Shades of You Blog

Having fun outdoors!

2008-11-03T15:52:00.000-08:00

Isn't Fall the best? I have been having such fun getting out of the studio and playing outside.

The first pics I ever took of this little beauty were when she was 4 days old. And look at her now. She's amazing. Smart, funny, pretty, sweet with a heart as big as Texas. She takes after her Mommy. I could take pics of her all day, every day.

You can see why, right?

Little Lilah

2008-10-31T11:03:00.001-07:00

I'm having trouble with the blogging program so I hope these post well. This little girl was delightful...such a happy baby. I love this quiet moment with her Daddy...but the rest of the time she was just all smiles. What a sweetie pie!

My little friend Olivia

2008-10-24T14:59:00.001-07:00

I have been taking photos of this adorable girl since she was a tiny baby. She is just the neatest little kid. So interesting, and funny, and smart...the whole package. I feel so honored to have been sharing her childhood. I really am so moved when I have clients who come back, again and again--we develop a real relationship and I feel a part of their memories.

Thank you Kelly and Olivia for including me in these moments...

Sisters...

2008-10-20T16:29:00.000-07:00

I've been really looking forward to this. What great sisters this little one has. So much love in this family. Little Ava is a lucky baby!

Sweet baby Madison

2008-10-15T16:16:00.000-07:00

This little sweet baby is 3 weeks old --and what a delicious way for me to return to working full time. I loved her--and it doesn't hurt that her Mommy and Daddy are just 2 of the sweetest people I could ever ask for clients. It was a nice way to get back to work.

Samantha, Cory, and beautiful baby Morgan

2008-10-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

It is so nice to be back at work. As most of my clients know, I recently had surgery and had to take some time off. This lovely family was my first session back in the studio and what a wonderful way to get back to work! I enjoyed every minute with this sweet couple and their adorable new baby girl.

Tinkerbell and Peter Pan

2008-10-01T15:12:00.000-07:00

Yes, I admit it...I'm one of those "dog moms". But, really....are these not the cutest little Tinkebell and Peter Pan doggies ever?? I can't wait for Halloween---its so much fun to answer the door with these two in their costumes!

Our Pay It Forward Family

2008-10-01T11:49:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago I blogged about having our portraits taken as part of a photographer's Pay It Forward project. In return, we committed to taking a family portrait for another professional photographer. Last night, we had a great time with Misty and Simon and their 2 great kids Jude and Ruby. Its a little odd to take portraits for another photographer but this family was just so sweet and such fun to work with.

Thanks so much Misty and Simon (and kiddos)!

Congratulations Summer and Jason!

2008-09-26T08:19:00.000-07:00

Summer and Jason are truly one of our very favorite couples. And now they have wonderful news to share with their friends and family! So what better way to share it than with a very special photo announcement? Yes, they are a very creative couple, aren't they??

It is going to be so exciting to document their pregnancy and continue to share this family's very special moments.

Summer and Jason...you already know this, but Pat and I are wishing you the very best with this wonderful news. Congratulations!

Art show winner!

2008-09-25T18:58:00.000-07:00

Big congratulations for Pat! He recently entered two photos in an art show and his black and white entry won First Place while his color photo won Honorable Mention.

The First Place winners from 30 art shows throughout the Dallas area can be seen through October 5th in an exhibit at NorthPark Center (just outside of Macy's). Pat's entry, entitled "Melt With You" (from a Modern English song and shown below), was from an engagement session. We've always had a soft spot for Stacey and Bill, so its extra special that they are a part of such an exciting accomplishment for Pat.

Stop by and check out the exhibit if you happen to be at NorthPark. There's a lot of really neat artwork to enjoy....Pat's photo is one of the first ones you'll see!

Here is the pic that won Honorable Mention. He titled it "Little Wing" (after a Jimi Hendrix song)..

Baby Barron

2008-08-15T10:54:00.000-07:00

This family was so sweet. We had a great time together. This little one stayed awake almostthe entire time and we got some fabulous wide awake pics...but, oh, those sleeping baby shots are something special.

Sweet baby Katherine

2008-08-11T14:53:00.001-07:00

Newborn sessions are so rewarding and I love them so much.

Just look at this little sweat pea! She did not want to sleep. At all. But we waited her out and got a great combination of awake and sleeping baby portraits. I just know that Mom and Dad are going love them.

Its party time!

2008-08-11T14:29:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah, its birthday time.

This little pumpkin is one of my Baby Planners and I cannot believe she is already one year old.

So, what better way to celebrate than with a hot pink cake, right?

Looks pretty yummy, yeah?

Hmmm....this looks interesting...

All done!

Somebody doesn't really love being dressed like a girly girl-but the face is too, too cute. You should have seen the war we had trying to put a cute hat on this girl. She was not feeling that at all.

Adorable Ahni

2008-07-23T07:23:00.000-07:00

I can't believe she's already 2 years old. This is my 4th time photographing this darling girl (if you count Mommy's maternity session--which I do!). To say that she is adorable is an understatement.

I have so many great shots of her.

We had our portraits taken last night!

2008-07-23T05:57:00.003-07:00

As I wrote in my previous entry, we were thrilled that John Michael Cooper (http://www.altf.com/) included us in his Pay It Forward project...which meant we had our family portrait done by him. This is momentous because...yes, its true....we have never had a family portrait taken. I think photographers must be the worst (I know that I am) about having their own photo taken.

Anyway, John really really wanted us to just dress like our "normal" selves. His theme is "roadside portraits" and we met at a corner in McKinney. So instead of getting dressed up and all "matchy", we just wore our regular clothes. Since it was about 100 degrees, this meant shorts. I have no idea of what the pics are going to look like, b/c I felt kind of dumpy in my regular clothes but I know that John will make something truly unique with them. And we were really so happy to have it be our whole family--which those who know us know that means our dogs.

Part of the project is that I am now going to do a complimentary session and print for another professional photographer. I have a couple of possibilities and am working out details. Will share more as things come together.

Here's a pic of me, Pat, Wilbur, Shanti, John, and his wonderful wife Dalisa--can't wait to see the portraits and will post as soon as I have something to share..

professsional photographers in the Dallas area...

2008-07-18T12:28:00.000-07:00

Pat and I are so excited that next week one of our favorite artists is going to be doing a family portrait for us. We love John Michael Cooper! And you can check out his work at http://www.altf.com/ . I can't even begin to have words for how moved we are that he chose us to participate. He is an amazing and truly gifted artist, with such talent and vision.

Anyway, we are having our portraits done as part of his project to Pay It Forward. The gist is that we get our portrait done by JMC and then we, in turn, do a family portrait for another professional photographer. Pretty cool, right?

Sooo...if you are a professional photographer (or know one) who would like a complimentary family portrait session (and free large print) we would love for you to email us (amy@shadesofyouphoto.com). Please briefly tell us about you and your family, why you would like to be photographed, and also, how long its been since you've had professional portraits. We will read all inquiries and then decide on the recipient.

We're really looking forward to this and will post pics on our blog as soon as we can!

I have a soft spot for this family..

2008-07-02T12:55:00.000-07:00

This sweet family came before baby Ethan arrived, and then came back yesterday with this wonderful 2 week old little peanut. Mom is stunning, and as nice as she is beautiful. And this Dad is so in love with his wife (and now his baby too). And the nicest man. Just such a pleasure to know them both.

I love the way the baby is touching Mom's face in this one--

And believe it or not, this moment was not posed. I was moving some stuff around and looked over and there they were having this moment. So lovely and moving.

Cutest little munchkin

2008-07-02T12:30:00.000-07:00

This little one was sooooooo cute. She actually had a pretty serious way about her but she gave me some grins along the way....but scroll down to the last pic. It's really funny.

This last pic just cracks me up. It looks like she's thinking "ho hum. I'm bored of this. Somebody order the pizza and put on So You Think You Can Dance already".

little girls are so much fun!

2008-06-19T15:34:00.001-07:00

I have to say that Alexis is one of my very favorite little girls. We've been friends for a long time and I always have such a great time with her. How pretty is this girl? Take a look for yourself (and let me tell you, she is even sweeter than she is pretty)...

Her mom is one of the best moms that I know. She has such an amazing relationship with both of her kids. Its inspiring to see them together.

Oh, yeah...and you gotta love the shoes. A girl after my own heart!

What a cutie!

2008-06-17T09:17:00.000-07:00

I have been looking forward to this little cutie for the longest time! I have so many good pics but am super short on time. Just wanted to put a few up here for Mommy, Daddy, and Grandma to see. She's definitely going on the studio wall!

Sweet little peanut

2008-06-13T08:36:00.000-07:00

I thought that I had a great maternity session with this family, but then we had the newborn session. Oh my gosh! This little peanut pretty much slept the entire time. It was heavenly. Sweet, fun parents + amazing baby = fun for me!

Wonderful workshop

2008-06-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

Pat and I were so lucky to have attended an amazing workshop this week. Rob Heyman is a triple master photographer with the Australian Institute of Professional Photography. He is one of the top photographers in Australia. We got to spend 2 days with Rob, his wife Shirl, and some really nice local photographers. So inspiring. If you'd like to see some amazing photography, Rob's website is http://www.heymanphoto.com/

Pat took this pic of me with Rob. Although, I really don't like to have my pic taken at all...but when you are sitting there with one of your idols, who's work inspires you like crazy...well you just have to suck it up and get your picture taken, right?

We followed Rob around Deep Ellum as he photographed a truly beautiful family. Pat got this fabulous shot of Dad with the girls.

I got this gorgeous shot of the beautiful mom with her amazing son.

A couple of my faves of the 2 girls..

A sweet kiss for Mom and Dad..

Thank you so much Rob, Shirl, and Cheryl, for everything. I learned so much that I can barely contain myself!

I love this family...

2008-06-11T09:31:00.000-07:00

I have to say, this family is so special to me. I've done their portraits for several years now and each time I am reminded of how sweet they are and how much I love being a part of their family's memories. Each session is so much fun, and there is just so much love there.

Christy and Andrew

2008-05-14T14:04:00.000-07:00

Can you get much more in love than this couple? Um...I think not. I don't have words for how much I enjoyed my time with them. I have a ton of great pics...I feel terrible that its taken me so long to post just this few here...but I have been just swamped. I couldn't wait one more day to share a few with everyone.

This is love...

Our little "audience"

2008-05-07T09:06:00.000-07:00

Aren't they cute?? This is our little "audience" when we are getting ready for work in the mornings. They are so cute that its actually distracting b/c I have to stop and give kisses!

And...since I'm gushing anyway---who's the cutest puppy in the world?? Shanti is. Its a good thing she's so cute, too, because she is a little pistol!

Pretty high "cuteness factor"

2008-04-30T08:12:00.000-07:00

What a fun baby. I love this age--sitting up but not really on the move yet. They are just a fun time waiting to happen. And this little pumpkin---well, she scores pretty high on the cuteness factor!

fun in Phoenix

2008-04-28T15:14:00.000-07:00

Guess who's the princess of the family here? I think this is the sweetest little girl in the world and she has totally amazing big brothers (and Mommy and Daddy) who adore her. "Fun" would be an understatement--I had a blast. I love her face in the last pic...she was giving a big "mush" of a hug.

Absolutely stunning...

2008-04-17T15:25:00.000-07:00

I had an amazing time with this stunning mom-to-be last week. She was so beautiful, inside and out. It makes such a huge difference in the session when things are comfortable and relaxed. When someone is brave enough to really open up it just shows in the images. I can't wait for the proofing---I just know she's going to love these! And look how cute when the clothing is from their own closet...

Fun boys...

2008-04-11T12:33:00.000-07:00

Pat and I had a great time with these two brothers recently. It was a lot of fun to leave the studio and get to spend time at their home instead. And it was a lot of fun to get to work with some kiddos that were a little bit "older". They were both really great kids and it was such a pleasure to spend some time getting to know them...and that is what I really hope comes through whenever I have a session...an essence of the person that they are inside. Without a lot of distraction or clutter...just them.

They were adorable together. So close. And they had a fabulous tree in the back yard to play with. What fun! I know I sort of went crazy putting so many pics on the blog, but I just can't help myself. There were so many great ones to choose from!

Look at these gorgous eyes

This was fun!

2008-03-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

Its really fun (and often challanging) when I get to go to a client's home and make use of their space and their "stuff". I've taken portraits of this little guy since he was a newborn and it is always such a treat to spend time with him and his beautiful mommy. Today we even got to include the other "child" in the family--an adorable bulldog. Fun morning!

Pregnancy sure is pretty...

2008-03-20T13:21:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful mom-to-be. Another fun session~

Roxana...a very lovely VERY soon-to-be mommy

2008-03-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

Roxanna is having her baby in 5 days. I am so happy that I was able to share this special time with her. It was a lovely session filled with wonderful anticipation. I always feel so honored that I get to share these moments with my clients.

Roxanna...you said that you like the tint..so this one is especially for you--

Sometimes you just need a good nap..

2008-02-26T14:34:00.000-08:00

Pat took these great pics of Wilbur and Shanti taking a nap in my lap. Yep. A nice sun spot on Mommy's lap--how pampered are these pooches? It was a sweet snuggle time.

Michelle and Michael

2008-02-15T14:23:00.000-08:00

Today I had one of those sessions that reminds me why I love what I get to do for a living. Michelle was an absolute delight to work with and her husband, Michael, was so adorable and so in love with his beautiful wife. It truly made my heart happy to spend time with them and I couldn't wait to work on a few pics to share with them.

So, these are for you Michelle and Michael. I hope you like them..

Guess who was the first "baby"?

2008-02-14T13:41:00.000-08:00

As someone who loves their dogs like they are my children, I can totally appreciate wanting your first "baby" to be part of celebrating your new arrival. I had such fun with Lanett. I knew I'd like her right from our first phone call. And Bella was a delight. I fell in love with her.

And, oh yeah...isn't Greg cute too?

Beautiful mom to be...

Yep...the newborn session is going to be great!

Catie

2008-01-28T08:32:00.000-08:00

I had such an enjoyable time with Catie on Saturday. It was just a really fun "girl time". I don't think I could have taken a bad pic of this lovely girl even if I'd tried.

And I always love someone who digs my dogs!

Just had to do one with a little bit of drama to it.

Pretty Michelle

2008-01-25T10:58:00.000-08:00

Okay...I think I'm just having way too much fun. I had a great session with Michelle yesterday. She was just such a breath of fresh air. It was fun to dress up and take pretty portraits.

Michelle...you are a doll. Thanks you for being so much fun!

Baby Cash

2008-01-25T08:32:00.000-08:00

Fabulous family. I love them. We've done portraits together several times...starting with their first pregnancy with precious daughter Annabelle--who has been featured in my blog previously. She's adorable.

Well...guess who else is adorable? Yep...baby Cash.

A big, wet kiss for Mommy

Daddy's little man

Emmy's First Year

2008-01-25T06:28:00.000-08:00

This little girl and her family are really special to me. They first came for newborn portraits a year ago, and right away I just loved the family. As the year has gone on, I've gotten to know them better and better. And like them more and more. Emmy is a darling little girl. And Mom and Dad are awesome.

Here's Emmy when she was just a tiny baby:

At around 6 months you can really see her wonderful personality:

And now she's a "big girl"...one year old!

Molly

2008-01-21T15:18:00.000-08:00

What a great session! I mean, just look at the pics. I don't really think I need to add anything. Except for this--this girl was as sweet as she is beautiful. She brightened my day.

Kelsey

2008-01-18T14:26:00.001-08:00

I am totally loving the recent sessions that I've had with High School students. Its so much fun. I am really hoping to do more of these--they give me a really nice balance to my sessions.

In fact, right now we are looking for a few "ambassadors". So if you know of any seniors from the class of 2008 who might be interested--please have them call Amy at 214-405-3288. We have a couple of spots open and it is a great opportunity for them to get a great deal on their senior portraits.

I had such fun with Kelsey. She's a really cool. Very musical, very down to earth..and a smile that lights up the room.

Sweet little redhead

2008-01-08T10:11:00.001-08:00

Well, you can imagine the fun I had with this 3 year old. This is one of my very favorite ages, and this pretty little one was one of my favorite sessions. She was just so delightful. Very earnest and interesting.

Yes...she is 3...

And then, of course, I have to revert back to black and white. Even with the vibrant hair...I'm still partial to black and white photography..

Recent Seniors

2008-01-04T06:49:00.001-08:00

Had a lot of fun with some Seniors recently...both in the studio and outdoors. We're really enjoying these sessions so much and hope to do more of them. So...if you know of any fun seniors please send them our way. For a limited time only we have a great portfolio building promotion going on. Have them call 214-405-3288 for details!

Jennifer and Mark

2007-12-20T19:05:00.000-08:00

It was so nice getting to know this sweet couple over the last 2 years. Their wedding was this past weekend and it was so touching to see how emotional they both were about each other, and about getting married.

Here's Jennifer before the ceremony:

A bride in love:

Immediately after the ceremony, they had just a moment before the bridal party joined them. It was a very sweet moment:

A few from their first dance:

And....the absolute coolest cake we've ever seen! The groom is also a photographer (no pressure there!) and his groom's cake was awesome.

It even had a picture in the display in the back of the "camera":

This was a tough cut to make:

Happy Holidays!

2007-12-06T11:56:00.000-08:00

Wishing all of our wonderful friends a happy, happy holiday season. We have so much to be thankful for and we appreciate you all so very much!

Seasons Greetings from Amy, Pat, Wendy, Wilbur and Shanti

Outdoor fun!

2007-11-30T06:47:00.000-08:00

I am really enjoying the sessions that I've had on location at client's homes lately. Its a nice break from the studio and definitely a different look. After a freezing cold weekend, we had some wonderful weather for this fun session late Wednesday afternoon. It doesn't hurt when there's a beautiful creek and veggie garden in the back yard.

What a fun time!

I have great neighbors!

2007-10-26T14:17:00.000-07:00

I have such wonderful neighbors. Last year Pat and I moved into our new home and we have just felt so lucky to have found such a great neighborhood. Everyone is so nice. I always feel so happy when I come home!

This beautiful little girl lives 2 doors down from us and is a love bug. When our dog, Wilbur, was in training, she would come and ring our doorbell for him to have some practice at the front door. He loves her. Actually, a bunch of our wonderful neighbors all pitched in. It was like that saying "it takes a village"...but with my dog!

Anyway, I had such fun with Riley today. See for yourself ....

Princy and Elvin

2007-10-25T18:08:00.001-07:00

Pat shot an interesting wedding recently with another photographer. Here are few of his favorites from the day:

Elvin getting some help getting ready.

A prayer before heading to the church.

The corsages.

One of the young guests during the ceremony.

Elvin and Princy.

Some of the bridesmaids striking a pose.

send some good thoughts...

2007-10-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

This sweet family has been going through such an unthinkable time. Little Kyle is battling a brain tumor and started chemo yesterday. Such a sweet 3 and a 1/2 year old. And big brother Campbell just adores his little brother. You can just feel it when you are around them.

If you have any spare good thoughts to send their way, please do. If you would like to know more about their story, please go to:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/kylemurray

Elizabeth, I'm posting these go give you a little peek from our session. I hope you like them and that they bring a smile to your heart today.

You and your family are in my thoughts and I'm sending you love.

recent sessions

2007-10-25T07:39:00.000-07:00

Things have been so busy lately and I have been very remiss in posting images from recent sessions. So...please bear with me and take a peek at some images from recent sessions. I'm posting a bunch here from different sessions.

All were wonderful. I have such great clients. I feel so very blessed to get to do what I love because people allow me into their lives for their very special memories.

Trick or Treat

2007-10-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

You know...I was a pumpkin for my first Halloween too. Aren't they adorable? Shanti adores Wilbur. She wants to do whatever he does and follows him around like a little shadow.

Chillin' together...

Shanti can be a bit naughty at times...

Open your heart

2007-10-10T11:13:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just feel compelled to take action...

On Sunday, October 7, 2007 Dallas Morning News published this artical from the NY Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/07/world/africa/07congo.html?_r=1&oref=slogin . After reading the article my friend, Marci, and I were overcome with disbelief and sadness. We felt moved to do something, to take some sort of action.

Of course, my very next thought was the question of what can one person do to help someone so far away in such extreme circumstances? And with that thought I felt hopeless. Yet, we couldn't let it go as it affected us on so many levels: as women, as Americans, as mothers, as human beings.

Once you have read something like that, you can never go back to not knowing. Doing nothing is simply not an option.

Fortunately, we found a wonderful organization called Women For Women International. They provide direct financial and emotional support to women living on the margins of hope.

We are inspired to start a personal campaign to raise money and awareness with the intention of helping as many women as we possibly can. We are asking from the bottom of our hearts and with the purest of spirit that you please take a moment and donate whatever amount you feel you can. It is extremely easy. Go to https://secure.entango.com/donate/kFgy9aTiESF?wfw=WebGen. Incredibly, if you donate between now and October 31, 2007 Women For Women International has found a donor that will match funds dollar for dollar!

We strongly encourage you to explore their website to find out more about the amazing work that they do. (http://www.womenforwomen.org/)

It is important to us to keep track of the impact of our campaign, so when you make your donation, please also email me (see email address below) and let us know how much you have donated. Even the smallest amount can make a big impact when we put it all together. In addition, I will post updates on my blog so that we can share with everyone the fruits of our collective contributions.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and we are so grateful for your contribution to this cause, as it has become very personal to us.

As of today the total collected donations (including matching amounts from Women For Women) is $600.00.

Please forward this message to as many people as you possibly can.

Peace,
Amy
amy@shadesofyouphoto.com

another favorite family--Luke and Logan

2007-09-11T06:43:00.000-07:00

These guys are brothers from another of my very favorite families. I love Mom, Dad, and the boys. Its always so much fun to see them. Here are a few of my favs--

Big brother:

Little brother:

Playing "lions" with me:

A quiet moment with Dad:

Shanti's first "portraits"

2007-08-27T11:37:00.000-07:00

We are loving this new baby. Although she is not really getting the whole "go potty outside" thing yet. Can you believe this face??

Had to have our own little "newborn session"--

Our new "baby"

2007-08-26T12:39:00.000-07:00

We have a new puppy and we are so happy! Her name is Shanti and she is only 10 weeks old. We've had her less than 24 hours but we've already fallen so in love with her its hard to imagine we can grow to love her even more.

Wilbur is doing really well with her. Of course he's not thrilled to have a puppy but the adjustment has gone much, much better than expected...so far. We know that we have a really long road ahead of us, but it looks so promising.

Her name means "peace" and it fits her perfectly. I think we might need to have a "puppy shower"!

Ready for her "close up":

She spent a lot of time sleeping on our feet last night:

Here she is sleeping with her big brother:

Pretty Shani

2007-08-24T14:42:00.000-07:00

What a nice pregnancy session I had today. A perfect way to end the week. This beautiful mom-to-be has been a dancer for a long time and it shows--she was so graceful. I'm so not like that. I am sort of clumsy and clompy. I've yearned to have that kind of quiet grace. She is absolutely lovely.

a couple more of Garrett

2007-08-16T06:55:00.000-07:00

Just had to add a couple more of this adorable Senior...

gotta love a smiley baby!

2007-08-16T06:36:00.000-07:00

I adore Emmy (and mommy, Abby). This is my third time with Miss Emmy and she is more delightful each time that I get to see her. What a happy, happy child. She has the sweetest spirit and I am so looking forward to seeing her grow.

It is so special to me that I have clients who return again and again as their children grow. Inviting me into their lives to document the different stages that these little ones, and their families, go through.

I'm so moved by every client who trusts me to share in their lives.

fun Senior session-Garrett

2007-08-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

I had a blast with Garrett. What a cool guy. I'm really looking forward to getting outdoors with him when the weather gets cooler.

Big Harry Potter fan:

Love this one:

Okay Christina..this one is for you

2007-08-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

So I spoke with Christina today and she told me she was disappointed that there weren't any pics of me on my website --which I have corrected and there is now a pic of me on the "About Amy" page. I explained that I have a bad case of the "deer in the headlights" syndrome. While I love shooting photographs, I have a really strong aversion to having my own pic taken.

Recently Pat and I were in New York, and Pat took this pic of me with a street artist whose work I dug. He was a pretty interesting guy.

Anyhoo...here I am with my new friend in New York:

So...this is me in all of my glory. This pic pretty much sums me up fairly well. I'm typically pretty happy and kind of laid back. Life is good.

Gabriella

2007-08-07T14:02:00.001-07:00

I love it when things "click".

This couple is so sweet. I'd done portraits with them before--with their first baby and now they have a beautiful little girl named Gabby. I really enjoyed my time with them so much. I loved how much they kissed their baby. They really allow themselves to just "be" in the moment so that I can capture the emotion that they truly feel about this little one. I love that.

Its so nice when the client is able to stop worrying about where they should look or what they should do and just "love" on their baby a bit. I try so hard to let clients know that I really don't even care if they are looking at me. I'll tell them if I want them to look or "smile" (for grandparents). But really, what I want most from every session is for them to sort of forget about me and just show me how they feel.

Do they hug a lot? Do they sing with their child? Are they silly? Snuggly? What makes them happy? Relax and show me your relationship. These are the things that make a portrait more personal. Its not just a "picture", it is a representation of who you are at this moment in your life.

elise and justin

2007-08-03T18:29:00.000-07:00

Recently, Pat second shot a wedding for another photographer in the area (Erin Kathleen Ross). The couple was very cute. Here are a few of Pat's favorites:

Pretty bride getting ready--

Serenading each other on the dance floor--

An emotional moment between the bride and her father--

This speaks for itself--

my friend Emily

2007-08-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

Yep. Working hard or hardly working? Took a little time out of a trip to see family to "work". As you can see, it was a very enjoyable time for me. Beautiful girl, beautiful park, beautiful weather...it was all good.

Emily..these are for you. Hope you like them! Email me and let me know when you see them...

woo-hoo

2007-07-19T13:36:00.000-07:00

Well, Pat (and I have to admit it...me too) is a huge Simpsons fan. So of course it was big news that Dallas was one of the few cities to have a 7-11 turned into a Kwik-E-Mart. Seriously, there was no way that Pat wasn't going to see it. So, this past weekend we went to take a look. Well, it was a madhouse. It was like visiting the statue of liberty. People waiting in line for a squishee. Lots of people taking pics. We were really disappointed to see that someone actually stole the cutout of Comic Book Guy. Can you believe it?? What is wrong with people?

It was actually a pretty funny experience. Very odd..but in a good way.

Anyhoo--Here is Pat, delighted to be visiting the Kwik-E-Mart

And of course I had to get a shot of Pat with Homer--

We're really hoping that the movie is great!..Spider Pig, Spider Pig...does whatever a Spider Pig does---DOH.

another fun pregnancy session

2007-07-14T11:43:00.000-07:00

This one was a blast. Beautiful mom-to-be and she's comfortable with the camera. What a fun session this was!

Before "the meltdown"

2007-07-06T11:40:00.001-07:00

Yep...2 year olds. You gotta love 'em. Right after having some fun at the creek, this little guy had a meltdown of pretty massive proportions. You know,...he's 2. But before the meltdown I got these adorable shots. I love the first one with Mommy back there behind him. Just so natural and sweet.

When you're 2...every little thing that you find is very fascinating!

He's pretty darn cute!

fun with Shannon today

2007-06-26T15:03:00.001-07:00

I had such a nice time today working with Shannon and her sweet husband Ben. I'm really looking forward to the newborn session!

It was so cute because Shannon was very clear that she didn't want an excessive amount of skin going on...none of the drapey stuff or nudity. It was a nice reminder, again, of how pretty pregnant women are.

Evan and Tori

2007-06-01T12:13:00.001-07:00

Pat and I had so much fun visiting Evan and Tori at their home on Monday. I knew we would because I had a great time when they came to the studio last year. Of course Evan was an infant then. Now that he's a big boy he was really on the move. Luckily, Mom had a super interesting founting on the patio that Evan had a blast with! He had such fun finding stones in the fountain to splash with.

We were lucky to get some quiet time too..look at that sweet face!

Hanging out with his big Sis..

And Miss Tori. Let me just say that I loved her last year and I loved her even more now. She is my little pal and I'm so glad that she decided to let me take pics of her even though she's not loving the cast right now. Thank you Tori!

Lynsey and Joshua

2007-04-30T05:26:00.000-07:00

One of the sweetest couples ever. And so much in love. It just made my heart happy to work with these two. Also, I just want to ask for lots of warm thoughts to be sent their way as they make their move to Tennessee. Joshua is in the military and is being deployed in August, right when the baby is due.

So much going on in their lives right now. I'm so happy we were able to have a nice afternoon together--thinking about good things like being in love and expecting their first baby.

Okay Jamie..these are for you!

2007-04-04T13:38:00.000-07:00

I had such a fun time with this family. I mean, look at this little guy....how much did I just want to eat him up? He was scrumptious.

And I really LOVE it when a family says that they don't want "posey-posed" shots and want more of the flavor of their relationship---and they mean it! You can just see how in love with their baby they are--and he's the only one looking my way....fabulous.

Okay...I just couldn't resist this one!

Another one that I love. How much does Mommy love her little guy? More than words can say--but a picture paints a thousand words, right?

And this little series....too cute!~

Spring is in the air

2007-03-29T06:25:00.000-07:00

I love Spring! Everything is so fresh and new. We are pleased to be offering the following Spring Special-- Book a session for April or May and you will receive 10% off of your order.

Now is the perfect time for Spring portraits at Shades of You as we are very lucky to have such a lovely outdoor setting right here at the studio. At this time of year we are able to do a Studio session with some location shots at the same time--practically a 2 for 1 session!

Call soon to reserve a time. Sessions for this special are limited to 3 per week and will book up quickly. Be sure to mention the Blog when you book your session to receive the special.

Happy Spring!

So, normally I would take the day off on my birthday...

2007-03-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

So, normally I would take the day off on my birthday.

But anyone who knows me, at all, knows I could never turn down a client who loves their dogs as much as I love Wilbur. So...last week I had the pleasure of spending part of my birthday with Scott, Ashton, Sophie, and Shelby. These dogs were SO well behaved. I would have loved them even if they hadn't been so cute, so sweet, and so good, but they were! And, they brought me a birthday cheesecake! What's not to like?

Here they are getting the low-down on how to behave for their pictures..

They did so good that they got a special treat!

And what good manners, they even give a thank you smooch...

Okay...so how cute are these two?

Even from the back they are adorable..

And I thought Wilbur was the only one who could pose for a photograph!

Thank you Scott, Ashton, Sophie and Shelby for sharing my day with me.

Oh..how cute? Too cute for words!

2007-03-07T13:33:00.000-08:00

I love my job. How lucky am I to have wonderful clients that invite me into their lives? This little girl...when I first met her it was for her Mommy's Pregnancy session before she was born. I knew right then that this family would be special to me and I was so right. Then her Newborn Portraits. Oh, and her First Birthday, and then when Mommy was pregnant with baby sister. And so on....She has grown so much, and she's a sassy little thing!

Look at this sweet face...

We had such fun coloring together. She was so intent on her work. I love to hear their thoughts when we are just "playing".

Look out World. That's all I have to say. This one's gonna be a heartbreaker.

a few more from Heather and Josh's wedding

2007-03-02T06:18:00.000-08:00

We just like Heather and Josh so much I have to blog more of their wedding day! So, Heather and Josh--these are for you.

Its always fun to be with the bride as she gets ready.

A quiet moment with the ring bearer. He's a pretty serious little guy with a bright photography future ahead of him. He took pictures all night!

If you were in town last Saturday you know how windy it was. We didn't get to do photographs outside, but I was able to catch this of the bride heading for Mom's car.

Ouch! You know, these shoes aren't made for standing. They're just made to be pretty.

Look who decided to drop in and check things out!

The fun continues. Heather's mom having a blast. That chair was held up pretty high!

And the booty shaking continues....

Good times with good friends

Hmmmmm.....wonder what they're doing....

Somebody likes Star Wars...these little guys were on the groom's cake.

Heather and Josh I just want you to know that Pat and I are wishing you the very best in your new life together.

Josh and Heather's wedding

2007-02-27T07:33:00.000-08:00

Pat and I were so honored to be a part of Josh and Heather's special day. Wonderful couple, with wonderful family and friends. The reception was so much fun--everyone was having a great time. So, I just wanted to put a few pics up for them to see when they return from Cancun!

Heather was a stunning bride. She's beautiful inside and out.

The ceremony was very moving.....and moved very quickly!

We had some nice time to take some photographs of the couple together before the wedding. This is just after they first saw each other. It was such a sweet time.

Dancing together as man and wife...

Oh yes, and we did have some booty shaking going on!

At the end of a beautiful evening...one last dance.

beautiful Ahni

2007-02-02T15:07:00.000-08:00

I sure do love what I do for a living!

Once more...a family that I just adore. I love mom, dad, dog, and baby. How much fun did I have today playing with Jessica and Ahni? Too much! What a great way to end my week.

Sweet little Evangeline

2007-02-02T06:50:00.000-08:00

Girls are fun! Hats, tutus, cute clothes....you know, girl stuff.

Its so cool, for me, when I get to see "my" babies growing up. From maternity to newborn to baby to toddler to child---its a wonderful journey that I feel blessed to have the honor of documenting.

This was another really fun session. I love that 6-10 month age group....so adorable!

Gage

2007-01-30T12:14:00.000-08:00

So....Gage. Yep. He's a wildman. He's a handful of 2 year old---that's for sure. He's also a delightful little guy who gave me his very best for this session. What a face. What a boy.

Baby Zane

2007-01-23T15:08:00.000-08:00

I had such fun with this beautiful boy. It was so nice to get to play a little bit with one of my favorite ages---6 months old! He was such a good boy and so much fun.

Abby, Aaron, and Emmy

2007-01-15T14:23:00.000-08:00

I had the best time with baby Emmy and her wonderful parents, Abby and Aaron. They were just the best way to start the new year! Emmy was delicious. I wanted her to stay all day!

What a joyful way to spend a morning!

Kimberly, Scott, and baby Avery

2007-01-11T07:27:00.000-08:00

This was one of those sessions where the baby just kept fighting and fighting not to go to sleep. And, hey, that's okay if the baby isn't fussy. Who doesn't want beautiful images of their child's face with their eyes open? But little Avery, well...she just wasn't having any of that. So we waited, and we waited, and then finally...she gave us some wonderful images. What a little lovebug! And Mommy and Daddy were pretty cute too!

exciting news

2006-12-02T10:37:00.000-08:00

Many of my clients know that my pug, Wilbur, is a my little lovebug. And also that "we" are published already a greeting card...yep, a photograph of Wilbur is an international greeting card. So the publisher recently approached me for the usage of that same photograph for a calendar. We are so excited! So unless something falls through...you can see Wilbur on a calendar for 2008. They will be using this photograph...

He's such a mush! Eventually we'd like to create an entire "Wilbur calendar"...I mean, who can resist charisma like that?

Stacey and Bill, October 21, 2006

2006-10-30T10:41:00.000-08:00

Stacey and Bill have been an absolute pleasure to work with and we felt very honored to be a part of their special day...

The girls getting ready to enter the hallway leading to the ceremony--

A quiet moment with Dad before walking down the aisle--

The proud groom showing off his new wedding ring to the bridesmaids sitting over to the side--

Pretty reflection before heading over to the party--

The best man and matron of honor toasts were really funny--

The bride's little sister's toast was so sweet she had everyone in tears--

Pretty exit with lots of rose petals--

Mr. and Mrs. Bill Farrell

Heather at the Arboretum

2006-10-25T09:56:00.000-07:00

Pat and I had a great time at the Arboretum with Heather and her mom. It was a beautiful day with a beautiful bride-to-be. We're really looking forward to the wedding!

Isabella and London

2006-10-23T12:47:00.000-07:00

Whew....this took a while to get, but aren't they beautiful babies?? Sweet Mommy and Daddy and such sweet little twins. It can be really difficult to get something like this from a session with just one baby so I feel very happy that we were able to get this with two!

fun with Becca and Emily....

2006-10-16T16:16:00.000-07:00

I had such FUN today. It felt so good and so right. I'm so glad that I got to "play" with Miss Becca today...the little bathing beauty that she is!

baby Isabella

2006-08-18T10:31:00.000-07:00

What a delicious baby! This couple were actually my very last session at my old place, for their pregnancy portraits, and now the baby is here and I had a wonderful time shooting their newborn portraits. I'm still working on them, but this one really jumped out at me. I love the moment.

Grace

2006-07-20T04:28:00.000-07:00

One year olds can be so challanging! They are always on the move and in the studio there's just so much new to see and do! But boy are they cute! I had a great time with Miss Grace last week. She was just a little lovebug.

beautiful mommy-to-be

2006-07-18T11:57:00.000-07:00

I am feeling so much happier now that I'm able to work in the studio again. This mommy-to-be was just so pretty. That's really the word that comes to mind...pretty. Physically pretty and also has such a pretty spirit..and a pretty belly! I know it sounds weird...but her baby belly was perfect for photographing! I enjoyed this session so much.

special wedding to us...

2006-07-12T09:03:00.000-07:00

Of course every wedding that we have the honor to shoot is special but this one especially so because we have a history with the bride.We've known her since she was 6 years old. So it was especially poignant for Pat and I, both, to share such a special day for this bride and groom (and their friends and families). We knew Summer was special but now we know in our hearts that she found the perfect man for her. Jason is the sweetest guy and we just love them both!

Besides, ...how you help but have a good time with a bride with this much personality?..

The ceremony was moving beyond words...

And the reception was just full of wonderful moments--

Ahh...that feels better

2006-07-07T11:08:00.000-07:00

So I've been feeling a little out of sorts with moving and trying to get settled into the new house/studio. And I'm just now starting to get back into a semi-regular "routine" with my work. I was so happy in the studio with this sweet, little baby. I had done the pregnancy and newborn photos previously so it was a nice way to begin in the new studio with a client that I was already familiar and comfortable with. It felt so good!

Stacey's bridal session

2006-07-07T07:23:00.000-07:00

I already knew I liked working with Stacey from the time we've spent on the phone and also at the engagement session. But each time I see her I like her even more! Lovely day with a lovely bride...

Stacey and Bill

2006-06-25T18:43:00.000-07:00

How fun is this couple?? I've barely had a chance to look at what we got from this engagement session (barely 2 days ago) but we are so happy to be working with them. Fun, sweet, and photogenic (yes, Stacey and Bill...you are!) I can't wait to do the bridal portraits--

Kimberly and Chris

2006-06-25T18:08:00.000-07:00

Pat and I have enjoyed documenting Kimberly and Christopher's engagement session, bridal session and wedding so much--each session has been special to us in its own way.

I love the way that Kimberly's mother is looking at her just before the ceremony--I can't begin to imagine the magnitude of a mother's feelings on her little girl's wedding day:

And the ceremony was just beautiful:

Their last dance was so poignant...surrounded by the people who love them and..... bubbles!

This is a very special couple.

more fun with Molly and Rick

2006-05-25T09:58:00.000-07:00

Just had to share a few more of this fun, sweet couple...

Attacking the cake (which was gorgeous, by the way)

He's not too in love with his bride, is he? I love how happy he looks..

The big exit..

beautiful wedding...beautiful people

2006-05-24T15:58:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed Molly and Rick so much. The very qualities that make them so unique are the qualities that speak so loudly to me....authenticity, kindness, generosity of spirit. It was an honor to be there to document the celebration of their love for each other.

Friday's session

2006-05-14T09:58:00.000-07:00

We are moving!

Its so exciting but also has been very, very hectic. Everything happend so quickly and we are closing on our new house and studio in 2 weeks. We are rushing like crazy to get our house ready to list, trying to get things finished up here so we can start packing, etc. So I'm taking a mini-break from my sessions to get us moved to the new space.

On Friday I had my last session in my old studio. I almost didn't book this session because I was really already wrapping things up here. But I'm so glad that I ended up doing it. This was the sweetest couple and it was just so much fun to work with them. How lovely to have such a beautiful subject for my last session in my first studio...

Summer's Bridal's

2006-05-08T13:41:00.000-07:00

This girl so special to me. I knew her when she was only in first grade and now she's getting married. And her fiance is just the sweetest thing too. So...our plan for Summer's bridals was to go to the Arboretum. We already had called off on account of rain once so we were planning to go this morning and wouldn't you know it...rain. So off we go to her cousin's home for Plan B. Pat and I really wanted to get something special for Summer because she is so special to us--so here's a little sneak peek for you Sweetie...hope you like them! More to come!

xoxox Amy and Pat

Amy and Jason

2006-04-30T07:02:00.000-07:00

Fun wedding last weekend! Such a sweet, sweet couple. I can't wait to show them all of their images from the wedding--we're still in the "editing" stage.

Amy and Jason---hope you had a wonderful time in Cancun! Here's a few for a little "sneak peek". Hope you like them--I'm sure I'll be putting more in our Wedding Gallery soon since there are so many great moments!

Girls start primping when we're really little, don't we?

Amy was such a beautiful bride:

Amy and Jason are truly a couple in love...and it showed every time they looked at each other or held each other:

What a fun group of bridesmaids--everyone just as sweet as the next. It was such a joy to photograph these girls!

The big "exit"!

My little friend Olivia

2006-04-25T12:41:00.000-07:00

This little girl...she is one of my favorite people. I've done her portraits 4 times now so I feel very familiar with her. I adore her parents and she is such a delightful child. Every time I get to spend time with her it makes my heart feel happy.

This time, we decided to do the session at her home for something different. I love what we got!