Red Thread Images

Breathe {taking a break}

2012-01-26T22:36:00.000-08:00

I will be disconnecting from the internet for the next 10 days. I need a little sabbath rest....

See you all in a while!

Breathe, smile and go slowly

Can You Guess His Name?? {Graham Baby Photography}

2012-01-26T14:41:00.000-08:00

After having photographed these people many, many, many, many times, it is with great pleasure that I got to photograph the newest member of their family....

Can you guess his name??

This little guy was as awake as his brother was at his first photo session...he kept us being creative!!

Ahhh...always good to snuggle up together as a family!

Welcome little one! You come into a home full of love and laughter. You are blessed!

Fun Giveaway!!

2012-01-25T14:28:00.000-08:00

Hey all!! MCP Actions is giving away a Canon 5D MKII + 85mm 1.8 lens or a Nikon D700 (Body only)!!! It is a great giveaway and wanted you all to know about it.

Of course, I would choose the Canon...but you can decide what you want if you win!

Check out this link: http://bit.ly/wHIoPC

I love MCP Actions and this is just one more reason why I do!

Good Luck!!

Breathe {inspiration for Wednesdays}

2012-01-18T15:03:00.000-08:00

I don't know how your Wednesday is going, but I woke up to mine looking a little like this:

School was cancelled, snow was calling and I figured it was a perfect time to try out our new point-and-shoot camera...the Pentax Optio WG-1. (Now, please know I am an SLR girl and have not enjoyed most point and shoots, but felt like we needed one for family vacations. You know...one I can take on the beach and not worry about the sand getting into it or kids dropping it. Well today seemed like a test for our newest little wonder.)

I am not any sort of official spokesman for this product, but it can go underwater up to 33 ft, out in the cold up to negative 14 degrees, it is water/shock/crush/cold and dust proof...how cool is that?!?!

The temperature was probably hovering around 28 degrees as we got all bundled up and headed out with the camera. See what you think....

(all images below were taken on Auto mode...yes, auto!!...on the "surf and snow" mode)

(So easy my kids could work it, and caught me playing a little!)

All in all, I like most of the images. I missed the speed of my SLR, as there is always a delayed response on point and shoots and I feel like it had a little trouble focusing on the action shots. But I was outside in blowing wind and snow conditions and didn't need to worry about the camera getting wet or too cold or falling. Oh yeah...and it fit in my pocket!

Snow is gathering EVERYWHERE!!

Also, I shot all images with these gloves on. Not bad little Optio..not bad at all!! (Hopefully in a few weeks I'll be able to show you some images from a completely different weather pattern and from under the water!!)

Have you ever used this camera? Let me know how you like it...or just let me know your favorite point and shoot!

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

Breathe {inspiration for Wednesdays}

2012-01-11T18:05:00.000-08:00

If you are going to know me well, you need to know that I live and move from a place of deep faith in God. I am constantly seeking to grow spiritually. On the other hand, if you are going to know me well, you also need to know that my feet are firmly planted on this planet. I blame it on my name...Tara...which means "hill" and was the home of the ancient Irish kings. My namesake comes with very earthy overtones.

One of the "consistent" practices I am trying to live in this year is, at the end of the day, to recollect my day and write a prayer. This brings the everyday-ordinary, earthy part of my life to overlap and intersect with the lofty, spiritual side. (Oh yeah...I am also taking a picture a day to go with each prayer too.)

Every once in a while, I'd love to share one with you.

{This one was inspired after photographing a FUN and full of faith family}....

The ancients have said children are a gift
But sometimes the gift feels far more burdensome than we ever expected
Then, there are days full of play and laughter
Where being silly and being together feels like worship

O God, remind us to play!!
Then, remind us to pray.
And help us see that on some days
Those two words are not at all very far apart!

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

(If you would like to see/read more, you can go to http://everydayordinaryprayers.blogspot.com/)

A Day Made for Playing {Tacoma Family Photography}

2012-01-10T13:08:00.000-08:00

This is a family that LOVES to play and has fun together! I was the photographer who got to capture all that fun...and I am so grateful for that! As the first family of 2012, these guys started my year off right!

I always think photographing feet is a good idea. It is metaphorical for the journeys that we will take this year - the paths we will be called to walk down. I like that at the beginning of the year, all the family can stand together on a common path!

M, K, and C are some beautiful kids!

I so love capturing a family that just likes being together. I love brothers that just squeeze their sisters, sisters who make silly faces, dads who wrestle with their sons, and older siblings who jump off structures with almost as much enthusiasm as their little sisters!!

These are the two adult-age kids responsible for this motley crew! Not only do they have quick laughs, but they have an incredibly deep faith as well.

After a few serious group shots, we got into a little arm wrestling match. Trying to see who was the strongest....

Dad won....pretty sure K cheated (not sure you are supposed to use TWO hands!!)...but M swept them all up and her smile proves it!

C is shipping off to the Army next week...I am sure there is much pride and sadness in the house right now. Thanks for serving your country, C!!

But before he left, we had to get him having a little fun with his sisters....

Thank you M Family, for gracing my camera! It was a pleasure to photograph you! May you always hang on to each other, even when you are miles apart!

Breathe {inspiration for whatever day I get this written on!}

2012-01-05T17:26:00.000-08:00

January is a funny month for a photographer in the Pacific Northwest. It is chilly and rainy - two qualities which are not conducive to photo sessions. It is also dark - also not great for a photographer! Sunrise doesn't grace us with her presence until around 8 am and unfortunately leaves far too early around 4:30. (If there are any clouds, it just feels like twilight from about 2 o'clock on!)

So what is a girl to do?

I am hoping the month of January will be a month to stop, reflect, take inventory of life and business and then DREAM. You will be seeing a few photo sessions here and there, but overall I just need some space to dream about new things.

I have a few things that are already swirling around in my head...probably prompted from cleaning out all the extra "stuff" from my baby props and studio. I am hoping to offer a class to moms on "telling your story" - how to use your camera better and capturing the story of your family. (Any takers??) I am wanting to write some prayers and take pictures to couple with them on a weekly basis. I am dreaming about creating a calendar for next year from some of my "non-people" images.

We'll see what actually happens, but right now I'd like to dream.

All men dream but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that it was vanity; but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dream with open eyes to make it possible.
T.E. Lawrence

May we all take time to dream. May we sense a calling newness as we do. And may we dream with eyes open to make what we dream possible.

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

Just For Fun {Puyallup Portrait Photography}

2012-01-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

Tagging along on your brother's senior session has its benefits! I got to snap a few images of this beautiful girl the other day...(remember 10 am photo session in 37 degree weather!)

Gotta love a girl who likes to climb trees!! (below right)

I told K that she looked more like she belonged in California than in wintery-cold Washington!!

Beautiful, beautiful girl!! Thanks for gracing my camera!!

Class of 2012: Josh {Puyallup Senior Photography}

2012-01-03T13:39:00.000-08:00

Got to photograph this handsome guy and his sister (who you will see on Thursday) to other day. Kudos to both of them for getting up for a morning photo shoot (10 am) on winter break AND braving our 37 degree weather!! Ahhh....each session is always an adventure!!

(I couldn't resist a little "shadow-play"!)

Best of luck to you, Josh!! I hope the rest of your senior year is wonderful!!

Family Gathering {Sammamish Family Photography}

2012-01-01T21:49:00.000-08:00

Sometimes in the Pacific Northwest, the weather does not cooperate, but the pictures need to be taken because all the family is gathered in one spot for the only time of the year! I had the privilege of hanging out with this fun family the other day.

These two started it all...

...then they just started adding and adding...

....until the family was complete!

(I have to say that I have an affinity for the littlest members of families...they just give me great material to work with!)

There is nothing better than grandparents with grandkids!

OK...remember when I said that little ones are fun to photograph? Well, I just couldn't resist...little Miss E was just precious!!

(Of course, her mom is pretty gorgeous too!)

Love the hats, ladies!!

It was a pleasure to photograph you D Family!! I hope your family gathering was filled with lots of laughter and love!!

Breathe {inspiration for the last day of the year}

2011-12-31T15:33:00.000-08:00

For the past couple of years now, instead of creating a whole list of New Year's resolutions (that I will unavoidably break by 3 pm on the first day of the year), I have tried to listen to God for a word that will point me in a direction for the year. Last year, my word was engage. As much as I struggled through a difficult season most of last year, I tried to engage - to show up - and be really present in whatever was going on around me. The result? I feel an aliveness that I have not felt in a LONG time! The heaviness of a trudging season has lifted and I find myself in wide open {breathing} spaces!!

Over the last week, I found myself turning inward, being grateful for the word "Engage", and asking what the word for twenty-twelve might be. I have had quiet mornings, sitting in my big red chair with only the lights of the Christmas tree illuminating the darkness. (I am not only thankful for words, but also for the fact that my kids have entered the teenage stage and love to sleep late on holidays!) I asked the question and waited for the answer.

At first there was nothing but quiet...although that in and of itself is a gift...but as I waited, there was a small stirring. And that tiny awakening began to take shape into a whispered word....CONSISTENCY.

To be honest, I was hoping for something a little more exciting, so I listened for a few more days, but the song of "consistency" kept finding a rhythm in my heart, mind, body and soul. My entire being was confirming that, yes, this was the word for me to enter into this new year.

I am not totally sure how this word will form itself in my life...that is also part of the ongoing listening process...but I can see my need for some consistent rhythms. I have let some small habits go that need to be captured back and consistently practiced. I need to consistently nourish my body (by eating well and moving); I would like to consistently find quiet moments to read, pray, and meditate; I need to consistently love those around me; I would like to consistently write.

Consistency...consistency...consistency. What will it look like in my life in 2012?

So what is YOUR word? What is the word that keeps tumbling through your heart like clothing in a dryer? What is the word that keeps showing up even when you are not looking for it? If it appeals to you, take some quiet moments as we start this new year and ask. Then listen....see what happens. God just might have a word for you too and it could be a delightful surprise that unfolds itself throughout the year!

Happy New Year!!

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

Breathe {inspiration for Wednesdays..or Thursdays}

2011-12-22T12:30:00.000-08:00

With all the hustle of getting ready for the holiday season, I could feel my body needing a slow-down moment. This morning I got up and as the sun was rising in our foggy air, I went out with my camera to capture the images that my eye was inclined to see....it was so quiet and beautiful (and a little on the chilly side.)

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

What To Do???

2011-12-18T20:13:00.000-08:00

Rumor has it that some of you have NOT done your holiday cards yet! I know...you've thought and thought about it, but the execution has been lacking. Plus, you really wanted a good picture of your family to be the masterpiece of this year's chronicle of adventures, right? But you couldn't pull everyone together, and now it feels too late.

Not to worry!! First of all, I say start a new tradition! Why send your cards when everyone else is? Why not wait until the dust settles and send a picture/note to friends and family in January (say, as a New Year's Card), February (Valentine's anyone? or this year a "Happy Leap Year" Card!), or March (a "we're so happy Spring is around the corner" card).

However....you might want to try to take the picture while everyone is together over the next few days! So here are a few of my favorite tips for a good family picture:

1. Make Sure Everyone is Comfortable - in other words, keep it relaxed and informal. As cute as everyone may be all dressed up, someone is bound to be grumpy because of it. Better to have good attitudes in blue jeans (or jammies) than fake smiles in suits. Just saying...

(no better time for a family picture - of the kids - than Christmas morning!)

2. Do Something - kids (and dads) like getting their picture taken SO much better when they are doing something. Hold hands while taking a walk, maybe a picture of everyone riding their bike (don't run over the kind photographer!), or for that Leap Year picture, why not jump?

3. Don't Worry About Eye Contact - I know we all like a good look-at-me picture, but when it comes to kids (and parents) sometimes it is totally impossible to have everybody making eye contact with the camera. Maybe look at each other? It will make it seem like you like each other and will probably have you cracking up too!

4. Trade - ask a neighbor to come over and take your family picture and then do the same for them. Last year I set the camera on our garbage can and used the timer. Garbage can....neighbor...whichever is closer!

5. Get Outside - natural light is so much nicer and flattering than the harsh glare of the flash. Go outside...even if it is cold. If it is, you can all snuggle together to keep warm and it may be your favorite family picture yet.

6. Fake It - if you absolutely CANNOT get a picture of the family, go to Target and buy a picture frame with some good looking family in it.....JUST KIDDING!!

Here is our Christmas card from this year. Silly...no fancy clothing...informal...no eye contact....trying to blow bubbles....traded (a friend of mine took the pictures)....and outside.

May your Holidays be wonderful!!

Beathe {inspiration for Wednesdays}

2011-12-14T11:37:00.000-08:00

We cleaned out a member of our family's (who will remain nameless) room the other day. Much to my shock and horror, we found STUFF crammed into every nook and space in the area. There was STUFF behind the bed, under the bed, between the desk and the wall, in the closet, in every drawer and in the overflowing garbage! STUFF, STUFF, STUFF, STUFF, STUFF....Three bags full!!

Why do we live with so much STUFF? Why do we feel the compulsion to accumulate? What does it do for us? Maybe it makes us feel safe..."if I have all this stuff, bad things won't happen to me"; maybe it makes us feel prepared..."you never know when you might need a ____________"; maybe it makes us feel powerful...."I have more stuff than you, therefore I am better".

Most of the time, however, I just think it happens because we stop paying attention. We hunt, gather and store, like our ancient ancestors, but we, unlike them, don't have any reason for it!

One thing I know for sure is that "stuff-ness is suffocating"...and the funny thing is, we don't even know it. Accumulating is a giant anaconda squeezing its victim just a little bit more with each exhale, so the lungs can't open to their previous capacity. We are suffocating under the weight of our STUFF and we don't realize it until we sweep it into a pile and haul it away.

Three bags (and I mean giant sized-garbage bags!) into our "take-back-my-room" campaign, I could almost physically hear the sound of a full inhale and exhale. Air was reaching into the depths of oxygen deprived lungs! The family member remarked how much better he/she felt and how all of life felt more clean and spacious!

You see the clutter wasn't just occupying space in his/her room, it was crowding out his/her soul as well. Getting rid of the clutter released the soul.

And here I am, writing this at a time of year when we are all running out to buy more STUFF. We need to get lots of STUFF for people who already have more than enough STUFF. We try to STUFF ourselves with food and call it celebration. Every commercial is about more STUFF we can't live without. What is a girl to do? I just checked the color of my skin to be sure it wasn't turning Grinch-green.

Maybe we can't stop all our STUFF compulsions, but maybe, just maybe we can choose not to buy more STUFF just for STUFF's sake. Maybe we can give gifts of experiences, or maybe just a gift of company and a cup of coffee or tea.

Maybe the real gift is NOT giving more STUFF to our loved ones! (How would you put a gift tag on that one?)

And maybe we should give a small gift to ourselves too....finding a small space to clean out - a drawer, the floor of our cars - and getting rid of the STUFF that clutters. Who knows maybe we might be motivated to tackle bigger STUFF problems!

Now I know this isn't rocket science....we kind of know this, right? But the question is, are we willing to let go ofthe STUFF that suffocates us in order to breathe deeply in wider (though perhaps barren-feeling) spaces?

May we all let go of the compulsion to gather more and more STUFF. May we give our STUFF away or throw it away and find a large clearing and a spacious place. And in that spacious place, may we find we can breathe more freely once again.

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

A Little Holiday Spirit?? {Federal Way Family Photography}

2011-12-12T20:53:00.000-08:00

Shh...I'd like to show you the cutest little holiday spirit (well, little guy) EVER!! And I am so lucky because he lives next door!! (Maybe you remember him from here and here??)

Of course, his parents think he is pretty darn cute too! And the best present of all this year!!

(Took this a few weeks ago, but thought it was so great I just had to put it in!)

I love the overalls and hands in the pockets!! What a little boy!!

Winter Playtime! {Graham Family Photography}

2011-12-08T14:12:00.001-08:00

I haven't seen this sweet family in a couple of years, so I was thrilled when they asked me to photograph them again!! I love getting to see just how much bigger kiddos are...and to see their personalities bloom!

Of course, our two year old dynamo, Z, kept us all moving and playing...

I am not sure they get any cuter than this!! I think I see the makings of a holiday card here!!

We HAD to take the picture on the left...can you see Mt. Rainier in the background? Well take a good look because that might be the last time you see it before...ummm...July?? (And of course, Mr. Z loves fire trucks!! He really wanted to get into the cab and drive, but we settled for sitting on the bumper!)

Near the end, the sun was setting (at 4:15pm!!) and it was getting chilly, but Z was still totally up for play, play, playing!

Thanks S Family!! It was a pleasure to photograph you three again!!

There are a few more on the Facebook page, or Google +.

Class of 2012: Mackenzie {Graham Senior Photography}

2011-12-05T12:53:00.001-08:00

As I photographed Mackenzie, the Emile Zola quote came to mind...

"If you ask me what I came into this life to do, I will tell you: I came to live out loud." I don't know Mackenzie all that well, but I have a feeling she does her share of "living out loud"!!

Mackenzie is just full of laughter, smiles and bubbly personality! (It was so fun to photograph her!!)

Of course, there is a serious side to this full-of-life girl too...

I love the picture on the right. I asked her to give me a little "catwalk" attitude as she came toward me, and this is what I got....seems to me, that is her catwalk attitude!!

I have to say I love a girl who can laugh at herself and be playful!! May your life hold as much color as that wall behind you, Mackenzie...and may you never forget to be silly and skip along enjoying the colors!

You can check out just a few more images on the Red Thread Facebook page or Google +....

Breathe {Inspiration for Wednesdays}

2011-11-30T11:59:00.001-08:00

Funny...I was wondering what I should write about today, when a friend of mine called a few minutes ago. Actually, her 5 year old called, declared she wanted to get a present for my daughter and asked what I thought M would like. After I gave her a few ideas (don't want to list them here, just in case that girl of mine reads this!) the little girl put her mom on the phone. At that, my friend (we'll call her A), told me the story...

A had gone to visit her grandmother, now in a nursing home, a few weeks back. As they came to the end of their visit, A's grandma wanted to give her something. Of course, she is not allowed to have a lot of things, and especially valuable things, living where she lives - just in case they go missing. But A's grandma opened a drawer and in it was a ziploc bag within which was a Hershey Bar and $40. She handed it to A, despite protests, and was adamant about A taking it as a gift.

After she left, A called her dad and expressed to him how guilty she felt about taking grandma's money. She didn't really need it, and was sure grandma needed it much more! But A's dad told her to take it, and to teach her kids something through it.

A came home and began to tell her kids a story. It was a story about a grandma who had always been generous and still was. A story about how her generosity taught her son (A's dad) to be generous and in turn, that son taught his daughter lessons in generosity. It was a story about seeds planted in the soil of a family, and how they had grown multiple times over so that now generosity was part of the native landscape of the family.

A explained to her kids that even though she was given this money from her grandma, she didn't really think it was hers. She explained to them that it was for each of them....each would get $10 to buy a gift for someone else. And thus, she began watering the seeds of generosity for a new generation.

May we all practice generosity this week - whether we do it from a family culture that has taught us to be generous or whether we are planting fresh seeds in our own lives and families. May we water that generosity so it grows and grows still more. And may we reap the harvest of abundance that a generous life brings.

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

Siblings...Some Things Never Change {West Seattle Family Photography}

2011-11-29T15:02:00.001-08:00

Instead of going shopping on Black Friday, I went and hung out with this family....so much fun!!

I love the picture on the left...with siblings, some things never change!! I am not sure what brother is getting blamed for, but it is two against one and I think he is about to lose!

Of course, with so many family members gathered in one place, this little pumpkin just assumes they are there to be her playground....which is totally true!!

(Until she tires of the grownups!)

I love the smiles and laughter of this family....(I don't really want to know what was going on behind me to evoke these reactions!!)

Near the end, it was the grownups turn to really play! Evidently, this is something the two of them did as kids!

Thank you H Family!! It was wonderful to spend time with you!!

Kiss Me: Sally and Max {Seattle Engagement Photography}

2011-11-25T15:46:00.001-08:00

Sally and Max are getting married!! And I am invited to photograph their wedding in August!!

They are fun, in love...

...and they both have great shoes!! :)

Seriously though....I had such a great time with these two! I can tell they have a great time together no matter where they are or what they are doing!

(They both wanted their chance to get a piggy-back!!)

See you in August, Sally and Max!! I can't wait!!

There are a few more on the Red Thread Images Facebook page (although I hope it works, because I've been having issues with FB lately)...or you can go to Red Thread Google Plus

Breathe {inspiration for Wednesdays}

2011-11-23T14:14:00.001-08:00

You say grace before meals.

All right.

But I say grace before the play and the opera,

And grace before the concert and pantomime,

And grace before I open a book,

And grace before sketching, painting,

Swimming, fencing, boxing, walking, playing, dancing;

And grace before I dip the pen in the ink."

~GK Chesterton

May we all say grace...a lot!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Breathe, smile and go slowly!

Full of Laughter {Federal Way Family Photography}

2011-11-20T19:34:00.001-08:00

Sometimes sunshine (or non-rain) happens...and when it does, it is always good to know that there is a spontaneous family waiting to be photographed! These guys are friends of mine and I was supposed to photograph them later this week, but when the weather looked good, I called them Saturday morning to see if they were available that afternoon. Thank you P Family...

J & K (aka Mom and Dad) are amazing people! They let me know that they hadn't had a family picture since their youngest was a baby....now she is 12. I would say pictures were long overdue!

I, A & A (aka The Kids) are equally wonderful people! They are all uniquely talented, wonderful with people and they really like each other! There was so much laughter involved in this session...it was such a pleasure just to be there!

(Of course, before you get too enamored by the P Family, we had to let you see a little of their "dark side" too!!)

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE these pictures with Mom!! K is so full of life and has a smile that fills up a room! Obviously, it also works magic on her kids!

Love these ones too....love the color on the top one, and the expression in the bottom one.

Thank you, thank you, thank you P Family!! It really was such an honor to photograph your fun together!

A Couple of Head Shots {Graham Senior Photography}

2011-11-19T16:43:00.001-08:00

When the weather turns cold here, we have to take any nice moment we can get. These two ladies needed head shots for their yearbook and we happened to get a nice afternoon (sunny, but cold...brrr!)

I think they are both just beautiful and can't wait to photograph each of them during a longer session, but wanted to get at least one picture of each of them on the blog...

Meet Mackenzie...

....and Morgan!

Breathe {inspiration for Wednesdays}

2011-11-16T09:18:00.001-08:00

Does God still speak out of burning bushes? I have not seen one crackling, in the midst of flames lately, but I pass by this vibrant sapling - ablaze with painted on fire - all the time. And while it may not shout out from the inferno, it whispers to me words of wisdom.

I love the fall! I love the colors of the leaves - yellows, oranges, reds - and to be honest I wish they could adorn the branches all winter long. In the gray Pacific Northwest, colorful trees would provide a luminous delight during the long, dark days of winter. But alas, it cannot be so. Our decorated autumn lasts only briefly; the leaves soon relax their grip on the branches and allow the wintertide wind to carry them away.

It is an amazing process! The tree in its most glorious moment, when it could hold on and relish all its beauty, color, and majesty, instead lets go. It stands in beauty aflame for merely a moment or two, and then surrenders it all to the whim of the wind. How sad to watch this sort of death...especially when these exquisite leaves fall on the sidewalk or street, only to be trodden upon or run over - forgotten with the next powerful storm.

But the falling of glory may prove to be a grace.

The tree knows the wisdom of creation...without letting go of its glory, it could not withstand the weight of the snow and ice to come. In order to get ready for another season, it must kiss goodbye its grandeur, chose nakedness and wait for the gifts of winter. Without yielding, it would break under far too heavy a weight.

So does God still speak out of burning bushes? I think so.

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

Class of 2012: Emily {Spanaway Senior Photography}

2011-11-12T17:24:00.001-08:00

Meet (another) Emily...a strong, beautiful member of the class of 2012!

Emily is resilient, focused and knows where she is headed. It was an honor to spend time with her!

(And, by the way, the picture below is one of my favorites!!)

And this one too...

....and this one too!! (Why do I have to pick just one?)

Thanks for the privilege of photographing you, Emily! There are a few more on the Red Thread Images Facebook page...if you are interested!

Class of 2012: Katie {Spanaway Senior Photography}

2011-11-11T10:46:00.001-08:00

Meet Katie...lovely and loving...and pretty drop dead gorgeous too!

(Remember Emily from yesterday? Katie is her younger sister...and I got to photograph both of them at the same time!)

Love this picture on our version of the "Spanish steps"...with some little signs of fall adorning the descent! Katie gets my vote for "most able to pretend like she is warm when it is really pretty darn cold outside"!

OK...what can I say? Katie, I love the jeans!! That color looks amazing on you, and well...what can I even say about your eyes? I think the picture on the right is my favorite!

The thing I loved about Katie was that I got to see not only a beautiful girl on the outside, but she has a pretty deep inner beauty as well. Her love for her family is obvious and she knows where she is headed in the future, which gives her a quiet confidence (now there is a glimpse of beauty!).

Katie, thanks for asking me to take some of your senior pictures! It was an absolute pleasure to photograph you!

Class of 2012: Emily {Spanaway Senior Photography}

2011-11-10T12:53:00.001-08:00

When someone is so enthusiastic that she says after a photo session, "This is the best day of my life!", how can I not just absolutely adore her? Meet Emily...class of 2012 (sort of)! Emily is almost 21 and will be graduating from her district's program for students with special needs. Way to go, Emily!!

I can honestly say that each moment of the session was filled with joy. Emily has such a great smile and bubbly personality!

At one point on during the session, Emily looked at me and said, "Tara, you're great!" First...when was the last time someone just looked at you and told you that? Secondly...Emily now has my loyalty for life!

The session was actually a double session for her and her sister (whom you'll see more of tomorrow!)...but I loved their affection for each other!

I have to give it to this sweet girl...at about this point in our session the weather turned COLD! (It was not a warm day to begin with either!) But Emily stuck in there with me....I think she should be America's Next Top Model!!

Thanks, Emily! It was a pleasure to photograph you!! And though you already said it to me...I think you're the greatest!

Breathe {inspiration for Wednesdays}

2011-11-09T12:09:00.000-08:00

Let me ask you...what do you see? Right now, look around and say aloud (unless that would freak those around you out) and say what you see. An amazing trait of humans is our ability to stand in the same room or place and see completely different things! For some, our eyes go to color or pattern, for others they see the one imperfection in their field of view and for yet another, the movement in the scene. Perhaps there are as many ways of seeing as there are people in the world. Imagine....7 billion sets of eyes to see something that is right in front of us, but remains hidden to all but one set of eyes!!

While I do not think I am alone in this, I know my eyes are wired to see beauty. Take me almost anywhere and I will see the beauty that resides there. Even now, as I write this (on paper!), I am at the mall waiting to have coffee with a friend. In these pre-opening hours I see the beauty of two women walking in friendship, the elegant curve of the back of food court chair, and the peacefulness of a quite place to sit and write. I have never photographed a person I did not think had some striking, beautiful quality (no matter how many wrinkles)!! Heck, I even think old "junk" has a beauty to it....hence my propensity toward second-hand stores and my secret love for the metal scrap yard I often drive past.

I see beauty. I see it almost everywhere.

However, because I see beauty, I also see when people miss it or hide from it, and I am realizing how sad that makes me. An amazing woman who doesn't like a photograph because she doesn't like her nose...a friend struggling with how to wear her hair because she doesn't embrace her beauty...another friend hiding her beauty behind her capability and efficiency...and yet another saying words to diminish herself...why do we run so furiously away from beauty?

To see beauty in ourselves or around us means to take a stance of truthfulness. Beauty cannot share space with arrogant pride or false humility (which is really just another form of pride, isn't it?). We must not aggrandize or lessen ourselves....we simply see. (And it is OK to smile at what we see!) To allow our own beauty to be seen means we come out of hiding. We stop playing hide-and-seek and step out of the shadows that have hidden us. We bring our whole heart and vulnerability out into the open....without any bravado or embarrassment. We stand as we are. We stand in our beauty.

(Now perhaps this has a more feminine bent to it. Sorry, guys! Maybe substitute the word "beauty" with "strength"...)

Some have said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I say beauty is everywhere, but we must have the eyes to see it! Oh, how I wish others could see the beauty I see in them! Oh that we could learn to live with and in that beauty and then see it in others! Oh, that we would call forth beauty out of each person!

(I wrote the following a couple of years ago....obviously thinking about this topic...and though I use the "she" and "he" pronouns, I don't think we are stuck with that. The pronouns are exchangeable and interchangeable!)

Beauty is elusive.

She is a timid little soul…reticent to come outof her safe places.

She is a creature that takes time to draw outfrom her carefully constructed enclosures and fear filled anxieties.

She does not come out into a clearing tooquickly,

Nor does she respond to impatience or quickmovements.

*****

The one who would wish to see beauty must sitrepetitively and quietly.

He must risk extending a hand to her- into herdarkness – knowing he will be bitten.

He must be willing to bear the scars of beauty’steeth and not pull back into his own hurt.

His gaze focuses kindly upon eyes that stare backat him through the dark undergrowth – in fear, distrust, andself-protection.

This one must speak in hushed tones

with gentle but strong words.

Because beauty knows falseness and withdraws fromit.

So this beauty whisperer must always speak truthbut within the cadence of love.

*****

For beauty is afraid to come out into the open

-she is afraid of others

-she is afraid of laughter

-she is afraid of being crushed

-but most of all she is afraid of herself

of her strength, passion, and blinding brilliance

Beauty finds it easier to hide and live inshadows because there she does not need to come face to face with herglory!

And the one who would call beauty out must alsonot be afraid of that glory or her power.

Oh no! He comes with a strength all hisown, knowing he will protect her and her strength will becomesynergistic with his.

THIS is why he is patient

THIS is why he calls

Because he sees her, fully glorious, though shehides,

And knows he is made complete with her emerging.

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

You Say It's Your Birthday {University Place Family Photography}

2011-11-07T21:09:00.000-08:00

What better to do on your sixth birthday than go out in chilly weather and get photographed with your family?? I got to photograph this little cutie and her family the other day. They were super fun and very brave to head out in our fall-but-it-feels-like-the-doorstep-of-winter weather!!

I learned a few of things on this session....six year old's are very bouncy...babies do not last long in cold weather....and Arby's is a coveted place to go for a birthday lunch!

This is the birthday girl's little sister....so happy!! (But I think we wore her out by the end!)

Shhhh....baby's sleeping!!

Thanks I Family...I had so much fun photographing you and your beautiful girls! You were amazing to brave the chill! I hope everyone went home and had a big cup of birthday hot chocolate!

Class of 2012: Kirk {Woodinville Senior Photography}

2011-11-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

Photographed this handsome guy the other day. What can I say...we had fun AND I am so jealous of his height!! (If only I could borrow a few inches from him!)

I love the fall color, but what you don't see is the imminent rain and of course, the wet ground. Kirk was awesome to oblige me, even when he knew he would get wet!

Kirk lives on a golf course, so how could we resist??

I wish you all the best for your senior year, Kirk. May it be the best year ever!!

Thanks Kirk...you were awesome to photograph! You can check out a few more images at the Red Thread Images Facebook Page...

Kiss Me: Jaclyn and Aaron {Seattle Engagement Photography}

2011-11-03T20:23:00.000-07:00

We could not have asked for a more lovely day for this AMAZING couple! The sun was out, the colors of fall bursting, and Jaclyn and Aaron couldn't be more in love.

Who says Spring is for lovers? We don't need flowers....we have gorgeous (huge) leaves at the Arboretum.

LOVE, LOVE,....

I am so glad I wore my rubber boots on the photo session. I found myself trekking around in the mud...but it was so worth it!!

These two were so fun to photograph! Jackie's great laugh brought a joy to the session...and their affection for each other is, well....obvious!

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE....

Jaclyn and Aaron....I cannot wait for you wedding next summer!! I had such a great time with you two!!

Check out a few more images on the Red Thread Images Facebook Page!! (And "like" us, if you haven't already!)

Laugh, Giggle and Play {Federal Way Family Photography}

2011-11-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this family!! They have been friends of ours since we moved to the Pacific Northwest. We have eaten together, laughed together, worried about our kids together, vacationed together, and talked deeply about life. I was thrilled to get to hang out with them and capture their "family greatness"!!

Love these kids!! The last time we did family photos, B had a difficult time and we had to keep bribing her with "scooby snacks", but this time she not only wholeheartedly participated, she was even directing me as to what I should take pictures of!!

This was one of B's creations...she thought it would be so funny to have her mom kiss her dad.

I think the picture on the right is one of my all time favorites!

Of course, we had to capture some silly family moments too...

Love you, Andersen family!! You are amazing, beautiful and we are thankful to call you friends!

One More Time {Tacoma Portrait Photography}

2011-10-31T07:00:00.000-07:00

I hung out with Scott Krippayne one more time the other day. I wanted to capture a little more the man and his music...and then just a few more down at the beach too!

I had the privilege of hearing some of the new songs he is working on....great stuff!!

Down at the beach, I asked him when he learned to skip rocks as a kid. Not sure he gave me an exact time, but he showed me a little of his talent and I like the way the pictures showed another side of him.

We were laughing because I realized how many serious pictures I had taken of Scott...so we had to get at least one good smiling picture!

Class of 2012: Tyler {Federal Way Senior Photography}

2011-10-29T17:51:00.000-07:00

Meet Tyler. Very cool, quiet, a guy who likes to read the classics. We could hang out again...

Love the suit!!

I totally like it when the tide is out! The boardwalk is a fantastic place!! I also happen to be partial to Tyler's shoes...love them!!

Color, color, color...good choice, Tyler!!

Check out Tyler's eyes....such a great piercing color!

Thanks Tyler! I had a good time hanging out with you the other day. Check out a few more on the Red Thread Images Facebook Page!!

Marry Me: Kayley and Charley {Chelan Wedding Photography}

2011-10-28T16:10:00.000-07:00

You've already seen a sneak peek of their wedding, but here is the story of this amazing day....

My second photographer (Renee Bergmen) and I traveled from the Seattle area in the pouring, pouring rain over the pass to Chelan..only to be greeted by beautiful weather, trees ablaze with autumn, and a stunning, relaxed bride who was just a pleasure to photograph!

One thing I have learned from this family (I photographed another wedding for them earlier this year) is that they are WONDERFUL gift givers!! (Umm...Thompson Family...I'd like to be adopted by you, please!)

Kayley was radiant!! From the dress, to her hair, to her shoes, to the veil, she was a picture of elegance and beauty!

(Want a funny story about the garter? It was actually bothering Kayley during the pictures before the wedding and I ended up wearing it on my upper right bicep most of the day. It made me look like I had muscles....in a very girly sort of way!)

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE...

Meet Charley, our handsome groom. Not only is he handsome, but he is patient (since he had to wait for us often!), AND he has a sneaky, fun side to him too (but you'll have to wait until the reception to see that.)

First Look...

When we did their engagement pictures, they brought their dog, Piper, with them....well, we couldn't leave her at home on THIS occasion could we?

The flower girls deserve a page all to themselves. Both of them were so stunning, it was difficult to know who to photograph...bride or these two cuties!!

This was dad's gift to Kayley.....

These two actually met in High School at Eastside Catholic School. The priest from the school was the one who officiated the wedding. It was a beautiful ceremony.

We had a few more minutes for some pictures on the beach, and since the sun was just about perfect......

OK...so I have been to A LOT of weddings and this may have been my favorite dessert idea EVER!! Instead of cake or cupcakes, Kayley and Charley had a "sweets" bar, and most of the treats were made by family members!! What a great idea....and the pumpkin cheesecake was to die for!

As Kayley and Charley started to dance, they had a little one come join them. I don't think this sweet pea was too happy that her Uncle Charley was dancing with "another woman". As far as I was told, I think this little miss is so smitten with Uncle Charley. Watch out Kayley!!)

Such sweet moments with Kayley and her dad...then Charley and his mom came on. Their dance started slow and then broke into a musical compilation from the 60's, 70's, 80's and 90's...and they danced to each one. Wait until you see "Kung Foo Fighting"!!!

The reception was wonderful also (how could it not be?). It was filled with great food, lots of family and friends and some wonderful music and dancing!

Thanks Kayley and Charley!! It was an absolute pleasure to get to photograph your wedding day!!
(For more images, check out the Red Thread Images Facebook Page!!)

A Playful Family {Federal Way Family Photography}

2011-10-27T09:22:00.000-07:00

I love photographing this family!! (You can see them here and here also!) They are always so fun...

(SEE?!?! What did I tell you?)

When I spend time with a family, I like to photograph them having fun together...with these guys I don't even need to direct them very much. I just get to photograph what unfolds before me.

Ahhh...a mom and her boy...

Both sets of grandparents were on site to jump into a few pictures, but I HAD to put one in of Great-Grandpa who is 99 years old!! I love his smile, his laugh, and the joy in his eyes! (I hope I'll have a similar picture at 99!)

Fall colors are breaking out all around us. I love it when it seems as though the very trees are ablaze!

Thanks J Family!! It was a pleasure to photograph you once again! I so enjoy hanging out with you each year!

Breathe {inspiration for Wednesdays}

2011-10-26T15:47:00.000-07:00

An ancient poet once wrote, (writing to God),

"What is man that You care for him?...

You have crowned him with glory and majesty!"

As I read those words this morning, I was taken aback by the thought of each and every human being crowned with glory and majesty. I certainly don't, on most particular days, feel like I've been crowned with glory and majesty....and I REALLY don't see how that can be true of each person I meet. Sure, the ones I really like might show how dignified and noble they are, but not the humans who annoy me, take the parking space I was waiting for, and leave the only available table in the Costco food court a complete mess...right?

But I came back to the phrase..."{God has} crowned him with glory and majesty." The poet doesn't make a delineation between who has been crowned, but has the audacity to think that everyone has been crowned with this glory and majesty!! And it got me thinking as to what would happen if I began to see people like this. What if, with every person I met, I looked beyond the first impression and saw what God has placed upon them?...a crown of honor and distinction that keeps them in a state of great splendor.

What if I began to see others as God sees them?

I think I would see an amazing brilliance - perhaps the sparkling of that bejeweled diadem? I would see a beauty so stunning there may be no words to use. From my children, to the grocery story clerk, to the frustrating co-worker, I would see glimpses of glory and artistry that would take my breath away. And you know what? If I saw that, I might treat the other person as I saw them...not only as they are presenting themselves at the moment. My eyes to see just might call that "crowned human" out of hiding into the open, to live out who they were created to be.

And I might live differently too. I might live as though my head was weighted with a garland of dignity and grace...and I might actually act like that!

Funny how choosing to see differently could change so much!

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

Local Artist {Tacoma Portrait Photography}

2011-10-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

He is unassuming and humble, an introvert who likes quiet places....which is funny because his career puts him in front of thousands of people, in auditoriums full of loud music! I had the pleasure of hanging out with music artist Scott Krippayne the other day and getting to photograph both "sides" of him!

A little bit of fun and grunge (I just love the background!)...just so he can remind his kids that their dad still has a lot of cool in him!! (An idea to which Scott would say he is not cool but that's OK....alright, you need to know his lyrics!!)

A bit more of the pensive, thoughtful side of him...

Scott is working on a new project right now. Don't want to give anything away, but since some of the songs are about sticking in there with love - even when it is difficult, I thought this was an appropriate picture!

I had a great time with this husband, dad, songwriter, Jesus-follower, coffee-lover, thoughtful, artist-musician. In fact I had so much fun, we did another shoot this morning...this time in his studio. Watch for more pictures to come...and until then, check out his music!

Sneak Peek...Kayley and Charley {Chelan Wedding Photography}

2011-10-24T14:25:00.000-07:00

They invited me to this AMAZING party the other day....they leave on their honeymoon tomorrow...How can I let them go without giving them at least 3 little pictures to show them just how wonderful their wedding day was???

More to come in a few more days......

Boy...Am I Going to Have Fun with You!! {Federal Way Baby Photography}

2011-10-21T11:16:00.000-07:00

I have a new next door neighbor (whom I photographed here)! He has been home for a couple of weeks now and I was so excited when his mom and grandma brought him over for a quick trip in front of my camera. Zac isn't even 5 lbs yet. He is so tiny....and I could just cuddle with him all day long! (Although I know his mom wishes I would come over and cuddle with him ALL NIGHT long, so she could get some sleep!)

My favorites are above. Can you see how loose the cocoon is on him? That should fit a newborn snugly and he is 5 weeks old!

LOVE those lips!!

Mom happens to like Eeyore, so she trekked home and brought him over. I think Zac likes Eeyore too!

(Mom and Grandma)

Don't all newborns love to be held? They know when they are in someone's arms...and a joyful peace comes over them.

A Bundle of Energy {Bonney Lake Family Photography}

2011-10-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

Wow!! I forgot how much energy toddlers have....and how much a photo session with one means going from activity to activity! I got to photograph this little bundle of energy (and his parents) last week. So much fun!!

The original thought was to get this little guy out feeding the chickens, but he was done with that in about half a second and the chickens were not sure they enjoyed being chased!

Lots of trucks....

He didn't want to ride in the Jeep...just wanted to push it AND fix it. (Does he know something about Jeeps that I don't know?!?!)

In the garage, there is this AMAZING Corvette. I think this little guy is going to be a car kind of guy!

A moment to snuggle....

...and he's off again!

I think we finally tired him out. I think mom and dad were probably tired too!

Hey, V Family, it was wonderful to photograph you and capture some real family moments!!

Breathe {inspiration for Wednesdays}

2011-10-19T10:56:00.000-07:00

The 14th year of motherhood should be aptly named "the year of eye rolling". It is the year when our children speak with such conviction and theatrics that our parental eyes are always rolling back as our heads shake ever so slightly....and we let out that all too familiar deep sigh of exasperation.

In Starbucks the other day, my 14 year old (oh-so-accurate?!?) historian was recounting a tale when I felt my eyes tilt heavenward to assume their rolling position. I couldn't help it...it was as though the drama and inaccuracy of the words pushed my eyes onto higher ground.

All of a sudden, she looked at me, pointed her index finger in my northward facing eyes and declared, "I am delightful!! My middle name should be delightful! Don't forget that!!"

I stared at her, my eyes transfixed - almost mesmerized - by the truth she had just spoken. My eyes backed down, unable to roll, for they had encountered not a thespian monologue but an underlying pillar of life. In front of me sat a 14 year old sage...who was brave enough to verbalize what so many of us never dare to even whisper.

"I am delightful" is perhaps less a declaration than a question - a hopeful wondering of how we are perceived. It is the inquiry of us pedestrians on this terrestrial ball. Does someone find me delightful? Can I captivate you with just who I am? The question is not "am I functional?" or "what do I contribute?" or "am I good enough at _____?" No...the question is simply, AM I DELIGHTFUL?

Funny, how a 14 year old has the bravery to speak something her 40 year old mother doesn't. But with eyes square on her (not even one degree of tilt), I had to say that it is true. It is true about her and it is true about all of us. You ARE delightful...because you are made by God and He delights in you!

Sure...He sees all your sugar and spice, but He also sees all the mess, hurt and confusion, and He still takes delight in you and smiles. He doesn't even roll His eyes....not even once!! (Not even when you act like a 14 year old!!)

May we all stop for a moment, close our eyes, breathe, and imagine God's smile on us. May we enjoy that smile. May we all know we are delightful to Him.

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

Happy Second Birthday!! {Puyallup Family Photography}

2011-10-17T20:17:00.000-07:00

I am always honored when people invite me into their lives over and over again! I get to watch their kids grow....and they feel a bit like extended family to me. I have photographed this ~~little~~ big guy a handful of times, so it was fun to celebrate his second birthday with him (and his parents) too!!

Any birthday that starts with a Thomas the Tank Engine theme has to be a good one...

Of course, the balloons were BY FAR the favorite play toy of the evening!

Balloons can be used for LOTS of things.....even as a bowling ball!

Meet the friends who came to celebrate....

Happy birthday, sweet boy!! You grow more and more amazing each time I see you!!

Oh Brother...and Sister! {Federal Way Family Photography}

2011-10-15T19:04:00.000-07:00

I did some little mini sessions for some friends the other day...here is the first family I photographed. (Love these guys. They are like an adopted family to my son!)

This dynamic duo is a bundle of energy, smiles, inquisitiveness, and laughter.

LOVE this one!! I think this might have the makings of a holiday card!

Of course this is how excited they were to have their pictures taken....wait for it....

.....oh yeah!!!

Love you B Family!! It was awesome to photograph you!

Just the Three of Us...Plus One More {Puyallup Family Photography}

2011-10-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

I met this family last year when their daughter was playing volleyball with mine. I was so excited to get to photograph them that we had them over for dinner afterward! I am not sure which I enjoyed more...getting to watch them laugh and play as a family or hanging out over dinner! (Glad I got to do both!)

I love that, in spite of her "teenage-ness" Gressa still loves mom and dad very much...and is willing to be affectionate.

Mom and Dad love each other very much too...I love that they always do this just before they kiss!

Three different takes on a family picture...can you see Mom and Dad in the last one?

Gressa is just stunning!! No more needs to be said.

So the family secret is that Dad always has his eyes closed when they go to a studio to get his picture taken. We obviously opted for the non-studio shots, but still caught some sort of eye thing going on.

Take a good look...this girl is going to be a volleyball star someday!

And though they thought they were a family of three...really that ball (and the game) is the fourth member of their family. It keeps them together as a family - in the car, at the gym, at tournaments, and well, almost everywhere!

Thanks E Family!! I loved photographing you! You are one amazing family!

Class of 2012: Kimmy {Graham Senior Photography}

2011-10-11T11:53:00.000-07:00

Another gorgeous member of 2012...meet Kimmy!

We had some colorful fun the other day....

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the picture below!

Kimmy, you are gorgeous!! Thanks for letting me photograph you! I wish you all the best for your senior year! (There are a couple more pictures on the Red Thread Images Facebook page!)

A Little Souvenir From South America {Kirkland Baby Photography}

2011-10-06T10:17:00.000-07:00

I photographed this amazing couple last year and got to witness the beginning of their love story together. A few months after the wedding, they took off on an amazing adventure...a few weeks in South America. It just so happens I got to photograph one of their "souvenirs" the other day!

Hudson Alexander was born on September 24...and he couldn't be more precious!

Smiled upon by dad....

....snuggled with....

...adored by Mom.

I have to brag on this little guy a little...he is the first baby I have ever photographed that slept through the ENTIRE session!! He just let us take his clothes off and move him all around...amazing!!

(These little birds adorn his room now, but they first decorated Mom and Dad's wedding reception.)

Perhaps the cutest pumpkin in the patch!

So...Hudson's dad played football in college for some obscure team called The Irish :) I think Notre Dame would be proud of their newest possible player...he is such a good fit in the helmet!

Jen and Chris...he is amazing!! Thanks for letting me come out and photograph him....and give him a few little cuddles too!!

Breathe {inspiration for Wednesdays}

2011-10-05T12:07:00.000-07:00

Remember back when you had to take a foreign language? Walking into the class you had your text and notebook, but the one thing everyone wanted to get their hands on was on of the French/English (Spanish/English....insert language here/English) dictionaries.

Do you remember why? Not because we were all such eager students to master the language but come on....what are the first foreign words that ever motivated you enough to look them up?

Yes, that's right...the swear words! Didn't we all want to learn how to say off limit words in a different language? That way, we could say them, use them with an innocent look on our faces and not get caught!

These days there are few more (seemingly) off-limit words I would like to learn. Problem is, they are in English and the minute I use them it seems people - including myself - get a horrified look on their faces and sputter as though choking on a dry cracker.

These words aren't REALLY off limits, but we use them so infrequently they can be a bit of a shock to our systems. They are simple words - one or two syllables - easy to pronounce...hard to say.

What are the words?

ENOUGH

SILENCE

These words fly in the face of our always busy, always doing, always noisy world. In the middle of a very busy season right now, I find myself grabbing for them as though reaching for a lifeline. But oftentimes my reach misses, I can't grab hold and I sink even deeper into the dark churning waters of busy-family-running a business- relationships-social life - maintaining a household-I'm sure there is more I could add to this list- life.

However, just like in my foreign language class, I try to keep practicing the words over and over and over again...until they sound like my native speech. And also, just like foreign language class...there is discomfort in saying these words and a relearning of how to enunciate clearly, well, and with a loud enough voice for everyone to hear.

May we all learn to say "no, enough, and silence" when we need to. May we speak those words like native speakers - strongly, yet full of grace. Until then though, may we practice, practice, practice!

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

Class of 2012: Alex {Tacoma Senior Photography}

2011-10-04T14:15:00.000-07:00

I love it when someone REALLY brings their personality with them to a photoshoot!! Alex was one of those people. From his clothing choices to his skateboard, his personality exploded onto each image.

Mom was not totally sure about the tie dye shirt, but I think it works and adds a bit of fun!

When Alex first put on this shirt, I think I gave him a VERY puzzled look. He then explained to me..."you know how people wear t-shirts with certain college names on them?" I guess he just wanted one that said College!! I LOVE it!!!

Now I have had one other young man wear his suit for his senior pictures....

....but Alex is the first one to skateboard IN his suit!!

I love the picture to the right....very GQ.

I thought we were done after the skateboarding, but Alex was willing to run across the street with me and get just a couple of pictures on a train....which of course, we would never be anywhere we were not supposed to be....uh...sort of.

Alex...I totally had a great time photographing you! I can honestly say I had so much fun! Thank you so much! I wish you much luck for this year and beyond!

Another Playful Family {Tacoma Family Photography}

2011-10-02T21:13:00.000-07:00

Wow!! I have had so much fun lately photographing families. They have been so playful....and the D Family was no exception! We hung out near the Brown's Point Lighthouse for a little family fun!

I am really serious when I say this family likes to have fun together! (Nice faces, Mom and Dad!!)

Lots of giggling, smiling and inside jokes....

...and a little jumping always makes for a great time!

I think this may be my absolute favorite from the session! I love parents who like to embarrass (and kind of gross out) their children!

Thanks D Family....it was an absolute pleasure to hang out with you! Your love and laughter are infectious...and your playfulness is inspiring!

What Would You Do? {West Seattle Family Photography}

2011-10-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

I felt a bit like The Cat in the Hat the other day as I showed up at the S Family's house. Typical fall Seattle weather is settling on us now, which means the weather changes moods from sun to rain to wind faster than a hungry, tired toddler. But I've hung out with this wonderful family before, so maybe they trusted my Cat-in-the-Hat antics!!

"I know it is wet

And the sun is not sunny

But we can have

Lots of good fun that is funny..."

The last time I photographed these guys, little Miss Addelyn was still hiding! It was so fun to get to meet her and watch that same mischievous sparkle in her eyes that is already in big sister Makenzie's!

Since the drizzle continued outside, we headed downstairs for the quickest game of Candyland I have ever seen! Of course, Miss Addelyn was a little confused...she thought Candyland was an eating game!

Now, unlike The Cat in the Hat, I did not bring Thing One and Thing Two...I think they may already live in this house (and maybe there is a Thing Three and Thing Four also!!)

"Then those Things ran about
With big bumps, jumps and kicks
And with hops and big thumps
And all kinds of bad tricks."

(but not REALLY bad!!)

I do believe they are going to start a family band...Dad makes a fantastic lead singer!!

And Miss Addelyn is an intense guitar player!

(We had to do a copy of the picture from last year....this time Addy gets her rightful place and name on the chalkboard.)

The weather cooperated with us for a little while and we headed outside. Miss Mak showed me how she could skip, throw leaves, and turn into a garden fairy in a matter of minutes! (Very Thing One-ish!)

Down at the beach...just like Hawaii, right? Only greyer, windier, colder, and about to be A LOT wetter!

I like this next set....I would like to entitle it..."Life before kids/Life after kids".

Thanks S Family!! I always love photographing you! You are fun AND adventurous!! (I think we were down at the beach for a handful of minutes before Dad looked out at the water and pointed out this huge curtain of rain headed toward us!! We took pictures as long as we could then RAN to the cars as the rain began to drench us!!)

"Then our mother came in
And she said to us two,
"Did you have any fun?
Tell me. What did you do?"

And Sally and I did not know
What to say.
Should we tell her
The things that went on there that day?

Should we tell her about it?
Now, what SHOULD we do?
Well...
What would YOU do
If your mother asked YOU?"

A Family at Play {Seattle Family Photography}

2011-09-29T13:18:00.000-07:00

One of my greatest privileges is to get to photograph a family at play. It may be at the fair, at the beach or even just at their house...but families at play always make me smile. (Maybe because I have so many times, as a mom, when I wish someone were there to take my family's picture - with me in it!!!)

So I headed up to Seattle the other day to spend a couple of house with the C Family...

I was greeted by the youngest member of the family, J. She showed me around the garden (those flowers smell like chocolate!!!) and around her playhouse.

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this!!

OK...so there are two pictures in this post I would normally now put up. Their points of focus are off, but I think they tell a story nonetheless. The first is this one...

Evidently I was having trouble tracking Miss J, but I think the tongue out and feet off the ground show her determination!!

Oh...this was fun to capture!! A hula-hooping family....some were REALLY good at it and well, we'll just say that others should not quit their day jobs to go into the hula-hooping competitive circuit!!

Unlike her sister, Miss B here was a little slower to be excited about being photographed, but once she showed me what she really loved, there was no stopping her!

Again...(I know the focus is off!!) but B was spinning round and round and round and each time she would pass me, her smile got bigger and bigger!! I think the image still tells the story!

Nothing like a little tickling, steamrolling and all around fun while doing family pictures!

There was even time for a snack!

One thing I do have to say....B loves animals! Those animals love her...and they loved the little bit of peanut butter she had on her face!!

C Family....thank you for having me out again to photograph you!! It was wonderful to see you and get to see your girls (one year older) through my camera!

Class of 2012 - Spencer {Graham Senior Photography}

2011-09-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

I got to hang out with this handsome guy and his mom the other day....meet Spencer!!

Check out those BLUE eyes!!

Spencer trekked with me all over the beach, over fences, under bridges, down alleyways and beside garbage dumpsters. And all the while he kept his sense of humor and great attitude!!

Love this picture below...he joked that this was his jail picture! I told him, in no uncertain terms, this is the only kind of jail picture he will ever have!!

It was great to hang out with you and photograph you, Spencer! Best of luck this school year!!

Class of 2012: Morgan {Graham Senior Photography}

2011-09-25T18:12:00.000-07:00

Photographed this gorgeous girl the other day....meet Morgan!

Not only is she so totally beautiful, but she is involved in competition rifle stuff (that is my technical word!). Beautiful AND strong....she is the poster girl for what every young woman should be!

I think Morgan loves the outdoors, big grassy fields and barns....the whole setting suited her.

When I first spoke to her mom on the phone, she told me Morgan looked a little like Kate Middleton. Now I thought maybe that was just a mama talking, but when I was with her I can totally see why her mom said that!

A girl and her truck...how could I resist?

Morgan....Tyra Banks would be proud!! I do believe I see a little "smeyesing" going on!

May your senior year be filled with great memories and delight!! It will be an honor to photograph you again in the Spring!!

Nine Ten Eleven {Federal Way Baby Photography}

2011-09-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

On September 10th, 2011 (9.10.11) I got a new next door neighbor! The only problem with this neighbor is that he wasn't supposed to arrive until the end of October....

So instead of walking next door to see him, I headed to the hospital to say hello....

I love little body parts!! (Holding mom's hand....the first of many, many times!)

I hope these little feet run in my yard all summer long....some year.

And this little nose can come smell my flowers any day.

Oh yeah...this lady lives next door too! I think Zac's mom is just beautiful!!

Only 10 days old and he gave us a little smile. (OK, I know it isn't REAL....but I choose to believe he is just so happy to see me! Oh Zac, learn to get used to me and my camera because you will see me a lot!!)

All three of my next door neighbors...Let's get you fully back into your house SOON!! (Partly for your sake...and a lot for Mikaela's sake...she is ready to babysit!!)

In Living Color {Tacoma Family Photography}

2011-09-22T11:41:00.000-07:00

One of my most adventurous families called me the other day and wondered if I wanted to meet them at the Puyallup Fair for a {very colorful} photo shoot. How could I pass that up?

One of the problems of coming to the fair as a little guy is that there are not many rides you can get on. Elliot was just a little too short for most rides, but when we did find one he could climb on, he had a ton of fun!

Of course, who needs rides when there are all sorts of other great attractions at the Fair....like this musical contraption. Who doesn't want to make a ton of noise while hitting things with a stick?

There are always animals to see...and kiss!! (Elliot is making the sign for "bird" in the picture on the right!)

Hands to wash....

...and boots to put on, because.....

....THERE ARE PUDDLES TO JUMP IN!!

And would any trip to the Fair be complete without food? We decided to forgo the deep fried butter and opted for corn instead. I think it was a hit!

He liked the corn so much, he was not about to give it up....not even to walk through puddles!

This was also Elliot's first taste of cotton candy. He wasn't sure what to do with it at first and thought he didn't like it. But he caught on quickly...and even still shared some with his mom!

Thank you Backmans!! I always have a great time with you and I love that you are always up for some sort of craziness!!

Breathe {inspiration for Wednesdays}

2011-09-21T13:35:00.000-07:00

I am learning it is far easier to photograph other people's children than my own.

Other people's children think I am funny and sort of cool....mine know better! Other people's children think they need to please me....mine know they like to annoy me!

While trying to get some school head shots (since I don't buy the pictures they do at school), my children reminded me why I do not have more children....and why every holiday card we send out is a little quirky.

So don't feel bad if you can't photograph your children the way "professional photographers" do....just know we can't take pictures of our own kids. And to be honest, it is not all that bad....it just documents life as it is in our household!

Breathe, smile and go slowly.

Class of 2012: Andy {Olympia Senior Photography}

2011-09-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

You gotta be a man to play baseball for a living, but you gotta have a lot of little boy in you, too. ~Roy Campanella

Meet Andy....I met him on the ball field at his school the other day, and he showed me a thing or two about baseball. I did make him promise, however, when he goes to the Major Leagues, I get to say I "knew him when"!

Among other things, Andy is a pitcher.

Love these pictures of him sliding into home plate!!

We headed over to Tumwater Falls Park to do some "non-uniform" pictures, and I got to know two things....Andy is really cool young man and he has really great (photogenic) cheekbones!

So....if baseball doesn't work out for you Andy....American Eagle would like to hire you!!

Gotta love a man in a suit! I was so excited to see that Andy brought something that was on the dressier end of things! We did decide, however, that a suit at an old abandoned building would be pretty cool!

OK...forget American Eagle...Armani would like to offer you a deal....

Thanks for letting me take your Senior Pictures, Andy! I had a great time with you! Good luck to you this year and into the future (although I do hope you'll take a second look at Grand Canyon University!!)

Check out a few more on the Red Thread Facebook page....

Class of 2012: Jake {Graham Senior Photography}

2011-09-18T22:21:00.000-07:00

Meet another handsome, young member of the class of 2012...Jake! I got to photograph Jake last weekend (while it was still dry!) and he was totally up for all the adventuring I talked him into!

Thanks Jake!! I wish you much luck in your Senior Year!!

Marry Me: Ashlee and Nick {Woodinville Wedding Photography}

2011-09-16T21:53:00.000-07:00

If I could sum up last week's wedding in one word, it would be FUN!! You'll see for yourself, as you look through the images, that Ashlee and Nick love to play....and I love to capture that with my camera!

They got married at the beautiful Bear Creek Country Club in Woodinville. (Really an amazing venue!) Ashlee had all her friends and mom there to help her get ready and get into that gorgeous dress.

The handsome groom....waiting for his bride.

But dad got to see her first....

Then Nick had his chance at a first look...

(Yes...she pinched his butt to let him know he could turn around!! Love it!!)

The one thing I really liked about photographing these two is all the faces they gave me...

Of course, Ashlee was a simply stunning bride.

And it looks like Nick has a bit of a dashing, romantic bent to him!

With a bride and groom this fun, is it any wonder that the bridal party would be a party just waiting to happen?

Guys like cigars....

...girls like flasks of vodka!

Ashlee and Nick chose some beautiful details to adorn the room of the reception. I especially LOVED the peacock feathers!!

The ceremony began by Nick's dad and Ashlee's step-dad skipping down the aisle together. What did I tell you about the word FUN??? Even the wedding ceremony had lots of laughter and great expressions!

Just a couple more of the two of them...

I don't think I have ever laughed so hard at a reception. The toasts were AWESOME!!

Even in their first dance, these two were playful and fun!

Of course, that was followed by some serious kissing too!

Evidently it is not just guys who like cigars. I am not sure Nick really wanted to share his with Ashlee but as a good husband, he relented and let her have it!

Ashlee and Nick, it was such a pleasure to photograph your wedding! I seriously had so much fun...and I seriously had such a difficult time choosing pictures for this post. There are 100 more I would love to put on here so people could see everything I saw that day! Best wishes to you two!!

Do You Have a Few Minutes? {Tacoma Family Photography}

2011-09-15T11:50:00.000-07:00

I photographed this family....well, a really long time ago, but our time was cut short by our lovely, watery weather around here. We finally figured out a time that worked for us all and no kids had broken arms and ventured down to the water for a short family shoot.

What I love is that all these images (and a few more) were taken in just about 30 minutes. Who says photo sessions need to take a long time?

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this skipping, happy girl!!

I always try to capture each kid by themselves in some way. After seeing this picture, I guess I shouldn't have asked the young man who JUST got his cast off to go jumping of stuff for me! Ooops...it did make for a good picture though!

Don't you love it when your kids are so well behaved even when you aren't looking??

(Quite possibly my favorite picture of these 5!)

These three kiddos are so much fun to be with. From feet to fingers, they are just full of joy and delight!

Thanks Campbell family!! It was fun to see you {really quickly} the other day!! Thanks for your smiles, your willingness to play and your love for each other!

Breathe {inspiration for Wednesdays}

2011-09-14T13:58:00.000-07:00

I have an enemy...an evil foe...a great antagonist. This adversary looms large and is found on almost every corner I see. It casts its oppositional powers into frustrating my well laid plans and throwing a wrench into my life. It can cause my blood to boil and turn annoyance into anger. I caught this behemoth with my camera the other day, just as it assailed me again. The picture is below.....

Yes, that's right. The dark sinister character that so frustrates my life is a stoplight! And not just ONE stoplight, but ALL stoplights. They ruin my plans for efficiency and slow me down! They seemingly know when I am approaching in my car because they taunt me with the shortest green light cycle I have ever seen, smirking as they allow the car in front of me to drive off and turning red to make me wait the duration.

At this point you might be laughing, but there is much truth hidden in my metaphor. I do not like to be stopped when I have things to get done. As I rehearse the list in my head of what I need to do, conversations I need to have, and projects I need to finish, I do NOT want to be slowed down. (After all, doesn't a yellow light mean "go really, really, really, really fast??) And what is true on the road, I am learning, is true in my life too. I am really good at rushing ahead into all sorts of activities and don't really like to be impeded.

In a stupor of frustration (while sitting staring at my red opponent) the other day, I wondered if I could make my enemy my friend. I know...crazy thought...but I had to ponder the idea of seeing this Goliath in a good light. (No pun intended!) I was reminded of a time (probably in Europe somewhere) where the bells of the church would ring to remind the people of a town that it was time to stop and worship. Then I thought of other cultures where the ringing of a bell is a reminder to (once again!) stop and be mindful of your body, thoughts, and life.

What if, in a culture where I hear no bells on a daily basis, stoplights are my "mindfulness bells". What if I used this former foe to remind me to not only stop my car (so the police officer doesn't give me a ticket) but also to stop and pay attention to the state of my being. What if each time I had to stop, I used it as a time to give thanks or just to simply practice the Presence of God?

Hmmm...so that is what I have been doing. To be honest, it is difficult because I still love to be quick and efficient, but each time I stop I am realizing how much time I spend thinking about the future or hashing over past events or conversations, and this powerful stoplight causes me to simply come back to the moment I am in. It causes me to reconnect with myself and with God.

I guess this doesn't totally work if you live in a place with no stoplights, but in that case you could find your own "mindfulness bell". Maybe every time you change a baby's diaper? Maybe each time you hear your phone ring at work? Maybe something you have to do a lot that you dread? It doesn't have to be huge....just something we encounter over and over. Something that might feel like our archenemy, but is really a friend in disguise.

So, may we all find a "mindfulness bell" that brings us back into the present moment. And in that present moment, may we find deep gratitude for the here and now and a deep connection with the Presence of God.

Breathe, smile and go slowly

(especially through those yellow lights!)

To Make Justice a Reality {Seattle Adoption Photography}

2011-09-13T13:19:00.000-07:00

When I think about adoption, I imagine a kiss - where Mercy kisses Justice - and the world, even for a moment, is made right. It is a kiss that changes lives and creates families; an embrace that ends in the word "home".

The other day, down at the courthouse, I saw this first hand...and it is always a sacred moment for me to get to be part of this kind of love!! It was a fulfillment of a dream....I first met David and Linda at the adoption of another little girl and it is there they first told me about their desire to foster and adopt a child.

On September 9, 2011, that dream came to fruition! Of course, like all dreams, it is better to have friends and family there to celebrate with you....

As Emily walked hand-in- hand with her dad into the courtroom, I was reminded of something I had written a few years ago at an adoption halfway across the world....(changed a little for this moment)

"As a child was brought into the room and placed in the hands of waiting parents, the room where we stood was transformed into a place where the sweet tenderness of compassion met the strength of the "world-made-right". It was holy ground....

....a new creation began

....new names were given

...those who did not belong, now had a home

....those who could be forgotten in the system were now wanted and needed desperately

....a baby smiles and parents cry

....she who longed to hold a child called "mine", now rejoiced with full arms!

....yet unknown doors of opportunity swung WIDE open"

And a community of friends and family cheered, smiled, and took LOTS of pictures!

Little Emily Rose, may you carry the love of this day in your heart all the days of your life. May you always know you belong to a family and a community who is just wild about you! And Linda and David, may you be blessed as parents. Just as you gave your little girl a new name, may you love your new names - "mom" and "dad"!

(The sweet lady who brought Emily to Linda and David.)

Of course, I am pretty sure Emily didn't understand yet the enormity of this day, but I do know that she had fun opening the presents that came her way!

I will end with this - written on the floor of the courthouse. Sure we saw Justice that day, but we also saw Mercy and those two came together in one mighty, powerful kiss!!

Class of 2012: Hannah {Graham Senior Photography}

2011-09-12T12:51:00.000-07:00

Meet Hannah....class of 2012, aspiring English teacher (at least for now), cheerleader, and little dog lover!

Love those boots, Hannah!!

We walked by an open garage door of a print shop and they let us come in to shoot a few images inside....so cool!!

I love how the little dog lover and the cheerleader find common ground...

A trip to an ~~junk~~, ~~second hand~~...uhh... vintage shop....

Thanks Hannah!! It was so much fun to hang out with you!! I wish you a very colorful, wonderful senior year!!

Two Plus Two Equals Lots of Fun!! {Des Moines Family Photography}

2011-09-09T16:12:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you take two twin kiddos and add two twin dogs?? A whole lot of chaotic fun!!! Plus, add to that a mom who wants to get in the action and you have makings for a crazy, "life as art" kind of morning!!

Kids and dogs...can't beat the combination!!

Moms and kids...another unbeatable combination!

We headed down to the beach to get our toes a little sandy and our feet a little wet....

{What you see from one side of a picture is not always what is happening on the other side!!}

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this one!!!

Thanks Lori and kiddos!! I had a great time hanging out with you!