Kathy Howard Images

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T11:43:00.001-08:00

I know, it’s been a good long while since I’ve been here. And although I can’t totally admit it, I think it’s time to say good-bye to this blog! But not quite yet…

Hope you have a wonderful holiday – I am heading to Florida for the rest of the year to be with my awesome huge family and relax and soak up some sunshine!

Stay happy & see you soon!

~Kathy

Helllllooooooooooooooo!

2011-11-10T08:00:00.001-08:00

It is good to be here today! I have been as busy as I think I’ve ever been in my life – photography and kids activities. All good!

Here’s just a quick glimpse … please click the post links and head over to my site to see the full monty!

Mary Beth’s bridal portraits on my site, click HERE.

The wedding was last weekend …

To see the first round of images from this wedding on my site, click HERE.

I will make the time soon to elaborate on both of these experiences, especially the wedding!

Thanks for your patience & for stopping by!

~Kathy

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T05:30:00.001-07:00

Our neighborhood celebrated Halloween yesterday, which I am thankful for.

The kids are sleeping in today (no school) and we don’t have to stay up late tonight – we won’t have to experience those post-Halloween school day I’ve-eaten-too-much-candy-and-I’m-cranky blues !!

Um, yeah, I tried to crimp my hair … with my crimper from the 80′s … ahhh memories!

Hope your day is full of scary & fun!

~Kathy

My Newest Addition!

2011-10-28T09:48:00.001-07:00

It’s nice to reap rewards from all of this work I’m doing …

I used this lens to shoot 90% of the Florida wedding. I love it. But now of course I have another lens on the list … lol!

~Kathy

Kate & John | Ritz Carlton Naples Wedding

2011-10-26T17:30:00.001-07:00

What an incredible wedding, and a fabulous wedding experience!

Rachel Durik of Savor Photography is an amazing photographer, and was so kind to me to let me second shoot with her. I learned so much, and had fun doing it too.

Full blog post is up on the site … click HERE if you will!

Thanks!

~Kathy

Photo Challenge | Let Them Be Little

2011-10-25T05:48:00.001-07:00

It’s been a while since I’ve participated, but I knew this week I had to make it happen. This photo is one of my favorites from this summer. You can see the entire series of them in this blog post HERE.

My sweet little chunky ankled nephew, playing with my son. Just having a good ‘ole time!

Head on over to I Heart Faces to see more little people sweetness!

~Kathy

Kate & John | Naples, FL Wedding

2011-10-24T13:01:00.001-07:00

Hey there! Have a lot to catch you up on … I traveled to SW Florida this past weekend to second shoot a wedding with the very fabulous Rachel Durik of Savor Photography.

It was an amazing experience, and I will be sharing more with you soon.

About to see each other for the first time :

~Kathy

LJ Yoga Portrait Session | Raleigh Cary Portrait Photographer

2011-10-18T10:40:00.001-07:00

I feel so lucky to work with such strong, confident & amazing people …

The preview of this session is up on the site – click HERE to see the rest!

~Kathy

Nags Head Day One

2011-10-17T04:24:00.001-07:00

Hello again Monday!

Had a fantastic weekend – glorious fall weather, and two photo shoots on Saturday. I almost had another on Sunday, but decided to take a ‘day off’ with my family. SO glad I did!

Up this week – traveling to SW Florida to second shoot the wedding at the Ritz Carlton Naples. Ahhhh can’t wait to experience shooting a beach wedding … and can’t wait to work with the talented Rachel Durik. She is one of the first photographers I’ve followed since starting this journey years ago, so I am beyond thrilled!

Attempting to catch up ‘round here … lol x 2.

Here’s some pics from Nags Head a few weeks ago … from the first day (Yes, I have that many – of course!)

The Nags Head Pier

(we stayed at a little cottage right next to this –awesome!)

The ocean was SO calm & lovely…

Perfect for skim boarding:

“Mom, I want to take surf lessons.” I heard this several times this summer

Smile!

It is hard for me to believe she is almost a teenager.

Light winds perfect for kite flying!

Girls can fish too … and this one is ALL about it:

My blogging time is up. Off to wake up the kiddos for school.

Have a great Monday!

~Kathy

100,000 Miles Young!

2011-10-11T17:18:00.001-07:00

Things are chugging right along here… in the heart and the midst of the photography busy season!

Today my car rolled over 100,000 miles. To me, it’s a big deal. We bought this car new (my first!) and have loved it and experienced a lot of life in it for the past 6 years.

The kids made this sign this past weekend, and we’ve had it in the car ready for ‘The Moment’. ‘The Moment’ was slightly staged tonight, as I only had five miles to go. Loaded up the kids and headed out! Stopped right where it turned 100,000. Propped the camera on someones mailbox stand (forgot the tripod of course) and took a snap.

Here’s me as a young girl … the reason for my own family photo above :

Um, I’m the ‘girl’ (amongst three brothers) with the pixie cut standing in front of my Dad (Magnum PI? John Lennon?). I remember this day, this moment, and how excited we were. This picture takes me back, and I love it SO much just for that very reason.

Pictures are such an important part of life, don’t believe anything else!!

LOTS of Nags Head trip photos coming very soon!

~Kathy

The Day Wedding

2011-10-05T13:05:00.001-07:00

What an incredible experience it was to assist the very talented Todd Nichols with this wedding. I definitely learned a lot, and gained a lot of confidence which will be quite useful for the wedding I am shooting in November!!!

I have a full blog post up on my site … click HERE. I apologize for sending you over there, but I honestly don’t have enough time to do both and will most likely stop posting here the end of the year. I’ll keep you ‘posted’!

I assisted 90% of the time, and got to shoot the other 10%. Yes, I wanted to shoot (a LOT) more, but I was also able to absorb what was going on without any pressures.

Here are my two favorite images that I captured:

This was taken right before entering the ceremony. Since there were no side isles in the ceremony room, Todd asked me to catch these pre-walking down the isle moments. YES I was nervous, but pretty pleased with the image.

I also got to shoot at the reception, which was kind of hard because of the set-up of the room. The table of honor was long, thin & directly in front of the dance floor. And there was a wall behind it! It was also hard not to jump out there and start dancing

I creatively cropped this image of Pat Day and his very very sweet mother, to remove a lot of distracting elements from the background:

Aren’t they adorable?

Next up I am second shooting a wedding with the fabulous Rachel Durik of Savor Photography at the Ritz Carlton Naples. I am way beyond exited for this … I’m pretty sure you all know how much I like shooting on the beach!

Well, that’s about a full blog post. I got chatty … lol!

Have a great Wednesday evening ya’ll … off to the bus stop I go.

~Kathy

Oh, the Outerbanks!

2011-10-03T14:22:00.001-07:00

The OBX was very good to me this past weekend. The skies were sunny and the air was salty. We started with a warm day on Friday, and ended up in the upper 50’s on Sunday. We packed for it – and loved every second of it!

Sunday was my birthday, and here is a shot that I took while sipping my coffee all snuggled under my sweater poncho :

There was quite a swell that morning, and the surfers were having a ball.

P.S. I love to watch surfing!

Lots more coming - the clouds were amazing the entire time … can’t wait to share.

~Kathy

Thomas Headshots | Raleigh Cary Portrait Photographer

2011-09-29T00:34:00.000-07:00

Had so much fun meeting the beautiful Mrs. T at the Art Museum last Saturday for a headshot session.

She is so gorgeous – and did a fabulous job styling herself!

To see more from this session, head over to my site HERE or my facebook page HERE.

Thanks!

~Kathy

My Girl in Green

2011-09-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

I think she should model, or at least be on TV or in ads. She has no interest. I think I am going to send some pictures in anyway… I have plenty of them, that’s for sure!

f/1.8 1/320th ISO100

Really working on nailing the eye focus – although you can’t really see it on blogger most of the time! But the prints do tell…

~Kathy

It’s a Dog’s Life

2011-09-28T04:26:00.001-07:00

If you follow me on Facebook, I’ve already posted this there … I am much slower to blog then to upload to Facebook. Wonder if I’ll ever get that in sync…

Here’s our little Willis boy. My desk has a view to the living room. I was slaving away at my computer and there he was… little ball of fluff … so tempted to join him!

Happy Hump Day!

~Kathy

In Your Eyes

2011-09-27T04:00:00.000-07:00

The sun illuminates only the eye of the man,

but shines into the eye and heart of the child.

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

My lovelies

~Kathy

Fleeting Days of Summer

2011-09-26T03:52:00.001-07:00

Lucky for us here in NC, September does not mean the end of the warm weather. And October can still be water fun worthy – last year we were wearing shorts on Halloween!

Here’s a few fun shots from a recent boat outing …

How did you get that angle you may be asking yourself? Yes, I am crazy. One arm wrapped around a float pillow, and the other with camera in hand. (My trusty dusty D60, which IS a great camera … ) I’m a very strong swimmer anyway! I just had to get that sky.

The boat drifted, and I lost my sky, but got a new favorite family shot.

The sun was going down. Right place at the right time

Does she look like a year round swimmer or what?

Faster Daddy!

I’m not ready for summer to end … I love summer fun!

This weekend we are heading to Nags Head for three glorious days and nights! It’s our yearly fall trip for my birthday. Normally we go to Ocracoke Island, but after the hurricane things are a bit messed up with ferries and such. However, I am excited because I am scheming a photo shoot (so to speak) of my family on Jockey’s Ridge. Think brightly colored kites, sunset, and lots of laughter. Lets hope it doesn’t rain!

I will be sharing a few images from the Day Wedding this week – stay tuned!

~Kathy

First Popsicle

2011-09-21T04:03:00.000-07:00

I created a storyboard of this series of my nephew eating his first popsicle for my sister-in-law.

I thought it turned out really cute and is going to make an awesome keepsake print

~Kathy

So Much Sweetness

2011-09-20T18:57:00.000-07:00

This little girl truly is THE definition of easy baby! Always content, unless she’s hungry and then she may make a face …

But one squeek of her favorite toy and it’s happy all over again

f/3.5 1/125th ISO200

(I did not do a thing post-production to her eyes. Had my shoot-through umbrella set up just right I suppose!)

And one more just for fun:

My friend Natasha makes AMAZING baby and toddler hats … and has even been known to spin her own yarn!

You can find her HERE … give her a visit!

~Kathy

My 10 Year Old

2011-09-20T12:11:00.001-07:00

For the first time EVER, I was away from one of my children on their birthday. Don’t worry though, I was the only one having a problem with it!

My son turned 10 the weekend I was in KY assisting the Pat Day wedding. (those images coming VERY soon!)

We celebrated his bday early with his favorite meal… the very typical meat and potatoes!

(well, if you call FILET MIGNON typical)

And in celebration of his birthday, here are a few more of my favorite images of him from the past month. Can you see the sweetness in his little soul? Makes me teary eyed

First day of 5th grade:

I like to make him blush ….

~Kathy

More of my Sweet Nephew

2011-09-19T04:31:00.001-07:00

I just couldn’t get enough of this little man…

Let me tell you, I’m really not sure HOW we got him to sit in this chair. I think maybe my 7th grade daughter was doing something behind me to catch his attention

I wish I had done a drop back shot so you could see the set-up. I used my flash set-up, shooting through the umbrella to soften the light.

(If you’re looking to learn your speedlight, check out this workshop HERE. I am not getting paid to mention this. It was such a great class that I use my flash all the time now!)

Lesson be learned : always be ready for the next shot, even if you think ‘I got it’.

I know this isn’t perfect. His face is shadowed, his shorts look wonky – but I LOVE this image. I love his smile, his hands, and everything about the moment. It’s all about him at 20 months.

Next up –more of my sugar sweet niece!

~Kathy

Photo Challenge : A Touch of Sun

2011-09-19T04:15:00.001-07:00

I know I haven’t entered in a while, but I do really enjoy these photo challenges. I love to see how others interpret the subject – great source of inspiration!

When I read the topic this week I knew exactly which image I wanted to share :

This young newlywed couple were so in love … I almost felt like I was shooting an engagement session!

(You can see more of them on my site HERE.)

Head on over to I Heart Faces & brighten up your week – you may find some inspiration too!

~Kathy

Cold & Rainy

2011-09-19T04:00:00.001-07:00

We had a nice taste of fall here in NC this weekend. 60’s and below, cloudy & rainy/misty. SO nice! I had plans to ‘document’ our ‘lazy’ weekend, but decided to live in the moments instead. It’s not often that we have a weekend with no sports or activities. (Still feeling like we forgotsomething!)

The boys played risk while the girls played Barbies. I did a little bit of this and a little bit of that…

Have a great Monday – going to share a lot of good stuff this week!

~Kathy

Lovely Hannah | Class of 2012

2011-09-17T05:32:00.001-07:00

This young lady was amazing! So sweet & kind, and quite a bright future ahead of her. The shoot was so much fun that we were both a little sad when it ended, and she even said , “ I can’t believe it’s over”.

Here’s a few of my favorites from the shoot:

Old Downtown Garner, NC. (The home of Scotty)

Hello sassy shoes!

Our original reason for being in Garner was this caboose. Great idea & she worked it!

Then we headed to the favorite color wall … a place I’ve nicknamed ‘the concrete jungle’

Simply stunning.

I will be sharing more from this session – yes, there’s more! I have never worked with more ‘fashion efficient’ clients – she & her (awesome) Mom managed to fit in four outfit changes & two locations in 2 hours! Now that’s some serious organization.

If you like what you see, there’s lots more on Facebook … come over and be my fan

(click HERE)

~Kathy

A Whirlwind

2011-09-14T04:18:00.001-07:00

What an amazing weekend I had assisting Todd Nichols with the wedding of Pat Day’s daughter. It was an ‘assist’ situation, not second shooter. However, I did get to shoot a little bit and got one shot that as Todd said, “this one will make Louisville Bride Magazine for sure” (Todd is pretty well known in his wedding community). SO, I am excited about that!!! However, I will have to share the image in a different post … sorry for the teaser!

I am slam bam busy which is a good thing … kids sports and activities are in full swing, and fall sessions are kicking up! So for today I will share with you a picture of our dog Willis, and my mother’s dog Molly (Willis’ cousin, BFF, lover .. !)

Trust me, these dogs don’t normally sit still like this. However, they had just finished a long session of chase & wrestling, so they were tired out!

I still have some images to share from my KY trip in August – those will be up next AND the Day wedding images!

Have a great hump day ~ See you soon!

~Kathy

Two Little Boys

2011-09-07T03:33:00.001-07:00

For the longest time, my son has been the youngest boy grandchild (the oldest just started college this year!). However, this is not the case anymore. And he couldn’t be more thrilled about it …I may have even teared up watching these two play together

My nephew is an awesome kid – he’s got incredible parents, and it shows!

Sweet little buddah belly … LOVE

(mouth full of ice – can you tell?)

Still have more to share from my KY trip, but it will have to wait unless some miracle happens today and I get everything done!

Exciting – heading BACK to Kentucky tomorrow for the wedding assist with amazing Todd Nichols on Saturday. I am ready to be a sponge!

Have a great rest of the week/weekend – be back soon with lots of good info I’m sure.

~Kathy

Introducing M ~

2011-09-04T10:33:00.000-07:00

This is my newest niece. She is seriously the sweetest and easiest baby I have *ever* met! Just couldn’t get enough of her sweetness.

Um, who are you and why are you laying me in the buggy grass with a hat on my head when it’s 90 degrees outside?

Squeeky toys are great to get 4 month old smiles …

Oh, sweet baby face~

This adorable hat was made by my friend Natasha – click HERE if you are interested in purchasing some of her handmade goodness. She does an amazing job, and even spins some of her own yarn!

You haven’t seen the last of this little girl ….

~Kathy

Henry’s Ark

2011-09-04T08:11:00.000-07:00

Our trip to KY wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Ark. Privately owned and nearby, it is a wonderland of animals roaming – most of them quite friendly, and of course hungry!

Introducing my cutest nephew ever, Rex (with my girls)

NO fear!

Nope, toddlers can’t catch ducks … but they love to try

Wouldn’t you like to feed a zebra?!

I remember taking my biggest girl here when she was his age *sigh*

~Kathy

Change is Good

2011-09-04T05:13:00.000-07:00

These snaps were taken less than a week apart…

Love that my girls can cut all their hair off, and not think twice about it!

~Kathy

Dancing in the Beer Tent!

2011-09-04T03:09:00.000-07:00

I have to say I’m pretty proud that my kids are old enough & able to ‘hang out’ while adults do adult things.

This fair had a few strategically placed beer tents … and of course we had to stop and refresh …

Daddy/Daughter Dance

It’s so nice to have such a fun Uncle …

(dimple alert!)

Dimple Alert!

Next up – my A-dorable toddler nephew and baby niece!!

~Kathy

KY State Fair

2011-09-03T15:02:00.001-07:00

How lucky were we that the fair began while we were in town? It’s so nice to go with a larger group so you can divide and conquer … especially when it comes to the rides! I love rides, but not so much anymore. No spinny or swings for me!

LOTS of photos coming here…

We call this one the ‘Tilt a HURL’. Look at her face … my girl in the middle …

She’d KILL me if she knew I even took this photo!

Their Uncle Jon spent LOTS of money winning them fabulous prizes …. thank you Jon!

Next post – dancing in the beer tent

~Kathy

Daddy–Daughter Dance

2011-09-03T02:55:00.000-07:00

It’s one of the many highlights of the Indian Princess Program through the YMCA – the coveted Daddy-Daughter dance.

My girl was SO excited because I promised to take the time to curl her hair, paint her nails & put on a little make-up. I know, I should do it more often – she IS my girly girl, and LOVES everything about beauty and fashion.

This series of photos makes me teary eyed … like a wedding day would …

We were ready before Daddy was (man, I’m good!), so we played around with her favorite toy, my camera!

I had wanted to go to the Rose Garden with them, but we ran out of time so I snapped a few in our backyard. Love.

~Kathy

KY: The New Fire Pit

2011-09-02T13:09:00.001-07:00

My parents recently had their back porch re-done, and they added a fire pit to it. Exciting stuff, especially for my kids who love to camp and love fires, mainly for the Smores factor!

My Dad and the kiddos …

Now we’re talkin’!

My folks …

Happy smores

Dude, smores

CRAZY for SMORES!

Lots ‘smore coming soon!!

~Kathy

Wedding Reception Book

2011-09-01T10:23:00.001-07:00

It turned out SO nice! I am so excited! Head over to my site to see the post … Click HERE!

Thanks!

~Kathy

Kentucky Trip Pt.1 : Water Craziness

2011-08-31T17:06:00.001-07:00

Hello! I have so many fun pictures to share with you from my trip back to Kentucky a few weeks ago. I have been crazed with getting the kids ready for back-to-school, and lots of good business stuff (fill you in soon!), so I’m a little behind.

My kids love to swim and play in water. I can’t tell you how many times this summer I sent my son out to water the plants, and next thing you know he’s got the hose up his shirt and into his mouth! I suppose this is pretty typical?

Anyway, here are a few fun water shots:

Our favorite waterfront park – complete with a huge splash park and lots of climbing structures. Always a highlight of the trip!

We spent a lot of time at the country club pool. Living the high life, ordering fried mozzarella at every break and drinking all the tea we wanted

Poor kid- he tried MANY times to learn the front flip. Only had one success, and this wasn’t it!

The “cheerleader” high dive jump. She jumped off that thing 121 times, to be exact.

And the crowning glory, the back dive that almost was …. actually, she did do it, but this image doesn’t say that, does it!

LOTS more coming soon!

~Kathy

Photo Challenge : White

2011-08-30T18:21:00.001-07:00

All dressed up … ready for the coveted father/daughter dance with her Indian Princess tribe …

She was ready before her Daddy, so we snuck to the backyard for a small session. There’s something about a little girl in pearls

Enjoy more white images this week over at I Heart Faces – there’s some real goodness going on there!

~Kathy

I Heart Faces Photo Challenge : Pet Week

2011-08-23T18:16:00.001-07:00

Every summer we head to the mountains of NC with 3 kids and two dogs to get connected with nature, camp & generally cool off from the sweltering summer heat.

Here’s my Abby girl, playing in one of the wonderfully cool mountain streams:

Yup, she’s smiling!

Head over to I Heart Faces to see more happy pets this week!

~Kathy

p.s. Yes, I am back from vacation, with lots to share … stay tuned!

Heading Out Tomorrow

2011-08-12T14:09:00.000-07:00

I realize I haven’t been all that present here this summer, but I will definitely be offline this next week. Heading to KY to visit with family. Family coming in from SFO and Chicago. Going to meet my newest niece that is 4 months old, and play with my 18 month old nephew. Good gosh I can’t WAIT!!! (and neither can my camera!)

I am also going to take a good break from the computer. Going to test myself to see how long I can go without looking on facebook or email. Probably not that long, but we’ll see! I figure on my 9 hour drive tomorrow I will come up with some rules for myself. Lol.

I absolutely love love taking photographs – it’s all this computer time that is completely wearing me out. Physically and mentally. Do you know what I’m talking about? Probably a fairly typical situation.

Holiday Mini-Sessions are up on my site … if you’re interested, drop me a line! (but I may not answer for a week!)

I recently purchased some batteries and four rolls of B&W film so that I can play with my Dad’s camera from the 70’s …

If you know me, you know I LOVE black and white and just can’t wait to see some REAL b&w, and try to capture some images with that in mind. I already have some spots in my mother’s house in mind….

Take care – enjoy these last fleeting days of summer- I am sad that it is coming to an end, but super excited to be rolling into a crazy wedding fall season!

~Kathy

Ma’s 78th

2011-08-12T08:59:00.001-07:00

My mother-in-law turned 78 this week. I hosted the party at our house and we ate a delicious meal of shrimp, sausage & all sorts of veggies and appetizers. It was fun and I love celebrating birthdays together.

I like photographing moments because not only does it help create the memory, but you never really know what you’re gonna get! (have no idea what my son is looking at)

What are the odds you get half of your subjects with eyes closed? (nice face, son)

You’re never too old to blow out the candles!

~Kathy

Great Backdrops are Everywhere!

2011-08-07T05:34:00.001-07:00

One of the locations if my senior shoot last week was old town Garner. My senior wanted her photo on a historical caboose, something different. I agreed, and proceeded to scout the location a few days before the shoot. I wish I had taken some photos from a distance, because this caboose was a real challenge. Either side of this historical caboose was a street, with one side parking. Street signs and power lines. Ugh! My angles were limited, and I was glad I checked it out ahead of time so I was familiar with the challenges and ready to conquer them! Never be afraid to shoot angular I say …

We had another location in mind for after the caboose shots, but I decided to explore Main Street. I came upon a cop shop & a printing shop. Hmmm. Not the greatest. But the further I went, the more treasures I found …

I love the way this door brings out her eyes, and the intricate design on the door itself. There was a white sidewalk beneath us (great natural reflector!) and good sky light, so I knew we would get beautiful catch lights in those baby blues!

Yesterday it rained like crazy, but no thunder so my kids were out playing in it. I am on a mission this week to capture our favorite summer things … I have an album on Facebook called “Dog Days of Summer”

Anyway, here’s the first shot:

Was trying to follow the leading line of the sidewalk. I like it because it’s my daughter, but I hate all the distractions in the background.

I changed my angle & changed my aperture to be very shallow on this one 2.0, because I thought the flooded grass would give amazing bokeh to this shot …. and it did! Would you think she is sitting on the curb next to a house for sale? Don’t think so!

So go out and challenge yourself to find a beautiful backdrop in an unlikely place. I’d love to see what you find!

~Kathy

My First Giveaway!

2011-08-05T07:51:00.001-07:00

I was contacted by uPrinting to see if I wanted to host a poster giveaway. Why not?

Click HERE to check it out on my site! And enter of course!

~Kathy

Kelly Baby Belly~

2011-08-03T10:22:00.001-07:00

My first maternity shoot – and I loved every second of it!! It helps when you have a positively glowing subject …

It is true what they say … the first light of day is soft and sweet and fun to play with! We chose to do this session early in the day because of the brutal NC summer heat. It was hot, but we had a slight breeze that kept things pretty nice.

39 1/2 weeks. Seriously, I’m not joking!

An amazing couple – very much in love, and anxiously awaiting their baby boy.

Head over to my site if you’d like to see the rest from this shoot (click HERE)

~Kathy

Roumanis Portfolio Shoot

2011-08-03T07:09:00.001-07:00

Full blog post is UP on the site … click HERE to check it out!

Seriously one of the most fun experiences to date. I feel incredibly lucky to call this my ‘work’!

You can follow me on Facebook too – it’s the most up to date place for me this summer. Click HERE to visit my fan page!

Thanks

~Kathy

Baby Belly Kelly Preview!

2011-07-31T15:08:00.001-07:00

Forecasted to be the hottest day of the summer, and only three days from her due date … braved sunrise and they pulled it off beautifully!

Complete gallery coming soon ….

~Kathy

Happy 80th Birthday!!

2011-07-28T02:40:00.000-07:00

My father in law turned 80 this past weekend. He is such a fantastic guy – witty, funny & kind. We all adore him so very much.

The whole family came in to help celebrate. Well, except for one.

Ma with her grandkids … minus the two college graduates!

And one ‘fun’ shot – yeah!

~Kathy

Location Scouting with my Flash

2011-07-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

Perhaps this is one of my flaws, but I constantly want to change things up with my photo shoots. I have had three sessions now at ‘the color wall’. Although I adore all of the images, I feel perhaps a little ‘bored’ with it. Restless. I have changed angles & lighting, and am still thinking about how to change it up for my next client next week!

One night last week I declared as location scouting night. We took the kids out for burgers and driving around downtown. I also wanted to practice my new OCF (off camera flash) skills. It was fun1

I love ‘negative space’. Still searching for that perfect top-of-the world location!

Love some leading lines and tall scapes.

Then we ate, and it got dark. Flash time!

Oh my son melts me – I told him we were going shooting, and he put on his best stripes for me

Had my husband holding the flash up high & to the right

Then the kids found this cool stairwell – mind you, it was 98 degrees out already and the sun had gone down. This ‘cool stairwell’ was anything BUT cool – felt like an oven!

Workin’ his Hollywood look

I said something funny – love to see those crooked teeth!!

~Kathy

End of Year Swim Banquet

2011-07-27T14:22:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe our swim season is done. Every year the summers go by faster and faster. Do you have this problem too? Is it even a problem?!

So proud of my kiddos. They kicked b-u-t-t on swim team this year

My oldest and her group of awesome medley-winning friends (plus one admirer!)

My youngest and her beloved trophy

And my sweet boy, with all his pool pals … just screams summer to me!

~Kathy

How We’ve Been Beating the Heat

2011-07-27T10:16:00.001-07:00

My goodness it’s been H O T here – probably hot as heck where you are too! This Friday we are expected to hit an ALL TIME HIGH ever of 105 degrees at the RDU airport, and that’s before the heat index.

All this hot weather makes it pretty hard to kick the kids outside to play … ! So the other day I gave the green light for the kids to empty their piggy banks. They ask all the time, and I tell them they can only empty them when you can’t squeeze one more coin in!

This cute little piggy bank moved with us from Hawaii 7 years ago. I still think she’s the cutest

Love a wide aperture. Hides messy kitchens!

This kid ended up with 50+ dollars in his bank – cha ching!

Not sure what that thing is on his baseball, but he didn’t want to remove it.

Hope you’re beating the heat!

~Kathy

Roumanis Portfolio Shoot Preview

2011-07-26T07:41:00.001-07:00

I have LOT of blogging & good stuff to catch you up on … but for this moment head over to my KHP site to see the preview from my shoot this past Sunday - Click HERE!

Thanks for your patience during the summer juggle …

~Kathy

Emotions Running High

2011-07-20T07:49:00.001-07:00

Last swim meet of the season last night – our team was completely energized and fired up!

I can’t believe I am going to say this, but I think I am going to miss a swim meet …

My youngest has come SO far this year – her confidence is high, thanks to a few blue ribbons – yeah!

(that’s her in the pink goggles getting ready to dive in during the relay)

My son. Strong and confident

My oldest (in the red cap). Completely into the swimming now. We’re signing up for year round this week!

And YES, we won this relay race!

It’s gonna be 100+ degrees here today…. stay cool!

~Kathy

Topsail Beach in July

2011-07-19T11:22:00.001-07:00

We normally don’t go to the beach in the summertime – the heat and crowds are not much to our taste. However, we had a nice stretch of weather last week & we decided to head to the beach for the day Saturday with some good friends.

85 degrees and breezy… can you feel the breeze…

f/5.6 1/1000th ISO100

(These were all taken with my trusty D60 and the kit lens! D300 does not go to the beach, except for paid shoots)

This one wants to take surfing lessons. But this day we settled for some good boogie boarding:

It was time for our friends to leave, so of course I had to get some group shots of the kids.

Ahhh, I love a the old classic pyramid!

And then we decided to go a little ‘Hollywood’ :

Didn’t they do an AWEsome job with this pic? I love it!

Off to our last swim meet of the season here shortly.

I am also in the middle of an online speedlight workshop (click HERE for more info) that I am LOVE-ing, and will be sharing some of my learning and practice here soon!

~Kathy

Her First Fashion Show

2011-07-18T04:49:00.001-07:00

This week my now 8 yr old girl attended a modeling/fashion camp. According to her, dreams DO come true! She loved every second of it, and wants more.

She thumbed through the Sunday ads yesterday, and told me more than once she wants to be in those ads. So, I am in the process of putting together her portfolio to email to a few agencies that have been recommended to me. I am hesitant, but what have we got to lose? (for now, anyway!)

The last day of this camp they put on a fashion show. I mean, they practiced their runway walk ALL week! It was very cute and a true celebration of young girls and women (ages up to 18), all shapes and sizes. Loved it!

It was very dark inside, and I decided not to use my speedlight and go for the motion/high grain look:

f/2.5 1/160th ISO1600

Look at that face – NO fear!!

She chose to be first, which she said she was a little nervous until she started walking.

Proud Momma I am

~Kathy

Behind the Scenes!

2011-07-14T11:16:00.001-07:00

This day was like a dream come true … I almost had to pinch myself! Beautiful model, make-up and hair artist on site … life is good

Full blog post over on my KHP site … click HERE to read.

(I’m getting lazy, I know…)

~Kathy

June Fashion Shoot

2011-07-13T09:02:00.001-07:00

I’ve blogged my fashion/modeling shoot from June … you can see the post on my KHP Blog HERE!

If you like my work I’d love to have your ‘fan-ship’ on Facebook … click HERE. I have a groovy new slideshow - come check it out! (If you are already a fan, click the ‘welcome’ tab on the left)

~Kathy

All Kinds of Fun

2011-07-13T06:53:00.001-07:00

I suppose I should succomb to the fact that I just can’t blog a whole lot this summer! Between having three kids home, shuffling them around to camps and swimming, and some COOL projects I’m working on for KHP … well, there’s just not a whole lot of time, or me, left in the day.

However, I have some great ideas brewing for this fall for my blog(s), including a series focused on easy techniques for taking better pictures. Things that anyone can do to improve their photos. I’m excited!

We hosted our last home swim meet last night. I am so extremely proud of my children, and their drive to do their best all of the time. I’m a lucky momma!!

Here’s my son doing the butterfly (which I can’t do at all – can you?!)

And then my oldest girl – she ROCKS the butterfly too!

And then my youngest girl. FIRST place in main event breast stroke last night!

However, didn’t capture that action, but this shot so typical of her…

Have a great rest of the week … we’re off to the beach this weekend for a short, but necessary trip!

~Kathy

A 4th Without Fireworks!

2011-07-05T05:52:00.001-07:00

Hope everyone had a safe and fun day yesterday! We had a great time hanging out at the house & playing with the kids ~ it was so nice to spend the day having family fun!

In case you couldn’t tell, the 4th is one of our FAVORITE holidays!

I didn’t take a lot of photos – tried to concentrate on living in the moment. However, I was inside checking on my baked beans (YUM) and saw this father/son scene unfolding …

A wonderful much needed thunderstorm moved through about an hour before fireworks, dumping lots of splendid rain on us and our plants. Sadly, we saw no ‘real’ fireworks, but will tonight!

Have a great day ~ more later!

Kathy

A Special Day

2011-06-28T14:33:00.001-07:00

My youngest managed to talk her Daddy into letting her get her ears pierced for her 8th birthday. I said go for it, and was happy to see her so excited about it!

I called three places and questioned them all, and decided on this location at our local mall.

She told me she had butterflies, but you really couldn’t tell.

The pre-piercing shot. Bye bye empty lobes.

It must have taken the gal 10 minute to get the dots on her ears just right. SO glad I called around and found her!

Action shot – no tears here!

(this child has NEVER cried for an immunization, not even as a baby)

The admiration

You did it! Happy Happy!

(ignore the graduation hat!)

~Kathy

Camping in the Mountains

2011-06-28T03:15:00.000-07:00

Man, did we have a good time. So good that we are planning on adding at least one day to our trip next year, hopefully two! Kids are at the perfect age – they love the exploring and adventure of it all more than ever.

Head over to my Kathy Howard Photography site … I decided to post a small slideshow from our camping trip over there!

~Kathy

It’s Officially Summer

2011-06-27T13:32:00.000-07:00

We know it’s summer when these girls have their annual pool date. All friends since Kindergarten, with 7th grade on the horizon. Four different middle schools between them, but it hasn’t changed a thing.

They each bring something special & wonderful to this group of friendships, and compliment each other amazingly well. Love it!

And just for fun, here is the image from last year:

~Kathy

8th Birthday Party!

2011-06-27T10:11:00.001-07:00

What better way to spend your birthday than at the pool with your besties?

We picked up all of these fun props at the dollar store – big score!

She wanted a giant cookie cake, and that’s what she got!

(talk about cheap & easy)

And here’s a few more party shots that I thought you might enjoy :

Have a great afternoon!

~Kathy

It’s Monday … again!

2011-06-27T08:54:00.001-07:00

Amazing how that works

Been enjoying summer and working hard. Lots of good stuff to share, and now that the kids are in camp this week, I may just get around to it!

Here is what I gave my husband for Father’s Day :

A nice 8x10 printed and mounted on styrene, so we can frame it – or not!

I got this image just goofin’ around, practicing some posing techniques on them. I got THE moment – and I have to say I’m stoked about it!

Other (exciting!) news:

In preparation for my first wedding November 4th, I have lined up two weddings to assist and second shoot this fall!

First one is in September, with the uber talented Todd Nichols of Todd Nichols Photography. SO excited for this wedding – it’s going to be HUGE – the daughter of the infamous Pat Day is getting married. The venue, The Brown Hotel, is absolutely elegant and amazing. Just can’t wait!

Second wedding I’m working is going to be equally amazing, if not more! I will be working along side one of my all time favorite photographers, the fabulous Rachel Durik of Savor Photography. (I took a workshop with her last June) The ceremony is being held on the beach in Naples, Florida at the stunning Ritz Carlton Naples. You know by now that I LOVE shooting on the beach, so this is extra exciting for me.

Coming up soon – I will share some of my favs from our mountain trip, and our little girl got her ears pierced!

Have a great Monday!

~Kathy

Hello Monday

2011-06-20T04:31:00.001-07:00

Hard to believe it’s the start of our second week of summer! Last week was a complete busy blur …no lazy days for us…. YET.

Have lots to catch you up on … an 8th birthday, Father’s Day & our mountain trip 2 weekends ago.

For now, here’s the birthday girl & her fun in the sun birthday party!

Have a great Monday!

~Kathy

First Swim Meet

2011-06-16T04:58:00.001-07:00

Good morning!

We had our first swim meet on Tuesday. It was a good meet – but a long one – ended past 10:30. Whew!

Thought I’d share a few images before I have to go pack up for my youngest 8th birthday party at the pool today … whoo whoooo!!

Man, I love the summer time if not only for these freckles!

White pool decks make GREAT reflectors! We are in the shade - notice the soft even light.

His eye catch lights are more noticeable due to his dark brown eyes. Thank you pool deck for reflecting so nicely for me.

Have a lovely Thursday!

~Kathy

ahhhh the mountains!

2011-06-14T05:14:00.001-07:00

Hey ya’ll …. got my mountain lingo workin' for me after a nice, long & cool weekend at Wilson’s Creek.

Yup, we camped. Yup, we got rained on. Yup, the kids fought. But there was no TV, no cell phones and no electricity. There’s something so perfect about that.

I wanted a shot of all of my ‘kids’, so I did the classic ‘stop and say cheese’ method – yikes! I tried all day to get them all acting naturally in the same spot, but there was just too much fun and exploring to make that happen.

Lots more to come later this week. Now that summer has started I am going to do my best to keep to some sort of computer schedule, so that I can hang out with my kids & enjoy them.

So this machine goes off at 9am and I have 45minutes to finish up – gotta run!

Oh, btw, I have a full blog post up on my engagement shoot on the site … click HERE to see!

You can also sign up to receive site updates via email – just look for the link on the bottom left.

Thanks & have a great Tuesday!!

~Kathy

First Engagement Session

2011-06-08T08:14:00.001-07:00

And what a blast it was! Be sure to visit my SITE to see the rest of the first glimpse … and full blog post coming soon!

~Kathy

Another Milestone

2011-06-03T09:28:00.001-07:00

(Warning : This post is not for the weak of stomach! )

She lost a tooth. But that’s not the milestone.

It’s the fact that this is the first time the ‘tooth fairy’ has paid her in person.

Yeah, she’s growing up. I’m a little sad, but a lot glad too.

It’s all so bittersweet.

I am lucky that I still see the same baby beautiful face looking at me…

I am so thankful for this person & who she is turning out to be!

~Kathy

Enjoy the Scenery!

2011-06-01T13:37:00.001-07:00

Hello & happy June to you!

Just wanted to pop in and let you know that I’ve added a new gallery to my portfolio. It’s a collection of my favorite floral and scenic images that I’ve taken over the past year or two. Click HERE to take a look!

I have something exciting coming up soon, and this gallery will be part of that … stay tuned!

And since no post is complete without a picture …. here is my wonderfully freckly oldest daughter…

f/1.8 1/200th ISO 125

~Kathy

Good Morning Memorial Day

2011-05-30T06:09:00.001-07:00

My three lovelies surprised (well, you know) us with a really tasty breakfast this morning!

All we had to do was sit outside on the front porch, drink the freshly brewed coffee (by them) and read the paper. Honestly, it was fantastic! And the food was absolutely edible (:

Finishing some front landscaping this morning, and then it’s family pool time and rib fest!

Have a great Memorial Day!

~Kathy

Big Brown Eyes.

2011-05-30T01:09:00.000-07:00

On Thursday I took my 50mm 1.4 lens in to be calibrated to my D300S. My two utmost favorite pieces of equipment – want them to work at their full potential. I had been noticing lately that the wider my aperture, the more my focal points weren’t tack sharp.

My favorite local camera shop offers this service. However, if you are interested in doing it yourself you can rent or purchase the equipment and try it out. I rented the Lens Align System once, and let’s just say it was doable, but frustrating at the same time!

Oh boy though, what a HUGE difference it makes. I LIVE for tack sharp eyes.

Be ready for a few more posts of sharp eyes (:

I was playing around on the back deck while we were grilling out.

“Hey son, look at me” … and snapped this one :

f/1.8 1/125th ISO160

(I normally have to shoot at 2.8 to get this level of sharpness!)

I did not do any editing except a curves adjustment, resize and sharpen for web.

I let my son play around in Lightroom per his request, and here is what he came up with :

I like it I tell ya!

Hope you’re enjoying your long weekend~

Kathy

How to Make Some Kickin’ Chicken Wings!

2011-05-29T19:32:00.000-07:00

These wings are soooooooooo good!

I’m no food blogger – but this is and easy recipe anyway.

Ingredients :
Fresh chicken wings. I usually cook about 2lbs for my crew.

Couple of tablespoons butter

FRANKS Red Hot Sauce

Celery & blue cheese dressing for the side

Grill you wings low and slow on the grill, until they are crispy and falling off the bone.

Melt some butter in a large pot (the more butter, the less spicy). Add about 1/2 bottle or so of Franks Red Hot Sauce. Stir together. Add your wings to the large pot, straight off the grill while they’re hot!

Give it a shake this-a-way and that-a way, until everything is nice and coated.

Now EAT them UP!!

Sorry no photos of the pretty presentation – we just had to start eating them immediately…

I like to think that these aren’t as bad for me since they are grilled vs. fried!

~Kathy

Ocracoke : Easter

2011-05-27T03:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is is true! The Easter bunny will find you no matter where you are (:

I still have two that believe … but know that is going to change very soon (sad sad)

Good morning my little bedheads. I am glad you woke up early to eat chocolate and candy!

We ate candy. We packed up. More sad sad.

found a fun pier while waiting for the ferry :

Bye Bye Ocracoke ~ until next time!

~Kathy

Ocracoke : Dune Day

2011-05-26T11:09:00.001-07:00

As far as my kids are concerned, every day is a dune day. My children spend hours playing in the dunes … imagining all kinds of cool stuff like being stranded on an island, or hiding from evil.

All I know is, they are together and having fun. And my husband and I are on the beach & ALONE – sweet deal!!

It was a somewhat chilly and windy day – the dunes are also great for getting rid of the just-out-of-the ocean-i-am –freezing feeling …

Every once and a while I join the kids for some dune jumping … and this day I joined with my camera!

I hope you are enjoying my Ocracoke series …. one installment left ; Easter morning. (pretty uneventful, but nonetheless!)

~Kathy

I Heart Faces Photo Challenge : Yellow

2011-05-24T08:11:00.001-07:00

I didn’t realize until today how little yellow I shoot! I was glad when I found this shot though.

I love this shot in b&w – and processed it again with a slight vintage style…

Add a little sunshine to your day, and check out the rest of the yellow entries HERE at I Heart Faces.

Have a great Tuesday!

~Kathy

yup … she wants to be a model

2011-05-23T17:28:00.001-07:00

One of the three final installments in my Ocracoke series!

Sun was setting … the beach was long and wide. Light breeze. ALWAYS my favorite time of the day.

Asked my girl if she wanted to do a mini-shoot with her walking down the beach. That’s all I had to say, she did the rest. Some of these images really smile, and some really crack me up!

Now we’re having fun!

Played a little differently with post-processing on these … gotta mix things up every once in a while!

Next up is ‘Dune Day’ and ‘Easter’ (which seems like yesterday!)

~Kathy

One Last Look

2011-05-22T14:32:00.001-07:00

FINALLY got the kids down to the art museum to see “The Leap”. With not a moment to spare … we arrived at 4:30 and the museum closed at 5pm. The Auction party starting at 7Pm, so we were able to see some of the setup. Looked to be a grand event!

Here are some snaps from the museum :

first glance …

the stand in the corner is some remote electronic bidding transmitter for the auction…

oh overhead lighting, you are so much better for wall art than for humans … !

I am really happy with how I printed it – it’s acrylic with the four stud mount. I was unique (:

And there your have it!

~Kathy

A Respite

2011-05-20T08:57:00.000-07:00

Been spending a lot of time in front of my computer this week. It really wears me out in more ways than one.

Decided yesterday morning to take a nice break to the arboretum. No phone, no kids – just my coffee & my camera. A lot of deep breaths and slow walking.

My two favorites :

an all time favorite here ... trying to decide how to print it ...

Have a lovely afternoon ~Kathy

Ocracoke : Fishing

2011-05-20T05:51:00.001-07:00

Two of my favorites:

And don’t think it’s just for the boys … my girls fish too. Just not that day!

TGIF!

~Kathy

The Dock

2011-05-19T02:09:00.000-07:00

While on a trip we normally eat in to save money and have food that we all like. This trip we decided to eat out one night – whoo hooo!

We walked to dinner – love the island lifestyle & the fact that it’s mostly foot & bicycle traffic.

We started out at a place in the harbor … let’s just say the best thing about this place was the dock! We had an appetizer and a drink, and left to eat somewhere else.

Here’s our fun on the dock – it was overcast and the light was soft …

oh my sweet boy …

she liked that pillar too…

thank you, my daughter, for ‘the look’. I LOVE this shot!

then we got into our picture groove. love when this happens…

Had a fabulous meal at this restaurant, and got a pretty neat family photo too, thanks to the server.

Next up are some fishing and modeling shots – told you I took a lot of pics – my camera was very happy on this trip!

~Kathy

Ocracoke : Sisters on the Beach

2011-05-18T06:10:00.001-07:00

I was sitting in my chair, icy beverage in hand, toes nestled so nicely in the sand, reading my book.

I looked up and this scene was before me:

I love Ocracoke for it’s small island-ness, and that we frequently find ourselves alone on the beach.

Decided this would be a great backdrop for some sister shots:

(I have to apologize that lately blogger seems to be mutilating my pictures – thinking about switching to Wordpress soon …they look better on Facebook!)

edited : I imported a few of these images from another source as a test... mucho better!

Next up in the Ocracoke Installation series (!) is

“Out to Dinner & the Dock”

Have a great Wednesday!

~Kathy

Ocracoke : The Ferry

2011-05-17T09:05:00.001-07:00

Well, I’m finally getting around to our Ocracoke vacation pictures from Easter.

I took so many that I want to share, that I’ve decided to break it down into installments!

This first installment is from the 2 1/2 (turn 3+) hour ferry ride to the island.

Leaving the dock from Swan Quarter …

and since one of my new goals is to be IN pictures, here’s one of me + bed head and no makeup – we leave our house at 6am to catch this ferry…

The beauty of the ferry is the kids can run crazy while we relax, chat & read (:

Stepped out of the car and looked up and there he was. I told him to freeze while I snatched my camera and put my 24mm lens on ….

f/10.0 1/640th ISO160

(Use high f# to capture sun flare)

I was going for sun flare, but the sun wasn’t in quite the right place for my shot. Decided to go with the angles instead. This shot is in my ‘to be on the wall’ file!

Then of course my model had to join in – she could tell I was really into & excited about this shot. Man, that girl begs me to take her pictures sometimes!!!

As you can see, the wind was whipping like crazy. It was fun & made for some fun snaps…

ha ha this one cracks me up!

Next post will be “Sisters on the Beach”

Have a great day!

~Kathy

He Scores!

2011-05-16T18:48:00.001-07:00

He was ONE happy kid I tell ya!

Just have to share this series of images … was hoping for a more excited expression, but instead I got, well …

~Kathy

Yoga Garden of Apex

2011-05-16T09:38:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday I had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with a large group of aspiring yoga instructors. I enjoy yoga myself, although I don’t do it often enough.

I love the sense of self center and peace that comes with yoga practice.

That’s kind of how I felt after this shoot! 14 people – all wonderfully fun & cooperative, peaceful and strong. Loved it!

Here’s a few of my favorites from the day:

This shot was a lot of fun to try & capture!!

AH-mazing.

This was not a stop-action shot. She was balancing … AND smiling!

If you want to see more, head over to my photography blog HERE.

~Kathy

I Am Flattered!

2011-05-16T07:41:00.001-07:00

Last Friday my entry for the I Heart Faces Motherhood challenge was chosen as a favorite pick! You can see the post I entered HERE. You can see the other top winners HERE.

Thanks Amy & Angie!

~Kathy

Morning Eyes

2011-05-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

My youngest was feeling extra pretty this morning, and asked me to snap a few of her before school.

She says she can ‘feel’ when the catch-lights are in her eyes.

~Kathy

I Heart Faces Photo Challenge : Motherhood

2011-05-09T18:12:00.001-07:00

The perfect challenge for this week, right?

I know most of us prefer to be on the shooting side of the camera, but lately I have realized that I am not getting any younger (darn!), and my kids are growing up too quickly. What memories will they have? What pictures will they have to support those memories?

One of my ‘gifts’ for Mother’s Day was to have my kids jump into bed with me for a snuggle/tickle fest mini photo shoot. No props, no make-up, just bed heads and Pj’s.

Well, as life goes, my snuggle fest didn’t happen due to a certain tween-ager having an issue. However, I did get this picture:

This picture speaks so clearly of everyone in it.

I couldn’t love a picture any more than I do this one. This IS the real life (:

Celebrate motherhood and head over to I Heart Faces to see more beautiful images!

~Kathy

What a Weekend!

2011-05-09T07:19:00.001-07:00

Was quite an exciting one, to say the least!

Friday night was the Art of the Auction preview event. I can’t really think of the words to describe what it feels like to have your own image hanging in an art museum. WOW! It was quite overwhelming – in a very good way! Not to mention my nametag … full name and the word ‘artist’ printed underneath. Whoa!

I am so lucky to have had so many friends come out to support me and enjoy the event. A perfect evening!

I plan on heading out this week to take pictures – nope, didn’t bring my camera, nor phone. Husband snapped a few with our point and shoot, and a good friend captured some with his flip video:

Heading down the path to the museum …

Think I just saw my print! The star of the image attended too –she’s awesome!

The signage next to my print (:

Again, I’ll be sharing more images once I get back there with my camera. LOTS more – haha!!

Saturday I had my first ‘corporate’ shoot. A friend of mine opened a yoga studio about 2 years ago. She is amazing in every way possible. She conducts teacher training, and this class is getting ready to graduate! We planned 10 minutes for each person – one headshot, one beginner pose, one advanced pose and one teachers assist pose. Everyone was assigned a time slot and it flowed very smoothly.

Here’s one of my favorite shots from the day :

And yes, she IS balancing. This was not a stop-motion shot!! AMAZING.

Full gallery will be posted by Friday on my website if you want to check it out!

And lastly Mother’s Day. Had a lovely day not lifting a finger!

Every mother should get on the other end of the camera for Mother’s Day. Create and hold those memories for your children and generations to come.

I had planned a cuddle/tickle fest in bed with my kids. That’s what I wanted for my gift – a picture of me & my babies. No make-up – just bed heads and pj’s.

Of course life throws curveballs ALL the time. My oldest was having, well, tween-age issues.

“The tween-ager, the mid-lifer, the big heart & the crafty one”

Although this image isn’t the one I had planned on, it is p e r f e c t to me in every way. True life.

My in-laws came over for a lunch BBQ. The weather was perfect and we had a great afternoon just hanging out. Love that!

Hope your week is a great one …

~Kathy

Ocracoke : Portraits on the Porch

2011-05-06T06:14:00.000-07:00

We arrived Ocracoke after a very early 6am departure from home, & a ferry ride that was nothing short of a roller coaster ride! Windy, windy, windy day.

But we made it. We walked up the stairs to our rental cottage, and I immediately noticed the opportunity. The screened in porch had the most beautiful light. At 1pm. North facing porch. I was excited!

We unloaded and I grabbed my youngest model. I wanted to play with this light immediately! Soft and bright, and catch lights to die for.

f/2.5 1/125th ISO 250

and then another …

f/2.5 1/125th ISO250

not as sharp – she was moving – but mmmmm love me some dimples (:

f/2.2 1/125th ISO250

I am trying to shoot more ‘wide open’, but have realized that my focal points aren’t as sharp wider that 2.8. Although this one is pretty sharp! Time to get the lens & camera to the shop.

So after this I decided at some point during our long weekend I would take portraits of everyone. I am totally planning another picture wall. I say another … I don’t have one yet, but I have many plans in my head!

My son:

f/2.8 1/125th ISO640 (had to increase ISO to compensate for not as bright light)

He likes to have his picture taken, but I have a hard time getting a genuine smile out of him when the camera is in my face. So, I snapped this one from my hip (after saying something funny) – it ranks up there as an all time favorite!

f/2.8 1/125th ISO640

I buy sugar cereal for vacations – this time was Lucky Charms. Spoon-lickin’ good!

My oldest:

f/2.5 1/160th ISO250

She wasn’t really in the mood ( imagine!), so this is the only good porch shot I got of her. But, I have another that I shot while we were out to dinner at the harbor.

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mmmmmmmmmmmm love this one too! her ‘far away’ look …

(Have lots more from the pier to share … next post)

Unfortunately I didn’t think to take on of myself. Dang. That light may have been nice to me!

Got one of my husband …

f/2.5 1/125th ISO200

I took several of him – but this one definitely wins. It was an ‘in-between’ moment, and I am finding those are always my favorite!

So, here’s one of me with youngest … making a pit stop before loading the ferry.

My portrait for today

f/2.8 1/125th ISO400

Next post will be pier shots …. and then of course beach shots!!

(My camera and I were very happy on this trip)

~Kathy

Tonight’s the Night!

2011-05-06T06:12:00.001-07:00

I love Rod Stewart… but that’s not what this post is about (:

Tonight is the night of the Art of the Auction preview. Words cannot explain how excited and honored I am to be included in this event. Words cannot explain that I stay awake at night, envisioning all the wonderful people I will meet. Or maybe not? Maybe attendance won’t be what I’m thinking. Maybe it will be boring and I will feel lonely. But I doubt it … because no matter who comes or doesn’t come, I , Kathy Howard, will have one of my images hanging in the North Carolina Museum of Art. For two whole weeks. And that is something that I can be proud of, my children can be proud of, and hopefully my grandchildren too!

Life’s too short not to dream and be happy for your accomplishments, no matter how large or small.

Happy Friday!

~Kathy

where to start?

2011-05-03T10:37:00.001-07:00

Hello!

So many fun things have happened in the last two weeks … and I’m obviously behind on blogging about them – sorry! It’s not entirely my fault – we switched to ATT U-verse. Yes I have BLAZING fast internet. It is AWE-some when it is working. Unfortunately we are having ‘line problems’ so my access has been limited.

So, I will leave you with a short post today so that I can publish it while my internet is up!

f/2.8 1/125 ISO640

This one is from our Ocracoke trip. We had a wonderful screened in front porch facing North. Yes, fabulous light all day long!!! (everyone got their portrait on the porch … I’m dreaming of a wall display!)

My son is not hard to photograph, but it’s good work to get a genuine smile out of him. I forget what joke I told, but I shot this one ‘from the hip’. It’s a little ‘soft’ but I LOVE his smile (well, I am his mother!)

More soon – promise!

~Kathy

On Your Walls

2011-04-28T06:25:00.001-07:00

Good morning!

I’ve updated my ‘On Your Walls’ tab over at Kathy Howard Photography. Click HERE to check it out … let me know what you think!

And since no post is complete without a picture, here’s another favorite from Ocracoke. Our ferry ride over. This image was NOT posed … lucky, right?!

I promise it’s moving up the to do list to post them all (:

~Kathy

Rock and Roll !

2011-04-27T12:40:00.001-07:00

Hey! Working feverishly on all the updates I want to make to my KHP site before the art museum event – I now have some of my band photos posted in a gallery. Click HERE if you want to check it out. THANKS!!

~Kathy

Back to life, back to reality.

2011-04-25T04:06:00.001-07:00

Spring break is over. Man was it good! I have a lot to share from our beach trip to Ocracoke.

I think I will live vicariously through this picture today – I hope it carries me through!

~Kathy

ahhhhh the lake!

2011-04-19T15:14:00.001-07:00

We had a long, sunny, lazy lake day today with friends that we don't get to see enough... a perfect way to spend the day!

Lots more pictures to share, but I am fond of this one especially...

Hope you are enjoying your day!

~Kathy

the school play.

2011-04-18T05:39:00.001-07:00

There’s something so ‘all-american’ to me about a school play.

My girl the tree. She sat patiently with her head poked through that thing through the entire play, until her one line of fame at the end!

This snapshot cracks me up. I love seeing all the kids faces at that moment!

She felt proud to be the one to present the flowers to the music teacher. It’s the little things I tell you!

We leave Thursday for the beach – my camera and I cannot wait (: Meeting friends at the lake tomorrow to beat some 85 degree heat – I’ll try to post before I leave.

Happy Monday!

~Kathy

Spring break is here!

2011-04-17T15:35:00.001-07:00

And just in time! Talk about a late break – my kids are worn out, and so am I! Looking forward to NOT waking up at 5:45 tomorrow morning, so so so so much (:

For now we are hanging out at home, getting some things done -like putting away winter clothes(!) and planting some flowers.

Thursday we will head to our favorite spot in NC, Ocracoke Island. Ooooh just can’t wait to feel that sand between my toes – and hopefully the water isn’t too cold…

Here are my girls – so excited to have started break – they put on a show for me:

all of these images were taken with ISO 2500 and no flash. I can honestly say I still in love with my D300S as much as the first day I brought her home (: And the noise removal in Lightroom. It’s the bomb!!

My son and his best neighborhood friend. The hardly see each other during the school year, but like most kids pick up right where they left off … baseball in the street. Where’s the apple pie?!

I like the blog snaps okay, but think I still prefer posting image by image. You think?

Hope you enjoy your week – right now it is sunny and my window is open, the kids are playing hide and seek outside and we are getting ready to grill some burgers. YES!

~Kathy

I Heart Faces Photo Challenge : Wind

2011-04-17T07:02:00.001-07:00

This was one of the windiest beach trips we have ever taken. Luckily my children are old enough and tall enough to withstand the sand whipping across their legs!

f/5.0 1/640th ISO 100

We named this shot ‘walking on the moon’!

I really wanted to capture the aura of the blowing sand, so I played with camera settings until I was successful.

Click HERE to see more windy entries at I Heart Faces this week!

~Kathy

First Game of the Season

2011-04-13T08:34:00.001-07:00

Man, does my son L O V E some baseball! This is his first season with kid pitch. The progression in level of play really amazes me every year.

Of course I had to take a few snaps before we left the house ….

(f/2.8 1/160th ISO250)

ooooh I just love this little man (:

(f/2.8 1/160th ISO250)

Growing into a young man. Or maybe he is already but I’m just in denial.

He takes his play VERY seriously…

(f/5.6 1/125th ISO200)

…which can be hard to do when all you hear is crickets !

Hope you’re enjoying Spring, wherever you are~

~Kathy

The Delivery, or Not.

2011-04-11T12:33:00.001-07:00

Okay, so I had it all worked out. I would gather my children from school and all of their after school activities, and we would deliver the print to the art museum together. How cool for them and me, I thought. They will get to see behind the scenes at the art museum (one of their favorite places!) and possibly meet some other artists. In case you didn’t know, my youngest is an aspiring artist, with the pencil and the instrument (:

Anyway, it was 5 o’clock and we were all home. Whipped out the camera to take some pre-delivery shots. This one ended up being my favorite, and it’s the one where I’m testing my camera settings!

(for photogs – I always take at least one test shot to verify my histogram is where I need it to be. Click HERE for a tutorial provided by MCP Actions)

“Let me check my email one more time to verify exactly where I need to go ” I told my kids, as they loaded into the car. I pulled up the email, and it said, “… from 10a-5pm”. Oh swear word. I thought the drop –off time ended at 6pm. So we rushed over, and although the art museum isn’t far from my house, we had to endure some ridiculous Carolina Hurricanes pre-game traffic on the way.

I was a bit stressed because I am the on time person. I HATE to be late. Especially for glorious moments such as this!!

We arrived at 5:45 and there was nobody but the crickets hanging around.

Needless to say, this tipped my mood a bit. However, I was able to deliver my print the next day. Without the children. Without any photographic evidence. But that’s okay (:

~Kathy

North Carolina Museum of Art … Here I Come!!

2011-04-06T06:46:00.001-07:00

Yup, you read that right … this image will be hanging in the North Carolina Museum of Art (East buidling – the NEW one) from May6th-May21st!!!

I submitted this image to be considered for the Art of the Auction Event, and to my absolute joy it was chosen! All works will be auctioned via silent auction, but one will be chosen as ‘best in show’, winning $1000 and included in the LIVE auction. Not sure when that will be announced, but if I win best in show you will surely hear about it!

I have created a Facebook Event Page with more information … click HERE to visit. Oh, and I’d be flattered if you’d ‘like’ Kathy Howard Photography while you’re there (:

If you are in the area, I’d love to see you at the opening (free) event on May 6th. I will be updating this event page, and probably this blog too, with pictures from this whole experience. Today the kids & I will deliver the print to the back loading docks – exciting stuff!

Thanks for reading & following me on my journey!

~Kathy

Best Face Photo Challenge : March 2011

2011-04-04T09:43:00.001-07:00

This week it’s peoples choice at I HEART FACES!

Love my little sunshine. Oh so much.

Click HERE to vote … I am #332!

~Kathy