Work Hard, Play Hard

This has always been my philosophy.  Funny how my play is mirroring my work.

After 22 years, I picked up a tennis racquet again last summer. I wasn't sure how it would go, because, I wasn't even so fabulous the last time I played (in high school).  I took lessons, practiced and set a goal for myself...to achieve a certain level by the end of the summer.  I did it!  And then, got crazier and joined a team for winter play.  I kept practicing and taking lessons and hey, I was getting better.  The Captain asked me to play first doubles.  Wow, really?

First match, we win!  Second, we were slaughtered.  It was painful.  I wanted to cry.  (There were tears during one practice game, actually)  Who did I think I was thinking I could play tennis?  I was never the athletic type.  I should just go back to crafting and be done with it.  Nope.  Kept practicing and playing and realigned my thinking.  Played again in a match yesterday and we won.  Played at practice today, and didn't do very well.  Must keep practicing and learning to move forward!  It's a lifetime sport, right?

Anyhow, I share this story because it has hit me recently Tennis is like Photography.  I have studied and practiced and taken a zillion lessons (seminars, classes, etc).  Some days I feel like the best Photographer on the planet (well, not really, just making a point) and the next day, I am frustrated.  But, I know this is my path and I continue on learning, practicing and realigning my goals.

Professional Photographers aren't born when they are handed a nice camera.  They grow from the time invested in the craft and in learning...and the learning never stops.

Life can be like a roller coaster or like a merry go round.  I have always chosen the roller coaster.  It's a wild ride, but worth at the end when you get off and are so exhilarated, you can't wait to get on again!

Are you a roller coaster lifer or a merry go round?

Life, here it is, catch it! :)  He may only get snow, but he's going for it.  There just might be a treat in it. 

I love Animals!

I am so excited to go and celebrate Love Your Pet day tomorrow at the Animal Rescue League in Bedford, NH.  I love working with animals.  They are always kind (so far...) and happy.  They always want to play.
I love just getting on the floor, or ground, and being with them, long enough they stop noticing me.

Tomorrow will be a taste of Pet Photography at the Animal Rescue League.  No charge mini sessions for your pet (and you if you would like!).  I have put together some great packages, too, to make sure you have some art for your home (and office) of your fuzzy family members.

I hope you will come by, there will be lots of other fun vendors, too.  Hope to see you there!
Learn more about the event here: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=173555962680266

This Could Be Bad...

It could get bad...remembering Stuart from Mad TV.   Luckily, all the kids I work with are much cuter. :)

Some More Details on the HOT Photos...

Post your photos until 2/13 here: in this album.  The photo with the most appreciation will be the hottest summer photo and thus the winner!
So, get it done, go through those HHH memories and share your favorite at the above link.

Happy Hot memories to you.  Can't wait to see the times that made you sweat!

We Need Some Hot Sunshine!

It's time.  The snow banks in my yard are going to be around until June...they are so tall, we have to hire a front loader to come and remove them!
Thank you Mr. Groundhog for tempting us with the promise that Spring is coming.  But, it just doesn't seem likely today.  Today, snow day #?.
I love snow days.  But..I love summer even more.  I want to have a fun in the sun contest!
Here are the details:  post your favorite summer photo...it can be of people, flowers, whatever...just make sure we can tell it's summer.  We will all take a look and like our favorites.
The winner will receive a Beach Portrait Session this Summer at one of my beach days, dates to be determined and an 11x14.  (value of $225)
Go back and relive those summer memories and post your photos on my fb page at www.facebook.com/debbieellisphotos.

Please, give us all something to look forward to!

Photograph of the Year, 2010

As we freeze here in New England, I offer you memories of beach days from not too long ago...and not too far out in the future.  Congratulations to the J family on your Photo of the Year award!  Looking forward to playing more at the beach this summer.

Another storm coming this week; expecting ten to twenty inches of fresh snow.  Feel free to come back here to visit the warm beach.  Or, embrace the winter and get outside and play!

Fabulous bling for you or your sweetie! (or your mom...etc)

I have partnered with two great jewelry companies to display art on a small scale.  It's a way to always keep your loved ones close by at all times.
First, there is Kimbra Studios.  The offer sterling silver pieces of jewelery or gifts that are fun and whimsical.  Everything from wine stoppers to key chains and even belt buckles!  Their pieces are water proof, so you can wear them all the time!  I love the key chain with charms. (They even have a camera charm!)
Next, Planet Jill, also offering top of the line sterling silver, 14 kt and diamond jewelry: necklaces, bracelets and key chains.  You can be like the fancy celebs who all wear PJ, check them out here.  Personally, the necklace with engraved monogram with photos behind it as well as the cuff links for him are my faves from PJ.
I plan to be hosting a party where you can see some samples of their work in the coming weeks.  Stay tuned!
If your man needs some ideas for a sweet Valentine gift, drop this hint and I can come and take the mini photos for you of your child(ren), pup, kitty or man.  Or, just ask for a gift certificate and you can pick your favorites out.