7.14.2011

wherein I answer a question. or two.

a couple of you asked what kind of camera I have, so here goes.

*clears voice*

it's a Canon Rebel XSi, although there is a newer "Rebel T" series out, which I'm pretty sure is comparable to what I have-- obviously with a few more bells and whistles, like video capability and a greater ISO range, which would be nice.  I would absolutely LOVE to upgrade my camera body, BUT.  being I don't shoot professionally, I find it hard to justify spending a couple grand "just because."  not to mention, I'd probably be banished to the dog house forever.  er, maybe that would be a good thing? no?

as for the lens, I've been strictly shooting with the Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 which I love.  it is a little on the spendy side, but it's an awesome, all-around, everyday lens, more than suitable for the type of shooting I do.  sure, there are a couple other lenses I've been coveting, like the 50mm f/1.2 and the 85mm f/1.2, but again, DOG HOUSE.  guess a girl can always dream, right?  or start a photography business.

speaking of which, perhaps a few of you have wondered why I haven't started a photography business yet, am I right?  I mean, that would definitely be a good way to earn money for these items I've been secretly wanting, or so you'd think.    

well, believe me.  I've mulled the idea over so many times, I've lost count.  but I think it all boils down to this: how much can I handle?  honestly, I feel like I have enough on my plate just being a mother and a wife.  I don't think I could juggle a photography business on top of it, and still manage to stay sane.  if something overwhelms me, I start to stress and freak out.  consequently, everyone around me suffers as they're tip-toeing on eggshells wondering whose head I'm about to bite off next.  it's just not fair to my kids and hubby.  I don't know.  maybe it sounds like a flimsy excuse, but I'm stickin' to it.  

furthermore, it would most certainly require time away from my family, something I'm not willing to sacrifice right now.  at this stage in our life, I feel the need to be present for my kids, especially the teenagers.  before I know it, "they'll be grown and gone."  at least that's what everyone tells me.  in fact, I just came across this quote recently, and I found it to be a subtle reminder: "the days are long, but the years are short."  

so, I guess that's pretty much it in a nutshell.  maybe there will come a point in my life when I'll be ready to take on the challenge, but for now I'm content to just photograph my own family.  whether they appreciate it or not, who knows?

hopefully someday they will, especially this kid; aka, mister blog hog.  what a goof!

camera settings: ISO 200, f/2.8, 1/200s @ 59mm.
real quick, here's an example of a before (on the left, SOOC) and after.  basically, I just warmed up the photo by adjusting the white balance and boosted the colors a bit, nothing too difficult.  would any of you be interested in seeing more of this in the future?  I'd be happy to throw this into the mix every now and then.  let me know.

have a great weekend!

-jessica

16 comments:

Kimberly said...

I've started a photography business, and let me tell you... It is A LOT of work. Now that I moved a few states away, No one knows I am a photographer. Trying to keep it family and friends. I Love that quote "the days are long, but the years are short." I need to print it on my forehead so I remember. Especially days like today. Thanks for your post. Would love to see more of this in the future. P.S. I got my mom hooked on your blog, and she is wondering if she can be your hiking buddy. {she has no idea how to post a comment, and she lives in Utah......so don't know how that would work out.}

Unknown said...

Awesome! Love your photography. Keep posting these because someday when I find the time to learn some I am going to need all the advice I can get!

Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...

I love your photography but you will have plenty of time for that later in life. Enjoy your kids and taking photos of them for now. Sounds like you have plenty of fun with them now - they will always remember the time you spend with them. Joleen

Andrea said...

I always enjoy your photos too, and some photography tips would be great. I don't blame you for not starting a business yet, I know some ladies make it work but just the thought of doing that myself is too overwhelming. I considered getting back into massage therapy but for now being a mom and wife is enough for me. My family can appreciate the benefits of my skills also:)

Anonymous said...

awww rowan! He's so cute! It would be fun to have some more posts like this! I just love your blog! ~jess

AuntyDee said...

I think it's fun to see Rowan with a big smile on his face lately. is he growing out of the "grumpus" stage?

Anonymous said...

I am with 1crown3tiaras!! Someday I hope to get a nice digital SLR and start pic taking - just of my fsmily. What editing program do you use on the computer? Rachel

Crystal Lee Photography said...

I love seeing before and after photos, and really enjoy seeing the camera settings, I enjoy all your photos, keep sharing! Adding a business to the plate is sometimes overload, if the timing is ever right, you'll know!

Anita said...

Keep on snapping shots of your family. Doesn't take long and the "littles" turn into "bigs". You're doing the most important job there is ... and we enjoy sharing it through your stories. :)

Keith and Kim Kesti said...

Would love to see any camera tips. I really need to get back to shooting more photos.

Melanie said...

I too, think your photos are precious, and I'm thrilled to get the camera and photo info! I haven't taken the dSLR plunge yet, but it's on my wish list!

There's always time for a photo biz when the kids are grown! :)

Anonymous said...

Superb blog post, a bunch of great data. I am about to show my girlftriend and ask them what they think.

Anonymous said...

awesome! would also love to see more camera tips as i am going to buy a dSLR SOON! :)

Anonymous said...

yes, awesome pics and blog! what editing program do you use?

Anonymous said...

also curious what editing program you use!? :)