capture some great shots together. M, I didn't put your 'enlargements' in the sneak peak, but I'm working on something really BIG. Oh yeah, you know what I mean.

But in the meantime, here's a great one with you and your little guy. I think he stole the spotlight.

P.S. Finn has just about the sparkliest eyes I have ever caught -- they just captured the light! I have lots more. Take care, family.

Red Heads Rule!

2008-06-11T23:11:00.014-06:00

This past weekend, I had the total pleasure of capturing a great family here in the city. We picked a park location that I know well, but have never really photographed, and I totally fell in love with this jewel of a spot!

But even more exciting than that, I got to take pictures of not one, but count 'em, TWO little red-heads! Okay, okay, so I have a soft spot for little ginger dolls, but hello - take a look at these two and tell me you don't agree:

Turns out that Kev and I went to highschool with both parents in this set. Our community truly does hold true to six degrees of separation, but I'm so glad it does! We had fun, and avoided the rain, and talked toddler, and first birthdays and the like. Mr. D here is about one week older than my Jack . . . . happy first birthday buddy!

And sweet little K was up for exploring everything! I found a dandelion present in my camera bag when I got home. Awwww . . . .

Thank you guys for letting me capture you as you are. The kids were super-troopers and are so, so precious. C & B, I can't wait to show you ALL of the pictures - until then . . .

I'm ba-ack . . .

2008-06-06T21:02:00.008-06:00

Hey all. I'm back from a little vacation and some fun in the SUN! Went to California for a family wedding and had an absolute BLAST with family and my boys. I did not, I repeat, DID NOT, take my good camera. Photographers are saying "What, are you nuts?" And my answer, at certain amazing-picture-opportune moments, would be YES. However, my point and shoot did me just fine and I am glad to say that I spent more time watching the world go by, in person, rather than from behind the lens.

So I'm ba-ack and have some exciting shoots lined up this month if the weather (and my other work schedule) cooperates. But before I get to those, thought I would share some quick shots that I took for thank-you presents for Will's preschool teachers.

It was a last minute idea that truly captured the kids as they are, seeing as I just sat three little ones down and spent three minutes with their feet! Will is on the right. This is the one that I framed for Will's incredible-fantastic-nurturing-fun-magical teachers:

And I can't resist the color (and precious craft) in this one. School's out for summer!
Let the summer begin . . . watermelon, bare feet in the sand, the sweet smell of sunscreen, bbqs on the deck, late night breezes . . . I could go on. Can't wait! Can you tell?

Happy Birthday Caden!

2008-05-26T12:54:00.022-06:00

Mr. Caden is one year old! And look what he has accomplished in a year . . . great growing, little man. I'm pleased with how these pictures capture Caden both moving and still.
And, yay for the outdoor shoot! Well, some of them are inside -- but we did spend most of the time just down the street from Caden's house for a great spring morning (following a reschedule from the very rainy spring day immediately prior).
Caden belongs to some very wonderful people, too. His Mom and I now go farther back then I think we would care to admit. And every time we seem to cycle in and out of each other's lives, I am reminded of how amazing she is. She is every kind of 'blank' -hearted that you could think of . . . soft-hearted, kind-hearted, brave-hearted, and the very best kind of mommy-hearted ever. Cin, you have a beautiful family filled with two awesome boys who clearly love you to pieces. And so they should . . .
What a gorgeous little guy. Thanks, you two, for allowing me to catch you all at such a special time! He's ONE!

Tonight in my backyard . . .

2008-05-21T23:30:00.009-06:00

. . . it was so pretty. It rained all day, making everything fresh and so green. It smelled so good.

The light was awesome to shoot in - the colors were amazing.
I mostly love that I got a minute to sneak out and take these while Kev was getting the boys into the bath. It was a welcome pause -- breathe in, breathe out. Mmmmmmm . . .

Top Ten Reasons Why May Long Rocked

2008-05-19T23:41:00.008-06:00

10. My family was all healthy - no more sickies!
9. My microwave was not broken, despite shortlived panic and microwave-mayhem.
8. Walmart was empty.
7. I planted flowers.
6. We played in a pool with waterslides -- wheeeee . . .
5. We barbequed.
4. I sat on a deck and had a cold one.
3. I took pictures of one sweet 1 year old . . .
2. We slept in and made crafts and played in the backyard and went to the park and watched a good movie and cuddled on the couch.
1. We did a whole lot of NOTHING and loved it.

And, because of my nothing-ness, no pics for this post. But a few to come in the near future . . . hope you had a great May long.

Little Dude

2008-05-13T00:02:00.009-06:00

Just a quick post - I've been processing some photos tonight from a family baby shower . . . I can't help but share these as a sneak peak . . .

I have lots of soft and sweet ones too . . . but tonight, these are my favorite. This little dude has 'tude. Love him.

Later-

Part Three . . .

2008-05-06T20:54:00.013-06:00

A quick post to finish off the family . . . first you saw baby Spencer, then Aries the mighty dog. And finally, Miss Cassidy.Cassidy totally bonked into the entertainment unit the day before the pictures. Poor Cassidy. So I had to "digitally doctor" her little split lip. Looks okay, I think . . .

This is my new favorite shot. So little girl. So princess ballerina. Even though it's black and white, so pink.

Thanks again super-family. I'm working on getting all of the shots to you soon!

Aries (the dog).

2008-04-30T23:34:00.012-06:00

ARIES (the ram): loves freedom, and will accept any challenge. Aries will get impatient if their ideas do not work out immediately and as expected. Aries are often unwilling to follow someone else's suggestions, especially if they do not make sense to him. Aries often have excess energy which can make them aggressive or forceful (uh, not this guy). Arians are brave leaders who express care and concern for all they lead.

This was my first attempt taking pics of a pup. Well, I guess this ole' guy isn't a pup anymore but I think he is still young at heart . . .

Those eyes kinda melt your heart, don't they Tom?

Abby and Thomas

2008-04-23T22:56:00.020-06:00

I had a playdate the other day with two of my favorite children around. I know, I know, I seem to have a lot of favorites . . . but these two are close to my heart (even if they didn't know it).

In my other life, I worked with their Mom. In some ways, I think she is a softer, gentler version of me. With better hair.

Anyway, we have travelled a similar path in many ways and because of that, I feel like she understands me in a very specific way that not many can. We shared our first pregnancies (and some yoga poses at nine months that no one should have to witness), and we continue to share our first-, and now second-, born children as often as we can.

Hence, the photoshoot.

This is Princess Abigail Ariel (self-titled). Abby is one smart little cookie who kept me on my toes while I was snapping away. She chat-chat-chatted to me about all things truly important - proper princess behavior, ponies, and fairies (of course).

Thomas, on the other hand, was the strong but silent type. And the never-stay-still type. But hey, I can keep up! Here are a few shots that I did get in between the somersaults, blocks, and tractors.

As a Mom of two little boys, I love this one:

We did some major playing and I loved every minute of it. I may have not been on my best behavior, however, as Abby has since been informing people that I stood on the counter and moved the furniture all around! It's true.

This last one is my first attempt at some vintage processing (they are magic leaves, by the way). What does everybody think?

These two munchkins are of the sweetest, kindest, variety. Thank you, Thomas and Abby, for playing with me. Looking forward to my cookies . . .

Happy Birthday Asha!

2008-04-22T23:16:00.005-06:00

And a quick hip hip hooray birthday shout-out to Asha-Stephanie-Sporticus who is FOUR YEARS old today! You are joy and magic packaged in a pink dress. We love you honey . . .

Scooch!

2008-04-22T22:18:00.016-06:00

This is Miss Spencer. I just want to scooch her all day. She is pretty much the softest, sweetest, pinkest little six month old on the planet right now.

If I facebooked Spencer's parents, we would fall under the how-do-you-know-each-other category of "we took a course together." Kev and I actually took prenatal class with her parents when we were all having our first babes, over three years ago.

You know when you see people for the first time and decide that you want to be friends with them from across the room without even having met them first? Okay, so it sounds a little stalker-ish, but that's how I felt about Spencer's Mom and Dad. They exuded genuine happiness.

And they obviously still do because Miss Spencer smiles. And smiles. And smiles.

Spencer has inherited the exudes-genuine-happiness and the I'm-kinda-cool-but-still-really-fun gene.

I also took some pics of Spencer's older sister Cassidy three years ago when she was the same age. It was so nice to be asked back! And when I was at their house, I saw the pictures that I had taken back then, hanging on the wall. I've never seen my pictures hanging on somebody's wall like they were just meant to be there. Hm! I liked it.

Anyway, check this out. This is Cassidy from my 2005 pre-digital days:

And this is Spencer now:

Too much fun. PLUS when I was there, I was lucky enough to capture Cassidy again. And Aries. The dog. More on that later. Thanks guys -- it was so great to see you -- it's been way too long.

Hoo - RAY!

2008-04-15T23:26:00.007-06:00

A couple more. He is edible.

Eatin' him up.

Love him.

Mommy's Boy

2008-04-15T14:29:00.009-06:00

So I've just started sifting through the pictures I took of my sweeter-bum nephew, Ray, while visiting last week. There are many, many cute shots due to the fact that he is pretty much a perfect little subject to shoot. This is the first one I took that day:

Yup, it's also one of my favorites. It captures how much Ray has grown and how much his Mommy adores him.

It is also almost the only one I have that Ray is looking at the camera. And this is because his Mom is behind him. As I went through my shots, I realized that in almost every single capture, Ray is not staring lovingly into his Auntie's lens, but is looking at his Mommy! Hmmmm . . . my sister-in-law may be banned during the next shoot. Just kidding . . .

Definitely more of Ray to follow but just had to get something new up! Thanks again C&A for the visit. We loved, loved, loved seeing you. Have you recovered yet?

Where have I been?

2008-04-09T23:13:00.009-06:00

Aw, I love that people care! Thanks for the enqueries. My lack of blogging has been due to some road trips to visit friends and fam. I now have a whole whackload of new pics to process . . . yet, I am still working on some of my images from previous shoots. Here is one of my new favorites:

I also want to share that I have some exciting stuff going on for me in photography world! Let me nerd out for a minute . . .

I have booked myself into a photography workshop in August that I am SOOO excited about. More on that later but let me just say that I am totally STOKED!! Have we used that word since the early nineties? Let me be the first to bring it back, baby. (quieter now) STOKED.

AND, I have plans to shoot some absolutely gorgeous children this month. Really excited about that.

AND, I think I have my groove back. Hm!

Cutie Cousins

2008-03-30T22:52:00.011-06:00

Just a quick post . . .

These little faces are two installments of a set of three cutie cousins of ours. My grandfather's birthday celebration brought a chance to snap some quick shots of these cherubs.

Cousin number three was having a nap . . . . but I vow to catch his sweet smile in the near future! More on these three muskateers to come . . .

I'm going to be away for a few days this week -- hitting the road to Saskabush to see my nephew. Yay! Ray!

Easter Fun

2008-03-24T22:31:00.010-06:00

Hope everyone had a great Easter! Thought I'd post a couple of Will and Hailey and some egg-dying fun.

Hailey, as cute as ever. Note: Hailey looks so much like her Mom in this shot you don't need to meet Marn, you'd know her on the street.

Overzealous Easter spirit strikes again. Trying to be brave. Traumatized by orange dye.

Blessings and Bunnies!

It's a . . . .

2008-03-20T20:48:00.023-06:00

GIRL! T-bone's little sister, Juliet, is already making her mark on this world:

Let me tell you, these two couldn't be sweeter. And so fortunate to have two of the most awesome parents around. These kids are loved.

Miss Jules is officially my first new-newbie shoot - she was one week old! I learned alot -- the lesson I seem to be repeating over and over is the one about not posing the kids. I get the best shots when the family is just interacting and being comfortable. Seems like common sense, but . . . not so much.

Here is Juliet with her Daddy. Yes, he is as bashful as his wife. No face-shots, please.

LOVE little girls and their Dads. LOVE this little girl.

Congratulations B & S . . . .

Big Brother

2008-03-17T00:32:00.005-06:00

Uh, how cute is he? I took some shots today of my friend's family -- actually, the BELLY's family and their new addition! I'm working on those, but a little preview with this shot of big bro T-bone:

I'll leave you hangin' - boy or girl? Stay tuned.

Meet Kaia.

2008-03-05T21:35:00.019-07:00

When I was pregnant with my second son, my first son, Will, decided that he would have a baby too. He picked out an adorable baby girl doll (from my Mom's preschool classroom where she teaches, not attends) and carried her around everywhere. He put her in the baby's carseat, in the baby's crib in the awaiting nursery, and occasionally under his shirt.

He named her baby Kaia and he LOVED her. Now the name was not random as there was a sweet little girl in our playgroup who remarkably resembled the doll (or vice versa I think). Anyway, meet baby Kaia:

It's a year later and baby Kaia is still very loved at our house, but she doesn't come out to play quite as often. The real Kaia, however, is still at playgroup and has grown into the most ADORABLE little girl:

I have been just dying to post on Kaia because she gave me some of the cutest captures yet. The shoot was a success in that I have learned a little more about my camera and settings and a LOT more about gorgeous blue eyes.

My favorite shots of the day came from moments when we weren't trying to 'get a shot.' A break for snack-time yielded some cute poses with an orange.

Sweet like this too . . . .

But this one is my really favorite. Kaia and her simply remarkable Mom, Amy.

Love to finish with the B & W. Hmmm . . . think I'm enjoying this a little? Thanks to K & A for their patience with me . . . I have SO many shots - dancing, laughing, cuddling. Couldn't do it without such a cute-ay patoot-ay baby girl in front of the lens. Hm!

The Belly.

2008-02-19T22:22:00.012-07:00

Meet the belly. The belly is bashful. But she shouldn't be! Look at this gorgeous girl, in her eighth month of pregnancy no less.

The belly wishes to remain anonymous but has donated her bump to my photography efforts.

This belly ROCKS!!! It has to be said that any belly that can sport black leather and studs is one cool abdomen . . .

Thank you, anonymous belly-lady. You are truly beautiful inside and out. It won't be long before we get to meet the body inside the belly. YAY !!!! Next shoot will be entitled . . . the baby. Can't wait. XOXO

Love is in the air . . .

2008-02-10T23:49:00.001-07:00

My attempted Valentine shoot with Jack was eventful -- he only wanted to chew on my props (the shoes) and proceeded to barf all over his cute little Valentines shirt. But who couldn't LOVE this face?

He was all business and didn't crack much of a smile . . .

. . . . but finally!

Tell everyone you LUV them this week.

All that I don't know, and a bit of what I do . . .

2008-02-07T22:15:00.000-07:00

I am immersed in photography world! I spend all my spare time (albeit not very much, but still) looking at photography blogs or websites. I can't wait to fiddle in Photoshop . . . when I'm supposed to be sleeping, I'm thinking about color balance and levels and actions! I am feeling a bit excited and crazed, in a nice beer-buzz kind of way, about everything I'm learning. But I'm also overwhelmed by so much that I DON'T KNOW.

My nephew, Ray, lives in Saskatchewan. Yes, you hear me, Sas-katch-e-wan. This I do know: Saskatchewan is WAY TOO FAR AWAY for an Auntie. However, Ray was home for a good long visit at Christmas and I spent some time playing with my new camera on his sweet little face. In my recent attempts at learning how to process digital pictures, I have been putting together a collection of Ray for my brother and sister-in-law (sorry for the delay, guys).

I feel I must disclaimer these shots just a little. I took them in glaring sunlight in my family room - which (I must say) is a gorgeous color of rust. However, my lack of expertise (and my poor understanding of the light), rendered Ray's hair flourescent orange in a lot of the pics. Oops! And his hair is not even close to orange -- it's a delicious chocolate brown. But forget the hair, honey. The eyes!! You can't even describe Ray's eyes as anything else but SCRUMPTIOUS -- if his hair is of the milk chocolate variety, then his eyes are dark and way more than semi-sweet. I could just eat him up!!! See?

Even my increasing skill set in color balance cannot remedy the color casts (ooohhh -- see, a photography term) . . . but I couldn't help but post my beautiful Ray, orange-hued and all . . .

You can't describe Ray as anything other than darling. Really. And seeing my brother and my sister-in-law pour love for Ray out of every square inch of their beings is quite beyond words.

So for everything that I do not know, this is what I do: Ray-ray, I miss you. Love, Auntie Jenny.

Alexis, take two . . .

2008-01-30T20:43:00.000-07:00

Do you have those kind of forever-friends who have just been in your life for . . . . well, forever? I am blessed to have a handful of these girls, now women, who started their friend-dom with me simply because our mothers, or parents, were the best of friends. One of these girls, in particular, has been in my life literally since before I was born. We grew up as playmates, have become heartmates, and our lives have always been intertwined as if we are family (which deep down, I think we are).

Now, because we remember playing together when we didn't know how to tie our shoes and when we thought boys were disgusting, it somehow seems unfathomable that we have grown up to the extent that we could possibly have children of our own. But we do, and it's just how we always knew, deep down, that it would be.

This is my second shoot with Miss Alexis and she is being very patient with me. The first time I took some newbie pictures of her, it was on film, and truthfully neither of us were having our best day. We did better with round two although she taught me a thing or two about why all good photographers should never forget the manual for their fancy new camera! Anyway, I hope to capture her each month as she grows and her Mom is a willing participant in Jenny's school of digital children's photography. So, yay! And without futher ado . . .

Isn't she GORGEOUS? Those blue eyes and yes, oh yes - the hair is going to be red if Miss A has her way. Which I think she does most of the time. You go, honeybear!

I love the newborn tongue-thrusty thing in this one . . . She was actually telling me to buzz off, she was tired.

This is Alexis and her Mommy -- my forever-friend and her beautiful girl. Yup, they just belong together.

A work in progress . . .

2008-01-28T20:33:00.000-07:00

My first official blog entry . . . yay! First off, I have to relay my insecurities about even titling my blog Jenny Drake Photography. Mostly, it feels very bold to label myself a 'photographer' and beyond that, seeing my name in type leads me to ask "Jenny Drake -- who is THAT?" But let me explain. This blog, similar to my life at the moment, is a work in progress. Boldly, I am attempting to create time and space in my life to indulge my passion for photography - and specifically, children's photography. At the moment, my excitement far outweighs my skill, but I'm learning?! So please stay tuned and bear with me -- I would love any comments, or critique, and heartily welcome feedback.

But before I begin, I already need to do an introductory shout-out to my friend Dana who has, thusfar, been my guru in the children's photography world. Dana, who knew? - on so many levels, who knew? So to you Dana, a heartfelt thank-you for your generosity, for your knowledge, and for your laughter. I can totally hear you cheering me on - "fly, Fleance, fly!" Thanks, honey.

And the gorgeous girl in my current header is my Hailey -- well, she's not actually mine, she's my niece and my god-daughter. She's also one of my daily inspirations to live life OUTLOUD because, simply - it is way, way more fun that way. I know the picture is not very seasonally appropriate, however, it is so cold and I thought we could use a little sunshine. And what a little sunshine she is. I'm sure you will be seeing alot more of Miss H.! Love you sweetpea.

Here goes nothing . . . .