I was asked by the moderators at Squijoo to create a little tutorial on using their Overlays in Photoshop.  It was a lot of fun and a great challenge.  Here is a link to the article: http://squijoo.com/how-to-use-digital-backdrops/

I had a wonderful session during the peak of our spring annual blooms, featuring a beautiful young lady (and natural model) who, with her mother, had her whole session planned out.  It was a dream!  They came prepared with ideas, props, and their own hair and makeup.  All I had to do was show-up (well, that's how it felt, anyway.)  

Yes, Evelyn is a natural model and I cannot tell you how fun it is do thematic photo-shoots.  Evelyn loves vintage and incorporated it in her overall look, from wardrobe to make-up.  We also found some really appealing locations that helped make her shine.  

It was interesting that we didn't quite make the "Golden Hour," yet managed to make the light work beautifully.  Several outfit changes highlighted her other interest in music and ministry as well.

Evelyn graduated a year early and then went off to France to work for a ministry for the summer.  A dream come true for her!  She is also an aspiring musician and sings at various venues around the area.

Without further ado, here is Evelyn, Class of '15!

NOTE: I am proud to say that this session was a featured inspiration on the Seniorologie website in August: https://plus.google.com/b/108328521230026799356/+KristinSmallPhotographyClaremont/posts?pid=6136277535656593282&oid=108328521230026799356

I had a fun mini-session with Westley, Class of '15, this spring.  He had a lot of great ideas for incorporating his interests into the session, including fun props.  I love it when Seniors really think about how their session will reflect their individuality.  This makes it more fun, interesting, and produces a true memory of this significant stage of life.  

I had a lot of fun chatting with Westley and hearing about some of his goals for the future.  He is going to college out of state and seems to have a great head on his shoulder and character to match.  I see a bright future ahead!  Congratuations, Westley!

1.)  He brought this cool sword to use as a prop.  He were around some very old monuments that seemed to compliment the mood just right.

2.) The forest nearby made a great setting as well:

3.) Westley is a wonderful musician as well.  

4.) He is also a fan of animation and included a favorite character.

5.) Westley is also quite the artist, so we included that passion as well.  What a fun day with a special young man!

I had to get out and get a mini-session in this small patch of wild delphinium this spring.  Surprisingly, this patch was just across the street from my hosue on a small plot of grass next to a residence, though it may feel as though she is out in a large field.  You would be amazed at the little glory spots I find around my town.  Even if you live in an urban place, you can find these treasures if you just keep your eyes open.  Give it a try! :)

At the end of May, a photo I submitted to Seniorologie (www.seniorologie.com) was awarded, "Photographer Spotlight of the Week," which means that my photo was featured in their Facebook page banner for the week.  As this website has thousands of participants and followers, I am very honored!

We waited a LONG time for spring to come to New Hampshire this year.  The winter was long and brutal, so imagine how anxious I was to get out and take photos in nice weather again!  Early spring is unique in New Hampshire.  The weather is warm, but it takes awhile for the green things to come out.  I love the green and wait anxiously for it, but thought that this setting could make for fun portraits in the meantime.

The barren landscape cried out for color, so I thought that this rich, teal-colored dress was perfect.  We waiting until the "Golden Hour" and head out.  Hannah is not always the first person to jump in front of a camera, but when she does, she shines!  I just love her natural beauty against that of nature itself.