I love self-portraits. They offer the perfect opportunity to test out new lighting techniques and experiment. I did not always like doing them, but I found it easier for me to sit still, rather than a giggling little person.

Self-portraits are a great way to let go of some of your personal hang ups. Women tend to be so critical of how they look. What I discovered was that I could look at a portrait and see what everyone else sees. You can decide how you feel and if you are going to walk around looking unhappy or let that happiness shine though. I also discovered features in my own face that I really like. I like my lips. I noticed I have more freckles than I realized. I like the shape of my eyes. I like lots of things. This says a lot about how I have grown into who I am; not focusing on superficial things that have no real purpose in my quality of life.

If you don’t already, shoot a few portraits of yourself. Just for the fun of it. I have yet to have a person tell me they don’t have fun doing it after they try. And, you never know unless you try!

My third lighting class was all about using your camera flash. Paula showed us simple little things you could do to improve your pictures by using your flash. I enjoyed these classes and meeting new people who also have a love of photography.

I just signed up for the seminar coming here to Cincinnati in May. Since starting the studio lighting class, I have been fascinated with lighting. So far, I have heard from a few people they enjoyed it and found it useful. I always enjoy meeting other photographers, so I am sure this will prove to be a good time.

The studio lighting class was great the first night. The first time I took the class, I expected studio lighting to be all mysterious. After taking the class, I could not believe I had not been shooting with lights sooner. It is great being in a class with other photograpers, learning from each other and experimenting. I am excited about bringing this new dynamic to my clients and their sessions. It just goes to show it is all about the lighting and good light will help produce beautiful portraits.

I enjoy doing studio shoots. Up until a few weeks ago, I rarely did shoots with a flash or strobes. Since it is so cold outside, the weather does not lend itself to the best outdoor shoots. I usually shoot with all natural light, but a lot of homes I shoot at do not have the best indoor light. There are days in Cincinnati where it is dreary all week long and you will not get good light to save your life!

I am currently taking a studio lighting class for the second time with one of my favorite instructors, Paula Norton. She has a very real way of teaching. She breaks everything down and has completely demystified studio lighting for me. Now, I have new skills and knowledge to enhance what I bring to my clients’ shoots.

I am looking forward to experimenting with dramatic lighting for newborn shoots and high school senior shoots in the coming months! It is the best part about photography…experiementing and trying something new.

The great thing about new years is the beginnings. As you can see, the blog is undergoing a makeover, as I have moved it to its new and permanent home.

I look forward to making this a fun place for my clients to come and share in their love of stories and pictures.

This is what you get when you ask a little person to be still for just a second. A goofy face with only one eye showing. Cracks me up every single time, but that is what makes “little people” photography so much fun.