Aisling

anew, alight.

2012-02-02T00:25:00.000-05:00

After a long break from this blog location, I've decided to resume posting here, as all of my other blogish endeavors ended up not so. And since it seems way more conceivable that I will post here, I'm returning from the land of never-blog. ...blogger is google, and that makes for simple integration, so be it.

its 2012. what's new?

I'm living in Savannah, GA, doing photography, making art, and working at the Buckle. I turned 30. whoa.
practically everyone i know got married this past year. i love them all, it was crazy, and amazing. ...and i can't believe I did all that! ...my dog now walks with us, and walks up to people. its amazing, she's come SO FAR from the dog who had to be carried anywhere two years ago because she was so scared!
My husband and I continue to make renovations on our quirky cottage, and we've saved more animals living out here by the marshes than we ever did by the woods...we are learning about southern things previously foreign to us, like the best organic/all natural insect defenses, and how to harvest and shell pecans...

I've added beeswax, pinterest, springpad, and spotify to my list of love affairs, and adoption has inhabited a very large space in my heart. Ken and I decided that this year, we're starting the adoption process. I've seriously considered it for a long time, and we've discussed and discussed the different routes to go since we've been married. Vocalizing these desires and seeking information has been both exciting and intimidating for me...

Through my quest for adoption information, I came across something that just spoke to me... the Red Thread Sessions. I saw this and thought, how perfect! My heart is totally in that place :)
And today, I was excited to get an email saying that I'm a new member of the Red Thread Sessions team! :)

...My life has been so busy, and I'm so thankful for all the wonderful people I have in it, whether they are with me now, or over hundreds of miles away... and since so many of them are far away, I am ever thankful for technology, and its ability to connect us...connections form our lives, make them whole...

...do not underestimate the power of thoughts & words, for we cannot touch one another, if we do not first extend our hands...

be love, beloved.

Senior Photography {Rona: Piano Session}

2010-09-23T13:37:00.003-04:00

You might remember the lovely Rona from a session we did last year, and seeing her face all over the Aisling website, advertisements, web, and paper materials. She's such an awesome person, and its been fantastic working with her as an Aisling representative :)

I'm so much better at understanding the way things feel, than putting them into words, I always sit at my computer, fingers on the keys, trying to figure giant things into tiny letters to accompany my photos, sometimes, I deem it too difficult a task to complete, and post the photos only... but I wanted to share why I think I'm drawn to these particular images. My experience of Rona is that she has a genuinely vibrant energy, is animated, talented, and gets excited about living life in a way that connects to its depth...I think these images somehow touch on that depth, they're a little more quiet, and let her remain in that space a little longer...

...

Engagement Photography {Heather & Mike}

2010-09-16T16:06:00.000-04:00

Seriously! I love when I catch up with an old friend and get to see first-hand that they're happy. Its even more fun when I get to be their photographer :) It was great seeing Mike again, and meeting Heather in person ... I swear these two just made each other laugh and smile the entire session. They're pretty cute ;)

I wanted to share a few shots that were inspired by the story of how they started dating...they kissed under a shooting star. (I'm not making this up! I swear. It's even the theme of the wedding!)

Congratulations, Mike & Heather, on all your starry-eyed goodness! I'm looking forward to seeing you again very soon.

Senior Photography {Katie at Sand Hill Berries}

2010-09-16T02:00:00.002-04:00

Hey there! It's been an interesting month. A lot's been going on with our family, on top of moving 700 miles to a new location, painting, unpacking, and attempting to get organized. I decided I should take a little break to post a blog! Woo! Everyone's been asking about pictures of the new house, but I don't have those yet {editing is taking precedence over house stuff currently, but I promise some soon!}. I do have more photos of the lovely Katie, from a session we did at Sand Hill Berries, in Mt. Pleasant, PA.

I usually get berries from Sand Hill about once a year, at the Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival. My sister and I get two fresh berry desserts, then realize halfway through, we should have shared one. It's okay that we stuff ourselves on them, though, they're SO yummy! I had, however, never actually been to Sand Hill before this, and I'm really glad I had the opportunity to photograph there. It's beautiful! I think I could live in the orchard at dawn, it's pretty magical...

...we had a few issues with nargles and wrackspurts, but my assistant managed to get them hence...

...the flowers shown are mostly in or from the cutting garden...

...I also dreamed I had a delicious black raspberry pie. Oh, wait, I did ;) Much thanks to Miss Katie & her mom!

Aisling Photography {Studio & Moving!}

2010-08-04T16:30:00.001-04:00

I've got some pretty big news! Aisling Photography is moving!

While this may come as a shock to you, my husband and I figured that eventually we would move back down to the Savannah, GA area...get a cottage close to the islands...and we just got the opportunity to do so sooner than we expected!

What does this mean for you, my amazing clients in PA?
It certainly doesn't mean that I can't be your photographer. I will still be working in PA, just with more limited dates.

My contact information will remain the same! No hassle for you! The only thing that changes is the mailing address, contact me if you need it ;)

Any orders that are placed will either be shipped directly to you, or will be postponed until after the move, so I can make sure nothing gets lost in the shuffle. Print orders will be shipped directly, while items like frames, albums, and collections, will be put on hold briefly. Contact me if you have any questions before placing an order.

Everyone keeps asking, "What about the studio here? You put so much work into it!"
Yes, we did. It looks fantastic, and I would keep it if I could warrant doing so. However, its not practical. My aunt will be renting the property out again, and I'm glad that we could fix it up for her. I loved working in it this past year!
We will be moving out of there at the end of the month, and into a new studio on our property in Savannah. Please feel free to come visit us (and the beach) there!

I also want to let all of my clients here know that I am sincerely thankful to have gotten to work with you! And to all of those local helpers and representatives, thank you, you're awesome! Especially to my family and friends who help me do things like move pianos into fields at 6 AM!
Much love to all of you!

Children's Photography {T-ball Portraits}

2010-07-20T18:57:00.001-04:00

Senior Photography {Katie at the Dillweed & Ghost Town Trail}

2010-07-15T02:23:00.000-04:00

The Dillweed B&B made for an absolutely enchanting session! I'm just getting into editing, and we've got more sessions scheduled, but these are some of my favorites thus far...

...I had the chance to have a very lovely breakfast at the Dillweed with Katie & her mom. It's an adorable place, and the food was fantastic. The people are so very nice, I would recommend staying there if you're in the area, or stopping at the trailside shop when you're riding the Ghost Town Trail!

Aisling Photography {vintage love}

2010-07-02T00:37:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite things to do is go to the flea market. Specifically, the one on Route 30 at the Highway Drive In. My love for old things has always been. I've always found them magical, somehow. Enamored with the presence they have, the substance of having belonged to someone. I also think that the things I like feel like family. They remind me of the things at my grandmothers' homes. They remind me of the stories I've heard about things that belonged to loved ones passed on. They bring some semblance of comfort...to touch something that belonged to someone else who used it. It's like a link to their life. A tangible thing that represents something so incredibly deep that it couldn't fit into anything physical. Sacred objects of the every day.

I realized how much I loved things like this when I visited the Demuth Museum, and was more taken with Demuth's paint set than with his paintings. I kind of feel like if you could get to know someone's belongings, they would tell a story, impress some sort of energy of the person, give you some kind of information, that if collected, would give you a bigger picture. Collecting things also gives you insight into yourself. It lets you examine connections and place them in a physical realm...

I have always loved old family photographs, but didn't ever really get into collecting ones from strangers, I think largely because I don't necessarily feel connected to them, they don't have the same meaning as images of ancestors. However, this past year I've been given some, and picked up a few for various purposes. When I saw this one, I absolutely loved it. Something about this man, his smile, the glowing dog, the dreaminess of it all, draws me in. I can admire art in all kinds of contexts, but not often to I actually see a piece that I want for myself. This, most likely, wasn't even taken by someone who considered themselves an artist, but I am enchanted by it all the same. It has made its way into my personal collection of old things, that somehow helps me to know who I am. <3

Aisling Photography {sessions & collections}

2010-07-01T18:53:00.001-04:00

I've got some new sessions with collections to share with you.
Also, the summer season is filling up quickly, with limited dates available for the fall, so don't hesitate to book your sessions, loves! ;)

An Antiquated Heart & A Digital Soul:
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Ephemera Collection Session & Box:
Your custom session is shot not only with the wonderful advances of digital technology & processing, but also with my collection of vintage cameras & film. Polaroids and one of a kind fine art prints (from both vintage & digital capture) fill a custom handmade box in an assortment of sizes, up to a 4x6.

Aristocracy Kit:
Custom DVD slideshow, web version of slideshow and web resolution, so you can flaunt to your at home and online social networks.

Wax Poetic:
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Photographic Session incorporating poetic props...(we'll brainstorm and come up with something that suits your fancy)

A custom encaustic fine art portrait. I start with the digital image, print it on eco-friendly paper made from bamboo or sugarcane, and recycled cotton fibers, then work on the surface of the image using encaustic paints (handmade with beeswax & natural damar resin), frame it, and voila!

Aristocracy Kit:
Custom DVD slideshow, web version of slideshow and web resolution images, so you can flaunt to your at home and online social networks.

Wayfarer's Whimsy:
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An adventurous session where we get in the car and drive! The destinations for photographing are not set. The loveliness of this session lies in its spontaneity.

Video clips are incorporated into the slideshow part of the Aristocracy Kit that comes in this collection. (Custom DVD slideshow, web version of slideshow and web resolution images, so you can flaunt to your at home and online social networks).

5x7 Written or Admired Album (of the Verdurous Albums):
Custom designed album containing mounted prints, the Written Album contains plenty of room for script, and makes a fantastic memory book. The Admired Album contains prints on each page.

Don't forget that I offer All the Bells & Whistles:

Custom Styling:
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Every shoot is customized, but some need more production than others! This little section is just to let you know that I am open to all ideas, no matter how simple or extensive.

Archival Positives:
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In addition to any of the collections, or a print order of $400 or more, you may purchase the complete collection of digital files from your session at full resolution.

Rarities:
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One of a kind curiosities, I've dreamed up just for you, using vintage items or perhaps all new. Custom photo lockets, pocket watches, a styled photographic display? Maybe an album made from an antique book? Something for your cellular device? The possibilities are endless, and it would be my absolute pleasure!

a few of my favorite things:

2010-06-21T23:30:00.001-04:00

Someone PLEASE play this at your wedding. I'm not suggesting it for the two wonderful brides I am matron of honor to b/c it's not really either of their vibe, but someone, for the love of AFI & Strings...

Vitamin String Quartet: The String Quartet Tribute to AFI

String Tribute Players: AFI String Tribute

<3

Reminders.

2010-06-21T23:11:00.002-04:00

I found this poem printed on a piece of folded paper in my jewelry box. I forgot my mother had given it to me, and when I got to the bottom, the last few lines were hand written by her. Reading this was another nod of the confirmation, a bit more strength, and reminders I needed to hear.
...more pieces fit together...the finding of this poem comes at the same time I am reading a book about wholeness & creativity...one of those books that puts into words things that I know but haven't yet formed into those concrete words just yet.

I hope the universe also brings to you exactly what you need.

DESIDERATA...

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
And remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly & clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull & ignorant;
they too have their story.

Avoid loud & aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain & bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing future of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
but let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity & disenchantment it is perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
but do not distress yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue & loneliness.
Beyond wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees & the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labours & aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery & broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

- Max Ehrmann 1927

Children's Photography: Zoe in Wonderland

2010-06-15T11:20:00.001-04:00

Enagement: Andria & Stephen

2010-05-24T23:12:00.001-04:00

My beautiful darling sister got engaged today! Congrats Andria & Stephen! I'm so happy for you two!

Today is also my sister's 21st birthday, and she's a pretty joyful person, so I expected her to be happy, but they came over and just stood in the doorway, smiling excitedly. I examined her extra brightness more closely and realized there was a big shiny ring on her finger! They're so gosh darn cute!

I don't want to tell the story for them, but I will say that Stephen purposefully wore that shirt, and got down on his (injured) knee to propose!

<3

subconscious patterns

2010-05-20T14:14:00.001-04:00

I'm kind of all over the place today, but it's been too long since my last blog post, so here's what's going on:

I have a fascination with ephemera. I like the idea that we've saved these things that are, by nature, not meant to last. I love the sense I get when I hold on to something that someone else thought valuable. It's like a connection is made through this temporal link.

I recently inherited a postcard that was sent to my great grandmother, with whom I share a birthday, and other traits, I have been told. She had a certain way of seeing, that has made its way to me...and she loved plants and flowers...my mother said she would have loved receiving this post card (with bright pink flowers on the front), from a friend in Florida.

I can't say where I'm going with this, other than I always wish I had amazing handwriting like my grandmother's friend, all of my grandmothers, and great aunts, or that there are a thousand little connections being made...I like collecting them and looking at the pieces, trying to see something beyond their individual object-ness...

Speaking of object-ness...I've been shooting polaroids lately. I love them for their dreamy yet authentic qualities, and the fact that as soon as you take it, there you are, holding a physical, tangible thing, which I find somehow comforting.

Here's the first shot from a camera I got at the flea market for $5, equipped with sonar.
...me (and my sloppy handwriting) testing the camera, in front of a quince bush that was my great grandmother's, that my mother planted when she moved here.

Silhouettes along Bowser Road...

Ken and I testing out the 2nd polaroid I got at the High Street Emporium in Ebensburg, with included film!

love this bush at my parents house in the spring...

...one of our impromptu dance parties...

yard & garden with the first plants...

And in case you weren't aware of just how much of a nerd I am, here is a polaroid of me with MC Frontalot (who happens to have enjoyable handwriting as well as lyrics)

And this brings us to now, where I am excitedly awaiting art supplies and the projects that they're for, editing, and contemplating dinner & green dresses... <3

Senior Photography: Haley

2010-05-12T11:37:00.000-04:00

Beautiful spring colors & a gorgeous young lady with a vibrant smile...

Earth Day

2010-04-22T16:13:00.001-04:00

I probably sound like an in school presentation from the 1980's, but I believe in "Earth Day, Every Day!".

We are awesome and amazing individuals, and I'm glad that Earth Day gives us a reason to think about our process of living, and the opportunity to commit to making positive changes.

I've been asked before about the reasoning behind some of the choices I make, and I think the best answer I can give is that I believe that once you're aware of the process, of how something becomes what it is and gets to you, you can't go backwards. You make the decisions one at a time, and each decision you make has lasting effects. The decisions get easier to make, and you become more responsible as a consumer and earth inhabitant.

Since I'm an artist and business owner, the process for determining the best tools and products to use in day to day life has really defined my business' operation and the way I make art. From using reusable batteries, printing on eco-friendly papers, having a digital instead of chemical process, and purchasing refurbished equipment and furnishings, to working with other eco-friendly small businesses, buying handmade goods and materials, recycling, reducing, and reusing, I've been able to see how different the impact is from what it could be if i simply chose to do nothing.

As always, the small things are where its at! You have the power right now, to make positive change. It doesn't have to be huge, like solar panels or a hybrid car. It could be that you want to start recycling today, or carrying your own coffee mug. This is your call to action! What will you do?

I am fully open to answering questions about what it means to be a green photographer, or brainstorm with you about how to make your life more eco-friendly! There's a little box over on the right of the blog for questions, or send me an email through the website! :) Happy Earth Day my friends!

Now for some awesome links, in no particular order:

http://stayvocal.com/ a treasure trove of information, inspiration, reuse apparel...

http://www.trulywize.com/ Eco & organic bakery in Greensburg, PA

http://thegreenbrideguide.com/ Aisling's 4 leaf listing on the Green Wedding Directory!

http://www.constructionjunction.org/ Pittsburgh's only non-profit building material reuse retailer! Home-remodelers, Architects, Designers, Contractors, Realtors, & Property Managers, check this out!

http://www.indianapa.com/icswa/dropoff.htm Indiana County Recycling

http://www.pinemark.com/ Get certified as a green individual, learn about your impact and how you can reduce it.

http://www.goveg.com/environment.asp Why being a vegetarian is good for the environment...

spring visions

2010-04-20T13:39:00.000-04:00

My great-grandmother's quince bushes in bloom...my mother planted them when she moved here. Their blooming somehow co-exists for me as a current happening and a memory.

...some of my closest trees...

a patient clothesline & a forsythia

...an eerie evening...

dandelion snow

2010-04-16T22:28:00.000-04:00

Recently I took shots for a very talented friend, Roger of Dandelion Snow, when he played a show in Indiana. His music is awesome, if you haven't listened yet, get with it! http://www.myspace.com/dandelionsnow
Also, go sign up for his mailing list here. You'll get a free download of a song off the new album, produced by #2 of Anti-Flag!

tiny messages

2010-04-06T22:08:00.000-04:00

..i watch the hills come alive again. tiny messages, striking chords of joy, each tiny green leaf, each tiny bud, together painting a new picture...

circus friends

2010-04-06T10:31:00.000-04:00

morning light love

2010-03-30T11:14:00.000-04:00

weathered wood

2010-03-28T00:46:00.000-04:00

...Some of the frames that I offer, handmade with love in the U.S.A. using organic milk paint ...note the steps behind, these are what all those sanding references were about. I refinished these myself, removing about 500 layers of paint and varnish, probably dating back to when the house was built. Stripped with an eco-friendly gel stripper, an electric hand sander, and coated with a water-based stain/sealant in one. They turned out SO much better than just slapping another coat of paint on top! <3

march...

2010-03-25T14:59:00.001-04:00

...I don't know about lions or lambs, but this month has brought a slew of other things...flooding, a massive man hunt, and a string of small happenings like flat tires, doorknobs falling off, broken appliances, a roof leak, accidentally running out of fuel, and multiple sightings of spiders & ants in the house. And I'm still adjusting to having a dog, one who is afraid of everything, and slick as Houdini. ...I feel like I'm always distracted, but marching on... It's been work lately for me to stay present. Really seeing things, viewing the world through a camera, always brings me back...and here are some vestiges of my efforts...

(click on image to view larger)

newborn photography.

2010-03-18T14:09:00.000-04:00

Nothing but love...

1st studio shots!

2010-03-13T22:04:00.000-05:00

I'm ready to start booking sessions in the studio! However, as it turns out, I'm not the first one who gets to photograph in my own studio. My sister was going to clear out her entire bedroom so she could have a white space for a photograph she was taking, so I offered her my white room to use, along with my lenses, since her camera took a tumble and hers collided with the floor :(

I couldn't let them have all the fun, so after she finished shooting her assignment, I took the models (my friend's adorable daughters), into another room, with some brightly colored walls, for some shots of my own...

...being 4 is serious stuff...

...mischievious stuff as well!

about the love.

2010-03-12T02:04:00.004-05:00

Unless you've known me for a while, you might not know that I do things like recycle, eat an organic vegetarian diet, and rescue stray animals. I believe that all of our choices are important, so I try to be an educated consumer, and purchase items that are fair-trade, organic, and are cruelty-free for animals & humans. One thing that I always had a difficult time reconciling was the fact that I'm a photographer, and photography has traditionally been very environment/animal/human friendly. As my photography became more in sync with who I am, I decided what I offer needs to reflect that. I sought alternatives to traditional means of working, traditional photographic products, and packaging.
I was super-excited about what I came up with; a line of beautiful custom art products, made in the U.S.A., and anything that comes from somewhere else is guaranteed fair trade material, with no animal cruelty involved, using organic, recycled & eco-friendly materials, hand-made by small companies, by real people, with real love.

I thought I'd share some images of a few items I offer...

Here is the Aristocracy Kit, with a hemp case.

The Aristocracy Kit includes a custom DVD slideshow of images to music, as well as versions of the slideshow to display on the web, and web resolution images. You can share your images via an in home DVD showing & through posting the slideshow or your images to your social networking sites. Flaunting is encouraged!

And this is a custom Organic Vintage album. The image is printed on a hemp cover, with eco-friendly papers, totally custom made!

Here's one of the fine art prints, framed with a hand crafted, organic milk painted, custom frame.

I'm also excited to announce that I've switched to a new lab, one that is completely digital, and now offers the same eco-friendly papers that I've been so thrilled to use when I print. Bamboo & Sugarcane! <3

...be sure to ask me to see these papers in person, they're absolutely beautiful, and I would be happy to help you select the best papers to suit your images. :)

love & thanks!

life & art

2010-03-08T21:24:00.007-05:00

THE IDEA:
These piles of snow are melting the paths are starting to make sense...

I was going back through my blog, looking for an older post, when something occurred to me. The depth that I actually feel about life & art aren't in these posts. In the photos, its expressed in different ways, but I'm actually a strong believer in words, statements, and a frame of reference. I know the context I create in. The reasons...the fire, but I feel it lacking as I revisit old posts. As of now, I remedy to change that.

I have to make art, and its been that way since as long as I can remember. If I were forced to live in an artless world, where I wasn't able to make anything, it would be absolute torture. I would feel like I were being destroyed. My spirit doused, flame by flame.
Growing up Catholic, I always liked the Holy Spirit / fire analogy. I understood that deep & divine passion...its strange sometimes how Catholicism has shaped me.
I believe in something I cannot fully grasp. I believe we connect to it in fragments, and I seek it out. I notice it in every day life, hiding in brief moments and nuances. This is what inspires me to take photographs. The absolute love that I feel. The way photography can provide a connection to something great. It's like a channel for that fire to burn, connecting us to the sun.

THE PROCESS:
My first memory is from before I was a year old. I attended a wedding with my parents. A few years ago, while riding in the car with my mother, we passed the church where the ceremony was held. I didn't know why, but this vision of little girls dancing in a circle in pale green dresses came into my mind. It was warm. Summer. I asked my mother about that vision, and she was startled. She told me that I wasn't even one yet, it was a relative's wedding. I commented that my perspective made sense then, I would have been looking down at the girls if my mother or father was holding me. This vision never made it to print or paper until I was in college, studying art therapy.

When I was about 5 or 6, I realized, upon seeing an ice formation over vines in an alley, that I needed to do something about it. Only I didn't know how. I was walking home from school alone, as I normally did, and it occurred to me to retrieve my mother and her Canon, this needed to be photographed! I remember anxiously taking her there and instructing her to photograph it.

If anyone ever asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, the answer was always "an artist". I didn't realize then that there was so much to do that was art related. Growing up can often lose you, and it took me a while to figure out the whys, but grad school and a supportive husband are good for that.

In 7th or 8th grade, I decided I wanted to be a photographer. I took all the photography classes my high school had to offer. I fixed up an old SLR that was given to me, used, and broken. I loved it and the dark room.
Somewhere along the line, I decided to study fashion at a fine art school. I learned an immense amount of information and skill, but the fashion part wasn't meant to be.
I believe that the universe helps us out, though sometimes I wish it could be in more pleasant ways. Into my 3rd year of my BFA, I got severe tendonitis and had to change route. I ended up back in SW PA, studying studio art & art therapy at a Catholic liberal arts university. Things were going as my heart felt they should. I got married, graduated, made great friends, artists, musicians, bold-hearted people in a loving community... I stayed at that university and studied art therapy at the graduate level. All the while, I was still doing photography. I started doing portraiture and accepting money for my work. I bought a Canon 20D.
Then I got to a point where my husband said to me, you're happier behind that camera, than you are studying art therapy. I thought about what this meant. Long & hard. I decided to change course.
We moved to Savannah, GA, and it was an incredibly rough transition from the art therapy setting to the photography setting. I didn't know how to mesh my heart with photography, and the one word that isn't allowed in art therapeutic studies, "Why?", was always being demanded.
Death, theft, and family issues ensued. This broke something in me, and taught me things I never wished to learn. It was a really awful time, yet it forced me to a different place. I felt more need to figure a way to reconcile my heart and my photography than ever. I think that there is beauty to be found in sadness, we cannot be sad about something that did not matter, sadness is a reflection of love, of that need to connect. It can push us to connect through a different vein.
And in the last few quarters of my graduate studies, it came together. I found the connection that I needed to as an artist. Sometimes, the epiphany is not a huge flash & explosion, but a more subtle recognition of a flame that was always there.

OTHER IDEAS IN THE AIR:
I just read this Michelle Black's Photography Blog: Inspiration Exercise: Breathe Life Into Your Work
and found it entirely appropriate. Michelle touches upon a lot of simple, but hard to answer questions that I've asked myself. Most of the answers are in that story above. My meandering path of life that has led me here...and I agree, success is largely based on honesty.

From now on, I hope that this blog better reflects my sleeve... <3

Annabelle

2010-02-28T11:36:00.001-05:00

This past week, we went to the pet store to pick up some things for the cats, it was adoption day, and we ended up with something that definitely wasn't on the list!

My husband saw her and immediately fell in love. Not that I didn't, I fall in love constantly...its just that his family always had dogs, & they had one that looked like her for most of his life, so he had an immediate draw to her. We read her story and talked to the agency about her. Like all good pet stores, Petsmart doesn't sell dogs or cats, the local adoption agencies come there with animals. She'd been in a shelter her whole life, they rescued her from a kill shelter, and she'd been living with her sister until 2 weeks before, when her sister was adopted. She'd been quite sad since then. Her personality just seemed so sweet, and she didn't seem to have any problems with cats, so we brought her home!

My sister has deemed getting a dog the coolest thing I've ever done. I'm not sure what that says about me, but Annabelle is pretty awesome!

She's doing great, trying to make peace with the cats, they're coming around, and she cries in the meantime, when they don't let her near them... which totally breaks my heart.
She enjoys being in her crate, got trained to go out in like an instant, and absolutely loves all this snow that we keep getting, which makes me actually enjoy it.

Annabelle's adoption, I realized, bittersweet, on the way home with her, happened the same week that last year, we were laying Chip to rest. Somehow, this universe knows what our hearts need.

<3

Andria & Riley

2010-02-24T23:47:00.000-05:00

winter

2010-02-19T00:58:00.000-05:00

portrait

2010-02-17T14:08:00.001-05:00

sweet pirate dreams

2010 Blizzard

2010-02-08T13:52:00.000-05:00

So that was a whole lot of snow. It took us all day just to be able to get out the driveway. I've been sick, was trying to help shovel anyway, but the boys kicked me off the shoveling squad...so my camera and I went into the silence of the woods and into my favorite grove of trees, before heading back inside for some hot tea & a blanket.

The work...

...and the woods...

I've been in love with these pale yellow leaves lately, noticing them everywhere when I'm out...

...like a butterfly, with winter on my wings...

2010-01-28T20:35:00.001-05:00

help.

2010-01-20T14:35:00.000-05:00

Haiti has suffered another aftershock today, a huge one. I am at a loss, as I cannot imagine having to go through all of this. I am sure many of us want to help, but don't know how.

I decided earlier this week, that I would donate all of the session fee to Oxfam America, from any sessions that book this week. I am going to extend this to next week, and clarify that you don't have to have your session within this time frame, only schedule and pay for it.

I also wanted to invite you to take a look at the work Oxfam does. They have a lot of experience working in Haiti, and have 200 staff there working right now to deliver water and sanitation supplies. You can learn more at http://www.oxfam.org.

the best of winter

2010-01-10T16:03:00.000-05:00

Winter and I aren't exactly the best of friends. I'm practically always cold unless its 80 degrees, which, even with global warming, doesn't occur in SW PA for about another half a year.

Things get slushy and gray. Gravel, salt, ice, snow, and slush all mix together and coat your car, your shoes...I much preferred the SEVERE WEATHER ALERT when I lived in Georgia, temperatures may drop below 32 degrees overnight...compared to here. And let's not forget the general lack of light after 5 pm.

What I do love about winter is the absolute beauty of it.
...the quiet that comes with falling snow. How hot beverages are made so much better by the contrast against the cold. And the way each snow is different, sometimes it dusts the trees and ground with fine glitter, sometimes it attaches to every branch and the sun actually makes an appearance, half blinding you with the brilliance of it all...and how, just going around a bend in the road can reveal something entirely different than the mile before...

These were taken yesterday, driving on Penn View...

<3 and thanks.

Kate in the snow...

2010-01-08T16:16:00.003-05:00

Kate is awesome. She wanted senior portraits, in the snow. Not only in the snow, but we did these on a day that the high was only 16 degrees, and it was SUPER windy. ...and Denise gets extra points for being the accompanying friend in this kind of weather...

It took us a few hours with all the trudging through the snow, against the wind, taking breaks for hot beverages and general trying-not-to-get-frostbitedness. Despite the bitter cold, it was enjoyable, and I love the outcome :)

In the editing process, I used textures from my Icing Toast and Spider Tea collection, in addition to some from my upcoming Love and Light collection to enhance the wintry atmosphere...

...I'm looking forward to the next session we have planned when the studio is operable! :)

belly focused.

2010-01-03T23:46:00.001-05:00

...some images I shot during a recent session while this endearing couple shared their joy, anticipation, and expectation about what is to come...and Vincent the cat attacked my cords mercilessly until my husband captivated her with a laser pointer. No lights or cats were harmed in the process ;)

Best Wishes to the couple as their little one makes her way into the world! My camera and I can't wait to meet her :)

trade and display

2009-12-27T15:46:00.001-05:00

I've been contemplating paint colors all week, as we're almost to the painting point with the studio space...I've got vintage teals and antique mosses tumbling around in the back of my head, but mostly its white... there is so much to think about when changing a space, it has a purpose, but I really need it to have a particular feel as well...and this is where you might come in, my friends.

Are you an artist, craftsperson, or skilled lovely in some other way? Possibly you just collect neat old things? If so, I am looking to creatively find items to display/use... depending on what you do, the value and nature of the item, it could be seen as a method for your advertising or selling...or a direct trade with me for services/goods.

I'm looking for some reclaimed, reused, repurposed, vintage, eco-friendly, eclectic, earthy, farmhouse-y, victorian, worn, loved, type things...the studio is in an old house, and I will be needing to furnish it, including the kitchen and bath...so what've you got?

Throw your suggestions my way!
email: jen@aislingphoto.com
phone: 724-454-7229

Thanks, darlings!

Giving is Awesome!

2009-12-24T16:16:00.001-05:00

In November, I posted this blog entry about a holiday project called Giving is Awesome!
Since then, you've sent me very heartfelt letters about the people you love and admire that have moved me to tears. It was a very tough decision to make, and I thank you all for your messages full of love, gratitude, and awe. I sincerely hope that you take the time to tell these people what you've written to me.

The nomination I picked stuck out to me because it was a sincere letter of appreciation for a woman who cares deeply for others, and despite her hardships, volunteers her efforts to her family, church, and community. It was conveyed to me that she always finds something to be thankful for, and seems to find light in even the darkest moments. Out of respect for the family, I’m not going to share any details, but ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers this holiday, and intend for them that the new year brings only goodness into their lives.

Blessings of love and light,
Jen

andriargus

2009-12-23T19:11:00.004-05:00

...the result of my darling sister and i playing with my arguses... <3

darkness & light...

2009-12-21T02:20:00.002-05:00

options

2009-12-21T01:10:00.001-05:00

Icing Toast and Spider Tea: Texture Collection

2009-12-11T19:54:00.002-05:00

Icing Toast and Spider Tea, Aisling's 1st texture collection is here! :)

I use a lot of textures in my work, and decided to make a collection of them from one of the places that inspires me most...I came up with 44 original high-resolution textures all collected from my grandmother’s home. Her house was always magical somehow, full of oddities, mysteries, encouragement, silliness, plants, and interesting edibles (the name actually comes from some of her most curious kitchen delights)...this place is one where people learn to talk to animals, enjoy good conversation over tea, eat with chopsticks, paint, love bugs, carry on with dust bunnies, sleep in silk gowns, listen to old records, dance, play with fun-house mirrors, and eat icing toast for breakfast. The house, like my grandmother, is eccentric and accepting. She and her 1802 brick home have been a constant source of inspiration for me throughout my life, and I hope that these texture images can also inspire your work with infusions of antiqueness, magic, rust & love.

Here's the collection, which will be permanently located here, along with some sample images, on the new Aisling Resource Blog aislingresources.blogspot.com

Files will be delivered via download. No refunds will be given due to the nature of the product. All sales are final.

$45.00

If you purchase the texture collection and have images that you would like to share, feel free to send me some before and after images to feature on the resource blog, at jen@aislingphoto.com.

Thanks (& much love to my grandmothers!)

snow. part 2.

2009-12-06T15:30:00.000-05:00

snow. part 1.

2009-12-06T14:55:00.001-05:00

garfield artworks. friends. roger's awesome music. check out dandelion snow @www.dandelion-snow.com

Christmas Tree Hunting w/ Jen McKen & Co.

2009-12-06T02:30:00.003-05:00

Recently, my husband and I had a great time tagging along with his cousin's (the fab photog Jen McKen) & aunt's families, out a-hunting a tree of the Christmas variety at the Laurel Valley Tree Farm...I used to love going here to find our tree when I was younger. I still would, but my dear hubs is allergic, so we've got the unnatural breed of Christmas tree...they may not be as fun to hunt, but there is a challenge in assembly!

And now, some images, click to view them larger :)

... the most documented tree hunt in Westmoreland county...

Jen, imagining how this one will look in her house, with a twinkling star atop...

...one broken saw, and a fake nap later...

...tree ready to go!

...my husband was playing some kind of game with Mallory, and I love this kind of creepy photo w/ the moon in the background...

holiday photography

2009-12-03T22:19:00.004-05:00

adorable baby boy...

...he's so cute, here's some more!

Adorable baby boy in Santa hat... ...and an attempt to pose very excited, misbehaving dog with adorable baby boy in Santa hat...

Grandparents & Grandkids gather up...they couldn't convince Grandma to remove her teeth for a photo, so we did something a bit more traditional.

Mother/Daughter

A beauty and her boys (who are just dying to carry on).

...a little carrying on...

...and then some more!

(Click to view larger image)

Thanks! :)

Jillian

2009-12-03T12:25:00.000-05:00

It was absolutely a pleasure to photograph this lovely young lady, and her entourage totally complemented the session (It's not every day that I get a one-handed-cartwheeling little boy to "help" me out with things like holding a reflector or fixing stray hairs). Here are some of my favorite shots...enjoy :)

<3 & Thanks!

because giving is an awesome spirit to uphold...

2009-11-24T10:46:00.003-05:00

I have a strong belief in the power of art. It can be transformative, sustaining, inspirational...it can contain joy, hope, and vast amounts of love.
This is one of the reasons why I so enjoy making portraits for people, and one of the reasons why I'm giving you the chance to give a very special gift this year, to someone who deserves more than life is giving them right now.

Take this opportunity.

Nominate someone you know, who's experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is raising kids while holding down more than one job, or is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances. You know someone who can't afford custom photography, but who would truly cherish it this holiday season. You know someone who deserves a year-round reminder of their family's spirit, love, and beauty.

I want to give them over $1000 worth of services and product, including a custom photography session, Aisling's Aristocracy Kit, a fine art print, and digital negatives.

And I'll help karma out, the person who nominates the winner will receive a free custom photography session and Aristocracy Kit as well. :)

Ready for action? Here are the rules:

* You can't nominate yourself!

* The nominee must be entirely incapable of purchasing these services themselves.

* Your nominee must live within the SW PA region.

* You must email me the full story at jen@aislingphoto.com. Tell me who you're nominating, what they're experiencing, and why they deserve my artwork. Include contact information for both you and your nominee.

The winner will be announced on Christmas Eve, now let's share some heART!

Love & Thanks!
Jen

hallow, November!

2009-11-05T16:50:00.003-05:00

I've been working on some new things you might be interested in :)

The first is that in addition to our wonderful Organic Vintage album, we now offer Verdurous Albums! Sized at 4x6, 5x7, 8x12, & 10x10. There's the Affect album, a lovely press printed number, The Admirer, & The Written album, which includes space for lots of script, and would make a beautiful memory album or guest book.
All are custom made, by hand, and include your choice of cover material.

In case you were unaware, I'm not only a friend of yours, I'm a friend of the earth, and of the animals too!

I've never offered leather bound albums on personal principle, which limits the options, so when I came across these "happy cow" man made materials I was pretty excited.

Here are the "happy cow" colors you can choose on the Verdurous Albums:

There are also some awesome silk brocades to choose from, all responsibly resourced.

Besides the albums, I'm still diligently searching for a studio space that fits. I'm picky, but may have found something that works...just a bit of a waiting game for now.

Also, I'm making some progress on a series of texture images that I hope to make available to purchase sometime in the next few months, and getting my fill of apple cider w/ cinnamon...

...what have you been up to?

Class of 2011

2009-10-26T12:26:00.002-04:00

Introducing...Rona! Aisling's newest senior representative for the class of 2011.

Rona's pretty awesome, she's got a fantastic personality, style, & energy. I enjoyed the shoot we did thoroughly, and hearing about her "magic window"...the one place in her house that always has great natural light for photos. Gotta love a girl who appreciates that!

Here are some shots from the playground...you'll be seeing more of her to come :)

Alexis Tyler

2009-10-15T17:28:00.002-04:00

Here's a slideshow of newborn little Alexis Tyler.

I was talking with her parents, about how her ring finger is longer than her middle finger, and said I'd have to see if it means anything for her future...research shows that she's inclined to excel at sports and be wealthy. Go Alexis! ;)

Congrats to Paul & Brittany on their adorable future wealthy athlete!

IOGA golf benefit

2009-10-10T18:55:00.001-04:00

This year, my sister and I once again had the honor of photographing a benefit for IOGA at the Latrobe Country Club.

IOGA is an international, voluntary, non-profit organization, dedicated to promoting early detection, preventing neurological damage and rehabilitation to those affected by Glutaric Acidemia Type 1 (GA1) and other neurological and metabolical diseases.

IOGA was founded in 1995, by Mike Metil and Cay Welch. Their son, Michael, was diagnosed when he was almost a year old and he became very ill. The disorder rendered him completely disabled. Michael passed away this year, and as I read through each of his obituaries, tears welled in my eyes, but not completely of sadness. Much was for the awesomeness that Michael lived, traveled, saw things, experienced things many able bodied people I know have never done. His parents are just awe inspiring people, who I don't think ever took him for granted. They turned their son's hardship into an opportunity to seek change.

This year, when Mike spoke before the golfers began, he told them that later, they would witness nothing short of a miracle. He was absolutely right. I was amazed as they introduced an adorable little boy who had the exact same diagnosis as Michael. He stood up on a chair beside his dad, shyly at first, then, as his dad spoke, he decided he also wanted a turn with the microphone.

"I have a soccer game tomorrow!" he proudly announced with enthusiasm.

Everyone applauded. How could they not? He was standing, walking, talking, and completely able to play soccer. Because of the efforts of the research that everyone was there to raise money for. Because of the efforts of IOGA to screen newborns. This child was standing there in testament to the purpose that filled Michael and his parents, and the people they've worked with.

Here are a few photos from last year's benefit:

Cay, Michael, and his aide & teacher

Mike with his son, speaking at dinner.

For all of those who participated in the invitational, your group photos that you ordered will be on their way shortly. Anyone wishing to view or purchase other images from this year or last year's benefit, please visit the Aisling website, www.aislingphoto.com, and under the clients section, enter the code golf09. Just as the prints we took orders for at the benefit, a portion of the cost will be donated to IOGA.

Oh, and of course, I have to include the shot of the lucky group who got to meet Arnold Palmer ;)

Catastrophe!

2009-10-08T19:55:00.001-04:00

No worries! It's just the name of one of my very mischievous cats. He decided it was his turn to be photographed while the baby was getting a change. The poor guy was clearly attention starved. Typically, when I want to photograph my cats, they want nothing to do with me!

Tove's slideshow

2009-10-04T15:51:00.002-04:00

I had quite an enjoyable time photographing Tove, with her mom and family friend, aka, the stylist. She needed head shots taken, so we did that, and more...she's got her own awesome dance studio that we shot in, but it was also a blast getting her in her pointe shoes on the golf course! Here's a slideshow of some of the images we shot outdoors...

Thanks, Tove! I hope we get to photograph you in those vintage dresses sometime soon ;)

tove

2009-09-24T22:48:00.003-04:00

...what a beautiful young lady, I'm working on her images...so excited to show her all of them :)

ruralities

2009-09-24T07:13:00.000-04:00

a friend, a family...

2009-09-23T12:35:00.003-04:00

I met paul 7 or 8 years ago in Columbus, OH. He was there for school, as were my now husband and I. Paul was also from PA. Additionally, he's the one non-related person that I could stand to share a living space with, ha ha...its just that he's so easy going, and a genuinely good friend, who didn't care if I would take over the entire house with various art projects...
Paul was a housemate of ours off and on, was in our wedding, we know one another's families & friends...so it was a surprise to me when I added his girlfriend on Facebook and found out he was expecting a daughter quite soon! I guess we really are all pretty busy, I realized we hadn't seen them in person in months, as we were busy with work and moving, and they work in Virginia... we remedied the situation with a relaxed photo shoot, visiting & dinner (pizza, what else?!)... here's the slideshow of Paul, Brittany (carrying Alexis) & Paul's son Joby.

Blessings, to friends, family, and to little Alexis as she works her way into this world!

Alexis

2009-09-21T19:53:00.000-04:00

I had a fantastic time photographing this gorgeous young lady :) I'm sure she was sweltering in her jackets, but she pulled it off & it was totally worth the effort!

artless wednesdays

2009-09-09T15:40:00.001-04:00

Day 70 with no budget passed. PA has NO funding for the arts. We need state support to keep the arts in our communities!

new website!

2009-08-31T11:48:00.002-04:00

The new website is now live! Please note the new address is: www.aislingphoto.com
I'm pretty excited about this, so check it out! :)
Big thanks to my friend, Tim, who let me use his music for the site. You can check out more of it at his myspace page http://www.myspace.com/thesmilinglion

marina marina

2009-08-26T00:21:00.001-04:00

...if anyone ever makes a movie about Marina's life, Juliette Lewis would have to play her! this girl rocks it. :)

Janaye's Slideshow

2009-08-20T18:27:00.003-04:00

...wanted to share a slideshow of images from Janaye's session, enjoy! :)

marina in wonderland

2009-08-20T01:15:00.002-04:00

Typically, fungus and I aren't good friends, but I was feeling these surreal orange guys during this shoot...

update

2009-08-05T01:01:00.005-04:00

Since I'm back online, here's a shot from a recent shoot :)

Thanks to everyone for being patient while I moved, if you needed more in depth responses to inquiries, they're on their way. I'm back to some sort of working normalcy starting today. woo!

<3 & thanks!

classic

2009-07-24T14:09:00.002-04:00

working like mad today to catch up, this moving business has me a little behind...just wanted to post this one :)

miss walker

2009-07-22T00:12:00.003-04:00

just finished up this lovely lady's senior pictures, here's a peek at a few in plaid ;)

(click to view larger)

thanks! :)

no posing required

2009-07-17T14:19:00.003-04:00

I had the opportunity to attend this couple's shower/picnic at the groom's sister's home, which was a really fun experience. Towards the end of the party, we got the chance to steal away to the grape arbor for a few shots of just the couple, doing their thing! I wanted to share a few of these, especially the last one, I told the bride it was going on the blog! ;)

He he, Thanks!

quite a case

2009-07-16T00:44:00.003-04:00

Some images from a shoot I did recently of this beautiful new little boy ;)

thanks!
<3 jen

little miss h.

2009-07-14T01:01:00.005-04:00

here's a totally adorable teaser from my session with little miss h! (click on it to view it larger)

;)

head first

2009-07-12T00:45:00.004-04:00

Baby Aiden

2009-06-28T01:39:00.003-04:00

...got to spend some time with new little baby Aiden & his awesome momma today! Thanks, Tisha! He's beautiful! :)

Engaged

2009-06-20T21:52:00.003-04:00

Short E-Session (we got a few shots while the boys in the previous post were playing)...I just wanted to share this one...

Speaking of being engaged...I was checking my blog stats and was surprised by how many different visits I get from various places! I'd love it if some of you say hello, don't be shy! Tell me what you find engaging ;)

race cars, pirates, & polar bears, oh my!

2009-06-20T01:03:00.010-04:00

When I showed up to photograph these brothers, the youngest one started telling me right away about the polar bears in the woods. You have to be careful, or they will eat you! (You never know what you're getting into in this profession)

...good thing there was a fast get away car and a pirate ship with a fierce captain around, or we might have been in trouble...

this kid is one serious pirate!

Folks, I think we have a winner! (And the day was relatively polar bear free)

the cutest pirate ever

2009-06-18T17:44:00.004-04:00

Seriously, I'm having way too much fun editing the images from this play session! This one really gets into the character. Later in the session, when he was afraid of the bees, he told me he wanted them to walk the plank. Oh these kids are adorable! ...back to work, will have more later ;)

seniors, families, beaches?

2009-06-17T14:09:00.003-04:00

Did you know that I mostly shoot on location, and I don't mean just locally? I think this adds to the experience as a whole. I feel inspired by the things I see, and working in different places is exciting for me.
I also love the natural beauty of the outdoors, and while we mostly have access to the woods around here, I know there are some of you out there who are in love with the beach. I totally get that!
We actually have one in PA, roughly a 3 hour drive to the shore of Lake Erie. If you're interested in experiencing a beach shoot this summer, contact me for more information!

bride & the babes

2009-06-15T18:00:00.008-04:00

Question? : What does an OB-GYN's wedding look like?

Answer:

This is roughly half of the children that were there...

Okay, so I adore this couple. They've been so great to work with, & they just compliment each other so well!

The bride works as an OB-GYN, and from the first time I talked to her, her love of children was absolutely apparent. It doesn't stop there, the kids at the wedding, yep, she's delivered almost all of them!

The couple's families and friends were great too...entertaining of course, somewhere there's a photo with an uncle, I believe, who was running around yelling that he had a stick, which he did indeed...and then, of course, being kissed by a very celebratory bridesmaid is always interesting...but I just enjoy photographing a wedding so much more when everyone is so loving it.

Now for a few pictures...just a teaser, I'm still working on the rest! ;)

what's cuter than these boys taking the bride her dress?

...jr. bridesmaid getting her makeup...

pre-wedding flower girl festivities

jr. bridesmaid & an adorable munchkin

the lovely bride with 2 of her flower girls

this dashing young lad preferred a different fantasy land...and did SO great for someone who hates having their photo taken! ;)

...this is so cute, they did the traditional bouquet & garter toss, and then did a stuffed animal toss for the kids!

...and how about one with the bride and groom together?!

ah, there we go ;)

thanks for looking!

love and beauty

2009-06-14T23:18:00.002-04:00

"Art is both love and friendship and understanding, the desire to give. It is not charity, which is the giving of things, it is more than kindness, which is the giving of the self. It is both the taking and giving of beauty, the turning out to the light the inner folds of the awareness of the spirit. It is the recreation of another plane of the realities of the world, the tragic and wonderful realities of earth and man, and all the interrelations of these."

Written by Ansel Adams in a letter to his best friend, Cedric Wright in 1937.

dreams of the atlantic

2009-06-13T01:05:00.003-04:00

...as promised, beach pictures ;)

the last 09 senior session

2009-06-12T00:06:00.005-04:00

Patrick was just so fun and easy to work with, great personality this one, I'm sure you can tell :) We did this session, just before he graduated, and I'm really glad we could fit it in! Congrats to you, Patrick, and best of luck!

the most important thing

2009-06-11T02:29:00.002-04:00

"Beyond the beauty of external forms, there is more here: something that cannot be named, something ineffable, some deep, inner, holy essence. Whenever and wherever there is beauty, this inner essence shines through somehow. It only reveals itself to you when you are present." -Eckhart Tolle

The first time I read this, I found it so utterly poignant to what it is that I do, the way I see things, and that, for me, the camera enhances my presence.
In my first quarter of graduate school, I had to go up for review in front of a team of faculty and defend a body of work that I wasn't thrilled with, it was one of the most intimidating things I've ever done. The basis of the work was on ritual, the adaptation of it, blending various rituals, and ultimately, through participating in them and photographing their remnants, my work was sacred...
the work itself was way off, but the idea, of my being present, and the camera a tool for divining that which cannot be named, for focusing intention, for deepening experience, was always there, it just took me a while to figure out what i was doing...

Tolle speaks of exactly what I seek and how I seek it, just add a camera ;)

like a fox

2009-06-10T01:58:00.000-04:00

what goes up...

2009-06-07T13:05:00.001-04:00

star wars in suburbia

2009-06-05T23:07:00.006-04:00

She informed me that an Ewok wouldn't know what a camera was...

just a few from vacation...

2009-06-04T13:34:00.002-04:00

Last year when I moved back to PA, my husband and I decided that we'd return to GA for my graduation and a vacation. We had a fantastic trip! Graduation was great, and we took some family with us, met some there, and did a TON of stuff in a week's time. I think I shot at least a couple thousand photos. I had a no rain clause for the vacation, and the universe held up for me :) ...what little rain we got was appropriately timed... I think everyone got to experience the things that we fell in love with when we lived there, & having the chance to share that with people you love is just awesome.

Here are a few photos, you'll be seeing lots more to come ;)

the wildlife refuge...

it's pretty awesome to see these guys in their natural habitat. there's nothing between you and them...it is, however, illegal to taunt or feed the alligators, you know, because they will eat you.

Sunrise on Tybee Island...SIGH...

<3 & light,
Jen

contagious

2009-05-18T00:56:00.002-04:00

Let it be known that i love being around happy people. This is probably one of the main reasons that I enjoy weddings so much. I always consider myself to be incredibly lucky to get to share in the lives of others, to get to witness their emotion and create something for them that reflects it...

...as I'm working on the photos from this couple's wedding, every time I see this one, I think to myself, "I think that's my favorite". ...its a shot that I snapped after the formal portraits they wanted were all checked off the list and we were headed to the reception. This simple moment of joy and excitement captures me...I stand in awe of the little things...

simple magic

2009-05-11T02:10:00.005-04:00

I just wanted to post an image from my shoot today. I took my sister, and my cousin (who was job shadowing) out of state to spend the day with a family and friends of their kids. It was awesome, they're all such fantastic people!
I feel SO blessed when people share so much of themselves with me.
:)

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T01:21:00.002-04:00

Took this of my mom the other day when she was laying in the grass.

Happy Mother's Day to all you mom figures, thanks for your love :)

breakdown

2009-05-08T16:50:00.005-04:00

"The wisdom's in the trees, not the glass windows.
You can't stop wishing, if you don't let go" -Jack Johnson

projections...

2009-05-06T17:59:00.005-04:00

literally & figuratively...

I've been collaborating on a project with my friend Rebecca, shooting some images for her to use in a sculpture she's making... it's been a lot of fun, and I can't wait to see the finished result ;)

awakening

2009-05-04T01:03:00.004-04:00

just as the buds on the trees begin to turn to leaves
its waiting, magical, in anticipation
to transform and be transformed...

Women of the World Exhibition

2009-05-02T22:41:00.002-04:00

I'll be participating in an exhibition coming up at the 28 West Second Gallery
The show opens in one week, Saturday, May 9th. For more information about the other artists click on the gallery link. I hope to see you at the opening!

:)

dria dandilion

2009-04-25T10:19:00.003-04:00

Andria got some new interfit lights this week, so we decided to give them a go. This was her turn in front of the camera. :)

She's adorable. I know!

SURPRISE!

2009-04-19T14:38:00.013-04:00

I woke up yesterday morning not feeling quite well, fighting a sore throat & cold, but the weather was absolutely beautiful. All week I kept trying to make plans because I knew it was supposed to be nice out, Ken's sister is home for a visit, and I figured we should either be hanging out or scouting potential studio locations since Ken had the day off of work. Oddly enough, everyone had plans for yesterday, and Ken insisted he was going to play hockey in the evening.

Ken took me for lunch yesterday, and then we came home and I sipped some hot tea for my throat and sat outside. I agreed to go for a walk, it was too beautiful of a day to just sit around, even if I wasn't feeling well, so we got my camera and headed out to walk by this one building listed for sale that we saw online. We walked through the park by our house, through Academy Hill Historic District, down near Seton Hill & 130, back up past the railroad station & down Pennsylvania Avenue.
I suggested stopping for a drink at DV8 if we had time before Ken had to leave for hockey, and so we did. If not for the coffee I probably would have dropped over before getting back home. While we were walking, I was wondering what was going on because Ken kept getting text messages and phone calls, but not saying anything to me. I asked and he said he was having trouble getting people together to play hockey. And there were times that I got suspicious that something was going on this past week, but Ken's pretty smooth, and he had me thinking I was making it all up in my head. So we kept walking, and I was ready to cut back towards the house, but Ken said that he wanted to keep walking and go up around the football field where we used to live. I didn't ask, but he had already taken my bag & camera for me, and I still had some hot coffee, so we kept going, circled around and headed back to the house. By the time we came up the hill I was SO exhausted and a bit sweaty.

I walked up the steps and heard a laugh, which confused me, I looked back thinking it had to come from the neighbors house, but then realized that didn't make any sense, so I looked at Ken, who just looked at me and said, "I love you". Confusedly, I said I love you too, and walked in the door to a house full of people!

SURPRISE!

it was a graduation party for me! I just wish that I wouldn't have been so tired and still had my camera in my hands! he he.

little did I know, the reason for dragging me all over the city was to give everyone enough time to get here, and to bring me back to the house without me seeing anyone's vehicles. very sneaky, this lot!

Here's a show of pictures from yesterday (a lot of them weren't taken by me) ...

It was so nice to celebrate with so many people who've supported me in various ways, and to finally have a get together at our house, we've lived here since November, this was the first!
Thanks to everyone for coming and props to the too giggly crew for actually pulling it off! ha ha. :P I love you guys!

G4

2009-04-18T15:28:00.002-04:00

I've been having a grand time hanging out with my sister in law & nephew while they've been home visiting. :)
Here are a couple shots I took of the nephew the other day...he's such a sweetie!

childhood

2009-04-17T15:46:00.002-04:00

...have you ever gone camping in the rain forest?

enjoy. :)

Cutie McCupcakefaces

2009-04-08T12:16:00.005-04:00

One of the things I've been enjoying more of lately is family time. It's weird when you live so close to everyone but have to force yourself to stay home and work on school projects. It's one of the reasons I was so forwardly welcoming the end of classes, I've always been close to our families & have missed just hanging out!
So, I've been getting out to some of my husband's hockey games & recently my sister in law and her family came to one with us...

There's the hubs on the right in the goalie gear, my brother in law, Harley, is behind him, and my sister's boyfriend is the one sitting down.

My sister was bad, so they put her in the penalty box!
...just kidding, she runs the clock sometimes...

This is my ever sad looking niece, Zoe. I wasn't trying to take her cupcake, I promise!

She's so dramatic. :P

cute nose scrunching cheese face, full of cupcake

And my nephew, Zachary, same face, ha ha!

Big eyes & a big mouth :P

...his mom was telling me how he has to put his hood up on his coat, and when he puts it on, its hood first, then the arms, no other way. these kids are so adorable...

yes, we know they're backwards, but that's how she wears 'em...

he he, oh, Miss Zoe!

My other sister in law is back for 2 weeks with my youngest nephew, and I can't wait to visit w/ her and everyone else, thank goodness for holidays...I will have my camera in hand! :)

I can't complain...

2009-04-03T13:31:00.000-04:00

...when the rain brings more of this...

new.

2009-04-02T02:25:00.003-04:00

I'm really feeling great about a lot of things right now, one of which is of course the nice weather we've been having. I tend to be cold all the time, so it's a welcome change!

Also, my husband and I have been spending a lot of time working to make the business better. Without classes to fill my agenda, I've had time to research and I'm thrilled that it has led me to options for my clients (you guys!) that reflect my vision.

Think vintage, eco-conscious, & beautiful.

I think I had a past life in a previous century, as I've always been attracted to old things...

So, I've got some fantastic new collections that have vintage looking frames and eco-friendly albums both handmade in the U.S.A. The frames are hand painted with organic milk paint, and the albums are of the book assortment, with organic & vegan cover options. EXCITED YET?! :)
I've got one more lovely thing up my sleeve, it's exclusive to Aisling, and includes handmade and eco-friendly materials...

Anyhow, it was one of my goals going into graduate school to figure out all this stuff in my head and get my portraiture and wedding photography to resonate with my fine art. It was a difficult process, but I'm excited to say that I'm where I hoped I would be coming out of it!

Thanks for checking in :)
Much heart & good things,
Jen

p.s. I'm still working on the website galleries, but there are a lot of new images up already, so if you haven't been there in a while, go take a gander!

on our minds

2009-03-28T14:00:00.002-04:00

Today would be my father in law's 49th birthday.

I miss him a lot, and I only knew him just short of a decade. I know he's always in our thoughts, especially on days like today.

I was very much in accordance with Jess Brown & her blog post on memories, my heart goes out to her and her family, she lost her grandfather this week...and I've also been going through photos this week...finding many catching my heart in my throat...

I came across this one, it was the last time I saw him, he passed a couple of weeks later. It's not really a good picture, exactly, but it fits into my memories of that day, standing around in the back yard, just hanging out with friends and loved ones.
We were saying goodbye to everyone before we moved, I'm glad we got to say some kind of goodbye...I don't think I would've gave him any different kind of hug in parting.

I also came across these images that my sister in law copied for everyone, and I wanted to post this one, because I think it encompasses my father in law's spirit quite well :)

...Things are never perfect, but we love what we have, we do what we can, and nothing can change what we know in our hearts...