3-Design Photography

Wisdom...teeth

2011-01-07T10:16:00.000-08:00

good thing wisdom is not located in the teeth

The dentist was at the top of the list of things to do today. Not for me but for my husband it was just two hour ago that he had his wisdom teeth removed . It is strange but being able to take care of him is making me love him all the more. All I can say is that is a lovely gift from God. Do I want him to be in pain no but I would say he is handling himself quite well. I believe I was less stoic in the face of pain when I got my wisdom teeth removed a couple of years ago. I did enjoy the removal procedure as strange as that sounds. My sister and an active imagination kept the mood light. I also got to see my lip start to slide off my face. I remember standing in the Wal-mart bathroom looking at my lip go in different directions. It was great. Yet after the pain killers wore off I found that the healing process was not as enjoyable. I believe that is in the case with most thing when you have good health care.

I going to make this post short becasue I like to keep most written thing short and becasue I must attend to my patient. Enjoy your week.

Good buy 2010 Hello 2011

2010-12-31T09:50:00.000-08:00

A year has come and gone so quickly. Life is moveing so fast and it has a way of changing who we are. There are a lot of things that can happen in the next year, heck a lot of things can happen in an hour. Hopefuly the lessons that have been learned this year will not be lost with time. I also hope that the relationships that have been formed will grow stronger in 2011.

I would like to urge everyone to make the most of 2011. Be grateful for what you have and give God the glory every chance you can. Have a blessed and safe new year from 3-design.

Hanging with my Papa

2010-12-10T20:39:00.000-08:00

I Got the chance to hang out with my dad this evening. I haven't done that in a while since they live in Austin and I am in San Antonio. We go the chance to walk around my neighborhood and talk a bit and then we headed to the park with my son and rode the train. I like to see my father with my son because I can see that he loves Abram so much. It makes me look forward to having grand-kids of my own. which is funny since my son is only 11 months. I guess I should just let my son grow up first.I was blessed to be able to have the chance to spend time with both of them. Until next time.

This weekend

2010-12-03T08:46:00.000-08:00

I get to go to Austin this weekend! I love Austin and It is probably becasue it is my home town but also becasue it is a beautiful town. I'm not going up there for a vacation though. I get to take family portraits! Yea, the Velascos have asked me to take their picture and I am happy to oblige. Mrs. Velasco is a teacher and Mr. Velasco is a football coach with my brother-in-law. I believe this will be a treat for all of us. We are going to be taking pictures at the park so that their daughter can have fun moving around. So if the Velascos don't mind I will share some pictures of the shoot with you.

I met Mrs. Velasco and her daughter at my sister's baby shower. We were able to relate since our babies are the same age. He daughter is very precious and probably looks different now. It is amazing what a couple of months do for a baby. Mrs. Velasco was also sweet and full of good mommy information. I like to get advice when I can and when it is good. Her's was good advice.

So I am going to do my best for the Velascos and enjoy the day out with a young family. Hopefully the days will be as beautiful as they have been lately. I keep walking outside and thinking "isn't it December?" I don't hate it but I keep thinking it is going to be cold. So on that note you guys have a great weekend and enjoy the changing trees and the warmish weather.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanks Giving everyone! It is my child's first Thanks Giving and Marc and my 4th anniversary. Right now I am at my mother-in-laws watching the Macy's Day parade. I think that the cheerleaders are just a little too bright (as in their attire) but I was never the cheer leading type but I do love to encourage others. My sister was a cheerleader so I have nothing against cheerleaders we always need those with sunny personalities.

It is great to have a holiday that reminds us to be thankful for. I want people to not get caught up in the turkey or the negativity that people put on this holiday. Think an all the things you can be thankful for and thank God that you have the time an opprotunity to be thankful. So I have a lot to be thankful for and since this is my blog I going to share my list. I'm thankful for my God who loved me so much that he laid down His life so that I can live an eternity with Him. I am thankful for my family and how they have always been their for me. I am thankful for the lessons I have learned and the lessons that God is allowing me to relearn. I am thankful for four years of eventful and life changing marriage. I am thankful for almost a full year with my child Abram and the fact that he is healthy. I am thankful for the years I have been alive and the troubles and blessings I have had.

That is the short list of what I am thankful for. I hope you all have a a blessed and A Happy Thanksgiving.

Newborn baby Pictures?

2010-10-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

Well I sounds like I will be seeing my nephew quite soon. My sister gave me a call yesterday telling me that she was going to the hospital because of high blood pressure. I was thinking this might be the time because the same thing happened to my mother when she was pregnant. So I told her to tell me what was happening by 8pm. She called and said she was going back home but not back to work. (I am not surprised) So this weekend I may be traveling up to Hutto to assist my sister who is not supposed to do anyting but chilling. She didn't sound to happy about it but I think it is a sweet deal. I also want to go up and pray for her and the baby. Hopefuly give her some peace during this time. She called me today telling me that she was borded and also filled me in on how stressful her days could be. So we will see, one thing my sister is predicting is that she won't make it to November. Oh well this baby is coming when God wants him to come and not on anyone else's schedule. Well I can't wait to see him and when I do I will fill you in on my side of the story. It will be interesting to see it from a spectators point of view.

Peace

finally my assignment

2010-10-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

Well I finally finished my assignment. Light! This picture has a story which I am happy about because I am able to tell you about it now. So my husband had a half day and my son was with his grandmother for the rest of the day so that means...grownup time! So I got my husband to take me to get some...ICE CREAM! So we went to the Huebner oaks and went to the Marble Slab and sat down on some benches. Then I looked down and right there was this cool little box of matches. I thought they were nice I don't smoke or anything but I do like fire. (my grand parents used to give me old lighters to play with. Yeah I know what you are thinking) No I am not going around lighting random fires around San Antonio but I do like to light them and blow them out and light candles. So I though it would be cool to take pictures of them. I tried some with my husband but I can't say that I love them. So I tried again and did some more shots of the candles and matches. I liked them and the one above is the one I like the best. (I was available that is why I am in the picture.) So that is my story not much to it but it is my story. So hopefully my pictures will continue to get better.

Peace

The Smiths

2010-10-18T12:48:00.000-07:00

Well I told you about the wedding I attended on the 10th. Well guess what they are done! The Smiths are some cool people and they have a great bunch of friends and family. They all came down from Arlington to have a nice and small wedding on Wedding island off of the river in Down town San Antonio. It was my kind of wedding because it was quick. I don't have anything aginst longer weddings but I love to attend those that get down to the business of getting married.

When you take a look at this beautiful couple you can see the love in their eyes. Heck being there with them with my husband made me want to be with my husband even more. I like love like that, the kind that makes you want to love people more. Their relationship has been tested by 7 years of commitment to each other and this next step didn't seem like a leap form my point of view. They both walked before the minister with joy in their eyes and smiles on there faces. The way they spoke about each other was beautiful and I pray that they continue to bless others by their display of love. You could tell they couldn't wait to be each other spouse. So keep spreading thier love Smiths! Good luck and God Bless.

I Love my Husband

2010-10-11T08:16:00.000-07:00

Man! I so love my husband and I would bet you my dog Ine that he loves me. He helped me last night on the wedding that happened at 10 pm at night. We walked up and down downtown San Antonio and he helped direct people and carried my bags. Had patience with me when I forgot the battery for his camera. Most of all he was there with me in the middle of the night on Sunday when he had to wake up and be at work at 8pm. I mean I am a blessed woman! I would say I hit the jackpot! I am going to do what I can to make sure I keep this man. So in case you can't tell or you were just wondering I really love my husband!

Keep the Peace

10-10-10 10

2010-10-08T08:01:00.000-07:00

Well I got a last minute wedding request for this Sunday 10/10/10 yep that is cool but wait there is more it is also at 10pm. Since my Sunday evening will be taken over I am going to be taking my day off on Tuesday.

I spoke to Ms. Chrystal Jackson yesterday (she is the one getting married) and she told me a little about her and her fiancé Jason Smith. I asked how they met and she said through her mom (great hook up mom!). Jason is good with kids, very good quality in guys and something I like about my hubby. He was working with Chrystal's mother at a daycare and her mom thought they would make a good couple and I guess she was right. The cutest part of their story is that he sent a dinner invite via her niece who also attended the daycare. So when Chrystal came to pick up her niece she was surprised by this letter. They have been together for 6 years and he proposed in January a day before my son's birth. (So cute so so cute) I pray that they enjoy their day and that their life is glorious. So of course I will share all the pretty pictures when I finish them. And now it’s time to say good bye to all may company. Hopefully you will see the words I write on Monday (God Willing)

Peace.

The Baeza

2010-10-05T19:02:00.000-07:00

I know I said I would be sharing my assignment on today but to be honest I haven’t started. I am sorry. I am feel like I am just trying my hardest to keep pace right now. I didn't know how much being sick could throw off so many things. Hopefully I will be sharing my work with you before the end of the week. I want to take some shots at night this week anyway.

So what I do have for today is what I spoke to you on Monday about, the Baeza family. I told you that I would share their pictures sometime this week. So guess what? It is time! This family was a lot of fun and I have known Veronica for awhile now. She was at my wedding and I was at hers. She was an intern at the hospital I had my son at so she got to be there after my little Abram was born. Also she and my sister are pregnant at the same time. I love growing alongside people I have known for awhile and I think her and her husband, Justin, will be great parents.

runing crazy

2010-10-04T13:51:00.000-07:00

I feel like am running crazy! Well what I said on Friday was a bit of a lie even though I didn't know I was lying at the time. I thought my body was successfully defeating the stomach bug my son passed on to me but come Saturday I was soundly hit in the stomach by this thing. It put me down for the count and all the things I was going to do on Saturday went by the wayside. I was good and pitiful even though I really don't want to be a pitiful sick and yet I secretly want people to take pity on me because I am sick. Well I was mostly done by Sunday and able to attend church and take pictures for some great friends, which was a lot of fun.

Justin and Veronica Baeza are looking forward to their first son! Woo Hoo! So putting sickness and sore chest aside I happily went and took pictures of my friend and her husband. She makes pregnant look good! They are also on the ball when it comes to the nursery and having everything ready for little Frankie when he gets here. Well I don't want to tell you everything about them so that I have something to blog about when I show you their pictures.
I want to say that I am sorry for this late post I am still moving a bit slow but I can feel my health coming back. So I will hit you on the flip side.

Peace

Assignment

2010-10-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

Sorry for missing Thursday my son and I were sick with a stomach bug. My body was able to mostly fight off the bug but my son smiled haply while his stomach did what it was designed to do in these situations. So Wednesday was the beginning and yesterday was the true fight. He is a lot better and although the smiles ended on Thursday he is smiling again today! My stomach is still fighting I think but I am a lot better than I was.

Since my son was sick I didn't want to go to Hutto and be around my pregnant sister. I didn't want her to have a stomach bug in her delicate situation. (Even thought nothing really feels that delicate) So unfortunately that means no football pictures this week.(tear) That also means I need to make up a day somewhere if it is possible. Hopeful they do well!

Now on to what I said I would tell you yesterday. I have decided to take picture were the main subject is light. I don't really know how this will look is my images but if I do it right then I will produce great pictures. I think I will post my best on every Wednesday the rest will be on my Flickr sight. Alright Lady and Gents that is all I have for today. I have a lot of disinfecting to do!

Peace

Beth and Ryan

2010-09-29T07:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got the chance to take pictures of Beth and Ryan. I had so much fun! I spoke about them before but I was able to get to know them better today. They are a really laid back couple (my kind of peps). One thing I really love about Ryan is that he was able to make Beth laugh when I couldn't. I think that is one of the best qualities in a man because sometimes us women can be too serous. They are both hard workers and Beth is a born entrepreneur.From the sound of it she gets it from her mother. So I hope that Beth and Ryan enjoy this season of their lives when things are fresh and new and I hope they keep it strong because from the sounds of it they will be blessing a lot of people through their marriage. So here are some picture for this lovely couple. Enjoy them because I enjoyed taking them.

I Going to do some art

2010-09-28T14:32:00.000-07:00

So I have this idea to challenge myself. I want to go on a year long assignement to create a new work of art each week. The only problem is I don't know what my focus should be. I have a deadline of thursday to make the announcement of what I should do. So If you have any ideas slide them my way.

Peace

Monday Night Football on Friday?

2010-09-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

Well as you know I was in Hutto/Austin/Manor on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. I was there because of Manor Football and Homecoming. The Manor Mustangs went up against the Elgin panthers. We Won! (When I say we I mean Manor because I am an alumni, class of 2001.) Yep, that right we took the panthers down. It was a great game and the score was 27 to 8 (I believe). We beat Elgin before but it is always great to beat them again and again.

I enjoyed myself and also felt quite short. I was thinking to myself, “I am 27 years old and the young men are towering over me!” Then I understood how my sister felt when she is working at the elementary. (Ha Ha yeah that is a joke and not a joke at the same time. I love you Gwen if you are reading this.) I also find myself freaked out on certain occasions because I am right there on the sideline. I can see these young men coming at me at full speed with full pads on (I don’t have pads and I am just 130 pounds. I think they can bench press 130lbs let alone sweep me in to oblivion). On a number of occasions I felt my heart jump into my throat. Still I have managed not to be killed, which is good.

So I will be going back at the end of the week to see the Manor Mustangs take on the Hutto Hippos. I smell victory but I don't want to jinx anything.

Peace

The Game

2010-09-24T10:23:00.000-07:00

Well last night was very interesting. These young men of the Manor and Elgin football teams were playing with a full heart and a very lively crowd behind them. My sister, my son and I all traveled from Hutto to Elgin to see what would happen when the Freshmen and JV teams of both manor and Elgin met. Well I must say the Manor freshmen team was able to soundly defeat their opponents with a score of 20 to 35 (I believe). It was great fun and great photographs. This team looks like they will have great potential in the future.

Unfortunately, I don’t know the final score of the JV team because I left at half time (remember my pregnant sister and baby son). So the Manor JV team had a rocky start as Elgin quickly scored two points and then make a touchdown. Still the young men of the Manor team were not going to be defeated that easily. After the coach rallied their men, in the traditional coach fashion, the team went out with a new focus and was able to not only stop the advances of the Elgin team but also score twice before half time. I will let you know how the game ended when I ask my brother-in-law. Until then

Peace

Homecoming

2010-09-23T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hello all! I am in the big town of Hutto today.(right outside of Austin TX) . I am up here because for the next two days I will be documenting a battle that has gone on for more than 100 years. This week Manor will battle their rivals, Elgin, for bragging rights for the next year. Last year Manor was able to match wits and to beat Elgin at home. Now it will be a rematch to see who will best who (or is it whom?). Today I will be traveling with my extremely pregnant sister and my son Abram to Elgin to photograph the junior varsity duke it out with their fierce appoints. Then tomorrow I will give you a peek as well as tell you who came out on top. I know you are all on the edge of you seats but contain your enthusiasm until tomorrow
Peace.

Tile

2010-09-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

Yep, remember what I said on Monday? I was wrong I am still working on tile and my body is ready to quit. My hands are beginning to break down and my knees hurt but the kitchen is almost done. It will be glorious! I love the way it looks. As first I thought the tile wouldn't look good with the wall (which we painted earlier and now needs cleaning) but they go quite well. I can't wait to be done though. The light in the kitchen is now different and the reflection form the window won't be the same but that will be fine. I hated the linoleum tile that was there before. So even though my plan flew quickly and quite loudly through the window I am very optimistic that by the time I return from Austin on Sat. that my kitchen will be reborn into a new beauty. After that will will be on to the Carpet!

My Values

2010-09-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

When I first started this company I don't have any clue as to what my values should be. I always lived by a certain standard or morals. Most of them come from God and my parents. So those morals or values were just inferred into my business. Then one day I was sitting in church and my pastor was speaking on values. I started to see how that could be applied to my business. I recognized the need to apply some kind of value to the way I run my business. So I prayed to God and He answered by giving me the below paragraph.

3-Design seeks to be an abnormal business in the sense that we will be more givers than takers. We are more concerned about the people we serve than the money we can get from them. Our jobs are to be refreshing, diligent, honest, possess integrity and work hard for each and every client. We will respect our work and the product we give. 3-Design is a Christian company and it is paramount that God is glorified in every aspect of our business. If it isn’t our best then we don’t send it out. 3-Design is accountable first to God, the true owner of this business, then to our clients and employees. It is more than a job it is worship and I (Rekeisha Dunlap owner/ photographer) love it.

So I wanted to share that with all those who read this blog because just having values looks great but I have to live by them as well. I may not be in front o people all of the time and that is why it is up to me to keep my standards. I do think the public can also keep me accountable and that’s why it is in black in white. What God wants this company to be and the fact that I agreed with Him.

Peace

The LINOLEUM!

2010-09-20T08:23:00.000-07:00

I love doing DIY projects. This weekend we (the family) have gotten to tiling the floor but first we had to remove the linoleum. I was thinking OK that won't be that hard I will just scrap it up myself it will only take a couple of hours then by the time my father and mother-in-law come to help we can start with the tiling. Boy was I wrong. This thing that the human race has made up called linoleum is one heck of a beast. Two days to get the floor ready for tiling. one day to get the majority of the floor up but what I didn't know was that there was this evil thing lurking beneath called very old glue. It has become one with the floor and has tested my patience and my strength. No, I have not cursed it yet but I have likened it to the evil. So I don't know that I will ever be in favor of installing linoleum anywhere ever even though I trust that if it is ever installed it will never come back up again. Now I am in the process of getting my life organized because I will not able to use my kitchen for two days (God willing only two days). I would apreciate prayers for patients and that I will not break myself trying to install tile.

Peace

My style

2010-09-17T09:44:00.000-07:00

You know I am a jeans and t-shirt kind of girl. I always have been and never really took a shinning to dresses.I have dresses but I don't wear them. (It is a sad thing) Once my mother bought me this outfit that had a skirt packed with tool. I hated that outfit, HATED IT! I made it disappear in the back of my closet. Now I know now I would think that would be cute on some little girl but never on me. My photography is just like my clothing style It is relaxed and comfortable like a well worn pare of jeans. Not to say it isn't polished it just isn't forced. I don't like over posed hazy air brushed pictures. I did find myself trying on that hazy cute look and found it wasn't me. I like my pictures to mostly look the same way I took them. I know how to use Photoshop well but I strive to use it only to tweak the pictures it took, not take them into a whole new realm. I pretty sure as I get older I will hone my style even more but I do know in what direction I will be going.

the Bay Shower

2010-09-16T08:36:00.000-07:00

So I said I would share the pictures from my sisters baby shower as well as her maternity pictures. She said I could so I will. The shower was great (like I said before). We prayed for my sister and the baby as well as for her and her husband as parents. I can't wait to see little Jimmy L. Henson III. (Trey for short). It will be T&T when my son starts to play with his cousin because Abram's nickname is Tank. I think it is funny that my nephews name is Jimmy because both of the babies grandfathers are named Jimmy (although they spell their names differently). So since his dad's name is Jimmy it is becoming a crazy world full of Jimmys. (I LOVE IT!)

Photographic time capsules

2010-09-15T11:50:00.000-07:00

one of my own capsules

I remember when I was younger I used to pour over my parents photo albums. I love to look at my parent when they were fresh out of high school or young in their marriage. To see my face in their and wonder what it must have been like before my sister and I came on the scene. That is the kind of weight I want my photographs to hold. I want them to be like little time machines.

I want there family to huddle around the photo books and albums and look back at their parents wedding day. See all the detail and love that went into each day. See the jitter and the joy of everyone's faces. I want those getting married or having children to remember the beautiful parts. I want the expectant parents to remember the day dreams about what it will be like to meet their new family member. I hope my pictures are little time capsules for all those involved. That way the family and friends can open up the capsules and share all the lovely memories they had with their families.

Peace

My Favs

2010-09-14T12:08:00.000-07:00

I have been talking a lot of pictures and I wanted to share them with you as well as show them off. So I will be writing even less than I do every other day so enjoy the show.

whirlwind of a weekend

2010-09-13T09:41:00.000-07:00

I have been on the move for the past three days. Like I told you on Friday I was traveling to Austin for my sister's baby shower. I thought I was just going to be helping with the festivities but my mother reminded me that I was the mistress of ceremony. I had totally forgotten but luckily I have had two baby showers for my own son so I knew how things should flow. Her shower went well and she has a wonderful group of friends and family.The party was full of laughter, fellowship, great food and of course baby presents. Then afterward I took my sisters maternity pictures which I happen to be working on right now. I will give you a sneak peek later in the week and I will also be posting the pictures of the shower and her maternity pictures on my Facebook page.

Peace

Baby Shower

2010-09-10T06:11:00.000-07:00

My sister is having her first baby and her first baby shower! (my second time to be an auntie) So, I am going to hit the road and hopefully be in Austin in less than and hour and a half. I going to help my mother with the festivities, which means I going to clean. My mother and I are not the best at entreating people but for this occasion we willingly will step out of our comfort zone for my sister. I had two great showers and I hope my sister enjoys her's as much as I enjoyed mine. Oh! Baby showers are a blessing and an opprotunity for family and friends to gather around the mother (and father) and just bless them. I am looking forward to tomorrow I get to see some old friends and also take pictures of the day. I think I will also do the maternity pictures as well. I want to get them done before she become unpregnant (yes I did make up a word). She doesn't have much longer she is almost 8 months! So you get to see my sister's shower and my new nephew when he (God willing) arrives. Until Monday bye and be safe.

Peace

Capturing Truth

2010-09-09T11:43:00.000-07:00

this says a lot, to me, about my husband

As a photographer I believe it is important to capture the truth about my clients. I look back at some pictures taken of me and think that isn't me I don't act like that ever. I don't want that to happen to any of my clients. I hope that whenever I am hired to capture people on those special occasions I want them to see themselves looking back at them . They may be more polished than on a normal day but hopefully they won't in an pose or doing something that they would never do. That is why I like to know about my clients likes and dislikes. If I can get as much information on the person I am taking a picture of the more I can capture and places them into position that will be flattering and representative of who they are. Until tomorrow

Peace

Finding the Light

2010-09-08T07:43:00.000-07:00

Light is an important element in my photography as well as my life. We don't think that much about light until we don't have it. Lately I have been searching for good light. I had some good light at the river on Monday. The kind that lightly lays on the subject and evenly illuminates all of the right creases and folds. I sometimes even like harsh like that create deep shadows. It all creates a mood for the image that is likely to be remembered. I am not a master at finding the light for my photographs. I don't think I always use it right still I am getting better. Sometimes I see it after the moment is passed. It is like thinking about something you could have said in an earlier conversation. (I have a lot of those moments...especially since I think way more than I talk) Also when It comes to artificial light it can cause a good picture to look horrible or really cool.

If I were you I would be wondering what do you mean it is important in your life? Good question I am glade you asked. Well I do like to be able to see where I am going in life and also spiritually. God calls His followers to be the light of the world. Now this is also something I am working on. Sometimes I need batteries (I always think of myself as a flashlight) but I want to wash people with the soft light of God's love and grace. To be a living, walking, talking, typing example of what it means to be forgiven and living in the love of God. So I'm not going to beat around the bush, I want to let you know that when light gets dark and you think you are alone God will be there to turn on the light if you just ask Him. If you want to know more email me.

Peace

Labor Day!

2010-09-07T09:18:00.000-07:00

I had great fun with my family and friends on labor day. I work up early to the baby crying and then after my quite time the Husband and I strapped the baby on his chest and went for a cool morning walk. Then, after I met up with some friends, my husband rushed me out of the house because we were to meet his family at 12pm. (come to find out we rushed for nothing) So after food and fellowship with the family and dogs we traveled to the packed Guadalupe River. I got some great picture while also dropping one of my favorite lenses in the water. (I am praying that it will still function) Still, I was able to use my other lenses to capture the rest of the day. Then when we got home God set the sky on fire with his own mixture of red and orange and I just had to get as many pictures as I could get. It was a good day full of pictures and family. So now I am resting form my labor day.

Peace

Stepping in with Photography

2010-09-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

a life I stepped into

It is the middle of the day and I believe I have dodged writing this post for long enough. Last night I was praying and thinking about photography while I was trying to sleep. Sleep wasn't coming because I was trying to sleep way earlier than I am used to and also because I was thinking. (Thinking, I believe, is the number one cause for insomnia)

I believe I am a deep thinker and I love talking about deep things so please go with me while I share my thoughts. Like I stated earlier, I am laying there thinking about photography and I realize that photography give me the opprotunity to live my life with people. Not from afar, like I am used to, but up close and personal. For short spans of time I get to step into people's lives and they step into mine. What can happen in those moments? How could we change each others lives for the better? Why are we meeting other than the obvious need for pictures? How will having that picture, that not only captures the moment but also the smells and emotions of the moment, affect them? How does my life flavor their memory? Obviously I don't have the answers but I am beginning to see God's plain for me more and more. I think life is about to get really interesting and full.

I also have begun to define myself differently. I used to see myself as antisocial and a content hermit. I now refuse to be that. Who I am today is someone who enjoys the peace of solitude as well and the challenge and joy that comes with steping into strangers lives and hopefully leaving it for the better.

Peace.

FOOTBALL

2010-09-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

Manor Football

Yep you know it football. If you live in Texas you understand the love affair the lone star state has with football. I also participated but I wasn't a running back I used to be with the band. (the marching band...no geeks here...just one ex-antisocial teen). I got the privilege to go to every football game as a teen. It was good times as well as just times. I must say my sister was way more into football than I was, but my sister was way more enthusiastic in most things than I was. ( I used to be a major stick in the mud) So I am going back to school this fall and getting all those great pictures of the Manor football team. I have faith in them and their coaches. I will be shareing all my pics on my football gallery site. The boy, my son Abram, will be coming with me (much to his uncle's glee). I don't think Abram will be attending many games because it will be way past his bed time and I am the one who will suffer for it. Still he will get to be on the field because his uncle, the defense coach, just loves showing his "ROAD DOG" off. I love it. So Go BIG RED!

Peace

I think I want to start a photography business

2010-09-01T11:36:00.000-07:00

I have never really talked about my photography business on my blog. Maybe someone would like to know what it is all about. Maybe you think "umm it is a photography business so it must be about photography." Yes it is about photography and much more. Fade to black....

I started this business after I left my old job as a graphic designer. The position was called graphic designer but I really just did more of touch up and adjusting. It was an OK job. A little stressful but I always knew that God had given me that job and that He would release me form it when the time came. It was difficult when I did leave the job but I have to say it was for the best. So I found myself looking for another job but not really wanting to get another job.(I never really had luck with jobs) So I thought about my own business. I have always thrown around the idea of starting one. My husband and I talked briefly about having our own t-shirt making company or a deck making company. So when the opportunity arose to start my own photography business I deiced I would give it a go. I though I have a degree in art and a minor in marketing I can do this! Well it is a lot easier to say what you are going to do than to do it. Some people may have though I was crazy to start up a business in an economic down turn but I though it was a great time. (As you can tell I am sometime very optimistic.) I didn't think it would be easy (I didn't think it would be this difficult either) but I knew and still know that I work not in this worlds economy but in God's economy.Also, when I went to work for other people I knew I was really working for God. Now that I work for myself I am still working for God.

So since this company is really God's company I wanted to set it up that way. So I would sit around setting up the structure of my business but I kept on thinking how is this different form any other company? How is this God's company? How is God going to work through a photography company? Not saying that He can't just how is He? I remember having these questions constantly. My friend and I would pray about it and it took a couple of months to really get the answer. Now I don't think I know all of what is going to be happening but I do know a few things. One I should give a portion of my profit way to charity. The other is more personal. It has to do with me and my interaction with others. I didn't realize how personal photography is. How much I would be interaction with people. My camera allows me to go and be apart of things I don't think I would be able to do without it. Now this freaks me out just a little because, I not sure if I stated this before but, I am no social butterfly. Still, I think that is the point. I am not supposed to be the extrovert I will never be the extrovert. God is going to take my inadequacies and fill in the gaps with His power.This business is going to be a true God thing. God is going to show out I just know it! So I say just watch He is going to do a good work with 3-Design. Now don't get confused I not talking about the money He is going to make for me I am talking about the lives He is going to change through 3-Design. Alright you guys have a great day. I will talk to you tomorrow.

Peace

One of my Missions

2010-08-31T08:04:00.000-07:00

the robin's nest

I was looking at my friends pictures from her wedding and some pictures were great and some were OK and others were bad. I thought to myself, "I won't stand for this!" OK so there is nothing I can do about her bad wedding pictures but there is something I can do about other peoples wedding pictures. I believe every bride and groom deserve wonderful wedding pictures to look back on. I believe that their children should be able to also see the genesis of their family in those wedding pictures. Plane and simple I want all of my client to get great pictures. It is becoming a mission for me. (It isn't my main mission, which is to tell people about the Love of Jesus.) I am working everyday to become a better photographer. I am educating myself so that when someone allows me to be apart of their day I am ready to capture every moment beautifully. It is not only about the pictures either I don't want to mare the day in anyway and I want your wedding pictures to act like little time machines so that every time you look back at your wedding album you remember the fun and silly things you did on your day. So I think that last sentence is really long but I don't know how to fix it. So at that I will say "good day" and I will see you tomorrow.

May the God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ grant you grace and peace

What I am using

2010-08-30T13:03:00.000-07:00

the picture of the day

Hey every body it is Monday! I know not everybody is happy about that but it is another day on God's green earth so rejoice! I got the question a couple of days ago asking me what I use. Well I am using a Canon Xti DSLR. I have three lenses I am currently working with a 17-55mm zoom lens, a 50mm which I am falling in love with, and a zoom lens 75-300mm. I use the selection of full manual while I take my pictures (meaning I have full control over my camera). I don't really use a flash but I am going to be incorporating it into my shooting. I just bought one and I can't wait to get it so I can run around talking pictures in the dark. I am about to get all camera geek on you but one of these days I going to get my hands on either a Nikon D90 (yeah!) or a Canon 5D (alright!). I do love the camera I have now it was a lovely gift form my brother-in-laws father. It is super cool and I think it is going to help me grow as a photographer. I used to just shoot film on my Vivitar. Ohh I loved my Vivtar it was great and I still have it. I don't think I am ever going to give it up. Me and that camera have gotten some great pictures together. So that is what I used. See you next time.

Spreading the Love

2010-08-28T15:29:00.000-07:00

another from The Robin's Nest

I have been looking at my San Antonio Wedding Guide (which I plan to be in soon) and I just continue to get excited about shooting weddings. I can't wait to capture all those memories and all the love.(Giving myself a mental hug.) I can't wait to meet all the new people and get to know them and listen to all their dreams. To become apart of their lives in a special way and to be with them on such a special day. I think this occupation is odd and special because not that many people get to be there when people's live change so drastically. The only other occupation I can think of ( I know there are more) is someone helping a woman give birth. I can tell you from experience that is a special day. Still, to be in a position where I get to not only document love but display it and give it to others to display is like multiplying love! How awesome!(I hope you can tell I am excited because if you can't I am.) The lord has truly blessed me and I am trying not to cry (I hate crying but the older I get the more it seems to happen). So even though people may give up on love or think marriage is for the birds (for the Birds? What?) I know that their are many more out their being blessed and gaining joy every day from being loved and taking the contentment to love someone for the rest of their lives. I will end this post with these famous words "all we need is love." See you Monday

Peace

Looking forward

2010-08-27T11:16:00.000-07:00


pic of the day designs by The robin's nest

Hello Everyone, I have a lady (the lady's name is Beth) helping me with my blog so hopeful it will reflect my style. (Which is clean uncluttered but real and in the moment.) So I haven't met her but she is really helpful and patient with me. (not that I am a drama queen or anything) The one thing I am looking forward to doing (other than getting a new look to this blog) is to be able take pictures of her and her hubby. I enjoy capturing love and to also make wonderful pictures and I think roaming around San Antonio with my camera and a couple in love is a great way to spend a day. So I guess you will get to see both of our work. Her work as a designer/programmer (I am not sure which and I don't want to stick too many words onto what she does) and my work of her and her love. Well this post is just going to be a short and sweet one. I pray that everyone will be well until the next time we meet.

Peace

P.S. I think I put the P.S. in the wrong place the last time...Ha Ha well I got it right this time

Starting Over

2010-08-26T08:39:00.000-07:00

random picture of the day...my wedding ring

So I think I have been going about this Blogger thing all wrong. I was watching Jasmine Star on Creative Live. (To let all of you know Jasmine Star is a super cool photographer based in LA and Creative Live is FREE...live online education. If you miss a class you can always purchase it.) So I was watching the Creative Live class for wedding photographers lead by Jasmine Star and she was speaking about blogging. She expressed the fact that you should be transparent on your blogs. Well I haven't really. I find it difficult to just lay it all out there but I will give it a go. She had some great points and if you are a wedding photographer or a photographer in general I would recommend you watching the feed. She says she is annoying but I think she is insightful and fun to watch. I have been to some presentations where you know speaking isn't that person's forte and it is really painful to watch. This isn't one of those situations. (is that a sentence? I check and computer says "yes")

I am not a super out going person but I am a lot better than I used to be. I would credit God for giving me a husband from a family of eight; his family has three boys, three girls, three dogs, one cat, one turtle, and a mom and a dad. (forgive me if I used that semicolon wrong) I come from a family of four; me, sister, mom, dad (we used to have fish). My family has hermit like tendencies (not my dad) so it was super painful to be thrown in the mix of a large family. I would run away and call my mother just for an excuse to get away. When I am in awkward situation I never know what to do with myself. I feel like my body is going to fly away. Still I am good at ACTING (as I hit my chest like Kung Fu Joe off of I Gonna Get You Sucka...If you don't know Google it) like I am not super uncomfortable and I don't think anyone notices. I also have gotten used to social situations ( a group of teenage girls staring at you blankly helps) and it is not as difficult anymore. I don't shy away like I used to. I think it is amazing what God is making me into and what He is doing for me. Ok enough about me for today I will see you guys tomorrow.

P.S. If you are a photographer in the San Antonio area and you aren't a crazy killer or a sane killer let me know I would love to go out a take picture together. (see what I am saying getting better!)

Peace

The Stevenson Wedding

2010-08-25T09:57:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I go to wedding and wish I could do mine all over again and this was one of them. It was at a beautiful church in downtown San Antonio with live classical music and a gorgeous organ. But what was more beautiful was the love between the bride and groom. So enough of my squawking for right now lets look at the pictures.

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Uncorked for the Cure

2010-08-03T12:18:00.000-07:00

Two week ago my heroic husband stood in my place as a photographer for the Uncorked for the Cure benefit for Cystic Fibrosis. I had come down (and when I say down I mean way down) with a stomach virus. Luckily my husband also has an art degree and knows how to use a camera so he went and took great picture at the Benefit being held at the Audi in San Antonio. If you want to know more about Cystic Fibrosis and how you can help please check out the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation website. Here is a small sample of some picture taken at the benefit.

Giving it away

2010-06-23T11:21:00.001-07:00

I want to give it away! I have said on my website that I want to be more of a giver than a taker and I am taking more steps to being that kind of company. So for every paying job I receive I want to give away 15% of my revenue to christian charity or cause. I am not sure what to do so if any of you reading this have any suggestions I am happy to hear them. Well I don't believe in dragging out conversations (or in this case monologues) so you have a great week and don't be afraid to drop me a line.

Chalkboard Chic: How-To Make Your Own Wedding Chalkboard

2010-06-09T14:58:00.000-07:00

How to make your own chalkboard?! What?! I thought you said you were some kind of awesome photographer. Yes I am (thank you for the awesome part) and guess what I know how to make stuff too. That's right I am a multifaceted individual. I got the idea of a wedding chalkboard from The Knot (a very cool site indeed). I thought the ideas was cute and then I was like "I could do that." Then I thought " I can tell people how to do that!" Now that you know how I came up with the idea lets get started.

You will need:

(4) 24" in. and (4) 36" in. floor or door molding strips of your choice
(2) 24X36 carpenter grade plywood pine
paint or spray paint (for the molding and back of the boards)
chalkboard paint (spray or roll on)
paint rollers (if you aren't using spray paint)
chalk
miter box and hand saw
(2) chain links (this will dictate how wide the A board will stand)
(2) door hings
finishing nails make sure they don't go through the board and molding (we want to put some sweat in this but we don't want blood, just sweat and maybe some tears)
short round top screws for the chain
screws for the door hings, number and type depends on hinges (we just want them short enugh to go threw the plywood not the molding.)

Now on to making this thing

Paint your molding (preferably the colors at your wedding)
Prime the plywood with a dark colored primer
Paint the 24X36 plywood with the chalkboard paint. Give it about two coats or until the board is evenly coated. Allow a good hour in between each coat if you are rolling on the paint.
Don't forget to paint the back side of each board with your wedding colors.
When the paint on the chalkboard is dry lay the two chalkboards in a line and screw the hings onto the tops of them (on the underside of the board). Make sure that the ends of the boards are matched up so that you don't have a wobbly chalkboard.
After the paint is dry on the molding use your miter box to cut the the ends at 45 degree angels. (make sure they look like trapezoids and not diamonds or slanted rectangles.) When they are all cut they should fit together like a frame (here is a tip you can put the molding down in a rectangle and mark which way the angles should be)
Then nail the molding to the chalkboards
Since the boards are attached close them and attached the chain about half way down the sides of the boards.
Allow the chalkboard to cure for three days
Now you can take the chalkboard to your reception and allow everyone to admire your handy work

Let me know how you used your chalkboard! Please send me pictures so I can put them on my Facebook page.

Day at the State Park

2010-05-21T19:06:00.000-07:00

The family and I all packed ourselves away for a day trip to the Guadalupe River two weeks ago. I was excited because I have never been to the Guadalupe River before and it was also the first time my baby boy would get to experience water (not including the bath). I didn't think that he would like it but he wasn't bothered at all by the water. The family also brought our pack of dogs,which include beagles and my little corgidor, their as well. Beagles are almost the family bread and they made the trip very interesting shall we say. I didn't think my dog would do the water thing but she was not bother by it and I was very proud. Here are the beautiful pictures I was able to take a the park I hope you enjoy them.

Congrats Luke Linsten

2010-05-15T21:10:00.000-07:00

I just recently finished a senior photo session with a very talented young man Luke Linsten. He is on his way to be a Marine so Semper Fi Sir and good luck!

Tips for Choosing Wedding photographer

2010-05-10T13:54:00.000-07:00

Actually this should be titled Tips for choosing a wedding photographer: what you should know about you, your wedding photographer and your photos. This subject is very important because your photographs are one of the only things that you will take from your wedding.

Know what you want

I will say it again know what you want or at least what you like. Sit down and think about the kinds of pictures that you are attracted to and if you don't know shop, shop, shop. Use the internet to look at all types of photographers and see what kind of pictures inspire you. Are you drawn to more traditional photographs or more off beat pictures. Is it all about the color, or do you want the drama that comes with black and white photographs.

Picking someone you can Trust

It is very important that you can trust your photographer and I recommend that you ask your friends and family if they know a good photographer (emphasis on good). You can also look online and find photographers that have blogs. That way you can kill two birds with one stone by getting a feel for your photographer while also getting a look at their work. Keep in mind this person is going to be with you on one of the most important days of your life (which means they should annoy you ). So after you have decided on a photographer sit down and talk to them so that you can see if your personalities doesn't clash. Your meeting is also an opportunity to communicate what you want from them and where you want them to be. This is easily done by giving your photographer your time line so that they can be there to get all the images you want.

Budget

What can you afford? I believe throughout the price range of photographer you can receive just what you need until you get to a certain point. Do be realistic, you won't get the same kind of service from a 20,000 photographer that you will get from a 1,500 photographer. It doesn't mean the the 20,000 photographer is better than the 1,500 photographer but you better expect more from your 20,000 photographer. No matter which photographer you choose the photographer should be up front with you and tell you how much it going to cost. Don't be pushed into a package that you don't want or can't afford. If the photographer has a package that almost suites your needs ask if you can customize it.

Picking your images

Before your wedding happens your photographer should walk you through all the ways you can get your pictures. Most photographers allow you to see you pictures online and some also give you the option of ordering online. Still I recommend that you decide what you want before your wedding so that when day to day life crowds in you will have already made your decision. Ask yourself who in your family will want prints and do you want an album or a book instead . After your wedding when you have time, sit down with your spouse and look through your proofs to see which ones you want. Try picking different that will go in to your album than the ones that will be printed out. Make sure all of the one you pick speak to your heart and help you keep the day fresh (like a Ziploc bag). Also get the pictures that surprise you because you didn't get a chance to see them on your day.

For you and your photographer's peace of mind know how long it will take for you to get your photos back. Ask your photographer if there is a certain time period in which you have to pick your images. I know after the wedding you will be more interested in starting you new life but you still need to keep in contact with your photographer so that you can get the pictures the way you want them.

Read your Contract

You should always read what you put your signature on. I know some of you may feel like you are taking to long to read but don't be in too much of a hurry. You need to know what you are responsible for and what the photographer will be responsible for. There are also details in your contract that you need to know like who has priority your photographer or videographer. How long you are going to wait before you get your pictures ect.

Well I hope that helped. I know I wish I would have shopped more as a bride. You should pick that person that inspires you and that is going to make you look the best on your day. Happy photographer hunting and I will talk to you on my next post

baby puppies

2010-05-06T18:12:00.000-07:00

I said I would be back after the puppies were born and they came into the world about three weeks ago. They were given names by color because only one is going to be kept.

they are just precious and super cute.

Welcome to my Photographic world

2010-04-10T21:35:00.000-07:00

Hello! This is my first time posting so sorry if it is random and rambling. I just want to let you into my mind (sorry for the mess I am trying to clean it up). Yep that's all I got Peace! Nah just joking. This is 3-Design's Blog and right now I am 3-Design but my friend (I mean friends I have more than one friend) usually call me Rekeisha or Keisha for short. (Still Keisha is just two letters shorter but strangely a lot easier to say)

Well since these are my photographic adventures lets me show you what I have recently done and when I say resent I mean in the past year. (random thought I love The Blues Travelers)

So I piggy backed on one of my friends wedding shoots and that was great because I didn't have to direct people. What wasn't so great was being 8 months pregnant with my son Abram. It sounds crazy but I had a lot of fun and learned some good stuff from my friend Gerri.

What I think is cool about being a wedding photographer is that you get to be there and peek into peoples lives and give this gift of visual memory to share with them. I remember what I was doing and what was going on at this woman's wedding. She is going to remember the joy and excitement she had getting ready. Also thinking back to my wedding man did that day go by fast! It was crazy and I am really glade I had someone there to go take pictures of such an important day.

The guys were late so this is them finally arriving. I find that is a trend with me. At my sisters wedding the men were late too! what's up guys?

This is a pic of the bridesmaids making their escape so that the bride wouldn't be seen by any of the groomsmen.

Moving on, like I just eluded to earlier I have a baby. He is Super Cute if you don't believe me check out the about me and I will show you. Prepare yourself for the cuteness if you look directly at him and haven't taken the right precautions you might hurt something. (what that something is I am not quite sure but I have seen it happen a couple of times ;)

What did I say! I am not liable for anyone who didn't take my advice.

So me and my husband are planing on calling him Tank like the Abram's Tank. (look it up) It's because I don't like the nickname Ab.(is that how you spell it?) Anyway he's not very tank sized so I am not sure how that nickname will play out. He has gotten other names since he arrived like super baby (he can fly) and milk man. I like milk man the most.

I told you he could fly :)

Well since you have seen him I'll introduce you to the rest of the family.

Here is my wonderful husband Marc and the greatest dog in the world (when she isn't chewing on pacifiers!) Ine. If you are wondering what breed she is she is a mix of Lab and corgi. She got all the good traits.

So my mother-in- law just bought a doggy dress and put it on her pregnant dog Artemus or Arty Farty for short. So why not take pictures

ohh she looks a little crazy... but in a cute way

Yes if you want your dog to do something train it or bribe it with treats! As you can see this dog prefers the treats

Check out more puppy pics in post to come or at my website www.3-design.org

This pretty little beagle will be having her puppies in about a couple of week. When they come hopeful I will have time to take some pics of them and then I can show you guys! (Did I say I love the Blues Travelers?)

The adventures don't stop I will be taking a cliche photo op in Blue Bonnets and also taking my son to see his grandma in Austin. Peace until then and this time it is for real.