Do we live in a photo obsessed society?

If you have ever juggled multiple electronic devices or had someone take a photograph of you taking a photograph, it gives you pause to think how all this documenting can get in the way of enjoying life.  We live in a society where people take photographs of everything from eating breakfast to going to the grocery store. Between my iphone and my point and shoot I always have at least two cameras on me. When I decide to bring along my SLR the total spikes to three.

Food Styling class with Aran Goyoaga

During Aran Goyoaga's Food Styling workshop, I gained a whole new appreciation for food. I learned many things, not only about food styling, but the creative process of turning simple food into a work of art.

Food styling and a simple gesture of love

As a blogger who enjoys reading other blogs, I spend a fair amount of time rattling on to my husband about things I have seen or read on someone else's blog. As much as my husband is a good listener, sometimes I think I would tune myself out if possible. Several weeks prior to Mother's Day I mentioned a food styling class by Aran Goyoaga I was dying to take. I felt it was frivolous and although I mentioned it to him, I had put it out of my mind as a possibility. Fast forward a few weeks and while reading through her blog I noticed her food styling class had filled up, my heart sank. Even though I had mentioned it in passing I really wanted to attend the class- oh well, maybe next time.

Seattle in all its brilliance!

I have been perusing old photos for an upcoming project I am working on and ran across too many beautiful images I just had to share. Old photos feel like old friends, that being said let me introduce you to my friends. Sometimes I wonder why I don't spend more time printing my photographs out and hang them on the wall. Then I remember putting nails into our walls is like pushing a thumb tack into concrete- IMPOSSIBLE! So while I dream of having less temperamental walls, may you dream of long Summer Seattle days and nights.

Weeds and all, we have a beautiful life

For those of you not on Instagram, here is a collection of what I have been photographing lately with my iphone.

Ten on Ten

When the Ravenna Girls asked me to participate in their Ten on Ten, I was thrilled. I take so many photographs throughout my day I knew it would be no problem to capture ten. As I went about my day and was conscientious to snap a photo or two every hour, I was reminded of what a beautiful life I lead. Thanks Ravenna Girls for reminding me to take time to enjoy the beauty which surrounds me on a daily basis. Although everyday is not perfect, it is easy to make everyday look picture perfect.

"Many people lose the small joys in the hope for the big happiness.”  –Pearl S. Buck

Let them be kids: cool kid at the park edition

Spend a few moments with a child and quickly you realize what a welcome relief they are from the superficialness of the world. If they are happy you know it, and if they are not into you then you really know it. I love it when amongst the disinterest and utter annoyance of having a camera in their sweet little face I am able to capture a child as they really are. These are some of the best moments from one sunny day with one cool kid at one cool park.

Let them be kids: beach edition

As the weather gets warmer my thoughts turn toward the beach. So why not capture your little one in their elements. With sand between their toes and a big smile on their face.

Relaxed family photos: A day at the park

When I think of how I would want my family captured the following photos come to mind. Running, laughing, playing, those are the memories I would want to cherish of my little boy.

Chasing light

My idea of a perfect day is staying outdoors until the very last drop of sunlight disappears. While we were in La Conner, my husband had to drag me from the field otherwise I would have stayed there another hour or two longer. The tulips were breathtaking, but the sunset was equally incredible.

Let them be kids: Alki beach edition

At first she was uncertain about having a camera stuck in her face, but after awhile she warmed up to the idea. Before long she started to run, explore, climb, throw rocks and pretty much had the whole modeling thing down pat. The offspring to Marie, founder of Make and Takes, I am certain she is used to being photographed getting her craft on. On this particular day, she played the role of Seattleite well, dressed head to toe in REI and requesting a visit to Starbucks once the photo shoot commenced. 

Let them be kids: city edition

I have enjoyed going back through my archives and coming across these photos I have taken of children in urban settings. I love trying to think outside the box and put children in everyday situations.

Stickygram

Have you heard of Stickygram? They are a company which turns your Instagram photos into personalized magnets. You buy them nine to a sheet and then they tear apart. I just ordered mine and I am excited to see them in person.

If would like to order some for yourself use the coupon code: FRIENDL3WT to get $2.00 off.

Let them be kids: swing time

Happy weekend!

Every now and then I get a killer shot and I just cannot stop looking at it, this was mine for the week. Enjoy all the blossoms and don't forget to stop and smell their sweetness. If you are anything like me, make certain to take your allergy medicine first.

Let them be kids: Becoming a big sis

Family photos: rolling with the punches

We have spent a lot of time talking about allowing kids to be kids in photographs, but what about parents allowing themselves to relax and have fun too? After browsing through my archives, I came across these photos and I am reminded why these are some of my favorite people to photograph. Not only are they confident in their own skin, but they know how to have fun with their children and allow their personalities to shine through at every shoot.

Their interaction and facial expressions with each other are priceless.

Yellow Happiness

Last week I was featured on A Blog About Love's Yellow Happiness Project. I submitted three photos and within days I was inundated by kind strangers stretching out a virtual hand of friendship. The internet never ceases to amaze me in its ability to connect people whose paths might not have ever crossed otherwise. Here is to never being too shy, busy or jaded to make new friends.

Let them be kids: the beach at twilight

There has been a lot of chatter on the internet lately of how we ought to allow children to be themselves in photographs. No forced poses, or sitting still for long periods of time, or fake smiles. At the end of almost every photo shoot of young children their parents practically end up apologizing for their child's behavior and I just smile. Now why do I smile, aside from retreating home to peace and quiet......... because I know what a gold mine it ends up being to have a record of the elbowing, the grumpy looks and the utter distain for anything less than their true selves. Kids and their outward expressions of honesty are the best. Happy or sad, they hold nothing back and it is a good lesson we all ought to remember. 

Mini photo shoot special

Nothing can stop your little ones from growing up too fast, so why not capture them in all their adorableness before its too late? To schedule a mini photo session email me at lisettewoltermckinley@hotmail.com, rates starting at $75 per mini session.