Amy Jo

New Blog!!!

2010-12-09T21:55:00.000-08:00

It's time.
I will no longer post here.
Please go to the blog below!

https://amyjophotography.wordpress.com

Nat and Brett Bridal Shoot!

2010-12-06T14:30:00.000-08:00

Dear all the people in the world.

2010-11-26T20:47:00.000-08:00

I want to thank you.

Thank you.

We're on our way. Even if it lasts an hour.

2010-09-30T14:29:00.001-07:00

I think the above picture is more funny if I don't tell you what was going on. So.... yep.

I get emotional with these pictures. And I think it has something to do with it being my family. I love them so much. Here is just a sneak peak of all the pictures I loved from this wedding. I am going to post more.

If you all could only be as lucky as I am to be surrounded by these good, good, good people.

Car je ne t’en demanderai jamais autant

2010-09-24T10:37:00.000-07:00

*This photo is by my friend Jessica Peterson.
Apparently I listen to french music more lately then songs with lyrics I can understand.
How does make me cry?
How can I feel this music so much?

Please listen/watch this.

I am back from Timp Lodge.
We danced our rears off last night.
That is all.

If you say it, then say it out loud.

2010-09-22T23:10:00.000-07:00

Cliff notes version of my life the past month.

1. Walden: I teach at the greatest hippie school ever.
2. I really believe in the learning atmosphere it strives for and succeeds at creating.
3. My kids have no idea how much I love them.
4. This week Walden has been at BYU's Timp Lodge on a retreat.
5. The drive is absolutely enchanting right now with the leaves changing.
6. I can't wait to do it again in the morning, and then stay the night having girl talk with my high school kids.
7. I study (GRE).
8. I visit sociology professors.
9. I have read, a lot. (Anthem, The Mastery of Love, The Alchemist again, Scriptures like crazy, Gossamer, Sociology essentials)
10. I went to the state fair and held a lemer. Joy filled my soul.
11. I love where I live. Its just Mel and I.
12. I have my own room and bathroom.
13. I found a 400.00 ticket to Germany.
14. In the past week I had a kid guess I was 19 and another guess I was 30.
15. I had a class to remember last week with my photo students. Kids are so much smarter and insightful then we give them credit for.
16. Melodie makes me good food.
17. I hiked Timp- got three hours into it and threw up. Note to self: don't do a big hike at 2:00 am when you fasted all day. I don't care how pretty sunrise will be.
18. We had a great party for Ash at our house a couple of weeks ago. It was a blast.
19. Melodie and I bought a stamp collection at DI.
20. I spend a lot of time at Teri's, on her deck, talking about life, or dancing.

Business Casual. Please.

2010-09-07T15:19:00.000-07:00

Maren and Grant's 2 year Anniversary!

2010-08-10T10:53:00.000-07:00

This last Saturday Ed and I headed up to Eden to do an Anniversary shoot with Maren and Grant. It was kind of rainy, so we were really happy that the sky cleared as the day went on. It ended up being so beautiful outside and Eden really is a mini paradise in the greenest, most beautiful valley. After taking a few family shots of Maren's family we headed out. It was so much fun. Honestly it felt like the four of us were just hanging out and having a good time- because we were!

I shot Maren and Grants Wedding 2 years ago. Although we have kept in touch since (Maren and I are kindred spirits), it was fun to reminisce about their wedding day with them.

After we finished with this ridiculously beautiful couple, Maren and Grant decided to have a go on the other side of the camera.

They told me to tell them after wards who had the better pictures. Grant vs. Maren. Honestly I can't decide. They both did a superb job, despite having to deal with their ridiculous subject.

I am including some bloopers. These prove I don't belong in front of the camera.

My eye loves Ed.

I know my place.

Your like the color of leaves come Autum.

2010-08-09T12:08:00.001-07:00

Lately I have been having a hard time with something.
I am not always sure what my photo style is.
Who am I?
I only know when I feel a photo is what it should be. The photo has a personal legend if you will and I just help it get there. Some may disagree that it shouldn't be this way, but I think that moments and photos speak to me.

Here is the conclusion (if its a conclusion) I came to.

That is why my photographs change. Sometimes I take a picture and I know its a soft, light photo. And other times I know it needs to be a dark, emotional photograph. Sometimes crisp and clear, and sometimes blurry and grainy. I don't really decide. The photograph tells me. Photographs have a life of their own.

Am I crazy?

I feel slightly jealous of those photographers who have a specific coined style. Like these guys, or this wonderful friend of mine.

*song of the day

The church bells are ringing for you.

2010-08-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

This is Nick. This was the last time I saw him before he left to move back to New York.
Who builds wooden kayaks? Tara's dad.

I am not sure why Casey thought he needed to make these faces in all pictures.
We had a great time a Utah Lake.
"But Amy Jo... where did you sit? There are only three holes?"
I sat on top, in between Nick and Tara. The paddles me around and I waved like the queen my 10 yr old self thought I was.
I miss having Nick around. I wish goodbyes didn't exist.

These were taken on a fun-shot disposable camera. Coloring= good.

Bree and Ike Wedding to come!

2010-08-06T22:45:00.000-07:00

Here are some Diana (120 film) shots of Bree and Ike on their wedding day. Just a little peekeroo of more to come of these two beautiful people who make an even more beautiful couple.

Really good people.

2010-08-05T13:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Ed,

How did I land you.
I mean come on.
Look at yourself.
Your my absolute favorite person.

Dear Internet,

I need a place to live. All I ask for is a private room, with nice clean walls and floor. A place where dishes are done and I can do laundry. I would also like a window. And to live with Melodie. Is that too much to ask.

Yesterday my car broke down on the side of the road, in the middle of the freeway's crazy construction, wouldn't start, and it started raining on me as I stood away from the road by a fence. Yet, it was a great day. Let me tell you why.

Melodie woke me up, I brushed my teeth (that was all), and she drove me to get my car from Ed's parents house. I was driving it the shop in Provo I always go to. Long story short my engine started smoking, I pulled over and my car died. Like literally died. I stood about 15 ft away from my car next to a fence near the frontage road. I had no idea what to do, and then two cyclist rode by and stopped to help. One was part owner of Xango and the other the author of the book The Power of Words. Great men, really good people. They saved me, and I walked away with a free tow for my car, a ride home, a book and a potentially awesome photo job.

The tow guy was so nice and so fast. We had great conversations about dogs. All sorts of em'. I walked into Midas (in Orem) and I was greeted by Lenny. Lenny called me by name and I knew I was in safe hands. I love these guys. I have gone to them with all my car needs in the past two years. They are so honest. The most honest. If you want to know how I know this, ask me. I could write a whole post about it. Lenny told me if I didn't have a ride home that his wife would be bringing him lunch soon and could bring me. Or Vernon would be in soon and he could drive me home as well.

They take care of me at Midas.

One time I didn't go to Midas. That oil change damaged me and my car. I have 3 free oil changes at the other place, but I would rather pay and go to Midas to see Lenny and Vernon.

My life is good.

Sincerely,

Amy Jo

Bright blessed day.

2010-08-04T21:36:00.000-07:00

Some days I know more then others that someone has a plan for me. That all our plans were written by the same hand.

I knew it today.

Bree and Ike Bridals Part II

2010-08-02T23:17:00.000-07:00

Bree loves Ike.
Ike loves Bree.
If this looks somewhat familiar its because you saw their Bridals here.

But here are some pictures I took during their bridal session at the Salt Flats with my Diana F+. I just love my mistakes and Diana's flaws combined. Some how our imperfections make pictures I like almost every. single. time.

It's never been this close before

2010-08-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

Today is the day for getting a lot of things done. Over the weekend I usually create quite the list for Monday. We will see if I get it all done by the end of this week.

I have a month before I start teaching again. Less then a month. Thank goodness.
I am teaching ASL beginning and advanced classes, and Photography for my Junior High kids.
I asked my principle (amazing woman) what kind of photo class she wanted me to teach.

She said "Whatever I want".

What? You mean I get to write the curriculum for a photo class? My life is so cool. Too cool sometimes. I kind of want to do the whole thing with Diana's. Sometimes I picture myself teaching the way Julia Roberts does in Mona Lisa Smile.
Then I remember that my photo students will be 12-14.
I may tone it down a bit. But not too much.

Off to run some mundane errands.* And while I do I will listen to one of my favorite books on CD: The Alchemist.

Today I have been listening to this song. Alot.
*Sometimes its nice to do mundane things.

Just my type.

2010-07-29T13:22:00.000-07:00

Let me tell you why typewriters are no longer a dream but a reality in my life. Melodie. My roommate.

I have wanted a typewriter for a while now. Melodie told me her mom had one... after probably driving her crazy, she brought me home a typewriter.

It has been exactly what I needed. Yep you read right. Needed. I needed it. I love the sound, and how I can't erase, and how I have to remember how to spell words. It was one of those creative indulgences I had to give into. I don't really have a reason, other then my heart told me I wanted it. I usually listen to it. At least I try. It usually turns out pretty dang good when I do.

Then, bless her heart, Mel found me my own at DI. 20 buckeroos. I bought it, of course. But I am waiting for new tape. I will post of picture of it once it is more then just aforlookstypewriter.

In the callouses and lines

2010-07-28T12:55:00.000-07:00

Evidence of sentimental foolishness.

These are my Grandpa Nelson's wallets. the brown one I carry everyday. The second one sits in a jewelry box from his wife. Freda. My beloved grandma.

not sure who all these guys are. I know they are my cousins and the one all the way to the right is Uncle Jeff. The girl is for sure Chrissy, then Duane I think, and then Jeremy for sure (there are two of Jeremy, that's the one behind it).

How did I get to be the lucky one to win Grandpa's wallets? Well, almost exactly two years ago, my Grandma, Freda Nelson passed away. August 22nd to be exact. The morning of the funeral, the Relief Society room of the chapel was lined with tables, covered in Grandma's jewelry and some of Grandpas trinkets. We covered our selves in her jewelry, and the boys got to go through Grandpas trinkets. After everyone tearfully rummaged, and claimed a part of our grandparents, there were few things left. I asked around, and everyone was finished.
Everyone had a turn.
I couldn't believe that these treasures were left.
Things my Grandpa used on a daily basis.
How could I not?

I got the wallets. His wallets.

Although my Grandpa passed away when I was six years old, I surprisingly have a very vivid memories of him. As do a lot of us grand kids. I remember he watched Mash, in the den, and he was short a few finger tips (or fingers) that the water pump claimed.
I always believed him when he told me the booger monster ate them though.

He named me Amy George. It stuck. Every letter from Grandma, and even still with our family, I am Amy George. It means more to me then he probably could have guessed it would.

I have a memory of him always singing this song to me. I have been told I am probably wrong and maybe even made it up. I have a memory of us standing in the den, and him singing "Amy, what you want to do". Real or not, I am going to keep it.

Best of all, I remember how he smells. Grease and oil, and dirt from work. It was in his skin. And if I breathe in real deep to smell the gray wallet, I can smell it.

Kristin and Derek Engagements

2010-07-27T12:39:00.001-07:00

I just got their invitation in the mail! Remember how I always secretly hope Kristin and I will be best friends one day? This is one of the many reasons why. Look at how cute their invitation was. They ordered a bunch of different handkerchiefs, and stamped their information on them. Its so cute and creative. I love how they turned out.

Kristin and Derek Engagements: Preview

2010-07-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

Derek and Kristin are so much fun. I like to think that one day Kristin and I will be best friends because she is so great, and cute and creative. I have known them as a couple for a while now and so it was a ton of fun to do their pictures! They are getting married in the San Diego LDS Temple this August. More of their engagements to come.

Back of the boat was painted wrecking ball.

2010-07-26T16:18:00.000-07:00

Ed: What do you want to do today?
Me: Go to the Great Salt Lake.
Ed: Really?
Me: Yes. Please.
That is right. Those are bugs that bird is trying to eat.

Don't worry, Ed isn't trying to eat them. I just made him walk in them so they would scatter* and I could take a picture.

Bugs on our things.

Ed throwing mud at me. I promise that he wasn't as mad at me as he looks. I don't think.

Us.

Don't worry, we floated. But we used a fancy film camera (disposable, yep you heard that right). But they will come shortly. It was kind of a rough experience for me at first. I thought it would be cool to just lean back and fall into the water (trust fall style), but I didn't calculate how much saltmultipliedby100ofwhatsinanocean, would really sting my eyes. I stood up and I couldn't even wipe them because I had salt all over my hands. (obviously).
Ed rubbed my eyes for me.**

When we left we had salt everywhere. My hair had streaks of white.

In the spirit of this post: listen to this.

*Exhibit 1 that Ed loves me.
**Exhibit numero dose. He totally loves me.

Make music with the chatter in here.

2010-07-22T03:00:00.000-07:00

Dance. Road trip. Shutter. Here. Solitude. Quiet. Home. Sleep. Typewriter. Family.

"Almost all words do have color and nothing is more pleasant than to utter a pink word and see someone's eyes light up and know it is a pink word for him or her too." -Gladys Taber

I forget the miserable world.

2010-07-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

On the verge of being a sentimental fool.

Exhibit B:

Painting on the left: This is a painting that my Great Grandmother painted of the beaches is Savanna, Georgia. This is where her and my Grandpa Jim lived for most their life. My Grandma Olida had a gallery on Main St. in Savanna. I believe the house still belongs to my family. Its right on the beach with a big long dock that stretches out the ocean. I have never been.
I really want to go there.
African Elephant Art: Ed and I picked this out together when we were in Swaziland, Africa. I think it was done with Charcoal. I love how raw it is. Its so real and torn and imperfect. Which is exactly what makes it perfect.

I think I need to learn French. I can't get enough of this guy.

For Ed: Part II "You pulled me out of time"

2010-07-13T15:21:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like your significant other has someone else on their mind?
You can just tell. Its the look on their face. I know you know the look I am talking about.
This is when I know that Ed is thinking about Paul.

Here are the top 10 things Ed things about on a daily basis

1. Amy (doi), family, church (unarguable trump cards)
2. The Beatles
3. Paul McCartney
4. Music
5. Making music
6. Movies about Music
7. Movies about the Beatles
8. Making movies
9. Me again
10. On boarding

Tonight Ed is going to Paul McCartney.

Ed: "He plays for 3 hours straight"
Me: "Wow, its like church"
Ed: "yeah, the best kind of church"

Earlier today...

Me: "Ed's going to that tonight too!"
Uncle Gene: "I knew I liked him"

Have the time of your life tonight.
If you didn't already have to give up your right hand to go to this concert, I would be going with you.

Dumplings everday

2010-06-28T02:15:00.000-07:00

I still work at Rooster like once a week.
Why? Because I honestly enjoy it. And I love the food*.

We are playing softball tonight. Wish us luck. "Say Hello"** will dominate

*Refried dumplings, Thai basil rice, chicken curry, shrimp roman, need i say more
** It was originally 'Say hello to your mama for me, alright?" but BYU shortened it for us. Clever guys.

Heaving devotion but it's just no good

2010-06-25T13:38:00.000-07:00

Hi. My name is Amy Jo. I have often claimed to be a sentimental fool. I realized after looking up sentimentality, I am not that extreme. To define myself appropriately I have decided I am a romantic, nostalgic person on the verge of being a sentimental fool. I find meaning in the simplest things and feel good when I can be nostalgic about life. I also really like old things, because they must have a story, even if I don't know it or its not mine.

My room is filled with things from my travels, others' travels, family gifts, notes, things passed down, and old and new books. I mean come on, I love photographs, I am kind of ridiculous. At one point I will even explain how I am about the things I wear. I could write an entire blog* on it.

I am on the verge of being a sentimental fool. Maybe I am just in denial of being a full blown fool, but I am on my way right?

Exhibit A:
Wooden African heads: Bought in Africa from my great grandparents in WWII.
Top book: Stories of The Great Operas, this copy published in 1961.
Second book from the top: Daddy-Long Legs by Jean Webster. Great book, this copy published in 1912.
Third book from top: Island In The Stream by Ernest Hemingway. He is old, islands make me think of my dad, and it was published in 1970. Have yet to read it, but I really want to.
Forth book from the top: The Adventures of Robin Hood. its not even old, but I saw it at DI and since Ed and I saw the movie together I bought it.
The bouquet of lavender: Trent and Sheena's wedding. They mean a lot to me, and it was a funny memory too. Being
the only single girl at the wedding, I was forced to catch it. I mean that quite literally. I hate the
bouquet toss. Trent knew it. And they waited for me until I emerged from my hiding spot,
with hopes they moved on from the toss. Then they had me stand there, alone, as I caught the
bouquet

*Funny how when we thought we could write a lot about something we used to say, "I could write a book on it", now we say "I could have an entire blog about that".

Bre and Ike Bridals

2010-06-24T20:42:00.001-07:00

If you want me to, I will.

2010-06-10T14:50:00.000-07:00

I am reading this book again. Scanning its pictures and soaking up its inspiring content. It puts into words the feelings and experiences I have had with my Diana. I realize that it is not just me, but there is a whole community of people who have discovered what I have.

What is that, might you ask?

With Diana I am selective. Not about the composition or content of the photo.
I only take pictures when something inside tells me to. I have few options for lighting and focus, and then I click. Sometimes I forget to- that is the beauty of it- Diana will still bring me a romantic photo that came from that mistake.

"To hold, point, and shoot a Diana camera implies a conscious decision to relinquish control" (Lomography). This gives opportunity to focus on your creative powers, and forget about all the bells and whistles of our digital age. "Accidents are the key to success. One has to learn to let go and fail. We live too much in a fail-safe world" (Mark Sink).

I like the kind of photographer I am with her.

Sadly, she is away from me for the weekend.
So I will read this book while she is away.
Ed took her to Mexico.
I am so excited for him to experience the openness and fullness that a little plastic camera brings.

For Ed.

2010-06-07T16:07:00.000-07:00

Sometimes on days like toda-
y, I want to buy you things. H
ere are the things I think of b
uying you on a daily basis. A-
bike. 8mm film. A ticket or tw
o to go see Paul play in San Fr
ancisco. VIP passes of course.
That new guitar you want. You
know, the one with all the strin
gs. A piano. Maybe just every-
musical instrument ever made.
The garage in SLC to put it all
in. Then the funds to fix it up.
A puppy. A trip to Dead Man's
Bones- June 24. A trip to your
grandmas library where your B
ampa's books are. Abbey Roa
d. The road itself. A sail boat f
or us. I know you don't care I
can't. in fact you might even tell m
e not to. But I wish, I wish I could.

I played your song, I got the melody all wrong.

2010-06-03T09:43:00.000-07:00

Rachel does my hair. She is incredible. If your looking for a very talented/creative hair dresser she is your gal.

She said this after seeing my blog once. I wondered if it were true. Then after I developed this picture and felt what I felt while looking at it; I thought it must be.

"You know when you see people you can almost see their roots. Where they belong. Where they would flourish. On a lake, out doors, in the sky, behind a camera...etc. You are the desert. Your pictures whisper it. They glow like desert sand at dusk. Even in Bridals, the desert sun is your true love. Its beautiful." -Rachel Clark

Right now I am listening to this.

Just the smell of the summer can make me fall in love

2010-06-01T10:52:00.001-07:00

Utah has a way of making you wait on the edge of summer for a very looong time. I may not be able to feel it every day, but I can smell it. Its coming.

Memorial day was one of those days I could pretty much taste it. But today... its rainy, which I guess it good because it keeps me inside the office.

This mural may look familiar to some of you. One of my dreams is to be a marine biologists, dolphin trainer, or something to do with the ocean (I am realizing more and more this might be hereditary- just meet my dad and you will see what I mean). So I have been wanting to take pictures of it for a while, but had no idea how to do it with out it just being a picture of a mural. It never felt right. And then, I drove past it yesterday, and it had flags draped across it. It just screamed "take a picture of me!" so I did.

It felt like summer.

Cause after all we're all we've got

2010-05-31T12:22:00.000-07:00

These are pictures from the Mexico trip I took with Walden and Kaiizen.*
When talking to a group about going to Mexico, An Ed I know (kind of well) said something to the effect of "Every trip is different, we can't and we wont try to decide whats going to unfold in Mexico. What you can tell yourself is that something amazing is going to happen in your life and in those kids lives, from the June 9th-June 13th".

I think that is how I am going to live my life. I am going to expect greatest, amazingness- I am expecting to be wowed. I don't know how. I am not sure by what. But I am expecting it. Whenever or however many times it comes, I will know it.

From now until the bitter the end, I will expect greatness.

*sometimes my Diana surprises me and gives me beautiful mess ups. I am not sure why my little lens piece did this- but I am embracing it.

Bre and Ike Engaged

2010-05-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

And you thought you were in love. Well you haven't met Bree Nelson. Haha I am pretty sure she has the most contagious smile, laugh, presence, everything. Bree Nelson is my cousin. I have never met a person who hasn't fallen almost immediately for genuineness.

Ike is pretty great too. I mean, the first time I met him he was dressed as a fireman (Bree was a burning tree). And he snagged her and makes her so happy. So I love Ike. Welcome to the family.

Bree's sister Whitney Nelson married Matt Nelson. Nice move Whit- didn't have to even change her name (don't worry they checked the family tree). Did I mention that Ikes last name is Neilson? Nice work Bree- just throw a dot in there somewhere.

Couldn't be happier for you two.

The wings are wide, the wings are wide.

2010-05-27T12:54:00.000-07:00

Letting go.
Take and deep breath lay down those crutches.
“Most of our troubles are due to our passionate desire for and attachment to things that we misapprehend as enduring entities.” ~Dalai Lama

"We are all constantly evolving and growing. Define yourself in terms that can withstand change"*

"I plead with you not to dwell on days now gone nor to yearn vainly for yesterdays, however good those yesterdays may have been. The past is to be learned from but not lived in. We look back to claim the embers from glowing experiences but not the ashes."- Jeffery R. Holland**

What types of things do I identify myself with? I have noticed that sometimes I define myself with things, past regrets, past accomplishments, old habits, people or insecurities. We hold on to them, and they become our crutches. We lean on them so that we don't have to brave running and possible risk falling again. Its easier to define our selves as "non-committal" because someone hurt us or we "ruined" something, "weak" because of a past mistake ("I smoke because I am a smoker") or I run when things get scary because someone else hurt me. Instead of letting those be your excuses for being or doing something negative...

Let them go, and you will walk much better then you thought, and its even easier without the crutches.
The present can't possibly be what it could/should be when we are smothering it with fear.

This is my dad in Maui. You can't see it. But his left foot has a boot on it. My dad is a great example of not using crutches... maybe even when he should. But dads are strong like that.

*more about this subject can be found here.
**"The Best is Yet to Come" -Jeffery R. Holland

Emotional Beatdown and Uplift? No problem.

2010-05-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I procrastinate. Want to know the biggest reason I procrastinate? Ok, maybe the 2nd biggest reason. Money.

I finally got these pictures back from Africa. If you are looking for an emotional beat down/uplift, there are not many places you can find that. But Africa is one of them. Well Swaziland. South Africa was the beat down and Swaziland had both.

Emotional Beat Down

Excerpt from my journal from our tour of Soweto in South Africa.

"Our tour guide was an older white man. Josh said that the last year he had a black man giving the tour- he said they were very different experiences. I could see that. We went to some of the squatter villages- 60-80 people per bathroom. And in Provo we complain about sharing a bathroom with 4 other girls.

They were horrible and they made me sick. Our guide kept telling us not to feel bad for them. He kept saying they are fine and happy there. its crazy because the apartheid ended in the early 90's- less then 20 years ago. Our guide was there for it all- you can tell he still lacks understanding...

No one deserves that life. Every human has the right to land, a home, hygiene, space, choice, food and freedom. Choice and Freedom."

Journal Excerpt from Swaziland.

"As I looked around the school I remembered the things we have learned since we have been here. 50% of the children I was looking at were infected with HIV or AIDS. 50% of them will not live past the age of 15. Some of them can't afford school uniforms. Some are barefoot. A lot of them come to school on an empty stomach.

I cried as they told us their stories. We all did. Its hard for me to write some of their stories down. Recalling them out loud makes me sick. But they deserve to be remembered. At the very least. They deserve to have their stories told. My heart hurts so bad for them. Its hard not to feel selfish. Its hard not to resent the world for letting others live like this. Its hard not to resent myself for not taking advantage of the things I have at home. I wanted to help. How important is it for me to be self-reliant so that I one day could!"

Emotional Uplift

"Today we went to go have our PB and J picnic. Josh new of a spot we could go by a stream and sit on a hill and eat. We drove through this village waving and smiling at the most genuine people. We parked on top of this hill. Then, in the distance, coming from the direction of the stream we saw about 15 children running for us. They sprinted over the hills and the closer they got the faster we learned they were naked, and all boys.

They crowded together about 20 ft from us. We decided to offer them a PB and J. I walked one over- one snatched it out of my hands and ran back towards the group. Before we knew it we had 15 naked African boys lined up for PB and J. We decided the least we could do was sacrifice our lunch. What childhood is complete without experiencing a PB and J sandwich!"

Gone Gone To Mexico.

2010-05-16T23:46:00.000-07:00

Be back Sat.

I am going to empty my head and fill my stomach. with tacos.

My Mom is better then your Mom.

2010-05-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

I totally missed the blogging about Mom on Mothers day.

My mom used to wait up for me when I came home, not to yell at me, but to ask me how my night went.

When I am hungry and broke, my mom orders me pizza over the phone.

That is the kind of mom she is.

I win.

My mom and I have seen a lot together. And she is the reason I like things like unicorns and fairies, the reason I think I am funny and the reason the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the center of my life.

I love you Mom. Thank you.

I am leaving the pool and getting an ocean.

2010-05-13T22:52:00.000-07:00

Let me explain.

Yesterday was the last day of school for me and my students...*

What might I be doing with my time now? Well, I started another job a few weeks ago. I write reviews and articles for a marketing company. I read here to help improve my writing. Today I read about motivation, and how we are always trying to find motivation to do things, but what if motivation isn't enough?

Motivation isn't enough without a supporting belief.

"As Bruce Lee once said, water adapts to any container. In other words, your life shapes itself and adapts to the barriers you’ve set. It doesn’t matter if you pour 20,000 gallons or a glass of water into an empty swimming pool, the water is constrained by the dimensions of the pool."

You can have so much motivation, enough motivation to move an army, but if you have a belief that says "you just can't do it", or that "you will never be the best", then so be it. You just gave your self boundaries.

"You’re great at stuff. Really, you are. But you won’t be able to do any of it until you reset the boundaries of your beliefs so that they allow your motivation to flow where it need."

I want to leave my pool behind and give myself an ocean.

*(rough day for a sentimental fool like myself)

There may come a time.

2010-05-10T22:10:00.000-07:00

Just the right amount of light, in the right spot, can do magnificent things, in a complicated time.

"There may come a time, you just cant seem to find your way. For every door you walk on to, seems like they get slammed in your face. It feels like your always commin on home, pockets full of nothin and you got no cash. No matter where you turn you aint got no place to stand; reach out for something and they slap your hand. And when all your faith is gone, feels like you can't go on... That's when you need someone, someone that you can call"*

Thank you.

You know who you are.

*Ray Lamontagne

Ciao, Mona Lisa.

2010-05-08T15:29:00.000-07:00

Today I watched one of my favorite movies.

Mona Lisa Smile

Charlie: "My parents say my future is right on the horizon."
Connie: "Tell them the horizon is an imaginary line that recedes as you approach it."

*photo taken in New Zealand

Still aspiring to be a recreational professional, regreting the extra fudge.

2010-05-06T21:41:00.000-07:00

Moab update

12:00-1:00: IHOP. I don't remember the last time I went to IHOP but I am pretty sure they have upgraded their menu since. Cheesecake Pancakes.

1:00-the rest of the day (rule #1 on vacation, quick keeping track of time upon arrival): Listen to Steven Colbert book on tape. Arrive in Moab, go to Arches National Park. Eat at Jays Pasta and hate ourselves after. Find a hotel.

Sunset time: We hiked to Delicate Arch (you know, the one on the license plate). It was a good hike. We kept a good pace and hiked about 30 min in and 30 min out. Jerry keeps me on my toes. But the view at top (8:15- sunset), was incredible. You think something that big and wondrous would be visible from far. Not true. Only from the top of the trail (check video). Talk about life, how much we love what we are doing, and about how I will never been driving Jerry on a golf cart to the top of Delicate Arch (he will always be able to hike up there).

Night time-now: Hunt for ice cream. Find it at McDonalds. Get extra fudge and regret it. Shower. Blog. Jerry texts mom and Kaitlyn.

Gotta get to Moab, and get my cantene filled.

2010-05-06T09:48:00.000-07:00

Jerry (step dad) is in town for two days! To visit me!

Off to Moab.

No, Moab is not in the Middle East.

One time, before I lived in Utah, I was in NZ with a bunch of friends on a study abroad. I asked my directors husband where he got is wristband. He said Moab. I said "oh, this is my first time out of the country". They got quite the kick out of it, and I did too, as soon as I got it.

Little did I know that I don't have to leave the US to go to a place that sounds like it should be in the middle east. So, here I go, to the middle east! Moab!

Where ya gonna go with a heart that gone.

2010-05-04T18:14:00.000-07:00

13 days until Mexico with my students.
This trip will be the culmination of this school year.

I wish I knew then what I know now: I wish that I knew how much my teachers cared about me when I was in school.

Beach
Tacos
My students
Playing
Painting
Kids
SUN
Reading
Road Trip
SUN
Sleeping Outside
Beans. Rice. Tortillas.

Rough days.

2010-05-03T23:19:00.000-07:00

Some days are rough, bumpy, wrinkly, or if you will, a little more textured then others. I guess those days just need a little more, well, lotion.

My cure is this little boy that I met in Swaziland, Africa. Not just the little boy him self. But THAT SMILE. We really saw him everywhere we went- I think this was a blessing, a tender mercy. Africa can be hard (or wrinkly). But tell me this, how can you look at a smile like that and think that anything is wrong in the world. If a smile like this can exist almost constantly on the face of a little boy in Swaziland, then I my goodness I better start smiling.

Even in pictures this smile is contagious. Just imagine seeing it in person. I REALLY wanted him for my own. My own personal sunshine to follow me around.

We talk with our hands, and we listen with our eyes.

2010-05-03T14:46:00.000-07:00

This past fall I heard about an opening at a charter school as an ASL (American Sign Language) teacher. I was nervous, in need of a job, and I knew I enjoyed ASL. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Little did I know that not only through out the next year I would grow a deeper appreciation for the Deaf world and the language of ASL, but I would fall in love with a group of kids. I have had pretty much the same kids all year and have watched them as they progress in their signing.

I teach at Walden Charter School here in Provo. When I applied for the job, I really didn't know much about Walden. Walden is the only K-12 public Montessori School in Utah. The liberal arts secondary program combines the Montessori philosophy with service and expeditionary learning to create a unique program dedicated to preparing students for higher learning, civic participation and a fulfilling life.

I know that this style of teaching isn't for every kid, but I am glad it is the type of learning that my students need because I love them, and they have changed my life.

My first year of teaching (something I never planned on doing), has been such an experience.
I have realized some things, as I am sure I will continue to realize more.

The most important teaching times are not always in the subject being taught. Its on the "in between"; The conversations before and after class, the times we get off on tangents, the times I tell my students I care (even if I don't blatantly say it), the times I know my students care, and the times we watch youtube videos and connect through laughter. Its in those moments that we build trust.

Teachers need to be leaders.

Leaders are teachers.

I have come to accept that not many of them will continue learning ASL after high school (I hardly remember my two years of Spanish in high school), but for me, ASL has given me an excuse to be in their lives and them in mine.

Plus. They do rad things like Eco-friendly fashion shows.

*The three on the right are from Walden, two of them are in my ASL class.

Turning a corner.

2010-04-29T22:52:00.000-07:00

So for a long time now my blog has been pretty much just Wedding Photography. Since that isn't the focus of my life anymore, I am going to start turning this back to a "my life" blog. I may still post wedding stuff, but... I have not decided.

Lately I have been thinking a lot about this quote.

"By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest". -Confucius

Megan and Tim Engagements

2010-03-10T08:57:00.001-08:00

Such a Beautiful Day for such a wonderful couple. I know Megan personally and she is an incredible person. Very caring, and very sweet. I know Tim does some great impressions and I can only imagine how great he must be if he snagged Megan.

Amanda and Marc

2010-03-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

Its like a blizzard on your wedding day

2010-02-05T12:18:00.000-08:00

What if someone dared you to shoot a wedding in a blizzard, would you do it? Would you? Here is one of my Best Friends Little B, proving her loyalty to our friendship. I dared her.

I owe myself, and the blogworld an apology. I have become really bad at blogging. I still work, I still take lots of pictures, but blogging became...well... my last priority. I figured I would start again by posting some oldies but goodies to get all caught up on the documentations of my Photography life.

Such Troopers.

MORE Rachel and Rob:)

2009-08-28T12:24:00.000-07:00

Rob and Rach 120 film

2009-08-26T16:01:00.000-07:00

Drum Roll Please

2009-08-25T11:37:00.000-07:00

Birch House.

A lot of you have heard about Birch House.

Its been a long journey and its finally made it to the starting line. Yes. The starting line. Beginning in the Dog Days of Megan, and now passing through the Founding Four- Birch House is on its way to reaching its potential. Birch House is a collaboration of photographers focusing on non-profit photography, aiming to do something bigger then themselves. We have started a blog.

"There is a place where truths can be revealed in every instant, every moment, every blink of the eye that becomes a single simple photograph. There is a place where a small collection of beautiful things can shout out loud and be heard to the world. There is a place that art and honesty dwell together, to strengthen the world around them. This place is called Birch House"-Claire Bagley

Go there and share with us a better place called Birch House.

Click HERE

Rob and Rachel Denver Wedding

2009-08-25T10:50:00.000-07:00

I LOVE these guys.
Number 1: beautiful couple.
Number 2: So chill, so happy, great style (that was 3 things in 1?).
These are some pictures that I shot at their wedding in 35mm. Love em'.

Devin and Candace

2009-07-31T17:30:00.001-07:00

Crack of Dawn

2009-07-01T23:54:00.000-07:00

*This photo is from my first evening in Australia (Kakadu).

Say hello to the newest server at RoosterDNB in Provo. Check out blog reviews here and here. Its a little Asian restaurant that HONESTLY is so good that I ate there three days in row before I decided to start serving there. The owners are so great (Semy and Andy who owned Dew in Provo prior to opening Rooster). Everyone that works there is so cool and I love recommending food that I know is the best. Our chef is a tall man's man named Garreth who cracks me up and has been working as a chef since he was 16 years old. Everyone should eat there. Period.

in the muddy afternoon

2009-06-30T10:38:00.000-07:00

*Yellow Water, Litchfield National Park, Australia

This was taken while I was in The Outback of Australia. In the Billibong there were heeps of birds and quite a few crocs (no not the shoes). But when we drove by these trees my heart skipped a little. These tree's were lining the water, and with the still yellow water at their feet, it created a beautiful reflection. I have a little series of these- they make me feel good and calm.

My New Goal

2009-06-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

After 6 weeks of traveling, I took some pictures believe it or not. SO. I have decided to blog about my favorites from my trip. and from my life. and from my past. I live in photos- weddings or not- I live in photos.

Here is one of my favorites from Fiji. This was taken at the first place we stayed at in Kandavu. This place was paradise. At night it was gorgeous. See? Did you even know a place like this existed?

South Pacific Anyone?

2009-05-12T01:04:00.000-07:00

I am doing my internship for the next 6 weeks in NZ, Australia and Fiji. I will be doing all my blogging there until then! Photography etc. PLEASE check it out! I will be posting almost daily! I even did today!

www.COLT2009.blogspot.com

There is nothing that the road cannot heal

2009-05-01T09:34:00.000-07:00

Meet Megan. Minnesotan to the core. Megan and I went to high school together. She has come to where ever I have been since 2003 (AZ or UT) at least once a year. Our mutual love for photography has bond us together as friends that will last a life time. We yearn for photographs that depict the words our souls wish to speak. We have learned that a few things calm our melodramatic yearnings; long roads, trespassing, (our vice) Coca-Cola, Band of Annuals, Bobby D and but of course, cameras.

"The engine pures, a cloud of smoke, as we head on down that road, just watch me go".

Stephanie = Mckay = Stephanie = Mckay

2009-04-15T17:19:00.000-07:00

One thing I loved about working with these two- so comfortable. I always say that I work off of what my "subjects" give me. THESE TWO GAVE ME SO MUCH! We went shooting at memory grove by the capital in SLC. Stephanie is amazingly talented when it comes to Music. Like REALLY talented. Mckay is a Graphic Designer. Creative minds are fun. I had fun. They had fun. We all had fun.

They love America and each other.

s + j

2009-04-03T16:05:00.000-07:00

freinds floating, floating friends

2009-04-01T12:42:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I forget about things. . . and that's one reason why I like pictures, they remind us. This is me and one of my most cherished friends. Some of you may recognize this from My Butter for Burns picture. This, my dear friends, was such a good day. When I am shooting for myself, I have found that its best I either go alone, or with somebody I feel really at peace with. This way, I am open to letting myself see things I wouldn't normally see. This is when I really let my subconscious connect with my conscious. This is when I take my most meaningful photogrpahs. There are few friends I can do this with -no matter what is going on in my life. She is one of them.

Lindsey and Jared

2009-03-15T16:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my first time spending time with Lindsey and Jared. OH MY GOSH... talk about being in love. These two are so dang cute AND photogenic. They are so happy and it is definitely contagious. Brittany and I left the shoot giddy for them. I cannot wait to shoot their wedding day!

More Sarah and PJ

2009-03-03T16:36:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from a wedding I did in the fall. My friends Sarah and PJ Mannion. PJ is a VERY talented artist. You can see is work here. Earlier I posted some of their pictures from our trip up the canyon on their wedding day. I thought that I would post some more of a different portion of their day:)

Little Bee Note

2009-02-18T12:16:00.000-08:00

Little Bee Note is hand made, amazingly- wonderful, jewelry made by Katie Bandeburg who is also an awesome musician and my amazingly close friend. So I got to take some pictures of her jewelry for her upcoming blog. If you are interested leave a comment or email me and I will hook you up!

Shark Speed

2009-01-31T17:57:00.000-08:00

Today Brittany and I went up around Utah Lake to shoot the band SHARK SPEED.

Thayne. Hauns. Jared. Joe.

Super rad guys.

REALLY good band.

Beautiful day.

Check out their music here.

Maren and Grant

2009-01-22T11:38:00.000-08:00

Here are some wedding pics i have took a while ago but never posted any. I have a bunch I have not posted so I thought I would start adding them to the blog. This is Maren and Grant (as you can tell from my heading). Maren is a goooooood friend of mine. Kindred spirit. Some of you might remember Maren's amazing Bridal's that we did out at the salt flats. Search my blog in August 2008 if would like to see them.

Grant and Maren= Made for each other.

PJ and Sarah Mannion

2009-01-05T00:33:00.000-08:00

Megan and JD Wedding

2008-12-24T14:15:00.001-08:00

These pictures are from a wedding I did in August but I always forget to post pictures from the actual wedding day. Megan and JD are two of the kindest, genuine people I have ever met. They really are the best to work with. If anyone is looking for a very talented graphic designer or creative interior designer- let me know. I will hook you up. I love when I walk away from my job with new friends. My job is great.

Amy Gwen's Bridal Shots

2008-12-16T12:25:00.000-08:00

Amy Gwen is a friend of mine from, well, all of my classes. We are in the same major, and took ASL together. We also share the same first name, and an affinity for LOTR (for all of you amateurs, that means Lord of The Rings). Therefore, when Amy asked me to be her photographer I was very very happy. We got to do her bridals shots in the Arizona Desert. I must say, it was beautiful. All that came along

The Adam's Family (snap snap)

2008-12-09T05:28:00.000-08:00

This was obviously fun for me. Its my family. My wonderful sister, brother and niece and nephew. Tara, Kurt, Taytum and Kasyn. Oh my loves. I miss them. What a fun Thanksgiving I had taking pictures. Oh and just FYI for everyone. I hate finals. Thank you BYU for killing me.

The Kilpatrick Family= My Favorites

2008-12-02T12:11:00.000-08:00

Over Thanksgiving break I had the wonderful opportunity to shoot with the incredibly beautiful Kilpatrick family. We go way back, so it was fun to have some time with them. The twins are gorgeous and definitely gave me a run for my money:). AND I got to get my hair cut by the fabulous Lindsey- she is SO talented (so yes, I am saying my hair looks good).

Election Day Family Photos- Heather, Adam and Wiley

2008-11-04T17:37:00.000-08:00

First, what would a photo shoot on election day be with out an electiondayphotoshoot? Of course these guys were prepared with their patriotic attire, and I am so happy I had my American Flag helmet on hand (i usually just carry it around, just in case situations like these come up. We drove around and hit some way random locations. I loved shooting with them for many reasons, but one was that they were open to anything.

Wiley= the most cooperative, adorable, happy baby. Ever.

Also, we shot in the rain. The pictures turned out great. Adam and Heather were so awesome, maybe some of the most awesome subjects- up for anything, and totally creative.

Heres to Em.

2008-11-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog World. I am here to tell you a story. This story started long ago in about 1993. There was a girl who was 8 years old with long scraggly brown hair whom was often mistaken for another race. Her parents had just gone though some serious trials that Amy Jo felt she could relate to. She just broke up with the love of her third grade year (oh Quintin) and boy it really hurt. After such a tragic breakup, Amy Jo, held her head high, and said good-bye to the hitting and chasing on the playground that she once knew as love.

Then there was another girl. She had big beautiful green eyes with the longest of lashes, smooth blond hair, and lets just say she was never mistaken for another race. She had just recently been excelling on the viola at her, saved-by-the-bell-like-school, but was still aching from the tragic loss of her beloved little black dog named Tea. As hard as it was for her to move on, Emily tried her best.

Little did either of these little girls know, they were about to have one of the most memorable nights of their lives. Melinda Jennings and Donnetta Ostergren, decided that since they had two little girls the same age, they should go to dinner and bring them along. Amy sat anxciously at her house, holding Quido (her italian grey hound that I am sure Jenny Stiener would love to fill anyone in on the horrifying loss of Amy's poor, sweet Quido), waiting to go to dinner with two perfect strangers. There came a knock at the door, and before she knew it, she was in a mini van with Emily. They instanstly started realizing the freindship they had been missing out on for the last 8 years of their lives. Emily showed Amy how the chairs leaned all the way back in the minivan. This was something very new to Amy Jo considering the closest thing to a minivan her family ever owned was a VW bus that only had floor seating in the back. The rest of the evening was filled with Droopy Do, Marie Calanders and sneaking under tables to get a good peak at the wierd lady with big red hair and cat like, diamond coated eye glasses.

Now it is is 2008. A year where Emily and Amy Jo are still the bestest of freinds. Through the last 14-15 years they have been through much together. They together through the rise and fall of their band (lyrcs and vocals) called 2Hot2BKool, this is a time that they both experienced broken hearts and shattered dreams. They swam in the lakes of Minnesota, hiked the mountains of Arizona, braved the long highway to San Diego in a 1983 Mercedes Benz, and even saw the (believe it) trenches of misery and the peaks of beauty through it all. These two young woman, who have lead very diffrent lives, could not be more a like. Emily may never truly understand the impact that she has had on her friend Amy Jo. She may never realize the example she has been. In the worst of times, Emily never let Amy Jo think she had to go it alone, and in the best of times, she never let Amy Jo think she wasn't really really really funny.

Tortillas. butter. cinnamon. bugjuice. nestle. ice cream.

Here is to the Bestest Freind anyone could ask for.
To the person who can't help letting her goodness rub off on everyone around her.
To THE most well rounded person I know (its almost sickening)

To the one and ONLY Emily Lauren Davis.

Just ask her friends, family, her teachers, that lady at the gas station and that girl she just met in the bathroom.

They would all agree.

:HAPPY BIRTHDAY:

Right After the Temple- Brent and Tara

2008-10-28T23:02:00.000-07:00

I warned that there would be a lot of Brent and Tara. So... here are some that are right after they got married.

Tara's Getting All Ready!

2008-10-27T22:09:00.000-07:00

First, I need to explain the first picture. This is me, natalie and afton, in the back of the van- on the way to the temple- reading the last of a beloved guilty pleasure of mine. Did i ever think that I would ever read vampire novels? No. So yes. This is us, on the way to the wedding, finishing our vampire book. I also have to warn ahead of time that I may be posting quite a few of Tara's pictures. It is an unavoidable consequence that comes from shooting my best friends wedding. First, here are her getting ready pictures (another thing that is quite easy to do when you shoot your best friends wedding and are staying at her parents house in good old Elizabeth)! Honestly, one of my favorite things about my job is getting to be a part of so many wonderful peoples special day, and all the better when its such a cherished friend. I get to be all up in their buisness aaaallllllll daaaay loooong- oh how I am sure they love it:)

Shannon and Josh

2008-10-21T11:20:00.000-07:00

Shannon and I met in a class and have been freinds ever since. We had been trying to find the right time to do their engagements for a while now, and it finally fell into place! I am so glad it did when it did too. The wheather was so beautiful and it made for the start of a very fun session. Shannon and Josh are just the greatest. He was her missionary... enough said. Isn't that the cutest?

Sarahs Bridals

2008-10-06T22:11:00.000-07:00

Today I wondered why I don't normally write a little something about each photo shoot I have. I didn't have a good answer:). This morning, bright and early, Sarah and I went to do her Bridals at This Is The Place. It was so great! Everything came together perfectly. All the colors and the feel of the location fit Sarah's personality and her way rad dress. Something new I learned: morning light is beautiful. Something I already knew: Sarah is beautiful. Thanks Sarah!

Jenny and Tatum

2008-09-03T18:08:00.001-07:00

Scott and Tiffany

2008-08-24T16:54:00.001-07:00

Megan's Bridals

2008-08-20T12:42:00.000-07:00

Maren's Bridals

2008-08-17T20:55:00.001-07:00

Alex's Senior Shots

2008-08-01T10:25:00.003-07:00

Kaitlyns Senior Shots!

2008-07-30T09:22:00.001-07:00

Alec's Senior Shots!

2008-07-29T20:40:00.000-07:00

JD and Megan

2008-07-25T13:27:00.000-07:00

Jessica and Andrews Wedding Day

2008-07-25T11:09:00.000-07:00

Abby and Livvy

2008-06-26T14:47:00.001-07:00

Noelle and Drew Bridals

2008-06-22T13:38:00.001-07:00

Jenning's Reception

2008-06-12T12:41:00.001-07:00

Izzy and Serena

2008-06-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

Lance and Kim Wedding Day

2008-06-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

Lance and Kim Bridals

2008-06-05T15:25:00.000-07:00

Madi and Tyler's Big Day

2008-05-28T20:40:00.000-07:00

2008-05-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

Tara and Brent

2008-05-11T00:29:00.001-07:00

Maddy's Bridals

2008-05-07T16:47:00.001-07:00

Tara's Bridals

2008-05-05T10:36:00.001-07:00

Melissa and Colby

2008-04-30T00:30:00.000-07:00

Noelle and Drew

2008-04-24T11:53:00.000-07:00

These are a few pictures of the engagement session that I did with Drew and Noelle. I really liked these so I decided to post them.

Everyone should take 12 hour roadtrips alone. At least once.

2008-04-08T15:47:00.001-07:00

I really do think that everyone should go on a long road trip by themselves. At least once. I really, honestly, loved it. I love being alone with my thoughts, good music and my camera. Such a great great time.