Meet Kimberlyn Totten . . .

Kimberlyn Totten

"Live simply, so others may simply live." - Dave Ramsey

"Here's to your LifeSong!" - Kimberlyn Totten Phototgraphy

Location: Dallas, Oregon

DOB: July 14th

Children: Makayla "MakaBear" (8), Luke "Golden Boy" (Almost 5)

Husband: Scott

Animals: 2 Dogs- Jake & Josie, 2 Cats- Hobo & Banjo


Name of Business:  Kimberlyn Totten Photography

Website: Not yet

Blog: http://tottenlifesong.blogspot.com/

Facebook: Kimberlyn Totten

Twitter: http://twitter.com/Kimbertot

Email: kimbertot@msn.com

What's in your bag? (if you are building your bag, what do you desire for your bag?)

My bag is most definitely in process. For starters, I would love a new camera bag! As for what's inside: A worn out, well loved Canon Rebel EOS that has been so very faithful. "Old Kate's" life ended last September and she sits idle amongst some trusty lenses: Canon 18-55mm, Canon 50mm 1:1.8 (Love it), Sigma 70-300mm Sigma 28-80mm w/Macro, Nissin Digital Speedlight Di622. Batteries, Chargers, tripod.

I am looking to purchase a Canon 50D when finances permit. In the mean time I have a wonderful little Sony cybershot that is fantastic and allows for some manual creativity and awesome zoom.

What's your favorite editing software?

Photoshop Elements for now....so dreaming of Lightroom.

Favorite Food:

Thai and Mexican are neck and neck with one another

Favorite Color:

Burgundy and Gold

A few of your favorite things?

Quite time to think, read, journal, pray. Morning coffee, lingering hugs and kisses, long walks, sunshine, thunderstorms, wind, the sound of a crackling fire, rivers, trees, wild birds, music, singing, being silly, laughter, dark chocolate, candles, smiles, quality time with friends and family.

What or who inspires you?

My husband, children, trusted friends and mentors are my biggest source of inspiration. I also find unending inspiration from being in nature and spending time with young children and the elderly.

Name something you just have to have everyday:

Morning coffee is a must, then it's onto time with the Lord, time in His word, praying, being still in His presence, worshiping, learning, seeking Him and His will for my life.

Tell us all about your journey into the world of photography. When did you realize that this is what you wanted to do and why.

I have always loved photography. My mother was a compulsive shutter bug and my dad has always helped me notice the beauty all around in nature and in people. I think photography is somewhat of an inherited passion, passed down from the generations. The day I realized that my passion for photography was over the top, was a spring evening in 2005. I was at my husband's softball game, but instead of cheering him on, I wandered to a nearby playground. Before I knew it, I was not only following my kids around, but was actually following other children around and capturing images of them at play. It was official! I had become a "STALKER!" I remember feeling so alive and excited about the images I had captured, that I could hardly sleep that night. That was the moment the dream of birthing a photography business was born.

If you already have a photography business please tell us about it, type of photography you do, how long you have been doing it, etc...

I launched my photography business in the Spring of 2006....It was just taking flight when our family had an unexpected move out of state. I am looking to re-launch my photography business this year. I love natural-light portrait photography for children, families, pets, engagement, newborns, maternity and high school seniors. I have photographed two weddings and really have no interest in pursuing that path. (Not because of the bride, but because of my own personal energy level.) It's important to me that a photo session be fun, creative, laid-back and enjoyable. Popular session locations include the oceanfront, local parks and family homes. My goal at every session is to get a sense of what they hope for and do my very best to bring that image to life.

Who is your favorite photographer that you follow and why?

MeRa Koh- Her talents go far beyond her abilities behind the lens, she reaches into the very soul of her clients and those she and Brian mentor.

Tessa with Grin and Share it Profesional Photography- I just love her fun, care-free style with families and children.

Besides photography, what else do you do , i.e. work, domestic engineer, volunteer?

I'm a full time momma and pastor's wife. I also volunteer as a teachers aid for Pre and Elementary age children, teach childrens church and provide community service to low income families with infants and newborns.

What are some of your other hobbies and/or things that you like to do besides photography?

Read, hike, bike, travel, swim, sing, dance, animal training, horseback ride, water-ski, antiquing, story telling, writing, drawing, painting, baking, gardening, exploring, adventuring, beach combing, going on road trips, people watching.

Do you have any other businesses that you are incorporating and/or combining in your photography business or that is separate other than photography?

I have had the opportunity to use my photography skills to help others market homes, property, vehicles, livestock etc....I guess this could be considered as a little side business. I also have been hired to put together slide shows for memorial services, church services, birthday parties and weddings. I love telling someones story through word and image and any way I can do that is fun and often times profitable. I also have spent time putting together collages as an added gift or option to purchase.

If there is one thing in the world that you would like to change, what would that be and why?

Remove all suffering and injustice in the world. So that the pain would stop. That all those sick would find heal, all those hungry-be well fed, those who hate- learn to love, those in poverty- find provision and hope, those who are being abused be rescued.

Name three things you would like to do before you die?

1)Travel to Africa.

2) Go on a short term mission as a family.

3) Adopt or foster a child in need.

List three goals you would like to accomplish in 2010:

1) Purchase a new camera and really learn how to use it creatively.

2) Re-launch my Photography business.

3) Create a website and start marketing my photography business.

Please tell us about the photos you are submitting and why they are your favorites.

My Girl....This is the first photo I took with a DSLR. It's still one of my all time favorites.

Children at play...Here are the very children I was stalking at the playground

that faithful spring evening when my photography dream was born.

Out of the Green Box...I attended one of MeRa workshops and was following her blog back in 2007. This was a series of images I took of my son after following some instructions about Capturing the Details. It was the first time I had stepped out of the green box and into manual mode. I was thrilled that one of these pics was included on the back of one of Mera's DVD's!

Talk about a confidence builder.

Building a business- This is a small collage to reflect some of my LifeSong

and the journey I am on in building a dream one image and moment at a time.

"Here's to your LifeSong!"

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Thank you Kimberlyn for participating in the Spotlight!  It was such a pleasure getting to know you and learning about all the things that make you the sweet person you are!  I love your collages, especially the details collage.  Good luck with your photography business this year and always! ♥

Meet Lisa Novitsky . . .

Lisa Novitsky

“Dwell in possibilities…” – Emily Dickinson

Location:  Woodbridge, VA

Children:  Sophie Rei (pronounced “ray”)

Husband:  Bill

Animals:  Ruby (Dog) and Bernie (Cat, her name is short for Bernadette)

Name of Business:  Wizelight Photography

Website:  http://www.wizelight.com/

Blog:  wizelight.blogspot.com

Facebook:  Lisa Novitsky

Twitter:  Wizelight

Email:  lisanovitsky@verizon.net

What’s in your bag? (if you are building your bag, what do you desire for your bag?)

I have a Nikon D700, Nikkor 50mm 1.8, Tamaron 28-75mm 2.8, External Flash, extra battery and lots of memory cards in my bag.

I really want a 70-200mm 2.8 lens and an 80mm 1.4 lens next

What’s your favorite editing software?

I work in Photoshop and I’m learning LightRoom

Favorite Food:

Almost any kind of fresh pasta with sauce.

Favorite Color: 
Red

A few of your favorite things?

My daughter’s authentic laugh, my husband’s smile, babies, reading and the beach.

What inspires you?

Talent of ANY kind. Pure courage and generosity.

Name something you just have to have everyday.

It’s so sad – but I gotta have my coffee in the morning.

Tell us about your journey into the world of photography. When did you realize that this is what you wanted to do and why.

Ever since I can remember I have looked at moments in my life and have also observed moments from afar thinking “I wish I had a camera to capture that.” So this particular artistry has been a part of me since I was very young as I constantly see the world in “snapshots”.

For most of my adult life I trained and worked as an actress in New York, but took a “sabbatical” to marry and start a family in Virginia. A few years ago, with the artist in me yearning to come out, I bought my first Digital SLR (a Nikon D70) and started taking photographs. Friends and family encouraged me to think about photography as a profession and I started my business in the spring of 2009. But I would say that applying for the SOAR! Scholarship is what solidified my intent to call myself a photographer. Putting my dream out there, giving it voice, has been one of the most powerful experiences of my life.

If you already have a photography business please tell us about it, type of photography you do, how long you have been doing it, etc…

I began my business in the spring of 2009 and I primarily take portraits of families, children, babies and seniors – and more recently I’ve begun doing some corporate portraits and event photography.

Who is your favorite photographer that you follow and why?

This is a tough one for me to answer. I'm still learning and I draw inspiration from so many sources. I do have one very famous photograph that I love – Dorothea Lange’s “Migrant Mother”. It is, to me, beautiful in it’s raw honesty. I strive to produce that kind of honesty in my work.

Besides photography, what else do you do, i.e. work, domestic engineer, volunteer?

In addition to photography, I teach dramatic arts to children. I am currently developing a curriculum to take to local private schools.

What are some other hobbies and/or things that you like to do besides photography?

I enjoy writing, LOVE reading ( I usually have 3 – 4 types of books going at once) and yoga.

Do you have any other businesses that you are incorporating and/or combining in your photography business or that is separate other than photography?

I teach drama to kids.

If there is one thing in the world that you would like to change, what would that be and why?

Wow, BIG question, and a really difficult thing to narrow down to just one thing so I’ll write the first thing that came to mind – it seems to me that there is quite a lot of “distraction” in the world. There are now moniters in cabs, elevators, cars, standing in line… We have handheld devices that allow us to be reached anywhere and at anytime and avoid having “space” to think, to pray, to dream, to analyze and create original works. I guess I’d like to see a more of a collective embrace of that “space” and less dependence on the need to be constantly entertained or occupied.

Name three things you would like to do before you die?

1.  Travel throughout the world

2.  Become a certified yoga instructor

3.  Learn to play the guitar

List three goals you would like to accomplish in 2010:

1.  Earn my living entirely through artistic pursuits

2.  Establish a regular fitness routine

3.  Finish taking the remaining wallpaper off of the walls in my house

Please tell us about the photos you are submitting and why they are your favorites.

Fall

This is one of my very first photos of my daughter playing in the leaves - I love the joy.

Sisters

This photo really conveys the relationship of these two sisters.

I was so excited to have captured it.

Julie and Evie

I took this photo shortly after Julie brought Evie home –

she is comforting her here and it's so gentle – beautiful.

Wedding

I had just started shooting on Manual when I took this photo and I like the new quality my photos are taking on here as I begin to understand my camera and light.

These ladies were so delightful and I love this moment between them.

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Thank you Lisa for participating in the Spotlight!  It was wonderful to learn more about you and I wish you luck with your photography business and teaching this year and always!  ♥

Meet Freida Hall . . .

Freida Hall

"...just remember that on this journey you will encounter bumps in the road. Not everyone is going to celebrate with you. But, count it all joy! You must be so focused on who you are in the Lord that no one and nothing can shake you from your path. Be encouraged because you have been blessed with a gift. Utilize it, develop it and keep your roots planted. Photograph, blog and post. You have a beauty and freedom that some may not appreciate due to their own fears. Be liberated in your self-expression. Your cheerleaders are sitting on the side lines of your life expecting victory! 'We ask ourselves who am I TO BE BRILLIANT, talented, gorgeous, fabulous? Who are you not to be. You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world'. Go to your destiny Fre!"

- Jodi Massengale

Location: Temecula, CA

DOB: October 11th

Children: Camereon (14) Bella (6), Tristan (1.5)

Husband: Jacob

Animals: 2 Pups -- Miley & Kona

Name of Business: Bella Inspiration Photography

Website: inspiredbybella.com

Blog: bellainspiration.blogspot.com

Facebook: Freida Houseknecht-Hall

Email: freidaketa@yahoo.com

What's in your bag? (if you are building your bag, what do you desire for your bag?)

*Canon 40D

*Canon 28-135mm lens

I am thinking I want the 50mm 1.4... but I am really clueless as to what lens I should get next.

What's your favorite editing software?

I only have Photoshop CS4... so by default... that is my favorite. :)

Favorite Food?

Italian and Seafood.... Mmmmm Lobster & Crab (haha... on a remote island with my toes in the sand and a colorful little umbrella in my drink)

Favorite Color?

Well of course blue! :)

A few of your favorite things?

Looking out at the ocean, A cold beer, Listening to Jimmy Buffett, Saying "Star light, star bright..." with my daughter & making a wish on a star at night, Photographing flowers around our home, Spa days, The smell of cilantro & lavender (not together), the warmth of the sun... Spring... and any day when I am able to be creative.

What or who inspires you?

Vibrant colors inspire me. People's stories inspire me. Hope inspires me.

Name something you just have to have everyday:

Sunshine! Rainy days just put me in a funk. Truly.

Tell us all about your journey into the world of photography. When did you realize that this is what you wanted to do and why.

Well... I went to a church sermon (hadn't been to church in like 10 years) last May to listen to an old co-worker (Jodi Massengale) give her first sermon. Hadn't seen her in 7 years... but knew I wanted to be there to support her. Little did I know... as the tears streamed down my cheeks while I listened to her words... that she was supporting me and delivering a powerful message that I needed to hear and one that I couldn't get out of my mind... God gives us all gifts/talents... we ought to pursue them... live them... now... today... and give thanks to God for blessing us with them. I purchased my first serious camera a month later (didn't even tell my husband about the $1000+ purchase until after I hit the submit button)... and a month after that I was invited by a professional photographer (a father in my daughter's class) to do a group shoot with 3 other professionals. SOOOO nervous... but I went to shoot the two families. Loved it! 8 months later... I am still truckin' towards finding my niche in the photography world.

If you already have a photography business please tell us about it, type of photography you do, how long you have been doing it, etc...

It's in the very early stages... since June 2009... I have just been shooting families... a lot of friends... just getting my feet wet, you know? What I hope to move towards with my photography is working with breast cancer patients. I particaipated in the Breast Cancer 60 mile 3-Day walk... and was touched to the core by the women... their strength, their hope, their courage... their beauty. I would love to utilize my photography to give back to women affected by cancer... to capture those precious fleeting moments for them.

Who is your favorite photographer that you follow and why?

I have 3... & for different reasons.

1. Mera Koh ... she inspires me with her words.... with her encouragement... with her openness.

2. Amy Boring ... her style is AMAZING! I would LOVE to have our family photos taken by her... maybe one day.

3. Zak Schwank ... I admire him for paying it forward and giving me the chance to dive into the photography world. I can honestly say if Zak didn't ask me to be part of the group shoot... I would only be photographing my kids at this point.

Besides photography, what else do you do , i.e. work, domestic engineer, volunteer?

I am a stay at home mom... and I work a couple days a week at Keyways Vineyard & Winery. Love it!!!

What are some of your other hobbies and/or things that you like to do besides photography?

My mom owned a stained glass business when I was in high school and taught me then how to do glass. A couple years ago when I was changing over from full time worker to stay at home mom... I asked my brother to build me a stained glass table. It's one of my favorite creative outlets... to go out to the garage and build stained glass windows for our home. A day without creativity just doesn't seem like an okay day at all to me.

Do you have any other businesses that you are incorporating and/or combining in your photography business or that is separate other than photography?

I have a greeting card line. :)  Le Bella Terra
If there is one thing in the world that you would like to change, what would that be and why?

I would love to see a cure for cancer... all cancers. Cancer sucks!

Name three things you would like to do before you die?

1. Look out my home window and see the ocean looking back at me.

2. Photograph my kids playing outside in the green grass with their kids.

3. Be able to call myself a professional photographer and let my passion be my career.

List three goals you would like to accomplish in 2010:

1. Work in some way with Michelle's Place (a local breast cancer resource center) using my photography as service

2. Shoot my first beach family photo session

3. Be able to look at a completed session and feel within myself that my photos are good.

Please tell us about the photos you are submitting and why they are your favorites.

 

 

This photo of my daughter at sunset with her skirt flowing and hair down... I just love.

It's rare when she doesn't jump into the ocean in 2.2 seconds...

so her standing at the edge was surely a fleeting moment.

This was the first time at the beach for my son. He loved it!!!

He crawled all over the place like a little crab! :)

I am finding that one of my favorite things to photograph are flowers.

 I love the colors.. the new growth... the detail.

My all time favorite photo! My mom is holding my son while my daughter, Bella, & my sister, Hanna, play off in the distance in the ocean. Side note: My daughter is 6... my sister is 10.

My mom started over 20 years later! :) This one is priceless to me!
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Thank you Freida for participating in the spotlight!  It was so great getting to know you better and I wish you the best of luck with your photography business journey and card business.  The pictures of your flowers are gorgeous!  Keep up the great work and determination!  ♥

Meet Charisse Rhodes . . .

Charisse Rhodes

 “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,

and all these things shall be added to you.”  Matthew 6:33

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us, it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” Marianne Williamson

Location: Elk Grove, CA

DOB: March 12

Children: Nature Boy 11yrs & Sweetpea 8yrs. Of course, that is not their real name, however, I believe since it is not their choice that I am sharing them with the public, the least I can do is protect their names to the best of my ability.

Husband: Keith

Animals: No pets yet, although the kids and I are praying for one. My Husband is currently holding out on extending the family right now.

Contact Info

Name of Business: Charisse Rhodes Photography

Website: Under development

Blog: charisserhodes.wordpress.com

Facebook: Charisse Rhodes

Twitter: Charisse_Rhodes

Email: CharisseRhodes@gmail.com

What's in your bag? (if you are building your bag, what do you desire for your bag?)

Currently I have a Nikon D50, 28-80, 50 1.8, 70-300, SB 600 flash, 2 Wescott strobes, and 2 radio triggers.

I am in the process of rebuilding my bag now so hopefully soon my bag will have;

Nikon d300s, either sigma 24-70 2.8 or tamron 17-50 2.8, and a 30 1.4 would be a good start. I also would not mind a tamron 70-200 2.8 in that bag as well. The bag itself would probably be an Jill E or Epiphanie.

What's your favorite editing software?

Photoshop CS3 is currently what I use the most although I will return to Elements 5 for quick edits from time to time. I have recently been playing with Lightroom 3 and I believe it has stolen my heart as my go to software.

Favorite Food?

Thai Food! Love it, love it. I could probably eat it everyday!

Favorite Color?

Well that’s a hard question because it is ever changing! It is different for my home, than it is for my clothing attire. It also changes based on my mood and the season. I am a color girl, but I tend to love warmer colors. In my home I love burnt reds,browns, yellows, greens and even blues. However, I tend to dress in solid colors wearing a lot of black, brown, blues, pinks, and oranges. How’s that for a combination?

A few of your favorite things?

Warm weather & sunshine. Chap Stick is a must, they are stashed all around my house and car! Minerals Makeup is a must these days. It’s just enough without being too much. Learning something new, almost anything will do. I live in Sketchers Sneakers and a Jog suit when I am just hanging around the house. However, I love beautiful shoes, coats, & purses worn of course with a sexy dress! I love going to furniture stores and browsing furniture accessories. I love, love playing with photoshop editing pictures to obtain different looks. I also really love museums. I also enjoy painting. Oh yeah, and lets not forget about the perpetual picture taking.

What or who inspires you?

My mother inspires me. She has such a great outlook on life. My kids inspire me. They inspire me to keep trying to be the best me I know how to be. My husband truly inspires me. His love, hard work and dedication to our family combined with his outlook on life are a reminder to me every day. The things he has overcome to be the person he is, continues to show me the awesomeness of Jesus Christ in our lives!

Name something you just have to have everyday:

This may sound silly but it is Chap Stick! I can barely walk around the house without it in my pocket.

Tell us all about your journey into the world of photography. When did you realize that this is what you wanted to do and why.

As a teenager and young adult, I always took pictures. Our house was robbed one year and I found many of my baby pictures destroyed in the snow covered woods behind our home and it mad me really sad. I did not want to ever be cheated of my documented memories ever again. Along with that my mom always took a ton of pictures. I have always been somewhat creative and artsy. However, I was always taught that when you go to college, you are to come out with and get a “real” job or career. Photography or anything artsy, was never considered as a viable real option. So that’s what I did. I put the camera down somewhere in college and focused on my “real future”. Little did I know then, that was probably the beginning of a slow death for me.

Fast forward ten plus years to when I got my first slr from my husband after having our first child! I was in heaven again snapping away every moment of my little ones life. He had challenges as a baby so capturing every moment was essential for me. I was once again in my happy place other than being tired and exhausted from motherhood and doctors appointments for my little guy. Then my daughter came. She too had some issues initially, so more doctors appointments. I think the slr got too heavy to carry & printing my millions of pictures became too expensive for our tight budget. So again life got in the way and I put the camera down.

One day a few years later, while visiting some friends who had a new daughter, and a budding photography hobby, I felt inspired inside. I also realized that I now had a TON of pictures of my son, and quite a few less of my daughter. I was sad, yet awakened as I realized that I still loved the sight of fleeting moments caught by the camera embedded on paper. It struck my heart like a lost love. For all the years of my marriage, my husband would say “ I only want you to do what you love to do, because you love to do it!” I spent years trying different things for different reasons, but it was not until that moment at my friends that I realized what that actually was. When I dug out my old slr, it was as though I had come home. About, three years ago, for Christmas, my hubby sent me to get my Nikon dslr and we have been constant companions every since. I actually never considered doing this professionally until last Fall. Although, many who saw my pictures wondered why I would not pursue it professionally because they loved my images, I was simply not ready to commit. I also really wanted to hold on to the shear joy of shooting just for pleasure. Since I am a homeschooling mom, it was and still is really important to me that nothing infringed on my time educating my children and being present with my family. When I saw MeRa’s Scholarship…it was the first time that I thought maybe it was possible. So now I am taking the steps in that direction. They may be baby steps, but they are steps never-the-less.

On a side note: I found my high school and college photo albums this summer and cracked up as I looked through them with my kids. They also got to see me as a child, their ages from the pictures my mom took, and it was precious! It was exactly as I had hoped it would be one day.

If you already have a photography business please tell us about it, type of photography you do, how long you have been doing it, etc...

I have not officially started taking business yet. I am still portfolio building although I hope to open officially by the beginning of May.

Who is your favorite photographer that you follow and why?

I have a few. MeRa Koh for one. I love her heart for women in this business & women finding their way in general. Carey Shumacker, next because of the way she has been able to intergrate the business into her family, not the other way around.

Besides photography, what else do you do , i.e. work, domestic engineer, volunteer?

Besides photography, I am a wife and full-time mom, homeschooling two children ages 11 & 9.

What are some of your other hobbies and/or things that you like to do besides photography?

I am also learning how to trade in the stock market, figure out this blogging thing, and learning anything else that I can get my hands on. I also like to plan vacations and travel with my family. I used to really enjoy reading a good book, but now I really only enjoy it if it is teaching me something new.

Do you have any other businesses that you are incorporating and/or combining in your photography business or that is separate other than photography?

Not at this time.

If there is one thing in the world that you would like to change, what would that be and why?

Racism and social injustice for sure and the labeling of children in our school system.

Any type of cruelty towards humans or animals should stop. Especially human trafficking, slavery and any kind of abuse. It is just so sad!

Name three things you would like to do before you die?

1) See the 7 Wonders of the World

2) See my children grown up, happy and living fulfilled lives. Prayerfully, that would include contributing to society in a very meaningful way.

3) Myself & my husband to accomplish the things that God has destined for us to do.

List three goals you would like to accomplish in 2010:

1) Officially begin my photography business and be profitable.

2) Be confident and satisfied within myself that I am exactly who and where God wants me to be.

3) That I have a system in place that ensures all that I need to do in a way that is most effective for all who will be affected.

Please tell us about the photos you are submitting and why they are your favorites.

I love this because I captured a rare public display of affection between my kiddos.

I call it “a rare moment .”

 

I love her expression and the excitement she had being on this carousel. It was effortless.

While technically this is probably not the best shot, I still love it because they are having fun.

I also love the reflection of the floor in their glasses.

This was taken at the same location our wedding pictures were taken ten years before.

Any additional comments you would like to add?

Thank you so much Marla for taking the time to do this. It has been great getting to know you all! I pray we all sail in TwentyTen!

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Thank you Charisse for participating in the spotlight!  It was so nice to get to know you and learn about your photography journey.  I am overwhelmed by your dedication to your family and goals and hope that all your dreams come true - this year!  I love the photos of your children too, especially your daughter on the carousel!  Keep on soaring and have a Happy Birthday too!  ♥

Meet Meghan Senkel . . .

Meghan Senkel

"What's the matter, Colonel Sandurz? CHICKEN?" ~ Spaceballs (aka: the best movie of all time!)

Location: Annapolis, Maryland

DOB: September 24th

Children: Not yet, but soon. Probably.

Husband: Jesse

Animals: Chinsey (dog) and Gabby (cat)

Contact Info:

Name of Business: Meghan Senkel Photography

Website: meghansenkelphotography.com & http://meghansenkelphotography.smugmug.com//

Blog: http://meghansenkelphotography.com/blog/

Twitter: MeghanSenkel

Skype: meghan.senkel

Email: meghan dot senkel at gmail dot com

What's in your bag? (if you are building your bag, what do you desire for your bag?)

Currently in my bag is my Canon Digital Rebel XTi, the 18-55mm 3.5 kit lens which I never use, my 50mm 1.8 prime lens which is what true love is all about (it's less than $100 people, go get one!), and a marvelous 10-22mm 3.5-4.5 wide angle lens which is so fun to play with. I also have a few tripods, a gorilla pod (which I rarely use!), a remote which is great because it allows me to be in photos more easily and also for doing other crazy projects like self-portraits and long exposures with no camera shake.

What do I want to add? Hmmmmm...is there a spending limit?? I'd really love to upgrade camera bodies, but I'm not sure if I want a monster like something in the Canon Mark series or something smaller like the Canon 7D. And it's not like I have to worry right now...by the time I can afford one there will be something new and shiny out! As for lenses I'd like to upgrade to the 50mm 1.4 and I need a great telephoto, but not sure on this one either! Also some fun trick lenses like a Lensbaby would be neat to play with, maybe even a fisheye.

What's your favorite editing software?

Lightroom all of the way! I love it and while I'm pretty good at it, I know there is so much more to learn. I also like Photoshop CS2 for other processing that I can't do in Lightroom- like for creating diptychs, blog headers, Christmas cards, etc...

Favorite Food? I'm having a ridiculous love affair with Hollandaise sauce right now!

Favorite Color? Can I say all of them? If I have to choose....I'd say hot pink. It's fun, feisty, and wild. Kinda like me. ;)

Zodiac Sign? Libra

A few of your favorite things?

Tiny art- I have this great collection of small, original pieces of art and the smaller the better. As a matter of fact I love original art period. Something about owning a one-of-a-kind piece of someone's heart and soul is really special. I also love art supplies, but have no real talent for it, aside from photography of course, but I like to dabble every now and then. Other favorites- really delicious food and eating experiences that are more like out of body experiences, cheese of all kinds, good wine. On a non-food related note, I love cuddling with my husband in bed on weekend mornings...those wonderful, warm, sleepy moments before I think of all the stuff I want or need to do. It's heaven!

What inspires you?

Right now I'm really gobbling up all I can of other photographers- taking in their work and style, filing it away for inspiration later. Seeing what others do makes me want to try my hand at the same thing, not that I'm trying to achieve their exact effect, but I love how it ends up leading me down this creative path where I end up somewhere very different from where I started in my mind. It's a great catalyst that propels me forward and helps me to learn. I'm also really inspired by colors and light, both of which I'd like to learn to photograph better, so I'm always really impressed when I see someone who can capture them so well. Emotions also play a big part of my photography. When I look at a scene and am filled with happiness, sadness, excitement, or wonder, I want to freeze that and share it with others. It's a great success to share a raw, real feeling with another person through a photo.

Name something you just have to have everyday:

Laughter. I am not a serious person, in fact I'm quite lewd and crude and have this really bizarre sense of humor. So, I like to make others laugh and like to laugh a lot myself by being goofy and crazy. Oh, yeah and a hug and kiss from my hunk-o-man-meat. :D

Tell us all about your journey into the world of photography. When did you realize that this is what you wanted to do and why.

Okay why do I feel like I'm applying for college all over again? :) I really realized that I wanted to pursue photography during the SOAR! Scholarship. At first I was kind of "whatever" about it and sent in my application and video (back when there were only 21 entries) and thought that it would be cool if I won, and if not...oh well. But as time went on, with more and more amazing women signing up, I really started to dream about what it would be like to take my photography to the next level. It came to a point where I realized that a snowball had a better chance in hell then I had a chance at winning the scholarship and it made me a bit sad. But more surprisingly, it made me really, really mad. I got angry because it was insane to allow my life and my future to be dictated by a single event. I realized that no one has more control over my life than me, and if I wanted to do this all I had to do was reach out and grab it. So, from then on I started to plan my launch for the very second the winners were announced. I had not only realized that I wanted photography as a business, but that I didn't need someone to hand it to me in order to have it- I'd had the ability to do it myself all along. D'oh!

If you are dreaming of starting your business, what are you learning and/or doing to move you towards your goal?

Oh...how about EVERYTHING! Wow...there is so much to do! Firstly, and I think most importantly, I got my family and friends involved. I've been so surprised by how people have totally gone out of their way to make suggestions, offer services, and even just to say "congrats" and offer their support. And the support has been tremendous- without it I know I couldn't last for a week. Of course there's been blogging and social networking so I can begin to create a following of people and a presence on the web. Setting up a SmugMug account so people can really see what I'm about. I guess that falls under the header of Shameless Pimping. There's also a lot of talking my friends into letting me shoot them and their significant others/families so I can build my portfolio. Pricing has been a monster and unfortunately there is no magic bullet that will answer it for you. And the little things like ordering business cards, registering my domain name, reading up, checking photog blogs (it rhymes!), forums, and ..... I'm pooped just thinking about it!

Who is your favorite photographer that you follow and why?

Right now I'm pretty in love with Kat Speyer of Persimmon Images .  Although, she doesn't know it yet! I'll probably contact her in the near future to profess my love. She has a look and feel to her image/brand that I would like to achieve some day. Her photos are full of light, tell amazing and emotional stories, and she's got a really great eye for detail and interest. *sigh*


Besides photography, what else do you do , i.e. work, domestic engineer, volunteer?

Besides being Queen of the Universe (no, seriously.) I work for the State of Maryland as a Natural Resource Planner. I really do love my job and especially my co-workers. Not only am I using my degree in Marine Resource Management, but I'm helping to protect the Chesapeake Bay. It's a nice feeling when you can look back and count the good things you've done by the acre. :)

What are some of your other hobbies and/or things that you like to do besides photography?

Let's see...I used to scrapbook- like the 12x12 albums with all the paper and crazy embellishments- but have given that up in favor of a more clean, modern look using Kolo products. My husband and I are also Netflix junkies. I also love to cook and share food with others.

Do you have any other businesses that you are incorporating and/or combining in your photography business or that is separate other than photography?

Nope! My plate is overflowing at this point!

If there is one thing in the world that you would like to change, what would that be and why?

Oh, man...so many things. It's hard to choose because every story on the news and amazing cause wrenches my heart. There is so much that needs to be done for other humans, animals, the environment- it's really daunting when you think about it. I'd have to say that I'd want every one to have the desire to give just a little more of themselves then they did before. Time, money, compassion...it doesn't really matter, but if everyone just did even 1% more than they were, the cumulative effect would be huge. And after all, it's human power that is going to change things, right?

Name three things you would like to do before you die:

1. Become a mother. The idea both enthralls me and freaks me out! But I know it will be wonderful. :)

2. Eat something so good it makes me cry. I've been close...but not quite!

3. Do more art, give more love, live life more full and balanced. Essentially live a happy, full life with no regret.

List three goals you would like to accomplish in 2010:

1. Turn a profit. I'm hard pressed to put a number down, but if I can make $0.01 more than I spent that would be a good first year.

2. Continue blogging regularly and maintain the interest of my readers, while helping them to grow and achieve their own goals.

3. Make each of my clients feel like a superstar who not only received a beautiful set of portraits that they are connected to emotionally, but also received superior service and care. I want them coming back for more!!

Please tell us about the photos you are submitting and why they are your favorites.

This is one of my most recent photos and was taken during a shoot with my good friend Mariah and her dog Bodie. The reason I love it so much is that when I look at it I can imagine seeing it on another photographer's site (you know...a "real" photographer) and thinking to myself, "Wow, that's really good! I'd pay for that!".

 This is a photo of my uncle (he's from Texas, can you tell?) that I snapped over Thanksgiving in Pennsylvania. There's so much about this image for me, it's hard to explain. It's simple and clean in black and white with an uncluttered background, but there's a lot of mood and story there too. And besides that, it captures him perfectly. It's just him in a quiet, uncluttered moment- his essence captured for all time.

And that's what making a good portrait is about.

 I can't really adequately relay how much I love this photo. Everything was perfect from the lighting, the angle of the roadside, the timing... And what's most amazing is that I had no control over any of it- I just hung the camera out of the window of the truck and pushed the shutter button! Again, it gets back to capturing light and emotion and this one is just very evocative of both for me.

This is by no means my best work, but it is my first work and that's what makes it so meaningful. This is one of the first photos I took after buying my DSLR and it's also the first time I used manual. It's also my first submission for my first 365 that I took. So, it really represents a new turn in my photography and the start of my journey, even when I had no idea that this is where I'd end up!

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Meghan, thank you for participating in the Spotlight.  It was a pleasure hearing all about your journey into the photography world and I love that you have so much support too!  I know your business is going to flourish this year due to your overall ambition and excitement!  Keep up that wonderful attitude and you will really go all the way! 

Meet Mariana Herrera Mosli . . .

Mariana Herrera Mosli

An artist's eye, patience and skill are what make an image and not their tools.

 Ansel once said "The single most important component of a camera is the twelve inches behind it."

Cameras don't take pictures, photographers do. Cameras are just another artist's tool.

Location: Tampa, Fl

DOB: June 24

Children: Karina, daughter, 10 years old & Jared, son, 7 years old

Husband: Khaled Mosli

Contact Info:

Name of Business: Kismis Ink Photography

Website: http://www.kismisink.com/

Blog: http://kismisink.blogspot.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kismisink

Twitter: @marianahmosli or @kismisink

Email: mariana@kismisink.com

What's in your bag? (if you are building your bag, what do you desire for your bag?)

My bag is currently being updated!

Nikon D60 (my first camera *sniff) currently upgrading to the Nikon D700

Nikon SB-900 AF Speedlight Flash

AF-S Nikkor 55-200mm 1:4-5.6G

AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm 1:3.5-5.6G

AF-S Nikkor 50mm 1:1.4G

I would like to also add these lenses:

135mm f/2 DC AF and maybe a macro and tele zoom lens ;-)

What's your favorite editing software?

I have used lightroom and loved it! But, I have to say my fav is Photoshop! I love using textures and getting creative and photoshop is a great tool for that! I currently use CS3 but on occasion use CS4.

Favorite Food?

Buffalo chicken wrap from Great Wraps, yummy! I am also addicted to Arabic food!

Favorite Color?

Black! It’s funny how we are always attracted to colors, but tend to forget how powerful black truly is. One of the main reasons every woman should own a little black dress! ;-)

A few of your favorite things?

God
My children and husband!
Music! I cannot function without it.
Facebook
Education, I can never get enough.
Magazines, Google Reader, Driving, this may sound silly but the feeling I get after cleaning my house!
Nikon
Everything related to art and humanity

What or who inspires you? God, my family, anything visual (magazines, internet, books, etc…)

Name something you just have to have every day: Facebook (hahaha!)

Tell us all about your journey into the world of photography. When did you realize that this is what you wanted to do and why.

I have always had a special place in my heart for photography and growing up all my friends called me paparazzi because everywhere I went, I brought my little yellow disposable camera! I think I must have purchased enough of those to fill up an entire state! But after a while, I got busy with “work” and put my passions to the side for years! When I met my husband, I met my soul mate. He was so creative and he helped me bring back my creativity and integrate it into our daily lives. He showed me that you don’t have to see creativity as a distraction. He loves photography just as much as I do. When he graduated with his Master’s degree I got him his first DSLR (the Nikon D60). Little did I know that it would be parked in a corner for months because now he was too busy with “work” to play with it. Seeing the camera so lonely, I decided to take it out to play. That’s it! I was hooked and I knew that whatever I decided to do in life, it would be with a camera by my side.

If you already have photography business please tell us about it, type of photography you do, how long you have been doing it, etc...

My husband works full time at a university and I am a full time student at another university and with our two children we thought we would never be able to open a business for our photography passion. But late last year, we jumped in with our sleeves rolled up and I am so thankful to God we did. This journey is just starting, but it has been an amazing experience so far and we look forward to all of God’s blessings and wonderful surprises he has in store for us!!

We do lifestyle and journalistic style photography that includes weddings, portraits, birthdays, boudoir, events, and any other category that we can experiment with! If there is a face, we are on it! J My favorite part of photography is catching those unexpected expressions!

Who is your favorite photographer that you follow and why?

I have so many favs, this is the hardest question on here! But I truly love Mark Eric’s work. I love the uniqueness, colors, ideas, and I can keep on going!!  He is a huge source of inspiration!


Besides photography, what else do you do, i.e. work, domestic engineer, volunteer?

I am a full time mom, wife, and student at the University of Tampa. I am pursuing a Bachelor’s in Communication with a minor in journalism. I plan to merge that with my passion for photography and travel the world! ;)

What are some of your other hobbies and/or things that you like to do besides photography?

I love reading books and bike riding but I must admit that with my schedule and responsibilities I don’t have time to do either as much as I would like.

I love retouching images and if I wasn’t a photographer I think I could be a full time retoucher very easily!  It really relaxes me when I edit images. The computer screen is my canvas and I am creating my art!

I love networking, meeting new people, making friends and enjoying our time together!

Do you have any other businesses that you are incorporating and/or combining in your photography business or that is separate other than photography?

Nope, when I graduate though, I do plan to merge what I studied with photography and follow a career path in that manner. I can’t wait to see how our business will evolve over time and to look back and see where and how we started!

If there is one thing in the world that you would like to change, what would that be and why?

I have two bad combos that I would LOVE to change! I am impatient at times and procrastinate (especially with school work)! I rather be taking pictures or editing and I need to tell myself about 50 billion times a day that I must focus and stay on track! 

Name three things you would like to do before you die?

Visit Jerusalem

Live my life in a way that when I die, I will be remembered as making some awesome changes for humanity (or at least trying) ;)

Do something completely WILD (along the lines of running in the middle of NY completely naked at the age of 90) haha! Yep, I want to live a long time! ;-)

List three goals you would like to accomplish in 2010:

Document a wedding in Dubai!!!

For our work to be featured in a magazine, ahhhh that would be dreamy!

Master the art of time management!! Ha! Find time to do everything! ;-)

Please tell us about the photos you are submitting and why they are your favorites.

If there is any other information you would like to add? 

A big thank you to Marla, all the SOAR! Sisters, and everyone reading this! Thanks for the support and for allowing me the opportunity to share a part of who I am, what I do, and my personal and professional goals.

God Bless!
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Thank you Mariana for participating in the SOAR Sister Spotlight!  It was so great to learn all about you and I have to say that I am a BIG fan of your work!  Your images have such a chic tone to them and are very distinguished in style.  I always love visiting your blog and website and seeing what project you are working on next!  Good luck to you in the coming year and with school.  Maybe we can travel the world together someday! :-) 

Meet Rhonda Kane . . .

Rhonda Kane

"Do I have eyes audacious enough to see beauty, courage to declare the lovely in days that wail of the ugly, the boldness to fill the hollowed out places with surprising grace?" 

~Ann Voscamp

Never fear shadows. They simply mean there's a light shining somewhere nearby."

~Ruth E. Renkel

“I am only one, but I am one.  I cannot do everything, but I can do something.

And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.”

~Edward Everett Hale

Location: Hanford, CA

DOB: June 24

Children: Merritt - 9, Mason - 6, Molly - 2 1/2

Husband: Bruce - the most amazingly creative and talented (seriously, I married the male version of Martha Stewart), wise, God fearing man I know. I am truly blessed!

Animals: A standard poodle - Moses

Contact Info:

Name of Business: Exposing Grace

Website: I don't have one yet.

Blog: http://exposinggrace.blogspot.com

http://lovemy3ms.blogspot.com

http://www.throughthtelensofworship.com


Facebook: Rhonda Kane

(http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=name&id=1560050977)

Twitter:@epicrhonda

Skype:exposinggrace

Email:epic.rhonda@gmail.com

What's in your bag? (if you are building your bag, what do you desire for your bag?)

Canon EOS digital rebel XSi

Canon 24-105mm f/4

Canon 100mm f/2.8 macro

(and I often borrow my husband's Canon 50mm f/1.8 or 70-200 f/2.8)

Canon 430ex speedlight

8gb SD card; 16gb SD card

AA batteries (for my flash)

extra camera battery & battery charger

sunglasses, chapstick & gum : )

What I'm saving up for:

A camera with a full frame sensor

(I'm not sure which way to go on this right now. I'm pretty deep into Canon, but I don't absolutely love what Canon has to offer. I wonder if I should get a Sony, but then - I'm pretty deep into Canon. When I'm closer to having to make that decision, I think I will have to rent some equipment and see what works best for me. Or maybe by then Canon will have another option that is perfect? One can dream, can't they?)

50mm f/1.4

and a great wide-angle lens, just not settled on which one yet.

What's your favorite editing software?

Photoshop CS4 is the only software I have - and I love it.

Favorite Food?

Filet Mignon, artichokes & sweet potatoes (I know that's 3, but this is hard because I LOVE good food!)

Favorite Color? Green

A few of your favorite things?

Mint chip ice cream; Starbucks decaf skinny vanilla latte or peppermint mocha frappucino light (depending on the weather); MAC lipstick; Lost (the TV show); a date with my husband; cuddling and playing with my kids; walks on the beach on overcast days; reading a good book; Jazz; Uninterrupted time to spend worshipping my God

What or who inspires you?

music, my husband, time in prayer, my kids

Name something you just have to have everyday:

Alone time with God, hugs and kisses from my family, lately I need sleep, the sound of my kids laughing

Tell us all about your journey into the world of photography. When did you realize that this is what you wanted to do and why.

Photography was a hobby of my dad's (who died when I was 7), but I always looked through his Time Life books on photography as a child.  Photography was a hobby for one of my best friends in high school and

we'd often spend time on a weekend with my being a model for my friend who was trying to learn and hone photography as an art.  And then it was a hobby for my husband before I ever met him.  My life has been surrounded by photography since a very young age. And although I always loved taking pictures (I got my first 110 camera in elementary school), I never took it seriously until about 5 years ago.

My husband was given an anonymous gift of a Canon digital rebel XTi and I wanted to learn how to use it. I was afraid of manual settings, but loved learning composition. Then about 3 years ago I struck up a

friendship with someone who was starting her own photography business, who convinced me that shooting in manual wasn't as scary as it seemed.  She showed me the basics and I was hooked.

I bought some books, was given my current camera for my birthday (my husband was grateful to get his camera back) and couldn't get enough.  Then, in the summer of last year I read a book called Crazy Love. It

challenged me on so many levels, but mainly on how I use my resources for God instead of just myself. And I realized that, honestly we don't have any margin in our budget for God (beyond what is already written

in the budget.) I mean, if my neighbor lost her job and couldn't put groceries on the table, I wouldn't be in a position to help very much.

I prayed about how that could change for my family and Exposing Grace is one of the answers to that prayer. I use at least 1/2 of everything I make (and as we replace my husband's income from his 2nd job it will be exponentially more than 1/2) to help others. My focus is on the poor, orphans and single moms, but I will use it for whatever God asks me to use for. I am just in the beginning steps of this venture and am

incredibly intimidated by everything there is to do, but I am excited to see what God has in store for it as I follow Him.

If you already have a photography business please tell us about it, type of photography you do, how long you have been doing it, etc...

I had my first paying job in September - 2 boudoir shoots. I love photographing people, but the process of "Portraiture" is very intimidating to me. I don't feel like I'm very creative in that aspect. If I could just follow a family around for the day and capture them living and loving, that would be ideal for me. I am really finding a love for infant photography too and I have had the opportunity to take lots of newborn pictures lately. I did several family portraits at Christmas and designed Christmas cards for those families. I've photographed 2 weddings for friends. I've also done some event style photography for First 5 of Kings County - photographing their classes and making some promotional DVD slide shows for them, which has been SOOOO much fun; and also for the WISH Foundation, who provides clean water, food and health supplies to people in third world countries.

I'm really at the place of learning still and know NOTHING about marketing. And since I'm following God in this, I take what He brings me and try to learn from it and be my best so He'll bring more. There is a verse in the Bible (Luke 16:10) that says, "If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities." Right now, I'm just trying to be faithful with the little things.

If you are dreaming of starting your business, what are you learning and/or doing to move you towards your goal?

My business is officially started, but I'm dreaming about growing it. I'm continuing to hone my skill by reading books and practicing what I learn so that I will help be more instinctual behind my camera. I take LOTS of pictures. And now I'm researching some of the business stuff.  I think I need to file to get not-for-profit status for Exposing Grace, so I'm working on figuring that out. I'm also working on getting business cards. Nope, I haven't even done that yet. Thanks to Meghan (www.meghansenkelphotography) though, I have a discount for Moo cards, which I plan on ordering the first week of March.

Who is your favorite photographer that you follow and why?

I love the works of Cliff Mautner  (how he sees light is amazing); Kamee June  (she has such a fun laid back style); Nate & Jaclyn Kaiser (they push the bar and are never satisfied with not learning and growing and challenging themselves - and that encourages me). The thing is, there are lots of great photographers out there. But not a whole lot of MeRa Kohs, which is why she is my absolute FAVORITE. Yes, she is an amazing photographer, but more importantly to me, she is an INCREDIBLE human being with an AMAZING gift (and I believe calling) to encourage and help others. If I can impact just a small fraction of the amount of people she has been given the gift of impacting, I will consider myself successful.

Besides photography, what else do you do , i.e. work, domestic engineer, volunteer?

I am the worship leader at my church. On occasion, I have to opportunity to sing at different events. I used to sing with a swing band on a regular basis - oh how I miss that. The best job I ever had was singing for the Disney Company on board the Queen Mary as a part of their regular atmosphere entertainment during their "Voyage to 1939".

What are some of your other hobbies and/or things that you like to do besides photography?

I love to read and sew, and play my guitar. I also love to play with my kids and be their biggest fan as they play baseball (or soccer, or basketball).  AND I can occasionally be found playing a mean game of Phase 10 with my friends. I know it's not a typical hobby, but I love just hanging out with a good friend over a great cup of coffee having an amazing time catching up on each other's lives.

Do you have any other businesses that you are incorporating and/or combining in your photography business or that is separate other than photography?

I just started a photography worship community called Through the Lens of Worship. I envision one day being able to sell images that come from the community and giving 100% of the profits to charities that help the poor, orphans, or single moms.

If there is one thing in the world that you would like to change, what would that be and why?

I would love to be able to stop social injustice. My heart breaks for those who are victims of slavery, sexual exploitation and other forms of violent oppression.

Name three things you would like to do before you die?

1. Record a worship album

2. Start an adoption fund to help couples defray the cost of adoption.

3. Go to Greece

List three goals you would like to accomplish in 2010:

1. Grow the community at Through The Lens of Worship

2. Take care of the legalities involved with being a not-for-profit business

3. Launch a website for Exposing Grace

Please tell us about the photos you are submitting and why they are your favorites.

I struggled with how to go about this, but in the end I chose pictures of my kids because, although they aren't the "best" pictures I have taken, they are the ones I look at all the time, thus my FAVORITE.  These are the pictures of my kids that capture the essence of who they are.

This is my oldest son, taken after baseball practice - his favorite thing to do.

I love the raw emotion of this image. It wasn't posed. He didn't even know I was taking it because

I was not near him and was using the zoom lens.

My middle child. He is such a joy in our lives and I believe this picture accurately portrays

his fun-loving spirit.

This image is of my daughter, who is already - at the age of 2 -

independent and sassy, yet loving and sensitive.

 What I love most about this image is what was captured in the blurry background.

I love the expression on my daughter's face. She LOVES her big brother and didn't care that he was squeezing her head and covering her eyes - she was getting kisses!

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Thank you Rhonda for participating in the Spotlight.  It was great to hear about your work with Exposing Grace and your committment to your community through your newly formed group.  I hope all works out well for you and your business thrives in the coming year.  Your dedication and trust in the Lord will carry you along on your amazing journey and bring you continued success!