a million pieces

Hunger Games inspired photo.

2012-02-21T21:19:00.001-08:00

I adore how they did the cast photos in this style. It is amazing!

This is my weak attempt of replicating that style:

Note to self, if I were ever to do this shoot again, I would sit further back from my light source.

And work harder to get the focus correct.

2012-02-21T17:24:00.001-08:00

Sarah's 13th!

2012-02-17T17:23:00.000-08:00

My beautiful friend had her 13th birthday party about a week ago. A princess themed, progressive dinner with karaoke afterwards. Great opportunity for pictures.

Let's begin.

My sister and I arrived a smidgen early. So, we received a sneak peek at Sarah's curling methods.

Very resourceful... Yes, those are Nerf bullets.

Transformed into the Princess Sarah.

And the other princesses arrived from foreign lands....

Photo credits: Connor Grzesiak^^

Funny enough, nearly everyone found their dress at an op-shop.

^^Photo credits: the brother

Arriving at the first "castle" for entrée!

entrée!

Overview of the second castle where we dined for the main course.

Posing while waiting to be escorted into the third castle.

We walked into the final castle around dusk only to be greeted by karaok-ing waiters. With moustaches. Gold.

I snook into the kitchen to get a quality photo of the waiters. Happy I did. Even though I was scolded.

"What's the princess doing in the kitchen?!?" hahaha. =)

Serving desserts like a boss.

Annnnnnnd they sang another song! ....Jumbo, HOT DOG!

Present time.

Best wrapped present. Amen.

Our fail group photo. I take no credit for this.

And to finish it all off, everybody wanted a photo with the popular waiters.

About this time, the guys lost focus. Alice's face is a laugh.

Daww =)

And they all lived happily ever after.

THE END.

with all this rain...

2012-02-10T23:52:00.000-08:00

take a smile.

2012-02-05T00:30:00.000-08:00

You should really print this out. Now. ;)

a gypsy I know.

2012-02-02T18:26:00.000-08:00

We dressed up. Rode sugar highs. Tromped around the block singing Christmas carols. Received severe moonburns. Oh, and ate more sugar. Hello.

be inspired / Ryan Brenizer

2012-01-15T22:41:00.000-08:00

Ryan Brenizer is hands down one of my top five favourite photographers.
Please do yourself a favour and soak up some of his awesomeness over here.

we will put the lonesome on the shelf.

2012-01-12T20:12:00.000-08:00

Oooh, let's get rich and buy our parents homes in the south of France

Let's get rich and give everybody nice sweaters and teach them how to dance

Let's get rich and build our house on a mountain, making everybody look like ants

From way up there, you and i, you and i

if I could sell him on ebay...

2012-01-09T01:03:00.000-08:00

To his dog, every man is Napoleon; hence the constant popularity of dogs. -Aldous Huxley

This pupster chewed through an electric cord today. Behind that adorable exterior is pure evil.

two loves.

2012-01-03T00:13:00.000-08:00

Busy Bee Lauren is having a Hunger Games countdown. Twenty weeks of it. Insane. But definitely "awesomespice".

The first four weeks are here, here, here, and here. (Psssst! I may be referring to this often, as I'm a HG addict myself.)

Also. This. Wow. Yes.

(Kudos to my sister for finding it!)

2011-12-31T04:40:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years Eve, folks!

How did you celebrate? Stay up 'till 12:01? ;-)

CHRISTmas - come and gone.

2011-12-29T15:45:00.000-08:00

While catching up on the latest from my favourite blogs, I am struck (once again) of how important memories are. The beautiful and the ugly. One of my new year's resolutions is to work harder in freezing moments of time through my photos. Decided on this resolution last night while reading Catching Fire. Peeta says to Katniss,

"I wish I could freeze this moment right here right now, and live in it forever."

Ammmeeeeeen!

Now I shall relate some of the goings on from last week.

First off I hope y'all had a Merry Christmas!

Here are some snapshots of the days before Christmas.

She is the cutest.

(By the by, if anyone knows how to get rid of that annoying border/shadow around my photos, I would be eternally grateful!!)

^^An album cover for a "create a band name, album cover, song track, etc" game.

For the Chrissy cards to American friends

Rediscovered Aled Jones (HE'S WELSH!) this Christmas. Joy! Honestly I'm not much for the traditional Chrissy hymns. Yes, I love them. But I can only take so much of the same old tunes every year.

Favourite:

Candlelight Carol by Aled Jones on Grooveshark

Listening to it right now... as a goodbye to Christmas, I guess.

Shoutout to Mrs. Howarth for helping us construct this Rocky Road center piece!

Mary, did you know / That your baby boy will one day walk on water? / Did you know / that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters? / Did you know / that your baby boy has come to make you new? / This child that you've delivered / will soon deliver you

...

Mary, did you know / that your baby boy is Lord of all creation? / Did you know / that your baby boy will one day rule the nations? / Did you know / that your baby boy is Heaven's perfect Lamb? / This sleeping child you're holding / is the great I Am

And that's most of the best parts in one messy post.
God bless and catch y'all in the New Year!!

the wise men.

2011-12-17T03:08:00.000-08:00

2011-12-16T19:09:00.000-08:00

'tis the season to be jolly.

2011-12-06T14:17:00.001-08:00

"Again Christmas, abiding point of return. Set apart by its mystery, mood and magic, the season seems, in a way to stand outside of time. All that is dear, that is lasting, renews its hold on us: we are home again." -Elizabeth Bowen

(The guys refused to be a part of the Christmas spirit. Their loss. )

the candy man.

2011-12-03T16:34:00.000-08:00

Enjoyed a production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory last week. All the actors were either friends or acquaintances thus making the show extra delightful. Snagging a photo with Willy Wonka, collecting thirty-one autographs, and hugging Oompa-Loompas completed my night.

Definitely the cutest Oompa-Loompas I'll ever meet.

the narrators

I kinda like this wonky dude a whole lot.

2011-11-30T23:47:00.000-08:00

Discovered this hidey-hole today. With the rain pouring overhead, 'twas surprisingly cozy.

highlights of the holidays.

2011-11-25T15:36:00.000-08:00

What a glorious, one week off from the daily grind of school! Here's what made it special... :)

highlight #1: Dream World

...with the family. Thrilling. Exhausting. Stupendous.

'Twas a day full of high-fives and "And at last I see the light" (Tangled reference).

Keeper quotes:

Pat: Ryan, why were you looking under the coke machine?

Ryan: ...i was lonely.

(While at the top of the Giant Drop)

Ryan: Woooaah. Guys? I'm really freaking out. I'm freaking out.

I'm really freaked out guys. Wow, I'm freaking out!

Me: Ryan. Be quiet.

(After a good squeeze from a ride's harness)

Me: Yup. They definitely consulted a weight loss company on that ride.

Conny (singing): And at last I see the light!...again.

Radio: I'm on the edge of glory!

Mike: Guys, I don't want to sit on the edge of the ride.

Ryan: Hmm, I'd say the teapot ride was... second scariest? ;)

Petra: Hey Ryan, on this ride we CANNOT SCREAM. Okay?

Ryan: Sure!

*ride starts*

Petra: OK. So, I know I said not to scream, but can I cry? AHHHH!

After all the rides we popped over to White Water World for a dip.

That's when some memory taking was in order.

-Love Ryan and Conny's expressions. My camera's shutter speed was on fast; so, Mrs. G took a zillion photos in one hit. They were telling her to stop-

-Love my bros-

highlight #2: Kung Fu Panda 2

I'm a sucker for hilarious, kiddy movies. Kung Fu Panda rocks my socks!

"My son saved China - you, too, can save! Buy one dumpling and get one free!"

highlight #3: Op-shopping

...with the girls.

highlight #4: The Hunger Games

Read this story over a period of two days; and, fell in love with it for a second time.

"I don't know how to say it exactly. Only . . . I want to die as myself. Does that make any sense?" he asks. I shake my head. How could he die as anyone but himself? "I don't want them to change me in there. Turn me into some kind of monster that I'm not."
I bite my lip, feeling inferior. While I've been ruminating on the availability of trees, Peeta has been struggling with how to maintain his identity. His purity of self. "Do you mean you won't kill anyone?" I ask.
"No, when the time comes, I'm sure I'll kill just like everybody else. I can't go down without a fight. Only I keep wishing I could think of a way to . . . to show the Capitol they don't own me. That I'm more than just a piece in their Games," says Peeta.

To say I'm pumped for the movie would be an understatement!

highlight #5: Pat's Singing Exam

Mum paid me to play Pat's songs for her exam - only reason this is a highlight. And three songs later, I came out of that examination room fifty dollars richer. Not bad. Not bad at all!

While warming up...

Me: Pat, are you breathing?

Pat: Yeeeeaaaah.

Me: Well, you look scared stiff. Just... breathe. OK?!

highlight #6: This Scene

To wrap up my precious time off, I decided to capture a photo of what I felt.

So, let this snapshot speak for itself.

Over and out,

be inspired.

2011-11-23T21:12:00.000-08:00

Go check out this engagement shoot! Stunning beyond words.

stud love.

2011-11-17T23:55:00.000-08:00

excerpts of a shopping excursion.

2011-11-12T02:34:00.000-08:00

I had the rare opportunity to wander the shopping center with my mummy today.

It all started...

Once we had disposed of my brothers, mum and I had breakfast at the "Short Black Cafe".

the good:

- the cafe had a cozy feel.

- kudos to books in the wall. nice touch.

- creative names for the cakes such as, "Death By Chocolate". enticing.

the not-so-good:

- in that cute, wall space, you place a book entitled SCREAM. for real?

- the food - nothing special. (Yes, I like food with character...or love... never mind.)

- if you're going to give a dang good name to a cake, why not make the cake worthy of its name? i ask you, why?!? #disappointed.

But, overlooking the good and the bad, it was an experience. Thus fun.

Then came the meandering. Looking at doodads and whatnots.

Dress trying...

Me: Oh, look at all these ugly and exotic dresses! I want to try on several just for kicks.

Mum: Can't you try on ones that you might remotely like?

Me: And the fun in that is...?

Dress #1:

Dress #2:

Dress #3:

It goes without saying: they weren't that ugly.

Last highlight of the day...

I was caught in the disreputable act of photographing Christmas decorations.

Seriously! This security officer (whose pronunciation was appalling, I might add) spies me, the evil doer, pointing my camera at some fairy lights, and says something along the lines of, "You can't take photos in here."

I was sorely tempted to laugh in his face and yell, "So, sue me!!"

Eh. They were lame decorations anyway. :)

Yup. Great day.

[[Look Away]]

2011-11-08T19:15:00.000-08:00

And they say daughter, look away, don't be afraid / When you want to turn back a million times / And it might get colder but wait 'til it's over / Darling, you'll find your way

But she said, I will not look away this time / Take all these cuts and make them shine / And all this pain I've held inside so I can find my way home again /

I will not look away this time

Take all these cuts and make them shine

Don't wanna be perfect, just alright

bball. [the things we do.]

2011-10-29T18:09:00.000-07:00

chicky & ducky.

2011-10-29T01:19:00.000-07:00

The new babies of our house! (I can't believe our incubator actually worked!)
Any name suggestions? :)

what happens when...

2011-10-21T06:01:00.000-07:00

As an aspiring photographer, I feel a certain "burden", if you will, to ensure my family has decent, Facebook, profile pictures. No joke.

I was browsing FB the other day when I spied a dreadful, underexposed, webcam photo of my brother as his display picture. I, horrified, reacted in this manner: "Brother! What were you thinking?! People are going to start believing you don't have a photographer for a sister!" Overboard much? Anyway, this is what happened the very next day:

Now, thankfully, he has a decent display picture, and we both are happier.

{because school can get you down}

2011-10-07T06:21:00.000-07:00

three, happy things:

- the sound of the kettle boiling

the first step in making my iced-coffee. so now just hearing that sound will instantaneously make me feel energetic and all "let's do this thang!"

- random chats with friends

which make me entirely happy. now for a random excerpt which will make no sense:

Me: Wait. What??? You're not a cookie!

Friend: O.o

There's something I've been meaning to tell you... o.O

I'MA COOKIE O_O

Me: *gasp* I refuse to believe it!

Friend: BUT YOU MUST!!! :o

- last, Saturday night

seven girls, cheese & chocolate fondue, nail polish. pretty dang sweet.

:) {tell me some of your happy things.}

doggy prints.

2011-10-06T02:13:00.000-07:00

New member of the family. Introducing Jackie: official toe-licker and nuisance.

My show off...

Mol's fascination with the noobie is hilarious. She'll sit with a sort of disgust written on her face. But she won't stop staring! Funny kitty.

On a completely different note...I love this song. Listen to it.

Peter Ribbeck

2011-10-03T01:29:00.000-07:00

Rather magnificent if you ask me.

via: http://www.flickr.com/photos/peterribbeck/

Plus my photography friend interviewed Ribbeck here: http://a1000wordz.tumblr.com/day/2011/09/16 Check it if you want some inspirado. ;-)

feels like summer.

2011-09-22T02:36:00.000-07:00

Honestly I loathe the summer heat. Often I hear people associate summer with romantic ideas of beach days and pool parties and ice cream and whatever. That is true to a point. (Maybe to a bigger point than I'm actually making it out to be.) But more than often summer is sticky, uncomfortable, and draining. It stinks.

BUT...

After a broiling summer day, the cool of four p.m. onwards is soooo deliciously refreshing. Don't know why, but it makes me want to giggle.

Summer is summer. I'm gonna suck it for all it's worth.

be inspired.

2011-09-20T22:09:00.001-07:00

Once again I stumbled upon a Flickr account which made me excited. This lovely lady has some gorgeous selfies! Go check out her account: vintagebutton . Here are only a few, personal favourites.

i am Yours.

2011-09-18T01:29:00.000-07:00

Who am I, that the Lord of all the earth / Would care to know my name / Would care to feel my hurt / Who am I, that the Bright and Morning Star / Would choose to light the way / For my ever wandering heart / Not because of who I am / But because of what You've done / Not because of what I've done / But because of who You are /

I am a flower quickly fading / Here today and gone tomorrow / A wave tossed in the ocean / Vapour in the wind / Still You hear me when I'm calling / Lord, You catch me when I'm falling / And You've told me who I am / I am Yours.

Trying to start back into the full swing of school and such. I pray God blesses this upcoming year.

a little something about a big something.

2011-09-14T02:41:00.000-07:00

Was it only three nights ago I cried myself to sleep whilst pouring my heart out to God because I felt so alone? And then this happens! I entered my bedroom after a rather tiring music lesson, and what do ya know. Coloured cardboard plastered my bedroom walls with amazing notes of encouragement (for my piano exam tomorrow). Thirty-one notes of beauty. They blessed me greatly.

All the notes were wonderful in their own little way.

"For I am the Lord your God

who takes hold of your right hand

and says to you, Do not fear;

I will help you."

-Isaiah 41:13

Project Selfie

2011-09-08T05:01:00.000-07:00

Today I discovered what trials and joys come from experimenting with selfies. Don't ask why I did it with my cat. I just needed something to work with. Besides myself that is...

Since selfies are a first, I didn't last very long. Neither did my cat. Hehe. I was leaning there, waiting for the timer to go off, and right when it's about to snap a photo... she yawns in my face.

Classy. Real classy.

entering this one into: ...just for giggles. :)

Outtakes:

Let me just clarify that pulling cheesy faces or poses is how I let some of my frustration out. ;)

And there you have it.

what's cookin'.

2011-08-30T23:41:00.000-07:00

"But you know it's alright, I came to my senses / Let go of my defenses / There's no way I'm giving up this time." All In -Lifehouse

Preparing for a piano exam is not the way I want to spend my last week of freedom. Definitely not. Yet, I find myself repeatedly yelling knowledge about the Classical, Romantic, and Impressionist period, desperately hoping it will stick in my memory; as well as, getting up at 5:40 a.m. to tire my fingers out on the piano. ::insert dramatic sigh::

Once this exam is finished, I'll have the joy of throwing myself head first into school work.

I've decided it's going to be a good year you see. :)

One of my courses will be an Adobe Creative Suite Course (that includes Photoshop, InDesign, etc). How fabulous will that be? So pumped to post better quality photos for you guys.

(See! My fingers are so worn out that they are see-through! ::winkwink::)

just one.

2011-08-28T03:48:00.000-07:00

Took this yesterday. Had seriously a lot of fun standing in the freezing water shooting droplets. :) Good stuff. I would post more but I haven't had time to sort and edit the others from this shoot.

[kiss the rain]

2011-08-27T00:08:00.000-07:00

If only I could take photos like this every day...

Easy, Chocolate, Mug Cake / Da Bomb!

2011-08-19T17:11:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

- 4 tablespoons flour

- 2 tablespoons sugar

- 2 tablespoons cocoa

- 1 egg

- 3 tablespoons milk

- 3 tablespoons butter

- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla essence or peppermint

- 1 tablespoon choc chips

- 1 large mug

Preparation method:

1. Add dry ingredients to the mug and mix well.

2. Crack an egg and add it to your mug. Be sure to mix it well to avoid any pockets of flour in the corners. Pour in the milk and oil and mix well. Add vanilla essence.

3. Drag a sibling into the kitchen to help out. Double the mess. Double the fun. ;)

4. Pop your mug into the microwave and zap for 3 minutes on max power (1000watt).

Wait until the cake stops rising and sets in the mug.

And taadaa! When I opened my microwave this bubbling mass greeted me.

And I grinned.

I can't promise it'll be the best cake you've ever tasted. But I can promise that it'll be a ton of fun! And here is my tip: do NOT use your Mum's favourite mug... like I did. She will not be impressed. Just sayin'!

Christa Taylor Inspiration

2011-08-15T18:50:00.000-07:00

A relaxing Tuesday morning + no pressing work = breaking out the chocolate and stumbling all over the internet to find WOW photos that make my heart smile. Ahh, and have I got some lovely inspiration for you!

From the stunning site:

http://www.christataylorphotography.com/#/christa-taylor/

Brett Harris + Ana Zimmerman

2011-08-15T02:29:00.000-07:00

Danny & Annie

a dose of cuteness. may your hearts be warmed.

tasting summer.

2011-08-08T18:19:00.000-07:00

Last night I sent my final assignment in and wrapped up my final test.

Summer school is officially over(!!!).

And slowly, slowly I can taste summer just around the bend.

By the way, this picture makes me incredibly happy. =)

[black swans]

2011-08-03T20:27:00.000-07:00

"And that's the thing. You would do something like that. You would play poker with a rabbit while I was being eaten by a bear. Luckily, a giant unicorn came and saved me. With his laser horn." Tim Hawkins makes my day.

Summer School ends tonight!! I'm feeling a mixture of relief and ecstasy.

Might be nice to get some normality back into my life.

Maybe.

I'll be partying at midnight tonight though. Rocking away to Dance With Me -Justice Crew. =) Heck yes.

2011-07-30T05:37:00.000-07:00

"To love would be an awfully big adventure."

Today I just happened to be at a park where there was a pre-wedding, photo shoot going on. I left my friends and sneaked a few shots of the couple while no one was looking. Hehe. :) I'm thoroughly excited for "my wedding" this Saturday. Wish me luck!

...how it all turned out.

2011-07-25T06:23:00.000-07:00

My friend's bridal shower was held at a Sizzler buffet. Rather an unattractive place to shoot with its gaudy greens and reds. Our party took two sets of four tables smushed together. Parents on one set and the "cool people" on the other. At first, I sat on the end of the lengthy table and just awkwardly fumbled with the camera. I'm not much of a crowd person; so making new friends was a no-no. After awhile I began to relax and eat a bit. The bride-to-be, Jess, hadn't specifically asked for me to shoot this event. It was more for me to see how Jess looks on camera etc... That shot above was probably the best picture of her alone.

I tried to keep my eyes peeled for the special people in her life.

I'm proud of the photo journalistic feel this snap has to it.

Jess and I traveled from table to table, getting photos with all the friends and fam. I love how with this picture I didn't ask Jess' mum to look at Jess. It adds that element of love to the picture.

Alright. Another favourite. I was lucky to be standing near the parent's table when I heard a couple of the girls try to talk Jess' stubborn sister, Renee, into a picture with Jess. Quickly I ducked to the other side of the table, as to see their faces, just in time to hear Renee say "OK! Just this once!" Ahh, perfect! Again the photojournalism feel here makes my heart happy. :)

I spent hours tweaking my pictures (I only chose the interesting ones to show you all ;)). Thank goodness for colour grading!! Cups, napkins, leftovers, dirty dishes -- not pretty! That's the only reason I colour graded a good deal of my photos. This shot an obvious exception. One of Jess' many siblings just happened to catch my eye and posed. Just happened. Love it!

Another sibling precious to Jess and suspicious of me. Hehe!

Overview of the "cool people's table". I so rocked this angle.

All in all, it was a positive experience. Praise the Lord! I found out that Jess' cousin will be helping me shoot the wedding. Yes! I'll need all the help I can get. I just pray that this cousin knows what he/she is doing!

Oh, and lastly. I snagged a few photos of the CUTEST BABY EVER. Not related to Jess but still...

Look at those eyes!

Awwwww... :)

She made my day.

2011-07-22T04:17:00.000-07:00

I am on my knees

'Cause You're everything I need

And I've made a mess of myself

On my own

Now I am on my face

And I'm calling out Your name

...

('cause) You see the depths of my heart

And You love me the same

You are amazing, God

Today was one of those days I could of missed. You know the type. But I'm determined not to dwell on the bad. Instead I'm wearing my purple, fuzzy socks and relaxing to "Already Home" -TFK. Shindig of tomorrow: a hen's party. Yeah, I'm not sure why they call it "hen's" either. Never been to one. So, I shall safely hide behind my camera 70% of the time. Should be fun.

Now to mosey off and devour a slice of heaven (a.k.a warm, home-made bread. Be jealous. ;))

Hope everybody has a glorious, sun-filled weekend. :)

[my before-I-die's list]

2011-07-19T23:55:00.000-07:00

- spend an afternoon cloud catching- have someone say to me, "You inspire me."- create photographs in England- acquire an English accent- marry a fellow with an English accent (more of a joke. not a must do)- eat at a chocolate buffet- throw a snowball - learn the ropes to Photoshop- casually stroll up to a stranger and say, "You have a beautiful smile. Keep wearing it." - see Wicked (the musical)- read The Princess Bride (for the 6th time)- waltz in the rain with the love of my life.
That's all I've decided on so far... What's somethings on your bucket list? ;)

[enchanted]

2011-07-15T03:18:00.000-07:00

Ever since my last post, I've been enthralled in playing more with my photos - exploring that magical edge which I have fallen in love with. For this shot, I borrowed my friend's macro lens. (I knew being friends with him would come in handy... ;)) From the shoot, this photo went into some major, Picnik.com surgery. It took oodles of time to create what I wanted to see.

But that's how I roll.

[cloud catching] ♥

2011-07-14T05:21:00.001-07:00

(snitched from this wonderful Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/amandamabel/)

I am obsessed with this photo. Obsessed. Dreamy and pleasant- those are the emotions this shot evokes. Now I'm itching to learn the ropes of Photoshop. Those clouds... I just want them. Which brings up something else. All day today, I've munched on the idea of--wait for it--cloud catching. And I'm quite adamant about doing it. The whole 'expedition' will consist of

a.) Finding a gorgeous, open location

b.) Shooting clouds for an hour or four

c.) Bringing necessities (music. L lens, thermo mug. notebook. snacks.)

That's all I've decided on for now. I'll be sure to report when/if it happens. ;)

Oh, Snap

2011-07-12T02:36:00.000-07:00

She's beautiful, a tad bonkers, and she happens to be my sister. What I find comical about this shot is that sun flare right above her head. Her "halo". I like to laugh about that.

It's easy to get a good shot of my sister. She's a natural. Period. But, besides that, I'm particularly fond of the back lighting on her hair. It's angelic-ish; it's attractive. I must confess this photo was inspired by another photographer (whose main website you'll find here: http://www.wix.com/susanna_april/susannaaprilphotography). The idea I fell in love with was this: filling a good portion of the upper frame with sunlight. Just blow that out. Results? Rather gorgeous, me thinks. I'm still working on finding my vision with photography... but i'll talk more about that in another post.

P.S. I'm shooting a wedding in 24 days!!! EKK! So much to prepare for. =D

2011-07-09T03:14:00.000-07:00

I have a cup of caffeine next to me. I'm reading my favourite blog of all time (http://natalielloyd.blogspot.com/ She inspires me.) I have my notebook spread in front of me where I write my heart out ('cause honestly, I need someone I can spill it too). And all I know is in a few moments, I have to force myself to do some dreaded, hateful, piano theory.

But if I get on top of theory tonight, I can get on top of my emails tomorrow!! And there's a pile of them. I feel so bad to have left them for so long. Work before pleasure, though.

Before I run off, I have two things that must be said.

1) I got my new camera yesterday!!!

...and it's beautiful. Truly. My only issues are with that thick, small-printed manual. Heh, I did need a new read. Oh, and for you camera people out there, it's a Canon EOS 7D!! A real stunner. ;)

2) I saw the cutest Kookaburra today

...which isn't a big deal. BUT HE'S SO FLUFFY!

OK, now I can't resist. See this scene? It's a favourite.

Time out. Gotta run. =)

P.S. "If ever there is a tomorrow when we're not together... there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even when we're apart, I'll always be with you." -Winnie the Pooh

i liveth

2011-07-04T07:14:00.000-07:00

Sorry for being such a bad blogger, my dears! Flu caught me and took me down for nearly two weeks. Haven't been that ill in AGES! Thus I have had to slow down on my 365. But I'm not freaking out about that. The more I think about my 365 project, the more overwhelmed I feel. Hopefully I'll be able to push through this "block".

Today I indulged myself in two hours of reading The Hunger Games - Catching Fire. I'm rather enthralled by the gruesomey, fantasticish tale. Really wonderful. And since my life feels so flat from being sick forever, I enjoy escaping my world into somebody else's. Doesn't feel like intrusion at all. I'm trying to read more becccaaauuussee...

I started summer school! Which is just extra stress really. Summer Creative Writing and Study Skills - my two rather wonderful classes. But since I'm not much of a writer, it has been and will be tough. Never mind.

Let me share some recent favourites from my 365:

This kitty cat has a very special place in my heart... as does this picture. I do love the purple tones and the focus on the flowers and the tail sticking out. Sorry, but I'm truly in love over here. I don't think there is anything I'd improve on or do differently with this snap. I just got lucky.

OK. So maybe I need a new subject or something. Just saying.

If you have any suggestions of things I could shoot, please, please, please tell me!!

I don't do abstract. Not really. I was bored on this day. So. I did. Very happy about it too. Just found some interesting leaves with fading back light. Messed with my focus. Brought the contrast a tad higher on Picnik. And BOOM! My swanky pic.
Bet you'll never ever guess what this is. That's right.Never.Prepare yourself.It's a...reflection in our swimming pool.Pretty smashing, hey!Not really. See!? This is how thirsty I am for new subjects. I'm still pretty pleased with this snap.
New favourite from Day 27! Reasons I love this pic:-the sun is hitting the bird's wings. Causing angelic-ness. - spray of water almost looks like a fountain (it's spectacular).- reflection of the bird (see it now?) adds another dimension to this shot-the bird isn't perfectly sharp. I think it makes it a bit surreal.I snapped this shot. And now I'm a happy ducky.
And that's what has been happening in my little corner of the world, folks. Over and out. Me need to go write a story. Oh boy. later.xx

B-ball and Bros

2011-06-17T01:07:00.000-07:00

Today I shot my brother and our good friend (who's as good as a brother) while they played basketball. And they messed around like guys do. But it makes me happy to watch them.

As you can see, I decided to dump my copyright on my photos. I can't seem to make up my mind about it! So, for now I shall let my photos speak for themselves. What do you think?

In matters of school, this kid is my little inspirado. Very encouraging bloke. Always pushing me forward and whatnot. As a friend, he makes me laugh ALL the time. My type of person.

Even though I took an odd 180 shots at the park, I'm still super happy with these few. It's been a worthwhile and satisfying day, fo shizzle.

Sun flare(!!!!) could just as well be a synonym for happiness. :-)

(Entering this photo for the contests below :))

On other news...

I just ate the most delicious apple turnover. Seriously.

And now, there is no more to say. Goodnight. :)

i wuv her

2011-06-12T03:46:00.000-07:00

Mols has a cheeky nature that is totally irresistible.

I believe this picture captures that. Love.

Nearly a Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-08T04:12:00.000-07:00

Can you resist this face?

Didn't think so. ;)

Snapping Smoke

2011-06-04T19:18:00.000-07:00

Recently, I started a 365 challenge. Very excited and nervous. This is my photo from Day 2. When I saw our smoldering fire yesterday morning, I felt a really strong attraction to the curling smoke. Often I am captivated by a subject but approach the shoot without really knowing how I want to capture it. Passion, Patience, and Perseverance - essential qualities for a photographer. ;) After shooting around and finding the right angle, I just enhanced the blue and contrast. And what do ya know. I caught a picture. :)

some lovely gals I know

2011-05-29T00:49:00.000-07:00

Had a birthday on Thursday which was rather splendiferous. I relaxed with my family, went to the movies, overdosed on scrumptious food, all that jazz. :) One of my presents was a one year gift card of Kelby training: online photography courses. EEP! I'm going to dive in with all my might! Saying I'm ecstatic would be an understatement!

Moving on. A few days back I enjoyed a rewarding shoot with some friends the other day.

The lighting, the greenery, the beauty... ahh! I'm, beyond a doubt, pleased.

Give me candids, baby!! This is the stuff I love to see.

Linking this one up to Miss Kelsey's contest. :)

I haven't looked into editing the other 200 odd photos on my computer from the shoot. ::heaves a sigh:: Maybe sometime later this week...

Oh, did I mention that school is officially finished?!?!? I would be about over the moon by now except that I have a piano lesson tomorrow. Need to work a smidgen harder in that department.

Signing out for now! Leave me a comment, tell me how you're doing, or whatever!

it's my favourite

2011-05-25T12:22:00.000-07:00

Coffee lover right here! 'Nuff said.

some Flickr goodness.

2011-05-20T17:49:00.000-07:00

It must be said that I am mighty stressed. Photography is a definite no-no and must be left on the back burner while I attempt to focus on school. Heh. So, I indulged myself this morning. Stumbled onto Casey David's Flickr and enjoyed some of his creativity.

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/caseydavid/

(Just be warned: his Flickr does contain a lot of "artsy" photos. A little too artsy for my liking.)

And, while I'm at it...

These are incredible!! *lovelovelove*

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/thefella/

Sorry if I went a bit photo nutso. Better go hit the books.

Inspired by Eric and Leslie Ludy

2011-05-17T21:58:00.000-07:00

(my purity ring)

Excuse the lack of photos if you will. I'm in a mad rush trying to finish all of my homework. Only one more week of official school!! Then I'll be singing freedom... for a little bit anyway.

Just wanted to share this video which I found very inspiring. As a young, Christian woman, I personally struggle with the idea of staying pure for my future husband. In our society, everybody is pairing up with everybody else. It's a difficult thing to stand out as the single one! But, as Eric Ludy says, the wait will be worth it.

Check out the video (yes, the quality is horrid, but try to bear with it)!

The mix of humour and truth make their talk an enjoyable one. :)

pickles of a sort.

2011-05-09T06:30:00.000-07:00

It's 1 a.m. I'm exhausted and most definitely in a pickle.

Maybe I should try to check the due dates of my assignments. Maybe that'll help.

Anyhow.

Right now, somebody needs to come and take me away.

Perhaps we can go on an adventure. See the world.

Or maybe we'll just enjoy the pretty things in life.

NOT be stressing over school projects.

I hope all of your lives are looking cheerier than mine!

a personal favourite...

2011-05-01T23:28:00.000-07:00

I absolutely adore this photo because of the lighting and that little bit of sun flare. I'm not sure exactly the best way to capture sun flare. Since the light was fading when I took this shot, I didn't have time to experiment. I had a large aperture, and my ISO was boosted to around 800. I retouched this picture on Picnik to give it a bluish tint. And there you have it! :)

Any criticism or comments appreciated.

Photo Contest

2011-05-01T01:13:00.000-07:00

There is a lovely portraiture contest going on by Polka Dot.

I thought it'd be fun to link up. :)

Here is the aftermath of a shoot I did with my sister this afternoon:

If you haven't already, go and join in on the fun!!

"It's a Lovely Day Today"

2011-04-30T05:33:00.000-07:00

The sun shone so happily today. I wish you had seen it. Absolutely perfect.

I can't believe this school year is almost out! Four weeks left.

And it's only getting colder.

I heart cooler weather. But... not freezing.

It's a lovely day today

So whatever you've got to do

You've got a lovely day to do it in, that's true

And I hope whatever you've got to do

Is something that can be done by two

For I'd really like to stay

It's a lovely day today

And whatever you've got to do

I'd be so happy to be doing it with you

But if you've got something that must be done

And it can only be done by one

There is nothing more to say

Except it's a lovely day for saying

It's a lovely day.

( from "Call Me Madam" )

Sibling love

2011-04-26T05:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday: Siblings

Taken a little while ago and still one of my favourite brother/sister shots.

Thanks to both for being so obliging. :)

2011-04-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

Feelin' very uninspired with photography right now. I hate that.

Anyway... I'm working on picking up my camera more often.

Black and white makes life easy. Easy's what I need right now.

love living.

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

Photography is learning to:

-see God's creation in its own beauty and uniqueness

-embrace insanity and love in the same moment

-NEVER give up (even when everything inside of you wants to)

[[I'm sure there are other aspects that the art of photography teaches, however, this is my present summary.]]

Here I am! On the third day of my beautiful spring break! I should be relaxing and doing fantastically lovely things. I have this horrid habit though, where I stress. So instead of enjoying the moments, I freak out because time is slipping through my hands. I end up thoroughly exhausted instead of refreshed.

That picture was taken at three in the morning for a photography assignment. Sums up my feeling of dissatisfaction with myself.

Just a smidgen insane.

One thing at least that I'm thrilled about: I'm looking to buy a new camera!! WOOOOT! I goggled at the 5D mark ii, until I saw the price. *ahem*

Present strategy: upgrade to the Canon 7D, and when I start making money (that's a whopping IF and partially a joke) I'll look at the 5D mark ii later.

Mission of today: love living.

Life is too good to be stressing over the little insignificants.

Like squabbling with a sibling over something both will have forgotten in the very near future.

Love the time we have, where we have it.

As the song goes, Don't worry; be happy.

I Have Seen Beautiful Things

2011-04-10T04:10:00.000-07:00

"The following scene happened more times than I can remember. A brother was preaching to the other prisoners when the guards suddenly burst in, surprising him halfway through a phrase. They hauled him down the corridor to their beating room. After what seemed an endless beating, they brought him back and threw him--bloody and bruised--on the prison floor. Slowly, he picked up his battered body, painfully straightened his clothing and said, 'Now, brethren, where did I leave off when I was interrupted?' He continued his gospel message! I have seen beautiful things!"

-Tortured For Christ

(Just a bit of inspiration shared at church this morning.)

Love My Kitty

2011-03-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday: pets | animals

Project Awesome

2011-03-23T20:49:00.000-07:00

Currently listening to and loving: White Winter Hymnal -Fleet Foxes

Words that make me smile: "The first moment of falling in love, and the next few months after that, you can hardly breathe. You can't think. You're just an idiot! You're just an idiot when you fall in love." -Mrs. Howat

Today is yet another day that the Lord has made. Thus it is beautiful.

For me, a new day indicates fresh opportunities to put my best foot forward. At present, however, I'm very consumed with how badly my school year seems to be fairing and, for that reason, I am starting my Project Awesome. Very excited about it too. :)

Project Awesome has a simple aim. It's a time (one week) to focus on pushing myself to the max of my ability, plunging head first into any work set before me, and enjoying every second!

Life may not always be sunshine and rainbows. However, determination and positive attitudes are all a part of dancing in the rain!

With that said, let Project Awesome begin.

Spring time

2011-03-21T15:40:00.000-07:00

When the sun comes out,

we'll be happy.

It'll be warm.

And I'll have you.

When the sun comes out...

Once upon a picture...

2011-03-20T22:10:00.000-07:00

(I do not recall the tumblr I found this on.
...But I'm in love with the mystery, beauty, and magic of this scene.)

Cuteness in the first degree

2011-03-16T13:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday Challenge: Texture

Wish Mols never had to grow up.

Hope Rays

2011-03-15T14:42:00.000-07:00

The light of Your love has set me free.

My chains are gone

I've been set free

My God, my Savior

has ransomed me

And like a flood

His mercy reigns

Unending love,

Amazing grace.

Have a blessed week!

Showing and Telling

2011-03-13T21:35:00.000-07:00

And when you smile/

The whole world stops

and stares for awhile/

'Cause girl you're amazing/

Just the way you are.

I'm imperfect. I'm beautiful. I'm me.

2011-03-12T02:04:00.000-08:00

Music love: All in - Lifehouse

A disadvantage to a photographer's position is obviously the fact that he/she is constantly behind the camera and not out in the action. Who takes photos of the photographer, hmm? It is super rare that anybody does! Well, in my case it is about as rare as rare gets!

I have resorted to self-portraits; even though, they are a huge chore. For me.

I love my crazy face.

(Plus today I especially needed time to blow some steam.

Going through a bit of a rough time with a person whom I thought was a close friend.)

Words that make me smile:

"Date a girl who reads. Date a girl who spends her money on books instead of clothes. She has problems with closet space because she has too many books. Date a girl who has a list of books she wants to read, who has had a library card since she was twelve.

"Find a girl who reads. You’ll know that she does because she will always have an unread book in her bag. She’s the one lovingly looking over the shelves in the bookstore, the one who quietly cries out when she finds the book she wants. You see the weird chick sniffing the pages of an old book in a second hand book shop? That’s the reader. They can never resist smelling the pages, especially when they are yellow.

"She’s the girl reading while waiting in that coffee shop down the street. If you take a peek at her mug, the non-dairy creamer is floating on top because she’s kind of engrossed already. Lost in a world of the author’s making. Sit down. She might give you a glare, as most girls who read do not like to be interrupted. Ask her if she likes the book.

"Buy her another cup of coffee.

"Let her know what you really think of Murakami. See if she got through the first chapter of Fellowship. Understand that if she says she understood James Joyce’s Ulysses she’s just saying that to sound intelligent. Ask her if she loves Alice or she would like to be Alice.

"It’s easy to date a girl who reads. Give her books for her birthday, for Christmas and for anniversaries. Give her the gift of words, in poetry, in song. Give her Neruda, Pound, Sexton, Cummings. Let her know that you understand that words are love. Understand that she knows the difference between books and reality but by god, she’s going to try to make her life a little like her favorite book. It will never be your fault if she does.

"She has to give it a shot somehow.

"Lie to her. If she understands syntax, she will understand your need to lie. Behind words are other things: motivation, value, nuance, dialogue. It will not be the end of the world.

"Fail her. Because a girl who reads knows that failure always leads up to the climax. Because girls who understand that all things will come to end. That you can always write a sequel. That you can begin again and again and still be the hero. That life is meant to have a villain or two.

"Why be frightened of everything that you are not? Girls who read understand that people, like characters, develop. Except in the Twilight series.

"If you find a girl who reads, keep her close. When you find her up at 2 AM clutching a book to her chest and weeping, make her a cup of tea and hold her. You may lose her for a couple of hours but she will always come back to you. She’ll talk as if the characters in the book are real, because for a while, they always are.

"You will propose on a hot air balloon. Or during a rock concert. Or very casually next time she’s sick.

"Over Skype.

"You will smile so hard you will wonder why your heart hasn’t burst and bled out all over your chest yet. You will write the story of your lives, have kids with strange names and even stranger tastes. She will introduce your children to the Cat in the Hat and Aslan, maybe in the same day. You will walk the winters of your old age together and she will recite Keats under her breath while you shake the snow off your boots.

"Date a girl who reads because you deserve it. You deserve a girl who can give you the most colorful life imaginable. If you can only give her monotony, and stale hours and half-baked proposals, then you’re better off alone. If you want the world and the worlds beyond it, date a girl who reads."

by Rosemary Urquico

Bits and Pieces

2011-03-10T22:25:00.000-08:00

Music love: MMMBop - Hanson

Words that make me smile: "A woman's heart should be so lost in God that a man needs to seek Him in order to find her." - C.S. Lewis

I'd like to present to y'all the newest addition to our family: Molly.

She is a scoundrel, truly.

But so adorable that one just melts even if she does get up to naughty business.

More memories of this darlin' to be captured soon!

Of late, I've been crushing on the old, television show Monarch of the Glen.

It's outlandish.

The music is cheesy.

Their accents are more than splendid.

So far, Monarch of the Glen has brought laughter and tears out of me.

Love it! 'Twill be bitter when I reach the end of all that fab.

Hector - probably my favourite in the series.

The very embodiment of ridiculousness!

All in out, hilarious.

He died in the last episode. I couldn't help tearing up a bit.

That man was gold!

"The last time I saw your face, a midwife was slapping it!"

Right at this very moment, I really, really, really just want to snuggle up in the corner of an enormous couch with iced coffee and a book. I'm munching my way through Anne of Green Gables at present. The book is a classic. A real heart warmer.

Dislike the movie rather a lot.

But I will admit, later in the movie (when Anne is more grown-up) she and Gilbert make a great couple!

Oh my, and I do love what they are wearing in this photo.

Old world. Classy. I want!

If only they were the rage in this day...

Hehehe! Rambles are grand, are they not? ;)

Happy Monday: Vintage

2011-03-08T12:27:00.000-08:00

Loving: listening to school lectures in bed. (Although, I am now happily prone to sleepiness.)

Words that make me smile: "If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world." -C.S. Lewis

Internet problems are such a headache! And I've had bunches of them this week. That's why I haven't posted in over a week.

Very pleased I didn't have to pass up Happy Monday though.

Theme this week: vintage

I HAD to use this personal favourite.

Be sure to tell me what you think!

To the children

2011-03-01T00:30:00.000-08:00

Music love: Who Am I - Casting Crowns

Words that make me smile: "Forget love - I'd rather fall in chocolate!"

Gotta say, I'm lovin' starting off the week with a Happy Monday! :)

Theme this week: children

Aren't these two just the cutest cupcakes?

Dear Piano

2011-02-24T02:13:00.000-08:00

Music love: Don't Look Back - She and Him

Words that make me smile: "I believe in manicures. I believe in overdressing. I believe in primping at leisure and wearing lipstick. I believe in pink. I believe happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day, and... I believe in miracles." - Audrey Hepburn

Yesterday, I had inspiration to shoot my piano. What I discovered? Trying to translate images in my mind into my pictures is down right hard! I've rather fallen in love with collages. Having a sole theme and creating images that work well together is fascinating.

Trying for vintage

2011-02-22T14:36:00.000-08:00

Music love: Please Don't Let Me Go - Olly Murs

Words that make me smile: "If the person you are talking to doesn't appear to be listening, be patient. It may simply be that he has a small piece of fluff in his ear." - Winnie the Pooh

Over the last couple of days, I've worked on my "vintage" shoot for a collage. The single shots below are my three favourites. :) Kudos to my sister who patiently endured this photographic experiment.

Happy Monday [[yellow]]

2011-02-21T15:21:00.000-08:00

Yay! Finally bigger picture size! I'm entirely happy. Plus this photo of my yellow, fuzzy darling makes me melt everytime. :)

Have a lovely week!

i am happy.

2011-02-21T02:51:00.000-08:00

Music love: Half of My Heart -(cover) Michael Henry and Justin Robinett

Words that make me smile: "True love is the best thing in the world, except for cough drops. Everybody knows that." - The Princess Bride

Announcement: I received a special offer to photograph my friend's wedding which is in August! I could barely sit still when I acquired the news. The lovely couple willingly offered to pay, and it looks like I'll be doing the works! Of course I said I'd be thrilled. But I am by no means calm about this. I mean, if I mess this up I cannot very well ask them to redo the wedding! Mixed feelings right now. Mostly great excitement! :)

Today is the beginning of a glorious winter break! I am ecstatic, over the moon, and burning to do so many things! One of which is to read and read. I'm absolutely obsessed with beautiful words. Sadly, my writing skills are not sublime or inspirational. However, I can think of nothing that would give me more pleasure than to sit here with iced coffee and craft sentences of insignificant bits and pieces. Truth.

This holiday, gazillions of photos have to happen! I needs new stuffs.

Recent photographic experiments: Complementary Colours

Happy Monday: Jewelry / Macro Monday

2011-02-13T17:33:00.001-08:00

I very much enjoyed entering Happy Monday last week, so I've decided to give it another shot! And I'm going to pop this into Macro Monday for the fun of it! I received this ring some time back as a Christmas present from my parents. Obviously rather simple, but also rather priceless to me.

Please tell me!

2011-02-10T16:20:00.000-08:00

Craving the beach and freedom right now. But, instead, I'm stuck at home with piles of seemingly eternal homework. Rather depressing, aye!

Luckily there is promise of a shopping excursion tomorrow. Woot, woot! Really hoping to find some summer goodness in the dress department.

OK, so I'm going to ask one, teeny favor. I've been trying various methods of making my pictures larger in my posts. But I have an awful feeling that some people are not actually able to view my images in this size...

So I'd like to know can YOU see this picture below? Please tell me!

Happy Monday {photo challenge}

2011-02-07T20:17:00.000-08:00

Addy, my dear friend, is almost like a sister to me. Currently she lives in America, but I’m grateful for the wonderful memories we shared. This snapshot was taken right before she left.

mmm...

2011-02-05T14:24:00.000-08:00

Ice Coffee in my favourite cup on a Saturday morning - this insignificant indulgence puts a smile on my face.

What's a small thing that makes you happy? :)

Wait For Me

2011-02-04T21:08:00.000-08:00

I try not to go back,

but I do a million times.

And there we are sitting on the grass.

Intently I look: memorizing every detail

of your deep eyes.

Emotions of love and happiness

fill us.

You fondly caress my cheek.

I can only pray that the moment

will never end.

Then my dream shatters.

Light fills my eyes and I'm back

in my monotonous reality. Upon waking

I cry. If only you were here

everything would be alright...alright.

The man of my dreams is out there...

Darling, I'll wait for you with all my heart.

Just wait for me...

I Heart Faces || Innocent Wonder

2011-01-24T10:13:00.000-08:00

My adorable, little friend in a world of her own. I love her to pieces.

We were filming...

2011-01-22T04:52:00.001-08:00

With friends, we have a common ritual of making fools of ourselves on film. Furthering the humiliation, we'll sometimes stick our clips on YouTube!

Alrighty. It isn't THAT bad! It's so very fun to collect memories with the bestest of people in the world. :) And our films are improving. Here are some photos from our latest "film escapade".

[[P.S. You should really go check us out: http://www.youtube.com/user/MyMemorystick]]

Working out the where.

(PJ3)

On the way back home, he was quite chirpy after his nap.

Trying to shoot a camera AND movie camera! Wow. I must be ninja!

(PJ1)

Bro showing off his air walking skills.

Beautiful besties.

We didn't have any chalk. :(

(PJ 4)

(This is so going into my photography project!!!)

(PJ2)

Such a sunshine day! Note the bluest of blue skies.

Over My Head

2011-01-16T14:11:00.001-08:00

Last night, I felt the burden of school really weigh on my shoulders. I know so many times, this school year, I have wondered about the purpose of my life. Way to many times I've wanted to throw it all away; just give up.

I'm a strong hater of Sunday evenings. They imply the last bit of freedom 'fore a week stuffed with school and stress. I handle the average Sunday night better than most. But last night especially, I felt I couldn't cope. When I can't cope, I'll cry and panic and work myself up into a fuss. Not a pleasant sight for myself or anyone around me.

About halfway through the crying stage, God impressed upon me the lyrics from Brian Littrell's "Over My Head". The words shed much comfort to my freaking out self, and they're so unbelievably beautiful yet simple:

I'm in over my head

Right where I wanna be

So lost within Your love

The love that always covers me

So high, so deep, so wide

Strong and cleansing tide

My soul has found a place to rest

I'm in over my head.

Even now, the words are of great joy to my heart.

I want to know His love that's better than life.

I, too, want to say, "I'm in over my head!"

Teddy Love

2011-01-14T17:23:00.000-08:00

With some time on my hands, my sister's teddy, and a door, I saw no way out. I just had to shoot the teddy.

Such a cute teddy bear. And what character!

In the Journey of a Photographer...

2011-01-11T20:07:00.000-08:00

"What comes to mind when you hear the word adventure? Unknown places, excitement, danger, fear, personal challenge? The best adventure photos elicit the same reactions. Unlike other forms of photography, adventure photography is an almost purely participatory activity, which explains some of the emotional response to the adventure image. Great adventure photography touches a nerve in the heart of the viewer, who responds with a feeling of being there in the scene. All of us have returned home from a great adventure only to be disappointed with our photos because they are missing the emotional impact and the beauty we experienced on the once-in-a-lifetime trip. What happened? We witnessed greatness, yet our photos are boring.

The reality is that the camera simply is not hardwired into all of our senses and emotions when we click the shutter. Trying to capture the human drama of climbing a cold mountain, rafting down a swift-moving river, or hiking in a blistering hot desert is possible when you learn to translate what you see and feel through the medium of the camera. You will select elements in the scene you photograph just as much as a writer selects words to describe a place."

-Excerpt from Bill Hatcher's book National Geographic Field Guide: Action and Adventure.

My Kind of Fun

2011-01-10T18:33:00.001-08:00

Had way too much fun messing on Picnik this cozy, stormy morning.

I was rather satisfied with the results.

Funky...is it not? ;)

Photography Class

2011-01-09T16:47:00.000-08:00

Finally some colour for my blog!

Alrighty. Here is a sample of experiments for my Photography Class.

Mainly just my favourites(:

Shallow depth of field

Taken while messing on a creativity shoot

Thoughtful picture

One of my all-time loved shots: stopped motion.

Back lighting

Use of thirds

Blurred motion (Hehe! How creative is this! :P)

Was MEANT to be a side lighting shot; however, it turned out as a back lighting shot.

Another blurred motion shot.

The glassy reflection on the water and the attractive lighting definitely made this photo.

Not a favourite. Demonstration of repetition.

Another one of my beauties(:

Demonstration of leading lines.

Refreshing the good, old, Disney memories(:

2011-01-07T03:22:00.000-08:00

I don't know what it is with Disney's version of fairy tales; but, I delight in them so very much (or rather the ones I've seen so far). Perhaps the plain innocence and simple love is what attracts me. Oh and, of course, the "And they lived happily ever after..." catch phrase. Who could not adore a magical, happy ending?!

I cannot recall watching much Disney when a child. So for the pure fun of it, I've been searching YouTube for some good and rather hazy memories.

A personal favourite would undoubtedly be Beauty and the Beast.

Ahhhh :') This film just makes me smile. And if you don't know, I love smiling.

(I mean like who doesn't?!)

Thoughts on Purity

2011-01-05T18:01:00.001-08:00

"If you believe that God has a marriage partner for you,

then in His eyes you are already engaged. Act accordingly."

~Carole Mayhall

I don't know about you, but I, for one, desire to wait for my "holy hunk" (as Rebecca St. James words it) with a pure and complete heart.

Purity is something only found through the redemptive blood of Jesus Christ; purity is not a status obtainable through the works of any human being.

Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean;

wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

~Psalm 51:7

Though purity is a struggle of the heart, mind, and entire being, humans can be pure and complete through the cleansing of Christ. It doesn't matter about past sins. Don't let anyone tell you it's too late. God, the Lord of lords and King of kings, wants YOU to accept His offer of grace.

With His help, I know I can wait for my future husband with a pure and whole heart.

Eye-tali-yan Shoes

2011-01-05T03:24:00.000-08:00

These rad, Italian shoes were passed onto me by my Grandmother. They've been hiding in my closet for heck-knows-how-long; but, just of late I've rediscovered them and am rather excited to show them off.

Newfound Love: Monochrome!

2011-01-03T21:56:00.000-08:00

Making the simple things in life beautiful--that's what is really exciting...

My gorgeous puppy dog(:

And this is where we begin...

2011-01-03T21:04:00.000-08:00

I need a place to post snaps and allow a bit of rope to express myself freely. A blog seems the perfect place that'll do the job.

My photography is amateur, I know. However, this delightful hobby begs to grow, and Imma do it the best way I know how.

As to my rambles...well we won't go there just yet!

So stick around! I enjoy feedback (the useful, encouraging type), and I'm sure we can get along just splendidly.