For the first time in over 20 years, Janet Klinger Photography will not be open on Memorial Day.

Now lets all hope it will be good picnic weather for our (and your!) family outings, perhaps a day like this one:

These two wild and crazy guys ( yes the Belushi Brothers should come to mind) put on an entertaining and informative show. Joe Buissink and Yervant personify two diverging paths, each an inspired dance down the road to the 5 star hotel called Success.

Yervant likes to be in control both during shooting, and then again during the PhotoShop “finishing” of his vision. Creating images is so important to Yervant, he does not cover the reception where it makes sense for events to unfold naturally.

Joe prefers his hired “main” shooter to be in control of posed groups while Joe shoots from a quiet, playful place behind the scenes. He only gives a set of proofs at the end of the day. I love the idea that he rewards his brides for collecting orders from family and friends by adding extra images to the album for each $1000 collected. Talk about a great win-win. I also love the Day-of-wedding Parent Gift. Before the wedding the bride & groom purchase a wall portrait, usually for a parent or two, to be delivered during the wedding reception. After shooting “formals” an image is sent to his studio to be printed, matted and framed, then is delivered to an ecstatic parent while still enjoying the wedding reception.

Joe “assisting” Yervant by holding a video spot light.

I call this a “show” because they each performed leaving little time for the initially encouraged “Ask us. We’re here for you.” Still much was covered, and well worth the investment of $200.

Added bonus was the company of a couple of my favorite photographers : Susie Hamidi and Sharlane Chase. After a full day we went to Tom Douglas’ inspired Palace Kitchen for dinner. Who do I spot in the window but this Dennis Reggie-alike. Embarrassed but willing, Susie and Sharlane accompanied me to get our picture taken with him. This photo was taken by his dinner companion. Thanks to you both. You made our day.

Janet Klinger, “Dennis Reggie”, Sharlane Chase & Susie Hamidi. (Notice Joe Buissink-alike serving drinks in the background.)

Blogging eats time. Writing, image selection and photo prep are basics. I ache to have something pretty (well gorgeous actually), functional yet personable and still get to work with my awesome clients from time to time. Help is on the way. At least with the “pretty” part.
Jennifer Apple at Photoshop support shares concepts on design, functionality and links for templates & add-ons. Finally we have a favicon thanks to her clear simple explanation (and my Can-do staff person, Jane Patterson!).

Through Jennifer I discovered a link to the site of helpful God of the Blogging Universe, Paul Stamatiou. After hours of reading (Burp- scuze me!) you realize that this man is smart and enormously generous with his knowledge. Paul, if I ever meet you in person, forgive the bear hug.

Paul helps encourage “lurkers” to come forward to mutual benefit. (I’ll reveal Myself when I get some more TIME!) As suggested, we’re now registered with Technorati and are building our own Ping Configuration page.

I’ll stop here. Needless to say, the time-saving is all relative. Getting referred to these sites saved time in research. My time was spent reading high quality, relevant information presented simply. Gads. Look what time it is…

Portrait clients love to get value by upgrading a One Hour to our Deluxe One Hour session. For this $50 upgrade receive an 8×10 proof catalog of all images, or add one later for $100. The larger 10×13 spiral bound book is a $90 upgrade or add the 10×13 later for $180.

For more information on portrait pricing, please visit my Janet Klinger Photography website and choose “Cost”. (There are also prices there for Wedding and Pregnancy sessions)

From top to bottom: 10×13 interior (6 images/page, each 2.5 x 3.75″); 8×10 interior (6 images/page, each 2×3″); 8×10 cover image (1-8×10)

We now offer Birth Announcements, Holiday, Invitations and Thank You cards. If we ever have a slow season, I’ll post a few of our new ones…

I am awed by photographers who, despite living full, successful lives, somehow find time to post blog entries regularly. I’m talking great blog entries.
Being swamped with weddings, portraits, hiring a new studio manager, training a new intern, designing a new logo/website, and trying to see my husband, and of course my 3 year old daughter before she graduates high school, I’m falling behind in blog posts. Many are written, but the photos are at the studio. I never seem to be able to select and prepare images. When at work, well, I want to work.
How are you successful people managing to fit “it all” in?! For an example of excellent blogging style and content, check out the strobe master, Matt Adcock’s Flash Flavor. He’s an expert at off camera, portable flash lighting for weddings, and details down to the bolts “how to”. Thank you Matt. But what I really want to know is, how do you make the time?

The Strobist is David Hobby’s informative free on-line “lighting workshop”, and a can’t-miss site. David will also be coming to Seattle in August to do some in-person lighting workshops

Remember my post about Stock photography adjusting to the addition of microstock? Well, if you want to see CNN Money‘s perspective on the David vs Goliath effect, check out this CNN article Jonathon Andersen of Blend Images sent my way. It looks like Getty, Corbis, and anyone making a living from stock photography will be feeling the downward spiral sooner rather than later.

Last night a spy was in our midst. As if Jonathon’s presentation wasn’t stimulating enough.

Not only is Jonathon Ross of Andersen Ross a hugely talented photographer and business person, his fast past, energetic speaking style and his generosity in crediting his entire team had me admiring him all the more.

Some ideas for people/lifestyle stock shoots:

*Cast calls include FIRST a signed model release. Then photos taken have dual purpose: remembering the model and increasing your stock portfolio with each click.

* Find out each models profession, hobbies, lifestyle so they can provide props. This helps with inspiration, and keeps costs to a minimum. Do they have a suit, a musical instrument, chef hat, surgeons mask, ballet slippers? Do they own a fabulous or funky house/car/bike/etc? “Can we include them?” (Don’t forget those property releases for the bigger items!)

*Have additional props and clothes on hand for cast calls as well as arranged sessions including “classic” clothing in a variety of sizes.

*Models might include friends, family, and anyone you meet.

* Models come in all shapes, colors, sizes, and levels of attractiveness. No surprise though; Attractive still sells best!

* Advertise your need for models in places frequented by the people you want. Health clubs are great for finding fit models. Post an ad on the club board.

*Have Errors and Omissions Insurance

*Producers are hugely important. They can help with the following:

A) Collecting signed model releases from models, locations, and property including homes, boats, art.

B) Arranges access to locations and gets signed releases, pays fees.

C) Buys or collects props for shoots, covers identifiable branding, keeps photographer abreast of shot list and model’s schedule.

*Don’t stop shooting what you love, but figure out what brings in the most dollars. Then you can make an informed choice about the cost of producing different types of sessions, and what you’re priorities are. You can shoot what you want when you retire (early!).

So here’s Jonathon, Mr Diversity himself. He’s represented at the big agencies , having toes in rights managed, royalty free, and his own stock agency, Blend Images. Reluctantly, he is currently researching the implications of the micro-stock agencies. (Andersen-Ross has no plans to enter the micro stock market.) Having shared this with a sigh and slightly shaking head, we were all shaken when up pops a momentarily sheepish (but ultimately articulate) Chad Bridwell. “I’m with one of “those” micro stock agencies”, Chad states a bit nervously, as if anticipating the pounce of a group of 30. Still physically intact and building confidence, he explains the positive side of receiving $1 per image. $1 thirty times in a month is still $30. The “big boys” with fotolia are making “big bucks”. Really? I felt like I was having Déjà vu. Eight to ten years ago at an ASMP presentation we were comparing royalty free vs. traditional rights managed stock agencies. Jonathon was then in Chad’s shoes, feeling perhaps like the outcast “bad guy” who was challenging tradition. Jonathon represented the guy making “big bucks” which was believed to be a far cry from what the traditional stock shooters were making. You don’t hear Jonathon complaining, but he’s watching this downward trend closely, and isn’t joining the micro stock set anytime soon.

What seems clear is that Micro Stock is here to stay, at least in some form. While there may be dramatic erosion of principal now, having one more way to create income can’t be all bad, at least for hobbiests. And diversity of income source is Good. On a personal note, I see opportunity here, yet I see long term returns moving downward perhaps leaving only the agency owners able to make a living. (Without having a second job, that is.) I am certainly tempted by the “if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em” chorus. Photography in all it’s forms is still a fun and exciting job to have. Hey, I used to house clean. TALK about a tough job! But for now, I’d rather be a professional photographer and clean on the side, than the other way around. I’m sticking with rights managed and a royalty free until I know more about this threatening trend. Thanks Jonathon, for both your talk, and your follow-up e-mails to clarify your current perspective.

Jonathon sharing 110 selects from an all day shoot. All were great, attesting to his huge success.

Dum dum dum duuuuuummmm. Talk about a serious moment. When Chad said he was with “one of THOSE micro stock agencies” of which Jonathon spoke, a tense hush filled the studio… But sadly, with camera at the ready, no fist fighting broke out. They probably wouldn’t have signed a release anyway.

But Chad’s honest, thoughtful presentation of fotolia had us all breathing a sigh of relief. Jonathon and Chad proceeded to have an intelligent, if initially tense conversation from which we all benefited. These bonus moments keep life interesting, and our minds expanding. Kudos to both J and C for keeping guards down and minds open.

Counting the many pre-planned ideas Jonathon uses for one shoot. Before he begins the session he has a list often including the angle and lens choice. Improved efficiency keeps costs down and variety up. (No model release needed for this shot!)

Hey Jonathon, do I need a model release for the profile shot? I guess really I should be asking Chris Bowden and Amanda Ringstad, the Profilers themselves.

The pretty gal in the green is Mardee Austin. I feel even luckier than usual. She’s agreed to become a part of the Janet Klinger Photo Team. With a degree in marketing, and a warm, caring way with people, Mardee joins us April 9^th as our client liaison and marketing maven. I’m SO excited and honored to have Mardee on board!

Every photographer or hobbiest who buys new camera gear makes a decision. What to do with the old and replaced. I use these retired old Canon bodies and lenses on days like today. Heavy misting rain along with blustering winds makes keeping a camera dry impossible. Putting the camera and lens in a plastic bag with a hole cut out for the lens helps. I don’t want to be afraid to shoot on sandy beaches, on dirty, dusty trails, on canoe trips, or in our ever-present rain. The next time someone asks why some of my gear looks like it gone through the ringer, well…

Expressiveness isn’t limited to smiles.

Ellie Explorer.

Just checking in!

Soaked and smiling! Love that girl!!!

This old Canon 70-200 lens and 20D still capture sharp, vibrant color, even when wet, dropped, and near freezing. Hell, I’m not sure why I bought a new one. OK, the image stabilization and faster aperture had something to do with it. With Seattle’s ever wet days, I’m glad to have a lens I’m willing to risk. But I sure wish Canon would start sponsoring me!

Are you wondering what to do, or not to do, with your stunning portraits, art or wedding photos? If you haven ’t been to a stock seminar in the last year, times have changed. Hear how stock is being created, marketed, and paid for in today’s market.

Join us in welcoming (and milking!) Jonathon Ross of Andersen Ross Photography. Jonathon is part-owner of the Blend Images cooperative stock agency, an ethnic diversity based lifestyle imagery specialist agency. Jonathon is also represented by Getty, Jupiter, Corbis, Alamy (and a multitude of other) stock agencies. A generous speaker, he will share his thoughts on the changing and growing market of Stock Photography. Jonathon is experienced with all of the recent phases of the business including participating in rights managed, royalty free, assignment stock, owning a stock agency and hiring shooters himself. If you are interested in learning more about stock photography, don’t miss this rare opportunity.

Who: Professional photographers
Date: Once you RSVP. But know it’s very SOON!
Time: 6:30 Potluck. Yum yum.
6:45 Jeff LaPlante presents PUG news (Pictage Users Group). Non-members welcome!
7:15 Jonathon presents
Location: Janet Klinger Photography. Address provided to those who RSVP.
Cost: Free
RSVP: info@janetklinger.com (limited to the first 40 who RSVP)

Last night I was generously treated to a truly spectacular evening. Sharlane Chase, who already had my admiration, created a masterpiece of an event aptly named, Urban Unveiled. Granted, Sharlane didn’t work alone. She used the NW renowned ambiance genius, David Galliett of Rented Elegance. His metal and birch trees dangling streams of oranges created a focal point for the entry and was vividly enticing from the street. Orange flowed into the brightly designed, somehow both urban and cozy lounge area, which was packed the whole night through. Upon peeking through the window and then entering, I was immediately in the mood for an urban and sophisticated party. David is a visionary. To think, I left my camera in the car out of respect for the hosting photographers.

Creation of the conceptual mood was in the hands of the gifted team True Colors Events. Travis and Jesse exemplify personable professionalism, with smooth, luxurious energy added to the mix. This event was smooth. It’s thrilling to witness a packed-house Urban Unveiled in only the first year. True Colors had a huge hand in creating this roaring success!

The scene itself was vivid-urban. The Palace Ballroom is directly across from the Palace Kitchen on 5th Avenue, one of my favorite night-on-the-town settings. Tom Douglas Catering provided the scrumptious hors d’oeuvres. This event was all about opening the creativity box, even for those that thought we had! It never occurred to me TD would cater a wedding. He’s now on my preferred caterer list.

The star of the night was Luly Yang. Once you’ve seen her sensual, fabulous designs in person, I need only write the first sentence in this paragraph. “Oh Luly”, we’d then share in hushed tones. Luly herself looked incredible, in her perfectly fitted black dress. (Hmm, I wonder how to download those cell phone images.)

Kudos to our wonderful hosts, Sharlane Chase, Clare Marie, Della Chen, and Sandra Coan. Thank you for extending your generosity in my direction!

More OH WOW choices. Martha E Harris had a gorgeous stacked glass and floral display at the dessert buffet. Tiara did her usual glamorous yet natural (yes, both) hair and make up for the Yang models. Yes she comes to the wedding to treat you like a model too. Opulent Occasions had an “opulent” table display, where I suggested we move the floral over a bit, and lay down one of the brides for a truly gorgeous environment. (Why would anyone choose to be only a documentary photographer? So many missed opportunities!) Aria Style had an eye-catching table setting and floral display. I loved the shimmery silver and blue program design by Ilee Custom Invitations. Classy, sophisticated. As was the wine and sparkly selection from the ever-popular Columbia Crest Winery. Besides enjoying the Cabernet, those were the best dressed bartenders I’ve ever seen!

So what do The Palace Ballroom and a community center have in common? When Sharlane’s dad arrived from Canada to partake in his wee-daughter’s event, he exclaimed, “And I thought it would be held in a community center!” Well, they’re both Urban. Will we ever grow up in the eyes of our fathers? I hope not.

Last night my studio hosted a gathering of NW photographers. Kudos to the group of generous souls so open to sharing and caring. I stopped counting heads at 22 people, but overall the feeling was of cozy, intimate and enthusiastic camaraderie.

Left to right: Jeff LaPlante, Nancy Cassell, Joann Arruda, Susie Hamidi, Sharlane Chase.

OK. First I have to mention two “single and looking” BABE’S at our gathering. (When I said I’d post this, no one protested!)
Sharlane Chase, adorable in personality and looks, not to mention highly talented, is somehow still available. Under different circumstances, sexual orientation being one of them, I’d jump at the chance to date Sharlane. Get with it fellas! A chance to meet Sharlane Chase would be at Urban Unveiled, a party for brides and their entourage. March 8th at the Palace Ballroom.
Also available is the smart and savvy Stephanie Hicks. Talk about a sales dynamo! She’s really cute too! She also happens to be the NW Art Leather rep, among many, many other things.

Here are but a few of the upcoming events, products, and services shared.

Both Kevin Kubota and Gary Fong had numerous fans at this event. I strongly praised Kevin Kubota’s workshops, and the Asuka albums he reps.
Sharlane plugged Gary Fong‘s Lightsphere. Many of us agree that the quality of the on-camera light is greatly enhanced by the various domes designed by Gary.
Jeff LaPlante has a few two-for-one tickets up for grabs to the upcoming WPPI convention. (If you go, tell Claudia Kronenberg that Janet Klinger says “Hi”. She’s my long-time friend from my RIT and Europe days. It’s an understatement to say Claudia is a dynamic person. She will undoubtedly deliver an energetic and heart-felt presentation.)
Mike Nakamura brought some dramatic, touching postcards promoting Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, a national organization that unites volunteer photographers with families of dying children. Photographers are always needed for this.

Our Seattle based bereavement photography group, Souluminations has a meeting of volunteer photographers on March 22. For those of us going, care to join me for a drink afterward? Perhaps we could go to the hip & urban, yet adorable Oliver’s Twist, my favorite new nibbly and cocktail spot on Phinney Ridge.

White House Custom Color Lab in Minnesota got a rave from Sharlane Chase and several others. They offer great printed press cards, delivery w/in 3 days, b&w with linen finish. Several agreed with the amazing quality, specifically for the b&w.

Jeff LaPlante’s consulting services have gone public. I personally can vouch for his knowledgeable, personable approach, and immense patience. Jeff’s a good guy to have on your team!

Susie Hamidi praised the very helpful Alex Studio who helps other photogs process their Raw and jpg files, color correcting, retouching and backing up to DVDs and hard drives. Sharlane enthusiastically agrees. The charge: $0.18/image.

Joann Arruda was singing the praises of Pink Penny Design who helped her create a truly stunning Queensberry Album. I was agape at the quality of the images (naturally, since Joann is the photographer!), the design, and of course the album itself. They’ve designed for the savvy, super-shooter/business dude, David Jay too, and have a great sample of his work. Talk about community– Visit David Jay’s OpenSource Photo.

Christopher of Kirkland is part of the Canon 5D Club. New members welcome. Projection is Christoper’s preferred method of proofing. If you really want to know how to sell those Fine Art Wall Portraits with ease, check out the notorious Wall Portrait Conference in Yakima. Christopher has info on purchasing discounted projectors in Portland, helpful if not imperative for selling these large prints.

Stephanie Hicks uses Studio Master Pro for slideshow presentations. Many labs and Art Leather provide the software at no charge to clients.
Thanks to Kara Lathrop for taking great notes, not to mention battling snow and baby-sitting juggling to drive from Bellingham with hubby, Andrew.

My Flu-ridden toddler needs my attention, so I’m afraid I won’t get to the rest of the event. Next time, come on by yourself! If interested in joining future events drop a “comment” with your website and/or blog, and your business name. We’ll see you then…

Come join the fun while raising money for a wonderful cause. Doublexposure on Friday, March 30, 2007.
Youth in Focus is a Seattle-based nonprofit that, through photography, helps youth experience their world in new ways and make positive changes in their lives.
Over many years, I’ve personally seen youth benefit from this award winning program. One student and I worked together for over nine years! Help make a difference!

Reserve seats and purchase tickets here, or by phone: 206-407-2121. $75 per seat buys you an evening of auction entertainment and sit-down dinner at the lovely venue of Bell Harbor Conference Center. Besides purchasing world class photography, you might also bid on photo sessions, be the photo assist on the Seahawks sideline, or take a trip to London, including a tour of the Hulton Archive.

If unable to attend, but wishing to make a donation, click here.

Photographers with a volunteer spirit, you’re welcome here!

Gettyimages is one of the auction sponsors. Let’s hear it for Getty and their long-standing support of this program!

Additional generous sponsors include: museum quality FRAMING, Group Health Cooperative, Glazers Camera , Wells Fargo and Hemlock Printing.

Last night was our monthly wild and crazy PUG meeting. Non-members are welcome to try out these meetings held the 3rd Thurs of the month. We had several new folks last night. I’d love to list all of them, but my social butterfly wings weren’t fluttering fast enough to get to everyone. I spent most of my time talking with Jeff LaPlante, Michael Good, Jack Young, Linda Paquin, and some “newbies” to the group, Joanne Arruda, Brook Dormaier and Jeremy Leffel.

The Bridal Consultant, Barbara Guyll, offered her insights into working with the ever-important wedding coordinator. She has a generous, warm nature, and a deep interest in our group’s point of view. I can easily imagine how helpful she is to her clients. Personally, I LOVE working with coordinators. Among many other things, this means I don’t have to be sure boutonnières are donned, the champagne poured, the cake spatula in the correct location and other odds and ends that I usually take care of. Coordinators allow me to be 100% photographer. NICE!

Printed in Japan, Asuka Books are a gorgeous, high quality, thin, light alternative to our many Albums. These Coffee Table Books are especially appealing for a number of reasons. (Later, a comparison of our most oft chosen books and albums, of which Asuka is one.)

While this Book is not just for our wedding clients, the average couple who chooses *8 hours of wedding coverage includes 130-180 images in their Book collection. Let’s face it. Why would you have me capture so many moments in time and the finer details if you don’t want to include them? Because the images are offset printed onto quality paper (not the heavier mounted or matted photos), you can include many pages and never need to purchase the optional Fork Lift. (When needed for other albums, Fork Lifts come in Red, Black, or Pink with Cocoa-Brown accents. Driver is extra.)
Asuka also appeals to those wanting numerous copies of their custom designed Book. It’s a relief how relatively inexpensive the **clone copies are. All the more so as additional Books are added. Even when purchasing Coffee Table ALBUMS (not books), additional ***”reformatted clone” copies of Asuka Books are cost effective.

Lastly, I adore the classy effect an original Book provides. Asuka is an elegant choice for wedding, portrait or pregnancy collections.

Note: I did not take these gorgeous photos. The very talented and industrious Kevin Kubota did.

* 8 hours of coverage usually means shooting between 1000 and 1600 images. Through your on-line gallery I present the best 600-800 images. Fear Not! I help you edit to a number that is appropriate both for your personal style, taste and chosen Option. My job is to make yours easy!

** Clones are exact copies of album type and layout design as in the original album or book. While the size can be different, the scale needs to match. An original album of 12×12 can also be ordered as 10×10, 8×8, or 5×5 for example. Asuka clones are squares only, however other album lines have rectangular clones as well.
*** Reformatted clones are copies made from the original design, but are crossing-over from one type of album to another. If the Bride and Groom choose a Coffee Table Album, but want to give the entire wedding party a copy of the design in a Coffee Table Book, converting from one style to another makes this possible. Conversion fee is a one time $250, for up to 8 additional copies. There is no conversion fee for 9 or more copies.

Party! Coming next month to Janet Klinger Photography, professional wedding and portrait photographers share their favorite products, software techniques, blogs and ideas to keep the creative bar HIGH. We are lucky to live in so committed and creative a community! Included on the guest list (for my cozy 900 sq ft studio) are members of WPPI, PPA, Pictage, WPJA, ASMP and Janet’s Amazing People List. Art Leather will have their quality products on display too.
This party is full to capacity. (Though we’ve held a spot for a few of you have yet to RSVP–Please DO!)

If interested in future gatherings, send a comment to this post and I’ll put you on the mailing/invite list. Please mention your website and any professional affiliations. Hope to see or meet you soon.

I’ve taught parents for years how to photograph children, but since becoming a mom I’ve had to prioritize. My goal is to begin photo seminars again next Spring, so stay tuned. For the time being, I have two things I can offer.
1) I’ve been answering your photo questions via e-mail and phone. Now I’ll post tips occasionally on this blog. Look under category Mom and Dad Resources- Photography Tips.

2) Me Ra Koh has begun teaching “A Childs Life” class in Tacoma. Her workshop is more an all weekend intensive specifically designed for moms. Sounds Fabulous! I might join the fun one of these sessions!

Lucky life! I’m part of a great profession and an all-encompassing passion. Not only do I get immense joy from helping people record life’s moments, I am part of an amazing community. I feel so fortunate to be supported by talented, caring and generous Seattle and Northwest photographers. How many people are in so satisfying a profession?

Last year at The Best of Seattle Bride party, I had the opportunity to celebrate Stephanie Cristalli’s being voted Best Seattle Photographer! And I, yes I, know her. For many, many years. I can say I knew her when…
The BOSB party took place at the Columbia Tower Club. (Fabulous water and downtown Seattle views, even from the bathrooms. Excellent food, modern spiral staircase for photo ops and great managers.)

Afterward, several of us went across the street to Sazerac, which is great place for large groups to socialize. Included were the warm couple, Me Ra Koh and Brian Townsend; their associates, Bleu and Ginger; our community computer-Angel, Jeff LaPlante; the very talented Susie Hamidi, and the life of this party, Charlane Chase.That’s me, Janet Klinger (in case you hadn’t guessed by now who the author is) up front in the white.
Here is a photo taken on Jeff Leplante’s camera by the personable and accommodating waiter at Sazerac. Thanks to Jeff for letting me us it. With permission of course.

The search for child care for Ellie escalated a long cycle of chaos that had engulfed my life since pre-conception. (More later on fertility issues.)

When Ellie was merely 6 weeks old, my do-it-all former Studio Manager, Francie, left JKP and is now traveling the world. I had planned to take maternity leave for one month, and 3 more months with a highly-reduced shooting schedule. Ahh, the best laid plans.

Covering shoots for two people and caring for current and potential clients was only the beginning. I also spent time writing new employee ads, posting them, interviewing, all while pumping breast milk (while talking on the phone to clients! “What’s that sound”). Twice per day Kathy brought Ellie to the studio, or Tim brought Elle to longer shoots for breast feeding.

Meanwhile I was in the midst of going 90% digital, (I can’t give up my Hasselblad!) and being forced to find a new photo lab. I was climbing the steep digital and PhotoShop learning curve and researching new processes, products and labs, when I made the crazy but inevitable decision to buy new gear and computers. I usually find new gear exploration fun and exciting. But this time, sleep deprivation and craving to spend more time with Ellie exacerbated my stressed system resulting in– you guessed it: an abstract painting of utter CHAOS!

Thank goodness for First Weeks. In addition to the soothing environment, I found our babysitter, Kathy, when her sister-in-law brought her to a First Weeks meeting. (More on First Weeks and Ann Keepler to come). I saw Kathy across the room, read her body language and thankfully trusted my first instincts (though I did check references!). Kathy helped me spot the bright light of dawn, and provided a welcomed sense of calm. She’s been with us ever since July of ’04.

You’re the best, Kathy!

I have to sing the praises of Jane Patterson. While she and I have worked together only a couple of years, she all but runs my business. You have a question? Ask Jane. Need an honest, intelligent opinion? Jane. Have a project with a short deadline? Jane. Jane is Smart. She can figure out most anything. She’s thoughtful, nurturing, honest (and tactful!). Best of all Jane has a fabulous geek-streak. She’s gotten me up to speed in the digital realm and continues to feed her own insatiable appetite for Art and Technology.

She’s in the midst of taking a workshop with David Julian at Luminous Works, and I can’t wait to see her ever-awesome results.

I tell Jane how much I appreciate her several times each week, but no matter. I can’t say it enough. JANE PATTERSON, YOU ARE AWESOME!!! The world should know. (Or at least my Dad, who may be the only person reading this. Love you, Dad.)