Horse Stories

Recently, I came across a series I put together titled "Horse Stories".

This collection, captures the wonderful moments between horses and the women that care for them.

Each image portrays a special bond in this relationship.

Converted into a soft sepia tone, the selections are given a timeless quality.

It's quite powerful to see this interaction between horse and owner.

The occasion is simple, the presence is now.

Busy schedules and lives can cause us to pass on ...

the simple pleasure of sitting with your horse,

in silence,

breathing in their sweet breath,

or going for a walk side by side.

I love these pure moments and special blessings,

or horse stories.

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Date with Mother Nature

The best way to cure the symptoms of cabin fever, after consecutive winter storms, is getting outside.

What is the old saying "If you can't beat them, join them".

So I decided to join Mother Nature and get 'up close and personal' with what she has presented us over the last few days.

Fortunately, we were given a reprieve at the moment - so with a heavy sweater, snow shoes and my trusty camera I ventured out to look for some of natures simple pleasures.

I'm always greeted with critters coming up to the house enjoying the free buffet that is provided throughout the winter.

But I think I surprised a few sneaking up on their feeding frenzy and actually meeting eye to eye!

While crunching through the snow I'm aware of anything that isn't camouflaged by snow.

Particularly the bright red color of tiny berries still clinging to the trees.

Or a dogwood so far from opening that first bud.

Ice encrusted tree branches display abstract designs.

It is only in winter when you can find yourself surrounded in solitude.

I wasn't surprised to be alone with Mother Nature today. So few take the time - but believe me, it is worth it.

Appreciating the Arts

"I dream a lot. I do more painting when I'm not painting. It's in the subconscious" - Diego Rivera.

When we are viewing ones' art, are we looking into their subconscious?

I was approached recently to help a young, up and coming artist document a collection of work for her portfolio. I was excited to be approached with this project and more excited to have my own personal exhibit of her work right in front of me!

Needless to say, I was extremely impressed with the artist's creations and found myself enjoying the vibrant use of color and gorgeous movement within each piece.

We often approach a piece of art as a whole, it is only when we block out our surroundings and take the time to 'see', that we are drawn in and seduced by the scene that is before us.
We start to focus on the details, the artists use of textures and even textiles.

Do we question or are we provoked by the action of the applied paint or the use of broken mirror used in the arrangement?
Could this be a shape of a knife or do I see a reflection of myself?
Is this my interpretation or the artists?

I am also taken in by the use of shapes and spheres, included in the theme of explosive color, pattern, and texture. It's hard to interpret the piece without being aware of the immense scale involved.

 Over 5 feet with the option for expanding even larger!

To take in the complete work, I must step back, but the details I find throughout draws me in closer.

Included in this collection is a 3 dimension composition.

 I am fascinated by the angles and views from every direction.

And one of the more complicated pieces appears to stand out from the rest. A mural extending the length of the wall.

The watercolors that are used, create a soft, muted display with raindrop (or are they teardrop) shapes. The scale is large, over 6 feet wide and 5 feet high.

It is a piece that is comprised of individual sections grouped together to form a complete scene.
To study the details, the observer must walk and position oneself from section to section.

Your eye continues to move throughout, noticing the shapes, lines, balance and rhythm that encompass this work.


When I photograph someone for a portrait, I enjoy my connection and the bond that is formed during the shoot. I can honestly say that my relationship was no different with this particular photo shoot. I felt a connection with my subject and inspired by the energy that was exchanged mutually.

Thank you Anna, for entrusting me with your vibrant collection. I look forward to your success!

A Simple Request for a Family Portrait

This past Christmas, my sister asked her family for one special gift.

"Please pose for a family portrait without complaints". Well I'm sure they came in with offers for diamonds, cleaning services, new clothes, state of the art cell phone, just anything but that!

I was born into a family obsessed with photos! We love taking them and we love posing for them. Unfortunately, this passion has not rubbed off on some off-spring or dear loved ones that have come into our camera consumed family.

Well, she got her wish. Her family was quite cooperative, patient, and endured our afternoon photo session.
I think it's quite a feat nowadays, especially with college age children, to get a moment like this together.

Soon Sarah will be heading to Europe for a semester abroad and when she returns, her brother will have graduated college! Kids grow up and sometimes it happens so fast, right before your eyes! This is why my sister's idea for a family portrait was indeed brilliant.

But why let one sister have all the fun. This photo session turned into an ongoing family free for all! Did I mention our love of photos?

Many more family poses.

We put together some great mother/daughter moments.

And some moments with uncontainable energy!

Of course, we needed a shot of Grandma with ALL her grandchildren.

We also had time to let everyone get a chance to express themselves. Whether it was a Gymboree Gansta pose (in argyle for goodness sake!)

Or trying on a selection of hats and scarves, for just that perfect look!

Getting together for these family shots is filled with a lot of craziness and some calm moments.

As I've heard - " Families are like Fudge. Mostly sweet and filled with lots of NUTS!"