5 THINGS I HAVE LEARNED FROM MY DECADE IN REVIEW

December 19, 2019

Whether you are a photographer, a stay at home mom, a secretary, a coach or a student (I think you get the picture ;)), I would highly recommend over the next few weeks, for everyone to take an hour or two and reflect on the last decade. The highs, the lows, the lessons, the growth, the people, the places and moments.

Days, weeks, months and even years pass by and we can all be a little hard on ourselves sometimes, thinking we haven’t accomplished what we thought we could have. Or we might feel that one day rolls into the next. However, I promise you, if you can look back over a ten year span, you will be able to reflect on what’s truly been important.

1. WE ALL START SOMEWHERE. JUST START.

You know that feeling of ‘I can’t believe it’s been 10 years that I have been…’ mixed with ‘I can’t believe it’s ONLY been 10 years …. ‘. 10 years goes by in a flash. It truly does. I dare you to look back on photographs you took 10 years ago and not feel this way. The days seem long, but the years are short. And so are the decades. I started this business on a whim (with my sister at the time!), and I am thankful that I did - and proud that I have persevered. It hasn’t always been unicorns and rainbows - but what worth doing ever really is?

2. STAY CURIOUS. ALWAYS KEEP LEARNING.

I feel like this is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. With a love of learning and curiosity, persistence and grit and determination will quite often follow. I have found if you can let this lead your life, the outcome doesn’t matter so much. You tried something new. Lessons were learned that you can take with you.

3. IT’S ABOUT THE COLLECTIVE.

The chapters that make the book. The photographs that tell the story. The practice everyday. The conversations over the dinner table. Maybe each of those on their own seem minor, but they compound and weave together and become the things that shape you into who you are.

And - some of the years, practices, and chapters will be better than others. And that’s ok. Refer to lesson number two.

4. LOOK FOR THE CHEERLEADERS. OR BE ONE.

It’s funny how the universe works sometimes. There were many times over the past decade that I felt like quitting, in fact I have taken many ‘sabbaticals’ here and there. Trying to decide if I truly have time for this in my life, if I feel like it’s what I am ‘supposed’ to be doing, if this is really my ‘passion’. And most of the time when I was in these phases, someone would show up and say keep going. To them I am thankful.

5. AND WHAT I’M MOST GRATEFUL FOR….

The people. I feel like saying ‘client’s’ is a disservice. So many of the people I have photographed have become my friends. I have followed their lives, watched families grow, kids change, being there to witness so many chapters of their lives. It has been such a gift to be a part of families legacies and cross paths with people I might not have otherwise.

…. AND WOULD IT EVEN BE A REAL DECADE IN REVIEW UNLESS WE ….

had a quick look back on a few images from each year?!?!? Beyond seeing what I have learned from being a photographer and what is involved in taking the type of photographs I want to take, looking at the faces of these people in my photographs makes me feel so incredibly grateful for being able to do this. These photographs literally take me back to the time and place and moments shared. To all of you - thank you. Being photographed is sometimes not the easiest thing to do, and I am grateful we took the time to make these moments last.

TAKE BETTER PHOTOGRAPHS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

December 16, 2019

It goes without saying that many of you feel overwhelmed these days with too many choices regarding photography. Decisions were easier when we all owned just one piece of equipment that took our photographs, we sent the roll of film away, picked the prints up and that was it. Now, there are apps, and a million photos (versus 24 that came on the roll of film), and phones taking photos and cameras taking photos. And then - what do we do with them after. It can be just too much. Even for me.

So, my hope here is to simplify this for you. To help you feel less overwhelmed and decide that taking the photographs of you and your family is important and worth putting just a few practices in place to make it happen.

1. PICK ONE CAMERA AND STICK WITH IT

Seriously. Don’t overthink this. You don’t need to rush out and buy the latest mirrorless canon or a DSLR. If you have one, and love to use it, great! But don’t let this simple decision stop you. Decide to use the camera on your phone if that is what is EASY for you.

2. TAKE POSED AND CANDID IMAGES

Over the years when I have been taking my personal family photos, I have always gravitated towards the storytelling, candid shots. And maybe you have only taken the posed ones. But try to remember to take a few of each. And you don’t need to be behind your camera all day, just a few minutes here and there throughout the day to create images that will one day bring back memories.

3. NATURAL LIGHT

I know this is a tough one this time of year! Anyone else missing the long lingering summer sun!?!? However, the darker days are a great excuse to hibernate at home a little more than usual and I am in complete support of that too ;). When taking your photos try to have your subjects FACING window light, with the photographers back turned towards the window. Especially with a phone camera, as backlight is one area they have a hard time with. The soft natural even light of the window will be the most flattering light for your subjects.

4. CLEAN YOUR LENS

This should have been my first tip! It is so simple but trust me friends - is the most important.

5. TURN OFF YOUR FLASH (AND OVERHEAD LIGHTS)

To capture the true glow of your Christmas tree this will be key. And might take some practice depending on what type of camera you are using. In so far as overhead lights - obviously this will be a little difficult with so many hours of darkness, however when it is daylight try to avoid this as the different colour temperatures will effect your image, as well as creating not so flattering shadows on your subjects.

6. CHANGE PERSPECITIVES

This is one of the easiest tips that will make one of the biggest differences in your images. Moved around. Move your camera. Take from above and down low. Create some breathing room in your photographs by placing your subject in the bottom third of the frame.

7. FAVOURITE APPS

Obviously this won’t apply to you if you are not using your camera phone, but I wanted to share with you some of my favourites for taking and editing images. ProCamera, VSCO, Snapseed. I keep it pretty simple in this regards. Mostly I use the main camera on my phone, import to VSCO, have one filter that is my go to all the time and save to my camera roll. Again, don’t over think this. The ProCamera app will allow you to set to manual focus and exposure, which if that is something you really want to have, I would recommend it. They have a few good tutorials on their website regarding how to operate it.

8. LEAN TOWARDS THE CAMERA

This is more of a posing tip - but who doesn’t want a few of those! Always try to remember that whatever or whoever is closest to the camera will appear the largest. So, turn 45 degrees to the camera, shift your weight onto your back foot, bring your shoulder closest to the camera down and lean in a little. That’s not too much to remember is it ;)!

9. SET THE TIMER AND GET IN THE SHOT!

For the majority of us moms, the end of the days or weeks or months go by and we haven’t existed in any of the photographs. I beg you to either hand over the camera to someone so you can get in the frame, or turn on the timer and take a few group photographs.

10. NOW WHAT DO I DO WITH THESE ?!?

Please all promise me you will print your images! I would love to see you all share after the holidays your photos in albums. One super easy option for printing is Chatbooks (found in the app store). You can literally do everything right off of your phone and the album is delivered to your home. It also syncs with your Instagram feed and will mail you a book of all of your IG posts after 60 photos have been shared. Or you can upload images directly off your phone to the app and order your book. Super easy and so worth it!

AS ALWAYS, if you have any questions for me, don’t hesitate to send me an email. I truly believe that photography can be a beautiful way to practice what and who we are grateful for, and help us see the world around us in bright new ways.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS MY FRIENDS!

LEIGHA'S FAVOURITE THINGS

December 9, 2019

Who doesn’t love to share their favourite things?!? I have to tell you, the majority of the purchases I make, someone else has told me about along the way. And those things often end up being some of my most used and/or treasured things. I am going to assume you are a little like me and love seeing what others offer as suggestions, so this year I pulled together 10 gift ideas that I thought you might love.

So, here we go….. !

DR. JODY THINGS

JUST in case you didn’t know already, this lady is one of my favourite people on the planet. She is a game changer on a mission to help everyone live a better life. Her site not only includes some amazing products, you can also purchase tickets to her March event. And if you haven’t heard her speak yet - run don’t walk to get to the next one. Trust me.

2. KAL BARTESKI PRINTS AND ART

I have been following Kal for years on social media and the interwebs. Starting way back in the days when people used to blog daily, it was her and Ali Edwards who I found so much inspiration from. Kal is an artist from Winnipeg who holds a love for words and Polar Bears. Take a minute to check out her work, I think it will speak to you like not many other things do. P.S. - I am not sure if she is still holding orders for Christmas, however book mark this for future gifts!

3. THE 7 VIRTUES PERFUME

I first learned of this company, when I heard the founder speak at an event I attended. Barb Stegemann, a Canadian activist and business woman inspired me with her message and philosophies shared. She created this perfume through passion, tenacity and drive to change lives for the better. Her focus is to work with third world countries in sourcing her perfumes and to create a company that can help rebuild lives. Supporting and choosing companies such as this when we make our buying decisions is a small way we can make a difference. Oh - and she has wrote a great book too. You can purchase this perfume at most Sephora locations or through The 7 Virtues website.

4. FACES BY NATHALIE

Nathalie holds workshops throughout the year, so be sure to like and follow her on social media as they sell out quickly! Wether you have a teen just getting started using makeup, you would like a lesson for an everyday or going out look (forward this to your family as a hint ;)), or want to treat yourself and have your makeup done for a Christmas event, Nathalie is your girl!

5. ARTIFACT UPRISING

Modern, simple and timeless photo gifts will always be in style and a favourite item to treasure for years. Artifact Uprising has so many gift options, from albums, Christmas cards, calendars and prints, you will never run out of ideas on thoughtful presents for your loved ones.

6. YETI TUMBLER

This is seriously one of my favourite everyday items. Use it for your smoothies, tea and coffee on the go. It fits in your vehicle console with no problem and works like nothing else. If you are local to Red Deer, Home Hardware has them in stock!

7. LOVE DOES

I recommend this book to EVERYONE. One of my all time favourites.

8. KEEP CALM GALLERY

This online store from the UK has so many unique prints, posters and wall hangings that you just can’t find anywhere else. If there is someone on your list that loves motivational sayings and art, check this store out!

9. THE ROSEDALE CANDLE

This candle was a part of the gift package all attendees were give at the Jillian Harris event I attended this past spring - and it has the most amazing scent EVER. You can purchase through their site, however they also sell at some Chapters locations.

10. PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION GIFT CERTIFICATE

And, if this season you are looking for experiences to gift, a portrait session is something to consider! Graduation is just around the corner, and as we all know this is a special chapter to celebrate. Or if you have a dancer in your family - a custom dance session is amazing.

And there you have it! A few of my favourites to share with you this holiday season. Here’s to finding the perfect gift for the people we love!

A gift for your family: 10 ways to simplify your 365

March 17, 2015

project 365 lifestyle photographer red deer

December 2013

When I sat down to design our families annual Christmas card I realized there were certain months where I had hardly any photos. Like none. Yea, I had lots of vacations and "big" moments. But, I feel like that's not where life is really lived. It's in the day to day everyday stuff. Choosing to cultivating gratitude in those in between moments is really where it's at. And I was sad I had missed so much of those. Not only for me, but to show my kids (through what I choose to prioritize as an important photograph) the importance of this daily gift. Sooooo, without over analyzing and thinking it through to much (which for anyone that really know me, is HUGE), I started.Now, after completing a full year and into my second, I wish I would have stared sooner. If you're even slightly thinking you might like to give this a try. Do it. Don't think about it. Just start.

To help you out, I've put together 10 ways to simplify your 365 project :).

1. Keep your camera closeOkay, this is probably a no brainer, and I hope you keep reading the list even if you think "this is what you call a tip?!" haha, but it's seriously one the most overwhelming things for people I talk to. The thought of picking up the camera every day. The "one more thing to add to my list" thought. But really it doesn't have to be that complicated. You can do this on any camera you wish. From your iPhone to a point and shoot to your DSLR. I've chosen to do mine with my canon mkiii, but that's only because I don't find it a burden. I keep it on my counter. And yes, carry it with me most of the time. And have had people comment "I didn't even know they still made cameras like that!". For real. Yea, I'm that mom. Once I have spent my couple of minutes capturing something I'm grateful for I put it away and that's it.

project 365 red deer lifestyle photographer

2. Start with the end in mind

What do you want at the end of the year? Please don't let them sit on your hard drive, have a plan. A family book? A book of each child? Just try to take a few minutes to reflect on what would mean the most to you to have in your hands. This will help determine what and how you shoot. Sort of a little reverse engineering if you will. It can help you make less decisions on a daily basis if you have some parameters in place. And less decisions on a daily basis are always better ;).

project 365 red deer lifestyle photographer

3. Just do it

Don't over think it. Don't be stuck in decision or perfection paralysis. Just take it day by day. Start today. Start at the beginning of next month. Don't worry about perfect. Done is better than that. Which leads me into....

4. So it's a 332Is it really a big deal if your missed a day or two? Nooooooo. It's the collective. Weather you have a perfect record or miss a few days ......or 50, your family (or you) won't care in a year (or 20) from now. Mine wasn't perfect. I would miss one, two or even three days in a row here and there. Sometimes I would fill them in with additional photos from others days and sometimes I wouldn't. Again, I just let it go and reminded myself that at the end project how grateful I would be with however many I ended up with.

project 365 red deer lifestyle photographer

5. What's really important

That this is a gift. To you. This is your gratitude journal. Your way of showing the world what shines the brightest in your eyes.

6. The power of one photoWhich translates into very little of your time each day (yay!). I heard a speaker at a conference (sorry, I don't remember who it was) once talk about the power of one photo. How one photo can not only take you back to a moment, but a whole day. And it's so true. Try it.

7. Have a systemSomewhat anyhow. Mine isn't perfect but here's a rough rundown. * I usually keep my card in my camera for the week and download one time over the week (give or take). I knew going in that I am not one to sit down daily to download, edit, organize photos. But once a week seemed manageable. * I use photo mechanic to download, saved to folders on my computer (example: 2015_365>januaryraw>filedate of download). * I quickly cull in photo mechanic and bring into Lightroom while renaming to the date captured * complete my quick edits (I use RedLeaf presets which are so wonderful they make this part super fast) * export to a new folder (example: 2015_365>januaryedit)

project 365 red deer lifestyle photographer red deer photographer

8. You don't have to shareI shared my images last year. But haven't this year. I am sure at one point I will here and there but I felt like I needed a bit of a break from that. I didn't share everyday either, opting to group them into groups of 6. And then quite often shared the whole month at once.

project 365 red deer photographer lifestyle

9. ResourcesiPhone: if you decide to take your 365 on your iPhone artifact uprising has a great app to download directly to a photo book. Blurb books: they have great books and build your own templates.

Photo Mechanic

Lightroom

10. What to do with it allAs 2014 was my first year doing a 365 I'm still thinking about how I want to design a large book for myself. 365 pages would be rather HUGE. However, I have ordered small 7x7 books - 2 of them. One for each of my boys. Of which I will be writing a small personal note to them as a keepsake.

BONUS

11. You'll get better

As a bonus, guess what? Your photography will get better. Weather you are a mom with a camera, a hobbyist or a professional, the only way to take better photographers is to .... drum roll ... take them! Shoot every day. Try new things, new perspectives, different light.

I can't wait to see what you create.