What I’m Photographing

One of the many reasons I love being a photographer who is based in Battle Ground WA is the many beautiful backdrops I have to choose from when photographing families, seniors, weddings and events. 

I’ll be honest, I feel far more confident and comfortable when the shoot is at a location I know. I love showing people hidden spots that make ideal backdrops for their portraits. So when I’m invited to someones home to photograph there I get a bit uneasy. I have to let go of the control and trust them to show me the hidden gems they have. 

The Clark family’s yard was AWESOME! From white aspen groves, a neighbor’s (used with permission) waterwheel and dock, wood piles, fencing, bamboo, and even a cat who wanted to get in on the picture! I told them their secret is out and I may have to show up in their yard with other clients some day!

The Clark’s are a wonderful family! This was my first meeting of them and their little men just stole my heart!!! Just like me, they have one blonde and one dark a haired boy and I just kept thinking about when my sons were their age. It doesn’t last people!!!  They were such gentlemen and so fun to work with! The adults were great too! 🙂 

What I’m Doing

Last week I had 3 shoots. My editing and album creating pile is growing so I’m working hard on staying on top of that. 

I did take some time to tour the Parade of Homes in Camas. It was all about the views!! My goodness there are some beautiful homes up there! 

I love the opportunity to walk around these homes. The picture on the far right is the view if you are laying in the master bedroom and turn your head to the right! 

Saturday was a beautiful day so we headed to Lacamas Lake. I have only walked these trails a few times and manage to get a bit lost each time. I believe getting lost is the best way to learn your way around. We stumbled upon the Lily Fields and I can’t wait to photograph there next Spring. It looks amazing! If you’ve ever imagined being photographed in a field of wildflowers this is the place for you! 

Sunday evening while vegging on the coach with Jeff our oldest called. He was driving back to Boise from Bend when he hit a deer. My heart stopped I had to remind myself he was speaking so clearly he was alright. 

I pray for traveling mercies for any of our family or friends that are traveling. I pray this constantly because it seems like one of us is always on the road. I’m so thankful he was protected. Sadly, the deer lost it’s life. Josh was driving 70mph when he hit the deer. I’m so thankful he maintained control of his vehicle. Yes, its a pain to deal with insurance etc but I’m so thankful he made it home to Boise that night! Did I mention I’m thankful!!

What I’m Reading

This month’s Book Club pick is Eagle & Crane by Suzanne Rindell – Book Club meets next week to discuss this book and I’m halfway through.  The setting jumps from pre WWII to during WWII in California. There are three primary characters one being a Japanese American. The story is of the times when the American Gov felt there was a threat on the West Coast from all people of Japanese ancestry regardless if they were American Citizens or not.  As the story develops it reveals the effects of race and bigotry and the efforts some (on both sides of the issue) make to try and overcome. 

I enjoyed the story the foundation is two families and a dispute over land.  One family American the other recent immigrants from Japan. The story begins with the death of 2 men. The questions is presented – who did it? Why? Was it murder, suicide, accident? Does family history and race play a roll in the deaths?

We live in a time where race relations are always in the news. I love this story because it feels relevant to me today and is a reminder of what those before us struggled with.

Goal Check

I really strive to get my clients their images as quickly as possible without compromising on the quality of what they receive. With clients lined up this becomes much more challenging. I’m happy to report I had 3 shoots this past week and not only did I honor my 2 week commitment, they got them within 1 week of their sessions! I can’t guarantee that it will stay that quick but who wants to wait? I’m thankful I can be a full time photographer which allows me the time I need to get these galleries delivered. 

My Current Favorite

All things Fall. Recently I was in a room with several people. The general consensus of theirs was they didn’t want Fall they wanted to hang onto Summer awhile longer. I do not share that sentiment. I did laugh when one woman conceded that well her mouth might be ready for Fall! 

Fall is my current favorite! Yes, it’s starting off a bit wet and I’m not a fan of that. I am enjoying my jeans, sweaters and boots however.  My excitement for Fall colors is mounting! I think I’m going to buy a pumpkin or two today. And like my friend, my mouth is ready for Fall I will be ordering a Pumpkin Spice Chai to help satisf_y my Fall cravings! 

I appreciate you! 

Shelly