And the crashes of heaven, for a sinner like me,
The arms of the ocean deliver me.
ASHLEY, COMMANDING OFFICER.
I cannot begin to describe to you the whirlwind my life has been on for the past few weeks/days. If I'm not working, I'm taking pictures...of anybody and anything. I'm studying. I'm researching. It's been crazy. I'm always on. Always ready and eager to learn. Always playing, always thinking. How can I be a better nurse? How can I be a better wife? A better hobbyist/photographer? A nicer person? A more diverse person? I better member of my family? A better friend? A better homemaker? More enthusiastic about life generally?
Yesterday, I got a crazy opportunity. Let me tell you more.
My Evening as a "Professional" Photographer.
A few days ago a professional photographer (who's work and devotion to her craft I admire greatly) asked if I would like to shadow her on a shoot in my area on Saturday. Immediately my reaction was "YES, you just made my life." I mean she's international, featured on several magazines, contracted for large events and was my personal wedding photographer. Now, you know I love someone if I chose for them to capture MY most personal, joyous and intimate moments. I called Tomato and he literally thought I was crying. He thought the dog died or something...whoops.
Anyway, yesterday came. I got to the wedding and got more than I had originally bargained for. I ended up helping shoot. I learned more in one evening then I have learned over the past few months. To say that I know more about histograms (thanks Chris!), correct exposure, flash settings, aperture settings and even tricks to get young kids to smile...is great. I mean, I have a long way to go...but I'm only 24. I'm taking things one step at a time and don't claim to know everything. There is still so much left to learn. One day, I'll find and recognize my own style, but for now...I just want to learn from the best.
By the end of the night, this is how I felt: exhausted and like I was beat by a 2x4. So much work and diligence is put into photojournalistic photography. So much art, so many smiles, so many gigs of memory, so many clicks of the camera, the right light settings, the right composition, so much love...
Trust me when I say, a good camera doesn't make you a good photographer. Though exhausted I was, I felt more rejuvenated than I have in quite some time. I've got to say, the experience probably rates in the top 10 greatest experiences of my life so far.
Valerie is probably getting tired of me thanking her so much. But, truly, there are no words.
..and although maybe 5 (or less) out of my bagillion pictures may be the quality that is being looked for, I felt accomplished and freshly educated. There's nothing like hearing a professional say, "I couldn't have gotten that shot better myself." ...and getting to hold and even shoot with a Mark II and III doesn't hurt either.
Seek support, always keep learning. Follow your heart. Always. Always, always follow your heart. I'm so thankful to God for all that he's blessed me with.
And because you should: ValerieSchoolingPhotography
Back to My Real Life.
I'm back to work tomorrow. Here are a few shots I took recently...not at above wedding of course...but prior.
TOMATO, THE HUBS.
I know that you all are probably SICK of me telling you how much I adore and love my husband. HOWEVER, he is truly one of the best people on the face of this planet.
It's so awesome to know him, much less be MARRIED to him.
I could have dreamt up a more supportive husband, who is so understanding of dreams and goals and whims. Like I was telling Valerie last night..."He would literally sell his left kidney to encourage and support even my wildest and craziest goal." I think more than anybody, he understands my need for something "more"...if you will.
He just left to go back to NC. It was the first time in a long time I cried watching him go. You'd think I'd be used to it by now. However, we remain behind our decision for me to remain home. It has done so much for our relationship and our relationship with our families.
The rest of the girls out there, you should be jealous of me. I'm for realz.
ZERO, THE DRAGON.
Zero turned three today. How crazy is that? It seems like yesterday that he was just a squabbling, closed eyed puppy who crapped himself. Now, he's the best friend and confidant you could ask for.
When Tomato isn't home, he truly is the "man of the house." He keeps Alpha in line. He knows exactly what to do to make me feel better and is an EXPERT cuddler. I couldn't have asked for a better dog.
Happy birthday dragon. I love you for always.
ALPHA, THE DOODLE.
Alpha is turning into quite the "alpha." He's stubborn and fearless. He still can't step to Zero but it won't be long before he does. He's my munchkin and always keeps me rolling on the floor in stitches.
Song of the Day:
Never Let Me Go by Florence + The Machine
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