Welcome!

I decided to start a blog to showcase my interest in photography. I've been an avid amateur photographer for years, but decided last summer to take the plunge and buy a Nikon d90. I previously owned a Nikon 8008 SLR (purchased in 1993), and had worn out two digital point-and-shoot cameras. It was definitely time to move into more sophisticated equipment. The d90 and I have been partnered for almost a year and I love the instant feedback I get from going digital. I've added a number of lenses to my collection, and each lens has allowed me to expand my repertoire of what I can shoot. Next lens purchase will be a wide angle - after our family trip to the Rockies, I realized how vital a wide angle lens is to the serious photographer's collection.

On this blog you'll find photo shoots ranging from wildlife, nature, people, pets, and holidays (with a little bit of everything else thrown in). Unfortunately, due to people copying my work (yes, someone copied a photo I posted on FB and posted it elsewhere without citing the rightful owner), I've had to post my logo and copyright on my photos. However, if you really like something I've done, I can get a copy of it for you from the professional photofinisher I use. Of course, there would be a nominal fee. If you find a picture that you'd like copy of, let me know. I can get copies anywhere from 4X6 to canvas wall hangings.

Thanks for visiting - come back often!

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Robin's 11th Birthday Portrait Shoot

It has been household tradition that the kids get their pictures taken marking their birthdays. Ian stopped participating in this tradition four years ago. Robin, though, has continued to have her portrait taken, and this year we didn't have to go to a studio and pay someone else to do the work. We went to the Sisters of St. Francis Convent and St. Francis Seminary in St. Francis for the shoot, and I have to say, the setting was perfect. While Robin's birthday is in February, for the last three years we've done the portraits in the summer using natural light. I love shooting with natural light - it presents all kinds of creative opportunities.

If you're interested in having family portraits done for the holidays, please contact me via Facebook or this blog. Prices are very reasonable and I promise to deliver a quality product.










































Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Little Johnny

These portraits have been sitting on the hard drive for a few months and I decided to pull them up yesterday. This little boy was a bundle of energy and taught me that the camera has to be in position ALL the time! The shoot produced some outstanding portraits. Here are a few, including a portrait of Johnny and his parents.






Wednesday, July 20, 2011

A Rose is a Rose

A rose is a rose ...... Not so! If you've ever grown roses, you know that some bushes are more vigorous and hearty than others. Some are more prone to disease and bugs. And when it comes to photography, they're not all the same. I, personally, have my preferences when it comes to roses, but the particular roses I like in the garden don't photograph well. Here are some that do! Imagine the smell of a boquet in your house and you'll be taken away to a distant place . . .






Friday, July 8, 2011

Washington, DC

Our family vacation took us to Washington, DC last summer. There was lots to do and see. It was also the first major outing with the new camera and I was on a big learning curve. Here are 11 shots from more than 800 that were taken.











Thursday, July 7, 2011

The Farmers Market

The Madison Farmers Market is both a photographer's playground and a frustrating place. There is so much to shoot there but patience is an absolute virtue. This is another place that if you've never visited, you must go. The market is located on Capitol Square and is held every Saturday through the late fall. Our trip last summer also took us to Ella's Deli - another place that if you've never been, it's a must, especially if you have kids.