One of the best parts about being a photographer is that this “job” is a never ending learning process with NO WHERE to go, but up! We learn more each and everyday from our peers, experience, practice, classes, mentoring and more. I always said that as I learned more in this industry…I would be 100% honest and share all that was bestowed upon me. Like I always say, “NONE of us got where we are alone….and secrets do NOTHING for growth….both in your personal and professional life.” So, being an open book has allowed me these insane opportunities to meet new photographers of many different levels and skill sets and pass on some information, tips and tricks that just maybe, they didn’t know before.

I often feel that I have NOTHING anyone would want to hear or learn. I mean…I do everything wrong. I have been told I hold my camera wrong, edit wrong, set my settings wrong, use the wrong lenses…..I have heard it all! But in some weird way….it works for me and my business….and if anyone wants to ask me a question, I am nothing but honest with them.

Workshops/Mentoring has given me this PRICELESS platform that allows me to share my story…my ideas….and if they work and sit well with others, then that is amazing. If I can help, inspire or motivate someone in the smallest way, that is the biggest blessing of all.

This is my third “official” workshop and I was so thrilled to see so many familiar faces. My workshop attendees have become family members of mine and to see them grow and put into practice something I said….gah…best feeling ever. I am always amazed to see how we can all be standing in the same room…same gear…and we all take away such different images and angles of the day. Its proof that we are all unique artists…even if we are painting a canvas with the same brush and colors.  : )

I want to take this opportunity to thank those that made THIS DAY possible. With a snow storm in the wings of this awful winter, many had to cancel due to far traveling distances. Then….the hall fell through. But The Reeds Shelter Haven in Stone Harbor so saved us!!! We were able to rent this amazing INDIGO Suite on the top floor and set up a styled shoot in the hotel room. We made the best of our space….and I couldnt be more thankful to them for helping us out last minute!

I would also like to thank our designers, Rebecca and Hope Bucci. Without these girls…NOTHING would have been possible. These sisters will be stylizing weddings all over one day…just you wait! To our gorgeous model, Amanda! You are just beautiful inside and out. You have the patience of a saint and a heart of gold. Love ya girl! To my “other half” in the photography world, Chris Bakley….what is there to say about you and your insanely generous and talented heart?! I just love knowing you and having you a part of this crazy amazing world….I thank God and my lucky stars everyday for you! To all my workshop attendees that stayed to help clean, set up, and that allowed me to speak with you…I am forever grateful. You sure know how to make a girl feel loved and like a total rockstar! Next time….warm weather, shooting outside, real OCF practice in a bigger spot, eh!? : P

Lol, thank you for being such troopers/sports about everything! You are an amazing and talented group of photographers, friends and family!

Here are some behind the scenes images captured by the amazing Chris Bakley! Love ya buddy!