Alison Paige Photography

Senior Session : Allison

2012-01-04T09:48:00.004-06:00

Oh boy, where to start with this one...

Allison is a very dear friend of mine and has also FINALLY graduated Texas Tech University as a "Super Super Senior." She decided she liked school so much, she'd take a few extra years to get her degree. :)

We spent an afternoon walking around campus, capturing all the landmarks and various facets of her personality. She's a quirky one!

She is also quite the artist and a sister at heart to me. I can only hope the future inspires her to push her art further to take her to exciting places that will inspire her more. Good luck, Allison.

Portrait Session : Emma

2011-11-08T09:42:00.004-06:00

Yesterday afternoon I had a fun time accompanying one of my photographer friends, Cranston Reid, on a shoot. While he was the main shooter, I grabbed a few images of my own. Emma was a blast to work with. Beautiful legs on this tiny dancer!

Portrait Session : Robert

2011-08-29T21:28:00.003-05:00

Robert and I had a great time on our quick photo session this afternoon. He and I go way back to high school theater and speech & debate. He's still actively pursuing acting and needed some new awesome head shots to accompany his auditions.

Such a great guy. I'm really excited about where life will take him down the road.

Here's a quick preview of how the session went. Enjoy!

Portrait Session : Vanna

2011-08-28T12:36:00.004-05:00

Collaborating with other photographers is always an exciting experience. I believe it is one of the ways a person can truly grow in their passion - by sharing ideas with others with a similar interest.

Vanna just graduated from Arlington High School and is looking forward to continuing her education in photography, earning a degree in Business and Marketing from the University of Texas in the future. For now, she'll be knocking out those basic classes at TCC (smart girl).

Here are a few of my favorite photos from our session together. Enjoy!

Senior Session : Lauren

2011-06-27T11:49:00.006-05:00

Lauren is such an amazing woman. She is graduating this August from Texas Tech University and I am so excited for her.

I know this sassy lady from swing dancing and when she first asked me to take pictures of her and her boyfriend, Brandon, for their Couple's Portraits I was more than thrilled. So how could I possibly have said no when she asked me to photograph her senior portraits too?

We had so much fun that afternoon and I wish the best to Lauren for her future.

Senior Session : Jessica

2011-04-25T13:43:00.006-05:00

Jessica, a fellow photographer and sweet friend of mine is graduating this May 2011 with a degree in Visual Communications. I am so happy for her! She is extremely involved in the community and has a heart of gold. There's not a mean bone in this girl at all!

Beautiful smile and amazing laugh, we joked and laughed the entire session. She really is amazing.

Congrats, Jessica!

Anniversary Session : Nathan and Erin

2011-04-24T19:51:00.005-05:00

I knew this was going to be an amazing photo session when Erin texted me as I drove from San Antonio to Lubbock asking if I could photograph her and her husband, Nathan, to celebrate their one year anniversary. Of course I would! I love this couple!

On top of it, they made a specific request that the session be Fun with a capital "F" and not romantic or lovey, but Fun. I believe we managed to have more than that! Of course, I warned them, they were allowing me to pull out every crazy idea out of my bag and they performed every idea without hesitation. I LOVED IT!

To start it off.... Nathan got pulled over driving Erin's vehicle for expired registration. The officer was nice though and didn't give Nathan a ticket - because Erin asked for it to be given to her! Crazy kids. LOVE THEM!

Fantastic session. Erin and Nathan are amazing. Hands down.

Senior Session : Eloralee

2011-04-20T16:07:00.005-05:00

Talk about one fantastic and sassy lady! This was one of the most unique senior sessions I've photographed yet! Eloralee is graduating this May and I am so excited for her. Everywhere she goes she's full of smiles and laughter. I love this girl.

We braved the chilly morning wind at the start and then found ourselves hauling butt across a field to flee from a love-stricken goose at the end!

Congratulations on graduating this May, Eloralee, you're destined to make a difference!

Senior Session : Garrett

2011-04-08T12:51:00.005-05:00

This past weekend I drove out to Arlington, TX to photograph Garrett, a senior at Martin High School graduating this June and attending the University of Texas Arlington in the fall. He wants to study physics and aerospace engineering, which I think is absolutely awesome! As his father warned me before I got in town, Garrett is a nerd, a true “computer geek” and spends most of his time playing computer games in his room. I knew the type (I’m dating one!) and I know the last thing Garrett wanted to do was sit/stand/jump/smile for the camera so I had to make the photoshoot fun for him. At the beginning of our session, he was shy, but as the day went on, he started to relax and have more fun and was a lot easier to work with. Ultimately, I had a lot of fun with Garrett and the photos definitely prove he enjoyed it too (despite what he may have originally thought about having his picture taken).

Here are my favorites!

Portrait Session: Jaclyn

2011-04-05T20:35:00.003-05:00

While I was in town this weekend my baby sister, Jaclyn, was too and we set out for an adventure Saturday morning to get some fun portraits of her. We had some good smiles along the way. She is so pretty too - so photogenic and easy to work with. I do love her.

Engagement Session: Marina and Brandon

2011-03-28T20:18:00.005-05:00

This was such an amazing photo session to be on. Marina and Brandon were so much fun to work with. They sought me out because of the recent photomerges I have done and they wanted one for their engagement. Of course, how could I say no?

Marina and Brandon live in San Antonio and found some gorgeous locations for us to visit around and in the Japanese Tea Gardens.

Wine enthusiasts and cat owners, artists and geeks, these two lovebirds are definitely not your ordinary couple - they are extraordinary! They were full of smiles and goofballs the entire time. It was difficult not to be happy around these two amazing people.

Congratulations to these two. They are so lucky to have found each other!

The Vagina Monologues 2011

2011-03-27T17:01:00.005-05:00

"The Vagina Monologues, created by Eve Ensler, is made up of a number of monologues read by various women. Every monologue somehow relates to the vagina, be it through sex, love, rape, menstruation, mutilation, masturbation, birth, orgasm, the variety of names for the vagina, or simply as a physical aspect of the body. A recurring theme is the vagina as a tool of female empowerment, and the ultimate embodiment of individuality." - The Vagina Monologues

On February 26th and March 5th The V-Day Lubbock Coalition put on an incredible performance of The Vagina Monologues, making this the 4th performance I have attended. My first year, back in 2008 I performed two monologues. In 2009 I performed two monologues and was an assistant producer. 2010 I photographed and this year, 2011, due to a miscommunication that ended up working in my favor, I was able to photograph this year's performance. It has only gotten better with each year as the audience gets bigger and the performances as well.

All proceeds went in support of Women's Protective Services and The Victims' Voice.

For further information, contact vdaylubbock@gmail.com

Now that you are a little more educated, here are a few of my favorite photos. To view the entire performance via photos, you can go HERE.

Amanda Evans - My Angry Vagina
Elizabeth McClary - The Little Coochi Snorcher That Could
Ginny Mahan - I Was There In The Room
Liz Onasanya - The Woman Who Loved To Make Vaginas Happy
Liz Onasanya and Marynka Marquez - The Woman Who Loved To Make Vaginas Happy
Karen Bone - Hair
Peggy Seeley - The Flood
Gloria Lerma - The Vagina Workshop
Jill Collier - Vagina Happy Fact
Felicia LaFuente - Because He Liked To Look At It

All of these women did a FANTASTIC job! If you haven't attended a performance before, put it on your bucket list.

Graduation Session - Valentin

2011-03-20T22:00:00.005-05:00

Val is such a great guy to be around and we ended up having a blast on the shoot that took us across the campus of Texas Tech University. He is graduating this May 2011 with a degree in Electrical Engineering and I just know from his personality he is going to go far in anything he pursues.

Here are some of my favorite shots from my afternoon with Val. Enjoy!

Couple Portraits: Lauren and Brandon

2011-02-24T22:51:00.005-06:00

Lauren and Brandon were so much fun this past weekend to photograph. I've known Lauren for a few years now because she is a fellow swing dancer but I had never met Brandon until the shoot. These two love-birds have been together since 2004 which is just incredible to me!

We headed out to Mackenzie Park and had a blast. On one photo I told them they had to trust me and do exactly as I said and I promised that it would turn out amazing. Guess what? It did.

These guys rocked their shoot and I was so happy to get to spend the afternoon with them, capturing their fun spirits.

Enjoy!

He just "Flew In" for a kiss. How sweet. ;)

Allison and Jeramy's Puppies

2011-02-21T01:54:00.004-06:00

Allison and Jeramy are blessed with four rambunctious children. Hera, Remington, Ordo and Athena. Remmy is the daddy and is full-blooded Australian Shepard. Hera, mommy, is half Australian Shepard, a quarter Labrador and a quarter Cattle Dog. You can do the math on Athena and Ordo, the offspring of the lovely couple.

While their energy level is through the roof, they are all very well behaved and they are all very sweet. "Kill with affection" as some may say.

Portrait Session: Reynolds Family

2011-02-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

I met the Reynolds family back in the fall of 2001 when I was in the 8th grade. I had just moved across the city and transferred schools. Again, the new kid. Sitting at lunch one day I offered this crazy-looking girl named Melissa a cookie and instantly we became best friends. We were inseparable, getting each other in trouble, getting in trouble together and making some truly remarkable memories together.

Countless nights we spent at each others houses and her family became an extension of my own. Steve and Daphne were so much fun during this shoot, especially when it came time for the family portrait and Steve pulled out a bottle of Gin. From everyone's reaction, it was clear they were all thinking the same thing: "Yes, this is my family." Proud grandparents of little baby, Michelle (who had just turned 6 months), Steve and Daphne have raised three very unique ladies.

Miranda, the youngest, was my princess who I mentored when I competed in the Miss Texas Scholarship Pageant and she sure is smart. She has the brain of an elephant - this girl never forgets a thing! I still don't know how she does it.

Brandy is the middle child cursed with the middle-child-syndrome, or "Black Sheep" of the family. Constantly rebelling, she's a hard-headed woman and now a new mama. She and her boyfriend brought a beautiful and healthy baby girl into this world who could not be more loved. Baby Michelle has three wonderful aunts (including me - I've already staked my claim) and is so energetic to eat, move and learn. I love this kid.

Melissa and I are very close in age (8 hours to be exact) and I know in my heart that she is one of those friends I'll keep for the rest of my life. Regardless of how much time passes between us talking, when we do reconnect, it is as though we were never apart. She is amazing, very strong-willed, passionate and loving.

I love this whole family.

The Reynolds Family. :)

Miranda
Michelle

Proud Parents

Daphne, Melissa, Miranda and Ray (Melissa's Fiancé)

Max and Odin

2011-02-10T22:37:00.003-06:00

Max Puckett II is a really awesome guy and what do awesome guys have? A really awesome dog. Odin is a 9 month old pit bull and is very smart - Max ( a trainer at Pets Mart ) has trained him well. Apparently pit bulls are not typically known to play fetch - they play keep-away quite well, but to retrieve a frizbee or stick is just not a natural behavior. This just proves how awesome Max is with training dogs because Odin enjoys playing fetch (with a little bit of keep-away).

These two were so much fun to hang out with at the park over by Max's place and it was quite obvious Odin was LOVING the extra attention.

Hunt's Cattle Dogs

2011-01-31T16:55:00.003-06:00

Spring semester of my Freshman year at Texas Tech I took an intro history course from an instructor who made the course fun and interesting. Being the person I am, I sat in the very front, asked question, talked to the professor and the students around me (yes, I am that kid). The instructor, Mr. Sanford Hunt, put up with me and later supported me on my pursuit for the Miss Texas Crown. While many students pass through a teacher's classroom, very few come back to visit (again, I am that person). Mr. Hunt made a real impression on me and has always been on my mind as one of those people I will never forget. Well, with today's age, what do you do with people you know? You Facebook them because "it's not official if it's not on Facebook."

After finding him, we exchanged e-mails and asked if I'd like to join him one morning during his walk to photograph his cattle dogs. Why not? Recently I have photographed quite a few puppies, I am quite comfortable around all canines, even domesticated wolves. And I genuinely love dogs - grew up around big dogs so size has never intimidated me. Just gotta show them who's boss. So today I met the family out in a field out on 110th and Milwaukee and walked around the pasture, photographing Mr. Hunt's dogs as they looked for rabbits and chased each other.

Here they are, Red, Kate, Smoke and Brown doing what they do best! They sure were showing off for me - probably not every day they get company on their morning run!

Oliver

2011-01-30T22:10:00.003-06:00

This weekend I went home for a dentist appointment and while I was there I got to know my family's new addition. Oliver. He's a four months old shepherd mix (I think he might have a bit of terrier in him. Jack Russel maybe?). Boy, does he have a funny personality. Not only did I get to know Ollie while I was in town, it was interesting seeing the shift in the hierarchy among all the animals. I'm sure next time I visit them, everything will be sorted out. My bet is on Cooper as Alpha. Murphy is just too skittish and besides, Cooper took charge of training Ollie how to be a Church dog.

Big stretch! Tough work being a puppy!

Colorado 2011

2011-01-23T22:18:00.005-06:00

What better way to start of the new year with a great note than with wonderful people and snowy slopes? For the second year in a row now I have been fortunate enough to tag along with my boyfriend's family to Colorado and face the Crusty Butt (Crested Butte). This year, however, I ventured away from the snowboard and stuck with skis and ended up having an absolute incredible time. I even tried to ski a Blue! (While I did eat it at one point down the Blue, I did manage to make it all the way down the trail and I survived the entire week with only one injury - the shape of a ski across my shin from when the mountain told me to cool off).

I didn't take many photos while I was there because I didn't want to risk taking my camera (I need a point-n-shoot (birthday present???) up on the slopes since I am a beginning skier. Maybe next year, when I'm more comfortable with my abilities to ski down a snowy slope.

Here are a few of my favorite photos from my time in Colorado. Enjoy!

I'm a little paparazzi to Sandy Mann :P

Scooby!
Mann Family Portrait - including Scooby (at full attention too!)

Family portrait at Crusted Butte

One of my many favorite views.

Church Family Portraits

2011-01-13T17:29:00.008-06:00

I may be a little behind in updating my blog.... eek! New New Years Resolution FOUND!

For Christmas I got my family to get all dressed up and excited about getting family portraits done. Robert, Jaclyn's boyfriend, was the honorary shutter snapper. "Just keep pushing that button," I told him. He did a good job and managed to get a lot of gems. Of course, my family is pretty crazy, but I'll let the photos tell that story on their own.

Portrait Session: Jaclyn & Robert

2010-12-23T12:32:00.002-06:00

My baby sister, Jaclyn, is in town for the holidays after spending her first semester at college. Kind of scary in my mind because to me she will always be my baby sister and never an adult. Well, maybe one day, but not yet. :)

She looked too cute the other day and so I asked to take her picture. After getting through her immediate protest, I snapped a few shots off, showed her what they were turning out to look like and when she saw how cute she really looked, she got all in it, dragging her cat, Kiki, and her boyfriend, Robert, into the shoot.

She's a lot of fun and I do love her.

This last one kind of has a Twilight: Edward and Bella sort of feel to it in my mind. But shhhh! Don't tell him that. ;)

Portrait Session: Lindsay

2010-12-22T13:08:00.003-06:00

My sister Lindsay is a crazy individual. One thing I love most about her is she has no limit to her love. Since graduating I think my sisters have a little more confidence in my photography and have become more willing models for me. I followed Lindsay around while she got her car inspected and then we went to the park and did a quick shoot there. Enjoy!

My Crazy Pets

2010-12-22T12:10:00.004-06:00

One of the perks of being home for the holidays is that I get to spend time with my wonderful pets. Each one has the most interesting personality! I want to dedicate this blog post to them.

This first picture is of Murphy. She is 8 years old, a mix between a Blue Heeler and Alaskan Husky/Wolf. Despite how much love she receives, she is a skittish dog. Very smart and very loving, she is terrified of wood floors and likes to eat her food in the living room. Recently she has gone through an allergic reaction to a flea bath and has picked off all the hair from her bottom and tail. It looks really sad. Though we know she is one of the happiest dogs in the world.

Kiki is Jaclyn's cat. 6 years old, she is very affectionate and when she lies down to rest, she'll straddle whatever she's sleeping on - be it a couch, a person's lap, or a pillow. She will come running when she hears someone whistle and if she really likes you, she'll give you kisses and then a love bite.

Now Cooper is a unique dog. He is a 2 year old mix between a German Sheppard and a Shar-Pei. We think he may have a bit of Labrador in him, but we love him regardless of what breeds he may be. He is a very smart dog and he sits so pretty and tall. Just like Murphy, he likes to eat in the living room too. He despises the mailman and is the first to announce anyone's presence outside the house.

Finally, there is Fat Kitty. Yes, that is her name. She is about 5 years old and she adopted us. She came to us when Jaclyn started leaving food out for her. She was pregnant and graced us with a litter of kittens after being with us for just a few weeks. It wasn't until we got her spayed that her personality changed from pure evil to moody and temperamental. She only wants to be loved on when she's in the mood and she will let you know when she wants to be pet. She'll come right up to you and interrupt whatever you doing and demand attention. After she's had enough, she'll run off hissing. Strange cat.

Yes, these are my pets. As crazy as they are, I do love them.

Portraits: Clay

2010-12-11T22:43:00.000-06:00

I moved to Texas in 1999 and started my 6th grade year at Wimbish Elementary where I made new friends, new enemies and found a new identity. Clay was one of the good guys, one of the friends I kept when we went to junior high. While we only really knew each other for 2 years of public schooling, we saw each other occasionally in high school at speech tournaments and then found each other again through Facebook. A healthy dose of Facebook stalking ensued on both sides.

When Clay heard I was in the Metroplex, he sent me a message begging for some awesome photos from me. How could I say no? We met up and walked around the Highlands, and surprisingly, for a guy who has never had a portrait session before, he was a very cooperative model.

It was wonderful getting to catch up with Clay. Here are some of my favorite shots from the afternoon.

Portraits: MJ and Mason

2010-12-11T21:41:00.000-06:00

Going up to the Parks Mall with Mason and his daughter MJ was an absolute adventure! It all started with me going through my portfolio and seeing there was an absence of photographs of children. One thing that made this such a great experience was that MJ knew me and was already at ease with me and when I lifted up my camera to take her picture, she went into full "diva" mode. Hand on hip. Big smile. "Aren't I fashionable!" she asked in statement form. Oh I don't think there was a moment I wasn't smiling around her. She is so smart and so sassy.

"Isn't daddy handsome?" Yes, MJ, he sure is.
"Don't I just look like a princess?" Yes, MJ. You are a beautiful princess.

Earlier I mentioned the sass.... ^^^
In this photo, I asked her to pose and after she turned around to face me, she put up her finger and told me I was allowed "one picture only." Okay. One picture. She was the boss.

As we were leaving the mall to go to a park, MJ put on a small show, dancing across the floor with a flurry of poses, twirls, spins, and a bucket full of smiles and laughter.

"Hey, MJ, can you go stand by that pole, under the sign?"
"Yeah!" she exclaims and goes and runs under the sign, looks at it and then grabs it. Of the photos from this spot, this was the absolute best. She loved to have her picture taken, but when she was done, she was done and it was off to the next spot, and the next adventure!

Gibson Ranch Dugout

2010-11-30T21:40:00.001-06:00

I have never been to a cowboy dugout before. Just so happens, they don't all look like this. Most of them are dug into the side of a hill or mountain and are pretty rough-looking. This one, on Mike Gibson's ranch is the Taj Mahal of all cowboy dugouts. It was such a wonderful opportunity to get to see such beautiful country and be in the company I was in.

While we waited for everyone to get back to the dugout, Sylinda and I got dinner together. Once it was on the fire, the sun was absolutely perfect in the sky, so I grabbed my camera and took a few shots around the dugout of the beautiful country that surrounded us. Breathtaking.

These last two shots are of the dugout itself. ISO 800, f-8, 30 seconds.

Photo Expedition and the Rattlesnake

2010-11-29T22:55:00.001-06:00

The Badlands Wildlife Expedition put on by Wyman Meinzer allows people to come into Wyman's backyard, which includes several surrounding ranches, and photograph some of the most beautiful country in West Texas. They experience true untamed wildlife - bobcats, coyotes, and rattlesnakes - and learn how to call in the predators. It is an absolutely incredible experience, one I encourage anyone who has the time to go on. It is open to photographers and non-photographers alike. Wyman will not only teach you about photography and present you with incredible opportunities, but he will allow you to see beauties of life many often pass by without realization or notice.

A few members of the expedition were a bit wary when it came to photographing the rattlesnake, but Wyman's constant and patient encouragement, allowed the fear to slip away and some amazing photographs to be made. It was such a thrilling opportunity to witness this. On the Junction adventure, I had my first opportunity to be face-to-face with a rattlesnake and now I feel like an old pro at it. It is an understanding between photographer and snake. No quick movements. Relax. Breathe. Be patient. Standing on the side and watching Wyman work with and encourage and advise these groups of people as they approached the snake with their preconceived ideas and hesitations was absolutely thrilling. I don't think there was a moment I was not smiling.

This post is a combination of the first two expeditions put on by Wyman and the people who helped make them so memorable.

Rescue of Sweet Delilah

2010-11-09T23:13:00.000-06:00

Delilah is the sweetest little puppy I have ever met. She is only a few months old, is a pit/lab mix and was in need of a new home. This mix of dog means she will be very loyal, protective and a great family pet. I rescued her but couldn't keep her because of the wolves here at the Meinzer's and my family couldn't take her because they aren't ready for a new addition so soon after the loss of our old dog, Cricket.

Luckily for her, we found her a home with little Triston and Addi. Brittany came over to do some work for school and Delilah played with Triston (4) and Addie (2) and was great with them. She let them be rough with her and didn't fight or bark the whole time.

One thing I loved about getting to keep her for two days was that in the morning, when I stepped out of the shower, she was there, greeting me with kisses on my toes and my knees.

I'm happy she's with Triston and Addi. They're going to take such good care of her and she's going to be such a good dog for them. While I had her, I couldn't help but do a little photoshoot with her. Enjoy.

It's Petey and the Box

2010-11-06T18:34:00.000-05:00

Petey is a winner of a cat. He is affectionate, playful, vocal and extremely loyal. He used to live with Triston and Addi as their pet, but he found a new home with Wyman and Sylinda. He’s been loved on greatly since his arrival.

The other day, the kids were over and it was my responsibility to watch them. I love Triston and Addison and every day I spend with them, I get another glimpse at unconditional love, get to experience moments so tender it makes the heart swell, and learn something new about their personalities and my own.

Trison has become my little model and Addi is warming up to the idea as well. When I go to take their picture they get all excited and throw me a few looks, move into a few poses and then come running over to see the image on my camera. They want to look through the camera, trying to see what I see and it is precious to watch their curious eyes and hands explore what their minds want to know more of.

This afternoon, Trison and Addi showed me their playfully evil side as they tormented Petey. They put him in a box, moved the box, carried the box, shook the box, and opened and closed the lid of the box all while laughing with joy. Now, the big heart of mine wanted to come to Petey’s rescue (again) but had I done so, I wouldn’t be blogging about it now. Instead, I sat back and documented Petey’s new experience with Triston and Addi. I’m sure he’ll never look at a box the same way again.

Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering

2010-10-26T20:38:00.000-05:00

This past weekend I went to the Fort Worth Stockyards for the Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering and Trade show. Santa Fe on the Brazos had it's own booth to sell store items and promote Wyman's new book - Under One Fence: The Waggoner Ranch Legacy.

Sylinda and I had an amazing time meeting new people, dancing and having some pretty delicious meals. We stayed in the Stockyards Hotel, which was only a minute walk from the rodeo, the dance and the barn where the trade show was held.

During the low-traffic time, I had my camera out and took photos of the people who would walk by. Some, I had incredible conversations with, and some never even noticed I even had my camera out. Here are just a few that I adore from this weekend.

Wonderful World of Etsy

2010-10-20T18:13:00.000-05:00

I just bought a ring on Etsy from Vintage and Glam Jewlery and I absolutely LOVE it. :) I was looking for a ring that was flat and wouldn't knock into anything and also let me show off a bit of personality. Sure enough, Etsy had it. The artist who designed this ring was also fabulous to talk to and to show my appreciation, I took a few photos and came up with this! Sent it to her with some very positive feedback. I love that about the website, it allows you to put up "Appreciation Photos" of the gift you purchased to the seller.

I uploaded a post to my 365 Project but since then have decided to take a few more appreciation photos. Here I'm dedicating a post to my new favorite piece of jewelery. I absolutely LOVE this ring.

My Beautiful Mother

2010-10-12T22:48:00.000-05:00

This is my beautiful mother. Kathy Alison Wallace Church. She has been so much more to a mother to me, she is my best friend and I feel so lucky to have such a strong and intelligent role model in my life.

This weekend she came up to visit me in Benjamin, TX. We were lazy mostly, sipping our coffee out on the veranda watching the cats strut by and the wolves chew on a pig. Monday afternoon, we had some clouds overhead and so she and I walked around and I took pictures of her. She asked for only one good photo out of one hundred images. Well, I definitely have a favorite of them all, but there are others I consider the best too. Here are the rest of my favorites.

I love you, mama!

Triston's 4th Birthday Party

2010-09-25T13:03:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday, Triston!

Triston's 4th birthday was September 19th and he celebrated it with his family on his mother's side. It was precious. I was the one asked to take photos and I did so gladly. I managed to capture some pretty special moments and had a pretty good time while I was there as well.
Here are some of my favorite images from the party. Enjoy!

The afternoon began with a game of Marshmallows on a Toothpick. It was cute and they seemed to really enjoy the game, so who can argue against that?

Little Addi and her friend were cruising around the yard in their Barbie jeep. Addi is going to be the next racecar champion!
Now it's time to open up all the presents! Triston was so excited about every gift he had, and it was wonderful to catch his reaction too.
Then it was time for his "Big" gift from mom and dad - a brand new bike! He's a little short for it but he's going to be growing, so it is perfect for him.
Trison strongly believes that age comes with the extinguising of the birthday candles. Until he did that, he was still three-years old. Once he blew out the candles though, he was a very happy, proud four-year old. Wyman had birthday cake duty which meant I was able to put my camera down for this, but when I saw this moment, I couldn't resist.
After cake, a few of the kids were wired on the sugar like little Addie as she prepares to go down the slide.
A few other kids after the cake went through a sugar crash.
Hopefully this is a birthday Triston remembers. I don't remember much about my early birthdays, but I know they were happy and that's what's really important.

Wyman's Roadrunner Friend

2010-08-29T23:47:00.000-05:00

This afternoon Sylinda, Wyman and I loaded up into the truck, grabbed a pizza and some drinks and headed out to he ranch Wyman grew up on. There was a roadrunner family who had made their nest in one of the pieces of machinery and the Daddy was quite comfortable with letting Wyman get close to him - so close Wyman could tickle his tummy if he moved easy enough.

It was a wonderful opportunity to take part in. I chose to expose for the nest and the roadrunner, so I left the rest of the image to chance in exposure. Luckily for me they didn't turn out too bad. I'm happy with how this storyline of images turned out.

Here is Daddy Roadrunner sitting on his five chicks.

Wyman slowly approaching the nest with a grasshopper he shot with a BB Gun.

Wyman showing Daddy Roadrunner the grasshopper and offering it to him.

Daddy Roadrunner gobbling up the grasshopper Wyman handed to him.

Hot Rhythm Nights at Sons of Herman Hall

2010-08-18T16:55:00.000-05:00

Every Thursday night in Dallas at the Sons of Hermann Hall you can find a good group of people who like to call themselves swing dancers having fun on the dance floor. One of the Bal Bugs asked me to photograph the dance to help advertise the weekly dances. As a swing dancer, it gave me an edge because I was able to predict where the swing outs would be, the direction of travel and turns. I also knew a good handful of the dancers and occasionally put my camera down to share a song with a lead or two. I really enjoyed my evening at Sons. They had a beginning Balboa lesson and afterward a dance that lasted until people felt like leaving. I got out of there around midnight but some nights you can expect the party to continue well into the next morning.

If you love Balboa and are in the Dallas area, you can find their Facebook group HERE or search Bal Bugs.
You can find their Facebook group for the dances HERE.

Here are a few of my favorite shots from the lesson and the dance.

Couple Portraits: Kim & Pete

2010-08-18T10:50:00.000-05:00

As I said in my Sneak Peek at Kim&Pete, these two are so much fun to be around. Now what was supposed to be a fun adventure in the park riding bikes ended up becoming a fun adventure at Joyland. I honestly had a blast. It was my last night in Lubbock and what better way to spend it than doing what I love?

I teased you with a sneak peak. Here's the read deal - my favorites from the shoot. Enjoy!

Sneak Peek at Kim & Pete!

2010-08-10T21:34:00.000-05:00

These two are so much fun to be around. When you are with them, whatever you had planned, just toss out the window cause they're going to reinvent your afternoon. This is exactly what happened for our shoot. We were supposed to go to a park and I was going to chase them around with my camera while they prettily rode on their bikes and made lovey-dovey faces at one another. "Meet me in front of Joyland" turned into "Let's go to Joyland."

The only other time I have ever brought a camera onto a roller coaster was two years ago when I went to the South Plains Fair. Yes, should have learned my lesson there, right? Wrong. Even after the epic bruises across my thighs and forearms I made from pressing myself as hard as I could against the restraints of the ride for fear of losing my camera, I just had to say, yes, let's do this again. (For the record, the bruises are totally worth it, as long as you keep that death-grip on your camera, you'll be good.)

Here's a sneak peek at what I managed to capture of the incredible Kim and Pete.

Levelland Rain

2010-07-03T23:33:00.000-05:00

Lubbock has received quite a bit of rain and of course, the city floods and people suddenly forget how to drive. Being one of the more cautious drivers on the road, I wait for all the cars to pass before I drive circles on the highway to get the perfect angle on the shot. ;)

Tonight I was in the back of Justin's car to keep out of the rain with the window rolled down and shooting out into the night. Unfortunately I wasn't able to get to the storm as it broke before sundown, so I was stuck shooting in the storm. Joy.

Sun Spider

2010-06-24T21:19:00.000-05:00

So the other day as I was getting ready to start studying for my Poetry class I came face-to-face with the ugliest, weirdest looking spider I had ever seen. I had no idea what to call it because from what I could see, it had 10 legs.

I later learned, after extensive Google-ing that it was a Sun spider. Harmless to man, these things can get up to 2 inches long. The one I found was only half an inch. Apparently the Sun spider has no poison to catch its prey, but they do have some of the strongest set of pincher of the arachnid family.

Upon catching the spider in a glass, I observed him race the edges with furious speed! He was so cool to look at! My first thought - "I have to photograph him." There was no way I was going to be able to with him running around like Speedy Gonzales though and he definitely wouldn't sit still and pretty on his own with my camera right in his face for me to photograph him. What was my solution? Death. I put the glass he was running circles in into the freezer, where he quickly fell asleep in a position that would be perfect for me to shoot.

And I did, a few days later I was in the mood, set up my camera and posed my little arachnid friend on top of his glass chamber. After 20 minutes he began to get soft and glisten so it was time to call it quits then. Good thing I managed to get some really great shots of him before he retired to the trashcan.

Enjoy.

Junction Final Thoughts

2010-06-06T10:34:00.000-05:00

Junction was an absolutely incredible experience. I feel incredibly lucky to have had this opportunity to see so much of Texas that I would not be able to see without being a part of the Junction Group. Towards the end of the trip, as excited as I was to see the next place we were to photograph, I was ready to sleep in my own bed, spend time by myself, and spend a day doing whatever I wanted.

With that said, my last post, I feel the need to clarify and articulate a bit on.

"Junction was an incredible experience for me. While I do not feel I learned anything as a photographer, I did get to see some incredible things and meet some pretty amazing people. I learned a lot about myself though. I'm not as hesitant about crossing a river, or swimming in a pond, or walking through thorny brush. Before Junction, I didn't even realize I had those hesitations."

Reading back on that, I sound like a total assface. Finishing the Junction experience, I was overwhelmed from the amount and level of photography that was expected of me. Now that more that a week has passed since the class ended, I can objectively look at my experience and say yes, I learned so much about photography. And, I'm not just saying that.

On Friday I went up to Armadillo Camera to pick up 13 rolls of film. I sat down at the light table, peered through a loop at about 500 slides. I threw away about half of those. Looking at the slides, I saw the progress through my trip, I saw what I need to still work on, and I saw again the beauty and magic of the trip.

1. My first day at Junction, I was terrified to screw up my film. While I shot digital and film the entire trip, the first couple of days I was so reliant on getting the exposure correct first with my digital and then shoot with my film. By the end of the class, I was shooting confidently with my film without the assistance of my digital. Going through the photos, the exposure was spot on and there was less bracketing in the slides as well from the beginning to the end.

2. My biggest issue was camera/subject movement. Granted, we didn't have many wind-free days, but one aspect of my photography that I still need to work on is patience. I know that will only come with time. In Junction I was just so excited, so anxious to get that shot, I wouldn't wait for the wind to slow, or my tripod wouldn't be as stable as I could have put it. Bugs are also hard to shoot. I shot a lot of pointless images of beetles on petals that I should have ignored altogether because beetles don't stay still. Butterflies and caterpillars and spiders do, but not beetles, especially ladybugs.

3. When I took Wyman's Special Problems class in the Fall of 2009, I threw away so many slides. In a 36 exposure roll, I probably had 2 really good images. I thought that was a great ratio. After Junction, and after looking at all of my film, I can see how much I have grown. In a roll of 36 I kept probably 15-20 shots and of those, 5 were great images.

4. I learned how to identify a good subject to photograph, and it truly showed in my film. I have so many subjects and points of interest. I moved around so much, constantly looking. Once I knew I had my shot, I moved on, I didn't linger. I found a new subject and once I got my shot, I moved on, again and again and again.

5. Velvia Film. In the Special Problems class I don't think I truly appreciated the film as I do now. Then again, I was shooting "Contrast of the Llano Esticado" in Lubbock, not the entire southwest of Texas. I can't get the color from Mason Mountain out of my head, how right after the storm the sky just opened up and the ground was rich with water and color. The color... I just can't get over it. I don't think I will ever find something so beautiful again in my life, but I won't give up the search to prove that statement wrong.

6. I learned exactly what it takes to get that perfect shot. I was on my hands and knees, my belly, chest deep in water, straddling cactus, and so many more, but after looking at the shots I got from the positions I put myself in - it was worth it. It was completely worth it.

So, I correct myself in my previous post. I did learn a ton about photography, unfortunately for me, I couldn't say what it was until I had seen the product of my efforts - my film. God, I can't wait to scan the images. I can't wait to show YOU what I have been talking about this entire time. If you are in any way interested in photography, Junction is definitely the class to take.

Junction Day 15

2010-05-29T13:57:00.000-05:00

The last morning together, we all head out to the flower farm. We have had such great weather for flower photography because there was barely a breath of wind out there. The flowers were gorgeous as well. There was an abundance of wildflowers, grouped together, which made for incredible wide angle shots and macro.

We ate cereal and then headed back to campus. When we got back, we showed our best 10 images to Wyman, who was very critical on all the shots. I love hearing real critique of my work from someone who know what they are doing, because then I can improve and further my photography.

After packing and loading all of my stuff into Erin's car we headed out to La Familia to have our last lunch together. It was OK. Honestely, I am burnt out on mexican food from this trip. It was delicious the first go around, but by now my stomach just wants something else.

The five hour car ride back with Erin goes surprisingly fast. I keep her entertained with stories and by holding iPod duty. Jason and little Erin follow us the entire way, little Erin making her way to Amarillo. When we get to Lubbock, we head straight for Armadillo Camera. The whole film thing got screwed up so we dropped off our film to be processed there. Sometime next week I'll go pick up all of my slides and so I'm guessing next weekend I'll just have a field day bent over a light board.

Junction was an incredible experience for me. While I do not feel I learned anything as a photographer, I did get to see some incredible things and meet some pretty amazing people. I learned a lot about myself though. I'm not as hesitant about crossing a river, or swimming in a pond, or walking through thorny brush. Before Junction, I didn't even realize I had those hesitations.

Next year, I think I'll definitely stop by for the next Junction group.

Texas Tech, thank you for allowing me this opportunity. It has been fantastic!

A. Lubbock
B. Junction
C. Del Rio
D. Langtry
E. Sonora
F. Sheffield
G. Fredericksburg
H. Utopia

Junction Day 14

2010-05-27T00:14:00.001-05:00

I like waking up early and getting a lot done in a day because then I feel productive and my life has meaning. This morning, I did not want to wake up. We left at 6:00 a.m. Nick was passed out and I had to call him to get him to the van in time before we left him. I am amazed by how hard this boy sleeps. You can move him around and touch him, yell at him and get no response. That's why you have to be mean with him, rough him up a bit and then he'll wake up and get moving.

I finished my book on the way to Mason Mountain. Good read, unfortunately I unknowingly picked up the second book in a trilogy, however it's kind of like Angels and Demons and the Da Vinci Code, you can read them in whatever order you like and you still get the idea of what's going on.

When we arrived, the place was just gorgeous. All the rain we had received the past couple of days had made the flowers just bloom like crazy! I think I got some pretty incredible macro shots from it.

One problem we have run into is the bus system with film delivery. One box of film with 60 rolls was apparently just chilling in a back room of a bus station in San Antonio. That means, I'll have a lot of film to pick up in Lubbock, and a lot of film to drop off in Lubbock because it's just been crazy trying to track that one box down. It sucks. However, Armadillo Camera is going to honor the processing purchase made and I can either use the rest as store credit for camera equipment or as processing. Since I have 7 rolls of film left from the original 25, I think I'm just going to shoot as much as I can in the morning and after until Lynsey wants her camera gear back.

Breakfast of cereal and granola bars, our usual meal when we head out early in the morning filled up my tummy and really got me in the mood to shoot. I was in more of an exploring mood since this was the 3rd visit and I wanted to see what was beyond the roads I had already traveled. I found so many cool things to shoot. I've really pumped up the amount I shoot and the variety of subject matter. I find little things everywhere and I have fallen more in love with photography with each day.

After we got back to campus, we had lunch of catfish, popcorn shrimp, cornbread and black beans. I didn't get the beans, didn't look tasty to me and the cornbread was dry, but damn those popcorn shrimp tasted tasty dipped in ketchup.

Earl Nottingham, photographer for Texas Parks and Wildlife and good friend of Wyman spoke to the class after lunch and what he had to say was pretty information. More about the business aspect of photography. He really stressed marketing yourself. Well, now that I have me a fancy logo I can do just that!

As soon as he finished speaking to the class, we filled out evaluations and then filed out to take a nap. Oh that nap felt so good too! It was either shower or take a nap and I think I chose well this time.

We left at 4:00 p.m. and headed to Utopia, Tx where the Sabinal River ran through. Absolutely beautiful. We first stopped at the Jones Cemetary and then headed to the river. The water was cold but the imagery was incredible. I feel so lucky to have had this experience.

We got back to campus at 11:30 p.m. and first thing I did was take that shower. Oh blessed shower! After all the water I've been walking through and tall grass the cuts on my legs have just been itchy. Another thing that really irritates the cuts too is those damn biting gnats! They just really piss me off - always flying into my ear or my eyes. I was about ready to slap someone from the frustration. The gnats are probably the biggest reason I am ready to go back to Lubbock.

Wake up early again tomorrow for our last shoot as a class. We're going out to the flower fields and leaving at 6:45 a.m. I just know it's going to be gorgeous.

Junction Day 13

2010-05-25T23:33:00.000-05:00

I am so ready to fall asleep and wake up in my own bed. At 8:00 a.m. Dave made rounds of waking everyone up. I was already awake though, having woken up with every toss and turn there was. All I had to keep me warm at night was my jacket and to sleep on was a bouncy mattress and a musty pillow. Not fun, but it was much better than sleeping in the van. I was glad to wake up and get out of there.

We had breakfast at a Mexican restaurant in Mason, Tx on our way back to Junction. I didn't have my wallet because I wasn't expecting to have a sleepover at Mason Mountain. Derek was kind enough to buy me a coffee and some toast. Good thing I'm not a big breakfast kind of person, that kept me fueled for a while.

We got back to campus and I was all ready for a nap, getting ready to blog about my adventures when not 20 minutes after getting to campus, Wyman rushes over, pounding on our door to exclaim that there is a flash flood headed down the Llano river and it's a "Once in a lifetime opportunity" and we need to get up and shoot it. My first reaction is "Shit." My second reaction grew on me and then became overwhelming when I put my shoes back on and grabbed my gear and we were all speeding out of campus like a bat out of hell to catch up with this flood as it barreled down the Llano.

The flood was moving at approximately 2 mph but it was about 10 feet of water. HOLY COW! I had never seen water rise so quickly and so much water! We started off at the crossing by campus, waited an hour, went to get lunch at Sonic, came back, decided to chase it upriver, missed it, and drove back down to campus, waited another hour and then it happened! It began to rain. Again. And not just a little rain, no a heck of a lot or rain was just dumped on us. But then.....The water slowly began to rise and then it got dark and muddy, and suddenly the water was over the bridge, bringing with it all kinds of debris. We got the heck out of dodge fast and then drove as fast as we could up to 377 Falls.

We were a few miles ahead of the flood so we had plenty of time to scout out the area. There was a break in the sky and the sun stuck out like a sore thumb, scorching all of us. It was welcome and so nice, and since we had plenty of time, Jason, Nicole and I went swimming in the river. I was tired of smelling myself (2 days or hiking/river frolicking/everything) and I was hot from the sun. Lucky me, I had my swimsuit on. After a mini photoshoot with photographer Nick, we had about enough of swimming and all got out. Just then...... the water began to rise.

FLASH FLOOD. We weren't there shooting but for 20 minutes and the water rose about 6 feet. the place I was swimming you couldn't see anymore. But with the dark clouds, everything was so perfectly exposed. I'm sad I didn't shoot that film, but running through cactus and thorny brush really was making my bare legs angry and torn up. The shots turned out gorgeous though, and the flood was totally worth chasing.

We get back to campus at 5:00 p.m., just in time for dinner at 5:30 p.m. so I grab a shower. Best shower ever! After all that running around I was starving too. I got a full plate and an apple and finished it all. Chicken breast, rice, vegetables. YUM! It was so delicious.

At 6:30 p.m. we headed out to Fort Mckavitt to paint the old buildings. The place was absolutely amazing. So much history. Wyman filled me in on a bit of it and it was just fascinating. I want to learn more about it.

When the sun was going down, this gorgeous ray of light hit the run down fort and with the dark storm clouds behind it, it was breathtaking. How amazing that our luck on shoots has just turned around! Good timing too! Especially since we're almost done with the class.

I'm sad it's almost over, but at the same time, I'm ready to do things my way when I want, how I want and whatever I want. I miss my friends. I miss my sweet boi. Thursday evening I'll be back in Lubbock. I am going to miss the beauty of this place though. Never could I again be so lucky to be with the people I have been with for the past 13 days and learn as much as I have.

Junction Day 12

2010-05-24T13:35:00.000-05:00

Last night when I finished blogging and finally went to bed it was about 1:00 a.m. I didn't fall asleep until probably 1:45 a.m. because of people snoring! I swear it was like an elementary school orchestra was warming up in a hallway.

I woke up at 5:50 a.m. and threw on pants and headed out into the world! The world was dark and windy and nobody but the photo and video class was awake.

We drove down to the Llano River to photograph a part of it. The place we walked through was just covered in fuzzy caterpillars. It was incredible. I must have killed a dozen just walking through. Also, tons of wolf spiders and ants and biting gnats. The biting gnats are what drive me crazy the most. They fly in your ears, eyes and try to get up your nose and they bite every cut and bruise on your skin. F***ers. I did get some pretty sweet macro shots from this morning.

Lunch was at noon but I slept right through it. Instead I got lunch with Jessica at McDonalds. $3.19 for a hamburger and large fries isn't a bad deal and it's a cheap lunch.

At 4:00 we met up again to head out to Mason Mountain again. I love that place. The very first time we went there I was in awe of how beautiful that place was. The color just jumps at you! Especially in Velvia film. God, that film looked incredible.

Unfortunately, against the suggestions from most of the photo class and radar weather warnings, when we got there it was raining and it was thought best to "wait it out." It was not just raining, it was pouring water from the sky. God was pissing on our photoshoot.

After sitting in the van for an hour Wyman decided he had had enough and we should go back to campus. Unfortunately a river/creek crossing was way too high from the water. So, we tried to wait it out.... for two whole hours. We have dinner of sandwiches in the van, I almost finish reading my book, and we contemplated playing "Chubby Bunny" with marshmallows.

A nice couple ends up behind us, Sue and Keith, and we decide after watching the water rise over the crossing (Brent sacrificed himself for the greater good to test the water, his conclusion "waist deep"). We all turn around and head back on up to the Wildlife Nature Conservancy to lodge up for the night. The good people who live there and work there let us stay due to the weather. Good news - plenty of beds.

As the rain continues to pour and as it gets later into the night, people pass the time by playing poker, watching TV, reading books, and drinking. I chose to read my book. The Memorist by M.J. Rose. Quite exciting, kind of like Da Vinci Code. I bunk up on top bunk in room 2 around 11:00 p.m. Derek grabs bottom bunk, and then two couples come in to share the other bunk. Boy was that a joy to fall asleep to. I know a lot about them now...

I'm just ready to sleep in my own bed again. Also, sad news, I only shot film today, so I have no photos to post. Tomorrow! If weather permits.

Junction Day 11

2010-05-23T14:40:00.000-05:00

Sleeping in has just been fantastic.

I woke up on my own at 8:00 a.m. and cursed myself. There was no way, I wanted more sleep! MORE! So, I turned over and laid back down, waking up around noon to begin my morning routine and blogging update.

It has felt so good to have a lazy day. Since I have decided not to go out and do anything and I chose to skip breakfast and lunch, I've devoured 5 Chewy bars and a Gatorade. So good and satisfying.

At 4:00 p.m. we left for Wild Bills. Bringing sandwiches for dinner, we loaded up our gear and headed on our way.Unfortunately Wild Bill wasn't there. He had been in San Antonio for a trip, but his place, right off the Llano River was in Fredricksburg, another location to add to the map.

We ate lunch and then headed down to the rocks. Boy were they slippery too! I almost ate it a couple of times trying to cross the river, but my camera stayed dry and I shot almost 3 rolls. Just absolutely gorgeous down there!

Once the sun went down everyone pulled out the liquor and beer and began to try to get drunk. I went out with Brittany, Dave, Jerod and Derek to the river to shoot some long exposures. The moon was so bright a 30" at ISO 400 at 3.5 was perfect. I grabbed a few other shots of silhouettes but the moon was so bright and there were so many clouds - no star tracks tonight.

We wake up early tomorrow. Leaving for 377 Falls or the Llano River again at 6:15 a.m.

Junction Day 10

2010-05-23T13:57:00.001-05:00

We weren't able to go out and shoot because the sky was miserable looking and it was too windy to shoot macro, so instead we packed up, loaded the van and truck and then proceeded to clean the crap out of the Bunkhouse.

Around 10:00 a.m. we left for Sonora to have Lunch at Pizza Hut. The service was terrible because the waitress was biased to the men in our group. Also, three orders were not processed. I think she was overwhelmed by 18 people coming in to sit down, but honestly, I've been a waitress and it's really not that difficult to get an order right when you're writing it all down.

We drop off our film - about 70 rolls and head off back to Junction. Lucas and I get to ride in Wyman's truck on this drive and it is so much fun. He has some crazy stories.

When we get back to Junction campus we have film waiting for us to go through. I have 4 rolls and I dig right in. I absolutely love the color Velvia film gives images. Just breathtaking and boy did I get some good shots!

After dinner at Lums BBQ we head on out to the Llano river, basically the same place we shot the cattle branding and head on over to the rapids to shoot. I suppose this group is better than most years because with all the warnings we have been given, we really haven't had any problems at all. Nobody got bit by assassin bugs, nobody has fallen into the river yet and nobody had become injured. We are awesome!

The river was gorgeous. I felt like I had really been missing out on one-on-one Wyman time so I chose to follow him around. I was surveying the land when he came up to me and pointed to a spot on the other side of some rocks. Getting there was the tricky part but we made it, having to wade in a bit of water and jump across to some rocks. The site was gorgeous. I set up a shot and he checked it out, offering some words of advice and then we'd switch off and he'd photograph the site.

We tried to get some good shots after the sun went down but the clouds we were all hoping would turn pink and purple, turned gray. Stupid clouds. We packed up fast so we could get across the river before dark. Again, everybody survived.

Last night was the party night. Tonight, however was the lull. The group tried to get in high spirits but most of us just wanted to go to bed. We got back to campus around 11:30 p.m. and I quickly fell asleep. Wyman gave all of us the OK to sleep in. Thank goodness. As much as I love waking up early and getting as much done as possible, I do love that moment of peace and quiet of having nothing to do.

If you are interested in knowing exactly where I have been..... here's a silly map. Forgive me, I don't know how to screen print to save an image and so I just took a picture of it, but you get the idea.
A - Lubbock - Texas Tech
B - Junction - Campus
C - Del Rio - Near Dolan Falls
D - Langtry - Jack Skiles and his mummy
E - Sonora - Drop off film and eat Pizza Hut
F - Sheffield - Near Independence Creek

Junction Day 9

2010-05-23T13:36:00.000-05:00

I can’t believe this is actually a class. We shoot in the morning. We shoot in the evening. Other than that, we are left with the day to do as we please. Most people take naps, others entertain themselves with friendly conversations or catching up on television shows.

Today when we woke up, there was such excitement in the air. Western Diamondback Rattlesnake. Everyone was thinking it – the subject of our morning shoot. We all piled into the back of the truck and in the van and headed up to the top of the summit to shoot the rattlesnake on the rocks. Unfortunately, he was an old guy and not easily pissed off, so we didn’t have a very “action-packed” shoot, but still one that was exciting. I wasn’t scared at all. The entire time I moved closer to get a tight shot with my film camera I kept thinking about my mother and how freaked out she would be if she could see me then. I was two feet away from a venomous reptile, protected only by the glass of the lens.

After getting back to the Bunkhouse, Brittany and I watched a couple episodes of Big Bang Theory before taking a short nap. I woke up to the smell of Wyman’s cooking. Sausages, corn, baked beans, and pickles. My tummy has had such a smorgasbord of deliciousness this trip. I feel so spoiled with goodness. When I go back home I’m definitely going to have to learn how to cook.

I headed out to the dock after noon and got in as many jumps and dives as possible. The water felt incredible. I really worked on my dives, specifically the back dive. Once everyone else arrived, my heart was pounding hard in my chest and I was ready to annoy the crap out of someone. When Nick got to the dock we proceeded to push each other into the pond every chance we got. Dave, Matt and Nicole joined in too and it became “watch your back or your ass will get pushed in.” I haven’t tasted a summer like this since I was little. I love it and it’s a feeling I didn’t know I have missed since now.

Tomorrow afternoon we leave Independence Creek to get back to Junction. I’m going to miss this place because it is absolutely gorgeous.

Dinner of pork chops and leftover lunch was tasty and satisfying. During lunch Jessica had made some of her chocolate chip cookies made from scratch. They got gobbled up quickly because they were so tasty! Afterwards we set up for our Class Photo. It was epic. We had to top last year’s photo so this year, with the inspiration and guidance of Derek, we had a “Last Supper” meets “Beer Pong” meets “Photography and Videography.” All the ladies gathered around Dave who sat at the middle of a picnic table. On each end of the table was a setup of red party cups and all around on the grass were empty beer cans and beer bottles. Nicole and Lucas were the losers at one end and Wyman and Jerod were the winners at the other. Matt was the crazy nudist running around in the background. One shot he’s hanging from a tree, in another he’s standing on a log. Thankfully all we see is his backside.

The wind was pretty terrible tonight so we didn’t really have a good opportunity to go out and shoot, so we stayed in. As soon as the sun went down, the party started. A game of beer pong made people get loud and the girls were cheering, their high pitched voices stinging my ears. I really don’t like the party scene, which is why I don’t go to parties or have parties. I just shut down and it gets hard for me to pay attention to any one thing.

I finally succumbed to a party mood and play a game of beer pong with Matt. We lose against Jason and Lucas because silly little Erin is popping her butt all over the place as their distraction. She's crazy and cute. I finish off five beers and the minute my head hits the pillow I am dead to the world.

Tomorrow morning we’ll be hiking through the river. I’m really looking forward to it. Hell, I look forward to everything out here, but it’s true, I’m very excited and I feel so alive. I wonder what we’ll shoot in Junction – hopefully not anymore flowers and bugs in a field or on the side of a highway, but if so, it’s better be a great looking field.

Junction Day 8

2010-05-23T13:27:00.000-05:00

At 7:30 Dave runs through the halls telling everyone to wake up. He neglects to inform the room Brittany and I are sharing, but thankfully I manage to wake up to the sounds of people talking and moving around. So I have time to grab a cup of coffee before heading out to shoot the river.

Oh the water feels so good! My biggest complaint though is of my shoes. Every single f***ing rock that can possibly get into my shoe gets into my shoe and stays there right under my arch or big toe. Stupid rocks. Stupid pebbles. The morning was pretty overcast but that was great for tight macro work. I found a ton of bugs to photograph and once the sun broke through the clouds I gave up and shot with my digital of people taking photos.

Walking back to the bunkhouse we pass by two rattlesnakes. I’m not an expert on snakes but I do know huge rattlers are territorial and the only reason we would see two in such close proximity is because of the dry weather. Wyman managed to snag the second snake. We let the first one pass by, after pissing him off of course. Matt and Dave ran off to grab Wyman’s truck and sped back with the snake box and his other tools. Seeing the rattlesnakes up close, being not 10 feet from them was incredible. We plan on shooting him tomorrow morning. I am so excited.

After getting back from the shoot at the river, since the light is crap until sunset, a lot of us went down to the dock to chill. I was there from 10:30 a.m. until about 2:00 p.m. I got some sweet sun! I made a few dives into the pond and the water just felt amazing. I can’t wait to go back tomorrow afternoon. There’s an island at the center and I might just swim out to it and back for giggles. A lot of inside jokes were created at the dock though. I tried throwing Dave into the water and I had him in a good lock, inching him closer and closer to the edge of the dock. Stupid Nick ruined it for me by pushing both Dave and I into the water. I suppose I deserved it though, I had pushed Nick in the water several times before that.

Lunch consisted of pancakes because little Erin turned 19 today and big Erin made birthday pancakes for her. It was adorable. Last night she got a ton of spankings from everyone, it was only right we treated her nicely afterward. Erin is the most amazing pancake cook I have seen, so loving and detail oriented and the pancakes were the best pancakes I have ever had in my life! Fluffy and delicious and completely satisfying. I am going to be so fat after this trip. Dang

I caught up on a nap and then changed into some pants before we headed up to the top of the summit where we were last night. I rode in the back of Wyman’s truck again with Brittany, Dave, Matt, Jessica, Nick, and Amanda. We had a blast back there. We had the snake box under my camera bag and Nick’s foot and a ton of dead mesquite limbs for firewood that probably stabbed all of us at one point in time or another. I got a poke in the wrist, but nothing serious, just enough to let me know I had been poked.

We were going to shoot the snake but the wind was so terrible we decided to wait until morning. We had dinner up there picnic style. Wyman and Jerod made steaks and baked potatoes for all of us and we scarfed them down quick. I brought two Shiners with me and finished them both before sunset. Scrumptious! Matt and I took a shot of Bacardi Rum in toast to our new sexy tans.

By the time all the food and alcohol had settled it was time to paint the building. The shots turned out great, (I think I’ve actually said this about every shot I have taken so far, oh well, forgive me, I feel so wonderful about all the new experiences I’ve been given!) and I can’t wait to see how the Velvia film exposes the shots.

When we got back to the bunkhouse it was dark and I was ready for bed right away but I figured I’d tire myself out a little bit more before heading off. I suppose I should have done that after writing this blog since now I’m too tired to even think.

Junction Day 7

2010-05-23T13:16:00.000-05:00

Let me tell you a little story; a story about Blue.

Blue is a blue dragonfly and Blue is very confused.

He doesn’t know who to love.

But his favorite one to hold on to is a girl named Alison.

She has brown hair and brown eyes, brown skin and brown freckles.

Alison smells like Aloe Vera.

Blue doesn’t understand why Alison doesn’t love back,

But he won’t take for granted the moments she lets him have

Perched atop her knee.

Blue loves Alison, but he loves everyone else too.

Blue is a blue dragonfly and Blue is very confused.

This morning I woke up to the cool morning breeze and the songs of the birds. Granted, some birds don’t sound so pretty as others, but it was a great way to start my day.

After waking up for breakfast, packing up the camp and cleaning the camp, we took a hike up the cliff to shoot down on the falls. We weren’t really told this until after we had all packed and so only 3 of us were wearing pants, all the others, including myself, were in shorts. If anyone asks, I fought off a mean armadillo because from the looks of my legs after walking through all that tall prickly brush, it sure looks like I did. Scratches all over my shins, calves, knees and thighs. It looks fierce. Once I got to the high point and looked down at the falls though, that hike was worth it. I’d suffer a thousand more scratches for a sight like that. It was just so beautiful. The air was misty with fog and there was a cool breeze on the water. Just gorgeous.

We left Dolan Falls around 10 a.m. and one of the adventures along the way was pushing the van out of the river. Yes, the van got stuck, and we had to pile rocks underneath the tires to give it traction. When Wild Dave drove the second van across, it too got stuck but Wyman was able to hook a chain on it and pull it out without the assistance of 18 students. Luckily we made it all the way to Del Rio without incident.

Lunch was delicious Jack in the Box and I was able to text and call a few people before we ran to WalMart where the class did their snack and drink shopping. I didn’t get anything since I’m not much of a snacker or a drinker.

Heading to Independence Creek, we had a bit of time so we stopped by a 213 foot tall bridge that crosses the Pecos River right before it meets the Rio Grande. This bridge had been built five times, each time getting destroyed by floodwaters until its current design which is now the tallest bridge in Texas.

We then stopped by Jack Skiles house in Langtry, Tx, and he gave us a tour of his artifact preservation room. In it he had huge cases of arrowheads and woven sandals, cases dedicated to the railroad construction and his family history. The largest case held a mummy that had died of Chagas disease (carried by the Assassin “Kissing” Bugs. This mummy had such an extreme case of this disease that his entire stomach and colon had swelled so much he looked 9 months pregnant. He had deer leather straps made as a girdle to support the swollen stomach. According to scientists and doctors, this person was unable to defecate for months and his colon had pinched his urethra, making him unable to urinate as well. I couldn’t image that pain. It was pretty awesome to look at though.

We made it to Independence Creek Preserve and after unpacking, headed up to the top of the summit to photograph tight shots of desert life. I found myself a pretty awesome looking centipede but after trying to move him into the sun, I dropped him and killed him. I broke the bug.

Thorn is here to visit for a bit and he’s a welcome addition to the group. He’s the ass in all the photos, literally. He’ll moon just about anything. Great guy and tons of fun to hang out with and talk to. I can only image the adventure this group is going to have with him. Wyman says we need to top last year’s Independence photo, I have no idea how but it’s sure going to be memorable.

This evening has been full of cheers as Wyman and Jerod team up and kick ass at beer pong. Who would have know that they could be champs at this! It was fun to watch but the first game was definitely one of overreaction. If you couldn’t tell, I prefer to sit on the couch blogging about my adventures than in the throes of the party. Parties just kill my mood and I’m not exactly sure why.

I don’t know what tomorrow has in store, except I do know I’ll be jumping off the dock into the pond and then laying out to get my brown on. Maybe Blue followed me here and maybe not. It feels good to have that constant, since I’ve been missing it since leaving for Junction.

Junction Day 6

2010-05-23T12:58:00.000-05:00

Last night was the second worst night I have ever had sleeping in a cabin. The first was when I was in Girl Scout Camp and my troop got screwed by everyone there because we won a contest that got us to go for free. We were Brownies and we were put up in the cabin meant for Juniors or Cadets. Open air with cots. (Much like I slept in last night). The guides made us carry all our own stuff up the mountain and pretty much excluded us from all activities. My mother was my troop leader and definitely tried to make it a good experience for us, and it was for the most part. Except that night. That night the wind howled so much and brought all the cold air down to our tents. Our little Brownie toes froze and we all ended up in my mother’s cot, huddled together to stay warm.

Last night it stormed. There was heavy rain and hail that blew into our open air cabin that made the curtains on the inside feel like ghosts against us. Brittany and I were smart to push our cots together to the center. The lightning last night made harsh shadows in the ceiling and made every nook and cranny look like an Assassin Bug.

Stupid bugs. I was terrified of getting bit all night. I slept with one eye open all night, waking up at every itch, twinge, every time I rolled over, every time it would lightning, and every noise that was made outside and inside. I hardly slept at all last night and the knots in my back can prove that! So needless to say, I was up and ready to do stuff at 6:30 a.m. when the birds began chirping and it started getting light outside.

As soon as everyone got up we all headed down to the falls and man was it rough! The river was so full from all the rain! Wyman was shocked. Never in his life has he ever seen it so full. The shots we were getting were at F 22, shutter speed 1/10, ISO 100 and the water looked like silk. So beautiful.

Breakfast consisted of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal and a strong pot of coffee Nick brewed. Coffee always completes my morning.

It was probably around 10:30 a.m. when the girls decided to take a nap. All the boys ran down to the falls to fish since it was too high and rough to swim. At 1:00 p.m. I woke up. That nap was so good and so needed since last night I woke up every 15 to 30 minutes. Silly how during the day I feel safe to sleep but at night I am terrified even though bugs don’t really designate a time to feed.

It really is gorgeous out here, with the sound of the water going off the falls, the wind through the trees, all the different calls and chirps of the birds….it is just so peaceful. This is exactly what I needed. I have no phone service so I don’t feel tied to my phone and crazy enough, I don’t feel naked without it. It feels good to just BE. I feel so relaxed to have my only obligations on this trip be to have fun, make new friends and take lots of photos. What else would you expect to do on vacation?

After I woke up, I grabbed a sandwich and then headed back down to the falls. The water was lower so we were able to swim again. The only downside was that the water was dirtier, so I got so much river crap in my hair and on my skin. It was much warmer than yesterday and I got a few more high jumps in, so that made me happy. With all the sun my skin is seeing, people aren’t going to recognize me I’ll be so brown. Sexy brown. *Growl* I found a new favorite spot on the falls to lie down to get some sun – actually on the falls. The water was shallow and it felt so good.

Wyman cooked his poppers again, this time being nice as opposed to last night. A good handful of people ended up with indigestion and a few others were a bit worse off. Today I had 4. Four is my limit on those but damn, they were tasty. My momma would be so proud to have seen me scarf down a jalapeño. I’m sure my sisters don’t believe me at all. Believe it, Sissy! I ate it right up!

After dinner of hot dogs and beer we hiked about a mile up the Grado. To get there we had to cross the river. Now, I have never attempted to cross a river moving so fast with all my camera gear and I was the leader of the pack. Wyman and Jerod ran ahead so they could photograph and film us crossing. The shoes I bought at Hideaway Mountain have come in handy and definitely are worth the money. I kicked so many stones but did I feel it? NOPE! Cause my toes are covered!

The Grado was incredible though. The color of everything was so intense. Though there was plenty of poison ivy to infect a small country all along the sides of the river. I could shoot there all day and all night and the light as we were walking back was just incredible! I got some spectacular shots.

After two days of river swimming and bug spray and sun block and sweat I finally washed in the outdoor shower. It was so lovely. Turning off the light to the outside, I could see the fireflies dancing above me with the moon and the stars. This was the best shower I have ever had.

Tomorrow we leave for Del Rio and then Independence Creek. We’ll stay there for 3 days and return to Junction on Saturday. More adventure, I can’t wait.

Junction Day 5

2010-05-23T12:50:00.000-05:00

We were all packed and ready to leave at 7:30 a.m. for Dolan Falls, but we didn't get to leave until 9:00 a.m. due to high water at our destination. Fortunately we were able to arrive there unharmed and dry. The drive to Dolan was four hours and the last hour was 30 miles on a dirt road that Nick somehow slept through.

One fantastic thing about Dolan Falls, which the Devil River cuts through, is a certain bug that haunts everyone there. Assassin Bugs. Also known as Kissing Bugs. They wait until all is quiet and then they fall on you, find a tasty spot and then suck the blood out of you. Kind of like a demented mosquito, except 10X worse. These bugs will leave HUGE hickey like marks on you. Wyman said two years ago he had a student get bit, hopefully nobody gets bit this time.

Around 1:00 p.m. we arrive at Dolan Falls. Our cabins are outdoor cabins with pull down cots to sleep on. Two to a cabin. Brittany and I bunk together, pushing our beds close so we are as far away from the walls and the windows as possible. We don’t want to have any vampire bug bite us. After a very thorough search all we found was a large cricket and a spider. I killed the spider since it looked very much like a brown recluse and that’s a poison I don’t want to mess with.

Since the light was terrible to shoot, we all headed down to the falls with swimsuits and bottles of “Texas Piss” which is a concoction of Keystone, Vodka and Lemonade. Pretty tasty, yet it was still heavy on the Keystone.

Wild Dave, Brittany, Nick and I were the first to arrive and jump off the cliff into the river. It wasn’t very clear but after Dave jumped right in we were all ready to go! So Much Fun! Jumping off the cliff (granted it was a small cliff) was such an exhilarating feeling and I felt so alive when my heart pounded hard in my chest as I took that leap off the edge. Oh I can’t wait to do it again tomorrow!

Wyman makes the best poppers. Then again, I’m not a fan of jalepanos but these babies, filled with cream cheese and wrapped in bacon, cooked over a fire is superb! The first two were amazing and so full of flavor. The third popper was a surprise popper Wyman had thrown in there. The last bite got me and I ran straight for the kitchen. I pulled out two slices of bread and soaked my tongue on them. Brent, who was under the same duress as I, told me to run my tongue under the faucet, so I did. At that time, as my tongue is being flushed with tap water, Wyman walks in and sees me and ends up having to catch himself from the big belly laugh the sight of me gave him. I can’t feel my tongue and my lips are tingling. Brent hands me a Miller Light and tells me it will help. Since I don’t know where any milk is I figure being drunk will help kill the fire in my mouth, and sure enough it does.

After all the poppers are cooked and consumed and the laughs die down, we all head back down to the falls to take some photos. Photographing drunk is new to me and boy was I scared to shoot so close to water. I tried to be extra careful and therefore I didn’t hurt any of my equipment. Thank goodness.

Burgers were for dinner, but a storm rolled in and we all had to move our party inside. Hopefully the storm leaves soon so we aren’t stranded here longer than we intend to stay. Who knows though, the weather has been quite crazy lately.

For now, Brittany watches the Madonna episode of Glee and I blog and go through my digital images I shot today. I hope for some real adventure tomorrow. Wyman should be waking us up around 6:30 a.m. though I’m sure I’ll be awake before then. In new places I wake up every hour or so. We’ll see how tonight goes. Goodnight.

Junction Day 4

2010-05-16T23:28:00.000-05:00

Today was a very relaxing day.

We woke up and got ready in time for lunch at La Familia, a Mexican food restaurant. The food was great. I had chicken enchiladas and a salad, but the salad looked more like a pile of chopped lettuce that you garnish your taco with than an actual salad. Pretty disappointing. Enchiladas were great though.

We got our first roll of film in today, which was awesome! I shot two rolls. The first one I started looking at really confused me though. The first couple of images looked like mine, but after that, the film was definitely not mine. I started asking people in the class if they had any film that wasn't theirs, nobody answered. Brent came in and looked at the film and said it looked like stuff that was shot from last year. I was totally confused and then it hit me. Lynsey. I was borrowing Lynsey's film camera for this trip and she had a roll still in the camera with 7 exposures left. Duh, Alison! So, Lynsey your film looks good and I'll give it to you when I give you back your camera and tripod. <3

Afterward we all went and did laundry. Mason Mountain got us all pretty dirty. Wild Dave and I shared a washer and dryer to save time and money. I got some good book reading in then.

One thing I've been having trouble out here is finding time to spend alone. I love everyone out here, and they are great people, but after work and then finals and then packing and getting everything ready and going straight to Junction for 15 days is a little hard on my mental health. Escaping into the world of my book was beautiful, but it's not enough. I need a bit more and I feel myself growing crazy as the days tick by. It's so hard, but I push the feeling away. I'm just scared of snapping while I'm out here.

Dinner was served on campus - Enchiladas. Most of us, sick and tired of Mexican food, opted for salads.

We ran up to Tye Church again tonight because the weather was so much better. Didn't rain a drop! Wyman painted the church again and I shot both digital and film again, different angles this time. The sky was gorgeous too!

After the sun went down, we all had a bit of fun with headlamps and glowsticks. This shot is one of Brent and Jason. Their personalities are just so fitting....

Just as an FYI to those of you who are actually reading my blog, tomorrow I am headed up to Dolan Falls and Independence Creek for a 5 day trip. For those 5 days I'll be without internet and phone service. But do not worry! I'll keep word documents and as soon as I get back I'll bombard blogger with posts and photos.

Also, I have no editing software right now, so you are seeing the unedited versions of these images. I hate it, yet at the same time, I think it shows you that I really am a good photographer and don't rely completely on Photoshop to "fix" my photos. =P (That is a rant for a later date!)

See you all in 5 days.

Junction Day 3

2010-05-15T14:05:00.000-05:00

We left for Llano Ranch at 7:00 a.m. The energy level of the class wasn't high, but it wasn't dragging either. You could feel the anticipation in the air for what we were about to shoot. Wyman got a call from his friend Jesse out at Llano Ranch and was informed they were going to be doing their calf branding Saturday morning. Well, of course, Wyman couldn't pass that up and wouldn't pass it up either. Nobody objected.

So we head out there. All the rain we had made the roads real muddy, but Erin was a trooper driving through that mud with the 15 person van. We didn't get stuck once, but we did have a few exciting moments of sliding, off-roading, and deer chasing.

When we got to the location we had some time to walk around and do some more flower photography. Silly flowers.... and I got a few portraits of Tim, the caterpillar. Tim is a fuzzy little one and also, according to Jerod, a three time Academy Award winner.

When the cows finally got herded into the pin and the calves were sorted out, the real excitement began. Each heifer was branded the ranch brand on its hind and the year they were born on their shoulder, along with getting vaccinated. The bulls were castrated and given the ranch brand, as well as vaccinated. It was busy and intense. At first I watched to get an idea of what was going on, and after that I had no problem shooting the action.

We ate at Lums BBQ for lunch, and oh boy was their brisket good! I had a full tummy after that.

At 4pm we headed out to go grab some "drinks" and then up to Mason Mountain. As we drove there, two storm cells merged and it seriously felt like we were in the movie Twister. It was wild. The wind coming off the front of the storm rocked the car and broken branches and leaves littered the road. We decided to haul ass up the mountain to shoot the storm as it rolled in. Awesome. Now, I've hiked mountains before, did all the time when I lived in Vegas so I felt pretty ready for this. But hiking up a granite mountain with photo gear was entirely new to me. I was ready to sacrifice my body before my camera! Thankfully, no falls, only minor slips that caused my heart to race a bit.

After we ran up the mountain, we all probably got in 4 good shots of the storm and then it began to rain on us. So we ran down the mountain and jumped into the vans, that's when it became torrential and began to hail. We were definitely in the movie Twister sans the tornado. The chaos only lasted 15 or so minutes and we were able to get out after that and run around freely to shoot photos. I shot film for the most of it and then switched to digital. Mason Mountain was gorgeous and I got in a good bit of exploring while I was there.

We had dinner at a little Mexican restaurant, I don't know where since my mind was swimming in a bottle of Shiner and a cup of Cabernet. I ordered a side of onion rings and nothing else and boy were those deep fried rings delicious!

Off to bed now. We'll go out and shoot in the morning if there is fog, but if not, I'll get to sleep in, then after lunch it's off to 377 Falls.

Junction Day 2

2010-05-14T15:11:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I feel more like I am at summer camp than taking an actual class. I have been having so much fun!

We all crawled out of bed at 6:30am this morning to load up in the car and leave at 7:00am. Not 7:01 or 6:59, but 7:00 and Wyman is not against leaving someone behind. We drove out down Highway 377 and pulled off to shoot more wildflowers. Every time I look at a flower now, my 7th grade Wildflower science project comes to mind and I'm able to recall the names of the majority of the flowers in the field.

The flowers are gorgeous though. With all the rain, there are blossoms everywhere! Some fields look like they are on fire they have so much red and orange in them.

We had cereal on the side of the highway, each of us perched on a rock to avoid the prickly pear cactus. The weather got cold before it heated up. We stopped by Mason Mountain (where we will shoot tomorrow night) and while Wyman was doing some awesome PR work, all the photogs were either sleeping in the van or out shooting with their digital. I got some cool shots from there. I've always been a fan of wildlife photography.

The video class has been tagging along with us on these trips and shooting beside us, and shooting us! I can't wait to see what they put together in their class. Jerod Foster is teaching that class.

After getting back for lunch (pizza, salad and brownies) all the girls decided since it was so nice outside (yes, the weather finally cleared up!) we were going to go float the river. It was just gorgeous. The first couple of steps into the water and you were screaming "NO WAY, JOSE!" but after jumping on the tube and hitting a rapid all was fine. We floated for an entire hour, running into trees, rocks, shallow water, and each other and laughing the entire time. Wyman picked us up at the bridge and drove us back to campus. I sat on the tail of his pickup truck with Erin, wishing we had our cameras to get this as a shot. Oh well. I'm glad I've got a base tan and slight burn to build on now. By the end of this trip I'm going to be a little Mexican child.

At 7:00pm we all headed out to paint the Roosevelt Church. Tonight was so much better. Rain didn't hit us until after the light was gone from the sky. We took 3 shots total, 2 four-minute and 1 nine-minute exposure. I'm shooting both digital and film and I have only one cable release. So, I put the cable release on my film and hold down the shutter with my finger on the digital. 9 minutes is a really long time. I think I lost feeling in my finger during that exposure.

It did rain and Wild Dave and I ran out to grab a cup of coffee. Delicious and yummy, hot coffee.

Walking back to the cabin I had a good chat with the campus police officer. Very nice guy. He was trying to bike in the dark - being a champ at it too. But now it is time for bed. Gotta wake up early tomorrow. We're photographing cattle branding!

Junction Day 1

2010-05-13T22:31:00.000-05:00

Mention "Junction" to any Texas Tech photog and they'll instantly know what you're talking about and why you have that big goofy grin on your face. Junction,Tx is where the photography intersession course is held that is taught by Wyman Meinzer, state photographer of Texas. Wyman is a great guy. This is the third course I've taken with him, the first one allowing me to shoot right next to him and get one-on-one advice and experience.

So far the day has been real laid back. Some have referred it to "Photo Boot Camp" but we have yet to begin the training. It has been real overcast skies lately. This morning we went out to shoot flowers and bugs. After an hour of doing that I was tired of shooting flowers and bugs in the field we were in. I wanted to shoot Bigger flowers and Bigger bugs! (After an adventure walk with Nick and John we found out where they were growing/hiding. I'll be sure to hit that spot up later.)

Nick and I modeled a bit for a small lesson in portrait photography. We are shooting Velvia ISO 100 film and the color it picks up is incredible! I love how the transparency looks when we get it back from being processed. I'll be spending a lot of time scanning slides after this class, I know. Wyman likes to pick on people. Especially those he knows a bit and knows he can kid around with. Just for kicks we all got tested on how slow we could shoot a 200mm lens hand-held. Now, this baby is big, and much heavier than a 35mm lens. My slowest hand-held speed was at 1/250. I felt pretty good about it. It was a challenge and there was only 2 people who could shoot faster than 1/125.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner was wonderful. Cheese omelets. Burgers. Lasagna. Yum Yum Yum!

This evening we went out to paint a church. We got out there after our beer run and got all set up. The light was perfect and pink on the horizon, we all had our cameras and tripods in a line, beer in one hand, shutter release in the other and then it began to rain on us. We grabbed our cameras and dashed under the porch of the church. It stopped raining. The light was bluer but still had a tint of orange glow so we set up our tripods and cameras again, refocus our lenses, sip our beer in one hand and hold our shutter release in the other and then it starts to rain again. We finish our first beer and it stops raining...again. We run back out there, set up again, and Wyman starts painting the church before it rains on us for a third time. We get five 60 second exposures in before we have to call it a night because it began to rain AGAIN! We'll head out and redo the shoot, but it was fun regardless. All of us were laughing throughout the night. Here is one of the shots I got with my digital. I was shooting my film high and my digital low at the same time.

I have had a great first day. I know tomorrow will be a hundred times better.

Goodnight for now, I've got to wake up early tomorrow!

Portrait Session: Rachel Robinson

2010-05-07T13:06:00.000-05:00

Rachel is an incredible lady and a good friend of mine. She works at Westminster where Justin and I teach swing dancing every Monday night, and we have tried to teach her, but she's always "too busy" and then complains when she's so behind in the class. I love her though. She's easy to laugh with.

My special problems topic was portraiture. I feel like the "Big Name" people get all the attention and they rightfully should, their name is on peoples lips for a reason, but I wanted to show everybody else. I wanted to capture the "Little Name People" who are shining among their peers, among their family, among their community. Rachel is this person.

Swing Dancers of Lubbock

2010-05-03T23:09:00.001-05:00

Every Monday night from 7:00 to 9:30 p.m. Justin and I teach swing dancing. The group has evolved quite a bit, moving from the Rec Center at Texas Tech to a church on 33rd and Indiana. We LOVE Lindy Hop. That's our favorite kind of dance and the one we love to teach the most. Along with Lindy, we also teach East Coast, Jitterbug, Charleston, Balboa, and Blues.

These are a few photos I snapped after teaching a lesson a few weeks ago. The one photo of Justin and I dancing together we taken by Eloralee or Lauren, whoever thought they could better handle my camera. =)

We just finished our Spring Semester teaching and we will start back up lessons in the Fall when school starts back up. If anyone is interested in private lessons during the summer, feel free to contact either Justin Mann or myself and we can work something out. (We do not teach country swing dance / two-step).

Senior Portraits : Mylie Wilde

2010-04-30T16:45:00.001-05:00

Mylie is an incredible woman. We've been friends since freshman year at Tech when we both started working at the CMLL (Classical and Modern Languages and Literature's). Mylie is studying to be a Special Education Teacher. I'm so proud of her. That is one of the toughest jobs I can think of anyone pursuing. One must have a ton of patience and also a ton of love. Mylie definitely has that and more.

You're one of my favorite models, Mylie. I love you. Good luck after graduation!

Portrait Session: Ethan Bailey

2010-04-29T13:12:00.000-05:00

Ethan is an advertising major and one day, as I was lugging all my photographic equiptment around plus some, he pointed at me and was like, "Was ist das?" Not really. I don't actually think he knows any German, but the other redhead I know does know German, therefore now everytime I see one I think of Germans. Ethan isn't even really a redhead either. Wow... that sounds terrible. I'm going to shut up about that now.

Anyway, so he asks me what all this bulky metal poles and fancy bags was about and I told him I was a photographer. Since I was doing my special topic on portraiture, I asked him if he would like some facy photos taken and, well, who could resist a pretty face asking you that? So, we scheduled a time, place, I got injured so we had to reschedule a time and place and then met up at that time and at that place and then these photos were snapped. Fabulous. And then I edited. And life was good again.

Enjoy!

A Memory, A Monologue, A Rant, and A Prayer

2010-04-26T09:35:00.001-05:00

A Memory, A Monologue, A Rant, and A Prayer is an incredible collection of stories that bring forth issues of violence against women and girls are funny, heartfelt, angry, tragic, beautiful and inspiring. Eve Ensler, author of The Vagina Monologues, edited MMRP, which features pieces from "Until the Violence Stops" which is an international tour that brings the issue of violence against women to the forefront of our consciousness.

Stories of self-mutilation, being a single mother, women's work, S&M, domestic abuse, and bras are told by women and men who's voices can and will no longer be silent. This is the second year MMRP has been performed at Texas Tech. Last year I had the privilege of participating in the event. This year I was privileged with the opportunity to photograph it.

"In the current era, it takes some brain racking to think of anyone else doing anything quite like Esler. She's a counter-cultural consciousness-raiser, an empowering figure, a truth-teller."
- Chicago Tribune

To view more photos of the event, click HERE.

Puckett Fun and Max's Recital

2010-04-25T20:28:00.001-05:00

In-between photographing the Puckett family and Max's Junior Recital, I felt it was wrong for me to put my camera down, so I walked around and snagged a few fun shots before the recital began. Like I said before, I had a ton of fun with this shoot. You guys are precious!

Puckett Family Portraits

2010-04-25T15:14:00.001-05:00

Max Puckett III asked me one day if I would be willing to take photos at his Junior Recital. I said, yes, of course. Also, his family was coming in town and could I photograph them as well because they've been wanting some family portraits. Sure, I said, how many in your family? About 20. Eff. At first, my self doubt took over. There was no way I could do something like this! No WAY! But, then I told the little fearful child of doubt that this was a much needed challenge. I could not expect to call myself a photographer if the largest group of people I shot was five. So, I rented some equipment from the Mass Comm lab, scouted a location in the Student Union Building where 20 people could fit and put myself in a mindset ready for the challenge.

Ultimately, I had a lot of fun with it. The family knew exactly what they wanted and were quick to pose and get out. I love this shoot because of the personality of all the kids, and the chemistry of the family. Who knows when my next family portrait session will be, but I won't be afraid of it this time, I'll be looking forward to it!

They Call Themselves The Migrant Mothers

2010-04-24T21:20:00.000-05:00

So my friend Charlie Stout and a friend of his and a few other crazy musicians started a band. They call themselves the Migrant Mothers. And for the combination of talent thrown together, they aren't half bad. With every performance they keep getting better and better. Since Charlie thinks I'm such an incredible and talented photographer, he asked me to take photos of his band as they perform. What band doesn't want awesome photos? None I can think of.

Their music is great, the lyrics are wonderful, and the vocals aren't that bad either. Check them out, if you like them, you like them, if you don't then you don't. Won't hurt my feelings. If you enjoy good country/bluegrass music, then you'll appreciate the Migrant Mothers.

They have a Facebook group so you should find them, fan them and listen to their sweet music.