Mi Arte Creativa

Saying goodbye . . .

2009-08-24T05:10:00.000-07:00

I have decided to finally say goodbye to "Mi Arte Creativa."
I am not able to keep up with my hectic schedule, my photography business, My 365 days of Reality blog and the craft blog. So I'm saying goodbye to this one. I have learned so much from this blog and from all of my crafty blogging friends. I will miss you and I hope to be able to keep in touch with you. Please feel free to drop by my 365 Days of Reality Blog and drop me a note or my professional photography site S.R.Marek Photography you can also find me on facebook under Sandra Marek.

It's been an awesome two plus years but it's time to move on. Thank you to those of you who check back. I will turn this blog off in 2 weeks. Adios :(

I've been featured in "Mod Podge Rocks"

2009-07-07T04:54:00.000-07:00

Woohoo!
I'm a little behind in updating my blog but I had to catch a breathe to share this exciting news!
I've been featured in Mod Podge Rocks! I'm really excited about it.
Remember the little candy pail I made for my DH? Well, Amy over at Mod Podge Rocks featured it today.
Go take a look here: Mod Podge Rocks
They have some awesome projects there.

Thanks Amy!

Birthday Card for my M.I.L

2009-07-02T22:42:00.000-07:00

Here's a birthday card I made for my Mother in laws birthday.
She loves Owls & the color green.

I fussy cut, stamped, tore, inked, glued and glittered - all in one card, but I had fun.

Use Your Stash - Got Paint?

2009-06-19T20:32:00.000-07:00

Got paint challenge at Use your stash.
The ladies over at use your stash have challenged us to use paint. Here is my entry.
This weekend is David's and my 6th wedding anniversary. Instead of the typical card I altered this little pail. I purchased it at the dollar store over a year ago with some candy already in it.
I sanded the pail down, painted it with red acrylic paint and then covered it lightly with Mod Podge.

I then glued a strip of pattern paper to the top of it. I made two "fishing rods" and attached beads, a glass leaf, a lizzard that's meant for a bracelet and little flower. David really likes Swedish fish candy so filled the pail up with them and the tag reads "You're quite the catch."

Happy Annniversary Baby! You mean the world to me. Love ya.

Pencil Line Sketch 139 -

2009-06-18T17:25:00.000-07:00

Pencil line sketch #139.
What is Pencil Line Sketch? "Pencil Lines is a blog all about using sketches to expand your artistic horizons, get you outside your box, and lift you out of scrappers block and to help you get more layouts done. It is about thinking outside your normal processes to create something wonderful. "
They create the sketch you fill in the blanks (so to speak) and make it your own.
Here is my entry.
To honor my in-laws who have just celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary!
Title is "True love stands the test of TIME"
Journaling reads:
52 years of marriage and still going strong! True love stands the test of time.
They've had their share of ups and downs but they remain committed and
true to each other and their love continues to grow. They are my hero's.

Pretty simple:

I used chipboard and painted it black and an embroidered/beaded flower from an old shirt.

2nd Entry to 2 Sketches 4 You

2009-06-18T14:24:00.001-07:00

This card is my second entry (see previous post)to the 2 sketches 4 you challenge.
I love these little "license plates" and charms. Fun & easy.

Another 2 Sketches 4 You challenge!

2009-06-18T14:17:00.000-07:00

Laura's sketch #28
These sketches are fun and make making cards so easy. Here is my take. I followed the sketch almost exactly like it is.

I used some "netting" material that came in a gift box and I sprayed glitter on the black cardstock and netting.
It's a card from my little "Princess Diva!"

Raspberry Suite Color Challenge #9

2009-06-14T22:42:00.000-07:00

Another Raspberry Suite Color Challenge
These challenges are fun and get my creative juices going. Dawn McVey does an awesome job selecting the colors for her challenges.
Here are the colors she chose this week.

Here is my fun card.

I made another butterfly from an old book. I sewed a couple of pages together and tore it out in the shape of a butterfly. I glued on some black rhinestones that are meant for clothes.

I used an old Domino piece and glued acrylic letters to it, also used black vintage lace.

2 Sketches 4 You: Kazan's 28

2009-06-11T22:52:00.000-07:00

I'm having a ton of fun with these challenges.
This one is another 2 Sketches 4 You challenge. It's a big party over at 2 Sketches 4 You - they are still celebrating their anniversary and I think they will be all month. Go check them out.
This is a great sketch and comes together pretty nicely.
Here is my entry. I used Club Scrap Cardstock, fibers and stamp, MM {note}worthy,K&Company Urban chipboard flowers and ranger embossing powder.

Caardvarks: Depth perception challenge

2009-06-10T21:09:00.000-07:00

Caardvarks has yet another awesome challenge The challenge: Create a 3-D paper crafting project. The winner of that challenge will get an awesome goody box from Club Scrap who happens to have the best cardstock in the world!

I made a small portfolio for this challenge. Initially I wanted to use it for a post it note holder but then I folded some paper accordion style and put pictures of each of my kids in there sort of a brag book style.

This is the regular tri-fold but I added another strip of paper to hold everything in there. Sort of like a small box.

The following pictures are not exactly in order but I wanted to show you some of the steps (for those of you who are visual)

This is how I attached the ribbon for tying

Use Your Stash Fabric challenge

2009-06-09T22:53:00.000-07:00

Another challenge that got my creativity going - was a use fabric challenge by UYS.
They have a lot going on this month so check back to their blog often.
Here is my entry for that challenge.
This looks like a tiny purse but it's a tri-fold portfolio. I made it to hold a post-it pad (in your purse). This will be for a small hostess gift.

The ribbon in the middle is meant to hold the small pad of paper in place.

I used fabric that my mother in law had, Doodle bug pattern paper that I had on hand, the card board is from the back of a notebook, the beads are Club Scrap and the button is vintage.

If you'd like more specific instructions just drop me a note. I'd be happy to share.

One Little word Challenge - "Yes"

2009-06-08T21:08:00.000-07:00

One little word is a challenge site. Like the title says they use "words" and you have to base your layout on the word they chose.
There is a lot of talent there and the designers style vary.
Here is my take on this weeks challenge:

Journaling reads:
"It all started when you were 5 years old. Your grandma would tell you that you could not do things the boys did because you were a girl. You'd would always say, "yes I can!" and you would try to prove that you could. You would climb trees and jump in the mud, you'd dig for bugs. You would even wrestle our brother. You had to prove that you could do anything boys could do. Here you are a sergeant in the U.S. Army still proving that you can do anything boys can."
I'm so proud of you! Girl Power May 2009

I used Club Scrap paper and several different stamps to make the pattern background paper. Everything I used I had in my stash for a long time so I don't know the manufactures names/products.

Raspberry Suite Color Challenge #8

2009-06-07T14:11:00.000-07:00

Here is another awesome blog I just happen to stumble on.Dawn McVey She's so creative and continually updates her blog with lots of eye candy. She has color challenges and I just happen to find this one in the nick of time. I have about an hour to spare. Although my "raspberry" really isn't raspberry it's the closet to it I have on hand. Hope it qualifies for the challenge.
Here is the color challenge

Here is what I came up with:

Club Scrap paper, vintage buttons and ribbon is from Michaels.

2 Sketches 4 You:1st annual Ultimate Card Showdown

2009-06-06T21:36:00.001-07:00

Nothing like a little challenge to get me going and then add a sketch to it and it's a bonus. Sketches make scrapbooking so easy and quick.
I came across this Sketch site today. 2 Sketches 4 You They are celebrating their first anniversary and have a sketch challenge. Go take a look, it's a fun site.
I needed to make an anniversary card for my in-laws. 52 years! I wanted some vintage stuff and some new stuff. The lace is vintage and the butterfly is made from a very old book that was ruined so I sewed a couple of pages together, tore it out to make it look like a butterfly and inked the edges to match. Followed the sketch, stamped "love" a few extras and all done. Fun and easy.

I liked how it turned out. I know my mother in law will love it.

I found my Scrappy Mo-Jo

2009-06-03T18:02:00.000-07:00

My last scappy post was July 4, 2008. I've created a card here or there but to actually feel motivated and actually create like I used to . . .I'd have to say that was it. I created this chipboard "journal" but never finished it. I made the first page insert but never fished that either. Even when I wanted to create some magic with my paper goodies I just couldn't find the motivation or the ideas or anything. I was worried. I thought I lost my scrappy mo-jo. Well, this past weekend we went camping and I took some supplies with me and I started by creating some cards. Then when I came home I was browsing this blog (I frequent it often for inspiration): Use Your Stash and I came across Jingle and she inspired me to create some more cards (6 to be exact) and I'm now feeling scrappy again. I found my mo-jo and I finally made a "small" page to add to my art journal. YAY
Cardboard from the back of a notebook covered with pattern paper by DCWV
and 2 rings

First page not completed

New page

I'm feeling all scrappy again. It's been a nice long break. I've learned so much about photography and I've been able to get my business up and running during the past 11 months. Maybe my Mo-jo has always been right here - just focusing on something else.

2009-05-27T05:41:00.000-07:00

This one can be made into many things - like a magazine cover or a canvas print. It can be dry mounted or printed on metallic paper. Imagine the possibilities.

This type of style is considered a story board. It is dry mounted. This particular one is 10 inches tall by 20 inches wide.
The template for this layout was created by a friend on a photography forum, her name is Lola. Thanks Lola.

This piece is 6 inches by 9 inches but it can be made in different sizes. The trick here is that it consist of only one picture spread out through 3 openings.

Have any questions? Feel free to contact me at Srmarek@yahoo.com

A few from a recent wedding. . .Tosha & Alan

2009-05-11T20:52:00.000-07:00

What a fun wedding to shoot at and perfect weather too!

Baby C

2009-04-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

This little man came in for a new born sessionl. Can you believe he's a newborn? What a cutie.

My parents portraits

2009-03-19T20:45:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patty's Day

2009-03-03T21:50:00.000-08:00

In honor of such a day I give you a green hat.
The hat is compliments of Dave's very talented Aunt Pat. Thank you so much. I love your hats!

It's a retake

2009-03-01T07:56:00.000-08:00

This is from a photo shoot of Isabella we did in July 2008. I cannot believe how much she has grown. I was not thrilled with the images at the time - as I was learning to take pictures of toddlers. Lesson learned - Very High Shutter Speed!

So I was reviewing some of the images and decided to play with this one. Here is a before and after. I'm so thrilled with it I'm thinking about ordering this one on canvas.

Playing with Photoshop

2009-02-26T18:40:00.000-08:00

I love this picture of Khalila just the way it is BUT I've been learning some things in photoshop and here are some fun plays:

To my nephew . . .

2009-02-22T11:01:00.000-08:00

I was reviewing some of my vacation pictures from last August. This is my nephew Jose - the picture was taken in Salem Mass. I thought the picture looks a little moody so I played with an action in photoshop. This action is called Denim, Coffee shop. Here is the link to this awesome site: Coffeeshop

I miss you Jose - hang in there.

Valentine Session

2009-02-08T20:09:00.001-08:00

Her mom bought the props for this set, including the backdrop. These were her moms favorites.

More portraits

2009-02-02T05:43:00.000-08:00

Studio Shots - Alex

2009-01-25T17:56:00.000-08:00

More studio shots using white backdrops - High key style

More Studio Shots

2009-01-21T21:25:00.000-08:00

High key images of my beautiful baby girl.

More Studio Lighting

2009-01-20T21:58:00.000-08:00

My friend Pam Lopez from Plportraiture (here) came over loaned me a large softbox and help me set up/correct my issues with my studio lighting.
Here are a few practice shots she took of me - she took the pictures I did the editing.

I cannot wait to try this lighting set up with one of my customers.

Adult Siblings Photo Shoot

2008-12-25T21:16:00.000-08:00

Photo shoot I did for Dave's family. They ordered this one enlarged and matted beautifully for their parents. They loved it.

I must say, it was another very cold day and they were so brave and had so much fun with this shoot. I loved it. It's in one of my favorite locations the abandoned church. The spots in that place are endless.

I was very pleased with the outcome.

Mo & Jennifer

2008-12-19T05:28:00.000-08:00

Mo & Jennifer just celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary and they wanted their pictures taken in a not so "traditional" way. First let me tell you that were such good sports. It was 10 degrees out and it was getting dark very fast. Here are a few from that session.

Happy Belated Anniversary and Happy Belated Birthday Jennifer!

More Christmas Cards

2008-12-14T11:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas cards are now available at S. R. Marek Photography.
These cards are totally customizable with your message and name. If you are interested please contact me for more detail.

Christmas Cards

2008-12-13T10:23:00.000-08:00

just a teaser

Brandon & Michelle

2008-12-11T05:31:00.000-08:00

Here's from a recent wedding.

Free Style Wedding Workshop

2008-11-29T07:51:00.001-08:00

It has taken me awhile to figure out the best way to edit pictures. I spent all day yesterday editing the pictures I took at the Freestyle Wedding Workshop sponsored by One Photo Source look here: OPS
this workshop was so much fun and the models were terrific! It was a beautiful day. This "model" is Abby. She is actually a photographer and she took pictures half the day and modeled the second half. She is such a beautiful lady and she was willing to try anything the photographers asked her to do. Her husband was a handsome army man who was very patient.

There will be 4 more parts to follow.

This is Angie and her husband

they were fun and spunky (not to mentions a goreous couple!) Angie wanted Shawn and Bruces specialty - which is not the Traditional Wedding photography.

This is Crystal and her husband. I think they were very newly wedd. They seemed to enjoy each others company so much! They were wonderful models. They were also so patient.

This is Shannon
Shannon is who I describe as Sassy. She was willing to try just about anything these crazy photogs came up with. She seemed very comfortable in front of the camera. We all suspect she's modeled before but she says "No" she hasn't. She was awesome.

The Engagement pictures

This couple appeared young and reserved. They were a good looking couple too. She has the most amazing eyes. I believe Shawn will be doing their wedding.

This was such a fun and HANDS ON workshop. If you ever get the chance to attend one you should.

Mi Princessa Cumpleanos Hoy

2008-11-23T17:55:00.000-08:00

My princess turned "Two" today! Happy Birthday Baby!!!
Can you believe she's 2? My, time does fly.
Here we are just playing around in the studio.

See the smile? It's cause she was misbehaving and mommy was upset with her. You see that look? Oh yeah brings back memories . . . her mom used to have that same look. I love it!

Birthday cake smash and first time in my Studio

2008-11-22T17:28:00.001-08:00

Mister M. turns "ONE" I can hardly believe it. He's so darn cute!!! Mom and Dad brought him by my brand new studio (which by the way still needs lots of work)
and they let us play.

Isn't he fantastic?!!!

I'm still learning about studio and lighting but hey it was a great first try. Thanks Jenn & Todd.

Miss A.

2008-11-08T06:38:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of taking pictures of this Beautiful little girl last week. I've done some extreme plays on photoshop. Just trying different textures out.

Alexandria

2008-11-01T13:40:00.001-07:00

She drove us home from Michigan last weekend. Can you believe it? Yes, she's driving and in the 10th grade! She's so beautiful! and she's doing really good in school. We are so proud of her.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T17:42:00.000-07:00

Well, I think all of the ghosts and goblins, pirates, princesses, wolves, turtles, pumpkins, dinos, cats, bats, gypsy's, flowers and scarecrows have gone home, we can now go out to dinner and a movie.

Can someone please tell Khalila she's not supposed move when we are doing night photography?!

Super gorgeous

2008-10-31T17:39:00.000-07:00

My baby girl has been looking super amazing lately. Don't get me wrong, she's always been beautiful but lately she's just super gorgeous!

Today at sunset.

New look

2008-10-29T18:39:00.000-07:00

Here is my new hair style. The first is a self portrait I took of my self using the tri-pod the other Khalila took of me with a point & shoot celebrating my "lighter" hair.

A couple more . . .

2008-10-29T05:19:00.000-07:00

Alexis holding my camera after taking a picture of Izzy & Khalila

In this shot Dave is taking a picture of Alexis, taking a picture of me, taking a picture of Khalila & Izzy. There you can see how really trashy this location is. It really is dilapidated but it that brick and vine make for awesome background.

A grunge photo shoot

2008-10-25T23:35:00.000-07:00

Alexis and Khalila have been friends for a very long time. I was trying to get the Fabulous Four together - 4 friends since middle school - but it was not possible. I was so glad to hear Alexis could join us. Here are just a few fabulous shots from a very creative and productive day.
They looked gorgeous!
Here's my handsome young man . . . God he's grown up so fast!

It was such an awesome day! The weather was perfect and the sun was out - what more can a photographer ask for? Beautiful models? Oh I had those too. Perfect!

Eye contact AND a smile!

2008-10-25T00:53:00.000-07:00

Finally Ms. Isabella decides to look at my lens AND smile. It's been so long since she has done that. I was so excited. I think it was because of the new hat. LOL

A Magical Birthdal

2008-10-24T23:40:00.001-07:00

Miss M turns 3!
By Royal Decree we were instructed to report to the High Quarters of the castle to celebrate with the princess.
Once upon a time . . . there was a princess who had a very special birthday. That being her 3rd birthday and all. Happy Birthday Ms.M
When we arrived there was the "normal" princess stuff. Trunks full of the queens treasure. Gowns and crowns and rings and necklesses. Shinny balloons and many toys.
Princess M was happy to see other princesses there. Like Princess I. and Princess L

Princess Isabella and the others had to make sure to share their powers and be careful not to excert their own powers over each other. It was indeed interesting.

Princess L had magical powers that soothed the soul.

The princesses shared and played and watched T.V. (show). They ate royal food

and what a delight

then off to the royal toy room. Which was stocked full with toys. Where a princess can lose herself to her imagination and daydream all day long.

Let us not forget the Royal Princesses Cake which was made of ice cream and what a delight that was. For it hold flowers sweet as sugar and a very nice treat for a princess.
Princess M knew it was time for entertainment for her court was growing tired. So off went the royal dress and a tutu was found. "her electric guitar and a little bit of rock should liven this place up"

And finally Princess Mommy supervised and made sure no one jump (Isabella!).

So there you have it. Thanks Angie! and thank the princesses for me!

Simply Beautiful

2008-10-22T05:08:00.001-07:00

Just my kids
Dave and I took them Sunday for a photo shoot and this is the most amazing shot we got.

Look at this little Monkey!

2008-10-16T22:25:00.001-07:00

I've been practicing on this baby since he was in moms belly! and he's almost walking now!!!Lucky for me his mom trust me with his sessions. I plan on one day doing his wedding!

This was a mini 15 min session after work today. Also the first time I used my light meter.
Isn't he the cutest little monkey EVER?! Thanks Jenny. (6 pictures - blogger has been hiding my pictures. If you don't see 6 pics please click on title or contact me. Thanks)

Historical Bridge

2008-10-15T20:25:00.000-07:00

SHAMELESSLY COPIED FROM DAVE'S BLOG - HEY HE DID ALL THE RESEARCH AND WRITING SO WHY NOT! THE PICTURES ARE MINE THOUGH - EXCEPT FOR THE B/W ONE.
Today my Father took us to a very small town telling us that there is a bridge there made from some remains of a 19th Century "Ferris" wheel. When we arrived, just the look of the bridge as different, kind of Gothic. Well they say it should be a goal of every intelligent person to learn something everyday. Today I learned where the name "Ferris Wheel" came from. Here is a little history I would like to share with you:

A little piece of history is rusting away quietly where it has spanned the waters of the Kankakee River for a century. Legend has it that Dunn's Bridge, just north of Tefft, Indiana, is constructed from steel salvaged from one of the late 19th century's most audacious engineering project--the gigantic mechanical wheel designed and constructed by George W. G. Ferris for the 1893 World's Fair. The Galesburg Illinois native (who grew up in Nevada) and civil engineer was 33 years old when he scribbled the design for the world's first large amusement ride on a napkin at a Chicago restaurant. Ferris designed his great wheel in answer to a challenge by Daniel Burnham to create a monument that would rival the Eiffel Tower, a chief exhibit at the Paris exhibition of 1889.
George Ferris' great wheel drew big crowds at the 1893 Chicago fair, and again at the 1904 Louisiana Exposition in St. Louis. But even the hefty fifty cent fare was not enough pay the cost of running this behemoth. It was dynamited on May 11, 1906 and sold for scrap. Shortly thereafter, Ferris' wife left him, saying he was obsessed by his wheel. He died alone and penniless in a hotel room a few days later.

Old-timers in the area of Tefft remember that a local farmer, J.D. Dunn, traveled to Chicago at the close of the fair in 1894 and bought part of the wheel as scrap. Transported to Dunn's property by railroad and horse drawn vehicles, the steel pieces were fashioned into a bridge over the Kankakee, with John Cooper as the blacksmith and Alonzo Hilliand as the carpenter.
The area near the bridge and the present village of Dunn's was a favorite picnic area, with a dance hall, amusement park and several rustic taverns. Some of the picnic crowds reportedly remembered riding in the "monster wheel" in Chicago back in 1893.
Original Ferris Wheel

Beautiful fall day

2008-10-14T21:46:00.000-07:00

Here I am doing what I do......
taking pictures - seeing the world from a different perspective! Yes I'm laying on my back taking pictures of the bridge.
Dave took this picture of me . . . . so I took a few of him. . . .

caught him red handed!
Just a sweet moment between my in laws. They have been married over 52 years. Can you even imagine what 52 years of marriage is? They are my heros.
With their youngest son . . .
Thanks Alex and Jan for taking us to see this amazing bridge over the Kankakee River. What a beautiful fall day.

Princesses & Fairy tales . . . .

2008-10-12T18:13:00.000-07:00

It's October and time for the Halloween photo shoot of our own little princess. AND IT'S ALSO TIME FOR HER 2 YEAR OLD PHOTO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!aghhhhhhhhh
Two - can you believe it?????????
The first to photos where taken by my talented assistant, Khalila. The others I took. However, Khalila edited all of these pictures.

Here's to the Long Summer days

2008-10-06T19:25:00.000-07:00

It is now officially "Fall" and the cool, crisp weather makes me long for the long hot summer days.
The was called the "Dam Duck Race" in Hobart.
at the end of the race . . .
A little ride on the Merry Go Round.
Pure Joy!

Academy of Model Aeronotics - Part 2

2008-10-02T21:24:00.001-07:00

A continuation of some more images of these awesome little planes. So much fun!

This big guy is a huge fan of the sport and he's there supporting his pets!

A really friendly dog.

I met and spoke with Mr. Sotomayor

New Logo Brush

2008-09-30T22:14:00.000-07:00

I had someone create my logo last month and I've been struggling with using it in Photo Shop.
The logo is in my fav colors and although I don't use it to often there are other layers to my logo (swirls).
My girl, Alinda, worked on it for a couple of hours and then she called me and both of us on the phone got it to work! We had so much fun stamping every thing we could pull up on photo shop.

Even though I did not take this picture of Alinda, my nephew did, I stamped it just to show that I can stamp my pictures - but true credit goes to Jose for this image. Great job Jose.

Alinda, a special shout out goes to you (Thanks girl) for your patience. You are truly gifted (did I mention that she is an amazing cook and a great hostess and she has a heart of gold). I wish you the best girl.

Academy of Model Aeronotics . . .

2008-09-30T21:43:00.000-07:00

Dave's friend belongs to the AMA and he gave us an invitation to come watch and take pictures of these very expensive toys....
the information from their site:
(here)
Quote from the site:
"Activities Permitted3-D, Ducted Fan, Electric, Fixed Wing, Fuel/Gas, Giant Scale, Helicopters, Park Flyers, Pattern, Radio Control Field Information Covered Shelter, Fire Extinguisher, First Aid Kit, Grass Runway, Grass Pit Area, Wind Sock Poles, Frequency Board, Wind Sock, Gated Entrance, Handicap Accessible, Parking, Porta Pots, Privately Owned, Radio Impound Area, Safety Fences,
Spectator Area, Spectators Welcome Field Restrictions Model Identification, No Alcohol, No Hunting, No Pyrotechnics, No Turbines, Noise Limitation Field Hours ELECTRIC- SUNRISE TO SUNSET 7 DAYS A WEEK GAS/FUEL- 9:00 AM TO SUNSET 7 DAYS A WEEK"

Well that was not much of a description. I was expecting really small model planes that you can carry. These planes, although not large enough to hold the humans that own them, still require their own trailers, lots of training, lots of money, a steady hand and a brave heart. Most of the guys (yeah, mostly guys) I met and spoke to have been flying these planes for many, many years. Of special interest was a young man on 14. He's been flying for a very short time, in comparison to his competition, and he's very good. I suspect he will soon become a champ.Here are a few pictures that I've played with. Come on, pictures of machines call for some photo shop playing.

My new buisness Cards

2008-09-28T08:50:00.000-07:00

I finally ordered my new business cards:

I decided on two of my award winning images. The first one is a two sided card.

Front Side

Back Side

Second business card is one sided

A huge thank you goes to Khalila. My talented and beautiful daughter who designed these cards for me. Thank you baby!

Messing around with photoshop

2008-09-27T23:13:00.000-07:00

I found a tutorial at One Photo source
for making what is called Mashed - a sort of collage of pictures mixed together.
I followed their tutorial with Khalila translating into something I could understand and here is what I came up with. I think they are pretty neat looking.I know I have to work at blending the colors better but I really like it. It is a mixture of 5 pictures each. None of the pictcures have anything to do with the other - just chosen at random and for their colors or textures.
One Photo Source is a great place to learn about photography.

I got my new baby!

2008-09-21T23:26:00.000-07:00

The Nikon D-300. I got a great deal on it!!! I love it! That's all I'm going to say about that.

Flooding in Northwest Indiana and surrounding communities . . .

2008-09-20T22:16:00.000-07:00

It's amazing to me how much damage mother nature can do in just a blink of an eye. Our area is still recovering from the damages cause by a "small" tornado that touched down in our area a couple of weeks ago when out of no where it starts to rain day and night. Too much rain, levy that are blocked or clogged, sewers that are not cleaned, projects that have not been completed - but have been worked on for the past 30 years, rivers swelling, water backing up and mother nature all combined to cause what is the flood of 2008 in Northwest Indiana.
We have several communities that are devastated because of this storm. People who have lost their homes and/or all of their possessions. One and a half week and we are still "wadding" through this horrible calamity. While some are unaffected by the same storm. I am one of the very lucky ones. Not water in the basement, no flooding, our cars did not drown in the storm. Pets and family members all accounted for. My parents are staying with me because their home is still not livable, and yet we are one of the lucky ones. Our life continues minus the inconvenience of having roads closed due to water.

Khalila has some pictures also. That one that looks like a car is actually an Army Humvee (sp?) Not your typical Hummer but the rather large one and yes it is completely under water. I guess they under estimated the depth of the water. Someone has some explaining to do! A bridge in Hobart completely under water.
First level is completely under water.
Someones front yard. They needed boats to get around.
Indiana University has been closed and continues to be closed this week because of flooding. The night photography is pictures of that campus parking lot - under water. The water is about 4 feet deep in some locations.

This campus continues to be closed after almost 2 weeks.
Although it made for beautiful night photography half of the campus is under water.
Lots of reflections.

My mother and father in law have also included some pictures of the town of Hobart - under water including a collapsed bridge.

I have tried to put the photographers names on the pictures to give the correct credit.

Girls Day out

2008-09-17T05:55:00.001-07:00

Girls day out takes one a new meaning with little ones - LOL
spent the day with the lovely Miss Isabella and her beautiful mom. Need I say she's almost 2?!

It's fun watching her learn. Shishi (fishy) Nake (snakes) - so cute!

The day after the flood - NW Indiana 2008

2008-09-16T21:38:00.000-07:00

The Beautiful Historic Marquette Park in Miller

Dave being a good sport and letting me take his picture (o.k. Many pictures).

A fungus or a work of art?

The last of the Wild Thistle

The last of the Wild beautiful blooms (O.K. I don't know what they are called but they do look like snapdragons).

This is a main street that is completely under water. It has about 4 feet of water. There are areas far worse off than this. I've also played with this in photoshop.

Lake Michigan not looking to peaceful - but none the less a beautiful site. Again, I played with this picture in photoshop.

Dave is "taking in" the aftermath of the storm.

How in the world did this happen? Found it just like this . . .

This is really a wonderful area. More plays with photoshop.

Here is the original straight out of the camera.

More photoshop actions

2008-09-15T05:42:00.000-07:00

Walking at the beach and I saw this interesting site. I was just glad to have my camera with me at the time.

Same Action different degrees of drama.

Just playing around with Photoshop

2008-09-15T05:33:00.001-07:00

I Found some fun actions to play with in photo shop.
One of these is the normal picture the others are played with.

This is W. Ross's new Motorcycle. He is a long time co-worker and friend of Daves. His career is taking him on another path. Good luck Ross and no matter what Dave tells you - he's gonna miss you.

P.S. Nice Bike

Pictures with added effects

Picture heavy Update

2008-09-03T15:53:00.000-07:00

I am on my way tonight as I have been at least once a week for the past 3 months, to the Rail Cats Baseball game. That's me and my MIL. Do you think I'm a fan? It's a great game, an awesome team and an unbelievable park! We made it to the play offs - TONIGHTS GAME!!!
WOOHOOOO!
This is Rusty the team mascot and clown. He's so much fun and he gets the fans all worked up!
A perfect exposure. That's the grade I got on this picture!!! Yay
Izzy is back to school. Starting his junior year in high school. Cannot believe my "baby" is a junior! And guess what else? He passed his drivers test today. WTG Izzy!
Yes I'm worried but what ya gonna do. Gotta let'em grow up.

He is sporting his new "do" for his new school.
And yes Khalila started her Sophomore year in college. She's in the background. She's promised me a day maybe this week (wink) that I can do a photo shoot of her. She'd rather be behind the camera but I keep insisting.

It was a war of the Nikon's this day. They are taking a picture of me taking a picture. All Nikon's. Go Nikonians. That's Alinda, sporting her D-80.

And what would an update be without an updated photo of Miss Isabella? 22 months old. She says complete sentences like "I want more!" "Stop it!" "I want juice" Geeze (rolling my eyes) time really does fly.

and a picture of my oldest DD walking away with Miss Isabella. Mommy and daughter.
I have lots more updates coming up but I'm in a hurry because besides work, home, lessons there are a few other updates. Thanks for checking in on me.

Now, I have to go. Got a game to watch and yell and jump and. . . you get the idea.

Some more Portfolio Building

2008-08-23T05:53:00.000-07:00

There were so much fun to do. Adriana is just a doll. She was willing to do anything I asked. It was fun not to have to chase someone down to look at the camera. Within 5 minutes of this photo shoot I got stung by a bee then we were eaten up by mosquitoes - but it was worth it! LOL
Thanks Adriana

A special Shout-out!

2008-08-21T06:07:00.001-07:00

This post is about a week late but here goes:
I want to send a special shout-out to Alinda, our super special friend and also hostess while we were on vacation in Boston. She went out of her way in making us feel welcomed and accomodated us better than any one ever has (wink). She stocked her fridge full of stuff for my lean, mean, eating machine of a son.
Alinda - thank you - thank you - thank you!
She is also a photographer, a graphic designer and an architect, oh oh and an out of this world cook!
And I also want to give a shout out to my nephew who also ran miles on his shoes trying to make sure we saw all the "sights" and had a run down memory lane with us. Always suave always smooth. Love ya!
Love ya both - thanks a million.

In a dark alley . . .

2008-08-11T21:41:00.001-07:00

This set of pictures is from a series that I posted a couple of weeks ago from the abandoned church. These are the same day but in an alley way. Again, minimal lighting and it had been raining all afternoon. Jackie was such a sport - just like a superstar. She made a gorgeous model. Thanks Jackie!

Boston, Massachusettes

2008-08-05T09:03:00.001-07:00

We are on vacation. My old stomping grounds. I love this city with it's mixture of old and new architecture. A city rich in history and tradition. Updates to follow later.
Here are a few shots . . .

Lake County Fair - Competition

2008-07-31T21:50:00.000-07:00

I am so excited this evening. We just got back from the Lake County Fair - Open house. This was just for the exhibitors to see everyone else's work and to see if they won anything. Well, this was my first time entering and man oh man I did good! (Jumping up and down!)

I won first place for this one in Black and White portraiture. Thanks Jackie!

First place with this one for Colored portraiture

This was the big winner of the night. I received 3 ribbons for this one. Including the Sweepstakes Rosette and Honorable Mention! Thanks Jenny and little man.

First place for this one in Human Interest Color:

Third place Black and White Animal:

Honorable Mention - ColorHonorable Mention - Human Interest Black and White:

YAY! I'm very excited.

I won 5 other ribbons for some layouts but I will wait and post those next week since I don't want these 2 post competing.

Happy Birthday Baby

2008-07-30T04:57:00.000-07:00

I hang my head in shame for not planning a little bit oh o.k. A LOT better! My BFF taught me that we don't celebrate a day we celebrate a week. That means that we still have 7 more days to celebrate o.k.? Love ya baby - Happy Birthday week.

p.s. I didn't forget her birthday we went out for dinner at the place of her choice - I just did not plan other stuff.

20 Month update

2008-07-30T04:46:00.000-07:00

Isabella turned 20 months! Can you believe it? Here she is playing in the rain.

Portfolio Building Shots

2008-07-24T22:53:00.001-07:00

Here's my co-worker. Well she's really in college and works with us during her summer breaks. She getting ready to study abroad - I thought she'd make a wonderful model and she sure did!

Photo Shoot - continued

2008-07-24T21:00:00.000-07:00

continued

My 'lil doxies

2008-07-23T22:47:00.000-07:00

In trying to improve my photography I've taken pictures of just about anything that will sit still for me. I had to "pay" my little doxies. Treats! They will stay put and watch my hand (which just so happens to hold their treats!). Gosh you have to bribe or pay everyone!

Oh yeah after 15 shots they were ready to go in. I think they are union - LOL.

A Field of Wild Flowers

2008-07-22T22:58:00.000-07:00

"Sam - I am"

2008-07-22T22:45:00.000-07:00

Aunt Pat's parrot - Sam
He's giving her a "High Five" in this picture

and Just posing here. LOL
Isn't he cute?

LIMA LIMA

2008-07-14T05:57:00.000-07:00

My FIL had a wish granted to him. Today he got to ride on the Lima Lima plane. We were allowed on the runway to take pictures (geeze, so many rules! Don't stand there, don't stop there, move over here - LOL) before and after boarding. I hope he's happy with the pictures I manged to take today. Here is only a few of the many I will give him.

"The Lima Lima Flight Team demonstration is flown with six airplanes, It includes several formation configurations, from the six ship wedge and double arrowhead, to the basic finger four and diamond formations. The team has developed a series of formation aerobatics maneuvers which demonstrate the full range of the T-34 performance envelope."

I might post some more at a later. TFL

Her little Man

2008-07-10T21:13:00.000-07:00

This is from a photo shoot I did this morning. My friend and her little man. He's gorgeous but hey he has good genes.

I had so much fun with this shoot. I'm finally feeling more confident and knowing what I want before I take the picture.

I absolutely love this picture. I'll post more later on as I edit and process more pictures.

1965 Impala

2008-07-08T18:14:00.000-07:00

I've never been much of a car girl. If it drives good and it's reliable it's fine with me, but, since I've been taking pictures of these beauties from another era, I'm in love with the lines, the curves, the hood ornaments - all of the attention to detail. I LOVE IT and for sure, they don't make them like they used too baby!

Some more from a Car Show

2008-07-08T18:11:00.000-07:00

She Loves my garden layout

2008-07-03T05:50:00.000-07:00

More Club Scrap Challenges
Isabella pulled up all of my tulips - one at a time, so that she could smell them. Don't worry, I did encourage her. LOL I thought it was so cute, besides they'll come back again next year and she might not be interested in them at that point.

Mini Animal Book!

2008-07-03T05:47:00.000-07:00

This will be an ongoing project - It started out just documenting Isabella's recent trip to the zoo however, I think it will become her animal book since she's learning all about animals. She says "eeeeeephant!" LOL that's very exciting to me.

1951 Red Ford

2008-07-01T05:47:00.000-07:00

When I ran to the grocery store last week I saw all of these "classic & Antique" cars lined up by the dunkin donuts and I was bummed out because I didn't have my camera. My family informed me that they hang out there every Monday. So after work today I grabbed my camera and off I went. I challenged myself to look for something different - Not just a picture of a car. Here is what I came up with... In the last picture you'll see the reflection of a gentleman, wearing a plaid shirt. he owns the car and told me all about when he married his wife in 1951 they had a car just like this one - so 4 years ago he had to purchase it again. He has wedding pictures from 1951 and current pictures of them in the same frame.

{ Proof } that time flies . .

2008-07-01T05:26:00.000-07:00

Club scrap

2 More club Scrap Layouts

2008-06-30T05:23:00.000-07:00

Although it's been a busy weekend, with cookouts, birthday parties, open houses and editing almost 150 pictures, I've managed to squeeze in some time to create these 2 layouts of Isabella. One is when she was 9 months old, the other is from her swim class just last week.
I am using up my Club Scrap stash (Finally!)

2 More club scrap layouts

2008-06-26T19:44:00.001-07:00

More Club Scrap Layouts

2008-06-25T21:03:00.000-07:00

Family Time - Avant Garden Kit
Love those bright colors!
Twix is trying to catch the bubbles.

Becky Fleck page maps

Refresh kit

Journaling: Crazy Mans hideaway * 100 Acres of peace*trails*ponds*a river*horses*deer*wildlife. Just what we needed - just to slow down for awhile. It sure refreshed my soul!

REFRESH KIT - same location - Crazy Mans Hideaway

TRANQUILITY - enough said.

Quick l.o.

2008-06-25T20:54:00.000-07:00

Club Scrap is having a challenge and I decided to join in because I have so much of their paper that I NEED to use up.
The kit for these 2 is called "A Study In Red"
love the velvety feel of this red paper. "5 Years" is hand written title. The photo is from a montage that Khalila made us.

I love to Dance layout

p.s. the challenge this week is that it has to be something about "me"

More pictures from Saturday - lots of pictures

2008-06-23T20:04:00.000-07:00

We took a dinner cruise on the Odyssey in Chicago, off of Navy Pier and I had fun taking lots of night photography (well at least practicing on taking night photography).

Today is my Anniversary!

2008-06-21T06:58:00.000-07:00

My honey sent me a dozen, long stemmed, red roses to work yesterday. Today he gives me this ring! WOWZERS! It's really something. It's packing some ice - ice baby! Thank you baby!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When I got on the computer this is what Khalila had left us. She is so talented!
Thanks K!

Finding Beauty in Weeds

2008-06-18T21:46:00.000-07:00

Weeds of the Dunes. Miller beach to be exact.
This thistle was absolutely perfect!

Just a dandelion . . .

Um, I don't know what it is. Just a weed.

Miller Beach part 2

2008-06-18T19:13:00.001-07:00

#1 My assistant - LOL just kidding hon.
#2 Always faithful, always there to give a helping hand, always there to keep order. The GPD special beach patrol police.
3. What a way to end the day - just watching the sun set. To the left of the sun are the famous Gary Steel Mills, to the right is the beautiful Chicago Sky Line across Lake Michigan.
#4. The Chicago Sky Line Across Lake Michigan view framed from trees at the Indiana Dunes.

Some days it just seems to work . . .

2008-06-18T05:18:00.000-07:00

I started reading the book called Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson yesterday. So after work and dinner Dave and I headed out for the Beach/dunes. Right before sunset. I love that the sun doesn't set until a little after 8:00pm it give me a little time to play.
I'll have to divide this into several post. Here is the first set:

Evening at the Dunes

MY NEW BANNER

2008-06-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

My new banner compliments of my BFF Nathalia from
Funky Fresh She's the best. Thanks and Love ya girl!

A rose is just a rose - right?

2008-06-12T17:27:00.000-07:00

Several years ago I started a raised rose bed. I planted pink, red, white and pink with red.
I've struggled with these beauties - every year. Some years they bloom perfectly then other years they are gone. This year I have been pleasantly surprised. Keeping my fingers crossed for the white and red ones.

Back Yard Visitors

2008-06-12T17:07:00.000-07:00

Last week we were cleaning a flower bed - yes really late in the season, Dave heard a squealing and he looked down there was a bunny in a little hole. We quickly tired to cover the hole up and leave it alone. The next day it was no longer in the hole. Wait - now there are THREE bunnies in our flower bed. I've been keeping a distant eye on them. They are about 2 inches big. I towed my camera today. I tried to keep as far away from them as possible.

Khalila's pictures

2008-06-10T20:21:00.000-07:00

Brookfield Zoo

Isabella just in awe of it all!
My oldest and my youngest - LOL

Brookfield Zoo

2008-06-09T19:51:00.000-07:00

Me and the kids took an impromptu trip to Brookfield Zoo - man it's been years since I've been there. Too bad I was sick and was not able to enjoy the beautiful weather and the animals as much as I would have liked to.

This was Ms. Isabella's first trip to the zoo. Did I tell you that she has become a Diva! Yes, glitter, glasses, bling, hats, shoes and purses! Cannot leave home without them.
The giraffe enclosure, shhhh, I think they are starring at me again.
No I swear I don't have my giraffe shirt on. I have white. Solid white! See they are starring at me! LOL

What is this? I cannot remember the name but sure is an interesting creature isn't?

Pygmy Hippos
And the absolute highlight of my day. I got really sick but I would do it all over again so that I can teach Isabella to say ELEPHANT. Sounds like this: EEEEEEEEEEphhhhhant Really loudly.
and there they are. Elephants!

ONE PHOTO SOURCE

2008-06-04T21:15:00.000-07:00

ONE PHOTO SOURCE

Is a new photography learning site I belong too. They are just starting out and the first 100 members will have a free life time membership. I really think it's worth your while if you are interested in photograpy at all. Take a look Here and if you decide to join just let them know that Sandra sent you.
Here are a few shots from last weekends educational photo shoot. These pictues were taken by Shawn who is an amazing photographer. Here is a link to his site: http://www.onephotosource.com/

This was so much fun!

Niabi Zoo - Coal Valley, IL

2008-06-03T23:11:00.000-07:00

On the way back form Iowa we saw this zoo and I wanted to stop for photo ops with the animals.
These giraffes could not keep their eyes off of me. They followed and starred and we couldn't figure out why. They were only interested in me!

All of them!

Then David figured it must be the shirt. So I guess that is what it was. They were attracted to my shirt!
We took this cute little tour of the zoo on this locomotive. cost $1.50, well worth it.
I asked David to get me some nectar and as soon as he walked in with it he became the bird man. Those parrots did not waste any time!
The Bald Eagles were not to happy to have the zoo keepers in their cleaning their enclosure.
This elephant kept "powdering" herself with dirt. Probably to stay cool cause it was very hot outside.
All in all a very nice pit stop on the way back home.

One Photo Source

2008-06-02T21:33:00.000-07:00

In April of this year I joined a forum called Photography School House. See here
Well one of the founders of One Photo Source lives in Davenport Iowa. As you know David and Khalila are into photography too. One Photo Source had a workshop in Iowa and we (David and I) were able to go there. We met Shawn and got to "play" in his studio. He had some little models come out for us to shoot. Here is what I came out with:

So if you get a chance or you want to learn a little bit more about photography stop by One Photo Source and let them know Valkrie sent you. You'll learn a lot and meet some great people.