Little Miss Avery {North Dallas Family Photographer}

Even though we battled the wind the whole time, this session is one of my favorites.  Miss Avery is at the age where everything is hers, "Avery's mommy... Avery's daddy...Avery's punkin"... I have to admit when she said "Avery's Lindsay" I totally melted.  She could have asked for my wallet or car at that moment and I probably would have given them to her.  She's at a very dangerous age. 

This session had lots of themes going on. We were celebrating Avery turning 2 next week, and wanted to get some fall and Christmas pictures.  I think we succeeded.  What do you think?

  

Flashback Friday {eight}

This will be our last Flashback Friday... at least for now.  But fret not, I have another series planned for November and lots of exciting things to share with you!

I wanted to leave you with this sweet photo of my grandfather, mom and uncle.  It's one of those perfect unposed photos that made me want to become a photographer, to one day be able to capture my own kids, as they follow in their parents' footsteps. 

I think candid shots are the best as they often capture that special, unplanned moment.  Especially for kids... they don't generally view having their picture taken as fun, and forced smiles aren't what you're looking for.  Remember when you're taking your child's photo to make it fun, give them tasks, play simon says, tell jokes, sing, be silly, whatever it takes to capture their playful spirit you'll want to remember. 

All I Want for Christmas is You {and a few other things}

I love CHRISTMAS!  It really is the most wonderful time of the year.  I love what it represents and everything about it... watching the movie Elf and sipping hot chocolate, while the faint scent of cinnamon floats through the air are a few of my favorites.  There is also ice skating around the Galleria's Christmas tree, and let's not forget Jewel's Christmas CD!  And no matter what, everyone loves finding the perfect gift for someone on your list.

Finding that perfect gift isn't always easy, so here's a little list of the things I'm wishing for this Christmas, just in case you're shopping for a photographer.  It's never too early to start your holiday shopping!

1.  The LensPen Lens Cleaner is super handy to clean your lens properly when you're on the go.

2.  The Canon Wireless Remote allows you to be in the picture too!

3.  These Reflector Discs help create the perfect exposure, no matter the time of day. 

4.  The Manfrotto Tripod and ball head, when you need to ensure you get a steady shot. 

5.  This Kelly Moore Bag looks like a purse, but it's a camera bag with plenty of room for your gear!
6.  This Macro Lens, when you need to capture the smallest details. 

7.  This Black Rapid Camera Strap has pockets for your lens caps and cell phone and is super padded to protect your neck. 

8.  Another lens cleaner, the Giottos Rocket Air Blaster, is great for those dry windy days.
9.  Comfy shoes are a must for long shoots, the Pewter Metallic Toms can be dressed up or down, functional and so cute. 

Flashback Friday {seven}

These aren't Instagram photos, but it must have been photos like these that inspired the app's creators.  They seem to have the perfect filter applied.  I'm sure Daytona Beach has changed a lot since the 1960s. 

If my grandfather was on the beach today, he'd still be in dress shoes.  If you have ever seen him try to wear flip flops, you know what I'm talking about.  I love how my mom is holding his pinkie, so ridiculously precious.  And she's still a daddy's girl, I guess some things don't change.   

Tough Mudder {Austin Event Photography}

Dan and his dad participated in the Tough Mudder in Austin a few weekends back.  It's a harcore 12 mile obstacle course designed by British Special Forces benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project.  I think this will become a tradition for our family. Here are a few photos from the event.  You'll see some interesting characters and a few photos from around Austin.  We bummed around Congress, Sixth Street, and only went to Southern Living recommended restaurants.  It was a fabulous weekend to say the least.