Amanda Pratt Photography

{News} The big Move

2012-01-06T09:50:00.000-08:00

Please join me over on the new blog:

found at http://www.amandaprattphotography.com/blog/

366 posts before this one, I wrote my very first blog post. That was 4 years ago today. That year I started project 366, and it failed miserably, as I often do when I 'plan' projects like that. I've seen a lot of changes, sometimes slow & painful, but all well worth it. I've seen growth, both in my work & in the children & families I am blessed to shoot. I've made decisions, some that worked, some that didn't. It's been an amazing journey so far, and I am excited to see what the new year, 2012, has in store for me.

So far there are some pretty awesome things happening, both for business & personal. I hope this year I give you a better glimpse at me, the artist, the person, the mom. I hope that my talent continues to grow & I am constantly learning & striving to make this a better adventure. This is the year for purpose, for living life with a purpose, making decisions with a purpose & doing it all with love & dedication.

Today I will be moving the blog over to my website. This one will stay here in it's place in Blogger land, but this will be my last post here. When it's all set & ready to roll out, I will be back with a link & redirect you all over there.

Thank you for joining me on one of the most amazing journeys of my life. Thank you for allowing me into your homes & hearts.

{Scenic} Adventures

2012-01-05T20:55:00.000-08:00

One of the things we're going to be doing a lot more of this year, is getting out & enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds us. We live in one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. There is so much to do here if you love the outdoors.
Here are a few shots from our little adventure on Monday.
This first one is one of my most favorite ever & will be the first printed scenic shot that I print large to hang on the walls of our home. I have pictures everywhere, lots of pictures, every wall has at least one, but this will be the first non-portrait photograph that joins the ranks.

{Scenic} An end of the year Adventure

2011-12-30T01:30:00.000-08:00

One of the things you probably don't know about me, unless we've been friends for a while, is that most of my friends growing up were guys. Still to this day one of my best friends is a guy, who isn't my husband (and yes he's aware, and okay with that). We've actually been friends since kindergarten, about 23 years now. This past week we went on a little end of the year adventure, I took some shots, he took some shots (both with different equipment). I came home with a bag of 'goose & duck' to learn how to cook and a few images to add to my collection & expanding portfolio.

Probably my favorite one from the day.

{Sneak Peek} My Family - holiday portraits

2011-12-28T23:10:00.000-08:00

One of the most difficult jobs I get each & every year is taking our family portraits. It's not that I couldn't give that job to someone else and I'm sure eventually I will, but I really love this challenge. It takes a little planning and an extra dose of patience, but in the end it's totally worth it.

This year I started the 'plan' with a little inspiration from Pinterst for our clothing. Out of the previous 6 Christmas card photos we wore black/red and/or some variation of the colors, with the only exception being the year we announced Grace's *girl* status, which we wore pink/black/grey for. We ended up going with an earthy, neutral sort of 'John Deere' color scheme (which if you know me well or have been to my house, you know that I've got a small collection, so it's not all that surprising).

Once I had all my clients images caught up and ordered, I decided I better get going to get our photos taken. About a week before Christmas I said, 'Today is the day', and without an actual shooting place in mind we set out to make some other deliveries & just happened to be going the 'back way' and when we drove past a place I'd been wanting to shoot forever and the lighting was perfection, I knew we had found our place. 30-45 minutes later, we ended up with these, mostly taken on the tripod with the camera timer, as my remote has decided to malfunction outdoors, the couple of me with the munchkins were taken by the hubby.

I must say these are probably my most favorite family photos to date. I love how they came together and even with shooting via the tripod, for the most part, everyone, is paying attention.

And now that you've made it this far, there are 2 winners to the Black Friday session give-a-way. Melissa & J.D. if you would both email me : aprattphotog@cot.net you can claim your mini-session, good through June 1st 2012.

{Real Life} Happy Everything

2011-12-27T08:43:00.000-08:00

This greeting is actually coming a little late, but with all that is Christmas, here's our wish for you.

I really LOVE how our card come out this year. Everything about it, from the photos, that we ended up shooting in a place I've been wanting to shoot at forever, to the shaped Christmas-y text (which just so happened to be inspired by several things I saw floating around on Pinterest, a great source of inspiration, not only for everyday, but especially for the 'creative' side of me).

I'll be back later this evening, with a look at the rest of our photos and to announce the winner of the Black Friday give-a-way!!!

{Sneak Peek} The Jones Brothers

2011-12-20T10:13:00.000-08:00

These little cuties get to come visit every couple of months, partly because I'm Auntie, but also because we like to torture them with photos. This session is probably went the smoothest of any and all it took was a little semi-bribery. I simply told Little B he could cooperate, even though he hates pictures, or we could make it take, all.day.long. He quickly obliged & was so cute, hamming it up with his baby brother. I think he really does like to have his photo made.
I also did a something a little different than my 'normal' style of shooting all outdoors, on-location. I set up my little portable studio in the kitchen (which, made me decide my house, is just 2-sizes too small).

Anyways, here's a few (okay, more than normal) of my favorites.

{Real Life} Kiddos PJ Party

2011-12-17T00:46:00.000-08:00

One of the things we do with our kids for the month of December, well, not even a whole month, but from the 1st until Christmas is a countdown calendar, with a special activity each day. Some days we make projects, some days we bake cookies, some days we 'relax' & have slumber parties by the lit up Christmas tree. On this day, we had a couple friends over & had a pajama party!!!
I blew up the air mattress, stuck it in front of the tree & the kids had a free for all jump fest. We took a few photos & then they watched a short Christmas movie while eating popcorn, chocolate covered pretzels & an assortment of other things thrown in a bowl.
I'm pretty sure it was one of the funnest things we've done this December and hope that next year we can do it on a little bigger scale, with lots more room!!!

I love these shots and the best part was the fun for everyone.

Normally I wouldn't keep the blurrs, but it really sums up the afternoon. Pretty sure that all the kids were beyond ecstatic that they were allowed to jump on the 'bed', especially because they could jump from couch to bed without any trouble at all! ;)

Thanks to our friends M&E (of course their mommy too) for joining us.

{Sneak Peek} Dustin & Raine

2011-12-10T17:33:00.001-08:00

I talked with these two during the summer about doing some 'western' inspired images and then Dustin's horse decided he was better suited on the ground than on his back, so we post-poned...for a while. I'm so glad we finally go to put this shoot together. We ventured around their property, down by the creek, up with some old equipment. It was lots of fun. Thank you guys so much.

This one, although not exactly ready for the wall (needs a little fine tuning to get the weed out of Dustin's eye) cracks me up. The horse couldn't have picked a better moment to try & grab a bite. ;)

Another one of those fun moments...

I really,really love this one.

Oh.my.gosh. If only the car was complete...and not a blast back to the Flintstones era, complete with 'foot' pedals.

{Sneak Peek} Lots of Family

2011-12-10T17:15:00.001-08:00

So the other day I blogged about being behind the lens & in front of it when we did family portraits with my dad. Well the next day, it happened again!!! I know right!?! Go from not having pictures, to twice in one weekend, it was crazy. Although this session wasn't quite as smooth, warm, or sunny, we made it work & got some really great images.

My most favorite by far, is this one of this kiddos all together.

And here are the rest of my favorites from the day.

Pretty sure my little brother is the master at all things funny facial expression:

I've heard it time & time again, this one's gonna be trouble...but here's what most don't know....this one right here, is already trouble!!! Full of attitude & drama!

Not to be out drama-ed or attitude-d by her sister though, she just knows how to look a little more innocent!

{Sneak Peek} Stillman Grankids

2011-12-07T20:59:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite subjects, no doubt, is children. I love their innocence, their laughter & yes, even the challenge of getting them to cooperate. These little ones were no exception. Very well behaved & lots of fun. Each one of them so different from the other. Some may say this first photo resembles something of the Little Rascals, but really they were so good for their session. I'm so happy to have gotten these great images for their family.
We met at a cute little park in town, right around sundown, it was chilly & despite being a bit sleepy from all the activities from Thanksgiving the day before, everyone was troopers.

Thank you so much for a wonderful session. I'll be chatting with you soon.

{Sneak Peek} Moser Family

2011-12-06T13:18:00.001-08:00

It's not everyday that I get to photograph my family. It's also not everyday that I get to be on both sides of the lens in one day (which by the way is a lot more work than it would seem). Thanksgiving weekend was a weekend of family for us. My dad, step-mom, sister & brother in law, & my nephews, and my brother & his girlfriend all joined at our house on Thanksgiving for dinner. My dad & step-mom stayed the night so we could all get together again on Friday for some, 1st ever (aside from weddings) family portraits. It was a beautiful morning, unseasonably mild, & very sunny. So, without much more jabber from me, here is a peek at a few of my favorites.

{Sneak Peek} Corey - Class of 2012 and family

2011-11-29T20:25:00.001-08:00

I had planned on meeting up with this beautiful family a few weeks ago, and then the High School football team, which C just happened to be involved in, made it to playoffs & we rescheduled. I'm so glad we got to get these portraits done for them. We did a combined sort of family/senior session, meeting at a 'local-ish' location.
Corey is an awesome young man with lots of character & charm. Good luck in your endeavors, keep being you & you will go very far.

I'll be in touch with you soon.

{Sneak Peek} Morris Family

2011-11-29T14:38:00.001-08:00

I've known this family for a while, well at least Mom. We sort of went to school together, she's a few years younger than me and we do live in a small town, so it's pretty common to know everyone. A few years ago I had the honor of photographing their wedding and you might recognize the little miss from a session this spring. They are very busy and the little Miss is on.the.go. Really, she was constantly moving usually at a quicker pace than the rest of us..or not liking my camera. But despite the challenge I came out with some pretty awesome images for them.

This is pretty much the view we got of miss B the entire session:

I really LOVE this photo of mom & dad. ♥

{Sneak Peek} B Family

2011-11-28T12:52:00.001-08:00

This peek is a bit shorter than normal, but I had an absolute blast photographing this beautiful family. I could say a hundred nice things about them, but I'll just to sum it up with one word, when I think of them, "blessed". ♥

I will message you a more detailed peek & be getting your full gallery up in the next day or so.

SALE It's BLACK FRIDAY!!!!

2011-11-24T22:55:00.000-08:00

Happy 'officially' the countdown to Christmas, or the biggest shopping day of the year!!! What better way to kick off the craziness than with a sale. Without further ado, here is the Black Friday special here at Amanda Pratt Photography.

That's right, we're going BOGO, today November 25th, 2011, from 12:01 AM, until 11:59 PM. You can buy 1, get 1 free!!

Buy 1 gift certificate & receive a 2nd certificate for free!! Second certificate may be a session certificate or print credit, of equal or lesser value. Free sessions valid Jan 1, 2012 through Sept 30, 2012. Certificates may not be combined or redeemed for cash. Not valid on mini-sessions or sessions that are already booked.

You may purchase your certificates by emailing me: aprattphotog@cot.net . I will be checking emails every couple of hours & replying with payment details.

Happy Shopping!!

P.S. You may want to leave a comment here (between 10:55pm tonight 11/24 & midnight Friday, 11/25/2011) letting me know you visited the Black Friday Special and tell me your favorite holiday tradition. I will be giving away 1 regular session to a lucky *local--Northern California/Southern Oregon* guest, who comments on this post & is also a fan of the Amanda Pratt Photography page on Facebook*. Session will take place within 50 miles of Yreka,CA, before June 1st, 2012. ♥

*this giveaway is in no way sponsored or affiliated with Facebook.

{Sneak Peek} Brandon, Class of 2012 & family

2011-11-20T13:51:00.001-08:00

I love getting to capture families. I especially love getting to capture fun families and The McCartney crew was no exception to this. We traveled down the river and through the woods for this lovely session (which is another thing I really enjoy getting to do). We met up with the family & did some senior portraits for Mr Brandon & also captured some family shots for mom.
Brandon is a great young guy. He is totally passionate about firefighting and it definitely showed during our time. Good luck with future endeavors, enjoy your final year of high school!!! Thank you guys for a great session, I'll be in touch soon with your complete gallery.

I couldn't resist taking a shot of this 4-legged, fur kid, who are always welcome to be a part of your session.

I'll end the peek with a little storyboard, this will print beautifully as a 16x20. An alternative to having a solid portrait printed is getting a storyboard; a collection of images on one art piece.

{Sneak Peek} Rizzardo Family

2011-11-19T20:46:00.001-08:00

Today, along with everyday, I am thankful that I can call this my "job". It's hard to classify it as a job sometimes because I love what I do so much. Every time I come home from a session I get so excited to see what I captured come out of the camera. Every time I get ready for a session I get nervous butterflies, and then start shooting and an awesome calm comes along.
Of course it doesn't hurt that part of my job means I get to spend an hour or so with beautiful families, like the Rizzardo's. I had a great time with you guys & hope you enjoy this little peek at your session. I will be in touch with you soon with a gallery link and password.

{Entered} The Preggo Cravings | I {heart} Faces - Black

2011-11-08T13:25:00.000-08:00

This week the theme at I {heart} Faces is black. That leaves a whole lot open to interpretation. I'm choosing this photo I did of my sister this past spring. We were shooting her maternity portraits at the local baseball field, doing some fun stuff to surprise dad to be, since they're huge SF Giants fans. It just so happened that the Ice Cream truck was coming down the road when an idea just sprung into my head. The only thing missing was a jar of pickles!!! The Ice Cream Guy was a kid we grew up with, kinda like cousins, so we 'borrowed' his truck for a few shots & this just happens to be one of my favorite from this past year of shooting.

Be sure to swing by & check out all the submissions. :)

{Sneak Peek} It's a "Mom" Monday

2011-11-06T21:36:00.000-08:00

I met these two lovely ladies at Preschool. Monday's is now my regular work day, never passing up an opportunity to sharpen my skills, we met up one Monday a couple weeks ago for a morning of "Mom's time out" (aka: kids are at school, hang out with girlfriends, chat & just be free for a few hours). What a fabulous morning we had. I'm very blessed to call these gals my friends, and they're gorgeous, making them perfect to be models for the morning.

See you ladies tomorrow morning. Looking forward to our next adventure...

{Sneak Peek} Baby T, 3 months

2011-11-06T10:32:00.000-08:00

We had a little visitor last week. My sister and nephews came down for a few days, since her oldest didn't have school. Of course, it was perfect timing for a few Halloween portraits and a couple 3 month photos of my newest nephew Baby Tata (in Grace-ese that means Baby Trevor). And then we just had to wrangle the 5 kids (most under 4) for a 'cousins' shot, which proved that the 8 year old was more difficult than the other 4 combined.
I also did something new this time, and while it didn't quite work like I had it planned in my head, I learned a few things & have them noted for another day, which is always a bonus.

And the expression here says: ""We are boys, we are anti-cute anything, anti-photo, anti-cooperation. Seriously mom/auntie, Halloween pictures, are not our thing!!!""

The cousins shot, gone all wrong. Yes it's fall (feeling a bit wintery at the moment). No we don't live where it's warm. Apparently though, my children are in denial that clothing in necessary in their world. They are completely content running a-muck sans pants.

See you guys soon for a nice Turkey Feast. ♥

{Sneak Peek} John Paul, Class of 2012

2011-11-04T19:54:00.000-07:00

Being a high school senior is an amazing journey. Being a part of that journey is an awesome opportunity for me. This past weekend was no exception. I met John Paul & his parents in Yreka and for a couple of hours we hung out, chatted a bit & ended up with some handsome portraits. Congrats on your final year of High School and good luck with future endeavors, you have a bright future ahead of you!!!

I'll be in touch with you guys soon, with a link to your full gallery. Have a great weekend.

{Sneak Peek} The Borgatti Family - Holiday edition

2011-11-01T20:56:00.000-07:00

I love, love getting to capture special moments & memories for families. I've been blessed to photograph the Borgatti's for the past 4 years. Not only do I photograph them for their annual family holiday portrait, but I've also gotten to watch Mr E & Miss M grow up before my lens. They are so cute! Full of sugar & a little extra spice (on occasion). We ventured out this time to the new bridge at Lake Siskiyou and I must say that some of these pics are my favorite ones of them ever. So without more blabbery from me... here is a little peek at The B family.

And of course, what it really looks like when you're trying to wrangle 2 toddlers into 'portrait' mode (or at all for that matter).

Thank you guys for another great session. I'll be in touch with you soon. ♥

{Entered} Baby, it's Fall out here!!

2011-10-28T22:03:00.000-07:00

It's another month & another chance to enter a photo challenge. This time I'm entering the Rock The Shot (www.rocktheshotforum.com) October Challenge, which is children & fall, together in one image. Luckily, fall is my favorite of all the seasons, and children are one of my favorite subjects!

This little miss is just the sweetest thing. I love, love this shot of her, she's in my Baby's First Year program, so this is our 3rd session.

{Sneak Peek} Miss A is 6 months & family portraits

2011-10-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

Woohoo!! It's Wednesday, that means we're half way through another week. The end of the year & holidays (which I pretty much consider from October 1st through the new year) is always such a blur. It goes so fast and seems to sneak right up on me.
Saturday I had the privilege of photographing little Miss A for her 6 month portraits. I can't believe how much she's grown in 3 months. Her little personality is just blossoming and I love it! Such a sweet & smiley girl.
And just because Halloween is coming in less than a week, we'll start of the peek with a look at Miss A & her big brother dressed in their finest Halloween attire. Which they wore for a brief time at the Pumpkin Patch, where we began our session together.

After a little time exploring the patch, we headed into town to grab some of that fall color that's gracing the park these days. We also met Grandma & Grandpa.

Thanks for a fabulous session!! I'll be in touch with you soon with your full gallery. Have a great week.

{Scenic}Just a little Extra-Ordinary

2011-10-16T20:12:00.000-07:00

One of our more recent favorite things to do while we wait for pre-school to be done during the weekdays is head into Greenhorn park & take a little 'nature' walk around the lake. It's usually too wet in the mornings to play on the 'park' but it's been decent for a little stroll. Grace asks lots of 'whats that' and "momma take my picture". Brody just wants to get down & run.
Friday I took my camera, hoping for some fall color and there is a tiny bit starting to emerge, but not out in full force yet. It was a gorgeous morning for photos.

{Entered} Hands - I Heart Faces

2011-10-09T21:16:00.000-07:00

A while back, when I first started following (also read: before becoming addicted to) Pinterest I pinned this adorable photo of a baby's hands that I just loved. I finally got to do my version of this a few weeks ago when I got to photograph newborn Baby C. As soon as I saw what the theme of the week was going to be this week at www.iheartfaces.com I knew exactly the photograph I would submit and here it is:

Have a great day & be sure to swing by the photo challenge & take a peek at the other hands being showcased this week.

{Scenic Shots} A Painted Morning Sky

2011-10-07T22:09:00.000-07:00

TGIF!!! Hip, hip hooray, lets hear it for Friday. This is the last thing I'm doing today and then I'm off to bed, unusual for me, as I'm normally more of a night owl than an early bird. But one of the perks to being the early bird, especially where we live, during the fall/winter is the gorgeous sunrises we get.
I love when our sky is painted in pinks & clouds & sometimes fog. It's gorgeous really and photographs don't do it justice. To see it here, in person is something everyone should witness.
Anyways...here's a little peek at what I get to lay my eyes on every early weekday morning.

And last but not least, a little photo magic, in the form of a composite panorama. Made using 4 images from this morning. (click to see a larger version)

Have a great weekend!!

{My Life} Welcome To October

2011-10-04T21:42:00.000-07:00

October pretty much begins my favorite time of year. First of all it's fall & it really starts feeling more fall like & fall is my most favorite of the seasons. Everything about the fall, is warm & cozy in my heart. October pretty much ushers in the holiday season, it seems that after Halloween (which we only celebrate to spend an entire day playing dress-up and cooking up 'silly' food) the other favorite holidays just speed right by and in a brand new year comes.
October is leaves & pumpkins & rain (or maybe even snow) & cozy drinks in the warm house. We get to visit the pumpkin patch and do fun projects.

Here's to October and the beginning of a grand 3 months (my gosh they all look so small and innocent...it's a wonder what a year can do for a kid)

{Wordless Wednesday} A Night Experiement

2011-09-28T19:16:00.000-07:00

Image taken: June 14, 2011 @ 9:18pm

{My Life} What a difference a year can make

2011-09-27T16:24:00.000-07:00

It's crazy what a difference 1 year has. Just one year.

This is Brody early last October, just over 6 months old. So sweet and inncocent.

This is Brody last week...a bit over 18 months, and full of mischief & orneriness.

My last little baby, growing up to be a little monster...err, kid!
Have a great evening.

{Local Events} Montague Balloon Fair

2011-09-26T14:05:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was the Montague Rotary Balloon Fair. It's one of our favorite local events. We make it a point to attend every year, it's like a little family tradition for the past 6 years. Normally we do an early morning, watch the balloons go up, do breakfast (usually at my mom's), just hang out for a bit until the parade that runs downtown.
This year it was pretty much the same except I left my husband home alone to gather up the kids & head into Montague & I was with my aunt and grandpa. My favorite part of the morning is when the sun starts breaking over the hills & casting it's beautiful orange-y glow on everything. The other thing special for this year was that we built a float for Amanda Pratt Photography & entered the parade. It was a super fun thing for the kids. Our float was a prize winner as well.

The ascension starts of with a single balloon, carrying the American flag as the national anthem is sung.

Then it's mass chaos of filling balloons, fans & people.

The kids graciously (errr, more like forced) posed for a quick photo together.

This year it seemed the wind was drifting a different direction & I could get Mt Shasta in the photos without doing too much traveling from the launch site.

Here is our float in all of it's before/after the parade, windy Montague afternoon glory.

Have a great day!

{Sneak Peek} We're going Back 2 School

2011-09-25T13:27:00.000-07:00

This is a special project for me. My oldest started her very first year of school, ever. I knew I wanted to do something special and then I ran across an image from a photo session on Pinterest that inspired me to create a themed "Back to School" session to document this big event for her.

I wanted to include more than just her for the photos though, so I did a little 'model' casting on my Facebook fan page and in the end I had a terrible time deciding which 2 other children to use in the session. I had some input from a few people & ended up choosing Miss J & Mr A to pose with my little Anna for some FUN back to school portraits.

I really love how this came out. The location I chose couldn't have been better either, there was actually a school bus parked there the morning of our session!!!

Now for a little looky at what I came up with. These kids were SO cute together, I look forward to doing a few more themed sessions in the upcoming years.

I'll be in touch with both mom's later in the week with a gallery link. Thank you so much for the fun and celebrating back to school with us.

{Sneak Peek} Gorgeous Newborn Baby C

2011-09-24T12:45:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I had the opportunity to photography Miss C, a gorgeous almost 2 week young baby girl. I headed over the hill to visit with the little sweetie & took a few baskets & a couple of headbands that I needed to get photographed from my stash of props. We held her session out on the porch, it was a nice day, not too hot, not too chilly, a beautiful almost fall day. The little miss had her own ideas of how our session should go and wasn't all that sleepy (at least not for very long), but I did manage to get a couple of the head pieces in. For being such a newbie to this big wide world, she sure was alert.

Thank you so much for a great afternoon, I'll be in touch with you soon with a link to your gallery.

{Pricing} 2011 Holiday Portrait Pricing

2011-09-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

Fall is almost officially here which means that the holidays are also on there way in.
Time to start thinking about those family portraits. Here are the 2011 Holiday portrait price guides for Amanda Pratt Photography. Valid October 1st thru December 3rd, 2011.

These are the sessions:

These are some special 'print' packages:

Sessions available: Mondays 9am-5pm, Saturdays 7am-6pm, a few select Sundays, other weekday appointments available upon special request.

**Some fine print: The Portrait Collection prices include a 45-minute family session. As always, I do not charge a per person fee, pets are always welcome and there are no limits on the number of poses we create during your session; however, these sessions are meant for family portrait sessions. These prices are only valid from October 1st through December 3rd, 2011.Tax is not included in the collection price. No size or quantity substitutions are permitted. Additional prints, print collections, storybooks, wall art, etc may be added to each order. Payment is expected prior to the scheduled session; printed products, digital download, etc will not be submitted for processing without full payment. Other restrictions may apply.

Questions or to get on the books drop me a message: aprattphotog@cot.net or give me a jingle 604.8789 (you can even text me your name & request).

{Sneak Peek} Miss Kelsey, YHS Class of 2012, Senior Portraits

2011-09-21T20:08:00.000-07:00

It was a crazy busy weekend for me. I got to spend most of it working, which I absolutely LOVED doing. My first session was Saturday afternoon with Miss Kelsey, a class of 2012 Senior. We had a fabulous time & she is just gorgeous. Absolutely everything about her was gorgeous. Down to earth, simple & so fun. I'm having the hardest time ever picking which of her images to sneak peek for her because there are that many great ones.
Here are a few of my favorites though:

Isn't she just stunning?!?! Can't wait to show off the rest of the images, but in the mean time enjoy your sneak peek Miss K & I'll be getting you a gallery up in the next couple of days.

{Entered} Just a Touch of Sun - I Heart Faces

2011-09-19T11:31:00.000-07:00

I'm doing something a little different this week for Monday Minute (which I realize, I've been horrible about posting, in fact that whole schedule of things I've got marked on the calender...yea, slacking!!).

I'm entering the I {Heart} Faces weekly photo challenge. The theme this week is A Touch of Sun.

This photo was entered into the I Heart Faces photo challenge – www.iheartfaces.com

{Services} Wall Displays

2011-09-17T13:10:00.000-07:00

So, you just had your portrait session & it's almost time to view your proofs. Have you thought about how you want to display your beautiful family? Do you know where you're going to put the prints you'll purchase? What about the sizes? Did you know that I can help you with your wall displays? I will bring sample sizes to your proof sessions as well as a few sample displays using your session images.

Maybe you have an empty wall above a table, in an entry way, hallway, or in the livingroom, we could put together a display like this, using a large print in the center & flanking it with 2 smaller prints.

Are you planning your display for a staircase wall? Let's see what a few of those images would look like together in a pattern that mimics the stairwell. A collection of prints together, showcasing each part of your family.

Is your display place above the fireplace mantel or maybe the entertainment center? I can show you how your images would come together.

Each display sample can be customized with furniture style, wall color & portrait size. Let me help you showcase your images today.

{My Life} They only look sweet

2011-09-15T21:06:00.000-07:00

I sent my camera off a week or so ago for a cleaning, adjustments & a couple repairs it finally came back on Tuesday & I hadn't really tested it out yet. It was a nice & cool, overcast day today (it really felt a lot like fall, yay!), which gives off lots of nice even lighting. So I coordinated some outfits for the kids and we went out in the yard for a quick little shoot.

Of course, rounding up my own herd, is worse than trying to herd a bunch of cats, but we pulled off a couple shots. I even managed to get in a few thanks to the girls who love taking turns pressing the shutter button with the camera set up on the tripod.

I noticed a couple months ago that the number of photos of me with my kids are almost nil. There are tons of the children, lots with the kids & daddy, but mom is pretty much non-existent in photo form, so it's been a goal (urged from a little scrappers forum challenge) to get in more shots, no matter how I'm feeling about my looks. After all, when the time comes it really won't matter what I was wearing of it my hair was done. If I'm gone, they will only care that they have something to remember me with.

Here is one of my favorites from tonight.

{Western Lifestyle} A time to sort & send off

2011-09-13T15:13:00.000-07:00

I've spent this year working on growing. I did a post about this near the first part of the year. My plan & focus for the year is "Growth"; be it for business, skill, creativity or relationships, etc, it pretty much pulls in every aspect of this life. One of the things I'm doing more of this year is shooting for me. No 'rules', no time limits, no pressure, just shooting what I love.

One of my all time favorite things is the 'western lifestyle'. I'm working on adding more of that to my portfolio, thankfully, I can pretty much go anywhere in this county and be exposed to that. Even more than that, is I can go to my teenage "home" and live it, up close & first hand.

A couple weeks ago, I got up nice & early to head out to the house for a morning of cattle sorting. It was a beautiful morning, the rising sun, much like the setting sun creates gorgeous light. ♥ Here are a few images from that little adventure, starting with the beautiful rising sun.

Mr Rowdy, sharing his "Jet-A Fueled" breakfast with Sally, the 'cow dog' (or so she thinks, she's slightly senile in her old age)

Even the star-thistle & fox-tail looks gorgeous at slightly before 7 a.m.

The calm before the storm.

And here they come...

One of my favorite shots.

Everyone getting settled.

In the alley, waiting for the 'in' or 'by' call.

Thankfully, these little 'friends' stayed put while we were out & about.

Doctoring.

Important tool.

Such a fabulous morning. Excited & ready for the next adventure as well.

{Sneak Peek} Miss M turns 4

2011-09-11T21:56:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday I had the privledge of photographing Miss M for her 4 year portraits. This isn't the first time that Miss M and I have gotten to visit though, I've been photographing the little beauty since she was 6 months old. I love the lasting relationships that come with photographing families. I am so lucky that not only do I get to photograph them as my clients, but also as my friends.

Here's a little recap of Miss M's growth from 6 months.

Miss M is one of the cutest girls I know, she sweet, independent & full of energy. Photographing the little sweetie is like trying to keep the energizer bunny in one spot.

Here she is now, almost a full, 4 years old.

She was a tough little cookie this time, I pulled out almost every trick in the book to get her to crack her real, beautiful smile.

Some of my favorite captures are those ones that are just in the moment, not really posed at all, but true expressions & emotions. I just love these 2 parent photos, caught with a little game of "hide n' seek".

Towards the end of her session, we got out the chalk, well Miss M's momma got out the chalk & her sweet little brother helped by dumping the entire bucket out on the concrete slab. She showed me how she could make M's and then I had her draw some birthday balloons and then captured this one.

I brought along a little dress-up fun this time, which was a rarity. I normally don't do a ton with props. I like shooting my clients with their things, in their environment, making their portraits all about them, but who doesn't love a little dress up.

The little miss was a great model for this petti-skirt and even did a tiny twirly dance, showing off the ruffles. (clicking this last image will bring up the larger version)

Thank you guys for such a wonderful session, I'll be getting with you soon for your gallery & can't wait to see what your Holiday session produces. Big hugs & Happy Birthday to Miss M!!

{Sneak Peek} Kristen and Angie, a mother & daughter

2011-08-31T22:02:00.000-07:00

It's almost been a week since I went out and visited with Kristen & her mamma.

Last Thursday evening, was just gorgeous; we had beautiful weather, and by that, I mean it wasn't nearly as hot as it could have been in August, a delightful sunset and we got to hang out with swarms of mosquitoes. I had a great time photographing these two (and we threw in a couple extras) and am having a difficult time choosing which images to showcase. There were so many beautiful photos from that evening.

One of my favorite things about shooting on-location, and not in a tiny little studio somewhere (of course I would love to have a dedicated shooting space indoors, especially during winter months), is the availability of unique props. Sometimes it's the least likely items and places that make some of the most beautiful portraits.
This little tub made a great place to kick up a leg & rest a bit.

Who would have thought an irrigation ditch could be so beautiful...these ladies made it look GOOD!

It wouldn't have been a complete session without the Man in the house. What a great sport. :)

We shared lots of laughs. I think at this particular moment, I was actually being carried away by about 15 dozen mosquitoes (and I even used some repellant before we started).

The ladies were late in getting the little guys some dinner, and they promptly let us know about it, in fact, they tried eating the shirt right off Kristen's back.

This is probably one of my most favorite images from the night. Such a pretty lady and those eyes are SO blue.

Thank you ladies for a great session. I'll be in touch with you this week with the rest of your proofs.

{Real Life} Air Tankers & Helicopters

2011-08-25T17:41:00.000-07:00

Summer just wouldn't be summer without seeing some Air Tankers & Helicopters. We are fortunate to live in a wonderful, beautiful, rural area where we can just go out to the base & watch them fly.
Here's a quick peek from yesterday evening.

Have a great Thursday evening. I'm off to photograph a beautiful mother & daughter, for a sunset session.

(Sneak Peek) Elizabeth & Tim, Engaged

2011-08-19T19:33:00.000-07:00

I love shooting babies, toddlers, and families, but that's not all I shoot. I actually love getting to photograph lots of things, including high school seniors, couples & I take a limited number of special events each year. Tim & Elizabeth are one of those special events, scheduled for 2012. That's right, they'll be getting hitched next summer and I'll be there capturing all those little moments for them. I'm super excited for them & for their wedding. Last Saturday evening we did their engagement portraits & I love, love, love what we came up with.

Here is a little peek into the fun we had.

This was quite the adventure...I was sure the 'brothers' had rigged up the hammock. :)

We actually had quite a few adventures during their session, including the circle of bovine on-lookers.

This last one is quite possibly one of my most favorite shots ever.

I am an idea gatherer, notebooks, magazine clippings, miscellaneous mismatched notes jotted on scraps of paper. Often times the ideas & inspirations are just begging to come out & play, but they get stashed away until just the perfect moment. Making portraits in the evening is one of my favorites, not only is the light gorgeous, but this time of year, it's starting to cool down & get a little breezie by then. I don't shoot much in the evenings because that's when most little people head to bed & well, since I do a lot of child and family portraits, you see how this is going, things don't always match up.

Everything finally came together & I was able to get this shot of the two love-birds.

You guys were awesome! I can't wait to hang out with you again and photograph you some more. I'll be in touch with you this week with the rest of your proofs.

{Sneak Peek} Jana

2011-08-18T22:06:00.000-07:00

I'm a very lucky girl. I have been blessed with some very wonderful people in my life. This beautiful lady is no exception to that. Not only is she my aunt, but I consider her my best friend and a mom figure. For as long as I can remember we have had a close relationship. We have been discussing a photo session for quite sometime and we finally got to make it happen. I love what came out of her session (aside from all our laughing and celebrating).

Thank you for always being there. For being a great role model & inspiration. Love you.

{Sneak Peek} The Chambers Family

2011-08-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

It's another lovely Saturday here in Northern California. My day late morning & afternoon will be filled with working on business things, finishing up the edits for a couple of sessions & preparing for an engagement session this evening.

It's been a week of craziness since I visited this beautiful family down in Happy Camp and I'm ready to share there session with all of you! If you're a follower of the Facebook Fan Page you will have already seen a few of these and know that what's to come is just gorgeous. I had a lot of fun hanging out with them for our session and they were quite the troopers and I ended up with so many great images for them (in fact it was so hard to narrow it down to sneak peek that I put together a couple boards instead of all single images).

The whole family. Seriously, they were gorgeous

Mom & Dad with their children & grandchildren.

Some of the best moments in childhood, come from spending time with grandparents (at least it was like that for me) and these little ones, just LOVE theirs.

Aren't they just so stinkin' cute and look at those eyes!!

Enjoy your preview & I'll be getting in touch with you soon with your gallery information. Thank you so much for a great morning.

{Casting Call} Back to School

2011-08-12T08:11:00.000-07:00

TGIF!! Happy Fridays. I am in the process of planning out a "Back to School" session. It's going to be super cute & extra fun, definitely not what you'll be getting from traditional school portraits

I am looking for 1 girl & 1 boy, ages 4-6 (pre-k/K).

To be considered for this promotional shoot drop me an email. Please include a current, non-professional photo of your child, their age & grade they will be entering.

I will reply with details on what you will receive if your child is chosen.

You must be willing to sign a model release & provide the requested clothing. I will be choosing my 'models' by September 1st. This is not a 'first come, first served' call.

***I adjusted the email link to go into a different mailbox, the original inbox is having some issues.***

{Contest Entries} It's Fair Time

2011-08-09T13:54:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again, our annual county fair. Once again I have entered some photographs with hopes of bringing home some ribbons, preferably blue ones, but there are a few other amazing photographers in this county that I'll be up against. So best of luck to you all. Here are my 2011 Siskiyou Golden Fair entries.

In the Professional Black & White categories:
--Animal

--Floral

For Professional Color categories:
--Animal

--Candid

--Floral

--Mt Shasta

--Sunsets & Sunrises

--Other, not listed, specify: Farm Life

Have a great rest of this sunny & hot, Tuesday in August.

{Pricing} New Session Collections

2011-08-07T15:13:00.000-07:00

Hope you've all had an awesome weekend. It's now Sunday and as we're preparing for another busy week here at the crazy-farm I've got something exciting to share with you all.

I've been working for a couple months now, re-vamping parts of my business structure, website, etc and one of those areas is session pricing. I'm here today to introduce you to your new options, 2 of which include digital files for your own, unlimited* printing.

Every session includes your custom photography session with unlimitedoutfit changes.

$450 – The Premium Collection

-Final image disc, with personal print release for up to size 8x10

-$50 print credit

-10% discount on 16x20 or larger prints or storybook albums

$300 – The Standard Collection

-10 image disc, with personal print release for up to size 8x10

-$25 print credit

-5% discount on 16x20 or larger prints or storybook albums

$125 – The Basic Collection

- This collection is just a session & does not include prints, products or digital images which may be added at regular prices.

--------------------------------------

Did you also know that you can book a years worth of sessions for your little one at a special rate?! I offer 3 separate collections to capture your little ones big moments & here are those options:

$450 –Belly & Baby- Milestones Collection

A 5 session collection to document baby’s firstyear;

Includes: Maternity, Newborn, 3, 6, & 12month custom photography sessions, with unlimited clothing changes

-25 5x7 BoutiqueBirth announcements

-8x10 from eachsession

-15 image disk atthe end of the year, with printing rights

$300 –Belly & Baby – Baby’s Year Collection

Includes: 4 custom photography sessions withunlimited outfit changes All prints & products are sold a la carte.

-254x8 Photo birth announcements

-5x7from each session

$275 –Just for Kids Club

Includes: 2 custom mini-sessions & 1 fullphotography session with unlimited outfit changes

-Build your ownschedule & collection

-Sessions must takeplace in a 12 month time frame

-5x7 from eachsession

Have a great Sunday!!!

{Sneak Peek} Baby T

2011-08-03T09:08:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this is not the typical sneak peek, this one is super special (and a little photo heavy).
Not only was Baby T a difficult little client (I think he must take after his momma) but he's also my brand new nephew!! I was so excited that my sister & her family decided to make the journey home from Eugene this past weekend. It was so nice to visit & especially great to love on this little bundle. Our session were fairly quick, due to the little man wanting to eat every half-hour or so and he never really got to sleep until the afternoon. Of course it wasn't the typical scheduled session (we actually spread it out over the whole day), but we made due with what we could.

I was inspired by several things for this next shot, and although it didn't work exactly like I had envisioned, I still love, love how it came out.

A gorgeous momma & her sweet little baby.

The little Sweet Pea!

Another one of my favorite images. I'm loving the Summer Newborn series, where we can get the little guys outside.

The Little Mr. would.not.sleep. Which is okay, we got some shots with those big blue baby eyes.

The proudest big brother, even if he does try to bargain, trade and finagle things for his new baby brother. (no he wasn't pinching him, although I'm sure it crossed his mind a time or two, Baby T was just letting us know he was ready to eat, yet again!)

So glad you guys came to visit & had me do some newborn portraits for you. I'll get your whole gallery up soon.

xoxo

{Monday Minute}

2011-08-01T07:58:00.000-07:00

Happy August 1st!!! Really!?! It's August already, seriously, where does the time go? In 23 days my 1st baby will be starting preschool, oh, my goodness. It's our first official "summertime" break & it's quickly coming to an end.
We had some crazy storms roll through yesterday afternoon/evening. The aftermath was some gorgeous coloring in the clouds and this little "Hole in the Floor of Heaven".

The colors in this are just like they were in the sky, nothing edited in, no funny business. It's amazing the things that are painted in our skies.
Have a great Monday.

{Event} Ride In The Light

2011-07-28T10:23:00.000-07:00

A couple weekends back I was honored to be one of the photographers for "Ride In The Light", a Christian motorcycle rally. It was a lot of fun. A place where two worlds collide in one place glorifying the name of the Lord.

Friday night kicked off the rally, where bikers got to head to Miner Street park to enjoy one of the summer's Concert In the Park concerts. After the concert they headed out of town for a twilight ride. Saturday morning, more registration & the Poker Run, which toured through the south end of the county this year.

Most of my time on Saturday was spent at the Siskiyou Golden Fairgrounds capturing events that were going on there. There was a wheelchair parade, car show, & vendors. Once the riders returned from the run, they had some bike games. The evening was spent listening to music by 2 great artists, Truth Be Told Band and Bryan Duncan, dancing & fellowship.

Early Sunday morning the riders took a "SONlight" ride out through the Little Shasta Valley, soaking up some of that beautiful country air. Followed by "Biker Church" in the midway, with more worship music & a great message from Ron Heagy, a quadriplegic inspirational speaker. After worship, there were bike blessings & everyone went on their way, uplifted & ready to face another week.

I am excited to go back again next year. It was truly a blessing to be a part of this great, growing event.

You can find them on Facebook HERE > RIDE IN THE LIGHT <

{Monday Minute} Splash of Summer

2011-07-25T21:27:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've done the Monday Minute, so tonight, here goes a little Splash of Summer, summer colors, summer rains, summer skies, I love almost everything about summer, except the super hot.

We had some unusually cool days & some extra rain this month... it was lovely.

I've been working on a little project for me as well, getting the kids out & about as much as possible & just taking a few minutes to shoot some photos for me. Here are a few of summers beautiful blooms & bugs (& my first ever butterfly close up capture).

And it wouldn't be summer without the bluest of blue skies & some white puffy clouds surrounding the beautiful mountain we are so blessed to live in the shadows of.

Hope you had a great Monday. Ours was fabulous. Hoping that I will get back on a regular blogging schedule.

{Mini-Session} Carnival Fun

2011-07-23T12:12:00.000-07:00

The fair is on it's way!! In just a few short weeks the annual county fair will be here to celebrate this fun event & give my awesome clients a chance to get some fun portraits for a fraction of the price, I've got a few time slots scheduled for Carnival Mini-Sessions .

Included with your $75* session fee is a disk on 10 final images and a printing release. Session fees must be paid prior to your session.

Times available:

Wednesday evening sessions:

7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm

Thursday sessions:

morning- 9:00am, 9:30am, 10:00am

or evening- 7:00pm 8:00pm

Saturday morning: 9:00am ~~10:00am~~ 11:00am

Drop me an email or give me a call to schedule your Carnival Fun mini.

*$75 covers time, talent of your photographer and the 10 image medium-resolution disk, printable to size 8x10, you may add additional images to the disk for $15 per image.

{Sneak Peek} Lil' Baby C & his family

2011-07-23T11:57:00.000-07:00

Oh my teeny, tiny baby, and oh how I love them. This session went so well, I couldn't have asked for better weather, a better sleeper, everything just went the way a photographer hopes it will go. I absolutely love the results of this outdoors newborn session.

Mom & dad making a heart around baby's little tiny toes, such a sweet way to remember just how tiny these little people are when they start their journey on this this earth.

We had the perfect little spot in the park & the sun kept peeking in & out of the cloud cover. It was a beautiful day for portraits.

This sweet little one has a couple of brothers & sisters as well, who are just as smitten with him as mom & dad.

Thank you guys, for a wonderful session, I'll be linking you up to your gallery this afternoon.

{Sneak Peek} Miss A - 3 months

2011-07-19T15:12:00.000-07:00

Little Miss A, just turned 3 months. This was our 2nd time meeting up, as she's a Bellys & Baby's club member, and we'll be meeting up again in just a few short months. She is an absolute doll, so sweet and those bright eyes, ahh.. I love being able to capture her.

If you remember from the her 'late' newborn session, her daddy is a fireman, so here is her special 3 month "fireman' pose. I'm super excited to get to her 1 year mark & put them all together. It will be such a fun way to see how she's grown.

It was also her big brothers turn to celebrate a milestone, so we did a little mini-session with him as well. He loves his baby sister so much (and KISS - you know the band that was so popular in the 80's-, as well as a few other things).

Thank you guys so much for another great session. I'll be seeing you Monday with your entire proof set. :)

{Sneak Peek} Just My Little Ones

2011-07-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, so not really a true sneak peek, because I've seen all the images. On the 4th of July, we did our 2nd annual kids portrait session. Here are a couple of my favorites from our quick little sunset session. They are modeling some 'boutique' style shirts, I put together myself, with a little inspiration from Pinterest.

Little Missy Sassy Smirk in the middle, the leader of the monkey pack.

Showing off their true smiles, we were singing "And we park the truck when things get hot, girl park the truck", thank heaven they have no clue what it means, but they sure do love music.

My biggest girl...Oh.my.growing too fast!!

Something that's very rare...a true smile with dimples & all. This is my most difficult subject, pretty much ever. But when she cracks, she's just a doll.

Ahhhh...the big boy & that 'manly' haircut.

And he's NEVER happy standing still for longer that .12 seconds...let me go, you stinky girl!!

I can't believe how grown up they look... Such sweet little "Bratt's" err... Pratt's.

{Sneak Peek} Mr E turns 2

2011-07-03T13:59:00.000-07:00

Where does the time fly?! Seriously, I can not believe that Mr E is already going to be celebrating his 2nd year in this big wide world. It seems like just last week I was taking some photos of E the "belly" and E the brand new baby.

He's growing into quite the busy boy...a running blur everywhere. While I was there this week, I got a lesson in tree trimming. 1st you size it up, then you mark it and then you can cut it down (however, dad advises NOT to hold the bar on the chainsaw!)

And sometimes capturing the little guys takes a little creative kid wrangling, which produces lots of laughter, a few screams & extra fun!!

Happy Birthday little big guy!!

{NEW} Senior Portrait Collections

2011-06-22T15:24:00.000-07:00

It's time to start thinking about getting those Senior Portrait done, yes class of 2012, I'm talking to you!!!
I have completely revamped my {Senior Collections} to better suit you, my clients.

Every Senior will receive the same awesome basic package, including up to 3 hours of custom photography atmultiple locations of your choice (within a 10 mile radius), & unlimitedoutfit changes.

$400 –

The Premium Collection

-40 image disc, with personal print release for up to size 5x7

-100 wallets

-(4) 8x10

-Custom cover, spiral bound proof book

-15% discount on family & friend orders

$250 –

The Standard Collection

-10 image disc, with personal print release for up to size 4x6

-100 wallets

-Small custom cover, spiral bound proof book

$200 –

Basic Collection

Only the session. Prints & products sold a la carte.

{Wordless Wednesday} Vacation Edition

2011-06-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

Check this out...a scheduled blog post; & it's more than the normal sneak peek, but a look at the little mini-vacation that I got to take with my sweet hubby to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary and a bit of an early birthday to me. In fact this is almost the exact thing we did, 5 years ago, to celebrate our wedding and my birthday.

We headed to Las Vegas. City of Sin, Dry Heat & a gazillion people walking around 1/2 dressed like ants all.day.long.

We however, dislike the heat enough that we tried to avoid day time on the strip (& most night times too). We ventured out to Hoover Dam though, it was huge. One thing I didn't do a lot of while we were there...take pictures. I didn't want to lug around the camera & a purse & water, so most of the time, I ditched the camera & purse and just enjoyed having a few moments with my hubby.

Here's a quick glimpse of the few photos I did take though. It was Richie's first time flying, so we got a couple shots of familiar places; one of which was Medicine Lake (we won't be fishing there yet, it's still frozen).

Our motel & rental car, that we got a free upgrade on, so instead of a Kia Rio, we were able to cruise in a Nissan Cube.

Hoover Dam & Mead Lake

The Great West Truck Show

Seriously, show trucks are GORGEOUS, both inside & out. There's lots & lots of chrome & shiny. We saw the largest limo ever, an entire trailer sized limo, it was amazing. Decked out interiors complete with cowhide & leather, seriously ahhhh!! A hay trailer, complete with huge glitter flakes. Now, it's not really my thing, but I know how happy it makes the ol' man, seeing as he used to show, way back in the day and has a few trophys to show for it.

{Sneak Peek} The Jones' Home Run Baby

2011-06-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

Yay!! I can finally share the session I had with my sister and her sons, for a Father's Day surprise for my Brother In-Law. We had lots of fun with this session, including a little impromptu run in with a passing ice cream truck!!

Only a few short weeks and we'll have a new little one here, I'm so excited to meet my little nephew.

So exciting!!

Mmm! Mmm! Mmm!! Preggo mama's LOVE ice cream, the only thing missing is the pickle jar right?!

Thanks so much for the fun session. You were a trooper. Special thanks & shout out to Joe the Ice Cream Man for helping us out and letting us borrow his truck for just a few minutes.

{News} Quiet Time

2011-06-15T23:36:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the lack of posts here lately. It seems like things have been super crazy & now it's summer, even more crazy will ensue. I have high hopes that I'll get things back on track & regular around here at some point. Thanks for sticking around & coming back from time to time & checking things out.

For up to date & more current events you can always check out the Facebook Fan Page, become a fan & suggest us to your friends & family. :)

You may notice a few changes in the coming weeks and months, it's that time again...updating, rearranging, & adjusting to the flow of this crazy ride we call life.

{Sneak Peek}Sarah & Clint - a super sweet couple

2011-06-06T23:23:00.000-07:00

I contacted Sarah about doing a couple session and I'm so glad that the two of them were able to make it. I *love, LOVE* the resulting images. It's amazing how the smallest of places can just come to life when you add a couple of gorgeous, in love young adults.

The had the *cutest* lil' pup, ever (and a big pup too, but he would much rather run around marking his space than participate in the mini-session)

Thank you so much for your patience. I can't wait to show you your entire session. See you soon!

{Sneak Peek} It's a Home Run... BABY!!!

2011-06-05T23:18:00.000-07:00

There is a very special post that belongs here, but since the session is under wraps until after Fathers Day, you'll need to come back for this one. :)

It will be worth the wait though, these are so fun, fun maternity images.

{Sneak Peek} Krystal, Yreka Class of 2011

2011-05-26T18:38:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year, when graduations are all around. Whether you've got a preschooler getting ready to head off to kindergarten or a high school senior ready to head out into the big world of adulthood, responsibility & college, it's definitely a special time of year.
I've had the opportunity in the last couple of weeks to work with some very special people. I had an entire class of graduating preschoolers, who will get to view their images on their special graduation day next week.

I also got to photograph Krystal for an end of the year Senior session. She is gorgeous & we had lots of fun in our little hour. The weahter was cooperating in this crazy weather week (we've seen sun, rain, snow, & wind). I had a difficult time choosing which of her photos to showcase, mostly because I shoot the toddler age & those sessions are very different from the senior sessions, mainly because the seniors take direction & have an attention span longer than an ant.
I'm loving this senior session.

I'm looking for to more senior sessions this summer & fall. Thank you for being a wonderful model.

Congratulations Class of 2011!!!

{Sneak Peek} Baby "K"

2011-05-24T10:29:00.000-07:00

Here comes another late peek. I got to have another little session with Baby K this past week. At our first session, she decided that she didn't want to have photo day, and zonked out, so we rescheduled to give it another go. This time she started out a bit fussy & we weren't too sure it was going to work out again...and then, she fell asleep.

She let me reposition her hands a couple of times, but she was determined that she was comfortable & only wanted to be in one spot without waking up or fussing, so we have a few of these little sleepy photos with slight variations.

Then she woke up in a much better mood, she was happy & I even got to hear a couple of giggles. So sweet!

How precious is that smile..gorgeous!

Thank you so much for having me out to photograph your little bundle. See you soon!

{Sneak Peek} The Gocke Tinies

2011-05-23T14:37:00.000-07:00

Friday evening I had the opportunity to photograph some of my favorite little people. My friend Heather came out to the house & I was blessed to shoot her sweet (shy and sometimes crazy) tinies.
The session started out the way almost every session with the 3-5 crowd starts...a little quiet & unsure, probably didn't help that I drug them out into a field with rye grass, almost taller then them, but they were complete troopers & got comfortable real quick. After that it was all catch me if you can & shoot on the fly.

This is one of my favorite from their session, so cute, I orginally asked the little Miss to sit on her big brother....but he thought it would be more fun, the opposite way.

Thank you so much for allowing me to capture some special moments for you, I look forward to seeing you this week with some proofs. :)

{Monday Minute} Wedding Edition

2011-05-16T14:18:00.000-07:00

After months of planning & lots of prep, my cousin is finally married. It was a gorgeous day, she was a STUNNING bride. I wasn't the actual even photographer, sort of hard to be in 2 places at once, but here are a few image I did manage to capture on Saturday (Richie got to man the camera for a bit ).

Since I wasn't the photographer, who was so fabulous & wonderful to watch, I didn't take anything except my 50mm lens & the camera body. No flash. No zooms. Just plain & simple.

Happy Monday!!

{Sneak Peek} Lea Family

2011-05-15T08:37:00.000-07:00

Last week I got to photograph this beautiful family. Baby K was so sweet and she has uch gorgeous eyes. Here is a little peek at our session. Enjoy.

A tiny smidgen of a smile...

Even the fur-babies got into the session, they were perfect little posers.

And then Little Miss K decided we were done, she was out like a light. So I'll be seeing them again soon so we can finish up.

Thank you for having me out to photograph your family. I can't wait to see you all again.

For a couple more images be sure to swing by the Facebook Fanpage & view the 2011- Sessions album.

{Sneak Peek} Suter Family

2011-05-12T08:25:00.000-07:00

Take a look at this beautiful family, so sweet. And remember them, because you'll be seeing them at least 4 more times throughout Baby A's first year. I had a great time photographing them & capturing some beautiful images for them.

I'm excited to plan out future sessions, Dad's a firefighter & we've already discussed some big ideas.

Thank you for having me out to photograph your family. I'm looking forward to future sessions & I'll see you on Wednesday for a full look.

{wordy wednesday} Just My Kid & other random images

2011-05-04T16:29:00.000-07:00

I have a lens on rental for the rest of this month & I must say that after just 1 day, I am smitten with this thing. It's super sharp, clear, quiet & ohhhh... so lovely!
I can.not. put it down. I think I've taken more images in the last couple of days than I did all of last month. It's gorgeous!

A quick attempt at a portrait of the rug-rats...not so wall worthy...but totally captures the craziness of our everyday life.

(no I didn't get an extra kid, our nephew stayed with us last night & was in the field playing hide & seek with our munchkins)

Take advantage of this special occasion & book a session between May 16th & 30th to receive a 5 image disk with your session.*

(*not valid with mini-sessions & tax not included)

Hey, hey it's May!

2011-05-01T12:07:00.000-07:00

Wow, really, already?!

Welcome to the month of May. Lots of good stuff on the horizon, busy, busy month for me, not only for business but in my personal life as well.

Have you thought of your mom for mothers day...it's only a week away & what a better way to celebrate mom, than to give her a gift she will treasure for a lifetime... family portraits.

Special Mothers Day Gift Certificates available, 25% discount on session fees.

And what's a blog post without a couple of photos, so some spring-spiration for this beautiful sunny spring day.

{Sneak Peek} Beautiful Baby Girl

2011-04-25T20:38:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to share these sneak peek images! Baby L was my first beautiful newborn girl. Oh, my was she gorgeous; lots of hair & oh so tiny. I currently think I am cursed with the "newborn not sleepy virus" but I'm so happy with how this set of images turned out despite the not quite so sleepy little one.

Thank you for allowing me to photograph your little girl. I will see you on Friday with the entire set. :)

Perfect Sessions {Monday Minute}

2011-04-18T08:39:00.000-07:00

I don't know that there is such a thing as a perfect session, especially when photographing your own child. I'm sure that plenty of other photographers out there will tell you the exact same thing.

It's like an unspoken curse or maybe just a higher expectation (& lower tolerance) from your own kids to behave the way you want them to & to make pretty faces, or follow instructions. Either way, photographing my own children is almost always 100 times harder & more exhausting than any other session, hands down.

If you see an image you like or even love, you can bet that there are at least 15 like this for every one of those:

Oh the unpredictability of childhood, it's pure bliss!

{Sneak Peek} Baby B -round 2

2011-04-17T21:16:00.000-07:00

I think I mentioned when I blogged about the first session that baby B wasn't exactly sleepy the last time I visited. I was excited to go back & try again though & I'm so glad, I think there are some SUPER cute images from the second go-around.

Thank you for having me out to photograph the little guy, I'll be seeing you this week for a closer look.

Time for another "New" feature {Scenic Shots}

2011-04-12T14:01:00.000-07:00

It's another new feature, Scenic shot Tuesday. As a photographer, I don't only photograph cute little babies, toddlers, & sweet families; I also enjoy photographing every day life & the way the world looks around me. The 2nd Tuesday of every month I'll be posting a little of what I see. Today I've got a special scenic feature though.

I am so blessed to live in a place where the 'country' lifestyle is still alive and well. I had the opportunity this morning to photograph a brand new baby foal. I spent about the first 2 1/2 hours of her new life watching her interact with momma & being accustomed to her new world. I can't wait to head back out & photograph her again in the next few days.

Welcome Miss "Harley"

{Snapshots} My life this week

2011-04-10T13:13:00.000-07:00

I know I've talked about getting the blog in order before & this is just another one of those posts. In an attempt to be more regular & scheduled, my goal is to post a look into my life every other Sunday of the month.
So here I am with the first edition of, My Life in Snaps. Random shots from the first week or so of the month of April.

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This is sort of what the typical weekend morning looks like. Grace in her crazy hair, Brody sucking down some milk, Anna pouting for who knows what.

Brody has a new fascination with the laundry cart. He WILL.NOT. leave it in the laundry room, instead we find it in every other room of the house, usually with him climbing into it, or hanging on it, sitting in it. & a banged up nose courtesy of sisters & steps.

The girls & Daddy are on horse stall clean up duty, taking another bucket of stuff to the compost pile.

With a nice little snow storm last week we got to see Ol' Man Winter trying to steal away our spring. It didn't last long and although it most likely damaged a lot of the fruit trees, it was very pretty on the blossoms.

Evidence of a little frost bite, kisses the blossoms now & even though the snow is far away, today, who knows what our crazy little world will look like tomorrow.

Slow Cooked Pork Carnitas {Food Friday}

2011-04-08T13:23:00.000-07:00

Well, hello, food Friday, how I have missed posting you. One of my favorite things to do with and for my family is to try out new recipes. It gives us all something to look forward to & we get to try familiar things in new ways. This week was particularly full of new recipes & the one that probably wins our vote for favorite new recipe was the Slow Cooked Porked Carnitas. I found this recipe in the most recent issue of Taste of Home (my favorite subscription). And although I didn't document the dish with photos, let me just tell you, it was DELISH! I'll mark my changes with an * and then tell you about it at the bottom of the recipe.

For this dish you'll need:
1 boneless pork shoulder butt roast (3 to 4 pounds)*
3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1-1/2 cups minced fresh cilantro
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup chicken broth*
1/2 cup tequila or additional chicken broth*
2 cans (4 ounces each) chopped green chilies*
12 flour tortillas (8 inches), warmed
Optional toppings: fresh cilantro leaves, chopped avocado and tomato*
Cut roast in half; place in a 5-qt. slow cooker. Sprinkle with garlic, oil, salt and pepper. Add the onions, cilantro, salsa, broth, tequila and chilies. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until meat is tender.
Remove meat; cool slightly. Shred with two forks and return to the slow cooker; heat through. Spoon about 2/3 cup meat mixture onto each tortilla; serve with toppings of your choice. Yield: 12 servings.
**** I didn't use tequila, mostly because we don't have any. I also didn't use broth, but some water & a little bouillon powder. I omitted the green chiles, because my sweet little family doesn't do spicy foods (except for me). After I shredded the pork I didn't put it back into the crock, but strained the juices back into the pork because I know my kids & they wouldn't have ate it the other way. We didn't serve it with the avocado either, but only because I forgot to get them. I didn't have any limes and would have loved to squeeze a little fresh lime on them. YUM!

Wordy Wednesday goes Product Spotlight

2011-04-06T05:30:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to be more organized with business stuff, crafting stuff, & just life in general I created a blog calendar mapping out specific recurring themes & posts. I've been doing fairly well at keeping up with everything in the calendar, I did miss a post or 2 on here, but that's only because I didn't want to overwhelm you with 1000 posts in one day.

So instead of posting a long story with a couple pics for Wordy Wednesday (I'm sure if you're a blog junkie like me, you've heard of Wordless Wednesday, but I wanted to switch it up a bit for a couple posts a month & give you wordy Wednesday), I'll be doing the product spotlight post I have planned for the 3rd of every month now.

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This month I want to spotlight, Canvas Gallery Wraps.

Have you seen one of these? Held it? Felt it up close? If not, you need to. They are amazing. They look gorgeous & are a great addition to any wall or photo display. My favorite size right now 16x20, sure that sounds HUGE, but when you get it on the wall, it's not so bad & makes a big impact & looks amazing.

These wraps are 1.5" deep and just pop off the wall. I can design the edges to match the photo or your entire photo can wrap around the edges.

Because I love these so much & want my clients to be able to experience them in their own photo displays as well, I'm marking these down for the month of April.

April 2011 - Canvas Wrap Special -- take 30% off regular prices

16x20 Canvas Wrap : ~~$200~~ -- Sale: $140*

11x14 Canvas Wrap : ~~$160~~ -- Sale: $112*

10x10 Canvas Wrap: ~~$100~~ -- Sale: $70*

*tax not included

Here are a couple of sample images from one of the professional labs that I use to print these gorgeous works of art.

{Sneak Peek} Miss Rylee

2011-04-05T22:28:00.000-07:00

I must say that I am so lucky to be able to do what I love, for my work. Yesterday was another beautiful day around here, although it wasn't completely sunny or extremely warm, it was a great spring day & I got to spend an hour doing one of my favorite things, chasing around a wee-one. She was so sweet!!

I really love when things come together for a session. Weather was great. One of the locations was new and worked out very well. And the little miss, well she was a perfect little model.

Even when she decided to showcase some little girl attitude, she was great. Which, if you're a momma of girls, you know exactly what I'm talking about.

I'm saving my most favorites (so far, I still have to finish editing this session) for last. This first one, is one of my all time favorite images that I've made.

And this last one, is just one of those things I had thought out before going to the session. I stopped by one of our local florists for the balloon bouquet before meeting up for our session & I'm so glad I saved these for the 2nd location where we got a little bit of sunshine.

Thank you so much for having me photograph your little girl. She is precious & was such a great little model. I'll be seeing you next week for your proofing session.

Sleeping Baby Boy{Minute Monday}

2011-04-04T13:44:00.000-07:00

We got to spend a little time this week visiting relatives. Just sharing a sleeping little baby I captured while we were there. This is my cousins little boy. So sweet, asleep on Pa's bed.

{Sneak Peek} Tiny Baby "B"

2011-04-03T19:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had the privilege to take some newborn portraits for my sisters best friend. I'm so happy I got to make images of this little guy. He was so sweet & oh so tiny.

He decided that Saturday is his non-sleepy day though, so we spent lots of time trying to get him into sleepy mode. He also didn't like to be uncovered or unclothed.

I still captured some super sweet moments, including one of those oh, so precious baby smiles (that you'll have to come back to see another day).

Hoping to get back & get a few more shots this week or even the next. Thank you so much for having me make your babies portraits. See you on Thursday for your proofing session.

{Sneak Peek} A Promo Session

2011-04-03T19:26:00.000-07:00

I don't know if you've seen, but I'm looking for some new faces. Specifically babies, but also toddlers & even kids. This little sweetie is one of those new faces. We had a fun, unpredictable little session out at her house.

Where her momma & I chased her up & down the driveway, trying to semi-corral her for a couple of shots. She pretended like we didn't even exist!! So lets just say, mom & me lost. But the shoot was a success anyways.

That's one of my favorite parts about photographing the wee-ones, they are so unpredicatable, there will never be 2 sessions the same. Some days they are on, somedays they want to be camera hams & others, well I'm pretty sure if they could talk, they would tell me to "bug off."

This next one is probably one of my most favorite shots to date.

Thank you so much for such a fun time. I'll see you this week for your proofing session.

Spring Mini Sessions

2011-03-30T12:29:00.000-07:00

It's time for Spring Mini-Sessions. The inaugural session in the Seasonal Mini Series.

These sessions will be offered for one day. There are 7 spaces available between 9am & 2pm, booked on the hour & 1/2 hour marks. April 30th, 2011. Sessions will be held in Yreka at a location yet to be determined, once we're closer to the date I'll be revealing which location I've chosen for optimum springy-ness.

Book your session by Friday April 1st & receive a special print package with your session as well. All session fees must be paid in advance by April 25th.

Every session will receive a 5 image disk with printing rights & a mini-accordion album; tax and shipping is included.

Book yours today by calling: 604.8789, dropping me an email at info@amandaprattphotography.com or reserving on the Facebook Fan Page.