House on a Hill Photography: Blog https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog en-us House on a Hill Photography | Nashville, TN | Phone: 405-615-8400 | Email: houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) Mon, 16 Mar 2020 06:31:00 GMT Mon, 16 Mar 2020 06:31:00 GMT https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/img/s/v-12/u405961546-o882529242-50.jpg House on a Hill Photography: Blog https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog 120 80 Christmas Card Mini Sessions... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/11/christmas-card-mini-sessions
I held my first ever "Mini Sessions" a couple Saturdays ago. It was way fun, and exhausting. Two major lessons learned:
1. Dressing professional to do my shoots is a must, but I am also thinking that a segway is a must as well.
2. A granola bar after the 2nd shoot would have been helpful. I don't do good on an empty stomach. (But, I had been reading the Hunger Games, and if Katniss can survive so can I!)


My first family session was with the Regesters. Three cute little boys with no lack of smiles. They did so wonderful. I had them sit at a table and the youngest told a story, and he had some sort of monologue memorized! It was amazing! This is a beautiful family and I was glad for the chance to shoot these memories for them...








Second family up was the Stacy family. My hubs and I have had their three youngest kiddos in class at church when they were a bit younger, and I was so glad to get to spend this 30 minutes with them again! I was greeted with hugs, and it just doesn't get much better than that. This is an absolutely beautiful  and sweet family, and I have been waiting for a chance to do their photos for awhile now, and was so glad to finally do them! Their eyes! Oh my! Just wait and see... 








Lastly were my good friends, the Geis family. 

I was glad I knew this last family so well, because as previously stated, I was in need of some foods. I always drink coffee before my sessions, and the combo of caffeine, running around the gardens, and it being dinner time, made me a bit on the light headed and loopy side. But, I will able to power through and get some photos. Some pretty dang good ones too, which is 10% because of my doing and about 90% because of theirs. 








I had prepared little signs for each of my families to hold. It family would hold signs that would be a line from a popular Christmas song. The Geis family got: "Peace on earth Goodwill to men." When I handed the youngest her sign, which was "on" she said, "Oh, I get 'NO'." We laughed, cause she was just reading it upside down. I gave this family this particular phrase with the word "peace" in it so that I could do a shot of, shall we say, "real life" of them all being crazy and "real." Well, when the youngest called her "on" sign "no" I had the idea to hold up the signs "no peace" after the original. It turned out great and perfectly "real." Love this family...

Thank you Regester, Stacy, and Geis Family! 

Total photos in 2012: 1,625



]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/11/christmas-card-mini-sessions Mon, 05 Nov 2012 08:46:00 GMT A very cold day at BFC Soccer... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/10/a-very-cold-day-at-bfc-soccer
Is there any question as to why I would want to be a photographer in Florida instead of Oklahoma?? ;)

But alas, an Oklahoma photographer I am. And soccer is one of those sports that does NOT get canceled for the cold weather. So, me and my wonderful helper (the hubs) woke up bright and early on this blustery day in October to take photos of over 100 soccer players.

We bundled up and got on with business.

I am pretty sure that I broke a record for the "most photos taken of little red noses" that day.

The kids were such great sports, and for the most part seem to be excited by the change in the weather. I tried to get through the photos as fast as possible to not prolong their jumping back into their cars and cranking up that heat!

Thank you BFC Soccer players and parents! Thank you for your business and the chance to "chill" with you on a Saturday morning. lol. Oh man. ;)

Here are of few of the red noses themselves... :)



Still reaching toward my goal for the year...

My goal is to deliver 2012 photos to clients in 2012...

Here is my total after this day at BFC Soccer: drumroll....

1, 550 photos delivered!

Still have a ways to go, but I am hopeful! :)


]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/10/a-very-cold-day-at-bfc-soccer Wed, 24 Oct 2012 09:03:00 GMT Thank You for my Birthday... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/10/thank-you-for-my-birthday  Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!
I look forward to all that is ahead for my photography business, but enjoyed very much today looking back. Here are a few of the moments that I captured over the last year...
As always enjoy, and again thank you SO, so much...
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/10/thank-you-for-my-birthday Mon, 08 Oct 2012 13:33:00 GMT Your 9 step process to Christmas Card Awesomeness... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/10/your-9-step-process-to-christmas-card
   Now, I know that for some of you the thought of getting your family all put together for photos is super intimidating. I promise you it is not that bad, and it will be worth the little effort that you will put forth. When you call me to set up your time I will even help you with what to wear! SO here are your easy steps to amazing family photos and beautiful Christmas cards, HERE WE GO:

  1. CALL ME. #405-615-8400
  2. We set a time and place.
  3. You and your family show up at said time and place, and so do I! 
  4. Great photos take place over a 30 minute time period. 
  5. You pay $100
  6. You get your photos edited, and posted on my website for download, and I make you a disc of your images as well. 
  7. You choose from the Christmas Card designs below, and I make your 25 cards for you! (if you need more than 25, it will $25-$35 per additional 25 cards depending on which design you choose)
  8. I send you your disc, and Christmas cards within a 2 week time period of your shoot. 
  9. YOU SMILE TO YOURSELF as you drink your warm drink and stare at your beautiful Christmas cards. :) 
THE END. Any questions? Please let me know and I look forward to hearing from YOU!




















]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/10/your-9-step-process-to-christmas-card Thu, 04 Oct 2012 09:08:00 GMT M&J Maternity https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/10/m-maternity


I really have a hard time believing that this was my first maternity session. I guess taking all those photos of my own belly when carried my three kiddos felt like sessions to me. But, I am again am grateful to have had this opportunity. My friends Mike and Jamie have been blessed with their first pregnancy, and documenting it through photos is such a privilege. Jamie had some great ideas for the session. We started with a "Thunder" theme, they were both decked out in their OKC Thunder gear and while Jamie held her belly, Mike held his basketball. Basketball is where me and Jamie first got to know each other, as our husbands played ball together in church league.


After a quick change, these two put me in the Autumn mood! Her next idea was for Mike to hold a pumpkin! LOVE. She found this awesome round and perfect pumpkin for the shoot, and poor Mike had to lug that thing all around the Myriad Gardens. (AND I am pretty sure that the grounds keeper thought that we stole the thing, since there were already numerous pumpkins around) :) Mike and Jamie you are beautiful and an amazing couple, and I cannot wait to take photos of you again when you are 3.


2012 Photos in 2012 TOTAL: 1, 300

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/10/m-maternity Thu, 04 Oct 2012 08:45:00 GMT My First Wedding with the Butler Family... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/my-first-wedding-with-butler-family-1









Wow. The Lord blessed me with my first wedding shoot this August. The bride was looking for a good deal (my kind of girl) and I was looking to add some wedding photos to my portfolio. It was a win-win.  It was such a fun experience for me. I had a decent photographer at my own wedding. But. he was an older man that could not really capture all those little details of my day that I spent so much time perfecting. So, as a wedding photographer, that is a HUGE part of my goal. To give the couple a keepsake from their day of all the details. The ones that they remember, and the ones that they won't! Until they see the photo that is. This particular bride called me crying the day I posted her photos. She was such a ball of nerves on her special day (aren't we all that way??) that she didn't get to enjoy all the little things. She was so grateful to have the photos that captured those quickly faded moments. So, SO grateful for this opportunity and look forward to many, many more wedding opportunities.

2012 Photos in 2012 TOTAL: (a wedding REALLY helps this cause) 1, 250!!
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/my-first-wedding-with-butler-family-1 Mon, 10 Sep 2012 13:41:00 GMT My First Wedding with the Butler Family... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/my-first-wedding-with-butler-family









Wow. The Lord blessed me with my first wedding shoot this August. The bride was looking for a good deal (my kind of girl) and I was looking to add some wedding photos to my portfolio. It was a win-win.  It was such a fun experience for me. I had a decent photographer at my own wedding. But. he was an older man that could not really capture all those little details of my day that I spent so much time perfecting. So, as a wedding photographer, that is a HUGE part of my goal. To give the couple a keepsake from their day of all the details. The ones that they remember, and the ones that they won't! Until they see the photo that is. This particular bride called me crying the day I posted her photos. She was such a ball of nerves on her special day (aren't we all that way??) that she didn't get to enjoy all the little things. She was so grateful to have the photos that captured those quickly faded moments. So, SO grateful for this opportunity and look forward to many, many more wedding opportunities.

2012 Photos in 2012 TOTAL: (a wedding REALLY helps this cause) 1, 250!!
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/my-first-wedding-with-butler-family Mon, 10 Sep 2012 13:41:00 GMT Oh Sweet Abby... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/oh-sweet-abby-1




   This sweet girl, besides my own kids, is my first repeat costumer. I have been photographing her since she was just a few months old. Me and her momma grew up together. For this years photos sweet Abby was joined by her momma, grandma, and great-grandma. That is right, four generations. What a privilege this was. All such beautiful and sweet ladies. It was a warm evening in downtown OKC, at the Myriad Garden grounds. We were all sweating by the time the session was over, but I am not sure if that was from the heat or just chasing after sweet Abby! Thank you beautiful ladies, and again what a privilege it was to create such a special time in your lives.

2012 photos in 2012 TOTAL: 1,010
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/oh-sweet-abby-1 Mon, 10 Sep 2012 13:19:00 GMT Oh Sweet Abby... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/oh-sweet-abby




   This sweet girl, besides my own kids, is my first repeat costumer. I have been photographing her since she was just a few months old. Me and her momma grew up together. For this years photos sweet Abby was joined by her momma, grandma, and great-grandma. That is right, four generations. What a privilege this was. All such beautiful and sweet ladies. It was a warm evening in downtown OKC, at the Myriad Garden grounds. We were all sweating by the time the session was over, but I am not sure if that was from the heat or just chasing after sweet Abby! Thank you beautiful ladies, and again what a privilege it was to create such a special time in your lives.

2012 photos in 2012 TOTAL: 1,010
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/oh-sweet-abby Mon, 10 Sep 2012 13:19:00 GMT Caryn, James, and Family... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/caryn-james-and-family-1    So, we dived into getting some poses from these wiggles with freckles, and it was a blast. They were so amazing for me, and I got some amazing shots. We ended the session with some couple photos that were just as fun to shoot as the kids! Thank you Caryn and James for welcoming me into your home, and for the opportunity to photograph you guys! I hope we can do it again soon!






2012 photos in 2012 TOTAL: 940

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/caryn-james-and-family-1 Mon, 10 Sep 2012 09:27:00 GMT Caryn, James, and Family... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/caryn-james-and-family    So, we dived into getting some poses from these wiggles with freckles, and it was a blast. They were so amazing for me, and I got some amazing shots. We ended the session with some couple photos that were just as fun to shoot as the kids! Thank you Caryn and James for welcoming me into your home, and for the opportunity to photograph you guys! I hope we can do it again soon!






2012 photos in 2012 TOTAL: 940

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/caryn-james-and-family Mon, 10 Sep 2012 09:27:00 GMT Such a joy filled family! https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/such-joy-filled-family-1    I have to say, with 4 young children this could have been a way more adventurous adventure than it turned out to be! The kids did so amazing, and were so beautiful to capture. We got them through all the poses, and then let them loose to run at the end. Not wanting the joy on their faces as they ran to go without being captured, I did my best to run ahead of them and get some shots.
   I loved the colors that this family chose, and now that I think about it, I have already planned my family photos for this next week and the colors are very similar! Another moment that I really loved from this session is when I got mom and dad off by themselves for a few shots, and the joy that came out of their faces when they looked at each other was unmeasurable. Thank you McDonald family for the privilege of meeting you and capturing your beautiful family! What a joy!







2012 photos in 2012 TOTAL: 870

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/such-joy-filled-family-1 Mon, 10 Sep 2012 08:57:00 GMT Such a joy filled family! https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/such-joy-filled-family    I have to say, with 4 young children this could have been a way more adventurous adventure than it turned out to be! The kids did so amazing, and were so beautiful to capture. We got them through all the poses, and then let them loose to run at the end. Not wanting the joy on their faces as they ran to go without being captured, I did my best to run ahead of them and get some shots.
   I loved the colors that this family chose, and now that I think about it, I have already planned my family photos for this next week and the colors are very similar! Another moment that I really loved from this session is when I got mom and dad off by themselves for a few shots, and the joy that came out of their faces when they looked at each other was unmeasurable. Thank you McDonald family for the privilege of meeting you and capturing your beautiful family! What a joy!







2012 photos in 2012 TOTAL: 870

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/such-joy-filled-family Mon, 10 Sep 2012 08:57:00 GMT The Delightful Delay's https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/the-delightful-delays-1




2012 photos in 2012 TOTAL: 800


]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/the-delightful-delays-1 Mon, 10 Sep 2012 08:17:00 GMT The Delightful Delay's https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/the-delightful-delays




2012 photos in 2012 TOTAL: 800


]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/the-delightful-delays Mon, 10 Sep 2012 08:17:00 GMT SO behind... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/so-behind-1 ]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/so-behind-1 Sun, 09 Sep 2012 20:31:00 GMT SO behind... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/so-behind ]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/9/so-behind Sun, 09 Sep 2012 20:31:00 GMT Session at the Murrow's Haven... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/session-at-murrows-haven-1    The first thing that I have to say about this Murrow Family is that they are some of the most relaxed people to be around. They are so chill and that made my job even easier. I tried to capture photos of the whole family as well as incorporating some of their beautiful property into the shots. We covered a lot of area, and captured a lot of emotion. And those two things seem to be a general theme of my sessions these days. I enjoyed my time with the Murrow's and hope that Mrs. Murrow feels that this years Mother's Day gift will be one that she can treasure always. (So sentimental I know :)) Thank you Murrow Family! Here are a few highlights...





2012 PHOTOS in 2012 GOAL total so far... 770 photos.
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/session-at-murrows-haven-1 Thu, 31 May 2012 14:10:00 GMT Session at the Murrow's Haven... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/session-at-murrows-haven    The first thing that I have to say about this Murrow Family is that they are some of the most relaxed people to be around. They are so chill and that made my job even easier. I tried to capture photos of the whole family as well as incorporating some of their beautiful property into the shots. We covered a lot of area, and captured a lot of emotion. And those two things seem to be a general theme of my sessions these days. I enjoyed my time with the Murrow's and hope that Mrs. Murrow feels that this years Mother's Day gift will be one that she can treasure always. (So sentimental I know :)) Thank you Murrow Family! Here are a few highlights...





2012 PHOTOS in 2012 GOAL total so far... 770 photos.
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/session-at-murrows-haven Thu, 31 May 2012 14:10:00 GMT One of my favorite families... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/one-of-my-favorite-families-1    Three boys. I used to say that was exactly the number and gender of kids that I wanted when I "grew up." Boys are just awesome. And they hate to take photos, which is totally valid. So, I tried to make it as quick and painless as possible. I did all of the family shots first, which is usually how I structure my shoots, and then move on to the more creative stuff and then individuals. When the kids are young, I like to ask them where THEY want to take their own photos by themselves. So, I asked the first boy... Yep, he wanted to be UP IN THE TREE. Perfect! Give me something to stand on top of and you got it you! So, we ventured that shot and several more. When I declared to the boys that I was done with them (HEADS UP... as a photographer I am never "done with you" until I actually drive off) I blinked and they had changed into "play clothes" and were already wrapped up in a driveway ball game. Oh, and there were some shooting of some arrows that was happening as well.







   Needless to say, I enjoyed my time with the wonderful Sinor family. I am so grateful for their irreplaceable influence on my life as a young teen, and for the chance to see them with their awesome three boys. I leave you with a few of my favorites from their shoot...

2012 PHOTOS in 2012 GOAL total so far... 700 photos, yay!
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/one-of-my-favorite-families-1 Wed, 30 May 2012 07:38:00 GMT One of my favorite families... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/one-of-my-favorite-families    Three boys. I used to say that was exactly the number and gender of kids that I wanted when I "grew up." Boys are just awesome. And they hate to take photos, which is totally valid. So, I tried to make it as quick and painless as possible. I did all of the family shots first, which is usually how I structure my shoots, and then move on to the more creative stuff and then individuals. When the kids are young, I like to ask them where THEY want to take their own photos by themselves. So, I asked the first boy... Yep, he wanted to be UP IN THE TREE. Perfect! Give me something to stand on top of and you got it you! So, we ventured that shot and several more. When I declared to the boys that I was done with them (HEADS UP... as a photographer I am never "done with you" until I actually drive off) I blinked and they had changed into "play clothes" and were already wrapped up in a driveway ball game. Oh, and there were some shooting of some arrows that was happening as well.







   Needless to say, I enjoyed my time with the wonderful Sinor family. I am so grateful for their irreplaceable influence on my life as a young teen, and for the chance to see them with their awesome three boys. I leave you with a few of my favorites from their shoot...

2012 PHOTOS in 2012 GOAL total so far... 700 photos, yay!
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/one-of-my-favorite-families Wed, 30 May 2012 07:38:00 GMT Fun times at BFC Indoor Soccer... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/fun-times-at-bfc-indoor-soccer-1    I recently just wrapped up shooting for the BFC Indoor Soccer league. It is indoor soccer for 3 and 4 year olds. Aka... Good ole fashion entertainment! My first task was to cover one day of games and get some "action shots" of these kiddos. It was their second game and some of the kids were not so comfortable being out their on the "big soccer stage" quite yet. So, there were some tears, but also lots of smiles as well. It was a fun time to watch and be a part of.
   Then this last Saturday it was time to do the kiddos portraits! We started the photos at 8:30 AM on a Saturday morning, the morning AFTER the 9:30 Thunder game, FYI. Yea, I was dragging. I couldn't do this job without coffee... So, I loaded up on it and got to work! I chose simple posing, a little "criss cross apple sauce" with one hand on a soccer ball. It worked pretty well. I got some great smiles for so early!




   I am, again, so grateful for this opportunity and look forward to all the different sports I will get to cover this year. Thank you BFC Recreation Staff and BFC Rec Parents for having me! I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I enjoy shooting them...

 2012 PHOTOS in 2012 TOTAL... 630!
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/fun-times-at-bfc-indoor-soccer-1 Mon, 21 May 2012 19:37:00 GMT Fun times at BFC Indoor Soccer... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/fun-times-at-bfc-indoor-soccer    I recently just wrapped up shooting for the BFC Indoor Soccer league. It is indoor soccer for 3 and 4 year olds. Aka... Good ole fashion entertainment! My first task was to cover one day of games and get some "action shots" of these kiddos. It was their second game and some of the kids were not so comfortable being out their on the "big soccer stage" quite yet. So, there were some tears, but also lots of smiles as well. It was a fun time to watch and be a part of.
   Then this last Saturday it was time to do the kiddos portraits! We started the photos at 8:30 AM on a Saturday morning, the morning AFTER the 9:30 Thunder game, FYI. Yea, I was dragging. I couldn't do this job without coffee... So, I loaded up on it and got to work! I chose simple posing, a little "criss cross apple sauce" with one hand on a soccer ball. It worked pretty well. I got some great smiles for so early!




   I am, again, so grateful for this opportunity and look forward to all the different sports I will get to cover this year. Thank you BFC Recreation Staff and BFC Rec Parents for having me! I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I enjoy shooting them...

 2012 PHOTOS in 2012 TOTAL... 630!
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/fun-times-at-bfc-indoor-soccer Mon, 21 May 2012 19:37:00 GMT 1st installment of: "A moment of unproductive reflection"... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/1st-installment-of-moment-of-1    When I was a little girl and someone asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, my answer was always the same: an artist. I wanted to sit in a well lit room with an easel and create art to my hearts content and be paid for it. I think that is what I considered being an "artist" at that time.
   I had not idea when I was younger what all sorts of shapes and sizes "artists" came in. It turns out that "artist" is about as broad of a term as "food." I enjoy experimenting and enjoying the gambit of art that there is in our world. I like to think that that part of me is that little bit of our Creator that was placed in me (based on the whole "in His image" thought). I believe now that "ONE DOES NOT SIMPLY BECOME AN ARTIST" one just is one. :)
   I could go on and on, but frankly my kids are interrupting my thoughts and I need to go and make some burritos. So, I will continue these thoughts another time... Unproductive time is officially over. :)
 
 
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/1st-installment-of-moment-of-1 Thu, 10 May 2012 15:03:00 GMT 1st installment of: "A moment of unproductive reflection"... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/1st-installment-of-moment-of    When I was a little girl and someone asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, my answer was always the same: an artist. I wanted to sit in a well lit room with an easel and create art to my hearts content and be paid for it. I think that is what I considered being an "artist" at that time.
   I had not idea when I was younger what all sorts of shapes and sizes "artists" came in. It turns out that "artist" is about as broad of a term as "food." I enjoy experimenting and enjoying the gambit of art that there is in our world. I like to think that that part of me is that little bit of our Creator that was placed in me (based on the whole "in His image" thought). I believe now that "ONE DOES NOT SIMPLY BECOME AN ARTIST" one just is one. :)
   I could go on and on, but frankly my kids are interrupting my thoughts and I need to go and make some burritos. So, I will continue these thoughts another time... Unproductive time is officially over. :)
 
 
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/1st-installment-of-moment-of Thu, 10 May 2012 15:03:00 GMT The Fun Flowers Family... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/fun-flowers-family-1
      On a personal note about the location... I had just been going through some old photos and found one of me and my beautiful mom when I was only about 3. We were sitting in front of some yellow flowers and a Will Rogers Statue, well I found said statue as I scoped out the place with my kiddos. There was a cool feeling about being in this place that I was in so long ago with my mom, and grandparents (My papa took the photo with his amazing film camera with the leather case, I remember that thing so well).

   OK, back to this wonderful family that hired me to do their family photos... The Flowers. We found each other on the grounds of the park (after a bit of a search) and realized that we were not ALONE! Yea, it was definitely the place to be to take photos for Prom! I resisted the urge to hand out my card to all of them, SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT: My turn around on my photos can be VERY quick if need be, so if you know any procrastinating Seniors that have not had their photos done yet, tell em about me! :) SHAMELESS PLUG IN NOW COMPLETE.

   We dodged the Prom-mers and started our session. I had a plan mapped out, and we tried to take advantage of the natural beauty that was there, as well as using some of the old structures that looked like they had been there since before I was three for sure! I am still working on how to have a good dialogue with my clients during our session, a productive dialogue that allow them to feel comfortable with me, and for me to try to bring some joy and emotion out of them, which makes the best photos. This family played into my hand so well. Their laughter and reactions to each other made some of the best moments of the session.

   Thank you so much Flowers family for the privilege of helping you capture some moments in your lives. I am very grateful for the chance and hope I can serve you in the future as well! As always, I leave you with a few of my personal favorites from the session...










2012 PHOTOS in 2012 TOTAL: 530!!!
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/fun-flowers-family-1 Tue, 01 May 2012 15:04:00 GMT The Fun Flowers Family... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/fun-flowers-family
      On a personal note about the location... I had just been going through some old photos and found one of me and my beautiful mom when I was only about 3. We were sitting in front of some yellow flowers and a Will Rogers Statue, well I found said statue as I scoped out the place with my kiddos. There was a cool feeling about being in this place that I was in so long ago with my mom, and grandparents (My papa took the photo with his amazing film camera with the leather case, I remember that thing so well).

   OK, back to this wonderful family that hired me to do their family photos... The Flowers. We found each other on the grounds of the park (after a bit of a search) and realized that we were not ALONE! Yea, it was definitely the place to be to take photos for Prom! I resisted the urge to hand out my card to all of them, SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT: My turn around on my photos can be VERY quick if need be, so if you know any procrastinating Seniors that have not had their photos done yet, tell em about me! :) SHAMELESS PLUG IN NOW COMPLETE.

   We dodged the Prom-mers and started our session. I had a plan mapped out, and we tried to take advantage of the natural beauty that was there, as well as using some of the old structures that looked like they had been there since before I was three for sure! I am still working on how to have a good dialogue with my clients during our session, a productive dialogue that allow them to feel comfortable with me, and for me to try to bring some joy and emotion out of them, which makes the best photos. This family played into my hand so well. Their laughter and reactions to each other made some of the best moments of the session.

   Thank you so much Flowers family for the privilege of helping you capture some moments in your lives. I am very grateful for the chance and hope I can serve you in the future as well! As always, I leave you with a few of my personal favorites from the session...










2012 PHOTOS in 2012 TOTAL: 530!!!
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/5/fun-flowers-family Tue, 01 May 2012 15:04:00 GMT Second Annual Gerding Family Photos... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/second-annual-gerding-family-photos-1    It was an absolutely gorgeous Saturday morning in downtown OKC. I arrived early about 9 am for our 9:30 am shoot because I was curious if they were going to have the "Festival of the Arts" tents set up already... We were shooting on the grounds of the Myriad Gardens, so I needed to make sure that none of those ugly vinyl tents were going to be in my backgrounds. (Don't get me wrong, if I were doing a circus themed shoot those tents would have been AMAZING! note to self: schedule a circus themed shoot in downtown next year around the end of April) Anyways, all of my locations for the shoot were tent free and so with 15 minutes to spare before my shoot I proceeded to test some lighting and my... DRUMROLL.... AMAZING NEW 1.8 LENS!
   In a nutshell the 1.8 lens is... utterly amazing. It allow me to focus on a certain spot in closer detail... For example... If you look very closely and zoom in on my closeups, with the 1.8 lens, you can see me in my subjects eye ball! I know! It is almost so amazing it is creepy! But cool! Alright, from my use of now about 10 exclamation points you know how excited I am about this new piece of equipment, so I will be done talking about it, for now ;) Back to talking about this wonderful Gerding family.
   The Gerding family has a 3 year old boy and turning 1 this week baby girl. And those two siblings have the most wonderful pair of eyes you have ever seen. They are blue eyes, but the blue has so many hints of white and light running through them that they just make for some amazing images. Because their eyes have so much contrast to them, when I make their images black and white, their eyes almost have even more of an impact. They make making beautiful images pretty easy to say the least. THEN I get a few close ups of mom and dad, and I can see clearly where those kiddos got those beautiful eyes.
   We ended our shoot with a trip to "Pinkitzel" a local cupcakery in downtown. We wanted to get some shots of the soon to be one year old enjoying herself with a birthday cupcake. And Oh did she ever enjoy herself. Her little smirk on her face when that mound of sugary goodness was set before her was priceless. I want to give a shout out to Pinkitzel as well for being SO accommodating to us. I got to the cupcakery and talked with them about what I wanted to do with my clients and they were more than willing to let us shoot in the store and even gave us permission to use one of the beautifully set up party rooms! Your kindness is well noted Pinkitzel. Well noted.
    Over all the morning ended with some amazing moments being captured with my camera. Some that this family will be able to treasure forever. Thank you faithful Gerding Family! The pleasure was all mine! I leave you of course with some of my personal favorites from the day...









UPDATE: It is still my goal to deliver 2012 photos to my clients in 2012! 
After this session my total is officially....
450!

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/second-annual-gerding-family-photos-1 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:47:00 GMT Second Annual Gerding Family Photos... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/second-annual-gerding-family-photos    It was an absolutely gorgeous Saturday morning in downtown OKC. I arrived early about 9 am for our 9:30 am shoot because I was curious if they were going to have the "Festival of the Arts" tents set up already... We were shooting on the grounds of the Myriad Gardens, so I needed to make sure that none of those ugly vinyl tents were going to be in my backgrounds. (Don't get me wrong, if I were doing a circus themed shoot those tents would have been AMAZING! note to self: schedule a circus themed shoot in downtown next year around the end of April) Anyways, all of my locations for the shoot were tent free and so with 15 minutes to spare before my shoot I proceeded to test some lighting and my... DRUMROLL.... AMAZING NEW 1.8 LENS!
   In a nutshell the 1.8 lens is... utterly amazing. It allow me to focus on a certain spot in closer detail... For example... If you look very closely and zoom in on my closeups, with the 1.8 lens, you can see me in my subjects eye ball! I know! It is almost so amazing it is creepy! But cool! Alright, from my use of now about 10 exclamation points you know how excited I am about this new piece of equipment, so I will be done talking about it, for now ;) Back to talking about this wonderful Gerding family.
   The Gerding family has a 3 year old boy and turning 1 this week baby girl. And those two siblings have the most wonderful pair of eyes you have ever seen. They are blue eyes, but the blue has so many hints of white and light running through them that they just make for some amazing images. Because their eyes have so much contrast to them, when I make their images black and white, their eyes almost have even more of an impact. They make making beautiful images pretty easy to say the least. THEN I get a few close ups of mom and dad, and I can see clearly where those kiddos got those beautiful eyes.
   We ended our shoot with a trip to "Pinkitzel" a local cupcakery in downtown. We wanted to get some shots of the soon to be one year old enjoying herself with a birthday cupcake. And Oh did she ever enjoy herself. Her little smirk on her face when that mound of sugary goodness was set before her was priceless. I want to give a shout out to Pinkitzel as well for being SO accommodating to us. I got to the cupcakery and talked with them about what I wanted to do with my clients and they were more than willing to let us shoot in the store and even gave us permission to use one of the beautifully set up party rooms! Your kindness is well noted Pinkitzel. Well noted.
    Over all the morning ended with some amazing moments being captured with my camera. Some that this family will be able to treasure forever. Thank you faithful Gerding Family! The pleasure was all mine! I leave you of course with some of my personal favorites from the day...









UPDATE: It is still my goal to deliver 2012 photos to my clients in 2012! 
After this session my total is officially....
450!

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/second-annual-gerding-family-photos Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:47:00 GMT Lyric in Bricktown... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/lyric-in-bricktown-1    We met in Bricktown. I have shot in the Myriad Gardens grounds several times in the last few months, but I have not shot in Bricktown ever! So, creatively I was very excited just to be challenged with new scenery. In the block that we covered, there were so many places that stood out to me, and I was so excited to shoot them with Lyric as the centerpiece. Being in Bricktown and all there was obviously a lot of brick involved in our shoot...








I so enjoyed this Senior session with Miss Lyric. I hope you and your family are able to enjoy and treasure these photos for a long time. Thank you for the opportunity to do them. 

2012 photos in 2012 TOTAL so far... 350 :)

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/lyric-in-bricktown-1 Fri, 13 Apr 2012 11:59:00 GMT Lyric in Bricktown... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/lyric-in-bricktown    We met in Bricktown. I have shot in the Myriad Gardens grounds several times in the last few months, but I have not shot in Bricktown ever! So, creatively I was very excited just to be challenged with new scenery. In the block that we covered, there were so many places that stood out to me, and I was so excited to shoot them with Lyric as the centerpiece. Being in Bricktown and all there was obviously a lot of brick involved in our shoot...








I so enjoyed this Senior session with Miss Lyric. I hope you and your family are able to enjoy and treasure these photos for a long time. Thank you for the opportunity to do them. 

2012 photos in 2012 TOTAL so far... 350 :)

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/lyric-in-bricktown Fri, 13 Apr 2012 11:59:00 GMT A new look... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/new-look-1 ]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/new-look-1 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 07:17:00 GMT A new look... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/new-look ]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/4/new-look Wed, 04 Apr 2012 07:17:00 GMT All the 9 of us... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/all-9-of-us-1    My clients arrived, a family of nine, and we started in on our adventure. It was mom and dad, 6 kiddos, and a grand baby. I found that while I was planning for this session I was trying to really come up with some new and creative things to do in the gardens. When you have shot in the same location so many times, it can begin to feel like you are just repeating yourself, and I am not OK with that. So, I did do a few of the same poses that I have previously done, but tried to be original with this one. I always want to be challenging myself and growing as a photographer.
   It was a great over all shoot. The kids did so well, that 11 month old baby did amazing! I was impressed! Post nap is definitely the best time for babies. I am proud of these photos, and I hope that the family treasures them for many, many years to come... Here are a few of my favorites...



]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/all-9-of-us-1 Tue, 13 Mar 2012 12:36:00 GMT All the 9 of us... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/all-9-of-us    My clients arrived, a family of nine, and we started in on our adventure. It was mom and dad, 6 kiddos, and a grand baby. I found that while I was planning for this session I was trying to really come up with some new and creative things to do in the gardens. When you have shot in the same location so many times, it can begin to feel like you are just repeating yourself, and I am not OK with that. So, I did do a few of the same poses that I have previously done, but tried to be original with this one. I always want to be challenging myself and growing as a photographer.
   It was a great over all shoot. The kids did so well, that 11 month old baby did amazing! I was impressed! Post nap is definitely the best time for babies. I am proud of these photos, and I hope that the family treasures them for many, many years to come... Here are a few of my favorites...



]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/all-9-of-us Tue, 13 Mar 2012 12:36:00 GMT Promo for PROM https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/promo-for-prom-1    I would love to be your pre-PROM photographer! It is only $100 per hour for an on location shoot. (HINT: if you have 3 other buddies there, that is only $25 a piece per hour!) As nostalgic as that cheesy photo is with the fake stars in it will be that you will take at the actual prom, my photos will be a bit more of a beautiful keepsake for you and your family. Prom is such a fun time in life, and I would love to be there to help you capture those moments. Enjoy some of my previous pre-PROM sessions... and please pass this on to anyone who may be interested! Thanks!








]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/promo-for-prom-1 Wed, 07 Mar 2012 13:10:00 GMT Promo for PROM https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/promo-for-prom    I would love to be your pre-PROM photographer! It is only $100 per hour for an on location shoot. (HINT: if you have 3 other buddies there, that is only $25 a piece per hour!) As nostalgic as that cheesy photo is with the fake stars in it will be that you will take at the actual prom, my photos will be a bit more of a beautiful keepsake for you and your family. Prom is such a fun time in life, and I would love to be there to help you capture those moments. Enjoy some of my previous pre-PROM sessions... and please pass this on to anyone who may be interested! Thanks!








]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/promo-for-prom Wed, 07 Mar 2012 13:10:00 GMT Cousins... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/cousins-1    Back to the blog about the actual shoot... Myriad gardens, on a little bit of a chilly Saturday, I met three cute kiddos that were willing to brave the chilliness for some photos. The mom styled this little ones so well. The brilliant blue popped so well against the natural hues of the beautiful garden area. It was a lot of fun, and I am so grateful for my chance to do this shoot. Here are a few...





2012 photos in 2012 Goal...
Running Total: 152

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/cousins-1 Mon, 05 Mar 2012 19:02:00 GMT Cousins... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/cousins    Back to the blog about the actual shoot... Myriad gardens, on a little bit of a chilly Saturday, I met three cute kiddos that were willing to brave the chilliness for some photos. The mom styled this little ones so well. The brilliant blue popped so well against the natural hues of the beautiful garden area. It was a lot of fun, and I am so grateful for my chance to do this shoot. Here are a few...





2012 photos in 2012 Goal...
Running Total: 152

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/3/cousins Mon, 05 Mar 2012 19:02:00 GMT 2012 Photos UPDATE... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/2012-photos-update-1                                                 ......................DRUM ROLL.................................

82!

Haha, yea. Not the most impressive number, but hey it is better than ZERO! I will take it and be very grateful! Thanks so all that contributed to it! March is already looking pretty promising... ;)
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/2012-photos-update-1 Sun, 26 Feb 2012 12:56:00 GMT 2012 Photos UPDATE... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/2012-photos-update                                                 ......................DRUM ROLL.................................

82!

Haha, yea. Not the most impressive number, but hey it is better than ZERO! I will take it and be very grateful! Thanks so all that contributed to it! March is already looking pretty promising... ;)
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/2012-photos-update Sun, 26 Feb 2012 12:56:00 GMT Sisters... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/sisters-1







   I hope you will consider the "Photo Booth" as a great alternative to the stressful "mall photo studios." Trust me, I have spent my share of time in those things, and just remember how stressful it was with my first born to try to get the best shots. In the "Photo Booth" I take about 100-150 shots in that thirty minute time period. That allows me to then go back through and edit to get a collection of about 50 of the best shots possible. Each 30 minute mini session in the "House on a Hill Photo Booth" is only $50 for up to 3 children, and then an additional $25 per child if there is more than 3. Contact me today to schedule your own session!
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/sisters-1 Sun, 26 Feb 2012 12:29:00 GMT Sisters... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/sisters







   I hope you will consider the "Photo Booth" as a great alternative to the stressful "mall photo studios." Trust me, I have spent my share of time in those things, and just remember how stressful it was with my first born to try to get the best shots. In the "Photo Booth" I take about 100-150 shots in that thirty minute time period. That allows me to then go back through and edit to get a collection of about 50 of the best shots possible. Each 30 minute mini session in the "House on a Hill Photo Booth" is only $50 for up to 3 children, and then an additional $25 per child if there is more than 3. Contact me today to schedule your own session!
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/sisters Sun, 26 Feb 2012 12:29:00 GMT Taking "FLIGHT"'s photos... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/taking-flights-photos-1     So, I tried a new, really basic, simple (in theory), team photo with this team. I pose them all standing on the half circle of the half court circle. Yea, trying to get 7 seven year olds to stand still on a line, equally spaced a part, hands to their sides, and not giving me a funny face or evil look? NOT easy. I usually have my own style of team shots that is very relaxed and fun for the team to do. Lesson learned. Don't change what is working for ya. :) Below are a few samples from the shoot. And please contact me if you have any need of sports photography in your own life. ;)
This is a friend of mine's kid. He always has to have his "hair flare" for photos. Love it. 

I always do one silly photo that I usually include for free with all my orders. This will be the one this time. 

Via a suggestion from the audience, we decided to get creative with our "Coach and Son" shot. It was pretty full of drama and I am kinda in amazement that this photo turned out so well. Let us just say that the little boy from not so keen on being up on his tall daddy's shoulders. :)

So fun "FLIGHT". Thanks again!

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/taking-flights-photos-1 Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:49:00 GMT Taking "FLIGHT"'s photos... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/taking-flights-photos     So, I tried a new, really basic, simple (in theory), team photo with this team. I pose them all standing on the half circle of the half court circle. Yea, trying to get 7 seven year olds to stand still on a line, equally spaced a part, hands to their sides, and not giving me a funny face or evil look? NOT easy. I usually have my own style of team shots that is very relaxed and fun for the team to do. Lesson learned. Don't change what is working for ya. :) Below are a few samples from the shoot. And please contact me if you have any need of sports photography in your own life. ;)
This is a friend of mine's kid. He always has to have his "hair flare" for photos. Love it. 

I always do one silly photo that I usually include for free with all my orders. This will be the one this time. 

Via a suggestion from the audience, we decided to get creative with our "Coach and Son" shot. It was pretty full of drama and I am kinda in amazement that this photo turned out so well. Let us just say that the little boy from not so keen on being up on his tall daddy's shoulders. :)

So fun "FLIGHT". Thanks again!

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/taking-flights-photos Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:49:00 GMT Daddy/Daughter Dance... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/daddydaughter-dance


They were on their way to a daddy and daughter dance, for a very special evening...

I know that these photos will not bring you as much joy as they bring me, but I hope you can appreciate them at least :) and you know what? Tears are OK...

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/daddydaughter-dance Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:47:00 GMT Got some hoop dreams at the... YMCA! https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/got-some-hoop-dreams-at-ymca Way too stressful. But, after my wonderful husband got there, the stress was relieved and it was time to take some amazing photos. Thanks team, I had a blast!


I always do one "somewhat normal" team shot, and one "off the cuff". This would be the "off the cuff", I told them that they could do whatever pose they wanted...

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/2/got-some-hoop-dreams-at-ymca Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:32:00 GMT A Thunder Valentine... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/1/thunder-valentine






I hope you enjoyed these, and remember... The Valentine's Photo Booth is OPEN now for only $50 for a thirty minute session! Call or E-mail for any details...

]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/1/thunder-valentine Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:11:00 GMT A Vintage Valentine... https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/1/vintage-valentine




]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/1/vintage-valentine Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:23:00 GMT Valentine's Photo Booth is OPEN! https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/1/valentines-photo-booth-is-open


 and then give you the link to my online gallery so you can see the entire slideshow... Here is the link...
www.houseonahillphotograpy.zenfolio.com

 If you are interested in having a small session ($50 for a thirty minute session, which gives you all the rights to the photos on a CD, or you can have me print them for you) in the Valentine's Photo Booth, please email me @ houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (the dinosaur is optional, and actually the whole set is totally customizable to your own preferences)
]]> houseonahillphotog@yahoo.com (House on a Hill Photography) https://www.houseonahillphotography.com/blog/2012/1/valentines-photo-booth-is-open Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:03:00 GMT