Simple Pleasures Photography

Awesome Contest

2011-06-15T12:34:00.000-07:00

So, there are lots of professional photographers I follow on Facebook and the blog sites. I love Kelly Manno, Brooke Kelly, Stephanie Baltz, Jamine Star, and Skye Hardwick. Something about their work inspires me to work harder, learn more, and do better.

So imagine my surprise when I see that Skye Hardwick is having an awesome contest over on her blog. She is giving away tons of great prizes. Prizes, which I might add, could help me take my photography to a higher level. If you have the time, go on over to Skye's blog http://www.soulographer.com/ and enter to win yourself some awesome prizes!

Happy Memorial Day

2011-05-30T15:59:00.000-07:00

Today is Memorial Day. A day for celebrating those men and women who have fought for our freedom. One of those men was my father, James Powell. He died seven years ago from cancer, which is believed he got as a result of being in the Vietnam War. He served in the Marines, which is why he raised us with a firm, but loving hand. There aren't many days that go by which I don't think of him. So, this is my tribute to him and his service. I took these pictures of my niece, his first grandchild he never got to see, at the Veterans' Flag Memorial over at the Avenue in Murfreesboro this weekend. I know he was watching her play among the flags in honor of the veterans, like himself, who gave their blood, sweat, tears, time, energy, and lives to protect ours. Miss you Daddy and happy Memorial Day!

Long Overdue Post

2011-04-30T15:40:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been over 6 months since my last post. Life has had me so busy during that time too. I stopped taking pictures suring that time as well. My heart wasn't in it. However, I took a private photography lesson about a month ago and learned lots of new things. It also renewed my spirit about photography and I've been taking more pictures.

So, my friend Wendy asked me to take their family portraits again. Last time it did not work out so well. This time, after my private lesson, I felt more successful. One step at a time!

Brownings 2010

2010-10-25T18:16:00.000-07:00

Once again, I took pictures of my cousin's family for their Christmas card this year. The girls are both just gorgeous! As usual, I had fun hanging with my family and photographing them at this time in their lives.

She's 6 months!

2010-10-01T18:42:00.000-07:00

Well, my beautiful niece Makaiya is now 6 months old. Boy, how time flies! She is trying to crawl, rolling every where, and already has her first tooth. To me, she is the most beautiful little girl EVER. However, she is a lot of work. I was happy to finally able to get some great shots of her, as you will see. Enjoy!

A Nappy Wedding

2010-06-01T10:06:00.000-07:00

Well, this weekend I had the pleasure to photograph my cousin Mary's wedding. She married her long time boyfriend, Brian, on a cloudy Sunday afternoon in Louisville, KY. Brian is a member of the rap group Nappy Roots. It was my first wedding and I'm very pleased with the results. I wasn't sure how they would come out, but I have quite a few favorites. Congratulations to Brian, Mary, and their daughter S.

She's Here!

2010-05-13T19:05:00.000-07:00

So, a few months ago I took maternity pictures of my little sister. Well, on March 31, our family officially welcomed Makaiya into the world. She has been such a blessing in so many ways, before and after her birth. Now she is 6 weeks old and growing and changing so much every day. I'm definitely loving the auntie role I now have to play.

Finally!

2010-04-03T07:42:00.000-07:00

I took pictures of my goddaughter yesterday. We were doing her Easter pictures. I was a little worried that she wouldn't cooperate, but to my surprise, she did. Not only did she cooperate, she SMILED! That is saying a lot for her. She rarely smiles when she has her picture taken, but today she was awesome. I was so excited when I started editing these pictures becasue there were lots of great shots.

Sean's Easter 2010

2010-03-26T09:56:00.001-07:00

Once again, I took Sean's Easter pictures for his mom. And once again, she insisted on live ducks. I got a real workout from chasing the ducks and Sean. I hope mom likes these!

Maternity Pictures

2010-03-06T17:50:00.000-08:00

My sister is due to have my niece in the next few weeks. It was very difficult in the beginning realizing that she was pregnant. However, as time has gone on, I have gotten used to the idea of having a little niece. I never knew it would be so expensive either! Every time I turn around, I'm buying something else for the baby. We went out today and took a few maternity pictures. Here are a few of them. Enjoy!

Father and Son Bowl 2010

2010-03-06T17:40:00.000-08:00

Today, my church had its first Father and Son Bowl. There were about 30 men and boys out there to play football and have fun in the Lord. Everyone had a great time! Have you ever noticed how people come out of their shells during sporting events? I have and it was especially noticeable today. Great job Lamarius and Men's ministry. This should become an annual event. Glad to be a part of it.

Baby Shower for Kaysha

2010-02-21T15:55:00.000-08:00

My little sister, Kaysha, is pregnant with the first niece, grandchild for my family. Difficult circumstances can bring families closer together or tear them apart. In our case, it seems it is bringing us closer together, which is a great thing. Yesterday, I had a baby shower for her and my future niece, Makaiya Danielle. Starting to get excited and a little spend-happy the closer we get to the due date, which is in a few weeks. Can't wait to meet her!

Family Fun

2009-12-06T13:50:00.000-08:00

Recently, I was given the privilege of shooting one of my co-workers. She was my teacher's aide a few years ago and I miss having her (not that I don't like the ones I have now). We tried several times this year to get these family pictures done, but weren't able to until November. We were able to get lots of family shots. I was even able to take pictures of Connie's daughter and her boyfriend. Thank you Connie and family for giving me the opportunity to take your family photos! I had a good time!

Ruby Red Slippers

2009-11-21T15:14:00.000-08:00

Earlier this year, I took engagement pictures of April and her fiance. They were married this October 17. She asked me to take some casual shots of her in her wedding dress. She had some very creative ideas and a pair of beautiful ruby red shoes. I loved these shoes so much I want a pair for myself. She also wanted some pictures with her favorite 4 legged family members. It was a fun day! Thanks April!

Newlyweds and Puppies--Oh My!

2009-11-21T15:01:00.000-08:00

Earlier this year I took engagement pictures for this couple. Since then, they have tied the knot and are starting their new life together as husband and wife. I was asked to take some pictures of their little family. Their little family includes their "baby," Jilly. Jilly is a long haired chiuahua and at times, can have a very princess attitude. Jilly now has a young niece named Mia, a chiuahua and daschund mix. Jilly is set in her ways and Mia just bounces around everywhere. It was quite a day taking these pictures to say the least!

My Favorite Little Model and his Family

2009-11-21T14:46:00.000-08:00

Well, I have taken pictures of little Sean many times(as you have seen on this blog). He's usually very cooperative and friendly...until this time. He did not want to do anything but run around, which is typical 2 year old behavior. The difference this time was that Daddy was with us. They wanted to get some family pictures before Daddy leaves for Iraq for a year or longer. There's something about a father with his son that is so special and I tried to capture that during this session. Thanks G family for the workout!

It's a Family Affair!

2009-10-11T19:33:00.000-07:00

So, this weekend I went to Kentucky to take pictures of my cousin and her family. We tried to take pictures on Saturday, but it was freezing. "A's" lips turned blue from being so cold. So we tried again today, which worked out sooooo much better. We ended up with some great shots-family and of the girls. A and E, I hope you enjoy your pictures and your CD is in the mail!

My Favorite Model

2009-10-08T17:39:00.000-07:00

Once again I had the pleasure of working with my favorite model, Sean. Sean's mom wanted some pictures of her little boy with some of his Daddy's Army belongings. Dad will be shipping out for over a year in the next few months and she wants to give Dad some pics to take with him while on tour. Sean was a wonderful model and, as long as I promised to let him drive my truck, was very cooperative. As usual, I enjoy taking Sean's pictures. Thanks Wendy!

Practice, practice, practice!

2009-09-28T17:05:00.000-07:00

So,here lately, I've realized how little time I have spent taking pictures. I took my little cousin, "M," out to do a little practice. Mind you, she said she wasn't very photogenic. I completely disagree! I think she is very photogenic. Thanks for being my model, "M!"

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2009-09-20T15:17:00.000-07:00

Well, this week my mom turned the big 6-0. I have been planning her surprise party since...for a while. She made me promise not to ever give her a party, but who was listening to her anyways. Family from all over the country came in to celebrate the occasion with her. My mom has endured many trials and hardships the last few years (my father's death and the death of a brother and sister) and I felt it was only appropriate to show her how much she is loved. Plus, I wanted her to have a good time with about 80 of her friends and family. Happy birthday, Momma! I love you!

The Girls!

2009-09-10T16:09:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in 2 months! School has started back and things have been hectic there. Needless to say, I haven't made much time to shoot either. Yesterday, after school, I was able to take pictures of two beautiful girls. They are growing up so fast! I've watched "J" grow up over the last 7 years and she is such a fashionista. "E" has been at the school for the last 3 years and she is getting more mature every day. I was very proud of "E" for stepping out of her box and letting Becky and I put her in buggy situations. (She's deathly afraid of them.) Thanks girls for helping me out!

Let's go fishin'!

2009-07-19T17:21:00.000-07:00

This past week, I took one of my favorite little people out to take more pictures. I decided to have mom bring his fishing pole along since there was a creek. Well, he had so much fun fishing that he started throwing the pole into the water. Of course, he expected someone to go and get it. I thought I had the nerve to do it, but I let mom do it instead. We also played in the creek. However, I think my favorite picture is the one where he inadvertently gives the "One Finger Salute." That one's for you, Dad. Thanks Wendy for always offering to let me take practice pictures of your son!

He's a runner!

2009-07-04T13:11:00.000-07:00

So, the other day I went to Centennial prepared to take pictures of my favorite little boy, S, who recently turned 2. I knew I would be in for it because he's a runner! I couldn't keep up and knew we weren't going to have many pictures to choose from. It' okay though--I still love him. He made me work and rethink my game plan for working with 2 year old boys. Next time, I need chippies (his favorite snack). Lots and lots of chippies.

Beautiful little girls

2009-07-04T12:15:00.000-07:00

Once again, I was given the privilege of taking pictures of my co-worker's beautiful girls. I think these pictures came out great! It was a little difficult at times to keep their attention, but we (mom and I) were able to get some nice shots. I hope you enjoy them, B!

Senior 2010 part 2

2009-06-11T08:11:00.000-07:00

I took "S" to Centennial Park for part two of her senior pictures. I'm glad we did! It was a little warm, but the lighting was great. I ended up with a lot of great pictures. For once, I was totally excited with the pictures we took.

Senior 2010

2009-06-03T16:25:00.000-07:00

Today I took pictures of my friend's daughter, "S." I remember when I first met her and she was a sweet 4th grader. I can't believe she'll be a senior in the fall. She has accomplished so much in her few years in high school. "S" is such a beautiful, sweet girl! My advice to you is to have fun your senior year...it only happens once! I enjoyed taking your pictures. Thank you!

My Lil' Angel part 2

2009-05-24T17:48:00.001-07:00

Finally, things worked out so that I could take pictures of my goddaughter, A. She's fiesty, stubborn, hard headed, and just plain cute!! If it weren't for Skittles, I may never have gotten any pictures of her. Usually, she frowns when she takes pictures. This time I had more smiles than frowns. JACKPOT!! Note to self: Always carry Skittles to take pictures of goddaughter. Then again, frowns show her fiesty personality.

It's About Time!

2009-05-24T17:33:00.000-07:00

For about 6 months now, I have been dying to shoot some pictures at Centennial Park of....ANYONE and EVERYONE. I finally had some takers. I took pictures of the children last year and Mom wanted family pictures. We also did individual pics of each child. The oldest son was really into it and took every chance to strike the right pose. The other two not so much! Thank you Shelton family for letting me work with you! I really appreciate it! By the way, I love your pictures. :-)

Love is in the Air

2009-05-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege to photograph my co-worker's daughter and her fiance. They needed pictures for their save the date announcement. I get very nervous when I take someone's pictures for the first time. I'm very critical of myself. Apparently, I was worried for nothing because she loved them. What a relief! Their dog, Jilly, even had her picture taken. She was so cooperative! I still would like to take them to Centennial Park and get a little more creative with the shots. However, for the time we had and what they needed, we got the job done. A and W, thank you for letting me do this for you.

Family Times part 2

2009-04-27T13:39:00.000-07:00

Here are more pics of the little cousins. This time they are individual pictures.

Family Times

2009-04-26T14:47:00.000-07:00

This weekend I went to Kentucky to be with my family for a dance recital. I took a few pictures of my little cousins, which they were suprisingly cooperative. I need all the practice I can get.

My mom

2009-04-06T15:32:00.000-07:00

Finally! I talked my mom into letting practice taking her picture this weekend. She only gave me a 15 minute window, so it was quick! Isn't she lovely? She doesn't think so, but I do.

Wonderful family

2009-04-06T14:47:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday I took pictures of a wonderful family from my church. I love their oldest son and he is extremely bright. He loves taking pictures and LOVES his baby brother. Thank you W family for letting take your pictures! I needed the practice.

More Easter pics

2009-03-25T07:30:00.000-07:00

Here are more Easter pics of little S!

Easter Pics

2009-03-24T10:31:00.000-07:00

So, today, instead of working on my research project, I decided to take pics of my friend's son at the Sam Davis Home. She had the wonderful idea of buying real live baby ducks. Taking pictures of kids is hard enough. When you throw in live animals, that's a whole new ball game. I think he looks so adorable and so grown up in these pictures. I definitely want to go back to the home and take more pictures there.

My Little Sister

2009-01-18T19:26:00.000-08:00

I figured I should post something in honor of my little sister's 20th birthday. I remember the day she was born. I was supposed to go to the library after school with some friends. When I called home to check in, no one answered. At that moment I knew..my little sister was being born. Over the last 20 years, we have hugged, loved, screamed, hit, hated each other. I just want her to know that I am proud of her and the woman she is becoming. It's been a long, difficult process for all of us the last 5 years, but for you most of all. I'm very proud of you and love you regardless of what you think or what I might say. You can always depend on me to be there for you! KISSES!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Another Posting

2009-01-18T18:20:00.000-08:00

I haven't taken any pictures since Christmas. I know I'm a bad person. You can never get better at anything without practice. Since I haven't practiced or posted in over a week, I'm posting my favorite picture from Christmas. It is one of my favorite pictures I've taken lately.

Simeon Baptist Church Christmas 2008 pt. 2

2009-01-01T14:15:00.000-08:00

Here is the second part of the Simeon Christmas party. These are the some of the pictures with Santa and families at Simeon Baptist Church.

Christmas tribute

2008-12-22T16:30:00.000-08:00

This post is dedicated to the Taylor family.

Simeon Baptist Church Christmas 2008

2008-12-22T14:33:00.000-08:00

So, about 2 months ago, my minister and his son approached me about becoming the church photographer. As church photographer, I'm in charge of taking pictures of special services, church events, Christenings, and baptisms. I was a little nervous about taking on this job, especially Christmas pictures. Well, our Christmas service was this past Sunday night. It started off a little crazy, got a little crazier, and kind of leveled off. Everything went well and everyone enjoyed their pictures. If it wasn't for my mom, Niki, and Michelle, I would've gone completely crazy! Here are a few pictures from the program complete with Santa! Look for more pictures on a little later!

My Inspiration, Hawaii

2008-12-12T16:57:00.000-08:00

As I have said on here, my trip to Hawaii began my interest and love of photography. It was heaven! Everywhere we went was gorgeous! When you look at it, you have to believe in God and all of his miracles. There were over 20 of us on the trip with most of us being family. We hung out on the beach, went to a luau, and went to the USS Arizona Memorial. I cannot wait to go back with a new camera and new ideas for photos.

After all these years

2008-12-06T17:17:00.000-08:00

While with the family for Thanksgiving, I had the opportunity to take pictures of my cousin and her husband. They have been together for 20 years, which is a feat in itself. They began dating when she was 14 and he was 16. I just happened to catch them in a sweet moment. I think these are the best pictures of them since their wedding day.

Thanksgiving with the Family

2008-12-06T16:24:00.000-08:00

Every Thanksgiving, my family meets at the family home in Western Kentucky (shout out to Muhlenburg County). There quite a few children in our family now and it's nice to see them playing together. My uncle had just raked up all the leaves in the front yard, which meant....JUMPING IN THE LEAVES! It was fun to watch my little cousins playing around in the leaves and seeing how much fun they were having. My uncle, however, was not happy to see the leaves all over the yard again.

Christmas

2008-12-06T15:49:00.000-08:00

Christmas is fast approaching! I was asked by a family at church to take their Christmas pictures. I didn't settle on a location for their pictures until 2 days before. "D," the youngest son, did not want to take his coat off! His little nose was red like a little cherry. It was cute, but I don't blame him. Sister was not happy about being in the freezing cold either. I really appreciate the "T" family for asking me to take their pictures and braving the freezing cold temperature.

Baby dedication

2008-11-16T13:39:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, I took pictures of a baby dedication at my church. I love this family, especially the oldest son, "J." With his cute smile, no wonder all the women at church love him! Baby "M" is almost as big as his big brother. He definitely only has eyes for his mom.

I'm 1!

2008-11-09T15:44:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I took pictures of "D," who I know from church. She is sooo cute! I was trying to get her to walk, but she just isn't ready to yet. Her big sister was keeping her attention and making her laugh for me. It looks like I may do her family's Christmas pictures as well. Yea! I need all the practice I can get. Enjoy!

2008-11-02T16:07:00.000-08:00

This weekend I went to Bowling Green for WKU's Homecoming. While I was there, I took pictures of my cousin and her 2 girls. It was quite interesting. The youngest one, "A" was my assistant and gave directions and tips to her older sister. She wanted to make sure the pictures were just right. Big sis "P" listened and followed little sister's advice. When I took "A"'s pictures, she was hilarious! As you can see, she has some kind of personality. It was nonstop action with her. I ended up with several shots that I really liked. Then, while we were on campus, I was able to get some pictures of my cousin with both girls. I hope you like the pictures, cuz!

My Lil' Angel

2008-11-02T15:56:00.000-08:00

Here is my goddaughter, "A." She dressed up as an angel for Halloween. Although she looks like an angel, she has a little bit of a devilish side to her as well. I think she gets it from her godmother, ME! I'll have to work on that.

2008-10-31T18:01:00.000-07:00

This is my best friend Heather, and her son, "K." Heather and I have been friends for over 12 years, since college. I remember when "K" was born. He's now in kindergarten and getting taller every time I see him. Did I mention he's one of my godsons? He is one of 3 godchildren of mine, but he was the first! He' sc ute, but he's all boy!

How cute?!

2008-10-31T15:57:00.000-07:00

Here are the daughters of my friend, Becky. We went to the pumpkin patch early thinking no one else would be there. We were wrong! Here are a few of the shots I took. "J" looks so grown up! Little sister, "T," is growing up fast too.