Toelupe Photography

Camera Basics #3

2012-01-27T12:46:00.000-08:00

Wanna get that gorgeous sky in your shot!

Shh here's a secret. Point your camera (dsl) to the sky press the shutter half way down till it beeps. Holding it half way down point it to your subject and shoot/press all the way down. Then just like magic your camera capture's the variations, the colors of the sky. I took the bottom pics with this cheat sheet method. What do you think?

Alter Ego

2012-01-27T10:13:00.000-08:00

If I could ever be accused of having an alter ego she would be blonde and chunky Adele.
Figures I would choose her as an alter ego. I was not mean't to be small. I can just see myself in heaven screaming, "No, not that one. Yes, yes the tall one! The big one! That one I want that body!" I love that I am tall, I love my size, I love me healthy and I love Adele.
She spells presence and I love it! Wafer's are for chumps!

note: I don't intend to dog anyone for their size or ideals only to exude the joy I feel for the body and the life I have!

Mon favorite Love Story

2012-01-23T11:25:00.000-08:00

For when things get hard or far less that beautiful I think "No one can beat Ellie and Carl. They had it all figured out." Then I wash my face, cook some curry, eat some curry, do a little exercise and I wake up my sweet with a bright smile and some joy. Because Carl and Ellie would never yell.

Camera Basics #2

2012-01-05T14:19:00.000-08:00

Today's Camera Basics (CB) tip is simple. Simple yet effective. And that would be to MOVE!

Yes, move people! Don't stand the traditional 3 feet in front of your subject and expect to be channeling National Geographic or Annie Leibovitz. It's all about access! Access, and access points! Yes, I'm exclamation-ing a bit too much, I will calm down. Ok so you get the point.

Calm now. With that said, move. Move further back than normal. Then come incredibly, uncomfortably close. Shoot from the side, then the other side, and at an angle.

Don't take scenic shots from the traditional lookout, give your audience something they haven't scene/seen before. Then and only then will you have something unique, something you'd be proud to blow up and post on your wall! Gud luck my luvs, have fun shooting!

I am Obsessed

2012-01-03T10:30:00.000-08:00

I am obsessed with Vogue Curvy It. The daily suggestions are awesome. I love, love, love, it when curvy girls are creative! Yes YOU, that was a hint.

At home channeling this outfit today.

in yellow of course.

I hope to be posting pics soon as I get a system figured out here. While my dear fashion bloggers are failing me Saks!

Oh an of you're pining for some clothes from Eloquii Gabifresh passed on some info about a $1000 givaway via the Eloquii fb page! Hurry on over now!

Camera Basics.

2012-01-03T10:13:00.000-08:00

Did you get yourself a lovely camera for christmas? Or have one collecting dust on your shelf?

Well, it's time you broke it out and broke it in. Go ahead! Blow the decades of dust off of that baby and work it. Weather you have a crap cam or a glam cam we are going to cover the basics to help you work that camera.

Why? Because I firmly believe it is not the tool, but how well you work it. And Darren Rowse at DPS agrees with me!

So cummon, let me help you.

Today's lesson, the dial! Ye you heard me, THE DIAL.

google.com

Easy.

Green Square = Automatic

Face = Portraits

Mountain = Landscape

Flower= Tiny things (flower, jewelry insects, etc)

Running Man = Fast things (cars, sports, you in a car, etc)

Man and Star = Night time, sunset, sunrise, indoors

Lightning and slash = No flash

There's your cheat sheet. Right side of the dial on my cam, left on the pic.

GO! Now!, this week, and match your shots to the appropriate picture on the dial.

Once you've done that I give you permission to play. Use different pictures in different shots. One of my favorite is using the flower in portraits of people, it' blurs the background a tad more for a different looking pic.

And come back tomorrow for a new tip!

Gung Ho!

2011-12-30T15:25:00.000-08:00

Our house is clean, the new year is coming! I am feeling really energized! I am excited for the new year. If there is anything I can be accused of it is looking back.

I can often be found thinking of many wonderful things past.

But today I feel hope in whatever God has for me.

I just know (you know that deep down in the middle of your innards feeling) it's telling me that

whatever it is.

It's going to be good!

So I found this video to help you feel what I am feeling.

And with that my friends is this challenge. Whatever comes make it count. Whatever the spirit (your spiritual place, your light) tell's you to do. DO it even before you have time to blink!

Happy New Years!

Best's of 2011

2011-12-30T00:02:00.000-08:00

Here in Toelupeville our top tens

may seem lackluster when compared
to the extraordinary things we hope to accomplish.

But they are and will remain special to us.

Because, it was fun!

We bought a yellow car.

Got yellow nails to match yellow car.

We took up a frugal living lifestyle.

Booked 12 portrait sessions this year!

Hiked Mt. St. Helen's-14 miles in one day.

Spent a week in Hawaii.

Took online classes. Got straight A's!

Served in the Sunday School presidency and in Young Women's.

Served in the Temple.

Found grey hair (ugh!) Pulled out grey hair.

Worked out diligently for 1 1/2 months and pressing forward.

Moved and decorated.

Said goodbye to Atti :* (

Camped.

Got purple hair extensions.

Read the Book of Mormon.

Can you guess who did what?

And somehow we remained the same.

There were no huge strides this year but,

I am proud to see that it did not stop us from pressing forward.

Christmas Breakfast

2011-12-23T14:51:00.000-08:00

ward christmas party, a set on Flickr.

2011-12-21T13:03:00.000-08:00

DIY: Ornaments

2011-12-19T12:51:00.000-08:00

A friend suggested I blog this, so here I go sharing my lackadaisical attempt at craft blogging.

The enthusiasm probably missing because of this onset of a yucky cold.

If you're wondering what to do with your wedding cards here's an idea.

For our first christmas I turned them into ornaments by cutting out my favorite parts and taping a ribbon loop to the back. Nothing to it.

I took them all and and hung them on a second tree in our bedroom made up of branches and twigs wrapped in lights. It was adorable!

Now and every year since I have added them to my regular tree along with all the other ornaments in memory of our first christmas together.

Fun right! So what are you waiting for? Get to clipping for a fun way to enjoy your wedding cards for years to come..

How did I do? Should I take up craft blogging :) ?

Merry Christmas

2011-12-16T11:41:00.000-08:00

Ask me, 'So, What do you do when a shoot doesn't go as well as you hope?'

I SMILE, I just smile through it because among all those Oh No!'s are people who are just happy to be with each other...

I just heard back from this family. I had been so worried about their photo's and the feedback was amazing. I got a thumbs up and smile and a "We love them, especially the fun ones".

I suppose the trick is to never give up.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2011-12-13T23:03:00.000-08:00

You know that phase that photographers go through - where they work real hard, live on virtually nothing and hope.

Not feeling like a great success friends. But, before this turns into a pity party I, I will say how great the world is

when,

there is a camera in it to freeze time,

and show you your moments past and those you hope to have.
It's a beautiful thing.

This is a shot of a wonderful family I have had the privilege to work with...the Varbles.

Natalie and Kilo, what great fun you are, my world would not be the same without you in it my friends.

Seniors

2011-11-28T13:01:00.000-08:00

This past month has been packed with senior shoots and family portraits. I look forward to sharing them with you friends.

How are all of your holidays coming along?

Halloween Dinner!

2011-11-02T15:55:00.000-07:00

We did it again!

I just love our family halloween dinners! They are so much fun, eating yummy funky thangs to the sounds of monster mash,

karaoke-ing to Mama I killed a Man, Thriller and I will Survive.

It's moment's like these that my life is made of.

What was your time like this halloween?

That Matters Most

2011-10-31T22:37:00.000-07:00

Things look glorious from the top looking down.

Things look magnificent from down looking up.

But, we see things most when we look at them face to face.

-Nattie T-

Fall

2011-10-07T16:08:00.000-07:00

It's feeling a lot like fall here at our den. Marvin's baking bread, it's sweet aroma filling the air. The air outside is 10 degree's chillier just enough to encourage refuge in my cozy little home.

Our counters are filled with plump loaves, rolls and even sweet delectable 'panipopo'. I have fall candy stocked, christmas presents (yes this early) stocked and I wait with eager anticipation for all that is magical and enchanting to begin. It's time for holiday-ing :)

Bear in mind, it's that time for holiday pictures, not those awkward stand still's but for lovely, yummy pictures that capture the romance of this season. I will entice you with some very soon. the old camera is up for repair.

Purely Inspirational

2011-09-16T20:49:00.000-07:00

This is so amazing! So inspirational!

In a time when so many of us are struggling and have felt the repercussions of unemployment (underemployment and every other ailment this recession has brought us) this is a testimony of the agility of the human spirit, of survival and innovation (by us I mean me too).

Marvin and I have been super grateful for the law of tithing, the enabling power of Jesus Christ, all mixed in with a dash of love from friends.

Bring it on world! This is us, the human race, showing you the power of our faith, our charity and our will to survive and help others succeed.

And this is me saying if you need help, call me.

Hiking

2011-09-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

I did a lot of Hiking with my youth group this summer. The above includes shots of Hardy Fall's in Washington.

All of the hiking culminated to a 14 mile hike around Mt St Helens. We did it!

And we grew spiritually and physically.

Heavenly Father, you helped me do this especially when I was terrified to do so.

I was able to hike 14miles at my least fit.

And, I know now that you are more than capable, and will help me through my tough times.

Luciano Family | Washougal Photographer

2011-09-13T10:23:00.000-07:00

I most recently did a photoshoot of my own family as a birthday gift to my Mom.

Setting the camera and running into it for a shot is no small feat.

It was certainly a lot harder than I thought and trying to be beautiful on top of that, impossible.

Dear friends I have missed you. Dearest Mom, happy birthday!

I realize that these images could use a lot of work but I couldn't wait to have you meet my family.

LobLee Blog:

2011-08-20T16:14:00.000-07:00

Check out my friend Lee Yen's blog for a chance to win a 25 dollar itunes card. While you're there check out her work. Fun, right?!

LobLee Blog: It's time to add another candle to the doughnut ca...: Yes. A doughnut cake. Which is totally normal when you share your birthday with a 5 year old nephew :) So needless to say, this year my bi...

Raindrops, Falling on the Leaf Top's

2011-08-04T15:34:00.000-07:00

Photo's by: Natalie Toelupe

Summer's not over yet.

But when I think of fall coming, here in good ol' Washougal,

I think

of umbrella's and

BJ Thomas.

Enjoy the summer guys!!

Baby Blessing

2011-07-12T18:39:00.000-07:00

We had a baby blessing in our church yesterday. Babies are just so cute, so beautiful and all things lovely.

I can't wait to have a few of my own.

Alison was blessed with little gifts for the duration of her life.

Search them out and relish dear Alison.

Thank you baby Alison.

Photography| Verdict: Washougal Photography

2011-07-12T17:15:00.000-07:00

Puddles are an exciting resource for photographers on a rainy, overcast day. Their glassy reflection offer creativity and sometimes even texture to an image.

Here's a shot I took outside today. It's one of my favorites.

I like it because to me it portrays that sort of deep melancholy feeling you can get on a day like today.

Photography on a dull day.

2011-07-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it's going to be like.

I have read a bunch of advice and I am going out there to find out.

We will have a bunch of evidence here pretty soon along with my tidbits.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-18T22:29:00.000-07:00

Why I won't be watching the Broadway Musical ' The Book Of Mormon

2011-06-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

May I just say that I was offended by the song 'I believe' from the musical 'The Book of Mormon' which was depicted at the Tony Awards. And although I don't believe in ranting and raving, I just want you to know that it hurt.

My religion is a very personal and sacred thing to me.

And although you may get caught up in creating your parodies, here's why I won't be watching the broadway musical.

I find that this article pretty much sums up my feelings about it.

And a quick shout out to all friends in and around Africa, Marvin and I went to a Kenyan restaurant on saturday and coming from a polynesian girl, we love your food!

That's about all I'll say about that.

I Have PHOTOSHOP!

2011-06-13T10:49:00.000-07:00

I know that it seems ridiculous that it's taken me so long to get the holy grail of photo editing software but here I am.

At first I learn't that my computer was too old ('06 Mac) to support it.

In addition to that I was without a working disk drive and was resigned to my own devices when it came to editing my photo's.

Thanks to the 10.4 version of iphoto and a little website called picnik.com I was able to keep my head above the water and in the game but then to add insult to injury my hard drive crashed!

However, one miracle later and I am super glad to announce I am here!

Can we give a quick shout out to Jeremy who fixed my crashed hard drive for 20 bucks whom Mr. Marvin found on craigslist. I am a witness to a miracle and I very much believe in miracles.

And with my birthday coming up I do feel 'au' so content . . .

2011-06-06T22:45:00.000-07:00

Today was a rough day, which is why I am so grateful to Trigon for this cute, hilarious commercial.

I guess I don't have it as bad as that guy....injured, injured real bad.

Goal for the day

2011-06-06T10:05:00.001-07:00

1. Get Healthy
2. Do Buisness :)

PLS Excuse Us

2011-05-16T18:06:00.000-07:00

We're in Hawai'i! We love you all and will be posting soon.

Why can't I

2011-04-28T15:39:00.000-07:00

Why can't I succeed?

Why can't I make my life grow

get all my ducks in a row

Why can't I loose all that weight

out of courage, why must I wait

why can't I have my some of my own

why wait I in an empty home

why after all I've done

why can't I just move up some

Why?

Why do I feel so stuck

why am I all out of luck

I look to you and say

Why can't I - just have my way?

_______

You look to me with those big brown eyes

and your big warm smile

One day child not today

bear all your burdens

that you may, that you might

but for today just hold on tight.

2011-04-25T11:33:00.001-07:00

shared via cuzzin Mary (thank you)

Spread the LOVE

Ethan Bradley | Washougal Portrait Photographer

2011-04-16T18:16:00.000-07:00

Remember Ethan Bradley from here and here?

Well he's here and growing beautifully!

2011-04-13T14:35:00.000-07:00

I went outside in the rain to keep my commitment to practice, practice, practice!

I love it! I love my life, I love learning and constant learning and I love trials that give me the chance to learn.

Burton's | Washington Family Photographer

2011-04-08T13:04:00.000-07:00

Shoot Often!

2011-04-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

My super successful friend from Hawaii Natalie Norton once wrote a piece on DPS titled

7 Steps to Becoming a Confident Photographer: a Beginner’s Guide that has inspired me to shoot more often.

After all what can be more therapeutic than shooting often? (pun intended)

So as an effort to support and inspire continual growth I propose a

30 pictures in Thirty days plan.

I am doing it today.

I invite you my friends, amateur, professional, hobbiest or just fortunate enough to own a really cool DSLR. Join me if you like. I dare you!

A few things to watch out for...

2011-04-05T15:25:00.000-07:00

If you want to save your time and sanity, make sure your model is not chewing gum during a shoot.

This maybe hard to screen for when you have large family shoot-

but it is vital!

Your DSLR will pick up everything.

I mean eye-booger and all.

And editing them out of a 250 photo batch is not fun.

It is also very time consuming. SO in less than five minutes before a shoot you can save yourself billions of time in your digital darkroom if you run this checklist.

GUM

Boogers of the EYE, NOSE or Any sort

Any other strange markings on clothing

LINT on Dark Clothing

2011-03-28T17:39:00.001-07:00

To book a session call 360-835-5849

or email natalie.toelupe@gmail.com

2011-03-22T18:24:00.000-07:00

Let's Paint the sky with clouds.

I-14

Sneak Peak: Burton's

2011-03-22T12:27:00.000-07:00

Check out these adorable people!. More coming soon.

Lees Family | Washougal Lifestyle Photographer

2011-03-22T12:23:00.000-07:00

We had amazing fun just the most adorable, most selfless people you'll ever meet.

I love you guys!

Washington Photographer

2011-03-19T14:10:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Washougal

Gateway to the Columbia Gorge

You can get this flat backdrop effect simply by using your cams

pop-up flash instead.

2011-03-19T13:41:00.001-07:00

Washougal River

Bradley Baby | Washougal Lifestyle Photographer

2011-03-19T01:09:00.000-07:00

I just love it!

Congratulations to America and Scott.

Photo at the Washougal Dike

We're FULL. No Room for More.

2011-02-26T16:40:00.000-08:00

Living in a house this full is crazy, chaotic and fun. If you are willing, at the risk of killing each other, you can create some awesome memories and a life full of stories to tell, even have the time of your life.

Sundance

2011-01-29T05:00:00.000-08:00

In a land of little to no sun this is a beautiful day.

Sneak Peak: Ethan

2011-01-28T11:51:00.000-08:00

You'll never guess who she's hiding.

Beautiful Day in Washougal

2011-01-27T20:34:00.000-08:00

An awesome winter day!

Please get better!

2011-01-03T18:29:00.000-08:00

Please get better. I'm so worried about you! Please get better soon.

Love us :(

Giveaway Winner!

2011-01-03T10:07:00.000-08:00

Ok guys drum rollsssss please ! According to the random generator on www.random.org...wait for it.... the winner is...LEEKS!!!!!!!!!! Not to worry IWA I still want to go to the postman and say "ship this to Samoa" so I will be having more little giveaways soon.

Love you all and thanks for participating.

Leeks email me your address please!

Peculiar Blossoms Giveaway!

2010-12-22T14:17:00.000-08:00

Win! Win! Win!!!!!

one of these beautiful things :).

Win a wonderful creation buy Bekah Dayley at Peculiar Blossoms.

She's a friend of mine and makes these exquisite pieces.

All may enter! It will be shipped and winners will be chosen randomly.

To enter simply click on the follow button at the right of this blog or on the top left. Leave a comment below and you're in.

Winners will be announced soon!

Merry Christmas!!!

Girls Save Your Jeans!

2010-12-22T05:00:00.000-08:00

If your jeans turn out anything like mine here's how to extend their life.

I don't know if my thighs are the culprit or if the jeans are designed funny but this time as many times before the material at the crotch of my favorite jeans wore thin! I refused to throw them away. So in my stubbornness I went to Walmart in search of these.

I found some linen ones in dark blue for $1.17. Ironed them onto my torn jeans. The patches remain concealed when I stand, sit or walk, no one can tell. And I have gotten to wear them from much longer.

You may have to cut them a bit but what a saver!

We went Christmas Shopping

2010-12-21T13:46:00.000-08:00

We went christmas shopping yesterday. We planned on shopping on a budget for a gift for each other.

It was a lot of fun. For him: I found a nice pair of jeans, a shirt and Dr. Marten's for a really good price! (but I must say a lot of stores were quite picked over)

For me: a couple of knit dresses.

I love taking Mr. Marvin shopping. He doesn't do it often at all and when he comes with, I like to make it all about him. 'Cos I am a professional at shopping :) I do it so often.

We ate at a Panda Express afterwards.

It was a blast!

Merry Christmas to you all!

Atti is becoming a Giant

2010-12-14T12:31:00.000-08:00

And he is sitting lonely outside for a bath, some loving and a walk!

He's going to have to wait for a little longer.

I have a few more things to get done before I can do that.

I'm the Grinch

2010-12-08T10:19:00.000-08:00

I really am! At least his daughter anyway. But, I HATE Christmas!

I really do. I hate buying presents for everybody and watching the balance on my bank account go down. I don't even bring home the bacon and I still hate it. I hate buying gifts for everybody that'll end up in the trash anyway b/c lets face it what $50 gift is going to trump a brand new motorcycle, or a at home 3D theater system, a brand new car, diamonds or a personal, fully furnished bachelor pad for a brother! If I did that (buy gifts for some) then it would only be right to send stuff to people in my life who live far away who by the way stress me out. I'm talking about a specific group.

You know! the people that give you a hard time all year or all your life but you love them anyway (sadistic, I know) and you think, "I should send them something", yea! well "how about a box of thorns!!!!" Eh! I HATE it. The worst part is, inside I'm feeling like this meanwhile, every gift that I see I'm thinking " I want it!" or "I hope they get me something". Terrible, I know!!!!!

Yes for someone who hates giving, I want stuff too!!!! Don't be shocked! And not just the cheap stuff cos I want those too but, lets not lie a new car would also be nice, a spa day, and maybe some diamonds.

If you are one of those people that doesn't want diamonds then- I'm sorry but, I don't know you!

You should probably stop following this blog or reading this post.

So I have decided well, it's just easier and healthier for me to pretend I'm a hermit and focus verrrrrry hard now, on him who's birthday I sometimes only pretend to celebrate while I'm thinking " I hope I got _____!'

I HATe christmas and unlike the Grinch I'm a new breed I will not change my mind.

With that said.

I think it's time I go bake my christmas cookies and wrap gifts 'cos my gifts have to be given.

Wait a minute! Maybe I'm not the Grinches daughter... maybe I'm Ebeneezer's daughter.

Hmmm Natalie Scroooge........

p.s. If you're wondering I wasn't talking about you, you who are reading this, just the other people, the other people who are reading this. Be calm.

p.p.s. I don't know how I'm going to live with myself.

p.p.p.s If anyone asks, tell them I said I don't want anything for christmas.

On the Runway

2010-11-30T11:09:00.000-08:00

This is probably just over a month late and I have yet to shop at one stop plus however!
We all heard about the buzz about the one stop plus presence on the runway at NY fashion week.
It was both curvy and fashion forward.

My favorite pieces were the opening outfit, the pink camisole dress in the middle and the bow belt. Love it! I also am digging the gladiator wedge. What do you think?

p.s. I forget, I once got a red bag there for $3.99 shipped!

Look here!!!

2010-11-29T11:30:00.000-08:00

Yes you! While you hustle about doing shopping for christmas don't forget to stop by

www.moneysavingmom.com.

I stop by her site on a regular basis to look up freebies and samples which are great stocking stuffers I find. She also walks you through coupon shopping. I mean she breaks it down to "take this coupon (link) and stack it with this (link) and go to this store. Voila! total price free or dirt cheap, even money makers (like go buy this and the store will give you money :))."

She says she will help you become a better economist and that's what she does.

Don't forget to stop by soon especially if you want $50 for free.

Some past outfits

2010-11-27T15:22:00.000-08:00

Sunday's are my days to dress up. Cute skirt's, dresses, fancy leggings and all of the frou frou. However mr. Marvin has been busy and I have been without a camera person so a lot of these lovely outfits have gone to waste (in terms of blogging).

These are two outfits that I managed to document, not my best but below is something I wore while running errands.

If you can get past this dirty mirror you will see that a gorgeous necklace can spruce an outfit up. Just be selective and let the accessory be a statement piece

and this down here is something I wore around the house while managing my business and personal finances.

The belt wasn't something I wore for long. I was only excited b/c I found it at kohls accessorizing a jean short. The packaged deal sold for $4. With my waist and thighs I find that if I find belt I fancy, I better buy it, especially if it is on sale with a jean at 4 bucks!

And when I'm excited about something cute I wear as soon as. When I was a child there was no boundary to such fancies, I would even wear my new shoes to bed if I could.

Meet my friend Jen

2010-11-23T05:00:00.000-08:00

It's that time again and I would just hate it if you missed out on this.

Meet Jennifer Barnes.

She once told me, when we were discussing career aspirations that all she ever wanted to be was a photographer. She loves photography and it shows.

Her strength- these amazing pictures of little ones.

I don't know if it's because she has little ones of her own, serves on the presidency in our church primary classes (sunday school) or if she has a sixth sense but she definitely has a way of getting down to the world of children and catching them at their best, full of all that is sweet, adorable and lovely.

If you want lovely images of your kids with the Jennifer Barnes charm hit her up here!

Jen, luv you!

Fischer.

2010-11-17T15:05:00.001-08:00

Feature a Friend

2010-11-16T13:17:00.000-08:00

It's that time again when I feature a friend.

Meet my friend Marianna.

She is a mom and a photographer, photo editor and make-up artist based in Hawaii.

she specializes in these gorgeous, splashy photo's that I love. She is always on the go and recently lost 15+ lbs of pregnancy weight. She's a feisty tiny little thing but, I promise if you meet her just once and you will love her!

If you want to see yourself all done up and gorgeous hit her up here.

Marianna doll, luv you lots!

Sneak Peak: Lee's

2010-11-15T12:36:00.000-08:00

Meet the Lee's family! We all had such a fun time out there on the boardwalk!
And that little boy squished in there is Garrett :)

Don't you just love them!

I hope you all have a happy holiday season full, really full of giggles!

More coming soon.

May I have some?

2010-11-12T16:08:00.000-08:00

Patience I mean.

May I have some patience for the many things I would love to have now.

Like babies, little brown babies of my own.

Updates and Upgrades

2010-11-11T19:47:00.000-08:00

It's that time! To implement some of those changes I mentioned a bit ago.

So please my dearest's hang in there.

I am going to a custom domain, in other words I'm going dot com.

I hope to infuse this blog with more photo's, more design and more presence.

I am loving photography as are many of you. It seems that more and more of you are out there camera's in hand, documenting the world and I LOVE that. I also love that you are blogging.

Let me leave you with a reminder to visit the Digital Photography School often. I love that they have tips and tricks from other photographers that are out there making things happen. A dear friend Natalie (another Natalie not me), many of you already know her, writes for them too.

You've Got to see this!

2010-11-07T16:30:00.000-08:00

I saw this today and I thought you should see it too. Our-True-Identity I hope that you know that it is so very true.

What I wore today.

2010-11-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

I did little bit of layering today.

and sealed the deal with this belt and these boots.

It's a simple plus-size outfit. Feel free to add earrings a ring and bracelets if you wanna jazz things up a bit more.

Nine west Jeans from Ross - about $15

Black tank - $7-$10

Grey Top for Walmart - $8

White Shrug from Jeans Warehouse Hawaii - about $12

Boots are my old boots from Macy's I think but you could pick up a pair from payless. A sales clerk at Torrid had a hot pair of black boots on yesterday that she picked up from Payless. I know I sound cheap but I'm finding more and more of my outfits and shopping sprees are recession friendly.

I also switched from Mac to Mary Kay. I was over my M.A.C. make up b/c it was taking a toll on my skin over the years and spending additional $$$ on more skin care was not my intent. After a month long search of goodies from sephora, nordstrom and walmart. I rediscovered Mary Kay a purchase of their Time Wise cleanser, lotion, cover-up, concealer, two blush palettes and an eye shadow ran me less than a $100 bucks and I got a free lengthening mascara. Take that walmart! Yes I say walmart b/c make up at walmart is surprisingly $$! Plus MK has and incredible return policy and you can try on the stuff b4 you buy!
No I'm not selling the stuff. I'm just saying.

Winter's Coming!

2010-11-06T12:16:00.000-07:00

Remember the fall trees and colors here and here?

I went for a walk yesterday and things are looking more like this.

I'm not scared, not one bit. I love winter mostly for christmas and home and hearth and well any price is worth paying for christmas right!?!

Spooky

2010-11-06T11:16:00.000-07:00

2010-11-02T16:19:00.000-07:00

Halloween Dinner

2010-10-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

We had an fun family halloween dinner yesterday!

And I am so relieved I felt well enough for it :)

it was a blast we had two characters from wonderland :O

A hatter and a queen (costumes whipped together by yours truly)

We also had V for Vendetta and Mom the physician.

I am missing a picture of dad who was an australian rugby player and my older brother the cook

dressed as the cook :)

(I promise to try to acquire those pics a.s.a.p)

The food was excellent with 'ghoulish green rice' bottom right

'Graveyard remains' top left, witches brew and an assortment of cupcakes featuring my favorite the brainy cakes.

if you got too sick eating call the physician at 1 800 DIET

James took this wonderful shot of our mud cakes n worms!

Enjoy your halloween and make fun memories!

Sorry I'm not here!

2010-10-26T14:04:00.000-07:00

I'm SICK :{

If anyone asks, I'll be sleeping because I want to get better FAST!

p.s go get your flu shot! This is not fun.

Tori

2010-10-24T16:40:00.000-07:00

Kyleigh

2010-10-23T12:17:00.000-07:00

So it turns out that this adorable thing was not a piggy but a bug and a cute one at that. To her mom: My bad. To my readers that are expecting pictures of a lil piggy: I lied. And I am sorry I apologize to you both.

I hope that you enjoy these adorable lil pics as much as I do.

Kyleigh you are beautiful bebe!

Bella Donna!

2010-10-21T15:27:00.000-07:00

Look and these cute little critters!

Enjoy your halloween guys!

And let me know if you want to schedule a shoot with your cute little pudgkins.

More coming soon!

Where we got married!

2010-10-21T12:19:00.000-07:00

Marvin and I got married here!!!!

And I am so happy

that the Laie Hawaii Temple

is getting reopened next month.

Isn't it beautiful? It's one of the oldest LDS temple's. We got married here in a cute little ceremony that sealed us forever! Of course Marvin didn't know what he was in for then. Not even when he texted me the night before saying "I am so excited to be marrying you luv".

Bahahahaha!

Two years later

he is still my bestie and I still make him cry (wink), no not really.

I am only sad that I won't be there for the rededication :{.

Enjoy the Temple for me Laie!

Full?

2010-10-18T10:21:00.000-07:00

I had a friend ask, "You'll have to give me some tips with my photo's".

And I thought to myself "Of course!'

It's just that time where everyone owns (or can own) a Digital SLR or any digital camera and

is in pursuit for the ultimate family and life photo.

I am all about documenting the adventures and slip ups of life, and documenting them well and artfully!

Although I may not be the ideal offspring of Einstein and a DSLR (if DSLR were a she and they ever got together. a big stretch!), I say the first thing you should do is to

FILL THE FRAME

just as it sounds, pure and simple.

Get up close and personal fill, fill, fill the frame so that all four sides of your photo are touching the subject so to speak. Or at least three sides. And voila'! In just seconds you have something that could

compete with the big wigs.

So go shoot and send me some of your frame fillers. I would LOVE to see!

Sneak Peak: Halloween

2010-10-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

Remember that halloween shoot I talked about here?

It was a lot of fun! I haven't even started to edit but I couldn't wait so I'm showing you some pretty raw stuff here. The cute lil costumes and the colors out there, it was perfect!

...I had to be subtle, I don't want to ruin the Halloween post by over indulging now, but

I will have you know that this shoot involved this southern belle, a vampire, a lady bug and a piggy!

I am so excited for halloween!

Reading retreat!

2010-10-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

I know you're thinking "Where is she?", as your peeping through you window

to blogger. I know because that's what I think when you're not online :)

but frett not b/c

I am still here.

I am at home reading this...

and I am having a lot of fun too. I will fill you in soon.

I also have a fun promotional halloween shoot coming up. So get ready as

I will be offering 3 slots for $10 each. 20 minute sessions to immortalize your cute bundle of joys first years of halloween. It will start next monday I only have 3 slots open so be on the look out!

I would love to shoot for you!

Love

Natalie

Gabbi

2010-10-09T10:06:00.000-07:00

Gabi is the author of Young Fat and Fabulous. She has amazing edgy style.

Her skills as a blogger and tweeter, popularity and style landed her..

a job as MTV's Tweet Jockey

She also podcasts shopping and style for Vogue's new Curvy Line
Go girl!

P.S. I Made This

2010-10-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

This I threw together. It's very "minimalist outfit on a lazy day".

In retrospect I wish I did more with my hair.
maybe a low chignon..

p.s. I love that bag!

My outfit featured a necklace I made with direction from ps i made this a website that I totally love!

it just makes sense during this recession!

Don't forget to check them out here for many DIY (do it yourself) tips!

More of the Dock

2010-10-07T08:50:00.000-07:00

Wardrobe Recharge

2010-10-06T12:15:00.000-07:00

I am craving..

torrid booties

boots

tights

jeans, jeans and more jeans

plus a trip to forever 21 or faith 21

H&M

Red White and Blue

and

Torrid

What do you think? Will it happen? Can it happen?

You

2010-10-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

Marvin and I are busy with work .

I now find myself looking forward to days off

and days like these!

The Dock

2010-10-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

Goot Park and Some Lessons Learned

2010-10-04T09:16:00.000-07:00

Here's a location shoot that didn't work out the best for me.

With a few exceptions I had to scrap the rest of the photo's because of bad exposure and lighting.

I'm told that even in photography mistakes are good.

What I learned was that : 1) horizons that are too contrasting will cut your subject or image in half or be badly exposed if you don't adjust for it.

2) Attire with a sheen to it will also reflect any light including light from the sun and your flash.

Regardless, here are some beautiful images and moments in Caitlin's life for you to enjoy!

Caitlin you were beautiful, optimistic as, and heaps of fun!!!!!

General Conference!

2010-10-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

Conference is going on this weekend,

and I absolutely love it!!!!

I feel spiritually reborn, re-energized.

Let this feeling never end!

(pic courtesy of www.byui.edu)

Caitlin

2010-10-01T11:08:00.000-07:00

For Caitlin we did, three locations and three outfits. We got a lot of shots

so I'll be posting this shoot in three parts!

This is unadulterated, unedited direct natural light.

and backlight!

the rest are some fun plays on composition.

Want Photo's

2010-10-01T05:11:00.000-07:00

Seasonal Discounts are offered. You can get anywhere from 10%-30% off. Inquire by posting a comment below.

Senior/Life Portrait Session $130

1 hour session

Unlimited Poses

Up to two Locations

Up to 3 changes
Digital Editing and Enhancements

Cd with 100 of the best shots

Prints Sold Seperately

Family Portraits $150

1 hour session

Unlimited Poses

Up to two Locations
Digital Editing and Enhancements

Cd with 100 of the best shots

Prints Sold Seperately
Add $20 for each additional family.

Children and New Born Portraits $100

1 hour

Unlimited Poses
Up to 3 changes

Digital Editing and Enhancements

Cd with 75 of the best shots

Prints Sold Seperately

Atticus

2010-09-30T15:51:00.000-07:00

This is Atticus. He luvs to chew!

The Morales Family

2010-09-30T11:41:00.000-07:00

Equipment

2010-09-29T23:13:00.000-07:00

A couple of friends have asked, so

here it is!

The skinny on my equipment.

I am using a rebel EOS XS with a EFS 18-55 mm lens from B&H online!

As far as my digital dark room goes, I use iphoto.

I am not super savvy with my equipment although I am naturally curious so with few exceptions most of my work thus far in shot in automatic mode.

There you have it! All my tricks and gimmicks, so go out there and shooooooooot!

Sneak Peak: Caitlin

2010-09-29T22:34:00.000-07:00

Caitlin I had a lot of fun working with you! Glad you came out!

Caitlin is a runner and she just qualified for the Boston Marathon. To follow her updates go here!

New Puppy

2010-09-27T09:19:00.000-07:00

I am crazy busy right now with Atticus (ady) who is having a little separation anxiety

and is pulling on my heartstrings trying to lure me in with his little sobs.

But I must be strong or else :(

Help!

Sneak Peak: Morales Family

2010-09-25T23:48:00.000-07:00

Simplemete Increible!

You are all my hero's Morales family! For waking up for a 7 am photoshoot with this much energy. You were noodles and noodles of fun!

The Jones Family

2010-09-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

Remember the Jones'

"Picnik Show"

Create a free slideshow with Picnik!

"Picnik Show"

Create a free slideshow with Picnik!

Awesome

2010-09-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Back, drenched from an All Black's game (NZ)

"If you have to wear clothes!, might as well make it look awesome"

YFF: Stylelikeu.com

On the hike to the Lilly Feilds

2010-09-23T20:39:00.001-07:00

we saw this coolness!

My New Crush

2010-09-23T15:58:00.000-07:00

My friend Leeyen did this. And I love it!!!!

I am so excited for a halloween!

To see more of Leeyens work go here and here!

Sneak Peak:

2010-09-23T11:49:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of fun with my friends the Jones yesterday. You guys were like a pack of m&m's, yummy fun! Carrie was also the winner of our M&H giveaway.

I just love this picture.