Engagment Shoot

A few weeks ago I had my first official engagement shoot. I shot my best friend and her fiance so of course it was wonderful to know they would be understanding if it was a complete failure but at the same time it was the ultimate pressure to give her a gift of some really special photos. I shot almost 600 photos, with about 70 being what I call good, and another 20 or so that I love. I wonder how this percentage stacks up against other photographers. It was rough at first, I studied and read for hours about how to pose a couple, but it it a whole 'nother ball game when you have to do it yourself. I got much more comfortable as the shoot went on, I managed to find the better light, and get more creative with posing.




As we moved through the conservatory (the site of their engagment!) I became more relaxed, and began to gain confidence and try some different angles.



My favorite photos by far were those that showed their personalities...I loved the laughter!

Then things got steamy...


I really enjoyed taking their individual portraits, although I felt truly limited by my flash, I really need to by an external flash, and I just can't figure out how to achieve that true sparkle in the eyes without it. But really who needs the flash when you have subjects this beautiful!

Love the ring shot!



And the best part of the story, they are going to pose for a second shoot with me!!! I'm so excited I feel like I have learned so much from this experience, and I love them for taking the time to let me take my camera for a test drive yet again...I can't wait. and more to come!

Here We Go

I've always loved taking photography, in fact when I was a tween I wanted to be one of three things: an interior designer, a chef, or a photographer. While I ended up doing something far from those three occupations(actually maybe not so far) it seems I have taken all three up as hobbies.

Last year, while planning for my wedding I immersed myself in the world of professional photography. I was so thrilled with my wedding photographer(who I'm sure I will blog about later) and images I ultimately received. It seemed to rekindle my long lost dream of creating beautiful images. Not that I hadn't been taking photos with my point-and-shoot cameras for years, and I think had taken some great shots given the obvious limitation. But after years and reading and learning what was possible with a DSLR I made the plunge and purchased my first a Cannon Rebel XSi in March. I purchased it with the kit lens, even though I had read just about every bad review possible, but I assumed I could hone my skills on a cheaper lens, and upgrade later. It's incredible how quickly I have felt limited by this lens. But I want to continue to push myself with a limited lens, and use it as a learning experience.

I did allow my self one little splurge, the "nifty fifty" Canon EF 50mm f/1.8. This guy is on my camera 80% of the time, and I'm in love.

So I'll use this blog to chronicle my experiences, my growth, and my life in photos, because really, that's when photography is the most exciting. When it's not just a bunch of objects, but when the photos can tell a story, all by themselves