Love Printable ~ Thank You ~ New Blog | Idaho Lifestyle Photographer

I have been blessed to have worked with many great families, babies and seniors during my last four years (and even before) of being in business. And I appreciate each one of them; what they shared with me about their lives and how they helped me grow, both as an artist and as a business woman. This is just a small thank you just in time for Valentine’s Day (since I missed getting out Christmas or New Year’s cards.) It’s a FREE Love printable just for you. Print it out and frame it or send it to a friend. Use it however you want. Credit goes to my great friend and designer, Deanna at Accent Design. 

I have a new blog now too, so visit www.maggiemalsonphotography.com/blog from now on...

Thanks again for all of you who have shared your lives and trusted me to capture your memories. It's been a true pleasure!! 

It's a... ~ Gender Reveal Party | Getting Personal

 

So most of our close friends and family know about the fun little surprise we're expecting at the end of August, but I thought it was time to let my clients know too. We are very excited to welcome another blessing to our family!

The Details:

     We decided to do something different to find out the gender of this baby. When Josh and I went to the ultrasound on April 3, we didn't have my doctor tell us what we were having. In fact, it took quite awhile for her to see as the umbilical cord was between the baby's legs. My doctor then emailed Erin at Zoey's Attic, who has a custom t-shirt design business. Erin was awesome to work with. I had ordered Little J's "Big Brother" Tractor t-shirt in February when we told the kids we were having a baby. When searching for something special for him online, I found Erin's Etsy Shop. This little t-shirt was perfect, and so fitting as he loves tractors.

     We had also made arrangements to have a onesie made when we found out what we were having. I ended up ordering the girls t-shirts also, which I'm so glad I did. It will be fun to get a photo of all four of them once "she" arrives. I decided instead of some of the popular ideas of cutting into a "boy" or "girl" colored cake, or opening a box of colored balloons, we would have the kids open up a package with the onesie to tell us the baby's gender. It was such a fun way to get them involved too.

The Decor:

     I asked my sister-in-law, Stephanie, to be in charge of decorations and details. She's a wonderful party planner, and I knew I had plenty on my plate to think about. I decided I wanted to go with a black and white color scheme versus the traditional pink and blue. I guess I just love the classic combination. She went above my expectations with what she put together. She even sewed a table runner and two adorable buntings out of the cool fabric she found. I'm so excited because with a little tweaking, these pieces will work as valances and a crib bumper for the nursery. And with the left over fabric, I'll be able to make a quilt and other bedding pieces too. Yay! Can't wait to get it all put together. She even came up with the little diaper party favors stuffed with mints. (It was one of the triangle pieces of fabric, folded and glued to look like a diaper. Adorable!

The Food:

     Spicy Pop Pulled Pork Sliders

     Ham and Swiss Sliders

     Raspberry Chipotle Chicken Salad

     Mixed Fruit (strawberries, pineapple, blueberries, grapes, apples)

     Veggies and Homemade Ranch Dip

     Chips and Salsa

     Cheese and Crackers

     Summertime Fruit Tea

     Black and White Parfaits (This was a quick and easy layered dessert served in individual clear plastic cups. I layered crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, white chocolate pudding, chocolate pudding and whipped cream. These were a huge hit with the kids and adults at the party.)

The Reaction:

     On the invitations, I had told guests to wear black if they thought the baby was a boy and white if they thought it was a girl. Most showed up wearing black. Josh has four brothers and only one sister, so there are a lot of boys in the family already. I wore both colors! Up until a few days beforehand, I really thought it was a boy. I know several families who have two girls and two boys, and I thought we would be another one of them. But, then a day or so before, I just had the feeling I should prepare myself to be having another girl. And I did remember thinking a few years ago when getting rid of all the newborn girl clothes after we had Little J that it would be fun to have just one more girl. Ha! Little did I know...

     I'm not very good at surprises either, so it was a feat for me not to peek or somehow find out beforehand. But, I'm so glad I didn't. It was fun and exciting at the same time to watch as the kids unwrapped the onesie. 

     Special thanks again to Stephanie for taking the photos from the day. She even made little "boy" and "girl" signs to have our kids and guests hold up to show what they thought the baby was. 

     The most priceless comment was Little J. He looked right at me after we saw the shirt and exclaimed, "It's a girl!" and with big crocodile tears said, "But, Momma, it's supposed to be a boy!" Oh, it about broke my heart. It was sad and sweet all at the same time. He has since decided having a baby sister is going to be just fine. Either way, bringing a new baby to the family will be a little of an adjustment for him. But, I know he'll make a great big brother. And the girls are quite excited to meet their little sister as well.

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     In a recent post about my summer photography session schedule, I mentioned not taking any sessions in late August and September. Now you know why! Maintaining balance in my personal and work life is not only beneficial to me and my family, but also to my clients. I take a limited number of sessions already because there is a lot of investment of time and resources in "Your Story" sessions. Be assured, when I do schedule a session with a client, I am fully devoted to them and telling their story. Creating an amazing photographic experience from first consult to delivering of the finished albums and prints is my number one priority. 

     There are also some changes coming to my business that will be announced this fall, and I am excited to be working on them now. If you love my work, and want me to tell "your story", please contact me as soon as possible to discuss scheduling options. I am currently booking maternity, newborn, baby, child, senior and family sessions for June and July 2012.

Schedule Update ~ Idaho Lifestyle Portrait Photographer | Babies, Children, Teens and Families

Hey folks, I know it's been awhile, but I have so many things in the works right now, it's hard to decide what to share yet, and what can wait. Stay with me though; some exciting changes to Maggie Malson Photography are coming!

I'd love it if you could leave some comments and let me know what you enjoy most about the blog or you'd like to see more of in the future. Do I blog enough? Too much? Do you want to see more recent sessions? Before/After edits? Tips for future sessions? More personal stuff/less personal stuff? Talk to me friends; love hearing from you!

Scheduling Update:


Two "Your Story" album sessions and one "Essence" session available in June, July and August. I will not be accepting any sessions in September (more details to come) and will have limited availability this fall. If there is enough interest, I will be offering family mini-sessions for Christmas cards in October. Please leave comments if you would like to be contacted about the date for it. Thanks!

Don't wait until the last minute to think about capturing your child's milestone moments or your family's lifestyle and relationships. "Your Story" album sessions include an in-person consultation to discuss style, location, clothing and all the details that will make your session unique. These sessions result in a custom-designed, heirloom quality album telling "your story", as well as custom wall art created for your home. 

Here's a sample of a spread from a recent senior "Your Story" album. Oh how I love designing albums for clients!

Are you ready? | Photography Business

During the last few years, I've had several people ask me about photography and business. Some just want to take better images; others want to turn their hobby into a business. I am humbled they would ask me for advice. I'm the first to admit I'm no expert, and am constantly trying to learn and improve as an artist and a businesswoman. But, I felt with so many inquiries, I would take some time to share my thoughts on the business side of photography. I've always been an artist and photography has always been a part of my creative nature. Turning what was a hobby into a business was a natural progression for me. I enjoy seeing other people find their niche and succeeding, whatever that niche may be.

First of all, running a profitable photography business is not easy. (And I say profitable because a business is established to make a profit. If that is not the goal, then it is not a business, but a hobby, which is okay too. Photography is a great hobby!) At least in my opinion it is not easy because I have a pretty high level of expectation of myself, the images I produce and the way I want to conduct a business. It's not to say I haven't made mistakes either, but how you handle, learn from and move on from them, makes a huge difference. It's not only about taking pictures for me. In fact, my photography business has nothing to do with "taking pictures." But, that's a whole other post for another day.

One place to start is by asking yourself some questions, and be honest.
• Are you comfortable with your camera, using manual settings and not shooting on Auto?
• Do you understand aperture (f-stop), ISO, and shutter speed, and how they work together to create the exposure of an image?
• Do you understand white balance and how it affects the color in your images?
• Do you know how lighting affects photographs, and how the presence or absence of light is what creates images?
• Are you consistently producing SOOC images that are well composed and correctly exposed images?
• Do you understand how to use editing software to enhance the great SOOC images you've already taken?
• Have you written down a business plan, explaining who your target market it, what kind of products you will offer, how you will model your business, your priorities, pricing, goals, etc.?
• Are you prepared to create an original business name and logo, not similar to anyone in your local, state or regional area?
• Are you prepared to file and obtain proper licenses with the state you do business in? (i.e. Tax ID number, sales permit, etc)?
• Do you know the costs of running your business (i.e. equipment, COGS, insurance, etc.)?
• Are you prepared to price yourself for profit?
• Are you willing to receive both solicited and unsolicited constructive critique of your work?
• Are you willing and able to work well with other people, whether they are clients, employees or other business professionals?

I believe one should always be willing to learn and grow as a photographer. Asking respected professionals for help is a great way to learn. I love receiving honest critique from photographers I respect. While it may sting at first, I've gained helpful knowledge in improving my images, and am challenged to always strive to do my best.

Now, it's not to say this is an exclusive list and it's not to say some successful photographers are not technically great or that excellent photographers are always successful at business. But, by being honest with yourself, you will be better prepared if and when you do decide to start a photography business.

Honestly, everyone is doing it. It's such a cliche' to buy a SLR camera and decide to be a photographer. Yes, taking pictures is fun. It can be addicting. But, there truly is much more to it then that. I was actually using my third SLR camera (I started with film, which I still love) and was on my second DSLR body before I launched my business.

But, if it's really your goal, then by all means make a plan, and work hard to accomplish your goals. You CAN succeed, but being prepared and not rushing into the business side of things before you're ready, will definitely help.

It's also okay if you decide the responsibility of running a profitable photography business is not right for you. Enjoy using your camera. Enjoy learning more about photography and what it takes to capture more than just a picture. Some very talented photographers never start businesses. And some mediocre photographers jump right in, realizing soon after that they just weren't ready.

There are times when I look back and think I wish I would have done things differently. I did some things right, but I also have learned hard lessons along the way. I am more focused as a professional now, and continue to keep raising my standards and expectations of myself. Photography as an art and a business is a constant journey. Good luck on yours!

Here's a great site and resource for all levels of photographers.

15 Tips About Turning Pro

And here's a little Before and After...

Film Practice ~ Idaho Portrait Photography

 

 

 

 

I mentioned awhile back that I had used my film camera at a PPI workshop I attended. It had been almost six years since I'd shot any film through it, and I literally felt like I was flying blind. I shoot on manual, setting my aperature, shutter speed, ISO and white balance with each session. With my film camera, there aren't as many dials and such to mess with. I'm so glad I did it though. It was what I needed to get over my fear of it, and get inspired to shoot film again. 

At the workshop, they had set up different shooting bays, and it was for us to experiment with different lighting systems (both continuous and strobe), and with the fun backdrops from Silverlake Photo. So, although I was pleased with the model images I shot, especially because I was just hoping to not have anything be blurry, I really see myself using film again in my lifestyle sessions. I also like the idea of simpler processing, and hopefully shooting less images. I think back to when I used film all the time, and it was just second nature. Then, along came digital. I know I've overshot sessions because I could. I have some ideas about how I can incorporate film back into my work again. 

I didn't even shoot the whole roll at the workshop, so I got to use it up at home on one of my favorite subjects. :0)

 

Light Up Her Heart ~ Lighting Workshop | Idaho Portrait Photography

A lighting workshop to benefit Jayme Montoya of Lucid Design and Photo

  A dear friend and colleague, Jayme Montoya, has had to undergo two open heart surgeries in the span of two months to help correct a congenital heart defect. In our mission to help alleviate some of the unnecessary burden, Gretchen Nishitani, Craig Lamere and Tiffany Hix have put together this lighting workshop. Our goal is to teach some natural and studio lighting techniques while raising money for our friend. The Light Up Her Heart Lighting Workshop will be held on Saturday, March 3rd from 4-10 pm in Meridian, ID. We are still compiling the list of the lighting styles that will be taught. There will be multiple shooting bays with backdrops provided by Tara Pugmire. Please check back as we will be updating as the curriculum is finalized. Registration for the Light Up Her Heart Lighting Workshop is $100 and 100% of the proceeds will go directly to Jayme.  

Registration for this lighting workshop is $100

If you can't attend, please donate. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to Jayme.

MMP February Photo Challenge ~ Idaho Lifestyle Photographer

So I decided in January that I wanted to do a photo challenge while my schedule was a little slower. And I thought it would get the creative juices flowing too. You know, each day a different theme, and a different photo. I had found this list somewhere (I normally give credit, but somehow I didn't put down where I found this, plus I did change several of the days to fit my needs. However, if you've seen a similar list, let me know because I am happy to show a little love to whomever thought of some of these.)

Anyway...

I really like the themes on this list because they are fun, but also work on some different camera skills, which is my main focus this year-taking my photography to an even better level through education and practice.

I also decided that for me, it would be challenge enough to take a photo a day based on these themes, let alone try to get it uploaded, edited and blogged every day. Therefore, I am committed to capturing a photo every day, but I may be blogging them in groups or quite possibly waiting until every day in March to blog them. I do hope many of you will join with me for this challenge. I know there are lots of creative people out there, both pro and hobbyists, and it would be fun to see how you interpret each theme. I am thinking about starting a group on Facebook to share all our pics too, so if you want to join in the fun, please shoot me your name and email at info@maggiemalsonphotography.com, and I'll let you know when it's ready!

Even if there isn't a blog post for each day, I will be updating my Maggie Malson Photography Facebook Fan Page with daily theme reminders. So, go ahead, and "like" my page! Can't wait to see what creativeness comes out of all this! Happy February everyone!

Now, I'm off to take that self portrait...

Art...and business

In November, I attended a workshop with the Professional Photographers of Idaho. The first day we attended educational sessions on business, exposure, lighting, pricing, client connections, posing and print competition. In addition, we had a shootout with models, different lighting set-ups and backdrops sponsored by Silverlake Photo Accessories.

I was so excited to meet some of my area's photographers who I spoken with or emailed, but never met. The workshops were inspiring and tremendously helpful. Photography is a journey and I never want to stop learning this art. During the second full day, we heard from Master photographer JuliAnne Jonker who shared with us some art history and how to apply the influences of classical artists into our own style of photography.

Even though I have a story-telling, relaxed style, and use mainly natural or available light, I still want to know classical lighting techniques, posing principles and techniques for running an efficient and profitable business. It's not only important to me to create beautiful art of the children and families I photograph-art that will only appreciate in value as time goes by-art displayed in wall galleries and heirloom albums, but it's also important for me to remember all the business side of this. I am dedicated to my clients and providing them with an amazing experience, but I also love my family. They are who inspire me a lot in my work.

Therefore in 2012, I will be concentrating mainly on pursuing my "art" and fine-tuning my business to create one that works for me and my family, while also allowing me to provide THE BEST possible customer service to my clients. I know that for me, I don't need a lot of clients, but I do need and want clients who truly value what I offer. I may not be the photographer for everyone, and that's okay too. It's taken me awhile to realize and accept that, but I am going to be better for it. I hope you continue to follow along and see where this journey takes me, and how you can also be a part of it too!


PPI Shootout
And here are some of the images I captured at the PPI Shootout. Different than what I've been doing, but really fun to practice and learn with different portrait lighting set-ups. These models are really great too!

This first image was set-up using Rembrandt lighting-one light source was set up 45 degrees to subject camera right. It's also characterized by the triangle shaped light on the shadow side of the face. You can see this lighting in Rembrandt paintings. This model is actually another professional photographer, and he was fantastic as the subject in this little vignette set-up. Here's a link to learn more about Rembrandt lighting.

The other three images were created using continuous lighting with a really large softbox as the mainlight to the left of the subject and a smaller fill light to the right of the subject. I ended up having to shoot really wide open so there is a little blur on some of the limbs, but it was good to use some different lighting set-ups. Now I just need to practice at home!

I didn't capture a lot of digital images as I took my film camera and practiced more with it. I'm looking forward to getting my prints back to see what I captured. It's been years since I used film, but it's another way I want to challenge myself this year and work on my "art."

Welcome 2012!

Welcome 2012! I feel like I have so much to say, so much to do, yet so little time! I guess it's all about priorities though; and seems there are lots of those to narrow down too. Ha! I had a wonderful 2011, and met some great new kids and families, and photographed some repeat clients as well, so thank you to all who trusted with with capturing their memories last year. We spent a wonderful holiday season away from home with my family, and it was so nice to have lots of downtime with extended family and my husband and kids. After a busy fall, it was just what I needed. I've been mulling over several things, and because this winter time is slower for me-on purpose-I'm taking this time to formulate a plan for this year. A plan so that my number one priority-my family-comes first. And that when I do have clients-they truly feel like they are the only ones and my priority at the time as well. It's a philosophy I've always had, but want to be better at putting it into practice. I'm always completely dedicated to my clients during the session, and kind of get lost in all the fun of it. As a goal for 2012, I want to decrease my turnaround time for viewing/ordering sessions, and delivering final products to clients.

Recently, I looked back at my New Year's post from 2011. I think it's always good to look back and see how far we've come. I am pleased that I was able to meet all those goals for last year too. One thing I am working on more is creating S.M.A.R.T. goals-specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely.

As I determine the best way to conduct business in 2012, I know for sure I want to shoot for myself personally and blog more-the good, and the not so good parts of life. It's hard sometimes for me to know what audience to write to-is it only my family reading this? or my friends? or potential clients? other aspiring or pro photographers? Sometimes I feel like I have to put out only that perfect photo or write the perfect words, but I realized a long time ago that I am no where near perfect. So, I am going to try to not be so hard on myself and just be me-be honest-be real. I am curious though who is out there following my work-maybe it's only my Mom. I know she loves my work, but she has to, you know. :0) Anyway, please do comment. I love to hear from people.

What are your goals for the new year?

And just because a post isn't much fun without a photo, here's a little photo of my family, taken by the wonderful and talented Randi Davies. She's become a great mentor and friend, and I enjoyed getting to know her and shooting with her last year. Although I value all kinds of photographs because they capture a moment in time, I feel strongly about hiring a fellow professional to photograph my family at least once every year or so. And it's fun to be the one in front of the camera for a change instead of always behind it!

Why I Love Second Shooting Weddings ~ Boise Wedding Photographer

I had the great opportunity and pleasure to second shoot weddings for several years before I photographed some on my own. I started working with Steve and Tammy Jeffs of Amore Photography & Design, and most recently worked with Amber Fischer Photography and Randi Davies Photography.

I love getting to work with other photographers I admire. It's always fun to have someone great to work and learn with. Brides and grooms benefit from having two photographers because they get different perspectives of their event, as well. 

Sometimes as a second shooter, I get to set up my own shots and poses. Other times, I grab all the detail shots (which I LOVE), while the main photographer works with the couple. Always, I'm there to help where needed and just add to the great experience a bride and groom expect on their special day. 

Another reason I love second shooting, is while the main photographer (Amber, in this case) gets an image from here....

 

 

I capture this one....

Congratulations Keila and Kyle! It was such a beautiful day, and I was so excited to be a part of it. And thanks Amber. It was awesome hanging out with you! Stay tuned for more of this wedding and other recent sessions...

Here's just one more from the day....

Join Clickin Moms Today!

One of the things I've found that is vital to my photography business and my journey as an artist is to take advantage of photography forums and educational opportunities. I have been a member of Clickin Moms for about a year now. It has been a great place to connect with other moms who are at all levels of photography experience from beginner to pro. I encourage anyone, even if you aren't a mom yet, but have a passion for photography, to check it out. There is a weeklong free trial, but I definitely think it's worth the small subscription rate. And right now if you join through my site using the link below and coupon code friend, you receive 20 percent off.

Happy New Year! ~ Idaho portrait photographer

As 2011 is upon us, it's time to reflect on the past year and make some goals for the future. Thank you to my friends, family, clients and fans. Your support of me and my business is so dearly appreciated. I've come up with a little motto for the new year. In all things, professional and personal, I hope to give JOY, give LOVE, give PEACE and make MEMORIES! God bless you all. Have a wonderful new year!!

As a photographer, I have a goal to blog more often. Along with showcasing my recent portrait sessions, my goal is to blog more about myself too. I want you to really get to know me. I feel photography is about relationships and there is also an element of trust. You have to trust that when you hire a professional photographer, they are going to deliver what they say they will. I want you to get to know me as a friend, as much as a professional. You should know I like to have fun, but I can be serious too. During a session, I'm completely focused on my clients, getting lost in capturing the special moments being shared among them. But, I also have a young family of my own and in order to do the best for my clients, I have to make sure I'm taking care of those at home too. My little ones are the inspiration for my work and they must remain a priority for me in the new year. In addition to sharing more about me, I also want to post more how to's, session tips and ideas for displaying portraits in your home.

In addition, I would like to photograph at least 12 new clients in 2011. I don't have to be busy all the time. I realized my limitations after being extremely busy in 2010. I want to know I'm giving my undivided attention to my clients when it's work time and undivided attention to my family when they need me. Finding balance is what the new year is all about. I will be looking for some new faces in the next couple months as I want to try some ideas for sessions I've been playing around with though. If you've always wanted a session with Maggie Malson Photography, you'll want to stay tuned.

Giving back to my community is also important to me. I've worked with Help Portrait and Love, INC., in the past and will continue to do so, but also want to expand my charitable contributions in 2011. I'll be looking for ways to give the gift of memories to those who've never had access to professional portrait photography. I'll also be calling on you guys too; together we can really make a difference!

As we start off on this new year, my goals will be to give JOY, LOVE & PEACE to the people I meet and share life with, and to make MEMORIES with my own family, as well as yours. God bless you all in 2011!

Busy, busy, busy ~ Idaho Family Photographer

Yes, things are busy--and fun--and going well. I know I've been a bit absent from the blog lately, but not for lack of desire. In fact, I've been composing several posts in my head and hope to get them all on paper-or screen-soon. I have a few business-related announcements so I'll get those out of the way.

First of all, I have stopped doing sneak peeks on my blog before my clients see their images. Another reason for the lack of posts-I'm focusing on editing and getting all the client galleries ready. A couple reasons have led me to that decision, but mainly it's about customer service. I am starting to offer in-person ordering sessions. Each client will receive a personal slideshow with their images at a time and place convenient for them. I am then available to show them product samples and answer any questions they have about portrait collections, print sizes and the differences in cropping for each and how best to display their images in their homes. I feel this service adds to the experience of custom portrait photography. So far, my clients have been thrilled to see their images presented this way. After each gallery viewing, I will blog the images and clients can share the posts with family and friends.

Also, I am booked for 2010 and am scheduling into mid-January 2011. The rest of this year will be devoted to finishing recent sessions and spending some much needed time with my own little family. I am available for winter outdoor sessions for families who would like some fun "in the snow" images. In addition, I am scheduling newborns, babies and children for indoor sessions during the upcoming winter months. I also hope to focus on "Your Everyday Story" Sessions next year. These are great for families who really want someone there to capture all the little moments that usually happen when no one is around, whether it be baking cookies, reading books, playing trains or having ticklefests. I want my clients to know that there is a professional, trustworthy photographer available to capture those everyday moments in your home. These sessions are about real life moments. They are fresh, real and fun! I often find myself wanting someone to capture those special moments with my own family-with me in them-so I want to provide this service to you! These sessions include a custom-designed 8X8 Keepsake Album and savings on a la cart items. Contact me to find out more.

Portrait orders should be placed by Dec. 13 to insure holiday delivery. All galleries and ordering appointments will be finished before the first of December. Don't forget to collect those canned goods and take advantage of the Fotos for Food promotion through the end of December.

The holiday season is upon us and Thanksgiving is just a couple days away. I am so thankful for my friends, family and clients who continue to support me and my business. I would not be anywhere without all of you. My mission is to create timeless storytelling images of babies, children and families. I pray each and every day that God continues to let me use my gifts and talents to capture beautiful memories for families. I realize each day is a gift and we never know when our time here will be over. Spending time with family and friends, and making memories is so important. Wishing you all a very Happy Thanksgiving! Give Love, Give Joy, Give Hope, Give Peace!

MCP Actions Launches New Template Sets

A few weeks ago, I was invited to test some new actions by MCP Actions. Jodi did a fabulous job with this new set of Rounded Blog It Boards and Rounded Print It Boards. Learn more about them on the MCP Blog. (As an aside, I realized that another tester, Heidi Lawson of Wishful Thinking Photography was also testing them. I happen to follow her blog, and love her work. Talk about a small world!)

Here are some of the samples I used when testing the actions. Some others also appear on the ordering website. If you are a fellow photographer and have never used MCP, I highly recommend checking out Jodi's products. Or if you're already a fan, go get this new set!

Sunset Silhouette ~ Idaho Portrait Photographer

I was editing some more of the images from the wedding I photographed this summer in Kansas. And one of my favorites sites to visit, Go{4}Pro and Heather Ward are having a cool giveaway, so I thought I'd enter this image.

Western Idaho Fair ~ Getting personal

Two weekends ago, our family showed Angus cattle at the Western Idaho Fair in Boise. We always have a great time visiting with family and fellow cattle enthusiasts. The kids also love the chance to help out with the show cattle, watering, feeding, leading heifers, running errands, etc. For those of you who didn't know, my husband and I live and work on a registered Angus and Hereford cattle operation owned by his family. We love the lifestyle we have--being able to raise our kids around animals, teaching them about agriculture, providing food and fiber for our country, taking care of the resources God has given us and realizing how much hard work and dedication it takes to run a family cattle operation. And even though it is a lot of work, we also have fun too. The fair is a great way for us to advertise our program, genetics and animals we raise. Our cattle are raised as the parent stock for cow-calf producers. We raise bulls to be used by commercial cattle producers to raise the beef consumers eat. We also sell show heifers for youth to show in 4-H, FFA and breed association shows, as well as purebred females for other registered herds. Just wanted to give you a glimpse of the other side of my family and what we do.

In fact, my start in photography was photographing livestock, mainly cattle and horses, and people, for the stories I wrote for livestock publications. I have always had a love of agriculture, growing up in a small town in Kansas and attending Kansas State University to major in agricultural communications. My experience in interviewing and writing stories, as well as photographing America's farmers and ranchers has given me great experience and prepared me for my role as a portrait photographer. I love asking questions, and getting to know people. We are all so unique and offer such different perspectives on life. I feel my interviewing skills help me when meeting new clients and getting to know them and to help them feel relaxed. Many of the people I've interviewed for stories have become friends. And that's what I love about my portrait clients as well. We get to know each other and become friends. That's one of the best parts about this work. Preserving memories, meeting new people and making new friends.

And as a lifestyle photographer, I am dedicated to capturing the details and little moments of life for other families as well as my own. So here is just a little glimpse of show day for us.





(I do apologize for some of these images as they were taken with my P&S. At times, I have to take off my photographer hat, put on the mom/wife/gofer hat and just grab the moments as they come in amongst keeping track of little ones, holding heifers or running back to the stall for a forgotten item.)

Aspiring or Pro Photographers

I just wanted to let any of you who love photography and have wondering about how to improve your photography skills about this special offer from Photovision. I've been receiving the DVDs from Photovision and they have SO much information in them!! You will see photographers on actual shoots, lighting techniques, great composition ideas, and much more!! Sign up today and receive a full year for only $39.00, (regularly $149.00) click on this link http://fansof.photovisionvideo.com/Maggie/046348 and use the code PVFAN. You will not regret this purchase!!! I have learned a lot from them.

Are you a Mom with a Camera? Then check this out!

Hey Moms with Cameras out there-here's your chance to sign up for a great forum and learn from others. All levels of photographers are welcome-just starting out, hobbyist, pro, whatever. You can use coupon code FRIEND at checkout, and will get 10% off any subscription, or coupon code LOVECM for 20% off a lifetime subscription. Just click on the button to check it out!

Changing it up-part 2

I have been wanting to change things up on the blog for awhile and really showcase my images much larger. I asked a friend, RK, at Just RK Designs, to help me out. I'm still working on some of the elements, but I love the changes so far. I still really like my logo and the black & white look I've chosen for my branding. It's classy, but also fun, which is how I'd describe my style. I feel my portraits are timeless, but also capture the fun and personality of each individual child and family I capture. Now on the posts! I have a lot of sessions to share. Thanks to my awesome clients!

changing things up

So things may look a little crazy for a few days as I switch over to a new blog design. Stay with me! It will be great when it's finished.