Tin Star Photography Blog

{ gavin } waxahachie texas child lifestyle photographer

Tue, 15 May 2012 13:23:57 CDT

Is it possible for a little boy to be this stinkin cute and charming at the age of 4?! If you doubt that question, then you haven't met Gavin.

Dude...I don't have little boys at my house, but if I did, I'd request to clone this one! He was So. Much. Fun. From the top of his fuzzy head and big eyes...to the middle of his Superman sportin' shirt...to the bottom of his awesome light up shoes. All little boy. All awesome. All the time. Happy birthday little man!

{ madison | 1 year } waxahachie texas baby & birthday lifestyle photographer

Fri, 11 May 2012 15:18:18 CDT

OK - I don't normally post previews on a Friday...you know...cause I'm like all crazy about having a schedule...BUT this AH-DOR-AH-BLE little red head is too stinkin precious to postpone!

SO full of personality, a total ham for the camera, digs puff snacks...hates cupcakes. *Note to self...try to invent a "Puff Cake"* ;)

{ joy in the form of a child } personal

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:07:17 CDT

Joy. Webster defines it as... absolute delight, the state of happiness or bliss.

Melba Colgrove says, Joy is... The feeling of grinning inside.

William Shakespeare believed that... Joy delights in joy.

A Chinese Proverb conveys that... One joy can shatter a hundred griefs.

And though some think that Joy is dependant upon the state of your life and the circumstances that surround you...

I believe as Tolstoy did. "Joy can be real only if people look upon their life as a service, and have a definite object in life outside themselves and their personal happiness."

My greatest joy in life is being a parent to my children. Being a servant mom to these girls. Being a comforter, listener, discipliner and cheer leader. Being the best mom I can be. These 2 little lives outside of my own.

Six years ago, joy was born. Her name is Emma. She is the light in my world and the song in my heart. She makes my days bright and bearable when I think I can't go on or when I feel unsuccessful. She knows how to make me laugh and cry and be uninhibited. She is the outward expression of my inward joy.

Emma, I love you more than my own life. I would give everything in this life to see you happy, successful, cared-for and self-confident. But most of all I would give even my OWN life to make sure you fully comprehend how great is the love that God has for you. That you know that you are His child above mine, that you grasp that He loves you more than I can comprehend, and that you understand that He longs to hold you in Heaven with Him one day. This is my goal and purpose for you, my Emma Claire. That you know Him. That you love Him. That you call Him your Lord and Savior. That you experience His joy; for eternity. My love and MY joy, my Emma Claire.

{ dycus } waxahachie texas family & child lifestyle photographer

Wed, 09 May 2012 15:58:21 CDT

This. Family. Rocks. Fa'real!

Yes, they are awesome to work with...a joy to call my clients and friends...have beUUUtiful babies...and treat having 4 kiddos under the age of 7 as nothing short of a blessing and miracle...and do it with the greatest of patience and ease... YA'LL! THEY GOT TO THEIR SESSION EARLY! WITH 4 KIDS! READY! AND PRIMPED! AND LOOKIN' ALL BEAUTIFUL!

And the Academy Award for Best & Most Prompt Family of 6 goes to.... The Dycus Fam! *As if it would be anyone else!* :)

{ mckie | connell } dallas texas lifestyle & family photographer

Tue, 08 May 2012 16:03:30 CDT

I only take about 3 extended family sessions in 1 year just because of coordination and timing...and they always have to be super special...and this family fit all the prereqs!

Fun, beautiful, total sense of humor and UBER cooperative; I LOVE working with big families like this! This session = As smooth as buttah! :)

{ trey } waxahachie texas child & family lifestyle photographer

Mon, 07 May 2012 10:14:17 CDT

OK...So this session was MOSTLY about Trey...the awesomely charming young man with the best little dimple and all-boy twinkle in his eyes. The little boy who drained ALL my Pez dispensers before the end of the session. The little boy who would say in a really soft kind voice.."When I smile, can I have some more candy?" *And how could I refuse!?* The little boy who toughed out the oh too soon Texas heat and gave me the best smiles and charm and squeezable hug at the end. The little boy who wiggled his way into the heart of me and my camera.

But I couldn't get away from the session without a few with his wonderful and beautiful mama. What a wonderful glimpse into the relationship between mom and son... My heart melts at this first image... :)

And can I tell you how he cracks me up! This was about the last image snapped. I think he was done! HAHA! :)

{ dillon | 1 year | the gourmet birthday } waxahcahie texas baby & birthday photographer

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:55:25 CDT

I SO love it when moms bring something special to sessions, and THIS one just happened to be a little pair of Superman britches! And OH MY! Is he not the most adorable baby Superman evah!?

What a wonderful and easy-going little man...which for mama and daddy (and me I might add)...make him even MORE super. Happy birthday, Dillon! Keep using your baby powers for good! :)

{ kerri & aaron } waxahachie texas engagement & couples photographer

Wed, 02 May 2012 11:21:28 CDT

So THIS girl is gold. Fa'real. Sweet and kind and beautiful...and, ok, ok... Aaron's alright tooooo...;) BUT, in the Perkins world, Kerri's gold.

By day, she is the best teacher, discipline-er, care-taker...and now potty trainer to my ornery and awesome little AJ. We LOVE Ms Kewwi... So what an honor it was to celebrate her newlywed journey! And even if it IS a little post-wedding....they are still very much in love...and oh, how it shows... Bliss! :)

{ brody | 6-7 mo baby model } waxahachie texas baby photographer

Tue, 01 May 2012 11:19:54 CDT

This little man is the sweetest and most easy going baby, and OMG I could squeeze him through the screen right now even! So full of smiles and expression and joy, and the perfect example of everything a little 7mo should be! What a wonderful way to start off my little model sessions... :)

{ victoria | 9 mo baby model } waxahachie texas baby photographer

Tue, 01 May 2012 11:24:53 CDT

OK, I could name about a bazillion girls who would kill for curls like this...and I'm totally one of them. Not ashamed. :) And not to mention a smile and a set of cheeks and sparkly eyes that would melt the heart of the meanest of the mean... She make my heart smile out loud!

{ lindley | 16 mo baby model } waxahachie texas child photographer

Tue, 01 May 2012 11:28:22 CDT

So mom worries about this one. Since birth. She wants her to show off her awesome personality. Cause she has one. She's sweet, with hysterically funny expressions...BUT...as is evident from the first image...she could make even the phone book look like a prize winning novel. No smiles needed. ;)

*AND...It wouldn't have been as wonderful a day if my new friend and beautiful mentoree Jennifer hadn't been there! I have learned as much from her as maybe she's learned from me...and a friendship has been born. Thank you for your help and encouragement and wonderful spirit! And check out her Facebook page, and send her some love: Jennifer Gauer Photography*

{ kaydell | 3 mo | tin star 1 year baby plan } waxahachie texas baby photographer

Tue, 01 May 2012 16:50:07 CDT

I am SO excited to announce the Tin Star 1 Year "Oh Baby!" plan! And MORE excited that this precious little 3 month old was my rookie star... Is she not GAWgeous!?

OK - and just a couple of side notes... You wouldn't be able to tell by the grins on her face now, but she had a bit of a rough newborn session...lots of colic and tears and restlessness...but the 2nd time is the charm. Obviously!

Also, the little bed is a side table that my great-grandaddy built, and I broke it, and my heart broke, and it sat in my garage for a bazillion years, cause I couldn't get rid of it...and then I had an epiphany! I flipped it (literally), put feet on it, painted it...and VOILA! A baby bed! And accompanied with my grandmother's baby quilt...this little girl was in total REAL vintage perfection. :)

{ ballard } waxahachie texas child lifestyle photographer

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:38:53 CDT

OK...I'm a wee bit late on this one...but it doesn't mean I don't LOVE this family! It just means that my return from vacation took a bit more of a recovery effort than I thought it would! :)

And every time I shoot these beautiful and squishibly sweet little kiddos...I'm reminded of how incredibly blessed I am to encounter such gracious people who come back to me time and time again...who recommend me by shouting it from the mountain tops...who feel connected with me and my family...who value me and invest themselves in my business...and who encourage my spirit more than they will ever know. So completely blessed beyond measure! Love you Ballard Family!

*Don't you wonder about the secrets of little ones....? I do...and long to be that age again...sometimes...*

{ mamarazzi workshop ~ summer 2012 } waxhachie texas client education photographer

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:10:27 CDT

Only 3 spots left! Don't miss it! Email: tinstarphoto@yahoo.com

{ tin star | 2013 senior rep program } waxahachie texas senior photographer

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:15:09 CDT

Get your submissions in! Last day to apply is July 15th! Email: tinstarphoto@yahoo.com

{ colt | 2 yr } waxahachie texas child & birthday photographer

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 09:30:21 CDT

Colt. Uber handsome little man. Way mischevious little twinkle in his eyes. And makes me want to squishy hug him till he cries 'UNCLE!' And I swear the first image reminds me of a scene from Tom Sawyer...

Love the water. Love the boots. Love the hat. Love the balloons. LOVE. This. Boy. Happy birthday Colt!

{ aspen | 1 yr } waxahachie texas baby & birthday photographer

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 12:07:31 CDT

OK - several observations about little Miss Aspen...

1 - THE happiest, most smilingest baby I have EVER, EVER seen. Ever. Really. The only time she wasn't smiling, is when she was over concentrating on that cupcake.

2 - THE fastest cupcake eater I have EVER, EVER seen. Really. The fact that she is all gummy toothless smile did NOT slow her down. In about 5 minutes she was doing the "It's All Gone" victory dance!

3 - THE easiest 1 Year Birthday Session I have EVER, EVER experienced. Really. Sweet, easygoing, easy to please, more smiles and squeals and giggles than I knew what to do with!

Happy Birthday Aspen!!!

{ vickers } dallas texas family & child lifestyle photographer

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:48:57 CDT

When I think of perfect sessions... I'll probably think about this one.

Perfect overcast weather with a little breeze. Perfectly and stunningly georgous family. A pretty little girl that I made instant connections with. (Yee. Haw.) A relieved mom and dad because it went SO smoothly. And one stinkin thrilled photographer. YEE! HAW!

{ martinez } waxahachie texas child & family lifestyle photography

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 09:45:58 CDT

So... There are times in your life when change is inevitable... For me that time is now. As I walk through a journey of self-discovery with a new friend and mentoree to find her style, I have found mine. She helped me discover it, and this family has helped me confirm it. And I am forever grateful to them, and I'm not sure I can ever express how much it means to me.

Lifestyle photography. What is it? I looked it up, and the definitions stink. They involve marketing terms and fluff and nothing from the heart kind of words. So here's MY definition... The ability to artistically snap a slice of everyday life as natural moments occur and the chance to peek into a child's true personality and/or a family's true relationship.

Yep, it's long, but I think that just about covers it! Don't you? So that's me; those are the images that I super pink puffy glittery heart LOVE. Those are the images that inspire me, and make my heart beat a little faster, or tear up, or literally giggle out loud as soon as I open them. This is the style to which I lean and will focus on. Fuel your passion right? And this little family was my inspirational fuel. LOVE them! :)

{ spencer | senior 2012 | midlothian hs } waxahachie texas senior photographer

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 10:01:06 CDT

Quiet and unassuming and talented artist. These are the 3 things that stand out in my mind about Spencer. Oh, and Montgomery Clift; Silver screen movie star; Quiet, unassuming and talented artist. Again, I know I've just WAY dated myself... ;)

Spencer has one of the most charming smiles, the most polite manner and is by far one of the best animated artists I've seen...evah. And this guy can take photography direction like no other guy I've worked with...evah. And his session has some of my most favorite senior images...evah. Fa'real. :)

{ weaver } waxahachie texas child & family photographer

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 13:28:18 CDT

Sometimes, I think people wonder what I do. It seems fun and fairly easy to the casual, from-a-distance observer. I go out in the beautiful world. Play with some kids and families. Take a few pretty pictures. Load said pretty pictures and VOILA! DONE!

THEN... Sometimes I have sessions when I am reminded (and my clients are a bit surprised to find out) that I am also known as... Bottomless candy provider. Pogo stick imitator. Serious sweat maker. Contortionist extraordinaire. Default safety mom. Noises you've never HEARD maker. Giggle inducer. Bribe expert. Boo boo kisser. Hug giver. Toot accuser. Passive teacher and disciplinarian. Child catcher. Mom and dad relaxer. Friend maker. Toy supplier.

And remember... all of those things... don't even require a camera yet! ;)

Thanks to the wonderful Weaver Family for being the instigators of a great session and another reason for me to exercise! Beautiful evening; Beautiful family, Beautiful images!

{ devreeze } waxahachie tx child & family photographer

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:57:38 CDT

These were 4 of the best smilingest people in the world...and I can't TELL you how awesome that is! You'll see a Fackbook post later about the antics us photographers sometimes go through just to get 1 twinkling little smile, but THIS family didn't take much work at all.

Simply put... They were happy to be there... And so was I. Boo ya! :)

{ The 2nd Everyday Mamarazzi Workshop } waxahachie tx photographer, workshops, education

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 10:51:28 CDT

{ sophie | senior 2012 | waxahachie hs } waxahachie tx senior photographer

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 20:50:20 CDT

Ok. It is a rare thing to leave this photographer speechless; Just ask my husband! But seriously, I was and am still without words for one of the most beautiful sessions with one of the sweetest young ladies.

This session almost makes me want to say, "Forget the fall!" Spring light is SO worth the wait... Wouldn't you say? You can't BUY light like that! And when it happens, with someone who just goes with it and hikes through mud and slaps away bugs and avoids posion ivy so she can humor me with 'The Light'... ohmagoodness... It's incredible. It was a total honor to be there.

{ avery } dallas tx family & child photographer

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:18:02 CDT

It's funny... All parents...including yours truly... want their kids to be on their best behavior. ESPECIALLY for photo sessions! We remind, we bribe, we lecture, we give pep talks and promise 'rewards' if all goes well. There's nothing wrong with wanting to represent our family well! Well.... If I can say anything to parents...including myself...it would be... Always tell your kiddos to be nice... BUT... Let them be kids!

If it weren't for these 2 munchkins getting to be themselves, I wouldn't have captured a priceless moment between a brother and sister, that WILL be played at someone's future wedding... Or the look on that little guy's face when mom and dad steal a kiss... Or the look of adoration on big sister's face for her baby cousin... They are comfortable in their family skin, and it shows! :)

Let them be kids, while they still have to opportunity... And while you can still appreciate it.

{ shimek } dallas tx family & child photographer

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 17:55:40 CDT

I've seen this wonderful family for a while now, and after about 2-3 sessions, we start to really figure each other out. What I ask of them, my humor (or lack of it), and when I demand they laugh at my jokes... AND how I photograph them and what they are comfortable with. Even if it's been a few months or even a year, we are familiar. We learn what EACH of us is capable of. THIS is the love relationship you should develop with a photographer. ANY photographer you choose. If you hate the relationship, why invest in it!?

Because this familiarity in your photography relationship can give way to expression and comfort and moments. Moments that just happen. Moments that breathe magic... :)

{ erik | senior 212 | bynum hs } waxahachie senior photographer

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 15:25:34 CDT

I was warned about this young man. That he didn't, couldn't and wouldn't smile.

For anyone. Or anything. And he might be a challenge.

So all I have to say after this great session is...

Boo. Ya. SMILE!

*Erik, you were such an incredible guy to work with...and I am positive that your talents (and your smile) will take you places you never thought possible! And as soon as I get my muscle car...I'm calling YOU to bring it back to life! :)

{ hunter | senior 2012 | milano hs } waxahachie senior photographer

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:38:48 CDT

OK - I know I probably say this all the time...but, DUDE, this was one of my most favorite sessions. One that I will have no problem remembering almost every image. One that will make me smile, even in a few months and maybe years. And one that I hope this beautiful girl loves as much as I do.

We fought wind, and sirens, and trains, and motorcycle wrecks 20 feet from where we were shooting....fa'real...thankfully no one was injured seriously... And Hunter never lost her cool or her smile or laughter. And she did MOST fabulously! Plus she gave to me probably one of the greatest compliments I could ever receive from any client... "You make me feel so comfortable and pretty..."

Hunter, I hope and pray you always feel as comfortable and pretty as you did Saturday....you ARE. Beautiful. :)

{ eva | month of love session } waxahachie baby photographer

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 12:08:48 CST

I looked up the name Eva to see what it's origin was and the meaning...cause I'm kinda geeky like that... SO, in case you wanted to know...it is of Hebrew origin, derived from the name 'Eve' and means 'life'. And as beautiful as I think that all is, I think I need to add a little sumthin... Like...

Eva; origin: Hebrew; derived from 'Eve'; meaning: the most beautiful, exotic baby pout evah and I could shoot her for 24 hours a day and squeeze her the rest of the time. *Did that work?*

And PS - If I could shoot babies...in vintage...until the day I die...I would be in Baby Bliss! Fa'real. Do YOU have a baby? Call me! Seriously! :)

{ baby casting call! }

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 14:31:19 CST

Get your submission in today! Models will be announced on Thursday, March 15 on my Facebook Page! *If I receive enough model applicants, I will also open a second Baby Bliss day!* :)

{ stenberg } dallas family & child photographer

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 13:46:45 CST

It's been 2 years and 1.2 kids ago since I've seen this absolutely wonderful family...but it felt like only yesterday... The Stenbergs are the kind of family that no matter how much time passes and no matter what's happened, we can pick up the conversation as though we just spoke. It is SUCH a peaceful and awesome feeling to work with people like that; just cool...like the Fonz kind of cool. ;)

And despite the craziness that three women can inflict on one man (I know this for a fact because the similarities are UNCANNY!)...he takes it in stride and and loves completely and tolerantly. And I just stand back. And observe. And snap. In awe.

*Love this family...*

{ barnett beauties | month of love session } waxahachie child and baby photographer

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:49:21 CST

I have been impatiently awating the arrival of the newest Barnett baby for what felt like an eternity...and she was well worth the wait! As precious as her big sister, equally beautiful, and incredibly strong!

I mean really, what's not to love about girls anyway...but I'm not biased or anything...;)

Congrats Tessa & Aaron! What a wonderful family you have been given, and I pray for so many blessings for all of you along the way! It's an absolute honor that you have chosen to share your lives with me...thank you.

{ jeffery | month of love session } waxahachie child photographer

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 14:42:52 CST

OMG. Seriously. Seriously! Just want to smoosh him with hugs!

But sessions with Jeffery weren't always this easy... shy and quiet and bad photo experiences before had left him with slight shutter trauma, and I knew it going into his latest session. So I prayed (don't underestimate this!)... AND, I pulled out my arsenal of sure fire giggle makers! Mater the Pez dispenser... Mr Mustache on a Stick... A bowl full of M&Ms... And what EVERY superkid needs; a super cape!

And it turned out to be the best 30 minute session with J... EVAH. *And I think he kinda liked it too.* ;)

Photography is also about developing relationships and devoting time and energy to meet these little people where THEY are... Take the time! The relationship is worth it! For years to come!

{ the month of love sessions } waxahachie photographer

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:26:46 CST

{ cohen | 1 year | the gourmet birthday } waxhachie baby & birthday photographer

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:03:28 CST

This kiddo makes me laugh. Out loud. Even a few days later. He is by far one of the smilingest and happiest babies I get to entertain...and he entertains ME more!

And this first image? Seriously? Not only can I hear HIM laugh...but he makes ME laugh! If images only came with sound! :) *And FYI... yes, I'm totally THAT funny.*

{ kaydell | 3 weeks } waxahachie newborn photographer

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 20:38:24 CST

Soft... Sweet... Precious... Beautiful... Alert... And a one rough day.

All of these apply to this wonderful little girl, but being a newborn isn't the easiest of jobs. After all they have left the warmth and comfort and dark of 9 months to enter noises and lights and temperature fluctuations and new 'foods' and cold baby wipes on a hiney and itchy clothes and swaddling like mummmies...really...I might want to go back too. ;)

And little Miss K, who gave her best, and shined like a superstar through tummy aches and a restless session, fell asleep for approximately 15 minutes. But all in all...15 minutes of pure gold!

{ a baby, a mama and a nana } waxahachie baby & family photographer

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:04:55 CST

What a beautiful and fun family I get to work with...and since the beginning of this little one. BUT... things have changed now...she's MOBILE! She squirmed and wiggled and I was just fast enough to document it all.

What an honor to share in this moment. What a great gift to this nana and this baby's memories. Invauable. Irreplaceable. And treasured forever... :)

{ thank you, hunter moore } a campaign for personal awareness and safety

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:12:32 CST

This post is going to be very lengthy, very personal and VERY important. If you don't have the time, MAKE time; now or later, it doesn't matter. But read this. It's important to your safety, your family's and children's safety. Sit down, snuggle in, and get ready to be pissed. Because this is real and prevalent and an ongoing war with evil. You are not immune. But you can fight, because that is exactly what I am going to do. Did that peak your interest? It had better, because the rest of what I have to tell you requires action...by YOU.

Points to remember:

My Facebook settings were and are private.

This violation is about ME, not my kids OR my clients.

My account has not been hacked. It is still safe to be my Facebook friend.

This situation should make you concerned and prompt you to action to protect yourself and those you love.

If you have a business page...or Google listing...linked to your name, you should be even MORE concerned.

This is NOT a campaign to remove your images, or delete your Facebook account. It IS a campaign of awareness.

If you don't agree with my story, in part or the whole. That's all right. I don't live to please anyone but my Savior. Drop me as a friend, business client or blog stalker. I'm OK with that. I just hope, one day you don't remember this story because it happened to you too.

Gosh. Where to begin. Except to say that this week has been personally devastating. If you aren't friends with me or follow me, you may not know. Some people say that not knowing or telling is a good thing. Because as I heard last week... "Why would you want to make what happened to you public?" "Why would you give this person any more recognition?" "No one will know unless they visit that site, so why talk about it?" All good questions. All that deserve answers. But for answers, we must begin at the beginning...

Last Tuesday, any other normal Tuesday, right? So I thought. Here's how it started...

Background:

I am a small town Christian mom to 2 little girls and an awesome husband. My life is relatively quiet and my word and reputation is like gold to me, especially since I am a small business owner in a competitive industry (photography). Like millions of people today, I have a Facebook account. I use it to share and connect personally and promote my business professionally. I have always taken great considerations when it comes to privacy, and strive to keep my account as secure as it can be in this day and age; for myself AND my clients.

However, January 18, I began to get email notifications by Facebook of strangers 'Subscribing' to my public updates from my personal profile. The 'Subscribe' option was employed by Facebook in the last few months as a way for 'public figures' to be able to promote their businesses and 'causes'. 'Subscribing' is linked to your personal account...However, because my privacy settings are so secure, I never have any public updates. I used it as a way to forward people to my business page (I am listed as "The Owner at Tin Star Photography").

Anyway, these individuals who 'subscribed' to my personal account were strangers; no common friends, strange profiles, and from random countries even. I blocked them and reported them to Facebook as harassing. I thought it was strange, but wasn't sure if it was a random thing or maybe virus related.

Then I began to receive strange emails. These emails came from a form page on my business website. They included pornographic statements and content. I deleted them. Now I was concerned.

Then I received comments on my actual Facebook Tin Star business/fan page (NOT my personal page, my BUSINESS page). The comments from individuals were not people I knew, and once again, we had no common friends, etc. Their profiles were shady and the content was disgusting. The comments all included the same link: isanyoneup.com. I again reported them to FB and banned them from my page.

I talked in length to my husband, and we started the research to see if this was in fact a virus, a scam or something worse. It was worse.

I then received comments on a personal blog I write for my 2 little girls that included a direct link to a post that contained information about me.

All of this happened in a matter of 3-4 hours.

The Violation:

A screenshot of my profile image (your profile page may be private and open to friends only, your profile IMAGE is not private) was taken and posted on a revenge porn site with random images of someone who is NOT me below it. The content is VERY pornographic in nature and not only links my name and business, but my life. The screen shot includes my business name and my Facebook business page/name. Because I am a business, my information...email, phone number, city, state, address, etc...is all very easily accessible. (Which HAS been accessed - as of this blog post, I am still receiving harassing and disgusting emails, comments and calls.)

SO, as far as my husband and I can figure out... We think the girl's images posted below my FB profile image is named Dana Perkins. Some douche canoe who was mad at his ex searched FB for a Dana Perkins and came up with me. He (or Hunter Moore) copied my FB profile image, and sent it and images of his ex, saying they were one in the same...and everything was published. Including where I live, my business... and lots of not so very nice things about a "Dana Perkins".

The Problem:

There were other people's FB profile images copied and published to this website linking them with pornographic images. Hundreds to be clear...maybe more. It is horrific. Names, locations, backgrounds, where they work...all of it... Whether these FB profiles are the same people as in the images posted below it, I have no idea. But I can say without a shadow of a doubt, mine is not. It doesn't take a genius to figure that fact out. Even Ray Charles could see the difference.

I've had people say... "Well, your Facebook info should have been changed to be more secure and private."

LET ME BE VERY CLEAR... IT WAS AND IS.

LET ME CHALLENGE YOU... Do a search on FB for someone you know but are NOT friends with and see what is listed and visible to you. A profile image, their timeline image, and their basic information? Some people's accounts ARE EVEN COMPLETELY OPEN! Even in this day and age; with all of the warnings and cautions, their accounts are still open. Mine was not. Here is the image that was brought up in this douche canoe's search for a Dana Perkins, and then published to Hunter Moore's website (CAUTION: links contain graphic content/text):

The creator:

Hunter Moore. 25. San Francisco (?) resident. Disgusting and pathetic.

He has created and runs a revenge porn website - His site has been up for a little over a year and has recently exploded when he started using screen captures of people's FB profile images and linking them to porn images on his site. He doesn't verify anything. Anyone can anonymously submit anything they want, and he'll post it. His site has now gone world-wide.

He has been banned from FB. Lawyers for FB have as recently as December sent him a Cease and Desist order to stop the publication of Facebook profiles to his site. His reply to the lawyer was to send him a picture of his genitals. So although HE can't access FB as himself, that doesn't prevent him from searching and doing screen captures...OR people who FOLLOW him and are on FB to screen capture images.

Forbes:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/kashmirhill/2011/12/09/facebook-goes-after-porn-site-that-features-its-users-profiles/

http://www.forbes.com/sites/kashmirhill/2011/11/22/how-hunter-moore-could-get-into-legal-trouble-for-the-revenge-porn-on-isanyoneup/

http://www.forbes.com/sites/kashmirhill/2011/07/06/revenge-porn-with-a-facebook-twist/

Why:

So why make all of this information public?

Why draw more attention?

Why not let it go and hope it just 'goes away'?

Why indeed.

So why make all of this information about me public?

Well, if the pornographic images were in fact ME, I might be ashamed and want to hide the situation. But they aren't. The connection between me and these images is completely and provably false. But Hunter Moore doesn't care...or those disgusting and lame people who follow him. Mr. Moore makes money. Over $8k a month in advertizing alone. That's his goal. He doesn't verify information, that takes time and requires a conscious.

The information about ME is false. I have never nor will I ever take, record or print naked images of myself. And those who do... Haven't you learned from the Pam Anderson escapade? Do you have a brain? Are you delusional to think that your past acts won't find you out? Because my sympathy for you is very small. Judgmental? Maybe. But now is not the time to beg for my sympathy. Now is the time for you to find and burn those records, or wake up and pay attention...Don't do it. No matter how young and stupid, or how drunk or naive. If you remember nothing about this story...Remember this post and me yelling at you that you are absolutely stupid if you do it.

There are 2 adults in this UNIVERSE who have seen me without clothes (as an adult)...My doctor, and she's paid to...and my husband, because he's legally obligated to. That's it. End of story.

Why draw more attention?

Because this is real. Because as good and upstanding and honest as you may live your life...there are people out there who don't care about you or your family. They are consumed by greed and evil and filth. They are so bogged down in the ashes of their lives, that they can't understand goodness. They shrink from it. They work to bring it into the darkness with them. But they can't, so they fight against it...not knowing that the battle they are REALLY fighting is against themselves and their own discomfort with the light. I'd like to coin this as the Tim Tebow effect. The goodness and the light is too convicting to face so they accuse falsely, they slander, they take pride in their sin and even call it good. It is disgusting. And heartbreaking. As much as I physically despise Hunter Moore and the people who follow him...My creator also created Hunter Moore and his minions.

Why not let it go and hope it just 'goes away'?

Because YOU need to know. Because YOU need to protect yourself. Because YOU are not immune. If I kept quiet and never said anything, this might go away in a few days for me...maybe...but there are still others out there this has and is and will continue to happen to. So it never really goes away, does it? So I choose to fight and yell and leave this earth kicking and screaming about injustice; whether about me or someone else who has been wrongfully accused. I want to leave a legacy for my children that includes living my life to glorify HIM not others and to SHOW them that tolerance and complacency toward evil is siding WITH it. Stand for something or don't stand at all. My children need to know when and how to fight. So fight, I must. And though I don't have all the answers and feel like I'm drowning in a legal pool of crap...I will still yell from the mountain so I can warn others of impending danger. That's my purpose. To warn others of the consequences of an evil world and evil people and bad choices.

As of today, I am still receiving comments and calls. I even received an inquiry through my Professional Photographer's of America membership today. These disgusting people will go to all lengths and look for all ways to destroy you. Guard yourselves.

What can YOU do?

I can't tell you how many friends I have that their entire accounts are still completely open and public. Seriously? I'll ask you/them the same thing... Are you completely void of all brain matter?! Go into your account settings NOW, and make sure you are locked down. Do not wait. There are a million just like Hunter Moore looking for people to exploit out of pure ignorance.

Review your profile image and your timeline image. Is it just you? Is it your kids? I'd consider changing that. Make it an image that isn't easliy altered...make it an image with a group or from a distance that doesn't include faces. Is this fool-proof? No. But it might help.

DO NOT TAG FB IMAGES FROM YOUR PERSONAL ACCOUNT! So if I tag someone...even my mom...and I'm not sure what HER security settings are...I've just exposed my kids to 1,000's of public hits because of HER unsecure account. Because now, not only do all of her friends see...but so does the public...those who AREN'T her friends. This has become even WORSE with the new 'newsfeed'. How many times do you see one of your friends comment on someone else's wall...and you can see the ENTIRE CONVERSATION...and you aren't even friends with the other party. Don't believe me? Hover over a conversation in the newsfeed and see for yourself. Dangerous.

If you are a business person, and you have a FB business/fan page. List as little information as you can. Remove your phone number. Remove your address. This might seem harsh, and you might think that it will make it difficult for someone to contact/find you. Believe me...you're still accessible, but why make it easier for evil to contact you. Your clients will and should understand. If they don't, that's one client I didn't need to begin with. My safety is first.

Be aware of what your kids are doing; teach them responsibility and self respect and self control. Talk to them openly about the internet and how people use it for the destruction of others and THEM. If YOU don't talk to them, someone will, and the information they get might not be the most ideal. Do you want to run that risk? I don't.

Do you have a personal blog? Password protect it. Make it by invitation only. You think your images are safe and wholesome? It only takes a little cropping and a little editing to make it less than true, and less than you.

And finally to those of you who have 978 'friends'. Seriously? Are you going to tell me that if you got into some sort of deep sheep dip...every single one of those 978 friends would have your back? Does every single one of them have your and your children's best interest as THEIR number one priority? Really? I doubt it. Not only that, but I would put money onit that they don't. They're voyeurs. That's it. Drop them. Today. Who cares what they think. This is YOUR LIFE! PROTECT IT!

Final words:

The blog I treasured for my girls was removed permanently because now that their site was found by not so upstanding people and comments were made directly on their site, I didn't want to compromise their images and integrity in any way. It was the ONLY responsible thing to do. I'm a mom, I would die for them...and I would kill to protect them. Period. Harsh? Yes. True. YES!

I'm skittish, to say the least. My number has been removed from everything I can think of. I don't answer phone calls directly anymore. That's why I probably won't answer for a while if you do call. I'm uber paranoid in the store, in my house, in my car, you name it. These aren't just identity thieves. These are people that pride themselves on the personal violation of you and me. These aren't the cowards who take your credit card, charge some stuff and are never caught and you never hear from them. These people call you...and email you...and comment about you...and CONFRONT YOU. It gets them off. It's different.

I've filed a police 'record'...no 'report' since I haven't been threatened. Nice. Right? Sometimes even the law is cowardly.

I've filed complaints with Facebook. They won't do anything, even though they are in the midst of fighting as well. Again. Nice. Right?

I've emailed (repeatedly) Hunter Moore's site with removal requests. The information has YET to be removed.

So instead of hiding. I'm going public. And I'm fighting. My reputation and convictions will speak for themselves. Those who know me and love me will support me. Those who don't can leave now.

To the absolute cowards who submit information ANONYMOUSLY to Hunter Moore. You are pathetic excuses for a human and a waste of air. Be real men (or women), and come clean. Use your name. Or are you afraid of being harassed?

To those who continue to harass and email and call me... If you visit my site or my blog, you're tracked. Your location, your IP, your email, your information. I have records. You will be reported. I will make it public if you continue to do so. Is the information true? You'll find out...and so will the rest of the visiting public.

My ultimate goal:

I can honestly say that I have prayed for Hunter Moore every single day in some form or another since the day this happened.

Hunter Moore was created by MY Creator. I am worth my Creator's time. So is Hunter Moore. So I must pray. Pray to replace my hate with love. To replace the pain in Mr. Moore's life with peace. To pray for conviction and salvation. Though the ultimate salvation of Hunter Moore might not be a part of God's plan... God's plan for MY life is that I would use this situation to inform others and reflect Him. Can I do that on my own? Absolutely not. Hate and revenge for what has happened is my weakness. But in my weaknesses, He makes me strong.

I know I'm not strong enough to be everything that I'm supposed to be, I give up, I'm not strong enough, Hands of mercy won't you cover me, Lord right now I'm asking you to be, Strong enough, For the both of us.
MATTHEW WEST - STRONG ENOUGH LYRICS

{ tessa | 1 year | the gourmet birthday session } waxahachie baby & birthday photographer

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:51:16 CST

Tessa celebrated her first birthday with me...and what a FAB-U-LOUS way to kick off 2012! She is absolutely one of the most beautiful little babies, uber photogenic, a bucket of personality, and I will follow (ok, photo stalk) her for the rest of my days. ;)

Yummy...yummy...yummy... From the little pucker and the drool on the belly to the final banshee yell when the cake had disintegrated and no longer edible. Happy Birthday Tessa!!!

{ audrey jane | 2 years } personal

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:36:12 CST

Time is my enemy. Of this I am sure. For it steals all the days and moments and itty bittyness. It sounds so cliche to say, "I remember the day we brought you home...or how tiny you were...or how precious you are..." So I won't say these things. I will show you some day in the images I take. And I will tell you how strong and big and independant and articulate you already were at 2; and I will tell you what a wild flight it was raising you. My little AJ the Jet Plane.

But mostly I will tell you how we prayed about you before you were even to be. And how God knew about you from the beginning of time. And I will tell you how much He loves you; more than we ever did or could. And how He died for you and calls you His beloved. And I will tell you how I have prayed for you all the days of your life, and will until I have passed from this one. You and your big sister, who loves you more than even she herself knows, are the reasons I get up each day with a song in my heart. And no mater how miserably I have and will fail you and her, I will remind you of how much I will love you until I take my last breath. I am yours, you are mine, we are His. And I pray for every good and perfect thing for your life, for your hapiness, for your success and for your ultimate salvation and love for the God who created such a wonderful little human. My heart. My love. My Audrey Jane.

{ elin | 2 weeks } waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 10:26:46 CST

Elin. Beautiful. Dreamy. Perfect.

I have NO idea which is my favorite, or if I would even be able to pick a top 3...I'm just in love with them all. And her. And everything about this session and family. What a blessed little lady to be born into such a family as this.

ps ~ But if I did have to pick a 'pull at my petstrings' image...It would DEFINITELY the first one. Paws down. :)

{ wilson } waxahachie baby & family photographer

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 20:48:25 CST

I've seen this little family since the beginning practically...the beginning of little Miss Elizabeth...who was supposed to be a he...but turned out to be a surprise she...and one of the best things since pink tutus.

She turned one AND just in time for her service man daddy to come home and celebrate with her! And now they are complete once again. And in bliss. Once again. And I think the look on Elizabeth's little baby face says it all... "Daddy's home! Merry Christmas to me!" :)

{ God Came Near } personal

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 21:22:32 CST

He looks like anything but a king. His face is prunish and red. His cry, though strong and healthy, is still the helpless and piercing cry of a baby. And he is absolutely dependent upon Mary for his well-being.

Majesty in the midst of the mundane. Holiness in the filth of sheep manure and sweat. Divinity entering the world on the floor of a stable, through the womb of a teenager and in the presence of a carpenter.

She touches the face of the infant-God. How long was your journey!

This baby had overlooked the universe. These rags keeping him warm were the robes of eternity. His golden throne room had been abandoned in favor of a dirty sheep pen. And the worshiping angels had been replaced with kind but bewildered shepherds.

Meanwhile, the city hums. The merchants are unaware that God has visited their planet. The innkeeper would never believe that he has just sent God into the cold. And the people would scoff at anyone who told them the Messiah lay in the arms of a teenager on the outskirts of their village. They were all too busy to consider the possibility.

Those who missed His Majesty’s arrival that night missed it not because of evil acts or malice; no, they missed it because they simply weren’t looking.

Little has changed in the last two thousand years, has it?

Max Lucado ~ God Came Near

{ samantha | senior 2012 | anna hs } waxahachie senior photographer

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 15:40:04 CST

Holy cannoli. The last 2 senior girls I've shot have been absolutely, stunningly georgous. The planets must be in a line, and I must be doing something totally right to get to work with wonderful girls like these. They are proof that you can show off your femininity, and style, and beauty with out getting ho-ish. *Yes, I said it. And yes, it's been an increasing problem in this industry. Growing up young women too quickly and too inappropriately. I said it, so there. ;)*

But this young lady...Samantha...with as kind of a heart and fun of a spirit as she is beautiful. She's going places, and I can't wait to see where the road takes her, and I'm lucky enough to see the beginning... :)

{ coulson } dallas child & family photographer

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 09:08:23 CST

So the last time I saw this beautiful little girl...she was in her mama's belly...and my, how time flies and she's changed...haha...

But OhEmGee, she's just a georgous baby, and it turned out to be a georgous day, in a georgous setting, with you guessed it...georgous mama and daddy. Blessed! :)

{ merrell } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 10:28:21 CST

Ohmagosh. These people were such a hoot to work with. Yes, I said a 'hoot'. *Which by using that word means I've just become my grandmother.* Total hoot!

And I knew the session was meant to be when dad Merrell shared that he too held a finer appreciation for all things Steelers and Terry Bradshaw; although in Cowboy country, I warned him to keep that secret...we are outcasts...:)

And the love between these brothers...ahhhh...can you feel it? If not, scroll down. There's a bear hug in your future...HAHA!

Loved, loved, loved this session with just down right good people! *See, now I've become my grandfather!*

{ brek | 3 weeks } waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 23:35:28 CST

Brek. Strong. Calm. Faces. Noises. Poses. Tiny. Handsome. And sleepy. And both mama and daddy were in awe...of the last one. Apparently this little guy doesn't sleep much, and hasn't figured out his schedule...but he TOTALLY fooled ALL of us for his session. So score one for us. ;)

A baby will make... Love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankrolls smaller, home happier, clothes shabbier, the past forgotten, and the future worth living for. ~ Anonymous

{ patino } waxahachie child & family photographer

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:25:58 CST

What a sweet and fun-filled session of moments this was...from throwing leaves, to loving on mom, to tackling dad. It's the candid moments that make a session and not necessarily a session filled with images of placing, and posing, and sparklie smiles. But the times that catch you off guard, and make your heart soar...THOSE are the images you'll remember and your heart will treasure and will be proud you captured 10 years from now, and NOT the one you chose for your 2011 Christmas card. ;)

{ lamberson | eberhart } waxahachie child & family photographer

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 11:14:22 CST

Oh I love and appreciate my family as much as the next person...right? I bet you've told yourself that too a few times, I know I have. But sometimes it takes a special session with a combined family that's had a tough year to remind me. And my heart rejoices at their smiles and feels their group hug and envies their camaraderie. They are friends and brothers and sisters for life. And I am proud to share in their moment, and am changed through even the small amount of time spent together. All of them; wicked tough. :)

{ change is good & so is togetherness } personal & professional

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:05:39 CST

I could go on and on about how the economy stinks and prices have gone up across the board, and people are out of work...and on...and on...and on... But I won't. Cause it's a downer. Across the board. And it just makes me all fidgety and irritable and want to crack open the nearest vat of nutella. :)

SO, INSTEAD...this post is going to be THE most positive post about pricing increases you've ever read!!!

Now I'm not going to increase my prices SO much that only the likes of The Donald can afford me, and then even HE would have to borrow! Haha! NOPE! I'm going to tell you how fabulously awesome this is for everyone involved!

For YOU - because I will now only be taking a set number of sessions per month. This number isn't going to be set in stone, but the month will close for booking when I feel that my creative juices might be sucked dry! No more booking the heck out of a month until I can't see straight and cry on the last day of the month because I'm on the verge of burnout and then have to start another month all over. No more of my kids asking..."Why can't we go to the park on Saturday?" No more feeling rushed and uninspired! My goal is to have more time to PLAN your session...cater to your dreams...communicate MY vision for your session...and spend valuable, quality and creative time with you and your families helping you to live out your real and beautiful life on 'film'.

For ME - because I'll be a better wife, and mama, and friend, and daughter, and human. I'll be rested, and less stressed, and less overwhelmed, and more creative. What kind of 'creative' do you mean? http://wildflowersphotos.com/blog/ and http://www.workofheartphoto.com/blog/ THAT'S what I'm talking about...the images that stir me and get me going and inspire me! But these sessions require time, and planning....and PLANNING. So it's up to me to make the time, and God will provide the means, and the way, and the kids, and families, and couples, and the people. No doubt. Fa'real.

BUT, I would be totally living on the former planet known as Pluto (which Superman apparently didn't know happened...and he calls himself Superman...ppfft!) if I didn't think and know that this might mean I will lose a few clients or potential clients in the process. I completely understand. And I know that there are also a million photographers out there, and a million more popping up just around MY neck of the woods every single day. BUT, I can say, that with your help, I can give you the best session, the most personal of connections, and the most heartfelt images of your life. I know, because I put my soul into it. My passion into your family. My motherhood into your newborn. My humor into your life. Can you say the same of another photographer? If so, superb! If not, stick with me kids...we're going places...and it starts in 2012 ~ The bus to get there might not be the express...but the journey and the destination are worth it!

To check out the details of the new and improved and awesome pricing and packages and all that jazz...go here: Tin Star Photography / Website / Click the "Investment" tab!

{ williamson } dallas arboretum child & family & maternity photographer

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:19:36 CST

Oh. Ma. Gravy. Everything about this place, day, session, family and little girl just makes me want to swoon. You know, some days are just gold, and everything comes together in just the right way, the planets are all in line and you hold your tongue juuuuuuust right...and boo ya!

What a beautiful family, mama-to-be, sister-to be, daddy-to-be and baby Molly-to-be...I am in love, in awe and in-spired. So much so that we threw in a little Audrey Hepburn-esque-ness right at the end. And yep, it was pretty much perfect too. *I wish we could do it again...tomorrow.* :)

{ natalie | senior 2012 | kaufman hs } waxahachie senior photographer

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 11:50:10 CST

This is the first time I had the pleasure to meet Miss Natalie...but I've known her momma for just about forever. *OK, maybe not FOREVER...but a long time.* And I always say, "Any daughter of Yoli's is a daughter of mine!"

What an awesomely GAW-geous and talented and witty and beautiful young lady this is! And we won't EVEN talk about how cold and windy it was on Saturday, but let's just give a little warning to all those weatherpeeps out there...You got it wrong, and we're comin for ya! ;)

{ adams } waxahachie family photographer

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 16:09:49 CST

Again with this wind...but thank goodness you can't even tell! Whew! This family was just a whole lot of trooper-ness in more ways than one. Because sometimes portrait sessions are NOT the most comfortable and ego boosting things you can experience, especially if you are of the male persuasion. But they can be fun. And you can make connections. And you can generate smiles. And memories. And win. ;)

Thank you doesn''t seem to be enough...but I do...thank this family...for their smiles and memories.

{ denny } waxahachie child & family photographer

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:17:25 CST

This little family was so much fun and photogenic, and what awesome kiddos they have! Polite, smart, witty and cute! Yes, the wind was still blowing, so it always takes a bit of a longer session, but at least it wasn't raining or freezing. So I'll count my blessings, and take a gale force ANY day! (As long as all of my clients are bald from here on out...hehe ) ;)

{ reed } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 10:02:03 CST

Remember I had a little post on Facebook last week about taking my time...hanging back...moms feeling anxious...and letting magic happen? Well, it just so happens that I put all of that to work with the Reed's Family Session...and voila...it was magic!

Sometimes when kiddos are out of their element, they're nervous and anxious themselves, and so I've learned to adjust, slow down, be easy and quiet (and quiet is HARD for me people!)...and 99% of the time it just works. And these two little gems were no different. And their little smiles prove it! :)

{ adalynn | 4mos } waxahachie baby photographer

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:22:10 CST

Love love love this precious little girl! She is SO easy going, a TOTAL poser, and smiles on que! Plus, I always like to see little ones grow and learn and develope into the miracles they were destined to be. Here's to the next 100 years...and hoping I can still shoot little babies till then! *I might need some help getting up off the ground though...;)*

{ culp } dallas baby, child & family photographer

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:27:25 CST

What a blessing it is to be a part of families...and moments...and children...and life. I can't explain in words how important these memories are for ME, and helping people document their own lives. It's actually a bit overwhelming, and the pressure I feel to deliver is sometimes the greatest I've ever known. It's stoping your life in an instant. A time and day you will never get back. So make the most of it now...even IF the thought of a session makes you cringe; 10 years from now, when you look back at how small they were, how young you were, how your family has changed...you won't regret it for a moment. :)

{ parker } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 15:42:13 CST

It was just about 2 1/2 yrs ago when I first met them, and that now famous picture of this little 18mo squeezable boy, on a bench, at the Arboretum, in a tie. A POLKADOTTED TIE, I tell you! Who knew baby ties would be so cool and hip and adorable today...and I STILL get comments on that image. So when these 3 kiddos showed up Saturday, I don't think I was prepared for how grown up and chatty and completely in awe I'd be again. But I was wrong. I loved every minute. Again. Just as if it was 2.5 years ago... :)

{ the 1st annual tin star christmas gift } personal

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:52:53 CST

I think it's funny sometimes when people make assumptions...don't you? About how easy your life has been and where you've come from and what an easy road you've had. I laugh. Oh not to their faces, but on the inside. Because I know differently.

I know I'm blessed. Absolutely. Completely. Abundantly. And I always have been. But knowing you're blessed and counting those blessings every day has been a choice. A very difficult and hard choice on many days, but a choice nonetheless. One that doesn't depend on circumstances, finances, tangible evidence or my state of being.

After all, it really doesn't seem like so very long ago that I was a kid...struggling with all of the stupid and petty things kids do...but now throw in a long addicted and uninvolved father, a deeply hurt and emotionally pained mother, few friends that I kept distant for fear they might find out how VERY imperfect my life was and few resources to confide in. And then...my Junior/Senior year of high school...divorcing parents, a single mom who lost her job because of a really thoughtless and uncaring corporate world, a serious illness which left me hospitalized, and depression. Through all of those changes, to say we 'didn't have much' might be an understatement. People assume that because I went to a private school that I was part of a class of elite kids. For some, that might be the case...but it wasn't for me, and for some others I knew too. And some I didn't know about until recently.

My mom worked her tail off to offer my brother and I something better. She sacrificed so much of herself to give and provide. I remember going on 'vacation' to my aunt's house during the summer after she lost her job so she didn't have to run the AC (in Texas, mind you) because there wasn't money to pay for electricity, and she didn't want us to suffer too - how miserable and lonely that must have been. I remember coming home from church one day to find bags and bags of Christmas gifts on our front porch because someone, somewhere (whoever they were) knew that we wouldn't have a Christmas otherwise. I remember 'creative dinners' because we couldn't go to the store...just yet. I remember how relieved I was the day we found out we would have to wear uniforms to school, because now I wouldn't be subjected to 'creative fashions' anymore.

I remember never knowing how truly little we had until now, looking back. How blessed we were to have even little bits of encouragement. And what an incredible spirit my mom was and is. And I probably didn't thoroughly understand the extent to which my mom hurt and sacrificed until I had my own kids and then realized just how much I'd give and do for them.

We still struggle, even now. Finances, business, lack of business, marriage, kids, home, balance, conviction, rejection, acceptance, forgiveness, mistakes, mercy, wanting everything in the world and more for your kids, but knowing that eating might be slightly more important. And we're BACK to the creative meals again...:)

I laugh. So I don't cry, or go crazy...or cry. Because I know there are others out there who feel what I feel too. Who experience what I've been through too. Who struggle every day with...is God really out there? Is He listening? Does He remember that I'm even here? Are there people who really care about what I'm going through? I know. I've been there. I'm there even now. And I'm here to tell you that even in the midst of tears...there IS a God who cares, He listens, He knows where you are as well as the numbers of hairs on your head and there are people out there who care too. But it seems the hurt is more frequent and more deep and less shown these days. We're guarded and protective and quietly struggling.

I know when I was growing up, there were few if any of my friends who knew about the pain and struggles me and my family went through. I don't know if they even know today. But someone knew. And they helped and encouraged. These are the people that gave my mom a chance at a new job, and Christmas Gifts, and scholarships to school and food and prayers and hugs. It's all part of the process. My process. Of maturing me. Of breaking me of my dependency on self and things. Of molding me to be like Him. It hurts. It's so painful. It's overwhelming. It still is. But I wouldn't trade a day or an experience or creative fashion for anything. The only thing I wish I could do would be to go back and tell those who helped how much my heart thanks them, and how much they made a difference, and how acting on the tuggings of their hearts changed MY world for the better. My dad and our relationship is healed...my mom is one of my biggest fans and greatest heroes...and my God is still the Provider of all of my needs, the Healer of all of my hurts, and the Maker of the mountains I can't climb.

So...I don't assume anymore. Or try not to at least. It gets me into too much trouble...and then teaches me a lesson in humility and counting my blessings.

So this Christmas, I still can't offer gold or silver or diamonds; so I offer my talent. As little and humble as it is, to someone who is hurting today. A family, a HS Senior, a baby, a mom, a dad, a child...a someone. Someone who needs a little break and a little encouragement from a hard year and harder life. It's not much, but it's what I can give at the moment. I so wish it could be more, but my prayer is that no matter the value it can be used.

Do you know this someone? Tell me about them...in a little story or essay. Tell me THEIR story...and let's pass on the blessings.

The Gift:

A 30-45 minute session with me in Waxahachie, TX

The Requirements:

You cannot nominate yourself

The nominee must not have had a portrait session within the last year

The person nominating must submit a brief story/essay telling why the nominee(s) need encouragement and this special gift

You must provide full name(s), ages of any kiddos, contact information and the person or number of persons for the session

Stories will be accepted from November 22 through December 2. There will be 1 recipient chosen. The recipient will be announced on December 19th. Send stories to tinstarphoto@yahoo.com

{ jaxon | 2 weeks } waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 11:17:23 CST

The most PRECIOUS baby graced me with his beautiful presence yesterday! Jaxon... big time sleeper, perfect and flawless baby skin, noisy little eater, serious cuddler and 2 week old heart throb. I think that about covers it!

Oh! Wait! And two people. Totally. In. Love. *Heaven.* :)

{ mcelyea } waxahachie child & family photographer

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 10:19:39 CST

Ok, first...I don't normally post this many images for previews...just not enough time, especially this time of year... BUT, they deserve it. I think this beautiful family has had family pics 1 time in the 13 years they've been married, and that's just too long, my friends. :)

And second...they're beautiful. Head to toe, east to west, stem to stern...beautiful.

And third...if that little miss thang ever wants a new home (yeah, right)...we call dibs on her. Hehe! :)

Tisha ~ You are a wonderful friend, talented hair artist, precious mama, beautiful wife and awesome lady... I am honored to know you. xoxo :)

{ buchanan } waxahachie baby, child & family photographer

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:00:21 CST

Such a beautiful family! I had the best time with the Buchanans again, and after about 2 years, finally with the ENTIRE family and its new little star.

We spent the morning dodging WWII re-enactments...gale force winds...and really loud trains. And DUDE! If I could guarantee ALL of my sessions would turn out like this...I'd schedule those things EVERY day! :)

{ davis } waxahachie couple & pet photographer

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 14:07:27 CST

OK - I've seen these 'kids' since birth I think. OK, maybe not BIRTH...but since engagements...and marriage...and first year...and first dog... So if they ever leave me, I might need therapy...hehe ;)

One of my most loved sessions. One of my most honored couples. And one of the best little pooch hounds. Vader now begins the launching of my 'pet portraits'! *Although, I'm not sure how good I am...He was strategiclly placed (tied like crazy) to the back of the chair to prevent the little brown bullet from launching), but SERIOUSLY cute nonetheless! Am I right?! I'm always willing to try new things, and pet photography is definitely harder than it looks, but just as rewarding! I think I'll keep practicing...Any takers!? :)

{ villarreal } waxahachie child & family photographer

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 18:44:57 CST

Windy...Cold...Sunny...with a side of the adorable Villarreal family!

They survived all of the above and STILL looked FABulous! I survived all of the above, but....well, let's not even talk about my hair. Even so, I'd give their little family session kuddos! And, now, if you'll pardon me, I need to go and restock all of my little Pez dispensers....SOMEbody ATE them. ALL of them. In 30 seconds. Flat! Haha! :)

{ escobar } waxahachie baby, child & family photographer

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 20:47:36 CST

I'm not sure how to start...so I'll just use descriptive words as to how I feel about this session today...

Swoon. Love. Precious. Sweet. Adorable. Squishy. Squeezable. Divine. Over the moon. Yummy. Rainbows. Puppy dogs. And finally... Shut the front door. *Ok, the last few weren't descriptive of the session, but they still apply.*

I love this family. Loved this session. They were easy peesy. And I am head over tootsies... Over. Joyed. :)

{ womack } waxahachie child & family photographer

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 09:32:20 CST

What a diference a year makes...

This little man was quite shy and a bit reserved when we first met, and it required all of my super powers to conjure up a smile. BUT...THIS year, man! What a completely different little boy he is...all smiles and giggles and curiosity...and my friend. What a joy; to hold the hand of child you've only met once before, but now they trust you enough to allow you to document their world. It's all about trust. And I am honored. :)

{ stone } waxahachie baby & child & family photographer

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 11:08:05 CST

What a f.u.n. family! And with 3 kiddos, they took everything in stride....went with the flow....and knocked it outta tha park!

Such pretty and polite little munchkins....and I guess hungry too! The second I set up the chalkboard image...took 3 steps...turned back around and found her attached like a little sucker fish to her sign. SO funny; and the epitome of 6mos...teething, drooling and wide-eyed at the world!

{ castillo } desoto child & family photographer

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 20:51:40 CDT

A session is always fun if it includes the Castillo Fam, but Thursday proved to be interestingly fun. A super duper cold front....with 30mph winds. A pretty new location....with a very territorial goose I've nicknamed "Christmas Dinner". And 2 little kiddos...that defiinitely made me work for a smile. But taken as a whole...we didn't lose any finges or toes to frostbite... the attack goose took my warning seriously... and I just happened to snap a smile or two. Victory! :)

{ ballard } dallas child & family photographer

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 22:58:18 CDT

So I always know that when the Ballards schedule their family session...it's gonna be like 30 degrees. It's a fact, every year, so we deal...and it never fails; it's awesome anyway.

OK - and I have to explain the second image ~ these are 2 of THE most well-behaved, loving kiddos, who I would give my right arm for in a heartbeat. BUT, I absolutely HAD to post this little out-take. It SO makes me giggle! :)

{ sullivan | riek | travis } waxahachie child & family photographer

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:12:15 CDT

I only take a few big ginormous family groups per year, and when I do, I always start with a Red Bull...cause they're usually...all go, all the time...until I drop.

But this group was the exception! Oh, there was still the assortment of silly songs and gross noises, but this time they didn't come from just me! My kind of group, baby!

Pure joy, all the time...till my pink puffy heart tank was full. Thank you for such an easy and wonderfully blessed session! *Whew!* :)

{ 600 Facebook Fan Giveaway ~ WINNER! } contests

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 08:58:36 CDT

Would like to say that the Boo-riffic winner of the complimentary spot for the Everyday Mamarazzi class......is...........ddddddddddddddd dddddddddddd......

ASHLI YOUNG!!! WOO HOO! *PS - Her answers are so...Ashli...I love them.*

Warty Winter Squash (Hubbard)

Pumpkin stem (but your's looks like some kind of wolf with crazy hair)

White chocolate candy corn m&ms

Female Loblolly pine cone shot from the bottom - the tree is a texas native (glad there's no pic of me from that angle)

Unsharpened pencils

Loblolly pine needles and male cone

Ornamental grass - Sorghastrum nutans INDIAN GRASS

Ashli is one of my beautiful and fabulous clients and a wonderful Mamarazzi...who will now have the opportunity to learn more about taking awesome everyday pics of her adorable Sam!

If you'd like to learn more about the Everyday Mamarazzi....check out my Facebook Note for all the awesome mama details! Registration opens soon and student spots are limited! Don't miss it! :)

{ lee } dallas child & family photographer

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 22:18:12 CDT

Sweet, sweet family that braved the pretty darn chilly temps with me on Friday, and a precious little girl with allergies just on the horizon. And I can't believe she hung in there for almost an hour!

I always remind parents that most little munchkins last for about 45 minutes...tops....some are a little shorter, some a little longer...and the ones who go a little longer...get an extra jewel in their princess crowns at the end of the session. Bling! :)

{ perry } waxahachie child & family photographer

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:26:15 CDT

My husband thinks I'm a bit insane that when it comes to shooting people I know I get crazy nervous...although I would never admit it out loud...wait...shoot...is this out loud?! haha... OK, it's out there; I do. Probably because there's a different level of expectation from myself...AND because I have to SEE these people more...like almost everyday...and my kids like their kids...and if they hate them, well, darnit, that's just awkward! Am I rambling? ;)

SO, anyhoo...I LOVE THESE IMAGES!! Woo hoo! And WHEW!

And just for the record, the image of mom and dad was taken by the 2 big boys. And I'm in trouble. *Maybe they'll let me be their assistants?*

{ 600 fans contest } giveaway

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 17:53:45 CDT

Welcome to the 600 fans photo challenge!

Please do NOT post your guesses in the comments below.

Email tinstarphoto@yahoo.com with the image number and your corresponding guess. (The more specific you are, the better.)

The FIRST PERSON to submit the most correct/most specific guesses by Oct 30th, 2011 / 6:00pm.... will be awarded a complimentary spot to the Everyday Mamarazzi class (Jan-Mar 2012). *Prize is non-transferrable and cannot be redeemed for cash or sessions.*

The winner will be announced here (on the bloggity) on Monday, October 31st at 10am!

{ The Everyday Mamarazzi } client & photography education

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 10:39:38 CDT

Urban Dictonary ~ Mamarazzis are the moms who insist on taking picture after picture after picture of their children with Santa, at the park, playing soccer...all while yelling at their children to "SMILE BETTER! Look at ME! Stop picking your nose! Give your sister a kiss!" Most of the time, they're too busy taking pictures to notice what's happening on the other side of the camera or cell phone.

Moms who chase their children down and annoy them in order to get pictures of every single occasion in life, big or small. :)

Guilty? Interested? Find out more at Tin Star Photography!

{ villarrial } waxahachie baby & family photographer

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 15:43:03 CDT

Tis the season to be crazy busy...and after this summer's heat...man, am I thankful for cooler and busier! :)

New clients...old pros...big people faces...and itty bitty peeps too ~ I am blessed and fortunate to meet and work with some of the most amazing, kind and thoughtful people. And today, it was with some new faces, the Villarrial family. No less amazing; no less kind; and no less wonderful of a session. It's official. I am truely blessed. :)

{ nieto | fall mini } waxahachie child & baby photographer

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 09:07:06 CDT

These 3 little kiddos rank in the top 3 for the best hair. :) All three; SO cute!

AND...after 20 minutes of desperately trying to talk little Mr J into even taking ONE picture...TOTAL VICTORY complete with a smile! I think I was more excited than mom! Maybe. ;)

{ steele | fall mini } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 09:54:31 CDT

I started my Saturday Mini Sessions with the precious Steel kiddos, and what an awesome session...if for nothing else but 2 things....Lane...smiling...at ME...AND the cutest, best, most adorable costume pic. Evah. :)

{ osborne | fall mini } waxahachie child & baby photographer

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 10:39:42 CDT

These are 2 of the most photogenic little squishy things of cutness I get to work with! And can you believe that Miss Hannah was my Princess & The Pea star just 4 short months ago... I'm still in awe of time and how fast it goes. If I think about it too long, I might cry...so I won't...so there. :)

{ stevens | fall mini } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:15:56 CDT

Three of the prettiest young ladies in one of the prettiest images of the wonderful bond between moms and daughters... These three women were pros in front of the camera, and I can't wait until I get to see them again! :)

{ jacob | fall mini } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 13:40:25 CDT

Handsome. Loves trains... dinosaurs... things that go RAWR... and has the best surprise faces at random roosters that crow during photo sessions. Oh, and his little smile can light up a field in one second flat. :)

{ rogers | fall mini } waxahachie child & baby photographer

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 13:49:40 CDT

Holy canolli! What cute kiddos I have as clients! Feisty, smiley, spirited and mostest, bestest behaved...EVAH! I love these two! But I love even more that I get to see them grow...from newborns...to little people...and to young men and women. An extension of my own family. A joy beyond no other... :)

{ lizzy | fall mini } waxahachie baby photographer

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 11:48:37 CDT

What a great way to start off a beUUUUtiful morning of fall minis with this adorable little girl! She's the only one I know that can still look like a rockstar while eating a mini pumpkin...whole. :)

And these are for daddy...so far away...serving our wonderful country...and making her world a little safer every day. God speed, Daddy ~ your girls love and miss you terribly!

{ jozy | fall mini } waxahachie child photographer

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 13:21:48 CDT

OH-ma-goodness! I love this girl! She is part of the 'They Smile with Their Eyes' club. When she smiles; she sparkles. And I love sparkle. And I love her; but I think I said that. So, I'll finish with...She sparkles. But I think I said that too. Who cares. She does. :)

{ dorr } dallas child & family photographer

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:18:30 CDT

What an absolutely beautiful family I had the honor to work and play with today! And no better morning than on the first day of 50 degree weather! I almost didn't know what to do with myself! Except to chase to little adorable boys around...and not break one itty bitty sweat! WOO HOO!

And from the looks of his contagious smile....you would never guess that little mister Cooper was had a pretty serious baby toe injury this weekend ~ he definitely gets my trooper of the year award. Definitely. Tha. Little. Man. :)

{ barnett } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 09:25:36 CDT

This is one of the loveliest families I have the privilege to work with...Lovely. Inside. Outside. And all the in betweensides. And with all of that loveliness, it is only natural that they should add one more little one to the mix. Many, many blessings to come, and I get to witness it all in February! EEK! Another girl and more wonderful moments to come.... *sigh* :)

And that last image...I've decided to title it... "A Tall Drink & A Little Sasparilla". hehe :)

{ abay } waxahchie child & family photographer

Sat, 08 Oct 2011 15:30:46 CDT

I almost don't know what to do with myself now that the temps are down below 100...but all I can say is WOO to the HOO! It means no sweating for me or my clients...which makes for happy people all around. And aren't they the cutest non-sweaty little family!

Here's to the beautiful morning, spent with beautiful people and prayin for beautiful rain...tomorrow...cause I've got one more family to shoot! ;)

{ worley | extended family session } waxahachie baby, child & family photographer

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 09:11:43 CDT

I had a fabulous little extended family session last night with some adorable little kiddos and a beautiful momma and pair of awesome grandparents and the loveliest great grandmother... What a joy and honor to represent multiple generations in one session!

And those 2 little munchkins on the bench is my favorite...apparently big brother is about the only thing that could make him smile last night. My charm and good looks (silly noises and ugly faces) did NOT pay off...it took a real little man to get the job done. CAAAAA-UUUUTE!! :)

{ michael & erica = 1 big, happy family } waxahachie baby, child, senior & family photographer

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 09:30:59 CDT

I am SO stoked as to how these images of this awesome family turned out! I mean, come ON...how often is it that anyone can say that all of these little eyeballs were all looking at me. At the same time. At the same time I clicked the shutter. And 99% of my audience is all active BOY! Like, almost never. At least I haven't been able to say that. I'm seriously thinking of calling Guinness Book of Records. They deserve an entry. If for nothing else than to say...this mama needs a Pink Puffy Heart Award for being the most considerate and patient and fun mama of all these men. Amen.

{ audrey jane } personal

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 21:24:39 CDT

Happy 21 months to one of the cutest, brightest & most mischievious things to ever happen to our family. I love you more than I can squeeze you...dad loves you more than he can tell you no-no...Emma loves you more than ice cream...but Jesus love you more than you could ever fathom. I hope you know, feel & I can tell you all of those things...until the day you meet Him. You are a blessing. You are a joy. You are a treasure. Worth more than anything under the sun or the moon. God's greatest treasure...YOU. :)

{ wade family } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 23:48:09 CDT

The coolest, sweetest little family. Period. And I think it so funny when parents are so concerned about how their kiddo behaves and they think at the end that their kid was a little squirrley and feel anxious and apologize...and I gently remind them that their child will forever be known in my book as St. Ian. He was that good. And I practically have to promise on a stack of Bibles that I'm not lying. And I'm not. Saint. Ian. The. Awesome.

I'm still serious. *EEK! And he's CUTE too!* :)

{ the dream big session } personal | kinda

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 09:02:20 CDT

This is my little Emma. And when we stayed home that really cold January day, I got a bee in my bonnet, or bug in my pants, or whatever people say now days... and this Audrey Hepburn image was born. And it was magic. And I was inspired. And it got my heart beating a little faster. And I was in love.

I started a personal project at the beginning of the year that could encompass anything I wanted it to; anything I felt led to tackle; anything God placed on my heart ~ to Dream Big. Now, I get distracted easily, much like a golden retriever, but God is always reminding me of my purpose; He throws me a stick, and it's up to me to pay attention. Reminding me to Dream Big. And I have been reminded frequently lately. That even when I don't understand, even when I can't see the proof, even when things seem silly or unimportant, that I am not the one in control.

Hebrews 11:1 ~ The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It's our handle on what we can't see.

Life. Worth. Living.

Not. In. Control.

It's all good. Even when the news tells me every day...the economy sucks, jobs are few and fear is on the rise...my God is in it. Even when it doesn't feel like it. It's not about me.

It's the same for my business. Sometimes (ok, most of the time) I feel what everyone else out there feels, especially if you're a small business owner. I feel your pain. I see little shops on our town square close almost daily. My family struggles too, with uncertainty and bills and life that happens in the midst of your well laid plans. It's scary. But my faith requires me to be convinced that what I believe in is true, it gives me confidence in the things I hope for, and certain of things I can't see. Hard? Of course. Rewarding? Definitely. Do I see the rewards every day? No. Sometimes I have to dig for the buried treasures. ;)

So where am I in this, and what in the great googaly moogaly does this have to do with a Dream Big Session? Well, I am at the fear and lack of confidence stage. The 'this business feels unrewarding and there's no stability' stage. And I've considered giving it up. Quite recently in fact. And then a friend asked to use some of my Audrey-wear for a party...and that pesky bee in my bonnet stung me. And I was reminded why in the heck did I stop dreaming...again! Because I thought no one would care, or pay, or commit. And as I'm typing this, it occurred to me yet again...it's not about me and my fears, but about God and what He can do with the dream that has been laid on my heart.

So even if it doesn't explode into glory today, or tomorrow or a year from now...this Dream Big Project is not in my control, and I will trust the One I do not see for better things yet to come. Life. Worth. Living.

Dream Big Ya'll!

{ happy birthday superman } personal

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 21:44:14 CDT

Emma was the proudest daughter in the universe for discovering this cake today at the store. And I must say...I'm pretty proud too. We love you super...man... of steel, of shoes and makeup, of girlie movies and all things frilly. You are our human rock and we love you...to Krypton and back! xoxoxo :)

{ mcclure & napoli } desoto child photographer

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 08:52:26 CDT

I spent a beautiful Friday morning with 3 of the cutest, fastest and craziest little pistols for their post wedding mini session...and what a blast! We ran around the church, played games, ate snacks, sweated (me), made silly noises and kooky faces, sweated (me), yelled, screamed and did I mention sweated?

We definitely made a joyful noise unto the Lord. And all was well. With our souls. *And camera.* ;)

{ studzinski } dallas baby & family photographer

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 10:10:13 CDT

SUCH a great family. SUCH a beautiful baby. SUCH a wonderful session! I can't think of one thing I didn't like. Nope. Not a thing. I'm even in love with the Aunt Angela (who came to help, cheer, and....antagonize) picture and Lyla with that awesome pouty face. In. Love.

Thank you, thank you, thank you to this precious family for spending a beautiful Saturday morning with me... :)

{ schmidtke } waxahachie child & family photographer

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 23:24:54 CDT

It was a beautiful Saturday of little girls! Lyla in the morning and this little Lila in the evening...and what a beauty. So independant and fun and enough energy to fuel the Space Shuttle. And you just think I'm kidding ~ I thought afterward, there's no way I could get she and my Audrey together for a play date...at the end of 30 minutes...they will have formulated detailed plans to take over the world! HAHA! :)

{ young } dallas child & family photographer

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:07:48 CDT

Fun, sweet, sentimental, silly, sappy, crazy, happy...a joy. The Young family session is always all of these things, and more, rolled into one. But now I get to add another cherished word...Superheroes. Boo ya!

I never have to give much instruction with these crazy kids. They are complete naturals, although I'm not sure if they completely realize that or not...but it's total magic. Every session. Every time. A joy. Boo. Ya. :)

{ mcclure } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 13:23:20 CDT

So I'm about to be honest. REALLY honest. I'm not perfect. *e-gad...gasp...shut the front door!* Shocker, I know. But I'm not. And I'm about to get even more honest. Not all sessions are easy for me. Really. Not that this session was bad; it was anything BUT bad, and sessions with the McClures never are. BUT I'm also reminded that I'm never in control, and I sometimes have to think differently than the shots I had planned in my head...and because I'm definitely a planner, sometimes that ain't an easy job for me; to NOT be in control. ;)

Now, what I'm about to say isn't some preachy sermon on believing what I believe...or doing what I do...but it IS a personal conviction and committment on my part to give my clients the best I humanly can. That means, I pray. Before each session, and after each session; I pray. I pray for safety for everyone, fun for everyone, my attention, my patience, my equipment, the weather, the light, my clients...by name, my family...while I'm away, my business and my representation of the only One who gives me the ability and opportunities to do what I do. To some it may sound a little weird and crazy, but that's all ok...because believe me, when I have 'not so easy' sessions (for me), there is absolutely NO other explaination to get results like these if I didn't pray, and if I didn't trust my Savior to make something from what I think is nothing. Without Him this is not possible. Without Him I am nothing. Without Him, I can do nothing in my own humanness. He is everything...including the pilot of each session. For every day, He gives me reminders that I am not in control...of 2 exhausted (though they don't look like it) and rambunctious (I still can't believe I caught them sitting still) little boys that happened to get up at 5am the morning of their session and left mom and dad a little tired too (which totally sounds like MY house btw...). We aren't in control. :)

But if I trust Him, even when my plans don't seem to come together like I wanted, and I pray that I snapped at least a few smiles from 2 of the most precious boys I get the honor to shoot...I can be successful if for no other reason, but that He can be praised and this family can hopefully be blessed. If that happens, my job is done. *Sarah, I love your little family...*

{ caroline & campbell } waxahachie child & baby photographer

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:58:03 CDT

Oh-em-gravy...but these girls are adorable and squishy cute and superbly sweet...and I could just eat 'em up all day long! No lie! And we probably get along so well because they are like parallel sisters to my own girls and I just know they would all be life-long friends who would fight like little divas...but only on occasion...hehe ;)

I would shoot them till the cows came home and the sun went black...and that's a mighty long time, my friends...but worth every minute. Love them! :)

{ claire frankie | 14 days } waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 11:29:49 CDT

There are so many favorites I hold dear to my heart from this session...it could be the fact that I get to hold, love and squeeze on another beautiful little creation, but it's also because I get to work with some of the most precious people on the planet. OK, universe. And even though we postponed Claire's solo performance a few days to make sure she wasn't under the weather...she rocked it out like a pro.

I love babies; I love the way families are completely enamored with new life; My prayer is that I do each one justice. My prayer is that each family loves their images as much as I do...or maybe more. :)

{ brooke | senior 2012 | calvary christian } waxahachie senior photographer

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 16:34:08 CDT

I could NOT have asked for a better senior to start the season off with ~ Brooke is awesome! So comfortable in her skin, so comfortable in front of the camera and so comfortable with life. She just exudes beauty from the inside out...and it was an absolute pleasure! Too bad she's not a senior every year...but she can come and see me anyway...right?!

Many blessings to you Brooke, this year, and in the road ahead...what an incredible promise of a future you have before you...:)

{ dylan | 1 yr gourmet birthday } waxahachie birthday & baby photographer

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 16:01:05 CDT

So it's taken me a few days to recover from the most active and stinkin cutest little birthday boy...no joke. He moves faster than lightning, and I'm still stunned I got any images of him sitting still! HAHA! But I pulled out all of my tricks just for him...toys, treats and my best assortment of childish and disgusting noises...and it worked...if only long enough for me to snap the shutter! But the best time; the time that got me the most smiles, the most stillness, and the most squeals...the cake! His little face says it all! Sugar bliss! :)

And again, super kudos to Trendy Ties for the adorable bow tie ~ it fit Mr Dylan to a T! :)

{ colt } waxahachie child photographer

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 16:13:06 CDT

I've seen Colt 3 times now, and I swear he gets cuter, and sweeter and more fun every session! That little toothy grin and twinklie eyed smile hits me right there...(*heart*). And at only a year and a half, he could take that wimpy little Justin Beiber craze and put it to shame I tell ya... and I don't joke and the Beib. ;)

{ cohen | blayne | maddy } dallas baby & child photographer

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 20:53:32 CDT

So I'm back (like Vanilla Ice, but minus the cheese...haha), and I started off my return sessions with total awesomeness! These kids are SO ca-UUUUUTE! And photogenic. And fun. And ca-UUUTE. And I still am in total disbelief that little Cohen is 6mos. I'm in denial. I'm also in denial about this heat, and Lakeside Park helps with that denial. We may be in a drought, but not in Highland Park, baby! ;) What a beautiful setting for 3 georgous kids!

*And a huge shout out to the complete beautiful creativity of Trendy Ties for the adorable neck bling on my little man, Cohen! For serious cuteness...Check it out!* http://shoptrendyties.com/

{ taylor | end of summer mini session } waxahachie child photographer

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 12:30:28 CDT

OK, I'll say it again...since these are uber mini sessions...I'm only previewing 3 images. And after each preview I about have a heartattack because...just 3 images is...WAY. TOO. HARD! :)

And this beautiful, sweet, model ready 7 year old is definitely no different! She was just so perfect in every way...helpful, gracious, sweet, demure, and oh so photogenic...so I was happy to overlook the little yawn she gave me at the end...haha! :)

Taylor, please come back and see me...I could always use another dose of you anytime!

{ lockridge | end of summer mini session } waxahachie child, family & maternity photographer

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 14:19:19 CDT

This family was the perfect fairytale ending to my Summer Minis...total perfection. The temperatures dropped a bit...the 'cool' 95 degree breeze blew...the setting sun was perfect...and this family was just simply wonderful!

I couldn't have asked for a better finish....and can't wait till next summer... (minus the heatwave) :)

SUCH a fun family. SUCH a beautiful baby. SUCH a great session! I just can't think of one thing I didn't like...nope. Not a thing. I'm even in love with the Aunt Angela (who came to help, cheer and...antagonize) picture with Lyla and that pouty face. Yep. I love it too!

Thank you, thank you, thank you...for a wonderful Saturday morning spent with your precious family!

{ sewell | end of summer mini session } waxahachie child & family photographer

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 13:25:39 CDT

First off...these are itty bitty summer mini sessions, so I will try and limit each preview to 3...yes, 3 images.

Second off...IT'S KILLIN' ME! CAUSE THEY'RE SO PRETTY AND SO MUCH FUN! *There...I got it out...* :)

You know those people that you don't see for like a whole year, and you run into them and in 2 seconds, it's like you never missed a day. That's the Sewell family. And don't ask them for serious face pictures, cause they've got too much joy to contain...and it's contagious...and I love it. I love this family! EEK! :)))

{ price | end of summer mini session } waxahachie child & family photographer

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:25:06 CDT

Holy sha-ZAM, Batman...but I am diggin that first image! They are my magazine couple...if I ever got published. ;) Even if I don't, I would count it gold to have been able to work with the Price family again, and am blessed that this session happened when it did because this family of 3 is about to become the fab four in just a couple of weeks!

Along with mama and daddy...big brother Cooper will never be the same when little Miss Claire hits the house...and I get to be there to document the whole shebang! woo. hoo. :)

{ zayd | 6 mos } waxahachie baby phoographer

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 11:05:08 CDT

Six months of age. The golden age. Seriously. At six months kids magically change into these little balls of personality, baby rolls, smiles and absolute joy. It is my favorite age to work with, and Zayd was icing on the cake.

One of the happiest little babies ever, and he obliged me with snuggling before saying goodbye...total buttercream chocolate fudge icing. He is awesome! :)

{ thorpe cameron | 3yr } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 15:07:47 CDT

OK - disclaimer...I will try to talk about this wonderful family without oozing and gushing over how A-DOR-A-BLE this little girl is...every other scentence.

I've seen Cameron and her parents since she was barely crawling, and I can't believe she's 3! UGH! (She's A-DOR-A-BLE.) I'm often reminded how fast time ticks by, but it's never quite as real until you see your little clients grow. (She's A-DOR-A-BLE.) She held meaningful 3yo conversations with me, loved on me, AND even serenaded me...I almost considered paying HER! (She's A-DOR-A-BLE.)

Can I tell you how blessed I am to count your families as my own...to watch you grow and learn and mature (some of you 'grown ups' too...haha)! What a joy to have such an extended network of family. (She's A-DOR-A-BLE.) *I said I'd TRY...I didn't say I'd PROMISE. ;)*

{ smythe } waxahachie family photographer

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:53:12 CDT

I met the Smythe family kiddos on one of THE hottest days in recent history...but you wouldn't be able to tell. So much fun...and who wouldn't like 4 kids who chose to show up in 107 degree heat....ALL for their parent 25th wedding anniversary. AND...it's a surprise! Shhhhhh.... *I know...shut the front door! Right? My kids better do this for me one day too!*

Their parents aren't going to know what to do when this gift arrives...except, treasure it...forever. :)

{ abby | 1 yr birthday gourmet } waxahachie baby & birthday photographer

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 22:35:29 CDT

I couldn't wait for Miss Abigal to get here...THEN...I couldn't wait for her to turn 1....NOW I can't wait for the next time I get to see her!

It might take this little beauty a few minutes to warm up, but I think cake seems to do the trick juuuuuust fine. I got to wittness her very first taste of sugary heaven...and it was total bliss. *For me too!* I love all the different little cake faces; SO ca-UUUte! And the last one is just for grandmom....sheesh, you think she likes HER better than ME. ;)

{ sassafrass & mischief } personal

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 09:09:15 CDT

So this little idea was born strictly from mom-guilt. Oh, you all know what I'm talking about...that ugly little self-inflicted terrible feeling you get when you discover things like.... you can't breastfeed, or your kid is the 10th OR 100th percentile, or you forget $2 for ice cream at day camp on Wednesday and you KNOW she'll be the only one NOT eating ice cream, so you drive 1/2 way across town to the ATM for $20 which leaves her with $18 to spare but it doesn't matter. She has her ice cream. :)

I was laying with Emma, my 5 year old, one evening. Snuggling, singing, reading, talking, when she pops up with the photographer/mom's least anticipated question... "Mom, when are you gonna have time to take OUR pictures?" Me: "What!?" Emma: "You take pictures of everyone ELSE; I just want you to take MY picture sometimes." *Insert broken heart here.*

Now, you might think that my kids get their picture taken all. the. time. It ain't true. Oh probably during my slower seasons I might take a few more, but on average, if they're lucky, I might aim my camera their way MAYbe once a month. MAYbe. Sure, on special occasions like their birthday or Christmas, but that was about it. Really. I found it so important to document the lives of others that I lost track of my own, and it took my 5 year old to make me wake up. And it broke my heart.

So I decided a few months ago, that I would start. Baby steps. Make a conscious effort to step back and observe my own life. And to document it. This was a beginning.

Then I stumbled upon a site that I fell in love with called Lila Was Here...and Sassafrass & Mischief was instantly born. *In my head anyway.* Even if it was 1 photo of each girl or of them together, surely I could make the commitment to snap 1 a day. I started practicing a couple of weeks early. Photographing 1 a day. And it's hard. Much harder than it seemed like in my head. Because I'm extremely self-critical. But after a couple of weeks, it's almost become a routine blessing. It's become part of my and their life. It's less forced, and more comfortable; it's not about me and my photography skills or lack of them; it's about THEM. And in addition to teaching me to be committed to something, it's helping me improve my perspective in my photography and in my life. What I used to think was important, a clean house, 'put-together' kids and a full photography schedule doesn't seem so important anymore. It's about the legacy you leave and not the state or status of your house or bank account. When my mind forgets how Emma's little nose turns up right at the end, or that little untamable curl at the nape of Audrey's neck, I'll have the images to remind me, and them. To remind me that Emma would wear a skirt everyday if she could and that Audrey could make the cutest, most terrible mad-face. Things that I might forget. Things that I long NOT to forget.

It's the beginning...of a new day, a new week, a new month and a new commitment. These stories will only be in images, never any lengthy words or flowery phrases. Just real life and a new found daily blessing for me, and one day, prayerfully, for these two little treasures to my heart. Beginning. Join us on the journey... http://www.sassafrassandmischief.com/ :)

{ end of summer mini sessions } waxahachie photographer

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 09:27:11 CDT

Don't miss this rare opportunity to beat the Christmas rush...decrease the Christmas stress...and still have a tan (haha)...all at a great price too! For scheduling & availability email: tinstarphoto@yahoo.com

{ i eat bad guys } personal

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 15:31:03 CDT

So like most of my 'personal' posts, I've been thinking about this one for a while now. AND, much like the others, my thoughts came together in one, very clear instant. When I saw this little guy in my garden yesterday morning....

Now, I'm not a big fan of spiders. They're pretty fierce looking, and I tend to have visions of them attacking me (on purpose, of course) for no other reason than to hear my girlish screams and then carry my small children off to their den of doom. (Love my imagination, doncha?!) But my dad has gotten into organic gardening and he's educated me on the benefit of spiders. They're pretty tough (except when meeting Mr. Nike). And they eat bad guys. Fa-real. Like aphids and flies and other little nasty things that can make your garden look and feel pretty terrible if spiders weren't around. In fact, they eat more bugs, all in all, than birds do. So, even though some of them can bite and be pretty harmful, for the most part, they're the good guys!

Recently I've come across quite a few...let's just get it out there...stupid people. Yes, some in my business and some just in everyday life. They SAY mean things, DO even more thoughtless acts, are lacking on the tact, kindness and courtesy are non-existent and they're heavy on the kill-joy. But instead of approaching everyone with the benefit of the doubt, we, or I, tend to approach people expecting the worst. I take a shoe to everyone. Seeing everyone as the bad guy. I think I need to change my perspective...approach with caution, but reserve the shoe for the Black Widows. ;)

Are you like that? Have you been burned, maybe so badly that you doubt kindness from ANYone. I know I'm like that. I lump everyone in with the few goofballs...you know, just in case...

Yes, it might take my heart a little time to get over the carelessness of others, and sure I'll recover and be better for it in the long run, but I can't let the bad stuff change me SO much that my 'here and now moment' is ruined. People will always be stupid. Spiders will always be scary. But before I take a shoe to the whole lot of them, I hope I've learned to take a step back, reflect on the benefit of those wonderful people, friends, family and clients around me...and then beat the crappy ones out of my life. hehe ;)

What do YOU think?

{ tessa | 6 1/2 months } waxahachie baby photographer

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:54:20 CDT

Ok, is this kid not a doll!? And if you don't think so...your name might be the Grinch! ;)

I've done a few casting calls for the 6-9 month age range, just because I've shot lots of newborns...lots of 1 year olds...and had nada in between. Well now? Now I've got GOLD! This is absolutely my most favorite age to photograph. And even if you're Stevie Wonder, you can see and feel why...pure joy! SO, if you've got a little one, and you're just itching for the 1 year session; go ahead, splurge a little early...you definitely WON'T regret it. ;)

And a couple of shout outs before I go...

Kristen Caldwell, who makes the most awesomest and beautifulest headbands, and rocks the photography world like a freight train...heal up soon!

THE one and only Superman, my huzban, thank you so much for humoring me and all of my ideas, even if they ARE at 1am. *Yes, he made the incredible little baby bed...and tore down the fence to prove it. ;)*

And to the best, most photogenic clients this side of the sun, thank you for letting me do what I do...and to my Lord be the glory. :)

{ alex | soon-to-be } waxahachie maternity photographer

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 13:39:16 CDT

I met the most georgous mama-to-be on Saturday...before the heat (and heartburn) set in...and I had a blast!

I've been there... when you can't escape the heat, swelling, sweating, discomfort and sleepless nights. And I can relate to the frustration with clothes and funny cravings. I can also share in the joy of holding the source of all of those little trials at the end of 9 long months. Crying over them. Praying over them. And loving them more than you ever thought possible. It's indescribable. It's exhilerating. It's miraculous.

A baby will make... Love stronger. Days shorter. Nights longer. Bank accounts smaller. Home happier. Clothes shabbier. The past forgotten. And the future worth living. ~Anonymous

{ adalynn | 5 days new } waxahachie newborn photographer

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 15:13:08 CDT

OK. I had the most fabulicious little session this morning, and I just couldn't wait to preview... SO, introducing the sweetest little girl; 5 days young, GLORious sleeper, beUUUtiful smiler, DELicate beauty and inCREdible baby. Yep, that just about covers it. Oh no wait... I forgot superstar. :)

Adalynn...what a blessing and joy you already are, and I am giddy with the thought of meeting you again. Love.

{ sam | 7 days new } waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 11:41:13 CDT

Well...it's been a while. Too long as a matter of fact. But after a slow month, root canals, ear infections, swim lessons and the wretched heat...I'm back with an awesome preview of an adorable family and their newest little supa star! :)

Sam is the best, wiggliest, handsomest, strongest little 7 day old man in recent history! (OK, and I wasn't going to tell...but the poopin-est too! hehe) I mean we washed clothes and drapes and blankets, and I am almost positive these poor parents went through an entire package of diapers. But you know what? It was the best little session, with the best people and some of the best memories they and I will always remember.

Thank you, Erin and John, for making this a wonderful experience for me, and I'm honored to have been Sam first big outing! It was a joy beyond measure!

{ emersyn | 1 yr } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 22:39:55 CDT

It's been almost 1 year to the day that I had the joy of shooting little Miss Emersyn, and the occasion of her 1 year milestone was no less fun!

Completely adorable and full of personality! And my new birthday tradition...the "Loves" image. Stories in words AND in pictures... Total cuteness! :)

{ the gourmet birthday } birthday photographer

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 21:31:25 CDT

{ hannah | 16 days new } waxahachie newborn photographer

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 18:36:53 CDT

She may be just over 2 weeks old...but man is this little girl what my grandaddy used to call teenincy...and what better way to show 'teenincy-ness' than with my version of Princess & The Pea! EEK!! :)

I was also honored to have her break in my little nursery set up at the 'ol homestead...and how blessed am I? WAY blessed. Precious, precious little girls...girls that I hope to wittness grow for many years to come.

{ andrew | 10 days new } dallas newborn photographer

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 16:15:17 CDT

OK - so I'm slightly behind on this preview too...but holey cannoli...ain't he worth the wait! Ohemgee, I've been waiting for my pea in the pod idea for months since I got my little pod prop, and Mr Andrew was the perfect host!

I didn't see his little eyes once...slept through the whole thing, the stinker...so it'll have to be next time when I make my 'official' imprint!

AND...Get a load of that GAWgeous baby smile! :)

{ hunter | 1 year } dallas child photographer

Sun, 26 Jun 2011 21:44:39 CDT

I'm FINALLY getting to preview Hunter's 1 year session from last week...(and I still have a wonderful newborn session to preview...but alas...it must wait til the morrow...)...

And what a rockin little boy Hunter is! Holy moley! I have kids that move, but this little bugger can MOVE. I can't even begin to imagine when he starts walking...the world will never be the same! And kudos goes to his little monkey...who was thrashed, thrown, beaten, drooled on and squashed...and still came back for more. If toys could only talk...hehe ;)

Happy Birthday Hunter ~ what a truely wonderful little boy you are!

{ castillo } waxahachie child & family photographer

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 10:28:38 CDT

OK - so I'm back...kind of....and running full speed...kind of. Our house has been hit hard in the last week by a few slings and arrows, but we're makin' a comeback baby, and I'm starting off the happy blog dance with this awesome and fun family...

They were SO much fun, all smiles and win the uber cooperation award for bearing the heat, steep climb and creepy crawlers in my new evening creek obsession. What a beautiful celebration of family and generations!

{ jessica & eduardo | engaged } waxahachie engagement photographer

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 11:54:18 CDT

I don't do weddings. But if I did...

I do do (hehe) engagement sessions. And, man, I'm lucky I do.

This session probably ranks in my top 10, ever. *You know, cause I've been around forEVER...;)* But even in the short time I've been around, it will still rank in my top 10. They are just beautiful, photogenic, comfortable. Jessica, reminds me of a silver screen starlet; and Eduardo, her leading and smitten man.

This is the virtual bar that has been set for every session. Seriously. And because I can only handle so much love before lunch, this is just Part I. :)

{ jessica & eduardo | engaged | part II } waxahachie engagement photographer

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 15:38:46 CDT

OK, I never preview this many images. NEVER. *Unless it's my own kids...but HELLO, it's MY kids. :)*

So, I don't think I really need to say anything else...except...I'm in love with L.O.V.E. Engagement session anyone? ;)

{ i'm out...but not on purpose } personal

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 22:36:34 CDT

PLEASE NOTE!!! If you are waiting on email responses, orders, bookings, previews from this weekends sessions OR final images...they will be delayed this week! Due to WONderful strep, AWEsome ear infections & a totally WICKed ER trip to re-locate a dislocated baby elbow tonight...the Perkins fam needs to chill and get better! Thanks for understanding! I'll be back! *I hope.* ;)

AND...I will work to answer questions, messages and process any orders as soon as possible, so hang tight my peeps, all's good! Thanks so much for your continued business, and many blessings! :)

{ mason | 2yrs } waxahachie child photogrpaher

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 10:34:22 CDT

This little boy has THE cutest expressions...from "Oops, I've been busted!"....to seriously serious.... to "Did I say you could take my picture now?"....we had so much fun! Again! *He was my little Sooner from last year who cried the INSTANT the Sooner hat was donned, and I knew then we would hit it off because I felt he secretly wanted to be an Aggie. Total. Connection.* ;)

And, to all you moms out there who are like me AND Mason's mama; who stress when your kiddos aren't perfect for their pictures, might cry a little (ok, more than a little) or who just aren't on their A Game the morning of and you'd love to give them a public "Come to Jesus...or There's Gonna be a Mama Reckoning" talk (I did with my own kids yesterday as a matter of fact)...please don't. It all turns out better than you could ever imagine...and that's the REAL deal. Memories you wouldn't trade for all the monkey business in the world! :)

{ my favorite things about summer } personal

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 14:34:11 CDT

I shouldn't really have to say much of anything when it comes to my favorite things about summer...the light, the flowers, fried green tomatoes and homemade lemonade on the patio...but the best parts of my life aren't relegated just to the hottest part of the year in Texas. They are my life, my joy, my blessing any time of the year. And I have vowed to myself and them that I will consciously slow down, even if it means not taking sessions one weekend a month...to just be. To bask in their presence, concentrate on their details, laugh at their personalities, hug them, love them, kiss them, open my heart to them and dedicate my time to them. They are only this age once, and I don't want to miss any part of it because I was too busy. It is a choice. It is MY choice. What will I do with it? What are YOU going to do with it? Don't wait, life's too short to be too busy. ;)

To see the rest of the story...take a click over to my album on Facebook!

{ pogue } waxahachie bigger kid photography :)

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 13:55:27 CDT

What a fun session, with 3 of the most disgustingly photogenic, beautiful, handsome, adorable young peeps. I got a guy to smile AND show teeth...WOOT! I got a girl to give me fiercly serious...RAWR! And the little one? Well, she just showed UP and was awesome...no direction, no prompting, just plain...BAM!

Loved these kids so much, that if I didn't get to shoot them again, I really might cry. No. Joke. *I know. Disgusting.* ;)

{ mommy & me | sorensen } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 15:50:15 CDT

Just in case you aren't aware...I'm a sentimental gal. No, really. I mean it. REALLY sentimental. Oh, I don't hoard things, I definitely know how to clean and purge, but if I save something, you had better know it means something to me, and I'll fight you tooth and nail before giving it up. Maybe that's why I've been so emotional lately as I reflect on my own life and what I have to show for it...And how I long for it to be told in pictures. That's probably why I do what I do; because my heart is connected directly to my camera. I have off days, of course, but then I have days and sessions like this little one that renew my love for...little hands held by a mama's hands, nuzzles at the end of a bridge, and squeels of "Higher mama!". Yep. If I can look at a session even 4 days later and still tear up at these little moments, for me, it was a huge success.

And I'll end it with a statement from a fellow photog whom, yes, I also stalk via social media...:)

"Photography is an investment. It appreciates in value exponentially over time until one day you find that you can't negotiate giving up a photo because it becomes priceless. It's like asking what amount of money would you take to let go of a memory?" -Vasili

{ de los santos } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 21:34:08 CDT

The drawback to summers in Texas is of course the heat (and grasshoppers, but we won't go there b/c they are 1 of the 2 bugs I will stroke out for...EEK!) But you definitely can't beat the Texas summer evening light and especially at this location. It's just so warm and pretty. *sigh* Although it also doesn't hurt to have the pretty Miss Maddy along for the shoot either.

And don't you just love it when families improvise with a shoulder ride and a smooch! Makes my job a WHOLE lot easier...and prettier too! Double woot-woot! :)

{ red riding hood | stylized session | i heart faces | dream big workshop } child photographer

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 20:45:09 CDT

Oh. Em. Gravy. Where to start? It's been almost 2 weeks since I took a huge leap of faith and went solo to my first workshop with the wonderful ladies from I Heart Faces. And I was, am and will be forever UBBER-ly (yes, it is a word.) blessed.

Do you believe in signs? I do. Well, more like a brick to the head, if that's a sign. My ONLY New Year's resolution was to stop being a grown up, embrace my used-to-be child-like imagination...and Dream Big. I even had a blog post about it using those very words. So about a month later when this workshop fell into my lap with the same name, I took it as the proverbial 'brick to the head'. And I'm glad I payed attention...Or I would have missed out on getting to know some of the most talented ladies I'll ever encounter, the best encouragement I could never ask for and friendships with passionate people who love what they do as much as I do...and all of it happened in about 36 hours! Whirlwhind? Yes! Do over? NO. WAY. :)

We had several breakout sessions, and I'll be spotlighting them throughout the month of June as I'm able, but I had to start with my most absolute favorite-est evah. The beautiful Weslea is the daughter of Angie Arthur, mom and photog extraordinaire and 1/2 of the I Heart Faces team. And just one word needed... GAW-gous. Seriously. *OK, 2 words. So shut it.* :)

*The beautiful cloak and gown were created by the fabulous Sew Jewel.

*See more images from the Red Riding Hood stylized session by visiting my Tin Star Photography Facebook Page.

And PS...Remember the Audrey Hepburn meets Emma Claire session? THESE are the kinds of sessions that totally inspire me and get my heart thumping! I will DEFINITELY be introducing concept sessions like these in the VERY near future... *wink, wink.*

{ weaver } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 31 May 2011 15:58:01 CDT

I. Love. Easy. Sessions. That's my new motto. And how can you guarantee an easy session, you ask?! A full Pez dispenser. Animal crackers. And an aresenal of farty kind of noises. (Gross I know, but kids dig it, yo.) :)

And it doesn't hurt to have these 2 blonde beauties show up too. Even on a hot and humid Friday evening...the snacks and noises won! WOOT! :)

{ cantrell } waxahachie child & family photographer

Thu, 26 May 2011 14:04:43 CDT

Holy cannoli! Is it a be-UUU-ty today or what? And what a great day to spend it outside with 2 high-energy boys with great smiles!

Seems like there have been lots of sessions lately where it's 'been awhile since the last family pictures' kind of thing...and every time it reminds me to stop being so busy to take pictures of my OWN family. *Confession: Sadly, I'm really more terrible at it than you might think.*

And if this session doesn't remind you do to that or remind you to ask yourself 'What are YOU investing in?'...take a lesson from one of the wonderful photographers I love to 'blog stalk'...take it away Spanki! :)

{ Tin Star Casting Call } waxahachie baby photographer

Wed, 25 May 2011 15:19:47 CDT

The baby girl model has now been filled! Looking for a little boy model... Email: tinstarphoto@yahoo.com :)

{ alexa : 2 yr birthday } waxahachie child photographer

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:35:12 CDT

I had a fabulous little 2 year session with the shy and demure Miss Alexa this morning...and she rocked out my birthday vision.

I sometimes get these ideas, usually right about 11:30 at night and then my mind races until...oh about 5am...so I get just under an hour of sleep and then function strictly on caffiene and adrenaline. :)

She was such a trooper through the humidity, tall itchy grass, occasional unidentifiable bugger and never ONCE got messy...true little lady!

{ kadie & david & adayah (coming soon) } waxahachie maternity photographer

Thu, 19 May 2011 16:13:59 CDT

And when I say Adayah is coming soon, I ain't kiddin! Like 1 week soon! But we got the session in before the rain...AND before labor! haha!

Mom finally came to her senses ;) ...listened to dad...and decided to have a few maternity images taken before their sweet little girl arrived. And I sure am glad she did, because the series I have of them on the swings is one of my favorites, like ever. It's feels so innocent and playful and sweet and is just a glimpse of things to come!

Kadie ~ Thank you SO much for allowing me to share in this once in a lifetime moment with you and David ~ I had a wonderful time, and can't wait to meet that fabulous little girl!

{ dream big : san antonio }

Thu, 19 May 2011 21:14:00 CDT

So it's no secret that my one and only resolution this year was to...Dream Big!

So when this amazing workshop fell into my lap sporting the same name, I took it as a God-thang, to get my booty in gear to step WAY out of my comfort zone, and stay up till all hours waiting to be one of the 15 choosen women to participate, and just DO IT. And it all came together.

Thanks in advance to the ladies at I Heart Faces for this incredible opportunity...I'm already blown away...and have the eye-twitch to prove it.

Thanks to my family for allowing me to go...and maintaing the craziness at home till I can get back and join in!

Thanks mostly to my mama for Dreaming Big with me...and being my personal prayer warrior! You. Rock. This. Chick's. World. Fa'real.

My personal conviction is to return incredibly appreciative for this undeserved opportunity, more blessed than I could have imagined, overwhelmed with support from people I don't even know yet and flooded with more resources and ideas that will inspire myself and my clients beyond belief. *Dang! That's a tall order! But one my God can handle, right!?*

My Academy Award Winning Acceptance Speech is now fini...so...Peace out...Till Monday! :)

{ wilson : mommy & me...for andrew } waxahachie baby & familly photographer

Tue, 17 May 2011 20:39:53 CDT

Seems as though I've had the great honor to host quite a few military sessions lately, and every single time, I get teary. Maybe it's sharing in the anxiety of the leaving, celebrating the anticipation of coming home, or maybe just getting to document little pieces of the lives here...for those serving so far away...

Happy birthday, Andrew, husband, daddy and patriot...I know 2 ladies who can't wait till you get home! :)

{ boyd } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 16 May 2011 09:48:41 CDT

Can I get a show of hands if it's been over 2 years since you've had ANY family pictures made...professional or otherwise...? Well, partner...that's TOO long! I can't TELL you how many people start off an email or phone call with..."You would not believe how long it's been since we've had pictures..." And I usually say..."Well, better now than never, right?" That was the Boyd family, but they broke the cycle...and they look ADORABLE! *Including one of my most FAVorite mother daughter images.*

I know...my family is the same way! But mostly because I'm really anal, frugal AND am usually the director behind the camera, so it's a challenge for me to let go and just DO IT! But that is my goal this year. To prove, on 'film' that I existed. :)

Do you exist, or was it 2.5 kids ago? If you have not had family pictures taken within the past 3 years, make a promise to yourself right now that this week you will find someone to do it.Whether it's a neighbor, a portrait studio, or a tripod and a remote. Just do it. AND PRINT THEM! HANG THEM. Adore. Them. We aren't guaranteed tomorrow, please, document life...today. :)

*PS - And if there are any professional photographers out there who might be willing to photography MY family in exchange for photographing theirs...please, let me know...;)

{ richards } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 16 May 2011 12:07:47 CDT

I love, love LOVE...big groups that ALL look at me and don't require multiple boogie photophopping! *Kid boogies, that is. hehe* It's oh so AWESOME and rewarding!

This is another family that broke the cycle and decided not to wait until booboos healed, hair was perfect, or they were 10 years older. They took the plunge and decided to just do it! And we had so much fun...yep, that's an added benefit! Fun. It's my policy. Can't you tell by this first image? Love. Love. LOVE! :)

{ jeffries } waxahachie maternity photographer

Mon, 16 May 2011 20:58:56 CDT

The cutest couple drove all the way to see me for their mini baby bump session...and we had the best time, it's almost like we had met before and just picked up where we left off. I love sessions like that! And aren't they just the most photogenic things since Nicole Kidman and Steve Noviello? hehe ;) *Ok, no inside jokes...that's who I think they both resemble. Now don't send me 300 emails telling me I'm crazy...feel free to challenge me, but you won't win!* ;)

I can't WAIT to meet baby Sam...totally giddy!

{ lila : 10 days } duncanville newborn photographer

Fri, 13 May 2011 08:44:06 CDT

I have been SOOOO blessed to have the best newborns this week! Most newborn sessions take on average about 3 hours, but not these babies...both about 1 1/2 hours. That's RIGHT, baby! Only 3 hrs of sweating and crawling around on the floor like a soldier this week for this chick! WOOT!

But this little girl...truely AMAzing! She was changed only once and she ate ZERO times. *WHAT!?* I'm STILL stunned. She slept from the moment I got there until the moment I left. I think I saw her little peepers only twice, and it was during a yawn. :)

AND I am proud to award Lila with my 'most smiles in one newborn session' award! A distinct honor that will be hard to beat!

{ june at the dallas arboretum } special

Fri, 13 May 2011 16:02:55 CDT

{ jeffrey } waxahachie child photographer

Thu, 12 May 2011 08:45:46 CDT

What a HANDSOME young lad this is...as my granddaddy would say... It took a few minutes for us to get acquainted and for him to trust me...but after a few Pez candies, squirrel expeditions and dinosaur *RAWRS*...he was high-fivin me and smiling from ear to ear...the transformation was inspiring! And it's only one of the things I love about what I do...getting to experience kids, in their element, doing what they do best....being a kid.

Image 1 ~ Photog Fav. It allows ME to imagine being a kid again...:)

{ bryan edward & elliot michael : 18 days } dallas newborn photographer

Wed, 11 May 2011 21:47:55 CDT

It is SO hard for me to pick just a few to preview from this oh so ca-Ute session! UGH! I love these babies and big brother!

Such wonderful little newborns to work with...they slept, they snuggled, they got neked, and they STILL slept. It was miraculous! The sun shone, the angels sang, the planets were all in a pretty little row...and it was baby magic! *At least that's how I see it in my head...and my camera.* :)

{ the evolution of emma claire } personal

Tue, 10 May 2011 07:59:14 CDT

May 10, 2006....5:33pm. Incredibly blessed, forever changed.

People say it flies, so cherish it, but I never really understood until I experienced it for myself. Sometimes I think my heart will burst with the overwhelming amount of love I have for you. And sometimes my brain can't wrap itself around each memory long enough to lock it in my mind and heart forever. The details get fuzzy, even after only five years. And I'm saddened that I can't slow things down, if even for a few hours or a day. But then I think about what an incredible girl you've already become, and I wouldn't trade the time for anything. You are so witty and smart and beautiful and articulate. You are kind and sensitive to others and always quick with a hug or kiss or "I love you!". It's a two-edged sword ~ wanting so much to bring everything to a grinding halt, shield you from everything hurtful and evil and yet wanting to see you learn and grown and experience everything good and beautiful and wonderful at the same time. Being a mom is a hard job...harder than I ever imagined because my heart says one thing and time dictates another. So as I sit here crying because these days have gone too fast....crying because I admire you so much...crying because I love you with all that I am and more...know that your Heavenly Father loves more than I could ever HOPE to love you, though that is beyond my comprehension. He will never fail you. I do and will pray for you passionately each day. I do and will love you until the end of time. You are my breath of joy and I can't imagine my life before you...my Emma Claire.

{ mothers & daughters } dream big project

Sat, 07 May 2011 22:25:10 CDT

So these special sessions are part of my Dream Big Project for 2011 ~ I'll be hosting similar little goodies through the year, but this was my first, and something that is oh so close to my beating heart...mothers and daughters.

This started with inspiration from the Dove's Campaign for Real Beauty, as an effort to encourage women to embrace themselves, their perfections and their IMperfections...but I thought, why stop there. Let's start by teaching our daughters from practically before birth, how to love themselves. How to be assertive and strong and passionate and most of all love themselves. I try to do that with my own daughters, and yes, I fail. Alot. Miserably even. But I will continue to try, and it starts by letting them know that I love MYself. That's hard for me, because I don't; alot; and yes, miserably even. :) Isn't that like us women? We nit pick ourselves, critique ourselves and measure ourselves against the world's opinion rather than our Creator's opinion.

And it was just as hard for these ladies as it is for me. We are so used to having 'company' in our pictures...kids, friends, husbands...or not being in the picture all together! Let's start changing that...and let's start today! Embrace those little things that bug you, irritate you and nag at you; for they are what make you, you. You're kids love you no matter what, and so does your Heavenly Father...and His opinion is alot better than yours, right?! :)

Plus, I bet you don't see ANY of what these women see as their own imperfections...perfectly imperfect.

{ moments in a soldier's life...napoli } waxahachie child & family photographer

Thu, 05 May 2011 10:45:55 CDT

Much of military life is waiting...waiting to come home, waiting for orders and now for this family, waiting for daddy to be deployed. So we took advantage of the time and the wait, and made a few memories, and I can't tell you how wonderful it was to share just a little bit of these moments... It's sometimes hard to tell EVERYthing you want about a session, so you try to do the best you can in few words and even fewer images. But I hope to have expressed the relationship between this husband, father, friend, man and soldier...and all of the love and heart that is wrapped up in these 3 beautiful ladies.

Steve ~ God keep you and protect you and bring you home soon!

{ cade & kinley } dallas child photographer

Thu, 05 May 2011 12:03:49 CDT

I love working with the Ballard kids...they are so spunky and cute and funny and ENERGETIC! And Cade turned 1...like already? Sheesh...these kids are growning WAY too fast these days, and leavin me behind...I'm afraid if I slow down, I may have too much time to think about it and be all depressed and everything. Ok, now I need chocolate...and a nap... *snif* ....see too much thinkin! :)

{ miller } waxahachie child & family photographer

Wed, 04 May 2011 15:35:08 CDT

OK - this little family is SO STINKIN CUTE...I just want to spit. OK, maybe not spit, but I DO want to squeeze their kids until they beg for mercy... They LOVE the camera and the camera LOVES them!

And I wouldn't have it..... Any. Other. Way.

Millers...Please, come back soon. My camera can't take that long without you guys again...:)

{ duncan } waxahachie baby & child photographer

Tue, 03 May 2011 08:37:34 CDT

I know people say time flies...but they really aren't kidding...especially when you're behind on previews AND when you have kids. Really.

It seems like just yesterday when I was anticipating my first twin newborn session with these little boys and big brother was hovering over them like a little daddy. Time has flown...6 months later...a couple of milestones under their little belts...and all 3 as handsome as before. Time flies. Make memories. Write them down. Snap a few shots. They'll only be this age once. You won't regret the pictures, but you will if you don't have them. I know I do...

{ hannah } waxahachie child photographer

Tue, 03 May 2011 09:30:33 CDT

Here's another little beauty that's grown up I swear over night! Hannah is so poised and beautiful...and SPUNKY! Love her personality and of course her toothy little grin.

It's a internal battle as to which of these might be my favorite; number 1 because of the adorable toe turn...number 2 because of her yearly RR track pic tradition...or number 3 because, well, she's just georgous. OK, nevermind...it's a 3-way tie! :)

{ introducing...the mini baby bump! }

Mon, 02 May 2011 21:21:19 CDT

{ dalton ~ senior 2011 ~ calvary christian } waxahachie senior photographer

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 15:12:38 CDT

I had a great session with Dalton, aka: Mr All American, boy next door, polite as can be, has his head on straight, can play guitar (Bon Jovi, OMG!), plays football, plays baseball, drives an awesome van dubbed "Good Times".....*breath*....and comes with a cute twinklie smile too. *Guys, ignore that last part cause it probably wasn't the coolest thing to say and go ahead and harass him later...but moms and gals, am I right?* :)

Dalton and mom, what a pleasure it was working with both of you! Thanks for coming all this way, cause if you hadn't, I would have missed a blessing... ~ D

{ morgan ~ senior 2011 ~ waxahachie hs } waxahachie senior photographer

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 21:49:21 CDT

So I met Morgan and her grandmother for a Saturday evening session...and it was awesome! I had the opportunity to try out a couple of new spots, and they just happened to suit her to a T. I dig the butterfly!

Smart, witty, a beUUUUtiful smile, and this girl NEVER wears make up! But she took my tips to heart, dabbed on a little for her session, and BAM...stunning. And I swear you won't believe this, but NO Photoshop was used on this chick's complexion...I know, pukeolla...:) The prettiest face I have ever seen...seriously. *jealous? me. too.*

{ charlie ~ baby model ~ 8mos } waxahachie baby photographer

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 11:13:38 CDT

I finished up my baby model sessions with the happy, happy, happy...and fast, fast, fast...baby Charolette (aka: Charlie). And what a cutie! She is so petite, happy and quicker than lightning...which was excellent training for my marathon in Nov. ;)

I'll say it again; this was the best experience for me! I have so many images of newborns and tonz of 1 year olds, but very few images of babies in between. Which is understandable...BUT if you're looking to take pictures in between the 2 milestones, choose THIS age...you'll BOTH have a blast; and I'll be in baby heaven again! :)

{ perception } personal

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 14:42:59 CDT

{ ely ~ baby model ~ 8mos } waxahachie baby photographer

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 15:59:33 CDT

I had an ephiphany. It is decided. There will be no questions asked or answered. No debating the subject. This is my favorite age. And Ely was the perfect little guy to start off my model sessions with. I just love him!

The most expressive, non-expressive baby, with the tell-tell eyebrows, and a quiet mischief brewing just under the surface. And the most INCREDIBLE eyelashes ever. Seriously, I think of that Brooke Shields commercial where she pays for meds to grow them like this...I think she should call and ask for her money back. Cause Ely wins. ;)

{ ada ~ baby model ~ 8mos } waxahachie baby photographer

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 22:10:34 CDT

Passion! I've finally discovered it! I love photography; I love families; I love kiddos...but if I HAD to choose what age to shoot for the rest of my life it would be this one. All. Day. Long. These 2 little babies have me HOOKED, I tell ya, the little vixens!

I am DEFINITELY doing this little model thing again, so keep your peepers open. I have had so much fun and am learning lots in the process about posing, lighting, snapping, making silly farty kinds of noises...and babies. In love am I...! :)

{ adkins } dallas child & family photographer

Sun, 10 Apr 2011 20:44:17 CDT

I finally had the honor to work with ALL of the Adkins family this time, and it was an awesome joy! Everyone was on their A game, and we scored some great images! *um, yes, that was cheesy. but I'm fa'real!* :)

Image 1...favorite! I always schedule a little bit of time to take pics of mom and dad, because most likely they haven't had pictures together since the vows, and let's face it, we don't want kids in EVERY image from now until we meet Jesus. We all want to remember the time when we looked lovingly into each other's eyes and didn't see soccer schedules, school uniforms or grocery lists. *Wait, that sounds awfully familiar?* Yes, this image is a different perspective on their relationship, but it reflects tenderness to me...and I love it.

(OK, and #3 might be a close tie...only because it reminds me of something I would do to my own brother.) ;)

{ mcclure } dallas arboretum child & family photographer

Sun, 10 Apr 2011 21:43:27 CDT

We spent a crazy afternoon at the Arboretum yesterday...dodging people, photographers, sun and heat...but it turned out SO well! And I'm SO thankful! I didn't even have to photoshop out ONE randomly stray person, bag, photographer or sippy cup in this whole preview! YEAAAAA! :)

And to my beautiful and sweet friend Sarah...we got that family picture you were hoping for...with a little bit of Jeret tongue, but it's adorable...AND at the end of the day too!

To every one of the McClures - thank you so much for braving the Arboretum with me; we closed out Dallas Blooms with a bang. :)

{ brent } dallas child & family photographer

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 21:54:35 CDT

Abby...is like the sun...everything about this little girl shines, and her grandparents definitely revolve around her. ;) Don't believe me? Just take a look at image #4, and you'll see you're wrong. Enamored, in awe, in love...they are! What a wonderful thing it was for me to be a part of today.

Such a sweet, blessed and special family session; one I'll remember for a long, long time...

Image 1...FAVE! I think it should be a ginormous canvas, don't you? ;)

{ purpose with a side of glam-fabulousness } personal

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 10:45:29 CDT

I'm going to start this post with a ginormous disclaimer...ok, a FEW disclaimers... This is about me, my convictions and my purpose in this life. It is never meant to offend, belittle or diminish anyone or any group of people...ever. AND, this might be a bit long...so I'll try to be funny. *No pressure. And notice I didn't say quick?* There is a point, so hang in there with me.

Newsflash...I've been hit with wealth. The thought of it, the lack of it, the abundance of it, the good of it, the bad of it and the sinfulness of it. Most of us who don't have it, dream of it. Here's where I talk about me winning the Lotto and buying a boat or a house OR an island in the south pacific somewhere and living like Brooke Shields in Blue Lagoon (but with clothes), I know I just dated myself. :)

And then I'm reminded of my purpose; almost daily; especially lately. My purpose is this: To glorify God and enjoy Him forever. My purpose is not: To live for others and THEIR purpose for me, to try and measure up to what THEY expect of me or to adjust my personal convictions because people just don't get it. I get it. God gave it to me. Therefore, I'm ok with it. And I have to learn to live with other people NOT being ok with it. After all, it's my purpose, not their purpose.

Let me be more specific; I have had a slew of people in the last few months offer a host of tasty tidbits like..."You need to charge more." ..... "You don't charge enough." ..... "Why are you so cheap?" ..... "You must not value the work you do." ..... "I'm so glad you're cheap." ..... "Cheap photographers (like me?) are killing the industry." And on and on and on...nice, huh? Most of the time these comments don't bother me, but after months of hearing the same thing, you can imagine what it does to your sense of self, and your chocolate addictions. You begin to apologize for your purpose...and the chocolate on your face. ;)

Then there's Bruce. He's our teaching pastor. He is wise. He is honest. He doesn't mince words. Sometimes he even hurts my feelings. *The big jerk.* But it is for my greater good, even though I hate the process and want to drown my sorrows in Whataburger milkshakes on more occasions than I care to divulge. He's begun a new series called "Change", but it's not the touchy, feely process of becoming different kind of change. It's the money kind of change. The kind of change that use to jingle in my dad's pockets when he walked. Our society is geared to making money. We're programmed from birth practically to acquire things. The more stuff we have, the better we look, the more successful we are, the happier we appear. Right? But really, it's just stuff. And it suddenly occurred to me that I'm not living for the stuff I acquire here; I'm living for the stuff I store up there ~ On the Heaven side of things.

When I started my business I did plenty of research on plenty of things...names (cause once you have it, you're stuck with it, and who wants to be stuck with a name like Sheep Dip Photography or worse)...business plans (I'm not a pants on fire so fly by the seat of them kind of person)...logos (oooohhhhh, if I could only TELL you about the terrible logos I've seen, you'd be STUNNED I tell ya)...and pricing (I'm a mom. I live to provide for my kids and family. I'm probably the least hip person I know, and yes, I buy clothes at places like Target and Wal-Mart...even for weddings. *gasp* I know my budget. I know what I desire. I know what I can and can't afford. Sometimes my wants and needs don't match, but I adjust my thinking and remember what my purpose is.) That's where I'm coming from. Glam-fabulous, huh?

If I've said it once, I'll say it a zillion times...there are a million photographers between me and thee. Each has with a range of skills, training, equipment, boundaries and yes, prices. There are so many to choose from, and 100 popping up every day in my zip code alone. If you think I'm kidding, Google it. There will be new listings tomorrow (for Sheep Dip Photography) that weren't listed today. That's why I am all the more blessed to be busy, and all the more blessed that people choose to patron my business. Because they don't have to. Because there is always someone else, someone different, someone closer, someone cuter, more fun, more fashionable and I'm sure more hip, although I'm not sure how. :)

So what makes me different? That's what I've been asking myself lately. And through our pastor's sermons and a few comments that rub me the wrong way, I'm learning to embrace my sense of difference. My purpose.

I don't do what I do in the hopes that I'll be a millionaire one day. I'm probably never going to make enough money to retire and move to a little Tuscan hacienda with a personal chef named Javier or jet around the world in my plane "Big Bertha" or buy accessories at Tiffany's or eat sushi (gag) at the finest places. (Can you tell I've not really thought about it much?) Plus, the more I have the more I realize that this stuff really doesn't make me happy. Really! In fact, it makes me crazier than I already am! Shocking, I know. As Bruce says, "It's just STUFF." It doesn't buy me security, happiness, love...or purpose.

I don't want to be compared to other photographers; their work, their talent, their prices...it's theirs. I am me. And I am happy with my work, my talent and my prices. I still have a lot to learn, and I'm constantly looking for new ideas and ways to grow and improve, but I won't do it at the expense of myself, my family or my God-driven convictions.

I despise the word 'cheap'. It reminds me of things like the Home Shopping Network, the Bedazzler, Chia Pets, Flobees and Snuggies. Cheese-mo! I don't want to be viewed as that cheap-photographer-who-will-do-anything. My prices are not in a word 'cheap', and I won't do just 'anything' for my business if financial gain is the sole end. Let me explain.

I am not here to cater to the rich and famous. I didn't start shooting because I hoped to get rich off of the rich. I can't relate to the lifestyle. I can't relate to the budget. I can't relate to the desire for more than I need. I CAN relate to having only enough money to get milk. I CAN relate to not having enough money to buy new fat and swollen preggo shoes and wearing flip flops in January instead. I CAN relate to crying because you couldn't give your kids everything you wanted to and more at Christmas and displaying stocking stuffers so it would look like more. I CAN relate to renting a movie as a gift to your spouse on your anniversary because that's all you could afford. This is probably more that you cared to know, and isn't said to induce a sympathy party. It is said to tell you that I'm more happy today than I ever thought I would be because my life, no matter how hard or financially challenging, has purpose.

I did pick up a camera because I had a desire to give people creativity, love, blessings, and anything else I can give even if it's with one image. I did pick up a camera because I couldn't afford to pay what others charge, even though they may be worth every penny and deservedly so AND, I was literally in tears over this when Emma was born. I picked up a camera because I knew the kind of images I desired for MY family; I knew what I would be able to afford and not starve in the process, and I felt convicted to do the same for others. Purpose.

Purpose. Some have it. Some don't. Mine's different than most. It's not the norm, or at least it feels that way because I'm criticized and compared a lot because of it. I am intensely aware that this industry is NOT a necessity, it is a luxury. But all luxuries don't have to be unattainable. Right?

I'm sure I should charge more, but then I wouldn't get to meet some of my most AWESOME clients with the most beautiful stories.

I know I may not charge what other photogs out there do, but don't compare us. We're all an original creation, right?

And I know I'm still gonna be shoppin at Ross for my formal wear needs, but I'm OK with that, and you should be too. Remember it's MY purpose.

I do value what I do. I live by my word and reputation and the images I provide to the best of my ability. I strive to meet my goals, deadlines and live up to my word with everything that is in my bitty itty being. Yep, I screw up sometimes, but I try to make it right. My name depends on it! That's valuing what I do.

I'm really not in it to kill the industry. I'm in it to expand the possibilities. To let everyday people (even those who bedazzle their jeans) know that you can have touching and wonderful images of your family and not go into debt to do it.

I believe in loyalty, integrity, boundaries, conviction and prayer. I believe that I am living what God has laid out for my family, my life and my business (prices included), and until HE tells me differently, it's not going to change. I don't ask you to change your appearance before I photograph you. I don't ask photographers to change their prices based on MY purpose. In return, I ask to simply respect and value my purpose, work and business. I agree to adhere to my passions and not conform to the ideas of others and ignore those who tell me how Home Shopping Network I am. I know I'm not. I know my purpose. It is to glorify God and be concerned about what HE thinks of me. It is NOT to glorify the photography industry, my clients or potential clients and be stressed over what THEY think of me. If I follow God and listen to His direction and surrender my will to His, I am provided for; I am happy; I am blessed...and that includes my business.

SO... when you tell your friends about me and my incredible camera skills....don't tell them you've got this great, CHEAP, photographer you want to recommend. Tell them about this awesome fashionista mamarazzi with some serious camera magic and a rockin purpose...who just happens to be affordable! ;)

{ hudson } dallas child & family photographer

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 09:22:18 CDT

This was the first time I met little Miss London, and she just happened to bring dad along for the ride; and she was one busy little girl! There is SO much to see and do at the Arboretum, so it can either be the best place or the worst place for curious kids AND their photographers. Cons - it can wear you both out, Pros - priceless little moments like these.

The first is my favorite, and took us forever to capture because of the crowds...if you can believe it, I didn't have to photoshop out ANYone. It was just London, and a long a beautiful path...:)

{ maxwell } dallas child photographer

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 10:31:33 CDT

The Maxwells are all boy, all play, all the time! And I loved every minute! It seems just like yesterday I was photographing Henry and Warren at a newborn session...I think I just blinked and time flew!

What adorable little boys, who will soon be young men, and what an honor for me to see them grow....:)

{ pritchard } dallas child & family photographer

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 11:25:08 CDT

I get to see the Pritchard Family about once a year, which is major withdrawal since we use to see each other about every day at A&M. BUT since they live about as far north from us as Kansas (wink, wink)...I guess I'll take once a year. :)

And there are about only 2-3 ways to keep these kids still all at once...gummy snacks, fish ponds and acorns! The first is my favorite of course, not just because they're still, but mostly because it's all about child-like imagination. I can only image what they're thinking... Although it also looks like they might be about ready to throw some money down on some acorn dice too! HA!

{ mclerran } dallas child photographer

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:11:40 CDT

So I finished up my Arboretum week with 2 of THE cutest, sweetest, most wonderful-est girls...who are now elected my offical models for eternity, because I don't think I have a bad image of them ANYwhere. Seriously. My business can ALWAYS use marketing help...And man, what I wouldn't do to look this good all the time!

First image fav: Spring...sisters....tootsies in the water...smiles on their lips...and a breeze in their hair....I loved working with these little girls... *sigh* :)

{ nelson } dallas child & family photographer

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 22:14:06 CDT

What a great way to end my week, with the Nelson Family. I love working with these peeps, cause they're just plain, down home fun. And when Lakeside Park is in its full springtime azalea glory, it's like the cherry on top.

Thanks Chris, Heidi, Ella and Mr O for one of my best sessions of the week, even the shirtless jogger part...;) You are a blessing!

{ skinner } dallas child & family photographer

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 16:17:18 CDT

I started my week long sessions at the Dallas Arboretum this morning with the beautiful and feisty Skinner family. The second image is my session fav...I wonder what that mischevious little 4yo mind is thinking? I love that look!

Cool and cloudy days are my favorite kind of weather to shoot in...no client squinting...and no photographer sweating. ;) Plus the colors are SO much more vibrant, and you can't beat the colors at the Arboretum. If you haven't been...RUN...just LOOK what you're missing!

And happy birthday to Davis! The cutest 4yo red-head I know ~ Eat lots of monster truck cake for me! ;)

{ whitaker } dallas child & family photographer

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:59:54 CDT

Arboretum, Take II, with one of my most favorite babies! I can't get enough of this little girl, and I am SO thankful mom and I connected just a couple of months ago. If those georgous blue eyes and adorable pout seem familiar, it's because I had the honor of shooting their Mommy & Me session in January, and now this time, the whole fam!

I have to admit though I was a bit nervous about being able to capture the same wonderful moments...but with just the preview, I'd like to shout...WHEW! This little girl melts my heart!

Dad and daughter image....absolute favorite. Maybe of the year. I love her look. I love dad's look. I love the fact that my heart giggles every time I look at it. Love. :)

{ armendariz } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 09:51:30 CDT

I met up with these 5 little cuties on Friday afternoon for their mini session; and yes, they are all really this cute!

I am still in shock and awe about just how WELL they behaved and how helpful every single one was...even the itty bittiest one! Mom, whatever you've done, keep doing it...it's better than ANY charm school! ;)

{ hudgens } dallas baby & family photographer

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 10:51:24 CDT

Look how strong he is at only 4 1/2 months! No kidding, Milo can do more pushups than me! *Which I guess might not be saying much...* ;)

So glad this family and I finally connected after months of ice, snow, surgeries...and finally...SPRING! And what a beautiful day it was, with a beautiful family, and one handsome little dude!

{ mestan } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:54:09 CDT

Love this family for coming all the way from Frisco to see me in my little hometown! And I love these sweet little girls with all of those wonderful freckles (aka: angel kisses as my Em calls them.) ;)

And when I tell people to smile with your EYES and not just your MOUTH...this first picture makes me wanna shout..."Yeah baby! That's what I'M talkin 'bout!" See the sparklies in her eyes and the joy in her spirit? That's what I'm definitely talkin about! :)

{ audrey jane's mamarazzi } personal

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 20:44:45 CDT

{ sandifer } waxahachie maternity photographer

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 14:57:52 CDT

I love this time of year...everything is new and beautiful and green AND it's baby season! Woo hoo!

This was one of my top 5 maternity sessions because, well, let's just face it, this mama is just purely and simply one of the most georgous people. Really. *And it doesn't hurt that she has two equally handsome men hanging on each arm.* But the most exciting part (and for me too) is that they are expecting twins! Double woo hoo!

Mama, you wear pregnancy beaUUUtifully....:)

{ james } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 09:16:38 CDT

I don't even know James; this is the first time we've met; and I can't believe how grown up he looks! He's only 7 (ok, almost 8), but STILL!

So handsome and polite and photogenic! And celebrating his upcoming first communion. What a huge accomplishment and honor; for him...AND me. Thank you for allowing me to celebrate this wonderful moment with you. Many blessings to you in the days ahead... :)

{ jones } dallas child & family photographer

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 10:37:27 CDT

It's one of those things...I never have quite enough time...to spend with them; I never have quite enough space...to share all of the images I want; I never have quite enough words...to express truely how much fun I have.

I love working with this family...it's always an adventure, it's always a joy, and we ALL always need a nap afterwards. Always. :)

{ ashley } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 14:00:30 CDT

OK, so I have secretly named this session my..."Shut the front door, I'm not as cool as I thought I was cause I can't make this awesome kid smile!" session. :)

And then I started looking for preview pics...and I am MOST proud and happy to say...I WAS WRONG! I am cool. Really. Whew! That was a close call!

Just kiddin! He is an awesome kiddo. He was a hard little egg to crack. But, I am more proud to say...he smiled! And I have the pics to PROVE it!

{ brady } dallas arboretum child photographer

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 14:50:55 CDT

What a fabulous way to spend a weekday morning...and with such a handsome date too! Brady is all energy...all talk...and allllllll boy! Loves sticks, dirt, fish, superheroes...and worms; the gummy kind. ;)

The first is my favorite and such a great little candid moment in the life this thoughtful little boy. A perfect mirror image! :)

{ jacqualyn ~ senior 2011 ~ italy } waxahachie senior photographer

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 12:58:37 CDT

Man, did I have variety this last weekend...a newborn, a family, a baby bump...and the pièce de résistance...a senior! This was absolutely one of my favorite senior sessions to date; and it confirms my obsession and amazement with horses. *My secret alternative career was to be a jockey one day...but I digress...:)*

Jacqualyn; beautiful, talented, soft-spoken, funny and a great 2-legged companion to Rylee (aka: Lover) and Simba (the most well-behaved and handsome Paint I've ever had the pleasure to work with). I can't wait to hear about the places she'll go and the incredible things she'll accomplish!

J ~ I wish to the best that life and God have to offer; make the most of your time, it goes by way too fast! Gig 'em! ;)

{ campbell ~ 2 weeks } waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 10:48:43 CDT

There are so many little special moments for me in this session, and I am blessed to have been able to experience even one. I'm also thankful to have met this wonderful family who ended up being almost in our own back yard! :)

"A baby will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankroll smaller, home happier, clothes shabbier, the past forgotten, and the future worth living for." ~unknown

{ steele } waxahachie family & child photographer

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 14:49:37 CDT

This is the cutest family. Yeah, yeah, I know...I say stuff like that all the time. But I swear, I have the cutest, sweetest, most awesomeest clients. Evah.

EVERYONE was smiling at me. EVERYONE was looking at me. And the angels sang it was so good!

And this little birthday boy. I mean, come on. Really? Must. Squeeze. Till. He. Begs. For. Mercy. :)

{ alison & gary & aspen } waxahachie maternity photographer

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 22:13:24 CDT

I am already so excited to see what little Miss Aspen has in store for her parents, cause if it's anything like their session, life's gonna be a blast!

I love that dad looks at mom with more respect and love and devotion than my camera could ever hope to capture and that mom is the essence of peace and excitement all in one. Pregnancy is an awesome thing!

In the words of Winnie the Pooh... "A grand adventure is about to begin!" :)

{ matteson } waxahachie family & child photographer

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 15:55:09 CST

Thank the good Lord this family is back from the land of Oklahoma! I've missed them! :)

When I photographed this family about 2 yrs ago, I thought Emily and her family was one of the most beautiful families I knew, and yep, I still think so. I love their honest struggles with life and faith and everything it throws at them...it's real, and so are they, and I admire them so. As before, it was an honor.

*Btw...if I have to look at this first image one more time, I may cry outloud. Can't you just feel the love all around them? I can. And I love it.*

{ Tin Star Casting Call... } waxahachie baby photographer

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 14:55:48 CST

{ dallas blooms with tin star : one week only } dallas arboretum photographer

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 12:36:52 CST

So take a little time this spring...over Spring Break...on your lunch break...or on your day off...whatevah! Spend a couple of be-U-ti-ful hours with Tin Star Photography at the Dallas Arboretum for their incredible Dallas Blooms event. If you haven't been...it's awesome! If you have been...you're dying to go back, I know!

Sessions are bookin, bookin, bookin! Email: tinstarphoto@yahoo.com for times and availability! See you there!

{ colt : 1 year } waxahachie baby photographer

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 08:54:43 CST

Colt...ALL boy...ALL the time. This is the fastest moving little bugger for a 1 year old I've had the pleasure of wrangling. If you want to snap a picture of this guy in action, your camera better be set on 'Fast as Lightning" cause that's about the only way your gonna catch him. BUT, regardless of how sweaty we got and how much caffiene I needed after, it was the best rainy day Thursday with one handsome birthday boy.

And the sink bath? My. Fav. Eveh. ;)

{ carrell : valentine mini } waxahachie child photographer

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 11:55:05 CST

I didn't have just ONE adorable girl...or even TWO...to celebrate the last day of the Month of Love sessions...but THREE!

I always have the greatest time with these girls, and Saturday was no different. Always in the best moods, with the most precious smiles...and the best dressed for miles around! No. Doubt. ;)

{ kate : valentine mini & 3yr } waxahachie child photographer

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 14:18:21 CST

It's hard to tame a 3yo when there are cousins in the other room! And Miss Kate is like any other little girl who came to take a few pictures...and play with Emma. I just KNEW she was thinkin...*OK Aunt D...let's get this D.O.N.E., cause I've got peeps to see.* So knowing that her primary purpose was to see little people and not my camera, we made it short, silly and sweet...but not necessarily in that order. ;)

Incidentally, #2, which was the silly part, is the funniest, cutest little snapshot...makes me giggle every time I think of it!

{ coker : valentine mini } waxahachie child photographer

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 08:54:59 CST

I had an absolute blast with these 2 girls! They are so smart and cute and photogenic; they're eyes just sparkle in every single picture!

When I tell people..."Anyone can smile with their lips...but it's a TRUE smile when you smile with your eyes!" These two girls exude that phrase. This is the essence of a twinklie smile. And it was pure joy. :)

{ leah : valentine mini } waxahachie child photographer

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 14:02:53 CST

Noemi Leah..is that not the prettiest name?! And the prettiest little girl with a shy and charismatic smile. I had the best time getting to know her, and by the time she left, her shyness was just a memory.

I have enjoyed these little Valentine Minis so much, I swear I'm thinking of doing it again next year, even though my husband is probably tired of cleaning products and furniture moves. What a great support he's been to me through it all, and did it with a smile too, just like Leah! :)

{ ava : valentine mini...part I } waxahachie child photographer

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:48:39 CST

OK, so it's ALWAYS hard for me to pick preview pictures. I think too hard, critique too much, edit and nit pick WAY too much...and that's just the preview! Can you image what it's like to pick FINAL images!? Sheesh! :)

So I try to pick images that 'speak' to me. Not as in 'Horse Whisperer' speak to me, but those that talk to my mama-heart. Images that tug at me; images I want of my own kids and family. So the images I picked of my little Ava do just that...talk. *To me at least.*

I also say 'my' Ava, but this is the first time she and I had ever met. Although our families are connected through cousins and marriage, it's been 7 long years since I've even seen her family...but it was like I had known Ava for all of her 5 years.

Her mama is smart, articulate and beautiful. She is a precious encouragement to me, one of my biggest promotional voices, AND I'm not immune to stalking her blog on occasion. So, for all of these reasons, sensicle or not, the pressure for approval is on...and I was, am and will forever be honored that they took the time to make a memory with me. I loved it; hope you do to. ;)

{ camacho : valentine mini } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 14:23:54 CST

The Camacho kids are one fun and feisty bunch, and oh so sweet and photogenic. And I just love that Miss Olivia can sport a pill box vintage hat just like Jackie O!

I can't wait till the next session...although I think I'll need to down a 6 pack of energy drinks...or maybe this chick is just gettin o.l.d. ;)

{ giana : valentine mini } waxahachie child photographer

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 22:43:02 CST

I had the pleasure of working with the precious Giana again, but this time for her Valentine Mini close up.

And what a beautiful day it turned out to be! The sunsine broke through just in time for a stroll with Giana, her baby, and my new baby prop. She was such a Pro at being a little mama and breaking it in for me too!

{ cohen : 5 days } Waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 13:48:12 CST

Cohen...5 days old...handsome...strong...adorable.

I have so many favorites already, but the first image, for a 5 day old is absolute awesomeness. I am positive he was looking right at me, right on cue, and assumed the 'pose'...at least that's what I'll tell myself. *Perfect.*

OK - and the one of mama and baby; yep, it's my favorite of the week. If your heart doesn't melt when you see it...well, you might wanna check your pulse. :)

{ byrd } waxahachie family photographer

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 20:41:33 CST

One of these guys seem familiar? ;) David, Part II, and this time it's a family affair. Second half, and no less wonderful.

You know those people you 'click' with? That's the Byrd family. Simply, honestly, fabulously a great family to work with. And this is one mom who gets tons of credit for raising 3 handsome and polite men ~ and what a beautiful mom you are!

Thanks for a wonderful Saturday!

{ david : senior 2011 } waxahachie senior photographer

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 20:51:22 CST

OK - when I say this guy can play a guitar, I'm serious as a heartattack. No. Joke. Fa'real. AND, he didn't even start playing until about 2 years ago. AND, he just brought the acoustic...you know, cause he plays electric too...of course. Duh.

I mentioned to him in passing people like B.B. King, Johnny Lang and Stevie Ray Vaughn because if he keeps it up, in a few years..maybe not even years...he'll be incredible.

David, I hope and pray you nurture and develop this wonderful gift God has blessed you with...you are truely an incredible musician...and I can't wait to say..."I knew him when!" :)

{ curling the hair of an angry buffalo } personal

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:56:57 CST

I had the worst one year old session the other day. Ever. It was this Wednesday, another snow day in Texas. I decided that since I hadn't had the opportunity to do a formal 1 yr session with my OWN child that it was the perfect day for such a shoot. Audrey had other plans.

I put her down for a nap, thinking she would be rested and fresh when she woke up, and I set to work. I moved furniture, opened windows for the best possible light, pulled in a light stand for back up, and had a few props waiting in the wings. I was ready! Or WAS I?

I waited...and waited...and waited...

It was going on 3:30pm and she was STILL asleep! She never slept that late. But we did go to Chick fil A and created havoc on the playground for over an hour...so maybe she was just extra pooped? But wait, I think I just heard her stir... Yes! OK! We need to get moving or I was going to lose valuable light! Who cares that she needed to be cuddled a bit when she first gets up, I've got bidness to get to!

*Open the door...she's standing the crib whimpering...pick her up...cuddle-cuddle-cuddle...ok, that's enough...let's change!* This, as you can probably assess, was a bad idea AND the beginning of the end.

I put on her little Valentine outfit and then decided...like a mad imbecile...to CURL. HER. HAIR. Yes, with a curling iron. Ok, this is the point in the story where some people will freak out and send me nasty emails and such telling me how dangerous that is, and site research on the temperature of the barrel, and attach pictures of children who have been horribly disfigured by curling irons when their moms tried to curl their child's limp and lifeless hair just for a photo shoot. Please don't. I've seen enough episodes of Toddlers & Tiaras to know that the research is skewed. There are more dangerous utensils used on THOSE children in one show than I could even dream about. But I digress. *And it was on 'low heat' people.*

OK so I curled her hair. More like TRIED to curl her hair. If there was a hidden camera and it was posted on YouTube, I'd get a million hits. No joke. It was that comical. It was everything you could imagine and more. Kind of like trying to curl the hair of an angry buffalo. There was snorting and squealing involved, and I think some bucking. It's all a blur now, so the details are fuzzy. But I do know that when I pulled out the hairspray, all hell broke loose, and there was an abnormally large amount of ozone killing gases released from that one can that not even Al Gore would believe. Choking and gagging, I gave up...and administered oxygen to the kid. ;)

So I thought to relieve the tension I would just take her in the dining room, let her play and I would snap a few sweet moments of adorableness and be done. Wrong.

She does NOT listen to me. Not even a little. Most kids do, so why I couldn't handle my own kid is still a mystery to me. I tried everything: noises, props, toys, food, Emma...you name it, nothing worked. She wouldn't look at me; she wouldn't sit for me; she ate the toys; she fell over in the chair; she drooled uncontrollably. She even shook her head no at me...several times. And just about the time I had determined that she needed to be exorcised (like as in Damien or the Omen...not reps or laps), the Big Gun walked in. Dad finally heard the commotion, aka: my sobbing because I was never going to be able to document this milestone! DIDN'T SHE KNOW HOW IMPORTANT THIS WAS TO ME! But J was here now. He would help. It would all be better. She would cooperate.

Wrong. Again.

It was worse. Now I had a possessed one year old and a husband who does not take photographic direction well. Not because he doesn't try, but because I get frustrated that he's standing in the very light that I think he should KNOW not to stand in OR decides to extend a leg into my frame just as I snap the shutter. Ten more minutes of this, and the fat lady sang. I just couldn't take it anymore. We were done.

I was actually kind of devastated. Pictures are so important to me; obviously. And we have VERY few of our family together. It actually kind of pains me to think about it. Yes, I guess I could hire a photographer, but like most people out there, we're on a budget, and they are expensive. *Here's where I wish I could clone me and barter with myself.*

So when I try to take pictures of my own family, individuals or group or whatever, and it doesn't work out, I feel like I've failed. I've failed me, them, their future families and kids; because the documentation of our lives, their lives, will be limited. That hurts me. I don't know why. Yes, I'm sure some will think I'm crazy. But history, genealogy and proof that we existed is important to me.

Fast forward....3 hours...bedtime...rocking Audrey to sleep...

As I was singing to her and praying over her and listening to her little snores; God reassured me that my life mattered, no matter the number of pictures I had to show for it. That the part of history that matters is the life He has provided to me through His Son. He cares for me. He calls me His Beloved. He sings and dances over me. He sings and dances over my kids. I should do the same. Sing and dance over my kids. Ease up. Don't sweat the small stuff. Be thankful for the moment; the frustrating, overwhelming, make-me-want-to-spit moment. Don't be so hard on myself. Lower my expectations. Have more fun. Laugh in the moment.

Maybe I experienced this and now share it to let you know that I'm not perfect; photography is not always as easy and fun as it looks; that as much as I want to be a supermom and superphotog...shockingly, I'm not. *I know, gasp!* But, regardless of the outcome, and all of the well laid plans that were dashed; we made a memory. It was an exhausting one, and one that could probably induce me to drink heavily, but it was something I won't forget. Come on, how often can someone say they curled the hair of an angry buffalo!? :)

PS - these 2 images were the best out of 200. Really. That's it. But at least I have 2. Maybe tomorrow we'll try again? *And maybe Jack Hannah will let me borrow his dart gun too?* ;)

{ keehan ~ valentine mini } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 14:42:10 CST

Two of THE cutest and most fun little kiddos came to see me for my very FIRST Valentine Mini Session on Saturday! And I'm SO happy with how they turned out! YEA!

To be brutally honest...I seriously sweated the weather (it's been totally LAME-O, as Emma would say)...I sweated the multiple room set up in my house (you should have SEEN the furniture movin' the night before)...AND I sweated the kids having a good time (I think they all did, including mom & dad)!

What a great way to start the month of LOVE! Can't wait to show you more! :)

{ dallas blooms with tin star : one week only } dallas arboretum photographer

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 11:54:11 CST

{ the month of LOVE : valentine mini sessions } waxahachie child photographer

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 16:46:38 CST

There are just a few sa-WEET spots still available for Valentine Mini Sessions...don't miss out!

2/8 (Tues)...2/9 (Wed)...2/11 (Fri)...2/12 (Sat)...2/15 (Tues)...2/23 (Wed)...2/25 (Fri)...2/26 (Sat)

Email: tinstarphoto@yahoo.com OR post a message here w/your email ~ And thanks to the many kiddos who have already scheduled! :)

{ sarah & marino : engaged } waxahachie engagement photographer

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 22:28:07 CST

What better way to start off the month of loooove...than with a beautiful couple...in loooove. And I looooved working with this couple!

They confessed that they had never done a shoot like this, and even after my initial once over, I wouldn't have had a clue. They look SO natural, and adorable, and enamored.

As comfortable, and right and classic as Bogart & Bacall... Thank you for a LOVEly session. :)

{ jones } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 14:52:17 CST

I am SO glad to have had the chance to get outside on Saturday! My mind, body and soul needed the vitamin D in the WORST way...and I got to blow out the winter webs with THIS lovely fam!

Now, if your a photographer, and you have a session with a 10 month old weimaraner...make sure your kids are older, like these two cuties, otherwise, you might need a full month to recover. As it is, I'm STILL pooped from just watching her run, I can't image if I had toddlers too! :)

And what a great first image - can't you just SEE the mind wheels turning; and I'm NOT talking about the 2-legged kids either! ;)

{ zoe : 9 days } newborn & family photographer

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 11:20:36 CST

Usually...when I preview Newborn Sessions...I start with an image of just the baby. After all, isn't that what the session is about? Yes. This beautiful new life; tiny features and soft smells. The looks of utter amazement, bliss and peace. All of it's there, even in this session. But this time, for me, it's also about more. And it all occured to me almost as soon as I started this post.

It's about the picture. Above mom's head. See it? It's there. Don't miss it. Most of us have. Or at least I have, especially the last year. A new baby, 'new' career, economics, setbacks...we all experience them. We Dream Big for our little ones when they are born. Why don't we continue Dream Big for ourselves?

Zoe's parents have big plans for her, I'm sure of it. Plans for success, achievement, integrity, happiness... How do I know? I'm a mom; I have similar plans for my own girls! My goal this year is to encourage Big Dreams for myself.

I think there will be more to this subject in the coming months...it's affected me that much... SO...What's your Big Dream?

{ whitaker : mommy & me } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 11:15:39 CST

It's usually hard for me to choose preview images for a session just because 1, I'm way picky and 2, I'm way picky. :) Really, it's true...think about it...trying to find just 2 or 3 snapshots to convey the moment or little moments during a session with reality and heart and sweetness can sometimes be hard for me because I want to share it ALLLLL! This was one of those sessions.

I wish I could show you every single little endearing moment between this beautiful little girl and her georgous mama, but maybe I can do that in just a few. This is definitely one session my heart will remember. :)

{ rendahl } waxahachie maternity & family photographer

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 11:09:54 CST

We were almost ready to call this session because of this continued dreary weather and horrendous fog yesterday...hello?...where do we live anyway; Seattle or Texas!? :)

But a little time, patience and smiles was all it took for the fog to lift, the clouds to break a bit and some brightness to peak through! Yee haw! And aren't they all just the cutest...can't wait to meet the rookie Rendahl soon! Yummilicious moments...I think I'm jealous of my own session! hehe :)

{ lindley & family...part 2 } waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:18:34 CST

I loved working with this family...and since we didn't get the opportunity to shoot a few family pics with this beauty at her session in December, they were gracious (and brave) enough to come back for seconds - and thankful am I!

More than anything though, I can't help but be completely sucked in by her wonderful little expressions and at only a month old! From the blissful smile at daddy to the surprise eskimo kiss from mama...it's all perfection. :)

{ valentine's day mini sessions } waxahachie child photographer

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 15:20:09 CST

{ emma meets hepburn...sneak peek } personal

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 21:05:21 CST

{ audrey : 1 year } personal

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 21:07:39 CST

{ harper : 1 year } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 13:04:55 CST

OK - I rarely post birthday session images in black and white...but there is something about this first image that screamed black and white at me, most likely Miss Harper's expression...I love it!

I am still in awe at how fast these little ones grow; mine, yours, theirs, doesn't matter. Time goes too fast for words. It's more than a cliche, a clock or a few images. Cherish it. Relish in it. Roll around in it...and get some cake on your face in the process.

Be sentimental. Take pictures. You won't regret it. Ever. :)

{ elizabeth leigh : 18 days } waxahachie newborn photographer

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 15:33:38 CST

Well...funny story...I met this cute couple last fall for a maternity session in the middle of a monsoon and despite the impending flood, had a great session. So for the next couple of months we ALL waited anxiously for the arrival of Connor...who on December 18th...arrived as Elizabeth Leigh! Shut the front door!

This tiny little girl, ballerina in the making, future diva and heart-breaker...is loved, stared at, gushed over and cuddled no less for it though. AND...she's gonna be AWESOME at pulling off surprises! ;)

{ evolution of... a jet plane } personal

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 08:28:10 CST

Audrey...Audrey Jane...AJ...AJ the Jet Plane...Ornery Jane... So many names, one precious little face, a face that stole my heart...again.

This birthday is a little bittersweet for me. It's the last 1 year birthday I will get to experience as a mom. The last 1st tooth, the last 1st steps, the last 1st haircut. It's so much to take in, so much for my heart to process. People say it all the time and it sounds oh so cliché, but I really can't believe you're ONE! One year ago...cold and cloudy...as nervous and excited as when Emma arrived...you were born.

You are so decisive, independent, happy, funny and yes, obstinate (that's a daddy-gene). ;) I could talk about all of the things you're up to and in to - harassing but mostly admiring your sister...best friend...partner in crime...and mentor, playing in the Tupperware cabinet...all. the. time., cutting 4 teeth, eating almost everything...especially carbs (that's a momma-gene), walking everywhere, and talking non-stop. But I can also tell you about the things that tug at my heart - the way you want to hold my finger everywhere you go because one day you won't want to hold my hand anymore, the way you pat my back when I rock you to sleep because one day I won't be able to rock you anymore, and the way you squeal for me to pick you up when you're hurt or exhausted because one day you'll be comforted by your own family. How time will fly...

So for now, I will steep myself in this day of celebration. I will praise the One who made you and entrusted you to me. I will respect you, honor you and leave you a legacy you are proud to carry. I will definitely make mistakes, but I will always love you, encourage you and be your absolute biggest fan, cheerleader and admirer. I will pray for you, edify you and build you up. I will ask for your forgiveness when I fail you and disappoint you. I will hug you and love you when you are hurt and broken, and rejoice with you when you succeed and win. I will fight for you when you need it, and lovingly discipline you when you ask for it. I will love you. Always. Forever. Beyond death. I am yours. You are mine. You are His. And I give you to Him, who loves you more than I ever could, though that seems incomprehensible to me.

I love you, my AJ, and I wouldn't and couldn't imagine my world without you.

{ lindley ~ 5 days } newborn photographer

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 22:06:41 CST

I haven't been able to get to much of anything the last few days....and I'm a bit late with this preview, so with my deepest apologies to mom and dad, this is for your most precious and beautiful Lindley.

Tonight, on this Christmas Eve, when we are reminded that a baby can be the source of overwhelming joy...all-encompassing peace...all-consuming hope...can make your spirit soar...and your heart abound with more love than you ever thought possible. One thing is absolutely clear...a baby rocks your world...a baby makes you reconsider life...a baby changes everything.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. ~Luke 2:11-14

{ chick fil a / polar express night } GALLERY IS OPEN!

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 18:09:51 CST

Your final images are now ready for viewing...PLEASE READ THE GALLERY / ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE VISITING, ORDERING OR EMAILING!

Each child or group has 1-2 images ONLY. This varies with each child or group. There are NO additional images available. The images posted are the only images available.

Instructions for viewing your images with Santa:

Please visit: WWW.TINSTARPHOTO.COM

Choose: CLIENTS

Scroll to: CHICK FIL A / POLAR EXPRESS NIGHT

Click on: Your Child(ren's) Image(s)

To purchase: Click on "BUY" (Top Right)

To the left: Choose PRINTS and/or DOWNLOAD

Click on: "Select" for the item you wish to purchase

Items Available for Purchase:

Prints: 4x6 = $3 5x7 = $6 8x10 = $8

Prices for prints does not include shipping/handling.

Royalty Free Digital Download: $10 per image

Digital Downloads are more cost effective vs. prints since you can purchase prints anywhere AND there are NO shipping fees!

Digital Downloads are high-resolution images and royalty free.

You may use the images to print anywhere you wish.

If you use images for Facebook, blogs, etc, please link or reference Tin Star Photography as a courtsey.

The dowloaded images are for personal use only.

The photographer maintaines the copyright to each image.

NOTES ON SPECIAL PRICING:

All items available are at a discounted rate for Chick fil A / Polar Express Night customers ONLY.

This special pricing does NOT apply to any other galleries or sessions.

Other discounts, monthly specials and/or coupon codes do NOT apply to the Chick fil A/Polar Express Gallery.

Please email TINSTARPHOTO@YAHOO.COM with any questions!

Many Blessings and Merry Christmas, Tin Star Photography :)

{ frisch } waxahachie family & child photographer

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 10:15:34 CST

This session was such a special occasion because it had been quite a while since ALL of them had been able to gather together to celebrate. So what better reason was there than this and to surprise dad with an awesome Christmas gift...and he had NO idea until he arrived at the location!

Dad, what a special family you have, that they would go to such ends to give you their time, commitment and laughter...you sure did raise some great kids! And I hope the session was better than the dinner they teased you with! ;)

{ womack } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 12:10:45 CST

I've dubbed this precious little boy as 'the boy who is SO darn cute, with the uber serious expression but a little bit of mischevious genious-ness is lurking just around the corner...and the only way you can tell is through the occasional twinklie smile'. Yes it's a long nickname, but it fit him perfectly.

Adorable? Yes.

Will work for smiles? Definitely.

Was the work worth it? Absolutely!

{ aduddell } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 14:45:18 CST

OK, I would NOT be overexaggerating if I said these kids were SUPERB to work with...I mean come on, just looking at that first image I want to scream...MAGAZINE!

And you might recognize Melissa from a couple of months ago as one of the georgeous 2011 Seniors I've photographed...you know the carasmatic smile in the poofy blue dress? We'll she's back, and she brought her beeeaUtiful siblings with her...and aren't I the lucky one! ;)

{ giana } waxahachie child photographer

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 09:43:37 CST

You know those kids who are just so squishy cute that you're almost sure they never take a bad picture? The ones that even when they make a crazy face, have jelly on their cheek or nose boogies it still could be used in a parenting magazine? Yep, you know the kids I'm talkin about!

Well, meet Giana the Adorable! Such a sweet little beauty to work with...and I'm just sure one day...when she's famous...I'll be saying..."I knew her when...!"

{ richards } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 13:49:52 CST

LOVED working with this family! Totally great smiles...totally great attitudes...totally great chemistry...SA-WEET!

I mean come on, just look at Mr future Zac Efron...this little boy is just that charismatic and his smile just lights up the world... *Why do I suddenly want to break into that Christmas Coca Cola song...?* :)

And the image of mom and dad is just because I think it is ADORABLE, and I was just overwhelmed with ooze at how genuinely kind and tender they were with each other...and of course, because it's my blog and I can do what I want. ;)

{ aiden } waxahachie child photographer

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 21:40:04 CST

This little boy is a quiet and observant little soul. He is my little muse with the deepest most thoughtful and considering eyes, and I just want to hug him...if he would only let me. :)

I'm a hit with most kids, but not ALL kids. Some take a little more work, silliness and warming up than others. With little Aiden, all of the above is out the window. You have to be gentle, soft-spoken and considerate...much like his wonderful eyes. Even then you might get an image like this first one, but it IS an image to remember. It reminds me of a little boy, run away from home, but has suddenly reconsidered...probably much like his thoughts about ME at the moment.

The second image is a wonderful mama moment; tired little boy, content in the arms of the one who loves him more than life and my favorite. These are the images I want reflected of me and what I do. These are the images I love to give families. These are the images that make me tear up. These are the images that I know my clients cherish even more than I do, for they are of the ones THEY love.

Thank you for letting me be in your moment.

{ jesse & cody ~ 2 months } waxahachie twin newborn photographer

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 22:17:58 CST

I had been waiting for this day for FOREVER! Ok, maybe just a few months, but it felt like forever, and I'm sure it did to mom and dad too. :)

Newborn sessions are always hard work and a little nerve wrecking because I'm a planner, and let's face it, newborns are on the opposite end of the spectrum when it comes to planning...but TWINS! I was stressed squared! But the end result was magic...I love my little sleeping owls...:)

And I'm even MORE overjoyed that both are home now, healthy, happy and just in time for Christmas! What a wonderful reminder of all of the blessings that are ours for the claiming this year!

{ marlee ~ 10 days } ennis newborn photographer

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 23:15:23 CST

Babies are a miracle. I mean really, consider all of the miracles in this world and babies are at the top. The creation of life from nothing...the dependance of one on another...the undying love of those who have never even met yet but who know her intimately. Even in challenges, heartbreak and joy that she may experience in the future, nothing can seperate her from the love of her parents. Ever. Smitten.

I know of only One other who can claim the same, and He is the author of this precious life. Perfect! :)

{ INFO: Chick fil A ~ Polar Express Night }

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 19:22:21 CST

Thanks to EVERYONE who came out for Chick fil A, Waxahachie's Polar Express Night...what a HUGE success it was! I even had the pleasure of seeing some long time clients!

As soon as final images are ready, I will post an announcement HERE and on the Tin Star's Facebook Page , but here's a recap of the instructions for pictures with the AWESOME Santa...

Instructions for viewing your images with Santa:

Your final images will be ready for viewing by 12/23/10.

Please visit: WWW.TINSTARPHOTO.COM

Choose: CLIENTS

Scroll to: CHICK FIL A / POLAR EXPRESS NIGHT

Click on: Your Child(ren's) Image(s)

To Purchase: Click on "BUY" (Top Right)

Items Available for Purchase:

Royalty Free Digital Download: $10 Prints: 4x6 = $3 5x7 = $6 8x10 = $8

All items available are at a discounted rate for Chick fil A / Polar Express Night customers ONLY and do not apply to any other galleries or sessions.

Many Blessings, Dana :)

{ polar express night }

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 09:48:22 CST

{ correll } dallas child & family photographer

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 11:58:27 CST

This little family session was a last minute little opening and everything seemed to work out beUUUtifully! Timing, travel schedules, weather, kids...everything. And I'm so glad that it did becasue it was the perfect way to start my Saturday...

And you can't even tell that a certain little someone is wearing those blinkie light up shoes for most of our session...and just between him and me...I wouldn't want to give 'em up either...they rock. ;)

{ kline } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 13:17:39 CST

I've debated all morning whether I should come clean...and I decided that we ALL have these kind of days...as photographers AND as parents...so the truth is about to be laid out like laundry.

Do you ever have 'one of those days'. You know, the kind where you just can't console, help or alter...the day, the situation, the session or the child. I am certain that mom felt bad, because I know I did, but it just wasn't little Reed's day. I know this for a fact because I've seen him many times. I know this too because I've been there with my own kiddo...you don't know whether to laugh hysterically or cry uncontrollably. I know that feeling all too well.

To him...my jokes were bad, my faces terrible, my usual silly noises were torture. He is still precious to me as is this family, and I SO look forward to the next session where I can make some new memories with him...and it might even include one ginormous milkshake! :)

{ mcleod } waxahachie child & family photographer

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 15:10:29 CST

It's been way too long since I've had the pleasure to work with this precious family...Mac was an itty bitty newborn, and Ian was only days of being plunged into the big brother world!

But it's the same photogenic faces I saw just under a year ago...the same adorable smiles...and the same favorite red heads. It IS nice to know that some things DON'T change...:)

{ wade } waxahachie child & family photographer

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 13:03:51 CST

I have been DYING to meet this little boy since before birth! Seriously.

Everytime mom and I would schedule THE date...something would happen...like (his own) birth...weather...bad food...:) Every time. Just teasing me enough to keep me on the brink of inSANity. *drama...dun dun dun*

It finally happened. The Wade's family session...only this time we went from almost meeting...to never meeting...to Praise The Lord...we FINALLY met! And this little boy was worth every insane waiting minute! YEA! :)

{ culp } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 10:05:48 CST

The Culp family is always a blast to work with...yes, mom and dad are cool, but they upped their coolness when G entered the scene. He laughs, runs, gives great hugs AND strums a mean 'Hallelujah'.

Yep, cool just looks at this little guy...and blinks! Hehe :)

{ williamson } dallas child & family photographer

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 11:12:13 CST

You know when you meet people that make an impact on you; well, for me the Williamsons are like that. I can't quite put my finger on the moment or reason why, but it is what it is. Although, come to think of it...ooohhhh YEah...it could possibly...just an itty bitty bit...have SOMEthing to do with...this beautiful...sweet...well-mannered...adorable...little...girl. Yep. That's it.

First image...sweet perfection...no vote needed. :)

{ spock } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 14:55:09 CST

I'm just starting previews from last week's sessions and it seems like that was AGES ago...dudn't it!? But looking back at this adorable family (with the bestest kiddos, btw) takes me back...to THE windiest session ever! And I'm SO thankful they toughed it out AND that you couldn't tell! YEE HAW!

Boy hair *plus* Gale force winds = Who cares!

Girl hair *plus* Gale force winds = Don King (that's OK if you're Don King...it ain't so good on a girl!) ;)

{ freeby ~ plasket families } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 20:32:30 CST

I met this awesome, rambunctious and rowdy group the night before Thanksgiving and what a blessing! I really did get to experience the love, joy and admiration they have for one another, but most of all the reason for the gathering ~ dad & mom. You see, this was a family gift for these two who haven't had pictures taken since they were married about 40 years ago; much too long for this beautiful couple with a wonderful family! :)

And for anyone else out there waiting until...the next 10 pounds...the hair grows out...the boo-boo is gone...don't. You might look up and 40 years of fun has flown by; take it from one who knows...a photog who dosen't take as many pics of her own family as she should...camera shy. ;)

{ jordan & caitie & vader } waxahachie family photographer

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 22:35:55 CST

Two of my favorite people...and they just HAD to go and add a third to my list too! The awesome little Vader...LOVE this dog; the attentiveness and of course, the ears - I totally can't get enough of those ears! So enough about the dog...

I am super stoked that the newly-weds came to see me again for their Christmas pics...and if I'M voting...it's a 4 way tie, with image number 4 possibly winning by a Vader nose! Hysterical...fun...unexpected; THAT'S what I love about sessions and this couple. Period. :)))

{ de los santos } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 14:01:39 CST

Holiday sessions are in full swing...and boy, do I mean full swing. I can barely catch my breath!

But it sure is nice to spend a little time away from technology in such beautiful weather with great clients!

I should yell out now, in case I forget or get trapped under something heavy (like my schedule), THANK YOU TO MY WOOOOONDERFUL CLIENTS! Ya'll are all so patient, kind and a blessing to me!

Now...fasten your seatbelts...it's gonna be a crazy, buzy ride! :)

{ green } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 15:03:12 CST

It really doesn't feel that long since I've seen the Green Family - but it's amazing what can happen in a short amount of time...and one of them is this adorable little boy with the the killer eyes! Sheesh...mom had better put on the gloves of protection if this boy is gonna make it out of high school with no less than a 100 girlfriends! ;)

And the first image is just because I think it's so darn cute...can't say which little one I like better...the hairy one...or the non-hairy one...hmmmmm....

{ grayson } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 15:42:29 CST

I've seen the Grayson Family several times now...and I enjoy every single time...period. Personable, cute and fun!

AND, It's only been a couple of months since I've seen Kinley and I am stunned at how much she grows in between sessions! Maybe all of us moms need to get together, form a club and stop feeding our kids so much so they'll quit growing...it's makin me feel WAY old! :)

{ patterson } waxahachie family photographer

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 21:22:44 CST

OK, we won't even talk about how far this handsome couple drove just for their session in Waxahachie...but I'm still a little surprised, and in awe, but mostly thankful because it was the perfect end to the day!

I had SUCH a great time getting to know the Pattersons, and I hope Waxahachie was all they hoped it would be, I think they look pretty RAWR if I do say so myself. :)

{ garrett ~ senior 2011 ~ martin, arlington } waxahachie senior photographer

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 23:38:05 CST

I absolutely LOVE it when people challenge me to think outside the semi-rural Waxahachie box. Garrett did just that; he told me what he liked...metal music. He told me what he didn't like....farmer ted. And we connected. Fun. Talented. Handsome. (Although for Christmas I think I'm gonna broaden his musical education with a Bob Dylan album...;) )

Garrett, you were awesome to work with, and I'd shoot you again any day of the week...too bad you can't be a Senior every year, right? I never have enough time or space to preview everything, but I hope it turned out just as you'd expected...no farmer ted anywhere NEAR this session!

{ patino } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:19:06 CST

I've got lots of favs in this session already...and mom and dad might be a little surprised by that... It was a little bit of a stressful session, but I think judging just from the few I've edited already...

In the words of Eddie from Christmas Vacation..."Bingo!" ;)

{ tin star holiday schedule! }

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 21:12:19 CST

{ ballard } dallas child & family photographer

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 19:47:48 CST

I always LOVE working with the Ballards...uber oozy sweet, encouraging and THE cutest outfits...thanks to mom's keen shopping eye. I think she should be hired out... ;)

I am also always stunned at how fast babies grow...Kinley has only traces of little toddler in her...and Cade...it was only 6 months ago that I saw his tiny little newborn face for the first time...*sigh* Time does fly, and I'm blessed to be there to wittness it.

{ hunt } dallas child & family photographer

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 20:59:21 CST

This cute little family was my very last session in 2009...just before Miss Audrey was born. (And Parker was actually my very first injury on the job and subsequently got my trooper of the year award for finishing the session strong!) As if I didn't need another reason to be emotional that day, right? ;)

Thank goodness he recovered with flying colors AND came back to see me! Whew! And special thanks to Big Daddy and Bebe for holding my sun shade and performing crazy stunts behind the camera...all to make a little one smile...what happens at a session, STAYS at a session!

{ whitten } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 22:19:21 CST

I L.O.V.E. this weather...no one sweating and squinting, beautiful colors...which makes for great kiddos with beautiful attitudes!

I also L.O.V.E. these two kids. They were so photogenic and helpful, plus Miss Tatum and I have an Olivia perspective... If you haven't read or seen Olivia, she is a must...the most precocious piglet around. ;)

{ julie } waxahachie baby photographer

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 20:59:15 CST

I have found a new favorite age...6 months.

I found a new favorite baby...yes, besides my own, duh...Julie.

Heather and I met many moons ago when she was just a young whipper snapper of a vet student at A&M...and I taught her everything about small animal general surgery. Weeeellllll, maybe more about how to have a GOOD time in small animal general surgery. ;)

I can't believe it's been 5 years and 3 kids since we last hung out. It felt like just yesterday...but my crows feet tell me otherwise. :)

Love and blessings to you Heather; and I'm gonna steal Miss Julie just so I can hug her again!

{ colton ~ senior 2011 ~ naaman } waxahachie senior photographer

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 09:50:25 CST

I had the great privledge to work with Colton again...the last time we met was over a year ago...12 inches and 2 shoe sizes ago I think...but still just as much fun as the last time.

Doesn't he just look Buddy Holly cool...not sure if he even knows who that is...and it probably has something to do with the glasses...and the look...and the talent. All of the above.

{ perry } waxahachie child photographer

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 12:26:59 CST

I spent the afternoon with the most handsome, energetic and funny young men yesterday...go ahead, be jealous. :)

Our conversation had NOTHING to do with girls...had everything to do with candy and boogies and playstation...and was the best comunication I had all day. Seriously. No joke. Go ahead, be jealous again; you totally know your are. :)

Love these boys!

{ mary & travis = engaged } waxahachie photographer

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:43:53 CST

OK - so this really cute couple came all the way from Baylor & UMHB to celebrate their engagement with me...ok, again, maybe it wasn't just for me, it could have something to do with sister Sarah's homade lasagna too (which I wouldn't mind a little home delivery...) but I digress...

Mary told me they weren't that romantic...that they weren't gonna dance at their wedding...and that they've known each other since a high school mission trip to Jamacia. Well, judging from just the few I could preview (and I usually don't preview THIS many...but couldn't resist the oozy love)...I think they're pretty romantic...pretty good dancers...and looks like the mission trip was pretty successful too!

Congrats to this adorable couple...and many blessings along the road!

I think this one is my fav...

Mary - you're beUtiful!

I think he looks pretty proud to have Mary on his arm; what do you think? :)

I love autumn light for engagements...it just sets the right RAWR. :)

The lead construction guy was AWESOME for letting us take a sneak peek at our newly renovated railhouse...and for letting us give the dance floor a test drive too.

Such a georgous ring, and even better moment!

{ simons } dallas child & family photographer

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 11:48:41 CST

I have been dying to have a session here again since Emma's 3yo bday party, and I finally had the opportunity!

Saturday morning was definitely a 40 degree chilly one, but the light through the trees was SO pretty, and the company couldn't have been better...Jack was a ball of fire...and baby Hank was a ball of...well, blankets and slumber. I think I saw his cute little eyes only once! I am constantly amazed at what babies can sleep through! :)

{ kesler } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 12:54:50 CST

This family is just so cute...and fun...and cute...and fun...get the picture? If not, the first one is a taste of cute...and fun!

And these 2 girls definitely kept ME on my toes and made me giggle non-stop; I can only begin to image what home is like...or maybe not! HA! :)

{ price } waxahachie child & family photographer

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 12:11:01 CDT

Well the Price family and I finally made contact! YEA! SO glad we did cause I had the bestest time with Cooper...the kid that laughs with his ENTIRE body! I so wish pictures had sound! :)

And the last one is just an itty bitty taste of this happy little boy...you're giggling aren't you?! I know you are...hehe :)

{ halloween minis 2010 - part 2 }

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 09:32:58 CDT

Here's how I finished up the afternoon of Costume Micro Minis! What a great way to spend my Friday...:)

This was the first year I've attempted specialized sessions, and I had a fabulous time! We raised 30 canned goods to donate to our local food pantry from just 2 hours and 8 kiddos! Thanks to all of the parents and kids for participating and making it such a great experience for me. I can't wait till next time...more spots...more donation opportunities...more fun!

I'm considering a Santa's Workshop Micro Mini...if I can find a good day for it! Leave a comment below, or shoot me an email if you might be interested!

{ brown } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:03:32 CDT

This wonderful family came to see me Thursday, and they have been SO patient for a preview... And little Ragan is ALWAYS worth the wait!

She is one of the easiest, happiest most well-mannered red-headed little Minny Mouses (or Mice...hmmmm). Her expressions bring pure joy to my day! Which I always say, expression trumps perfection any day of the week.

Thanks for the visit; thanks for the session; thanks for dinner; thanks C for being part of my Emma's life and being such a great influence on her. She loves you so! :)

{ OUR halloween 2010 } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 14:07:31 CDT

It's been sooooo long since I've had the time to post something personal, and frankly, it's killin me! SO, I'm taking a little time out each week to show everyone how completely thankful, blessed and full of joy I am because God put me in this family...

And I'm starting with the 2 cutest, most precious and funniest girls I know...I can't WAIT to grow up and grow old with you! You are a joy to my day and a refreshment to my life. I pray passionately for both of you that you will know the One who made you, love others like you are loved and that you will be blessed enough to share your life with as wonderful a man as your daddy...we love you to the moon and back times infinity...in other words...a million billion zillion. :)

{ halloween minis 2010 - part 1 }

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 11:03:07 CDT

I may just have to this again sometime cause I had so much fun with these adorable, awesome and happy kiddos!

Thanks to the parents, grandparents and kids for coming out this morning AND supporting our local food pantry too!

Now...in order of appearance...here are my halloween mini morning stars... :)

{ van horn } waxahachie child & family photographer

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 21:12:23 CDT

Love this family. Adore this little girl. Wonderful session. OOOzes cool. Too many favorites already. So I'm not gonna pick just one...although the one of mom and dad; cha-ching! So far it's a 5 way tie. :)

Amanda - I am SO glad we finally got to connect; it was the highlight of my day! Your family is so precious...:)

{ castillo } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 22:46:22 CDT

It's a small world...no, I mean it...like, literally!

A friend, whom I had a session with over a year ago, recommended the Castillos...who grew up in this area...who mom just happened to graduate from the same high school I did! OK, this might not seem small, but when you graduate from a private school in the mecca of Dallas with an average senior class of about 60, and you just happen to run into each other casually in some random small town at a photo shoot...it's small. OK, she ALSO might have graduated like a hundred years after me, but let's not focus on dates, OK?!

Let's focus of this sweet family, with 2 pairs of the cutest little brown eyes, like...ever. :)

{ ybarra } dallas / deep ellum child & family photographer

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 10:02:37 CDT

OK - I have been waiting to shoot in Deep Ellum since...well...probably birth! (hehehe) So I absolutely fell out when the Ybarras asked me to hold their family session there. AND, how we never crossed paths before since our kids went to the same school, is totally beyond me...and I know things happen at a particular time for good reason, but I really can see no good reason for the delay of our meeting. :)

Little Cash has THE best grin, giggle, hair, eyes, attitude, pose-ability, AND parents. I adored this session, our time together, the brief rain-free weather, location, and everything else in between. And I think I might cry in a room all by myself if I didn't get to see them again, yes it was that much fun. ;)

{ wilson } waxahachie maternity photographer

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 11:25:46 CDT

The Wilsons came all the way from San Antonio just to see ME! (OK, maybe not JUST me, but after our adorable session(s - plural), I definitely won't take it personally.)

We FIRST met Saturday afternoon, on the fly, before the crazy Texas weather kicked in, and the flashes began (and not from my camera) and I reminded them that my liability was pretty crappy against lighting strikes in the middle of a heavily wooded area, so we made a pregnant run for it...just before an absolutely torrential downpour! WHEW!

Fast forward to Sunday morning and Part II of their session... And...image #1...perfection! :)

To mama and daddy Wilson...it was an honor to meet you, and I can't wait to meet Mr Connor! Blessings...D

{ guthrie } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 14:16:40 CDT

The wonderful Guthries were also a casualty of Saturday's storms, but they made up for it with pure flexibility and awesomeness on Sunday!

Beautiful little family! And the last image actually makes me giggle out loud every time I look at it. We told her to show the lion how to smile...this was her response...classic childlike humor! LOVE it! :)

{ yrlas } waxahachie child & family photographer

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 11:44:22 CDT

This has been a challenge of a week for me...technology issues, taxes, kids, activities, busy busy busy... So I'm incredibly thankful for sessions and clients who provide a break from my daily grind and frustrations...who remind me what's important in my life...and who help me see beautiful moments.

But I suspect that in the flurry of clothing choices, makeup, and fast paced kiddos...they might not even know that they are the calm in my daily storm.

Precious families; sweet moments; forever memories.

Yes, I'm a sap. And I'm OK with that. :)

{ maxwell } waxahachie child & family photographer

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 15:53:11 CDT

It was such a beautiful cool and cloudy morning...and I loved who I got to spend it with!

OK - I'm not gonna lie...it was a hard session. Little Aiden just wasn't himself this morning and we just couldn't put out fingers on why, until he arrived home...and was greeted by a pesky fever! Who knew!?

AND, who knew that I would still get wonderful little glimpses of this inspirational family.

Aiden, here's to you and all you endured this morning ~ I hope you feel lots better soon!

{ gee } waxahachie child & family photographer

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 15:24:27 CDT

I just absolutely had to come home and post a little preview from this morning's session...I have a basket full of faves and not enough space! ARG!

From that INTENSE dandelion pucker...a little witch that reminds me of a scene from a fairy tale...to that adorable kiss through the gate...sheesh...I can't take all this in one session!!

Thanks to the Gees for an... UBER. AWESOME. SESSION. :)

{ vickers } dallas child & family photorapher

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 11:24:36 CDT

I had the honor to meet and work with this sweet family on a sweet Saturday morning... The colors in my favorite park are just now beginning to show a hint of fall color, and the light is changing to a warm autumn glow...my favorite time of year. *ahhhhhhh* But in Texas, we know it won't last long...so enjoy it, soak it in, drag the fam to your favorite places, and make some memories. This family is already well on their way to making theirs...I hope they enjoyed it as much as I did...:)

{ cardenas } waxahachie family photographer

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:34:25 CDT

Some of you may remember Monica...the sizzlin mama from a couple of months ago with the red shoes to dye for and for which I still drool over...:) Well, she's back; looking just as pretty as ever and toting 2 adorable kids this time. And I guess I should use the term 'kids' losely...Alissa, beautiful young lady and future model like her mama...and Elliot, hysterical, crazy and in no way shy young gentleman who could make us giggle at the drop of a hat. Thank you for another memorable session!

What an awesome pleasure...:)

{ melissa ~ senior 2011 ~ south garland } waxahachie senior photographer

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 21:39:44 CDT

I had the best time with Melissa and her mom on Sunday afternoon...and after sifting through some of her pictures, I'm not so sure I believe her when she told me she's never taken pictures like this before...or wears makeup! *What!?* ;)

She is a complete natural...adorable smile...beautiful features...and willing to hike into tunnels, scale walls and press on through the October heat. Senior trooper of the year!

The first is my fav, of course...but ironically enough, to my surprise and I am definitely sure to hers...image number 2 may be a close second!

{ whitten } waxahachie child photographer

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 11:53:30 CDT

Hot diggity! I love it when people arrive not knowing what to expect, a little anxious and 'hoping for the best' from their session...and walking away surprised, amazed and relieved...that their kids did SO well, that they even twinklie smiled AND and fun to boot! Makes ME feel relieved...and blessed beyond measure!

Did I say how much I love what I am allowed to do? If not, I hope it showes...cause the people I am graced to work with rock the house! ;)

{ caitlin ~ senior 2011 ~ midland classical } waxahachie senior photographer

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 21:46:41 CDT

Caitlin...I've waited for this day since you were born! And even though we live far apart and seperate lives, and we've really barely known each other through the years, I have waited for this day. You are such a beautiful young lady....the incarnation (aka: clone) of your mama...with the smile and personality to match. I am so very proud of you!

Christi...thank you for letting me help with such a special milestone; I am honored more than you know. You are my soul-sister and always have been...I love you dearly and miss you lots!

Caryn...As always, you are my agent, coordinator and social chairman; you're an awesome 'sister-cuz', friend and baby sitter! Casa Linda? ;)

{ sullivan } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 15:52:39 CDT

OK - I can't tell you in mere words how much I think of this family...I leave every single encounter uplifted, laughing and refreshed. What great kind of friends to have; if you don't have people like this in your life...get some. Buy some. Bribe some. Just kidding! :)

AND...their beautiful little faces like my camera too. YIPPEE!

{ griffin } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 10:14:20 CDT

Last time I saw the Griffins they were a cute family of 3...and now a family of 4 they have increased their cuteness by two rosey little cheeks! I always have a great time with this sweet family, and it's icing on the cupcake that they are uber photogenic too.

And what a little gem of an image in the first one; one to treasure for a lifetime! :)

{ pedigo } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 12:03:32 CDT

The Pedigo family came from Dallas just to see me, and after trying to connect earlier this summer, it finally all came together on a beautiful Saturday morning! Lots of gorgeous smiles and giggles from THIS crew...so many, there's just no way to fit them all into one itty bitty preview...

And...true to form, I always put my favorite first...so I can't disappoint this time. Another brother and sister duo with a vintage twist!

{ carrell triplets } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 13:17:33 CDT

Not only are these three adorable and sassy...but they have the most easy going parents on the planet; and I do not say that lightly. So this preview is about these lovely little 3 year olds, yes, but it is also a tribute to a fabulous mom and dad. One day these three will comprehend AND verbalize just how awesome you are and the blessings of your calm and easy spirits.

*But I definitely needed a nap after our session, if for nothing else but to give my face a rest...I achieved my smile and giggle quota in 1 hour. :)*

{ marquez } dallas child & family photographer

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 20:24:37 CDT

This first image of the Marquez family, is one of my all-time favorites. All-time you ask? All-time I say. It is the epitome of what I love; unexpectedness, candor, simplicity...and it tells a story. 14 months meets 94 years young.

Simple. Sweet. Impromptu. And I got to be there to capture it. What a beautiful documentation of generations...

{ jones } waxahachie child photographer

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 20:30:52 CDT

Finally! After many technological difficulties this week...preview number three, with three of my favorite little pistols!

These girls could run circles around an olympian and charm the sass right out of Beyonce. Don't believe me? Well, here's just a peek into their world; or should I say their mama's and daddy's world. Hehehehe...;)

{ white } dallas child & family photographer

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 08:28:33 CDT

OK - so here's preview number two of this past weekend, and again...greatness...as always with the White family!

What would I do without beautiful, photogenic and fun clients (and family...cause yes, these 4 adorable people are related) that make me look WAY better than I could ever hope to be.

Maybe I should go on holiday more often if I keep coming back to this! ;)

{ young } dallas child & family photographer

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 12:58:16 CDT

OK - so I go away for a week of R&R...and I come back to THIS!? How lucky and blessed am I!? I know, shut the front door! Loved Ashli from the day I met her and blessed to work with her for several years and now blessed again to document their drippy sweet family and rockinly cool little Sam! It's one of those sessions that just for the preview I could sit and edit a hundred zillion images and still not get enough...pace. yourself. dana. :)

Ashli told me at the end of the session..."We're not very comfortable in front of the camera...can you tell?"

Blog readers, I ask you...Can YOU tell? Cause I sure can't! Adorable with a big 'ol stinkin A!

{ charlie : 3 weeks } red oak newborn & family photographer

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 10:08:42 CDT

I'm so glad everything worked together so I was able to see the newest little Dycus! She's everything I knew she would be...tiny, beautiful, precious...AND the BEST sleeper. E.V.E.R. I'm not kidding, she let me do everything and anything! From butterflies...to buckets...to guitar cases (my favorite btw). She's just plain awesome.

What a great family to work with on such an honored occasion with such a wonderful little baby. Blessed!

{ adkins } waxahachie child photographer

Sat, 18 Sep 2010 19:52:49 CDT

Oh My Gosh! I was SOOOO worried last night when not 30 minutes before my session with the Adkins kids...the clouds rolled in...thunder rumbled...and the sprinkles began. Then, as suddenly as it popped up...the storm skirted just north of us to break through in the most awesome golden light.

I try to do as little 'photoshopping' as possible to my images...oh a few blemishes, stray hairs and slight sharpening, light adjustments and skin smothing here and there, but not on this session, these images are almost straight out of my camera, and the light is simply beautiful...at least I think so. :)

Man, is God's light not WAY better than ANY photoshop trick up my sleeve!

{ ashton george : 9 days } newborn & family photographer

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 14:47:13 CDT

I've had so many newborns lately, I always pray I don't run out of ideas, creativity or get 'bored'...and when I finally arrive at the home of a precious family, I find that I've worried for no reason at all.

After all, this is NOT about me; it's about the celebration of this new little life that has graced the world with its mere being. What an awesome feeling; every time. Bored? Never. Inspired? Always. Amazed? Forever.

I couldn't wait to edit this sesion...it's only been an hour and a half since I arrived home, loaded images and began editing...and now the preview is up...because I am anxious for each of you to feel just a little bit of how wonderful it is to experience new life...whether you're 8 or 80. Celebrate! :)

{ sewell } waxahachie child & family photographer

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 09:59:35 CDT

You know when you connect with people...when you do so much talking and laughing...and you suddenly realize it's dark out...and you wonder where the time went...cause it's only felt like a few minutes...but now you don't have an excuse to stay any longer...cause your job is a photographer...which requires LIGHT! hehe :)

That's the Sewells. Fun. Cool. Fun. Expressive. Fun. Beautiful. *Did I mention fun?* And get a load of this little model they're raising!

I had the best time, and how ever long it is till we met again at the next session...well, it's just too long! ;)

{ ray } dallas child & family photographer

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 13:20:09 CDT

I always have a great session when the Ray family is involved; who wouldn't love to shoot this beautiful little brown-eyed beauty anyway!?

AND...It's a good thing Miss N has beautiful curley hair cause the humidity was OUTRAGEOUS on Saturday! It was like we had all taken a dip-in-the-pool-crazy-humid!

BTW...the second series of images is just crack me up adorable...my favorites of the day!

{ bogue } dallas child & family photographer

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 14:28:19 CDT

I began my cloudy, drippy and humid Saturday with the adorable Bogue family...and this little girl was all smiles...until we took the cupcake away! *My kind of girl! If she could have fought us for it...she probably would have won!* ;)

This is one of my favorite places in Dallas to shoot; such wonderful color, great scenery and therefore beautiful images...you never would guess judging from the green grass and vivid flowers that we were on the backside of summer, huh!?

{ moon : 25th anniversary } waxahachie photographer

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 11:16:29 CDT

I had a great Labor Day session with some of my most favorite people...all because they are celebrating 25 incredible years together! And I got to be there to document the occasion!

Thank you Moon family for all you have done to encourage, grow and bless my business! I wish and pray for you 25 more...:)

{ ely & the maddox family } waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 09:27:43 CDT

This awsome family deserves an awesome preview, so I hope and pray I can live up to their...well...awesomeness...;)

This session included everything I love...family...in their element...being themselves...no pretense...and lots of fun! And that beautiful image of the peaceful and slumbering Mr Ely...SOOOOO worth the wait! I never knew a baby could go that long without sleeping! :)

Thank you to the Maddox family for allowing me into your home to document the lives of your beautiful family! What a wonderful experience for me to have met each of you...and I pray many blessings for you in the coming days!

{ madison : 1 year } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 16:32:50 CDT

Madison...beautiful...precious...easy going...fashionable...and LOVES cake - everything I love in a girl! :)

When I dream of an easy session words like cooperative and photogenic instantly come to mind...now, Madison will come to mind too.

Happy birthday to a beautiful young lady; I can't wait to meet again!

{ barnett family } dallas family & child photographer

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 20:20:14 CDT

I had the awsome pleasure of working with the Barnett family this weekend, and I mean ALL of the Barnett family; the 2-legged variety AND the 4-legged variety. I still can't believe that I had 10 bitty itty eyes all looking at me...at the same time!

I am also happy to announce that Harper has my favorite purple hat gummy grin toe touch award; yes, I made it up, but is she not PRECIOUS!?

And I have to say, the 4-legged clients were the best, most well behaved 4-legged subjects...who so desperately and successfully fought the urge to chase ducks, swim and fish...maybe next time, huh? ;)

{ colt : 6 months } waxahachie childrens photographer

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 12:23:23 CDT

6 month pictures are some of my favorites...they are just beginning to come into their own personalities...beautiful skin...chunky little rolls...plus, they don't go anywhere, so no chasing and increased heart rate on my part! WHEW!

These boys are future classmates of BOTH of my daughters and I see MUCH mischief in their futures and probably some good old fashioned pickin too! ;)

I had to preview the one of big brother Chance...well...because it's my blog and I can...and because he's so darn handsome!

{ ada renee : 10 days } waxahachie newborn photographer

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:35:57 CDT

I finally got to meet the scrumptous Ada on Sunday and work with her awesome parents again!

As a photographer, you always hope and pray your images show off how beautiful and precious they are...but especially babies. Their soft skin, tiny features and sweet expressions. I hope Ada thinks it was a success too...I sure do! ;)

{ abigail blythe : 18 days } newborn photographer

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 21:53:27 CDT

I love what I do, and I count it pure joy to work with every single client...but you know those special sessions with people you have a special connection to...for me, that's Jon and Denise.

Jeremy and I have known the Hudsons for years...we all met and worked together at A&M...both secretly dating (our spouses btw, and why secretly, I have NO idea)...then chose to marry ON THE SAME DAY IN THE SAME YEAR...and now Jon and J work for the same company...friendship destiny?

But the star of THIS session is this absolutely, over the top precious little one for whom J and I prayed for I think as much as our own girls! And as I worked on these images tonight, I am overwhelmingly blessed and proud to call this family our friends and to share in just a small amount of the joy of a little girl that is already far blessed beyond what she can comprehend at this moment. Praise be to God for this gift...

{ the women } waxahachie family photographer

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 21:42:53 CDT

OK - no, I don't need my eyes checked...yes, I know not all of these images are of the female variety...BUT...the WOMEN are the reason we got together...the guys just came along for the ride...;)

Can you believe that between these 3 ladies tallies almost 100 years of wedded bliss?! I get goosebumps just typing it! What a wonderful way to start my weekend... Tickled to my toes happy!

{ david & angel } waxahachie photographer

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 21:28:30 CDT

I can't tell you in mere words or pictures how awesomely fun this couple was...we talked about everything from dirty cities to GM to food to quirky nicknames; Random? Maybe. Funny? Definitely!

Originally from Wisconsin...transplanted to Texas...bearing the heat...and slightly homesick... She let me know that it has taken her a while to find a photographer, and I'm secretly hoping she likes what she sees so far, cause I would hate to miss out on getting to work with she and her mischevious other half again!

PS...This first image is for Pukey...It's still one of my favorites...but we'll keep it a secret...for now at least...hehe :)

{ emersyn rose : 13 days } waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 15:13:43 CDT

Is she not baby perfection!? Her little smile, her beautiful skin and her classic name...not to mention handsome mama and daddy too! The first image is by far one of my favorite baby images to date; it's a rare thing to catch a smile so young....but it's pure bliss when I do!

I am SO pleased with this session and couldn't have asked for a better baby to work with; AND, I get to see her again in 3 months, and I'm ALREADY planning! :)

*BTW...the picture with dad was mom's idea...isn't it fabulicious!*

{ jeret : 19 days } midlothian newborn & family photographer

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 22:48:27 CDT

When Sarah and I met and began working together about 2 years ago...we connected almost instantly. We have the same sense of thought, sarcasm, humor and love of all that is Aggie. And now that I have a new little McClure boy to love and shoot and watch grow, it's just more of an excuse to see and work with this precious family!

I can't WAIT for future sessions with these 2 little boys...I can already FEEL the mischief! *Plus...what's not to love about 2 boys...BOTH with Kevin Bacon Footloose hair!* ;)

{ jillianlee : 13 days } fort worth newborn photographer

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:03:40 CDT

I love babies...therefore I LOVE what I get to do...photograph babies. Most people have NO idea what goes into a Newborn Session; until they experience one...

Is it hard work? You're darn tootin! (I need a nap after every single one!)

Do I get frustrated? Rarely! (If it happens, it's cause I've done something only a goober would do!)

Do I sweat? Absolutely! (Buckets!)

But like Jillianlee's mama said today..."It's worth every penny!"

I think so too...

{ nelson } waxahachie family & child photographer

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 14:10:30 CDT

I finally had the opportunity to meet and work with the beautiful Nelson Family all the way from Van Alstyne! *I think that's somewhere near Kansas...;)*

Thank you so much for being willing to make the long drive with 2 kids, braving this BRUTAL Texas heat and having a great little family session! You guys are FABulous! But maybe next time we could meet somewhere in the middle and pray for one of those Texas cool fronts?!

{ thorpe } waxahachie family & child photographer

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 17:31:43 CDT

I'm SO glad I had the awesome joy to work with the Thorpe Family again...it's been 1 week shy of 1 year since I saw little Miss C...and I am always STUNNED at how fast these kiddos grow!

I mean, really!? It was only 1 year ago that she had little hair, wasn't quite walking and smiles were harder to work for...:) And look at her now! What a beautiful little lady she has already become...

{ ryder: 1 year } waxahachie child photographer

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 16:06:07 CDT

You would NEVER guess that this was such a fun little session if you were judging by this first image...but it was!

I've had 3 sessions with this little man...and ALL 3 have started out the same way...the "I would rather have my 8 teeth yanked out than have you take my picture" face! But after about 20 minutes of taking our time...hiding behind trees...and pretending I'm not looking at him...he mellows into the "look at me, aren't I adorable; you SO want your daughter to date me" face!

I love this boy! Happy Birthday Mr. Independant! :)

{ hunter: 2 weeks } waxahachie newborn photographer

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 17:01:59 CDT

It's been a strange week and a crazy morning! We were SO rudely (and thankfully) disturbed from slumber at 5:30am to a water main break...in our front yard. YEE HAW! *Here's where I wish there was a sarcasm font.*

Isn't it funny on the days that seem important...the days when you want to make a good impression on a client...THOSE are the days God decides to throw a curve ball so we get humbly redirected as to what really matters. The precious life of a new baby...NOT the stink emminating from the front yard! :)

Hunter at 2 weeks is alert, adorable...and hungry! But mom and dad patiently hung in there through feedings, changes and soothing to finally get the one they were waiting for; the little drummer boy. It may be one of my favorites to date!

{ kenley: 5 yrs } waxahachie child photographer

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 22:29:07 CDT

I love this little girl...period.

I could just end my post there because that's probably what you should do with a perfect session...but why!? Then you wouldn't get to know this model, golf star and diva in the making!

She is the daughter of my hair stylest (um, the best btw)...and I'm not just sayin' all these good things cause my hair is litterally IN HER HANDS! This kid is awesome. She never once complained...or come to think of it, sweated, the stinker! She played, cracked jokes and was happy to be my friend for the hour (and treated me like I was cool). She is in a word...beautiful!

Tisha, you should be so proud that your daughter won my kid of the year award...and my heart...:)

OK, now I'm done.

{ gaines } waxahachie maternity photographer

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 22:50:15 CDT

The sweetest, kindest and most adorable couple came to see me for their Mini Maternity Session on Saturday morning...

Chris just oozes thoughtfulness when it comes to Lauren, and he seems truely amazed at what is about to happen...this little girl who will turn their lives upside down; and they both wouldn't have it any other way. I love to photograph couples like this; they are so honest in front of the camera...and it becomes an actual peek inside their hearts....sweetness... What a wonderful thing to witness!

{ macy anne: 11 days } dallas newborn photographer

Sun, 01 Aug 2010 21:56:15 CDT

I finally had the privledge of meeting the beautiful Macy on Friday morning for a perfect Newborn Session...she was SO well behaved and I think it was my shortest session yet for a brand new baby!

Each time I hold a new baby, I try and recall how little my own girls were...and my mind gets fuzzier and fuzzier with each passing day; how truely fast time does fly...*sigh*

I love the frailness, strength and delicate features of this little girl all rolled into one little tiny package. And like every new parent...it was quite obvious that even after only 11 days, mom and dad are smitten for life! Many blessing to Macy Anne, and I can't wait to see where life's journey takes you...:)

{ monica: just because } waxahachie photographer

Sun, 01 Aug 2010 23:29:33 CDT

Can you believe that this GEORGOUS and dynamic lady is a busy mom of 3? Get out! Right?!

Well, she is, and she's much more than that... Monica contacted me because life has brought lots of changes, turns and new directions for her in the last few months, and this was a sort of celebration of new beginnings...just because. And man, and I glad we became connected! Good conversation...beUUUUUtiful lady...and awesomely hot images! Plus get a load of those shoes...um, jealous! :)

Monica, I would be over the top thrilled to work with you again! And I hope you know how amazingly beautiful and photogenic you truely are! I wish you all of the blessings God can pour out over you in the days to come! ~D

{ jose: grand prairie senior 2010 } waxahachie senior photographer

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 21:47:41 CDT

What a fabulously rockin Saturday evening senior session...Jose is so funny, cool and Mr All Natural when it comes to 'posing'...I wish he were a senior every year! ;)

Thanks so much for choosing to hang out with me through the heat and mosquito swarms! Mrs G, you have raised a polite and charming young man, and I just know he'll make you a million one day...plus he has the coolest sneaks anywhere!

{ mommy & me: mom & bricen } waxahachie family & child photographer

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:44:16 CDT

I spent a fabulous morning with a dear friend and her little boy...and I am blessed. Although she may not know it...I walk away from each encounter with her feeling joyful, refreshed and encouraged. Her spirit is a blessing to my soul...:)

And...what a fabulous little boy she's raising...articulate, funny and a grin that could charm your socks off!

Thanks for spending the morning with me; thanks for encouraging me without knowing it; and thanks for being my double shot of espresso-to-my-soul! :)

{ jacob } waxahachie child photographer

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 21:56:46 CDT

I met little Jacob for big birthday number 2 on Friday evening...and the heat didn't slow him down one little bit! I think we all pooped out and melted long before he did!

One of the best things about what I get to do is having the privledge of watching little ones grow and learn and 'fit' into their own personalities from year to year. So far Jacob and I are 2 for 2...can't WAIT to see what next year looks like for this little man and his awesome mama and daddy! Thank you so much for visiting me again! Blessings ~D

If this one don't make ya smile...ya may be dead! ;)

{ related? }

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 17:24:17 CDT

It's been a while since I've posted anything personal on the blog...so I thought I had better make it a memorable one!

This is for those who say they aren't sure if my girls look alike...AND for those who think we should have a third! ;)

{ hudson: 3 weeks } waxahachie newborn photographer

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 21:04:42 CDT

Babies evoke such strong emotions in people; emotions that require little explanation except to say that their very presence makes the hardest heart soft, the strongest man cry and the most intelligent of humans communicate like an imbicle. Babies are a joy like no other and make the possible seem attainable.

To the Arnolds...You will never be able to remember life before or without him...and can't image loving or cherishing anything in this world more than him! Introducing Hudson Miles...

{ cow appreciation day ~ chick-fil-a, waxahachie } waxahachie child & family photographer

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 15:24:33 CDT

I spent the better part of lunch today appreciating cowz! AND...snapping a few pics....and shaking a few hands...and meeting some awesome people...and being impressed with the well-oiled family-kid feeding machine that is Chick-fil-A. I mean not only can these people make a mean spicy chicken sandwich...which is my self-proclaimed new addiction btw, and I'll say it loud and proud...but their awesome and RARE achievement in service is hard to beat by anyone! So when the opportunity came along for me to be able to work with them to help promote the cowz special day...I hesitated for OHHHHH, about 1 millisecond! :)

And although not every kiddo is a fan of the giant cow beast...the cowz and I still VERY much appreciate everyone who stopped by...and that chicken is the main dish... ;)

PS / Aside / Kudos....I'd just like to say how blessed I am to have had this community opportunity with our local Chick-fil-A! Laure and Andy 'the Cow' are the best people to work with...and I couldn't think of a better way to have spent my Friday! My heart is full of THANKS! :)

{ Chick-fil-A ~ Cow Appreciation Day 2010 } waxahachie child & family photographer

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 21:48:07 CDT

I am stoked to be a part of a restaurant that our family has personally helped keep in business for the better part of....ohhhh....YEARS! :)

Join me on July 9 for Cow Appreciation Day @ the Waxahachie location for "Pikturz Wit Tha Cowz"...and a few special treats from Tin Star Photography!!!

Hop 2 ce u ther!!!

{ tin star referral rewards }

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 22:36:33 CDT

Begins July 1, 2010! Go get 'em kids! ;)

{ madelynn } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 09:42:25 CDT

I met Madelynn on a steamy Saturday evening...but it didn't phase this little birthday girl's fun AT ALL!

Bubbles...balloons...and the cake destruction all prevailed...and Madelynn came out on the other end victorious...a wink and a reference to the Rocky Balboa shot...with fists of icing raised in cake defiance...:)

Happy Birthday sweet Madelynn!

{ wood family } waxahachie family & child photographer

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 20:59:47 CDT

I SO much enjoyed working with this family...hiking the land, negotiating the little river, talkin' like a dog, jumpin' cow patties and even losing shoes in 'quick sand'! I enjoyed every single minute of it!

Precious kiddos with awesome talents and personalities...a wonderful mom and dad with great integrity...and an obvious deep love and appreciation for each other.

What a blessing it was for me and J to have met each of you, and I definitely hope we cross paths again!

{ cassie: senior 2011 } waxahachie senior photographer

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 16:49:31 CDT

This Senior Session was so very special to me for many reasons...

FIRST, Cassie is the daughter of a high school friend whom I hadn't seen in...ahem...*whispered*...20 years!

SECOND, this friend is one of my biggest encouragers, and though we hadn't seen each other in...ahem...*whispered*...20 years, we picked up the conversation as though only a small amount of time had passed - I love people like that!

And THIRD, can you tell from these images that this beautiful young lady had a pretty serious jet ski accident just 3 days before our shoot and was in pretty awesome pain?! When most people would be in bed for 6 months...not this girl - her statement was something to the effect of "I came all the way from Florida and got up at 4am to get these pictures..." She is one tough chick!

We also snapped a few family pics along the way...but I reserve those for a seperate preview so Cassie can be the Rock Star of this post.

Cassie ~ You are beautiful...awesome...and I look forward to getting to know you even more next year! Call me for ANYTHING...ANYTIME...:)

{ mommy & me: the brown girls } dallas family & child photographer

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 21:04:53 CDT

I am SO happy that I got to kick off my new Mommy & Me Wednesday promo with these 2 hip, funny, sweet and awesome chicks!

We made the jaunt over to this cool, urbanly hip new park in Downtown Dallas where...we twirled in funky bowls...played in the urban sprinklers...read Fancy Nancy books...avoided hot and sizzling playground equipment...and dodged the parking police! What an adventure in just 45 minutes...

I had a wonderful time girls...and I can't wait for our family session in October!

{ mason } waxahachie child photographer

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 00:05:11 CDT

It's hard for me to say this....and I may be flogged if my husband ever finds out...but this is the cutest little Sooner I've had the pleasure of entertaining.

What a sweet boy, with a great toothy grin, adorable monkey buddy, and Pez dispenser obsession ;)...but GINORMOUS kudos to mom for finding the hat...and to Mason for keeping it on for longer than 5 minutes...and LIKING it!!

Loved working with this little boy and family! I hope to see you guys again soon!

{ abigail } mckinney child photographer

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 22:06:08 CDT

We made the drive to McKinney on Saturday for my niece's 1 year celebration with family and friends...and decided that we might as well document the day with a photo session too!

The first one is my favorite of the session since she reminds me of a baby china doll with her beautiful dark hair and fair skin...BUT my favorite of the DAY has to be the nonchalant thumb in the cupcake...:)

Sweet and beautiful little girl and we were so happy to be able to be there and share in the fun!

{ brady } waxahachie child photographer

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 18:56:06 CDT

I got to play with the awesomest 2yo today! Adorablest (yes, it's a word) smile, heartiest giggle, hippest hair....and a trademark skip-hop-run is the cherry on top! I love how encounters with kiddos change my outlook on life...happy all the way to my toes...

Happy Birthday Brady...what a wonderful little boy you are! :)

{ as compared to what? }

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 11:28:00 CDT

I was walking my yard this morning...cause that's what I do to chill sometimes...drinking my Dr Pepper, listening to the thunder, pulling the more than occasional sneaky little weed that's worked it way in to my flower beds, and contemplating the next step in my life...and I found this...

I had completely forgotten I had even planted these! One cool fall day; hoping that I planted them in just the right spot, but now forgotten. There they were this morning, hidden a bit, but clearly evident!

I've felt a bit like that lately, wondering where I am, where I fit in, kind of lost in all this stuff, ya know. Not sure where or how to take the next step and in need of direction. You may feel like that too - in a job that needs to end, in need of a job, in need of healing in a relationship...whatever it is, I'm talkin' to you. For me, it comes in cycles...knowing answers to all of these things that is, cause I'm a planner. And when those ducks aren't in a row and quacking like they should, I get worried. Then worry turns to anxiety, then anxiety to insecurity, then insecurity to completely stalled on the side of the road in some bar ditch in a place like Cut and Shoot, TX...(No offense to those in Cut and Shoot) :) I know I'm not the ONLY one out there like this, right?

Well, you know when God is trying to tell you something? At first He nudges a bit, He may even whisper it in your ear or just give you the slightest little tappity tap on the shoulder. Subtle. Trying to gently prod you on and make you aware. If you don't pay attention and it's something He really wants you to know, He may get frustrated...and throw a brick.

I can see the brick. It’s being tossed up in the air like a pitcher getting ready for a fast ball...so now I'm sitting up and paying attention...before it's hurled in my direction and makes contact with my helmet. It's a hard thing to experience, the fear before the swing, but it's even harder to endure the brick to the head.

Everything I've encountered in the last 2-3 weeks has been preparing me for the brick, but I refused to hand it over and wise up. Through people, sermons, devotions, music, a skit and even a stupid series J and I are watching on Netflix. He has been reminding me to step out of my box of fear...and just...Let. It. Go.

So my confession is this; I've started this bad habit lately, and it's driving me nutty (and probably secretly driving my husband crazy too), therefore, I am here to humbly confess...I am an affirmation addict.

Here's how it starts...I surf the net, peruse magazines in the checkout line, blog stalk...and compare myself to other people, namely photographers. BAD! I realized this when another blogger pointed out her own photo envy, and I discovered she nailed my own insecurity issues right on it ugly little head! Even funnier is that she is an international speaker, photographer and cool gal extrodanairre! How is that possible that SHE could compare herself to others? Because...just like me, she is human; she is fallible; she is a perfectionist to a fault; and she wants to be better than yesterday and even better tomorrow.

I know I pay too much attention to fan numbers, blog hits and photographer wanna be statistics...and my own faults! If I don't make the concerted effort to beat down my own insecurities, wave away the naysayers and ignore the negativity...it will win. I realized even in writing this post (which has taken about 3 weeks BTW b/c of my brick ignorance) that it is a DAILY fight. I have to let it go, daily. Give it over, daily. Fight, daily. If I didn't, what a bummer of a life that would be, huh?! So instead of focusing on my competitors, I will CHOOSE to focus on my talents. (C. Roney)

Oh, I know I'm not Jasmine *, but neither is anyone else for that matter. And no one is Tin * (Star) either...:) I don't expect that everyone will like me, or that everyone will appreciate what I do, or how hard I might work to make sure people are happy with the end result, or that everyone will laugh at my jokes or read my blog or be my fan. I am discovering that I'm not here for that purpose. I know my convictions and I must be true to those. My purpose is to give myself away through my talents and gifts and I must choose to be a channel of blessing and kindness to others. I don't expect that everyone will understand my convictions or my purpose, but it's mine and I own it and I'm OK with it.

Just like the lily I found this morning, I'm not hidden from God - and neither are you.

He doesn't compare me to those Knockout Roses I'm planted next to - and neither are you.

The point is…He planted me here for a purpose, and it's up to me to pay attention and live it - are you?

I know it's scary, but consider the brick...:)

"Has anyone by fussing before the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? If fussing can't even do that, why fuss at all? Walk into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They don't fuss with their appearance—but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them. If God gives such attention to the wildflowers, most of them never even seen, don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you?

"What I'm trying to do here is get you to relax, not be so preoccupied with getting so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep yourself in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. Don't be afraid of missing out. You're my dearest friends! The Father wants to give you the very kingdom itself.

He continued this subject with his disciples. "Don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or if the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your inner life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the ravens, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, carefree in the care of God. And you count far more.

Luke 12:22-32 ~ The Message

{ audrey ~ five months }

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 20:30:53 CDT

From the moment I met you, I knew you inside and out. I know your smile. I know each cry and what it means. I know that crazy little curl just above your ear will never be tamed. I know your giggle-hiss when I kiss your neck and the dimple from who knows where on your left cheek. I know each little baby roll and the way you smell like lavendar. I know your sister adores you, and you her. I know that you light up and wiggle the moment she enters the room or the instant you hear her voice...and I am proudly envious of that. I know that you are already strong, independant and full of joy.

But more than all of these things...more than I will ever know you...more than I can ever love you...your Heavenly Father knows and loves you more. It's hard for me to comprehend or even imagine that someone could love you more than me...that someone could care about and treasure you more...but He does. You are the apple of His eye; He has written your name on His hand; He could live anywhere in the world, but He chose to live in your heart.

I love you my Audrey Jane....my heart is full of overwhelming joy because you are a part of me. I pray for you each moment I think of you; that you will seek to know Him as He knows you...fully, completely and passionately...for that is how I love you...fully, completely and passionately.

I love you forever; I love you for always...forever and always my baby you'll be.

He will sing and be joyful about you ~ Zepheniah 3:17

{ soon to be baby arnold } dallas maternity photographer

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 22:42:08 CDT

My final maternity session of the weekend began and ended just in time...the uber super Allison really hung in there and endured the morning heat and humidity to give me some beautiful and dreamy images. She is the ultimate trooper and I just know that baby is going to be as tough as his mama!

I had an awesome time working with you guys, and can't wait to meet the little man in person! Many, many blessings lie ahead...:)

{ soon to be baby lee } dallas maternity photographer

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 22:51:01 CDT

Small world doesn't even begin to describe meeting the Lees...receommended by another client, but in surfing my site found friends they went to law school with! 6 degrees of Tin Star Photography...;)

This beautiful mom and dad made my job so easy and were the ultimate joy to work with...thank you guys so much for working with my crazy schedule...AND for arriving late with me...;) Your lives will soon be forever blessed by your wonderful little girl and I wish and pray all of the very best for you! :)

{ soon to be baby coulson } waxahachie maternity photographer

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 23:01:39 CDT

All of my soon to be mom sessions hosted some of the prettiest pregnant people around, and I had the joy of 3 in one weekend!

First up is the Coulsons...which btw, I was informed by mom #1 that she had little to no photogenic-ness. *WHAT!* I hope I proved her wrong with this shoot b/c her twinklie smile, flawless skin and beautiful baby bump all shout...WHATEVER!...at my camera.

And just an FYI...the image of those little tiny baby shoes between mom and dad's tootsies...my total fav! Can't wait to meet the little one who's gonna fill those precious slippers...very soon...:)

{ caitie & jordan * 5.28.10 } dallas arboretum photographer

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 10:31:13 CDT

I met Caitie, Jordan and Kris (Caitie's beautiful mom) over a year ago...and from day one it was meant to be. The nicest, most wonderful and generous people to work with...

I've watched these two grow so much in each other in the last year and every time I see them the sparkle in their eyes is almost blinding. I know there are many amazing things in store for these two...Totally in love, totally respectful, totally inspiring...can't wait to see them again on their 50th Anniversary!

Dude...I'll be so old! ;)

Click the here to see the rest of the story...!

{ lopez family } waxahachie family & child photographer

Sun, 23 May 2010 17:22:32 CDT

Little Adian arrive with family in tow on Friday night...one of the hottest and most humid days in a while...and STILL gave me 100% ADORABLE!

He has got the prettiest most soulful baby eyes, and I can't wait to see him again...maybe even with a baby hawk like daddy...;)

{ martinez family } waxahachie family & child photographer

Sun, 23 May 2010 17:35:28 CDT

I've known Elizabeth for quite some time now, and it's been WAY too long since I've seen these awesome boys for a session, so we had LOTS to catch up on!

What a beautiful family, great testimony to faithfulness and pure love for each other...plus, you can't go wrong with smiles like these right?!

Let's not wait this long to get together again, I am still in awe of how these boys have become little men right before my eyes... snif, snif...:)

{ mastrovich kiddos } waxahachie family & child photographer

Sun, 23 May 2010 17:46:53 CDT

Sometimes 3 kids plus 1 photo session = mega challenge...much like hanging onto a wet bar of soap...but NOT these 3!

Even though their personalities are so very different; Alice = polite little mama, George = the ultimate boy, Henry = the quiet and sensitive observer...each one gave me the perfect gift to my camera. Maybe they're different at home, but I can't imagine how...they are all 3 SUPER KIDS in my book!

It was a complete, total and uber pleasure! I hope dad likes his Father's Day gift...just don't open till June 20...;)

{ cox family } dallas family & child photographer

Sun, 23 May 2010 18:03:41 CDT

What can I say about Andy and his family...hmmmmm...AWESOME!

One of my favorite places to shoot, with one of my favorite kids...I've seen him since he was just a couple of weeks old...so I can say he's mine...;)

Beautiful day and a wonderful session! I absolutely can't wait to play together again!

{ langland family } waxhachie family & child photographer

Sun, 16 May 2010 00:36:08 CDT

Almost 1 1/2 years and another baby later...I had the pleasure of working with the Langlands again, and what a awesome joy it was! I could never tire of walking and talking and playing with this family and our session always seems to fly by and leaves me wanting to shoot more...

Not only did I make a 2 year old best friend for life (and I'll even overlook the 'Hook 'em Horns)...but little Ellie is one of THE most beautiful babies I've ever seen. Period. :)

And just for my new friend, Peyton...I'd work with YOU..."To infinity and beyooooond!" ;)

{ cade : 2 weeks } waxahachie newborn photographer

Fri, 14 May 2010 16:51:03 CDT

Cade and family almost didn't get to come and see me today, but thanks to the Lord and blood pressure medication...:) I'm not sure if they believed me or not when I told them that this was by far one of the easiest and fastest Newborn Sessions I've had - an hour and 40 minutes! I know, shut the front door! Most Newborn Sessions last 2, 3 hours and sometimes more, that's why I only book 1 or 2 a weekend, cause like those poor little babies that endure me bending, holding, rocking, cooing and squishing...I'm pooped out by the end.

As an aside...I'm always curious as to the meanings of names that us big people give to those little people, so I always try to remember to look up names of my new itty bitty people ...according to Baby Hold, Cade means "Spirit of the Battle". Makes me think of William Wallace... What a beautiful word picture, and a name that fits this little guy perfectly! :)

{ mamarazzi wednesdays } waxahachie family & child photographer

Thu, 13 May 2010 21:26:19 CDT

OK, I'm not as relentless, intrusive or hopefully annoying as the paprazzi...but I DO stalk you quietly to forever document you with your kids...being you...with your kids. It's a forever documentation of your love, your devotion and your life of one of the greatest accomplishments there is: motherhood.

You will never get this time back...they will never be this age or this size again...so don't miss out on those Mommy & Me moments that forever pull at your heartstrings and make you fall in love with your kiddos all over again...:)

{ mommy & me wednesdays }

Tue, 11 May 2010 11:17:14 CDT

If you're like me...and I know you are...;) Moms have this overwhelming need to be in the driver's seat when it comes to their kiddos. We instruct, feed, blow noses, clean hands...and take pictures.

Now granted, yes, we are sometimes included in pictures with them...but it goes something like this...especially if your husband is taking the picture..."Is my hair OK? Should I change my shirt? Oh forget it... (wrestles with the kid) Would you SIT up and act like you weren't RAISED in a BARN...mommy wants a PICTURE! We'll get iiiiiice cream if you smile like a big girl...(huff) I swear, would you NOT suck on your thumb just this ONCE! OK honey, (shutter clicks) I think we're ready. CHEEEEZE... Honey, were my eyes closed?" His (judicial) response...."Uh, nooo, uh, looks good, babe."

OK - the only reason I know this is because I go to that crazy place alot, even when I'm taking pictures of my owns kids. It's the perfectionist in me. Although, maybe it's just me. Maybe you're not the type to have the spirits of Jeckyl and Hyde overtake you just before a picture, to you I offer my undying jealousy...:) To the other moms out there...this is YOUR day!

Forget about buying new outfits, don't worry about that Scooby Doo band aid on their knee, don't drain your savings to get a few great image of your kids being kids.

Mommy & Me Wednesdays....it's all about having fun....it's a play date with your kids...followed by a mamarazzi! (That's me; a fellow paparazzi mama!)

Message me AND join me on Facebook for more details! Can't wait to see you there!

{ emma }

Sun, 09 May 2010 21:59:48 CDT

May 10th...Four years ago today...you arrived...9 months and 13 hours of anticipation has manifested into non-stop, slow-motion, every-day joy...and I wouldn't trade a second of it if it meant I were to spend it without you.

I watched you sleeping last night and told you how much I loved you, how much you mean to me, how beautiful and smart you are...and how sorry I am that I sometimes am too hard on you or expect too much from your little 4 year old self. Did you hear me? Did you hear me tell you what a perfect match you are for your daddy and me...and how I thank God for you every day and pray that He will guide your steps through life and that you will trust Him with your whole heart? Did you hear me ask for your forgiveness when I fail you or forget to tell you how wonderful you are and how your smile and laughter encourages my heart and soul each day?

Your wit astounds me...your humor amazes me...your life is a precious gift to me! Always know that whatever path you choose...I will always be your biggest fan...I will always cheer for you...I will always love you...you will always be my little chicken...and I will always be your mama.

Happy Birthday, my Emma Claire

"Children will not remember you for the material things you provided but for the feeling that you cherished them." ~Evans

{ who's your mama } waxahachie family & child photography

Fri, 07 May 2010 09:46:47 CDT

Mother's Day is fast approaching...and for all you guys out there...it's THIS Sunday, May 9! ;)

So, in honor of moms, kiddos and the husbands that humor and love us...I'm offering 10% off to past clients if they place an online print order through their gallery by Mother's Day!!! These prints can be given as gifts to others, or just be like me and keep 'em...:) Enter coupon code: mom2010 @ checkout

AND...what the heck...if you're a RETURNING or FUTURE client and feel a little left out...AND you haven't booked a session yet...send me an email by this Sunday to schedule a new session, and you'll get 10% off your package!

Who's your mama!? :)

PS - and if you feel so inclined...leave a little message here on why you think your mama is the greatest, and it may get you a special treat! ;)

little gold stars: you will never guess where THESE are from

Wed, 05 May 2010 14:28:53 CDT

OK - so I walk in our local WalMart this morning...and believe me, this is a HUGE admission to make... Aside: My husband's standard line before entering is, "I think I lose a little bit of my soul every time I go into WalMart." And I'm beginning to agree with him!

OK, back to my story...

SO, they always put those stupid ginormous racks of cookies just to left of the entrance...mind you I could enter the other door...but I like to torture myself with the smell and sights of sugar just waiting to attach itself to my innards. :)

So I'm walking by, on a mission to make my daughter's 4th birthday the radest, coolest, cutest 4th birthday ever to hit our house...and I find THESE! I'm thinkin', NO WAY! These are...well, CUTE! They MUST be from someone they've contracted with, and outside vendor possibly, they couldn't be... NO! They ARE! WalMart brand!

Well, they just HAPPEN to be matchy-matchy with the birthday decor, and they are only $4 for 12. Now I'm sure you cheap moms out there are thinkin'; I could buy a package of Oreos for $3 and call it good - I was too. BUT, Oreos don't have hand crafted royal icing. Oreos don't have that cute packaging. Oreos don't stand up and say, "I totally LOOK like a professional bakery without the bakery price tag...WOOT! EAT ME!"

Plus, once I take them out of the precious little WalMart box they're in and put them on a sweet tray with flowers...who's gonna know?

Just anyone who reads my blog, I guess...

Enjoy! But don't eat 'em all...:)

{ davis family } waxahachie family & child photographer

Sun, 02 May 2010 23:30:49 CDT

What can I say about the Davis Family....It was an absolute joy to work with each and every one of you guys! This session ended my week AND started my week leaving me in the best frame of mind both personally and professionally...and I would be forever blessed to work with you again anytime. That's it; that's all I can say!

Oops, I did forget to mention one thing.....Gig 'em! ;)

I love this little girl...she has the most perfect sprinkle of freckles...E.V.E.R. :)

{ kinley - 2 yr } waxahachie family & child photographer

Sat, 01 May 2010 15:00:49 CDT

I met cute little Kinley and family on such a beautiful May 1 morning...and this girl has got some rockin' outfits! Totally hip for a second birthday celebration!

Miss Kinley, I wish you an awesome birthday...and everything your little heart dreams! Thank you for a sweet session!

{ pritchard family } waxahachie family & child photographer

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 20:52:28 CDT

We've known the Prichard family since our Aggieland days...and now that they live up toward Kansas somwhere and we live down close to Panama...hehe...I jump at the chance to get to see them again each year. Our time together always involves stories from our stint in the Veterinary Teaching Hospital @ A&M...and usually involves a somewhat unbelievable story from my husband which begins..."This one time, my cousin and I..."

It's a good thing our kids are still a little too young to understand...whew!

As always...we love catching a few moments each year to laugh, relive...and the other 11 months trying to forget all of those nutty things we did...sssshhhhhh...don't tell! :)

{ weston } waxahachie family & child photographer

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 22:15:41 CDT

Have you ever met those people that love for their baby just oozes out of every fiber of their being...well, if you haven't, let me introduce you to THIS mom and dad. They are so in love with this little boy and are so enamored by his every movement, look, smile and touch...what an incredible thing to wittness and experience!

Plus, I knew we would hit it off when dad took off his Longhorn hat...handed it to me to hold...and told me not to stomp on it... Gosh! How did he know my motives so quickly!? :)

Thank you SO very much for your flexibility - I know you guys didn't come all prepared to take pics of everyone...but you jumped on my rollercoaster and gave me an awesome session! And I must say...it is disgusting that you two can come from doing construction on a house...and still look THIS adorable...:)

{ abay family } waxahachie family & child photograper

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 23:12:03 CDT

I met the Abay family for the first time on Friday evening...evening and just after a good rain are about my favorite times to shoot. You can't beat the light and the color!

While we walked all over downtown...I found out that this wonderful family has moved around quite a bit and now they've hopefully planted some roots here in Hachie and plan to stay for a while. Well, for selfish reasons...I hope so! Cause I'd be bummed if I didn't get to see these 3 kiddos grow! :)

I had a wonderful time...and I hope I get the opportunity to show you more of our great little town!

little gold stars: giada vs. rice cereal

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 21:35:39 CDT

Last month I started a little entry titled "little gold stars" where I give kudos to products, vendors, people...or any other little 'ol thing I want to chat about. There's no science to it...it's just things that make me all the way to my toes happy. Who knows, maybe it could make YOU happy too!

This month: Giada. OK, if you don't know Giada, you don't know Italian! J and I love to cook, and even made our own cookbook to give to our families one year at Christmas when we were back in College Station for Grad School...and TOTALLY POOR btw! All we did in our spare time was visit the local fresh market and cook anything we could get our hands on - including habanero-mango salsa over grilled pork...HOT STINKIN HEAVEN!

It was about that time that we were introduced into the world of Everyday Italian with Giada De Laurentiis...L.O.V.E. her and her creations! They're fresh, not fat-free, that's for sure, and yummy to my tummy, and probably my hips one day. The picture is one of our frequent and favorite dishes...although she uses steamed green beans intead of broccoli...but my 4yo thinks green beans taste like dirt...so she says...but she's TOTALLY dramatic...don't ASK me where she gets it...:) And the best part of this dish is hearing her try to pronnounce 'prosciutto' with her best italian accent...STILL makes me giggle!

It also doesn't hurt that Giada's an Italian beauty too. Which, I would like to state for the record, that I think is completely wrong that someone can cook and eat like she does and look like that, criminal, I tell ya! Maybe she could rework MY diet to include things like...say...oh, I don't know...iced cafe gellato...or mushroom ragu...or pancetta biscuits...all with zero calories and a Giada sized figure?

Oh well...I'm still gonna watch her show...attempt to recreate her her tasty dishes...and eat like I'm Marlon Brando in the Godfather! Cause life's too short...:) So go get her book or watch her show, and get cookin' ya'll!

And on the same night that the rest of the fam was feasting on Italian Heaven...little miss doodlebug got her first tast of rice cereal! Yes, mom, I know it's a little early ~ but yes, we are also in desperate need of at least 4 consecutive hours of sleep! :)

Rice cereal today...Giada Paradise tomorrow...:)

{ warren - 3 weeks } waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Sat, 17 Apr 2010 14:54:28 CDT

I have had the opportunity to work with this great family for almost 2 years now...I've watched little Henry grow into an adorable, spunky and fiesty little boy...who I have yet to see a frown on! He is ALL smiles and mischief...and does he EVER love his baby brother!

Now that Warren has arrived, I can't wait to watch his personality develop and see him grow too. That is one of my awesome joys in life and the rare pleasures of what I get to see at each session ~ to watch these little people grow into wonderful young men and women and watch them make their mark in this world. It is such a reward; not just looking through my professional lens...but through my mom lens too. :)

{ will - 1 week } waxahachie newborn & family photographer

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 16:04:33 CDT

I am SO honored to have little Will as my first official client entry on the new blog, because this was such a wonderful session for me. Will was one of the easiest babies to work with...the absolute perfect sleeper...perfectly cooperative...perfectly behaved...did I mention perfect? :)

Big sister was not only my big helper, but an awesome little lady...I couldn't have been so successful if it wasn't for her as well! It was a true pleasure to have crossed paths...and I wish and pray many blessings for you and Baby Will!

{ WOO HOO! }

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 10:30:40 CDT

I tried to think of some awesome and profound way to start off the new blog, but a severe case of writers block and Diet Coke depletion won. So instead I decided to use a term that my daughter and I have coined in the Perkins' house.

This is a VERY technical term with several meanings like...Get your popcorn ready!...Totally stoked!...Shut the front door!...Get outta town!...you know, "Woo Hoo!"

Woo Hoo! The new blog is up!

Woo Hoo! Searching for new branding and logo!

Woo Hoo! My family rocks the house!

Woo Hoo! I have the most awesome clients!

Woo Hoo! God is so good to me!

So that's all I have...for now at least. But please, a requirement for visiting the new blog is to leave some love, tell me about you or where you're from...and visit again soon! Many more things to come in 2010...WOO HOO! :)