I am one of those photographers who has learned to leave my big camera alone in moments like these. A few years ago I started @ourlife_project I didn't have a real goal of making it into anything other than personal digital scrapbook of normal, joyful, and powerful candid moments of raising black boys. I have love for black & white photography and the nostalgia it brings when looking back at the images.
Read More"I bet you have a bunch of photos hanging around your house." One of the stylist commented as I am sitting in the salon. A guilty look slides down my face as we sit chatting.
'Oddly enough" I say "I don't."
As I sit here now I can count seven images I have printed for display on my walls for my family to enjoy.
Read MoreAm I an Influencer?
This question has been kicking around in my brain as I have spent time brainstorming moves on how to expand the brand that I have created for ID Photography.
Now, according to the internet dictionary I consulted, the number of followers I have on Instagram and Facebook definitely kickS me out of the realm of wearing the "INFLUENCER" title.
Commence the tapping of my chin in deep thought.
Read MoreHow are you doing?
I stare down at the message displayed on my phone. A lot of answers are circling through my mind, but I tap out a quick "I'm good! How are you!?"
Honestly, its probably the most put together train of thought I have most weeks. Its not messy. Its nice and neat and wrapped perfectly to shift the focus off of me.
I am screaming with JOY! I have literally spent the last week in the outdoors with my kids soaking up the spring sun that has taken so long to appear this year!
Don't get me wrong...I LOVE having all four seasons. But the MN winter this year slayed me in a way that that was brutal this year. We were teased with warmer days and snow melting only to get slammed with snow storm after snow storm well into April. Now having 3 boys under the age of 8 their energy levels run HIGH. So the extended time indoors has had us all more than a little on edge with each other.
Moms and dads I have something to say to you.
I LOVE HOW YOU LOVE. You are all juggling a lot and life is coming at you fast. And yet you are finding ways every day to show your love doing one of the biggest jobs you have: Being a parent.
You see, that's the thing about homeboud sessions, memories are not just about documenting the milestones or the places you go. Memories live in the routine of your everyday. the quirky moments that are too fun to forget. Its understanding that normalcy is just as beautiful as an epic nature filled adventure.
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Its weird when before the old year ends, you know the challenges the new year will bring. When my local Rising Tide leader asked in our FB group what our word for 2018 was, I was stumped. I watched as comments came in for days and still couldn't come with a word that I wanted to live by in 2018.
That was December 30th, and two weeks into the new year I was still searching for a word.
Read MoreA week or two ago the owner of Fearless and Framed posted in her photography group. In the post she asked a question.
"Why do you pick up your camera?"
Pause. Good question.
He grabs my hand as we head upstairs to see if he put the books on the bookshelf like I asked. He gives me causal a kiss on the back of my hand as we climb the stairs. He's my affectionate child. With all my might I push down the question I have been asking him all year.
