So I began getting serious into trying to improve my photography when we bought our first digital SLR, a Canon Rebel and I began taking pictures of our little Seth & Selah.  I was happy with the pictures we were getting.  Then I wanted to try my hand at digital scrapbooking.  So I bought Photoshop Elements (The full Photoshop version is expensive and not in our budget) which was all I really needed.  Of course I needed some classes to know how to use the program.  Now to share with you some of the people who taught me much of what I know.  I want to thank Jessica Sprague and Rita from CoffeeShop.  Through Jessica I became familiar with Photoshop Elements.  I also began learning that a trick that a lot of photographers used was something called "actions" for Photoshop.  I was feeling left out because it seemed not very people made "actions" for Photoshop Elements and those few that did of course charged.  Then I came across a link to CoffeeShop which offers FREE action for Photoshop Elements.  I love playing with these things. 

So then my pictures I feel went to the next step.  Let me show you a little that I can now do with Photoshop Elements.  Here is a little editing action.

Here is my little Selah.  A great picture straight out of camera (or SOOC photographer lingo)

Now here is Selah brightened up with a little color correction

And because I couldn't stop playing with this great picture I went on to try a little vintage look on her.  Now I can't decide which edit I like better.  What do you think?

Oh God, as I bring my subject into focus and prepare to make each portrait, never let me forget that I’m creating treasures for some family, a keepsake for loved ones. Make me sensitive to the qualities and virtues of others, that I may draw out into the light the beautiful radiant belongings of their hearts. Help me to be an artist, collecting the beauty of every soul, the glow of youth, the gentleness, the laughter or tears of each life that is precious in Thy sight. Deeper than a means of livelihood, give me the perspective to see my photographer’s art as a service to others, making life richer and more memorable.

And, dear Lord, between the lights and shadows, the ups and downs and the rolling years, keep me from getting out of focus or off center, so that my life and work may be framed with dignity and colored with contentment …

AMEN
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Here is where freezing the time really matters.  Can't believe my baby boy is already five.  I have many others to share, but I need to get going with the vacum. :)

First post on our new website.  We are trying to get with it.  Can't hurt trying :)