Sturgeon Bay, Door County, De Pere, Wisconsin, Natural Light Photographer, Engagement, Senior, Families and Newborn Photographer
I am back in the loop! Another Life in Black and White post from a blog circle with so many talented ladies. You will want to color the circle (link at the end of the post) to follow along. This month I had gone back and edited a few macro shots that I had not yet edited or posted. On the day of the first snow of the year in Wisconsin, it really did make me miss the nicer weather!
Check out Jennifer’s post HERE!
A while back I decided to enter a photo competition called VOICE. I wasn’t expecting to be chosen as a finalist because there are so many talented photographers who entered the competition. But I figured it doesn’t hurt to submit a few photos. So when I got the email saying my photo essay entry was chosen I felt such a mix of emotions: I was honored, humbled, ecstatic, in shock, and humbled that these photos, which make up my everyday life, were among the top photo essays.
I had taken this series a few months ago after Erica Ray inspired me to shoot my “real” life; because life is not perfect and it is important to appreciate my own unique life. My goal with this series was to give a glimpse into something I do everyday, but rarely share with others: IV fluids. I did not want to clean the counters because this is where I set up my fluids and these are the tools I use (and lets face it, no one’s counter is always free of clutter). I have never been very open with my health conditions and have always tried to hide most aspects of it, including my scars. This series marked the beginning of my journey into acceptance with everything I have been through. It also helped me to understand the importance of documenting each step of my medical journey so I am able to see how far I’ve come. Taking these photos was both therapeutic and freeing. I realized that I shouldn’t try to hide my medical condition because it is part of who I am (although it is not all I am). These photos serve as a reminder to how far I’ve come and also makes me thankful for everyone who has helped and supported me during my hardest times.
In addition to all of that, this series also reminds me of why I began my photography journey in the first place. It’s ironic that I always hid my medical conditions because I began photography to help me remain connected and active in “normal” activities. It gave me something to focus on when I was not feeling well; I could take macro photos and, for a while, be able to forget any stress I may be feeling. It has given me a way to convey what I am feeling without having to use words. I have met some amazing people who are now some of my best friends though photography. Most importantly though, it has helped me accept my illness and everything that comes with it (including scars and medical devices).
Now that you know more about how photography has helped me and the story behind my series (and since you’ve made it through my long post) here are the images that make up My Everyday.
Click HERE to see the rest of the finalists and take a look at the other categories.
Has photography or another form of art helped you in your life? I’d love to hear more about your story too!
Every month Hope Church in Sturgeon Bay features two local artists. They have two different galleries and Zane and I are the featured artists for July. I have my photography displayed and Zane has several different paintings and designs displayed in his.
I was excited about this showing because it forced me to print my photos (which I don’t do often enough). It is really rewarding to see the final product printed instead of on a screen. I have a little bit of everything displayed in my gallery, from newborns, to engagements, to landscapes and macro.
Zane’s paintings (almost all done with spray paint) are amazing and you will want to see his work in person! If you’d like to check out more of his work check out his website,
We will both be at Hope Church in Sturgeon Bay for the reception on Sunday, July 20 and 12 noon. We’d love to see you there! Come by to check out the galleries, and while your there grab some coffee and snacks.
Hope church is located on 141 S. 12th Avenue in Sturgeon Bay.
I recently finished a class called the Art of Observation. This class was truly amazing and helped me to find inspiration in places I wouldn’t have looked before. This was one of my submissions and was therapeutic for me. Some of you may remember this post that I did about sharing my story. I still struggle with the scars but photography is helping me to accept them and see them as proof of what I’ve been through; what I have overcome.
For more black and white imagery head over to Jen’s blog
I struggled with motion blur this month. But, when we took Colby out for a walk I caught the perfect photo! Then, one night I was out trying to capture lightening but there was none. However, I did get some motion blur in the form of clouds moving and the trees blowing.
To continue the circle, head on over to Erica’s blog.