mg photography

This year, I am joining up with some fellow CMpros from Clickin’ Moms in order to document our daily lives a bit more. The project is entitled The Way I View… and each month there is a different theme. This month? The theme is new beginnings and we all have been busy photographing what is new in our lives for 2012.

Honestly? I’ve had a terrible time trying to come up with my first post since really the only thing that is new here is the fact that my girls are playing basketball this season.

And I am NOT a sports photographer. I found that out the hard way.

Keep in mind, the other photographers in my group are crazy awesome. Just as an example, I’m linking to Sarah Cornish. Um. Yeah. As in THE Sarah Cornish of My Four Hens Photography.

Oh geez.

Plus, there’s Leah Cook and Anne Wick and….on and on.

I am so excited about this project as it has definitely brought me out of the box a bit; however, to say I’m nervous is an extreme understatement.

So! On with my thoughts on new beginnings.

This month I decided to get all crazy and try some lighting that I haven’t been comfortable with in the past.

Backlighting.

I love, LOVE images that are backlit, but to be quite honest? That is some tricky stuff for me. Exposing for the skin AND the sky? Hard. I tried a few times before and simply gave up. So, I figured with this whole “new beginnings” deal…why not?

Also, I decided to get all crazy in 2012 and let my children choose their clothing more often (notice I didn’t say “everyday”). I have picked out their clothes for them way too long. It’s time for me to just let that go. If Allison wants to wear purple sweatpants and flip flops? Fine. If Caroline wants to wear that pink tutu every.single.day? Perfect.

It’s far too stressful for me to argue with my girls about what I think they should have on.

I’m waving the white flag.

Last week, when I told them that we were going out for pictures for my “homework” (they always call it “homework” for some reason), they all moaned. When I said that they could wear whatever they wanted? They didn’t believe me. One of them fell in the floor. No. I’m serious. Allison asked for a pinky promise and bet me one dollar that I was tricking them. Guess who won that bet?

They were thrilled to be able to choose their outfits and over the moon when I rewarded them with marshmallows. I think they love me a wee bit more now. In fact, I’m sure of it.

For this session? I went out on a limb and took my mismatched girls out near sunset and I shot for myself in brand new lighting.

I shot what I love.

I shot how I love.

I shot the girls I love.

Now that you have seen the way I view new beginnings, you should head on over to see what Sarah has photographed this month. I’m certain it will be lovely.

In fact?

I bet you one dollar it is.