Out and About.

Thanks to those who've sent a little note wondering where I've gone this week..I obviously cannot sneak off too far and not be noticed! We're away on a mini-break and although I did take the laptop, internet access is not so reliable. I'll be home in a week so will have plenty to share then!

For those who've paid for Eye Candy workshops in the last few days, I've not been able to send out receipts - please rest assured I'll send them out as soon as I have my trusty Mac back. Thankyou again to every person who has signed up - I'm thrilled to have such a great response and really am looking forward to getting started!


Thought I'd pop in this sweet photo of Monique and Ollie. Makes me smile.

S x

Soar.

Ava loved being in her angel wings. She wore them with her best dresses, she wore them with nothing. They made an appearance on most days until they became tired and tatty and Mason did what Mason does and broke them. I remember the tears that followed and me dutifully going to buy her another pair.

I was telling Tegan a story today over email..how one night I could hear Ava in the room next door thudding around and getting very cranky over something. It continued for a while so I went in and saw her standing in the middle of the coffee table, frown firmly plastered. I asked "Ava, what's wrong?" to which she replied, frustrated, "Mum, I just can't do it". So, asking what "it" was, she then replied "I just can't fly".

I once posted here some images of her jumping on the lounge and told how when I said "Ava, stop jumping", she replied with "I'm not jumping Mummy, I'm flying". My post ended with the words "Soar, sweet child, soar". As we released balloons the day of her funeral and stood watching them fade away, I spoke the same words.

These images were taken 14 days before she left. I wandered past and saw her standing on a chair, just staring out the window. She wasnt' saying anything, there was really nothing to look at from there, but she appeared so thoughtful, and beauty full, in her wings and tiara. I actually went and got the camera and Crayton to come and see her - there was such serenity in her at that moment. I could only get a couple before she saw me and the moment was gone. I'm so glad I captured it.



I miss my girl today. I miss her every single day but yesterday has passed and all I can think is today, I miss her more. And it will be the same tomorrow. It just is.

S xx

Just As Cute {In Silhouette}.

Recently Fran shared how Poppy had just "found her shadow" which made me laugh as it was the same week that Ivy, too, had found hers. The girls are only weeks apart so it's cute to see them behave so much alike. That's me off to the side in the 2nd last one :)

Peek Through My Window {Part 3} & more.

Picking up where I left off with q&a's.. My head is spinning with phototalk today so I'm running with anything that does not involve a camera :)


Ok I want to know who does your brows these days?

Hilarious! Really, my eyebrow obsessed days are overrrr. I used to pay obscene amounts for "brow work" ;p but these days I hope for slow traffic lights to give me a minute to get the tweezers out! Well not quite but something like that. Thanks for making me think they're worthy though :)

Was the children's book for Ava (mentioned last year) ever written/pubished?

It was written and illustrated beautifully but Tiffany and I are still in the process of fine tuning. It's a big thing to organise decent publishing that doesn't cost the Earth..I really want it to be available to anyone, anywhere - no easy feat :) Still, I'm so committed to seeing it in print - the test run version is gorgeous! I am so grateful to Barb Uil and Tiffany Ard for turning an idea into something beautiful, I really can't wait to share it.

Do you picture Ava as an almost 5 year old or will she always be 3 and a half in your mind?

A hard question. I see her as 3.5. I can't really imagine her any other way. As Ivy gets past the age Ava was I guess I will see what Ava might have been like. I don't like to ponder how she might have looked or what she might be doing now, there is so much to miss already I'd rather not add new things to the list. To see other children at the age she should be makes my heart hurt.

What laundry detergent do you buy?

Don't mind Kate, she's a little bit odd. But just in case anyone else needs to know - OMO.

How did you get your start in photography?

Okay, I included this photography one because I wanted to add a bit to the previous answer I gave to a similar question.

Around the time I bought my first DSLR, I was in McDonalds one day and Ava began babbling to a man sitting near us. After a few minutes he introduced himself as a photographer.. Long story short, he asked me to assist at a wedding a few weeks later and sick with nerves, I did. Somehow, I shot the whole thing on manual, I didn't even know AV was an option..plus I ran out of memory too soon but I did it and I learnt a lot from that one day. It really was a chance meeting that inspired me so much. Thanks Dean :)

Can I buy Ivy from you?

Sure, I'm currently running a Buy One Get One Free promo..you'll also get my oldest child, Luca. He's 9 and, just like Ivy, is suffering Gastric Flu this week. That won't be a problem will it?

Do you ever travel to the United States? If you do come to the States, would you consider doing photo shoots while you are here?

Reasonably often actually...I'll be over quite soon but not shooting this time unfortunately.. I will definately try to work it in for the trip after though - remember my husband doesn't let a day go by without mentioning a move to the States! This won't be our last trip :)


Other things for today:

Eye Candy..

I've had a few questions from people who aren't sure whether they should do Explore or Evolve. Basically, if you do not know how to use your camera on manual, or you want to develop your creativity beyond happy snaps, start with Explore. It's a workshop designed to help get started with the basics of taking good images and enhancing in Photoshop..

If you're quite confident with what you're doing in regards to your camera and Photoshop but still feel you have room to improve or want to develop your creativity, along with those going into business, Evolve is ideal.

Obviously, I've not done this before but I'm working hard to make sure both courses are good value with lots of information and insight - I expect the forum will be a great place for people to ask anything I might not have covered. I hope this helps anyone who's not sure which workshop to do.

And finally, a couple of images of Whitney who Kate and I thoroughly enjoyed shooting on Saturday.




Can't resist a quirky leg shot.





Sheye xx

Eye Candy Workshops are go!

So what started as a question and answer post has taken on a life of it's own..my inbox is overflowing with enthusiasm and support! Thankyou so much for all of the interest shown, I hadn't really considered running a workshop any time soon but now that I am, I'm hugely excited and really enjoying putting it all together. I've happily chosen Eye Candy as a name that suits me and my love for all things candy coloured!

Over the past few days, I've discovered that there is a wide range of skills amongst you and it would not be practical to run one workshop for everyone so, two it is!

The first, Explore, will be designed for the beginner who doesn't necessarily need to own a DSLR camera. As long as you're inspired to learn, this workshop will help you gain a better undertanding of digital photography and what makes a great image. It will also be a good introduction to image enhancement in Photoshop. This workshop will run from around the end of August for four weeks and be self paced.

The second workshop, Evolve, will be aimed at the serious ameteur or semi-professional who wants to build upon their knowledge to develop more creative, professional images and enhance their Photoshop skills. It will also include lots of tips and information for those considering starting up or growing their own photography business. This workshop will begin around mid October for six weeks and also be self paced.

Both will include an interactive forum.

I've had a good think about how to proceed and have realised that to do this properly and give it the time and attention it deserves, I will need to close my photo session calender for the duration of the workshops. In order to do this, I've had to put what I believe is a reasonable charge in place - I hope this is still appealing to potential participants.

If you're wanting to participate, please click on the Explore and Evolve links above and register.
I am really looking forward to getting to know people better in a fun and inspiring environment.. thanks again for the opportunity to do this :)

Sheye xx

Workshop Update!

Wow! I have been totally, totally overwhelmed with the response to my workshop suggestion. It certainly seems like something worth doing and I appreciate all the support shown!

I am in the process of sending out emails today and must apologise in advance that I can't send hugely personal emails back to everyone - many of you have taken the time to write such beautiful things.. Thankyou so much :)

I'll post full details of the workshop here once it's all finalised - I imagine it will be ready to go by middle to end August.

I'm very excited about this opportunity, thankyou!

S xx

Edited to add: If you're wanting to enquire, please send me an email:

sheyerosemeyer@bigpond.com

I'd hate to miss anyone's comment here! Those who've commented so far I have included in my list.

Also, just to clarify, it is an online workshop - I've had a couple of people getting their bags packed! Do I need to make up extra rooms?!

Thanks again for all the support :)

S xx

Peek Through My Window {Part 2}

It's so lovely to have you all take the time to write questions, thankyou so much! I'm wondering this: because so many of the questions are photography related, I would be happy to do an online workshop for those interested. I don't mind sharing tips here but in all honesty, I feel like my blog is a difficult place to expand on specific techniques with the detail that's probably needed. For the more general, quick q's, I will add them in...

If you are interested in signing up for a workshop, please send me an email so I can gage interest. It will be aimed at beginners and those looking to move towards starting a business. I will be happy to share as much as asked and will offer personal c&c for participants. If interest is there, I will be looking at running it from around mid August.

I really hope by doing it this way, I can put the required time and effort into helping those who genuinely want to learn in more of a one-on-one environment. Just send me an email (sheyerosemeyer@bigpond.com) if you'd like to register interest.

So, a few more Q&A's for today!

Have you ever thought about selling or sharing some of your own actions?

Often! I plan to sell them as soon as I have time to get a pretty page up :)

What was the hardest shoot you ever had?

Probably my very first, just because of sheer nerves.

Do you ever still get nervous or intimidated?

I do, but not as often as I used to. If I'm well prepared I'm usually more relaxed..Early on I was quite terrified actually.

How long have you been photographing clients?

Since 2004 but it's taken me quite a while to get in the swing of shooting regularly.

How many shoots do you have during the week/month?

Usually one a week..sometimes two. I rarely take on more than that otherwise I find myself in a bit of a spin. I never want to feel like photography is a chore - I do it because I love it.

How much time do you spend editing?

I usually proof a shoot in a day. The more time I take to prepare pre shoot, the less time it takes in editing.

What did you do before photography?

I was the woman you rang to shout at when your phone bill arrived.

You never talk about your mother... has she passed on?

Oh no! She's very much alive and well and lives just down the road from me. I actually moved up to Brisbane to be closer to her :) We have a regular shopping date most weeks and talk on the phone most days. Mum is my rock.


This month I would like to know how you shoot into the sun without getting harsh sun flare?
In some of your pictures the sun looks so diffused and soft.

There are lots of variables that affect how flare appears. It comes down to the position of the subject, the position of the sun, what's in-between the two, the time of day and the aperture you're using and making sure you compensate with exposure. It takes a while to feel comfortable shooting into the sun but it's worth learning.

What is the most profound spiritual moment of your life?

Giving birth to Ava and Ivy, in water, without drugs. Holding Ava just after she passed away. I cannot seperate the three as I believe the primal intensity of each of those situations was very, very similar.

How would you describe yourself in one sentence?

Altered.

Are you willing to share the pre-PS versions of the images from this post?

Why yes I am! I will dig them out and post them this week.


Okay, it's school holidays and I have a date with two cute boys and a ten pin bowling alley.

S xx

Peek Through My Window {Part I}

Okay, well.. I've shut up shop, sent the kids to foster homes and suggested my husband take up golf...It's going to take me a million billion years to answer all those questions!! Thanks so much for the great mix of topics, I'm going to start at the start and see how we go :)

"I have to photograph my bf's niece for her mum and i was wondering what advice you could give?In particular for bright eyes.."

Not knowing the age of the subject, it's hard to give specific suggestions for a shoot but in reference to bright eyes, light is most important ingredient. Face her towards the light (if inside have her positioned beside a big window if possible) and make sure your camera settings are adequate enough to let lots of light in. Don't forget to bump up your ISO when needed. You can always lighten up a little further in post processing with the dodge tool.

"I am just starting out and wondering if you have any tips or advice ?"

If I could do my time over when I was learning, I'd make sure I was disciplined about when I picked up the camera...to put effort into preparing the subject, the location and choosing the time of day instead of just winging it and hoping it would work. I learned a lot by my mistakes but I think preparation is really important if you want quality images.

Also, don't compare yourself. Be inspired but don't be intimidated - anyone can be a great photographer with effort and determination. Love what you do and don't be too influenced..the image I've posted tonight is not technically strong but I like it so to me it's good enough :)

"What is your fav holiday memory?"

Oh, so many - I can't choose!

Shopping with you Jen in the States :) & seeing snow for the first time in Yosemite, over 10 years ago now.

Visiting Assisi in Italy with Crayton - it's beyond description.

Walking around beautiful Spanish influenced buildings at sunset in Laguna Beach earlier this year.

"What is some music that gives you great memories?"

Purple Rain by Prince - growing up in my Grandmothers crazy house full of kids - what a blast.

She's Crafty by The Beastie Boys - reminds me of a complete lack of responsibility at 16.

Anything Smiths/Joy Division/The Cure - all take me right back to teenagerdom.

R.E.S.P.E.C.T by Aretha - driving around Cali with Jen and Sandra in a big old Lincoln, a great girly holiday.

My Baby Just Cares For Me by Nina Simone - my wedding song.

Anything Backyardigans - makes me see Ava dancing around the loungeroom.

"What is the hottest love scene in a movie you have seen and why?"

Here's a confession - I cannot stand the sight (or sound) of other people kissing so love scenes often have me shutting my eyes and blocking my ears. It's that Catholic schooling I tell you.

Where in the world are you most inspired?

Laguna Beach - Arty, pretty, great light and near to good shops. All I need.

Oh, and Flickr.

How did you get started in photography?

I have always loved it, right from school but couldn't quite understand it, even after doing courses. It wasn't until Ava knocked my camera off the table and I took the opportunity to buy a DSLR that I really started to get my head around it.

"What is your favorite lens?"

The 50 1.4mm (well it would be the 50 1.2 if I owned it!) for a beautiful prime and the 24-70 2.8 for a great zoom with the perfect range. Both are essentials to me.

"How do you get that amazing color?"

I use my own actions for most of my images. I just tend to like my colors more "candyish" rather than "poppy" so I play until they look appealing to me. I never have a clear process, I find every image needs something slightly different and it's taken quite a while to stop wanting to proof in a million different ways - I tend to know what suits me when I get there.

"I'm embarrassed to say I don't know what heatwheats are."

And I think I'm embarrassed that I do! They're little bags of wheat that you can heat up in the micro, akin to a hot water bottle!

"What types of things do you say to other people's children to get those gorgeous expressions?"

A hard question as I think it's different for every family. I tend to play hide and seek and chasey a bit which does mean more camera shake than I'd like but it's worth it when I do get that real happy coming through. I also tickle feet (and often make smelly feet accusations!!) and whisper silly secrets too. Because I love obsure angles, it doesn't worry me that I'll usually be holding the camera in a strange place while actively playing..it seems to work in the end! There are times it is better having the parents do the playing more than me though, depending on the nature of the child.

Okay, I think that's information overload and I'll do some more in the next couple of days. I'm really enjoying answering these, thanks again for taking the time to ask :)

S xx

The Early Years.

Having a look back through old photos today, specifically those that I believed at the time to be cutting edge creative. A little grain here, a little high key there and presto. It's funny to see them now, with all their flaws and over processing, but they still make me smile knowing I liked them at the time. While this feels akin to showing old bad perm photos, I'm game.

(As tempting as it was to try to redeem these, I'm showing them in their original glory.)

Here you have March 2002. The boys were actually at the beach. There was sand..and waves. It's amazing what one can do with a white paintbrush and vision.

Moving on to 2004...a very tinted, slightly blurry Mason. Throw in a grunge border and voila, insta-creativity. Loved this back in the day, I did.

Here comes the high key again..and you can't go wrong with a tight crop, right?


I actually don't mind this one of Luca, back when I didn't have a remote clue how to get sunflare so no doubt this was a happy accident.


This one is from my first ever shoot with someone I didn't know...a real client. I was beyond nervous, I remember not shutting up for 2 hours straight in complete fit of Fake It Till You Make It approach. I obviously had a lot of enthusiasm for the good old Teeth Whiten action.


It wasn't all bad - I'd obviously realised by this stage that leaving the background in was sometimes a good thing.



So there you have it..a rundown of When Photoshop Attacks. As per Frans wise suggestion, I'm going to double dare all of you to open your dodgy PS vaults and tell all.

In an attempt to reduce the guilt factor that comes with my Inbox, I'm going to do a Q&A day here once a month, starting today..I get lots of interesting questions via email, some photography related and some not and don't always have time to answer all of them.. I then end up feeling awful and neglectful. So, if there is something you've asked and I've missed or something you're wanting to ask - no matter how obscure, go right ahead and ask in comments, I will do a new post during the week with answers :)

S xx