Willie Nelson & Family

It was my great privilege to be the house photographer for The Coronado Performing Arts Center to cover the multi-talented Willie Nelson and his opening act Brett Eldredge. Unfortunately I wasn't able to meet the man but I did get to meet Brett along with a few other of his fans and that was pretty cool!

Even though Willie is now creeping up on 78 years young in April, he sounded phenomenal and sang for an hour and half straight, standing the entire time. Not bad for an almost 80 year old. His energy level was high (no pun intended) and he got the audience out of their seats, dancing in the isle ways.

It was truly an amazing experience to be under the sound of such a musical icon!

Blogging and WPPI Fashion Show

BLOGGING, BLOGGING, BLOGGING, BLOGGING........


Please forgive me for I have not blogged in a VERY long time!!!! It's horrible.

Anyway, I guess what I really have on my mind right now is WPPI. It's finally time for me to get that off my chest before another 3 months goes by. What is that for those of you that don't know? Wedding & Portrait Photographers International. Every year there is a big convention in Vegas where photographers gather to learn from the best of the best and get all the info about the latest and greatest in product.

This was my first year attending. It's a great time to learn about what others are doing in their business, meet new friends, network, meet mentors, all that good stuff. It really is a must if you are serious about your photography craft.

I had two main agendas while there. Find a website solution and learn more about wedding albums. Both, a success.

One main event that was a highlight for me....don't get me wrong, there where many highlights on this trip but this was pretty exciting....for me.

Nigel Barker.....need I say more?!!!! If you don't know who he is, and you may not if you're not a photographer, don't watch much reality T.V.  or not much into fashion. But I must admit I have a guilty pleasure in watching some episodes of America's Next Top Model for so many aspects that have to do with both photography and fashion but mostly photography for me.

Nigel is a fashion photographer and judge on the show. He's also a spokes person for Sony as he shoots with Sony cameras.

One evening of WPPI Nigel hosted a fashion show along with informing all of us photogs what was going on in the Sony world. Now I shoot with Canon but am very tempted by the Sony NEX-5.

This experience was a great one and I hope to go back again next year to continue the WPPI adventure as there is not enough time in just a few days to see everyone or everything that you want to. And I'm only talking about one little corner of the Vegas world!

Please enjoy some of the images from the plane and the fashion show!

Ms. DJ

Back On My Feet

I had one of the most inspiring mornings!  Anyone who knows me, knows that I am NOT a morning person, I DON’T like the cold and I’m NOT a huge fan of running. Well the running thing is starting to grow on me S-L-O-W-L-Y. For November it’s not that cold yet. And as far as early mornings go, well, if it has anything to do with a good cause and photography, it doesn’t matter what time of day it is I’M THERE!

B.O.M.F. Ever hear of it? Back On My Feet. It's a nonprofit organization "that promotes the self-sufficiency of homeless populations by engaging them in running as a means to build confidence, strength and self esteem." I strongly encourage you to read more about them and how they came about HERE . It’s an interesting story and I love what they are doing and what they stand for.

This morning I joined the team from St. Leonard’s House to take some pictures during their 5 mile run. Everyone seemed to be pretty receptive of Me, Myself and My Lenses in their face :o) In just the little time I was there, I felt so enriched. There is clearly a strong bond between the residents and the volunteers who run together several times a week and there is so much positive energy, respect, and care. At the end of the run you can tell everyone feels very accomplished and it’s as if EVERYONE just won first place in a marathon. Sweat, smiles and hugs are everywhere! They are a true team through and through. Thanks B.O.M.F. for the wonderful experience!

Kassie {Senior 2011}

For my first destination senior shoot I got to fly to the state of Washington! Presented here is a lovely young lady that I've known since her birth. It's hard to believe she's already in her senior year of high school OR is it hard for me to take in that I'm getting old(er)!!! Either way....it's just wrong! We had to dodge the rain (of course) but managed to capture some great images and had a lot of fun in the process. Thanks Kass for being such a trooper and for giving me the opportunity to take some fun photos!

Introducing the lovely Mr. & Mrs. Mohan

I'm at a loss for words...no seriously, I am NOT a writer :o) I wish I was at times like these. But instead, I'll just rely on pictures to do the talking for me.

On September 4th, 2010, it was my great privilege to capture this beautiful and elegant wedding that took place on the most perfect day that you could imagine.  Aside from feeling the warmth of the sun, it felt good to be surrounded by so much love for this amazing couple. 

Arun and Chelsea, just watching the both of you together and getting to hear everyone pour out their feelings for each one of you was so heartwarming to say the least. Thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of your very special day that everyone will remember for a very long time.

CBS News Image Video

This image is one of a couple images of mine that made the CBS News. Many other images from other very talented photographers have also made the news to promote the "Capture My Chicago" picture book.