I love candid beach images...

...and it's a good thing, because sometimes the weather makes it nearly impossible to get posed family portraits. The wind was a big problem on this shoot. It's a dual-edged sword - for candid photographs it can be powerful, making the viewers almost able to feel the breeze themselves, but the annoying side is when you've posed a family and finally gotten everyone to look at the camera and smile, and at the very moment the shutter clicks, a gust of wind blows hair in someone's face. Quite frustrating, and it seems to be a theme lately. The "bright" side (my mom always finds this side of life) is that the images below are why I love photography...

Before and After

Two sessions in one post! We barely got the pregnancy session in before baby "C" made her debut, but I'm so glad we did. Enjoy your sneak peek!






Look at those precious lips!

Beach Beauties

This family spends a ton of time on the beach, so for the photo shoot, they took Darin and I on their boat out to an island. The light was gorgeous, and the subjects...even better. It was a great idea because the spot is perfect for photography, especially since it is free of those hideous high-rise condos. And it was so peaceful and pretty. We'd love to go back sans the cameras and just relax! So B and C, you've got our number, and we've got the beach towels ready!

The wait is over!

I'm so excited to post these photos! These two fantastic people are the owners of the new Arthur Murray Studio in Clearwater. They're young, they're hip, and they're amazing dancers! I've wanted to take ballroom/Latin dance lessons for many years, and when their studio opened so close to me, I couldn't resist...and I'm loving it!! If any of you have considered taking lessons, do it NOW! It's a great workout, it's great for your posture and self-esteem, and it's wonderful for couples who want to spend time together and strengthen their relationship. They are also starting a kids program, and I can say from experience (my mom put me in ballet and jazz classes when I was young) that dancing is wonderful for children. Not only for their self-esteem, but also for coordination and social skills. I can't tell you how thankful I am that my parents stayed committed to sending me to dance class...even when I *claimed* to hate it. ;) Ok, I'm finished with my speech now. If you'd like more information, or want to sign up for your complimentary fist lesson, their phone number is 727-489-9919.

P.S. You'll be seeing the newborn session soon!

BOYS, BOYS, BOYS

These guys are growing so fast, each one developing his own personality...it's so fun to watch! And with three older brothers, the baby is going to be the most laid back kid ever...and probably the toughest. ;)

Out of town

I will be out of town Thursday through Sunday, and unable to check my email. I'm going on my annual girls trip with two of my favorite friends, Sarah (middle)...who, by the way, is my fabulous card designer, and Stefanie...and she's fabulous too! ;) I will return all emails and phone calls on Monday. Have a great weekend!!

New Holiday Designs!

Here they are!! We are so excited about this holiday season and have had a ton of fun creating new designs! In addition to our standard sizes (5x7 Flat and 4x5 Folded), we are offering 3 new sizes this year - 5x7 Folded, 5x5 Two-sided Flat or Folded and 5x5 Trifold (makes an impression!). Most of the size options come with your choice of designer paper textures, such as linen or pearl, at no additional charge. The minimum quantity is 50, and pricing starts at just $85.00 (price is for 50 5x7 two-sided cards). Most of these creations can be applied to other layouts, so, for instance, we can take a design from a flat card and make a folded, and vice versa. However, you are not limited to these designs. We can custom create cards just for you. If you'd like to see some samples of past designs (also available this year), please go to Simply Bella Designs and look around, but remember, all communication and orders should be handled through me. So, without further ado...

1 Folded
2 Folded

3 Folded

1 Trifold
2 Trifold
1 Two-sided
1 Flat
2 Flat
3 Flat
4 Flat
1 5x5 Folded

1 5x5 Flat