Welcome back to another edition Feature Friday!  I am so happy to feature Christina Skinner.  Her work is amazing.  Based out of Orange County, this natural light photographer is all about capturing the moments that melt your heart.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a child of God, a wife of 5 years, and mother to 2 precious children; an 11 month old boy and 2 ½ year old girl. I grew up in southern California and after living in Salt Lake City for 6 years I found my way back here again. Besides photography, my other hobby is sewing. What can I say… I love to create!

How did you get started in photography?

I suppose I’ve always had a fascination with making images. I used to make my very tomboy sister dress up in my ballet costumes and pose for me in front of my Mom’s cheap 35mm point and shoot. I thought that meant I would go into the fashion industry. I did for a while in my teens and early 20’s as a high fashion model but found that I really wanted to try being behind the camera. I took a class at a local junior college and fell in love with the way you can manipulate light and develop in a dark room. Later my husband bought me my first DSLR and his old copy of Photoshop and I was hooked.

If this a full time job or a part time gig?

It’s very part time for me right now. I’m booking more in the summer now that other commitments have ended but I don’t foresee going full time for quite a while as we want to have more children and there is just not enough of me to go around.

What three word describe your style?

Casual. Emotive. Soft.

Do you always know when you get the perfect shot?  Any surprises during the editing process?

Every time I think I have the perfect shot I’m usually disappointed when I sit down to edit. It’s the overachiever in me that sets high expectations. But the times that I’m bummed a session didn’t go as planned I’m usually very pleasantly surprised at the gems I find.

What are you inspired by?

I draw inspiration from anything and everything. My children, sunlight, songs, locations, a prop or outfit. I really enjoy following other photographers that encourage me to try new things and push my creative limits.

Are you self taught?  Learn somewhere else?

As I mentioned before I learned to shoot on film from some college classes. Everything digital is self taught.

Any special moments or funny bloopers you want to share with us that happened during a session?

I was 9 months pregnant doing a couple’s session at a park. We were on a slight hill and I took a step back to frame my shot and forgot I was standing on a hill. I lost my footing and with 50 extra pounds and a huge belly there was no saving my fall backwards. My feet went up in the air and everything! I was wearing a skirt and prayed that I didn’t flash the poor couple. Luckily the baby was ok and my camera was ok, the two most important things right?  Haha!  My back and dignity were aching for a while. So embarrassing….

Do you have any rituals that are a part of your editing process?

I’m one of those ADD editors. I can’t stick to one session from start to finish and with two little ones I’m interrupted frequently. I also can’t edit every session the same way or I get bored. I love to try out new things so I keep a notebook on my desk with lots of notes on the way I’m editing each session so I can jump back and forth. It’s not very time effective I realize but I can’t seem to stop.

Do you a glass addiction?  What is your favorite lens?

Some people have been surprised to find out that I used the 50mm 1.8 exclusively until recently. I just got an 85mm and upgraded my 50. I guess I’d have to say that the 50 is my favorite but I love both for different reasons. There are other lenses I’d like to get but I’m a keep it simple kind of girl so you’ll never find me with a big stash of glass.

What advice you give a photographer just starting off in this business?

Practice, practice, practice!  Find yourself and your style and be true to it. The clients will come because they are attracted to your work and you’ll enjoy what you do because it’s an extension of yourself. Fads come and go but don’t get so immersed in a fad that it defines your style because you’ll soon be outdated. Find small ways to incorporate them (if you want) into your style.

Where can we find you? 

Blog:  www.christinaskinnerphotography.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Christina-Skinner-Photography/145613548824077

Thank you so much Christina.  Amazing interview!  Happy Friday to you all and be sure to head on over to Chrstina’s Facebook Page and leave her some love!  Cheers!

{Floral Wrap in Blue}

Happy Friday everyone!  Time to meet Malisa Phillips.  This amazing photography is based out of central Texas near Fort Hood.  She does amazing work and is an amazing person.  And after the interview, be sure to check out her facebook page and show Malisa some love!

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a 26 year old wife to an Infantry Soldier of the US Army, and we have 3 amazing kids who are 2, 4 and 6.  My husband has served for over 13 years and I couldn’t be prouder of him

I love coffee. You will also see me with a cup or two or Caramel Macchiato while out and about.

I love to bake, although I have to find new ways to minimize the sugar intake.

I am a HUGE fan of books. I cannot live without my tablet or kindle.  I am mostly devouring everything to do with paranormal events, romance, and heartbreaking life events.

I  am a huge fan of the arts. Whether it be music, dance, painting or photography.

This quote from A. Armstrong says it all: My camera is my canvas and the light I use to capture each image is my paintbrush.   And I’ve done pretty well in all of them (Or so I’d like to think)  I try to push myself further when it comes to new obstacles, new techniques, new styles.  I’m a little obsessed with pushing past my doubts and continuing on this path of self discovery.

How did you get started in photography?

Oh you know how the story goes. New mom wants to take amazing pictures of her children because the typical studio sessions just weren’t cutting it Growing up my nana said I never left the house without a disposable camera.  And this was true.  I had thousands upon thousands of images of my friends and I doing activities, documenting life. I cherished those images so much. But unfortunately I lost them all in a fire, including my very own baby pictures. This was the deal breaker for me. I needed to make memories for my children, because I no longer remembered my own.

If this a full time job or a part time gig?

It’s pretty much full time right now.

What three word describe your style?

Hmm, I ask myself this very question daily. I like to think it’s soft, detailed, emotional.  I can’t take an image that has no story behind it.

Do you always know when you get the perfect shot? 

Well, I know what shot I’m aiming for before I shoot, and I always have a visual in my head, but sometimes the story changes during a session. I have those moments where the “perfect shot” is actually the one not expected. I can tell a client I am adjusting settings, or getting a practice shot, and right then and there they loosen up and give me great images!! Sneaky I know.

Any surprises during the editing process?

Not normally. I HATE surprises by the way!

What are you inspired by?

So many things inspire me. It’s hard to explain. When I first started, I was so into my little box of cookie cutter images, and I refused to break out of my shell. I was very into studio work. That’s what I learned first. My soft box was my best friend. It wasn’t until this past year, I finally gave in and told myself to shoot outdoors.

I HATED the outdoors and natural light. The sun and I never agreed on camera settings, and the golden hour was a new concept to me.  But my first time outdoors, during sunset, was like falling in love.  The rays of the sun leaving golden tones on the trees, rim light on someones hair, the kaleidoscope of colors that enthralled the grass and trees left me dancing. There’s nothing better.

Another thing was realizing families wanted real moments captured, not posed. The best images I have are when no one is looking. I love it when I can capture life when it’s happening. A mom and dad playing with their child, a girl dancing around in a field, a new moms pregnancy glow, the birth of a child, a first cry, a first kiss, and sometimes unfortunately, a moment of farewells. These moments can not be planned or recreated.

Are you self taught?  Learn somewhere else?

Yes. It has been years of trial and error.  I took one workshop, and pushed myself to learn everything I could from there.

I’m located in Central Texas near Fort Hood.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Malisa.Phillips.Photography

Website: http://www.malisaphillips.com/

Blog: http://malisaphillipsphotography.wordpress.com/about/

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/malisaphillips/

Thank you so much Malisa!  Love your work!

{Valace Headwrap}

The new collection is finally here and this is one of my favorite pieces.   The {Bronson Newborn Set} is very classic yet modern with raw edges and fresh sophistication.  I just love it!  It is available in either Caramel/Grey or Cream/Grey/Beige.

Cost?  $45 shipped!  To order, please contact me or visit my new Big Cartel Shop to order via Facebook.

Wow!  It is Friday again!  Friday’s are my most favorite day of the week…the weekend is here and I get to share amazing interviews with such talented photographers.  So grab a coffee, sit back, and let’s meet with Haley Gilreath of HWG Photography!

Tell us a little about yourself.  

I’m a full time photographer and I started my business in 2008; over the past 5 years, it has grown into something bigger than I had ever dreamed!  I have a degree in Early Childhood Education, and my husband is a firefighter.  We have 2 beautiful little girls, Emma (5), and Claire (2) and we live in the gorgeous North Georgia Mountains.  The beginning of May 2013, I finally out grew my humble beginnings and hired a Studio Manager.  My studio is in our basement; my husband let me take over his ‘man cave’ to rebuild the entire bottom floor so that I am able to accommodate my clients in a very relaxed and unique way!

How did you get started in photography?  

My first daughter, Emma, was born 10 weeks premature, and only weighed 2lbs.  After an extensive stay in the NICU, we could not get enough of that gorgeous little miracle!  I began purchasing boutique-styled hair bows and outfits for her to wear, and of course I would take photos of her wearing each item.  I started sending ‘thank you’ photos to the boutiques that I had purchased the items from and to my surprise, most of them came back with offers to trade items for photos.  This snowballed into a full time boutique-modeling career by the time Emma was a year old.  After that, I began taking on “clients” who wanted to model for various boutiques as well.  Once I became confident enough in my abilities, I branched out and fell into my niche: newborns, babies/toddlers, and children.  I also started charging for photo sessions and studying the art of running a photography business.  From there, HWG Photography has blown up into a photography success story and most days I can’t even believe I am where I am today!

Is this a full time job or a part time gig?  

I’m blessed enough to say this is my full time job and I easily help sustain my family doing what I love!

What three words describe your style?  

Bold, unique, & innovative.

Do you always know when you get the perfect shot?  Any surprises during the editing process?

I can always tell when I’ve gotten that one perfect shot the moment I snap it, but there are still always surprised during editing…those tend to be the client-favorites!

What are you inspired by?

Outdoor locations and lighting.  I can look at an area, and see how the lighting will look in camera, how the bokeh will be nice & blurred behind a subject, what wardrobe would be best for the surrounding colors…I usually start with a location and plan a shoot around that.  For example, I had a family of 3 who wanted outdoor photos; very fun and bright.  I told them that I had the perfect spot for them because I had seen it while driving to another session the week prior and sure enough, the lush green colors, the lighting, the way we could utilize our surroundings, made it the perfect spot for this family; they even purchased every image in their gallery because they couldn’t choose between them!

Are you self taught?  Learn somewhere else?

I am self taught, but I sign up for as many workshops as I can.  I have a handful of ‘pro’ photographers whom I admire, so when they offer a learning opportunity, I jump on it!

Any special moments or funny bloopers you want to share with us that happened during a session?  

I was shooting a maternity session with a young, gorgeous couple.  I was walking backwards & looking at them through my viewfinder trying to find that perfect ‘framed’ pose when I tripped over a log laying on the ground behind me…it was a cartoon moment because my feet literally went over my head as I tumbled backwards.  The worst part was that my clients were trying so hard not to laugh at me because they didn’t want to hurt my feelings!  After I explained how naturally clumsy I am, (& how this happens more often than not), they enjoyed a nice laugh at my expense.  They even brought me a roll of gauze as a gag-gift when they picked up their prints! lol

Do you have any rituals that are a part of your editing process?  

I sift through my RAW images in Adobe ACR and try to narrow down to 40-50 of the best ones.  After that, I begin my usual post-processing in Photoshop starting with cosmetic fixes and ending with some of my favorite action combinations.

Do you have a glass addiction?  What is your favorite lens? 

I don’t really have a glass “addiction”, but I do have a favorite lens.  For studio portraits, it’s by far my nifty-fifty; for location portraits, it’s my Nikkor 70-300 zoom lens.

What advice you give a photographer just starting off in this business?  

First off, don’t get discouraged if you aren’t seeing instant results.  If you posted an image to Facebook, but you haven’t received a booking or even a like on it yet, don’t give up.  Owning a full-time photography business is a long process; you will not see instant results with every marketing tactic you try, and you will not receive instant bookings with every special you advertise.  Study the business side of photography just as much as you study the photography side…without a strong business sense, your photography will never be anything more than a hobby.  I was stuck in this ‘rut’ for 3 years until I finally started learning all I could about running a business…we are business men & women & we need to know how the field works!

Also, I know this is said a lot, but no matter what you do, don’t compare yourself with your competition!  They are living their own dream, with their own uniqueness and you will always have something that they don’t & that’s YOU.  There’s something about you that makes you different from everyone else; find what that is & run with it!

Where can we find you?  

Website: www.hwgphotography.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hwg.photography.by.haley

Blog: http://hwgphotographybyhaley.blogspot.com

Pintrest: http://pinterest.com/hwgphotography1/

Instagram:  http://instagram.com/hwgphotography

Thank you so much Haley!  Wonderful!

Thank you for your support and entering my {New Collection, Fabulous Giveaway}.  We have a winner . . .

Congratulations to: NATASHA HAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY!  Please contact me to claim your prize.

Happy shopping everyone!

]]> http://castawaycollection.com/2013/05/30/the-shop-is-open/feed/ 0 castawaycollection CastAway Collection - Newborn Photo Props http://castawaycollection.com/2013/05/29/castaway-collection-launches-new-shop/ http://castawaycollection.com/2013/05/29/castaway-collection-launches-new-shop/#comments Wed, 29 May 2013 12:51:26 +0000 Tracy Roul http://castawaycollection.com/?p=4615 Continue reading →]]> {Preview of the New Collection}

It has taken me a little while to figure out what the “CastAway Collection” is all about.  I love classic designs but also pieces that are romantic and whimsical.  I have finally found a way to merge this style and I think that this is reflected in the new collection.

I will be launching the new line as a ready-to-shop collection via my new shop: www.castawaycollection.bigcartel.com

What can you expect?  Lots of classic designs updated by using beautiful fabrics and colors.  These will be pieces that you will want to use over and over again.

Don’t want to wait?  Here is your exclusive sneak peek!

{Bronson Newborn Pants Set}

{Britannia Bonnet, Percelle Headwraps, Siesta Headscarf, Fisherman’s Net Blanket}

{Delhia Romper}

{Ferina Bonnets, Delhia Romper Set, Skipper Pixie, Polka Dot Wrap}

{Easterly Bonnet}

Shop opens THURSDAY, MAY 30th at 7 pm EST!  Be sure to get there quickly, I will be carrying a limited stock as everything will be ready-to-ship.

You can visit the shop at :www.castawaycollection.bigcartel.com.  Cheers!

]]> http://castawaycollection.com/2013/05/29/castaway-collection-launches-new-shop/feed/ 0 castawaycollection CastAway Collection - Newborn Photo Props CastAway Collection - Newborn Photo Props CastAway Collection - Newborn Photo Props CastAway Collection - Newborn Photo Props CastAway Collection - Newborn Photo Props http://castawaycollection.com/2013/05/27/new-collection-fabulous-giveaway/ http://castawaycollection.com/2013/05/27/new-collection-fabulous-giveaway/#comments Mon, 27 May 2013 22:31:09 +0000 Tracy Roul http://castawaycollection.com/?p=4602 Continue reading →]]> WANT TO WIN THIS?

I am so excited!  I have been hard working on a brand new line of newborn photo props and accessories.  As an artist and small business owner, I have found it a struggle at times to balance my artistic vision for the CastAway Collection with the current trends in the photo prop world.  I think I have finally cracked the formula so to speak, and this new collection is a reflect of this.  I have never felt quite so proud.

The new shop will carry all ready-to-ship items and will be will filled with such special designed.  It is a mix of the classic and romantic.

It will open on THURSDAY, MAY 30th, 2013 at 7 pm EST!

To celebrate, I am giving away this adorable newborn set!  This set started it all and I would love to give it away to one of my amazing fans!

HOW TO ENTER:

(1) Like {THIS} status post.

(2) Share {THE SAME} status post on Facebook.

(3) Confirm that you did {HERE} on {Rafflecopter}.

THAT’S IT! 

Once again, thank you for making the CastAway Collection such a success!  And don’t forget to check out the new shop this Thursday!

Cheers,

“It’s more than a photo shoot, it’s an EXPERIENCE. It’s more than a snapshot, it’s ART.”  That’s what you can expect when working with Menzel Photography.  This husband-wife team is all about making your experience special and are located in Bosie, Idaho.  Let’s find out a little more!

Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Britta Menzel.  I’m 30 years old, happily married (8 years in June) to my love David and we have 2 beautiful children!  Our son Gage is 3.5, daughter Petra is 18 months, and baby #3 is due late October!  We have lived in beautiful Boise Idaho for the last 8 years excluding an amazing 1 year stint when we lived in Australia (right by the beach).  As crazy as it may sound, we are thrilled to be back home in Boise!  We love living in the downtown area, and target clients who share our love for downtown Boise!

How did you get started in photography?

I actually have loved photography since I was about 10 years old and got my first film camera.  I would spend hours posing my Barbie dolls and taking photos of them.  Then when I was in college I was able to take a few film photography classes where I learned how to use an SLR camera.  After graduation I got married and my amazing supportive husband bought me my first Digital SLR.  Now 8 years later my husband is not only my biggest supporter, but also my business partner!  I shoot with Canon and love them, but I don’t understand the “war” between Canon users and Nikon users.  They are both great cameras!  Oh, I always shoot in RAW full manual mode as well.

Is this a full time job or a part time gig?

Currently I work part time with my photography while staying home with my beautiful children!  But I am working towards building up enough work to be full time!

What three words describe your style?

Vibrant, Urban, Art!

Do you always know when you get the perfect shot?  Any surprises during the editing process?

Usually when I fall in love with a photo during the session I get home later to find there are several others that I love even more!  I’m always surprised during editing because about a year ago my husband became a business partner and took over the editing side.  We have the same vision and love the same images so I know I can trust him creatively.  When I get home from a shoot I give him the memory card and he gets to work.  He doesn’t let me see the images until he is done editing, so the final results are always a surprise for me too!

What are you inspired by?

Big Cities, bright colors, and interesting lighting!  I’m working toward building a reputation in my area as the “urban photographer.”  I target clients who love the downtown scene!  I know so many photographers are into rural fields and soft golden light right now, and although they make beautiful images, it’s just not my style!  I want my work to emphasize how vibrant and colorful life is in the city!

Are you self taught?  Learn somewhere else?

As I mentioned above, I took a few film photography classes in college, but when it comes to the digital stuff I’m completely self taught.  My husband is also self taught on the editing and he’s a natural!  I also worked as a model when I was younger, so that gives me a little more experience with understanding how to pose clients from both sides of the camera.

Any special moments or funny bloopers you want to share with us that happened during a session?

I always embarrass myself during sessions.  I love public speaking and majored in communications, but somehow I always manage to say something silly or put my foot in my mouth.

Do you have any rituals that are apart of your editing process?

For me it’s the wait while the hubby edits, but I know he has a few specific edits that he does to pretty much every photo.

Do you have a glass addiction?  What is your favorite lens?

I have a glass addiction, but with a young family and only part-time work, it takes longer to save up to buy them all.  My current favorite that I use for pretty much every shoot is my 50mm, but I’m saving up for the 70-200 1.4 IS.  I’ve got a HUGE wish list!

What advice you give a photographer just starting off in this business?

Do what you love!  Don’t follow trends, but also be open to advice. No matter how creative you are, or how long you’ve been shooting, there is always something to learn.  STUDY LIGHT LIKE NOBODIES BUSINESS!  Understanding how lighting works in photography is what separates the amateurs from the pros!  Spend as much time as possible researching and learning about light!!!

Where can we find you? 

Website/Blog: www.MenzelPhotography.net
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/MenzelPhotography
Twitter: @BrittaMenzel
Google+:  https://plus.google.com/112488609497998531168

Thank you Britta for this amazing interview and best to you and your business!