Freckle Face Photography

{new blog!}

2009-01-26T12:41:00.003-06:00

Come check out my new blog!
Update your bookmarks and Favorites because I won't be posting here any more!
Come on over here.... http://frecklefacephotography.ca

Thanks for looking!
~Carol

{website}

2009-01-23T17:49:00.002-06:00

Hello!
Just a quick post to let you know I'm having some website issues. It's not showing up right now. I will let you know when all is well! Look back SOON for a whole new look around here!!

{sneak peek}

2009-01-14T00:26:00.008-06:00

Show of hands....

Could this baby BE any cuter????

Ummmmm.....NO!!!

Next to newborns, I LOVE to photograph this age. This little guy is 8 months old and not yet crawling. Which means, in photographer's speak, he can't run away from me!!

His mom was worried we wouldn't get any smiling imasges.

Well, "C" you can stop worrying!

Of course I got some serious faces as well.

Poor little guy was teething, so anything and everything went in the mouth!

Enjoy your sneak peek "C&T" will be in touch when the gallery is ready!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol

{who wants to play with me?}

2009-01-12T12:10:00.010-06:00

Anyone up for a playdate?

Sometimes I have some ideas about certain images/poses I'd like to try during a shoot.

I don't always get the chance to try them during a regular shoot, so I'd like a few volunteers to help me out!

This playdate is to attempt a certain image/pose, although others may be done if time permits.

What's in it for you?

A free session and a 11x14 print of the shot.

What's in it for me?

The chance to be creative and do somethings I don't normally get to do, a signed photo release so I can display these images in print or on my website, and to get my baby fix!

Here are the criteria for the first few playdates coming up. Check back as I'll add other playdates in upcoming weeks/months.**

#1- a DEEP sleeping 3-4 month old baby. The chubbier the better! ***eta: spot is taken***

#2- healthy newborn twins under 7 days old ***eta: spot is taken***

#3- a mommy and daddy and newborn under 7 days willing to bare a bit of skin!

**sessions must be done within the next 4 weeks so if you haven't had your baby yet , that's ok, but contact me asap. First come, first served!

Now for some pictures!!

Here's a sneak peek for a couple expecting their first baby!

Can't wait to meet him/her!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol

{next up...}

2009-01-05T15:27:00.006-06:00

Babies, babies, babies!!
Need I say more??

Sorry I made you wait the WHOLE weekend for this sneak peek "A"!! Wait til you see the pics of "T&B"!! Saving them for the gallery!

Thanks for looking!
~Carol~

{on a roll!}

2008-12-29T14:37:00.006-06:00

Whoo hoo!
3 posts in one day!!
Sneak peek for another great family welcoming a girl into their lives!!
At almost 2 weeks this little peanut was stil super curlie! Love it!

I may be back later!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{keepin' the babies comin'}

2008-12-29T13:35:00.006-06:00

Have I mentioned I love newborns?? I'm pretty sure I have!!
Here's another. And my biggest newborn to date @10lbs 2oz! Love the squishy cheeks and chubby legs! My fav parts!! But these lips are to die for!!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek baby!} -winnipeg baby photographer

2008-12-29T12:29:00.009-06:00

So with this newborn girl (3 in a row) I end my run of boys.

As does this family!!

After 4 boys they finally welcome a beautiful little girl to round out the family!

I spent most of my time with this baby girl but we did try to get a sibling shot.

For any photographers reading this, we all know how difficult it is to get it,but you gotta try and these boys were a dream!!

Really, I have never met such a well behaved group of brothers! Now I'm sure they have their moments, as any mom would be quick to point out and one had to go have some quiet time at one point. But this mother was so patient and calm, it almost made me wish we had tried for more children...almost!!

If you are waiting on a gallery I am working away as we speak to get the last of them finished.

I'll be posting snaek peeks today to tide you over!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{done!}

2008-12-22T13:15:00.005-06:00

I did my last 2 sessions of the year this past weekend. It's been a crazy ride this past few months but it's been GREAT! Thank you so much to all my clients in 2008 who have let me capture a moment of their lives. I am so lucky to be doing what I love!
This will probably be my last post before Christmas so I want to wish you all a very happy holiday season!
I will be back after Christmas updating the blog & website with new pictures and information as I shake things up in the new year!

Here is our Christmas card!

{sneak peek}

2008-12-09T15:05:00.009-06:00

***Please scroll down to bottom of post for update on session openings!***

Here's yet another newborn and his family!

This family is related to the the girls on my blog header and we discovered my husband plays hockey with this Dad! Love when I find connections to my clients. It's such a small world!

This was a last minute shoot and I am so happy I was able to fit them in! This little guy was great for me. It's always iffy with "older" newborns- if you can call 2.5 weeks, old ,lol!!

But he slept and let me move him all around.

His big brother was a busy little bee but we managed to keep him one spot for about 5 minutes!

Enjoy your sneek peak "T" family!

Love this black & white, but had to show these gorgeous blue eyes!!

** *Just an update on 2008-09 sessions. I am BOOKED through January 2009!!! I will be making exceptions for newborns and maternity clients only!! I have opened up my schedule for February and March, so contact me for more info!***

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{more baby girl}

2008-12-08T21:25:00.007-06:00

I'm working on the session from a couple of posts back and I just had to share a few more. This was such a great session! Great baby, great mom, and great second shooter! My sister tagged along on this shoot as this is one of her best friends. She is an aspiring photographer and may accompany me on other sessions in the future!
It was so nice to have help with posing and ideas. She helped me get the shot I've been trying to get for months! Thanks Rosie!

I had to force myself to choose only 5! I could've posted ALL of them!!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{seeing double}

2008-12-06T22:53:00.010-06:00

My first twins!!!!
Needless to say I was VERY excited!!
Meet "O&Q"!
These boys were not the sleepiest newborns around but they crashed near the end and I was able to capture some great images!!
Your gallery will be ready in the next couple days "J"!! Thanks so much for letting me spend time with your boys!

Just an FYI...if you are expecting a baby and were thinking about a session, call me when you are still pregnant!! This helps me make and keep time in my schedule for you!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{quickie}

2008-12-04T15:17:00.004-06:00

No time to talk, just had to stop in a share my new favorite image, inspired by the amazingly talented Carrie & Brittany. I've been slammed with a whole lotta newborns and I LOVE it!!

More to come after I catch up a bit!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{news & mine}

2008-11-27T09:47:00.005-06:00

I will be out the "office" for the next few days and will return any e-mails or inquiries on Sunday. For all my American visitors, Happy Thanksgiving!! I am off to take advantage of their amazing Black Friday Sales! Although our dollar is not as great as it was this summer!

And since I have to post a picture, it is a photography blog after all..
But first, the back story...
My youngest,"I" has beautiful curly hair. I love it! Well her, not so much! One night while I was lying down with her before bed she said, in her saddest, most pitiful voice, "Mama, (yes I'm a mama, not mommy, not mom, but mama!) I want to have straight hair like everyone else in my family."
Just about broke my heart. So, of course I had to pull out my straightener the next day to give her straight hair.
She looks so much older this way, that I said I would never do it again!! But I'm sure I will, she loved it so much!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol

{late sneak peek!}

2008-11-24T22:17:00.007-06:00

Here's a long overdue sneak peek!
I'm a bit behind on pretty much everything these days!
I'm up to my eyeballs in editing and card design. So if you are waiting for anything, galleries, cards, orders... thank you so much for being patient!!
I will get to everyone as quickly as I can!!

On to the peek!!
You can imagine my glee when I poked my head into the car and spotted this cutie!!
I love deep brown eyes!!! And this boy sure has 'em!

Sorry for the wait "A", it'll be worth it!!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{perception vs. reality...a sneak peek}

2008-11-20T22:35:00.010-06:00

Now, the perception in this first picture would probably be; beautiful couple, in love (they are having a baby!) dotting husband whispering sweet nothings in his glowing wife's ear. The expression on her face might say, "that's my man"...

REALITY:

While the first part is all true, the sweet nothings?? Probably went something like this...."Is this almost over?? Do I really have to be in these pictures? You know I hate getting pictures taken, right??"

I know her expression really says, "Do you SEE what I have to put up with??"

Sorry "A & T" just had to tease you a bit!! They were great and although "T" really doesn't like to get his picture taken, he did everything I asked him too with a smile. Just you wait, "T", until the newborn shoot!

"A" has been on bed rest for weeks now, as she'd been having preterm labour and delivered her first baby 10 weeks early! So we kept it real and hung out in the bedroom, where her an "M" spend lots of their day.

Little "M" is almost 3 now and is waiting for her new baby...

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{what is the matter with me??}

2008-11-19T13:48:00.009-06:00

2 posts in one day??

Don't I have anything better to do?

Yes, actually, I have editing to do, orders to place, orders to package, storyboards to design, dishes to do, floors to wash and don't even get me started on the laundry!

But I had to come give you the heads up about some changes going on in the new year!

#1: Session fees are going up. In the new year, session fees will be $100-$150 depending on the type of session you choose.

Types of sessions are: Simple session, Newborn & Maternity session, Senior(graduate) session, Storybook session, family session.

#2: I will be offering digital files and digital collections!

#3: New and cool products to go with collections!

I will post more about the collections and details about digital files and products, but I am still working on it and what to have all my T's crossed before I give out too much information!

I haven't posted alot of images lately so here are a few of my kiddos playing in the first snowfall!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{workin' woman wednesday}

2008-11-19T13:32:00.004-06:00

Next up is Connie Torossi, owner of Wishes and Dreams Travel Company!

I've know Connie since a month before "I" was born and a month after her youngest was born, through Y-neighbours. Sadly, I don't get to see her very often anymore since I stopped going, but we did meet up a few weeks ago for a photoshoot.

But, here, I'll let Connie tell you all about herself and her brand new business!

Name: Constance Torossi
AKA: Connie, Bonnie(apparently people with hearing problems), Constantinople (haven't been called that in years)
Hails from: Born in New Brunswick, Dad was in the Forces, lived in Germany and Shilo (for grades one through twelve) Brandon (for nursing school), Pine Falls, Dauphin, Dawson Creek, BC, New Westminister, BC, and finally made it to Winnipeg.
Name of your business: Wishes and Dreams Travel Company
When was your business born? I believe I'm still gestating! No, just kidding, September of this year I took the plunge!
Why did you start your business? What inspires you? I am a nurse that works in the emergency department. I have been nursing for 23 yrs! Boy it seems I should be older;) Nursing doesn't bring me the joy it used to. I love all things Disney. From our days of watching the Wonderful World of Disney on Sunday nights to my first trip to Walt Disney World with my husband, I have had the Disney bug. Walt Disney World is a huge place, bigger than the island of Manhattan. If you don't go with a plan you will waste precious time you could be spending making the most of your vacation. I want to help people have the best time at the happiest place on earth. Alot of people told me I should start a Disney planning business because I am obsessed (their word, not mine) (Carol here: just have to interupt to say, VERY OBSESSED!!) with Disney. I am inspired by my 2 beautiful children and wonderful husband. They help me see what is really important in this life.

What does you business offer? I will book your Disney vacation just like any travel agent would. Just a little tip, if you book with me or directly with Disney, the price is the same. I will book any kind of Disney vacation, that includes Walt Disney World(R)
Disneyland(R)
Disney Cruise Line(R) or Adventures by Disney.
I will book all your accomadations and a car if you need. I will also continue to look for deals for you even after you've booked (sometimes Disney puts out special deals and they can sometimes be used on already booked packages if they are booked at Disney) For an additional consulting fee I will help you plan your time at the parks and give you tips to help make your time there more enjoyable. Let's face it , Disney can be the once in a lifetime trip for some people and I want you to have the best time while you're there. Disney has become so popular and more affordable over the past few years that it's so busy you can't just show up and say "what should we do today?" Well you could, but you wouldn't have as much fun.
Where do you see your business in the future? I want to be able to provide quality vacation experiences for everyone wanting to experience the Disney magic. I'm not quite sure where that will take me yet.
How do you balance work/family? Hmmm, good question, I don't think I do that so well just yet. I have to carve out time for the family daily.

Now for a few "fun" questions...

Skills: I can decorate cakes and sew a bit.
Challenges: Finding enough time in the day to do all I want. Making and taking time for me.
Chips or chocolate? That's a tough one, there's nothing like salt with chocolate:) It changes daily but today chips would win out. Thanks Carol, I don't have any in the house!
Secret weapon: Praise, you get more from your children if you over do the praise for any good behavior or accomplishment than scolding for bad behavior. Don't get me wrong, I dole out plenty of time out and loss of priveliges.
Enemies/pet peeves: Stupid, rude people who yell at my children.
Can't live without: my husband and children, my computer for my disboard addiction
Heroes: People who rise above adversity with a smile and make it look easy.
Little known fact: I answered all these questions in Pooh font. It's an illness I tell you;)

Sorry Connie! Blogger doesn't have Pooh font!!

Here's Connie and her beautiful girls!
Wishes and Dreams Travel Company's website isn't up and running yet, but when it is I will add it to list on the right. For now, Connie can be reached at wishesanddreams@mts.net

Thanks for looking!

~Carol

{workin' woman wednesday}

2008-11-12T13:46:00.005-06:00

Here's my first "real" installment of workin woman wednesday!

How many of you knew the first person interviewed here would be Lee-Ann from Paper Raisins?? Of course she's the first!!

I met Lee-Ann a year ago at the St.Norbert Y-Neighbour Used Toy and Clothing Sale. My friend knew her MIL and introduced me to her. She had the cutest clothing for sale, and the most beautiful hand-knitted hats and baby outfits. I particularly remember a tiny baby sweater in the softest of yarn, not white or pink or blue, but black! It was gorgeous!!

I told her I was a photographer just starting out and if she ever wanted to have pictures taken of her wares she should call me. She did (call) and we did (take pictures) and the rest is history!

Meet Lee-Ann!

Name: Lee-Ann Graham Hollar

AKA: Miss Mommy (as my daughter likes to call me) and several otherchildhood nicknames that some still use but I'd like to forget :)

Hails from: Winnipeg, Manitoba

Name of your business: Paper Raisins

When was your business born? It's been a work in progress for years but I officially launched my website in August 2008.

Why did you start your business? What inspires you? I've had a passion for creating things since I was a child. I enjoy making unique baby gifts, inunexpected textures and colors. I began to get "orders" from workmates,which got me thinking - maybe I can do something more with this. As for inspiration - my daughter has to be the number one. She has an amazing capacity for love, understanding, and maturity despite her age; also her bright cheerfulness can't help but inspire me!

What does you business offer? I offer unique hand-knit and hand-crocheted items. Lots of hats! I LOVE hats ...mostly for children with a couple grown-up items thrown into the mix.

Where do you see your business in the future? I'm working to expand my products line. There are so many great styles that I can't wait to explore. I'd like to expand my product line to include custom tailored garments. I enjoy designing children's occasion wear and have designed and produced some really unique garments in luxurious fabrics - that's something I'd like to do more of.

How do you balance work/family? Honestly, it's hard. I work a full-timeday job; have a 3 ½ year old daughter and a husband who's not well. So it is a lot to juggle. People tend to think that I must have a lot of freetime, which is definitely not the case. My Paper Raisins work can and does travel with me, to work during the day, to my in-laws, if I'm waiting in the car I'm usually working on a project, and in the evenings I have a hook in hand. A pair of extra arms would be great!!

Now for a few "fun" questions...

Skills: knitting, knitting socks (which are far too labour intensive forme to sell), crocheting, sewing, beading, making curried chicken, Frenchbraiding Barbie hair (come on, you know how small those heads are!!!),writing (I love to write - wrote a book for my daughter)!

Challenges: Feeling confident - I second-guess myself. Balancing all ofthe things that I'm passionate about, especially my other hobbies.

Chips or chocolate? No slurpee category...? I guess I'll go withchips...no chocolate... do I really have to choose?

Secret weapon: it wouldn't be a secret anymore if I told you would it?

Enemies/pet peeves: Bad customer service, people who lack a strong workethic.

Can't live without: Yarn...lots and lots of yarn... my family... maybe that should have come before the yarn... hee hee... oops!! Oh and especially Pyper... I'm constantly calling her over because "I need your head, come try this on", poor kid!

Heroes: Strong women

Little known facts: I used to plastic weld (my family had a business) andI have a framed collection of pencil sketches of people that I did in high-school, I have another book idea that I'd really like to work on someday... when I have spare time...

Anything else we should know? I like to talk... but I'm sure you could tell that from the answers to my questions!!!

Here's a picture of Lee-Ann and her cutie patootie daughter at our Paper Raisin photoshoot. Check out Lee-Ann's blog and see little "P's" first crocheted project! (she's only 3!!!!)

Thanks, Lee-Ann!

On a totally different note, I follow a blog called Blogs of Photogs. It has links to some AMAZING photographers and if you like looking at pictures you should check this one out! In her latest post Mary has profiled Connie from Barefoot Photo. Her blog is beautiful, but it also links Connie's husbands blog, Dut Duts and Gonuts. This blog is HILARIOUS!!!! Laugh out loud funny, literally. My youngest "I" asked me what I was laughing at when I was reading it this morning!! Go check it out right now, I'll wait........................................................................................

Was I right?????

Thanks for looking!

~Carol

ETA: Sorry for the misspelling of Shane's blog title!! Apparently it's GONUTS, not, GONADS!!!

{boy oh boy}

2008-11-10T19:46:00.008-06:00

For some reason I have gotten ALOT of newborn baby boys this year!

Of all the newborn shoots I've done I have only done 1 girl!

Don't get me wrong! I love boys too, but I'd love me some pink!!!

For now here's a bit more blue!!

This little guy was a bit older than I usually do newborns and we weren't sure if we'd be able to get many curled up, sleeping images. He sure proved us wrong!

He was so great! He slept for a long while and let me put him in a few great poses! He didn't like some of my wraps though:(

Lee-Ann from Paper Raisins knit me a couple of new items and I was hoping to get some pics of them with this session, but baby "C" just wasn't "into" them, heehee!

Enjoy your sneak peek "N" family! I'll be in touch when the rest of the gallery is ready!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{brown eyed girl}

2008-11-06T18:41:00.009-06:00

I'm finally undigging myself from the holiday session rush! And holiday card orders are starting to come in!

Just a reminder if you would like holiday cards, the deadline for press printed cards is Tuesday November 18th. These take up to 2 weeks to come in so they need a bit more time. For the photopaper cards the last day to order is Tuesday Dec.2nd and they should be to you by that weekend.

I also have gift certificates available for anyone wanting to give the gift of portraits this Christmas!

On to the sneak peek!
This little peanut is not a stranger to me or my camera! This family was one of the first clients I ever photographed, and was pumped to see them again! Little "J" was pretty serious the first 2 times we met but this weekend she was all smiles!! I love her eyes, they are so brown and just sparkle!

As I write this post there is sleet hitting the window and a weather warning in effect. Hard to believe these pictures were taken just 5 days ago. This was probably the last nice day of the year.

Your gallery will be ready this weekend!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{workin' woman wednesday...and a sneak peek}

2008-11-05T10:09:00.011-06:00

Owning your own business is hard. It's also fun and exciting and rewarding, but hard. You need all the help you can get. And that includes from other business owners. We can help each other so much!! And I want to help you! So I'm starting a regular feature called Workin' Woman Wednesday. If you are a business owner in Winnipeg/Manitoba and have a product or service that would benefit or be of interest to children or families, I would love to profile you here!
My intent is to interview a woman owned business once a week about their businesses and have a link to their site on the right. Now we all know about good intentions, right?? I may(will) miss here and there, but will try to be consistent!!

Interested?? Here's what you need to do...
E-mail me ccswaitk@mts.net and I'll send you the interview questions.
Send me a picture of yourself...don't have one?? Well I happened to be a photographer ;) and if I have enough interest will plan a mini session (free of charge!!) in December to capture some great pics of you!
Then, when it's your turn, your intereview will be posted!

To start, I'm going to go first!

Name:Carol Swaitkewich

AKA:mmmm, nothing! I've never had a nickname! My neighbours tried to give me one a few weeks ago, but, let's just say it didn't stick!

Hails from: right here in Winnipeg, Man. I did live in B.C. for a few years as a child, and now live in LaSalle, Man.

Name of your business: Freckle Face Photography

When was your business born? October 2007 I did my first "real" shoot, my website went live January 2008.

Why did you start your business? What inspires you? I consider myself a creative person and had been looking for something I could do once my children were in school that was creative. For some reason photography didn't occur to be as a business idea until fairly recently, even though I have always been "into" photography. My children of course are a huge inspiration to me and my business. When you capture an image of a child that gives the parents goosebumps, you know you have found your calling. I've had many jobs but had never felt like it was what I was supposed to do. I feel pretty lucky because I know not everyone finds that.

What does you business offer? Quality, custom portraiture of your children and family. Capturing real life, freckles and all!

Where do you see your business in the future? Doing exactly what I do right now! But maybe a litle more efficiently! Let's just say I'm not the most organized girl around! I also plan on expanding my product line over the next little while to offer cool stuff to my clients! I would really love to have a natural light studio one day! That's in the 5 year plan!!

How do you balance work/family? This is a trick question!! I don't have a good answer which is why I'm asking it!! I need help in this area!! How do you do it???

Now for a few "fun" questions...

Skills: Getting 3 children ready for school and out the door in the morning in 1/2 an hour.

Challenges: Doing above skill without yelling,lol!

Chips or chocolate? I have to pick one?????

Secret weapon: Mini M&M's. A toddler will do anything for those!

Enemies/pet peeves: People who cel phone and drive, people who do dumb things to get on America's Funniest Home Videos.

Can't live without: My family, caffeine, my camera and the internet.

Heroes: All Moms,especially mine, (hi mom!!) my hubby (even though he never reads my blog, phfftttt!!!!)

Little known fact: I'll have to get back to you on that one... I'm not really that interesting!!

There you have it!! These will be the questions you have to answer.

Now for the picture! I'm also including a image of me and my hubby.He wouldn't like this but because he never reads this he'll never know!! We don't have anything but snapshots of us, usually he's taking the picture of us with one hand, since we were married. Definitely something we should do on a regular basis. Thanks Rosie for taking them!

Now for the sneak peek! it was SO cold the morning of this shoot but this little peanut was awesome!! She was super busy and after just learning to walk couldn't be slowed down! Your gallery will be ready soon "H" family! Enjoy your sneak peek!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{my baby...}

2008-10-30T11:53:00.010-05:00

...isn't a baby anymore.

"I" just turned 4 at the beginning of October.

I took her out yesterday to do a late birthday shoot. It's still October so I'm not THAT late!!

These are some of my favorite pictures to date. They are totally different than anything I've done and I wouldn't consider them my style, but I LOVE them. The last one is going somewhere, not yet sure where, in my home, HUGE!

This one takes my breath away...Thanks for looking!

~Carol

{friends & neighbours... part 3}

2008-10-25T16:44:00.015-05:00

This next sneak peek is for 2 great families!

First the "H" family...

This couple were the first neighbours we met when we were building our house and we were so happy to have such nice people living across from us!

They are now 2 members bigger since we first met them! You wouldn't recogniser her, but baby "J" was featured in a blog post this past summer.

Big sister "M".

Next up is the "C" family!

Mom "E" is a friend of mine from a mom's group and this is the 2nd time I've photographed them. I love working with them because "E" "gets me". They like unposed, unscripted, real and I love that!

This time I turned the camera on them as a couple instead of just as parents and I am thrilled with what we got!! I {heart} sunflare!!These aren't even my favs!!

Both of your galleries will be ready this week!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{friends & neighbours... part 2}

2008-10-23T10:44:00.013-05:00

Look at me posting 2 days in a row!! Don't get used to this!

Here's my next 2 families that are friends of mine. These mom's and I share babysitting so we can all work and save some babysitting costs! It works great and our kids love playing with each other. The kids are actually here as I write this...I watching them, really I am!!

Here's the "G" family!

I {heart} this image!! So sweet!Here's the "B" family!

Coolest golf cart EVA!!

More LaSalle families coming in the next few days!!

And don't worry "E" I didn't forget about your sneak peek! It will be up next!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{friends & neighbours... part 1}

2008-10-22T21:20:00.017-05:00

It was a busy weekend shooting, mostly here in LaSalle, which is SO nice!! And I was shooting mostly for my friends and neighbours! I have a whole lotta pics to post but I think I'll split them up into 2 or 3 seperate posts.

Here are 2 families that I hang out on an weekly/daily basis!!

Ladies, you don't mind if I pull out my camera this weekend at the halloween party, and post them here do you??!!!

Here's the "D" family!

This is my daughter "I's" future husband!

Here's the "M/W" family!

You may recognize these beauties from my website!!

Stay tuned for part 2 soon!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sweet,sweet baby}

2008-10-15T19:17:00.009-05:00

I {heart} newborns!!!!

Have I mentioned this before??

I do.

It almost makes me want to have another baby so I can have a newborn to photograph.

The key word there is ALMOST...not quite!

Newborn sessions can be hard and long. We take lots of breaks for nursing, changing and cleaning up poop!! This session took 4 hours, but the results are heartmelting... and worth every minute!!

Enjoy you sneak peek "B" family! Your gallery will be ready in a day or so...

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{and the winners are...}

2008-10-14T19:50:00.011-05:00

The winner of the Paper Raisin gift certificate is...

Tasha from Life's Little Treasures Photography!

Congrats Tasha! E-mail me to give me your address!

For the second contest I just have to say how hard this was for my girls!! They truly thought they were all good and my oldest "A" asked if 6 people could win! So please know how close it was!

The winners of the photo shoot and print credit are...

Lee-Ann & Sheila!

Here are their entries...

"Once upon a time there was young princess named Mackenzie. She was a beautiful one-year-old girl who lived in a small house in Winnipeg with her two less-than-photogenic parents, Trent and Sheila. She dreamed of the day when she would meet her fairy-god-mother so she could make a wish. The wish would be to have a family picture that could be sent around the province in time for Christmas. It would take a gifted fairy-god-mother to be able to take a picture that would capture the greatness of the love this special family has for one another. A gifted fairy-god-mother who could make Princess Mackenzie's mother and father look worthy of having such a beautiful little girl as a daughter.Are you Princess Mackenzie's fairy-god-mother? Are you the gifted Photographer who could grant her wish? We hope so......

Thank you,Sheila "

These 2 ladies so knew their audience!! Congrats!! I will be in touch!

My daughters "P" and "A" really wanted to choose 3 winners, it took them all of our dinner time to decide so I bent a bit and said we could have a third prize winner of a $50 print credit!

That winner is Lisa!

Here is her entry which pulled at my girls heartstrings!

"Dear Carol and girls,

I would love to win this prize for my Mommy and Daddy and little brother C. I was not in the best mood when you came to take my picture and sure would like another chance, maybe in the springtime when the grass and trees are green again? I would do my best to put my happy face on so that we could take some new photos. You were such a nice lady to me and you were so patient while I collected acorns. You took the best photos of my family. They made my mommy cry, but she said it was ‘cause she was so happy.
I’ll be turning 3 in April, so I’ll need to have my 3 year-old photos taken and my little brother will be turning one in March, which is a really big deal, so he’ll need new photos too!!!
I really hope that you pick us to win! Love J"

Thank you to all who entered and commented! I may have to have more contests in the future! It was fun!!

On to the sneak peek!

How's that for the coolest spot EVER???
I love photographing teens and older kids! It's so nice not to have to convince someone to look at me,lol!! Your gallery will be ready soon!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{catching up on sneak peeks}

2008-10-11T17:48:00.006-05:00

***scroll down to {100!!!} post to enter contest***

I haven't been as consistent with sneak peeks lately. It's just been too crazy! Hopefully when it slows down in a few weeks I'll be able to post some of the great families I've had the pleasure of meeting these past few weeks!

Here's a sneak peek for the "O" family!

We had a great time at the park, jumping, chasing and throwing leaves and playing on the play structure. These kids were AWESOME!! So easy going and willing to do anything I asked!

Enjoy your sneak peek!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{100!!!!!}

2008-10-08T20:58:00.010-05:00

Yay!! I'm so pumped to be writing my 100th post!
To celebrate, here's a super easy contest! Actually, 2 contests!

Contest #1- All you have to do is comment...that's it! Leave a comment on THIS post (at the bottom) and you will be entered to win a $30.00 gift certificate to Paper Raisins, knitted hats and clothing.
You don't have to be from Winnipeg to enter, I'll send it to you, where ever you live!
Please make sure you leave your name in your comment, or you will not be entered. I will radomly select a winner on Tuesday October 14th.
You have until Monday October 13th, 11:59p.m.(Canadian Thanksgiving) to post your comment.

Contest #2- This one is for Winnipeggers/Manitobans only!!
I am giving away 2 sessions and a $50 print credit! Get a little creative and send me an e-mail telling me why you'd like a Freckle Face Photography Session!
My girls will be deciding on the winners for this contest (they won't know names) so think about your audience when sending your e-mails! ccswaitk@mts.net
You also must have your e-mail in by October 13th, 11:59p.m.

What's a post without pictures!!
Everyone's excited about the contest!!

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I just have to say how truly grateful I am to all my clients during this past year, my family and friends (on-line and off!) who have encouraged me and supported me. I am blessed. Thank you! I look forward to many new and exciting things to come in my second year of business!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol

{post 99 and a favorite family}

2008-10-08T10:22:00.012-05:00

This is my 99th post!!

The next post is 100 and I will be having my first contest!!! It's an easy one so you don't wanna miss it! Check back in the next day or so. I won't keep you waiting too long.

This is not a sneak peek because they already have their gallery but I had to share. I LOVE this family!!! Meet the "B" family.

I've known mom's brother since I was in grade 7. My husband has known this dad since high school, maybe earlier. We reconnected at their wedding social and once we had children we spent more time together. Now that our children are getting older and a whole lot busier, it's harder to get together. But we try and we always have a great time with them! Their children are so sweet and fun and they don't mind showing how much they all love each other. It's so nice to be in the company of such a loving family.

You may recognize these girls from my blog header. That session was all about them, now it's family time!Yes, their eyes are THAT blue!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{fun family}

2008-10-04T15:55:00.008-05:00

I know Mom is waiting for a sneak peek!!
We had a great time playing in the park and kicking the soccer ball around. The only way I could get "G" to look at me was to have that soccer ball in front of me!!
Thanks for the fun afternoon "P" family! Your kids are adorable!!

See, "J" I told you there were great ones of you!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{a bright & fun holiday}

2008-10-02T13:30:00.010-05:00

Here are the rest of my Holiday card designs!
Some of the elements are customizable, just ask!
Same sizes and prices apply!

{holiday cards}

2008-10-01T14:02:00.012-05:00

I meant to have these up ages ago but a nasty cold and a whole lot of sessions got in the way.

These cards are 2 sided with a solid colored back and available in 4x5.5($50.00 for 25) and 5x7 sizes ($60.00 for 25). They are printed on card stock so look and feel like a store bought card.

They can also be done on photo paper ,one sided ($35 for 25, $45 for 25)

If you've had a session done during the year and want to take advantage of these holiday cards, contact me and we can use an image from your session.

Check back tomorrow and I'll post the bright and fun cards!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek}

2008-09-22T21:20:00.011-05:00

Here's a sneak peek for "N&J"!

We met at Kildonan Park on a beautiful sunny Sunday morning.

I love this park for pictures, there are alot of great spots! These two little cuties were great for me, although "J" had to be coaxed with mini m&m's! Whatever works!!

Baby "D" was just 8 weeks old but full of smiles and even fell asleep at the end and gave me some cute sleeping shots!

ETA: here's another Paper Raisin Creation. And I just realised I put it on the baby backwards, lol!!! Sorry Lee-Ann :) !

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{notice anything... different?}

2008-09-19T23:03:00.012-05:00

Thanks to my wonderful friends on Facebook, Brooke Bowland and Tiffany Playfair I now have BIGGER IMAGES!!!!!
HTML code is Greek to me so I would never have attempted to do this but with Brooke's super easy instructions and Tiffany's help when I screwed it up, voila!
Now the bad part...resizing a years worth of posts:( Not sure when I'll get around to that but I'll plug along a post at a time. Speaking of posts, I just noticed I am almost at 100 posts!! Yay me! I'll have to think of something special for my 100th post. Stay tuned. For now, here's a few more BIG images!

As always,

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{a good shoot} Winnipeg child photographer

2008-09-17T16:07:00.016-05:00

You know you're going to have a good shoot when you walk into a house that has light like this:

A backyard that looks like this:

and children that look like this:

I know mom wasn't too sure how we would get anything out of this session. Having a 2 1/2 year old and a 6 month old does not make for an easy session, but these were sure worth it!!

Thanks "A" family! I'll be in touch when the rest are done!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{the start of something crazy!} Winnipeg family photographer

2008-09-16T15:18:00.012-05:00

This shoot marks the beginning of the next crazy 6 weeks. I am booked until the beginning of November! If you were thinking of booking a session please call me asap. I cannot guarantee Christmas delivery of prints after mid November sessions, or December 7 orders.

Here's a sneak peek for the "M" family. We met up at St.Vital Park and I almost missed them there were sooo many people there! We found a quieter spot to get some great pictures!!

Thanks for the fun and eventful, lol, afternoon!!

~Carol~

{little miss h} Winnipeg child photographer

2008-09-12T16:35:00.008-05:00

You may recognise this cutie pie as she is ALL OVER my website. She is the daughter of our neighbours and good friends. I LOVE taking pictures of her. As soon as I point my camera her way she is all smiles! Sometimes they're cheesy smiles but I'll take what I can get!! Her brother on the other hand is allergic to my camera and heads for the hills when he sees me coming!!

So these images are of a very mementos(sp???) occasion! Miss H has been in a cast from waist to ankle for the last 4 months due to a hip displasia which was not diagnosed until she was about 18 months old. "H" has been an AMAZING trooper throughout this time, not to mention how hard it's been on her parents and brother. She even learned to walk with this cast!! She looked so cute hopping along in our back yards like a little "hunchback of Notre Dame".

So the cast came off a couple of days ago and she got to have her first bath in 4 months!! She LOVES the water so it was hard this summer to keep her away from it!

OK, enough talk and more pics!!

Here's the cheesy grin I mentioned!And so her brother doesn't feel left out, here's a pic I was able to snap of him a few months ago with a new family member. He couldn't run away from me here so he was at my mercy!Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{baby love} - winnipeg newborn photographer

2008-09-08T15:17:00.010-05:00

Newborns are probably my favorite age to photograph. All ages are special and fun for their own reasons but capturing the fleeting moments of the first few weeks of these little lives is especially rewarding to me.

Mom and dad are getting their gallery as we speak so this isn't a real sneak peek but I had to share a few of these. Among them, a pose I've been trying to get with a newborn but couldn't get, until now. It's my new favorite image!

This adorable hat is another creation from Paper Raisins. If you haven't checked out her website yet, you really should!! She is wonderful!Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek, kiddos}

2008-09-04T19:28:00.012-05:00

Here's the next sneak peek for the "R" family! These kids were awesome and big sister "M" warmed right up to me. Within minutes of my being there, she was at my feet playing with the gems on my pedicure!! TOO cute!

Twins "O" and "E" were a little more shy but were happy to give me the odd smile or two!

Family photos were hard to come by but I'm sure we got one or two!! These toddlers are BUSY!!

Your gallery should be ready by tomorrow "R" family! I'll be in touch!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{can I hear a "WHOOP WHOOP!} - winnipeg family photographer

2008-09-03T10:29:00.013-05:00

"WHOOP WHOOP!"

Two children down and off to school, one more to go!

School has started and hopefully I can get back on track and get galleries up in a more timely fashion! Summer has really kicked my butt. While I've tried to be a stay home mom and a working mom at the same, it just doesn't work!

I am way behind on sneak peeks and getting close to the cut off for galleries so if you are waiting, thank you for being patient and they will be ready in the next day or two.

Here's a sneak peek for the "D" family to tide you over! Your gallery should be ready tonight!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{don't get wet!}

2008-08-23T11:36:00.012-05:00

Here's the scene:

Gimli, 8:00p.m. after dinner walk, 1/2 hour before bedtime.

"Don't get wet, kids!" say the moms.

"We won't" say the kids... "well, maybe our feet o.k.?"

You can image what happened next right?

Soon they were racing down the beach, then seeing if they could jump over the waves.

In no time flat thery were soaked and having the time of their lives! Who were we to deny them this? I only hope they reminise one day as adults saying,

"Remember when we played on the beach in our clothes and got drenched??"

I {heart} this next one!

Stay tuned this week for a few sneak peeks and the release of my Christmas card designs!

Also check out my website! I've updated it with MANY new images!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{a little behind...} -winnipeg family photographer

2008-08-21T21:09:00.010-05:00

So I haven't blogged in awhile. Shame on me! Summer is winding down and we're trying to "squeeze the last drop" before school starts in just under 2 weeks.

The "Y" family have gotten their gallery already but I wanted to share a few images because, frankly, this family is gorgeous! Mom doesn't like pictures of herself so the image below will be the only pic shown of the whole family. You'll have to take my word for it that the parents are just as beautiful as these children!

This session was supposed to take place outside in a park-like setting but we got rained out and instead of rescheduling, we took it inside their home. Gotta love it when clients are flexible!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{tea anyone?} -winnipeg child photographer

2008-08-11T10:36:00.012-05:00

I have been dying to set up a tea party for a shoot and am so happy I got to do it for one of my favorite neighbours. This is "J" and she is one of my girls bestest friends. From the permagrin she had, she was pretty pumped to get to have a tea party with her baby. She is the girliest of girls so this was so HER.

Despite the crazy mosquitoes we got some GREAT pictures and I hope we were quick enough for you "D"!

We spend lots of time hanging out with the "B" family and I was super excited to take family pictures for them. Thanks guys!

I don't normally post my favorites from shoots because I like to save those for when they get to see their gallery but MY favorites are not always THEIR favorites so this time, here are my favs from this shoot!!

Thanks for looking!
~Carol~

{sneak peek} -winnipeg maternity photographer

2008-08-02T10:28:00.009-05:00

We're off on a mini vacation this week but will be back to a crazy busy August. I only have one opening left in the month and am starting to book for September. If you're thinking of booking an appointment call me soon! Fall will book up fast!

I hung out with this couple who are expecting their first baby. We went to the Cathedral which made for some fun pics! I love outdoor location shoots for maternity pictures. "C & T" were super easy going and I can't wait to meet their new baby!

Enjoy your sneak peek!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek baby!} -winnipeg baby photographer

2008-07-23T08:51:00.012-05:00

This gallery will be ready right away but I wanted to share a few of my favorites!

Meet baby "C"! His Mommy and Daddy are a few posts down. Remember the cherry tree and barn? Here is their new baby boy.

This little guy wanted nothing to do with getting naked!! He had no trouble going to sleep but as soon as he was naked, now matter how hot it was, (and it was HOT!!) he woke up! Oh well, we got some AMAZING pictures!

And my new favorite image!!!

ETA: I forgot to mention this gorgeous wrap was made for me by my friend Lee-Ann from Paper Raisins. (website on the right) I also got some cute newborn and baby hats. Hopefully I'll have some cuties posted soon wearing them!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek}- winnipeg family photographer

2008-07-09T21:54:00.010-05:00

I had a great time this morning with the "C" family. They are here visiting from Denmark and wanted to have family photos taken. So mom "E" looked up Winnipeg photographers and found me! (Thanks Google!!)

I was a little nervous starting this shoot because "E" mentioned that "A" didn't speak very much English but after being here a week she has picked it up like crazy. It wasn't an issue at all!!

"A" loved getting here photos taken. She was right into it! She reminded me so much of my oldest, who are the same age and even have the same name!

Thanks so much "C" family! I loved hanging out with you this morning and I'll be in touch when your gallery is up!

Enjoy your sneak peek!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{news n' stuff}

2008-07-05T14:14:00.014-05:00

So I mentioned a few posts back I would be updating my website with new pics and info. Well I'm a little behind on that,lol! But here are a few updates. As of July 1, I have discontinued my collections. The feedback I've received on them was that they weren't exactly what people wanted. Anyone who had ordered them wanted to change them up. So they are no more!

Instead, if you order $600.00 or more in prints or products you will receive an album of all session images(4x6) for free.

I have had a lot of storyboard orders lately and I just realized I didn't have this written anywhere.

A storyboard starts with a consultation about what the client is looking for. We talk about what kind of look, size and mounting options for the design. The design fee is $25.00 per storyboard and includes 2 designs and 2 revisions. The cost of the finished product is dependant on size and material of the mount. I will have a price list on the website in the next week.

That's it for now for business stuff but will be posting more over the next week as I hammer out the details!

Here are a few of my favorite images from the shoot I took my girls on last week. This session was. not. fun. Why are my own children so difficult to photograph???? You'd never know it from the results though. There are so many great ones and I will have a hard time picking "the one". I desperately want a canvas of all three of them. Maybe you can help me decide??

Please leave me a comment telling me your favorite one!

This first one is not canvas worthy but I LOVE their expressions!

#0#1#2#3#4#5

#6This last one looks great in color too.

How will I ever decide?????

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{newest neighbour}

2008-06-29T13:23:00.011-05:00

We have ALOT of girls on our street, they probably out number the boys 2 to 1, or even 3 to 1!! That's not a huge problem now but in 10 years from now, there may be alot of fighting over these boys,LOL!!!

Now there is one more girl to add to that number! Baby "J" was born just over a week ago and I was so happy to get to photograph her for the first time!! She was so good during our session, awake for a bit, sleeping for most and only peeing on me once!!

There were so many great images I had a hard time picking a few, so I didn't!! Here's alot!

Meet baby "J" and her new big sister "M".Couldn't decide whether I liked color or b&w better...what do you think??Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{beautiful graduate} -winnipeg grad photographer

2008-06-27T18:43:00.007-05:00

Thanks so much "W" family for letting me capture such a special day in a teens life...graduation!!

We had to swat a ton of mosquitoes and we have a limited window but we got some GREAT images and I can't wait to share them all with you.

I'll be in touch when the rest are done but for now enjoy your sneak peek!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{more of mine}

2008-06-23T15:49:00.009-05:00

Are you getting tired of these faces yet??

I took a small break from client sessions in the last week because it was crazy around here, so all I've had to take pictures of are my girls. They will have to do!!

We had a great time in Gimli this weekend at my mom and dad's retirement party. Here are just a couple of shots while we were all playing on the beach. Although in threatened rain all afternoon it never actually rained, thank goodness!

I may post more later this week!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{a new look}

2008-06-19T22:59:00.008-05:00

My little "P" has always had ALOT of hair!! People used to comment that it looked like she was wearing a wig. I dug out a few old pictures but this doesn't even do the "mop" justice!

This was at her longest. She had never had a real haircut, just trims, until shortly after this was taken. She had a whopping 8 inches cut off at 4 1/2 years old!!This was her yesterday before:and after:She LOVES it!! I think it's pretty cute too although I'll miss her long locks a little!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{finally summer!}

2008-06-18T20:57:00.010-05:00

This everyday blogging is HARD!!! Don't think I'll do that again...:)

We had a great time splashing in sprinklers yesterday as the temperature got up to the high 20's. FINALLY!!! We've been waiting for beautiful weather for weeks.

I don't have a thing for Superman, it just seems to pop up here often!

Freezees, a summer staple.

And of course, no dip in the sprinkler is complete without goggles and waterwings!!!

Stay cool!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek}

2008-06-17T22:05:00.008-05:00

I met the SWEETEST couple last week who are expecting their first baby. They were so warm and welcoming and after sitting down with them to chat before we started I felt like I'd known them for years.

When I pulled up in their driveway, I gave a little squeal when I spotted the huge cherryblossom tree and little red bard , (I SO want a barn!!!). I couldn't wait to get outside!!

I had a great time hanging out with these two and they are going to make GREAT parents!! They are so easygoing and relaxed.

As I was packing up to leave I spotted a guitar in the corner of their living room and had to ask if someone played. Dad-to-be is a musician so I dragged them back outside to get this. :)

Enjoy your sneak peek!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{day 3...sorry 4}

2008-06-16T19:43:00.005-05:00

Ok so I'm not so good at this everyday thing,lol! My neighbour actually told be I missed a day and I didn't believe her!! I was sure I was doing good!! Oh well!

My "baby" isn't a baby anymore... "I" is 31/2 going on 8. She thinks she should do everything her big sisters can do. So she decided that her tricycle was for babies and she was ready for her big girl bike. So out came the bike and helmet on a beautiful sunny day and away she went, "easy peasy" she says.

*sigh* they are not supposed to grow up. Didn't she get the memo???

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{day 2}

2008-06-14T19:02:00.007-05:00

I haven't shared any new images of my girls lately so here are a few I took in Gimli a few weeks ago. I'm sure we'll be here alot more once my mom and dad retire this summer. So be prepared for lots of beach pictures!

I'm trying to get a great picture of the girls that I can get in canvas but it's so hard and I can't commit to a favorite. It changes all the time. Hopefully this summer I will capture "the one".

Love this one of "I"!!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek}

2008-06-13T14:42:00.007-05:00

So I've been a bad blogger so I'm giving myself a challenge to get back into the habit of blogging! Get ready for a post a day for the next 7 days!

I spent the afternoon with this cute little guy and his mom and dad. This was a quazi-newborn shoot as mom wanted to have baby announcements done but this little guy is already 1 month old. He was very wide awake and alert, no sleeping for him, thank you very much! We really tried and we managed to keep him asleep for maybe 15 mins. Power nap over, he was up and quite tired of the paparazzi. We did get some beautiful shots and can't wait to finish them up!

I'll be in touch soon, for now here's your sneak peek!

Dad requested a few photos of their "first child" and this furry baby was happy to let me! Should I stick to kids????

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{where have I been????} -winnipeg family photographer

2008-06-10T10:05:00.009-05:00

I don't think I've ever gone this long between posts before!

I'm here! I'm here!

It's been pretty crazy around my house lately, with birthdays, a traveling husband and trying to keep up with the kids!

I've also been working on my business structure and website so watch for new images and changes, not really in prices but in options.

Here's a 2nd look at the "K" family. They are a couple posts down and I hung out with them again this weekend, to get a few more images my wonky camera missed last time. The girls were much more comfortable with me and I actually got a smile from little "Q" when I arrived! Yay!!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{girls,girls,girls} - winnipeg teen photographer

2008-05-30T23:58:00.008-05:00

I had a blast in the park last weekend with these super fun girls. "M" contacted me a few weeks ago to do a shoot for her and 12 girls!!!! Unfortunately only 9 could make it. They had a ton of ideas and they put up with my suggestions!

These girls rocked it and we got some great shots!!

Thanks so much ladies I had a great time and your gallery will be ready soon!

I'll be in touch!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{cuties}

2008-05-29T22:25:00.008-05:00

I finally got to meet this family after a few failed attempts due to illness. Everyone was finally healthy and ready for pictures. If only my lens felt the same:( It's under the weather and this poor family got the brunt of it. But we manged to get a few great shots, in fact, the first one is my new favorite image.

Enjoy the sneek peek T&D!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{ladybugs & dandelions} - winnipeg family photographer

2008-05-25T19:44:00.008-05:00

Can you think of a better way to spend a morning than picking dandelions and looking for ladybugs? I can't!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{super baby}

2008-05-13T21:29:00.013-05:00

Remember this Super Momma?

Well meet their Super Baby!!

The long anticipated arrival of baby "G" happened on his original due date almost 2 weeks after the "new" due date.

Congratulations Mom & Dad on your first baby. This little cutie was 5 days old for is second photo shoot:) and he was a star!! After a short alert period and a quick nurse, he was out like a light for the rest of the 2 hours I was there. He let me put him anywhere, anyway. A photographers dream!! Thanks so much C&C he is one beautiful boy!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{happy birthday "X"}

2008-05-12T12:35:00.009-05:00

This big guy just turned 4 and I got to come hang out with him on his birthday! We jumped on his bed, played with cars, went for a ride in his brand new cadillac, played in the dirt and ate birthday cake. Doesn't that sound like the best birthday EVER???? Oh, to be 4 again! I'll just have to live vicariously through my cute little clients!!

Here's your sneak peek Mom & Dad! He is one cute kid!

I know I'm not "supposed" to but I LOVE these cheesey smiles!! They are so typical of 3-4 year olds. LOVE IT!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek for my new BFF}

2008-05-07T21:32:00.007-05:00

Here's a sneek peek for my new best friend!!

She was such a cutie but I'll tell ya, it's hard to take pictures of a subject who wants to hold your hand, sit on your lap and have you pick her up!!

Unfortunately, Mom and "L" came to town on business and to visit family from the west coast, so our friendship will have to be a long distance one:(

These are a few that caught my eye as I've been editing them. Mom said they weren't very photogenic but I don't believe anyone is!! But you can see for yourself....

I'll be in touch when your gallery is ready "M".

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{beautiful}

2008-05-02T23:14:00.007-05:00

...all 3 of them!

Ok so the dog isn't as beautiful as these next 2 girls but she's pretty darn cute!! It's been awhile since I photographed kids this age. It was a blast! They had lots of great ideas, but I don't think they were intending winter jackets at one point!! It was COLD!

Here's your sneak peek ladies. Enjoy!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek}

2008-04-30T14:48:00.006-05:00

I was feeling a little "arsty" when I edited this first image. It's a little different process than what I normally do but I felt this image really suited it.

This mom had one request...a family photo including the dog...seems simple enough, right?? Well when you're talking about a baby, a 2.5 yr old and a VERY active dog, that is no easy feat!! And I'm going to keep you in suspence, mom, THE photo isn't in here! Enjoy the sneek peak!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{more families}

2008-04-24T12:26:00.007-05:00

Here'a sneak peek for a fun family I got to hang out with last weekend. These girls were so fun! Full of spunk and personality and BUSY!! They had to take a breath once and a while;) and when they did, I was ready!

Your gallery will be ready in the next week. I'll keep you posted until then here's a few to tide you over!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek}

2008-04-21T10:07:00.005-05:00

Hope you had a wonderful day girls. You both looked beautiful!! Happy 1st Communion!
These girls are stunning! Model material. Mom you'll have to look into that!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{blog love}

2008-04-20T15:32:00.005-05:00

You may have noticed the box to the right called "live traffic feed". I love to know where people are from that visit my blog and how they found me. I know there are lots of people coming by to visit, but not many leave a comment. I would love to know how you found my little sliver of the internet. Please leave me a comment and tell me how you found me. Did you just websurf and come across me? Did someone tell you to check it out? Did you find the link on someone else's blog?? I'd love to know!!

I've been dying to do a maternity bathtub session and I finally got my chance last week. Here's a few...love how they turned out!! What do you think?

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{i'm back!!!}

2008-04-14T14:20:00.013-05:00

Words can't describe the wonderful time I had in Chicago. I met some amazing people/photographers and learned alot, about photography, business and myself.

I had the honour of meeting the uber talented, Audrey, who is sweet, funny and so down to earth. As well as a super smart business woman. She shared so much with us. NO question was off limits however big or small.

Thank you to everyone who was at this workshop! You helped make my experience worthwhile, and I hope we keep in touch!

Here are a few of my favorite shots from this weekend.

Thanks for looking!!

~Carol~

{I should be...}

2008-04-09T21:49:00.009-05:00

I should be doing one of the thousand things I need to do before I leave for Chicago, but here I am!!

I had no intention of doing another post before I left but as I was downloading these images I couldn't help playing with them. Then I couldn't help but share! Some of my new favorite images are from this session!!

I've known the father of this family as long as I have known my husband. They used to play hockey together as children, work together in a restaurant as teenagers, and they work together now for the same company.

We had a blast at their home on Sunday during their session and for a BBQ after. My family was there, my children acting as assistants! They generally were good but "I" kept leaning on me to see into the camera! Talk about camera shake,LOL!!

Here's a sneak peek "S&N".

and I'll leave you with my new favorite image....

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek}

2008-04-08T13:07:00.010-05:00

I had the pleasure of photographing this little peanut last week. You may recognize one of the images but now with baby instead of belly!

This little man WOULD NOT SLEEP!!! I had visions of all these scrunched up, sleeping baby poses, that just didn't happen. I have this beautiful wooden bowl that I have been waiting to use. "E" didn't like that bowl thank you very much!!

Oh well! We got some beautiful images anyway. Here's your sneak peek "S&S".

I'm trying to get caught up this week before I head off to Chicago. Yes! Chicago!!! I'm am super excited to be attending my very first photography workshop. This one is being hosted by the amazing, talented, Audrey Woulard. If you haven't checked out her work yet please do now (see "photographer blogs I love" to the right) And any photographers stopping by here, check out Audrey's latest post about Project Childhood or go straight to Project Childhood . It's a non-profit community of professional photographers and students dedicated to celebrating childhood through the art of photography and community service.

They also have a cool contest on right now in honour of Child Abuse Awareness month. I would love to get involved in this so if you know anyone who would love to have my photography services but would otherwise not be able to afford it, please contact me. They will receive a free session and a collection of prints. I will also be donating the session fee ($75.00) to a local children's charity.

{paper raisins}

2008-04-06T10:45:00.011-05:00

I was so excited to get to do my first commercial shoot for Paper Raisins.

I met Lee-Ann at our annual Y-Neighbours Used Toy and Clothing sale last fall. I fell in love with her adorable hats and sweaters. I mentioned I was a photographer and would love to photograph her wares if she needed some shots for a website.

Here are a few of the shots we got last weekend at our first, of I hope many, shoots!

You may recognize one of the little girls from a past post. Lee-Ann and her sister-in-law had me take photos of their children a few weeks back, so "P" and I are old friends!

This was just an outtake but I love how it turned out!Check out Lee-Ann's website to contact her or place an order at http://www.paperraisins.ca/ or if only to read how she named her business, too cute!!

Thanks so much Lee-Ann. I had a great time and the rest of the session will be done before Friday when I leave for Chicago:)

More on that next time!! I'm soooooo excited!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{my 8 year old baby}

2008-04-05T15:48:00.008-05:00

She loves to play "what's your favorite?"

She loves to model clothes and pose for pictures.

She wants to be an illustrator when she grows up.

She is downstairs right now practicing a dance routine with her friend.

She wrinkles her nose up when she smiles, like her mom.

She has a beauty mark on her hand in the exact same spot as her mom, she hates hers though.

She is a daddy's girl through and through.

My oldest "baby" is 8 today. *sigh* I remember when she was eight days old, how can she be 8 years?? I always tell her the story of her birth on her birthday, I'm sure a lot of moms do that, I know mine did. She loves the part of how I was in labour for 40 hrs. When she was 3 she wanted to know how long that was in her favorite shows. Like, how many Dora episodes it would be, lol!! She is always full of crazy questions like that.

Happy Birthday my sweet girl...I love you.

Hang Loose!

~Carol~

{sneak peek}

2008-04-04T07:50:00.006-05:00

I know mom "L" is dying to see this sneak peek! You'd never guess from these photos but the kids were a little off that day. Not their usual happy, smiley selves. That happens!! We all have off days but I think we managed to get quite a few great shots! I wish my kids looked this great when they had their "off" days!!
Here's a teaser "L" and the rest should be done by the end of the weekend! Thanks or leting me spend the afternoon with you!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{April Fool's}

2008-04-01T09:59:00.028-05:00

So my computer's playing tricks on me today and I'm having trouble with these new card templates. I wanted to have pictures in them but for now I'll put them up just blank.

These new card designs are courtesy of mydoodlebugdesigns and they are so cute!! They could definitely be for anything, not just baby announcements. They are completely costumizable and the textures can be turned off for a cleaner look.

Here's the 4x5.5 size:

Front:

Back:Front:Back:Front:Back:Front:Back:

5X7 size

Front:

Back:Front:Back:Front:Back:Front:Back:Front:Back:Front:Back:Front:Back:Front:Back:Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{all boy}

2008-03-31T23:35:00.009-05:00

Here's a sneak peek for my latest "neighbour shoot". I love taking pictures of the kids on my street. They are usually more comfortable with me because they already know me a little. This little boy was so fun to photograph! He took direction so well and, really, he looks cute no matter what he's doing! Are those not the most beautiful eyes you've ever seen????? There are so many AMAZING pics to pick from. I had a hard time choosing for this post. It's not a bad problem to have!!
This first one was the first photo I took and it's one of my favs!

Can't wait to finish them! "L" I'll let you know when they're done!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{lil' peanut}

2008-03-26T14:27:00.009-05:00

This is the second time I get to visit with this lil' peanut and she's not much bigger than when I saw her last, lol! She's 8 months old now and such a cutie!! I am loving these pictures and mom is going to have a hard time picking. I know I did!! Here's a few but it won't be long until you're gallery is ready "C". I'm lovin' proofing them.

{just because}

2008-03-24T19:47:00.011-05:00

No reason for this post I just wanted to share the images of my girls I edited today. I never want to forget why I started doing this and that is for these beautiful faces. So whenever I'm busy editing client sessions I take a break to edit for me, and for them.

Having this one printed for home! Love the look they are all giving me.

Sorry for the sloppy cropping, I'm trying to finish this before bedtime so I'm in a hurry!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{family time}

2008-03-20T10:45:00.005-05:00

This will be my last post until after the Easter weekend. We are off for a little R&R. Hope you all enjoy some family time this weekend!

Here's a sneak peek for a fun family I photographed last weekend. Little "S" was all smiles and I think they have a future photographer on their hands!! "I" didn't want to put down the camera he even wanted to get up on chairs like I was doing! Sorry Mom and Dad! Didn't mean to set a bad example,lol!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek}

2008-03-18T12:56:00.006-05:00

Here's a sneak peek for "D&S". Mom "S" wanted photos of her and her daughter as a birthday gift from her husband. Great idea!! How many moms out there are the picture takers and are never IN the photographs!

We spent the morning trying to convince little "D" that she really DID want to get her picture taken. Alas, she didn't agree with us, but we did manage to get some keepers!!

I LOVE baby toes!!!Your gallery will be ready in the next couple of days "S".

Thanks for looking!

~Carol

{more cuties)

2008-03-14T15:58:00.006-05:00

I'm sure, I have the BEST job!!! I had so much fun with this family on the weekend. They were so relaxed and friendly. Little "S" was a BLAST! And she was FAST!! (are you seeing a theme here...lol!) She was a total ham and loved making me work for the shot! She also LOVES her baby brother. Who could blame her!! Look at those amazing blue eyes!!

Thanks "R" family for the great afternoon, and thanks "S" for the snowball fight! I'll let you know when you gallery is ready. For now enjoy the sneek peek!

Thanks for looking!!

~Carol~

{cutie pie}

2008-03-13T12:57:00.007-05:00

I've had a few 18 month olds lately and this cutie pie was one of them.

She wasn't too sure of me and I would love to say she warmed up to me, but that wouldn't be true, LOL!! I got a lot of looks that said, "who are you and why are you taking my picture..." She was fast but I was faster and managed to get some great pictures. I know mom "L" is waiting to see this because I'm sure she doesn't think we got anything good. Well here you go "L", there lots more where these came from. I'll let you know when the rest are done!

I love this next shot. It's so typical of children at this age. She wanted to put her shoe on all by herself even though it didn't fit!!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{more babies on the way!}

2008-03-11T11:33:00.005-05:00

I had a crazy busy weekend doing shoots. I will have LOTS to post this week as I wade through the sea of images!!

I met this great couple, who are expecting their first baby, on Saturday. "S" called me on Tuesday thinking she would be too late for maternity pictures as she is due any day. I had time for her on Saturday and the baby decided to let her get them taken!! S&S were so easy going and up for any of my ideas! He even got into it and was coming up with ideas of his own! LOVE that!

Here's a sneak peek for the "parents to be"! Can't wait to meet the new babe!

Thanks for the fun morning!

~Carol~

{oh baby!}

2008-03-02T22:20:00.007-06:00

C&C are waiting anxiously for their first baby. This bundle 'o joy is due in 7 weeks so you'll have to sit tight for the newborn pics. Here's a few belly pics to tide you over!

I had so many great images to choose from for this sneek peek, but these are a few of my favs...

I absolutely LOVE these next 2 ...they're going on the website for sure!!

Thanks for the fun afternoon C&C! I'll be in touch!

~Carol~

{my fingerprint}

2008-02-27T21:22:00.005-06:00

"I've come to believe that each of us has a personal calling that's as unique as a fingerprint -- and that the best way to succeed is to discover what you love and then find a way to offer it to others in the form of service, working hard, and also allowing the energy of the universe to lead you." --Oprah Winfrey

I love Oprah....

This is my calling and I'm so happy to be able to share it. To leave my fingerpint on your memories. Thanks for letting me.

"Peace out"

~Carol~

{e-session}

2008-02-25T12:57:00.005-06:00

Here's a sneak peek of my first engagement session! I was a little nervous. With adults you need to do a bit more posing than kids. I usually just have to follow kids around and take the shots. With adults though you need to tell them what to do. This couple was great and he had LOTS of great posing ideas! I'm always worried that the man in the shoot won't really be into the whole picture taking thing but "R" was great; engagement pictures were actually his idea!! Enjoy your sneak peek "C & R". I let you know when the rest are done!

Thanks for looking!

~Carol~

{sneak peek}

2008-02-24T15:32:00.008-06:00

Here's a sneak peek for the cutest cousins ever!!! They were fantastic for me and we had a great time exploring the "rain forest". Thanks for the wonderful morning and I'll be in touch, moms, when the rest of your gallery is ready!

Stay tuned for a sneak peak from my first engagement session!!

~Carol~

{fairy princess}

2008-02-21T12:02:00.005-06:00

This is my new fav photo of "P". This is absolutely her.
I can't decide which version I like the best so I will post all three. Gives you an idea of how different the same picture can look.

Have a great day!

~Carol~

{more of "A"}

2008-02-20T16:01:00.007-06:00

I know I said I was going to post some photos of my other girls but there's so many more pics I love of this session so I needed to post more!

Thanks fo looking!

~Carol~

{happy louis riel day!}

2008-02-18T16:50:00.006-06:00

This little photoshoot was all "A's" idea! I love that they are lovin' posing for me!

Whenever I see pictures of my kids it makes me realize how quickly they are growing up. I can't believe that my little girl is going to be 8 in a few weeks. Makes me sad and happy all at the same time. I can't wait to see who they will grow up to be but I don't ever want them to grow up! All you moms know exactly what I mean.

These are also for my moms and dads who are looking at these on a beach in Hawaii! Hope you're having a great time!! Watch for more posts this week with the other girls!

Miss you!

~Carol~

{love}

2008-02-14T11:56:00.005-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Little "P" loves Valentine's Day!! She's been so excited and has been counting the sleeps! You'd think Christmas was coming again! She was very excited for school this morning to share her valentine's with her friends.

I took these pictures a few weeks ago after seeing the on another blog ( http://brendaacuncius.typepad.com/ ) and had to try the "ponyhearts" myself! She LOVED them!!
Another storyboard! 10x30

Have a great Valentine's Day!!

~Carol

{more storyboards}

2008-02-13T14:53:00.005-06:00

Here are a few more storyboard designs to choose from. These are all 12x12 sizes but like all designs and sizes they can be customized!

"Flipflop"

"Grid Lock"

"Mosaic"

Thanks for visiting!

~Carol

{storyboards}

2008-02-10T13:30:00.000-06:00

Storyboards are a series of photos mounted on foamboard that tell a story. They are a great way to showcase a few of your favorite images. I will be offering them as part of the collections recently added to the website. If you haven't seen them yet, check out "the Investment" on the site. Here are a couple samples and I will be adding more over the next few weeks. They come in 3 sizes,12x12,10x30 and 20x20 and in a few designs for each size, but if you want something specific, they can be completely custom.

10x30:

20x20: Stay tuned for more!!

~Carol

{fav}

2008-02-06T21:25:00.000-06:00

My new favorite image...

but I can't decide, colour or black and white??

{laundry day}

2008-02-02T00:28:00.000-06:00

Please help me....I just can't do it. I can't wash/dry/fold/put away 7 loads of laundry in one day. I know there's one out there somewhere...please tell me where I can get a washer/dryer that can do all of this for you. While you're looking...can you look for a self cleaning house too??? Thanks!

~Carol~

{sneak peek}

2008-01-28T14:32:00.000-06:00

So I think what I need to tell people before any shoot is to leave all expectations about what you want your pictures to look like at the door. Really, when working with kids, especially toddlers and preschoolers, you get what you get!! They are the bosses and what they say goes...for pictures anyway, because the more you try to get them to sit here or stand there, that's the LAST place they want to go!

This family was great at this. They just went with it and were very easy going. These girls knew exactly what they wanted and what they wanted to do. I truly love that about children. As great as it would be to have kids who just did whatever you said, you wouldn't end up with pictures that reflected who they were. And that is what makes a photograph great.

I hope this isn't what "H" thought of me and my camera!!

There's alot to go through "E"! I'll let you know when your gallery is ready! Can't wait for spring and the horses!

~Carol~

{breath of warm air}

2008-01-27T20:28:00.000-06:00

I was going a little nutty in my house. It's been FREEZING for the last 2 weeks. So it was wonderful to get outside today in almost balmy weather! We celebrated our nephew's 4th birthday by going on a sleigh ride. It was great! Warm weather, great food, family and friends. What more could you ask for?

Here's a few pics of the days activities.

Even Racoonie got to tag along!More fun running after the sleigh than actually riding on it!Happy Birthday "Duke"!!

Love Ya!

~ Auntie Carol

{the winner}

2008-01-22T09:42:00.000-06:00

It was close...but #4 was the favorite! Here is my new business card!

Front:

Back:and because I have to be fair...here's "P",and "I" too!! Thank you to everyone for all your words of encouragement and praise since the launch of the website. Alot of people didn't even know I was doing this so they were surprised when they received an e-mail. I have had an overwhelming response and I am so happy that people like what I do. Thank you so much!!