enjoy creations

Good-Bye Evergreens, Hello Palm Trees!

2011-09-04T08:43:00.001-07:00

A little over a week ago I had the opportunity to head to Southern California to take some pictures of my niece, who's a senior, my sisters family and also do an evening of mini-shoots in Claremont, coordinated by a friend of mine. It was a busy and fun few days and so much fun shooting in a different climate with different backdrops. We did this shoot of my sisters family around the University of Redlands. We ended our 8:00 shoot (yes, my nephews love me) at the fountain and some chose to do a little cooling off since temps were creeping closer and closer to 100 degrees.

Remember to "Like" Simply Enjoy Photography on Facebook for sneak peeks on recent shoots. I'll eventually get back to regular blogging...sometime!

Enjoy this beautiful Labor Day weekend!

Into the Woods - More Dan and Shelli

2011-08-22T11:35:00.000-07:00

Trying to get these two to keep a straight face was quite entertaining but I think it was worth it!

Family and senior shoots are in full swing. Be sure to "Like" Simply Enjoy Photography on Facebook to see sneak peeks of recent shoots. If you're thinking of scheduling anything in the next few months contact me soon!

More of Brandi and Dillon

2011-08-10T08:40:00.000-07:00

Brandi and Dillon's wedding day was picture perfect. They were surrounded by family and friends. Their ceremony took place in Brandi's grandparents beautiful backyard. Blossoms Floral did an amazing job with the flowers and the rest of the details were planned out perfectly. They ended the day with a reception the Expo building at the fairgrounds. Congratulations you two! Thank you for allowing us to spend the day with you capturing the start of your new life together!

Another birthday girl!

2011-08-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

Emri turned one last month and I loved capturing her sweet smile and personality! Her parents just adore her and it was fun watching them all interact together. Happy Birthday, Emri! You are loved!

Check it out!

2011-07-29T23:28:00.000-07:00

My friend, Wendi, who shoots with me at weddings and other larger events/family sessions recently took some fun photos for her neighbors new business, Simple Miss. Her neighbors, the Van Dalens, are adopting another little boy and Melissa started this little business to raise funds for adoption and orphan care. She is busy making some adorable vintage fashion accessories. Head on over to Simple Miss to check out Wendi's great photos featuring Melissa's fun accessories!

And because I needed to add some photos to this post here's a few from last weekend and our little trip to Fort Worden in Port Townsend, WA. If you're looking for a great place to explore, play and walk the beaches, this is the place for you!

Birthday Girl!

2011-07-27T23:21:00.000-07:00

This sweet thing just turned one! She was loving her moment in front of the camera and her personality was so much fun to capture.

We got the rest of the family in on the action, too!

They're all filled with personality and are what make my job so much fun!

Their cousin even got in on some of the fun, too.

A little more Kaysha and Ryan (or maybe a lot more!)

2011-07-20T23:06:00.000-07:00

We've said it before but we want to say it again, we had a great time with you, Kaysha and Ryan on your wedding day! We loved all the details and thought that went into so much of your day. Your grandma's broach on your bouquet and her buttons on your vein, the family prayer during the ceremony, the Savery Sweet Shop at the reception (if I remember right Grandpa Savery owned a candy shop) and I know there's more but I can't seem to remember them all right now! What a beautiful day it was.

A little more of Jesse and Lindy!

2011-07-12T00:35:00.000-07:00

Congratulations once again, you two! May God bless you as you begin your life together and head back to school at the end of the summer! We loved working with you!

As always, all weddings are shot with Wendi Vander Veen. Thank you, Wendi, for being awesome and making these days so great!

Rest

2011-07-11T00:12:00.000-07:00

Sunday is a day of rest. We all have different thoughts on what that might be but one thing I have made a point of doing recently is not doing any work related stuff on my computer. I would never get my own personal stuff done if I didn't carve out some time to do it. So, Sundays are my day to play! Here's a look at what I finally have going for this years Project 365. I have all my photos for each day saved but I couldn't come up with the look that I wanted. Today was the day and I got a bunch done....hurray! My original hope was to design a layout I loved and al the elements to go along with it. Time has not been on my side so I went to where I always do when I'm stuck, Ali Edwards designs over at Designer Digitals. I'm keeping things rather simple this year. I'm looking at photos from the week rather than focusing on getting one each day. It just doesn't happen all the time and I usually end up with several from one day that I love and none on another day so. I'm also just journaling in one box, summarizing the week rather than separate boxes for each day. I never journal much anyway so that will work out great. The two items I picked up today to use are the Remember This and That Paper Collection and the Remember This and That Element Collection. Click HERE for a look at last years book and click HERE for the year before.

If you are working on a Project 365, how is your book coming?

Dan and Shelli

2011-07-04T09:33:00.000-07:00

What a perfect night for this amazing wedding! Every detail was perfectly planned and it was so much fun trying to capture them all. Thank you, Dan and Shelli, for allowing us to be part of your big day!

Flowers: Blossoms Floral

Unwrapped!

2011-07-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Tune in to "Unwrapped" on the Food Network tonight. They filmed an episode with Rader Farms that airs at 9:00 p.m.

Tomorrow!

2011-07-01T22:06:00.000-07:00

Dan and Shelli's big day is tomorrow. We can't wait!

Summer Love

2011-06-25T19:59:00.000-07:00

Last night was the most beautiful summer evening and the perfect night for Brandi and Dillon's outdoor wedding. Brandi, you did an amazing job planning all the details. You two made our job easy and so much fun! This is just the start, more to come from this great night!

Flowers: Blossoms

Signs of Summer

2011-06-21T23:32:00.000-07:00

On this first day of summer I saw evidence that summer is finally here!

What are some things you're seeing that say it's summer time?

Home again

2011-06-19T20:43:00.000-07:00

About 12 hours after coming home from Kaysha and Ryan's wedding my family and I were packed up and on the road headed to one of the most breathtaking places in the world (in my opinion). :) We had a great week hiking and exploring our way around Banff and Jasper up in Alberta, Canada. We had no phones, no internet, no t.v., nothing and it was awesome!

Now, it's back back to work! Full speed ahead for a summer full of family photos, weddings, senior pics and more! Give me a shout (simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com) if you want to get on the schedule. Weekends are starting to fill up but weekdays are fairly open as of right now.

Together Forever

2011-06-11T23:35:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist getting a few photos up of Kaysha and Ryan's wedding today. What a beautiful celebration shared with so many family and friends. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your day!

Flowers: Alice Joy

Sweet, sweet, sweet!!!

2011-06-10T23:16:00.000-07:00

I could have gone on and on and on but thought I better stop. These 3 gems are my nieces and we had such a fun night just playing in the field. Thanks girls, for making my night so great!

It's The End

2011-06-08T22:13:00.000-07:00

At the end of the school year there's soooooo much stuff that comes home and it can get a little overwhelming. I had a couple of my favorite teachers tell me, with smirks on their faces, that they let the kids dig through their paper piles and take whatever they want home to help them "clean out". I told them I didn't think it was very funny because knowing my sweet children they were helping themselves to plenty of those "goodies". But one of my favorites things that comes home is a HUGE file filled with art work from the past year. As much as I love it all I never know quite what to do with all of it. I usually save a couple favorites and then discretely try to dispose of the rest. I have often thought of photographing each piece and someday doing something with the photographs but never do. So this year, this is what I'm doing. Here's Kid #1 and his art from his folder. I'm hoping to get the rest done in the next day or so.

What do you do with all the paper and art work that comes home with your kids?

Sweet Sweet Baby

2011-06-04T07:50:00.000-07:00

Baby Joie, her Mom and her Grandma came to visit me a few weeks ago. It was fun to meet the newest addition to this growing family. Her cousins have all come to visit me and now it's her turn! Can't wait to see how much she's changed in a couple months!

Hat and Diaper Cover can be found at The Abbey Project

Almost Done!

2011-05-31T23:24:00.000-07:00

Another great senior shoot this spring! Thanks, Keaton, for making it happen. There's not many days left!
If you want to see what he does in his spare time and support the Emmanuel Foundation Orphanage in Guadalajara, Mexico click HERE to watch his Trick Shots for Charity video!

Only Two More Weeks

2011-05-28T23:22:00.000-07:00

Until we get to shoot Ryan and Kaysha's wedding and we can't wait!

Happy Baby

2011-05-25T22:43:00.000-07:00

Loved hanging out with this little guy again! His cheeks are a little rounder and his eyes a little bigger from the last time we hung out. Also, his Dad is the one getting the Lynden Farmers Market going. (I CAN'T WAIT!) Head over to their Facebook page for details and head to the market on opening day, June 4!

Jesse and Lindy's Wedding Day

2011-05-23T21:41:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek at Jesse and Lindy's spring wedding! A little rain didn't get these two down! We made the best of the damp circumstances and even though the saying "if it starts before 7:00, it's done by 11:00" didn't happen we were still able to do keep shooting outdoors. Congratulations, Jesse and Lindy! More images to come!

Flowers: Blossoms

Luke Class of 2011

2011-05-20T07:47:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun chasing all over Lynden with Luke and his mom. This kid has so many interests we tried to capture as many of them as we could. He's got a bright future ahead of him!

Reminder: If you are a 2010 client and want to take advantage of the 20% off print sale contact me today. It's the last day of the sale!

PRINT SALE!

2011-05-13T09:48:00.001-07:00

2010 Customers

Print Sale going on NOW through May 20. Don't wait!

All print orders (any size, does NOT include CD's) from you 2010 shoot are 20% off. I'm cleaning out my files to make room for what's ahead this summer! Any shoot over a year old will be gone for good after May 20th. By the end of 2011 all 2010 files will be unavailable, so nows the time to order, before it's to late!

Click on the Details tab above for pricing and e-mail me at simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com to place your order.

Welcome to the world Little Joshua!

Hats and Diaper cover available from Amy Van Dalen's The Abbey Project.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-07T23:22:00.000-07:00

Hope it's super sweet!
(P.S. These were created by the ever so awesome cupcake creator Mia.)

It's All About Mom!

2011-05-06T17:30:00.000-07:00

Photo credit: Wendi Jo Photo.

Happy Mother's Day to all of you moms out there! Remember, gift certificates are great last minute gift ideas! Drop me a note at simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com and I'll set you up!

Sweet!

2011-05-05T23:19:00.000-07:00

Enjoyed a great morning with these two and their mom. A bright orange tutu always brings out a smile or two even if you aren't feeling 100%.

ReBound

2011-04-26T23:22:00.000-07:00

We love doing any kind of photography around here. So when we got a call from ReBound Physical, Occupational and Hand Therapies we were anxious to meet up with them and help them get some updated photos!

The Lynden Pioneer Museum was a great location for an indoor shoot as well!

Getting Big!

2011-04-19T21:44:00.001-07:00

Having a studio this rainy, cold winter and spring has made it easier to keep appointments! And YES, these were taking well after Christmas, however, he loved this hat and was turning on the smiles with it on! He's too cute!

Capturing Life

2011-04-15T17:20:00.000-07:00

Capturing personality.

Capturing chores.

Capturing interests.

Capturing routines.

Capturing play.

Capturing seasons.

While I love sharing my latest shoots with you, I also love to share bits and pieces of my Project Life, too! I know there are many out there doing this project in one way or another and I always love to see what photos other people are taking. Hopefully someone could will be inspired by something I post, too. Most of my shots are SOOC (straight out of camera) with very little editing. One thing I told myself with this project is I don't want it to be overly time consuming and while I may do a very basic edit, there is very little done to these photos. What you see is what you get!

Look for more Capturing Life next week.

What about you? Do you have a favorite image you've captured for your Project Life/Project 365? Send it to me at simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com. I'd love to be able to post what others are capturing as well.

TWO!

2011-04-10T19:39:00.000-07:00

Being a mom of a set of multiples myself I was so excited when this adorable duo was scheduled to come over for a little photo shoot!

These next few photos were so fun to "re-create". These little beauties come from a family of multiples, their aunties are also twins. For their baptism they wore the same dresses and Grandma was hoping to get a photo of them in the dresses to replicate one she had of her own girls.

What a beautiful little family!

Jacob

2011-03-29T21:14:00.000-07:00

Lynden Christian Class of 2011

About a month ago, I was able to head up to Glacier with Jacob and his mom to snap some senior photos for him. What a perfect location to capture some shots that reflect him and the things he loves to do. Congratulations on your upcoming graduation, Jacob! I can't wait to see what God has in store for your future!

(Seniors, if you haven't had your senior photos taken yet, it's not to late! E-mail me at simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com to schedule your shoot)

Catching up

2011-03-22T22:51:00.000-07:00

From what I understand, this little guy lives and breathes John Deere green!

Meet my super crafty and very talented friend Angela and her adorable family. They were in town the week before Christmas and we were finally able to get a family shoot in. We had been talking about for quite sometime. It was cold but it was sunny and I think everyone had a great time! Thanks, Angela and fam, for taking the time for some photos. It was great to catch up, if even for just a little bit.

Super Moon

2011-03-19T23:09:00.000-07:00

Psalm 8:3,9 "When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place...O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!"
A friend posted that verse on Facebook tonight along with her spectacular moon photo and I thought it was so appropriate.
Tonight was the perfect night to play around with my camera settings. The moon was big and bright and just plain awesome! For anyone who cares I shot this with my 70-200mm lens, handheld, at 200mm, ISO 800, f-22, 1/250 sec.

CANVAS SALE!!

2011-03-15T15:55:00.000-07:00

16x20 Canvas are $125.00.
Orders must be placed by 5:00 p.m. of Thursday.
E-mail me at simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com to place your order or with questions.

This beautiful little one came to visit a few weeks ago.

Sportin' The Abbey Project diaper cover and hat.

Isn't she the sweetest thing! All decked out in ruffles and cowgirl boots!

Get with it!

2011-03-10T22:28:00.000-08:00

Look who finally hopped on the Cake Pop craze?

I drove through Starbucks this afternoon for a little pick me up and they were giving out these little treats as part of their 40th birthday celebration. He asked me what kind I wanted and I asked for the "Birthday Cake". Imagine my surprise when I opened the bag and found this adorable little pink number. They look vaguely familiar, don't they? See HERE if you're not sure what I'm talking about.

In other news, if you're headed to the Lynden Christian auction this weekend and have been interested in a photography class you may want to bid on this!

Simply Enjoy Photography is offering a photography 101 class and it's going to be loads of fun!
It's available for up to 6 people and will last approximately 4-5 hours. It will include "class time" as well as getting out and shooting, practicing on real subjects, lunch and a couple other "extras". We'll get your cameras of the green auto square and you'll be getting more of the shots you've been wanting to get.

I love this definition of "Momarazzi" from Urban Dictionary, "Moms who line the field or court at a sporting event to photograph their kids with their high priced cameras and telephoto lenses like the paparazzi."

Project Life Round 2 is in the Books...Literally!

2011-03-06T21:18:00.000-08:00

Two days ago the brown truck brought a much anticipated box from Shutterfly with these in it. I finally finished my Project Life album(s) for 2010. These 2 books hold a year full of memories one day, one week, one month at a time. This whole process has given me a sense of accomplishment and a better look at how I want to capture my families memories and also organize those memories for my kids. I'm learning that I really want a system that 1.) gets my photos into print for everyone to enjoy and 2.) are organized in some way.

2010 is the second year I've done a photo-a-day. For a little history on how I got started with this there's a few posts you can click on to see that. You can see our 2009 book by clicking HERE. This was the first year Becky Higgins offered this album and I was quick to order one, anxious to start "scrapbooking" in this way. In 2010 she offered a digital album as well as the original style but I chose to come up with my own template in Photoshop. Click HERE to see a post on why I chose to go this direction.

Page #1 of the Book #1.

Page #2 of Book #2.

Last page of book #1.

Last page of book #2 including one of my new favorite sayings "Capture Life".

Every month begins with one full page photo and then a "month at a glance". (these calendars are by Ali Edwards and available at Designer Digitals)

Everyone in our family has one BIG picture of them and then there are family photos and also a few of the kids together.

One of our "typical" weeks.

Yes, it is possible to stick to a photo-a-day for a vacation. (however, I have been creating vacations albums, too)

One key for me is to keep on top of choosing my photo and labeling them. Every few days I make sure I go through my photos and pick out the photo that will be for that specific day. I have a file on my computer labeled Project Life 2010 (or now 2011) and when I choose my photo for that specific day I "save as" and name it that date. At the end of June and the end of December I save them to another spot (I also save the periodically throughout the year to and external hard drive or on-line to make sure I always have them save in 2 different places at all times).

Do I ever have more than one photo for the day?
Yes, sometimes I just can't decide so I save 2 or 3 or 5. :) I may not use it but it's there amongst my other "favorites". Or if there happens to be a day I don't have a photo, I either forget or just didn't get one, I can use one of the extras'

As you can see this is something I LOVE and has worked for me. Head over to Becky Higgins's blog to see how easy it really can be. You can do a month at a time, too. It doesn't have to be a photo a day. Her video on March 3 got me all excited to go back to the years I don't have in books yet and just give a year in review, month by month. It's something everyone can do! So who's on board? How many of you are doing this?!?

A HUGE THANK YOU!

2011-03-01T20:10:00.000-08:00

This fun bunch were the last of the Valentine's shoots that I did. I think all 3 of these families did it as a surprise for their Dad's and other family members. What a great Valentine's surprise! We had 13 participants in the Abbey Project Fundraiser!! Thank you, thank you! Once we have everyones orders we'll be able to pass on your gifts to The Abbey Project. Check her blog out HERE to see what great project she's currently a part of.

A couple more Valentine's!

2011-02-21T22:38:00.000-08:00

Seriously, a couple of my favorite girls! Love it when they come hang out. And dear sweet Claire, I LOVE your shoes! :)
We've been having a great month supporting The Abbey Project. A couple more days this week to wrap things up! So thankful for all of you who participated!

A couple of Valentine's

2011-02-16T23:31:00.000-08:00

These two are a couple of my favorite clients and they came to visit this month and take advantage of my February special!

Thanks, girls, for visiting! You were awesome as usual! Hope your Daddy liked his valentine.

There's a couple spots available next Friday (Feb 25) if you still want to get in on The Abbey Project February Special. Click HERE for details. We've had a lot of fun with it so far this month with some great families taking advantage of it!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T22:28:00.000-08:00

It's become a tradition for us to make homemade Valentine's for all the kids to take to school. Click here for our 2009 project and here for our 2008 project. I'm thinking last year we took the year off. :) Mia and I have loved (most of the time, sometimes it's more like strongly dislike and wonder what we've gotten ourselves into) making these Cake Pops. So this year we decided this is what was going to be the Valentine's treat for school. Yesterday we mass produced these bad boys.

(Sorry, watermark is in a bad spot.)

I know, I know, I'm no Pioneer Woman when it comes to photographing the stages of food preparation.

Hope you all had a great day and felt loved by those around you!

Road trip

2011-02-05T23:09:00.000-08:00

This fall I had the opportunity to head south to Olympia to photograph these two beautiful families. Their property was a perfect place to shoot. We were all over the place, having to dodge just a few rain clouds, and capturing some beautiful smiles and memories. Thank you, guys, for inviting me and my girls to your home for a great day!

February Special!

2011-02-01T23:39:00.000-08:00

February has just begun so now is the time to take advantage of the $10 sitting fee this month. Schedule a shoot on Wednesdays or Fridays for the month of February and your shoot is just $10/person. The sitting fees from these days as well as 20% of print sales goes to THE ABBEY PROJECT. If your session is before February 7th you will be able to get your photos by Valentine's Day! E-mail me today to schedule your session! (simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com)

Another beautiful family from this winter! These guys were so great and so much fun to shoot!

Cool

2011-01-27T21:48:00.000-08:00

Yes, I have the coolest customers around!

Look what a pair of them got me as a little gift. Don't you just love that saying, "Capture Life". LOVE IT!! Thank you, LORI and TRACI!!! You two are an incredibly thoughtful, creative, fun, and crazy duo! (that sentence doesn't sound right but you get what I mean, right?)

You girls ROCK!

A little help is always appreciated

2011-01-17T23:15:00.000-08:00

Usually, when I'm out shooting a large group, I take my friend, Wendi along. She does almost anything to make sure everyone is looking good and well, just looking! Since I was photographing her family she found someone else to help me this night. Isn't he cute? And he even made everyone laugh, too!

His friends were really friendly, too. Maybe just a little too friendly!

It was a beautiful night to photograph this beautiful family and I was thankful for the extra help.

Coming this February

2011-01-12T21:36:00.000-08:00

What: $10 sitting fee/person to benefit The Abbey Project
20% of all print sales from each session also go to The Abbey Project

When: Wednesdays and Friday in February

Where: Simply Enjoy Photography’s new studio

Do you need some Valentine's Day gifts, updated head shots, you've been putting off getting photos of your kids taken, or you just want some new ones? Well NOW'S the time to change that and get those photos done! Call or e-mail simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com today to make an appointment or with questions.

More details to come!

Looking forward to helping out this great cause (for details on The Abbey Project, click HERE to read Abbey's story)

What's the big deal?

2011-01-12T17:21:00.000-08:00

Are you wondering if there's something BIG and something FUN coming to Simply Enjoy Photography for the month of February?

If you said "YES, of course there is!" then you guessed RIGHT! Stay tuned for a big announcement coming tonight!

(The above photos were not staged, just your average 7 year old boy and his lively personality!)

Just One

2011-01-04T22:53:00.000-08:00

Because it makes me smile.

Overwhelmed

2010-12-31T14:32:00.000-08:00

When I look back at the last year I am overwhelmed how a little dream to start a photography business has turned into this! I'm going backwards (sort of) and posting the shoots I haven't gotten to yet. This batch of awesome families is from November and the end of October. I'll do September and October in another post.

Thank you, Wendi, for being so awesome and making this year so much better. She grabbed these awesome family ones for us this fall!

Exhausted... :)
Thank you all for trusting Simply Enjoy Photography to capture your family at this moment in time. May you all enjoy a safe and blessed new year! Looking forward to what's ahead!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T21:19:00.000-08:00

Wishing you and yours a blessed Christmas season. Here is a little video of most of the Christmas cards I designed this year. It was also great to open the mailbox and see other cards with photos that I've had the privilege of taking throughout the year. Thank you!

All photos taken by Simply Enjoy Photography unless noted on photo in slide show.

Winding down.

2010-12-15T23:09:00.000-08:00

The Christmas cards are almost all ordered, the photo shoots are almost done and I still have lots and lots of photos to edit (thank you to everyone who's been patiently waiting to see their completed galleries) but I'm looking forward to taking a little break next week to celebrate the birth of 4 special baby boys next week and spending time with family. Lots of updates to eventually come, promise!

Couldn't Resist

2010-12-04T23:36:00.000-08:00

I couldn't help but put a couple shots up from this awesome shoot! There are many more I want to add but for now, 3 is all you get! Isn't she the sweetest thing! I'll add more of her and her adorable parents later.

Eye Spy

2010-12-03T20:35:00.000-08:00

with my little eye a wall that used to be green and some fun studio lights! I've had a little dream of setting up a studio for a while now and it's finally coming true! I have a little elf (actually, my wonderful Mom) who is busy putting it together for me just in time for Christmas! So for right now, I'm focusing on getting all the orders for cards, prints, cd's, photo shoots, etc. finished up in the next two weeks. Then I'm planning on enjoying some much anticipated family time over the holidays and ring in the new year with something big! Stay tuned! As for new posts from recent shoots, since I'm already 2 months behind, I'll slowly be posting those but I need to stay on task over here so the blog may be put on the back burner. However, if I have some creativity block and need to do something else to fill my spare time I'll be posting! :)

Black Friday Sale

2010-11-26T07:51:00.000-08:00

Today only, until 2:00 pm, gallery wrapped canvas' are on sale! They are almost half off their regular price. Contact me at simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com for pricing and to place orders. If you've been interested in a canvas, now is the time to do it!

Also, if you are interested in some fabulous hand crocheted hats AND want to support a great cause, visit my friend, Amy at The Abbey Project. I've been working with her to get her site launched and the response has been awesome! Get your Christmas orders in soon!

If you're looking for other great photo gift ideas click on these links to previous posts for ideas.

Gift Certificates are available for purchase in any dollar amount and can be purchased up until Christmas Eve. All other order must be placed by December 10 to receive in time for Christmas.

Happy Thanksgivng

2010-11-25T08:24:00.000-08:00

I am so grateful to all of you for making this past year such a great one! Thank YOU for helping to make Simply Enjoy Photography what it is!

Hailey

2010-11-21T07:46:00.000-08:00

Another class of 2011. Hailey will be graduating from LC in the spring. She was so much fun to photograph, she's got a great smile and was up for anything! Congratulations, Hailey!

Rain, Rain, Go Away?

2010-11-14T09:33:00.000-08:00

Whenever you schedule a photo shoot one of the first things you tend to worry about is the weather. Sometimes, though, the date on the calendar is the only one that will work so no matter what the weather is you just go for it. That was the case with this shoot. With part of this family coming from out of town we just had to make it work, downpour or not. (I do mean a literal DOWNPOUR!) This family was up for the challenge of having fun in a not so ideal situation and I think we got some good shots in the process. Hurray!!

Just Horsin' Around

2010-11-11T13:52:00.000-08:00

Another fabulous evening for family photos. Anytime you add animals to the situation, it livens things up, too. However, these horses weren't necessarily wanted in the photos but they came with the landscape so we worked with and around them.

They wanted some showing their team spirit. We took these back when the Huskies season was looking a little more promising, however. Thanks for a great night, Mitch, Karen and gang. We had a great time and I think Grandpa and Grandma enjoyed sitting back and watching, too!

It was a lovely day

2010-11-05T14:23:00.000-07:00

This was such a great day, the weather was perfect, the setting was beautiful and the bride and groom couldn't have been happier surrounded by their family and friends. Thank you, Duane and Kay, for allowing us to capture your special day. Thanks, too, to Wendi for her great work seconds shooting!

To warm you up

2010-10-28T21:52:00.000-07:00

Since it's so cold and rainy outside tonight, I thought this post would warm you up. It would help bring back all those memories of summer.

It was a beautiful summer night to snap some family photos. One thing that's been great this fall is lots of families, extended families, have been contacting me to get photos. A snapshot of life right now to have forever.

Christmas Pricing Is Up

2010-10-25T17:37:00.000-07:00

Accordion Mini Books - Set of 3 for $50.00

I posted a while back about these and they would make great Christmas gifts. Whether you've done a shoot with me this year or just want to send me 10-12 of your favorite photos, it would make a great gift for a grandpa and grandma, for the desk at work, etc.

Christmas Cards

Christmas Card pricing is up, too. Click on the DESIGN tab at the top for full details. Contact me soon if you are wanting custom cards this year. All requests should be in by Thanksgiving.

Looking forward to a great holiday season!

Little Ones

2010-10-25T07:16:00.000-07:00

The day I did these photos was a fun one. I went from my buddy, Graeme's one year shoot to this sweet newborns shoot. What a difference a year makes.

Family fun night!

2010-10-20T22:58:00.000-07:00

I think someone had just yelled "Boppa is the coolest" and everyone started to cheer.

There is just something I LOVE about this photo. Nothing like the youngest in the bunch deciding when enough is enough.

I would love to be able to show you what caused the varied expressions on all of their faces but it was moving way to quickly to capture with my camera. (or, I might have been paid handsomely to not post it on the web, you'll never know) Sorry!

THAT'S A WRAP! Thanks, once again, to the Libolt gang for having me over. Awesome location, awesome props and AWESOME kids.

Those eyes...

2010-10-14T00:10:00.000-07:00

...and hair! I think these guys win in the having truly blonde hair and big bright blue eyes department. Aren't they adorable!

Now these next few pictures just make me laugh. Is this not typical of how an older sister tries to "help"! :)

He starts out lookin' to mom or dad for a little help.

Not getting the help he's hoping for and getting a little frustrated.

But still performs beautifully under the pressure.

Can you believe these beauties traveled all the way from Scotland for photos! Pretty incredible, huh! Unfortunately, I can't claim that to be true. They spent the summer here and were able to fit these in before leading back home.

And because Stella had an adorable tutu and a birthday, we quick did a few of these fun shots.

A little more than one

2010-10-10T15:53:00.000-07:00

This sweet little guy was about 13 months when we took these pictures. He was so much fun to follow around the park and snap away. Thanks to him and his mom for spending the morning with me.

Family Time

2010-10-01T21:36:00.000-07:00

This last photo is one of my favorites and it's mostly because Alex wanted nothing to do with sitting with his family, he wanted to sit right in the front. Thanks, Wubben Family, for a great night capturing some great photos of your family!

A Stellar Senior

2010-09-26T22:30:00.000-07:00

We had a beautiful night when we took TJ's senior pictures. It was fun getting to know him a little bit. I've known his parents for a long time and actually Eric stood up in his parents wedding. Now that we're doing his senior pictures does that make us really old! Best wishes to you, TJ, as you finish up your high school career and prepare to head off to college next year.

Perfect summer evening

2010-09-13T23:47:00.000-07:00

The night, the setting and the family were all perfect! Sometimes it's way easier to just post a whole bunch than to try and make a decision and pick just a few. These guys were so fun to chase around and photograph not to mention adorable! Thanks again, for the great night!

So what do you think?

2010-09-12T18:59:00.000-07:00

It's time for another little give away! I will send a $10 Gift Certificate to the first person to guess what Lucas made his letter "Q" into. Trust me, I laughed so hard when he told me that I thought I better share it with the rest of you. We'll see how close your guesses are but you need to be rather specific. :)

One!

2010-09-05T18:25:00.000-07:00

This sweet little guy turned one a few weeks ago! We pulled all the tricks out of the bag to get some smiles but I do think it worked! Can't wait to photograph the rest of the adorable crew in a couple weeks!

Hold onto your hats

2010-09-01T21:55:00.000-07:00

it's gonna be a loooong post but a FUN one!

There, wasn't that FUN! We had such a great time during this shoot! (how could we not, right?!?) Thanks to Wendi for once again coming along and doing an awesome job second shooting and whatever crazy antics were necessary to get 21 people looking in the same direction! Thanks to the DB family for getting together this summer (I think it had been about 4 years since they had all been together!) so we could have this crazy awesome evening!

Shhhhh...

2010-08-29T23:16:00.000-07:00

Don't tell my kids but tomorrow when they open their lunch box to pull out their morning snack on the first day of school they'll find this little treat from me. Because they love silly bands (although I really wanted some school shaped ones and couldn't find any) and because I always love to stick a little note in their lunch box on the first day of school they're getting both. On the back of the back topper it will include a little hand written note from me letting them know I'm so excited for them as they start a new school year. I'm going to need lots of help in the lunch making department this year making 5 each and every morning! If you've got any great lunch ideas or tips you want to share, I'd love to hear them!

Friday Finds

2010-08-27T20:43:00.000-07:00

Accordion Mini Books

I LOVE these little things. They are the perfect gift, perfect little brag book to toss in your purse or a great way for those seniors to display a bunch of their favorite senior pictures! They're available in wallet size or a square 3x3. Contact me for more details or to order yours today! (simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com)

Those baby blues

2010-08-25T17:32:00.000-07:00

Check out the eyes on these dolls! Their blonde hair and blue eyes even give my kids a run for their money in that department! We had a beautiful night, amazing location and adorable kids to take photos. How could we go wrong!

The Brothers

2010-08-17T21:34:00.000-07:00

I met these adorably sweet boys and their mom at the park a few weeks ago. They were so much fun to follow (and chase) around trying to capture their personality. Thanks for the fun morning Tasha and boys!

Friday Finds (Saturday Morning Edition)

2010-08-14T09:22:00.000-07:00

This weeks Friday Finds is a photo tip on lighting. Both photos in this post are SOOC (straight out of camera) to really show the difference between the two and where the light is in relationship to your subject can really make a difference. These photos were taken while we are on a little weekend excusion to wrap up our summer fun.

This first photo was taken from my seat at the kitchen table. I thought it would be fun to capture a shot of what my girls have been busy doing all weekend, Friendship Bracelets. (with a little shot of the feet up on the coffee table since they're all kicked back watching t.v., too) However, this photo is a little dark, lacks some defining details.

For this shot, I moved so I was between the sliding glass door and my subject and used the natural light to my advantage. The depth of field is better, the focus area is better and the details in her bracelet and even her fingers is better. Just a slight change in your position can really improve your photo.

Happy Weekend! Get out and enjoy the sunshine. Summer is quickly coming to a close.

Oh, the cuteness

2010-08-08T08:49:00.000-07:00

I love to photograph these boys! They've changed so much from last year. They are adorable and quite expressive to say the least. Thanks for the fun morning, boys (and Holly).

Friday Finds

2010-08-06T23:21:00.000-07:00

Press Printed Books (not to be confused with the Press Printed Albums I featured a few weeks ago)

This is a book I recently put together for a client after a shoot I did of her kids. It's a 20 page book with approximately 20 photos. Since I design each book myself, you get to choose the photos you want included and the number of pages you want it to include as well. Or you can leave it up to me! They have magazine style pages (where they are bound together in the middle of the book) and are available in a variety of sizes. They also are a little more economical than the Press Printed Album. E-mail me for more details.

PLEASE VOTE!!!

2010-08-03T07:54:00.001-07:00

If you are on Facebook, Lynden Christian needs your help! (if you're not, it's a great time to join!) We're trying to win $500,000 from Kohls. To celebrate their 10th anniversary, "Kohl's Cares Charitable Foundation" is awarding $500,000 to 20 schools with the most votes. Each person can vote five times for LC. Click on this link, http://bit.ly/9F6q9G, and remember, you can vote 5 times! You DON'T need to be part of the LC community to vote...anyone can help us! (In case you are part of another school community that you're voting for, it's okay! You have 20 votes you can use, 5 per school.) Thank you!

How can you say "no" to this face!

Cherished time together

2010-08-02T23:03:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful night we had at the river. This dear, sweet family and I headed down there to capture some family photos before their Daddy left for Iraq to serve our country. He's a doctor in the Army and will be away from his beautiful wife and adorable children for 7 months. Please pray for them as they spend this time apart and look forward to the day they are reunited.

A Happy Accident

2010-07-29T10:43:00.000-07:00

I love it when things like this happen. However, the moment I was "taking" this picture I was not lovin' it! You see, the Dad of this sweet family (more to come on them and their WHOLE BIGGER family!) is a podiatrist and they thought this sign suited them well....it says "foot traffic only". We were going to take this adorable picture of their feet and the sign. However when I was changing the settings on my camera, my camera froze, I froze (panicked), I even asked Wendi to run to the car to get my other camera (and wouldn't you know, by the time she was back it was working). But somewhere in the "messing around with my camera" process came this picture. I almost deleted it but something caught my eye, I liked something in this photo. It was their long shadows, the casualness of their interactions together and in the middle of it all, their feet. Sometimes you just have to hang onto to those that almost get sent immediately to the "trash" because they just might become a treasure.

ADORABLE!

2010-07-27T09:11:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when it was time to do these sweet girls photos again, and this time we did the whole family, too! And they brought their own props...their Grandpas awesome old truck (which happened to match perfectly!) When their mom e-mailed me to schedule the shoot she said "It seems like you're either going to the doctor or getting pictures taken the first year of a baby's life!" So glad to see getting pictures is just as important as those well baby checks!

Friday Finds

2010-07-23T19:04:00.000-07:00

Greeting Cards

You don't have to wait for Christmas! Use a favorite shot from a shoot or a photo that you took that you just love. It's a great and easy way to make your own set of personalized cards. They come in sets of 25.

Back on track

2010-07-23T13:15:00.000-07:00

I'm home from our great family vacation and trying to get back on track! Check back later today for a new "Friday Find" and for more on this cutie and her equally adorable family! Thank you for all the positive feedback so far on the Friday Finds I've posted so far. More great stuff to come!

Friday Finds

2010-07-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

Press Printed Albums

I was wanting a sample of a Press Printed Album so this winter I made one using our family photos that were taken a couple summers ago by Melissa Diekema Photography. I LOVE this album. Not only because of the photos but because of the quality of the album. The one thing I really love is there is no "seam" or "gutter" through the middle of the pages, the pages lay flat when it's open. One of the great things about that is you can have a photo span across both pages. This album is an 8x8 but other sizes are available as well. This is a great way to "showcase" your photos from a family session all in one spot. It also makes a great gift idea, too!

Friday Finds

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

This week I'm featuring a great product called a Standout. A Standout is a thick lightweight board finished with a black plastic edge and comes ready to display with hanging holes on the backside. It is available in two depths, 3/4" and 1-1/2", nothing extra needs to be done to prepare to display. I love this alternative to the traditional canvas plus it's a little less expensive as well.

Playing in the buttercups

2010-07-07T23:17:00.000-07:00

This shoot almost didn't happen on this evening, it was a cool night, the wind was picking up and there was a chance of rain but we decided to go for it and am I sooo glad we did! We had a great time and got some great shots! Thanks, Butch, Janna and girls for having us out!

A Happy 4th!

2010-07-05T10:51:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a great 4th of July yesterday! We did, although the weather wasn't terribly summery (extreme understatement!) we still had a great time.

(I had seen this idea somewhere a while ago and was anxious to try it. Thankfully I had some willing participants to play along! Thanks, guy!)

Friday Finds

2010-07-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Simply Enjoy Photography offers gift certificates! If you can't decide on a gift for someone, why not give them a gift certificate? Give me a call and I'll get one out right away.

(over the next several Fridays I'll be posting some various products and other great ideas of what to do with your photographs. If you have any suggestions of what you'd like to see, leave a comment and I'll see what I can do!)

These boys are ready for GQ

2010-07-01T14:40:00.000-07:00

This one cracks me up (like many of them did). They look like they're cruising along somewhere, each doing their own thing.

What can I say, these guys are the best! Thanks for the great variety of faces, Alec. And Graeme, thanks for sitting and smiling so perfectly the whole time (what 9 month old does that!)

And the winner is....

2010-06-27T22:10:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who gave feedback! I will use it all as I start putting things together and will update you along the way! And to the winner (posted in the photo above) I'll be contacting you!!

Winner coming tonight!

2010-06-27T13:21:00.001-07:00

I know, I said I'd pick the winner on Friday but it was finally a beautiful day out here in the Pacific NW and well, the day just got away. So tonight we'll announce the winner of the gift certificate. If you still want a chance to win, leave a comment suggesting what you're ideal photo studio would look like. For more details see THIS post.

The gangs all here

2010-06-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

With many families spread all over the county, the Pacific Northwest, the country or even the world, when you're finally able to make it all together that's the time to get those family photos updated. Thanks to the Kipfer family for doing just that! If you have family coming together this summer and would love some new photos, contact me today!

Thanks for the great comments you've already left regarding the studio I'm putting together. I'll leave the comments open a couple more days. I'll be picking a winner (who will receive $20 off their next sitting fee) on Friday!

I need your help!

2010-06-16T09:29:00.000-07:00

Exciting changes at Simply Enjoy Photography but I need your help! I'm in the process of setting up a studio and want to know you'd love to see in a photography studio. What color walls, backdrop, props, etc. While my favorite place to take pictures will always be outside, it will be great to have an indoor option, too! For your help, anyone that leaves a suggestion will be put into a drawing for $20 off your next sitting fee!

He's a natural

2010-06-13T17:14:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when Carter's Mom e-mailed to schedule his 1 year shoot! He was so happy the last time and he's just so stinkin' cute! He didn't disappoint this time, either! Happy Birthday, buddy! You were awesome!

2 Day Canvas Sale!

2010-06-10T10:12:00.000-07:00

You're going to have to RUN to CATCH this great deal! If you've been wanting to order a gallery wrapped canvas, now is the time! All 10x20, 12x12 and 11x14 are on sale for $100.00 each. Orders must be in by 5:00 tomorrow night (June 11). Call or e-mail me today! (simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com)

So New!

2010-06-06T20:40:00.000-07:00

I met sweet Baby Kennedy at 2 weeks old. It was her first road trip up to our neck of the woods to visit family and friends and to squeeze in her first photo shoot! Thanks Josh and Krista for letting me capture these sweet moments.

Portfolio Building

2010-06-01T15:11:00.000-07:00

When Dave asked if I'd take some photographs of him and his horse I was eager to do so. He is a horse trainer and was needing some photos to show what exactly he does and to build his portfolio. This was a great shoot to add to my portfolio, also, since it's not every day I'm asked to photograph horses. We enjoyed a beautiful day and got a lot of great photos for him to chose from.

Do you need photographs for your line of work. Give me a shout, simplyenjoyphotography@gmail.com. I'm more than happy to discuss the possibilities with you!

Sweet Ava

2010-05-25T22:53:00.000-07:00

My sweet niece recently turned 1. We found this great field, however, the dandelions were well past their prime (not really sure dandelions even have a prime!) but she had fun picking at what was left of them anyways.