Becoming a Crazy Mom with a Camera...{Photography}

I've been gone for awhile because something BIG happened in 2011 that changed our lives forever...

On April 22 at 5:56 pm our Bella Reese came into this world and filled our hearts with more love than we thought was possible. She is spunky and energetic and full of personality! I just can't get enough of her which prompted me to dust off this

And FINALLY learn how to use it! After reading several books, tons
of photography blogs, forums, manuals, and online video tutorials (and taking LOTS of notes)... I am starting to get the hang of it!

I knew after Bella was born that I could not afford a lifetime of photo shoots for that girl. I have a creative soul, so naturally I wanted to learn how to capture pretty pictures of my very own. I am in NO WAY a professional and am just "that crazy mom" who wants to take pretty pictures of my daughter. It is a hobby that will allow me to "hold on" to memories that will last a lifetime. 


I have had lots of messages in my fb inbox asking how I learned to use my camera. I will have MANY future posts on the tips and tricks that have helped me progress and that kept me from getting frustrated in the beginning stages of learning. I have even narrowed all the information down to one cheat sheet (that I will post soon).  I knew nothing when I started 8 months ago and hopefully will help those who are just starting on their journey of photography!  If I can learn it, anyone can!

Learning "photography" takes lots of patience and time. Something I did not have very much of when I was teaching 1st grade! Even though Bella keeps me busy, I take advantage of her nap times and those hours after she goes to bed to read and practice. Learning my camera has been an 8 month journey for me and I have only skimmed the top of all there is to know!

Here are a few favorites of mine from 2011!

Bella 4 Months - August 2011

Bella 5 Months - September 2011

Bella 6 Months - October 2011

Bella Halloween

One of my Goals for 2012 is to keep up with my Blog. So here goes nothing!  

Happy 2012!