Emily O.

New Blog

2009-07-22T20:22:00.000-07:00

Update your RSS Feeds....doo-dads, and bookmarks....I have MOVED.

www.emilyoblog.com

Check it. That's where I'll be from now on!

Two new weddings, and a child session have been posted.

Life

2009-07-13T19:10:00.000-07:00

There's a lot of "life" posts and not so many photography posts lately, sorry about that...but I have a reason! An old friend of mine has been working on a customized BLOG for me! So, I'm getting that ready, and getting posts and photos ready for that kick-off. I'm totally stoked....(excited, thrilled, happy, ect...) Anyway, the blogs going to be pretty cool, no thanks to me, as I am illiterate when it comes to web-stuff, but Nathan worked with me to get something like what I wanted/something I am able to up-keep, so, again, HUGE thanks to him. I'll be posting the new address for that in the coming weeks!

...also, totally looking forward to some new music soon....

...um, hello, The Swell Season is totally putting a new album out in September. How did I not know this!? (Strict Joy, out September 29th according to EW.com)

...and this lady....

out in August....

I'm still trying to figure out when Mute Math's new album drops...so, if you know, pass it on...

Anyways...I've been so thrilled to meet some ladies lately who follow my blog (really!? People read this thing? You don't know how exciting that is for me! Seriously.) and I just want to say thanks for introducing yourselves...I'm naturally a shy person, and it just makes my day when people come up to me and say hey...and I can't believe you spend your time reading this blog...but thanks soooo much.

My fantabulous friend Kate spent last Friday with me (complete with lunch, swimming, and her raiding my closet) and we shot some photos of eachother, so I'll leave you with those...

The definition of Summer, I think.

love her...she's amazing....

So...see the ridiculous feather piece in my hair...so, we went "hiking" through the woods for some pretty photos a little after taking these, and, yeah, so I'm not exactly a "hiking-in-the-woods-kinda-gal" (BIG suprise there I know) and Kate had me looking all cute, and was taking photos of me sitting by the river....so, then I went all model-like and tossed my hair...and, my feather thingie fell about three feet down and landed...in the river. Now, I know there were signs saying not to wade, but, hey, MY FEATHERS!! Serious business folks. God wanted me to have them back, because they floated for about 10 feet, then sunk in the shallow part. I totally climbed around a tree, down some rocks and through the water to rescue them.

They now resemble a drowned bird, but, hey, its a good story.

Life

2009-07-08T18:23:00.000-07:00

I'm aching to fly,
To spread my hands and touch the clouds,
To lift it up,
Off the ground
and just run.

I want smell the night,
Skim past the roads and past that last turn,
To hear the roar,
Of water rushing
and just feel.

I want to fall from where I stand,
Close my eyes and take one last look,
Step one, two, three
Not look
and just jump.

-Emily O. July 2009

Open Windows

2009-07-01T17:31:00.000-07:00

I'm having a bad week....but instead of focusing on the...crap...I'm going to think about the little things that I am thankful for:

I'm thankful my car dings when I leave the headlights on. My Civic didn't do that. I ran my battery down...lets just say...many times because of this.

I'm thankful that I am able to afford picking up food after a looooong day at work, and I have no mental energy, or other energy left. I get cranky when I'm not fed...and having to then cook in my non-existent kitchen would have "not been fun" this evening.

I'm thankful that I only have one more day to work this week...it's been the longest work week ever for me, but I have three days off looming ahead...

I'm thankful for red nail polish.

I'm thankful for Bible verses that pop up at the end of books that I'm reading late at night, and directly apply to what I am going through.

I'm thankful for plans for this weekend. I'm glad I won't be at the VFW watching fireworks again. (not that it isn't a good show...but I've done that for 3 years now)

I'm thankful to have my windows open.

I'm thankful that I get to go to bed soon.

Life

2009-06-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

"...Oh who am I that Your merciful eyes should fall on me
A sinner a fool, who doesn’t deserve You
And what am I that you’d offer Your life and die for me
What can I do, I’m nothing without You, I’m nothing without You
I’m nothing without You my love, my saving love..."
-Phil Wickham "Fall Into You"

I'm having a bit of an identity crisis today. I know what I do, but who am I really?

Water....

2009-06-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

Just one from today....my sister (in-law) put her wedding dress on again for me...and my camera. Love you Kari! Second time, was just as beautiful as the first....

Family Session: The Crawford Family

2009-06-23T11:11:00.000-07:00

Here's a few more from the family session with the Crawford Family. Such a great family! They bid on my package that I gave to the Miami Valley Women's Center, and I'm hoping to donate another package this year if anyone is interested.....

Everyone got a turn at the drinking fountain...it was hot out!

I was completely jealous of all their gorgeous blue eyes!!

Thanks Crawford Family for being good sports and great looking models for me! I hope you like the photos!

Ohio Public Library Funding Emergency

2009-06-22T17:23:00.000-07:00

I work for a public library system in Ohio. My mom and sister do as well. I have many friends who also work in Ohio libraries. Governor Strickland wants to cut our funding by 50%. This is on top of major cuts that we've already been through. My library system has already cut all employee hours by 2.5 hours per week, and have closed ALL locations on Fridays for at least the next 6 months starting next Friday.

I don't care what your stance is on reading,...libraries are an essential part of communities. They provide programs, education, a cool or warm place to rest...and books. Story times and summer reading programs encourage young children read in a fun way....I don't know what I would have done growing up if I hadn't had a great library and hundreds of books to read....

If you have some time...please, read this and contact some of our representatives...I'd really appreciate it.

-Em

(there's stuff out there for Facebook statuses, Twitter and the lot....please, this is important!)

Dear Library Friends and Patrons,

As you have probably heard on the news, Governor Strickland has proposed a last minute change to the State Budget: he proposes to cut funding for Ohio's Libraries by an additional $100 million dollars a year for the next two years.

Public libraries are a vital lifeline to job hunting information, education, and family fun in a down economy. Greene County Public Library receives 55% of its funding from the State of Ohio. This funding rises and falls with the State's income, and funding for libraries has already fallen dramatically in the current recession. If the Governor's new cut became permanent, it would devastate the services we provide to children, teens, adults, and seniors throughout Greene County.

Under the Governor's proposal, the funding for Ohio's libraries would drop to nearly half of 2008 levels. The cost to the Greene County Public Library would be $2.2 million in 2009 and $3.5 million in 2010. The cut for this year would be in addition to the $3.3 million reduction the library is already facing because of declining state tax revenues.

We have already absorbed large drops in state funding while working as hard as we can to not reduce services for our wonderful patrons. But, without this key state funding, we will have to make deep cuts in hours, eliminate services, and possibly even close branches.

How You Can Help

You can help us protect the funding that will keep us doing what we do best -- serving you -- by contacting your representatives and the Governor's office by phone and email this week to let them how you feel about the Governor's proposal: the decision on this proposal will be made before July 1, 2009.

Please contact:

Governor Ted Strickland
(614) 466-3555
(614) 644-4357 (Fax)
contact online now

Representative Jarrod Martin
(614) 644-6020
(614) 719-3970 (Fax)
district70@ohr.state.oh.us -or- contact online now

Representative Robert Hackett
(614) 466-1470
(614) 719-6984 (Fax)
district84@ohr.state.oh.us -or- contact online now

Senator Chris Widener
(614) 466-3780
SD10@senate.state.oh.us -or- contact online now

Summertime Wishes

2009-06-18T21:52:00.001-07:00

Things are not going as planned, but then again, they never do. I'm in a hard place at work right now, prayers are appreciated.
I have lots of hopes and plans for the months to come, I'm praying and trying my best to trust God...He's never let me down
I need photography work. If anyone needs a photographer for anything, PLEASE, let me know. (this ties into the hard place at work deal....anything extra I can pick up would be a God-send.)
The air smelled like summer tonight. It reminded me of being younger, and staying out till all hours of the night in our backyard...then falling asleep to the sound of a fan in the window.....Mmmm
I've been making stir-fry zucchini with cheese raviolis for the past few weeks at least once a week. Its delicious, all you need to add is some olive oil, garlic and Parmesan cheese. Its good cold or hot. Addicting.
Gotta remember to B R E A T H E

Photo Session: Me

2009-06-15T20:09:00.000-07:00

It's strange to be on the other side of the camera....but my talented friend Kim needed some photos for school...and I needed some photos for my website, so I attempted to be a model....(it's awkward, and I'm terribly silly.....)

She did a good job. Here's a few of pretty ones....I'll post some of the more, me/goofy ones later...

(she let me have the files to process how I liked...so these are processed by me.)

I think this one is my favorite.....

(this one kind of captures my silliness....)

Pretty. Kim is a super good photographer....she makes me look pretty.

Film

2009-06-15T19:32:00.000-07:00

First time shooting color film since I've learned how to use a camera.....(it's been a while....and I think I love it.)

A Miracle is What it Was

2009-06-11T20:03:00.000-07:00

I came home from work yesterday, energized and ready to edit wedding photos. (I had gotten off a whole hour early since I had worked 9 hours the day before.) I sit down to edit the wedding photos. I'm doing my sorting thing, flagging photos I'm going to edit, and I notice something.

Something NOT GOOD. I have the pre-wedding shots. I have the ceremony shots. I have the bride and groom portraits. I have the reception. What I DON'T have, are the family shots. Or the bridal party shots (due to time constraints, we didn't take ANY photos other than prep ones before the ceremony.)

"This must be a mistake" I think to myself, while frantically plugging in my external hard drive. (After I shoot a wedding, I download the CF cards to my computer, copy them to my external, and then burn DVDs of them. So I have three sources of my current wedding. All backed up. I'm a back-up freak, I don't even think that's enough.)

My external hardrive only has what is on my computer. At this time, I start to freak.

"What's going on!? Who do I think I am? I am NOT a proffessional! Why do people pay me to do this!?!? What AM I GOING TO DO?!?!?" all this as I pop the discs into my computer and frantically search for folders and files that are NOT there.

See...I had yet another wedding this past weekend. And see, I re-formatted all my CF cards. And then proceeded to shoot photos on them, as I had already backed up all previous files.

The photos weren't going go to be on the cards. They weren't on my computer. They weren't on my hard drive. Or on the DVDs. They, to put it simply, weren't.

At this point, I am composing disraught and apologetic words to the bride in my head. Promising a life-time of Photography slavery from me, a refund, whatever it takes to repay what I have managed to do. (or NOT do, take your pick)

I am praying. Not even able to form full sentences. "God, please, I know.....they're not there....I know....you won't magically make the files "poof!" appear on my computer...but, maybe? Please?...Something, HELP?!?!?"

In one last effort to do something, try something....I asked Google:
"Re-formatted CF cards, is there any way to get deleted photos back?" ( I know I am not the only person out there who has done this as it's a search that pops up as I am typing.)

I find a forum. Said forum directs me to software that has the ability to scan media, and recover data. Here's the deal though....it can only retrieve said data if the card has not been completely re-written.

I have one CF card that is not completely re-written. I have one card to try. And it is the one I usually shoot with first, because it writes the files quicker. I must admit, I am not very hopeful. I am not very trusting. I am extremely skeptical. I let the software scan this ONE CF card all day today while I am at work.

I come home....and....

It's the bridal party photos.

Its the family photos.

Its EXACLTY what I needed.

Out of the all the memory cards I had, the cards I filled, this ONE card, the one I usually fill first, was only partially used, and it was the ONE I needed.

My God? He is AWESOME. I think I started to cry. Because....this was a big deal. I didn't tell anyone what was happening the night before. If I said it outloud, it would make it real. And it couldn't be.

I was ready to quit as a photographer. I was ready to curl up into a ball.

But God is faithful. God is giving. Miracles do exist. And I got one today.
I know, this is all completely unproffessional of me to share...I should just roll with it, I don't want people to think I don't treat what I do with extreme care...I do. But we all make mistakes....and they don't always turn out happily.

This situation was too impossible, too miraculous NOT to share.

Music

2009-06-09T20:04:00.000-07:00

I haven't done a music post in....a long time.....

So...this is what I am listening to currently:

Amy Seeley, Eight Belles. Love this. I found a song of hers via a photography blog Monday morning, and have fallen in love with her music. Listen to Gravel Lines if you get a chance. Seriously. Not kidding.

Rosi Golan "The Drifter and the Gypsy". I found her via a friend on Facebook ( I guess its good for something?) and, once again, it was love at first listen. She's was/is on tour with William Fitzsimmons, and I had the pleasure of seeing them live a month or two back....and was truly impressed with her live show. Listen to "Hazy" featuring William Fitzsimmons. Pleaseandthankyou.

Ray LaMontagne, "Gossip in the Grain"...and I'm probably the last person to jump on the Ray LaMontagne band-wagon....but oh well. I finally did it, and I have to admit, I like him. "I Still Care for You" is the first song that stuck out to me sound-wise....

Son Lux, "At War with Walls and Mazes". Found via a blog I regularly follow....its a bit electronica, a bit indie...a bit different. But I like it. I'm not sure what song to recommend.....maybe "Tell" ?

...and all I have to say is that if you haven't listened to Bon Iver,....you should.

Preview, Wedding: Dawn&John

2009-06-08T18:28:00.000-07:00

Wedding season is in full swing for me. It's both total blessing, as each wedding brings something new to the table and I feel honored to all who have had me be a part of their special days, and totally chaotic and a tad bit stressful for laid-back, easy going me.

This past weekends wedding, was a total blast. A fun, laid-back couple who just radiated joy....completely fun to shoot.

Here's a few for now...

They didn't even bat an eye when I said, "I'm going to lay in the grass, and then have you both hold hands over me and my camera, and maybe give me a kiss?"....yeah. And 5 minutes later, I definitely had a spider crawling on my dress. I was professional and only gave a quite squeal while brushing frantically at the spot where it was....

...that's my hottie of a sister-in-law....she was in the wedding, and I totally had to snap one of her styling in that stunning red dress.

....I'd like to hire Dawn as a model....she was a natural in front of the camera. When I snapped some photos of her and her mom, she said, "Come on mom, vogue it!"

More to come.

Preview: The Crawford Crew

2009-06-02T18:12:00.000-07:00

Last year I donated a photo session to the Miami Valley Women's Center for an auction they were having. This past Saturday I met the family who won the package, and we had some fun shooting family photos in the morning sun....pretzel bribes were procured, tall grass was waded in, a stray dog was petted, and there was talk of catching a fish to take home for dinner....

Just a few for now:

Have to get one of mom and dad....

They wanted to visit the butterfly house, but we had to settle for the butterfly chair...

...and I am so incredibly jealous of all those gorgeous blue eyes...

Wedding: Lucy&Josh

2009-06-01T17:44:00.000-07:00

Trying

2009-05-27T17:14:00.000-07:00

"...Where'd the day go
Out the window
Through the meadow
Down a wormhole
Each day you draw a new line
This is the last time
This is the last time
Trying to put your heart back
Trying to put your heart back together..."

-Slow Runner "Trying to Put Your Heart Back Together"

...trying to put my heart back together...it's exhausted.

This is my gorgeous sister by the way....I wish I contained an ounce of her beauty.....Olivia, you take my breath away....thank you for letting me drag you around, make you sit in itchy grass, and leap on cement blocks in the middle of a field...these were worth it, no?

Just for fun...

2009-05-25T19:12:00.000-07:00

Went to Cinci/Kentucky today to visit a friend....the wonderful and talented Emma , she showed us around her area, which was a beautiful area...and we shot a few photos....

It's fun to just do some shooting for the fun of it....I miss that sometimes, I need to make myself do it more often.

Life

2009-05-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

You should have seen me trying to take a photo of my hair last weekend...it was probably very awkward and very comical at the same time. Sort of like me. This is the best I could do. The roses make it look way classier than I really am.
I'm sure at some point in life, my Friday nights will look more interesting than tonight was....but I did a ton of dishes, had a chance to finally bleach my streaks again, changed my sheets, (to my favorite purple ones) and am watching the 4th X-men movie. I am such a nerd.
I'm starting to plan my trip out to California....if anyone has any suggestions for a cross-country road trip, places I should see...ect...let me know. We're heading to San Diego, and will probably hit San Fran before we head back. This will be the longest vacation I've had since the last time I went to Guatemala. And that wasn't technically a vacation. But I loved it.
I currently have two sofas in my living room. TWO. I basically live in a tiny little box, so this is ridiculous. And redundant. Any one need a sofa?

Family: Neil, Kristi & Judah

2009-05-21T14:56:00.001-07:00

A few more from my family session with them....

Probably my favorite from the shoot....they liked it too...so that makes me happy!

Neil found this sweet door....I may have to go back just to get some more photos with that door....

He really wasn't angry....just serious....but this picture is priceless...

We decided to do a sweet "band" photo...since Judah was so serious....it turned out pretty nice.

We decided to head back to their place and try and nab a few....

Home= a happy Judah.....

Wedding: Megan&Anton....a few more

2009-05-19T19:41:00.001-07:00

A few more shots from my friend Megan's wedding....

I love how old-timey this one feels....

...and Anton's face in this is priceless....love it. They're so cute. (and did I mention that Megan's mom MADE her dress?!!? How special is that? It was gorgeous.)

And this is probably my favorite shot from the reception.....

Wedding Preview: Lindsay&Nicholas

2009-05-19T19:33:00.000-07:00

A couple shots from my last wedding....Linsday and Nicholas. What a fun, sweet couple. They were total naturals in front of the camera. (makes my job easy!)

Family Photos

2009-05-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of shooting some family photos for Neil, Kristi & little Judah last week before the big move. I always get extra nervous when showing people I'm close to the photos I've taken of them....so...here's one for now.....

I'm going to miss you guys.

Wedding Preview: Megan&Anton

2009-05-09T07:05:00.001-07:00

I've been friends with Megan since we were in youth group together way back when....and loved meeting Anton when I shot their engagement photos last fall. I'd been looking forward to their wedding all year.
It's always fun to shoot a wedding, but it's even better when you've been close with the family and can share, just a little, in personal happiness of the day.
Congratulations Megan and Anton! You're two amazing people, and I'm thankful you let me spend the day with you yesterday. (And the rain held out till the reception! God answers prayer!)

Here's just a few shots from the day....

....pretty girls who were up for some fun (minus the heels)

....me and the guys were definitely on the same wave-length here....LOVE it when the groomsmen have a lot of personality. It makes for one of my favorite parts of the day....

First dance as Mr.&Mrs Kilburn....

Still sick. Still.

2009-05-06T09:06:00.000-07:00

Still sick. But feeling better....
I'm getting an amazing amount of computer work done...I can't do much more than sit around or I feel like I'm going to pass out....but I have a ton of photos that need editing, a couple photo books to lay-out, a website to update, and forms that need updating...just goes to show that having your own business kind of means you never get a day off....I'm not complaining though. I love it. (most of it anyhow.)

I've made a huge dent in my last wedding, which is good, since Friday I have another one.

And since I hate blogging without photos, have a few...of me. (I'm sorry. really. you were expecting something pretty. Or creative. Or....anything other than me.....too bad.)

Here I am....going all "Eight Mile" as I was told last time I wore my hood up. That's how I roll. (to quote Mr. Fitzwilliams. ha.)

I'm going to try and venture out later this evening to hopefully find something to wear to the wedding Friday (since it's an old friend from way back when, and I would be attending the wedding if I wasn't photographing it....I don't have to be especially "professional". Just practical.)

Currently listening to the new Future of Forestry EP, recommended to me by Mr. Phil Wing, and I like it! So, good purchase.

Currently not wanting to drink anymore orange juice, or swallow anymore pills/capsules/vitamins,...I have this weird psychological thing that goes on when I try and swallow pills/capsules/vitamins....I feel like I can't do it...and I freak out....this dates way back to when I was like...10. I know. It's all in my head....but I still get freaked out if it doesn't go down easy the first time. I'm weird. I know.

I dreamt about spiders last night. WHY?! Anyone who knows me, knows I DESPISE spiders. Loathe. Hate. Feel ill when I see one. And I had dreams about them being all over my apartment!! (the first time I've ever had a dream with my apartment in it though....) and I was trying to get my sister to kill them for me. Because I always try to persuade someone else to kill them for me. They even abide by this at work. If there is a spider, they nudge me aside (or shove me away before I can freak out) and do the dirty deed... just thought that was random enough to warrant a blog note.

oh, and these photos are absolutely GORGEOUS. I'm in love with this series by the talented Kellan Studios....

Part I
Part II

Wedding Preview: Lucy and Josh

2009-05-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

One good thing about being sick is, eventually, you can't lay in bed any longer, and you have to do something, anything, different....so, after watching lots of DVDs (Yes Man, multiple episodes of Gilmore Girls, Anna and the King), attending a meeting at work, and napping on and off all day, I decided to work on some editing from my last wedding....I think my head has had it for now....but I'm incredibly pleased with how Lucy and Josh's photos are turning out.

This next one is one of my favorites...it was just a quick snap, and the white balance was awful, but a quick black and white conversion and a contrast boost totally changed it....

Lists

2009-04-27T19:02:00.000-07:00

I've started messing around on my guitar again. I have calluses on my fingertips. This makes me feel like an uber-cool person, but probably just makes me a gigantic dork.
I want the weather to stay this pretty. I want to take walks every evening as the sun goes down
I get to play a lot of music/piano this week
I'm getting a tattoo in about 2 weeks.
I am a 16 year old girl in a lot of ways...and a grandma in a lot of others. I don't know how to act around guys, (teenage me) and I need to get to sleep on time, or I don't know what to do with myself. Plus I wear knitted hats, even in the summer (grandma me)
I get excited about the silliest things. Like an icebreaker project we're doing in my house church.
I ate avocado yesterday for the first time since being in Guatemala in 2001.
I like zucchini
"In the Sun" by JOSEPH ARTHUR, "Wonderwall" as done by Ryan Adams, and "Hallelujah" done by Jeff Buckley are three of my most favorite songs ever.
I take WAY too many photos when I shoot an event. My hard drive is about to scream "MUTINY!!" at me. I swear. Thank God for external hard drives.
If I had three wishes...I would want to be able to sing, to play cello, and the third would be a secret

Series: Windy Poplars Take II

2009-04-26T21:36:00.000-07:00

Why does caffeine always kick in....too late? Ugh. It's a good thing I don't work first thing Monday mornings....

Here's a few more from my day off....I named the series "Windy Poplars" after the L. M. Montgomery book of that same name...due to my sisters vibrant red hair, and the wind that was blowing us around all day.

My sister is stunning... She is.

Sunday Inspiration

2009-04-26T11:49:00.000-07:00

Some inspiring photos for a Sunday afternoon....

Scans from May 2009 Elle Magazine

Series: Windy Poplars

2009-04-24T19:43:00.000-07:00

I had one day off this week, and it was absolutely gorgeous outside so I decided to get my lovely red-headed sister and go shoot....for me. It's been a while since I've done a creative shoot just for me. I love doing photos for people, and shooting weddings, but this is what I started out doing...and it's what I love.
All photos shot at Cox Arboretum.

I think this one is my favorite, I really like the way the red hair and the green grass pop together...I'm a sucker for bright colors.

Wedding Preview: Lucy and Josh

2009-04-22T16:58:00.000-07:00

A little preview from my first wedding in the Spring/Summer 2009 wedding season: (it was an absolutely gorgeous day as well, I was praying hard for a break in the rain/cold for Lucy and Josh!)

Wedding: Megan and Jeff Kliewer

2009-04-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

Megan and Jeff:

This was my first time having a MALE second shooter, so he was able to grab a few of the groom and groomsmen getting ready....thanks Isaac!

Megan was absolutely stunning

Another shot Isaac snagged....gorgeous...

The bridal party got a chance to surround the newlyweds and cover them in prayer.

Then it was time for a few bride and groom shots

The lovely bridal party...

A candid moment...

and I'm always a fan of the couples who mix-up the cake eating....makes it a bit more fun.

Life

2009-04-16T20:23:00.000-07:00

I'm having one of those days where it feels like I'll never measure up.
It's one of those days that makes me realize how much I need God.
Because I have nothing else.

Blur

2009-04-15T18:12:00.000-07:00

The past week or so has been crazy. And it's only going to get crazier. Wedding season is starting, plus my regular work week (full-time library-ness)...and day to day life. I think my social calendar is on hold for the next 2 months....

Grandpa is out of the hospital and doing good.
Made a quick over-night trip to West Virginia to see our cousins, and meet little Max. (photos to come when I have a chance.)
An old friend came to Ohio to visit (lots of trips back and forth to Columbus in the rain)
Had a lovely tour of Cincinnati while trying to find the William Fitzsimmons/Rosi Golan show...Google maps has failed me AGAIN.
Loved the William Fitzsimmons "karaoke" night. It was a good show. He's a funny guy.
Doing final editing on some wedding photos tonight. Going to be another late one.

On the way to West Virginia

A fond (and slightly crazed on my part) good-bye to Dustin

and one of Mr. Fitzswilliams.

This song is permanently stuck in my head....

More words.

2009-04-09T18:23:00.000-07:00

...I'm still reading over my old poetry...some of it makes me laugh, some of it makes me want to start writing again, a lot of it makes me cringe...because my emotions are so...out there for anyone to read. (what was I thinking!?) but some of it is nice. If I had the talent to put words and music together, I might try.

Another one......

Beauty was the stillness

That ashes lifted up

The way the moon did reflect

Darkness in the sky

Moreover still the twilight

The days that flew on moth wings

On peace and wind and dandelion fluff

Wisps of hair trapped in lipgloss

And tight sunburnt skin

Mornings hot with summer waves

And daylight that hurt the eyes

Shady rest and short cool grass

Bridge over the lake, and frogs that croaked

Seeing glimpses of you

Dodging between the trees and sand

Dashing as an unknown fawn

Through the bushes through the crowds

Water droplets beaded and fell

Afternoon burst forth with brilliance

And everything blossomed
Including my heart.

-Emily O. October 3, 2005

....and darling your smile.....

2009-04-08T18:23:00.000-07:00

Boy....a fortune that is actually applicable AND menacing at the same time.

That's life.

Words

2009-04-07T19:26:00.000-07:00

I found an old poetry blog I had back....a long time ago....(a Xanga! Wow. Glad those days are over.) and ended up printing out everything. I haven't written creatively in a long time. It's kind of interesting to go back and read over my words, I can remember the exact situations that prompted them...but I'm completely disconnected from the attachment. (Thank God.) This one particularly was one I remember writing, and I still like it...don't hate me for posting it.

Tall and frail and too skinny
Cream of your skin against coffee
Black as Starling feather hair
Lips pale and moving
Fingers fretting over the wood of
A cheap pawnshop guitar
Sneakers torn and stained
Under tattered jeans portrude
Frozen breath from your mouth
Cold hands tucked away in pockets
Lonely waiting for small imperfection
Of my hand in your pocket
My laughter as your mittens
Eyes that talk under sparse dark brows
The pages in a book turn by
Flipping to the last chapter
Telling all revealing nothing
Unless you look on to read
One word at a time forming the future
I watch on as though through glass
Envisioning you
Seeing me
Are we ever to be?

Emily O. 12/16/2004

Driving.

2009-04-01T19:58:00.000-07:00

These were taken with my little point and shoot during a drive a couple Saturdays ago.
Sometimes, I really love driving alone everywhere.
Gives me time to think,
listen to music,
Listen to God,
talk to God,
talk to myself.
But sometimes, the car rides get long and quiet. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing...

... I hope I never stop noticing things like, the way the sun is coming through the clouds, or how blue the sky is....and feeling like it's just for me...

Life&Lists

2009-03-30T18:08:00.000-07:00

Things I am learning:

To say "No". I have a hard time with this. I am a people-pleaser. I hate confrontation. I love to go the extra mile. But sometimes, you just have to say no.

I hate to ask for help. I am a single, independent young woman. I live alone. I have my own car. My own business ect... I have a terrible time asking people for help/assistance. But I find this carries over into my walk with God, and it makes it that much harder to rely on Him.

I struggle with the business aspects of my business. I'm an artistic person. I'm horribly disorganized, scatterbrained and semi-introverted. But I am learning. To be outgoing. To be more organized and scheduled. I've grown leaps and bounds in the past year.

I love Ben Gibbard's voice. Oh, wait. I knew that already.

To read and study the Bible, and not just read it like a "good book". I'm grateful to my house church and a couple of close friends who have helped me with this recently.

To constantly be in awe of what God is doing for/with me. Two years ago, I never would have imagined the different opportunities I have happening to me. The people whom I've met and grown to love and appreciate. I fail to be as thankful for these things as I should. I pray that God teaches me to take each day as the blessing it is, and not focus on the things I "don't have".

I want to be able to say this:

"I have sought your face with all my heart;
be gracious to me according to your promise."
Psalm 119:58

Random

2009-03-28T21:14:00.001-07:00

"...To know your dependence is on something so much greater..."
-Made Free by Phil Wing

I've been listening to Phil's "To Find You" EP a lot lately. And I love it so much. Phil is incredibly talented and gifted. I recommend you get a copy if you don't have one already, the proceeds go towards Phil and Amber's Ethiopian adoption.

Sometimes, I have a lot to say, but noone to say it to, and then I get off this darn thing real fast, because I will not confide in the internets.

I will however, leave you with some photos.....

...I'm not a huge animal person, but I really miss our family having a dog. I still have a hard time accepting that both are doggies are gone....seeing Gus makes it a little better, but I miss our dogs. Especially Suki.

BUST Magazine

2009-03-27T14:14:00.001-07:00

I had a photo and tiny little blurb in one of the fashion sections in BUST magazine this month! Very exciting. I wish I had time for my wardrobe_remix, but I haven't done one in ages.

Lily Allen is on the cover too, and I think she's adorable!

Megan and Jeff Wedding: A couple more shots

2009-03-26T19:14:00.000-07:00

A couple more shots from Megan and Jeff's wedding. I'm almost done, so a full post should be coming within the next week.

I know I'm a girl and all, but photographing the groomsmen is secretly one of my favorite parts of the day, especially if they all have a sense of humor and big personalities...(like these guys). It probably stems from having an older brother.

Apex Live

2009-03-24T15:52:00.000-07:00

So, the night of worship at Apex went amazingly....all four bands did amazing jobs, I thought each one sounded better than the next....I ran around like a crazy person after Team 1 (my band!) was finished snapping a ton of photos. Hey, it's a form of worship/appreciation of God for me. Each band played some of my favorite songs, Phil Wickham's "You're Beautiful",(Team 1) "True Love", (Team 3) "Divine Romance" (Team 4), Hillsong's "Mighty to Save" (LOVE that song) and"All Creatures". (Team 2)
It was such an incredible night, God is flat-out amazing. And it was such a blessing to be with everyone, both on the band and in the crowd and hear them all singing their hearts out to God.

(I didn't get any photos of Team 1, because that's the team I'm on, so this one is from Cameron Braun Photography. Thanks for getting this Cameron!)

The rest are mine...I had a lot of fun playing with my new lensbaby...which will be apparent.

Life

2009-03-21T20:10:00.000-07:00

I love it when I realize that God has answered a prayer. It's such an awesome thing, no matter how small the request is/was. I prayed for peace about something yesterday, and today, not only was the day sunny and gorgeous....but I felt the peace I had asked for...

The Apex band/bands are having a night of worship tomorrow night and recording the evening to make a live CD....and I'm excited. It'll be my second time recording something, and I'm blessed to be able to do it with such a talented and God-loving team. If you think of it (and aren't going to be there) say a prayer for all of us band people, and everyone else who is attending.

Life

2009-03-17T19:22:00.000-07:00

I’m sitting here listening to the new Neko Case album, “Middle Cyclone”…as soon as I put it on, I flashed back to the first time I listened to her, and her album, “Fox Confessor Brings the Flood”. I was in Arkansas with my youth pastor, his wife, and three other youth workers/friends. We had just been to Tulsa, OK for a Youth workers convention at Church on the Move, (Funnily enough, this trip was when I was first introduced to Mute Math as well.) then had proceeded on to Arkansas to visit friends.
I contemplated purchasing her album while at a Barnes & Noble, but the sales people kept suspiciously eyeing me and my large purse (Hey, it’s what I use!) like I was going to shoplift all their “NOW #459” (or insert the current number they were on at that time) CDs, so I went and bought it at Wal-Mart instead.
And then I remember listening to the calming twangy-ness of it all the way back to Ohio on my Discman (for in these days, it was what one used to listen to music in a motor vehicle, on road trips) in the back of the ginormous 15 passenger van, laying down on a bench seat, watching the lights and trees go by. I rarely listen to that album now, rarely did after that road trip, but I like that it takes me back to that happy time.
I love how music does this. How it can conjure up memories, good, bad, amazing, horrific. It can remind me of the moment when I was the happiest I had ever been, and then change to a song that reminds me of the biggest heartbreak I ever felt.

(A photo from that trip)

Wedding: Abi&Justin

2009-03-14T19:40:00.000-07:00

Here's a bit of Abi and Justin's wedding day story....

Abi's two-piece dress was vintage and absolutely stunning...

When Abi and her dad saw each other in the hall, I almost teared up....it was incredibly sweet.

Abi and Justin opted for a "First Look" which meant we had lots of time for photos, and a special alone time to see each other for the first time....

This one of Justin and his good-lookin' guys is one of my favorites...how they mimic the lines of the organ....

The groomsmen all went for the little bit of snow that was left....

Abi and all her gorgeous ladies were up for some outdoor shots, even though the wind was blowing...

Abi and her brother and sisters...I loved how this one turned out.

This one is probably my favorite of Abi:

First dance at the reception!

Father-Daughter dance....

Feathers.....

2009-03-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

Wedding: Megan and Jeff Kliewer

2009-03-09T18:46:00.000-07:00

I finally got my internet set up at my apartment. I have to say, at&t was better to work with this go 'round than the last. It's really hard to do what I do on my computer without some access to the internet, so I am super grateful that it is up and running, and for the personable tech/maintenance guys who worked with me. (and didn't make me feel like some noob who didn't know what she was talking about.)

I'll leave ya'll with a sneak peek from my most recent wedding, which I'm just now getting around to uploading! (big thanks to my friend/second shooter Isaac Pittman for entertaining me during the drive there and back, and for taking some sweet shots of the guys getting prepared before the ceremony, among other ones)

And since I'm not an experienced romantic, or a true writer, I hope the photos display a hint of how sweet and cool this wedding was...because this is the first wedding I've photographed since my own brothers that actually made me tear up. It was really amazing to see how God used the bride and groom to touch the lives of the bridal party, their families, and everyone in attendance.

The Art is Found

2009-03-04T17:00:00.000-08:00

A month or so ago, I was asked to do a guest blog project at The Art Is Found. They feature scrapbookers, artists, and recently, photographers. The prompt this month was Feathers, so with that, I did a little photoshoot that incorporated, feathers. Check it out. So excited and flattered. Give those creative girls some love!

Life Lists

2009-03-01T17:35:00.000-08:00

I got new glasses this week. Zennioptical.com. 10 bucks for the frames and lenses.

we kind of picked out the same frames. Oh well.

I truly hate working 40 hours a week at a "normal" job. I really don't feel called to that. I'm praying about options and possibilities.
I know a lot of people who say they aren't into fresh flowers because they are a "waste", but I really love them...I think I'm going to start buying them for myself. They really cheer a room up.

(above photos found via Domino magazine's website)

love this! I need some milk bottles.
(previous 2 pictures found via Such Pretty Things)

(found via Girlhula @ flickr)

I'm not so much into the regular "girlie" bouquet flowers...I love Anemones, Poppies and Hydrangeas. Oh well, I'm not very typical girl in most ways.

Ponderings.

2009-02-22T19:23:00.001-08:00

Why does it feel like people often view quiet people in a negative light?
It's like I'm someone they want to "figure" out.
It must be because I'm not comfortable, or because I'm somehow socially inept, or whatever.
Often, I choose to be quiet because I find it makes me more observant. I learn things about people while I sit there, quiet.
I'll admit I'm not in my prime zone when within a large group of people, whether I've known them for years or not. But that doesn't mean there's something wrong with me. And it doesn't mean I'm sitting there wishing that I was a loud, outgoing person, and sitting in a puddle of self pity. I don't mind not being the center of attention.

I believe I can be just as effective as a witness for Jesus with my quiet ways than as an outgoing person who strikes up conversations about God with strangers. It's just different. There's so many types of people in the world, and I've connected with some of them because of who I am.

I'm quiet. This makes me good at listening. And since I don't say everything that immediately pops into my head, I'm able to ponder my responses, and truly try and give sound advice and encouragement.

Yes, I am partially shy because I'm not a completely confident person. I'm quiet sometimes because I worry what others may think. And my voice wavers when addressing large groups. But so what?!

I think that driving in the car with someone and not always having to fill the silence with words is a beautiful thing. I know that being quiet has surprisingly helped me with my photography, since I'm very good at observing the way things and people interact.
I know that the Bible advises stillness over just spouting foolish words. And that God asked Isaiah to "Be still and know that I Am God."

I know that God can take what some consider a weakness and make it a strength.

I found this video via a blogger friend, @ Create*loves, and thought I'd share...

Family Time

2009-02-22T09:57:00.000-08:00

A couple quick shots from my first baby session I did yesterday. An adorable family, who I loved taking pictures of!
More to come.

sooooo cute. I think I like babies. Taking pictures of them I mean. I'm not really a natural mommy/maternal type, but for this much cuteness, I'm willing to learn a bit. :)

I loved this shot of the family. The lighting turned out gorgeous.

Selfs, flash, and a night alone

2009-02-20T19:53:00.001-08:00

This is what I do when I am at my apartment alone in the evenings...sometimes...but its good! Because I'm practicing what I do. And please, PLEASE, don't think I am vain for posting photos of myself. Like I've explained many a time....I'm just the only model I have that's on hand 100% of the time...believe me, I'd rather photograph someone else.

I do love this one. Its very me. Vintage, with a scarf and a camera. Me to a T.

And this one is fun too...my new birthday earrings are front and center...most people know, I have a weakness for gigantic earrings....

And a little before and after....straight out of camera, and then edited to my tastes....this is special. Noone ever sees my SOOC stuff! :)

'night.

Birthday wish:

2009-02-16T08:34:00.001-08:00

This is what I want for my birthday. In mint or red. And I want a basket for the front. I know. I'm a grandma. But its sooo cute. And I want to ride it to work and over to my parents.

Sunday Afternoon

2009-02-15T21:28:00.000-08:00

Some shots from today, inspired by the new jacket I got my sister for her birthday....

(I think this one is my favorite...)

02.14.09

2009-02-14T22:08:00.000-08:00

You don't have to read the lyrics posted below, but they were what inspired this photo, and touched me this weekend. They are as close to a personal post as I'll get on a public blog...

Time keeps moving on
Through the sunshine and the storm
And my dreams are set in stone
And someday I’ll be who I want to be
For now I’ll wait
For the sun to shine again
And for now I’ll wait
For the rain to pass away

And I’m looking for the brighter days
When all my hurts seem to fade away
I’m looking for the brighter days to come my way

Faces come and faces go
But none seem to look my way
And walls have stood and walls have fallen
But my heart seems to wait
For now I’ll sit at the end of the road
And for now I’ll wait
At the end of the pathway

I’ll see the sun one day shine upon me
I’ll see the sun one day
And watch the nighttime turn to morning
But for now it all comes back around

-Leeland "Brighter Days"

Polaroids and lots of sleep.

2009-02-04T17:18:00.000-08:00

You would think I would have figured out sooner that I could take pictures with my polaroid camera WITHOUT the flash firing. (since I despise flash and all....) but it took me till last Saturday...but I finally did it. And now I have 5 boxes of polaroid film coming my way.

There's just something about polaroid photos I've always loved...I think a lot of people feel this way.

Anyways...I'm sick. So I've been doing a lot of sleeping, vitamin taking and orange juice drinking. Also a lot of guilt in me for taking time off of work, but I've been exhausted, and I have a wedding this weekend, so I need to be better soon.

New Shoot

2009-01-31T20:47:00.001-08:00

A silly picture from a shoot I did this afternoon with my sisters. (My sister's new red hair is amazing!)

The rest of the photos won't be up for a while, as they are a series for a guest spot I'm doing on the Art is Found blog.

Stay tuned.

25 Things

2009-01-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

I've been tagged....I'm not tagging anyone else though. Sorry. But here it is if you really want to know....25 random things about me....(gosh, this could be b o r i n g)

1. It took me almost an hour to get all the ice and snow off my car today. Out of like 5 or 6 male neighbors that walked past me during this time, not one offered any assistance. Chivalry is dead/I have deadbeat neighbors.

2. I am a soundtrack/score/atmospheric music junkie. Seriously. Love. Love. Love. Especially if there are strings, glockenspiel, xylophones and or piano.

3. I read. A lot. I read mostly Young Adult Fiction. Because that's one of the things I am in charge of at work. So, probably don't ask me to recommend something to you. Unless you want it to have angst, first loves, vampires, or is written in diary form.

4. I watch something Jane Austen at least once a month. Movie, mini series, I own several, and never tire. Her stories evoke something deep inside me. I connect with her flawed characters.

5. I learned 3 Ingrid Michaelson songs (Keep Breathing, The Chain and Corner of Your Heart) from watching youtube tutorials. I'm lazy. I also learned how to curl my hair with a flat iron and to do my make-up like a 60's factory girl from youtube--but I will not watch your stupid videos with fat kids singing songs, or fast food workers cracking jokes.

6. The only "Christian" music I listen to with any regularity is by Phil Wickham and Jon Foreman. I wish Christians were more creative and musically diverse and tried to market outside of the "Christian" circle more often.

7. The band that I've seen live the most... Mae....5 times? 6 times(Joel?)....weird as it sounds....the next band that I've probably seen the most live, is Skillet. Oh dear....this was back in highschool. Don't judge me.

8. I live alone. I love it.

9. I am running out of strange, weird topics to write about myself.

10. I waited till I was 15 to get my ears pierced. Both my younger sisters had theirs done before me. I am a gigantic chicken when it comes to anticipating pain. Huge. You don't even understand. I want a tattoo...but you can understand how that'd going...

11. Looking at veins makes me queasy. If I look at my own wrists for too long, I feel like I'm going to pass out. And don't even start me on guys who's veins bulge out of their arms...creeps the heck outta me.

12. I am one of the most non-competitive people you will ever meet. Competitive sports? I like playing, I do NOT like the whole big deal over winner/loser, yell at team mates who are atheletically impaired (me)...what crap. Way to take the fun out of life.

13. I am addicted to blogs. Photo blogs mainly. Jessica Claire, Jasmine Star, Mark Brooke Photography, Gabriel Ryan Photography and Stacy Lynn (a new FAVE!) to name a few. (click on them! They're all awesome and inspiring.)

14. I dye my hair. It is not naturally this dark. I do not dye my eyebrows. They are this dark. It all evens out. At some point, I am going to dye my hair cherry red. Like Clementine in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Just because I can. And I want to.

15. I have the sleeping, I mean, sneaking, suspicion that my (above) neighbors are vampires. Could be all those Twilight novels, movies and posters I see nowadays, or it could be because they seem to be at their prime at about 3 am.

16. I don't have a boyfriend. Thanks for asking. Just thought I'd get that out there. Now we don't have to tackle that incredibly awkward question in person. I'm flirting impaired. If I like a guy, I turn into an silent idiot.

17. I'm shy. Not the stammer, shivering, shaking, wish I could hide sort of shy I used to be, but I'm not good in large groups of people. I'm not good one on one with people I've just met, and I don't like public speaking. (except if I'm in a play, or drama, then its fine) I've heard that I come off as snobbish when people first meet me, and this makes me sad. But I can't help it.

18. I find myself envying people with amazing voices. I wish I could sing.

19. I love to travel. I've been out of the US three times, twice to Guatemala on missions trips, and once to Canada, just for fun. I'm planning on driving cross-country to California this summer, Lord willing, and I will be going to Europe at some point in the not so distant future.

20. 25 things? Really? I'm listening to a song off of the Memoirs of a Geisha soundtrack right now. Its an incredibly beautiful soundtrack. I recommend it.

21. I was home schooled my whole life. I started college when I was 16. Not because I was particularly smart or any sort of genius, but more because I'm terrible at self-motivation and discipline, and I think my parents thought the structure would be good for me. (it was)

22. I'm going to watch Almost Famous when I am done with this thing. Good movie.

23. My family has never owned a microwave. I don't own a microwave now. I always get confused when I try to use the one at work. I think food cooked in them tastes gross.

24. I have a hard time asking for help. I tend to be self-reliant and self-dependent and this is a definite problem when it comes to life. Both with my walk with God, and with friends. Something I really struggle with. God has been revealing this to me in ways that are uncomfortable, but, in the end, good for me. Like all things He does.

25. I addicted to candy and sweets. I don't like condiments. (Mayo, mustard, salad dressings....ect) I rarely eat meat. Especially red meat. I've only cooked myself meat once so far in the several months I've been out of the house. I love cheese. Especially fresh mozzarella. I'm not a big fan of pasta.

And I'm done. Seriously. What narcissist wanted 25 things?!

Waiting on a Snow Day....

2009-01-27T19:54:00.000-08:00

and while I wait....I create...paint, photos, computer stuff...(can I please have a snow day tomorrow?)

I purchased a wide angle/macro lens for the Canon! Excited for my upcoming weddings.

I bought this frame at a thrift shop, the inside picture was some Christmas-themed thing, that I painted over. I also painted the frame white. Now its in the bathroom...I think I'll leave it there. The pink matches my Marie Antoinette theme.

New bedspread from Urban Outfitters. Its gorgeous. Silky, heavy...oh my. I'm in love with the two clashing/coordinating prints...its very me.
I'm reverting to a purple themed bedroom, just like in my childhood days!

And I've had a printer now for about three weeks, but I just now got a cable to hook it up to my computer yesterday. So I tried out some test prints, and it appears to print photos nicely. (for my own personal use only, really.) And, yes, the polaroid is real.

I'm working on a painting, but its not quite done yet. If I get a snow day, then possibly, tomorrow.

January things

2009-01-15T19:29:00.000-08:00

I forgot to post these because I was waiting till after Christmas (and after I had gifted them) to show them.

Just some dollies I made my sisters and a couple friends for Christmas. The pattern was designed by Emily Martin of The Black Apple . I made them to go with the girls I created them for.

My little photographer doll.

a Kim the Photographer doll, a Liv the Reader doll, and my doll again....

An Amber the Accordion Player doll. A Val the Artist doll. And a Kari, the Pianist doll.

And all the dollies in a line on my kitchen table.

They turned out great for me not having sewn since my sewing machine died on me last spring.

And just because its below zero outside, and I really miss the warm weather, some shots from this past summer that I just now processed:

As a photographer, I find it continually challenging to find inspiration in the colder months...

Here's hoping for an early spring this year...

Here's a pretty song to listen to:

Favorite Photos and Moments from 2008

2009-01-10T10:18:00.000-08:00

A few of my favorite shots from this past year. Enjoy.

"Guess What....I liked it"

2009-01-08T19:26:00.000-08:00

This is kind of amusing. I don't listen to most of the top hits, or radio singles, whatever. But I end up hearing most of them somehow. This DJ mashed them all up into one, pretty amusing, video/song.

(Warning: mild music video skanky dressing, but that's about it.)

Favorite Albums of 2008...

2009-01-07T16:46:00.000-08:00

So I usually do one of these. There's probably more, but this is what I got tonight.

In order by preference:

9. MGMT- Oracular Spectacular
They pronounce their name 'Management', but I refuse to smush letters together to make a word (sk8ter boi, anyone?)
Favorite tracks: Electric Feel and Time to Pretend.
Good music for...dancing to. I don't really dance. But its fun to listen to in the car. And bop my head to.

8. She&Him- Volume One
Zooey Deshchanel (who is totally, if the gossip blogs are right, engaged to Ben frickin Gibbard! Of Death Cab for Cutie) and M. Ward front this fun, retro and a bit folky/country sounding album. Love, LOVE it.
Favorite tracks:
Why Do You Let Me Stay Here and Sentimental Heart

7. Ingrid Michaelson- Be Ok
This is more of a compilation of live songs, ones that haven't been previously released ect...instead of a full album. But its good.
Favorite Tracks:
Be Ok and The Chain

6. William Fitzsimmons- The Sparrow and The Crow
Quite honestly, I'm not sure if this is a 2008 album, but I just bought it in December, so, it works for me. At the prompting of several friends, I purchases it, and love it.
Favorite tracks:
Even Now, Just Not Eachother, They'll Never Take the Good Years....um, I like the whole album.

5. Jeremy Larson- Salvation Club
His music is incredibly melodic and pretty much the definition of the word beautiful.
Favorite Tracks:
Where they Sleep and Goodnight

4. Coldplay- Viva la Vida
I have to say, this was a breath of fresh air after X&Y....I liked that album okay....but it wasn't anything impressive. (Fix You is the only standout track that comes to mind) Viva is classic Coldplay, plus some. Love the strings and orchestration. Strongly dislike the song Strawberry Swing. I have an acoustic version of 'Lost', its better than the original.
Favorite Tracks:
Viva La Vida, Lovers in Japan (even if Chris Martin cheats live, and creates a loop on his keyboard, jerk.) and Yes. (I just like all the spikey strings)

3. Death Cab for Cutie- Narrow Stairs
Everyone claimed that Plans was awful (?), I still don't get that. I loved it. I don't love Death Cab's work before Transatlanticism, so maybe that has something to do with it....but Narrow Stairs exceeded my expectations. Which is super. I love it. I love Death Cab. They have a song with an instrumental 4 minute intro...and I love it. Oh, and did I mention I got to see them LIVE last year!?!
Favorite Tracks:
Grapevine Fires (gorgeous live), Ice is Getting Thinner, and Bixby Canyon Bridge

2. Copeland- You are my Sunshine
Once again, everyone said Eat, Sleep, Repeat sucked. And they all love this one. I don't see how they can hate that one, and love this one? It seems like the natural progression from E.S.R. Maybe that's just me. But...basically, I would marry Aaron Marsh's voice. I think he could sing anything and I would swoon. Gorgeous. But the guys got a way with music AND lyrics. Lucky.
Favorite Tracks:
Good Morning Fire Eater, The Day I Lost My Voice, Should You Return

1. Sigur Ros- Med Sud I Eyrum Vid Spilum Endalaust
Another one I was blessed (!) to see live last year. The best live show of my life so far. All the way to Detroit to see them. Its the perfect mixture of upbeat and joyous (yes, JOYOUS) and mellow, atmospheric crescendos. Love it. Seriously.
Favorite Tracks:
Gobbledigook, Inní mér syngur vitleysingur, Med sud i eryum, Fljavik...

Also, just for fun, a few of my favorite songs from last year:
(these are not all from the year 2008, just what I listened to in '08. See down below for the playlist!)

The Call- Regina Spektor
-from the Prince Caspian soundtrack. At first, it was weird in the movie...then it made me cry. Because I've grew up with the Narnia books, and I could feel what the Pevensie kids were feeling in that moment. I'm a nerd.

You and I- Ingrid Michaelson
-from Be Ok. Its one of the cute ones

Sour Cherry- The Kills
-Another great song for the car. In a loud, kind of obnoxious but not, way.

Elephants- Rachael Yamagata
-Interesting lyrics, but the sad melody and piano get me.

My Love Goes Free- Jon Foreman
-Same with this one. Simple, sweet, and I love Jon Foreman's solo stuff

Elephants as Big as Whales- PlayRadioPlay!
-This is one from the beginning of last year. Loved his first full length album (I've been known to get people addicted to PlayRadioPlay!)

Sundrenched World- Joshua Radin**(this song is NOT on my playlist...I believe I have the edited version. Playlist.com did not.)
-Another favorite from earlier last year. When I heard the strings in the beginning of the song for the first time, I knew I'd love it.

Is There a Ghost- Band of Horses
-I heard this song on Pandora , (another reccomendation from EVERYBODY) and was like, "who is this?!" I'm not a huge fan of B.O.H. other stuff, but this song is amazing. (musically, the lyrics aren't really anything to write home about.)

Full Moon- The Black Ghosts
-Here comes the nerd again. I read ALL of Stephenie Meyers Twilight books. Yes. I like them too. I found this song on the soundtrack to the movie. Which I saw. But I am not ashamed. I've found some of my favorite bands by listening to movie soundtracks. This song is fun.

If You Find Her- Future of Forestry
-oooh...pretty. I wish the rest of their stuff sounded more like this.

Flightless Bird, American Mouth- Iron and Wine
-ha. Another one off the Twilight soundtrack. I admit, I wasn't crazy about Iron and Wine a few years ago. But I'm loving them now. William Fitzsimmons reminds me of them a lot.

Sea of Love (remastered version)- Cat Power
-This was on the Juno soundtrack. Its so sweet and sad. I love the simpleness of it.

Happy Christmas.

2008-12-23T16:30:00.000-08:00

When I was a kid, I remember it actually snowing. Now that I'm all grown up, it seems all's we get is "wintry mix" or "sleet/ice" storms. What gives? Slick, icy streets do NOT feel Christmas-like. I dislike snow. I pretty much hate winter. But it's Christmas, so, even I feel, there should be snow! Shouldn't there?

I've actually been busy wrapping presents, making presents, cards...I get to bake more chocolate cookies tonight, and I have to make a cheese ball at some point for our family get-together for Christmas Eve...

my Christmas tree in all its festooned glory. I know, its ridiculous. And why not? I'm single, its pink, and apparently we both like sparkles. A perfect mix.

I handmade a gift tag out of felt...and after that one, I said the rest get paper tags! But its cute. I hope Kari likes it.....

The Christmas cards I made for the ladies at work. I almost didn't get these done...but I stayed up late last night, and all finished! Its so satisfying to get things checked off my list.

I've hung pretty little snowflakes from the chandelier...

I think I made these last...Friday? They're my pretty feather trees. I love them.

some pretties in my bowl on the table....

and a couple nooks and corners at the apartment that have just recently been finished and adorned...

And lastly, the wall in my bedroom I'm working on....it'll eventually be a lot of little frames, and photos, and things...but this is what it is so far...

I hope everyone has a truly happy Christmas, and a blessed day, celebrating the birth of the one and only Jesus Christ.
Much love.

Because I love my itunes Library

2008-12-17T17:18:00.001-08:00

The whole "Hit next on your itunes, write down the song that comes up" deal....some of these are surprisingly accurate, and don't blame me for having a lot of soundtracks/scores with cool titles to the songs....I am obsessed with soundtracks.

Begin....
IF SOMEONE SAYS "IS THIS OKAY" YOU SAY
“This is Your Life” The Killers

WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
“No Lights After 11” The Vanity Fair Soundtrack (oh dear, that's totally me to a T....little grandma Em who needs her sleep)

WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
“Hard to Explain” The Strokes

HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
“When Paula Sparks” Copeland (“It's a glorious day
And my lonely heart is tired again”)

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
“I Turn my Camera On” Spoon (HA!)

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
“When You were Young” The Killers

WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
“Love Dog” TV On the Radio (umm?)

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
“Rangers” A Fine Frenzy (Those forest rangers are so sexy!)

WHAT IS 2+2?
“Summertime” Mae

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
“One ‘heck’ of a Party” Air

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
“Virtue Betrayed” the Vanity Fair Soundtrack (hmm)

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
“Freedom” Tegan and Sara

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
“A Little Better” Gnarls Barkley

WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
“The District Sleeps Alone Tonight” Postal Service

WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
“Shove It” Santogold (haha)

WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
“Somebody’s Baby” Jon Foreman

WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
“Leisure Suit” Feist

WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
“Talking Bird” Death Cab

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
“I Saw it on Your Keyboard” Hellogoodbye

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
“Breathe Me” Sia

WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
"What Do I Know?" (Copeland)

HOW WILL YOU DIE?
“Limousine” Brand New (classy of me)

WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
“Chicago” Sufjan Stevens (not really...I loved it!)

WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
“Minding My Own Business” Coconut Records

WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
“When You Leave” Britta Persson

WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
“Hope For the Hopeless” A Fine Frenzy (I guess that’s good?)

WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
“California” Mates of State

DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU?
“She Changes Your Mind” Copeland (ain’t it true)

IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
“The Sound of Settling” String Quartet Tribute to Death Cab for Cutie

WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
“...And Then I Kissed Him” Pearl Harbor Soundtrack

Christmas Wishes

2008-12-16T19:40:00.000-08:00

I'm all about the giving...(I still have lots to shop for/things to make for people....) but I thought I'd do a wishlist....just because...it's that time of year, right? These are all things that inspire me!

the Canon EF 85mm f1.2.....MmmMmm. My dream lens. (the price is "out of this world" as well...as in ridiculous.) But I've hear amazing things about it....as well as LOVED it when I rented it a couple months back!

Glamour necklace set from Forever21. I've been looking for a multi-layered necklace for a while now....I'd rather it be gold, but I still like this one!

FRONT | BACK | DETAIL

a new winter coat...the top two are Urban Outfitters, and the second one is Forever21.

A pair of unique, fun heels. I'm starting to wear heels more...but my first love will always be flats. The first are from Urban, the second pair, from Forever21

A turntable. I love how this one is all compact in the suitcase! So great. I had a dream the other night that I had one, and that I was playing Sigur Ros' "( )" album on it. What a combination! Now I want to make that dream real.
So then I would need some vinyl albums...(other than my Winnie the Pooh and Disney records from when I was younger!)

"( )", "Takk" and "Med Sud..." by Sigur Ros
Parachutes, Rush of Blood, and Viva La Vida by Coldplay
and maybe "Illinois" by Sufjan....

....just to start! (the more I think about it...the cooler that dream was!)

Anyways...these are just a few fun things that would be fun to get, or to save up for some day.

Sooo Busy

2008-12-12T19:58:00.000-08:00

I've been sooo busy lately. Work, trying to Christmas shop, trying to make things for people, still trying to get totally settled into the apartment, and make it feel like home, like me. PLUS....I have to decorate a bit for the holidays...

I have a pink tinsel tree.
It has feathers, and peacock blue beads on it.
Plus pink lights.
I'm a girl.

I got my peacock feathers last week, and wore them last weekend (yay!)

I'm a huge fan! I also have a orange and blackish striped set....

I had to do a heart bokeh of my pink tree. So cute.

g'night!

Its been a while....

2008-12-01T20:27:00.001-08:00

... the website has been updated.

Two new weddings, an engagement shoot, and some new family photos! (from a great family who are in my house church)

I also have Thanksgiving photos to edit, a wedding, and a family session from Sunday....exciting, exciting.

www.emilyOphoto.com

That is all.
Enjoy.

-Emily

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-28T14:17:00.001-08:00

from the family

Details and Photographs.

2008-11-26T21:33:00.000-08:00

I actually made the cookies tonight and I painted, and managed to snag a few photos of some colorful details around my apartment.
I have to much to be thankful for this year. I can't even express it. When I pout and whine about one or two things my life is "missing" God gently, but truly points out all the amazing blessings that continue to arise in my life. I'm embarrassingly ungrateful most days, this I realize.

My kitchen consists of reds and greens. Apple green, not Christmas green.

My bathroom has a sort of Marie Antoinette/Romantic theme, (partly due to some free(!) hot pink towels) and the chandelier is over the kitchen table area.

The yummy cookies I made tonight. And an apple green chair.

I finally made some reusable shopping totes.

I hope everyone has a lovely Thanksgiving.

Weeknight Inspiration

2008-11-24T20:15:00.001-08:00

What's inspiring me right now:

I'm making Red Velvet cookies for Thanksgiving. Yum. With cream cheese icing.
Red velvet cake is my absolute favorite. Its what my mom has made for my birthday for the past 6 or so years.

Prints and paintings by Emily @ The Black Apple
I really would love some for my apartment.

My pink Christmas tree. (no, its not up, not till AFTER Thanksgiving....but I'm looking for some ornaments, and thinking about other Holiday decorations I'll put up. Weird, I've never been a "pink" girl....but lately...I like it for some things.

Felt dollies made by Elsie (I want to make some for some friends of mine for gifts!)

I'm really into peacocks as of late...I just picked up a pair of earrings from Forever21 that are little peacocks....I love their brilliant colors. (photo by owlgarden @ Flickr)

Speaking of feathers....( sort of? ) I bid on and won some neat little feather pads on Ebay to make some head pieces from! I can't wait to wear them for the holidays!

one of them....peacocks!

Anyways....two more days of work, and then some Holiday time with the family. I'm really looking forward to it.

p.s. tonight I touched raw chicken for the first time. I didn't throw up....but it wasn't what I would call a pleasant experience. I'm not a huge meat eater, for which I am glad.

The District Sleeps Alone Tonight

2008-11-19T20:13:00.001-08:00

How did I ever forget about the Postal Service (band, not delivery service)
So wonderful....there's mention of a new album....but no sign....*sigh*
Anyways....I've done my shopping for Operation Christmas Child
and have curtains and mirrors hung in my apartment...
I even found a little time to paint my journal for the Elsie class I was talking about a few posts back.

(don't worry, I've also edited large batches of wedding photos....but a girl has to do something relaxing occasionally....)

and...I snapped some more self portraits....yay for camera love.

my journal (and loved macbook)

there's that macbook again...and me...rockin one of the dollar store head bands I bought tonight. they're glittery....(not as in "have glitter pasted all over them"....just sparkly. I was kind of over the whole glitter thing the year I turned 17....almost anyways.)

and I like how this one turned out.
Notice the sig in the bottom corner? Compliments of my tablet and pen!

One day of work left till I have my day off this week and get to go to Ikea...to buy bookshelves!

Playing Catch Up

2008-11-18T20:44:00.000-08:00

Here's a few shots from the weddings I shot this month.
I'm just now getting all caught up with my editing...more to come!

Ashley and David Adams got married Saturday... it snowed, but they were up for a quick jump outside for some shots! And her dress was amazingly stylish and unique. More soon.

I shot Janet and Shawn's engagement photos back in October, and shot their wedding early November. They were married in a amazing old church with a gorgeous courtyard for photographs. (plus the weather was amazing!)

(one of my faves from the wedding!)

Home

2008-11-11T19:45:00.000-08:00

I'm all moved in to the new place.
Boxes everywhere, but some resemblance of order is taking shape.
I haven't had a moment to take any sort of photos.
Not that there is much to look at yet.

Soon.

Teeny, tiny, and all(most) mine...

2008-11-03T19:48:00.000-08:00

Big news....
I've found an apartment. (!) Hopefully I'll be signing the lease tomorrow night.

Its tiny, but that's perfect, since it's just me. I'm excited to be getting out on my own...but I'm realizing how much "stuff" I need.

Honestly though, all I can think about is what I'm going to do with the space! (I don't have an Interior Design degree for nothing!)

Painting the walls is a no-go (sad) but it'll present a creative challenge to bring color in, in other ways, so I am looking forward to it...

Some inspiring photos: (from various flickrs, www.decor8blog.com, and Domino magazine's website)

Working

2008-11-01T18:38:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,
The blog is a bit wonky right now, I'm working on updating the design a little, so it may be a few days or weeks till its up and running to my satisfaction.

I just got done shooting a wedding this afternoon, it was so much fun, and the pictures turned out amazing, the couple was wonderful, tons of personality, and so, so friendly and loving.
I actually have all the proofs already chosen, so now I just have to sit down and edit!

Some of you know I've been sort of apartment hunting (looking in the paper, online, ect...) for a place, and I might possibly have found one! I have to decide by Monday, so, if you think of it, say a prayer that I would do what God wants to me to do about this!

I'm out, time to watch Sleeping Beauty, take a shower, and relax....I get an extra hour of sleep tonight!

Special thanks to my Kim-Kim for being my pal, and second shooter today at the wedding!

Gettin' Crafty

2008-10-29T18:25:00.000-07:00

I used to be all about the crafts.
I designed and sewed(?) purses and bags, I embroidered, was totally obsessed with miniatures and dollhouses, (and made them) sewed clothes, made beaded necklaces, bracelets, art journaled/scrapbooked for years...

But I haven't done much of that in the past few years. (I've even slacked in the journaling department here lately....) Granted, my time has been full, and I have been creative (photography, playing music) but I miss crafting!

So...I signed up to get creative:

Its a 6 week online class, with 5 projects/challenges a week....!!

I follow Elsie Flannigan's blog regularly, and her Flickr stream, and I'm excited for the challenge/opportunity to do some creative work!

Yay. Can't wait to start.

Maternity Session

2008-10-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

This was my first ever maternity session. To be honest, I wasn't very sure I wanted to get into shooting maternity sessions, but this one had the promise of baby shots after the fact. (and even though I'm not a huge, "I want to hold your baby" type of girl, and I've heard enough about birthing babies from my Doolah mother to last me a good long time, I LOVE precious new babies, gosh, who doesn't!)
But anyways, I decided to meet Meredith, and we totally hit it off. I gained a new friend, with fabulous taste, and who will have the most beautiful baby any time now! I can't wait to meet and photograph little McKenna! Her and Brian were great to shoot, even though they confessed to feeling a touch awkward posing for photos. They're going to make super parents.

Isn't she a pretty momma to be?

So much to do

2008-10-23T15:27:00.000-07:00

I've done a couple shoots here recently, I finished a senior portrait session, a maternity shoot for a wonderful new friend(!), an engagement shoot for a couple who's wedding I'm shooting next weekend, and some shots for a great family (with some ADORABLE little girlies) in my house church. Here's a couple shots to attempt at catch-up:

Special thanks to Dingleberry's for letting me shoot some senior portraits for Tessi in the store!

I *loved* the lights, and the nighttime feel of this one.

Janet and Shawn were a fun couple to shoot. She wanted some distinctly "fall" shots, and he had all sorts of great ideas for poses, as well as wanting a "zombie" pose shot. (which, is going in their engagement album/guest book!)

This is one of my favorites from their session!

And these next ones are of some little girlies with the BEST ever Halloween costumes ever. (what a good mommy they have!) They are the most precious and hilarious little girls I've met in a long time!

Adorable, no?!

I have more of these, plus some pictures of the whole family together...another post, another time!

Funny

2008-10-15T20:01:00.000-07:00

So, I just impulsively purchased a smallish xylophone on Ebay. (I HATE Ebay...I am such an impulsive shopper on there! Dang it.)

I don't think I'll ever be able to play it like this kid...;)

In all actuality, I was inspired to get one after going to the Sigur Ros show, and the opening band and Sigur Ros used one....

so, this is a bit more my style:

Yeah...:) so....I'm excited.

The Glen

2008-10-12T19:11:00.000-07:00

Its was SO pretty today, perfect. We went down to the Glen to take some photos, and I was able to use the 50mm 1.2 lens that I have for a few more days. (I did an E-session with a couple Saturday, photos to come!)

Here's a few (of the sisters)

Keep on Checkin them off

2008-10-09T19:29:00.000-07:00

Just last month I was able to check off one of my "See-Before-I-Die" bands, Sigur Ros, and what do ya know, last night, I had the chance to see another one! Two for two!

Death Cab for Cutie.
I remember when I first heard these guys...New Year was the first song I heard, (and they played it!) and I knew I had to have the album. They were the first album I ever purchased through itunes, and actually, the were the first "secular band" (sorry mom and dad!) whose album I purchased.

They played at the Lifestyle Pavilion in Columbus, and I also had to chance to see Tegan and Sara, who make some pretty undeniably awesome pop tunes.

I left before the encore (I know, I know, I'm a little grandma...I didn't want to hang in traffic, or deal with all the little kiddie scene kids running rampant.) But they played an awesome set, and Ben Gibbard sounds EXACTLY like the albums....

The baseline in "I Will Possess Your Heart" was amazing live.

And they played "Grapevine Fires" which is my favorite tune off Narrow Stairs.

Lots of fun. I LOVE good live music so much. I didn't take a camera, and I'm glad, because I just enjoyed the show. I even sang along a little bit. (who could help but sing "I'll Follow You into the Dark?")

I'll leave you with a couple shots I took a while back in August, that I've just now got around to editing....because I can't stand posting without some visuals.

this is my desktop wallpaper...such gorgeous color....yum.

my pretty "glamour hippie" sister...styled by me of course...who else has that magpie eye for sparkles an sequins!?

p.s.
i rented a 50mm 1.2 lens to use in a shoot this coming weekend (trying it out before I buy it eventually) so look forward to some SWEET photos....because this lens...is...frickin. AMAZING.

Another E Session

2008-10-05T17:17:00.001-07:00

A couple weeks ago, I got to go out with my friend Megan (who I grew up with in youth group at our old church) and her fiance, Anton, for their engagement photos. I can't believe she's getting married! I'm very excited for both of them, and for the wedding next May, which I get to photograph as well!

They were cracking me up with their silliness and goofy faces, and even though they confessed to feeling super awkward in the photos, it sure didn't come through in the photos.

P.S., Yellow Springs is AMAZING for photos, so many colors, and creative places, Megan and Anton were up for trying whatever, even the laundromat!

and probably my a few of my faves, just because I loved the silliness of the laundromat, and, Anton's bright green T:

What I'm [looking forward to] Listening to

2008-09-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

So, it seems fall is the season for new music. Seriously....
So...just to make sure you know:

Keane has "Perfect Symmetry" coming out. The listens on their myspace sound reminiscent of Killers tracks, with the lead singer sounding very Brandon Flowers. I'm hoping its better than their last, which was a dud.

Rachael Yamagata has "Elephants...Teeth Sinking into Heart". The first track on her myspace is beautiful.

Ingrid(!) Michaelson has "Be Ok" coming out. The single is peppy, and decidedly Ingrid. Yay!

Snow Patrol! "One Hundred Millions Suns" here's to hoping the album is as fab as "Eyes Open"

"Salvation Club" from Jeremy Larson. I have mine on pre-order.

COPELAND. I'm about to put the special edition on pre-order for this.
Here's to hoping its my album of the year..."You are my Sunshine"

Jem, "Down to Earth" one of the songs has banjo....of which I'm generally a fan...I have it downloaded, just need to give it a listen.

Anberlin, "New Surrender"...I also have this one...(acquired early....) I doubt it can hold a candle to "Cities" but I'm going to give it a chance.

The Killers "Day & Age"....I'm also anxious for this one...
I'm hoping they bring a little of the glam rock back....as in "Hot Fuss"...

Real quick

2008-09-24T15:09:00.000-07:00

I don't have a lot of time, here's a couple shots from the Sigur Ros show last night. AMAZING. (all of these are shot with my point and shoot)

we saw a couple of the band members before the show, riding bikes around the venue.

I was trying to be stealth, but I think he saw me.

!!!!!

Another neat sign.

The "last song" before the encore.

One for the list

2008-09-22T19:13:00.000-07:00

(photos from http://www.sigur-ros.co.uk/)

Tomorrow night I get to see one of my top three favorite bands....ever.
A "see live before I die" band.

Sigur Ros.

Untitled Number 3 moves my heart
Hoppipolla is the song I'll play at my wedding if I ever get married
() is one of my most favorite albums. It'd be a desert island pick.

And I'm off to Detroit tomorrow to see them LIVE.
I'm so excited.

Its. Going. To. Be. Epic.

(In case you were curious, the two other bands that hold the top three spot with Sigur Ros are Coldplay and, on a totally different note, Death Cab.)

Shoot.

2008-09-11T20:18:00.000-07:00

A couple photos from a shoot I had with the amazingly talented Isaac Pittman last week:

Check him out:

His myspace

Trouble

2008-09-08T18:40:00.001-07:00

I ran into a "teensy" bit of trouble with a sheriff to get these photos...but heck, I think it was worth it! Now I feel like a true photographer.

Just one for now.

Card Design

2008-09-06T09:00:00.001-07:00

I'm working on some new business cards, and just wanted to see if anyone had any constructive criticism or suggestions....this is what I have:

The top is obviously the front, and the bottom, the back.
I'm putting as little text on it as possible, because the website should speak for me, plus there's contact info.

I also don't want to stick myself to any one particular type of work. (ie: only weddings, ect...)

Blogged

2008-09-05T11:47:00.000-07:00

Rachael over at Softspoken (a wonderful, stylishly adorable creative soul) just posted a lovely, and generous post on my last photography endeavor, the To the Sea series. (in which I think she compared my eye to the talented and and amazing eye of Sofia Coppola, one of my favorite movie directors! *blush*) Check it out, and give her some blog love! Thanks so much Rachael!

Softspoken article

Website

2008-09-04T13:57:00.000-07:00

www.emilyOphoto.com

Still in the beginning stages, but ready to be shown. (I hope) let me know if you see anything that should be spell checked, ect...(if you would be so kind....but please, constructive criticism only, thanks!)

I'm still working on my "about the photographer" description...and if anyone would like to write a "testimonial" type thing for me, that'd be pretty amazing!

I'm hoping to get a graphics gallery for my design work set up some point this weekend, as well as work on some new business cards with the site on them. So incredibly exciting.

Eventually, I'd love to get this blog fixed up....but that'll have to wait for now. Let me know what you all think!!

Vacations, Intruders, Runaways, and Skunks.

2008-09-02T16:44:00.000-07:00

So we went on our family vacation this past weekend. Gatlinburg Tennessee. We partook of the tackiness one evening, and went to Adventure golf, complete with an anatomically correct male Pegasus, a giant sea monster, and signs that warned us not to drink the greenish/brown water.

Other than that, we played some pool (at which I suck terribly), soaked in the hot tub, went swimming, got car sick as Joel zoomed up and down the mountainside, watched movies on the HUGE projector screen in the theater room, had SOMETHING rummaging around in our room one night...never did find it...creepy, and bought salt-water taffy.

Found out that Suki (our dog) had gotten out of the yard back at home, and hadn't come back.
We got home and looked all over Enon for her till it started to get dark Monday night. No sign of her.

Thank God, she turned up at about 4 a.m. this past morning....happy, exhausted, and smelling of stale skunk. Crazy animal. I'm just incredibly thankful to God she made it home safe and sound.

Its been quite a weekend.

The room where something was sneaking up on us....

Giant movie screen-goodness.

sisters being cute

and....an obligatory family portrait.

To the Sea

2008-08-24T13:57:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to do a pool shoot for probably two or three years now, but I never got around to it. Ever since Top Model did the one a few years back...(and you all can go on and on how that show has no redemptive qualities...but whatever. Some of it IS inspiring.)

Enjoy.

p.s.

www.emilyOphoto.com is to be launched as soon as possible.
I'll keep keeping you updated!

I especially *love* how the little ripples, bubbles and other tiny details show in this shot.

News...news....

2008-08-21T20:34:00.000-07:00

So, I am in the process of creating a "site". All my own. Very excited. I'll post the link as soon as its all set.

Also, if you haven't check out the cakewrecks blog, do it NOW. (or if you haven't read any since the time I posted it....the updates....are hilarious. All I have to say is: ("Olynpic Rings").....yeah. Do it.

Also, if you have a facebook....join the Emily O. Photography fan page. I promise to love you for several years if you do so.

In a twist of events, I'm playing music at a wedding this weekend (instead of photographing) and Joel and me have written some stuff. (instrumental) I think it will be a good time.

Two.

2008-08-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

Just for Fun

2008-08-10T20:18:00.000-07:00

Some photos just for fun and because its been such lovely weather lately...I could do this type of weather everyday, all year. (except I would miss autumn, my favorite season)

I'm a sucker for some sun/lens flare. Oh, my.

The sunset was FABULOUS on Thursday night.
I wanted to pull off the road and just watch it.
But instead I got home, ran in and grabbed my camera to try and capture just a touch.

I can't believe God cares enough about us to give us a colorful, glowing sky...I mean, that's just pretty awesome.

2008-08-08T19:57:00.000-07:00

I found this site today...
and it amused me...in kind of a sick-twisted, are you kidding me, way.

Cake Wrecks

You have to read it, because, honestly, the blog is nothing special to look at, but the commentary (as well as the horrible photos) are great. I found myself "laughing out loud".

Mux it up again

2008-08-05T19:51:00.000-07:00

a muxtape for you all

Click here for music.

some pretty, somewhat classically influenced playlist. But not strictly.

Glad I'm not the only one....

2008-08-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

I'm just glad I'm not the only one (click here) who saw similarities in the Radiohead, Hail to the Thief's album art:

and the new Third Day album, Revelation:

umm...yeah.

My favorite line in that whole above article:

"...But this new album, unless its the unthinkable sum of band member ignorance, reflects how out of touch your average fan is with the big ole’ outside world (and therefore unlikely to notice plagiarism)... "