Kaleidoscope Eyes

Valentine's Day Mini Session

2012-02-10T10:49:00.000-05:00

Here is a peek at one of the Valentine's Day Sessions my sister and I did a few weeks ago.
Two really cute and fun kids to work with!

Engagement Creativity

2012-02-08T09:59:00.001-05:00

My sister and I have been doing several photo sessions lately.
Here is a peak at the most recent engagement session.
It was a very short session in doors, since it had been pretty chilly here.
I'm really looking forward to spring when we can move these sessions outside!
Also looking forward to helping Annette (my sister) with the wedding in June.

The groom plays local college baseball.
I'm thinking we have a pretty creative bride!

It's Superbowl Maddness here in Indy!

2012-02-04T16:04:00.002-05:00

Indianapolis - also known for the Indy 500

The whole city is lit up at night just like this hotel that was built especially for the Superbowl.

This sits right in front of the "Soldiers and Sailors Monument" also known as "The Circle"
This monument sits right in the middle of our city.

Lady Victory and her monument received a face lift this last year in preparation for
the Superbowl. She is looking lovely!


Giants vs Patriots! If you're from around here. . . most of us are rooting for the GIANTS!

After dark these numbers light up. There is a great light show with music.

Part of the nightly light show.


The Indiana Power & Light (IPL) building located on the Circle. They too had a great light show, as always!

This photo was taken from the top of the Soldiers & Sailors Monument
Looking directly down the street to our State Capitol building.
There is an observation deck just below Lady Victory that can be reached by
a tiny elevator or by climbing 330 steps.

Our city has done an excellent job making the Superbowl festivities fun for everyone. The Indiana Convention Center is full of the NFL Experience. Things for kids and adults to enjoy together! There is a VERY long and tall zip line that has been a great attraction. The tickets for this have been sold out by early morning and the line is very long. However, people who have done it say it's well worth the wait!

There is a small football field in the middle of one of the streets that have been used for football and rugby demonstrations as well as just a place for a few kids to just play a little football or a dad and son to pass a ball for a while. One end of this field was set up with obstacle courses for smaller kids.

Then at 3pm everyday Superbowl Village "officially" opens. Several streets are closed and the food tents, stages, and more adult "things" open up. There have been some good bands playing on these stages and lots and lots of people walking the streets of Indianapolis enjoying all the festivities. It's usually REALLY cold this time of year in Indy. So there are heating stations set up randomly around "Superbowl Village". This was a good thing the other day when my hands were freezing from taking these pictures.

For the most part, I'm very proud of my city for being able to host such an event
and make it such fun for all ages!

Showing some LOVE!

2012-01-27T17:54:00.001-05:00

It's not a new thing, however it is something I haven't done much of on a regular basis. . . . Quotography.
Taking a photo and then adding a quote.
It's no secret to people around me that I love quotes. I have books and books of quotes. I have many websites that are nothing but quotes listed in my "favorites". I post them on twitter (when I tweet), and have been known to fill facebook with them every now and then.

Since it has been so cold outside I haven't done as much picture taking as I would like. At least not nearly as much as I do in the spring, summer and fall months. I am missing it greatly! I am longing for the sun to shine and the grass and trees to turn green again. I miss the blue sky and warm breeze. I'm waiting for the flowers to bloom and surprise me with every color of the rainbow.

Until then, I decided to stay inside, keep warm and rekindle my creative mojo on things around me inside my home. To fill my mind with quotes that make me happy and match them with the pictures I'm taking.

So for now. . . . It's all about the LOVE!

I'm purposely not placing a huge watermark on the quotography photos.
These are free for the taking. All I ask is that they not be altered, or cropped in any way.
And please don't forget to share the love and mention my site if you use them.
There will be more Quotography coming soon.

February Etsy Special!

2012-01-25T04:00:00.000-05:00

Many of my photos are listed in my Etsy shop.
I sold several calenders, canvas and prints during the holiday season.

Each month I post on facebook, a discount code that can be used in the shop for the entire month.
If you would like the code visit the "WELCOME" page at the Kaleidoscope Eyes Photography facebook page. All you have to do it "Like" the page. Once you do that you will be able to see this advertisement below offering you the monthly discount as well as giving you the code for that month.

If you have already "Liked" the Kaleidoscope Eyes Photography facebook page, all you have to do it go to the "WELCOME" page and you too will be able to see the discount code.

Don't know how to get to the "WELCOME" page?
1. Visit Kaleidoscope Eyes Photography on facebook

2. Look at the left sidebar for the star icon and the word WELCOME!

3. Click on the word WELCOME and you will be taken to the welcome page.

Then visit Kaleidoscope Eyes Photography on Etsy, make a purchase, enter the monthly discount code!

Maternity Sneak Peek and more. . .

2012-01-24T04:00:00.000-05:00

In the last few months my sister has joined Kaleidoscope Eye Photography. For the past year we have had tons of fun just playing around and doing random road trips and finding great things to photograph. She has joined me with the portrait piece of Kaleidoscope Eyes Photography. We have been doing portrait sessions together sharing the responsibility of shooting and editing and learning from each other along the way. What has been very interesting to see, is that we shoot very much in the same style. We see things very much the same way and most of the time our composition is almost identical, so much that most of the time it is hard to tell if she took the shot or if I did.
It's a fun way to spend the afternoon with my only sister!

This was our first maternity session. It was harder than I thought it would be and much more fun than I thought it would be.
Big brother was a amazingly cute and cooperative!
Babygirl, has already been born and we will be doing her newborn session VERY soon!
I look forward to many more maternity sessions in the future!

Baby Alyssa, was telling him secrets, but he wouldn't share them with us. Must be a sibling thing!

It's a whole new year!

2012-01-23T16:30:00.000-05:00

Well, Christmas and New Year's have come and gone and I am way behind in my blogging. I have been doing some traveling, some portraits and lots of working at my "other" job.
I'm constantly building this photography business and will be coming out with a whole new look before you know it. I have a new logo, getting my business cards ordered, creating brochures and setting more and more appointments in my calender for photo sessions. My home studio is set up and becoming more and more organized each day. The "want" list is slowly dwindling and I am finding my creative "mojo" when it comes to portraits.
I am working on getting more and new items ready for my Etsy shop and business there has been picking up as well. Christmas and Etsy shoppers treated me well this year!

I am not going to complete this "Project 365" that I started last year. I worked it and was not able to keep up. So blogging this year is just going to be a bit different. I will still post, I will do what I can, and I will not beat myself up for not posting daily!
I will continue to follow other bloggers and leave comments as I can, however I'm just not so good at finding time to sit down and comment on every person I follow. I think I have lost several followers simply because I don't have time to interact as much as I did. That's ok. . . . I still browse your blogs, I still find inspiration from others and I still miss being part of the photo challenges that so often boost my creativity. I'll join when I can and hopefully still have some people who stop by here every now and then and leave a little comment letting me know you were here.

Over the New Year's weekend we took a short trip to Tennessee.
We visited some friends in a small town not too far from Gatlinburg.

Here is what I did during my "down" time while I was there. . .

I practiced playing around with the the water. Some of the pictures turned out looking very smooth and milky like this one and others were more crisp and sharp. I think I liked the milky smooth ones best.

I think I still need a little more practice. . .

Day 240

2011-12-27T04:00:00.000-05:00

This is a peak at the very first session I did in my new home studio!
I'm loving the studio more than I thought I would.

This little princess was so fun. She took a minute to get warmed up to the camera and lights,
but once she did, it was all fun and giggles after that!

Day 239 Merry Christmas!

2011-12-26T12:22:00.001-05:00

It's been a while since I posted anything. This month has been very very busy for us, as it has been for almost everyone I know.

A couple of weeks ago my sister and I ventured out at about 9pm for a photo shoot adventure. It was FREEZING cold outside, so we bundled up in our big coats with hats and gloves carrying our cameras, lenses and tripod.

Our destination? Downtown Indianapolis to photograph the Christmas lights, of course!

After three hours just walking around Monument Circle and a trip to Starbucks, just to warm up
(thank you Starbucks for being open so late!), this is what we captured.

Well, this wasn't EVERYTHING we captured, but you get the idea.

I'll be away for the New Year's weekend, so I'll start catching up on posting pictures after I return.
Hope you all had a Merry Christmas!

Day 238

2011-12-09T04:00:00.000-05:00

This Christmas I'm choosing HOPE!Hope for a brighter tomorrow,Hope for all who feel like they have none,
Hope that those who are sick will be well.
Hope that those who feel weak, will be see their strength has always been there,
lurking in the background waiting for them to take hold of it.Hope that those I love are able to keep their hearts open to receive that love.Hope that 2012 will be the best year yet!

Yep, I'm choosing Hope!

Day 237

2011-12-08T04:00:00.000-05:00

A walk through a cemetery. . .it's healing!

2011-12-07T21:48:00.001-05:00

This is my most favorite place in Indianapolis to take my camera and spend a few hours roaming around either driving until I see something that catches my eye, or walking.

There is just something so strong, so majestic, so amazing about those arches. The strength in the stone, the architecture. . . it's like this archway and the gates have the tremendous responsibility to keep all that is inside the gates safe. And I have always felt very safe here.

I always find something I didn't see the last time, and I never leave the as the same person I was before I passed through those beautiful stone arches and iron gates.

Some days were very difficult to walk across this tile floor to the space I would stay for an hour or so, searching deep inside myself for that person that seemed to be lost in there somewhere.
Other days, I couldn't wait to be greeted by those tiles.
Knowing I would leave here a better person.
One step closer to freedom. Freedom I had to give myself.

My love for this this place hasn't always included me with my camera.
I came to love Crown Hill Cemetery, many years ago,
when my life was in a much different place.
I learned to love myself, I learned to love others, I learned a little about forgiveness,
and a lot about who I was and the person I wanted to be.
The rooms inside those very old, very strong brick walls, hold many of my life secrets
as well as some of my deepest hurts. The carpet (if it's still there) holds hundreds of my tears.
Tears of sadness, tears of grief, tears of joy, and tears of letting go.

Every time I return to this very spot, I always drive especially slow as I pass through the gate.
I want to remember all those years ago. I want to reflect on where I was then
and how far I have traveled. I usually feel my heart skip a beat,
as I remember the day I felt free to love again.

There is something so serene and so sacred about walking the grounds of this cemetery.
The very place that other feet have walked as they mourned the loss of their solider.

The care that has been taken and thought that had been given to the beautiful architecture of each monument that represents a life lived, a life loved, and a life lost. . . at least from this world.

I don't see this as a place of sadness really. Yes, losing someone you love is sad, and yet, this is almost a place of honor. A place where this person, one that actually lived in my city, walked the same streets as I walk, is thought of. . . even today. Monuments that have dates dating back to the 1800's.
I may not know who they are, yet I have spent time honoring that life lived,
capturing the beauty of the grounds of their final resting place.

I walk the same paths that mothers, sister, fathers, brothers, husbands, and wives have walked as they said their goodbyes, as they have come to visit this place that holds a monument for the one they loved so dear.
I feel honored to be able to feel the sacredness of life, even those I have never met.

I am thankful that I feel sad when I look at some of these monuments.
Those that are weathered, worn, and what might appear to be long forgotten.
I remember my own grief of those I've lost.

I remember my own grief when I first came through those gates those years ago.
The grief I felt from losing myself.

I remember how broken I felt. . . . how broken I was.

Then my heart fills up again, as I remember this place. . . this very place that I called serene and sacred.
This was not a place of death, a place that represented loss.
No, for me. . .this is a place that represents life!
Life and healing. . .

And for this I am grateful!

Day 236

2011-12-07T04:00:00.000-05:00

Our Christmas Tree

This is my first attempt at making the lights turn into little star bursts!
I LOVE THIS!!
Thanks to Pure Photoshop Actions for the tutorial that was way, way easy to follow!
I have to tell you I'm SO in love with Pure Photoshop Actions!!! They are making editing so easy!
If for some reason you are into photography and have not heard of them ~~you must be living under a rock~~ then you really MUST get over to their website and check it out! They have something for every photo you would ever take!!! It has cut my editing time in 1/2!

Day 235

2011-12-06T04:00:00.000-05:00

More Christmas bliss!
It's totally beginning to feel a lot like Christmas around these parts!!!

Day 234

2011-12-05T09:57:00.001-05:00

Just another very cool evening on the lake!

Day 233

2011-11-27T04:00:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is past and Christmas is just right around the corner! My house is beginning to look like
a Christmas wonderland, full of reds, greens and golds.

This is my first attempt at playing around with my new lens (60mm f/2.8 Macro) I got for my birthday a couple of weeks ago.Warning. . . . you just might get bored with the macro shots in the next few days (or weeks)!
I'm loving learning how to use this lens!

Photo Challenge - Macro Friday (on Satruday)

2011-11-26T10:25:00.001-05:00

Green Christmas Bokeh

This is my first time entering any Macro photo challenge. I have not had a Macro lens until just a couple of weeks ago! I'm loving it and am excited to join in this weeks
Macro Friday for the first time!

Day 232 - Black Friday (yesterday)

2011-11-26T10:00:00.000-05:00

This was the first Black Friday sale from my Etsy shop!
Everything in the shop is still 50% off today with the coupon code "BlackFriday",
and then again on Monday with the coupon code "CyberMonday"!

An 8x10 of this print is being mailed all the way to Arkansas!

Day 231

2011-11-24T04:00:00.000-05:00

Day 230

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Day 229

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Day 228

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Day 227

2011-11-20T04:00:00.000-05:00

Day 226

2011-11-19T16:26:00.001-05:00

Catching the sunrise as it peeks through the colorful fall leaves.

This print is the newest addition to the Kaleidoscope Eyes Etsy Shop.
Visit the shop for Black Friday discounts starting Thanksgiving Day and lasting through Saturday the 26th at Midnight. Then visit again on Monday for Cyber Monday discounts!

Day 225

2011-11-15T04:00:00.000-05:00

Another fun family to have a session with. . . . my sister-in-law and her partner!
This was a fun one!

I can't wait to do another session with them once there is a lot of snow on the ground!!!

An Etsy Fundraiser!!!

2011-11-14T20:54:00.001-05:00

Have you ever thought about helping someone out, but just didn't quiet know how to do it?
Have you ever thought, "Well, maybe I'll help next time"?
This could be your chance. . . your "next time", your turn to pay it forward,
to give to another just because you can.

Several years ago I met a really cool couple through blogland, named Tammy & Mark.
Tammy and Mark have been working to start a family for many years. They have seen and felt heartache. They have felt disappointment, they felt that emptiness that so many people who what but don't have a child feel. They have had their hearts broken and been faced with what they thought was their last hope or chance of completing their family.

Well, Tammy & Mark "got the call" this past week!!! Congrats Tammy & Mark!!!
They have been matched with a birthmother, they have spoken with the birthmother and will be meeting their newborn hopefully by the end of December.

The catch. . . . .
They are just a little shy of all the funds needed . They believe that this match was directed by God. They have been saving for years, they have had many fundraisers and worked many hours at their regular jobs to get to this moment.

I have decided to help this new Mommy & Daddy and you can too!!!

From now until November 24th the Kaleidoscope Eyes Photography Etsy Shop will be giving Tammy & Mark 50% of all the sales.That means that any purchase you make from the Etsy Shop, 50% of the money you paid for that purchase will go directly to Tammy & Mark!

Won't you take a moment, go to the shop, look around and help out this family who is so anxiously waiting to hold their new baby girl!
Visit their blog, watch the progress, send them well wishes, let them know you have made a purchase.

Don't forget Christmas is right around the corner! Who wouldn't want a new 2012 Calender for Christmas or a nice print to decorate their home with?

Etsy Print Information

1. Just about any print that is listed in the shop can be made into various sizes, so if you want one but want a different size than is listed, we can do that. You just need to contact me through Etsy and I will create a listing for them.

2. The prints can also be printed on canvas of various sizes. You don't have to just purchase a "print". If you want the print put on a canvas, we can make that happen as well. You just need to contact me through Etsy and I will create a listing for them.

3. If you see a photo on this blog that you would like a print of, but don't see it listed in my Etsy shop, simply contact me and I will see if we can make that happen.

Day 224

2011-11-14T04:00:00.000-05:00

Day 223

2011-11-13T19:26:00.001-05:00

I know its been over a week since I have posted anything! Time is slipping away from me faster than I can catch it! Here is what I've been up to since I last posted!

This was a WAY fun session!!!
And I learned a TON about editing while I processed this session!

Ahhh. . . my FIRST jump shot! I took several before I could get one with everyone in the air! It was difficult and I didn't have my tripod so this shot, as well as all the other jump shots is still kinda fuzzy at 100%. Lessons learned!!!
I would love some feedback from you photo editing guru's out there!!!

Go ahead, critique my work. . . . I'm ready for it!

Day 222 - Thank you Rachel!

2011-10-30T15:50:00.000-04:00

This post is for Rachel, who very much like her mother, loves the colors of fall. She sees the beauty in every tree, every falling leaf, and every animal you see scurrying around to find that one last bit of good to to hide for those cold winter days that are promised to arrive.
While walking around a park yesterday, Rachel picked up this beautiful red and orange leaf and said,
"Hey, Amy. . . will you take a picture of this?"

See, what I know about Rachel is that she doesn't miss the small stuff. She is THE most grateful person I know. She sees the beauty in even the smallest things that most of us would pass by, and she soaks in those moments of beauty, those moments that God has gifted to us when he painted all the colors of nature and caused the seasons to change. While most of us would have walked right by this one red leaf, not even noticing it from all the others that lay, almost crunchy on the ground, Rachel picked this one up, saved it from being trampled on by many small feet of those hiking the trails yesterday. She gave this particular leaf a chance to live on forever. Yes it will go on to be a crunchy leaf, eventually. It will go back into the ground from where it came from, making the soil below it richer, preparing it for fresh growth in the spring.
And this leaf, as the others will be long forgotten once the first snow falls; once the first bud of a tulip pushes through the hard soil this spring, will be remembered forever.
This leaf will go on to be admired and looked at often. Bringing back the memories of that day.
The day spent with 3 siblings, playing, laughing, running, jumping, joking, and hiking in the woods that leaf calls home.

Thank you Rachel, for reminding me to stop, pause, appreciate and be thankful for all that God has blessed us with, and the amazing creation He has painted all around us!

Day 221

2011-10-29T04:00:00.000-04:00

I've made some changes to my Kaleidoscope Eye's Facebook page.
So if you have not stopped by and "Liked" my page, you might want to do that.

I also have a discount code for my Etsy Shop posted on Facebook. If you "Like"
my page you will have the opportunity to see the discount code.

For those of you who have already "Liked" Kaleidoscope Eyes on Facebook, you
can get the discount code by clicking on the "welcome" tab on the sidebar.

The code will be good for the whole month of November.

I'm in love with this barn!
I have no idea where I found it. I couldn't get back to it if I wanted to.
It was one of those random road trip finds!

Day 220

2011-10-28T00:08:00.002-04:00

Anderson Apple Orchard

I so loved the day I spent there all by myself driving through the rows and rows of apple trees!

Day 219 - Photo Contest. . .

2011-10-27T09:04:00.000-04:00

I entered this photo in a photo contest hosted by PhotoBiz.com on facebook. The photo with the most votes wins. The prize. . .a Tenba large messenger bag, retailed at $109.00.
I would appreciate if everyone would take a minute, go to the PhotoBiz.com facebook page and vote for my photo. They are closing the votes on 10-31-11 at 12:00noon EST.
As it stands right now, I'm a little behind in votes. I need all the votes I can get. I REALLY want to win this bag!!!
I believe you have to "LIKE" their facebook page to be able to get to the contest. The link to the contest can be found on the left sidebar of their facebook page under "FALL PHOTO CONTEST".
Thanks for voting!!!

Day 218

2011-10-25T04:00:00.000-04:00

Day 218

2011-10-24T04:00:00.000-04:00

Look!!! Twins!

Day 217

2011-10-23T04:00:00.000-04:00

I really am loving the fall colors!
I just wish they'd stay around a little longer and keep the snow away!

Day 216

2011-10-22T04:00:00.000-04:00

I really enjoyed watching this little butterfly flit around.

Day 215

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Day 214

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Day 213

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Day 212

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Day 211

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Day 210

2011-10-16T12:07:00.000-04:00

Chipmunks at play! They were putting on quiet a show!

Day 209

2011-10-14T04:00:00.000-04:00

Day 208

2011-10-12T04:00:00.001-04:00

I had so much fun playing at the apple orchard on a beautiful Saturday morning
with this sweet baby boy and his parents! His sweet smile warmed my heart!


I like to call this one. . . . "Pure Joy"!

Day 207

2011-10-11T04:00:00.000-04:00

Washington Park,Avon, IN

Fall is officially here! I am loving the pop of color that I see all around me, and yet am sad
as I notice that many trees are already naked, and this means that all too soon, winter will be here.

Day 206

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

Day 205

2011-10-09T12:46:00.000-04:00

Day 204

2011-10-07T09:27:00.000-04:00

I never knew grasshoppers were so pretty!
And this one seemed to enjoy having his picture taken.

Day 203

2011-10-02T04:00:00.000-04:00

Fall is swooping in quickly! And with that brings, colorful trees, falling leaves, crisp cool air, the smell of burning firewood in the evenings, farmers working the fields, chili suppers, cozy evenings wrapped in a warm blanket reading a book, pumpkins. . . . and evidently half eaten apples.

Welcome Fall!

Day 202

2011-10-01T08:43:00.000-04:00

Anderson Apple Orchard
Mooresville, IN

Day 201 - Finding Bones

2011-09-29T04:00:00.000-04:00

Yes, this is Ms. Daisy. This is not her "pouty" look although it may look like that to some. This is the "if I look cute will you give me another bone" look.
Ms. Daisy, as it seems, is not just the princess of our house. She is also the watchdog, the doorbell, the alarm clock, and now she is also the hoarder.

Daisy gets a "treat" when she goes outside and does her, well. . . . you know. On this particular day, she got a "treat" in the morning before I left for work. Then again when I got home from work. She was such a good little girl this particular day. Then all of the sudden I noticed she was caring around and guarding not just one but TWO treats. She had kept the one from the morning. I'm not really sure how she held on to it for that long, or how she hid it from our other dog, Wendy, all day.
Anytime anyone would get close to her she would work really hard and pick up both bones as to not let anyone take her stash. She is a funny girl!

Day 200

2011-09-28T04:00:00.033-04:00

I'm celebrating Day 200 with some of my favorite shots from the last 100 days!

I started this "Project 365" hoping I would be able to post a photo a day for all 365 days. I have not always been able to do that, sometimes life just gets in the way and I have make a choice as to what part of my life I get to neglect. Unfortunately it only makes sense that it would be this blog. However, I think I have done pretty good at attempting to keep up, stay connected with other bloggers, and keep my pictures coming. I think I may have lost a few readers along the way, and that is OK too.

I started this blog on February 6, 2011. Since that time, I have traveled (a lot!), worked my regular day job, had minor surgery x2, has wonderful house guests (MISS YOU BRAJA!!!), had family who is divorcing, and most recently family diagnosed with breast cancer (Prayers on this one would most definitely be appreciated!). So it seems I've had a little bit going on over the past 7 months.

When I wrote the first post for this blog, I remember saying that I would take this at my pace, I would do it my way and try my best to keep up. And. . . that is exactly what I have done. I love taking pictures and don't plan on stopping any time soon. So, I will continue to care for my myself, my family, and work and love on those people who are precious to me, and take pictures along the way. As I have moments, I'll continue to share those pictures here, giving you a glimpse of what I see through my lens.

Day 199 - A Day Spent in Chicago

2011-09-27T04:00:00.007-04:00

I love this view of the Chicago skyline! There are so many colors just popping out everywhere.

My favorite brother-in-law!

We all spent the day walking the streets of Chicago, playing, laughing and of course taking pictures! I was so thankful after we got to the top of the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), to see that the 2 hours wait in line was worth it! Well, if you didn't bring a camera, it might have not been worth it, but I got some pretty cool shots of the city!

One of the many many views from the top of the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower).

I think I want to live in this building! Why buy a car when you can have a boat?

I loved seeing all the boats on Lake Michigan.

The architecture of Chicago is just amazing from this far up!!

No two buildings look the same. It was like visual overload for me. I couldn't decide where to point my camera.

There is a glassed in area that will hold (according to the people who work there) about 15 people. I didn't stay on this glass area very long. . . . It's a long way down!

We waited in line for a long time to be able to take pictures from these glass areas. There were several and many of them were side by side. This is my friend Elaine. "Hi Elaine!"

Our friends Elaine and Michelle, all the way from Ft. Lauderdale! We were in one of the glass areas and they were right next to us in another. I sure would have hated to be the person in charge of cleaning the glass. But from the looks of it, I think they should hire someone to do it more often!

My "best girl"! I believe she's talking through her teeth right here, telling me to "hurry up and take the picture already!" I'm not so sure she really loved the view straight down from here.

Another photo of my friends Elaine and Michelle as we were having dinner at Giordano's. Mmmmmm. . . . Pizza!

My favorite picture so far of my sweet Jonathan!

Eventually, I think Chicago will be the most beautiful great city left in the world.
~ Frank Lloyd Wright

Day 198

2011-09-26T04:00:00.000-04:00

Day 197

2011-09-25T04:00:00.000-04:00

Sometimes one must kiss a lot of frogs before finding their Prince/Princess!

Day 196

2011-09-24T11:13:00.000-04:00

Lake Michigan

Going for a swim

Day 195

2011-09-22T05:54:00.000-04:00

Day 194

2011-09-20T14:33:00.000-04:00

Day 193

2011-09-16T16:01:00.000-04:00

Chicago, Illinois
Taken from the top of the Willis Tower
(formerly known as the Sears Tower)

Day 192

2011-09-14T05:58:00.000-04:00

Ahh. . . another giraffe picture.

Lifting his neck high above the tree almost touching the clear blue,
with his silent courage, gentle spirit, and huge heart. . . . what if we were all so tall on the inside?

Day 191 - Sneak Peek

2011-09-13T00:07:00.001-04:00

This photo shoot was so much fun!

The H family was amazing to work with and took me to a location that I had not been to before.
I can promise you all that I WILL be going back to this spot!!
Sweet baby M (3 mo old) was wonderful!
We played and laughed and changed clothes and drank bottles for 2 hours and she never cried.
Not one single time!
This princess was a super model!

I can't wait to do some more shoots like this!Bring on the babies!!!

I would appreciate some gentle yet honest critiquing on these photos and the other posted here.

Visit my Facebook page to see more of this photo shoot!

Day 190

2011-09-12T06:33:00.000-04:00

Yep, I've been gone for a few days. I was out of town for a bit and then when I came back home I hit the ground running with work and family. Life is slowing down now that Labor Day Weekend is over and my posting should be getting back to my daily routine.
Please hang in there with me while I catch up on all my reading, commenting and posting.

Day 189

2011-09-07T04:00:00.000-04:00

Indianapolis Zoo

I have spent so much time at the zoo this summer I think the animals are actually
starting to recognize this crazy lady that watches them for hours while holding a camera!
Buying an annual pass. . . one of the best investments I have made all year long!

Hope you all don't get tired of my animal photos!

Day 188

2011-09-06T04:00:00.001-04:00

I think I'm falling in love with water lilies!

Day 187

2011-09-05T04:00:00.005-04:00

Feeding Time
Indianapolis Zoo

Day 186

2011-09-04T04:00:00.000-04:00


Indianapolis Zoo

No question that I love to take pictures of animals!

Day 185

2011-09-03T04:00:00.004-04:00

White River Gardens
Indianapolis, IN

I am already beginning to notice that summer is coming to a close.
I'm going to miss all the colors of summer!

AND. . . I love fall!

Day 184

2011-09-02T04:00:00.005-04:00

BOTTOM'S UP!

I have to admit that these are certainly not among my best shots. They are not really sharp, that's what happens with a moving duck! I love them anyway, just because they make me smile!

Day 183

2011-09-01T04:00:00.003-04:00

I just wanted to give a shout out to my best girl!
September is her birthday month!
Ok, so I know it's not until the end of the month, but why not celebrate YOU all month long!
Happy Birthday, Sharon!
Go visit her and give her some extra love this month!

Day 182

2011-08-31T04:00:00.005-04:00

This is Daisy. Sometimes we call her princess, sometimes we call her brat,
right now I'm calling her a little scruffy!

This is what she does while I'm working at the computer.
Anxiously waiting for me to pay attention to her, give her a treat,
or maybe if she's lucky go to the puppy salon.

Day 181

2011-08-30T04:00:00.000-04:00

The most peaceful place I have been all month!

Day 180

2011-08-29T04:00:00.003-04:00

Gothic Chapel
Crown Hill Cemetery
Indianapolis, IN

Day 179 - Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-08-28T04:00:00.001-04:00

This is from the hot air balloon race this year at the Indiana State Fair. It is not a race to see who gets there first, but one of accuracy. Kinda reminds me of life.

I love posting on Sundays with Scripture & A Snapshot, however today I have had a bit of trouble making it work. My heart is heavy and the scriptures that keep coming to my mind were way too big for a picture.

So. . . here is what is on my heart.

Luke 22:24 - 30 (from the message Bible)
^24-26Within minutes they were bickering over who of them would end up the greatest. But Jesus intervened: "Kings like to throw their weight around and people in authority like to give themselves fancy titles. It's not going to be that way with you. Let the senior among you become like the junior; let the leader act the part of the servant. ^27-30"Who would you rather be: the one who eats the dinner or the one who serves the dinner? You'd rather eat and be served, right? But I've taken my place among you as the one who serves. And you've stuck with me through thick and thin. Now I confer on you the royal authority my Father conferred on me so you can eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and be strengthened as you take up responsibilities among the congregations of God's people.

Why is it that so many people (Christians), including those in positions of leadership in the church, like to "throw their weight around"? And then there are those who are hung up on the titles. All of this really means nothing. I truly believe the titles and all of that becomes a means of intimidation. It also seems to me that those hung up on those things must simply be insecure with themselves to feel they have to have the title.
Now, don't get me wrong. . . there is a certain respect and reverence for the leadership of our churches or religious organizations (or whatever you like to call them). I so get that, and I do have respect for the position they hold and the call that is on their life. However, when the title appears to be more important than the call, there is a problem. People begin to lose respect. Your "sheep" begin to stray. . .you become an intimidating Shepard instead of a loving, protecting Shepard.
As soon as the "title" causes your ego to grow, things will begin to fall apart. Slowly probably, but fall apart they will. It's like watching a woven rug, slowly unravel, each time you try to get a grip on that one piece that is pulling, it just slips right through your fingers. People began to walk away from you, and you don't understand why. You don't see what is happening right before your eyes. You begin to feel even more insecure and demand more and more from those around you. You demand more commitment, more work, more friendship, more respect. Until one day, you find yourself sitting all alone.

I write this because I have seen it happen just this way numerous times! It's very sad! And it's not even just with church leaders really, it is with other people in our lives as well. One person gets hung up on the hierarchy at work or school or even at home. Getting hung up on the title. . . the cycle begins. People start to lose respect for that person. That person starts demanding more and more from the people around them. They feel betrayed and hurt, yet aren't able to see what is happening before their very eyes. And again, eventually, there they sit. . . .all alone wondering why everyone around them left.

Titles are just that, titles. It doesn't make one person any more important in the world than another. It doesn't make any one person more right, it doesn't make any one person better than another. The title itself really isn't important at all!

What is important is . . . do you respect yourself? Do you respect those around you? Are you a leader with many servants or are you a leader that is here to serve? Is your ego bigger than your heart? Are you willing to forgive those that hurt you even when they don't ask your forgiveness?

See, underneath the title, the job, the position, we are each simply just a man/woman. We are not special. We all have a call on our life, it may not be the same call, but we all have a call. Some are called to just sit in the background and pray, while others are called to go to the front lines and be more verbal. Either way, each is just as important and vital as the other.

So many people in the world today are so full of fear and insecurity that they are using intimidation as a means of demanding respect. That will only work for a short time. By demanding respect from others, these people are showing that they do not respect those whom they demand respect from.

I believe respect is something that must be earned. It is easy to respect a person's position (for example, the Pastor, the Police, your father, etc.). It's kind of like just respecting the title. But it is not always easy to respect the person in that position. For me to respect means to trust, honor, esteem. And I believe respect is a two way street. If someone doesn't respect me, (talks down to me, doesn't listen when I talk, belittles me, tells me what I "need", etc) it becomes very hard for me to respect that person in return. So, on many levels, yes. . . I believe respect must be earned.

And I also think it is not always easier being the servant, however, in giving one also receives. It's a task of keeping oneself attached to their heart and not getting caught up in their head.

Maybe this was a little too much for this blog, but this is what has been going on in my head and heart for several months now and I guess today was the day to release some of it.

Opinions and comments are welcome. I'd love to hear how others feel about this topic as well.

Click the link below to visit others who also link up to Scripture & A Snapshot

Day 178

2011-08-27T04:00:00.004-04:00

First Friday Cruise-In
Danville, IN

I don't know much about cars but I thought this would be a great photo opportunity. I have to say photos of cars is harder than I thought. These cars were so shiny! There were reflections of other cars, the bright sun that was bouncing off of everything, and people were everywhere. I didn't know one car from the next!
I had a REAL hard time finding my "mojo" for this photo adventure!

I did like all the bright colors though!

I'm also submitting this as my Still Life Standout
I'm not sure that this is my "best" shot of the month,
but it is one that I was surprised I liked as much as I do!

Day 177 - Liberate Your Art

2011-08-26T12:34:00.000-04:00

I am so happy that I just very spontaneously without even really thinking it through, clicked on that button a few months ago. I have never done anything like this before. Never participated in a card swap, blog hop (I wasn't even sure what that was). And now. . . I can't wait for another one!

Thank you so much Kat for being so creative to birth the Liberate Your Art Post Card Swap and brave to take on a project of this magnitude. I can't imagine what your kitchen table must have looked like after opening all of those packages from 200'ish different people, containing 5 postcards each. Then sorting and organizing and mailing them out to everyone. WHEW! You must be a very organized person!

I had so much fun going through some of my favorite photos and choosing carefully which one I would use on my postcard.

This particular photo was taken at the White River Gardens in Indianapolis. I loved how it turned out. It was a complete surprise to me that it actually came out so dark around the Orchid. I really have no clue how to purposely make that happen.

Each week for 5 weeks I went to my mailbox with a different bounce in my step. I never, no really. . NEVER get mail that is just for me, just because, not asking me for anything, no special reason, just because. Each time I would find one of these postcards peeking out from amongst the pile of advertisements, statements, bills, fliers and other junk, it would bring a nice smile to my face. The junk and other mail would then be ~~carelessly~~ tossed on the kitchen table and I would immediately go to the latest postcard. Where was it from? Was there a message? Was it someone whose blog I already follow? What form of art was it. . . oils, watercolors, photography? My family was even getting into it. They were just as excited as I was to how far that sweet card had traveled to find it's way to my mailbox. We "Oooo'd and Ahhhh'd" over each card talking about how wonderful they all were.

I don't really remember what order I received them, but I do know that they have all set on my desk right in front of my monitor, ever since they arrived. I look at them daily (as I'm a computer junkie) and think about how much fun this swap was.

I especially love this one. I love what it says! And I do remember days when I feel like I haven't come very far and then when I have those days with those little "Ah-Ha" moments. Those are the days I remember where I have come from and how very far I have come. Those are the moments I am thankful for those sweet cheerleaders in my life (you all know who you are ♥) who have cheered me on my way!

This card was sent from Robin over at Well of Creations. What a cool site she has. Take a minute to check it out and don't forget to stop by her shop. She really has some pretty fun stuff! Robin actually has lots of places you can visit to read and see her work. Check out her blog. . . "My Creative Peace"

This one I also LOVED! It came from Annie, in Massachusetts, who simply left me her email address. I did connect with Annie because I SO wanted there to be a story with this photo. Doesn't it just like it belongs in some sappy romance movie? Annie said there wasn't really a story, she had found it on a photo walk. So I guess the story is left up to each of us.
My family and I created a lovely story about this tree. I just makes me think that some sweet couple in there 70's are going to come back to this very spot after years of love, marriage, good times, hardships, children and just life. They will find their "markings" on this tree and remember where their love all started so many years ago. Doesn't that sound lovely? There are so many stories this tree tells. . . . each marking is it's very own love story. It's amazing! Thanks Annie, for making my heart smile with this photo!

I also very much love this photo! I would to tell the person who sent it, however there was no name, email address, flickr address, blog, or website listed on the card.
The card simply had the word "Peace" written on it. That is actually what I thought of when I saw these sweet water frogs. How peaceful it must be to sit and listen to that cute fountain trickle water.
If you sent this card, please leave me a comment, so I know who you are. Also, thank you! I loved it!

This one I thought was so beautiful, so inviting and SO made me want to take a trip to the beach.
This was taken at LaniKai Beach by Victoria. If you google that, you will see some of the most amazingly blue water and what looks like an amazing place to visit.
Victoria wrote on this card that LaniKai Beach is ranked among the best beaches in the world. An even better reason to add this to the "places to visit" list.

Victoria left her email address on the post card and I have to say that for whatever reason, I didn't send her an email. She didn't have a website listed or anything else, just her email. Victoria, I'm so sorry I didn't connect with you! I have no good excuse other than being a forgetful crazy busy person. I hope you will forgive me!

I loved this postcard and would love to see it in real life one day!

This one just took my breath away! I love it! Anabelle who blogs over at Life's Rich Pattern sent this all the way from N. Africa.
According to Anabelle's message on this postcard, the photo was taken of Lake Windermere on a recent trip she made to England.

I just love it! It looks so peaceful! I love how she made it black and white. It almost looks like the clouds were actually gray that day, but with it being b&w, you can create the colors in your

mind. I say those are very white fluffy clouds with a beautiful blue sky hiding behind them, and the sun trying hard to peek though the cracks.
Great photo Anabelle!

The last card I received was this one from Kat. I love how she finds the little details.
As a new (since Nov '10) photographer trying to learn my way around this fun hobby, I have so enjoyed reading Kat's blog. I have learned so many things from her. I love that she shares her knowledge and skill. I love that she is real. I love that I'm not the only one that feels like I'm losing inspiration sometimes. (I feel like I'm taking pictures of the same stuff over and over, UGH!) I love that she can find new stuff to photograph even when it seems there isn't anything. It's a new perspective! I love that she loves her talent so much!

I don't comment much on her blog, so I guess that makes me a really bad stalker! I love visiting, and seeing what she is getting in to next. What lesson will I learn and how can I make my photos better.

Thanks Kat! Thanks for sharing and for creating this amazing swap! I can't wait to join in on the next one!

Go ahead, visit some of the others who participated in this swap. Go see how much fun we all had and then be jealous you didn't join in. I'm so sorry if you didn't, really. . . I am! It was great fun! Make sure you watch for her to do this again, and join in! You won't be sorry!!!

Just click the button below and learn more about the Liberate Your Art Post Card Swap!

Day 176

2011-08-25T04:00:00.000-04:00

Aren't they just the cutest little babies you've ever seen?

Even though the Indiana State Fair is over, I'm still visiting all the many sites.
I have a feeling you might be as well. . . for a while, since I took so many pictures!

Day 175

2011-08-24T17:11:00.001-04:00

This post is a little different than the norm. I have been slacking, ~~or maybe just WAY BUSY~~ lately and I guess I'm making up for it in this one post.

I learned a lot about exposure time and the importance of a tripod during the Indiana State Fair!

And most of that I learned right there in the Midway!

I learned that the Carousel is beautiful at night.

And that with a tripod and really long (20 sec.) exposure time, I have the ability to make it look like it is going REALLY fast. But wait you can't even see the people riding it or the horses.

And I learned that the ferris wheel makes so many pretty colors. It reminded me of when I was a kid and played with a spirograph. Remember those?

Then there was this great little "kiddie" ride with the balloons! It looked like so much fun for the whole family!

Fun that is until you see it looking like THIS! Which is very pretty but looks a bit scary if you are actually on this ride!

There were so many lights! We even got to see the rainbow!

This view was so inviting! It made me want to ride all of these ride!

This is the first year that I have gone to the State Fair for the sole purpose of practicing photography. I found it to be a great place to learn. I was also very surprised to see that I was not the only one there carrying around a camera, camera bag and a tripod. There were many, many, many, others!

Day 174

2011-08-22T05:55:00.000-04:00

Morgan County Fair
Martinsville, IN

Day 173

2011-08-21T17:01:00.000-04:00

Click the link below to see more
Scripture & A Snapshot!

Day 172

2011-08-17T04:00:00.000-04:00

Day 171

2011-08-16T04:00:00.000-04:00

Indianapolis Zoo
Indianapolis, IN

Day 169 - Quotography

2011-08-15T04:00:00.002-04:00

To see more submissions for this weeks Quotography

Click the link below.

I could use some advise from my fellow photography bloggers. Here's the deal. . .
I had been waiting all week for this weekend to get here, excited beyond words about the hot air balloon night glow that was happening at the state fair this past Friday night.
I went with my sister, we both had our cameras and tripods and were ready to start snapping. We both got a TON of pictures most of which were great, right up to the point that I put them in photo shop and blew them up to 100%. I could have cried! They ALL look grainy. I am not sure what we both did wrong, but if I were going to print any of them I am sure they would not turn out good. I think they are good enough for the posting here but not for printing at 100%.

So below are three of the photos I really liked along with the camera settings. I did not use a flash and I did nothing on manual. I have posted the SOOC shot as well as the edited version. Most of the editing involved playing around with the sharpness. But I found after that using the action "Boost" from Pioneer Women worked best as it made the photo more crisp. Other than using the action there was no other editing done except croping them down to 8x10 size with 300 dpi.

Any suggestions???

Straight out of the camera shot

Image
Dimensions: 3168 x 4752

Width: 3168 pixels

Height: 4752 pixels

Horizontal resolution: 72 dpi

Vertical resolution: 72 dpi

Bit depth: 24

Resolution unit: 2

Color representation: sRGB

Camera
Camera maker: Canon

Camera model: Canon EOS REBEL T1i

f-stop: f/3.5

Exposure time: 1/40 sec.

ISO speed: ISO-800

Focal length: 18mm
Exposure Program: Shutter Priority
White Balance: Auto

Edited Image

Straight out of the camera shot

Image
Dimensions 4752 x 3168

Width 4752 pixels

Height 3168 pixels

Horizontal resolution 72 dpi

Vertical resolution 72 dpi

Bit depth 24

Resolution unit 2

Color representation sRGB

Camera
Camera maker: Canon

Camera model: Canon EOS REBEL T1i

f-stop: f4

Exposure time: 1/40 sec.

ISO speed: ISO-1000

Focal length 18mm
Exposure Program: Shutter Priority

White Balance: Auto

Edited Image

Straight out of the camera shot

Image
Dimensions 4752 x 3168

Width 4752 pixels

Height 3168 pixels

Horizontal resolution 72 dpi

Vertical resolution 72 dpi

Bit depth 24

Resolution unit 2

Color representation sRGB

Camera
Camera maker: Canon

Camera model: Canon EOS REBEL T1i

f-stop: f5

Exposure time: 1/40 sec.

ISO speed: ISO-1600

Focal length: 42mm
Exposure Program: Shutter Priority
White Balance: Auto

Edited Image

I appreciate any suggestion on what I may be able to do differently to have the images come out more crisp. I was really hoping to get some great shots that I could print at 100%. Just a little disappointed in how these turned out!

To see more submissions for this weeks Quotography
Click the link below.

Day 168 - Scripture And A Snapshot

2011-08-14T04:00:00.007-04:00

As I was doing my photography walk this week, I found myself walking along the canal in downtown Indianapolis. It was very peaceful at 8:00am. There were very few people out, it was slightly cool with a bit of a breeze and the sun was shining. There are several benches like this along the canal, decorated with the same kinds of green vines (I have no idea what they are called). I immediately thought of this verse, when I saw them. Then I sat on one of the benches for a moment, just to rest. It was then that I began to think about how those green viney branches were providing some shade. It was nice, since I had walked enough to start feeling pretty warm and the sun was starting to feel really hot.
Those viney branches were protecting me from the elements of the weather, the hot sun. It reminded me of how God will put his arms around us and also protect us. Protect us from the elements of life, those things that will hurt us. That little voice that comforts us and reminds us to do the right thing. Sometimes it may just be those times we are running about 5 minutes behind for work and in a rush. Had we been 10 minutes early, we might have been the one in that accident we passed on the highway, while we were aggravated about being late.
So today especially, I am thankful for those hands that protect me. I am thankful for the vine that brings me shade from the hot sun. I am thankful for a safe a beautiful place to walk and find peace on a nice quiet morning, all by myself!

Please stop by and see all the other people who posted their
Scripture And A Snapshot today!

Day 167

2011-08-13T04:00:00.000-04:00

Amur Tiger
Indianapolis Zoo

They are so beautiful, but I sure wouldn't want to get too close, with those giant teeth!

Day 166

2011-08-12T06:50:00.000-04:00

Morgan County Fair
Martinsville, IN

Day 165

2011-08-11T05:53:00.000-04:00

Introducing. . . .

Sweet, tiny, slightly fuzzy, little bitty, 266 pound Kalina. The newest member to the Indianapolis Zoo.
Kalina pronounced (KA-LEAN'-AH) was born on July 20th.

Yesterday she was seen walking around the elephant yard with her mother Kubwa. She sure put on quiet a show as she walked around, with somewhat of a little dance in her step as she was getting her footing on the different terrain in the yard. We also learned that Kalina loves to roll in the mud. But most of all it seemed she simply loved being close to her mom, not that much different than any other baby.

Day 164

2011-08-10T04:00:00.030-04:00

Today I'm posting a little different. A couple of weekends ago went went on a photography drive that landed us in Bloomington, Indiana. That is about an hour drive from where I live. We walked/drove (IT WAS SO HOT!) the campus of Indiana University. I couldn't believe how beautiful it was and that I have lived in this area for almost 40 years now and I had never been to the campus before.

We were almost done for the day with headaches from the sun and heat and probably not drinking near enough water that day, when all of the sudden we cam upon this cute little pond full of these water lilies. It was so pretty! There were dragon flies of all colors and sizes just waiting for someone with a macro lens to come and make them the star of the photo shoot. Unfortunately, that wasn't me that day. There were also VERY LARGE toads splashing around from lily pad to lily pad. There was one who stayed still long enough to get in some of the shots (those will come later).

Here is the same photo three different times after editing.

The first one is a SOOC shot. Nothing was done to this except resizing.

This next one I just drained most of the color, slightly adjusting the levels, vibrance, and hue/saturation.

This last one is my favorite of the edits! Although I do think the SOOC shot turned out pretty good as well.
On this one I took the previous edit (above) and added two of Kim Klassen's FREE textures.
I used two of the free textures, scratchedmagicjuly and scriptededges from the "Inspired Magic Pack" that Kim was giving away free August 1st. Go check out her blog, it is probably still available if you missed it.

I am in love with Kim's textures and brushes! Thanks so much Kim for giving these away each week!

So, which one is YOUR favorite?

Day 163

2011-08-09T04:00:00.003-04:00

Morgan County Fair
Martinsville, IN

I just loved that soft wet nose!
He was so sweet laying in the fan, keeping cool, waiting his turn to make his owner
proud by bringing home the blue ribbon!
I'm just sure his name was Wilbur.

Day 162 - Quotography

2011-08-08T05:30:00.005-04:00

This is one of my favorite weekly photo challenges!
I love putting words to my photos and
for seeking out those special photos that are just perfect for the quotes.

Click the link below to see others who also like Quotography.

Day 161 - Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-08-07T04:00:00.004-04:00

Mansfield, In

Another of my favorite weekly photo challenges!
Click the link below to see others who also join in on Scripture & A Snapshot.

Day 160

2011-08-06T05:30:00.014-04:00

Indiana University Campus
Bloomington, IN

It's no secret that I love photographing architecture and old buildings. Indiana is known for its limestone. As you can see this building is made of Indiana limestone. I loved all the angels and points of this building. I was also very proud when I found out that not much editing was needed for this shot. I put it in photo shop and very very slightly adjusted the levels a bit. Other than that, this is straight out of the camera. I loved how blue the sky came out, naturally!

Day 159

2011-08-05T06:00:00.001-04:00


Morgan County Fair Martinsville, IN

Day 158

2011-08-04T19:50:00.000-04:00

Mansfield, IN

This was my first attempt at shooting and editing in RAW.
I'm not sure how I did. I'd love your comments. It's not as easy as it looks!

This was also another attempt to slow down the shutter speed and make the
water look a little more milky.

Day 157 - Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-07-31T06:00:00.001-04:00

Check out the others who have linked up with today's Scripture and A Snapshot!

Day 156

2011-07-30T06:00:00.002-04:00

Garfield Park
Indianapolis, IN

Day 155

2011-07-29T06:00:00.000-04:00

Meet sweet little 4 week old baby W. I did his photos back in May.
I'm hoping to find some more babies that love the camera like this little guy did!

Day 154

2011-07-28T06:00:00.001-04:00

Indianapolis Zoo

Makes me want an ice cold Coca~Cola!

I'm still learning with my new PhotoShop CS5 and still loving it!
I used the pixel bender filter on this one and it made him look so soft and cuddly!

I learned about Pixel Bender From Ashley over at Ramblings and Photos. She talks about it in this post.
Pixel Bender is a free download from Adobe. You too can get it HERE.

I've learned so much from Ashley's blog. You really should go check it out!

Edit Me - week 11

2011-07-27T11:00:00.001-04:00

I haven't had time to join in on this photo challenge for a while now and I am missing it. As a matter of fact I am missing the other photo challenges I usually participate in. So it's time to get back at it!

Edit Me is sponsored by Branson over at My Reflections of Something

Here is the information:

Today's guest judge is Beth from Our Typical Life. Here is how Beth describes herself and her blog: I am a 25 year old stay-at-home mom to two girls. We live in the boondocks of Northern Minnesota. These days my posts are mostly centered on photos – of my kids, trees, flowers, our duckies, and even our grill. Occasionally, I toss in a post or two about IEPs, Down syndrome, preschool, the R word, and anything else I feel passionate about at the moment.

This is the photo she submitted for Edit Me - week 11

When I saw this picture of Beths daughter Lauren I really thought there wasn't much that could be done to make this picture any better. I love the innocence of it all! I have a soft spot for a child with Down Syndrome. Every child with Down Syndrome that I have ever met simply radiates a pure, sweet love. It so reminds me of an agape love. A love without condition. It's like they just don't know how not to love.

This is an angelic, soft and purely lovely photo. Even without any editing.

I did a clean edit then added two actions (mostly to save time).
I used the Pure Pink and Sunrise Baby actions from Pure Photoshop Actions, both are free actions.

Click the link below to see more edits of this photo

Day 153

2011-07-27T06:00:00.015-04:00

Downtown Indianapolis

This was edited with CS5 using a free action called HDR Fantascticalizers.
I downloaded it FREE from this website.

I'm not sure I fully understand HDR, but I liked the way this turned out.
I'm certainly still a work in progress!!!

Day 152

2011-07-26T06:00:00.001-04:00

Crown Hill Cemetery
Indianapolis, IN