First, mom checks three books on electricity out of the library, then the kids make models of light bulbs, read a biography of Thomas Edison and do a skit based on his life.

Next, everyone studies the history of lighting methods, wrapping up with dipping their own candles.

Next, everyone takes a trip to the store where they compare types of light bulbs as well as prices and figure out how much change they’ll get if they buy two bulbs for $1.99 and pay with a five dollar bill.

On the way home, a discussion develops over the history of money and also Abraham Lincoln, as his picture is on the five dollar bill.

Finally, after building a homemade ladder out of branches dragged from the woods, the light bulb is installed.

And there is light.

The bugs!!

We’ve had our share of ants, centipedes, scorpions (technically not a bug, but who cares!), silverfish (I HATE silverfish) and now it is big spider season.

Seriously big spiders.

Why do we call it ‘Fun’style Photography?

When I first started out in photography, the term Lifestyle Photographer kept popping up all over the place and I didn’t quite understand it. Some stock photographers (photos for a specific situations, for ad agencies, etc) define lifestyle photography as the recreating moments of everyday life, but making it look better, sellable. Lifestyle photography has become the cornerstone of stock photography. For me, however, lifestyle is a way in which a person lives. When I photograph a family, I’m capturing a moment they are living right then and there. Of course, we all want to look nice, and having photos is a great excuse to go buy a new outfit and get dressed up. But the interactions between siblings, between a husband and wife, between a boy and his dog, those moments are what holds the most meaning to my clients. My clients want to preserve everyday moments with the same attention and care as they do with birthdays and graduations. Because childhood is too short not to honor everyday.

Childhood is fun, too. A lot of fun. And to keep this post short and sweet (hehe), that is why we call what we do ‘Fun’style photography. Too many of us have had that awkward in-studio family portrait, and for many of us, that is the first emotion we feel when we think of having our picture taken.  The biggest compliment we have received have been from the dads, who admit they were dreading coming to the shoot, but leave feeling happy (and often tired) from playing with their kids. That was easy and a lot more fun than I thought it would be, I often hear them say.

Of course we do a few traditional-style shots mixed in, if our clients request it.  My goal is for every image to be one that tells your story, either in an album or framed on the wall. We’re not just taking snapshots, folks.  The art of making beautiful portraiture takes patience, practice and attention to angles, perspective and light.  This is easier said than done!  But if done correctly, you will have a portrait of a moment in your family’s authentic and cherished life!  And you’ll have fun doing it, too!

Take a look at some examples of our ‘fun’style moments… from weddings, to special events, to our family sessions.. we love our clients!  Thank you for your continued support!

Sure, no problem, I say.

Then I throw up.

Ok, I didn’t really throw up. But I was feeling really overwhelmed and a little out of my comfort zone. I shoot toddlers and teens, brides and wedding bouquets, and occasionally a spirited trinket for my Haunted Mansion Collectibles blog. But I love meeting people and trying new adventures, so I had to give it a go!

Let me just say, I had no idea that it would so much fun. I had no idea what to expect, but I jumped right in. My expected 2 hour day turned into a 12 hour day by the time I go home, but I didn’t care. When you absolutely love what you do, you don’t notice the time, or the sweat, or the terrible sunburn…

Anyway.. Click HERE to see movie makin’ magic!

I wanted to say thanks again to Barry, for the dinner and ride home.. and for this amazing opportunity! I really enjoyed helping out, especially learning how to pull focus .
Also, thanks to Thomas, the sound guy, for being so friendly and making me feel right at home!
Of course, the staff at Mount Palomar, especially Mr. Darwish, for their gracious hospitality. The food was delicious, your winery just lovely. I hear you have the best Port around!

Of course, a huge thanks to Scott. Thanks for thinking of me!

On a completely separate note, my one year blogiversary (surely I didn’t just make up that word…) came and went. I meant to post something, but I forgot. Yep. Sure did. So happy belated one year… thank you to my readers, all 5 of you! Thanks for your comments, your encouragement, your new and continued business, but most of all, your friendship!

And because a post is always better with pictures, here are the cutie-patooties at the last workshop. I love these kids!!