New Blog Site

Good morning everyone!

I just wanted you all to know that I have moved my blog.  Click here! to visit it. Don't forget to bookmark the site too :)

D
xoxo

New Website

Good morning everyone!

In case you have tried to access my website, Deirdre Ann Photography, and see a generic page, don't worry.  I am in the process of having it revamped.  I'm really excited to see the end product.  You're going to love it.  It will reflect more of my personality and style and hopefully give your more insight to my, and your, art.

It should be completed by the 15th.  So, in the mean time, feel free to contact me via email at info@daphotography.org.

D
xoxo

What's the happs?

I often participate, and share, my photos through various photography groups on Flickr, blogs and forums that are featuring photography related challenges. I want to share the link of my most recent submission with you to check it out because I love it.  I really really love it.  I went out shooting (pictures, not people) with a fellow photographer and friend (Hi Bri!) this past week during lunch and dragged her pregnant self around Downtown Jacksonville.  As always, it was a good time for pictures and chatting. 

OK, so now back to what I was saying.  Shutter Sisters is a blog that has partnered with IHeartFaces.com, a blog that I'm addicted to, and offers photographers an opportunity to partake in their monthly One Word Challenge (aka OWC).  This months OWC is faces.  So, I captured my vision of a face with a spin.

To give you a little insight and preface of the picture, and me, I love vintage. I love capturing vintage items that have a story to tell. Not the bright, shiny, recreated vintage.  I like to see the items were actually used because they have a story to tell and I’m all for hearing a good story.  Well, I think my truck has a story, or two, for you to see.

Whatcha lookin' at?

http://bit.ly/9uIzPK is the link to Flickr.

Let me know what you think. I love to have your feed back!

D

xoxo

Blog Storyboard

Good morning!

I'm not sure I've expressed or even told you all about MCP Actions.  Many of you are already familiar with them, you being my photographer friends, but I love them.  I mean I really love them.  Since I went to bed last night when the sunset (not kidding) I was bright eyed and bushy tailed this morning at the raw hour of 7 am.  So, wondering what I was going to do with my quiet time, I decided to actually watch some of the tutorials on MCP Actions.  I've been using their actions for a while but actually watching them in action (no pun intended), gave me a few tips on what they could do.

So now, something for your viewing pleasure.  Hope you all have a great weeekend!

D
xoxo

Wedding Season

Hi Everyone-

I came across a really good article (www.ppm.com) for brides, and bridal parties, giving advice on make up application/tips for weddings.  Not only is this good info for brides but for anyone having their portraits taken by a professional.  If you have any other advice to share, feel free!

Tips from makeup artists Steve Moore of The Moore Agency in Atlanta, Deanna Rene of Scottsdale, Ariz., and photographer Holly Schumacher. 

1. BLEND, BLEND, BLEND. You can use your everyday makeup, but use more than you normally use every day. Many makeup professionals use airbrush makeup, the method of choice for high-definition TV, because it’s lightweight, waterproof and gives flawless coverage.  

2. SOMETIMES LESS IS MORE. Use less makeup for a day wedding and more for evenings. You can get dramatic with eye makeup.  

3. DON’T SKIMP ON CONCEALER. Use a moisturized concealer on the thin, sensitive skin under the eyes. If your concealer isn’t moisturizing, blend it with a skin cream. For blemishes, first treat them with a natural or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, then cover with concealer.  

4. DO A MAKEUP TRIAL RUN. It’s the only sure-fire, stress-free way to make certain your makeup will look beautiful.  

5. NOT ALL MINERAL MAKEUP IS CREATED EQUAL. Titanium dioxide, a chemical used as sun block, can reflect flash, giving the bride a ghostly appearance. In 2009 makeup artist Annie May launched a line of mineral makeup especially formulated for photography called Advanced Mineral Makeup. May promises it won’t white-out the bride under a flash.  

6. USE WATERPROOF MAKEUP WITH STAYING POWER. You don’t want to spend your reception in the bathroom reapplying your makeup. Foundation, eyeliner and mascara all should be waterproof. And in case you cry (and you probably will), have a tissue or handkerchief handy to gently blot your tears right at the eye.  

7. KEEP YOUR LIPS MOISTURIZED AND COLORED. Dry lips look dreadful in photos. Have someone carry your lipstick for you and touch up often. Matte and gloss lipstick both photograph well, and be sure to use blended lip liner for enhanced definition. 

8. DON’T FORGET THE GROOM. If the groom is red faced due to too much sun (or drinking), a little powder can help. That goes for shiny heads, too. And it’s a good idea to slip a tube of Chapstick in the groom’s pocket for his dry lips, as well as a handkerchief to dab well-wishers’ makeup smudges off his suit.  

9. DON’T SPRINKLE ON GLITTER. In photographs, it tends to look like little white spots, as if there’s something wrong with the camera.  

10. REMEMBER to apply foundation and powder to your neck, shoulders and décolletage—you want your head to look like it belongs to your body! 

Enjoy!

D

xoxo

Picture Play

Hi!  I have had this texture for a while and decided to actually play with it a little bit, so S & S, hope you like the picture!

D
xoxo

Fellow Photographers

Question o' the day to my fellow photographer followers/friends:

Templates?  Which are your favorites?  Do you make your own or purchase them?

D
xoxo

So.

I love photography. I love taking photos. I love that I have been given the gift of creativity. And I thank you all for supporting and encouraging me. D Xoxo

Just curious...

So, I was thinking. Then I started thinking out loud (scary, I know).  After I have a photo session, I do my post edits, just like any other photographer.  I adjust things like colour, add effects to photos, change the overall colour to black and white, etc.  But I do wonder sometimes if I should, or even have the right, change someone's physical features.  Now I'm not talking about removing acne, but actually altering a persons weight, height, wrinkles and so on.  Is it really far for me to portray them in a photography that will please their ego?  Do I really have the right to visually change someone in photographs?

Let me know how you feel about that too.  I'm interested!

D
xoxo

Baby Boy, Vincent.

I had the pleasure of sharing  a special afternoon photographing one of the cutest little boys in Saint Johns, his name is Vinnie and he was baptised today.  I had such a good time with his extended family, his parents  and big sister.  Below are some pictures of the time I had with them today.  I cannot wait to share with the family the rest of the photos I captured!

xoxo

D

Where have you been?

I've been right here, of course! :)  To be honest, I've downloaded a bunch of new templates and brushes for Photoshop and have been quite consumed playing with all the features of the templates. Sooo, not only do I have new PS toys, but I've branded Deirdre Ann Photography (and no, not like the frat boys do).

After much searching and self designing of my logo, I've finally designed a logo for Deirdre Ann Photography that I'm happy (99%) with. Sigh.  Finally!

Well, here you go! Let me know what you think!  I'm pretty excited about it and just had them sent to the printer yesterday.

Front

Back

Signing off!

Deirdre

Wordpress or blogspot ..... Wordpress or blogspot?

Which do you prefer and why?

Deirdre Ann Photography is now on Google Maps!

Check out Deirdre Ann Photography on Google Maps and feel free to leave a review too! :)

Short Survey

I love to hear what my followers think.  I've created a VERY short survey, so short it's only 3 questions, to get some input on what you all look for when choosing a photographer or are thinking of have professional pictures.

Sooooo, answer away!

xoxo

Deirdre

Favorite location for pictures

What style of photography are you thinking of (Family, maternity, wedding, portraits, etc)?

Where is your favorite location for taking or having your pictures taken?

What do you look for when hiring a photographer?

June Promotion

The mid June Promotion has arrived! You can win a FREE mini-session and 8x10 print credit simply by recruiting NEW fans & having them post that YOU recruited them on my page! The fan with the most promotions will win! (The promotion ends June 30th at midnight)

The Keys

Ok-I'm diverting from my normal photo posts and want to let you know that I have fell in love.  Yes.  You read that right. I've always been fond of warm weather, clear ocean water (b/c as all my good friends know, the sharks know that I will be in the water and will hands down single me out and end my life right there), and the simplistic island life.  Well, I've meet my second love (Andy is my first, of course!).  I have a few pictures to share and show that i've found my home and am seriously looking into real estate and might sign a contract today. XOXO

It's been a long time.....

It's been a little while since I've last posted, but guess what? I'm back! I am super excited about this coming weekend as Andy and I (and a bunch of our good friends) are traveling to Key West! I'm so excited about it b/c as all of my friends know, that's where I am retiring :) so it's only normal that I get down there now and claim my island.

Ok-now on to the photography....

Similar to my last posting on clothing suggestions for a photography shoot (with Deirdre Ann Photography of course!), I have a few suggestions regarding clothing for maternity photo sessions. Being a photographer, I do set up styles and scenery, whether it be the natural elements or some enhancement to a background that was brought it. So, it be only natural that when asked for suggestions on clothing for your maternity photos, I suggest to following:

First and foremost-ANYTHING that shows off your beautiful belly! Empire waist dresses are always a great choice. Tanktops layered with a sweater over (see previous post) are a good choice too because the tank tops hungs your belly, showing off your cute baby bump.

Another suggestion is to accessorize! Accessories give the outfit a little more pizzazz and can make a casual outfit a bit more dressy. A big chunky necklace over a form fitting shirt can really pull together an outfit and make it pop a bit more. Also, wearing a thick bracelet or ring really adds more colour and spice to a photo when I am doing close ups of your belly, giving the photo much more visual appeal.

When doing more intimate portraits, with our without the daddy, an awesome piece of clothing that I LOVE is a man ' s button down shirt. It's timeless and still covers the areas that you might not want to show , while exposing the area(s) that you want to show. It's so simple yet gives so much emotion, I just love it.

Well, time to begin planning the trip to the Keys and going down my last minute checklist. 

TTFN! (that's for Morgan)

Back Home..

Well, I'm back home from VA. Had a great time and as always, it was way too short.  I, of course, brought my camera and took a lot of great pictures of Ross and his cousins, aunts, uncles, and of course Grammy and Poppa!  Here's just a few as I came back with a cold AND lost my voice-which depending on who you ask it's a good/bad thing. :)

So today....

So today it hit me!  I have been following Style Your Life blog for a while now.  Jennifer has great clothing suggestions and great style.  She creates outfits from head to toe, accessory ideas, and even virtual styling for a variety of occasions.  What "hit me" today is her post on what to wear for your photo shoot. How appropriate considering my last blog entry was on exactly the same theme.   So today I had to let her know what perfect timing she had.

So, I'm sharing with you the Style your Life link and hope her blog gives you some new ideas and inspiration for your photo shoot and everyday style.  Lucky you, right!?

I hope you all have a very safe and great holiday weekend! I know I will as I am heading back to VA to see our family.

I've scheduled my photography shoot. Now what do I wear?!?

A lot of people have asked this question, including me. Just what do you wear to a photo session once it has been booked with a photographer?


My response depends on a few factors: 1-the weather 2-photo theme 3-location. I think the first response is kinda obvious....you don't want to be dressed for the beach when it's 40 degrees outside!! Well maybe some do!  Nor do you want to wear white, in the rain, unless the sheer look is what you are going for. :-)

So let's start with number 2: What type of session did you schedule? Family, mother daughter, event session? I recommend for family session for the members to have some sort of continuity to the photos. Not necessarily all matchy-matchy but if the colour of choice is blue, then some where pale blue, baby blue while others wear navy blue, deep blue, etc. That way everyone's personality shows through creating individuality and bringing more emotion to the picture. The younger children could be dressed in fancy clothes, while the parents/adults are more casual. How's that for a statement!?


In regards to number 3: Location. Location. Location! (had to...LOCATION! ok! phew! done): Clothing choice and location can be flexible, but I wouldn't necessarily want to see someone dressed in a snowboard getup in the park, or on the beach...tell me I'm wrong in thinking that (and I'll give you $1) or on a mountain, covered in snow, with a naked newborn.  See what I mean?


BUT, what you can do is try to coordinate colours for the outfits. Include texture (ruffles, knits, demin) and don't forget to ACCESSORIZE (earrings, bracelets, necklaces)!

Accessories do not have to be limited to just women. Don't forget to about all the things you bring along for your children when you go places with them; favorite blanket, stuffed animal, colouring books, toys, skateboard, bike, etc. Having these types of things not only adds character to the portrait memory, but it helps to relax the younger child more and for the older child, it gives them a chance to capture their latest talent and excitement. As far as accessorizing men, please see the latter suggestions for children. Ha! I am kidding. OK-half kidding. But men love gadgets. They love their electronics, cars, books (catch my drift) and such. Having a prop that they value, that anyone values, brings more emotion and character to pictures and tells more of a story. And the story is what we want portrayed in photography.

Another tip would be to have layers.  For example, if you are wearing a tank top, bring a shrug or a cardigan to wear over the tank for a different look to the photo.  Have a skirt? Bring shorts or jeans along too! You never know how a small wardrobe change can make such a big difference.

Hope you've enjoyed your tips!  TTFN!

Deirdre

Taco Wednesday...

OK-random title, I know.  But it got your attention right?  So, it's been a busy week for me! Work, edit, work, dinner, family QT, bed.  Thought I lost my ipod, found it.  Lost my keys, found them too.  Celebrated 2 birthdays this week (Happy Birthday Morgan & Bri) and it's only Wednesday.

Now it's finally time to watch The Hills via DVR.  Ahhhh, a much needed mindless entertainment.

Here's a a few more pictures for ya!

2 more!

Two more postings for the soon to be mommies :)

Website for full gallery

Baby Bumps!

Today I was given then the opportunity to photograph 2 beautiful pregnant woman. I had the best time with Tonya & Jenna at Alpine Park today..this is just a preview of what is in store :)

Let me know your thoughts!

xoxo

But wait! There's More!

Yep, still want to put them in my pocket!

A Few Good Men....

I like it!

Meant to add a few to the previous post...soooo, more for your view pleasure! ;)

My De-Stressor and Creative Outlet

Bri and I go out during our lunch break and take pictures. There are so many unique things to see around downtown, so I'd thought I'd share. PLUS Andy and Ross went to a Jacksonville Suns baseball game tonight so I had an extra quiet evening and TIME to edit some pictures :)

Enjoy and let me know what you think!

Cathedral Downtown

Definitely felt like the paparazzi chasing these geese around. But we couldn't help it! They were sooo cute! Wanted to put one in my pocket. Until Daddy Goose started honking at us.

Tubular Tuesday

Sharing a few more pictures of my favorite little boy, Ross (of course),  and favorite Mom :) from Mother's Day!

The next picture is of my mom and a bride she married, and I acted as the assistant, this past Saturday at Castle Otttis in St. Augustine.  It was such a beautiful wedding.  I have a few pictures of the Castle will be posting them soon.

Website is up and running!

I hope all you mother's out there had a great weekend! It was absolutely beautiful here in Florida. I had a great Mother's Day too! We went to Vilano Beach and had brunch at Caps with my Mom, brothers, Dad, Andy (aka husband :) ) and son Ross. He had a great time climbing the on the trees, searching for crabs and most of all, playing with his uncles! Enjoy a few of the pictures from the weekend and also, check out my website!

Cinco de Mayo

Do many people really know why we celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Well, now you will, just incase you didn't! Cinco de Mayo is a voluntarily-observed holiday that commemorates the Mexican army's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Like we need another reason to drink, right? :) Last week I had the pleasure of meeting my friend Morgan's sister, Kendall, at their photo shoot for Mother's Day. We had a great time...I'm posting a few :)

Best Quote

The following quote pretty much sums it all up. Hope you all are having a great day!
"We try to grab pieces of our lives as they speed past us. Photographs freeze those pieces and help us remember how we were. We don't know these lost people but if you look around, you'll find someone just like them."

Domingo

I had the chance and free time today to edit a few more pictures and play with photoshop some more, which is always a good time! So, here ya go!

I'm looking forward to photography Morgan and her sister tomorrow for their mother's day gift. Such a great idea! I know we'll have a good time :) Look for pictures of them very soon!

Slacking on the edits

So, I've been slacking, well, not slacking but consumed with other things this week, so here's my one edit. I know. Only 1 you ask? Yes, only 1 for this moment...but don't you fret...more to come!

April 21, 2010

So, today is my first day having a blog. Although I am overwhelmed with html, CS+, Flash, non flash terms and websites I am very much looking forward to getting deirdre ann photography off the ground and running. We'll at least further than the random template I have on my site (daphotography.org) now.

Oh! One last thing...I'd like to say thank you to Bri Westfall, briwestfallphotography.com, for all fo her patience, guidance, instructions and bossyness over the past few weeks. If it wasn't for her, I do not know where I'd let my creative energy flow to.

I also want to thank my Mom. If her persistance and love weren't in my life, I would be a totally different person. Thanks Mom :)

OK-so now it's back to the job that is currently paying my bills and I am glad you took the time to read...ENJOY!