Did I Tell You About...

2010-11-09T10:10:00.001-06:00

I just moved to another home in blogland. Hopefully, I will be able to provide more information and offering more of my opinions things. LOL visit me at my new place.

http://www.ccpbybetty.com

Thanks!

I Shall Be Norton Free...Yes I Can!

2010-10-22T21:49:00.000-05:00

This blog, I apologize, is more of a rant than anything. Sometimes you just have to let things out and hope that someone out there will agree with you. So I ask, who out there agrees that Norton sucks!

Well, I know that what I do to my computer is not good. Yes, I am one that (Gasp!) does not reboot often. Chalk it up to being lazy or adventurous. Whichever way you want to look at it. When I do decide to reboot my computer, I expect it to do it without too much annoyance. I know that there are programs that slowly start up in the background. I'm okay with that. I know that I have programs that have to check every file for authenticity. I'm okay with that.

Ttoday upon my rebooting I discovered that the same Norton Anti-Virus/Malware/Tell Me What Dangers Lurk On My Computer program is back! Yes, I said it's BACK! I know I deleted it. I know I went into the registry to make sure there was nothing left behind. But low and behold, there it was, big black and yellow filling up my computer screen.

Where the heck did that come from? I have no idea other than the fact that someone must have installed another program that included the Norton program along with it. Norton has always been a program that slowed my computer down no matter what, including when it was brand new out of the package. I am not okay with that.

So, as a result, I don't like it. I don't want it. I don't need it. I have found suitable other options. Obviously, Norton does not want me to get rid of it. The numerous amount of steps that you have to go through to have it removed from your computer is ridiculous. During that process, it made sure to tell me several times that my computer would be unprotected. It said it as if it's the only program out there or the only program that I have on my computer. That really got under my skin.

Once I finally went through all of the steps and said "Agree" to all of the warnings, it FINALLY told me that it was removed. But wait! That's not all. It proceeds to open up a web browser window to encourage me to PURCHASE the program. Are you talking to me? Are you serious?

Uuugh! Like I mentioned before, I don't like Norton. I'm sure others would disagree with my rant, but this is MY rant. So off I go to gather everyone around the ottoman to have a talk about what to download on the family computer and what not to. Or better yet, just don't download anything without me checking it out first.

My Biz Blog

How I Built a Tunnel All the Way to Mexico

2010-10-09T14:13:00.000-05:00

Dreams can be really crazy sometimes. For instance, I actually dreamed that we had a tunnel coming up in our detached garage (we don't have a tunnel or detached garage in real life) that Mexican immigrants were coming in through. The FBI kept watching our house, but could not figure out how the Mexicans were coming through.

Why I would dream of something like that? I have no clue. I'm assuming that at one point during my OBRD (obsessive blog reading disorder) that I read something about immigrants coming to America? I don't know. But can you imagine the trip they would have from Mexico to Tennessee? Like I said, it was just in my dream (just in case the INS is watching me..."Hi!")

When I was a child it would seem that my dreams would become dark and scary if I slept on my back. It was really weird that no matter what, when I woke up from my nightmare, I was on my back so I automatically assumed that it was because of this position that I was having nightmares. Before I'd go to sleep, I'd make sure that my covers were tucked in really tight to keep me from turning over. Sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn't. On the good nights, I'd dream of climbing trees, catching fireflies and figuring out a way to torture my prissy sister. LOL

As I got older, the nightmare would always seem to be the same. I was losing all of my teeth. I would bite something and all of my teeth would be loose. Till this day, that dream haunts me. Is it because I don't floss like I should? Is it because I refuse to pay $15 for a toothbrush? Is it because I use Colgate even though 4 out of 5 dentist recommend Crest?

Well, now that I'm approaching 40, I now know that my nightmares are not the result of me sleeping on my back. Most of the time I'm so tired at night, I don't even remember what I dreamed about.

My Biz Blog

Just Blogging

2010-10-07T22:06:00.005-05:00

I'm sitting here typing this as a result of many hours spent reading several different blogs. I start out by viewing one blog and somehow I've let 4 hours or more get by me! Dinner hasn't been cooked. The kid's papers haven't been graded. The baby's diaper needs changing. How did I get so wrapped up in a blog about someone I don't even know?

For some reason, and I'm sure it's the same for other people, I enjoy reading about other people's lives. It's actually quite comical sometimes to see that there are people out there much more screwed up than I am. It kind of makes me feel like I'm just a smidgen closer to being normal. I get wrapped up in their family photos, vacation photos, etc.

I've been viewing one blog of a family blogging about their growing son, the Little Milk Monster. I've watched him since he was born. I have ABSOLUTELY no idea as to who this kid is! But each time I sit down I go to his blog to see what his mommy has written about him or to see what new milestone he's met. I'm kinda anxious to see which Kindergarten program they're going to choose for him! LOL

How did I find out about the Little Milk Monster blog? I have no idea! See, that's my problem. I start with one blog and click a link to another and another and another and another! I'm beginning to think I have OCBRD (obsessive compulsive blog reading disorder).

My most recent obsession, Single Dad Laughing. I found this particular blog as a recommendation from a Facebook friend. I read his post about The Disease Call Perfect. That particular blog made me think, cry, think and cry even more. You HAVE to read it. I could totally relate to that blog. I got my husband to read the blog as well. When he was done, we both looked at each other and seriously wanted to go sit in a corner and rock back and forth sucking our thumbs!

After we gained our composure from that particular reading, we decided to read his blog again. This time it was the article about breaking your children. OMG! Fortunately, I never had abusive parents. My parents were "Perfect," however, my husband had an abusive father. Reading that particular article just made him feel even better about how he interacts with his children. That blog made us feel really good as parents. We both love our children very much and make sure they know it and feel it all the time and have no issues with hugging and loving on them.

Anyway, yeah, I love reading blogs. I love looking at people's photos. I remember as a teen my dad mentioned to me that he could not understand how I can sit by myself in a room looking through a family album of someone that I didn't even know. Well, thanks to the wonderful world of blog, I can do that all day now!

CC
My Biz Blog

I Don't Wanna Share!

2010-09-30T00:43:00.002-05:00

Pear from Hardy, Arkansas

Did I ever tell you that I'm a mother of three. It's actually four if you count my husband. LOL I have finally come to the understanding that I'll be 40 (That's actually 20-20!) soon. I also came to realize that I have nothing of my own. Nothing that I don't have to share with at least 4 other people.

For instance, this computer, it's a community computer so everyone in the household uses it. We actually purchased a laptop, however, my DD took that over and after seeing the jelly donut stains, bread crumbs, soda drippings, etc on it, I really don't want to use it anymore. My cell phone, it was bought for my usage, however, my little boys have managed to have games downloaded on it so that they can play it when they're tired of playing their Playstation, Nintendo Wii or Nintendo DSi. This, by the way, seems to be quite often. Whatever happened to little boys just wanting to sword fight?

As a result of these things, I have restarted this blog so that I can have something that's mine. Yes I have other blogs, but they're about other people or my business. So this one is all about me. I will not share it. Okay maybe a little.

Hmmm...and I guess that since I'm a photographer, I really should insert a photo. Yes? Okay, well, I inserted one above. I will post photos that have nothing to do with my clients (This should be fun!). It's from my camping trip to Hardy, Arkansas.

CC
My Biz Blog

I'm Movin On Out!

2008-10-06T22:29:00.007-05:00

THE NEW BLOG

Yep, I'm moving to the East Side. It's called WordPress. After many and many of agonizing edits to my posts here at Blogger, I decided that it's time for me to move on to a place where I have more control over things and where I can edit and create more easily. This new blog has some pretty cool features and I like the way it looks on the page.

So if it's not too much of a pain in the booty, please update your links so that you can go to my new blog. I'll be here to check on things, but not often, so if you leave a comment, it may be forever before I can get back to you.

Thank you all for following me and my crazy thoughts!

-----> THE NEW BLOG <-----

Come on by. Visit for a while. Have a drink of sweet tea and leave me a comment or two.

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty Gray
CC Photography

Fall is in the Air

2008-09-30T14:00:00.007-05:00

Finally, the cool air is arriving. Today, it felt really good outside. I love the Fall season. Not only is it cooler, but it makes a great backdrop for outside portraits. During the Fall it seems as if the evergreen trees are greener. lolol Wearing sweaters and having the colorful leaves around you makes it seem like you're in an Old Navy commercial and I love those commercials! :-)

October is the start of the busy season for me. Most people are wanting to have their family portraits created to include them on their custom holiday cards. I'll be offering a special that includes 25 holiday cards with your session. For all of you that are already subscribed, be on the look out for a newsletter from CC Photography with this special offer. If you're not subscribed already and don't want to miss out on this discount offer be sure to SIGN UP to receive my newsletter and discount updates.

Have you had your portraits created today?

Betty Gray
CC Photography

Pipes in Bartlett, TN

2008-09-17T21:13:00.008-05:00

We visited a Bartlett, TN park and upon getting out of our vehicle we could hear this beautiful sound. Couldn't really tell where it was coming from, but it was very pretty and very calming yet made you want to jump up and do some sort of step dance. lol After making our way through the park we ran into this awesome gentleman. He was a band member of the Wolf River Pipes & Dreams. He was so kind to explain to my kids and me the makings of a bagpipe and how the proper flow of air produces great sounds. Something that I learned that was new was that the hum that you always hear with the bagpipes, that hum is created by the pipes. I know!!! Who would have thunk it? hahaha

It was very interesting to hear about the bagpipe and watch him play and tune it. There will be a Scottish festival here in Memphis this weekend. It's call the Clanjamfry (pronounced "clan-JAM-free") it's an annual festival celebrating Scottish heritage. The Wolf River Pipes & Dreams will be performing on Saturday. Lots of activities will be taking place here and it's all for a good cause.

Hmmm...makes me wonder...could I be Scottish? My mother's father's grandfather's name was McMickle and they later changed it to Mickle. Ya never know. LOL Anyway, maybe I'll see you there!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

CC Photography

Love in the Afternoon

2008-09-12T16:02:00.005-05:00

Saw this drawing in a driveway and had to photograph it. I thought it was interesting. It's so true. Well I guess it is true according to whom you ask. You ask me, a person that's been married for going on 17 years and is happy with my arrangement (That sounds so weird. I swear I'm still only 25! How could a 25 y/o be married for 17 years????) would definitely say that it's true. However, turn around and ask someone who is in a crummy relationship and is looking for a way out would probably say that it isn't true. What do you think?

By the way, have I told you lately that I'm so enjoying editing photos again? :-P

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

CC Photography

Imagination Library

2008-09-10T09:33:00.004-05:00

For those of you that live in the state of Tennessee and many other areas, Dolly Parton has a really cool website that encourages reading. It's called Imagination Library You can sign your child (0-5 y/o) up to receive free books about every 6 weeks, I believe. I have signed my youngest up for this program and he gets so excited to have a package come in the mail that's just for him.

This past week he received a booked called Red Red Red by Valeri Gorbachev. This book held my attention as it really did surprise me with the ending. It took my all not to fast forward to the end to see what in the world was Turtle trying to see that was "red red red?" lolol

The illustrations are great as well. The characters were not too too cartoony. I think that could be one reason my DS took it more seriously than his other 100+ books. lolol

Both my DS and 4 y/o niece enjoyed the book. Getting them involved in the book and what everyone around town thought Turtle was going to see that was "red red red" was enjoyable.

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty
CC Photography

Fun at a State Park

2008-09-06T12:18:00.003-05:00

We visited a state park up in Lebonon, TN. It was pretty cool. Kids had a blast. We also went to Franklin, TN to go to the Target there. It was an AWESOME Target! Love it. We hoped to see Miley Cyrus there since she's always being photographed there. Nope. Not this time. BUT...she was there the very next day! How cool is that??? hahahahaha

Anyway, here are few pics of the kids that I took while we were there. Ahhhhhh....It feels good to be editing again. I love it!

Have you had your portraits created today?
Betty
CC Photography

Getting Back to Normal

2008-07-11T12:11:00.009-05:00

I took a little time off from the whole photography biz so that I could be with my mother. She became very ill and I felt the need to dedicate my time and energies to her and my dad. She decided that she was much too tired to continue her battle with chronic rheumatoid arthritis and ended her battle on May 14, 2008 after being in so much pain for the past 20+ years. It still hurts even now knowing that she's not around anymore, but I'm okay. I know that I will see her again thanks to the wonderful promises that were given to us in the bible that I very much believe in. She's simply napping and will be awaken soon.

The photo above is one that I know that she would not have minded showing to the world. I know my brother will be really ticked that he's not on here. He'll get over it. lolol Don't you just love the rounded corners of the photo? Thanks to Katie Higginbotham for creating that photoshop action and sharing it with me.

So now, I'm trying to get back on the boat. I'm ready to get back into doing what I loved doing and what my mom was so proud of me for doing. I've made a couple of little changes. Do you like? I think it's kinda funky. Most of you know I'm not normal. lololol I got it from here.

I am once again taking on new clients. I still appreciate your referrals and will continue to accept them as they come. Be on the lookout for a brand new promotion never before given by me. It will be fun. Hopefully, you'll be able to see lots of new faces here (hint hint).

Until then...
Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty
CC Photography

Thanks for the Referrals!

2008-03-01T20:56:00.001-06:00

Thank you to my wonderful clients that continue to refer new clients to me.

All new appointments for 2008 will need to be either existing clients or someone that was referred by my existing client. If you have a referral card given to you by one of my clients, please use the CONTACT page at CC-photography.com to request further information.

Smack Down

2008-01-26T15:06:00.000-06:00

Just thought I'd show you the results of an attempt at Pro Wrestling. The Dad was involved in this as well, but he went into hiding after it all happened.

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty Gray
CC Photography

Sometimes...

2008-01-17T11:41:00.000-06:00

Sometimes when it's rainy and cold outside, we have to have a more relaxed homeschool session. I don't mind. Sometimes I need it as well. Hanging out and doing our work in the living room makes the time go by so much faster.

Point & Shoot

2008-01-06T20:47:00.000-06:00

Went to the park the other day since it was such a nice day. Thought I'd try out my new Kodak P&S camera. It's a whopping 12mp camera that has video with sound recording, a internal memory of a whole 64MB!! But the really cool thing is that it has face detection on it. As soon as I figure out how to say CRAP in Mandarin Chinese, this camera will be the first thing that I apply it to! hahahaha

I knew when I went shopping for an inexpensive P&S camera, I wouldn't get the same results as my pro camera. I knew that 12mp on a P&S is not even the same as an 10mp pro camera. But good grief, coooome on! This is such a joke. Ha...ha...ha!

Oh well, I'm done with my rant.
Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty Gray
CC Photography

Only One More Week

2007-12-23T23:00:00.001-06:00

Only one more week and 2007 will be officially over. Can you believe it? This year has gone by so fast. I thought that I would have my tax stuff done by now. NOT! I think I pulled my expandable folder out and looked at it, put more receipts in there, and then put it back away. I hate having to do all of this. I'd much rather be creating portraits. :-)

Maybe 2008 I will officially have a CPA that can handle all of that. I do know that in 2008 my family and I will be taking on the task of learning the Mandarin Chinese language. So far we have lots of audios from our teacher and lots of print outs. So far, the only thing that I can say properly is: baŏ baŏ which means baby.

So here's a photo of my middle baŏ baŏ and my youngest baŏ baŏ. :-)

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty Gray
CC Photography

My Year Is Over

2007-12-11T20:48:00.001-06:00

Well, as of today, I have photographed my last client, I have edited my last portrait and I've uploaded my last gallery for the year 2007. Whew! What a year! Now it's time to do that dreadful tax thing. No, I haven't been keeping up with my records like I should. I do have everything in one neat little spot. It's just a matter of organizing it all. Blech! :-P

My number of week day and evening sessions will increase for the year of 2008. However, my number of weekend sessions will decrease. I'll be making a few changes to my pricing menu. Mostly the way that it will be structured. And of course, service is going to be even better than what it was in 2007! Woo hooo!

I want to thank my clients for a wonderful 2007. Be on the lookout for something coming to you in the mail. Thanks everyone for a wonderful 2007!

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty Gray
CC Photography

The Pressure is On!

2007-12-09T12:12:00.000-06:00

I had a great time photographing this huuuuuuge family the other day. They all behaved so well and I wanted to let them know that I am so proud of them. hee hee hee.

This is one of the couples that were in the family. His Aunt S was really putting the pressure on him to make their relationship "official," with a ring. :-) The whole idea made him quite nervous. I figured I'd write about it and give him even more pressure. brohahaha. Mr. B, she's much too pretty to let go. :-P

Here are the three siblings from the family. These three were responsible for generating 15 of the 20 people that were photographed. :-) Don't cha just love big families? I'm so jealous. :-)

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty Gray
CC Photography

Laughing Out Loud!

2007-11-28T13:41:00.000-06:00

I'm LOLing big time as I read my previous post. The part about being all caught up by Monday. HA! I'm even more behind now than what I was earlier. Sigh...

Little Miss S is looking the same way that I'm feeling. lol She really wasn't wanting to have her portrait created that Thanksgiving Eve. She simply wanted to enjoy her cousins and aunts and uncles that were visiting and to prove that she could do whatever she wanted since she's practically 1 year old now. :-)

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty Gray
CC Photography

Month a What!

2007-11-23T14:12:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to show you what my month has been like. At least what it's felt like. I'm still trying to catch up on all of my sessions. Hopefully, I'll be all caught up by Monday and it should be smooth sailing from there.

I'm also in the process of deciding what my schedule for December will be. I will be posting that later so if you are wanting to get a session in at the last minute, I'll post my available dates on my website.

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty Gray
CC Photography

Strike a Pose!

2007-11-22T22:45:00.000-06:00

These girls are from a recent family session that took place in Germantown in the morning sun. This created such a nice glow on the girls so I used no flash. 100% natural environmental setting.

As you can see, they were definitely ready. I had no problem getting them to pose. Just a little sneak peek of some of the girls. Well, the four that would cooperate with me. We won't discuss the other three. The moms know who I'm talking about! hahahahaha

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty Gray
CC Photography

Whew!

2007-11-15T22:16:00.000-06:00

Well, one week down. One week to go. I have finally finished editing the photographs from my wonderfully patient clients from last week and now I need to start on this weeks. But first, I think I'll have a donut and some coffee. :-) lol

Sorry I have nothing to show from my recent sessions. My clients wish to not have their photos published on the web. I have to respect that. In the mean time, I do have one that I can show. I was practicing using my flash indoors. I have a flash and have probably only used it 10 times in the past 3 years. lol Anyway, I thought I'd give it a try and see how it comes out. I'm diggin it. What about you?

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty Gray
CC Photography

Where Has the Time Gone?

2007-11-13T12:01:00.000-06:00

Wow! Things are spinning fast over here. Where am I? Who am I? hee hee hee Too much to do. Too little time. Hang in there. I shall return!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty Gray
CC Photography

Can You Hear Me Now?

2007-11-06T20:12:00.001-06:00

Sigh...I'm so upset right now. I lost my phone service with AT&T/Cingular. Ever since AT&T took over we've had nothing but problems. We had service as long as you stood at our mailbox, but as soon as you came up the driveway, dead! No service in the house. Oh wait, we did have service in my bedroom closet and the laundry closet. If you held on to the metal door knob and hung out the back door at a 45 degree angle, you'd get service that way too! lololol

You'd think that with the amount of money we spend with them every month, they'd bend over backwards for us and want to keep us as customers. But, alas, no such thing. Hubby doesn't like Verizon (other problems) and the only other logical choice was Cellular South. They're an up and coming company that is trying their best to be able to play with the big boys.

I lost my number too. I've had that number for 5 years now? I know, I could have ported it over, but the way my significant other ended our relationship with AT&T...it would have been kind of ugly to port it over. lololol And I just didn't want to bother with it. lolol

So, why am I telling you all of this? Well, it's because CC Photography has a new telephone number. You can find it on my Contact page of my website.

Good news is that I got my November newsletter out. Did you get yours? If not, email me and let me know. I'll get your personal copy to you ASAP. But darnit if I didn't lose my number AFTER I sent the letter out! lololol Oh well. Maybe you all that want portraits made for the photography special will simply email me. :-)

Have you have your portrait created today?
Betty Gray
CC Photography

It's Aliiiiiiiive!

2007-11-03T21:43:00.000-05:00

Yaaaay meeee! I have tested, tested and tested again and I am proud to say that....

My new website it up! Woo hooo! Tell me what you think. It took a lot of sleepless nights and unfed kids to get this accomplished. :-) lol

Anyway, take a look. Don't forget to check out the News page. A really cool special on portrait photography is going on during November. This will be a great time to get in and have your maternity portraits made or have your family's portrait made for cards to pass out to family and friends during the up coming season.

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty Gray
CC Photography

Things Have Changed!

2007-11-01T17:46:00.000-05:00

It was killing me to get this blog changed over! I'm so loving the colors. Nice and fresh! But wait! That's not all. I have more changes to make, so stay tuned!

By the way, I'm feeling really good about my blog's look. I'm totally digging the header which is a scrapbook template made by a fellow blogger, Amy Bleser. So, if you can tell me how many changes I made and what they are, I'll give you that many 5x7s with your next regularly priced portrait session! Woo hoo! Yep, a freebie! Get to counting! See you soon. :-)

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty Gray
CC Photography

Blue's Clues! I'm So Excited!

2007-10-30T22:19:00.001-05:00

Okay, get out your Handy Dandy Notebook! Here's the second clue. Hee hee...Am I being mean or what? lol

This is just a snippet from what is soon to come. Can you guess what it is? Someone asked if I was pregnant. Well...hmmm...If I said yes...or no...that may give the clue away. So I won't say. lololol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty Gray
CC Photography

Something Good is Coming!

2007-10-28T13:47:00.000-05:00

Something good is coming to your favorite Memphis Photographer. :-P Oooo...this is going to be so good. The only thing I have to share is the above picture. Can you guess what it is?

Hee hee...I'm so excited. Stay tuned!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty Gray
CC Photography

Friends!

2007-10-14T07:33:00.000-05:00

Doesn't this photo remind you of Friends? Minus Chandler and Phoebe? Hahahaha. I totally love this shot. This was a great group of guys and gals to work with. We had a massive photo session out in Collierville, TN in their downtown area. The firemen were not busy and let us use their fire station as a backdrop.

I also had the chance to work with this young lady. Can you get any more photogenic than this? Great look, great personality. It was great working with you M. Hope to see you in the big lights! :0)

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty Gray
CC Photography

Still Scrappin...

2007-10-12T23:09:00.000-05:00

Just thought I'd share one of my latest pages. Nothing too fancy. Of course you all know by now that I'm pretty clean and simple when it comes to my work. KISS is my motto. Keep it simple, silly. lolololol

Anyway, I'm like way behind on my work now. Trying to catch up. Hopefully I'll have some portraits up from my recent sessions up soon. Until then, TTFN.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty Gray
CC Photography

Don’t Miss My Special “Family Portrait Month” Promotion!

2007-09-15T19:08:00.000-05:00

This October CC Photography will participate with an elite group of photographers around the country in a very special family portrait promotion. Throughout October I will celebrate “Family Portrait Month.” This is a wonderful opportunity for you update your family portrait (or portraits of your children), and at the same time help to support Operation Smile, which treats children around the world who suffer with cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities.

Along with other studio members of Professional Photographers of America (PPA), I have pledged to contribute your session fee ($70) to PPA Charities, which has chosen Operation Smile as its charitable partner.

What’s more, I want you to benefit from this special donation:

Each family/child session during Family Portrait Month will receive one free 10x13 print of their choice.

I believe so strongly in the work of Operation Smile. Each year this incredible organization of more than 5,000 volunteer doctors, nurses, dentists, and specialized health-care professionals, perform free reconstructive surgeries for children suffering with cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities. It costs only $240 to perform a life-changing cleft lip operation. More than 100,000 children are born with a facial deformity each year in Operation Smile’s 25 partner countries.

I hope you will join with me in helping to make this vital work possible. Don’t forget that the holiday season is right around the corner, so there’s no better time for a family portrait, which is always appreciated as gifts for family and friends and to send along with holiday greeting cards.

As always . . . I'm looking forward to creating memorable portraits of your family.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty Gray

Another to Share

2007-09-05T11:35:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I just got chewed out about only posting one pic of the wedding. Sue me because I'm selfish and don't wanna share. lolol So here's another that has become a fav of mine. Don't you just love the almost kiss? Sooo sexy! hahaha

And this one is one of my favs of her getting all primped up for her big day. Isn't she just a beaut? I feel sooo old because I actually remember changing her diaper and one time her brother was sleeping on the couch and she had a poopy diaper and her sister and I put her and her stinky diaper on top of her brother's face while he was sleeping. It was soo funny. Well, it was when we were 12! lolololol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty Gray

Wedding Bells

2007-09-03T16:51:00.001-05:00

Whew! I'm STILL beat from this wedding on Saturday! I had the greatest time at this wedding. The family, the friends were all a hoot to be around. I've got a deadline to meet and have sooooo many photos to go through. So this is just a quick "drive by." hahahaha Here is one that so far is my fav. Is that a sexy silhouette or what? hee hee Smooches to you Q&A. Hope you're having fun in ATL.

Have you had your portraits created today?

Betty

Scrap Happy!

2007-08-29T19:08:00.000-05:00

Okay, the scrappin bug has hit me once again. Except this time it's digital scrapping. So many items to download and choose from. I've gotten a few pages done these past couple of weeks and have them ready for print. I'm just tickled that I'm FINALLY able to do something with these pictures on my hard drive. :-P. Anywhoo...I just thought I'd share one that I finished recently. And yes, school is spelled wrong on purpose. That's the reason they're back in school! lololol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Family Session in Germantown

2007-08-13T16:33:00.000-05:00

I actually got the chance to work with America's Next Top Baby Model this past weekend. Is she too cute or what? It was so much fun working with baby S. Oh yeah, and her mom and dad too! :-P

So here's a sneak peak. The Diva, Baby S, gave me permission to photograph mom and dad by themselves too and that was a blast. Thanks Baby S. Smooches to you chunky boo!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Post Wedding Reception

2007-08-12T14:25:00.000-05:00

Wow! This was a great couple and family to work with. They eloped and got married in Maui a few months ago and are just now having their reception in Little Rock, AR. So romantic! Lots of pics to go through but here is a sneak peak. Thanks so much M & D and L for choosing me to capture this wonderful moment!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Sharing Another

2007-07-31T13:49:00.000-05:00

I just had to share another one of my little friend. I thought that this pic was the cutest of them all.

Have you had your portrated created today?

Betty

Another Cutie Has Earned His Stripe!

2007-07-29T20:42:00.000-05:00

Where else could you find chubby cheeks like these? Only in Memphis, of course! hahahha Well, this cutie has earned his 1 Year Old Stripe! He's such a good baby. It was a hoot working with. Once again, I had to pull out the Advil. lolol I must get into better shape than what I am. Good grief. No one year old kid should wear me out like that. hahahahha

Anyway, thanks mom for letting me follow your little man for the past year. It's been a blast!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

They're Making Me Do it!

2007-07-21T15:12:00.000-05:00

Wow...for the past three years I have refused to photograph weddings. Yeah, I've had a friend or two that wanted me to do theirs at an ultra cheap rate and I did it. There have been a few times that I was a second shooter and even a time I was the fourth shooter. I've even taken classes with great masters on shooting weddings...TWICE! But I still refuse to be the responsible one for a wedding. That's a scary thought! Me? The whole wedding? Not just the candids of the function? The whoooooooooooole wedding? The whole thought of it makes me shudder! lololol

So I have this one person that begged and begged because she feared that "Uncle Lenny" was going to take over the whole photography end of her wedding. Sad to say I declined her offer to pay me whatever price I wanted. No way...uh uhnnn! Ever since then it has bugged me (i.e. hubby has been nagging that I missed out on a great opportunity to make a great deal of $$$!!! hahahahaha) that I didn't take her up on her offer.

Once again, I have been offered a chance to photograph a wedding. I thought about it and was like "totally, yeah!" So I got my contract together. Worded it enough to be up front, but not scary. (BTW...the contract looks soooo good! hee hee hee. I'm such a geek. lololol) Presented it to the bride and badda bing badda boom! It's done! Wooo hooo!

I have decided to only have one package one base price. This one package will cover up to "x" amount of hours, a 10x10 20 page leather flush mount bride's album, a 5x5 20 page hard cover coffee table book for bragging, 50 folded 4x5 custom thank you cards, engagement session and an online gallery for 90 days. Anything else that the bride may want can be added à la carte. The base price is non-negotiable. It is what it is. So if the bride decides that she doesn't want the thank you cards, it will not be deducted from the base price. However, if the bride does not want the thank you cards, but instead would like to have 10 4x5 prints, that can be done.

So, what do you think? Have I completely lost my mind? Will I live to regret this decision? Let me know what you think!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Beautiful Babies Come From Memphis!

2007-07-16T22:41:00.000-05:00

Okay, I have a baby planner and I just absolutely undoubtedly love to photograph! Baby "S" is the cutest! She was such a happy baby. She gave me a workout! I actually had to break out the Advil for the ole knees and back when I was done. hahahaha She was such a joy and I can't say enough great things about her. If her mom wanted me to photograph her everyday, I would definitely do it. It was such a fun session. I get to follow her milestones for the next few months. Yaaaay me! Can't wait till our next session. Thank you mom for allowing me the chance to capture one of the Mid-South's most beautiful babies! ;-)

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

1 is Such a Magical Number!

2007-07-12T22:26:00.000-05:00

Wow! Who'd-a-thunk-it! This sweet little baby that would always smile and giggle for me when photographing her would turn out and be such an active chubby chunky that didn't want to have anything to do with me! lololol Ahhhhh...to be one year old again! lololol

This is the same baby that's my avatar in the upper right corner of my blog. She didn't care for me much today. Even after the gold fish crackers, the noise makers and my daughter helping me to make her laugh. The only time she felt comfortable was while she was with her brother or holding on to mom's hand.

But that's okay, I think I got some really cute ones. This is a sneak peek for Lady A's mom. More to come as soon as I get your gallery up and running! Enjoy!

And MAN! Don't you love that orange! I'm so thinking about changing my biz's colors! :-)

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Having a Senior Moment?

2007-07-07T08:17:00.000-05:00

Yep, those Class of 2007 Seniors are finally outta here! Now it’s time to show how the class of 2008 Seniors can rule! Check it out in the Special Offers section at CC Photography!

Can you believe it? You’re almost done with high school! This year it's all about YOU! Start thinking about your senior photos before you’re back to school. I am offering a great photo opportunity to the first three that book their senior session with me. Details are in the Special Offers Section.

Be the first three Seniors that I photograph for the class of 2008. No creation fee for up to a 1 hour session, a whopping 50% discount on all portraits ordered and a free 10 page mini album to carry around with you to show off. (Terms and conditions do apply.)

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Preschool's a Blast

2007-03-26T15:31:00.000-05:00

I had the wonderful chance to photograph some preschoolers the other day. It was so much fun. It reminded me of the days when I used to be a teacher's assistant. Working with these kids made me miss those days. Then I quickly remembered that I had a whole preschool/jr. high school waiting for me at home! That's enough! lol lol Anyway, this is one of the little cuties that I photographed. I kept it simple as usual. I love it when they give me eye contact. I know that the moms are going to love looking at these and looking into their child's eyes and feeling that their child is looking right at them. :-) Don't you just love that?

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Wub a Dub Dub

2007-03-18T09:11:00.000-05:00

A small group of us photographers here in Memphis had another get together and this time had a couple of the cutest babies as models. We used different lighting modifiers. We use a soft box that was larger than life! I'm a tall gal, and this baby was HUGE! It had to have been at least 7 ft (2.1336 meters for my metric users! lol) tall. I'm not quite sure that I'll be investing in this monster. It was really cool though, but I can already envision my kids using it as their tent and popping their heads out of the little hole at the top (the hole that you put your light through) playing whack the mole! So, nahhhhh...I think I'll stick with my little portable brolly boxes that are easy to pack away and out of site of the little ones.

:-) hahahaha

In the mean time, hope you like the images I captured. This one is one of the first ones that I took. I was also the last person to photograph this baby so she was starting to get grumpy as there were 6 of us taking turns. She was such a good and happy baby. I love this shot of her, I only wish I could have positioned my camera over a few more inches in order to include her entire left side. But that's okay, because the expression she has is a killer! hahahahaaha I can't wait to see what everyone else got from her.

The second was supposed to be a bathtub scene. Most of you that follow me will know that I'm not a proppy (I know that's not a word, but hey...it's my blog! lol) person. So I kind of took the photo so that you would not see all of the props that were in the scene. But that IS a bathtub that she's sitting in. :-P Which was quite adorable...but I thought that she was waaaaaaaay more adorable than the tub. She was a true Diva. She posed, she grinned, she smiled, she showed us how it should be done.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Rocky Grounds

2007-03-14T19:49:00.000-05:00

I had to take a small trip early morning the other morning. By the time I was done with taking care of business my kids were at whits end in the car, so I found this Mickey D's that was in the middle of nowhere along the I40 and I decided to stop. Right next to it was a little picnic area with boulders and an empty lot full of rocks. It was a really great photo op on these boulders.Wish there was a way for me to drag them home. lol There were just too many distractions in the background that not even a low aperture and higher position would help. lol :-) I did get a few shots. I let the kids eat their "healthy" meals from there and then play it off by jumping on the boulders and throwing the rocks around. They had a good time and I'm so glad I had my good ole trusty Canon with me to capture this moment.

I hate to admit it, but this is one time I think Mickey D's was actually good for our family. hahahaha Because the kids played so hard in Mickey D's empty lot, they slept the rest of the way home. Of course by the time we got home, I was tired, but they were ready to go! lollollol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

The High Key Experiment

2007-03-07T17:25:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, I thought that I would try a new lighting hi key thingy that a local photographer friend told me about. She heard about this at the Image USA down in Texas back in January. I've always been told to have my background lights at least 2 stops above my key lights. Well, my friend has told me that one of the exhibits they showed how to have your background lights the same f/stop as your key lights. Why not? Good question, huh? Well, I tried it. On one very unwilling little boy and one that was overly willing! lol lol

I think that they came out pretty good. I shot them in RAW at ISO 100, SS 200, & F.9. My only problem was that originally I had them sitting on posing stools but they kept swinging around and pulling the lever to make themselves rise up. So I made them stand up, but I forgot to lower the background lights, which made me have to tweak the levels quite a bit. You could see an obvious difference from the height of the lights and where my little subjects were. Also, I used AB 800s for the background lights with no light modifiers on them. Only the 7 inch silver reflector that comes with them.

Also, you can see the tint on the paper background. I have no idea where a redish/pinkish tint came from. My walls are no where near being red. They're yellow, but not red. Maybe it's time to get a new background? But all in all, I think they came out pretty good. I'll be trying this on another baby session on Monday. We'll see how it goes.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

My How Time Flies

2007-02-28T11:56:00.000-06:00

I've been away for a while, but I have been taking pictures on a regular basis. Business has been slooooooow for the past two months, but is starting to pick back up again. This little cutie came and visited me again. This is the same one that you see as the top right avatar. She was barely 3 months in that photo. She has grown and has grown so fat! So cute. Anyway, I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Getting Back Into the Groove

2007-02-12T10:14:00.000-06:00

Okay, I've been gone for waaaay too long. I have been taking photos though, just not like I wanted, but they got done! Anyway, here are the ones that I took while I was absent. Hope you enjoy. :-)

DD and her friend checking out books to help them learn to draw the characters in their soon to be released computer video game. lol

We hung out at Barnes & Nobles today. Kids had a blast. I passed out all of my business cards. lol Hmmmm...that last one looks a lot soft. Must have forgotten to sharpen for web. Sorry bout that.
Sorry, but I ran out of time for a photo for this day so I did the reverse lens thing and got this shot. Not as crisp as some of my others, but I think it came out pretty good. :-)
Got a new monitor from Dell. Yaaay. Not too fancy. This is my first LCD so I wanted to try it before I got the biiiiiiiiig one. If I like it, I'll probably give this one to the Family Computer and get myself a bigger and badder one. I love computer equipment! Rrrrrwwwr! lol

Another school day. The snow didn't last long so back on track with schooling!
It's that time of the month again. hee hee hee It's time for my sons to get their hair cut. For some reason, it was a much more pleasant experience. Maybe because they knew the camera was on them the whole time. Hey! Whatever works. It kept them from whining and crying and screaming that they're being killed by the clippers!

I've titled this on as "The Breakfast of Champions!" There are some mornings that it gets so hectic that this is all I'm able to get. I'm not complaining, because I love my coffee! lol lol

This the snow that we got. I think it only ended up being only an inch or so. I went out to take pics, but quickly realized that it was cold!!! I only got in a few shots before I came back inside. lol lol Hopefully, I'll get another chance and this time have myself winterized! lol lol

Got My Snow!

2007-02-01T23:51:00.000-06:00

We finally got our snow! Yaaay. Now I know this isn't as pretty as some of these other photos that have been posted by some of my other 365ers. But this is my attempt. I didn't get the chance to take this photo until 5:30 p.m. Look at how bright this photo is. It was dark outside, but I used ISO 3200 and ran my Neat Image. Looks pretty darn good!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Almost Done

2007-01-31T18:04:00.000-06:00

Okay, I'm almost done with transferring everything from my old cpu to my new. Technically, this isn't a new cpu. It's about a year old. My wonderful (and I stress wonderful...hahahaha) mother-in-law called me one day and said that her computer broke and so she ordered another. Of course me being the perfect daughter-in-law that I am, I consoled her and told her how sorry I was for her computer breaking like it did. "Oh ma...by the way...you think I can get the old one for parts?" hee hee hee I knew there was nothing wrong with it. I just needed to get her blessing on taking it. lol Well, I have finally gotten the chance to look at it, and just as I thought, there was nothing wrong with it. She did have a LOT of programs on there that I couldn't take off. So I just did a quickie format and reinstall and viola! I was totally shocked that she hadn't even taken the plastic off of the mouse. That shows you how new and unused it was. lol But I love her and thank her soooooo much for letting me have this one. My current one is about 5 years old or so. I ordered a flat panel from Dell so that should be here in a couple of days and I should be good for the next 5 years or so....Or at least until my MIL's new computer breaks! hahahaha

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Gearing Up!

2007-01-30T15:55:00.000-06:00

Well, I've gotten some new gear. Can you guess what it is? Hee hee hee. Stay Tuned!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

I can do more than surf the Internet, ya know?

2007-01-29T23:08:00.000-06:00

I do actually sit down and read a book or two. I do sometimes take out time away from the Internet. At this moment these are the two books that I am reading. I have others, but they were in the other room at the time of shooting. :-) lol

The Dale Carnegie is one that the PPA suggested that you read if you are a photographer and trying to run a successful business. The second is one that I picked up at one of the camera stores. I hadn't seen that one before and thought I'd give it a look. So far both have some outstanding advice in them.

Especially the Successful Self-Promotion for Photographers one. It stresses the import qualities of being successful like being true to yourself, knowing what you want and being willing to challenge yourself, to name a few. The last statement I found to be very true especially since we're on day 29 of our 365 challenge. I have found that 24 days (remember I started on 1/5??) of shooting has been very challenging. But I'm hanging in there. So I've got 24 down 336 to go! Woo hoo!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Sunday's Best

2007-01-28T23:52:00.000-06:00

We were all dressed up today to attend our Christian Meetings. My little men were looking mighty sharp today and they knew it. Both asked me to take their picture and they both did their own poses.

Even the little one looking out the door. That's how he wanted me to take his picture! lol I guess they have gotten used to this 365 challenge. lol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Multi-Tasking Away!

2007-01-27T23:10:00.000-06:00

Okay, I was getting frustrated with the fact that I had to put everything down to answer the telephone. So I saw this advertised somewhere. I have head phones, but they hurt my ears and it's really hard to hear in them. I was having to talk too loud in order for the caller to hear me. I was also getting tired of the crooks in my neck while taking credit card numbers, working in PS, etc.

So, this helps me to be able to multi task. I can now hold one of the boys, work in PS, drink my coffee, and talk on the telephone at the same time. This totally rocks! This thing is pretty darn good. I can hear the ppl's heart beat! lol lol Hmmm....I wonder if it has a lie detector feature to it? lol lol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Another Beautiful Day

2007-01-26T22:44:00.000-06:00

It was another beautiful and sunny day. I took the kiddos to a different park today. I let them have Lunchables while we were there. Let them run and play on the playground. We had a good time. I ended up getting a few phone calls while I was there and didn't take the photos that I had intended on taking. Got a couple of my DD. I'm not too happy with them. In spite of her brown skin, she looks washed out to me. I assume that it's because I have been so used to working with high ISOs during this entire project that I've forgotten to turn that ISO down! I shot these at 400, but I could have easily shot them at 200 or less. It was so bright out there. And I'm not digging that brown that she has on either. Normally that brown would have popped against the grey and dreay backgrounds that I'm used to. Oh well. I'm just not used to having sunny days. lol lol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Deflating the Inflated

2007-01-25T20:44:00.000-06:00

One year ago today I purchased this. I was on this kick that I was going to be healthy. I was going to be around for my kids' kids. I was going to enjoy my late years in life (I'm twenty-sixteen and time is getting short!). It started out really well. I enjoyed the heck out of this thing. Then my DD discovered it. I had to share it with her. Then my boys discovered it. I had to threaten them not to take it outside and bounce it. Eventually, I lost interest in it. At first it was just sitting around and whenever it got in the way, we simply kicked it out of the way. Then I stuck it in my bedroom closet. Then I stuck it in the corner with my photography presentation boxes. Today I had to go in and get a few boxes for my client's photos and it was in the way yet again. So I decided that the best thing to do is deflate it and fold it up and put it back into the box that it came in. Can you believe I still have the box?! How sad.
As I go through with this photo a day challenge and read all of the other blogs I see my behind getting wider than my chair. lol lol I'm going to have to start another challenge for myself. Don't know what just yet, but I'm going to have to do something. Maybe I'll run around the block with my camera gear on my back. lol lol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Eatin Mor Chiken

2007-01-24T23:49:00.000-06:00

Today, hubby didn't feel like cooking and I sure didn't feel like it. So what did that mean? It meant we got to go to Chick-Fil-A. That's about the only fast food that we can eat without getting sick. lol Besides, the kiddos love their playground. This was my first time trying out the Southwest Salad. It was sooooooooooo good. Chased it with a cookies and cream shake. I know...what happened to healthy? Don't they say women need all the milk they can get? It was a milk shake...hellooooo? lol

We met a really nice lady and her 5 year old son while we were there. He was so cute and had the coolest hat on. It was made like a jester's hat with lots of colors. It was so cool. I think she told me her name was Kelly. She was three months pregnant. Of course once I found that out I couldn't resist giving her one of my cards. I just couldn't believe that I had maternity cards left in my wallet. lol So Kelly...the pressure is on...if you're reading this, you HAVE to call me for your session. You don't have too much longer since baby is due in July. It will be here before you know it. :-) lol

Anyway, so here is our healthy fast food dinner. No cows will be haunting me tonight! lol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Woo Hooo! We Left the House Today

2007-01-23T21:23:00.000-06:00

Yep! Finally, we were able to get outside and enjoy some fresh air without freezing our tushes off! lol DH surprised us today and came home early (whew...glad the man in Brown was already gone...I had plenty of time to hide my packages! lol lol lol). DH made us all get our coats on and get out. He knew I've been griping about the weather and how the kids can't go out and play without catching walking pneumonia! lol

Well, we did it and they had a blast! They rolled, they swung, they slid, they tumbled, they ran and now they sleep! Which was my whole motive anyway. hahahahaha So today turned out to be a good day. It was still quite chilly, but we survived. I just wish that darn sun would stay out for a while instead of hiding all of the time. Oh well...it will...soon.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Caution-Reverse Lens

2007-01-22T23:58:00.000-06:00

Okay, so today didn't turn out as pretty as I thought it would. It was cold and ugly outside. Not rainy, just ugly.

So I had to stay inside on my hands and knees taking reverse lens shots. It's addicting! If I weren't so afraid of dropping my lens while doing it and getting dirt on my sensor, I would so go outside and do this! lolAnyway, here is one that I liked. It's the inside of my desk lamp. No light bulb was harmed during this shot. Matter of fact, there is no light bulb in the lamp and hasn't been for quite some time. lol lol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

30 Lashes Less One

2007-01-21T23:38:00.000-06:00

Okay, I so deserve 29 lashes! Can you believe I did not pick up my camera not one time today? I feel so ashamed! I feel like a failure. Go ahead, give me my beating. I can take it. :-) I was so freakin busy today I was doing well to even get the post below up. I thought that I would just grab the camera and take a few pics and post them, but it didn't happen.

I promise, tomorrow shall be a new day. There is plenty around here for me to photograph. And if it's not raining, I might actually get an outside picture! Wooo hooo!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Working With Grown Ups!

2007-01-21T20:40:00.000-06:00

I know, I'm late posting, but please forgive me. :-) I was working really hard yesterday and by the time I got home, I went to bed and that was at 7:30 p.m.!!!! lol
I had no idea that I could use a slow shutter speed. I have never even tried. Probably because I'm so used to working with children. On Saturday, I got the chance to work with a couple of grown up girls. They were so much fun to work with. Lauren and Laurie. No, they're not twins, but they worked together like they were attached at birth. lol lol I have so many photos to go through that I'm afraid I'll never get finished. I'm posting a sneak peek for the girls so they know that I am actually working and not spending all of my time bloggin! lol lol

Thanks L & L. You gals Rocked!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Who's The Kid Here Anyway?

2007-01-19T23:27:00.000-06:00

DH, and our sons made a trip to Costco this evening. We went for one item and came back with...well, let's just say more than one. I planned on spending $18 but ended up spending $70 (there goes my money for WHCC to get the kid's photos printed!).

Anyway, they were wild as usual (including hubby). At times it was funny. At times I was totally embarrassed (you know, when the little one announces to the world "I pooted! Oooo, I stink! Mommy...smell my buns!") Then there were the times that I wanted to walk out and end it all because the little one was screaming because his shoes were untied!

At times you couldn't tell who the kid was and who the adult was. It was a fun family outing. I guess we could have spent $80 as a family and do something more civilized like go to the movies, buy popcorn, drinks and candy and sit there quietly for an hour and half watching a movie. Instead we decided to have a wild night and spend $70 at Costco, get free samples and run holes in those concrete floors! Ahhh...I love that place. :-)

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

I Want More!

2007-01-18T21:14:00.000-06:00

I cannot get enough of this candle. I purchased it a few weeks ago and absolutely love it! I never heard of this brand until I went to the Hallmark store to pick up a few cards. I bought it thinking it was going to pretty much be like the rest of the candles that I bought and now only use them when the lights go out. This one is special. I love the smell. Even DH loves the smell. How often does that happen???? This is the Biscotti. Mmmmmmm....it smells so good and it will even go through out the entire house. It's awesome!

Ahhhh...it's the simple things that make me happy. :-)

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Exit Here

2007-01-18T21:09:00.000-06:00

Well, my Internet service went down yesterday and I was unable to post my photos. It finally came back up today...so here I am.

I wanted to share what I see every time I come out of my kitchen. I always thought that this was a pretty neat view. It looks better in the summer with the green leaves almost touching the ground and my neighbor's yard across the street being the perfect green. Notice I said neighbor's yard and not my own. lol lol It's another Honey Do list item.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Macro Rocks

2007-01-16T15:35:00.000-06:00

A friend of mine from another challenge presented this challenge to me. At first it didn’t make sense. So I thought about it and finally got around to doing it. She told me to reverse my lens and take photos that way. It’s the poor man’s way of taking macro photographs. Hahahaha

It was pretty darn cool. Of course what was confusing me was how to set the aperture. Well…there is no aperture. You only set the shutter speed.

Here are a couple of items that I took macros of. The first are the berries from my holly bush out front and the second is red curry powder. Don’t tell hubby I was playing in his spices!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Honey Does!

2007-01-15T22:04:00.000-06:00

Okay, hubby said that he was “shocked and appalled” that I would post such things about him. Lol He watches waay too much television. Lol

It was another rainy day so hubby couldn’t go to work. Instead he listened to music and surfed the internet for recipes. Tonight he made a special dinner for no reason other than the fact that he likes doing this kind of stuff. You’ll have to read his blog to know what it is because I didn’t. But I can say that it was awesome! I took a few pics, but you’ll have to check his to see what it was. He wants them exclusively for his site. Lol

He did say that I could post the dessert that we had. They were steamed pears with dates, walnuts, honey and butter. Mmmmmmmmmm…everything was all natural and delicious! DD thought the little doohickies that the Asian pears were wrapped in would be cute to wear around her arm. They give her super powers. Lol

So, I feel really bad about the “honey do” list especially after this candle lit dinner. :-) So, I’m off to go and put on my tool belt and find all of the light switch covers. Lol

Thingamajig

2007-01-14T22:51:00.000-06:00

Went and visited with my m-i-l and f-i-l and had a great time. She has a room in her home dedicated to the grandchildren. So my kids always have fun when we go there. My middle son brought this doohickey out and tried to show me how to play it. Of course, he only being 4 knew EXACTLY how to play it. Got it in every time. Me on the other hand couldn't. Matter of fact I hit myself in the head a few times. I even thought that maybe if I used my left hand instead, I could get it. It didn't work. Probably because I'm right handed. lol lol I eventually gave up and put it down, but for some reason it kept calling my name. I hate defeat! lol lol I tried to do it a couple more times, but still couldn't get that little ball in the hole. I gave up and decided I'd be better at taking a photo of it. :-) MIL had these really bright track lights that's making the harsh shadows and what not. But I still think it came out pretty good.

Anyway, we're just now getting back and I have to get the kiddos to bed and check all of their pockets to see what toys they took from Grandma's house. lol lol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

It's a Rainy Day

2007-01-13T21:20:00.000-06:00

It’s a rainy day
It’s a rainy day
I want to go outside
But I can’t go out today
Why do we need the rain
Anyway

Those of you that grew up on Sesame Street back in the 70's will know that song. Today made me think of that song. I sat around singing it to my kids. Of course they have never heard it. Sesame Street has changed so much. It's still a great show, but looking at it now with my kiddos makes me remember the very first time that Maria came to the show. She was like a size -00 with hair down to her butt. lol I've always thought she was so pretty. When Mr. Hooper died, I didn't think I'd ever stop crying. I think I called in sick to work that day. lol lol

There used to be so many shows on PBS that I loved to watch. Anyone remember Ripples or was it Getting to Know Me? The show that was about an African-American family with preteens growing up. The original Degrassi Jr. High/High. That show was sooo good. And Dr. Who! I love that show. I wished they still showed it here. I think the kids here in the U.S. would laugh at that show right now. lol lol

Anyway, it's amazing what type of memories a few drops of rain will bring on.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Honey Doesn't

2007-01-12T23:11:00.000-06:00

Hubby has been painting the inside of our home for the past 6 months. We figured that we'd tackle an area at a time. We live in a classic late 60's split level home. So we figured we'd start at the top level with painting the hallway and trim. Finished. Paint the middle level hall way, living room and trim. Finished (well, almost, we still have to paint the doors, but I think I want new doors instead). For some reason, I can't get him to finish the bottom level which is where our bedroom and den are. It's gotten to the point that it's depressing down here now. I have resorted to calling it the dungeon. We have no carpet because we wanted to paint prior to putting carpet in. I have no furniture in the den because I wanted to get carpet and as I’ve already mentioned we can’t get carpet until we paint. See where I’m going with this? You can image how cold and dreary it is down here.

So I created this “honey do” list. Lol We talked about it. We went and got more supplies. We even started a new wall! I’m sure he’ll get it all finished…as soon as that Japanese anime marathon goes off. Sigh……….

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

I Saved a Ton of Money For My Insurance Co.

2007-01-11T12:56:00.000-06:00

Well, DD had another appointment scheduled for the dentist to have one of her teeth pulled out to allow the baby tooth to come in correctly. I guess she was afraid of the whole procedure so she ended up pulling it out herself. Lol So I saved some money for my dental insurance. I wonder if they will reward me for this. Possibly a free pink toothbrush? Yeah right!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

My Lips Are Sealed

2007-01-10T22:38:00.000-06:00

Well, once a month I actually get the chance to go out with no children, no husband, a tank of gas in the car and a wallet full of money ($20 to be exact. Lol). I get to go and hang out with some of the local photographers in Memphis and the surrounding areas. We normally meet up and eat at the family restaurant called Perkins.

Tonight we went for something different. All I can say is whoooooooooooa mama! This place was in Midtown Memphis and is famous for their Margaritas. Need I say more? Hee hee hiccup hee hee

Anyway, I did manage to get a couple of almost crisp photos. Of course I can’t show you who was there. It could actually incriminate them. Lol lol lol lol.

Sad that this photo is of a group of photographers. Where's the cameras?????? lol lol Believe it or not, this place was so dark. All of these were shot with my 50mm at 1.8 and 3200 ISO. I did a little of Neat Image on them, but didn't like the effect so I toned it down to like 10%, but they still didn't come out too bad.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Say Ahhhhhhh

2007-01-09T12:11:00.000-06:00

Nothing special today. I had to take our daughter to the dentist. The other two have their appointments next week. My nerves couldn't bear taking all three of them at the same time. lol The dentist office was pretty neat. They were totally paperless, which was something new for me. DD ended up having three cavities. There was one in a permanent tooth and the other two in a baby tooth. One has been there for a while, but the filling fell out. Dr. suggested that we chill out on the fruit juices and sweet drinks. I told him that he needs to visit my blog and view my fridge. He would see that there is none! lol lol Anyway, these are the freebies that they give you. DD was upset because they didn’t have pink. She couldn’t understand why they wouldn’t stock pink toothbrushes and pink baggies and pink floss. I’ve been trying to teach her to voice her opinion as long as it’s appropriate. Well, you bet she voiced her opinion on this one. Lol lol I just hope that when my boys have their visit next week, they don’t end up with a pink baggie, pink floss and a pink toothbrush! hahahaha

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Back 2 School

2007-01-08T23:58:00.000-06:00

Whew, I didn't think I'd make it for my post today. I have two minutes to spare (at least at the time of me writing this). So here we go. My kids (again) doing their homework this morning. Our two year old, four year old and eleven year old daughter. We're a homeschooling family and this is our set up on a good day. Other days we're layed across the floor working upside down. hahahaha

I was able to get so many great captures I couldn't choose which ones to post. These are my best attempt at creating a story board. I ran out of time for the top photo, but the bottom photo I created myself. Didn't even use a template. I'm not an extremely talented person when it comes to the story board stuff, but hey! I tried. lol I must say, this whole, Photo a Day has already been a great experience for me. So maybe it will help bring out that creative beast that's inside me. :-P

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

It's a Movie Day

2007-01-07T14:18:00.000-06:00

Today has been a really lazy day. It’s rainy, cloudy and just plain dreary. Today is one of those days where you go to Starbucks and buy $50 worth of coffee (two 16oz. lol lol), rent movies and lay around and watch them all day. Instead, hubby thought he’d go outside and blow the wet leaves away. The thought worked well on the driveway and sidewalk, but he ended up having to do manual labor for the yard. LolThe boys wanted to go out and join him, but dad said they had to stay inside since everyone just got over having a bad cold and they both still have that annoying lingering cough. I thought the fresh air would do them some good. I think that was dad’s excuse because he knew the boys would have the leaves all over the place and he’d never get finished. Lol
Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

The 5 Seconds Rule

2007-01-06T15:39:00.000-06:00

I’m a firm believer in the 5 seconds rule. If you drop your food on the floor, you have 5 seconds to pick it up and still be able to eat it. Otherwise, germs have taken over it and it will more than likely kill you. Hahahahaha

For some reason my boys think that having their food on the floor makes it taste better. Am I a bad mom because I sat there and watched them do this horrible deed? Lol lol The worst part is the fact that I watched them pick it up and put it back into the box. What’s so bad about that you may ask? Well, as soon as dad got home, what’s the first thing he grabs for a snack?!?

Big Brother, the instigator of the whole operation!

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

What’s for Breakfast?

2007-01-05T11:40:00.000-06:00

Hmmm…I guess it’s time to go grocery shopping. Otherwise my children are going to have to eat a Dollop of Daisy on some Sara Lee with Heineken, but it’s only because I have already claimed the grapefruit. Lol lol lol

Anyway, this is my first entry on my Project 365 (a.k.a. 360). Enjoy. :-P

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Project 365

2007-01-05T02:46:00.000-06:00

Do you know how hard it was for me to not post here for the past two weeks????? It was absolutely killing me. It is now 2:48a.m. on 01/05/2007 and I couldn't wait until morning to post something. hahaha Yep, I know, I've got it bad.

So what did I do while I was away? Absolutely nothing! I purchased a book to read, didn't read it. I promised my dd that we'd work on trying to learn to sew, didn't do it. I said I would scrub this house down from top floor to bottom, didn't do it. I said I was going to get caught up on my bookkeeping so that we could do our taxes on time this year, didn’t do it. I did, however, managed to wash 17 loads of laundry! lol lol lol And just so you don't think I was just sitting here vegitizing, I did sit with my kids and watched every movie they have. I still get choked up watching The Jungle Book with Jason Lee and Mighty Joe Young with Charlize Theron. Lol Then when hubby got home we’d sit and watch the entire 2^nd season of Grey’s Anatomy. That season was the bomb! Literally! Lol lol lol

So now that I’m back in the swing of things it’s time to get off of my fanny and do some things. I decided to join a ring of photographers in this 365 quest. We are to take at least one photo everyday for the entire year and post it. It should be really fun. I will be adding some links over there to the right that will take you to some of the other photographers that are participating in this. It will be interesting to see the progress each of us makes and to see who stays committed. I have promised myself that I’m going to stick with this. I promise. I promise. I promise. I’m hoping that if some of the other photographers see that I’m not posting, they’ll crack the bull whip. Lol lol

So, at this moment, I don’t have any photos that I have taken within these past 5 days of January. Today I will start out fresh. Now that I think about it, I guess I should call this Project 360 since I’ve already gotten behind 5 days. Hmmmmmm. Oh well, I’m on it. I will have a photo(s) posted by midnight tonight (and you know I’ll be awake) so that I don’t miss the deadline.

So, enjoy what I post. Let me know what you think. Hate it, love it, it’s crap, go get a real job, whatever you’d like to say. Just be kind enough to let me know. Hahahahaha Also, remember that these photos may be of common everyday stuff. Since my hubby can’t seem to get the hint that I want him to hire a house keeper, you may find photos of the sorts that are posted. Lol lol lol

Toodles.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

2006-12-21T16:42:00.000-06:00

Well, it’s official. As of Friday, December 22, 2006 CC Photography is closed until January 5, 2007. Woo Hoo! I’m going to take this time to hang out with my family and to get some much needed house cleaning done.

Recently my daughter has expressed a desire to learn how to sew, so I’ve gone out and got her a couple of simple patterns and I’m going to teach her how it’s all done. It should be fun. She’s already terrified after I showed her all of my wounds from my X-Treme Sewing. Hahahaha We’ll take it slow so that hopefully, she won’t end up with as many wounds as I have.

Anyway, be safe and enjoy the last few days of this year. I’ll see you in 2007!

Pink is for Girls!

2006-12-16T19:07:00.000-06:00

Ahhhh….I remember the days when everything in our daughter’s room had to be pink; pink walls, pink comforter, pink curtains, pink television, pink bookshelves and pink lamps. It really got nauseating after a while, but that’s what she wanted. Pink. Lol

One of my recent clients brought those memories back. But for some reason it seemed different this time. It was so pretty. It was almost refreshing. Maybe because I have two little boys now and my daughter has moved away from her pink stage (she’s into purple now!). The pink walls, the pink blankets, the pink comforter and the pink in the Moses basket; all of it was just beautiful. Oh yeah, the baby was just as cute as she could be. lol

You’ll be seeing a lot of this little princess. Her mother has signed her up for my Baby’s First Portraits program. So I get to photograph her most important moments and watch her grow, grow and grow for the next year.

She’s already having a good time hanging out with her daddy and watching football games. It’s really funny envisioning her sitting there, all 6lbs., and watching her games.

Wonder what her favorite team is right now? Wonder if Jackson State is in her top 5 pick? hahahaha

The Dragonfly

2006-11-29T14:37:00.000-06:00

I had a great time creating a portrait for this handsome three month old baby boy. He’s a cute one. He’s a tough one too! Out of all of the photos that I took of him, he only smiled once. However, once I put away all of the lights, the light stands, the tripod, the reflectors and the camera, he starts to laugh and coo and goo. That little booger! Hahahaha Do you think it was on purpose? I personally think so especially after I did research on the dragonfly.

The Wikipia Encyclopedia says: Dragonflies do not normally bite or sting humans (though they will bite in order to escape, for example, if grasped by the abdomen).

When I look at this particular photo I see my cute little friend putting his fists up trying to defend himself from my camera. hahahaha But that’s okay, his mommy signed up for my Baby’s First Portraits program so I will be seeing him again even if he doesn’t want me too. hahahhahaha Yep, he’s got a whole years’ worth of visits from me. Lol

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

It's Tool Time!

2006-11-20T18:42:00.000-06:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph this mother and son.

The only thing that I can say is…look out mom because your son is going to be the hottie of the year for Memphis City Schools. hahahaha :-)

Seriously though, he was such a gentleman and I can see why mom wanted to have their memories captured in photographs. Thank you mom for giving me that opportunity. It was so much fun working with the two of you.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

And I once thought it was too quiet!

2006-11-17T17:37:00.000-06:00

Well, I thought that it was way too quiet lately. Then I start to get phone calls from prospective clients wanting sessions before Thanksgiving. It's going to be a blast doing some of these as this will be the first time that some of them have had a family session with the entire family. Will post pics later.

In the mean time I had the opprotunity to photograph a soon-to-be mom and her hubby. They were such an awesome couple to work with. I feel so honored that they have chosen me to follow their baby's milestones for the next year. It's going to be a girl so expect to see lots and lots of portriats of a cute baby girl here.

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

A Photographer's Own

2006-11-10T13:46:00.000-06:00

I am so excited that I have finally gotten around to photographing my own children. It’s really sad that a photographer doesn’t have photos of her own children. I was pretty pleased considering the fact that I didn’t get around to doing it until late in the afternoon.

My two year old wasn’t as cooperative as I wanted him to be, but it’s because he hadn’t had his nap yet. But I was able to capture the usual expressions of my littlest man, the "You're being mean. You won't let me have my own way" look. hahahahahaha

My middle son reminds me so much of my brother. The goofy grin, the bushy eyebrows and the lover boy way of him wooing my affection are the spitting image of my little brother. He even has that wonderful outgoing personality just like my brother. My middle man is so much fun to watch and be around. :-)

My daughter wants very much to be Tyra Banks. I think she has potential, but I want to keep her a little girl. Being in that kind of industry makes you grow up too fast. So we’ll keep her grounded here at home.

So these are the photos that I think I will have sterling silver pieces created of. What do you think? Should I go back and try it again? I will more than likely try to get a photo with my littlest one smiling or at least looking happy. Maybe I'll do a retake and try not to make him upset. Just let him have his own way. Oh boy! What a concept! :-P

Have you had your portrait created today?

Betty

Memphis Photographers Rock!

2006-11-09T10:19:00.000-06:00

After a much too long hiatus, the Memphis Photographer’s group was finally able to get together again. We had such an awesome time. Being able to see our old buddies again all at one time. Being able to share portfolios, techniques, camera toys and just shooting the breeze was enough to make me more inspired with my photography. If you’re a photographer in the Memphis area come on over. The more the merrier!

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty

Photo Jewelry is Awesome!

2006-11-08T10:25:00.000-06:00

I recently had the opportunity to offer my client a very beautiful piece of sterling silver jewelry. She chose to order the chunky circle pendant and have her new baby’s portrait placed on this piece of jewelry. This was my first time offering my client a sterling silver piece. Upon its arrival to my studio, I was almost brought to tears. Yes, I know that it’s just a piece of jewelry, but this piece was so beautiful. I have since been really encouraging my clients to purchase the sterling silver instead of the clay tiles. It’s absolutely beautiful. This sterling silver piece of jewelry can be passed on to children, grandchildren and any great-grandchildren!

As soon as I can get a great portrait of my children I will be ordering sterling silver pieces with each of their photos on it so that I can pass it on to them when they have their first child (Okay that thought just gave me the chills! I’m not quite sure I can handle the thought of being a grandma! lol).

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty

My New Friend

2006-10-28T11:14:00.000-05:00

I like it when I get to make new friends. This little girl was such a good baby. She was a very happy baby which made it more fun photographing her. She cooed. She gooed. She laughed. She is a true diva in the making. When she was ready to be out of spotlight she let me know right away! :-)

She's only 4 months old, but it was pretty cool watching how she interacted with my 2 year old. Isn't it amazing how a baby can tell when someone else is a little one too and how they react to them totally different than they would with an adult? It's pretty cool.

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty

Il a Fini!

2006-10-22T20:33:00.000-05:00

Yep! It's offically finished! By the way, that is the only French term that I remember from high school. lol

Anyway, I'm finished with the upgade of my CC Photography website. It has been a long and hard journey with the update, but I have been able to finish it in full. So take a look at the website and let me know what you think. Also, take advantage of the discounts that I'm offering in the News section of CC Photography.

CC Photography

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty

Where Oh Where

2006-10-22T10:09:00.000-05:00

Oh where oh where has my website gone
Oh where oh where could it be
I've uploaded the files just as I should
Oh where oh where could it be?

Hee hee. Yes, you were supposed to sing that to the tune of "Oh Where Has My Little Dog Gone." (Didn't Sandra Dee sing that in one of her movies? Or was it Gidget?) Anyway, I'm having issues with my CC Photography website. I'm a stubborn gal and created the website on my own. I don't know if it's more stubbornness or the fact that I want complete control.

Anyway, I've uploaded all of my wonderfully created files :-) and for some reason or another none of them are appearing as I envisioned. The words are appearing, but the styles of the pages aren't appearing. I'm pretty sure that it all has to do with those lovely little links.

Hopefully, after I attend my Christian services and feed my hungry family, I'll be able to get back to it and fix it all. And then...dum...dum...dummmmmmm....the new site shall be revealed!

Have you had your portrait created today?
Betty Gray