Hi Everyone.
In case you haven't noticed, I haven't posted to this blog for a very long time. My blogs are now over on our new website!! It isn't 100% finished yet (I am building it all by myself after all…). Check it out, let me know what you think!
alannarenephotography.com
Have a great day!
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Confession...
So I have a confession to make... Today I had the urge to listen to holiday music AND I did. I mean, it's still September for crying out loud!
It got me thinking about winter coming. I love the fall. Fall feels like the earth is sighing from a long hot summer. I love the crisp cool evenings, the smell of rain, warm thick blankets, sweaters, hot chocolate, clouds, and everything about fall and winter.
We really don't get a "real" fall or winter. We don't have many trees that turn colors - everything just stays as brown as it was in summer. We don't get snow either. Despite that, I love fall and winter around here. It gets cold like I love, but I can still do all my favorite winter activities: sitting by the fire, drinking hot chocolate, eating soups, baking, and still do all my favorite indoor activities like cycling, hiking, and going to the beach.
It's the perfect compromise!!
I also love all the family photos I get to take this time of year. It is seriously amazing to meet and get to know so many families! It's definitely the best part of the job :)
Anyway, I hope you all enjoy the transition through fall to Winter. I know I can already taste the soups and fresh home made bread! MmmM!
Well, since I am apparently in a holiday mood, I thought I should remind everyone to book your shoots early! We only have limited spots this year.
It got me thinking about winter coming. I love the fall. Fall feels like the earth is sighing from a long hot summer. I love the crisp cool evenings, the smell of rain, warm thick blankets, sweaters, hot chocolate, clouds, and everything about fall and winter.
We really don't get a "real" fall or winter. We don't have many trees that turn colors - everything just stays as brown as it was in summer. We don't get snow either. Despite that, I love fall and winter around here. It gets cold like I love, but I can still do all my favorite winter activities: sitting by the fire, drinking hot chocolate, eating soups, baking, and still do all my favorite indoor activities like cycling, hiking, and going to the beach.
It's the perfect compromise!!
I also love all the family photos I get to take this time of year. It is seriously amazing to meet and get to know so many families! It's definitely the best part of the job :)
Anyway, I hope you all enjoy the transition through fall to Winter. I know I can already taste the soups and fresh home made bread! MmmM!
Well, since I am apparently in a holiday mood, I thought I should remind everyone to book your shoots early! We only have limited spots this year.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
A Slap in the Face
I feel like I need to take a moment and reflect on some strong lessons I learned this weekend. Sometimes I get caught up in all the problems I see in the way the government is run, or our healthcare system, or the terrible drivers, or the "bad" parents who are yelling at their kids, or the homeless guy begging 2 blocks from my house...the list could go on. I feel guilty that I frequently fall victim to judging, making assumptions, getting annoyed.
I think it is only human to be wary of things around us that could potentially harm or take advantage of us. We have lived for eons trying to survive in a hard world. Today is really no different than when cavemen walked the earth; we just fight and struggle to survive in a world of social cruelty, inequality, stress, and overproduction, rather than in a fight for basic life essentials like food and water.
Well, this weekend I got a proverbial slap in the face telling me to stop being quite so pessimistic about the world. I feel like overall I am a pretty positive and easy going person (perhaps those closest to me would beg to differ). However, I do frequently find myself getting annoyed at "stupid" people for whatever reason. I don't really know why. Perhaps I'm tired. Perhaps it's just easier than having compassion and showing service and patience. Whatever it is, I learned a humbling lesson.
Friday started out as good as any day could start. I went on a short bike ride with the hubby then came home and had a big breakfast. We planned on running a few errands and then going to the OC Fair later that night. That is definitely NOT what happened. After going to the grocery store, I placed my wallet and cell phone in the baby seat of the cart while we unloaded the grocery cart into the trunk. Like a good customer, I brought the cart back to the cart return and then happily left on my way to the next project.
As you've probably guessed, yes, the wallet and cell was still in the cart when I left. And it wasn't there when I came back shortly after. Credit cards. Drivers license. RN license. CPR card. $60 cash. Student ID. And my iPhone 4.
Bummer.
The store manager didn't have it and we scoured the carts in the parking lot. Nothing. I immediately assumed someone took it and my identity. Before I could panic, the husband and I canceled our cards. We had to do it all online since we only have 1 phone. Our house phone (an internet phone) we let lapse because we never use it. His work phone, dead. My phone, stolen.
After canceling everything, I got online and tracked my iPhone. There it was, the little icon with the blue halo, sitting there at a very specific address in Ontario, CA, less than 10 minutes from my house. My overactive imagination started picturing someone sitting in their living room looking through my wallet, pocketing the cash, saving the drivers license to use for identity theft, and playing on my iPhone.
I felt violated. Stripped. Naked.
Why didn't I put a passcode on my phone?? I had one before but it annoyed me so I took it off. This person could literally learn who my parents were, what my dog's name is, where I lived (any time in the last 5 years), what bank I use, what type of music I listen to, and so much more. I realize much of that can be found on the internet, but I had at least set up better security on my personal social media.
Eventually the cops came. We filled out a report, showed him where the phone was at that moment, and he said he could do nothing. "It's out of our jurisdiction and its not high enough priority for us to call the other city PD." I wanted to say "but I am a taxpayer! Make it a high enough priority! That's my identity that someone is taking right now."
I was frustrated. I could see it. 10 minutes away. Blinking. Taunting. Laughing in my face. "I stole your phone and you'll never get it back because you are too afraid of getting shot to come to my neighborhood yourself, and the cops won't do anything for a stupid cell phone." I felt helpless.
After repeated phone calls, texts, emails everything to the phone with no response, we found the name and phone number of the people living there and called them. No answer. Five times, no answer.
The next morning, I wiped my phone. Thankfully my husband had set up my iCloud for me so I lost almost nothing - except my phone, $60, and possibly my identity. I accepted that I would not get any of that back. So we went to the cell store and started the process of getting a new phone.
Out of pure inspiration, the hubby had the thought of joining my family's family plan. thanks to a helpful representative and an amazingly patient father, I was able to combine my old grandfathered plan with my dad's own grandfathered plan, and save nearly $30 on our monthly bill.
Blessing #1: We will now save a great deal on our cell service.
I was amazed. On the way home I got a call from my Google Voice business number. I wasn't expecting any clients calling...maybe it was a new one.
On the other end was a nice girl named Jennifer. She worked with a woman, Rosa, who doesn't speak any English but wanted to call and try and find the owner of the wallet she found on Friday.
What?
In my head, I first thought, "you've got to be kidding me... I literally just bought a new phone, set up a new contract, and canceled my old service 5 minutes ago... 5 minutes..."
Then I thought, "is someone really saying they're going to return my wallet and phone? WHO does that anymore?"
Blessing #2: If I hadn't bought that new phone, I would have never received that call. My google voice only goes to my cell and she said she wasn't leaving any messages. How would I have known? She called at the perfect time.
I went to the place Rosa worked and met a very nice Hispanic woman. She was probably half my size and had a very kind face. She recognized me from half way across the store and called me over. She tried very hard to tell me what happened in English. I told her Spanish was ok and that I would understand, but she insisted on trying to speak English.
She then pulled out my wallet and gave it back. 100% intact. I tried to pay her. She certainly deserved a reward for doing the right thing. Her boss happened to be nearby and didn't let me. She adamantly refused payment. I hugged her. I cried. I thanked her profusely. I felt I didn't do enough.
I felt a wave of various emotions. Relief. Gratitude. Confusion (why didn't she answer our many many calls and texts asking for the phone back). Fatigue.
Mostly, I felt disappointment - in myself. Why had I automatically assumed the worst? Of course I should cancel the credit cards. That's just safety. But to assume my life was being taken from me? To assume someone was pocketing my cash and searching through my mail for anything useful.
I'm not disappointed those thoughts went through my head. Again, I'm only human. It's normal to feel fear. It's normal to be upset and to want to place blame on others. The thing I am disappointed in is that I didn't even consider that someone would return it. As soon as I lost it, I knew it was gone. I just knew. I suppose I "knew" there were no good, honest, decent people out there anymore too.
Blessing #3: Rosa reminded me to keep an eye out for the good people of the world.
Too often I forget that most people in this world really are GOOD decent people. The news, media, neighbors, even friends so often complain about EVERYTHING that it is hard to remember how many truly wonderful things and people there are in this world. I know 99.9% of the time, once I get to know someone a little better, I love them even more.
I hope that each of us can be reminded to act more like Rosa and to look for more Rosas in the world. I hope to do a little less judging and assuming and have a little more compassion and understanding.
May God bless you Rosa, where ever you are. You are truly an example of kindness and have blessed my life.
I think it is only human to be wary of things around us that could potentially harm or take advantage of us. We have lived for eons trying to survive in a hard world. Today is really no different than when cavemen walked the earth; we just fight and struggle to survive in a world of social cruelty, inequality, stress, and overproduction, rather than in a fight for basic life essentials like food and water.
Well, this weekend I got a proverbial slap in the face telling me to stop being quite so pessimistic about the world. I feel like overall I am a pretty positive and easy going person (perhaps those closest to me would beg to differ). However, I do frequently find myself getting annoyed at "stupid" people for whatever reason. I don't really know why. Perhaps I'm tired. Perhaps it's just easier than having compassion and showing service and patience. Whatever it is, I learned a humbling lesson.
Friday started out as good as any day could start. I went on a short bike ride with the hubby then came home and had a big breakfast. We planned on running a few errands and then going to the OC Fair later that night. That is definitely NOT what happened. After going to the grocery store, I placed my wallet and cell phone in the baby seat of the cart while we unloaded the grocery cart into the trunk. Like a good customer, I brought the cart back to the cart return and then happily left on my way to the next project.
As you've probably guessed, yes, the wallet and cell was still in the cart when I left. And it wasn't there when I came back shortly after. Credit cards. Drivers license. RN license. CPR card. $60 cash. Student ID. And my iPhone 4.
Bummer.
The store manager didn't have it and we scoured the carts in the parking lot. Nothing. I immediately assumed someone took it and my identity. Before I could panic, the husband and I canceled our cards. We had to do it all online since we only have 1 phone. Our house phone (an internet phone) we let lapse because we never use it. His work phone, dead. My phone, stolen.
After canceling everything, I got online and tracked my iPhone. There it was, the little icon with the blue halo, sitting there at a very specific address in Ontario, CA, less than 10 minutes from my house. My overactive imagination started picturing someone sitting in their living room looking through my wallet, pocketing the cash, saving the drivers license to use for identity theft, and playing on my iPhone.
I felt violated. Stripped. Naked.
Why didn't I put a passcode on my phone?? I had one before but it annoyed me so I took it off. This person could literally learn who my parents were, what my dog's name is, where I lived (any time in the last 5 years), what bank I use, what type of music I listen to, and so much more. I realize much of that can be found on the internet, but I had at least set up better security on my personal social media.
Eventually the cops came. We filled out a report, showed him where the phone was at that moment, and he said he could do nothing. "It's out of our jurisdiction and its not high enough priority for us to call the other city PD." I wanted to say "but I am a taxpayer! Make it a high enough priority! That's my identity that someone is taking right now."
I was frustrated. I could see it. 10 minutes away. Blinking. Taunting. Laughing in my face. "I stole your phone and you'll never get it back because you are too afraid of getting shot to come to my neighborhood yourself, and the cops won't do anything for a stupid cell phone." I felt helpless.
After repeated phone calls, texts, emails everything to the phone with no response, we found the name and phone number of the people living there and called them. No answer. Five times, no answer.
The next morning, I wiped my phone. Thankfully my husband had set up my iCloud for me so I lost almost nothing - except my phone, $60, and possibly my identity. I accepted that I would not get any of that back. So we went to the cell store and started the process of getting a new phone.
Out of pure inspiration, the hubby had the thought of joining my family's family plan. thanks to a helpful representative and an amazingly patient father, I was able to combine my old grandfathered plan with my dad's own grandfathered plan, and save nearly $30 on our monthly bill.
Blessing #1: We will now save a great deal on our cell service.
I was amazed. On the way home I got a call from my Google Voice business number. I wasn't expecting any clients calling...maybe it was a new one.
On the other end was a nice girl named Jennifer. She worked with a woman, Rosa, who doesn't speak any English but wanted to call and try and find the owner of the wallet she found on Friday.
What?
In my head, I first thought, "you've got to be kidding me... I literally just bought a new phone, set up a new contract, and canceled my old service 5 minutes ago... 5 minutes..."
Then I thought, "is someone really saying they're going to return my wallet and phone? WHO does that anymore?"
Blessing #2: If I hadn't bought that new phone, I would have never received that call. My google voice only goes to my cell and she said she wasn't leaving any messages. How would I have known? She called at the perfect time.
I went to the place Rosa worked and met a very nice Hispanic woman. She was probably half my size and had a very kind face. She recognized me from half way across the store and called me over. She tried very hard to tell me what happened in English. I told her Spanish was ok and that I would understand, but she insisted on trying to speak English.
She then pulled out my wallet and gave it back. 100% intact. I tried to pay her. She certainly deserved a reward for doing the right thing. Her boss happened to be nearby and didn't let me. She adamantly refused payment. I hugged her. I cried. I thanked her profusely. I felt I didn't do enough.
I felt a wave of various emotions. Relief. Gratitude. Confusion (why didn't she answer our many many calls and texts asking for the phone back). Fatigue.
Mostly, I felt disappointment - in myself. Why had I automatically assumed the worst? Of course I should cancel the credit cards. That's just safety. But to assume my life was being taken from me? To assume someone was pocketing my cash and searching through my mail for anything useful.
I'm not disappointed those thoughts went through my head. Again, I'm only human. It's normal to feel fear. It's normal to be upset and to want to place blame on others. The thing I am disappointed in is that I didn't even consider that someone would return it. As soon as I lost it, I knew it was gone. I just knew. I suppose I "knew" there were no good, honest, decent people out there anymore too.
Blessing #3: Rosa reminded me to keep an eye out for the good people of the world.
Too often I forget that most people in this world really are GOOD decent people. The news, media, neighbors, even friends so often complain about EVERYTHING that it is hard to remember how many truly wonderful things and people there are in this world. I know 99.9% of the time, once I get to know someone a little better, I love them even more.
I hope that each of us can be reminded to act more like Rosa and to look for more Rosas in the world. I hope to do a little less judging and assuming and have a little more compassion and understanding.
May God bless you Rosa, where ever you are. You are truly an example of kindness and have blessed my life.
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Respecting our Freedom
Tomorrow we celebrate the Fourth of July. On this day in 1776 the Declaration of Independence was approved by congress, declaring independence from Great Britain. Our founding fathers knew it was a day that would change the history of America. John Adams him self predicted it would be celebrated for generations, saying it should be "solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games sports,...bells, bonfires, and illuminations from one end of the continent to the other, from this time forward forever more."
Today we do just as Jon Adams predicted. We gather with family, eat (often BBQ, at least in my house!), play games, relax, go to parades, watch fireworks... it is a time to enjoy the friends and family closest to us, to relax, to enjoy a day off from work (unless you are a nurse, or cop, or fireman, or another hero who works the holidays).
I find myself this year pondering how many years in my life I have done all of the above, and never really thought about the price of the freedom that allows me to celebrate on this day. I have no immediate family currently serving our country. I know of people from our church or in our neighborhood, but that still seems relatively distant. I am embarrassed and disappointed in myself for not respecting my freedom as I should.
So many people have suffered and died for this country and for what America stands for. That doesn't mean I agree with everything our country does, or the choices of all the people. Sometimes I get frustrated with legislation (like a high speed train in California... really?). I think we all do. What I am saying is that we should all respect our freedom.
To me this means several things, but mostly it means we should live well, live honestly, live healthily and frugally, live genuinely, always trying to improve ourselves and in service to our fellow men. We should try every day to be good people - to our families, to others, to our country, and to ourselves. What better way to honor our freedom?
I hope you all really enjoy your holiday weekend, weather your working or playing and think on how everything we do is only possible because of the gift of freedom. I am grateful for work, for play, for classes, and chores because each of those things mean that I can do what I want with my life. I am, and forever will be, grateful for that. Happy Fourth of July from alannarene Photography!
May God Bless America.
Today we do just as Jon Adams predicted. We gather with family, eat (often BBQ, at least in my house!), play games, relax, go to parades, watch fireworks... it is a time to enjoy the friends and family closest to us, to relax, to enjoy a day off from work (unless you are a nurse, or cop, or fireman, or another hero who works the holidays).
I find myself this year pondering how many years in my life I have done all of the above, and never really thought about the price of the freedom that allows me to celebrate on this day. I have no immediate family currently serving our country. I know of people from our church or in our neighborhood, but that still seems relatively distant. I am embarrassed and disappointed in myself for not respecting my freedom as I should.
So many people have suffered and died for this country and for what America stands for. That doesn't mean I agree with everything our country does, or the choices of all the people. Sometimes I get frustrated with legislation (like a high speed train in California... really?). I think we all do. What I am saying is that we should all respect our freedom.
To me this means several things, but mostly it means we should live well, live honestly, live healthily and frugally, live genuinely, always trying to improve ourselves and in service to our fellow men. We should try every day to be good people - to our families, to others, to our country, and to ourselves. What better way to honor our freedom?
I hope you all really enjoy your holiday weekend, weather your working or playing and think on how everything we do is only possible because of the gift of freedom. I am grateful for work, for play, for classes, and chores because each of those things mean that I can do what I want with my life. I am, and forever will be, grateful for that. Happy Fourth of July from alannarene Photography!
May God Bless America.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Miles and Miles of Miles' Smiles
This was my other shoot from last week. This adorable little guy was so photogenic! He has HUGE blue eyes. Maybe I'm biased (because I'm one of those blonde, blue eyed, see through people) but I LOVE blue eyes. They seriously suck me in...hypnotizing :)
I'm thinking that I need to share with you guys some of the things I'm learning in class. I'm not sure what or how, because I'm taking some of the more advanced classes. *Side Brag* So in a moment of shameless bragging, I have to say I'm pretty proud of myself for knowing 98% of what they are talking about in my classes! I'm sure that will change after the first week, but hey, I'll take it!
It's true. I don't care if you are an amazing technical photographer. If you don't have a good trusting relationship with your clients, they won't open up and your photos will not be successful. 'Nuff said. One of my instructors said that photography is "30% technical and 70% personality."
So go forth and capture personality :) I know those are my favorite pics!
alannarenephotography@gmail.com
facebook.com/alannarenephotography
Tweet @alannarenephoto
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Sunday, June 16, 2013
Smashing VERY Pink Cake
First and foremost, I just have to give a shout out to my really amazing father. I have some very fun memories and have learned so much from him. I blame him for my 
I mentioned in my last post how much fun I had this weekend doing my photo shoots. Our morning shoot was with this little cutie. We thought it'd be fun to take her out on the town for her big first birthday!
She was SUCH a good little girl - all smiles and laughter. We fell in love with her instantly and laughed the entire morning. That is seriously one of my favorite parts of this job! I get to laugh a whole lot. It's really enhanced my
We get a lot of people telling us that we are really good with kids. When we go out on shoots, we rarely have a hard time getting the kids to laugh and giggle. I don't really think it's because we are especially talented at playing with kids... the secret really is that we embarrass ourselves - shamelessly!
We've been told that we are a "goofy" team, an "interesting" team, "hilarious," and completely "off-the-wall." I take all of those as complements! My family knows how bizarre we can be. Strangely, kids like that! Especially the over exaggerated facial expressions!
It's been a fun weekend, but I am super excited to get the week started! I get the amazing opportunity to take some photography and digital editing classes over the next 6 weeks. I am SO. DANG. EXCITED! I am looking forward to meeting new people, learning new techniques, and just playing!
I hope I'll be able to post some fun experiments from my classes and maybe pass on some of the things I learn. I think everyone should try to see the world like a photographer does - even if you're only using your smart phone as a camera.
I hope everyone has had a great father's day and has had the chance to tell all the fathers, grandfathers, husbands, brothers, neighbors, Godfathers, step-fathers, and any other father figures how important they are in our lives. For those not in our lives anymore, it has been a great day to reflect on memories and good times. I know I love and value all the men in my life! Thanks to all the men in the world who love and support their mothers, wives, children, and loved ones. Happy Father's Day!
alannarenephotography@gmail.com
facebook.com/alannarenephotography
Tweet @alannarenephoto
google+ alannarenephotography
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Appreciating Beauty through Photography
Yesterday was a really fun day! I always enjoy meeting new people, catching up with friends, taking photos, and just having a good time. Yesterday I got to do all that TIMES 2! So. Much. Fun!
The best part of it all is my husband is my partner. I think one of the best things about our marriage is that we have a hobby that we share - that we both love doing and learning about. Everywhere we go, we see potential photographs. It really is amazing how photography changes the way you look at the world.
Now I see things differently, even more so than when I was just painting and drawing. Colors stand out and seem more vibrant, patterns catch my eye, people look more interesting and unique - stories are constantly being told all around us. I find myself wondering more about the history of a building, the life experiences of a person, the travels of an old car.
When we take our portraits, we try and capture part of the story of that person and what makes them so special. Everyone has a story. It sometimes makes me sad that we don't take more time to learn others' stories more often. We can learn so much from everyone around us - why not slow down a bit and see what the people we encounter and the places we visit have to teach us?
How do we do that? We ask questions - a LOT of questions. We listen - more than we talk. We pause. Yep. Just stop, sit on a bench, look around, people watch - notice the details around you. I have learned to appreciate people and the places around me so much more. You should try it. There are so many treasures out there!
Hope you enjoy this small taste of who I got to spend my day with yesterday. I'm excited to show you a little more of their stories later this weekend :) Well, I'm off to work! Enjoy your Saturday!
alannarenephotography@gmail.com
facebook.com/alannarenephotography
Tweet @alannarenephoto
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Thursday, June 13, 2013
My Family Gets the Shaft with Family Photography
It's true. As with everything, we stupid, slow learning humans usually take for granted the things that are the most important in life. We mix up our priorities and all too often put our dear sweet families on the back burner.
We've all done it. I mean, who hasn't said, "meh, we'll just have a microwave dinner because I have some stuff to finish up and don't have time to cook today." Ok, if not a microwave dinner, then macaroni and cheese (the boxed stuff - ya know, where you boil water). C'mon, admit it!
Well I do it more often than I should. That comes with being a seriously ADHD, OCD, hyper person with too many hobbies and a lot of time on her hands. I ALWAYS have projects. I wish I could say they were of the small variety that could be started, finished, and cleaned up in a matter of hours. Nope. My projects usually result in large masses of mess that seem to grow with every passing day and last for weeks on end. I'm pretty sure they are living and breathing creatures that should be cataloged into some bizarre encyclopedia of my life. Or maybe not because that would be a really boring and really large set of books!
My sweet family (especially my poor patient husband) knows this about me and yet continues to encourage, support, and egg-on my sometimes ridiculous schemes. A lot of good has come of it, despite all the craziness. Don't you just LOVE families because of that?
My photography for example. It used to drive me absolutely bonkers that my father would take photos CONSTANTLY on our family vacations. I mean, he had at least 2 cameras and a videocamera around his neck at all times (and I mean ALL times). He made us take pictures by every sign, every lookout and vista, every campsite...everywhere. everything. everyone. We honestly must have several thousands of pictures stored in various shoe boxes, plastic totes, binders, and other various unorganized organizational devices.
I'm blushing now as I admit, ahem... I have several thousands of photos collected over a mere 4 years of photography. That's 4 years of general playing around. I've only been "pro," paid, whatever for 2 years (this month actually! Woah, it's our anniversary! I just realized!!). So yes. My name is Alanna and I am a photoaholic. And no, I do not plan on going through the 12 steps of overcoming my addiction. I just plan on buying several terabytes more of digital storage. At minimum. :)
So to my wonderful family, I thank you for your patience. For letting me take photos of you that were terrible, ugly, grainy, out of focus, boring, (insert any other - non-profane please - adjective here). I am the photographer I am today because you let me experiment with you in any way I pleased, just short of poking, prodding, and probing. I love you all and I am sincerely sorry that I have put your photos on the back burner for so long in lieu of taking time to recover from a broken back, finishing a masters degree, visiting (almost) every family member, attending graduations, going on vacations, and having long crudely hilarious conversations over the phone - or text.
So, here ya go. The rest are on Facebook so get your lazy little clicking fingers moving and go there to see the rest. Love you guys :)
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| Garrett - always Mr. GQ. Watch out ladies... he's a heartbreaker! |
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| I love Darren! This kid was so busy helping me with hold reflectors and carry my flash that I only got a handful of pictures with him. He takes such good care of all of us! |
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| Leave it to Ari and Nathan to have a icicle fight to wrap up the shoot! |
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| Oh Brian! I love those baby blues but if you aren't closing them, your turning them toward the wall. For shame! You should be flaunting them to the world! |
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| Notice: No camera! haha! These two put up with a lot of... well... craziness from us kids over the years. |
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| Alejandorito! My favorite moment of the shoot was when he jumped up to hug the tree and all the snow came falling down on top of him! I knew I was a decent photographer when I was able to hold in the hysterical laughter building inside of me and kept my composure to actually capture this series! |
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| Yep. That's me and the hubster. Love that guy more than the day we met (awww! how cute are we???) |
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| This is what our test shots usually look like. You know, when we're supposed to be just "checking the lighting and posing" to make sure it looks right... yea... not in this house. Call it an opportunity. Dad, you win for maximizing that opportunity. Photograph or do not photograph, there is not test shot (um, that would sound sooo much cooler if you heard the Yoda voice that I can hear in my head while writing that...).
So jump on over to my Facebook Page (or Google+ page) to see the rest of the
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Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Red Rockin' Anniversary Weekend
On Monday May 27 Ricky and I celebrated our 7 year anniversary. For those of you doing the math in your head, yes I was very young. Just a baby in fact. Ricky likes to joke that he robbed my cradle just in time because if he didn't he'd be stuck with some crazy girl right now. Nice babe.
So for our anniversary we did something very "us." We drove over 10 hours to brave the crazy crowds at Moab Utah. That's right... we didn't want to spend the money on a nice hotel or resort, or even waste our long weekend sitting on the beach somewhere. Nope. instead we decided to camp in a sandy campground with no showers and one pit toilet in hot dry weather. Sounds romantic right? Turns out, watching the sunset over Delicate Arch, the sun rise over the Windows, and the quite moments alone at lunch with a view over the Klondike Bluffs were some of the most romantic I could imagine for any anniversary weekend.
I thought it kind of fitting that our anniversary fell on Memorial Day. I'm sure through the years there have been many sacrifices made by my sweet husband. He wouldn't say he's made any sacrifices at all and that's why I adore him. The poor guy puts up with a lot, what with all this biking and photography nonsense. I mean, vacations have become so much more interesting (aka crazy) since we got our camera and our bikes. This one was no exception. I'm pretty sure I didn't sleep more than 10 hours over the entire 4 days! We watched the sunrise and the sunset every day, which made for some crazy long days.
Luckily for us, the weather was PERFECT. I mean 80 degrees, cool breeze, partly cloudy perfect. Everything was green (that could be green anyway) and there were wildflowers everywhere. It was amazing.
I guess the only downer is that since it was a holiday weekend, it was super crowded. I would still do it again though. We mostly stuck to the "trails less traveled." We did arches on Friday before the bulk of the weekend crowd arrived then did other canyons and lesser known trails the other days.
We rode our bikes through some gorgeous canyons with steep slick cliffs and flaming red rocks. The views from Canyonlands were endless (even though that was a much tougher bike ride!). Seeing everything from the saddle of a bike really helps you appreciate the details - how insanely tall the cliffs are, how many wildflowers are in bloom, and even all the types of wildlife. I'm pretty sure I almost ran over 3 snakes and 10 lizards :)
If you ever get the opportunity to go to Moab in the spring, you should jump on it. Next time I go, I have a whole list of photo locations I want to hit up and I'm bringing my mountain bike too! Slickrock here I come!
P.S. all these pics came from my iPhone! Crazy right? I mean, they aren't the most high-quality pics ever but not bad considering half of them I took while actually actively riding my bike. I wasn't about to carry that 10 pound monster around with my while climbing the crazy mountains in Canyonlands... that'll put some meat on your bones! I guess lesson learned is - just because I don't have my beautiful sexy camera, doesn't mean I shouldn't try to capture the beauty around me. These smart phones do a pretty decent job!
P.P.S. Man, I can't stop writing... any comments on the new logo? I designed it this weekend with the intent of using it on business documents (business cards, contracts, invoices, etc.). What do you think? Do you like it? can you tell what it's supposed to be or does it just look like a bunch of wiggly lines? Thanks friends :) Until next time!
alannarenephotography@gmail.com
facebook.com/alannarenephotography
Tweet @alannarenephoto
google+ alannarenephotography
So for our anniversary we did something very "us." We drove over 10 hours to brave the crazy crowds at Moab Utah. That's right... we didn't want to spend the money on a nice hotel or resort, or even waste our long weekend sitting on the beach somewhere. Nope. instead we decided to camp in a sandy campground with no showers and one pit toilet in hot dry weather. Sounds romantic right? Turns out, watching the sunset over Delicate Arch, the sun rise over the Windows, and the quite moments alone at lunch with a view over the Klondike Bluffs were some of the most romantic I could imagine for any anniversary weekend.
I thought it kind of fitting that our anniversary fell on Memorial Day. I'm sure through the years there have been many sacrifices made by my sweet husband. He wouldn't say he's made any sacrifices at all and that's why I adore him. The poor guy puts up with a lot, what with all this biking and photography nonsense. I mean, vacations have become so much more interesting (aka crazy) since we got our camera and our bikes. This one was no exception. I'm pretty sure I didn't sleep more than 10 hours over the entire 4 days! We watched the sunrise and the sunset every day, which made for some crazy long days.
Luckily for us, the weather was PERFECT. I mean 80 degrees, cool breeze, partly cloudy perfect. Everything was green (that could be green anyway) and there were wildflowers everywhere. It was amazing.
I guess the only downer is that since it was a holiday weekend, it was super crowded. I would still do it again though. We mostly stuck to the "trails less traveled." We did arches on Friday before the bulk of the weekend crowd arrived then did other canyons and lesser known trails the other days.
We rode our bikes through some gorgeous canyons with steep slick cliffs and flaming red rocks. The views from Canyonlands were endless (even though that was a much tougher bike ride!). Seeing everything from the saddle of a bike really helps you appreciate the details - how insanely tall the cliffs are, how many wildflowers are in bloom, and even all the types of wildlife. I'm pretty sure I almost ran over 3 snakes and 10 lizards :)
If you ever get the opportunity to go to Moab in the spring, you should jump on it. Next time I go, I have a whole list of photo locations I want to hit up and I'm bringing my mountain bike too! Slickrock here I come!
P.S. all these pics came from my iPhone! Crazy right? I mean, they aren't the most high-quality pics ever but not bad considering half of them I took while actually actively riding my bike. I wasn't about to carry that 10 pound monster around with my while climbing the crazy mountains in Canyonlands... that'll put some meat on your bones! I guess lesson learned is - just because I don't have my beautiful sexy camera, doesn't mean I shouldn't try to capture the beauty around me. These smart phones do a pretty decent job!
P.P.S. Man, I can't stop writing... any comments on the new logo? I designed it this weekend with the intent of using it on business documents (business cards, contracts, invoices, etc.). What do you think? Do you like it? can you tell what it's supposed to be or does it just look like a bunch of wiggly lines? Thanks friends :) Until next time!
alannarenephotography@gmail.com
facebook.com/alannarenephotography
Tweet @alannarenephoto
google+ alannarenephotography
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Two is ALWAYS Better than One!
It has been a seriously amazing weekend. I'm not just saying that to be optimistic... it was REALLY amazing :)
Don't you love those weekends? Nothing especially remarkable happened. It was just a nice weekend. Ricky and I decided to be spontaneous and go camping this weekend. It was amazing and I'll tell you more about it in an upcoming blog post.
Yep. That means ya have to come back. Darn...
To top off such a great weekend, I got to do a maternity shoot of beautiful Yolanda. Man, she has got it going on! She is having twins and still looks incredible! Her hubby is a lucky man, and I don't say that about everyone.
We drove out to Pasadena city hall and Ricky and I explored the site for a while. I love that part of the "pre-shoot" because we get some good quality time together. Then for the next hour we hung out with Yolanda, her hubby, and her TWO (almost) sons. I had a blast and Yolanda was seriously a trooper, especially since she is technically supposed to be on bed rest... haha. Anything for some photos right?
Well, here is a sneak peak! Look forward to some more coming on my Facebook page and for another couple blogs coming up :)
Goodnight world!
Don't you love those weekends? Nothing especially remarkable happened. It was just a nice weekend. Ricky and I decided to be spontaneous and go camping this weekend. It was amazing and I'll tell you more about it in an upcoming blog post.
Yep. That means ya have to come back. Darn...
To top off such a great weekend, I got to do a maternity shoot of beautiful Yolanda. Man, she has got it going on! She is having twins and still looks incredible! Her hubby is a lucky man, and I don't say that about everyone.
We drove out to Pasadena city hall and Ricky and I explored the site for a while. I love that part of the "pre-shoot" because we get some good quality time together. Then for the next hour we hung out with Yolanda, her hubby, and her TWO (almost) sons. I had a blast and Yolanda was seriously a trooper, especially since she is technically supposed to be on bed rest... haha. Anything for some photos right?
Well, here is a sneak peak! Look forward to some more coming on my Facebook page and for another couple blogs coming up :)
Goodnight world!
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Playing Dress Up
I would say it's been a very productive two days! Don't you love it when that happens?
Yesterday I spent the first half of the day on my rear finishing up my thesis, then I went to 5 hours of class, only to come home and work on my thesis until late into the night. Today I finished it up and submitted it... which was one of the most terrifying and amazing feeling! I hope it turned out ok. Just enough to pass is all I ask.
Today I FINALLY got my appointment with the neurosurgeon. For any of you who don't know, I have a pretty nasty broken back. I was so nervous that my blood pressure was scary high in the office! My sweet husband took a 1/2 day off to help me survive the appointment. The surgeon gave me really good news though. No surgery needed! At least for now. He says that it is stable and safe, and that the pain should go away on its own... though it may take another 3-6 months. That's the only bad news. SO, I guess I continue with normal life for now!
After the appointment, we went for a 20 mile bike ride. It was awesome... minus the refrigerator temperature wind gusts! It felt so good to get out some of that stress from the week. I need another one of those rides!
For the rest of the day, I finished up the thesis and other random work then got ready for tonight's activity. I was asked to teach some photography tips to some of the young women in our church. I was a little nervous that they wouldn't have fun, but it turned out pretty amazing! What's the secret? My amazing husband!
Yep. He's such a good sport. The girls were nervous about trying the camera and didn't really want to take pictures of themselves at first, so we asked him to be our model and he let us dress him up with all sorts of goofy props. It was HILARIOUS!! After a few minutes of that, the girls were ready and more than willing to take photos and be the models themselves. All the pictures on this blog today were taken by them! I think they did a pretty good job.
It was so fun to share a few fun tips with these girls. I love it and love talking about it! Not to mention, it was a blast watching them direct their own photo shoots and goof around as models. Well, I'm off to bed because I have a lot of photos to work on tomorrow as well as grocery shopping, bike riding, paper grading, laundry, dishes... you get the picture.
P.S. I love you sweetie! You're the best for being our model tonight! You'll be a great daddy someday :)
Yesterday I spent the first half of the day on my rear finishing up my thesis, then I went to 5 hours of class, only to come home and work on my thesis until late into the night. Today I finished it up and submitted it... which was one of the most terrifying and amazing feeling! I hope it turned out ok. Just enough to pass is all I ask.
Today I FINALLY got my appointment with the neurosurgeon. For any of you who don't know, I have a pretty nasty broken back. I was so nervous that my blood pressure was scary high in the office! My sweet husband took a 1/2 day off to help me survive the appointment. The surgeon gave me really good news though. No surgery needed! At least for now. He says that it is stable and safe, and that the pain should go away on its own... though it may take another 3-6 months. That's the only bad news. SO, I guess I continue with normal life for now!
 |
| The girls told Ricky he needed to look "contemporary" in this photo. He kinda looks like a flapper with that headband! |
For the rest of the day, I finished up the thesis and other random work then got ready for tonight's activity. I was asked to teach some photography tips to some of the young women in our church. I was a little nervous that they wouldn't have fun, but it turned out pretty amazing! What's the secret? My amazing husband!
 |
| In this one, they said he should look sad and pouty. Classic! |
 |
| We all helped dress him up for this one. We asked him to look surprised. |
P.S. I love you sweetie! You're the best for being our model tonight! You'll be a great daddy someday :)
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Mammas and Babies
So we are now on Detox day 7. The last two days have been tough mostly because yesterday we were away from the house all day for photo shoots so we pretty much ate carrots and fruit. By the time we got home around 10, I was sooo hungry for something with substance. Unfortunately, I was more tired than hungry so I just went to bed.
At this point in the detox, your body really starts wanting some protein. Last time I felt fine until day 11 (when you can introduce lean protein) but I think with all the miles I'm putting on my bike, I'm hungrier this time around. I had to go grocery shopping TWICE last week for produce because I'm eating through it like crazy.
It's been successful so far though! I feel great and have plenty of energy. Ricky is already down 10 pounds. I've dropped 5. He wants to lose weight, I don't (hence stuffing my face all day long...). The main thing is, we're eating really well, improving the portion sizes, and have more energy than when navigating the roller coaster moods that come with sugar intake. It's great.
Today I thought I'd keep with tradition and give you a little teaser from yesterday's photo shoots. It was an AMAZING day. The only thing that could have made it better is if there were a little more sun :) It was a gray bleary overcast day in Santa Monica. When the winds picked up in the evening, it was FREEZING! Us dessert dwellers don't like that cold ocean breeze...
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| OMG! Isn't she GORGEOUS??? What a beautiful (future) mama! |
Then we spent the middle of the day walking around Santa Monica and the Third Street Promenade listening to music and enjoying our "day date." We also enjoyed the beach AND a nap in the car! Gotta love Dory (our Subaru). It is an awesome napping place - complete with seat warmers!
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| I LOVE LOVE this pic! It seriously is perfect because she was like this the ENTIRE shoot! She is a little firecracker and I loved it. Pretty good walker for not quite 13 months, huh? |
Finally, we drove home exhausted but happy and spent the rest of the night visiting with some family that was in from out of town. It was a great day full of great people, lots of laughter, and tons of fun. I'm so excited to show you more from our day on the Pier.
Friday, April 12, 2013
I Cheated...
Well, I didn't post yesterday because I had my last EVER clinical day (WAHOO!) and was being evaluated and it was a long and scary day... but it's done! (And I passed with flying colors!) This means that all I have left to do before walking at graduation is the final draft of my thesis and my presentation of the thesis (terrifying...). Seems doable after all the other hoops they made me jump through to get here. I could be a show pony now!
Since it was my last day at clinical, the doctor I was with wanted to take me out for lunch. I got nervous because of my super strict detox routine. SO, savvy me thought I'd just make a careful suggestion to a place I know that had a salad (say Panera or something of the sort).
Well, before I could sneak in my suggestion the doctor said "I've got the perfect place to go to lunch today. You're going to love it."
Great.
How can I be rude and say "umm, I have a better idea because I am actually on a really strict diet right now and it's more important than letting you do something nice for me, so really you should just not try and be nice by offering to take me to lunch..." Probably wouldn't fly.
Despite the concerns, I figured pretty much every place serves salad and I can ask for the dressing on the side and just not use it.
Except Chinese.
Or Mexican.
Or Indian.
Or pretty much any fast food place. So I figured, unless she took me to a nice restaurant, I was in trouble. So we got in the car and drove. Every restaurant that was by us taunted me. Based on what I knew about her, I thought we'd be going to a generic sandwich cafe of sorts. Well, it wasn't. It was a place that was almost as far from my diet as possible...
Italian.
Yep. Pasta. Tomatoes. Cream. Pepperoni. Bread. OH the bread! It smelled amazing and looked so fluffy! And get this. They had NO salad! What? I know. Their pizzas came with a small salad. To top it off, the doctor recommended I try the pizza. Said it was delish.
I love pizza. HOW could I resist?
So I got the thin crust veggie packed pizza. Didn't have the courage to ask for no cheese (if you're gonna cheat, might as well get the cheese right?) I ate the salad and a just enough of the pizza to not be too rude. Can't offend a potential future reference!!
This dear preceptor of mine then proceeded to INSIST that I take home the leftovers AS WELL AS several of their freshly baked rolls. I put it in the fridge in her office with every intent of "forgetting it" when she oh so kindly handed it to me on the way out. What a saint.
I was so excited to be done and on my way out, that I didn't even throw it away in the trash can by the front door. If I were really thinking, I could hunt down a homeless guy on the street and give it to him. But I didn't. Instead, I updated my Facebook status and drove away singing loudly in the car SO excited to be done.
Then the traffic hit. *Sigh* Here's the real confession... I cheated TWICE! (Shameful face) I ate another slice of that amazing cold pizza in the car on the way home.
And Yes. It was good cold.
After giving myself a gentle slap on the wrist for having no self control, I decided to just get over it. Who cares? The point of this whole things is to not just clean out the system, but work on better portion control and also to try a bunch of new veggies that I've never tried. It makes us get creative with our cooking because we can't just relapse into the "I'm tired so I'm going to eat a slice of toast or make some spaghetti."
Even though I indulged in greasy, cheesy goodness, the food I've been eating today has not been boring, or bland or tasteless. I don't wish I were eating pizza right now instead (well... just kidding!) It just goes to show that everything can be delicious. Everything should be enjoyed, in moderation.
So, I cheated. And I'm over it.
And it was delicious :)
Since it was my last day at clinical, the doctor I was with wanted to take me out for lunch. I got nervous because of my super strict detox routine. SO, savvy me thought I'd just make a careful suggestion to a place I know that had a salad (say Panera or something of the sort).
Well, before I could sneak in my suggestion the doctor said "I've got the perfect place to go to lunch today. You're going to love it."
Great.
How can I be rude and say "umm, I have a better idea because I am actually on a really strict diet right now and it's more important than letting you do something nice for me, so really you should just not try and be nice by offering to take me to lunch..." Probably wouldn't fly.
Despite the concerns, I figured pretty much every place serves salad and I can ask for the dressing on the side and just not use it.
Except Chinese.
Or Mexican.
Or Indian.
Or pretty much any fast food place. So I figured, unless she took me to a nice restaurant, I was in trouble. So we got in the car and drove. Every restaurant that was by us taunted me. Based on what I knew about her, I thought we'd be going to a generic sandwich cafe of sorts. Well, it wasn't. It was a place that was almost as far from my diet as possible...
Italian.
Yep. Pasta. Tomatoes. Cream. Pepperoni. Bread. OH the bread! It smelled amazing and looked so fluffy! And get this. They had NO salad! What? I know. Their pizzas came with a small salad. To top it off, the doctor recommended I try the pizza. Said it was delish.
I love pizza. HOW could I resist?
So I got the thin crust veggie packed pizza. Didn't have the courage to ask for no cheese (if you're gonna cheat, might as well get the cheese right?) I ate the salad and a just enough of the pizza to not be too rude. Can't offend a potential future reference!!
This dear preceptor of mine then proceeded to INSIST that I take home the leftovers AS WELL AS several of their freshly baked rolls. I put it in the fridge in her office with every intent of "forgetting it" when she oh so kindly handed it to me on the way out. What a saint.
I was so excited to be done and on my way out, that I didn't even throw it away in the trash can by the front door. If I were really thinking, I could hunt down a homeless guy on the street and give it to him. But I didn't. Instead, I updated my Facebook status and drove away singing loudly in the car SO excited to be done.
Then the traffic hit. *Sigh* Here's the real confession... I cheated TWICE! (Shameful face) I ate another slice of that amazing cold pizza in the car on the way home.
And Yes. It was good cold.
After giving myself a gentle slap on the wrist for having no self control, I decided to just get over it. Who cares? The point of this whole things is to not just clean out the system, but work on better portion control and also to try a bunch of new veggies that I've never tried. It makes us get creative with our cooking because we can't just relapse into the "I'm tired so I'm going to eat a slice of toast or make some spaghetti."
Even though I indulged in greasy, cheesy goodness, the food I've been eating today has not been boring, or bland or tasteless. I don't wish I were eating pizza right now instead (well... just kidding!) It just goes to show that everything can be delicious. Everything should be enjoyed, in moderation.
So, I cheated. And I'm over it.
And it was delicious :)
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
I'd Rather Be Editing...
So for my daily report, I rode 26 miles today around the neighborhood and had a really yummy spinach, strawberry and balsamic vinegar salad. Mmmm! Other than that, I've had my booty firmly planted in my office chair editing my thesis. The final is due in just 5 days!
Even though I manage to get pretty much everything done that I intend to, I am known to have some ADHD traits... mainly, I am REALLY good at avoiding the annoying tasks until the last possibly minute. Call me a pressure player. Anybody who gets my Facebook updates knows I wrote my over 50 page thesis in a mere 3 days (P.S. my professor LOVED it...haha... no one tell her how little time I spent on it! Our secret).
Well, during some of my avoiding tactics, I allowed myself the indulgence of editing some more photos. Hey, if anyone asks, I can just say I've been "editing" all day and it'd be true!
The pinwheel backdrop is homemade to match this adorable little romper bought from here. I got the idea for this back drop from a whole lot of places and sort of made it up as I went. For a good tutorial on how to make this kind of pinwheel, go here. I just used scrapbook paper and kept it very simple (since I knew it'd pretty much be out of focus in all the pics). What do you think? I love it! It's hanging in my office now :) Well, I hope you enjoy the pics! Have a nice day.
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