BBPhoto Flash!

Are you ready to decorate with your family photos?

2012-03-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

When you see those luscious multi-photo displays at your friend's house or in a magazine spread, do you wish you could do it at your home too?

Never fear, as Kieran Juska shows you the way in this Ladies Home Journal article titled, "Decorating with Family Photos: Make Over Any Room with Framed Memories."

Accompanied by Alexandra Grablewskis's photographs, there are ideas for every style and every room.

Being immobile...is so not my thing.

2012-02-29T20:08:00.002-08:00

I have been on crutches for one week now, and I have learned lots:

Watch your footing when walking on a downward-sloping gravel path.
Not a good idea to be on said path when one is recovering from a fractured toe.
Good, good idea to be married to a man who can pick me up and carry me when needed.
With today's rain in the Bay Area, take a minute to shake the excess water from your crutches when you come inside. Really ... (unless you are coming in to rug-covered floors).
People are so nice and helpful when they see you on crutches. I think they know it is really hard work propping yourself up on two little sticks.
Don't be afraid to ask for help. I've started most of my sentences in the past week with, "While you're up..." and ended them with "Thank you so much!"
Your tall friends will make fun of how short your crutches are, but when they try to use them, they will look silly. The comedic show that inevitably follows will make you laugh.
I am getting a full upper body workout while on crutches.
I am sleeping really well at night.

And, I suppose, when you look at it this way... I will not be dancing anytime soon, but (knock on wood)...I haven't fallen down yet while on crutches. :-)

Because I love the ones who love BBPhoto - Valentine's Day special

2012-02-13T21:44:00.000-08:00

As a little something to say

"Thanks for all the photo love,"

BBPhoto's Etsy shop,

is selling our top note cards

and fine art cards

for just $1.

Yes, you read that correctly.

But it won't last forever...

or beyond Valentine's Day.

So...get a move on...

order your favorites

for just $1.00 each.

While supplies last.

Confirmations and Conversations

2012-02-13T07:31:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of photographing 51 Confirmandi, their sponsors, their families, and their friends.

Confirmations in the Catholic Church are rites of passage, an initiation, if you will. Although you are baptized into the Church as a child, it's your Confirmation, where you can choose to be more fully connected to the church. More importantly, you are more connected to your faith.

The beauty of this ceremony is that it allows a chance for families to gather.

Bishop William J. Justice presided over the ceremony, and really won favor with the parishioners when he took a few minutes out to chat after the ceremony.

Here he is explaining to this young guest that her name means "wisdom."

Happy Monday!

Latest newborn session with an old soul.

2012-02-12T12:20:00.000-08:00

My latest newborn session included a 6-day old baby boy who came into this world putting his foot down and making an impression.

There are some babies who enter this world, with what's referred to as an "old soul." That was this guy. He would interlace his fingers and set them on his belly, much the way an older gentlemen might do. It was as if he was so happy to meet his family and he just wanted to sit back and take it all in.

I don't blame him, either. He has a really nice family. Way to put your foot down, my friend.

Shopping with the Photographer in Mind: Shoes, Part 2

2012-02-07T18:01:00.000-08:00

Yesterday’s blog post introduced lovely footwear for special days and every day. You can read about my favorites here. Unfortunately, when I go to the beach to photograph, these are not the shoes for the occasion. Nor are they the ones I wear to shoot an 8-hour wedding.

I do the same thing other professionals who spend hours on their feet do. For example, do you ever see chefs sitting down in their kitchens? I think not. Not to mention, if you’ve got anything like plantar fasciitis* or (in my case) a fractured toe, you need a shoe that will carry you.

Dansko clogs do just that.

www.dansko.com

As the previous year came to a close, I evaluated the pair I owned. They had been on hundreds of beach sessions with me, worn on rainy days in the Bay Area, and were easy to slip on and off at airport security. Their treads were worn, and I decided it was time for a new pair. Except then I fractured my toe. I stuck to flip flops the first week, moved to loose flats the second, and then had an upcoming ceremony that begged me to pay attention to what shoes I would wear on a Saturday night where the crowd was likely to be excitable (read: great possibility of toes getting stepped on).

I hemmed and hawed. I looked them up on an online site, and still I debated. What if they didn’t fit with my still swollen toe? What if they didn’t arrive in time for me to exchange for a pair that did fit? Did I want to take the chance that I wouldn’t have them in time for my shoot? I really wanted an easy answer, so I went all retro and called my local shoe store to see if they had my size in the Dansko Professional Clog that I had gotten accustomed to and loved.

From People magazine...this Newark, CA baker is wearing Dansko clogs!

As luck would have it, they did. As greater luck would have it, it was a Friday night, and they were open late. I put the finishing touches on my weekday, raced to the store, and met the owner who was all answers for all my questions. I tried a pair on, and – what do you know? – these were the best pair of shoes for a gal recovering from a fractured toe. Because of the shoe’s rounded toe (or ‘forefoot rocker,’ as they say in the biz), there is no strain put on toes. There is no use of the toes (no gripping, holding, or contracting) due to the rocking motion of the foot.

From Podiatry Today:

Dansko^® Professional Clogs (Dansko) have been the mainstay of shoes for prolonged standing. The unique last of this shoe redistributes load off the forefoot, into the arch and heel, with standing.

Re-lief! Oh, and the best part? They were on sale and cost less than anywhere I found online.

From People magazine...Tina Fey is also sporting the Dansko Professional Clog

If you are going to be standing on your feet for an extended period of time, or want to go for the urban chic look like Tina Fey, call Michelle at Footwear, Etc. in San Carlos to find the Dansko clogs for you.

Footwear, Etc.

730 Laurel St.

San Carlos, CA

T: (650) 412-1122

W: http://www.footwearetc.com/San-Carlos-Location/

*Want to hear Glee's Jane Lynch talk about her clogs?

Shopping with the Photographer in Mind: Shoes, Part 1

2012-02-06T22:05:00.000-08:00

These are probably my favorite shoes. I love to wear them. Believe it or not, they're comfy (for me), they're cute, and they have proven to be a conversation starter. I can't tell you how many people want to touch my shoes or ask, "Is that really cork?" And it is. (No, we are not testing them by sticking a thumbtack into them.)

www.ninewest.com

These are shoes I would like to own.

Look at the crepe, the angle of the foot, and while you may not be able to see it in this image, it does have that famous shoemaker's trademark red sole.

Those are my fun shoes that I like wearing.

These are the shoes I have been wearing since I fractured my toe on Christmas Eve.

Cute. Comfortable. I can count on them, even if I am pining to wear heels again. Everyone who wears flats has a favorite. Tory Burch. Taryn Rose. Jessica Simpson.

But am I going to wear any of these when I am shooting an award ceremony? Or spending a day shooting at the beach? No. Absolutely not.

Stay tuned, and I will share my tried and true, as well as what local shop and their customer service blew away the (online) competition.

Fine Art Friday: Subway Art

2012-02-03T15:15:00.000-08:00

I love when I check my inbox first thing in the morning, and I see something inspiring and fun. Thank you to the friend who shared this lovely piece of subway art that she is working with for Valentine’s Day. (She found it at The TomKat Studio who found it on the Pretty Darn Cute site.)

www.tomkatstudio.com

So, what exactly is ‘subway art?’ It’s the décor that is inspired by the iconic subway signs of the subways, trolleys, trams, and trains.

Think New York subway.


www.nycsubwaymap.info

Think Buenos Aires Metro.

www.subwaysigns.com

Think San Francisco trolleys.

www.cable-car-guy.com

Since Subway Art has become a more common place art and décor item and it’s a fun way to show off various fonts, you can find something you love online (like at Sprik Space or Wee Ones) or create your own at The Mother Huddle.

One of the coolest companies I’ve found for this re-created art is Subway-Sign.com. On this site, you can pick a favorite location.

Is it Hawaii?


www.subway-sign.com

Is it Paris?

www.subway-sign.com

Is it Boise?

www.subway-signs.com

No matter where it is, Subway-Signs.com can turn your favorites into a beautiful piece of décor.

What will you use to decorate your home or office today?

Newborn shoots to close out 2011 and open 2012.

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I mentioned that the theme for January was award ceremonies and newborns.

First, we checked out the excitement from AFM’s NorCal AwardCeremony. If you missed that, click here to view the photos and festivities.

Second, we ended 2011 and started 2012 with newborn shoots. In fact, it has so inspired me to make a plan for December and our holiday shoots. Our last holiday portrait session for 2012 will be November 30^th this year. This will allow time for everyone to get their images, albums, ornaments, and photos in time for Christmas. Our goal is to get everything to you by December 10^th. From the 11^th onward, we are only taking bookings for newborn shoots. January has always been a month for us to close down and clean up, and again only newborn shoots are going to be booked. This will allow us to focus on the families with due dates at the end of the year and at the start of the year. We think you’ll be pleased with the re-organization.

Why am I mentioning this now? Because we loved the babies we photographed over the past two months.

One, in particular, was a fun, fun shoot with two older brothers overlooking the action. Baby L. arrived a few days before Christmas, and her brothers were beside themselves with excitement.

She came bright-eyed

And kicking,

but most of all…

Loved.

And, really, who wouldn’t fall in love with this sleeping beauty?

January in a Nutshell: Awards Ceremonies and Newborns

2012-01-29T10:32:00.000-08:00

If pressed to pick a theme for this past January, I’d have to pick two things:

Awards ceremonies
Newborns

First, I had the pleasure to photograph the American Federation of Motorcyclists (AFM) Northern California Awards ceremony, held at the Doubletree Hilton at the Berkeley Marina.

I always like to tell the organizers what I’ll do to warm up the crowd, make them comfortable, and then shoot away. Both lovely ladies insisted that this group was not shy, and they were right! What a great group. (It does make my job easier when everyone is having a good time.)

We started with a cocktail hour,

Guests were greeted by organizer, Barb Smith.

Award winner, Gwyn Lewis, poses by her race poster.

Then onto dinner,

Award winner, Cameron Gish, is feeling the love.

The awards themselves,

Do you think he's excited about his award?

The ladies were just a bit excited about theirs.

Award winner, Chris Siglin, surrounded by fans.

Then dancing.

His T-shirt really does say it all.

Not to mention, there was lots of jokes, banter, and laughter.

The neon suit was a great party idea.

Once of the best ideas came from one of the organizers to have a formal setup so if anyone wanted to pose with their awards, they were more than welcome to do so.

Organizer Grace Dorsey, with award winner, Tom Dorsey.

Of course, there are always the outtakes. In fact, it was the first time I set up an outtakes folder on a viewing site. (I’m not posting any here – it’s for the privacy of invited partygoers only.)

P.S. Pop by tomorrow, I’ll tell you all about the newborns.

Updating a family portrait | Menlo Park family photographer

2012-01-02T14:55:00.000-08:00

In October of 2009, I photographed and blogged about theFamily B. If you need a reminder, youcan check out the post here.

The fun for me in photographing from year to year is seeinghow the family has changed. In 2009,Baby A. was just 6 months old and on a blanket. Now, he’s a big guy!

Ready for action and catchingup in height with his big sister, he can hold his own in the family line-up.

His big brother and sister don’t seem to mind, either.

(Sigh…don’t you love their smiles!)

What will inspire you in 2012?

2012-01-01T13:12:00.000-08:00

Happy new year, my friends!

With a quiet blog in December, did you think I was in

Tahiti

From: Tahiti Bungalows.com

Bali


From: NusaDuaBeach.com

Or Mexico?


From: Mexico-Beaches.com

Well, no. While our last portraitsessions were held the first weekend of December, the remainder of the monthwas dedicated to designing holiday cards for clients, wrapping orders up(literally, gift-wrapping them), and sending them out to their recipients, notto mention some framing and custom albums. More than a few of our clients inspired us with their design ideas and,while busy, we loved every minute of it. Thank you for being a part of our 2011.

For 2012, what memories will you be making? What memories are you looking tocapture? No matter what you’ve resolvedto do this year, get inspired.

What inspires me? Thesame things that I share on this blog.

First, there are my family and friends, as well as theclients who have become a part of the BBPhoto family. Those are the people who inspire me everyday. They are passionate aboutsomething, whether it be fencing or cupcakes or their children. Those people inspire me.

Second, there is so much beauty in the world. We might forget that on a day-to-day basisbecause we deal with traffic and deadlines and to-do lists. I like to share the beauty that I see inbrothers playing or babies smiling, in brides getting ready or people creatingart. Everyone brings beauty to the tablewhen they are inspired to be creative. Thinkthat’s not you? Think again. Creativity can be found in the knowing - how tomend broken objects, how to set a table, how to fix a dark corner to make itbrighter. Beauty inspires me.

Third, every day that we get to wake up is a brand newday. It’s a clean slate to start again, and the 1^st of the year is a prime example of a clean slate, a newyear, a new opportunity. Every new dayinspires me.

What inspires you?

Some time for the guys; some time for the girls | San Francisco Family Portrait Session

2011-12-01T18:54:00.001-08:00

There's something decadent about getting all bundled up for a walk on the beach where Dad and D. can hang out.

A little guy time for them...

There's something sweet about being all bundled up on a sunny day where Mom and P. can cuddle together.

A little girl time for them...

And then, after a chance to listen to the waves crash and squish your feet in the sand, isn't it nice to come and hang out together?

A little family time on a sunny day never felt so good.

Brothers and Sisters | Family Portrait Session in Sunnyvale

2011-12-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

E. and V. are a brother/sister combo that will make you laugh out loud. Whether they are hunting down sticks, finding the perfect tree, or hamming it up for the camera, they do it with great gusto! There were no little smiles during this family portrait session. Instead, there were gigantic ones and great loud bursts of laughter.

Thank you to E. and V. for making my day!

Spark Sugar Rush | San Francisco Event Photography

2011-11-27T21:41:00.001-08:00

The Spark Program had an outstanding turnout for its 2011 Sugar Rush.

With desserts galore, how could anyone leave without feeling happier?

(Just looking at these works of edible art makes me smile.)

And, really, it's not just about the sweets taking center stage.

(Although it is easy to see how that could be what you're thinking.)

But what it's really about is the students who become apprentices,

the artisans, the business people, and the doctors who become mentors.

It's also a "sweet" way to raise funds for an organization that not only believes that our students are our future, but they mobilize people around the country to put this belief into practice.

If you would like to view more of the photographs from the Spark Program's Sugar Rush Fundraiser, direct your browser to www.collages.net and enter

Username: sugar
Password: 6268

When you think of end-of-year donations, please keep the Spark Program in mind.

Happy Thanksgiving - Celebrate with friends who are like family and family who are good friends

2011-11-23T13:55:00.001-08:00

I am always so idealistic with my time...

We've had a lovely time photographing pajama parties, beach portraits, and some new babies, but there aren't enough hours in the day so we've been neglecting this spot.

Now that the Thanksgiving holiday is upon us, no matter if you are spending the day with friends who are like family or family who are good friends, BBPhoto is thankful for you.

Thank you for stopping by.

We will be closed for the remainder of today, November 23rd, and through the weekend, re-opening on Monday, November 28th.

Happy birthday, Louis Daguerre!

2011-11-18T09:56:00.001-08:00

At this time of year, if I am not shooting, I amediting. If I am not editing, I amshooting. It’s a cycle that is rewardingbecause of the smiles and the kisses and the cuddles that I get tocapture. Which means I haven’t beenfriend-ing on Facebook or tweeting on Twitter or blogging about the families Ihave been fortunate enough tophotograph.

And then this morning…after a very late night of editing andresponding to client e-mails…I open my internet browser to see the Google doodlehonoring photography pioneer, Louis Daguerre.

Today, November 18^th, would have been his 224^thbirthday. In 1839, the daguerreotype becamethe world’s first commercially successful photo process. This was revolutionary back in its day. It allowed a camera image to be reproducedpermanently on silver-coated copper plates. Unlike our instant cameras of today, the subjects had to sit for minutesat a time. And by sit, I mean “freezelike a statue.”

Are you wondering who sat for these portraits?

President Abraham Lincoln

A very young-looking Abraham Lincoln, from the Library of Congress

The president’s campaign rival, Sen. Stephen Dougas
Journalist Horace Greeley
Suffragette, Lucy Stone


Lucy Stone, from the Library of Congress collection

In fact, the Library of Congress has more than 725photographs in its daguerreotype collection that were taken between 1839 and1864.

So, on this Fine Art Friday, I ask you: what are youphotographing today?

Feel like you don’t have time? Compared to Mr. Daguerre’s day, it’ll justtake a second. Go on. Pick up your camera. Capture that thing, that person, that moment thatmakes you smile, that pulls on your heart strings, that takes your breathaway.

After all, the 224^th birthday of the person who broughtus photography as we know it is nothing to scoff at.


Happy birthday, Mr. D!	(From the Library of Congress collection)

If you agree, please thank a veteran.

2011-11-11T11:45:00.001-08:00

Veterans Day marks the anniversary of the truce thatended World War I. The major hostilitiesof this war were formally ended at the 11^th hour of the 11^thday of the 11^th month of 1918 with the German signing of the Armistice.

It was Woodrow Wilson who declared that November 11^thwould pay tribute to “the heroism of those who died in this country’s service”and thus Armistice Day (or Remembrance Day) was proclaimed. Over 10 years later, Armistice Day became anational holiday. It wasn’t until the early 1950s, though, that the owner of ashoe repair shop had the idea to expand this holiday to celebrate all veterans,not just those who had died in World War I. It was President Eisenhower who had signed it into law a yearlater.

We have been formally celebrating all our veterans for 57years today, both the living and the dead. That’s quite a history of patriotism.

Every year at 11 am on November 11^th, a colorguard made up of members from each of the military branches, honors America’swar casualties with a ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns in ArlingtonNational Cemetery.


From: arlingtoncemetery.mil

The tagline of the Society of the Honor Guard thatwatches over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is “Soldiers never die until theyare forgotten.”

So, let us follow suit. Let us not forget the soldiers who have served and become a casualty ofwar and let us not forget the soldiers who have served and come home.

It’s never too late to thank a veteran for their work,their dedication, and their belief in being honorable.

In fact, when you think about it that way…isn’t everyVeteran’s Day?

If you agree, please thank a veteran.

Shopping with the Photographer in Mind: Donating to Spark Program

2011-11-08T16:04:00.000-08:00

Does the Spark Program ring a bell for you? If you're a regular reader of this blog it could have been our coverage of last year's fundraising event, Sugar Rush, at the Minna Gallery? Maybe it was when we announced we'd be shooting their event? Maybe it was when you were first introduced to Oscar and his work as a budding photographer?

Maybe you're hip to the Spark Program because they've expanded to Los Angeles, Chicago, and the East Coast? Maybe you know that they are a national organization that provides life-changing apprenticeships to middle school students from disadvantaged communities? Maybe you this Today show spotlight:

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Whatever it was that "sparked" your interest, we are also a fan and applaud the work that the members of the Spark Program are doing to empower our youth.

If you are looking for a non-profit to support, we ask that you support the work that Chris Balme, Co-Founder and Executive Director, has started.

Portraits in our Backyard | Burlingame Family Portrait Session

2011-11-07T22:22:00.000-08:00

There are some common questions that come up when families call about their shoot. One is regarding location. Where should we do our shoot? The question that I ask the family is: Where do you hang out together?

For this fam, their backyard was the answer. With towering eucalyptus trees, it was easy to see how their back door led to an oasis of peace and quiet. I couldn't have asked for a better backdrop!

Another question that I often hear is: "Can our dog join the portrait?" To that, I have one statement: "If he/she is a part of your family, absolutely!" Luckily for me, Jasper (the dog), was as sweet as he was big. He barked from a top window to warn of my arrival and then met me at the door with his tail wagging madly. (How could you not be a dog lover, I ask you?!)

Also, luckily for me...Jasper was good for his portrait with his family. He looked and smiled my way, allowing me to capturing one afternoon, one moment in time, with his lovely family.

Family Portrait Session with Brothers | Vista Park, Hillsborough

2011-11-06T22:39:00.000-08:00

Growing up with three brothers, I feel like I have learned a few things. I can recognize calm, cool, and collected guys like Ryan here,

or Christian here,

but you put brothers together...
and their antics will make you smile.

Did you grow up with brothers? Any fun stories you'd like to share?

Shopping with the Photographer in Mind: Donating to Non-Profits for Which We Are Grateful

2011-11-01T13:14:00.000-07:00

In the US, November is known for two things: Thanksgivingand the busiest shopping day of the year. November is also host to Day of the Dead orAll Souls’ Day.


From: FamilyShoppingBag.com

On the one hand, we givethanks and then go shopping, armed with wish lists. On the other, we remember those who have gonebefore us with an offering or a celebration. Interesting combo.

This month, instead of our usual Tuesday program, “Shopping withthe photographer in mind,” I’d like to encourage readers to donate to non-profits. Why? Inthis month of being thankful, there is always something to be thankful for someoneto remember. If you can read this, isthere a teacher or a parent or a friend who taught you to read? What reading organizations are you gratefulfor?

Are you someone who enjoys photography? Who first introduced you to this medium? Maybe you don’t create art, but you aresomeone who appreciates it.


From: Newdeal.feri.org

I suppose the real question here is: What are you thankfulfor? What are you passionate about? What makes your heart sing?


From: Softsupplier.com

What makes you feel most alive and connected? In remembrance of those friends and familywho are no longer with us, what were they passionate about? What did they believe in? How can you pay homage to their memory?

Stay tuned on Tuesdays to see which non-profits arehighlighted. Do you have a favoritenon-profit that you like to support? Letus know who it is and why you support them. If we choose to highlight your non-profit, we’ll send a donation in yourname.

Burlingame Mothers' Club Halloween Portraits | Washington Park, Burlingame

2011-10-30T20:56:00.000-07:00

Hot dog! We had a blast photographing the Halloween portraits of the Burlingame Mothers' Club this past Saturday.

It was a fun day for little brothers dressed up as hot dogs...

Cute witches to cuddle up with their families...

And two gals to get all gussied up for a day of treats.

Have a happy Halloween!

If you'd like to view all the images from this session,

direct your browser to www.collages.net

Username: bmchalloween

Password: 6268

A wedding that held beauty, music, and laughter | Los Gatos Weddings

2011-10-19T21:47:00.000-07:00

A few months back we had the pleasure of photographing

a beautiful bride,

a handsome groom,

who played the ukelele,

and all the family and friends that came to celebrate their special day.

Shopping with the Photographer in Mind: Instant Cameras

2011-10-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

Instant Photography? Say no more...

Family Portrait Session in San Francisco | Stow Lake, Golden Gate Park

2011-10-17T21:54:00.000-07:00

Baby Alexander has since arrived, but before all the excitement of a new baby in the house, we had a chance to go out to the city on a perfect San Francisco morning. (Yes, it was foggy.)

It's the wave that got me...so darn cute!

Family Portrait Session | Redwood Shores

2011-10-17T21:34:00.000-07:00

I love the sessions that I have had these past few weeks, and I am so sorry that I have neglected posting images!

To make up for all those silent days with no posts, I'd like to share two sessions from one family.

As we sat in the family's living room brainstorming locations for our shoot, it was 3-year-old M. who stood up, pointed to the ceiling with a soup ladle, and cried out, "The library!"

So, to the library we went.

The other excitement that I learned when I met the family is that M. is very excited about the arrival of his baby brother, Alexander. Here he is giving him a kiss...

Excitement at the library wasn't just about books to read, either. It was about having a ship to sail.

Anchors away!

Shopping with the Photographer in Mind: Jewelry

2011-09-27T10:03:00.000-07:00

A few years back, I found the cutest dress shirt (for moi!) in the Haight. Blue background and skinny pink stripes...so Barbara Bell! The only problem with it was that it had French cuffs, and I owned zero cufflinks. Nor did I really fancy looking for some.

Enter my huckleberry.

He found a fabulous pair on E-bay, which got me to thinking: What other camera icon jewelry was out there?

Well, lots in fact. Click on the name of each piece of jewelry to be directed to this great find.

Anklets

From: SayWhatCreations on Etsy

Beads


From: StLouisBeads on Etsy

Bobby Pins


From: Spotlight Jewelry on Etsy

Bracelets

From: OyeModern

Brooches


From: Raw Space

Cufflinks


From: Uncommon Goods

Earrings


From: Shana Logic

Rings

From: Bonanza

Necklaces

From Betsey Johnson on Zappos

Watches


From: Gadget.com

There's a little something for every photographer out there!

Family Portrait Session | Gamble Gardens, Palo Alto

2011-09-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

There is no better way to spend a Sunday than with family. This family was aces. That acrobat you see in the photo below, Miss Z., knows how to have a good time. She brings sunshine to everyone she interacts with, even while balancing up high.

And, no, we didn't jet to the islands, as our hut below might indicate, but had a lovely stroll throughout Gamble Gardens in Palo Alto.

Where is your family looking to be photographed?

What's a girl to do in a Steel Year? | Traditional and Modern Anniversary Gifts

2011-09-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

Today I am going to take a departure from Fine Art coverageto tell you that today – September 23^rd – is my weddinganniversary. You’ve gotten to know myhuckleberry through the postings on this blog, and I wanted to share a little anniversaryhistory with you.

This year is our Steel Anniversary, and while that doesn’thave the same ring as say Diamond or Gold, it’s still pretty cool. Every year, we try to be creative with ourcelebration. Looking at the traditionaland modern gift guidelines, we’ve never failed to entertain one another.

For our first anniversary, we exchanged paper airlinetickets to go back to where we met and where he proposed.

For our second anniversary, unbeknownst to one another, we hadboth wrapped our gifts in cotton.

For our third anniversary, a small leather pouch heldearrings with my birthstone and leather boots were found for Dan.

For our fourth anniversary, we were both sick in bed withthe flu and shared homemade chicken noodle soup and drank our orange juice outof crystal flutes. We felt that theboxes of Kleenex we had gone through counted toward the gift of linens, aswell.


From: http://girls-night-in-with-kandr.blogspot.com


From: http://toniyammine.posterous.com/kleenex

For our fifth anniversary, we were in two differentcountries, but I had the good fortune of getting his gift early (a Japanesemaple bonsai tree, a new hobby for him at the time), and he brought me back aset of silver demitasse spoons for my morning coffee.


From: http://acerbonsai.com

For our sixth anniversary, it posed quite a dilemma. Our options were iron or candy. Since I hate to iron, he knew it would be badform to bring me anything resembling this activity, and instead went withhematite jewelry. I can’t for the lifeof me remember what I got him. I’m sureit was something lovely.

For our seventh anniversary, we thought of taking a trip toCopperopolis in Calaveras County, Mark Twain territory. Instead, he got a copper pot, and if you’veever had my huckleberry’s jams and marmalade, that pot aids in greatness. Oh, and he can whip up just about anythingand make it taste amazing. (Just saying….)

Dan surprised me with a dazzling ring and a note. It didn't have a thing to do with either copper orwool/brass.

For our eighth anniversary, we had just bought our firsthome. It was inevitable that we wouldseek and purchase a stove similar to what we had in a rental home. Finding San Jose Stove Works was a dream cometrue, and as we each recounted a wish list of what we’d like in a stove:

6burners for him to cook outrageously gastronomic meals,
2 ovens for me to baketo my heart’s content,
gas we both agreed, especially if the rolling blackoutsever return to the area,

our wishes were granted in a Wedgewood stove.

From: Antique Gas Stoves

For our ninth anniversary, we ate off the pottery plates atour favorite Italian restaurant in San Carlos, 888 Ristorante. When we were seated, we found out that nomenus were necessary as Vito had planned ‘una festa’ just for us.

For our tenth anniversary, a trip to Hawaii was in order,and since airplanes are made of an aluminum alloy, that took care of that.


From: The Sheraton, Waikiki Beach

That said, we’ve arrived at #11. We have been kind of challenged by steel ideasthat do not include appliances, cookware, wall art, or wire sculptures. At the very least, I think a drink atSteelhead Brewery is in order.


From: A Day in Eugene

Thank you to all the friends and family

who have joined us on this lovely adventure.

We couldn't be having this much fun without you!

Shopping with the Photographer in Mind | Buying a Digital Camera

2011-09-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

"I am looking for a digital camera – what should I buy?"

I can’t tell you how many people ask me this. What’s more surprising is that the questionis not always coming from friends or family or clients with whom I work. The questions - more often than not – are comingfrom people I meet in passing. The thingis, I can’t give you a quick one word answer. (Sorry! If you were hoping itwould be that easy, it is and it isn’t.)

Why it isn’t easy to give you a quick one word answer: Igenuinely want to know more about you.

What do you like to shoot? Landscapes, people, urban scenes?
Where will you be using your camera the most? Upcoming travel or in your backyard?
What types of features are you looking for? Manual override because you want to learn themechanics or auto to let you shoot until your heart is content?
How important is size and portability to you? Do you want to carry this in your messengerbag or your evening bag?
Also, what is your budget? Are you going out today to purchase the camera or are you saving up totreat yourself for your birthday?

If you are looking to purchase a camera, think about thesequestions and how you are going to use it.

That said, when I worked at Worldwide Camera in Savannah, peoplewould come in and ask this question, and I did have an easy answer forthem. I could also hand them differentmakes and models to try out so there was an immediate response as to whatworked for them.


www.worldwidecamera.net

(By the way, I still call Pam and Tom at Worldwide when Iwant to buy a new camera. They’re honestand will tell you the good, the bad, and the ugly about what you’re interestedin.)

So, what’s the easy answer?

The best camera for you to buy is the one that fits yourhand most comfortably. If it fits, itmeans you are going to carry it around with you. You are going to enjoy using it. You are going to want to show it off toothers.

Camera Cozy from CraftJuice.com

That said, what camera did you have in mind?

Have you held it in your hand?

How does it feel?

Does it fit?

So many questions, so little time...

Two sisters in San Mateo | Family Portrait Session

2011-09-19T14:57:00.000-07:00

I had the good fortune to capture two very fun sistershanging out together.

Although, they may look quiet here, there was quite a bit oflaughter

And lots of time to play.

Thank you for a fun Saturday evening!

Shopping with the Photographer in Mind: Camera Bags, Part 3 of 3

2011-09-06T17:27:00.000-07:00

Hello, unofficial end of summertime! Hello, back to school! What better time than now to finish up ourseries on camera bags?

Previously, in Parts 1 and 2, we looked at camera bags thatwere of all colors, all sizes, and all materials.

To add to that fun, today we will finish off our virtualwindow-shopping by having a peek at Epiphanie’s Look Book here. Oh, the colors they have! Swoon-worthy…


Epiphanie Bags shown on buy-her.com

Whether you are looking for something as small as a lens bag


From: Jill-e Designs

or as large as a gear bag, Jill-e Designs has got you covered.


From: Jill-e Designs

Golla Bags offer the all-in-one experience, offering camerabags, tablet bags, laptop bags…and the list goes on.


Golla Bag shown on Prizey.net

Shootsac is just plain fun, with the offer of changing theway you shoot.

“Shootsac by Jessica Claire is the first lens bag designedto pick up where your camera bag leaves off. Pack your camera bag fortransporting, load your Shootsac for shooting. Lenses, batteries,flashcards & necessities are comfortably at your fingertips. Can a camerabag really change the way you shoot? Shootsaccan.”


www.shootsac.com

If you are looking for practical in pink, the Kata KT Digital Rucksack has your name on it. With an ergonomic harness system designed for comfort, the option of arain cover, and a family history that includes military experience (itsfounders were in an elite combat unit), this is your number.

KATA DR 465 in Pink

In fact, when you go to check out their products, it surveysyou to find out exactly what you are looking for.

Select your equipment, right down to the makeand model. Do you carry a laptop withyou? Select your carrying type. Are you a shoulder bag person or a backpack person?


Images from Kata-Bags.com

(You can even select your features - is a tripodconnection needed?)

No matter what your style, no matter what you are lookingfor, there is a camera bag for everyone.

What’s your bag style?


Tenba's Vector Bags, as shown on TechCrunch.com

Fine Art Friday: World War II art, Rosie the Riveter, and Labor Day Weekend

2011-09-02T16:49:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I like World War II art. It’s the colors (usually vibrant primarycolors) and the propaganda statements (Dig for Victory!) that are a window toanother era for me. Most of all, I haveloved this poster for years.

Before President Obama’s campaign re-popularized the imageand before it was used as a symbol of the women’s movement, it hung on thewalls of a Westinghouse factory in the Midwest. In fact, Pittsburgh artist J. Howard Miller was hired by theWestinghouse Company’s War Production Coordinating Committee to create a seriesof posters for the war effort. Essentially,they were morale boosters for the office. Over sixty years later, this simple image from a graphic designer isconsidered an icon of American pop culture. The “We Can Do It” poster - and girl - were modeled on metal presser,Geraldine Doyle.

(This is not to be confused with Normal Rockwell’s Rosie theRiveter.)

It’s the image accompanying Howard Lestrud’s article that reallymakes me chuckle, though.

When Lestrund asks the question: “What does Labor Day mean to us?” he educates readers about the history of Labor Day, but it’s his finalstatement that reminds us why we have a 3-day weekend.

Since World War II,

“The vital force of labor added materially to the higheststandard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and hasbrought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic andpolitical democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pay tributeon Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation’s strength, freedom, andleadership — the American worker.”

This Labor Day weekend, take a rest. Stop the work you are doing around the houseor at the office. Sit quietly or gathersome friends together. Whatever it isthat keeps you busy, slow down. Honorthe American worker – yourself – by taking this weekend to rest.

Have a safe and happy Labor Day weekend!

Do you know about Juice in the City?

2011-08-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

We interrupt our regular program to bring you this special bulletin …

No, we are not having a weather watch, but I am interrupting our regular Monday blog post. Instead of showing you the photographs that I captured with M, his mom and dad, and baby-to-be this past weekend, we do have some news we’d like to share.

Sometime soon…possibly this coming week…Juice in the City will be hosting a BBPhoto deal.

What is Juice in the City?

Each day, Juice in the City features an incredible deal, especially with moms in mind, for our local area. By bringing moms to businesses, we get crazy synergy in the form of money-saving discounts. By having these fun moms find the deals, we get a serious sense of community, too. See how that works?

It’s the moms in the Bay Area who are finding the deals. They sign up to be a consultant with Juice in the City, and they are – in essence – Malcolm Gladwell’s living proof of a connector.


From: Psychology Today

Still not sure if this is something in which you would be interested? Sign up today and have a browse. Who isn’t interested in an $18 pedicure or $12 worth of frozen yogurt for just $6? Maybe it’s the dance classes you kept promising yourself you’d take? Look no further than Juice in the City.

As we close down summer and head back to school, there is no better time than now to think about booking your portrait session, especially if you plan on sending out holiday cards. The quicker you book your photographer, the less it will niggle you and be on your mind. Juice in the City is looking to help you do just that…and save some money in the process.

Sign up today and keep an eye out for the Barbara Bell Photography deal that is sure to knock your socks off.

Wedding Wednesdays: New Magazine "Smitten" outlines the history of wedding photography

2011-08-24T17:06:00.000-07:00

There's always room for a new bridal and wedding magazine!

A big welcome to Smitten, which has hit the stands with their inaugural issue (this one!). Their is a fabulous article on the history of wedding photography. For example, did you know that wedding photography was initially used to show proof that a couple had actually gotten married.

Open publication - Free publishing - More wedding ideas

Wedding Wednesdays: Do you need help with your speech or your vows? Vow Muse to the rescue!

2011-08-17T17:08:00.000-07:00

The beauty of the wedding industry is that there issomething for everyone.

Need flowers? Hire aflorist.

Need someone to help you plan the day? Hire a wedding planner.

Not sure what to write for your vows? Hire Vow Muse.


From: VowMuse.com

This wedding business is the brainchild of Angie and Alicia,two professional writers who specialize in creating writing that sounds justlike you. Are you worried that your bestman speech isn’t up to snuff? Maybe you’rethe father of the bride and you want your speech to be thoughtful, but you’renot sure where to start?

Or maybe you’re the bride and you just can’t squeeze in anymore on your to-do list?

From: thebridalcoach.co.uk

Call Vow Muse, and after chatting with you for a bit, they’llcraft the words to suit your personality. No cookie cutter effects here.

Better yet, they’re based right here in the Bay Area so noneed to worry about a time zone match, either. (They also serve clients nationally, and can connect via phone, viae-mail, or via Skype.)

Find them on Facebook. Follow them on Twitter. Have apoke around their website. Get to knowthem through their blog.

I think you, too, might fall in love with these talentedgals. Picture it, brides:

Years down the road, you are watching the DVD of yourwedding. And then it gets to the bestman who talked about watching his friend’s face light up when you entered theroom. It gets to the father of the bride speech whotalked about you as a little girl and how you wanted to be a bride ever sinceyou found out a tiara was involved.

Now, rewind. Go backto your vows. Go back to the part whereyou said to him, “You are my today and all of my tomorrows. You are my everything.” And for that moment, all of the hearts of allof the people who heard those words, melted. They thought it was love when they saw the two of you together, but atthat moment, they knew for sure when they heard your vows.

From: MyDogDinner.blogspot.com

(And, yes, the best man, the father of the bride, and thebride herself…they all needed Vow Muse.)

Summer Clean 2011: Got Questions? We've got answers.

2011-08-11T17:11:00.000-07:00

You have questions.

We have answers.

That’s the beauty of us…me and you.

Our Summer Clean (aka "Closet Sweeps" by some of your e-mails) have spurred some fabulous questions thatI thought I would take a minute to answer here. Think of this as a FAQ for the occasion.

These are all questions received via e-mail and all goodquestions, so for clarity’s sake, I thought I would give it a platform. It is the very first time we are doing this,so – yes! – we are working out the kinks, and I applaud your patience!

Q: I saw a photographin your Caption Competition that involved a wedding dress with pearls down theback. Will you be giving this away?
A: Unfortunately, no, this dress is not one of our props. I believe the bride still has her dress, butI would be happy to ask her if it is for sale.

Q: Are the eggs ceramic ones or real ones in your captioncompetition image? If they are ceramic,are you giving them away? If they arereal, are you giving them away? (Inoticed you keep chickens, as well.)

A: The eggs in the image are indeed real, but these werephotographed at a shop in Paris. We aremore than happy to share the eggs that our chickens produce. Fresh eggs are yummy!

Q: Will you be giving away any portrait sessions?

A: We are focusing on cleaning out our closets, so for thisoccasion we are sticking to inventory that we have and would like to clear out.

Q: Wouldn’t it be easier just to drop this off atGoodwill?

A: Yes, it would be, but we wanted to reward the people whoLike us on Facebook. Tell your friends…!

Q: With the album giveaways, would you be willing to throwin a gift card for event coverage?

A: We’re thrilled to be clearing out our albums. These are all brand new and in greatcondition, but I really want to reclaim the shelves the live on.

Unfortunately, at this time, we are not giving away any giftcards or portrait credits. We arethrilled you like our work so much that you want us to cover your event,though!

Q: Instead of waiting to win an item, can we bid on it tobuy it?
A: That is so darn sweet of you to offer me your cold, hard cash…! Unfortunately, we are going to stick to ourpremise of a giveaway. If there is somethingthat has caught your eye, don’t hesitate to drop me a line here to let meknow. I can’t make any promises, butwill keep this in mind as I package up and send out the winnings.

So, how does one sign up for the inventory we’re givingaway?

Like uson our Facebook page here.
Fill out the sign up form on the left hand side of our FB page – we are not going tosend you any other e-mails unless they are directly related to thissweepstakes.
Now, I will admit I have been a slacker inposting more pics. So, my sincereapologies, but come the end of August, everyone who has signed up is getting abit of BBPhoto Love.

Are you signed up to receive the love?