MOLLY JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Stewart Family Sneak Peek

2011-08-14T07:37:00.000-07:00

I recently had the great pleasure to photograph some of my favorite clients, The Stewart Family! After moving to Oklahoma, keeping in touch became a little more difficult, but every time they are in town, they always call to update their family portraits. This time I could NOT believe how BIG the kids got since the last time I saw them! Their personalities are so evident now in their little faces! It was such a joy to be a part of this family's life as it grows and evolves! Thank you for your loyalty to my business!

These are just some of my favorites from the sitting, usually I only put about 5, but couldn't narrow it down any farther!!!! We always have a blast! Cheers!

Sum sum summertime!!!!

2011-05-31T14:42:00.000-07:00

It's officially Summer here in Texas- marked by the 110 degree heat wave we had on Sunday. I never thought I'd say this, but thank God for the wind- it's the only thing that made it bearable! UGH! Hot and sweaty- here we come! So- to mark the beginning of a new season, I am running a print special called: "Art for your DESPERATELY white walls!"

Now, you might get the idea that the image I have chosen marks "renewal" and "revival"- which is definitely what we are going to need at the end of this summer... but truth be told, if that were that case, I'd put a pic of a icy cold longneck on here.

I actually shot this image in honor of Brett Weston, one of my favorite photographers. He is a master of the black and white image! Here's the image of his I took my inspiration from:

"Holland Canal"

(photograph by Brett Weston)

My version of the Holland Canal

"Bandera Canal"

(photograph by Molly Johnson)

The Deal:

From June 1st-June 30, 2011

Receive 20% off the print price

Prices vary by size.

5x7"-$80

8x10"-$95

11x14"- $125

16x20"-$250

Printed on beautiful rag watercolor paper.

Email me with your order:

molly@mollyjohnson-photography.com

(include a phone #, size preference and email)

This is what makes me happy today....

2011-05-20T10:11:00.000-07:00

Have been working around the house lately, painting, decorating, cleaning... up cycling!
Found this image in the archives and it just really sang to me today.... took it a while ago in an old abandoned house!
I love the color and the softness of the light, but also the way that the light is so specific...
I might get a print of this made to hang above my hat rack... what do you think?

Shooting for Heartstrings Fine Portraits...

2011-05-11T09:31:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while, I get a call...
it goes something like this:
"Hey Mol- are you available to shoot on...????"
Usually these calls are followed by some amazing opportunities to shoot some true "eye candy!"

I've worked over the past 5-6 years off and on with Jennifer Jennings of Heartstrings Fine Portraits,
and over the course of time have had the ability to learn new tricks of the trade and build my portfolio!
Jennifer has helped me to become a better photographer, all the while encouraging the growth of my own business! If there is one thing I have learned about working for other people, it's the fact that you cannot replace the education you receive from just "being" there! I've tried to take every opportunity I can to learn from other photographers, and am thankful for ALL of those who've taken me under their wing and given me a chance to shoot with them and their precious clients! Thanks JJ!!!

LEFT: Jennifer Jennings, owner of Heartstrings Fine Portraits, RIGHT: ME- duh!

(Funny thing here: There was a photo booth at this party we photographed- courtesy of Smile Booth- and all these funny hats, glasses, props, signs etc... we could have stayed there all night taking these silly pics... photographers always say how much they HATE getting in front of the camera, but dead sober- we had the best time dressing up and making silly faces!! What a cool addition to the event!)

And now, onto the eye candy!!!!

The disco ball twinkled until late into the night... there were 3 different music venues at this event, making it a spectacular night of entertainment!

This dance floor was just mesmerizing, you wouldn't believe it was peel and stick.... and btw- KUDOS to the lighting gurus who made this white tent look like a fabulous venue!

Um- yes, this is me, on top of a building, photographing the tent. Yup- see that big white thing in the middle of the pic... that's where the party was. I think it was something like 1200 sq ft.., but don't quote me on the number there... regardless, it was HUGE!!!

White carpet, white stairs, turquoise accents=killer decorating.

White carpet, white stairs=not so killer for walking....

(still nursing a 10 inch bruise/bump on my shin from falling down "said" stairs!)

I've never done drugs, but being in this room was as close as I think I'll ever come... it was all pink... SOOOO cool. Transported you to a different place!

I wish I knew the name of this band/singers/dancers- they were AMAZING- really have not EVER seen a more energetic bunch!!!

All the real workings of a professional concert- music by ZZ TOP! Can you believe it?

The ZZ TOP band has been together for over 40 years... that is an amazing feat! This is Dusty Hill.

JUST LOVE THIS SHOT!!!!

Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, interesting dude!

Baby Zachary

2011-04-12T11:21:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to one of my newest clients, Chelsea, on the birth of her little boy, Zachary Clinton! Isn't he a sweet little pea?

"Making the decision to have a child is momentous.

It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body."

~Elizabeth Stone

Senior Portrait

2011-04-06T18:03:00.000-07:00

First of all, I am wondering how I got so blessed to have such wonderful clients... no really, I'm not just saying that. These are real people who care about real things. There is no superficial layer to cut through. What you see is what you get, and it really is beautiful.

I photographed Laura and her daughter, Paige, years ago at a make-up event at SAKS... what a blast that was. And now, as her son, Jake, gets ready to graduate from high school, she called me to document the achievement. What an honor!

Getting to know Jake was a kick in the pants. He's simple, straightforward and honest. He cares about people, not things. Sure, we can have his truck in a couple of pics, sure, we could add the basketball... but really- c'mon- he's just a regular Joe. A regular Joe who appreciates the value of a good education and where that will get him in his future. Plans? Sure he's got plans- to major in business- smart eh? But really, Jake is just Jake- no frills, not fancy- just those beautiful teal colored eyes and that beaming smile. A breath of fresh air- not all youth is lost to "materialism" and technology. There are a few good ones left- yup- that's you Jake! Give 'em hell!

I chose this image to show Jake's Senior Portrait, because I think this is his core. This is really who Jake is. He loves his family. He loves his people. Of course, the ones of the teal colored eyes aren't bad either... check Facebook for those in a week or so...

But for now- a holler out to Jake- Chuck Norris ain't got nothing on you!
Congratulations on (almost) graduating!
Cheers-
Molly

Hooray for Headshots!

2011-04-06T12:16:00.001-07:00

It sounds funny, doesn't it, that I like to shoot headshots so much? There has always been something that is so intriguing to me about people's faces, and what a better way to capture that than in a headshot. Ok... ok... ok... so I know, headshots are supposed to be somewhat formal, and aren't supposed to say "too" much, but they can still say, "hey- this is me, here's who I am...." After all, isn't that why we need them? We need to portray visually to our customers who we are- what we represent....

Here is MY personal favorite headshot... as an artist, I think I can get away with it being a little more "creative," rather than so straight forward.... not only does it show who I am, but it really SAYS WHO I AM. If you know me, you know exactly what I'm talking about. Photo taken by my close friend, Rasmi Hunt. http://rasmiliya.tumblr.com/

For the month of April, I am offering a special discount to you- get your tosh in gear and call me. YOU NEED A NEW HEADSHOT! That is, unless you haven't changed a bit since the last one you had done... in 1983.... yeah, you need a new one. It's quick, it's painless, it's (relatively speaking) cheap, it's fun... see how easy he makes it look... you can do it. I promise you won't break the camera- promise!

$150 includes your session fee

and up to 5 retouched images on disk.

Call 210-262-0396 to book your appointment!

1881 Western Photography Co.

2011-03-25T15:45:00.000-07:00

Here's to a new adventure.....

I've recently accepted a job with a photography company based out of Bandera, Texas.
You can check out their website here: www.1881wpc.com

I'm running around on a dude ranch out in the sunshine and God's Hill Country photographing people riding horses... ranch life... portraits.... etc....
I'll post a couple of my favorites every now and then so you can keep up with what I'm doing and enjoy some of the scenery that has now become my office... jealous yet?

Sunset at the Running R Dude Ranch in Bandera, Texas.

Just before the cattle drive is getting ready to get under way. Round 'em up!

"Princess," the ranch dog/hand, is "helping" to get the cattle in the mood for a drive.

Any luck there Princess?

Never can have too many beautiful headshots... that's what I keep trying to tell these horses.

Photo Safari #3- Bracken Village

2011-03-10T05:04:00.000-08:00

Taken with: Lens Baby Muse on Canon 7D Camera, ISO 500 at 1/1000s, aperture determined by lens

http://www.lensbaby.com/lenses-muse.php

Taken with: Lens Baby Muse on Canon 7D Camera, ISO 640 at 1/400s, aperture determined by lens

http://www.lensbaby.com/lenses-muse.php

Taken with: Lens Baby Composer on Canon 7D Camera, ISO 640 at 1/4000s,

aperture determined by lens

http://www.lensbaby.com/lenses-composer.php

Photo Safari #3-
One of my good friends, and fellow photographer, Monica Hoeffel Murphy http://thesmilecollector.com/blog/, accompanied me on my Photo Safari this month.
We decided it would be a "Lens Baby" day.... which means you don't really know what you're going to get. I am not a technical photographer, but I can tell you that a Lens Baby does something to the light coming into the camera by warping it.... great explanation huh? Basically, you would never shoot a lens baby for anything important, it's a special effects lens that is unreliable and unpredictable... but I think part of the fun of the lens baby brings you back to "pre-digital age"- where things were still a mystery, and the secret was in getting the film back from the lab and not knowing exactly what you were going to get...

We had grandiose plans of going down this road called Bat Cave Road... we had heard it was absolutely beautiful, it's just past Rolling Oaks Mall in San Antonio, so the drive was not too bad... but as we arrived on Bat Cave Road, we saw nothing. Dead dead dead grass, ugly scraggly trees and people's houses. With no other destination planned (oops- always need a back-up I guess)- we settled on a little find called "Bracken Village." By this time, it was almost already 5:30 at night, the sun was going down, and it was already overcast, so the light for "artsy" photography was not at it's best. However, we made the best of the situation and took a couple of pics of the local scenery at Bracken Village- a cute little conglomerate of old houses and barns piled into a little piece of land. http://www.brackenvillagesa.com/index.php?page=home

Now don't get me wrong, I learned 2 very important things from this trip-
#1- always have a back-up
#2- always check or scout your location first before driving there
(Both things I should have already known)
BUT- since we were just playing, we still had a grand time. We enjoyed a couple of the shops located in the little village and ate at an amazing pizza joint across the street- called "Fraglios-" yummy! Plus- I got to try out a lens baby- my first time! AND- I got to enjoy the fellowship of one of my good buddies, and we can talk all the photo gook that we want without our hubby's rolling their eyes...

Oh- and- I only took 39 images, which is an incredibly small amount for me. I also only made MINOR exposure and contrast adjustments to these images which you are seeing, no cropping, no adding of filters etc... this is straight from the camera. I know they're not my best work, and even wane on not being interesting, but I've recently adopted the mantra "Nothing is worth doing if you can't learn something from it!"

Cheers-
Molly

Hunting Season is over, right?

2011-02-22T16:03:00.000-08:00

I couldn't resist putting this beautiful Colorado Elk up on my blog today! I needed something cheery, and thought he just looked so regal and content. I am missing the beautiful colors of Spring... so this makes a dreary day feel happier! Enjoy the beauty of what nature has to offer!

Photo Safari #2

2011-02-11T08:46:00.000-08:00

Life gets in the way for all of us. Work, work, work, eat, sleep, laundry, groceries, dishes... sheesh! Seems like we can never catch a break... my mom recently retired just so that she can now have TIME to do the eating, sleeping, laundry, groceries, dishes etc. It's enough to make you wonder sometimes what we are all working so hard for? What's the ultimate goal? Riches? Retirement? I don't have your answer, I am barely grasping my own, but here's what I think... in between all of the above mentioned "nasties" of life, there is a void of time that you pass by... in this void, you might see a piece of art, you might be having dinner with friends, you might be enjoying a sunset on the drive home from work, your kid might be telling you that they love you... I'm not sure what your moment is, but it's these moments that create the breath inside of our lives. I am just like you, I so often let these little "breaths" pass me by and never give thought to them again. But sometimes, if you stop and really breathe deeply, you can remember those little moments and say, "oh yeah, this is the beauty of this place!"

The challenge for me this week came when I was dining at the Limestone Grill in Boerne. They had a beautiful piece of wine art on their wall as you enter their bathrooms. I thought to myself... hmmph- I can do that! Wouldn't it be nice to have something like that to hang in the restaurant I work at?? So- that was my challenge- to create a piece of "wine art!" My photo safari happened to be at one of the coolest places I have ever been- not mentioning names- some things must be kept secret... but here's just one little taste of the eye candy that I made this week for my Photo Safari #2!!! (Oh and by the way- I like my wine art better than the one I saw- challenge completed with victory!!!!)

ENJOY!

Photo Safari #1

2011-01-27T14:12:00.000-08:00

Everyone makes New Year's Resolutions... you just can't help it.

It's okay if you never admit it to anyone, it's a natural course to take, to want to change, to want to improve.

My personal resolutions are probably much like yours, but this year, I wanted to do something else.

I want to grow more passionate and more knowledgeable about my craft: photography.

On the second Thursday of each month, I am going to take a "Photo Safari"

It can be anywhere with anyone.

Subject: anything that suits my fancy.

The challenge is this.

I am going to put black electrical tape over the back of my sensor, so that I can't see what I am shooting (just like back in the old days of shooting film),

I am only going to allow myself 2 "rolls" of film, or 24 exposures, no matter the subject.

And then, I am going to come home and enjoy the mystery of photography again.

I am going to learn my weaknesses and strengths, and I am going to do some work for MY walls.

Medina Lake, Lakehills, Texas

January 27, 2011

7:45 am

FREE Boudoir Session!!!!

2011-01-21T06:44:00.000-08:00

I am in the mood for LOVE....

Every once in a while I like to update some of my images and let my creative juices flow!

SO- I am giving away a free boudoir session for the month of February!

Makes a beautiful gift for that special someone in your life.... don't be scared... give me a call.

First one to book the session wins!

(Free Boudoir Session and 1-8x10" Custom Portrait)

830-535-4206

“Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would still go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree.” MLK

2011-01-19T16:55:00.000-08:00

A worse present than coal????

2010-12-27T16:25:00.000-08:00

A good photographer once taught me,

"give kids something to hold onto to entertain their hands...."

SOOOOO, I gave my niece this pine cone, thinking it was both festive and interesting.

She OBVIOUSLY did not have the same sentiments.

Upon showing the pics to her mommy, this was her favorite, one I had passed over due to the "sour puss" face,

but she just laughed and laughed.

She just kept saying,

"there really is a Christmas gift WORSE than coal!"

I learn something new everyday about the importance of capturing a moment and an expression!

Landi Lily Marie Johnson

2010-12-27T16:18:00.000-08:00

A few pics of my new "niece-in-law", Landi.
She's truly one of the most beautiful babies I have ever seen.
She's only 3 days old in these pics. So content and happy.

Richard and Michelle

2010-09-13T09:04:00.000-07:00

October 9, 2010 at the Sisterdale Dancehall

Richard and Michelle will be married.

I have NEVER been this excited to photograph a wedding before.

I can't even begin to explain all of the exciting details they have planned for the day.

Customized Wooden Nickels, an Old Fashioned Candy Store, Personalized Memory Books for the guests, Hay Bales with Serapes for seats, Outdoor ceremony at the river... whew!

It's going to be SO fabulous!

This is a little preview of their Engagement/Family session.

You'll want to check back for their wedding link, because I guarantee this is one you don't want to miss!

They want to spend the day enjoying their guests! Not being photographed! I totally agree.

I can't wait to just be there to enjoy the festivities and capturing their special moments from the shadows!

Oh, and did I mention that they give me goosebumps every time I am around them

(have them now just thinking about their devotion to each other).

They are so in LOVE, as it should be!

Congratulations you two! You have a long, happy life ahead of you!

So glad I can be a small part of the journey!

Best Wishes!

Molly

Londyn is 5 years old!!!

2010-09-10T09:50:00.000-07:00

One of my most beautiful clients, Londyn,

turned 5 years old last month!

I know these are a little late in being posted, but better late than never!

She celebrated her birthday party at "In the Irons" Equestrian Center

It was quite possibly the most interesting and exciting birthday party I've ever been to!

All of the kids were completely in AWE of the horses. They got to groom them, ride them and PAINT them. Yep- PAINT THEM!!! You might want to consider this as a way to get your kid some "points" with the kids at school! It was a totally awesome event!

Londyn has a great knack for being around horses... she's quite the little rider!

Literally, "In the Irons"

- I think they need to make this their official pic for their advertising, it's priceless, wouldn't ya say?

There's just something about putting your hands on a horse that creates a personal connection deep inside of your soul. How wonderful it is that these kids are able to experience this at such a young age, and in a way that is so nourishing, fun and safe for them!

To see more of the pics from Londyn's party,

or to order them online, please click here:

Online Ordering Gallery

8x10"- $15

5x7"- $10

4x6"- $8

8 wallets- $15

Medina River at English Crossing

2010-08-31T06:58:00.000-07:00

Only thing that could have made this better was a Soy Chai Latte... sigh.... I love the sunrise.....

Good Morning San Antonio!

2010-08-27T08:06:00.000-07:00

There are advantages and disadvantages of living WAY OUT in the middle of nowhere...

depends on whether or not your cup is half full that day or half empty.

Take this photo for example:

Advantage: I was up early enough to see this BEAUTIFUL sunrise!!!

Disadvantage: I was up early enough to see this BEAUTIFUL sunrise b/c I had to be somewhere at the crack of dawn!

Oh well!!! Good Morning anyways!!!

Donning my new summer duds.....

2010-07-23T05:37:00.000-07:00

Bandera Texas is probably one of my favorite places.... well.... anywhere!!!
The atmosphere of the town is incredible, there's a friendly face in every store, good conversation to be had on any street corner, fun activities happening every weekend, world class music in the best "holes".... I mean, it really doesn't get much better than this!!! It's country livin' at it's finest....

This weekend we are celebrating "The National Day of the American Cowboy" in Bandera.
I'll be setting up my new business Tootins McGrootins Antique Portrait Studio.
(For any of you who haven't checked it out, visit my website here: www.tootins.com )
We will be set-up at the rodeo fairgrounds Friday night from 4-10pm.
We will set-up at the courthouse lawn on Saturday from 9am-4pm and then back to the fairgrounds from 5-10pm!
Lots of fun activities going on, rodeos, chuck wagon rides, gun fight reenactments, arts and crafts, food.... wow!!! Don't miss it!

For now, I'll leave you with these simple pics... my new summer hat. Picked it out at the Gunslinger yesterday in Bandera, the most fabulous "Dry Goods" store I've ever seen!!! Couldn't pick a hat she had so many to choose from, but ultimately, this one took the cake, you know me, I just LOVE red!!!!

Go and visit Melissa at the Gunslinger

while you're in Bandera this weekend!

Here's how to find her:

Gunslinger of Bandera

Red Scout Hat from Gunslinger of Bandera!

Love it! So cool and comfortable! AND RED!

Check back next week for some updated pics of the National Day of the American Cowboy!!!
YEE HAW!

Also- check out these links while you're at it:

Bunkhouse Leather
Tell Lew that Molly sent ya!

Schedule of Events
Check out the times for rodeos and events here!

Roping 101

2010-07-13T06:32:00.000-07:00

Ahh, summer nights...

It's always a treat to photograph things and people you love....

every Monday night at Adams Land and Livestock, a lot of the boarders, and some visiting friends come out for some amateur roping. The cows try hard, the ropers try hard... it's a blast, and the light is usually amazing, making for some delicious pics!

View more of the images online here:

Online Viewing Gallery

Vitza

2010-07-12T09:22:00.001-07:00

One of my good friends horses, Vitza the Fresian.
AKA- The Mudball.... thought this would look amazing printed on tin!

Favorite pic ever!

2010-07-10T07:05:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the most classic of all of our old time family photos.

Imagine my grandfather's surprise to find this mess in the garage....

ha ha!!!!

(My Dad- the one making the mudball,

His Brother Blake- the one who is extremely put out by the mud fight!)

Vegetarian Cooking

2010-07-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

Recently, I have been visiting the library...

my Mom used to make us go as kids, weekly.

AND, she made us check out books!

Can you believe it?

AND, she made us read them.

Slowly as life got busier, we got out of the habit of going to the library as often.

Upon entering college, I gave up "recreational" reading all together! Too much homework and too much "technical" reading to do! Blah!

But recently, without a TV (which we love), I've been feeling a little stupid lately.... feel a bit disconnected from all the knowledge in this world, and I'm not talking about Lindsey Lohan's latest prison sentence.

SO- I went to the library. This is one of books I checked out.

"Greens, Glorious Greens!"

Wow, who knew you could even cook Beet Greens? (That's the stuff on top of the beets)

I've made a couple of recipes so far and have been intrigued.

I can't say they are my favorites, but it's getting me out there and making me try something new. (My husband is less than thrilled to be having "lettuce" for every meal however!)

It just really made me realize how much fun you can have at the library.

I got a book specially made for people who are Vegetarians (ME) and I got my hubby a beer brewing book. Now that makes him smile.

I'm just saying that we don't need to be so enthralled with social media, televisions and texting. Next time you're bored, pick up a book from your local library. You never know how it might enhance your life, and imagine this, it might even make you a better conversationalist!

Happy READING!!!!

How about some summer in Texas?

2010-07-08T12:09:00.000-07:00

I realize there are a select few of you who read my blog on a regular basis...

and I know that if I'm sick of looking at the last post, you must be too...

SOOOO- while I haven't been shooting anything TOO interesting the last couple of weeks,

I thought I'd share a couple of the images I took over the weekend

while we were celebrating our Nation's Independence!

I know it's a weird grouping of pictures, and I am somewhat elated to share them. These are the types of pics that get logged away on our computer and really have no use.

However, there is something about them that made

me feel moved enough to click the shutter, so there's something a little special about them.

Perhaps it's just the fact that they tell a little story about what summer in Texas looks like on an average day. Regardless, I hope you enjoy! I'm glad to have the outlet to share them!

Cheers! Molly

Antique Photo Restoration

2010-06-21T14:30:00.000-07:00

There's just something to be said for our heritage, our family history that we hang on the walls. I recently walked into the home of one of my client's and saw this antique portrait hanging on the wall. It was so captivating and beautiful. Though it is a silent picture, it seemed to say so many things. The eyes of the image just lured me in and I began to wonder where this woman had been in her life, what had she seen, who was she? This portrait, like all of the "pictures" that we hang on the wall tell our story. AND- they will continue to tell our story even when we are LONG LONG GONE. This image is over 200 years old, and now it looks brand new again, so that the family can continue to enjoy it for several more generations to come.

May we never lose the magic of imagery...

Thank you Becky for allowing me to be a part of your family's history!

An Homage to my Pa....

2010-06-20T17:59:00.000-07:00

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

I'm not sure if it's really "fair" to say that I have the BEST DAD IN THE WORLD.... because I haven't really had any others.... but on this day that our nation has set aside to honor Father's, I'd like to honor mine.

I thought perhaps I could try to name all of the reasons why I love you Dad...

but there are so many, I can't begin the list.

So, instead, I just want you to know:

*I miss you everyday that you are not with me.

*I secretly love Gordon Lightfoot and Simon and Garfunkel (played really loud when Mom is not home).

*I am completely in AWE of your amazing talent and skill as a carpenter.

*I am thankful that you are so kind and have loved my Mother all these years.

*Thank you for buying me my first love, my horse.

*Thank you for loving my husband as much as you love me.

*All of the times you spanked me, I totally deserved it.

*Thanks for teaching me to cuss like I mean it.

*It cracks me up to no end that you can't hear a damn thing, but really, get a hearing aid.

*Thanks for always teaching me lessons the hard way, it's made me a harder worker than anyone else I know.

*I'll never forget making ice cream on the porch of the caboose, or picking asparagus on the river.

*Thanks for helping me with my math homework and ensuring that I graduated from high school, and now, ensuring that I don't "bust" my business!

*My little brother was a pretty nice gift, thanks for conceiving him.

*Childhood is the place you always want to go back to. That's a compliment to the way you raised us. My memories of my life are vast and happy, thanks to you and Mom.

*I promise someday I'll buy you a hammock to replace ALL of the ones we broke on our camping trips.

*I hope that one day I can be the type of person you and Mom are.

I love you more than there are stars in the sky,

more waves than the ocean can make.

Happy Father's Day Daddy!

From your little girl, Tootins

It's official.... Tootins McGrootins is LIVE!!!

2010-06-17T06:26:00.000-07:00

Tootins McGrootins Antique Portrait Studio is LIVE!!!

Please feel free to check out our new website at:

www.tootins.com

Thank you to everyone who has played a key part in helping me to get this business up and running and off the ground!

2010-06-08T14:48:00.000-07:00

CUT-A-THON!!!

$10.00 Haircuts!

HALF PRICE Antique Portraits!

I was approached by a local business, Blonde Creative, to be a part of a benefit for The Marrow Match. The Marrow Match is an organization that raises awareness on how to become a bone marrow donor for people in desperate need. People suffer everyday from life threatening illnesses and are in need of marrow from a donor that matches their own. Many times, the donor cannot be found in a family member, which makes this process even more difficult.

This weekend, I will set-up the Tootins McGrootins Antique Portrait Studio at the Pearl Brewery to try to help raise awareness and money for this amazing organization. If you are not busy, head on over. My prices will be HALFED for this day ONLY as a SPECIAL BENEFIT package for those supporting this event. At the end of the day, a portion of the profit will be donated to the Marrow Match.

The Aveda Institute is also chipping in and offering $10 haircuts! You don't have to make a reservation, but one to guarantee your spot would be awesome!

Hope to see you all there! Details in the post below!

A little sample of my work!

Tootins McGrootins Antique Portrait Studio

Molly Johnson (210) 262-0396

Tootins McGrootins 1st BENEFIT event!!!

2010-06-08T12:51:00.001-07:00

-THIS SUNDAY-

JUNE 13th from 10am-2pm at the Pearl Brewery!

06/13 - Cut-A-Thon - The Aveda Institute of San Antonio at The Pearl Brewery. 10am-2pm. $10 donation for hair cut. Other services available for a donation. Join us for fun and excitement with entertainment and place your bid for great silent auction items. Learn about the need for bone marrow donations and sign-up to become a bone marrow donor.

Marrow Match Website:

http://www.themarrowmatch.com/news.html

Aveda Institute Website:

Aveda Institute San Antonio, 250 E. Grayson Suite 101 (210) 222-0023

(Aveda Institute San Antonio is sponsoring a cut-a-thon on June 13th, 2010 at their 250 E. Grayson location in the Pearl Brewery complex. Cosmetology students will provide $10 haircuts to the public (including children age 6 and older) from 10am – 2pm. Students are under the supervision of licensed instructors. Donations will be accepted for hand and chair massages as well as make-up touchups. 100% of the proceeds will go to Marrow Match.)

2010-05-27T18:56:00.000-07:00

Just a little piece of what I'm working on right now... thought you all might enjoy.

2010-05-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

Brailey, one word:

adorable.....

2010-05-08T09:25:00.000-07:00

So adorable... everyone had such a good time!!!

(Including the photographer!)

The latest and the greatest!

2010-05-06T11:06:00.001-07:00

Thanks to all my faithful friends and clients for posing for these test shots!!!

I hope you're having as much fun as I am!!!

Keep it coming!

Casting Call....

2010-04-28T08:32:00.001-07:00

Molly Johnson Photography has taken on a new look.....

I'm currently seeking "people with character" to pose for some portfolio/sample images.

I have a variety of costumes available with misc. props. Your input or props is welcome.

RECEIVE A FREE 8X10" PHOTOGRAPH FOR POSING!!!

PS- The dog is tired of posing.... HELP!!!

BOOKING FREE APPOINTMENTS IMMEDIATELY!!!

Please call Molly, 210-262-0396

I dare you to find something cuter....

2010-04-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

This is what I like to call:

"FREEGIN' ADORABLE"

but her real name is Sadie....

just a couple pics to get Mom and Grammy excited!!!

Sneak Peek....

2010-03-30T07:18:00.000-07:00

Told you the blue bonnets are here... but not sure how long they'll last...

so make sure you schedule your appointment today!

Limited sessions left to get the Spring Special (last weekend is April 17, 18)

Kim and Craig's "Sneak Peek"

Ok- those are the beautiful obligatory "Mommy" Pics....

Check out the Molly Johnson Photography Facebook Page for the FUN ONES!!!!

They're here!!!

2010-03-25T16:00:00.000-07:00

It's like a frenzy here in Texas whenever the blue bonnets bloom!

It's a great year for them, we've had a ton of rain!

Don't miss out, have your portrait made while they're still here!

Call me for details. You can still get the Spring Special if you book an appointment on the dates available! ($100 sitting fee and a free accordion book!)

210-262-0396 Limited space available, call today to reserve your spot!

A little musing I was doing...

2010-03-11T20:34:00.001-08:00

Sometimes when I can't sleep....

this is what happens.

The thing about kids....

2010-03-09T20:06:00.001-08:00

This little guy's name is Mark. He wants to be in a Disney movie. He heard an ad on the radio and asked his Mom to take him to the audition. He's already been through 2 rounds of auditions, tapings, script readings etc.... and now he's gotten a call back to go to California for the real deal. He needed a professional headshot. Ok- simple. I've done these before.... but the reason I love photography, the REAL reason, is because every person you photograph touches your heart. They leave a little mark that brightens the world, and makes you say, "Hey, this place isn't all that bad."

For those of you who know me well, you know that kids are "not my thing." I don't have any, don't really care to have any... but there's always something so pure and raw about photographing them that makes me smile. When you take the parents out of the equation and they just become bystanders watching from a distance, you can really get down to the beautiful naivety inside that kids heart. They are still somewhat unspoiled by the evil of this world and they don't care what anyone else thinks... yet.

What a joy. Pure joy. Thanks Mark for letting me be a part of your journey! I hope you get the part you've always wanted in that Disney movie. Don't forget about all of us small time San Antonian's when you're famous!

Antique Portraits

2010-03-03T18:16:00.000-08:00

In an effort to keep things "fresh" around here,
I've decided to go backwards.
Creating "old fashioned portraits" has always been a passion of mine,
and now I am delving into it with everything I've got.
Of course, as with everything new... it needs tweeks and adjustments... but here are a few favorites from a recent sitting.

Spring is here!

2010-03-02T05:47:00.001-08:00

"Spring Special"

Hey you! All my faithful clients! Spring is here!

Time to get out of your jammies and get out into the sunshine!

Gather up the families, the pets, the kids and let's make some memories!

Here's the Deal:

*Sitting Fee ONLY $100 (a value of $185)

(must be paid at date of booking)

*3 Weekends ONLY

(March 20, 21)

(March 27, 28)

(April 17, 18)

limited space available, so call for your appointment soon!

*ACCORDION BOOKS ON SALE for $20 each! (a value of $35)

(minimum of 2)

Books are available in a fabulous array of styles and colors!

Custom designs are an additional $25.

(Mention the Spring Special when booking your appointment!)

Losing a pet....

2010-02-21T09:19:00.000-08:00

Meena and Gracie

Skye Terriers

Family Pets for 13 years....

I remember the day I came home from church camp and there were these 2 little logs waiting in the living room. My mom had a wild hair (not uncommon) and decided to get 2 Skye Terrier puppies and surprise my brother and I when we returned from camp. My mom was sitting on the floor stroking their silky, soft hair and my dad was pacing nervously near the clock cabinet. We had owned another Skye Terrier just a year or so before and there was no replacing him, but losing a pet always leaves a bit of a hole in your heart that needs to be filled... so here they were, 2 brand new little log dogs with all this black hair... My dad had already named "Gracie." We didn't like the name at first b/c we always hoped she would turn white- a unique and coveted characteristic in Skye's, but he was convinced she would stay grey, so we kept the name as we realized he was right. The other, smaller black dog still had no name. We tried out a lot of different ones over the next couple of days and somehow I arrived at the name "Meena." I had heard on an old film that it meant "love" in German. When I told my parents, it stuck. She was always the more cuddly one and liked getting pet the most... so it was suitable to her personality.

We had the dogs for 13 years, and as all pets do, they became part of the family, though I think they were the "black sheep" of the family. They fought with each other a lot, sibling rivalry I guess. They weren't super friendly to new faces, and they didn't like to play fetch... but we loved them the same. Meena always loved when I came home, letting me know this by tinkling on the floor. Funny at first, but mostly annoying. Gracie loved eating. Anytime the cracker box paper rattled, she was all about being in the kitchen under your feet trying to get some of whatever you were eating. Their hair was a nightmare. It matted and tangled and fell off everywhere, but it proved entertaining for a teenage girl. Lots of braiding and styling took place in our living room.

But the great thing about dogs is that they are always there, they are always happy to see you and they always love you. This was the case for Meena and Gracie. We loved them, they loved us. There is not a more perfect relationship. Meena was just put to sleep yesterday, she had pnenomonia, Gracie went about 1 year ago... so now mom and dad really do have an empty nest. It's sad, but all things must change and move forward.

I heard a story once about a young boy who went with his parents to the vet to put their 12 year old Lab to sleep. He insisted on being in the room when the vet administered the shot. The vet said it was always hard to have to put animals to sleep b/c it just didn't seem fair that they have such short lives. The little boy said, they don't have to fight or judge or hate or do any of the things we have to do, they figure it all out a little quicker than us... so that's why their lives are so short, b/c we have to stay around longer to figure out how to just love.....

We will miss our pups... just not their barking.

Rainy Day Soup...

2010-02-03T14:28:00.001-08:00

Easy Chunky Tomato and Kale Soup

Ingredients:

3 cans of cannellini beans

6 cups organic vegetable broth

2-6 cloves garlic (depends on taste)

1/2 onion, chopped

6 ribs celery

1 can diced tomatoes

1 can Rotel

1 head of KALE (that's green stuff people-salty!)

olive oil, sea salt, parmesan cheese

Optional:

sliced carrots

okra

red bell pepper

shredded chicken (for carnivores if you must)

This is an easy recipe folks! Short prep time, complex flavor. And it will cure your rainy day blues! You probably have MOST of this stuff in your pantry, so get cracking and make an easy soup that tastes like a gourmet dinner!

Here's how to do it:

1. Pick a big stockpot. Drain beans, chop garlic. Add vegetable broth, garlic and beans to pot. Boil. Reduce heat and cook 20-30 minutes. Note: Use a good stock or your soup will taste like water. Spend some money here and buy a nice organic vegetable broth, you won't regret it!

2. Meanwhile- add chopped celery, onions and carrots if you choose to add them to a skillet coated with olive oil. Saute for 5 minutes or so- until onion is transparent. Add Rotel and canned tomatoes to mixture in skillet. Add a good amount of sea salt. Cook for another 5 minutes.

3. Here's the hard part- ADD THE TWO MIXTURES TOGETHER. Got it? Ok, simple enough. Now, cook together for another 15-20 minutes to let the flavors get groovy with each other.

4. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, rip up bite size pieces of Kale and load that pot up with it. It looks like a lot, but I promise it cooks down. (Kale is SOOOOO good for you and it adds a delicious salty flavor. )

5. TA DA! You did it! You made soup! Now sprinkle some parmesan cheese over the top and enjoy. (If it tastes bland, it's b/c you didn't read the note in step #1. Most of your flavor comes from a good stock. But, you can add salt and pepper if you cheaped out and used bouillon cubes instead of buying the expensive ($1.99 per carton) stock from the grocery store! )

P.S. I also add some chili pequens in this recipe to give it a little "kick", but you can put a couple of red pepper flakes for the same effect or even a little cayenne pepper. Let me know how yours tastes!

Recipe adapted originally from an article in www.housebeautiful.com

Here's what I'm shooting right now...

2010-01-28T16:39:00.000-08:00

HARLOW

Old English Bulldog Puppy

12 weeks old

Mommy: Laura Beelamawvitch

I forgot what it's like to have a puppy around again.

Constant paranoia about whether or not they have to potty

or whether or not they really care what the carpet smells like.

My old man dog, Dusty (7 years old) hid in every corner he could find,

trying to get away from the "wrath" of the puppy.

We just aren't sure what to do with boundless energy around here!

Not much wears me out, but dang.

I'm not sure who got more exercise.

I know we'll both sleep good tonight and isn't that all anyone ever wants!

This whole pet photography thing could prove to be good for my personal life-

more exercise, more sleep! I likey!

Wait until you see the video from this session!

Keep looking for the post on that!

Scooter

2010-01-27T07:28:00.000-08:00

I met a new friend on Saturday. His name is "Scooter." He was a rescued dog from a flood. He's living it up now. He cruises around town in an old '43 Ford Pick-Up and loves every minute of it. No need to roll the windows up when you have Scooter keeping guard.

"Did you ever notice when you blow in a dog's face he gets mad at you? But when you take him in a car he sticks his head out the window." ~Steve Bluestone

To FB or not? READ THIS!

2010-01-15T15:09:00.000-08:00

Ok-

I hate starting things with the word OK, but I feel like I need it right now. As a calming word, to gather my thoughts, to stop my head from spinning. I'm just going to come right out and say it. "I'm on Facebook"

Ok, there, I said it. Dang, there's that ok word again. This is going to be a test at how "wonderful" it really can be. I haven't even really figured it out yet. I'm giving it 2 months. No more than 1 hour a day (already exceeded). Need REAL business that makes REAL MONEY to make this worth the time. Because, as well all know, TIME is not free.

So, here's the deal. Every week I am going to give away a free sitting. YUP- FREE!!!! I already gave one away this week. If you are my "friend" you have the chance to win. If you are not my friend and want to win, then join up or something. If you saw me on FB and were directed here, Welcome! Check it out. If you want more info on making an appointment to be photographed, please feel free to email me:

molly@mollyjohnson-photography.com

Happy Facebooking.... (or whatever you call it!)

The Johnson Family

2010-01-11T11:51:00.000-08:00

Your portraits are ready to view online:

www.myprophotosonline.com/mpp/?studio=386

Thank you for allowing me to be part of your family for a day!

Attention Photographers!!!!

2009-12-23T06:51:00.000-08:00

Thinking of getting a new camera?

Don't do it without first checking out this website!!!!

I am buying a new camera in January and have been perusing the market for the best buy with the best features.... I had my heart set on a certain camera and talked to a couple of people and they suggested I read the reviews......

So I did... it changed my mind completely!!! Check out this site, it is unbiased and not sarcastic. It merely mentions all of the cool "specs" of the cameras and in the conclusion gives you a clear cut idea of what you can expect of the camera. Not only that, it provides a decent image gallery of pics taken with the cameras and tells you what settings they were taken on. An exciting discovery, just wanted to pass it along to all my photographer pals!!!

www.neocamera.com

Photographers in Training

2009-12-22T14:42:00.000-08:00

HALF MOON RANCH-

Half Moon Ranch
4423 FM 2828
Bandera Texas 78003
830-796-8577 (Kimber)

Last weekend, all of us girls went to the race track in Bandera at Half Moon Ranch!

We took a couple of our fastest (cough cough) steeds

for a couple of match races around the track.

It was a blast and only one of us had a near death experience,

no names mentioned here!

Randi Dillard and Andi Davenport are the aspiring photographers.....

their work is turning out to be quite impressive, they may put me out of business!

Photos by Randi Dillard and Andi Davenport

2009-12-12T14:22:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Laura and Mike!

May your new life together be blessed with joy and love!

2009-11-18T06:49:00.000-08:00

I recently had the privilege of being in one of my friend's wedding. Kendra and I have been friends since we were in Kindergarten and it was an honor to be in her wedding. Of course, I wasn't the official photographer, but here are a couple of my favorite "artsy" shots that I took with my little point and shoot Canon camera! Nothing to write home about, but kind fun nonetheless!!! Enjoy! I know we did! We had a fabulous time in Vegas! More pics to come on that note later!

Kendra and Lawrence's Wedding

Las Vegas, October 2009

Congratulations Kendra and Lawrence!!!

Here's to a lifetime of wedded bliss!!!

Laura and Mike's Engagement Portraits

2009-11-02T15:05:00.000-08:00

No one's got any money,

but if you've got LOVE,

that's all that matters!!!!

Halloween!!!!

2009-11-02T14:44:00.000-08:00

Halloween at Retama!!!!

We had a blast at Retama Park on Halloween night! Thanks to our trusty jockey man, Jimmy, Rasmi and I were able to come up with some pretty cool costumes. We even had the trusty steeds to assist us! Rasmi's horses name: "Sri Lankan Assasain" My horses name: "Winner Winner Chicken Dinner"

Laura

2009-10-28T11:51:00.001-07:00

Got a chance to snap a few shots of my friend Laura and her horse, Chili, while we were out at the barn yesterday!!!

I finally get it....

2009-10-28T07:41:00.001-07:00

This is my horse, Swiss Surprise. I've had her since she was 2 years old. She's now 18 years old. In all that time, I've never had a professional portrait made of her and I together. Horses are my true passion outside of photography and people always are asking me why I don't have a good photo of her and I, being a photographer and all... well, it's awfully hard to take a self-portrait with a horse in it... so I never had them done. Recently, I met a wonderful person named Rasmi Hunt.... she's kind and wonderful, and oh, did I mention, she's a great photographer! So- problem solved. We loaded up the cameras and hired some help to get the ears perked, and bada boom- here ya go! Here's my favorites! Just a side note for my clients- it sucks to get photographed. You never know what to do with your head, your hands, should I smile? Should I act serious? Do I look fat? I get it. BUT- and this is a BIG BUT- it was worth every agonizing second. These pictures show the relationship between my horse and I and have captured me doing my most favorite thing in the whole world. There's no price I could ever put on that. So- thank you to all of you who constantly allow me to barrage you with my shutter in hopes of catching one of those "moments" that you will treasure for the rest of your life, both behind the camera and in a frame! Cheers!

The red boots are so totally "Molly"

Dusty sneaked in for a couple of shots, he thinks he is so regal... ha ha!

To see more of Rasmi Hunt's work, you can find her on Facebook or visit her blog:

http://rasmiphoto.blogspot.com/

Christmas Card Special!!!

2009-10-22T07:08:00.001-07:00

FREE PORTRAIT SITTING!!!

(a value of $185.00)

Custom Designed CHRISTMAS CARDS starting at $5.00 each!

*Portrait session must be booked by November 15, 2009.

*Credit card required to reserve date of portrait session.

*Cancellations or no shows will be charged a minimum fee of $75.00.

*Additional fees apply for families larger than 6.

*Christmas portraits must be ordered by November 15, 2009

for guaranteed Christmas delivery.

*Portraits and other custom products available at regular prices.

For more information, please call Molly! 210.262.0396

Londyn

2009-08-31T08:52:00.000-07:00

She's curious, she's sassy, she's adorable!

Dusk ...

2009-08-17T20:45:00.001-07:00

Corpus Christi, Texas

2009-08-10T12:05:00.000-07:00

National Seashore, North Padre Island

Ever heard of "Flock of Seagulls?"
This is "Flock of Pelicans"

Julie and George Engagement Pics!

2009-08-07T08:09:00.000-07:00

Engagement portrait taken on behalf of Jennifer Jennings, Heartstrings Fine Portraits

at Silverhorn Golf Course

Commisioned Pet Paintings by Andi

2009-07-23T11:38:00.000-07:00

Hand-painted watercolor, pencil and acrylic portraits of your beloved animals!

Contact Andi Davenport for yours today!

horseraven1@aol.com

859.536.0786
(Mention this post and receive a discount!)

Seattle

2009-07-22T11:57:00.000-07:00

AHHH- Seattle, where the air is refreshing and there's always a breeze off the water... that is, unless you're trying to sail, then there's no wind to speak of. We went to Washington a couple of weeks ago for my nephew's graduation! It was wonderful!

Had a chance to see some old friends and family, visit my college, be tourists in Seattle and see my nephew accomplish an amazing goal!

The beauty in Washington is really unparalled to any other state,

green, mountains, water, blue sky... wow!

View from the Ferry leaving Seattle to go to Bremerton- across the Puget Sound!

My sister, Becky and nephew's, Steven and Cain

My sister's, Jenny and Becky, oh and Rex- the wild daschund

(make sure you pronounce it "DASH HUUUND")

Mom

Ma and Pop- sailing on the Puget Sound in the bay at Seattle!

(This is the part where there was no wind!)

The Graduate- Steven Johnson!
He plans on getting his apprenticeship as an electrician!

2009-07-08T17:12:00.000-07:00

Makeup by Tami Crawford

All I have to say is.... "Only in Texas!"

2009-06-29T07:43:00.000-07:00

Shadow Riders

2009-06-25T07:31:00.001-07:00

There's a magical time of day for everyone.
I am not talking about the hour in which you are most productive.
I am not talking about being a morning person or a night owl.
I am talking about that magical time in the day or night that elicit such strong emotional responses that you don't want to leave that moment.
For me, it has always been dusk.
The color of the light changes, everything feels softer and more at peace.
The horses have been fed and they nicker and blow softly.
The sun is getting ready for bed.
The crickets are content just to chirp.
The water in the pond is still.
It makes me feel like a child again.
I want to run through water sprinklers, eat dripping popsicles, race my brother up and down the street on our bikes, chase the neighborhood cat...
Or - perhaps it is just a bit of summer nostalgia catching up to me...
Whatever it may be... sometimes it's fun just to be.

2009-06-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

Man.... I wish I had a pool.....
it's 100 degrees here and it's only June.
Lots of more hots to come this summer.
This is my daily entertainment for myself.
Hey- at least the air conditioning was cool,
even if I wasn't!
Ha ha!

Mom and Dad

2009-06-15T14:25:00.000-07:00

As a kid, we can't wait to get out of the house. We constantly tell ourselves that we will do things differently from our parents, just to get out from under their thumb. And- for a while, we do things differently. We purposely buy food at the grocery store we know Mom never would have let us have. Our language changes and we find ourselves talking in ways we would have gotten slapped for as a kid. We dress in the jeans that have "holes" in them when we buy them, we drive too fast, we sleep too little, we spend too much money. But then, as some time goes by, we start to realize that all of the things we resented so much about our childhood are part of what created us into being the people we are. And in some way, there is a comfort in that. It is familiar to us. We start to long for "HOME." Home is always where Mom and Dad are, not necessarily the house they live in.
I recently spent a week with my Mom and Dad in Seattle, WA. I took a million pictures of them, much to their unliking. They kept asking me "why do you keep taking my picture?" I couldn't really say, but now that I come home and look at their faces on my computer, I know it's because I never want to forget who they are. I don't know everything I ever wanted to know about them, not even by half, but this way, I will never forget their faces. Ever. And that's pretty good. So- make the funny faces all you want Mom... it just reminds me of who you are and how I got to be who I am. I love you guys!

Quote of the Day

2009-06-08T07:05:00.001-07:00

"Everything you have always wanted or desired has always been available to you. It is not a matter of God's willingness, only a matter of your receptivity."
~Author Unknown

Stock Photography for Sale!!!

2009-06-05T11:18:00.000-07:00

Want to re-decorate your living room?

Looking for some intriguing bathroom art?

Want to give a meaningful gift that says something?

I have something for every taste!

Animals, Abstract, Landscapes, Flowers, Trees, Black and White, People....

Contact me today to customize your home with meaningful artwork!

molly@mollyjohnson-photography.com

Doggy Days...

2009-06-05T10:04:00.001-07:00

This is TOBY!

Curious little guy!
Wanted to smell all the plants, meet the neighbor's dogs, wrap his leash around your legs...
But the best part? You got it! That fresh puppy smell!
I just love to photograph puppies!

2009-06-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

NIAGRA FALLS

Visited Niagra Falls recently with some of my friends from high school who live in New York. It truly is magnificent, though it was hard to see the real regality of it all because of all of the mist. I am not sure if it is less misty on certain days, but it was still amazing to get to say "I've been to Niagra Falls!"

My mom wanted me to ride a barrel over the falls... being a courageous type, I actually considered it. The barrel rides are only $5 after all... however, after seeing a book in the gift shop about people who have ACTUALLY done this, I changed my mind. The survival rate is just barely above 50%. Hmmm... maybe next time. I forgot my helmet this time! Ha ha!

The 8th Wonder of the World....

2009-06-02T08:40:00.000-07:00

Shout out to April McClintock!

2009-06-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

Watertown, New York-
I went to visit a very dear friend of mine (also an amazing photographer), April McClintock. She has just started her own photography business and has a little studio set up and everything! I'm so proud of her. She has her name on a door, that's a big deal where we come from! Good luck to you April! Love you and wish you all the best!

Please be sure to check out April's work:

www.aprilmacphoto.com

She's one of the most talented photographer's I know!

The Carousel Mall in Syracuse, NY!

2009-06-02T08:17:00.000-07:00

With a father who is a carpenter, I had the greatest appreciation for this carousel!

ALL of the horses are HAND-CARVED!!!

The trusty "steed" I rode into battle!

I don't know when the last time you rode a carousel was, but it's actually very relaxing. It's something I always take the opportunity to do. Perhaps it is my love of horses, perhaps it is the kid in me trying to escape, perhaps it is like that old saying, "You've got to stop and smell the roses every once in a while!"

Carousel No. 18 was the eighteenth carousel ever made by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company (PTC). It was originally carved and manufactured in 1909 in Germantown, Pennsylvania. The 42 horses on PTC No. 18 were all hand-carved by Leo Zoller, PTC's master carver. According to company records, it took a year to complete the carving, for which Mr. Zoller was paid $1,000.
The carousel is 54-feet in diameter, and it weighs nearly 30 tons!
It took nearly two years to restore PTC No. 18 to its original beauty after all of the carousel's travels. All the horses had to be stripped of their many coats of paint, then repaired, primed, repainted in their original 1909 colors, and varnished.

Information courtesy of:

http://www.carouselcenter.com/content.asp?ContentId=789&inside_mall=Yes

Ladies Oriental Shrine Grand Council Meeting!

2009-06-02T08:04:00.000-07:00

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvannia:
I recently had the privilege to assist Mary Lou Bantly, pictured below, photographing the Grand Council Meeting of the Ladie's Oriental Shrine.
What a blast. We went to Pittsburgh and followed them around, each day bringing new color and excitement! These ol' gals sure know how to have a good time, and boy do they love them some pictures!!!

Mary Lou Bantly! Just love her!!

Here's a sample of one of our picture tables.

We had about 10 of these all splayed with pics like this.

Over 1200 out on the floor at one time!!

One of my favorite outfits!

(Hers or Mine?)

My favorite "English" clown!

The Harley Girls with Attitude!

Where's Waldo???

2009-06-02T07:54:00.000-07:00

See if you can find me amongst all of the excitement and color!!!

Chittenango State Park

2009-05-29T15:25:00.001-07:00

Visiting some friends in Cattastoga, NY. They took me to Chittenango State Park to see the "local" waterfall before we went to Niagra. That way I would be sure to be impressed when we got there! I thought this one was pretty impressive. It was really peaceful and beautiful!

I'm in Pittsburgh!!!

2009-05-20T20:02:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh... Pittsburgh, the city of.... well I haven't seen anything except this view. To me, Pittsburgh is the city of Schreiners! I've been in the hotel all week photographing a bunch of women in their fez hats! They are the biggest hoot you've ever seen! Having a great time here and more stories to come. An especially interesting story about the "gopher" coming soon!

Keep checking back- I'll put some super fun pics of me and "the girls" up in the next couple of days! Shout out to my loving husband! I miss you baby!!!

2009-05-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

Allison and Olly

Nona's "Sneak Peek"

2009-04-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

Family Portraits from the Botanical Gardens last week...

Speaks for itself...

2009-04-28T15:24:00.000-07:00

2009-04-28T12:26:00.000-07:00

If this doesn't make you smile ...

Snack of the week...

2009-04-18T11:32:00.000-07:00

"Tomato- Avocado Stack Snack"

A quick and yummy snack that feels hearty, but is essentially light and healthy!

2 Brown Rice Cakes

4 TBSP goat cheese (in a block)

6 cherry tomatoes

1/2 avocado

Sea Salt and Fresh Ground Pepper

Toast the rice cakes in toaster oven until slightly brown.

Spread goat cheese (or cream cheese) over rice cakes.

Slice avocados and cherry tomatoes and add to rice cake.

Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and sea salt!

Enjoy!!!

Ponies....

2009-04-14T19:18:00.001-07:00

It's a great day to be alive...

Sunshine.

Ponies.

Water tanks.

Wet smelly dog

A whole new respect for crazy dogs....

2009-04-14T06:04:00.001-07:00

Close encounters with the black sheep of the family...

Round 'em up- RAWHIDE!!!

To the left, to the left....

"Git down....lay down"

Ok- all joking aside- these dogs are amazing! They were the best part of the Keltic Fest. If anyone has ever been around Border Collies, you'll understand their panic behavior all of the time after you see this. I think it would be similiar to meeting Einstein. He's so smart he can't stop thinking of equations and stuff in his head.

These dogs REALLY do count sheep in their dreams. It's their obsession. Wow!

They are supernaturally good at herding these sheep around, all at the call of a whistle (ok- well like 30 different sounding whistles...)!

It was amazing!

Keltic Fest 2009- Wow....

2009-04-14T05:40:00.000-07:00

Keltic Fest 2009 in Helotes at the Fairgrounds....
Overall an interesting venue.... nice day to be out in the sunshine!

Very authentic.... with the cars in the background and boxer shorts under their kilts....

The "Battle of the Vikings!"

Local Color.

The feet were the best part of this routine.

But she's cute too...

Advice for the day...

2009-03-30T10:14:00.000-07:00

"Blow up your TV,

Throw away your paper.

Move out to the country,

Build you a home.

Plant a little garden,

Eat a lot of peaches.

Try and find Jesus on your own!"

-John Prine

My New Muse...

2009-03-24T12:03:00.000-07:00

This is my new muse. Her name is Colleen. That's all I know about her.

I photographed her last week for an event at SAKS Fifth Avenue for a Yves St. Laurent make-up day! More previews to come later, but this was my ABSOLUTE FAV!!!!

More Vegas...

2009-03-17T11:23:00.000-07:00

" Are you talking to me???"

The Statue of Vegas... I mean Liberty.

GEHOOLEE (sp?) Glass...
in the lobby of the hotel at the Bellagio!

Las Vegas!!!!

2009-03-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

View from the room....

Kendra Jo and Dr. Bob

2009-03-11T08:35:00.001-07:00

Kendra and I were best friends growing up...

I had the opportunity to photograph her with her fiance

this week while I was in Las Vegas on business!
We had a great time!

Cheers to their marraige!

May it be filled with MANY MANY years of bliss, joy and love!

Enjoy the preview of their engagement session!

2009-03-11T08:32:00.000-07:00

2009-03-11T08:31:00.000-07:00

2009-03-11T08:27:00.001-07:00

The Chuck Norris Phenomenon!!!

2009-03-02T14:26:00.000-08:00

This is the "Gang" aka- The Chuck Norris Fan Club...

Hanging out in Bandera, Texas with all of our ponies...

A grand time with a scoop of extra wonderful on top!

(Andy, Molly, Andi, Randi, Desi, Sandy)
Top Ten Reasons
WHY Chuck Norris
has his own phenomenon:

Chuck Norris can divide by zero

Chuck Norris counted to infinity- TWICE!

Chuck Norris is the reason why Waldo is hiding

Chuck Norris doesn’t get frostbite,
He bites FROST!

Chuck Norris can lead a horse to water
AND make it drink!

When Chuck Norris says “Eat Shit and Die,”
People get HUNGRY!

When Chuck Norris jumps into water,
He doesn’t get wet, the water gets Chuck Norris

If at first you don't succeed, you're not Chuck Norris.

The quickest way to someone’s heart is through Chuck Norris’ fist!

How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could Chuck Norris?
ALL of it!

Rashmi

2009-02-27T13:44:00.000-08:00

SHIZAM!!!!!

Fun Shots in Pebble!

2009-02-24T14:28:00.000-08:00

Pebble Beach-
Ahhhhh- the smell of salty air, the feel of windburn on your face... sometimes sunshine.
What a breathtaking place!
You can close your eyes and see it there....
Work hard... play hard!

This is the work hard part....

One of my buddies, Kenny Gatlin, from Seattle.
We went to the Art Institute together!
He's a great photographer!

Schlepping...

My navigator (Janina) ...

Eventually we found our way to the golf course...

But I got SOOOO tired, she had to carry me around in her backpack!

Still looking cute after a hard day's work!!

Pebble Beach, Looking out over Hole #7!

PS- For those of you who couldn't be there-

it isn't always sunny in California,

sometimes it rains.

It doesn't always smell like salty air,

sometimes it smells like sea lions...

But with a view like this, who can complain???

Golf in Pebble Beach, California

2009-02-24T14:21:00.000-08:00

Bill Murray and Me....

doesn't he know I know my hair looks bad?

That doesn't mean he should stare... geesh!

I forgot my brush! What can I say?

Vijay Singh
Phil Mickelson

Ray Romano

(safest place to stand here is in the middle of the fairway!)

Justin Timberlake-

(kind of looks like my husband....ha ha!)