Oh Joy! Photography

Every Day a Beginning

2012-02-01T16:43:00.000-08:00

Well, I had all sorts of intentions to do a blog post the first of January. You know - a new year sort of thing. Somehow 31 days flew quickly by! But the great thing about beginnings is you can have them anytime! And so today I'm doing what I had planned to do a month ago... talk about beginnings!

This year - no resolutions. Instead I'm focusing on what I want to bring into my life this year & how I want to live this year. And... also I'm thinking of what I want to let go of. The past year saw lots of changes - very good changes and I'd like that to continue. So, I want to live this year healthier - mentally, nutritionally & spiritually. I was already soy free due to an allergy to soy. This year I am gluten free. Already I have fewer headaches & feel better. I am giving myself time for me, to reduce stress. I started doing yoga (why did I wait so long?). I'm including prayer as part of my everyday routine. I have personalized The Prayer of Jabez for my life - and I love that daily focus on God, living well and with intention. And I'm going to do my best to post on my blog 5 times a week!

And - what am I letting go of?

Worry! A friend today said: Worry is a prayer for things I don't want.

So.... I'm going to banish worry.

What do you want to bring into your life..... & what do you want to let go of?

Celebrities were SMITTEN with Oh Joy! Photography at the Golden Globes Gift Lounge!

2012-01-20T08:46:00.000-08:00

Oh Joy! Photography is delighted to have had our 2012 Poetry of Fog desk calendar featured in the celebrity swag bags at the Golden Globes Gift Lounge held at L'Ermitage Beverly Hills. And our framed Gather Up Your Dreams print won raves! There were so many talented artists who participated through The Artisan Group in conjunction with GBK and all celebrities left with a swag bag packed with beautiful handmade art.

2012 POETRY OF FOG DESK CALENDAR (5x7)

GATHER UP YOUR DREAMS

Several celebrities were so taken with our print, they had their photograph taken with our Gather Up Your Dreams fine art framed print!

Joe Mantegna is an actor, writer and producer. Joe is best known for his role as Joey Zasa starring alongside Al Pacino in The Godfather: Part III . He currently plays the role of David Rossi on Criminal Minds and was the voice of Fat Tony on The Simpsons.

Tony Denison has appeared on The Wise Guy series and in numerous shows and movies. Currently he plays the role of Lt. Flynn in The Closer TV series.

Beau Willimon is executive producer and writer for House of Cards TV series.

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Oh Joy! Photography specializes in beautiful atmospheric nature scenes as well as fine art portraits of children, pets and newborns. Joy's work can be seen and purchased HERE and HERE. To contact us send an email to: joy@ohjoyphotography.com
And be sure to follow us on FACEBOOK and TWITTER!

Golden Globes here I come!

2011-12-09T09:09:00.001-08:00

I've been so busy these past weeks getting my 2012 Poetry of Fog desk calendars printed, packaged and ready to ship to California to be included in the 2012 GOLDEN GLOBE celebrity swag bags!! Today the 100 calendars are shipping and I can breathe a sigh of relief. I'm so over the moon to have my art in the hands of these celebrities, & to be a part of the Golden Globes! The foggy nature photographs were taken at Blendon Woods Metro Park, Franklin Park Conservatory and the Columbus Zoo - all in Columbus, Ohio. Several scenes were taken in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore in northern Michigan. See the individual calendar months and my press release below!! Click HERE to visit my fine art shop. And click HERE to get to the calendar link. I'm so delighted to be a member of The Artisan Group who made this opportunity possible!

Day 15 Gratitude Project - Enough {Ohio Nature Photographer}

2011-11-15T15:46:00.001-08:00

I am every thankful for the magical world books take me to, & all the knowledge I gain from them. And I am thankful that somehow (through divine providence) I always have enough.

Day 14 Gratitude Project - Friends

2011-11-15T15:37:00.001-08:00

I am ever thankful for my friends with such beautiful souls, for the delicious healing chicken soup that one of my friends brought & for the roof over my head (and the fact that it is nestled in gorgeous green space).

Day 13 Gratitude Project - Uncomplicated {Ohio Nature Photographer}

2011-11-13T15:37:00.001-08:00

I feel blessed to live a simple and uncomplicated existence. I try to stay in the moment – because it is all the beautiful little moments that make a magical life. It wasn’t always so….. but I’m glad it is this way now.

Day 12 Gratitude Project

2011-11-12T13:45:00.001-08:00

Today I feel very blessed to have health insurance & prescription coverage. It is definitely something I don't take for granted in this day & age. I am thankful my doctor has Saturday hours, for my friend who drove me there & for antibiotics. I hope they start kicking in soon.

Day 10 Gratitude Project {Columbus Ohio Photographer}

2011-11-10T15:32:00.001-08:00

I feel blessed to have friends check on me when I'm under the weather & to take me out for a big healing bowl of Pho Ga at the North Market.... for my Maggie May to keep me company .. for my fuzzy microfiber comforter.... & for my remote!

Day 9 Gratitude Project - Following My Bliss { Columbus Ohio Child & Family Photographer}

2011-11-09T14:05:00.000-08:00

A little sprout - taken during a recent portrait session.

Today I feel blessed:

That I can make a living doing what I love, & that people love what I do.
That my clients often become friends.
That I finally learned to give my love, time & energy to those who love me and support me.
That I learned not to allow negativity into my life, including those people who tell me to get a “real” job. They just don’t get it & never will.
That I have wonderful friends.
That I can see the beauty in each moment.
That it rained today helping recharge my newly planted perennials.

Sneak Peek! Rochelle { Ohio Dog Photographer}

2011-11-08T12:25:00.000-08:00

There are few things I love more than capturing the bond between people and their pets! Enjoy this sneak peek!

Day 8 Gratitude Project - Squirrel Baffle

2011-11-08T12:14:00.000-08:00

Today I am so thankful to have found a squirrel baffle that finally works... so the birds can eat their seed, & the squirrels can get back to the business of collecting nuts! And I am every so grateful for what might be the last 70 degree day of the year. Glorious!

Day 7 Gratitude Project - To Everything There is a Season {Ohio Nature Photographer}

2011-11-07T06:56:00.000-08:00

Each day I spend time in nature - often with Maggie. There is a comfort to seeing the patterns of nature & seasonal changes. My heart & soul welcome the sounds and sights of each season - the changing calls of the birds, migrations, leaves emerging and then falling, days growing long then short. It all helps me to stay grounded and connected to a higher power. And I feel blessed to be such a small part of this large and amazing creation.

Day 6 Gratitude Project - Maggie May {Central Ohio Pet Photographer}

2011-11-06T17:24:00.000-08:00

Maggie May - I am thankful for her every day. She is quite literally my constant companion. Maggie is my trail buddy (we went to Dawes Arboretum today), travel companion & co-pilot. She is my family & stands in for my family that has passed. She is the happiest, sweetest dog I have ever owned & is my 1 in a million. Just over a year ago I almost lost her to acute pancreatitis. Every day since then I consider a bonus day & am ever grateful. She has rebounded & is so energetic, happy & goofy. She always brings a smile & happiness & I love her to pieces!

Day 5 Gratitude Project - Feeling Blessed {Columbus Ohio Photographer}

2011-11-06T05:41:00.000-08:00

Some days I have to think about & look for my blessings - other days I feel blessed all through the day. Today was one of those days. I had a wonderful time at my art show, made a lot of new connections and chatted with old friends. The November day was sunny & warm enough that I went for a walk with Mags & a friend, & then we went for ice cream (Buckeye - of course! ). As we drove back home, I realized how much I love where I live - lots of trees & green space & lovely rustic woodsy architecture. And to end the evening, we went to a place at Polaris that gives incredible massages. I slept like a baby when I got home!

Day 4 Gratitude Project - Creative Spirit {Central Ohio Photographer}

2011-11-04T16:53:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for creation, creativity & the creative spirit in all of us. I have an art show today & tomorrow. It still seems a bit surreal that now I’m sitting behind the booth as a vendor - & I feel very blessed to have had this creative spirit. Each time I lift my camera, I ask that what I produce will be like a prayer to God and a giving thanks. The other day there was a heavy frost - & even though it spelled the end for my zinnias, I thought what a beautiful way to go – coated with a sugary frost. The awesomeness of creation amazes me - & I feel like such a small speck – thankful to just be a part of it all. (Kind of rambling, but I’m tired! Lol!)

Day Three Gratitude Project - Good Friends {Columbus Ohio Photographer}

2011-11-03T16:19:00.000-07:00

In life, I have found that if you have a friend for each part of your life that is important to you, then you are so very blessed. I do feel so blessed to have amazing friends - both online and in my personal life. Friends add depth and breadth to life and living. My friends are there for laughs, support, adventures, thrift store foraging and hugs when needed. On this day, I visited Amish country in Ohio with a friend & her foster child. I feel like I am Auntie Joy to him & that is a blessing, too! it is so great to see things through a child's eye & on their level - literally!

I find that part of what I enjoy about this gratitude project, is taking the time - really taking the time - to sit and write about what I'm thankful for on a given day. The writing, & then sharing just really let it all sink in and absorb into my soul!

Indian Summer { Central Ohio Photographer }

2011-11-02T12:58:00.000-07:00

Day 2

It is one of those beautiful sunny Indian Summer days here in Central Ohio. There are still some colorful leaves clinging to the trees. The birds and squirrels are busy at the feeders and gathering goodies in anticipation of the coming winter. My wind chimes are gently singing in the light breeze. It is a day that just fills the soul with happiness. I am thankful for these days and being in the moment, thankful for the seasons & unique beauty of each one, & glad I can take a moment to appreciate it all & bask in the beauty. It is such a fleeting season, & that makes me take note & delight in each moment!

Gratitude1: Bobina Jean (Bobbie) RIP sweet kitty

2011-11-01T06:29:00.000-07:00

Each year for the past several years, I have been a moderator in the Flickr Group 30 Days of Gratitude. As we enter the month of Thanksgiving, it is the perfect time to take a small moment each day & reflect on what we are thankful for each day. After 30 days, you cultivate an attitude of gratitude - perfect time for Thanksgiving & entering into the holiday season. What have you given thanks for today? Giving thanks makes us happier and more optimistic. Come join us in the Gratitude Project. Give thanks!

As I start the month of Thanksgiving, I have had a loss I am mourning, but today I am looking for the sweet spots & giving thanks.......

My teeny tiger cat Bobina Jean (Bobbie) showed up in the woods outside my new home 17.5 years ago. She was a feral kitten whose mother had apparently died or just left her. You couldn't get near her & it took many weeks & patience to be able to get near enough to touch her. Eventually Bobbie took up residence & stayed near our property, although she remained outdoors & pretty wild. In the evenings I opened the garage door so she could sleep safe & sound.

When I went through a divorce & moved out of the house, I went back everyday for a week to try to find her. I did & she came with me & became an indoor kitty - a change she relished! When I got my dog, Maggie (who most here know!) Bobbie immediately took to her - as you can see here.

Sunday night, Bobbie started having seizures. We rushed to the emergency vet, but it was her time to leave this world. I am heartbroken and miss her so much. She was my little squeaky wheel with her strange little meow! But I am thankful I had her in my life for 17 and a half years. We saw so much life together & shared such love. Today I am thankful for Bobbi (Bobina) - thankful for our time, our experiences & adventures, & all the affection & love we shared. Bobbie did not cooperate with the camera & I have few photos of her - this was always one of my faves - & I am so thankful for this photo!

2011-10-18T07:11:00.000-07:00

The days move so quickly, and busy seems a constant state. And so, I feel we should at least have pretty desk calendars to mark the time! In that vein, I've created my enchantingly ethereal Poetry of Fog desk calendar for 2012. This calendar is filled with some of my most popular photographs and is sure to put a moment of peace in a hectic day.

This fine art calendar is printed on a lovely soft, warm and traditional paper. Poetry of Fog features 12 photos, one per month. The pages are each 5x7, and the images are 5x5 including white border. The pages are all unbound, and each has a different photo and clearly marked days of the week and months. Put them anywhere: your desk, your fridge, on an art easel, hanging from the wall with a bit of pretty ribbon; they will also fit nicely in a clear acrylic "L" photo holder.

The calendar comes in a pretty envelope ready for gift giving, and will be shipped to you in a waterproof protective sleeve within a rigid mailer, ensuring it lays flat and reaches you in perfect condition.

Fireflies Remembered - Central Ohio Children's Photographer

2011-08-24T06:50:00.000-07:00

We can count the remaining days of summer almost on one hand. It is the cusp of autumn and fall leaves and school supplies. But in these last days, I want to remember finding animals in the clouds, ice cream cones and sandy toes, beach days and vacations, carnival rides and bike rides, clover bouquets and butterflies, days that seem to go on forever, summer stars and fireflies. Happy end of summer!

Gorgeous, Unique Handmade Art and Gifts ~ Discover Etsy!

2011-07-20T12:19:00.000-07:00

ETSY???
A lot of people say "What is Etsy?", when I tell them I have an online Etsy shop. Well, in the words of Etsy, it is the worldwide online venue where you can buy and sell handmade or vintage items, art and supplies. For a great You-tube video on Etsy, look HERE. For me, Etsy is a way to show and sell my fine art photography. It is a community of indie (independent) artists all over the world. It is a place to buy or sell handmade goods and art. I feel it is a personalized experience for both buyers & sellers. In a way it is the opposite of everything "Big Box". And in a very basic way - the Etsy shops in the US are home grown small business with made in America goods and art. The basis of Etsy are "Treasuries" which showcase specific items. If one of these treasuries gets lots of traffic, it has a chance to make it to the "Front Page" of Etsy. Below is a Treasury which I curated showcasing of the beautiful and unique items found on Etsy! You can click on individual items to be taken to the direct link and shop. Enjoy!

'Lighter Than Air ...' by joystclaire

Since it is soooo very hot here in Ohio, I thought a cool, breezy beautiful treasury would help! Happy Summer!

CLOCK buJACZEk foLK whi... ArtmaStudio $55.00	Modern Day Aristocrat T... TutusChic $65.00	Faded Pink - Fine Art V... GrainnePhotogr... $10.00	Vintage French Dining T... FrenchEclectic $1640.00
Farmhouse Burlap Bolste... craftsbycarter $20.00	A kind of hush - Fine a... irenesuchocki $30.00	Vintage Painted Cottage... paintedcottage... $1595.00	Crocheted pure new wool... MaybeTheWhiteD... $20.00
ivory, champagne celebr... SASessories $39.50	bird canvases pilosale $42.00	Pleated String Lights PigeonToeCeram... $174.00	BIANCA layered capes bo... GIULIACONTI $168.00
Forged Steel Clock VermontBlacksm... $190.00	Pincushion - Felted Cup... madeinlowell $30.00	Felted slippers - will ... ing00te $73.00	50% off with code TRAC5... TRACCEbags $97.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Alissa & Nathalie ~ Strangers 19 & 20 { 31 Strangers Project } Central Ohio Environmental Portrait Photographer

2011-07-20T08:25:00.000-07:00

I'm very behind on my strangers posts and trying to catch up! It's been quite a summer!

One evening I was at the park of Roses in Whetstone Park to do a 1 year old's birthday session. I always get to my location early to check out lighting and settings. This evening I spotted Alissa & Nathalie strolling through the gardens. They had such a happy carefree mood about them that was hard to miss! I started a conversation with them and learned they were on their way to Taco Bell to grab a quick bite and then were heading to the Robert Plant show in Columbus, Ohio. Nice! No wonder they were in a fabulous mood! I loved their jackets (very cool) & they asked if I could take some shots to show them off - no problem! I hope you had a great night at the concert Alissa & Nathalie!

Peace out.

Strangers 15, 16, 17 & 18 {31 Strangers Project} Columbus Ohio Portrait Photographer

2011-07-19T13:36:00.000-07:00

The North Market in Columbus, Ohio is a fabulous place to visit for wonderfully diverse foods. And it's a great place to people watch! These "strangers" were kind enough to take a moment out of their day to be photographed and talk a moment!

Meet Brittany ~ Stranger 15. Brittany works at Brezel Pretzels. I was drawn by her creative look and focus on her work!

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Strangers 16 & 17 ~ Tabitha & Anthony
This couple has been engaged one and a half years. They were at the market exploring and trying different foods.

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And Stranger 18 ~ Andrew
Andrew was quite interesting to talk with. He works at the Green Grocer and is an aspiring paleo-anthropologist. We might see his face again one day on a Nova or Nature program about a new discovery in Australia or Africa!

I realize how much I love doing this project - slowing down & taking a moment to really connect with people.... & watching them smile back - no longer strangers!

Strangers 13 & 14 ~ Columbus Ohio Photographer

2011-07-11T07:30:00.000-07:00

I have been a bit remiss about my blog posts - blame the lazy hot days of summer. I just can't seem to focus - I'm so easily distracted lately. But... I am going to make it a pint to get back to the blog!

The North Market in Columbus, Ohio has always been one of my favorite haunts - & also a fave of so many others! I stopped by one day for Jeni's Splendid ice cream. I spied Stephanie & Joni eating ice cream at a table outside & knew they had the craving, too! They are friends & coworkers, & were taking a break from their jobs at the downtown Hilton. Stephanie was in heaven over Jeni's Lemon, while Joni was enjoying Turtle. Once I got inside I had to get my new fave.... Brambleberry Crumb.... mmmmmm!

Charlane Killough Griffith - RIP Sweet Soul

2011-06-18T07:25:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here with a broken heart after hearing of the passing of my sweet friend Charlane. Charlane was not only loved by those who called her family & friend in "real life", but also by those in the online world of bloggers, FB & Flickr. Many hadn't met Char in person, but we knew her well - & she left her mark in may lives. Char had such a gift of weaving words into a beautiful story & added her photographs for a compelling view of life through her eyes. She loved life! She loved being an auntie, Nick Drake, ball jars & flowers... Char was such an inspiration in so many ways to so many people. She left a heartfelt legacy.

I was out of town when Char passed and then became busy with catching up & life - not checking in on FB or blogs. And just like that, she was gone. I had always wanted to buy one of her prints. So, today say "I love" you to those you love, -say it all day until the sun sets. Give hugs liberally. If someone has been an influence in your life or made a difference - make sure you tell them... & not just once. I read all the words/posts left on Char's FB page - so many sentiments of love - & realized we need to be saying those things & showing how we feel right now - today.... because we - or someone we love - might not have tomorrow.

Sorry for the rambling as I'm sitting here with tears. I have "known" Char for years & have enjoyed her friendship, support & inspiration. She will be missed.

I am including some of her photographs below in this post. And I found one of her last blog posts especially poignant.......

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in my other life....

i would live in a house shaped like a triangle on the beach...somewhere warm and happy. where children laugh and adults giggle and the air smells like warm cinnamon cookies baking in the oven.

and you would come over for simple lunches. and we would chat for hours while watching the sea and the waves dancing. the salt would make our hair wild and wooly and we would laugh belly laughs that made our sides ache.

then after sunset, we would go to the carnival and ride the merry-go-round until we were dizzy. we would sup on wonderful foods and eat with our fingers - never spilling a drop or worrying about being messy. carnivals are know for that kind of thing you know.

after the carnival we take a walk on the beach. there we could stare at the stars, wish on shooting stars and solve the world's problems. there would be peace and understanding - and somehow we would figure out how to feed the starving children and make mosquitoes turn into butterflies. because the world definitely needs more butterflies.

then, when we are tired, we would slip into cotton sheets and sleep sweet dreams of happy places and wonderful things.

the life of simple joys, no worries, and plenty of love is for me - the rest is gravy on my potatoes.

~charlane killough griffith

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And beautiful sweet soul - now you are there.
RIP Char. xxx

To see more of Char's photography, words and wonderful view on living & life, STOP BY HERE.

In the North Woods - Michigan and Ohio Environmental Portrait Photographer

2011-06-16T11:58:00.000-07:00

When I discovered I would be photographing the beautiful DK, I was delighted. When I found the session would be in the divine woods behind her north woods home, I was ecstatic! In addition to the challenges of shooting in 90 degree heat (with equally high humidity) and the extreme light/shadows of a 3PM sunny day, I knew it would provide some very unique & personal portraits. DK is the owner and artistic force in her interior design and decorating company. She is also a nature lover and very much at home in the woods and wilds. And of course there is her fur child who delights her to no end!

What I love about environmental portraiture (on location) is that it really says something about the person being photographed and it is a very relaxing setting for the person (as relaxing as it can be with a camera pointing at you!). I enjoy forging connections - really getting to know people, and photographing them in their personal landscape.

I felt DK looked like a gorgeous wood nymph in her dress, and tried to photograph and process the portraits with that feel in mind. These are some of my favorites from the session.

Strangers #10, #11 and #12 - Bass Lake, Sleeping Bear Dunes - Northwestern Michigan Portrait Photographer

2011-06-15T12:01:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite haunts in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is Bass Lake, a beautiful tranquil little "no-wake" lake. This gorgeous, sunny day, I was there with a friend Vicki & my dog Maggie. It's Maggie's favorite place to enjoy doggie dock diving!

While there, I decided to do some stranger shots for my 31 Strangers project. Cat was at the lake to do some kayaking with her long haired daschund "Willie", & just enjoy the fabulous day. She was kind enough to stop for a quick shot! It was so cute that Willie & my Maggie were wearing doggie life jackets! Randy & Tom were also out that day in a paddle boat to do some fishing & spend time in the sun. They were eager to get out on the lake, so I just got a quick shot!

Patty & Bob - Strangers 8 & 9 /31 Strangers Project { Michigan Portrait Photographer }

2011-06-11T08:28:00.000-07:00

While in northern Michigan, the Strangers Project came with me! For 2 days, we had incredible dense fog along the Lake Michigan shore. It made for some spectacular shots while hiking, but it also was beautiful in Crystal Gardens in Frankfort, Michigan - one of my favorite places to wander & look for plants. While there, the fog rolled in even heavier & I thought I should take advantage of it for my stranger shots. Meet Patty - Stranger 8. She came to Crystal Gardens one day about 22 years ago looking for a job. She got the job & has loved it so much she never left! She said that what is even better than being in northern Michigan, is being there & having a job you love! I don't think I have ever met an unhappy person while on my trips Up North. I also ran into Bob (Stranger 9) wandering through the greenhouses. He said he is an amateur photographer who is inspired by the beauty of the area.

Strangers 6 & 7 - Marsha & Ruth Ann [ Michigan Family, Child & Fine Art Portrait Photographer ]

2011-06-09T13:29:00.000-07:00

As much as I like to think I color outside the lines and blaze my own trail instead of following the one already marked & mapped - I do sadly realize I am also a creature of habit. And so, on my travels to my beloved northwestern Michigan to do an environmental portrait session & a commercial shoot of a cottage vacation rental - I found myself stopping (as usual) at the Clare Michigan Welcome Center. This is always my last rest stop on the journey north - only 2 hours from my final destination of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

It seemed only fitting that I capture some strangers for the 31 Strangers Project at the Welcome Center! Marsha & Ruth Ann were happy to oblige! Marsha (left) usually works at the Port Huron center, but was called to duty to the Clare Center. They obviously were very happy to be Michiganders (Wolverines?) and were delighted to impart some facts about their state.

Michigan has over 64,980 inland lakes.
Other than California, Michigan grows the widest variety of fruits and vegetables..... and Michigan doesn't have to irrigate.
The name Michigan is a French alteration of the Ojibwe word mishigamaa, meaning "large water" or "large lake".
A person in the state is never more than six miles from a natural water source or more than 85 miles from a Great Lakes shoreline.
Lake Huron rushes into the St. Claire River at the same force as Niagara Falls.
Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state.

... And just some of the reasons I'm always heading north! Thank you Marsha & Ruth Ann for participating in the Strangers Project!

31 Strangers Project/ Spring Summer 2011 Edition! [Columbus Ohio Photographer]

2011-06-07T08:10:00.000-07:00

I loved doing the 31 Strangers Project so much that I decided to start it again. What is 31 Strangers? It is a project that expands not only your photographic comfort zone, but also your personal comfort zone! In 31 days, you walk up to 31 strangers and ask to photograph them. I tell them about the project, get their first name (so we are no longer strangers!) and get to know something about them. I am a bit behind in posting and photographing as I just returned from a photo shoot in Michigan, but the fun is in catching up!

Meet Judy, Elizabeth, Susan, Mary Alice and Elin. I saw them one Saturday morning at the riverfront in downtown Columbus, Ohio participating in the Dragon Boat races. It was the first Dragon Boat event in Columbus. Boats were brought in from Pittsburgh, Pa and these ladies were part of a team called the MOV'n Dragons. MOV in Mov'n is for Mid Ohio Valley and the group was from Marietta, Ohio. The team members were all either cancer survivors (or as Judy said - "thrivers") or were a support person/caregiver for someone with cancer. These gals inspired me to start the Strangers Project again! I hope to see them next year at the Dragon Boat races on our riverfront!

Happy Birthday Little One! {Columbus Ohio Child & Baby Photographer}

2011-05-25T07:26:00.000-07:00

I have been a bit lax on posting portrait sessions, but I wanted to share a birthday session with a sweet little girl! Her mom will be doing a lemonade stand theme for the 1st birthday party and the theme carried into our portrait session. Wishing you love, laughter and sweet dreams, Baby E! Happy birthday!

Eco Chic Green Art Festival! Eco Chic Craftacular! {Columbus Ohio Artist and Photographer}

2011-05-11T08:18:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be an exhibitor artist at this fabulous juried show in Clintonville this weekend at the Whetstone Park Recreation Center on North High Street. This is Etsy Team Columbus' 3rd Annual Eco Chic Craftacular!! The event is a large 2 day indie craft show, indoors and outdoors, promoting green living, community involvement, handmade art and crafts, buying local to support the economy, and plain old having fun. We have live music, crafts for kids, free swag bags, raffle for AWESOME prizes, live demonstrations and more! Stop by for great food, music and art! There will even be a worm composting demonstration and other great green living demos!

Dream {Central Ohio Photographer} Desktop Wallpaper - free!

2011-05-08T10:30:00.000-07:00

When things start moving fast in my life, I forget to breathe and I forget to dream. Dreams take being in the moment and taking the time to just "be". I made a desktop wallpaper with powerful little words that I could look at every day while at my computer! Yes - an affirmation while sitting at the computer!! So, I wanted to share this with you to enjoy on your computer as well. I think this will work on most computer screens.

You can download* the wall paper HERE or here.

* Please remember that the images are for your personal use only and I retain the copyright, etc etc :)

Life is a Verb {Columbus Ohio Photographer}

2011-04-30T09:59:00.000-07:00

Are you comfortable in your own skin?

Are you where you dreamed you would be, when all those years ago you said... "When I grow up, I..."?

My life has taken many twists and turns. Happily, I am now following my bliss by creating a business from my passion of photography. I got derailed along the way for various reasons, but I have now arrived at this wonderful place! Currently, I'm slowly reading "Life is a Verb" by Patti Digh. Wow. I feel like I'm sitting down with a friend I have know my whole life and we're chatting over coffee, solving world problems and our own! If you feel like you are moving too fast, like you are feeling unsettled or stuck... I highly recommend this book! Only halfway through, numerous pages are dog-eared, words are scribbled in the margins, quotes are circled and starred - really good read! Reading this book has made me realize that finally, I AM comfortable in my own skin. And all those years ago, when I very confidently told everyone and the world that "When I grown up I want to be a photographer (insert your own here)".... I know that I have indeed arrived there.

Be who you are and say what you feel

because those who mind don't matter

and those who matter don't mind. ~ Dr. Seuss

Today, tell yourself these things... and believe them!

Published in Artful Blogging magazine! {Columbus Ohio Photographer, Northwestern Michigan Photographer}

2011-04-26T06:35:00.000-07:00

When Artful Blogging magazine first came out, I was immediately & deeply smitten! There were pages upon pages of beautiful photographs, art and poetic words to get lost in for hours. The magazine was food for my creative soul and the images were so moving and inspiring - such talented artists. So... when I received an email earlier this year from Stampington (who publishes Artful Blogging) saying they were interested in featuring my photography and writing, I was a little incredulous. How did they find me, I wondered. My work is simply the result of how I see and experience the world every single day. Yesterday, my complimentary copy came in the mail, and it was almost surreal to see my photographs and words in print! I was over the moon!! And I am elated and honored that several of my favorite portraits from my portrait photography business were selected by Stampington for the feature! And for those of you who know about my copilot Maggie May - you can imagine my glee that she was also going to be featured! Still pinching myself a little about it all! And feeling very grateful for the gift of how I see the world - as a beautiful, magical place.

Spring Blossoms {Central Ohio Photographer}

2011-04-19T14:29:00.000-07:00

In the heart of the world there is a place that holds the secret names of the rocks & the trees & all the children of the earth & around it gather women & men who hold it dear & each night they stand together to keep it safe for as long as it takes till morning comes & no matter what you have been told, this will always be so, in the heart of the world.
~Story People

Slow sweet delightful spring............

A Hello from Mom {Columbus Ohio Photographer}

2011-04-12T13:50:00.000-07:00

Do you believe in "signs", synchronicity or serendipity? You know, those ever so gentle knocks on the door of your heart from the great beyond/universe/God? We probably receive them more often than we realize... if only we were cognizant or in the moment enough. But when we become aware of those unmistakable moments, they are like rays of sunlight warming our cheek. The other day, I had a sign... a pretty BIG one in fact! It was a very ironic "Hello! I'm fine and I'm here with you!" from my mom.

Mom passed 16 years ago - much too young and too soon (58). During the viewing, children from her school laid origami cranes on her - and so, origami cranes always remind me of her. On the anniversary of her death, April 8th, I was getting beautiful at the hair salon. I was enjoying a wonderful massage/shampoo, and then returned to the stylist’s station. I sat down & looked next to me to find a woman sitting there making origami cranes! Wow! It's funny because I had been thinking I hadn't "felt" her in a while.

Thanks Mom, I love you, too!

After this little "message" from Mom, I decided to go through her old photo albums.

Mom as a baby with her mom, my grandmother.

Always some of my favorite photos of mom - angelic and mischievous at the same time!

Mom's dad, my grandpa. I think Mom got her joie de vivre and happy personality from him.

Mom was from a small town in Eastern Pennsylvania. When she turned 14, she went to the Jersey Shore for summer work with friends. They worked at ice cream shops and later at posh restaurants that saw the likes of Frank Sinatra.

Some of my favorite photos of mom are from her days at Kutztown State Teachers College (now known as Kutztown University). Up to this time she had always just been "Mom". Seeing these photographs was like looking at my mom as a real person. Mom is in the top photo on the left.

Mom was always a fun loving people person. Here she is bottom center.

I have always loved shots from the 1950s - the styles, the mood.
They were always posing & trying for a glamorous look!
Mom is top right under the umbrella!

Mom, top left - yes, with the beer can!
I always loved her smile... & she was always smiling!

Mom's graduation photo from Kutztown College.

Thank you to my photographer friend from across the pond, Claire, for inspiring me to go through Mom's scrapbooks. xo

xoxo Mom....

Cranes (Tsuru) for Japan... the bird of happiness

2011-03-22T14:01:00.000-07:00

Every day, we have reminders of just how fleeting and sacred life is. And every day, many of us go about our ways, being anywhere but in the moment. Life changed in the blink of an eye for thousands in Japan with the earthquake, then tsunami and then nuclear reactor and radiation scares. Life is sacred. Life is ephemeral - fleeting, like a spring woodland flower.

My lesson of how ones' world can be rocked happened almost 16 years ago (April 8, 1995) when my mother and best friend lost a brief battle with cancer. She had just turned 58. My mom was a very selfless and giving soul, and she instilled that in me from a young age. And so, when this disaster struck Japan, I felt I needed to do something - doing something is better than doing nothing. So I found beautiful origami paper, and I made cranes. (For a video tutorial on making origami cranes look HERE.)The act of folding the paper to makes the cranes became a meditation of sorts. Cranes symbolize healing and I felt that healing as I folded the paper. Cranes remind me of my mother. At her viewing, children came from her school (she was a teacher) and laid origami cranes on top of her. Before they closed the casket, I took one... to remember. So it seemed a good thing to do - make cranes for the healing of Japan. I took photographs of the cranes I made, and also made card sets. My favorite photograph, a red crane with a red flower, and the card set is offered in MY SHOP where all proceeds from the sale of these items will go to the RED CROSS relief effort in Japan.

How can you help? Here are some wonderful ways to lend YOUR hand.
Make a crane and send it HERE.
Donate to Save the Children.
Support UNICEF's relief efforts in Japan.
Make cranes (great school project) and send them HERE for a donation to SAVE THE CHILDREN.
For those who LOVE TO TEXT: People can also donate $10 by texting REDCROSS to 90999 to support disaster relief efforts in Japan and tsunami relief throughout the Pacific.

THE LEGEND OF THE CRANE:
Throughout history, birds have been viewed as animals of special value and have been ladened with meanings often derived from legends and stories that have survived over many generations. The Crane may conceivably be the oldest bird on earth; there is fossil proof that they existed over 60 million years ago. Greek and Roman myth tended to portray the dance of cranes as a love of joy and a celebration of life. The crane was usually considered to be a bird of Apollo, the sun god, who heralded in Spring and light. Throughout all of Asia, the crane has been a symbol of happiness and eternal youth. In Japanese, Chinese, and Korean tradition, cranes stand for good fortune and longevity because of its fabled life span of a thousand years. Existing in fifteen species which inhabit five continents, the most majestic is the Japanese Crane which stands almost five feet tall with its wing span of more than six feet and its white body capped with its red crown. The Japanese refer to the crane as “the bird of happiness;” the Chinese as “heavenly crane” believing they were symbols of wisdom. The powerful wings of the crane were believed to be able to convey souls up to paradise and to carry people to higher levels of spiritual enlightenment. Over time, the crane has also evolved as a favorite subject of the tradition of paper folding – origami. It is said that a thousand folded cranes, one for each year of its life, makes a wish come true.

Shortly after the end of World War II, the folded origami cranes also came to symbolize a hope for peace through Sadako Sasaki and her unforgettable story of perseverance. Diagnosed with leukemia after being exposed to radiation after the bombing of Hiroshima, Sadako became determined to fold 1,000 cranes in hopes of recovering good health, happiness, and a world of eternal peace. Although she completed 644 before she died, her classmates folded the remaining 356 to honor her. A statue was raised in the Hiroshima Peace Park to commemorate her strong spirit.

Today this practice of folding 1,000 cranes represents a form of healing and hope during challenging times. After the events of September 11, as a gesture of support and healing, thousands of cranes were folded and linked together in chains and sent to fire and police stations, museums, and churches throughout New York City.

“O flock of heavenly cranes
cover us with your wings.”

Interview by Etsy Team Columbus (ETC)!

2011-03-12T10:21:00.000-08:00

I was delighted to be interviewed by members of Etsy Team Columbus - a great group of women artists here in Central Ohio. This post appeared on their Blog, and I decided to cross post here!!

Etsy Team Columbus Blog Interview

1. Tell Us a bit about yourself. (Please include your Etsy Shop name, real name, how long you’ve been a member of the team and whatever you want us to know about you. You may also talk a little bit about your family here.)

Joy StClaire shop: http://www.joystclaire.etsy.com/ Website: http://www.ohjoyphotography.com/

I’ve been a member of ETC for not quite a year & have been active with my shop for a year this January. I live in NE Columbus with my dog Maggie May & 2 kitties. I’m happily single and am fortunate to have wonderful friends to fill in as family (my parents passed 16 years ago).

2. Apart from creating things, What do you do?

I’m a portrait photographer, although I guess I’m still creating there!! My other passion is gardening. When I was little, I turned my Barbie into a Gardener Barbie! I’m very into eco conscious garden design & plantings using native plants. I stay grounded by taking daily walks with Maggie & bird watching along the walk (I am a closet birder!). When I can, I take off to northern Michigan to recharge my creative & spiritual well (& take fine art photos). And foraging in thrift stores makes me happy, especially if I find a great vintage camera!

3. What first made you want to become an Artist?

Now I know I was born that way – seeing things a certain way. But it was about 5 years ago when I enrolled in a workshop at my church called “The Artist’s Way” – based on the book by Julia Cameron. When I was younger, I always thought I was “strange” because I had trouble fitting “in the box”. It was through that workshop I realized what I was calling “strange” was actually being creative. It was that year I started my portrait photography business. Alternating between portrait work and my fine art photography helps keep me fresh creatively.

4. Tell us about your Art/Craft.

I am a fine art photographer 9portraits & landscapes). Many years ago (a LONG time ago!) I shot film & focused on black and white work. I still have my 2 original Ricoh 35mm cameras. About 8 years ago, I switched to digital out of necessity.

5. Please describe your Creative Process.

In my digital work, I process my photographs using Adobe Lightroom and have created specific presets to give my work its signature tones and hues. I also use Photoshop Elements to apply textures to some of my work. Flower photograph and still life works are my favorites. I will often get a subject and look at it for a couple days. Then I try to see it in a very different way – to stretch myself beyond my initial ideas.

6. What Handmade possession(s) do you most cherish?

Gifts from other artists – painted stones, a 2011 calendar, jewelry, photographs. These are all things that remind me of the maker - & that is what holds the value for me. Each time I see the handmade, I think of the artist.

7. What advice would you give to artists that are new to Etsy Team Columbus? If you are a new member within the past year, What are you looking forward to being a new member of the team?

I’m a relatively new member to Etsy and ETC, so I’m not sure I have advice yet! But I’m looking forward to participating with others in ETC in learning and growing as an artist.

8. What are your Favorite features on Etsy? What new features would you like to see?

I’m really pleased that we can now search for items among our favorites. I’m still trying to get the hang of circles. I’m liking the activity feed. In some ways I feel Etsy is trying to become a bit like Facebook & I would like to see them focus more on business/selling.

9. How do you promote your work? (You don’t have to go into super detail but please be specific.)

I try to blog as much as I can – when I have a new product or sale I blog about it. My blog is also “networked” on FB so when I post to my blog, it automatically goes to my personal & to my Business FB pages. I also “tweet” (still trying to get the hang of that) about treasuries I’m in, sales, portrait promos and I try to do the Follow Friday on Twitter. I have a fan page on FB and through google analytics, it seems I get quite a bit of traffic to my Etsy through my Facebook business page. I send emails out to friends/aquaintenances about sales or news I’d like to share.

10. Where can we find you on the web? (Please include your Etsy website, a personal site if you have one, your Facebook/MySpace page and/or blog. Only include the sites you want to share with the general public.)

You can find me on the web in these places:

ETSY: http://www.joystclaire.etsy.com/

WEBSITE: http://www.ohjoyphotography.com/

BLOG: http://www.joystclaire.blogspot.com/

FB: http:///www.facebook.com/ohjoyphotography1

Twitter: @joystclaire

11. In ten years where would you like to be artistically and personally.

Wow – this is going to sound like a bio at the end of a book! Lol! But I believe in living with intention – picture it & make it so!

Joy StClaire works out of her studio in a rustic cottage in Northwestern Michigan near the Lake Michigan shoreline. She is thrilled over the recent opening of her natural light portrait & fine art studio, and has begun offering classes in fine art & portrait photography. Visit her at art shows nationwide. She lives with her husband and 3 dogs in the log and stone home they designed together.

Collaboration with Polarity on Etsy {Columbus Ohio Fine Art Photographer}

2011-03-03T06:48:00.000-08:00

For weeks, I have been keeping this under wraps & I can finally make the announcement! (I am such a good secret keeper!) I'm delighted to have entered into a collaboration with the fabulous Polarity! Since I first saw her picture lockets, I have been smitten! Her lockets are recycled steel auto parts, and include a set of 3 interchangeable tops. So fresh and clever & eco chic! To see what we came up with & for more info, STOP IN HERE.

In her own words about her shop and lockets:

Polarity Lockets™ are the original magnetic, interchangeable jewelry! I weld, with love and propane, these adorable little lockets from a recycled steel auto part that with the help of a strong little magnet turns one piece of jewelry into many! Doing more with less is something I am absolutely committed to!

I collaborate with the most amazing and talented artists to bring you the most gorgeous and unique jewelry you will find anywhere.

I am a mad scientist mom living life with polarity (the presence or manifestation of two opposite or contrasting principles or tendencies) at the beautiful Jersey shore!

I seek to repurpose sustainable materials in unique and beautiful ways and leave the lightest possible footprint in my wake. The polarity locket is made from a used steel auto part that has been given new life as a piece of jewelry that with the help of a very strong magnet and some beautiful lids can turn one piece of jewelry into several- the idea of doing more with less is something I am absolutely committed to embracing in all facets of my work and life!

Steel's distinctive environmental fingerprint has many advantages. More than half of the steel we see around us has already been recycled from scrap. This valuable material from old buildings, bridges etc. is a powerful energy and resource saver. It takes at least 60% less energy to produce steel from scrap than it does from iron ore. Waste disposal problems are lessened because used steel can be recycled over and over and its magnetic properties make it easier to separate in the waste stream.

A ROMANTIC AFTERNOON SET

BEACH SET

DIVA DOGS SET

A Visit to the Aveda Cosmetology School {Columbus, Ohio Photographer}

2011-02-22T06:18:00.000-08:00

Be daring, be different, be impractical; be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary.
-Cecil Beaton

Something's happening here.... I hit a "milestone" this year, & I suddenly feel as if I have come up out of an underground bunker - a safe haven of sorts. My mindset has always been "life is short" & "grab the bull by the horns", but somehow this past year even that took on a new intensity. I have been refocusing & re-evaluating. Instead of turning right, I go left. And so, after many years of going to a regular hair salon & having a regular experience, I decided to go to the Aveda School on N. High Street in the Ohio State University district. A couple weeks ago was my third visit, and I'm hooked!
Apprehensive at first (I mean it's MY HAIR for cripes sake!), I decided to just go with it & get a trim. Really pleasantly surprised! Since that turned out well, I went back for low lights - REALLY LOVED them! Oh, and even better that being pleased with the results... you get either a neck and shoulder massage or a mini facial each time you go! Their mantra is "Beauty on a budget." Well, you get a little more than just beauty on a budget! Before anything is done, a supervisor consults with the student on what will be done, stops by to check mid visit and again stops by at the end to review the work done. My uncertainties were allayed. I felt I was in good hands - literally!

I leave the Aveda school energized - and not just from the pampering. During my last visits, I was paired with Sharanda and Gendala, who do great work. The setting of the "school" environment is filled with passion and energy. I remember when I was in college, we were all so full of energy, and the passion of getting out into the world to make our mark. These students are so full of love of what they are doing and open to learning - following their bliss. That openness is what I really love - so many possibilities, so much to learn, so much to try. And that meshes so well with where I have found myself now... coming out of that underground bunker of the common & ordinary. There are so many possibilities, so many things to try and so much to still do & learn... & really so little time. I'm sure some of this urgency is from the fact that my sweet mom passed away so young at the age of 58 and I'm acutely feeling just how young she was.

So... be daring, be different, be impractical & not a slave to the ordinary!

On my last Aveda visit, I took along my camera to document the experience!

Of Winter and Robins {Columbus Ohio Fine Art Photographer}

2011-01-27T09:01:00.000-08:00

It must be my Eastern European roots... I love winter! Give me cool summers and winter snow, and I'm a happy girl. Our Central Ohio winter has been beautiful, if especially cold. There has been snow on the ground since just after Thanksgiving. I would much rather have beautiful white snow on the ground (especially on gray days) instead of our usual gray mucky ground. Even my dog Maggie is friskier and more energetic in the winter weather!

But... this winter, there are robins... lots and lots and lots of robins. I think they moved south from even snowier winter lands, only to find it not so great here either. Some birders say this influx of robins is partially a result of the non native shrub honeysuckle which has become a weed but provides an abundant winter food source. But now, the berries are stripped on the honeysuckle, holly and crabapples. What is a robin to do? And there are still 4 good weeks of winter left.

The past week, we have had about 5 inches of snow on the ground and temperatures dipped close to zero at night with highs around 10. One morning I looked out my window and saw a robin on one of my feeders looking for anything to eat. I have never seen a robin go to a feeder. The local outdoor bird shop advised putting out sunflower chips and chopped up raisins or dried fruit. I tried the sunflower chips first. They were a huge hit! I placed them on my patio right outside my door as Robin seemed not to mind the close proximity, but the other birds stayed away. Next I tried the chopped fruit - another success. My little robin now shows up daily, and I will keep putting food out for him as long as needed. I waken to the beautiful sound of his song, and am reminded that spring really is not that far away.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! No Resolutions for Moi... But I do have a WORD!

2010-12-29T06:53:00.000-08:00

The heck with New Year's Resolutions - they're like saying I'm going to drive to Las Vegas ... but with no GPS or map. I have always needed to create a way to focus my thoughts & energies, otherwise I just bounce from shiny thing to shiny thing! I need a plan... I need, a WORD! This New Year, I will have a theme or word. It will be my north star & soul's compass guiding me to how I want to live this year, where I want to go & who I want to be.

I very much like entering the new year this way. Not just a new beginning, but a new attitude thought & way of being. So... decide on a word. It might help you choose to look up the exact meaning. Then WRITE IT DOWN! Post it where you will see it everyday. Move it often to keep it fresh in your mind. Say it each day, as a meditation or a way to focus. Embody it, embrace it, live it! Make this new year the beginning of living a certain way, of nurturing a certain attitude or thought. This word will be the GPS to where you will go & what you will be this year! I'm very excited & love the idea! Need some words to get you started?

Abundant Blessing Clarity Creative Dream Empowered Faith Grateful Happiness Improve Joy Karma Learn Manifest Nurture Open Prosperity Quiet Renew Simplicity Transcend Tranquil Unfolding Vibrant Wellness Xploration ;) Youthful Zen

My words? I had to pick 2 as they just seemed to go together!

INSPIRED
— adj
1. aroused or guided by or as if aroused or guided by divine inspiration
–adjective
1. aroused, animated, or imbued with the spirit to do something, by or as if by supernatural or divine influence: an inspired poet.

PROSPERITY
–noun, plural -ties.
1. a successful, flourishing, or thriving condition, esp. in financial respects; good fortune.

Are certain words swirling around in your mind? What do you want this year to be, to bring? What is your word?

We lay there & looked up at the night sky
& she told me about stars called blue squares
& red swirls & I told her I'd never heard of them.

Of course not, she said
the really important stuff they never tell you.
You have to imagine it on your own.
~Story People

Happy 2011!

Fog {Columbus Ohio Fine Art Photographer}

2010-12-08T14:50:00.000-08:00

WE had a very dense and magical fog this November. Upon wakening and seeing the magical world outside the window, I grabbed my camera to capture what I could. I started at the metropark just a mile away, Blendon Woods. This is my usual haunt on foggy days. But the fog was so dense that I wondered if it was still heavy into the city. I traveled to Franklin Park Conservatory in the heart of Columbus, Ohio. The fog was still hanging in the landscape for some moody shots there. These are by far some of my favorite shots. All photographs were processed in Lightroom using Joyful Lightroom Presets (for jpg) & can be found in the sidebar. I thought it only fitting to end the post with foggy poems! Enjoy!

Most of the photographs featured here are available in MY SHOP!

FOG
The fog comes
on little cat feet.

It sits looking
over harbor & city
on silent haunches
& then moves on.
~ Carl Sandburg

DECEMBER'S MYSTIC MOON
Majestic Oaks in silent solitaire
and Midnight's cold December air,
Rolling hills beneath Heaven's hem of grayish blue
Crowns the earth embraced by northern lights, and
gentle winter's mystic moon.
An unclothed scent of cedar's burnt, and
caressing valleys below,
Inspires Nature's misty gown of rising fog.
~ J Gregory PT Evans

It’s a mysterious morning in the wood as the fogs settled in
Fog dances with the wind through the trees twirling
A hazy white blanket diffusing scattering the light
Everything looks so different tricking your sight
The sun rays pours down breaking through the trees canopy
Linear streaks of light highlighting objects we see
Mysterious fog plays with the light as things it conceals
So when you are only near objects magically reappear
Strange shaped shadows jump out from the teasing mist
And twigs and objects appear that at first you did miss
The gloomy cold fog tries hard to hide the light of the new day
But the darkness and mystery it brings is not there to stay
The wind helps the sun to blow the mist from our sight
And wind sun versus the fog start their regular teasing fight
As normal the fog slowly loses, thins to a light haze in the air
Going patchy with little dancing wisps here and there
The light and the wind always it wins afterall
But the fog would just quickly disappear from us all
But look closely he left a present from his newly departed mist
On foliage are water jewel droplets where it gently kissed
~ Unknown

Holiday Open House!

2010-12-03T05:44:00.000-08:00

I'm a little behind (so very busy with clients & my first art show), but... I'm having a Holiday Open House Sunday December 12th from 1PM-3Pm - ish!It's also a book exchange, so bring a book(s) & take a book(s). Munchies provided! Stop in & say hello!

**** Take advantage of the COUPON CODE in my SHOP!! Enter WINTERBLISS during the checkout process for 25% off your order!!

FREE Holiday Card Templates (Columbus Ohio Photograher)

2010-12-02T10:04:00.001-08:00

Well, I had hoped to get to this MUCH sooner than December & hope it's not too late! Where has this year gone?! This season has been a very good one (thank you so much to my great clients!), & I have been just swamped with portrait sessions from September through now. But, I wanted to get a couple FREE holiday Card templates out there. These are 5x7 size cards and can be used with SQUARE CROPPED photos.I hope you enjoy!! Find the download link HERE.

30.30 ~ Thankful for all (30 Days of Gratitude)

2010-11-30T15:28:00.001-08:00

30.30 ~ Thankful for all, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

Thankful for the much needed rain today, for gingerale & ginger cookies (tummy flu), for photo projects that renew creativity, for beginnings & endings that bring beginnings, beautiful colors & diversity, friends (cyber & everyday), flowers, books, pets, seasons... so much to give thanks for!

Finishing 30 Days of Gratitude... with a happy heart!

29.30~smiles

2010-11-29T15:56:00.001-08:00

29.30~smiles, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

Thankful for the people who smile back...........

30 Days of Gratitude Project

28.30 ~ Church (30 Days of Gratitude)

2010-11-28T16:49:00.001-08:00

28.30 ~ church, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

I hadn't made it to church the past couple Sundays.... portrait sessions & then my art show. Going again this morning, I felt renewed & recharged. The energy & love & acceptance is amazing. And I am so thankful for finding such a welcoming & spiritual sanctuary.

30 Days of Gratitude Project

27.30~ Imagination

2010-11-27T12:38:00.001-08:00

27.30~ Imagination, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

Thankful for magic & imagination... in the world & in our hearts.

30 Days of Gratitude Project

26.30~ Recipes & Pretty Food

2010-11-26T15:34:00.001-08:00

26.30~ Recipes & Pretty Food, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

Part of my Thanksgiving dinner, but I had to play with my food, first! Cranberries, roses... & brussel sprouts? Yep! And they are SOOOOO good ROASTED! So today I'm thankful for the guidance of recipes & healthy, delicious food. For the recipe click HERE.

25.30 ~ Thankful Heart

2010-11-25T06:49:00.001-08:00

25.30 ~ Thankful Heart, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!

I know some people who have so much, but don't see it. They are fixated on what they don't have. They don't have a thankful heart. On this day especially I am thankful for being able to appreciate the small things - because in the long run, they are what matters - they are everyday. I'm thankful for all those things in my life, beautiful sunsets, everyday walks with my dog, watching a leaf fall to the ground, having food on my plate, my friends, a roof over my head. I hope you have many blessing to count today & everyday!

30 Days of Gratitude Project

Processed in Lightroom using Joyful Presets.

Black Friday Cyber Monday Sale!

2010-11-24T10:07:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!! I have so much to be thankful for & hope you do as well!

We know what happens after Thanksgiving - a little bit of a frenzy of checking off our gift list. I'm having a great 50% off sale on prints IN MY SHOP for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday & Cyber Monday. Cards and Calendars are on sale, too! Stop by - there are NO CROWDS to fight!!

24.30 ~ Franklin Park Conservatory

2010-11-24T08:10:00.001-08:00

24.30 ~ Franklin Park Conservatory, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

The other morning we had a very dense fog. I grabbed my camra & went to my usual park to shoot in fog... then I wondered if there would still be fog in the city. I drove down to Franklin Park Conservatory. There was just enough fog still to give a beautiful mood. I'm so glad we have such a beautiful & historic conservatory, & wonderful support for it.

30 Days of Gratitude Project

Processed with Joyful Lightroom Presets.

23.30~Color

2010-11-23T10:45:00.001-08:00

23.30~Color , originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

Thankful that nature gives us such bright, bold, beautiful color in the gray days of November.

30 Days of Gratitude project

Joyful Lightroom Presets.

22.30 ~ Signs, Sings Everywhere a Sign

2010-11-23T06:59:00.001-08:00

22.30 ~ Signs, Sings Everywhere a Sign, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

There is always a sign... both in the world at large, & in our hearts/intuition... guiding us on our way. Sometimes I need to remember to stop & look!

30 Days of Gratitude Project

21.30 ~ First Art Show!

2010-11-22T16:54:00.001-08:00

21.30 ~ First Art Show!, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

Still sinking in that I did my first Art Show! It was a short 1 day event, but I did realy well & didn't have much to take home! Thankful for the friends who encouraged me & supported me in this endeavor!

30 Days of Gratitude Project

20.30 ~ a Place to Walk

2010-11-22T16:42:00.001-08:00

20.30 ~ a Place to Walk, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

Grateful that in this metropolitan area of 1 million plus people, I have a wonderful green space & path to walk Maggie.... right out my own back door. And I was so pleased for the beautiful foggy morning!!

Joyful Lightroom Presets

19.30~Art & Artists & Community

2010-11-19T12:09:00.001-08:00

19.30~Art & Artists & Community, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

I'm thankful for creativity & art in all its forms. And so very thankful for the support & inspiration of creative communities & forums & Flickr! Getting ready for my first Art Show this Sunday! And excited... well & a bit overwhelmed!

18.30~ Vegetables & Farmers

2010-11-18T15:59:00.001-08:00

18.30~ Vegetables & Farmers, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

Today I've been thinking of my grandpa - he was a naturalist & organic farmer & I learned so much from him. I'm thankful for home grown vegetables & small or local farms - even better if organic! And I'm thankful for chocolately chocolate brownies from Omega Bakery in the North Market. I would have photographed it, but I ate it!

17.30~ Old Photos & Pierogis

2010-11-17T15:49:00.001-08:00

17.30~ Old Photos & Pierogis, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

My Mom & Dad.

I’m thankful for my heritage, memories & photos to Our house was full of laughter, singing & love - & lots of pierogis, kielbasa & potato pancakes keep it all fresh.

The cookbook was given to me by my grandma in 1987!

30.16~ Trees

2010-11-16T15:25:00.001-08:00

30.16~ Trees, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

Trees…
They give so much & take so little…
Shade, home for critters & birds, nutrients from leaves, oh & the scrunching thorugh the leaves in the fall, fruits, beauty, a nice place to walk…

Thank you lesbrumes & ag artstudio for your beautiful textures.

15.30~ Stars

2010-11-16T14:48:00.001-08:00

15.30~ Stars, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

OK - these aren't stars! But they're pretty!

This morning I got up extra early (for me -5AM) to assist a photographer friend with an architectural shoot. I walked Mags in the brisk morning air & tilted my head back to see the stars. The Big Dipper, Orion... It reminded me of all those nights with my grandfather - our heads tipped back while he told me about the constellations & the universe. It was magic! And the stars remind me of my mom... & one winter night with our heads tipped back looking at them together. I always think of her when I look up at a starry sky...

14.30~ A Day Off

2010-11-16T08:44:00.001-08:00

14.30~ A Day Off, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

I had a much needed day off today - finally! I ended the day at my favorite haunt of late - the Bio Reserve in Granville. A regal 6 point buck kept crossing paths with Mags & me - he just strolled by! There were all sorts of fabulous birds foraging & calling. The day was a balm to my soul!

13.30~Dreams

2010-11-16T07:11:00.001-08:00

13.30~Dreams, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

I'm so thankful I have dreams that keep me motivated, that lift my spirits & help me aspire to wonderful things & places.

Overcome the notion that you must be regular. It robs you of the chance to become extraordinary. ~Uta Hagen

12.30 Books

2010-11-16T06:21:00.001-08:00

12.30 Books, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

Books - what would we do without them? I'm thankful for books story books, handbooks, fiction, research... & all the places they take us & all they teach.

I'm working the Apple project into this one! lol!

Processed with Joyful Lightroom Presets. Info is HERE.

11.30~ Fresh Water

2010-11-15T12:59:00.001-08:00

11.30~ Fresh Water, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

I was walking at the reservoir tonight (as always!) and have been noticing the water level continuing to go down. This is the lowest I have ever seen it. The city has grown in population, but we have not established a new water source. I am thankful for the water that comes from my tap, for the watersheds & their preservation and the rain from the skies.

gratitude 10.30~ Indian Summer

2010-11-15T12:58:00.001-08:00

gratitude 10.30~ Indian Summer, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

I've been rushing around the past couple days, but this evening I consciously slowed my pace while walking Mags. We have had the most wonderful Indian Summer here in Central Ohio.... upper 60s & sunny? In mid November? Yes, I'll take it! And along with the gorgeous weather, we have had some of the most beautiful sunsets I've seen in a while. Tonight's sunset was sublime! And the reflection on the reservoir was like molten lava.

9.30~ Just thankful for so much

2010-11-15T12:55:00.001-08:00

9.30~ Just thankful for so much, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

It was a busy day & I didn't have much time to reflect on gratitudes. My fridge is about dead, my computer is on it's last legs & I still have a big vet bill. But this is supposed to be a gratitude, right?!

Well, tonight as I was walking Maggie & we were doing 2.5 - 3 miles instead of the .5 mile this summer, I was jubilant. I am thankful for my incredible vet who did her best to save Maggie. The vet gave me back my energetic Maggie girl who wants to walk a brisk 3 miles (plus 1-2 miles in the AM!). I am thankful that with the difficult economy, I am still in business doing what I love. I'm so thankful for food on my table, for insurance & a good doctor, & for a roof over my head. I'm really thankful that while I live very simply, my big splurge is a pedicure... & it makes me feel so good - like I won the lottery! I feel rich beyond measure...

8.30 ~ I am thankful for today

2010-11-15T12:53:00.001-08:00

8.30 ~ I am thankful for today, originally uploaded by *ojoyous1*.

I am grateful simply for today, for this moment. I try to not dwell in the past & to not get ahead of myself, but to be here, today & enjoy life.

Marian and Maximus {Columbus Ohio Pet Photographer}

2010-11-09T08:18:00.000-08:00

I love what I do and feel so blessed to have such diverse and wonderful clients! Once in a while, a client "finds" me and I just know it was meant to be!

Synchronicity:
the coincidental occurrence of events and especially psychic events (as similar thoughts in widely separated persons or a mental image of an unexpected event before it happens) that seem related but are not explained by conventional mechanisms of causality —used especially in the psychology of C. G. Jung

Such is the case of Marian and Maximus! Marian had a dream about 5 Rottweilers... & then found my website and a portrait of - yep, 5 Rottweilers! I don't really believe in coincidence - I believe that things are meant to be in those times!! We had a wonderful portrait session at Blendon Woods and were able to take advantage of some of the final beautiful autumn days! Maximus was a real sweetie! Enjoy your preview Marian!

30 Days of Gratitude 2010/ gratitude 7/ Acceptance

2010-11-09T06:13:00.000-08:00

It took a while to get here... but today I am thankful for being fine with myself/who I am & comfortable in my own skin. In a world of mothers & couples I'm happy & content as a childless single woman. My aunt once told me while going through my divorce that what she wanted for me, was to be happy on a Friday night keeping company with a good book or my knitting. I'm happy to say I have arrived! The abundance of love in my heart gets showered upon my dog Maggie may, my friends & clients children! We all have different paths, roles & lives... & I'm pretty happy with my path and role in life! Diversity is beautiful & makes life richer.

30 Days of Gratitude 2010/ gratitude 6/ Nature

2010-11-09T06:09:00.000-08:00

Every day I walk in nature/creation I marvel at the beauty, simplicity, complexity and interconnectedness of life... & I feel grounded & connected to my Creator.

30 Days of Gratitude 2010/ Good Friends

2010-11-09T05:58:00.001-08:00

I count my friends as the most wonderful of blessings. My friends are the family I got to choose.

Life is better when shared! Yesterday was the most wonderful day... It started with having Vietnamese soup with a friend (it has become "our thing") and then we went to rent a truck so I could FINALLY get a sofa! I haven't had a sofa in 10 years - just the love seat from my defunct marriage that I sold 2 months ago. My friend went with me & it is always a fun adventure with him! At the store (World Market) I realized I had left a coupon in my car. A woman behind us heard us talking & had a coupon - 25% off - sweet! We got the sofa to my place & then a very kind gas company man saw us & helped us get the box into my condo! My annulment went through this year & it means soooo much to now have my own little sofa that is just mine (& ready for someone new to sit on with me!). The day was so much more perfect because my friend shared it with me!!

30 Days of Gratitude 2010/ Perspective

2010-11-05T07:02:00.001-07:00

I have learned that sometimes you need to lie on your stomach & change your perspective to get a beautiful shot - one you couldn't have even envisioned while on a different plane or line of sight. And I have discovered it is true in life as well - sometimes you need to slow down & consciously be "in the moment" to see things in a more beautiful way. Sometimes you need to stop, listen or consider a different angle to gain clarity.

30 Days of Gratitude 2010/ Maggie May

2010-11-04T06:44:00.001-07:00

Maggie May came into my life 8 1/2 years ago and I thank God for her every day. We rescued each other, & together learned to trust, love & have confidence. She is my family - it's just Maggie & me, and I couldn't have asked for a better companion! This past year, Maggie became acutely ill with pancreatitis. It was a slow road to recovery, but she made it. I look upon each of these extra days we have as a gift! Trail buddy, travel companion & confidante - she is the best!

30 Days of Gratitude 2010/ Open Doors

2010-11-04T06:36:00.001-07:00

I am developing the patience to wait for a door to open instead of trying to force my way through! And I am thankful for doors that open where I did not expect them to... and for being open to where life might lead me.

Joyful Lightroom Presets!!

2010-11-01T17:35:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Lightroom! For me, it is much more intuitive than Photoshop. In Photoshop, there are actions. In Lightroom, there are presets. Both perform similar functions - a means of processing a photograph with one click (& then some adjustments). Most presets for Lightroom are for photographers who shoot in RAW. Sometimes I shoot RAW, but most of the time I shoot jpeg (space constraints on my computer & storage). Over the past months, I've had inquiries about my processing and my "signature" tones. So, I've decided to release the Lightroom presets I've developed to get "That Look". These presets are for those who shoot in jpeg. They will NOT look the same if applied to RAW files. Don't have Lightroom? Well download a FREE TRIAL & check it out for 30 days!

Joyful Lightroom Presets - a set of 20 presets for editing jpeg files in Adobe Lightroom. Instructions for installing the presets are included. Want to try a couple first? Click HERE to download 2 FREE presets!

The rose garden shots were taken on an overcast day. I was shooting aperture priority at 5.6 and had white balance set to auto.

The dinosaur shots were taken at 10AM on a clear autumn day. The sun was at about a 45 degree angle to the boys right. I was shooting aperture priority (5.6) with white balance at auto.

The painter shots were taken on an overcast day around noon. I was shooting aperture priority (5.6) with white balance at auto.
These shots were taken around 11AM. The boy was backlit and the sunlight was diffused by tree branches and leaves. I shot aperture priority (5.6) with white balance at auto.

To purchase JOYFUL LIGHTROOM PRESETS, look for the link in the sidebar to the right! Enjoy your free presets!

30 Days of Gratitude 2010/ Change

2010-11-01T17:26:00.000-07:00

The 30 Days of Gratitude project has now become an annual tradition - both for myslef & in the flickr group I started 3 years ago. One day of Giving Thanks is just not enough! By focusing on all the good in my life and around me, I become centered, happier and more positive. It is a great way to go into the holiday season and close a year.

"If the only prayer you ever said was "Thank You", that would be enough.

Gratitude 1
I am thankful for change - both seasons in nature and times in my life. The changes make me so aware of how fleeting things are - how wonderful & beautiful ... & I am thankful.

Maggie and Gracie {Central Ohio Dog Photographer}

2010-10-29T07:08:00.000-07:00

The sun was just rising over the fields as I left Columbus for Fredericktown and a pet portrait session. Maggie and Gracie's owner (mom) had decided on a beautiful spot at the Kokosing Dam for the session. The girls were such sweeties - just a few shots from that glorious morning!

Strangers 27-31 {31 Strangers in 31 Days}

2010-10-15T07:15:00.000-07:00

This is the final post for the 31 Strangers in 31 Days Project. During this project, I met such a wonderful variety of people, & each one left their mark on me. This project helped open my eyes to new things around me, and it helped me get out of my comfort zone. I found myself opening up more & more as the project went on. Columbus is a large city & it seems everyone goes about their day quickly & often without connecting with others. And I must say, I was starting to be guilty of that myself. By doing this project, I made eye contact and connections with people again. And it leaves a really great feeling. I found myself smiling inside & out after each Stranger connection. I felt open to the world, others & possibilities. I think I will do this project again! It is fitting that my final stranger shots were at Hoover Reservoir on a beautiful autumn evening. I walk Maggie there most days & it is a place I love so much. So, now on to the final Strangers.

Meet Leo, Stranger 27.
He has always been single and lost his German Shepard in the past year. He walks at Hoover every day and enjoys seeing & meeting people while he walks.

Stranger 28 ~ Chris.

Chris was taking a bike ride and stopped to snap some quick shots of the dam and reservoir. He said the water level is the lowest level he has ever seen, but hadn't been there in a couple years.

Stranger 29 ~ Morris

Morris was taking advantage of the "golden hour" of light while photographing the scenery. He stopped for a moment for me to photograph him, but then went back to his shooting.

And Strangers 30 & 31 ~ Donna and Steve

Donna and Steve let me get a quick shot, and then we talked about the Strangers Project. The were the perfect strangers to finish the project with! We talked about the differences between men & women in being photographed. Me were always game, while women always seemed to be concerned with their appearance! We talked about how some people were so open to making new connections & friendships and how others were so closed. And we thought of ways to keep the strangers project going - Seasons of Strangers, etc!

So for now, good bye to the Strangers project. I am getting ready for the 30 Days of Gratitude Project to start November 1st. Stay tuned for more on that!

And so Maggie & I finished our walk at the dam on this beautiful autumn day.....

Stranger 26 ~ Brad

2010-10-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

Disk golf. I don't play, but I enjoy watching, & hearing the clink as the disc hits its mark in the mesh net. I met Brad - Stranger 26 while walking past a disc golf course. Brad took a moment to give Maggie some love & then moved on to the next hole.

Stranger 25 ~ Michael

2010-10-08T06:53:00.000-07:00

While in Northern Michigan, I met up with a photographer friend, Ken Scott, to do some shooting on the Elberta Pier during moonrise. I thought it would be a great opportunity to capture some more strangers for my 31 Strangers in 31 Days Project. I have to say, Michael - Stranger 25 was one of my favorites! Just look at that smile & mischief in those eyes! I wanted to adopt him as my dad!

Michael (ironically my real dad's name!) has been retired for 14 years from consumers Power Company, and does some consulting work. We talked about nature, fish, life and the Nature Conservancies in the area. He told me how the power company would donate land to the conservancies when it was no longer of use to them - a good thing as one of my favorite places to hike is Arcadia Bluffs CS Mott Preserve (land that was donated). All in all, it was a wonderful evening & a fabulous trip north!

Stranger 24 ~ Rick

2010-10-07T07:16:00.001-07:00

Rick was on the Elberta Pier fishing for Coho Salmon with 2 friends. They were doing some male bonding & I think the fishing was secondary! Although from the look of the nets they were carrying, they looked pretty optimistic! Rick & friends were just hanging out & I sensed they wanted to experience to serenity of fishing.... so I left to find another stranger!

Stranger 23 ~ Randy

2010-10-07T06:22:00.001-07:00

My 31 Strangers in 31 Days Project went to Michigan with me, where I found some interesting strangers. One evening I met up with a fellow photographer Ken Scott (Ken Scott Photography ), and we went shooting on the Elberta Pier. It was a nice evening & I was able to photograph 3 more strangers!

Randy (Stranger 23) was up with friends hoping to catch some Coho Salmon... but they weren't running in numbers at the time. He said he'd heard it wasn't going to be a good year for catching Coho. The fish were running late and just hanging around the entry to the bay. No Coho for Randy, but He was going back to town for some prime rib with friends!

Featured!

2010-09-27T09:08:00.000-07:00

I'm delighted to be featured on Papernstitch in an online exhibit! This juried exhibit will run from September 27, 2010 through October 24, 2010. I would love if your could pass the word along and stop over! Find my featured space HERE. Happy Autumn!

31 Strangers Project Goes to Northwestern Michigan!

2010-09-26T07:16:00.000-07:00

Last week, I took 3 days off from my crazy busy schedule (which will just keep getting crazier until year's end) for some R&R in Northern Michigan. Of course Maggie came along, & so did the 31 Strangers in 31 Days Project! There are many reasons I'm drawn back to Michigan (in fact it feels like my home more than my "real" home), the landscape is incredible & the perfect inspiration for an artistic soul and the people you meet here are just the best!

So, on my first day north, I wandered up to one of my favorite towns - Empire, Michigan. I was on my way to stop in at Joe's Friendly Tavern to grab lunch to take to Empire Beach. I saw this interesting little camper on the street & just knew the owners had to be in The Friendly.... & they were! Meet Strangers 20 & 21: PJ & Roger. They were more than happy to show off their Teardrop Camper. They have owned the little camper for 4 years, after tiring of doing the tent thing.The couple, from Springfield, Illinois had been camping in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and were returning home. I now want a Teardrop Camper! This little thing had everything you could imagine - a queen bed, tons of storage (for something so small) and a camping kitchen on the rear complete with a small sink and stove top! And... the camper charges while rolling on down the road!

While oohing & aahing over the camper, Stranger #22 came along! Joseph had stopped by the Post Office and saw PJ giving a tour and was drawn in! He had the most fabulous blue mirror sunglasses I've seen & of course I had to do a self portrait with them! Roger got in on the mirror portrait action, too!

And after saying my goodbyes, I continued to Empire Beach to watch the waves and have my lunch!

Stranger 19 ~ John

2010-09-19T17:03:00.000-07:00

The North Market always seems to draw a very eclectic crowd - both in vendors & visitors. There is a certain mood/feel that I love about the place- & apparently so do a lot of other people! There are farmers markets here on the weekends (in season) & small art fairs... & of course musicians. I have never seem more than 1 at a time - perhaps there is an unspoken agreement or unspoken schedule they adhere to. The day I was there, John was serenading the lunch crowd. What really drew me to him, other than his great voice, was his big smile. He was quite happy to take part in the 31 Strangers in 31 Days project! And as I was leaving, he thanked me for maybe giving him a bit more exposure!

When I started this project 19 days ago, I wasn't sure I would be able to finish it. Now I don't really want it to end!