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.

Flashback Friday {six}

Our first picture in color! These are two of my great great grandmothers, Jessie Head (on the left) and Minnie Rodgers (on the right).  Both of these ladies are my grandfather's grandmothers.

I don't know much about these women, but let's see how much can be gained from simply looking at a photograph.  Jessie was a cook that loved her snuff.  I lived in the South long enough to know when you have a coffee can hidden behind your leg on the porch, it's not for coffee grounds.  Since some of you might not "be fortunate enough" to know what snuff is, it's technically dipping tobacco.  It also cracks me up that she is hiding the snuff can behind her pink socks and sandals- what an ensemble!

I've seen enough pictures of Minnie to know she always wore her hair in an intricate braid bun.  This was the first picture with her crystal cat eye glasses, not sure they match the rest of her look, but I think they're adorable. 

It's funny how this picture shows two different personalities... Jessie seems to be indifferent, while Minnie looks quite joyful.  Regardless, it makes me want a front porch on a southern afternoon.



An Instagram Update

This weekend was so busy!  Dan and his dad participated in the Tough Mudder in Austin.  I ran around like crazy to get pictures from as many of the obstacles as I could, resulting in sore shoulders from hauling around equipment and a major sunburn.  It was worth it though!  I got lots of great pictures that I hope to share with you soon. Until then, here's your Instagram update.

1. There have been lots of announcements lately!!  Mary got engaged (celebrating above), another friend just found out she's pregnant and another friend is due any day now.  It is such an exciting time!

2.  The view from a downtown atrium, I love Dallas architecture and how much attention there is to detail. 

3.  We always have Sunday lunch with friends, I love when peach tea from Olive Garden is included. 

4.  An example of my extreme organization... the rubber band ball prevents clutter and provides entertainment.

5.  Mobley Photography taxes were filed (all by myself).  It still doesn't seem real that I have a company to file taxes for!

6.  The new iOS 6 update has failed me more than once.

7.  My Austin t-shirt purchase, obsessed with some Willie Nelson.

8.  After the Tough Mudder, the end of a looonnnggg day, but so excited he finished! 

Flashback Friday {five}

This photograph was found in my great grandmother’s things and is a total mystery to the family.  The only hint we have is a simple note on the back which says, "This is ugly me... he he he," no name, no date.  I can only imagine this woman's history.  Does she look familiar to you?  For me, she serves as a reminder to always label my photos so their history will never be unknown.