Life Gallery

The Nationals!!!!!

2009-02-17T20:10:00.006-05:00

As I have mentioned before, my son, Griffin is involved in travel baseball. This is his 3rd year and boy does it get more serious every year! We had a tournament in Blackshear, GA on Saturday so I took my camera to record one of their games.

We have rockin new uniforms and my window for getting photographs with white pants was that very first game! I am always voting for completely black uniforms! So much easier to clean - you could wear them dirty and no one would notice!

Sid, our coach, always leads the Lord's Prayer before each game.

My own little Babe Ruth!

Can't you just eat him up?!!!

Griffin plays catcher and is the best our league has - no lie!!!!

See what I mean about the white pants?

I would pay a million bucks to keep this smile in my pocket every day!

I love shooting through the fence - so baseball feeling!

I love getting this kind of shot at Griff's sporting games!

Thrift/O'Brien Wedding

2009-02-11T17:21:00.008-05:00

Matt & Micah are official!!! This couple was so sweet and so very tall! Beautiful people - I would say Barbie and Ken, but he is dark headed, so maybe Barbie and Ken's best friend, Ben?!!!

The ceremony was held at Glyndale Baptist in Brunswick, GA and the reception was at Oak Grove Island. Thanks Matt and Micah - we wish you the best in your marriage and in your lives together!!!

Macy Girl!

2009-02-06T08:35:00.005-05:00

This is Macy and she is the daughter of Tiffany - one of my good buddies at the recreation department. My son is completely immersed into sports so we came to know each other very well! And yes, these were taken at Christmas time - but you may get some more of this kind in the next few weeks! The mama claws come out when I don't blog my babies! And we were so swamped I didn't get to blog much during the Holiday Season.

Anyway - you guys need to leave me some comments to tell me how proud you are that I have started blogging again. I need to know someone is listening to my ramblings!!!!

One of my fav ways to photograph young siblings! Macy's bros - Grant & Cameron

He was in the middle of eating his bribe - but it worked for us!!!!

Can I get some rolls with my mash taters?

My Baby Grace turns 8 today!!!!

2009-02-05T09:03:00.004-05:00

Grace Elizabeth Adams - Born February 5, 2001

Her name origin: Grace was a spiritual name we chose when we found out we were pregnant again. Our family was going through a difficult time and we just felt God's Grace on our lives by giving us another child! We had something to look forward to and it brought us great joy and hope to plan for her! Elizabeth comes from my maternal grandmother who passed away before Grace was born. I was really close to her and wanted her name to be carried on.

She was an easy pregnancy and an easy delivery! I was only in labor for around 5-6 hours - with an epidural. And she came so quick and unexpected the nurses almost delivered her.

All about Grace:

Fav color: Red

Fav toy: any stuffed animal around!

Fav show: Little House on the Prairie

Style: Anything girlie - but comfortable (love that about her!)

Fav food: Pizza and tacos - and, of course, anything sweet! (she has this love affair with food - so much like her mama!)

Grace is so much like me - it is scary! She is not really into sports or athletics but she loves to do anything crafty. She is now cross stitching and got her first sewing machine from her Nana for Christmas. She loves to watch the cooking channel and almost always helps me cook dinner. She is a love bug that will just snuggle with you all day! Grace is one of those children that could sit in your lap for hours. If you need some love - she is the one to give it to you. Grace is also quick witted. I love her humor and she can get my jokes so much quicker than my other children. Maybe because we are so alike!!!!

This was taken before school this morning so you guys could see what she looked on her actual birthday!

Happy Birthday, We love ya Graceful!!!!!

Mamacita

2009-02-04T22:19:00.004-05:00

Kristie is some good lookin first time mom, huh? If only I could have looked like this when I was with child! I wouldn't have stopped at 3! Well, maybe I still would have because my husband took matters into his own hands after our last 2 were unplanned sweet surprises!!!

Kristie works for my good buddies at Family Heath Chiropractic - Dr. Dave & Jenni! Thanks, Kristie for letting us experiment with some new techniques. I believe they were a great success!

Baby Expressions

2009-02-01T10:22:00.004-05:00

Babies will bless you with a 100 different expressions in a single minute if you are paying attention. It is such a fun and joyous thing to edit through them! Most times we don't see them with the naked eye or they come and go so quickly that we forget they were even there.

When my moms and dads come to view their photos we play a slide show with music and it is projected on the wall. (By the way, this is the best way to view your photos for the first time! It is an experience you will never forget). So, when they are viewing their sweet lumps of sugar coupled with a great Celine Dionne ballad - the crying is a sure thing - yes, even my dads! While the love of your baby will bring you to tears, he/she also brings you much laughter and joy. So I throw in the "baby expressions" photos to bring laughter to their hearts and remind us all why God says that "children are a gift from the Lord (Psalm 127:3)"!

I probably enjoy the slide show experience more than the parents! This little boy is one of our latest 3month sessions.
Mom & Baby shot is always a must for me!

This expression is one of my favs!

He was talking to me here

Mary and her violin

2009-01-26T21:18:00.004-05:00

Boy do we love musicians and artists at our studio! I believe it is partly because they know what they want and they are up for anything we want! This is Mary Pipkin and she is AMAZING on the violin. If you guys ever hear of her playing anywhere - you have to go see her. We had a lot of fun with Mary and even got some interesting shots of her in action!

Stay tuned - we will be photographing a rap artist in the coming weeks!

Allen Girls!

2009-01-24T09:49:00.006-05:00

This session started out for baby sis and big sis had to get in on the action when she saw what a blast we were having. These skirts are the "in" thing now and every little girl wants her photo in it. Well, if you put it on in my studio - you are gonna have to work it!!! And work it these girls did!!!!

There is nothing like the love between sisters!!!!!!

Love her legs in this one - so high fashion awkward!!!

Our favorite!

This was a close second to our favorite!!!!

And to Rachel Green who left me a comment - I do remember you and we are expecting a visit at the studio so we can talk shop some more! Thanks for taking our photo at the Bridal Show!
To those of you who are looking at the blog - drop me a comment now and then - I love to get feedback on who you are and what you think about us!

Exciting Happenins at Life Gallery!

2009-01-22T21:49:00.013-05:00

First of all, we were given the great opportunity to take some photos for the Brunswick News in preparation for the Bridal Show that was held on Jekyll Island. If you missed that - you missed a good time! Look below to see a snap shot of our fabulous booth!

These 3 beauties were our models at Evelyn Talman's on St. Simons Island. A big thanks and kisses to Dana, Laura and Cleveland!!!!

This was Friday's ad

And this was Saturday's ad

And these were enlarged to life size and displayed at the Bridal Show.

Speaking of the Bridal Show - look at what the Life Gallery Gals pulled off! We worked all week preparing for it and all day on Saturday before the show to put it up - but it was worth it. Everyone seemed to enjoy it!

And that's not all!!!! We found out Saturday - the day before the Wedding Show that we were voted Best Wedding Photographer 2008!!!!! If you haven't seen it yet - pick up a copy of Elegant Island Living and check it out - it is a great issue!

We were blown away and couldn't believe what crazy, wild, great clients we have!!! We want to send out a big juicy kiss to everyone who voted for us - we love you guys!!!! Also, in case you haven't dropped by lately - here are some self portraits of the Life Gallery Gals (we call ourselves the Mean Trio:). By now you are on to our hat fetish so of course I made everyone choose a hat for our photos! :)

Hat Love

2009-01-21T19:38:00.003-05:00

OK - so I can't put the hats down - but you really don't want me to - do you???

Annalee Love is this cutie pie and boy did she work those hats! Unlike lots of my wee clients, this one was not shy and didn't need a lot of direction. She is a natural performer!

Wilder Boys

2009-01-20T20:15:00.004-05:00

It is so rewarding to be a family's photographer. I have taken photos for these boys for a few years and I have to say, they are 3 of my favorites! Now you may be saying, she says that to all of us and you could be close to being right. I have so many favorites because I fall in love with all of you.

But the Wilder Boys - they are the cream of the crop! They are such good boys, I even have hopes to be their future mom-in-law. These are the types of boys that I envision my girls marrying. It doesn't even matter which one marries Grace or Greta. All kidding aside, these boys love each other and love their parents. They are respectful and such a delight to be around! And just look at them - a photographer's dream subject!!!

2009 GOALS

2009-01-14T22:22:00.005-05:00

Blog! Blog! Blog! It is one of our 2009 goals - to keep you guys up on what we are doing! We have been so slammed that it is hard to keep up with everything. So we are going to commit to you this year to blog about our happenins! We have so many wonderful things happening at our studio so stay tuned - we have some pretty interesting blogs coming up!!! We love you guys and feel so blessed to have you as clients as well as our friends!!!

Another Model in the Making

2009-01-13T11:22:00.011-05:00

OK, calling all talent scouts! Look at this knock out!!!! This is Tiara Clark and she is pursuing a career in modeling. I don't know about you - but if she ain't model material - I don't know what is!!!! We had a blast looking for new locations and trying out challenging venues!

Our favorite studio shot of the day!

She has such a genuine smile that is so contagious!

Gap here she comes!

Exotic - this picture should be in the dictionary beside that word!

I love that these girls are pursuing their dreams! You never know unless you give it a shot!!!!!

Patrick 9 months old

2008-12-19T09:04:00.005-05:00

Here is our baby with the hair! Again, the Poppell boys just blow me away with their photos. Their expressions and the little quirky things they do just make wonderful photos. And they are the most pleasant children! Mom and Dad keep up the good work - your children are definitely a blessing to others!!!

Olivia turns 1 year old!!!!!

2008-12-19T08:43:00.006-05:00

OK - so I have been negligent on blogging for you guys - AGAIN! My brother told me that he isn't even a client and he is not a follower anymore!!!! We have been crazy busy here at the studio! We praise God for it, though, because I know other businesses are hurting in our present economy. But it does not leave time for any extras!

This mom is always persistent about me blogging her child - so I have to thank her for jump starting me blogging again!!!! So here is your baby girl - well on her way to the teen years - LOOK OUT!!!!!

McCormicks from out of town

2008-11-06T15:59:00.006-05:00

It is such an honor and privilege for Out of Towners to take time to get photos with our studio while they are on vacation or visiting loved ones. Tony and Lisa were visiting her parents and they decided to bring Aiden by for his 2 months baby photos! Such a doll baby!!!!!

The Bridges Expecting and Miss Finley "Early" Bridges!!

2008-11-06T15:52:00.010-05:00

This is Jarrett and Courtney Bridges expecting their first baby. Can you believe how small her baby bump is?!!! They had their maternity photos done with me one week and their impatient little one came the next week. Finley was born several weeks early so it was a little scary but she came through without a scratch!!! Mom and Baby are doing well and I had the sweet opportunity to snap a photo of Finley in the hospital! The Lord answers prayers - that's for sure!!!

Our Good Friends - The Pittmans

2008-10-30T15:45:00.009-04:00

These are the Pittmans and they live in Hinesville, GA. Jody and my husband, Hugh, grew up together in Nashville, GA. McKalee, their daughter, was such a good subject (she is definitely not camera shy!!!) on this session that she is now featured on the wall at Broomeli's Boys Pizza. So if you are in the mood for some jammin pizza, go check it out with some other cool photos I have up there! Oh, and if you need a good optometrist, Jody is your eye man - click here for their website! He is definitely worth the drive from Brunswick to Hinesville!

The Norris Family

2008-10-30T15:33:00.010-04:00

The Norris Family took a break from the big city of Brunswick and went to the country. Little Sam is enamored with trains so we took advantage of our surroundings to capture some genuine delight from a very active little boy! I am going to begin seeing the Norris Family a lot more in the coming year because they are expecting baby #2!!! Congratulations guys!!!!

Baby Aubrey

2008-10-30T15:27:00.006-04:00

Baby Aubrey will be here soon and look at what a beauty of a mom this baby has!!! A couple of years ago I had the pleasure of photographing Ly in her wedding dress on Jekyll before her wedding. She made a smashing bride and as far as what she does for pregnancy - see for yourself!!!!

Tonya's Treasures

2008-10-30T15:21:00.007-04:00

OK - everyone must know Tonya from Tonya Treasures on St. Simons Island! She owns a cute boutique shop that carries everything from handbags to bedding. Their GA Bulldog accessories are to die for! They even have in-store monogramming and laser engraving. Check them out on-line or the next time you are down by the pier! In case you haven't met her beautiful family - here they are...

Molli-Malone

2008-10-20T16:03:00.005-04:00

I have been taking photographs of Molli-Malone for about 2 years and it has been just delightful watching her grow into a little girl. She is the only girl of a house full of boys and is spoiled rotten - as well she should be!!!

The Pipkins on the Beach!

2008-10-20T15:59:00.007-04:00

This is the Pipkin Family who I have gotten to know very well through photos. Tallie is a freak about photos and that is a quality I always look for in a friend!:) She is one of my clients that I have gotten close to and I just adore her children. Her husband says she and I know each other much too well!!! But she has a photo wall at her house that is to die for!!!! You go girl!!!

Madison turning 1 year old!

2008-10-08T09:57:00.009-04:00

Maddie is 1 year old now and obviously very happy about it. It is bitter sweet, though, isn't it?!!! She's not a baby anymore! 1 year old is still a great age. My sister, Cheryl, describes it as the "sweet, lovable" stage before they hit the "monster" 2 years!

Give a girl pearls and watch her shine!!!!

The Rowlands

2008-10-06T09:16:00.015-04:00

This is one of my sweet girlfriend clients, Stephanie Rowland, that I adore. Her children are delicious and she is so in love with them. I 've said it before - I can't resist a mom who is in love with her children!!!! Stephanie and her family are going through some difficult health problems right now and all I see in her is faith, joy and peace. What a blessing!
We had a couple of mishaps (scraped knees) on the photo session - but like Stepanie, her children didn't miss a beat. Glad to know you girl!!!!

GO DAWGS!!!

2008-09-18T22:35:00.010-04:00

Well guys, we are off to a great start in Bulldog Country. And as you can see we had a good time celebrating the start of the season! Here are some of my favs from the Georgia Bulldog Special. I know some of you guys are beating yourselves up because you missed it (I won't mention any names, Laina) - but don't be too hard on yourselves, there is always next year!

The Black Out Jersey!!!! Thomas wears it so well!

All a girl needs is her bloomers and a bow to match!

These are 2 of my favorite boys!!!!! - but I still made them pay extra for not being in uniform (red & black!)

And here is my cheeky boy!!!

Santa Photos On the Beach

2008-09-16T22:54:00.004-04:00

SANTA ON THE BEACH:

When: September 26th (430p – 700p) & 27th (200p – 700p)
Where: Jekyll Island - The beach access before the Soccer Complex – there will be a sign
How Much: $75
What do I Get:
2 8x10
4 5x7
4 4x5
32 wallets
Do I want to Miss This: NO

*All of our Santa on the Beach participants will receive a chance to win a box of Christmas Cards!! Gotta have a giveaway! Call the studio for an appointment. 912.264.3249

Blog Addiction

2008-09-12T20:56:00.009-04:00

Blogging is difficult to keep up with! When I started blogging, I had this vision of me sitting at my computer everyday and journaling through my blog. My days are filled with you guys and I wanted you to know what that means to me and how happy it makes me! Opening the studio was such a life change that I had (and still have) a hard time keeping up with the important things. But I am determined to create a blog habit, so keep stalking!!!!

Isn't it great when you get someone who is addicted to your blog. I love those people!!! Emily, my good friend and blog stalker, emailed me this photo this afternoon. I have been promising to blog Olivia's Photos for several days. After receiving this adorable photo - the guilt was too much! :)

So here they are, my friend!

Look at these grown up outfits! I am not sure if I mentioned before, but Emily sews amazing outfits. She didn't make all of these for this photo session, but the ones she did make are amazing.

Take a look at the bows, she made those! Aren't they fabulous!!! I fell in love with the curly bow and she offered to make me some. So if you are in need of a spectacular bow for an outfit - I know where to find one!

She is blowing me a kiss - right back atcha babe!

color! color! color!!

Can someone find a bow for this kid?!!!

They are so mobile for their 9 month sessions!

Happy Birthday Sam!!!!

2008-08-29T10:16:00.006-04:00

Happy 14th Birthday Sam! Sam is my neighbor and sometimes my babysitter. She is a fantastic girl with great parents (and a rockin sis - Emily!). Don't you just love it when you get good neighbors! So Sam, we love ya and hope this year is 10 times greater than last! And Em, Rock On, girl!!!!

Georgia Bulldog Photo Special

2008-08-28T21:49:00.011-04:00

Saturday, September 6th is our GA Bulldog Special! You guys get a choice between a "Sports Panel" (see below) or a Photo Package. If you are a Bulldog freak like we are and you can't choose - you can get them both!!!! This is a popular one - so call soon to reserve your spot.

Here is a link to see the flyer: Bulldog Special

Mandy

2008-08-27T22:12:00.008-04:00

These 2 were absolutely freaky during our photo shoot! One thing I love about taking maternity photos is the interaction between husband and wife. We got some fun shots that their children are going to cherish forever!!! We also are going to photograph the birth of "Maddox" - so be kind little bambina and don't come at 2am in the morning!!!! Thanks guys for the blessing of sharing in this sweet time in your lives!!!

Cheeky!

2008-08-26T21:57:00.005-04:00

Take a look at these cheeks on this kid!!! Being a children's photographer is the best job in the world! When I need a kid fix - there is always one around for me to love on!!!! Like this little stinker! I could just eat him up!!!

I love these jail shots!

Pure sugar cane sweetness!

Bright eyed and bushy tailed

I love these tones in this photo - his skin is so brown!

Kids give the most amazing expressions

I am so in love with this child!!!

Samantha '09

2008-08-20T20:09:00.013-04:00

Here is the rest of Samantha! Doesn't it look like we are in Italy? Jekyll Island is such a unique and interesting place to take photos!

Here is the folio we designed for her - I just love the fun ones!!!

Skylar and The Beach

2008-08-17T21:25:00.012-04:00

Skylar is 5 years old and starting kindergarten this year! I have taken photos of Skylar before but this was her first "official" photo session. Boy, was she prepared too! I don't have many 5 year olds who show up with a list of poses they have in mind! She kept giving me this shoulder pose! Isn't she adorable!?!!

Poppell Boy 3 months old

2008-08-17T21:09:00.012-04:00

Remember the kid with the hair? Well he is back and turning 3 months old! The hair cracks me up - but take a look at the expressions this boy has!! We had a ball taking his photos and editing his photographs! This family is such a joy!

And of course, I snapped a few of beautiful big brother!

Samantha '09

2008-08-07T00:21:00.005-04:00

I just love my High School Seniors! They are so Fabulous!!!! Samantha and her mom were a lot of fun. This is a sneak peek for them. Isn't she lovely?!!!!!

My sister's offspring

2008-08-04T17:22:00.006-04:00

They may not be as cute as mine - but they come in a close 2nd! (my nephew is going to be really peeved about this comment!:) This is Bethany, Caleb and Rebecca. They are the sweetest and meanest children I know! My kids are closer to these children than any other in the world and I wouldn't have it any other way. We go to their house (in the boonies) and my kids want to know why they can't become a Smith child.

Isn't it a blessing to have family become your best friend in the whole world?! Cheryl, my sister, is my best friend and I am hopeful our children will follow suit. We love you guys!

They look so sweet - don't they? But Aunt Tracy knows better!!!!

Al and TJ

2008-07-30T14:27:00.005-04:00

I always say "anything goes for the sake of the photo." Well, Al took that literally! He was deployed to Iraq the last 5 months TJ was pregnant and flew in the same day we took these photos. He was so tired, but looked spectacular for our photo session! And he made it just in time - TJ delivered their baby boy 3 days later.

More Picassos

2008-07-26T12:01:00.009-04:00

Here are a few subjects who sat for me while I painted them - well, ok, maybe in my next lifetime!!!! The Picasso Special was a huge success and the photographs are breathtaking!

Here are a few from the weekend.

Picasso Portrait - only a few days left to sign up!

2008-07-22T18:58:00.006-04:00

Here are a few more samples of the Picasso Portrait. I put Greta (my daughter) in front of a blue background because I love her blond hair and fair skin with the color blue. There are only 2 more days after today to sign up - don't miss this deal - I don't know when I will offer something like this again! Also, call about the $50 special detail for the following weekend - you get a huge package of photos and no sitting fee! 912.264.3249

Acting Head Shots

2008-07-22T18:23:00.003-04:00

These types of photos are fun and challenging. You wouldn't think that these would be difficult - it is just a head shot, right? But the challenge is getting the person's personality and character to show in the photos. Martie was easy - she is outgoing, fun and adventurous - all the things that would make a great actress!

More Holt Baby!

2008-07-21T22:25:00.007-04:00

I can't wait to work with these 2 at their newborn photo session! They are going to be a blast!

Holt Baby is Coming!

2008-07-15T14:43:00.003-04:00

This is a sample of one of my latest maternity photo sessions. There will be more to come - but I had to share at least one for right now. This couple has been waiting a long time for this bundle of joy and they are going to be the greatest parents!!! Contratulations to Jarrod & Amanda!

"Picasso Portrait" Special

2008-07-14T22:35:00.006-04:00

As promised, we are doing some summer specials and this one is ONE GREAT DEAL! Below are samples of a Picasso Portrait. The special will be held on July 25th & 26th from 9am - 4pm. I have already had a powerful response and appointments are limited so call today to reserve your spot! 912-264-3249

Closer View

Closer View

Newborns & Photos - Fun! Fun! Fun!

2008-07-14T22:09:00.011-04:00

Newborn photos are so fun! They take longer than other photos sessions but as you will see below - the results are unforgettable. The key to a great session is being patient and if you are photographing the baby in his/her birthday suit - not being afraid of getting wet! Especially those baby boys - they are a sure thing when the diaper comes off!

And hats off to my great dads! They love their babies so much they are willing to do anything I ask (well, almost!)

Inner Beauty!

2008-07-11T08:13:00.012-04:00

This is Melanie and she is very special to me and my family in so many ways. We did these photos because she is in a long distance relationship and needed updated photos to remind her beau what he is missing living so far away from her! As you can see, she is a knock out but her beauty on the outside can't touch her beauty on the inside! Don't drag your feet, Jason, girls like her are 1 in a million!

Tison/Burgess Wedding

2008-07-10T14:13:00.024-04:00

Here is the wedding I promised! Jen and Jimmy are amazing people and their wedding was spectacular! Their ceremony was held at Faith Chapel on Jekyll Island and the reception at The Beachview Club. The ceremony was sweet and the party was rockin!!! Congratulations!!!

Baby Bath Photos

2008-07-07T23:42:00.005-04:00

This mom brought her baby but left the outfit at home! These are 6 months photos and her goal was to decorate the baby's bathroom with photos from this session. There is nothing like a woman with a plan!!!! I love it!

Modeling Photos

2008-07-05T10:18:00.009-04:00

This is something new I am doing and having a blast at it! I get bored easily with taking the same kind of photos so doing something new is always a boost to my creativity. I hope that it shows in my clients' photographs that I like to be creative and experiment. I don't want your photos looking like someone else's. We are all created differently and our photos should reflect what makes us who we are!

These are the comp cards we designed for Christi.

The new Poppell Baby!

2008-07-03T12:39:00.007-04:00

I was a little apprehensive when Leslie told me she was expecting another baby. I have photographed her first child since he was in the womb. He is now 2 years old. He has been one of my favorite babies since I have been taking baby photos! This child had the craziest hair you have ever seen and the kind of disposition we all pray for in our children! He would come to a photo session recovering from double ear infections and just charm the dickens out of me!

I was worried that the new baby poppell was going to have to live in first baby poppell's shadow (at least in my section of his world!). Let me just say - first baby poppell is going to have to step up his game to keep up with baby bro!!!!

Allen Sr 09

2008-07-02T09:36:00.006-04:00

I have to say the I am so enjoying doing my High School Seniors this year. They are pretty easy to photograph because they usually are so excited about taking photos! The boys usually still have to be dragged to the photo session, but admit it guys, we have so much fun!

This is Allen and he is the son of one crazy mama! Christa is one of those girls you love to hang with because you know no matter what you are doing you will have a good time! Allen is on the football team at Glynn Academy. Football season is fast approaching! Good luck GA Terrors!!!!!

Tison/Burgess Engagement

2008-07-01T07:52:00.012-04:00

I am late blogging this so you will get the engagement and wedding within days of each other. This couple was so much fun to photograph. They are so adventurous with one another. Oh to be young and in love! I am still in love - just not so young anymore!

Here are a few fun takes from Jen and Jimmy's engagement photo session.

They are Blue Grass fans, so we put together a slideshow with one of their favorite songs!

Peace Love Baby

2008-06-28T12:32:00.008-04:00

I just love screen tees! Well, not the obnoxious and rude ones! But there are some that are so entertaining! I found one the other day for me to wear and for my husband to read all day while I am wearing it - "I would agree with you but then we'd both be wrong!"

Anyway, Melanie wore a cute shirt to our photo session and didn't expect for me to photograph her in it - but I couldn't resist! And her daughter is my new best friend! Sweet-natured, well-mannered and stinking cute - what more can you ask in a child! I enjoyed her family and I look forward to photographing their new addition!

Liz '09

2008-06-26T15:06:00.024-04:00

This is Liz and she is the coolest girl ever (or so my kids think!:)! She was my babysitter, but then she had to go and get herself a social calendar and couldn't fit me in! Just kidding - she still sits for me occasionally - and my kids love it when the sitter is Liz!!!!

We did her Senior photos the day before Prom. She was such an adventurer to go in the woods with her prom dress! We had a great time and I was amazed at how different this cute little girl could make each photo look! Someone else besides me has been watching America's Next Top Model!!!!! Love you girl!

These are the "identity cards" we design for the Seniors. They are the size of a wallet - but oh so much cooler!

Check out her FABULOUS slideshow!

Our Gerber Baby

2008-06-25T15:43:00.006-04:00

Emily (Gerber Baby's mama) just picked up her photos yesterday and she has already shown them to about 100 people! You go mamasita!!!!

Does anyone besides me see America's Next Top Model in her future?

More Outoftowners!

2008-04-28T18:50:00.006-04:00

This little man is turning 3 and they came down to take photographs at Jekyll Island. Watch out GQ - here he comes!

Hats Off to this Little Girl!

2008-04-20T22:31:00.007-04:00

Babies are the best! We can dress them in any outfit we want, put crazy hats on them and they still will give us beautiful smiles! That doesn't last long, does it, mom? Here are a few beauties from a recent baby session.

OK - So I Lied!

2008-04-18T12:26:00.012-04:00

I really was going to try to blog more - but things happen - right?! Anyway - I am back and have some new stuff for you!

CRAIG & LINDSEY ENGAGED!

This couple is getting married in Baxley, GA. Lindsey's last name is Baxley too! That conversational tidbit is about to be no longer! We went to Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island to take their engagement photos.

If you are reading this and you are not from here - let me educate you on our sand gnats. If the wind is blowing, it is too cold to be outside or it is too hot to be outside the gnats are no problem. If it is a nice and pleasant day the gnats will be feasting on you like buzzards on road kill! Needless to say, this was a beautiful, quiet and pleasant afternoon. The wind is usually blowing on the beach, but not this day. Craig and Lindsey were good sports about the little buggers - but I was mentally packing my bags to move as far away as possible. My arms, neck, face and head were on fire! I survived and yes, we are still residents of Brunswick, GA!

Here are a few of my favs from our gnat-infested engagement photo session!

See all of those spots to the left? Guess what they are????

My Offspring

2008-03-31T19:43:00.003-04:00

I decided that if my photography career ever goes bad I can make big bucks in baby breeding! These photos speak for themselves!
Greta

Grace

Griffin

9 months old & outside

2008-03-31T19:18:00.006-04:00

It is always fun to do baby photos outside. It is a little more challenging, but fun! Babies are still in awe of the world around them. When do we lose that? The world is such a beautiful place and we constantly take it for granted. But little ones see it with new eyes. It is delightful just to watch them!

Hoppy Belated Easter!

2008-03-28T18:06:00.003-04:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful and blessed Easter! Our Easter special went great - be on the look out for the next one - Mother's Day!

My Major League-er

2008-03-28T14:24:00.002-04:00

We are well into baseball season and my son never ceases to amaze me. He is such an athletic little boy. Griffin is only 8 years old and already we are out 5 to 6 times a week for baseball! We are doing something new this year - a traveling baseball team - The Grinders. Let me tell you - traveling ball is a lot more serious than rec ball! Have you ever watched the dads? It is hilarious! We have already been penalized because of our obnoxious dads yelling at the umpires!

Our team was actually coached by a real minor league player! Ray Serrano came and spent a few weeks with our boys - what an awesome opportunity!

A couple of weekends ago, we were in Waycross for an all-day tournament. Griffin usually plays left field, but our catcher was out this day and Griff filled in for him. He was reluctant to try catching because he had not played that position before - but he did great! You get a lot of action on the catcher's mound and that is what my boy likes! We were at the baseball field from 930am to 930pm. Our team won every game until the championship game. Bummer - but we left in good spirits! WAY TO GO Grinders!!!!

Mom & Baby Photos

2008-03-28T12:56:00.004-04:00

I just love doing Mom & Baby photos! Babies are unpredictable - you just never know what they are going to do or what expression they are going to give you. These are photos from a recent session of a very sweet client of mine. I know it sounds like I say that about all my clients - but I have been so blessed with wonderful clients!!!!

Oh - and please don't give up on me with this blogging thing - I have hired another full-time person (photos coming soon!) and she is going to help with my crazy work load. So I am going to be blogging several photo sessions at a time to get caught up. Hope you enjoy the variety of photos you are going to get! Drop me a comment to let me know w hat you think!

Our First Father/Daughter Dance

2008-03-20T21:49:00.010-04:00

Grace is in Girl Scouts this year and they hosted a Father/Daughter dance at a local Catholic church. These are some of the sweet photos from that night. Curling her hair took about an hour - she was such a trooper! And that is Irma's hand, by the way (I would get in trouble for not giving her a plug on that one!) Her hair even held up for church the next morning!

She was so excited and totally exhausted herself before they even arrived. I am so enamored with the Father/Daughter relationship!

After church the next morning.

Mi Amigo Loco

2008-03-11T20:21:00.004-04:00

This is my "crazy" friend's beautiful daughter. My husband refers to all my friends as "you know, your crazy friend". My husband loves my friends, but don't tell them. They love to make fun of each other. They think he is crazy, he thinks they are crazy - it sounds to me like I am the only one that really has it together!!! Surround yourself with crazy people and you come out looking really good, right?!

Anyway back to the crazy person's daughter. Irma (crazy person) also helps me with weddings and other things in my studio. She is one of a kind!!! These are for you, chica!

Baldheaded Babies with Blue Eyes!

2008-03-11T19:48:00.006-04:00

I really don't have to give an introduction to this one. There is nothing sweeter than the feel of a baby's skin and the smell of a baby's breath. Can't you almost smell and feel the sweetness from these photos!?

Lovely Livy!

2008-03-06T08:24:00.007-05:00

This is the daughter of one of my husband's colleagues, Emily. Emily's family is full of artists of all kinds and she became a CPA. It is still not clear to me how that happened.

Despite Emily's career choice, she and I hit it off the moment we met. I am blessed to call her my friend. Anyway, with her entire family of talented artists, I kind of had to bump up my game! Here are some of my favorites of her beautiful daughter.

My latest movie luvs

2008-03-04T15:34:00.005-05:00

I don't have much time to watch TV so I am always on the lookout for a good movie when I do get the chance to sit down for a couple of hours. Don't you hate it when you get all psyched up for movie night and you have picked the worse movie ever! I always seem to choose terrible, boring, weird movies. I was fired long ago from being the family's movie picker. But once in a while I run across a movie that makes an impact. Here are a few:

Return to Paradise - This movie is an older one - but after I watched it I couldn't stop thinking of it. It is one of those "what would you do?" kind of movies. I like movies that are unpredictable and thought provoking. If you haven't seen it - go rent it and tell me what you think.

A lot like love - this one is one of my favs. It is so unpredictable and they have so much charisma! You have to watch this one!

P.S. I love you - My friend, Irma, and I go out to the movies occasionally. She let me choose the first couple of times and quickly found out about my movie handicap - now I don't have any say so in what we see. Anyway - we saw this one a few weeks ago and I just loved it! Again, it is unpredictable and such a great love story. The photography is wonderful too!

Help me impress my friends and family by giving me some great suggestions on what to rent this weekend!!!!

Happy Birthday LyndseyBop!!!!

2008-02-28T07:03:00.002-05:00

This is my other neice, Lyndsey, and she is 12 years old today. She and her sis, Leah, are only 12 months apart. My sis-in-law, Daphne, would dress them like twins when they were little. They have always been the cutest and sweetest of all kids (until mine were born, of course)!

I want to send a thank you out to their parents for raising them to be such wonderful people. It is such a blessing just to be around them! Here is a little bit about our beautiful Lyndsey!

Favorite subject in school: Math (takes after her Uncle Hugh!)
Favorite Color: Orange (represents energy, warmth and the sun - this describes her perfectly!)
Her "thing" right now: Cheerleading
Loves to draw
Future Career: Pediatric Registered Nurse

Hope your day is as wonderful as you!!! Love you!

City Kids Goin' Country!

2008-02-27T21:20:00.013-05:00

These are the kids of one of my triathlete friends. We participated in the Disney Danskin Triathlon last spring. What a blast! Girls - you have to give it a try!!! Margo and I both thought we were going to drown in the swimming section - but you guessed it - we made it!! The best part of it is you only have to do it once and for the rest of your life you can say, "Hi, my name is Tracy and I am a triathlete!

Not only is Margo a triathlete, she also home schools her three children. "Supermom" is definitely on her resume'! We went out to my sister's place which is one of my fav places to photograph. One reason is because my sister cooks us dinner when I have a photo session out there. Another reason is the kids have so much fun! Their experience with taking photographs is a happy and fun one. Don't you just love the old truck?!!!!

Beauty in the Weeds!

2008-02-22T11:29:00.007-05:00

My husband thinks I am loco when I tell him I am going to do a photo session near our home. He says there are nothing but weeds everywhere! Then he looks at my photos and says "How do you do that?" There is nothing sweeter than a compliment on your work from your husband!!! Thanks Babe, for being one of my biggest fans!!!

This particular session was important to me. The family had just experienced one of the most horrible tragedies that can happen to a family. W hen Brittany, the mom, came for the session, I really wanted to come through for her and deliver photos that would make her heart smile. I pray that these will bring some joy to her day!

I have corrupted my child

2008-02-10T22:10:00.000-05:00

A photographer that I admire once said that he never missed an episode of America's Next Top Model. The photo shoots can be very educational and informative from a photographer's perspective. So being the ever-seeking-knowledge photographer that I am, I start watching them. I record them on DVR so I can forward through all of the drama. (I have to confess, though, I forward less and less as I get addicted to the drama!) Anyway, my girls wanted to watch a couple of the photo shoots. Some of them are too risque but the others are playful and tame enough that I let them watch about 3 photo shoot sections with me.

So I am up in my studio setting up for a session and my daughter comes up. I am changing the settings on my lights and ask her to stand for me to test them (she had done this hundreds of times for me). Instead of just standing there like she normally does, she strikes this pose. As you can see, she is posed from the tip of her fingers to the tips of her toes!

She is only 5 years old! Where did this come from? Then I remember the shows and immediately I begin envisioning all of the sessions she will have to have with her psychiatrist to straighten herself out. As parents, don't you wonder how much of what you do (or don't do) will shape your child into what kind of person they become as adults?

To save my sweet baby girl some future doctor bills I made her watch 3 episodes of Jeopardy. I will keep you updated on if it works or not! :)

6 month Cutie!

2008-02-10T21:56:00.000-05:00

I know this mom is anxiously waiting on a sneak peek of these! 6 months is one of my favorite stages to photograph in the first year. At this age they are starting to develop their own personality and it is so much fun to see it happen!

Thank you!

2008-02-07T06:17:00.000-05:00

I wanted to send out a thank you to this mom for hanging with me. She scheduled an appointment a couple of months ago (when her daughter was turning 1 year old). We had to reschedule a few times because of illness and other things. Then I got so busy with the Holiday Season that I was unable to fit her back in. We finally got together and captured these beautiful 1 year (or 15 month) photos of her daughter.

Happy Birthday Leahbell!

2008-02-06T07:57:00.000-05:00

Leah, my niece, is 13 today! My kids think she is so cool because she is a teenager! Here is a little about my beautiful Leah:

Loves everything about music
Favorite thing to do - sing and draw
Favorite color - red (mine too!)
Favorite subject in school - science
Favorite Aunt - Tracy (ok - so, she didn't actually say that - but I know it's true!)
Future career - Doctor and/or Singer

I love you, girl - Have a great day!!!!!

Che bella bambina!!!

2008-02-06T06:27:00.000-05:00

Mom and Dad are both Full Blooded Italians! This can be to your advantage when you are trying to birth beautiful children. These photos are proof that it will work every time! This family drove all the way from Raleigh, NC for me to take their daughter's photos. Ok - so maybe they have family living here that they happen to be visiting. But the mom did say that she didn't want any of those stinking photographers in Raleigh taking her baby's photographs. She wanted the best for her baby - Life Gallery! You go girl! You are number one in my book! :)

Turning 1 Year Old!

2008-02-05T09:50:00.000-05:00

I have had so much fun with this family. They started a photo project when their son was born. The project was to take at least one photo a day to capture his life in the first year. I am honored to say that I was the subject of one of those photos! At one of our sessions they asked to take a photo of me! And, oh, how they love that boy of theirs! I just love parents that can't get enough of their kids. Thanks, Jon & Julie, for letting me be a part of the first year!

You take my breath away too, Sweetie!!!!

Give a child a mirror and watch them come alive!

Does vanity really start that early? :)

Happy Birthday to My Middle Child!

2008-02-05T06:46:00.001-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRACE!!!!

This is my second of 3 children and today is her birthday. She is 7 years old. Some sweet facts about our Grace:

We call her Graceful because she is the most clumsy child we know.
She looks more like me than any of my other children
She has the heart the size of Texas
We also call her our leech because when she snuggles you can't get her off of you!
If she ever draws a picture she always draws her family and it says "I love my family"
Things she loves (her words) - God, her family, reading and puppies
When she grows up she wants to become a Teacher

She is definitely our lover of the bunch! Thank you, God, for giving us such a special blessing!!!!

NY Giants Win!

2008-02-04T16:49:00.001-05:00

Well the Giants win - I wasn't pulling for them - but I didn't lose any money either! Who lost some big money yesterday? Come on - Fess up! You know, now that I think of it, I bet my husband bet on that game and didn't tell me. He doesn't tell me either way - if he wins or if he doesn't. If he loses he has to deal with my belly aching and if he wins he has to share the loot! I can deal with losing thousands of dollars in the stock market better than I can deal with losing $30 to a FB game. My husband thinks I am psychotic to think this way.

Two Little Beauties!

2008-02-03T19:42:00.000-05:00

Don't you want to take this one home with you?

She is just as sweet as she looks, too!

If angelic could be described by a photograph...

We even got big Sis to to agree to a few photos - after a little bribe!

Then we played hide the lollipop!

Give Away

2008-02-02T10:45:00.001-05:00

I have challenged all of my clients to come here and leave me a comment on one of my posts for a chance to win a framed 16x20 portrait. For the dropper byers that are not my clients - you are eligible to win also! This is a new Blog - so the 53rd comment that is made on any one of my posts is going to win the prize! So good or bad - drop me your opinion!

Super Bowl XLII

2008-01-31T20:26:00.000-05:00

Can you translate the Roman numeral (without looking it up)? I will admit, I know the Xs, Vs and Is, but everything else I had to ask my husband. My husband is one of the high IQ people that really tick you off because they know things that you don't. So the X is a 10, the L is a 50 and the I is a 1. But it is tricky because if the smaller number is before the larger number you have to subtract it. Personally, I like to stay on the right side of my brain! My husband told me the answer is Super Bowl 42. So hoooray for you left brainers who are carrying all of those useless facts around in your head waiting for the right moment to impress us right brainers!

Who is watching the Super Bowl this year? As a family, we prefer college FB, but who in their right mind would pass up the chance to participate in one of the world's most popular food gorging days of the year. It is 2nd only to Thanksgiving.

Here are a few more useless, but fun, facts about Super Bowl Sunday:

8 million pounds of guacamole is consumed on Super Bowl Sunday.
14,500 tons of chips are eaten along with that guacamole.
The average number of people at a Super Bowl party is 17.
5% of Americans will watch the game alone.
Of the top 10 most watched television programs of all time, 9 of them are Super Bowls.

Budweiser has been the exclusive Super Bowl beer advertiser for the past 13 years.
The Super Bowl is measured in Roman numerals because a football season runs the span over two calendar years. The year the season began in 2006 and ends in 2007.
Since the 1980s the Super Bowls have always started around 6pm Eastern Standard Time.
More drivers are involved in alcohol-related accidents on Super Bowl Sunday than any other day of the year (except St. Patrick's Day), according to the Insurance Information Institute.
35% of people who attend the game write it off as a corporate expense.
Over 700,000 footballs are produced annually for official NFL use and 72 of them are used for the Super Bowl.

Super Bowl fans spend more than $50 million on food during the 4 days prior to the super bowl.
Super Bowl Sunday is the biggest winter grilling day of the year.

Big Brother Little Brother

2008-01-31T19:32:00.000-05:00

Have you ever met someone that you can honestly say "I have never met anyone like you"? Well, my good friend, Laina, is one of those people. I get that warm and fuzzy feeling when I am around her. She is genuine, loving and intelligent and I enjoy every minute I get to spend with her. She and her family are very special to me! We recently had a session at her home and here are some of my favs!

Rock Star!

Last chance for mom to dress him this way!

His room is a cowboy room so he dressed the part!

Pure sweetness!!!!

Baby bro is 6 months old - time for another one, Laina!

Some porch pictures.

Thanks Laina - I love you, girl!

Does he look like he is newborn?

2008-01-24T18:44:00.000-05:00

This baby came out of the womb looking like a little boy! He is 6 weeks in these photos and he looks like he is 3 months. He was so alert and such a joy to photograph! Congratulations to the new Mom and Dad!

Are you confused yet?

2008-01-20T15:34:00.000-05:00

For those of you who are going to my blog and wondering why it is Life Gallery instead of TracyA Photography - stay tuned! There are going to be a few more changes and it is here that you will find out about them. I don't want to overwhelm you with all the details, but we are opening a new studio this year. We changed the name to reflect our vision for the new studio.

After this past holiday season I knew that I needed to #1 get the business out of my home (when you grow it can take over your home) and #2 I needed full-time help. I was literally turning away business almost every day in December. So, to my lovely clients that referred me to their friends and family and I was not able to fit them in - I'm sorry.

This year will be different. It is an exciting time for me and for you! Our new studio will offer things you won't be able to get anywhere else in our area. I will keep you guys posted on new developments.

Ciao for now!

One of my latest 1 year cuties!

2008-01-19T12:25:00.001-05:00

This is one of my sweet first baby families. Mom is always trying to work the appointments around Dad's schedule so he can experience his baby daughter's photo sessions. And cudos for Dad because he is excited about coming to a photo session!! Beautiful family to work with. It is always bittersweet to do my 1 year olds - I know I won't be seeing them so often! Here is a sneak peek for you guys!

I love these!

We try to add Dad where we can!

Hats are my new fav thing!

Not hers!