Sharon Manning Photography

SMART

2012-01-25T19:46:00.001+08:00

I discovered this website yesterday:

http://www.marcandangel.com/

If you need some direction, support, reassurance that you are travelling on the correct path then I suggest you go here now.

The current post titled “12 Things Successful People Do Differently” is just one of the lists on offer here.

No.1 on the list talks about SMART Goals.

This is the second time this week I have come across SMART goals.

Earlier in the week my business mentor Cilla, from Momentum Coaching sent me some details about a workshop she is conducting over 4 weeks commencing on 7th Feb.

"Determine what it is that you really want from 2012 with the assistance of a life and business coach at this 4 week goal setting interactive workshop.

SMART goals will be written for short, mid and long term achievements and action plans will be devised. Change management and belief and attitude shifts will be addressed along with the development of stronger self confidence, courage and commitment.”

You can find out more details like where, when and how much by clicking here.

So if you think this is something you might benefit from then come along and join us, I’m certain there will be plenty of laughs along the way too! Oh and Cilla will keep you accountable for your progress and goal making for sure ;-) I really value her input into my business and I’m certain you will too.

Sharon xo

FASHIONISTA EXPO

2012-01-19T15:00:00.001+08:00

Next Sunday 29th Jan I am participating in the Shopnfriends Fashionista Expo at Joondalup Reception Centre from 3-6 pm!

will be giving away

3 FREE Photo Sessions

(one every hour) during the Expo.

Book a photo session with Sharon Manning Photography and pay a deposit of $50 on the day and you will receive a beautiful scented candle and shade from Scentual Flair absolutely FREE.

Tickets are limited and for a short time only you can buy two tickets and get a third FREE (there's that word again!)

Tickets available by clicking HERE and part proceeds going to Make a Difference WA.

So come along and join in on the Fashionista Expo....all you Mums will need a little pampering by the end of the school holidays!!!!!!!

Sharon xo

Wall Displays

2012-01-14T21:41:00.001+08:00

Have you ever wondered how you would display your images after a photo session with me?

Yes?

Well here's some ideas that might get your creative juices flowing.

This first idea would have to be one of my favourites. All black and white photos, white (Ikea?) frames in a grid of 9 all displayed on a dark chocolate wall. Doesn't it make them pop?

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Here's some more symmetry with this example still using black and white photos but all the frames are different thicknesses and some are singles and some are triptyches....still works. I love that they have added a "S" to the mix. The tip is to lay it all out on the floor before you begin, measuring the overall width and height and mark this on the wall to get it in the centre.

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This next one I think is a ingenious idea. Just draw two parallel lines where you want the top of the bottom row and bottom of the top row (got that?) and line them all up. Again I think they are all Black and white photos in various black frames look fantastic! Your eye is lead down the hallway.

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Now for something a little more "random" yet still in a recognisable shape.....a heart. Great use of small frames and being above a bed makes it all the more personal.

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Want something simple, uncomplicated, easier to hang? Then maybe the triptych is more your style. Three photos hung side by side and can even be a combination of colour and black and white.

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This next display of photographs my client created. It's randomly placed yet I know for a fact that she laid all these out on the floor first and made sure all the photo were going to work together. Great work Monique, I love it when clients get to enjoy their photos every day! Imagine the feeling Monique must get every time she walks past this wall of memories.

OK I think I have overloaded you with enough to think about today, I was going to show you what you can do with canvases too but I will save that for another post.

I will share with you a couple more images that my clients receive as part of their proofs following a photo session with me. So you can visualise size and combinations of framed images I mock up (using the photos from your shoot) a wall of framed (and canvas) images.....your own images......from your session. Here's a couple of examples of what I mean.

I love that I can show you visually what your memories will look like on the wall and help you make the most of your investment! I will help you select the perfect combinations to suit your available space and decor.

Sharon xo

P.S. sorry Blogger is not playing nice tonight....please excuse the shabby formatting!

Just Because - Vol. 25

2012-01-12T08:35:00.001+08:00

Just a quick post ( I have a larger one half done ). I have been following Jessica Rose’s blog Vol.25 for some time now and I have also invested in some of her graphics in the past. But the big news is she has opened her etsy shop and oh are the prints just gorgeous or what? Here is just a sample of what she has to offer……

Enjoy and happy choosing your favourites!

Sharon xo

Fashionista Expo 29th Jan

2012-01-09T13:13:00.001+08:00

Tickets are selling fast so don’t miss out on this extravaganza !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Shopnfriends Fashionista Expo is designed for you to have a well-deserved break, out with the girls!

Set for a gorgeous summer afternoon on January 29th 2012, you'll have jam-packed afternoon, full of Fashion and Fun!

Run by Shopnfriends Personal Stylists and Personal Shoppers, you will be sure to be impressed by the Fashion Parades, and many fashion and beauty stalls for you to browse.

Some of the stalls include:

Psychic Readings
Graceful Healing with Dr Joanne Samer
Ultimate Body Wraps
Indulge Clothing
Little White T-shirt Company
BellyDance Central
Arbonne Skincare
The Pink Book Club
Nu Skin
Intimo Lingerie
Elegantly Unique Accessories
Flaschengeist
Emily's Beauty - Shellac Specialist
Sharon Manning Photography
TKS Lashes
and more!

Plus entertainment, and prizes and give aways just for being there!

Now we have timed this event, so you can get away with the girls on a balmy summer afternoon, all you have to do is get your tickets.

Now as a special treat, buy 2 tickets and we will give you a third ticket for FREE!

Tickets are just $25, and get be purchased by calling 9300 9804 or clicking here to buy online

So don't sit at home on Sunday January 29th, come along to the Joondalup Reception Centre, and join us for a fabulous afternoon!

Please call the Style House on 9300 9804 if you have any questions or would like to purchase tickets.

Project Life 2012

2012-01-04T10:53:00.001+08:00

As already mentioned a couple of posts ago, I am endeavouring once again to complete the Project Life 2012 digitally.

I have decided that this needs to be blogged separately to my Sharon Manning Photography Blog so I have created a new place to update and share my Project Life 2012 here.

You will also see a new menu system above linking you to other various places of interest including my website and contact details.

So add it to your bookmarks, Flipboard, favorites, google reader etc. if you would like to keep up with me and my life in 2012.

“OLW” One Little Word 2012

2012-01-03T14:35:00.001+08:00

I have been spending some time with my OLW for 2012 – “Change”.

After some soul searching and web searching, I came up with these definitions and I have tried to interpret them into something that would apply to me. For me Change can be re-active or pro-active or a combination of both more than likely.

Here are just a couple that I related to:

change (chnj)

v. changed, chang·ing, chang·es

v.tr.

1. To cause to be different.

2. To give and receive reciprocally; interchange: change places.

3. To exchange for or replace with another, usually of the same kind or category: change one's name; a light that changes colours.

4. a. To lay aside, abandon, or leave for another; switch: change methods; change sides.

b. To transfer from (one conveyance) to another: change planes.

5. To put a fresh covering on: change a bed; change the baby.

v.intr.

1. To become different or undergo alteration.

2. To undergo transformation or transition.

3. To go from one phase to another, as the moon or the seasons.

1. The act, process, or result of altering or modifying.

2. The replacing of one thing for another; substitution: a change of atmosphere; a change of ownership.

3. A transformation or transition from one state, condition, or phase to another.

4. Something different; variety.

Being organised and mindful of taking time out for myself will hopefully allow me to make some changes in 2012 that need to be made, but don’t necessarily have the answers for yet at this point in time. Does that make sense? Does to me!

What’s your OLW for 2012? Do you have one? Do you take time out to focus on you? Do you think this makes you a happier/better person to be around? I’d love to know so leave me a comment if you feel it’s something you would like to share.

Sharon xo

Project Life / 365 Project / My Word = BIG “F”

2011-12-28T11:29:00.001+08:00

I have attempted one or many of these projects before and

So in 2012 I am hoping the release of this new product from Becky Higgins & Jessica Sprague will allow me to follow through and complete this project……finally!

The page overlays and elements are available as individual purchases or as bundles and work out alot cheaper for us here in Oz when you have to take into consideration the freight as well.

You could even mix and match some of the elements from the Turquoise Edition with the Cobalt Edition to give your project even more personality. Some image editing experience is required, for example Photoshop or Elements, but at first glance it all seems pretty easy.

I have already started to play with the cover page and it has taken me no time at all. How I’m going to print it out is still yet to be decided as I would like to test some pages here at home on my printer first, but I’m thinking I may need to use a lab to get a finish I’ll be happy with.

I love to scrapbook and I really don’t find the time these days to use up my supplies like I would like and because my photography business resides in the same room, I am reluctant to make a mess as I need to keep it tidy.

So why have I succumbed to the digital version?

Because I can put together a page at my computer.
Because I don’t need to print photos as I go.
Because I don’t need to make a mess and have to clean it up.
Because it’s manageable.
Because I can also incorporate tickets and memorabilia into another slip in page protector.
Because I can combine a photo a day, journaling and my word for 2012 into one project.

AND

The biggy – Father Christmas (aka my gorgeous Husband) bought me one of these so that I can capture more of the every day……

{image}

Sure beats lugging around my Canon 5D MKII.

I intend using the 1 week at a time approach and incorporate one photo/story about “change” my word for 2012. I’m really looking forward to doing this project, but then again I have every year I started! Wish me luck?

Technorati Tags: project,life,365,my,word,becky,higgins,jessica,sprague

2012 “Change”

2011-12-22T19:51:00.001+08:00

Prop - Mother-In-Law’s Box Brownie
Camera – Canon 5D MK II
Lens – 50mm 1.4
ISO – 400
F-Stop – f1.4
Shutter – 1/100s
Photoshop - Coffee Shop Attic Vintage Action, Canvas and beaten texture applied
Font - Jenna Sue

Short and Sweet

2011-12-20T13:46:00.001+08:00

I had this really big long blog post planned but I have decided to keep it short and sweet with everything I need to get done before Sunday.

Tracey Holdyck has inspired me to do a December Daily Album – I have started but I’m certainly not up to date. I found a file/album to use, it’s actually a Recipe folder that I need to modify. A holiday project for me to play with.
Lisa Cox of A Spoonful of Sugar has inspired me to do placecards for the table on Christmas day and I am going to blatantly copy Lisa’s design just using my own theme of blue & silver.
Money wallets have been made for my cash presents this year!
Tree is up and presents are wrapped…..I’m starting feel festive…..I think!

Tracey Holdyck has also got me thinking about my word for 2012 (I haven’t had one before)…..this past year (as I have mentioned) was a difficult one and now that I don’t have children in school anymore I have been thinking about what the future holds for me and what I can achieve not just for me but my business and of course my family. Perhaps my word will be “Change”. Things will naturally change around here but there are many things I need to change too.

Anyway, short and sweet as I said!

I’d like to wish all my readers, friends, family, supporters and clients a Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2011-12-16T18:22:00.001+08:00

It’s funny how things don’t always turn out how you plan them. 2011 has certainly been one of those years for us/me. Without going into details, as I really just want to leave the year behind and start fresh in 2012, there has been a lot happen this past 12 months or so, some resolved, some not but on track as such. The more people I talk to the more that have experienced some kind of sadness, illness or upheaval this year and just want to move forward.

So I’m moving forward!

Today is the last (official) working day of the year for me, if you own your own business then you will know that there is no such a thing. I have huge plans for 2012 and my business some of which I hope to put in place very early on in the year. My first photo session is for the 7th January! So I’m hoping to be off to a flying start. Stay tuned in to my blog and Facebook because there are some things happening in January I don’t want to you to miss out on.

But in reflecting (as we often do at this time of the year) there has been many people that have helped me enormously in the past months and some that have certainly left their mark on me or shown their hand in friendship.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Most of you are here, some of you are not (mainly because I didn’t have a recent photo of you).

But none more so than my family, Steve, Renae and Gemma, I love you all very much xxxxx

So thank you to all the winners of my Christmas Giveaways, I will be in touch in the new year to schedule your sessions.

To each and every one of my readers thank you for your support and friendship and I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful, healthy and happy 2012. Mwah!

2012 Customised Calendars

2011-12-12T10:55:00.001+08:00

I’m so happy to be offering these to my clients now. Yes now – they are available for Christmas!

11” x 14” (that’s 27.9cm x 35.6cm) customised 2012 calendars are now available for order at $29.95 each.

There are 4 designs in total to choose from……get yours now for a gift that lasts the whole year through (cheesy but true!)

Discounts for quantity orders – please just ask me sharon@sharonmanning.com.au

WIN!

2011-12-10T11:45:00.008+08:00

VALUED AT $385.00 each!

Now wouldn’t that be an awesome Christmas Gift!

1 drawn every day for 5 days.

Click here to view what’s included in your session.

HERE’S THE DEAL:
1. Like my Facebook page Sharon Manning Photography. If you do already Thank You!

2. Add this to your own Facebook page …..

Check out @Sharon Manning Photography for your chance to win 1 of 5 Photo Sessions http://sharonmanning.blogspot.com/2011/12/win.html

REMEMBER to tag @Sharon Manning Photography so that your post will show on my page and I can include you in the draw!

Please make sure your email address is available in your information tab

Enter only once a day Saturday 10th December through to Wednesday 14th December (no spamming please)!

3. What if you don’t have a Facebook page? You can enter right here on my blog on this post only. You can also enter daily if you wish. Just leave me a comment telling me what you want for Christmas. Make sure you leave me your email address too so that I can contact you.

Winners will be randomly drawn from both Facebook and the comments left on this post and notified via email and announced here as an edit to this post.

Any questions please email me.

Photo Sessions will be arranged at a mutually agreed time in the Perth Metropolitan area and must be completed by 15th April, 2012.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sharon xo

SATURDAY 10th DECEMBER Winner is........
Sarah Argent! Congratulations.

Don't forget to enter again today to win one of the 4 photo sessions left!

SUNDAY 11th DECEMBER Winner is........
Lynne Anderson! Congratulations.

Don't forget to enter again today to win one of the 3 photo sessions left!

MONDAY 12th DECEMBER Winner is........
Kirsty Campbell!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I don't know who will be more excited about this one....WOO HOOOOOOO

Just two more chances to enter, today and tomorrow.....it could be you so enter NOW!

TUESDAY 13th DECEMBER Winner is.........
Cassie McGann! Congratulations Cassie!

Last chance is today for one last photo session up for grabs valued at $385.00 - good luck everyone!

WEDNESDAY 14th DECEMBER Winner is........
Janelle Nightingale! You are my last winner in the Christmas giveaways.....YAY!
WOW - everyone has been wonderful and congratulations to all the winners and I look forward to meeting those I don't already know and photographing your gorgeous families! Thank you for all your support in 2011 and I look forward to a busy 2012. xxxxx

Short break in transmission

2011-11-09T21:34:00.000+08:00

I had knee surgery on Monday and I will be out of action for a little longer. Things are progressing slowly but positively. I hope to be back to full duties by early next week. xxx

No Words…..just smiles

2011-11-02T07:24:00.001+08:00

My beautiful daughter Renae! So many more to come I just couldn’t wait to share these two.

Value & Worth

2011-10-31T15:59:00.001+08:00

I read a few photography industry groups on Facebook and also follow a handful of photographer’s blogs. Why? Because I not only like their work but also their business “sense” makes sense, if you know what I mean! There is so much more to a photographer than being able to take a great photo.

I have spent many months recently stewing over my worth, my value to you. These words (worth and value) are used often in the photography industry, yet no-one is able to say you are worth x amount of dollars and you are going to have non-stop custom knocking on your door. Why not?

It has taken me quite a while to break through my rigid thoughts on this and now I don’t see what I do in a dollar value (this may very well be a bad thing for my business) but I am certain it is something felt by my clients. I value the service that I provide my clients, the personalised service from the day they contact me to arrange their photo session to the delivery day and beyond. My clients become like friends to me (many of my clients are already friends). I’m worth it! When you purchase a photo session with Sharon Manning Photography my aim is to make sure you the client feels like you get value for investment in the way I do business and the feeling you get when you look at the 30”x20” fine art print of your family hanging in the hallway of your home. Just like I get that warm fuzzy feeling when I know I have taken that exact same photograph.

It came time to structure new packages that provide my clients with value and worth and I have released them here. The product choice is now simpler with a photo session and product selection of A, B or C or all of them if that’s what you want, I’m not going to argue that one with you! All the information is up front in easy to understand combinations and you can see what you are getting for your investment. I like to be an informed customer myself before first contact to find out more. How about you?

I read somewhere the other day that a well known photographer calls her pricelist a menu! Great idea. Would that be set menu or a la carte madam?

I’m comfortable with what I’m worth and I’m going to make sure you are too!

Disconnect to Reconnect

2011-10-26T15:35:00.001+08:00

Sometimes you just need to disconnect from the world in order to get some clarity and reconnect with everything that is your life.

Sometimes your world becomes so messed up and travels at such a speed that you just can’t keep up.

This is how I felt in the last few months. My health was suffering, I was awful to live with (apparently), I wasn’t thinking clearly and was very uninspired to do very much at all.

Something had to happen…..within 4 days of this realisation we were heading to Bali for a holiday that was going to set “things” straight.

“Our Villa” (not the best photo as I did not take my DSLR with me on purpose, but you get the idea)

I slept, swam, shopped, spa’d and just sat. Experienced the second earthquake in my life. Woke me up from my first holiday nap it did!

No explanation necessary really!

10 days of bliss – no cooking and no dishes – just relaxing and not doing much of anything that involved too much exertion.

And now I am home, refreshed and ready to start all over again. A promise we have made is to step away from “life” at least twice a year from now on and recharge so that we can re-connect.

Wedding : Jessica & Ben

2011-10-10T20:51:00.001+08:00

“Ben organised the flowers Sharon, all on his own, I didn’t have to choose anything” Jessica told me as we were setting up for another photograph.

Jessica and Ben were just awesome – I loved every minute of photographing their wedding day. It dawned overcast with a few showers and even rained on my way to the ceremony. As I pulled up to turn left onto the main road to head down to Mulberry on Swan, a limousine drove past and I said to myself “surely that’s not HER limousine?”. Yep it was. So I checked my notes whilst keeping one eye on the road and sure enough I still had 55 mins to make a 30 minute journey. Gosh this girl is organised (LOVE IT!). Luckily they were taking their time and I overtook them and without speeding and I made it well in time to set up and wait for the girls to arrive. Jessica was going to be spot on time and not a minute late!

On Monday I was sent a running sheet of what family photos they wanted post ceremony and even had a rather handsome assistant rounding everyone up for me.

Have a wonderful honeymoon Jessica & Ben and thank you for sharing your special day with me.

M.I.A. (Missing in Action)

2011-09-30T09:49:00.001+08:00

Where have I been?

OK my last post was 2nd September…..I could give you the long winded reason why I haven’t been around here but I have explained it at least 100 time to various Doctors and Nurses in the last 10 days or so.

So the very short version is I have a buggered left knee and need some cartilage trimmed (seeing surgeon on 7th Oct) and I landed myself in hospital for a couple of days with an allergic reaction to 2 different antibiotics which made me swell up like a North West Blowie (the locals will know what that is) from my eyes to my sternum….not a pretty site. Anyway after several Dr’s and an eventual visit to hospital I am on the mend and very thankful to be able to breathe normally, look nearly normal again and stop itching.

In amongst all of that we managed to squeeze in a photo session with Gemma which we have been trying to do for quite some time now. What with her School/Dance/Work schedule there is very little time available these days for much else.

Here are just some of the photos from the day. Once I’m feeling better hopefully I can finish editing some more and share…..this session is something I took so much from and I hope to continue to take photographs just for me…..and you! Feedback is appreciated.

A couple of things I have discovered lately that have made my life SOOOOO much easier are:

Windows Live Writer – This blog post was written with it and then posted to my Blogger blog. Awesome. So much easier to type a post and format photos in the editor and they can be previewed before posting too. LOVE IT! Check it out if you don’t already use it. If you do, then I’m going to look like a slow learner aren’t I. Oh well better late than never.

A couple of months ago I invested in an iPad2 – my life has never been the same since….honestly this little bit of technology has changed my world – just LOVE it. I’m trying to make sure I spend some time searching for APPS that are going to make my life run alot smoother, but it’s also beneficial to have everything with me when I need it and be able to use it as a marketing tool for my business has been so worth it already.

Here’s where I need some help from you…..I’m a list maker (if you didn’t already know!) and I have lists for work, personal, family etc etc. I’ve tried just using a simple notepad APP but it has become cumbersome to keep erasing and adding to my lists. Can you suggest a really good List Maker APP for the iPad?

A couple of books I have been reading……

by Peter Adams – here

This is a coffee table book – not one to be read in bed.

by Marieke Hardy – here

On my iPad

Enjoy your week and hopefully I will be back sooner rather than later!

Oh and I would love some more photos to edit for you so send them to my email sharon@sharonmanning.com.au and I will work some magic on them……thanks!

Personal Project : 01/09/11

2011-09-02T14:14:00.001+08:00

"Honesty"

iPhone Covers

2011-08-30T09:04:00.000+08:00

I have had a personalised iPhone cover for a while now but it was starting to look a little tatty and dirty so it was time to source a new one that hopefully would last a little longer. With this sort of thing I like to touch and feel the products even though the ordering and design process is done online. So I decided that in the name of finding the right one I had to purchase a couple and have them delivered into my hot little hand.

I have an iPhone3 so I had to have a company that could supply covers for the iPhone4 as well and this company does. GetUncommon provides the ability to design or upload your own image for printing directly onto a plastic hard shell casing.

You can see that the cover comes in two sections and rather than snap it onto the phone you actually slide it into one section first then the other. This way the case actually protects the edes of the front of the phone as well.

I have also printed a clients photo onto a iPhone 4 case which I will be able to show you next week once I have actually delivered it!

So if you are a past client and would like to use one of your images to adorn your iPhone cover then give me a call or email me and I can design it up for you. What a great gift too these would make for parents and grandparents!

Stop, Crop, Edit #2!

2011-08-29T20:38:00.001+08:00

Sarah has sent me 2 images of her girls to work on, both of which are so cute. I have chosen one of her younger daughter simply because when I opened it I knew exactly what I wanted to do to it.

Here's the original image....

Some images are just begging to be turned to black and white (for me anyway) and this was one of them. Whilst I like the red jumper, the background of the toys was distracting and competing with her eyes.

I opened the image in lightroom 3 and played with the exposure, contrast and also applied a preset called NKYF Subdued from Abby's Presets which I cannot find a source for at the moment. I also cropped the image in tight.

I then opened the image in some new software I recently acquired called Nik - Silver Efex Pro 2. This is the first time I have used this program so I played away until I was happy with the results. My main aim was to reduce the brightness in the background so the focus was on her eyes and cute smile.

A quick tidy up in Photoshop of her skin, eyes and a few blemishes and here is the end result.

I probably played a little more than I usually do as I really need to spend some time with the Nik Software and get to know my way around - but first glimpses are good if not excellent!

If you want to try some presets for Lightroom or Photoshop then here are a few sources:

Pretty Presets

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Killer Tips

One Willow Presets

Please note I do not get paid for endorsing these products (it'd be nice though :-) LOL) but have used or still use them and think they are pretty good!

Hope you like Sarah!

Have you ever watched a movie....

2011-08-28T16:26:00.003+08:00

Have you ever watched a movie, listened to a song, had a conversation with someone you admire and been so inspired you have thought to yourself “I'm inspired to make some changes“ ?

This last week I had the awesome opportunity to attend August Exposure 2011 on the Gold Coast. What did I expect to gain from this event? Mmm, to be honest I wasn’t exactly sure. Whilst I knew I would be there with some 80 other photographers from all over Australia to listen to key speakers (Photographers mainly), the exact agenda and plan for the week wasn’t received until registration on Monday morning. Seeing as I was an AE “virgin” I was learning how things worked as I went.
So my journey started last Saturday with a 7.30am flight out of Perth and I had upgraded myself using Frequent Flyer points to the pointy bit of the aircraft. Was it worth it? Hell yes! The difference in attentiveness was amazing…..being addressed as Mrs Manning every time I was offered the morning newspaper; glass of juice, blanket and pillow was really a nice touch. The extra room for my size 16 behind was also welcomed and I could bend down to get something out of my handbag with being face planted with the seat in front. The other bonus was having your luggage come off the carousel first….that was pretty exciting….never happened to me before….I know small things but pretty special small things don’t you think?
On arrival I had booked the Airtrain (really just the regular train that every Tom, Dick and Harry uses to commute between Brisbane and the Gold Coast). Luckily the service starts at the domestic airport as in my wisdom (stupidness really) I decided at the last minute to take our largest suitcase we had just so I had some extra room and my clothes didn’t get so crushed. Are you painting a picture? A suitcase the size of Mt Everest, laptop bag and large handbag so as to carry my Canon 5D Mark II camera with me at all times! I parked my oversized luggage at my side, taking up a whole seat, but what else could I do; there were no designated luggage racks. Thank goodness it was Saturday and not peak hour, so the train was really only half full of Ekka Show visitors complete with showbags and furry hats and high on sugar….fun!

The train prior to filling up with people!

So I disembark at Nerang airport to be transferred by car to my hotel. Total travel time from home to hotel = 10.25 hrs.

The view from my hotel room through a dirty window.
August Exposure commenced for me on Sunday afternoon when I was very excited to listen to Lawrence Chan – Tofurious speak about Social Media and marketing specialised for Photographers. Excellent presentation which really set the mind working. Little did I know that I wouldn’t be able to quieten my mind by the end of the week.

I’m not going to bore you with all the details of the speakers and photographers I listened to over the period of 5 days, but needless to say, I have come away with bucket loads of inspiration and a to do list as long as my arm. There was a little journey of self-realisation too of where I am on the ability spectrum of my photography with great feedback on two of my images submitted for the critiquing session. Now just let me touch on this for a minute…..I was terrified at submitting these 2 photographs, what if they ripped them apart and tore them down with the honesty of what this session was to be about? (Believe me they did not hold back on some of the work presented) What if they hated my work? What was I going to do? Would they make me cry? I thought about this long and hard and you know what? At the end of the day if they did berate my work then I would take it on as constructive criticism and start from the beginning again. Hey, photography is supposed to be subjective, not everyone is going to like my style, but I’m pretty sure someone will too.

So as I patiently waited for my images to appear on the big screen in front of all the delegates I relaxed and waited to hear what the experts had to say. The comments made by the judging group as a whole were very positive and I’m sure I had a little smile on my face as they clicked over to the next delegate’s images. I know I couldn’t wait to get on the phone that evening and tell my husband what had transpired. I guess it’s an acceptance thing, not only by my clients (who are the most important ones to impress at the end of the day), my peers, the judges and of course those closest to me who have always believed in my ability even if I haven’t at times.

One unfortunate thing to happen on the Monday was I felt a sore throat and familiar “face ache” coming on and all of a sudden my taste buds were missing in action. So the next few days were like trying to concentrate while swimming through a germ infested swamp. Not nice and each afternoon I was heading up to my room to pass out in bed instead of joining in on the social evening activities that were planned. Oh well, I guess it had been my turn to get sick as I had come down off a pretty busy and stressful couple of weeks prior to my departure.

Room service dessert....sssshhh don't tell my personal trainer.
Those of you that know me know that I don’t rave on about myself (I can hear my husband’s laugh from here….and see the roll of his eyes) and probably consider myself to be a little shy until you get to know me and once you are a friend then and only then will I open up. During the last session presented by the ever moving Mercury Megaloudis, who by the way confesses to having ADHD, but gosh my eyes got tired of following him around the room for almost 4 hours, I was approached to share something I had learned during the week with everyone. As I had mentioned there were over 80 delegates in the room and I had to get up and speak in front of all of them. I hesitated at first, but you know what? I thought to myself about how the week had affected me and what I had learned about myself and knew that if I didn’t stand and speak then nothing was going to change. I stood, I spoke with a blocked nose and husky voice and shared what I had learned and when I sat down I realised a shift had taken place. I can and will do this! I love what I do too much not to make a go of it.

I don’t mean to come across all evangelistic like, but it was a personal experience of listening to other photographer’s stories and there were lots of laughs and even a few tears along the way. So I’m inspired to make some changes for the better and set some achievable goals and see where I end up. No promises other than to myself. They are in writing now so they are law.

I met some wonderfully talented fellow photogs this week too and made some friendships that I'm hoping will continue to evolve. Thanks to a couple of them who continuously checked on me too.

Flying home was a little painful and I nearly murdered the lady behind me who innocently bumped my seat every time her newly acquainted male friend made her laugh….trying to impress her with his sickening charm. Oh did I mention I flew home in economy? :-) Damn airline didn’t have any upgradable seats available on the way home, just when I really needed that extra TLC too. “Mrs Manning would you like a tissue? The whole box perhaps?” echoed all the way home.

Glad to be home with my family, nothing worse than being sick whilst you are away from home.

P.S. If you have read this to then end - thank you! xxx

NOTE: All images taken with my iPhone as I was too darn lazy to get out my DSLR.

I hope to take the next few days to recover properly and be back on deck towards the end of the week.

Stop, Crop, Edit!

2011-08-17T16:00:00.000+08:00

So Wednesday is going to be the day for editing your photos.....Thank you to Kris and Sarah who sent me some photos of their gorgeous kids to play with! It's Kris' turn this week and Sarah I will be editing your princesses next week.....can't wait.

Original photo.....isn't she a cutie......

My first step is to open my images in Adobe Lightroom, the editing interface in this program is so easy to use and I get results immediatley. So here's what I did......

1. Auto White Balance
2. Auto Tone
3. Bumped the clarity up to +6
4. Shaprened up to 40 - this bought her face a little more into focus and immediately drew me to her eyes.

So here she is now......can you see much of a difference?

At this point I would open the image in Photoshop. But before I do that I quite often run through my editing presets in Lightroom just to see if there is anything I like applied to the image.....

Here she is with a BW preset applied....I kinda like it

But for this exercise lets revert back to the colour version.

So I've opened it in Photoshop and one of my all time favourite actions in Photoshop is Coffee Shop Powder Room 2 which you can find here. This action allows me to soften skin, brighten eyes, define eyes and also add vignettes and brighten teeth!

So here's what I did.....
1. Brushed at 100% and reduced to 60% on the layer.
2. Defined eyes at 100% and reduced to 35% on the layer.
3. Brightened her eyes at 100% and reduced to 20% on the layer. I never brighten anymore than 20% as they tend to look like they have been possessed by the devil!

I didn't use the vignette, white whites or white teeth on this image - not necessary!

I also applied a sharpen for web action. There are plenty available out there on the web - just google it and you will have lots to choose from!

So here is my finished edit......

And side by side.....

Depending on the photo as to how much editing I do and what look/style I'm after. There is so much more I can do with this image but for the purpose of today's Stop, Crop, Edit I have kept it simple.

This is how I often edit, it is by no means how someone else may edit. Some images require less work and some more. It is always advisable to get the best possible image you can "in camera" then you have so much more to work with or less to work with, whichever way you want to look at it.

Thanks Kris for your contribution....this has been fun! Sarah I will be back next Wednesday with your edit!

Keep sending your photos in to sharon@sharonmanning.com.au :-)

Preview : C Family

2011-08-16T10:31:00.001+08:00

All 13 of them! It was Lisa's parents wedding anniversary and she organised a family photo session as a gift to them. What a gorgeous family they were too, so organised and happy to be there with their smiles on. All the kids were great and didn't complain once as were the adults. Beautifully colour co-ordinated (no mean feat) , all these factors made my job a breeze and really so much fun. These were taken at their corner park which had limestone walls around with steps and little nooks to use.

All the grandkids.....

The whole family......I was balancing on a limestone wall to take this shot about 2 metres in the air!

The beautifully talented Lisa. Lisa and her daughter Sarah have their own blog called A Spoonful of Sugar and they are both so very talented with sewing, cooking and papercrafting just some of their yuminess. Go have a look for yourself - divine!

The handsome baby of the family.

Thank goodness the weather held off just long enough to get our session done. Thank you to Lisa too for organising her whole family and co-ordinating the day, great job!

So who is coming?????

2011-08-15T21:05:00.000+08:00

This is always a fabulous 3 days - I LOVE going out to Hyden twice a year, the ladies are just sooooo nice and welcoming and yes I'm teaching again and very much looking forward to it......So who is coming along this time???????????????

I Heart Faces : Photo Challenge : Beautiful Eyes

2011-08-15T17:21:00.000+08:00

My entry into this weeks challenge - my daughter Gemma who has the most beautiful blue eyes - but I'm biased!

Head over to i heart faces to see more photos!

Sanpshot Saturday

2011-08-13T18:36:00.000+08:00

A new regular feature here on the blog will be "Snapshot Saturday" when I will share basic photographic information including the settings I have used to achieve the look I was after! Enjoy and try it out for yourself, I'd love to know how you go!

SEND ME ONE OF YOUR IMAGES!!!!!!

Another feature I would like to offer my readers is to edit one of your photos......this coming week I will start the ball rolling with one of my images straight from the camera and then show you how I edited it to get the end result. I'd love it if you could send me a photo of your own which I will edit for you and post here on the blog.....so send me an image that you would like me to edit to sharon@sharonmanning.com.au.

Spoil Yourself

2011-08-12T06:00:00.002+08:00

As part of my new series of blog posts I thought I would share with you some of my likes, finds and purchases! You know, clothing, shoes, jewellery, fabric, books and even camera gear, that you come across and just can't leave the shop without or at least stop dreaming about if your budget doesn't quite stretch that far.

As some of you are aware I have managed to shed just over 18 kgs in the last few months which meant that my wardrobe needed a bit of an overhaul, I was getting sick of wearing flour sacks. This weight loss thing is not over yet, in fact I'm only about half way to my goal weight and I won't deny it has been hard especially through the winter months having to drag my ever decreasing butt out of bed in the mornings to meet up with my personal trainer. So I didn't want to spend a fortune on clothes in my current size so I have become a bit of a bargain hunter and every now and then I splurge particularly on something that I know is going to last the distance.

On my recent travels to Sydney I discovered a clothing label called Seed, seriously, I could have spent a fortune in this shop - the style, fabric and colours of ALL of their clothing is just me.

From casual weekend wear to something a little more dressy.

Even gorgeous accessories that won't break the bank.

Classical clothes that you can mix and match with what I already have and hopefully won't date too quickly. I left with a beautiful fine knit grey jumper that has a cream layer underneath and I have worn it to death with my jeans.

The have 2 Seed stores here in Perth at Subiaco and Claremont and limited range also at all David Jones stores. Of course you can purchase online too, which is a bonus for me living where I do.

My husband has been away for the last 2 weeks for work - the longest I think we have both been apart in our nearly 22 year marriage. I have used this time wisely and kept myself busy with decluttering the house and packing up boxes of unwanted "stuff" collected during the last 10 years. I have cleaned out my pantry too which could be highlighted on a future post too, it's such a large pantry that it needs a post of its own. I always need time to sit with a cuppa too and bought this book, Simple Sewn Gifts from my favourite online bookshop Fishpond so that I could plan ahead with some smaller stitching projects. Things I could fit into a small amount of time.

I love it, there are some great gifts in here that I can use up my fabric stash on (how much fabric I really have was highlighted during my recent clean up). Cute christmas gifts to practical shopping bags and even some embroidery projects. Well worth the $20 investment.

With my next purchase again I didn't want to spend the earth on new bedding accessories and needed something that went with our new white quilt cover and tied in the existing chocolate wall. Freedom was the answer for new cushions and the new European sized pillow cases came from Target. Did you know Target now sells European pillow cases in the patterns to match their range of quilt covers too - there were some gorgeous designs and patterns available, so if you also have an existing plain coloured cover like me then tying in something different but complementary was easy!

Well that's it for this week - Next week be on the look out for some more bargain finds!

Changes

2011-08-11T15:06:00.003+08:00

This blogging business is hard work!

Having to come up with something to talk about or show you every day or so takes commitment. Now don’t get me wrong I am not shy of commitment (I don’t think anyone could be that runs their own business) but that’s just it, running your own business takes up the majority of my time and well, there just isn’t much time for a lot else, especially when you throw in a family as well. When I read full time bloggers entries about planning and thinking ahead and writing posts in the supermarket, I have been known to think to myself “how extreme”.

But you know what? What I am currently doing is not working – posting when I have completed a photo session or think of something to blog about and then promptly forget about what I was planning the very next second, because the bins need putting out or accounts need doing.

So, I am making a greater commitment to me (and to you, those of you that still read my blog that is) to do some planning, create a more visually attractive place to stop by (you may have already seen some changes….it’s a work in progress but I will get there), but more importantly I have always wanted my blog to be a great resource about photography and anything else that comes my way in the course of the day, week, month, year.

It has always been a mantra of mine to share my knowledge with whoever wants to pick my brains or visit here to perhaps find the answer to a question they might have or just to have a nosy and check out what I have been up to. I always appreciate the comments left here and feedback is something I think every blogger craves….interaction with another human being is just natural.

I’m still learning – I think we all are no matter what we choose to focus on. If you think you have nothing to learn then think again – there is always room for improvement no matter what we choose to pursue in life. I do not profess to be an expert, for an expert becomes complacent and often misses opportunities that cross their paths. The word laziness comes to mind. I work hard to keep my business functioning and also balance in my life with a family to think of on a daily basis. They will always come first, but sacrifices are made along the way so that I can remain passionate about my photography and personal hobbies.

There will be more posts on resources, how I do things in Photoshop Lightroom and Photoshop, practical tips on camera gear and well just taking photos.

So I’m hoping to be here more often and tantalise your curiosity with more than just photography and maybe, just maybe a little more about me and my every day!

3rd August, 2011

2011-08-04T10:51:00.001+08:00

Last night was Gemma's Showcase for her school and I was blown away. We went last year and really, the talent of the students was incredible. Singers, dancers and musicians showcasing their skills and amazing ablities all in one night of the year.

This year's performance exceeded last year by a mile. The opening tap item (which Gemma and her 3 fellow students choreographed) was an attention grabber and even included some comedy which was very entertaining. The night unfolded from there with solo singers singing Adele songs, Hallelujah (gave me goosebumps!!!), piano solos that you would think were being played by 40 year olds....all of it.....every single performance was amazing!

Obviously this is the last year she will be participating, which is rather sad and due to work commitments Steve couldn't be there, but Gemma shone in her 3 numbers. I got to see her do a comtemporary routine for the first time and I was mesmerised and after watching her dance for the last 10 years that was no mean feat. Even made her sister cry!!!!!!!!!

I'm hoping to get a copy of the video so that Steve and other family and friends can enjoy what transpired too.

No photos today just words or lack there of!

Yesterday was an amazing day - I spent the morning with a very special new friend and we just talked for around 2 1/2 hours non stop. All about her recent travels and me about mine, although no where near in comparison to 6 weeks worth.

Then I had some me time with a much needed manicure and repair job to my nails.

Home to do some more packing and cleaning out......the house is really starting to look "nice" :-)

A phone call with some incredibly positive news that I had been hoping and praying for all day. Thank you to my friends too yesterday that shared this with me and dropped everything and listened to me crying and laughing all at the same time...mwah.

Then I sat next to someone last night and we started talking about her new business ventures and how excited she was about her future plans and all the changes that have happened with her 4 children in the last year. Only one of her girls (yes 4 girls) is still at school, who funnily enough I had crossed paths with that day at school on a quick visit to drop off some lunch money to Gemma. You know it was lovely to hear her say that is her turn now to do something with her life after devoting it to her gorgeous girls. I offered to give her a hand and we also discussed lots of opportunities so I am looking forward to hearing more over a coffee very soon.

Yes, yesterday was a very positive day!

EDITED: Adding in the beautiful view today from my bedroom.....ah some sunshine today is lovely! See I can't do a post without a photo :-)

Absence makes the heart grow fonder!

2011-08-01T14:23:00.000+08:00

Or so they say....don't they?

This last month has been a whirlwind of packing, travelling, quick unpack only to repack and travel again. Being away from home and in particular my husband (he was very busy working!) was necessary but also very difficult. I kept thinking about everything I needed to get done at home...like starting to sort through cupbopards and sheds and whole rooms, not to mention the front hallway which we haven't seen for around 3 years I reckon! Why? because we have decided the time is right to move outta here and start another chapter in our lives. Where are we going? No idea but the seed has been planted and with a little watering and care should sprout very soon.....hopefully! More on this to come I'm sure.

Anyway, we were in Sydney for a week so Gemma could particpate in the Brent St Winter Workshop which she loved and gained so much experience from. Here she is walking in day one - a little nervous. By Day 3 she wanted to stay forever.

Renae and I spent our days shopping, sightseeing and spending a small fortune on parking (WOW it's expensive over there! $59 for 1-2 hours was a little bit rich for my liking).

Here she is in Darling Harbour.

Me - See I do have my photo taken sometimes. It was freezing this particular day....I have 3 layers under that jumper).

Gemma wanted Starbucks so after the aquarium and wildlife park

we queued for about 20 mins for a coffee!

and what's a visit to Sydney without Krispy Kremes - at the airport for breakfast on the way home but Gemma ticked it off her list of to do's (they are all Gemma's by the way!).

Glad to be home and back into a routine.
Hopefully I will be back with some more to share in a couple of days.

Apologies!!!!!!!!!

2011-07-07T15:53:00.000+08:00

My poor blog has been so neglected lately and for that I apologise. If you are a regular reader here and click on my blog only to realise that I still haven't updated, I'm sorry.

During the quieter winter months, I have made a conscious decision to slow down a bit and smell the roses as I know in time to come I will become busy again and unable to enjoy the day to day things that make up my life.

During this down time I have been concentrating on me and have been on a little health kick for the last few months and have managed to shed 16kgs. It has been a struggle I will not deny that, but such a positive change for me and my family. It's only now that I realise I have been miserable and my self-esteem has been at an all time low. It really is true that if you are happy (or sad) then your loved ones that surround you are affected by your state of mind too. It's all good and I'm on a road (along with my personal trainer) to a brighter, healthier future where I hope to achieve a few personal goals along the way. So stay tuned and I will share those with you, whenever they may happen, I'm not in a hurry so you might be waiting a while!

I am heading over to Sydney on Saturday with my 2 gorgeous daughters for a week's break. I will be logging into Facebook regularly and updating our adventures so check in and join in some fun!

I have even made a little 6x4 ring bound album to take with me and hopefully I will get some time to work on it while we are away, if not then I will be finishing it off when I get back. Yes I do still enjoy my papercrafting when I get some spare time.

Hope to see you during my travels over on my Facebook page!

Life.....

2011-06-23T15:08:00.000+08:00

Sunflowers = from husband

Photographed = using Canon 5d Mk II about an hour ago

Quote = Found on pinterest, this is something I need to read every day at the moment

Created = In Photoshop using actions, textures and brushes

Sharing = sweet!

Growth : Learning : Loving

2011-06-02T18:37:00.000+08:00

Every time I pick my camera up I learn something new.

That something new is usually discovered in the process of editing. It is always best to capture the best possible photo in camera so that your editing process is kept to a minimum.

That said, I have found recently that I have been capturing my images with a certain look and feel in mind for the end result, be it print, canvas, book or album. This largely depends on the style of photo session and how it plays out, sometimes I have a pre-conceived idea and sometimes I don't. Some photo sessions demand it and some don't. Sometimes this pays off and sometimes it doesn't.

For me at the moment it means that I take more images per photo session so that I can play and experiment with my editing styles. I'm growing in my profession and I always like to try something that is going to challenge me or extend me in some way and it also provides me with a variety and who doesn't like a bit of variety in their life.

As time has gone on I have developed a style to my photography and one that I would describe and being strong, clear, colourful (without being over the top) with a focus on my subjects eyes (one's essence). Many clients comment on my ability to capture the "life" of someone via their eyes and this is something I always strive to do during every photo session.

I'm loving what I do right now, what I do is not work it's a love and one that I like to share with my clients, providing them with a snapshot of the essence of them or their families.

Here are a couple of my self-development images taken recently at Lori & Ben's wedding.....

This style excites me and whilst it won't be for everyone, I might just pull it out of my hat every now and then!

Travel

2011-05-31T16:31:00.001+08:00

Over the next couple of months I will be doing some travelling and would like to offer you to opportunity to book a Photo Session with me......here is where I will be and when......

Sydney - Sunday 10th July to Sunday 17th July - Bondi Area

Mandurah - Monday 18th July to Friday 22nd July

Gold Coast/Brisbane - Sunday 21st August to Sunday 28th August

Email me if you are interested and we can discuss your requirements.

I Heart Faces | Best Face Photo from May | People’s Choice Contest

2011-05-31T13:18:00.000+08:00

My gorgeous daughter Gemma ready for her School Ball, a beautiful girl inside and out.

Some R&R & A Wedding

2011-05-30T14:43:00.000+08:00

We (my husband Steve and I) have just spent the last 5 days in Broome. The purpose of our trip - our friends' wedding but let me say we managed to get some well deserved R&R in too.

I have never been North during the winter - I know crazy isn't it! When I worked for Ansett Airlines way back when I was still in nappies, we always travelled during the off season which is also the wet season and it is revolting. I cannot cope with the humidity and oppressive feeling I get when the air is thick. NOT THIS TIME - the weather was amazing - 28-33 degrees every day with not a cloud in the sky and just clean breathable air....heaven! It has certainly put a different spin on the NW for me.

The Sunset Bar at Cable Beach Club became our "go to" spot to watch the amazing sunsets and of course a cocktail or two was enjoyed too.

It was really lovely to attend a wedding as a guest and not have to stress over getting the shots I need.....this allowed me a little bit of freedom on perspective which was really quite refreshing.

Congratulations Lawrence & Chivonne and thank you for sharing your special day with us, it truly was a beautiful wedding and even mother nature provided the most amazing sunset on the day. xxx

P.S. This last shot is SOOC!

Preview : S Family

2011-05-23T11:58:00.001+08:00

I was so looking forward to this photo session yesterday - I've known the lovely K (Mrs S) for a while now and was excited to meet her whole family. We headed for a park in Wanneroo but everyone else had the same idea given the fine weather, so we just went for a walk along Joondalup Lake and really, just had some fun - what else do kids want to do?

So here you go K a sneak peek - Seriously I don't know how you are going to decide there are just so many!

Adorable Miss E

We thought Master N was going to be difficult, he was anything but!

Master S - very suave!

I never looked at this one until this morning - love it !

Mr A looking very collected!

Makes me smile!

The whole family.

So so sweet.

Speechless.

I just want to squish those cheeks.

Calm?

Isn't she stunning!

EDITED TO NOTE: Please visit Kristen's blog here to see what plans she has for her photos and why we planned the photo session in the first place!

She's at the Ball tonight!

2011-05-14T20:45:00.000+08:00

It has been a huge day.....back with some more photos tomorrow!

Giveaway : Workshop : Winner

2011-05-07T17:04:00.000+08:00

My birthday present from Lis was very appropriate for drawing the winner of my "Get Your Camera Off Auto Workshop" a Camera Lens Coffee Cup - LOVE IT!

AND THE WINNER IS............................................

Kirsty said...

WOW!!!! awesome prize...I was hoping you would offer your class online at some stage, just with uni, kids, etc. etc. I knew I could never do it in person. Maybe this is the kick I need to finally buy the camera I have always wanted!! Good luck everyone and thanks Sharon, very generous

May 3, 2011 10:47 AM

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thank you to everyone who entered!

Congratulations Kirsty and I can't wait to get started with the workshop on Monday - can you please send me an email and I will add you to my list - Not long to wait now peoples!

If you were waiting to see if you won the giveaway or not and well, you didn't, you can still enrol for the workshop up until Sunday night! Just go here to enrol and pay with Paypal.

Giveaway : It's my Birthday!

2011-05-03T09:23:00.000+08:00

It's my Birthday today so I thought I would give you the chance to win a gift from me!

I'm giving away a place in my "Get your camera off auto" online workshop commencing on Monday next week (9th May) valued at

$125.00.

Here's what you have to do, are you ready? Don't get overwhelmed........

1. Leave a comment here on my blog.

Yep that's it! I'm over of all the liking of Facebook pages for extra entries, inviting your friends etc. and I know there are alot of readers here that don't use Facebook at all.

However if you do use FB and want to like my page then here it is......

Remember it's a online course with lessons posted every 2 weeks, you can learn at your own pace and we will have a Flickr group set up to communicate with me and each other should you have any queries or need some help.

We will be starting with your semi-automatic settings and progressing onto full manual. We will also cover, light, perspective and how to photograph groups and individuals and lots more.

Those that have already enroled in the course - THANK YOU! - you will have your class fee refunded should you win.

Spread the word and I look forward to drawing the winner on Saturday 7th May.

Good Luck!

Preview : Wedding : Lori & Ben

2011-05-02T14:38:00.001+08:00

On Easter Saturday I had the huge honour of photographing Lori & Ben's wedding day in Albany. The bride's Mother - Ann has become a good friend of mine over the last few years and she and her family are well, just lovely people!

If you know Albany, the weather can be unpredictable (particularly at this time of the year) and whilst it wasn't sweltering we were definitely warm and I even ended up with a little sunburn to the nose by the end of the day. The ceremony was at Flinders Park Lodge - gorgeous grounds and lots of lovely shade.

We were very fortunate to have the use of a Harley motorcycle and Roadster for the post-ceremony photos and we had so much fun with our shiny props.

Here is just a small sneak peek of some of the many many photos taken on the day. Congratulations to Lori and Ben and thanks for being such a great sports and doing everything I asked you to do without complaints. xxx Also to Ann and Rob for being so organised and really making my task at hand very easy. xxx

You can also check these photos out on Facebook too - Just "like" Sharon Manning Photography by clicking on the logo.... :-) Thanks!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-21T17:31:00.000+08:00

To all my lovely clients, friends and family, have a safe and happy Easter and I will see you all back here on Wednesday next week with a chocolate hangover! xxx

Preview : T Family

2011-04-20T15:42:00.000+08:00

Sorry for not being around much - in fact I really had to think about my password when I went to log in!

I have had a very busy couple of weeks with a Wedding and three family photo sessions and I'm slowly wading through the editing. I love this part of my job, so much so I find myself smiling at my monitor alot of the time.

As well as my day job I have been sewing costumes, ferrying Gemma to the West Coast Dance Festival competitions and dance practices. She placed first on Sunday night for her Slow Modern routine - very proud Mummy (and Daddy and Sister) moment....she worked hard and really wanted a result for this one and she got just that! Well done chicken xxxx

OK now the preview.....

I have only met Susan a couple of times yet she is just a lovely bubbly person and so very easy to talk to. It's Susan's birthday today and she decided that she wanted a family photo session with me to celebrate, having not had photographs taken for a number of years what better way to remember this very special time in her life.

The rain clouds were looming the closer I got to our location and I knew we had to move fast as the light was fading quickly.

What an amazing family she has - they were so much fun and certainly made my task at hand very easy with lots of laughs along the way!

So without further ado.......

Isn't she beautiful?!!!

Happy Birthday Susan!

Preview : Wedding : Jen & Troy

2011-04-11T10:48:00.000+08:00

On Friday afternoon Jen & Troy were married by celebrant Esther Bliss at The Mallard Duck Restaurant in the Swan Valley and I was honoured to be able to share and capture the day for them.

Here's just a sneak peek for J&T. Congratulations and best wishes for the future with your gorgeous children Krystal and Ashlin!

"Get Your Camera Off Auto" e-Workshop!

2011-04-01T16:59:00.000+08:00

Due to overwhelming demand and interest, I am hosting my "Get Your Camera Off Auto" workshop online! Now everyone will have the opportunity to learn how to use their DSLR on manual and realise the full potential of their camera.

I'm very excited to offer this to you, alot of hard work has gone into developing this course in a way everyone can benefit from it, no matter what experience you may have had shooting on manual. I have been wanting to do this for quite a while, and the timing is right for me and quite possibly you too.

Registrations are now open for class commencing 9th May (term two or there abouts for most of Australia).

All the details are below and please if you have any further queries, then leave a comment or email me if you would prefer. I will answer your questions directly to you and also in a post here on my blog in a couple of days time.

I genuinely cannot wait to share my knowledge with you and have some fun along the way......just don't laugh at me in the videos!

Once you have signed up don't forget to add your button to your blog.....here's what the button looks like and the code you need is in the right hand bar of my blog here.

Thanks and I look forward to welcoming you all on Monday 9th May!

Can you visualise what photographs you would like on your walls?

2011-03-31T13:12:00.001+08:00

Some people are not great at visualising how something will look. Whilst we know what we want, sometimes it's nice to see it before we invest our hard earned dollars in it. Whatever that "it" is.

In my world it's photography and prints or canvases on the wall. I know I like to surround myself with photographs and memories of my family and when I happen to pass by I quite often find myself smiling (at them).

I wanted to help my clients see beyond just the framed print on the wall and see the potential of a canvas and what the emotional impact and physical impact it would have on their lounge, family room, hallway or bedroom.

So as part of your proof session you will now be able to do just that. See different sized photographs and how they will look on a wall in relation to other elements your room might have.

This new (to me) tool will open up a whole realm of possibility you may not have thought of before.

A lounge area with fireplace.......

A hallway with chair......

A couch with Triptych (3 photos in a row, all the same size).....

Different sized photographs grouped together to tell a story.....

During your proof session I will assist you in designing what works for you and your decor so that you too will find yourself smiling as you pass by.

Imagine the possibilities! I can't wait to show you!

I'm back but wanted to share this quickly!

2011-03-29T13:41:00.000+08:00

I am back from Hyden but I just wanted to share this quickly with you all. Particularly those that participated in my workshop on the weekend and those that have in the past.

If you have an on-board flash then you can get one of these from Photojojo........

here's the blurb......

You know that folder on your desktop full of nearly awesome photos you need to touch up? The ones with red eyes, shiny foreheads, and bright overblown faces? It’s time to stop adding to it.

Slip the Pop-up Flash Bounce onto the hot shoe of your DSLR and you’ll be snapping pro-quality and shadow-free photos without hearing a chorus of “augh! My eyes!” after a blinding flash.

This smart and simple hood contains a mirror that directs the flash on your camera up, bouncing it off the ceiling to create even, natural light just like the pros do with their external flashes.

It's better than a diffuser because it bounces the light from your flash instead of just softening it.

With the Pop-up Flash Bounce you’ll finally have clear, evenly lit shots without shadows, reflections, or evil in the eyes of your friends.

Now you'll just have to figure out what to do with all the time you used to spend editing!

But click here to find out some more and be sure to take a look at the before and after shots too.

This would be great if you didn't want to fork out for a external flash but wanted to eliminate the "flash" look from your photos.....bouncing light!

Special Preview

2011-03-24T16:16:00.000+08:00

As I have hinted in the last couple of weeks, I am have been madly trying to get a new and very exciting package together for my clients. I have had to overcome a couple of obstacles along the way along with lots of thought into who I wanted to aim this style of photography at. I can't say too much about the end product at the moment as I need to get another sample done next week and then I can launch the product to you all with great excitement on my behalf. But in the meantime I can show you this.....

The concept will become clear once I can explain, I promise! Sorry to be so cryptic but it will be something I am so looking forward to offering my "younger" clients (hint, hint).

Quality Control

2011-03-23T16:31:00.000+08:00

As an experiment I got some photos printed at a "cheaper" digital print place (who will remain anonymous) and my "go to" professional photography lab today....all I can say is WOW what an amazing difference....this is one of the reasons (among many) I do not provide my images on disc....I feel that it really does open up the possibility of clients being disappointed with the end result and let's face it they have paid good money and deserve the best print they can get!

Product quality is something I am very passionate about and spend alot of time getting right. You might pay a little more but I can give you peace of mind that you are getting a top grade product.

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My iPhone is coming in handy lately!
Sunset while I was waiting for Gemma at dancing.
Half an hour of listening to myself breathe!

I'm signing off for a few days as I am heading out to Hyden (Wave Rock) for the weekend to participate but also teach at the Scrappin' Outback Wave Rock Scrapbooking Retreat. I'm so looking forward not only to the 4 hour drive each way listening to my music and singing along if I feel like it, but also catching up with all the wonderful ladies I see twice a year!

Packing has commenced (well a list of what I have to pack anyway!) so that is a start. Hopefully I won't forget my clothes this time - would you believe I forgot to put my suitcase in my car a few years back! I had all my scrapping gear and no clothes. I had to do a u-turn and head home to get them, luckily I was only about 20mins down the road.

So I will catch you all next week - have a great weekend and stay safe!

Preview : Cheri Part 2

2011-03-22T19:50:00.000+08:00

I shared a single preview of Cheri a couple of weeks back, but I wanted to share the real reason for the photo session.....2 beautiful horses and 2 adored dogs. The love she has for her animals is evident with her every look and she talks to them like they are her children. Now I have not had alot to do with horses and I was just a little anxious to be in the same fenced arena as a bucking horse but after a few stern words from Cheri they settled down pretty quickly.

Thank you Cheri for sharing your passion with me for the afternoon, a challenge nonetheless on my behalf that I managed to achieve.

Enjoy!

I Heart Faces Top 10 Winner!

2011-03-20T09:45:00.000+08:00

Well here I was this morning enjoying my Sunday morning cup of tea and checking my email when I discover my entry into the I Heart Faces Sun Flare challenge has been judged by Jessica Claire (Los Angeles Wedding Photographer) as 10th place! 10th place feels like 1st place to me this morning. I was definitely doing a little happy dance (inside). It just feels so nice to be recognised by a renowned photographer that my photograph is good! Simple. It's good and it's a good feeling.

So I now get to put this little logo on my blog......

can you see it over there on the right hand side at the top? If you click on the logo above or on the right it will take you to the blog post at I Heart Faces announcing the winners - please visit them because they are all fantastic photographers with some amazing talent and who doesn't like looking at great photographs.

Thank you to the Hamersley's too for what is still, one of my favourite photo sessions....ever!

Photography Workshop : Hyden 25-27 March

2011-03-18T09:15:00.001+08:00

I will be teaching a Workshop at the Upcoming Wave Rock Scrapbooking Retreat 25th-27th March....here are the details!

“Tips and tricks to improve your photography”

Sharon of Sharon Manning Photography will take you through some of the fundamentals of photography including Light (without light we don’t have photography!), Composition and general tips and tricks to improve your photographic skills. You will learn about Rule of Thirds, Reflecting Light, Perspective and Angles. This will be a hands on class, so make sure you have your camera batteries charged and ready to create some magic!

We will be doing a trip to Wave Rock to take photos of each other and groups using the tips we will learn – this is going to be great!

If you would like to attend the retreat there are still spots available and you can contact Karen from Scrappin' Outback for details.

Karen Smith
Shop 2/28 McPherson Street, Hyden, WA
PO Box 105, Hyden, WA, 6359
PH: (08) 98805300
FAX: (08) 98805762

scrappinoutback@bigpond.com

To those of you already attending - see you there!

Perth Family Photographer : F-G Preview

2011-03-17T22:21:00.000+08:00

This is what you get when you have 3 gorgeous boys and a beautiful mother to photograph at their home in a natural bush setting.

Last Tuesday I photographed the F-G family (minus Dad he was working hard) and during the session I managed to fall flat on my behind whilst trying to navigate a grassy slope.....Jack (Big brother) tried not to laugh but it was pretty funny really especially when I had a camera in each hand and instinctively threw my arms up as I fell. Luckily there were no injuries and I finished the session in one piece.

The boys were great and very co-operative for me.....so the session went smoothly and I think you will be seeing alot more of Jack over the coming weeks as these images will perform a dual function....more to come on that one!

Mum and her boys.

Thanks Jack you were awesome.

Middle brother giving me the sultry model look!

But really this more like L!

The three boys together - it is obvious they are really quite close although I'm sure there are the usual boy stuff goin' on.

Littlest brother's choice to lay on top of this wall - good choice H!

This would have to be my favourite of Jack.

Mum! I was playing around with some editing ideas in Photoshop and I really like the softness of this one.

Gorgeous C in classic Black and White (love my B&W's).

Thank you to the F-G family for a fabulous photo session....even if I did make a fool of myself!

I Heart Faces : Photo Challenge : Sun Flare

2011-03-14T11:45:00.000+08:00

This weeks Challenge at I Heart Faces is Sun Flare - this would have to be one of my favourite photos ever, not just for the sun flare but because I captured the relationship between father and son!

Be sure to check out some of the other amazing entries over at

March Newsletter

2011-03-11T13:51:00.001+08:00

My March Newsletter was sent out today via email.
If you would like to receive your own copy straight to your email box then click on the "Subscribe to Newsletter" on the right hand side of this page.

Or you can download your own copy by clicking on the image above!
Happy reading!
Sharon xo

I Heart Faces : Photo Challenge Week : Best Face Photo taken in Feb

2011-03-08T14:11:00.000+08:00

My entry in this weeks I heart faces challenge is a personal one - me - a self portrait!
I don't like having my photo taken (like most people) but every now and then a good one pops up that I actually don't mind (like most people!)....this is one of those.

Be sure to visit iheartfaces to see all the wonderful entries and leave some lovin'.

Photgraphing Flowers

2011-03-06T14:20:00.000+08:00

Gemma bought me home some gorgeous lillies yesterday and today I thought I would photograph them using my trusty white polystyrene as a background.

So here's my process:

Window is situated behind me.

Polystyrene is on an angle to the window to eliminate as much shadow as possible appearing directly behind the flowers.

I was using my 24-105mm lens. (I could have used my 50mm lens here too but I wanted a more wide angle shot that I could crop down).

Then I played in Photoshop and cropped some of the photos to suit. This next photo I have not altered at all except to increase the exposure level to get a nice crisp white background....perfect!

On another image I played with some textures and colour overlays. Then I added some subtle brushes to another layer and ended up with this.

Nice isn't it? - very subtle and romantic like.

Then I combined a couple of different ones and came up with this....

Give it a go.....try using a white sheet if you don't have any polystyrene or a pale coloured wall. Make sure you are between your light source and your subject to get the best results....but most of all just have fun!

Mixed bag in point form

2011-03-04T09:10:00.000+08:00

1. New Photography package is coming along nicely thank you - I really cannot wait to share this one with you....by the end of next week I promise!

2. Ellenbrook was hit by a big Thunderstorm on Monday, roads were blocked by fallen trees and there was lots of damage everywhere! We live in Bullsbrook (about 20 mins north of here) but received hardly any storm at all!

3. Paid a visit to here with Lis - came out totally stuffed!

4. This baby was released on Wednesday, not actually available for a while here in Aus....~~I want one~~ I would like one....that's it - that's all I'm going to say!

5. I have been crafting...look at the mess I have made....

We are heading into a long weekend here in Perth and we have a few things planned to enjoy our mini break. I am thankful the humid weather has abated for a while - I don't do humid, like alot of people I have come across these past few weeks given their grumpy moods. Hot and dry is ok so hopefully it will continue along with the happier dispositions!

Stay safe and see you next week!

She Art Workshop

2011-03-02T14:05:00.001+08:00

I am participating in Christy Tomlinson's She Art Workshop (just for me!) which started yesterday but I had other plans yesterday and so today I got to play. Here is my first effort - Girl 1 - She belongs to my eldest daughter Renae and hopefully she will take pride of place in her new home. The words say "She knew where she was from".

We have learned the basics so far and I have 2 more girls I can create before Week 2 starts. I think I need some more practise on the hair - there are a couple more styles I need to try out I think.

Anyway not bad for a first effort and I had so much fun - mess everywhere!

Teaser

2011-02-28T20:53:00.000+08:00

Can anyone guess who this package is for?

Photography Resources

2011-02-24T08:14:00.005+08:00

I am a firm believer in giving back and sharing my knowledge no matter what field I happen to have some sort of skill in. I am a sponge when it comes to information myself and those that share even the most basic of knowledge I'm wanting to hear it and take it on board or at least be re-assured that I'm on the right path. Does that make sense? Do you do that too?

Today I thought I would share with you some great blog posts that I find very helpful and informative...passing on to you some of my resources.

Jasmine Star has written a follow up post to the one I touched on last week on natural light reflectors...I love that she shares the ins and outs of her session...

here

Scott Bourne of Photofocus has written a great article here on the creative side of photography...

here

Photofocus is a great resource with Podcasts and technical information presented simply and in easy to understand formats - well worth the visit.

There are some changes afoot with this blog but Soulographer is aimed at the photographer but there are plenty of articles you might find of interest.
here

This is not about a blog or post as such but every now and then Fitzgerald Photo Imaging change up their LCD display in the showroom and they have very kindly included 4 images of my own. If you would like to take a look at some amazing photography then please go to their facebook page
here
and take a look at the video they have put together! BTW I can't speak highly enough of Fitzgerald Photo Imaging - I use them for all my products and the service is exceptional! Thanks guys.

Preview : Cheri

2011-02-23T08:57:00.000+08:00

She said....."I don't know how to smile with my eyes"

I disagree!

I was a little sneaky with this one cause I was there to photograph Cheri, her 2 horses and her 2 dogs.....but she is just a gorgeous lady....how could I resist.

There are more to come with the horses and dogs, I promise.

P365 : Update

2011-02-20T09:34:00.000+08:00

I just thought I would check in here and see how everyone was doing with their P365?

Be sure to comment and leave me a link to your own projects and then we can share - I love looking at my own pictures but I also love looking at others'. Inspiring each other to keep going and also give each other ideas about what we can photograph ourselves is a good idea.

When I started this journey I wanted to photograph my daily life, the mundane stuff, like what we had for dinner, the weather on that particular day etc. I also wanted to throw in a couple of creative pictures along the way too because it's what I do.

I'm lugging my Canon 5d Mk II around in my Epiphanie bag most days and when my shoulder just doesn't feel up to it then I run with my iPhone and this combination is working just fine for me. We have a small point and shoot also which hubby uses for work but I'm yet to snaffle that and give it a go.

I got my knickers in a twist the other day when I thought I had missed a day and realised that my 5d was recording the date a day ahead so I had to revert back to my diary and work out what day I took what photos......now this wouldn't have happened if I processed the photos each and every night but sometimes life gets in the way.

I'm not as obsessed with getting a photo every day as I thought I would be but it seems to be working out for me right now. I know the day will come when I will miss a day - and you know what - that's ok, I will just fill the spot with another photo from another day, because at the end of the day it's still my life being recorded. Some days I have the choice of more than one photo, so I don't think I will be short of "fillers".

You can visit my P365 here or click on the menu item at the top of the page or here at 365 Project

I'll be back next Sunday with some more tips and ideas for your own P365. Until then, just shoot!

Jasmine Star

2011-02-19T05:22:00.000+08:00

Jasmine Star is everything I have ever wanted to be (in a photographer) and beautiful, young and beautiful (I know I said that twice, but she is!). Yes she is a specialised wedding photographer something that is not necessarily my goal, but her style is just amazing and she is not shy in sharing which is always a good thing in my book.

Image from Jasmine Star blog - permission granted.

For those of you that participated in my "Get your camera off auto" course last year and anyone who is interested really - check out Jasmine's latest post here. Jasmine has used a very difficult light situation (harsh hot overhead sunlight) and turned it around in her favour. Really look at the images and you can see where she has positioned her bride and groom in the shade when the sun is at it's "meanest". On the dock in the shade of a sail, under a parasol and using backlighting (this takes alot of practise and really needs to be shot on manual).

Once the sun has dropped and softened then she has used it to backlight her subjects whilst still chasing the shade to position them in. Results = awesome photos with the light becoming part of the image once it was soft enough to make an impact and the subject does not squint!

Try it. Leave your subject where they are (in shade) and shoot from both sides of your subject, once the sun is low and soft enough, try and incorporate it into your images. Look at your images and assess where the light is and which ones work and which ones don't. It's all practise!

Shooting Calendar

2011-02-16T08:06:00.000+08:00

There are only a few Photo Session spots left for March and April in my calendar, other months are not so busy!

Email me sharon@sharonmanning.com.au or phone 0417 933 696

We have a WINNER!

2011-02-14T20:44:00.000+08:00

I went with the old fashioned way of doing this draw - rather than the random number generator!

Entries all screwed up in a salad bowl.......

my able and willing assistant Miss Gemma.....

and the winner is Rachel......CONGRATULATIONS Rachel!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You are going to love your new camera strap.

Rachel if you can email me your mailing address I will arrange for your new CR Couture Studio Camera Strap to be mailed out to you as soon as possible.

Thank you to everyone who entered, I loved reading your location ideas - The beach seems to be popular!

If you didn't win please check out CR Couture Studio straps - I promise you won't be disappointed.

Sweet Sweet Love

2011-02-14T08:28:00.000+08:00

Although it's not such a huge thing here in Australia (not like the USA) Mr Manning and I acknowledge Valentine's Day in a small way, sometimes a card to each other, sometimes a nice dinner out, I have even been known to make my love something handmade as a gift. Nothing lavish, over the top, just something small and a way to say I love you. We have loved each other for nearly 26 years and like most couples there are good times and not so good times, but we are still here, together, celebrating every day in some small way, a kiss, a hug, a note signed with a heart (me) or smily face (him), sharing a quiet moment together with no need to talk because most of the time we know what each other is thinking. mmm love you Mr Manning. xxxx

20 000 Visitors - Time for a Giveaway!!!!!!!!!

2011-02-11T06:00:00.004+08:00

Yesterday I hit 20 000 visitors here on my blog (I lost my first counter about a year ago when I was updating my blog....forgot to back up first)!!!!!!!!!!!!

So to celebrate I thought I'd do a giveaway.

To enter you need to "Like" my Facebook Page and leave a comment here on this post (not my FB page please!) telling me what location your ideal photoshoot would take place? Would it be at home, the beach, your favourite park? If you've already 'liked' my page, fabulous, just leave a comment here letting me know along with your answer!

Easy!

Here's what you will be in the draw for:

A gorgeous "Orchid Bliss" Camera Strap from CR Couture Studio
valued at Regular Retail $65 plus Registered Postage of $8.50 (within Australia).

That is a total Value of $73.50!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

But currently CR Couture Studio are being very generous to their buyers and have reduced ALL Straps due to the USD being so low!

So this strap is on sale for $55 plus postage.

I have 2 of these straps and they are so so comfortable to wear and of course they look very stylish too. The inner layer is velour velvet with a cushion insert for extra comfort.

Comments will be taken until Monday 14th February (Valentine's Day) 8.00pm WST.

Good Luck everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On the Wall!

2011-02-10T09:07:00.000+08:00

You might receognise the photograph on the right - the is E and I have used this image in some of my marketing and advertising in the past. This is used on the reverse side of my business cards.

This was shot in a park using a sheet strung from a rope so the kids could run in and out and play with it. At this stage I think E had reached her limit of having her photo taken and laid down on the ground with the sheet tucked up underneath her. One of my favourite shots ever.

I had it framed and used it as a promotional piece in my diaplays. Then one day Lis asked me if I could take a similar shot of her younger daughter M - I love a challenge! I chose to do this in my bedroom at home as I have gorgeous north facing "bay" windows and perfect light for taking portraits......and I thought M would be happier in this location?

Wrong!

Here she is really not wanting her photo taken. You can see a bottle of bubbles in the shot too - bribery wasn't even working at this stage.

Mum Lis even had her photo taken....

We even played tickling games.......

Eventually M co-operated and we got our shot to match E's taken about 10 months earlier.

They now proudly hang in Lis's family room and were given to her husband as a birthday gift last year. These prints measure approx. 35" x 20" each framed and look fantastic together on the wall.

Definitely worth the effort to get a matching pair!!!!!!!!!!!!!

P365 : Idea

2011-02-06T08:53:00.001+08:00

I came across this gorgeous Album template from Jessica at Vol.25 today that you might like to consider for your P365 project, actually I think someone sent me the link a couple of weeks ago (can't remember who - please let me know who you were?). Then I came across it again in my blog travels this morning and thought I would share. Isn't it just too cute! And easy to load your photos into as the year goes and have a stunning book to display at the end of your project.

Winners!

2011-02-05T15:51:00.000+08:00

The winners of the Waxing Spray Tanning and Make-Up Facebook competition were drawn this afternoon at 3.00pm at the Salon..................

Congratulations to Jo Kay and Simone Bristow for winning a Photo Session with me valued at $290.00 each. Please email Diane at info@wtm.net.au your mailing address and the vouchers will be in the mail to you!

When you are ready to make your booking then please call or email me and we can arrange a time and place. I look forward to photographing you and your families ladies!!!!!!!!!!!

February Newsletter

2011-02-04T13:36:00.001+08:00

My February Newsletter was sent out today via email.

If you would like to receive your own copy straight to your email box then click on the "Subscribe to Newsletter" on the right hand side of this page.

Or you can download your own copy from here

Happy reading!

Sharon xo

Win 1 of 2 Photo Sessions with me valued at $290 each!

2011-02-02T06:00:00.003+08:00

You could win one of 2 Photo Sessions valued at $290 each with me!

These sessions are on offer only from:

Check out their website for more
information about WTM and their services.

What you need to do to win one of the 2 Photo Sessions on offer:

Go to the WTM facebook page HERE
"Like" the WTM facebook page
Suggest your friends like the WTM facebook page

Post "suggested" on the WTM wall just like everyone else is - remember you won't be able to post on the WTM wall until you "like" their page.

It's that easy!

While you're at it check out my Facebook page

to keep up to date with what's happening around here!

Freebie

2011-02-01T21:16:00.001+08:00

February is with us already and in celebration of the "love month" I have made a desktop calendar for your to download free!

Simple click on the image.
This will take you to the 1024x1280 image.
Right click on the image and save to your own computer.
Upload to your desktop and choose center for your picture position.

Anybody who really wants an image to fit their own resolution then email me and I will accommodate!

Inspiration from many

2011-02-01T05:00:00.002+08:00

When I decided I was going to participate in P365 this year I knew I wanted to record more than just a photo for some of the days in my life this year. As I'm a "scrapper" for want of a better word, I wanted to record a hard copy of the little events, the everyday, journal more about the details (my memory is failing and I need to do this as I get older) of my day to day life. Not every day as such, but I felt a need to document the more mundane occasions.

My inspiration for the type of album I was looking for was to come from a few people. Firstly from my dear friend Lis Cassey - now Lis creates layouts about the little things that she and her family do. I have always admired her style of creating a "no fuss" layout. Believe me when I say she is a power scrapper, choosing to record the important rather than the plentiful. Lis can come up with a page in about 5 minutes (sometimes!) whereas I would spend hours (ok....days) fussing and fiddling with product and attempting to fill my page with enough product to sink a battle ship.

Secondly, I love the way Ali Edwards journals and records in her own eloquent words her memories of her own day to day events. Again without fuss. Including things like receipts, menus even cut up coffee cups.

One deciding factor in creating this vision was to attempt to use as much as I could of my papercrafting stash without purchasing very much at all. This I have managed to achieve so far!

I had an album – We Are Memory Keepers Green Corduroy 8.5”x11” purchased some time ago from Tomorrow's Memories. I haven't decided what I want in the front window yet so I have just added a little bit of pattern paper for the moment.

I had some page protectors on hand and sourced some more like these and these.

Product – I have plenty of that!

Now I must have had my head in the sand lately, but please believe me when I say I was not aware of Becky Higgins' Project Life - I know, I know....where have I been? As I said I had my head in the sand. But when I saw this project I realised my ideas weren’t that original after all. My visions were definitely on the Ali Edwards path not Becky Higgins’ but since starting the year off with lots of enthusiasm I have adopted some of Becky’s ideas like the transparent monthly dividers with chopped up Maya Road calendars stapled to the top. Like I said I need to use up what I have and these worked a treat.

I'm mixing up the page protectors to suit what photos I want to showcase and also including little tabbed pages without protectors. I like the idea of it being a little different.

I have even created a whole page dedicated to my word for 2011 - "Choose". A gentle reminder every time I open my album.

I am really enjoying this project - I can work on it as much or as little as I like and I find (like Ali Edwards) if it's left out on my bench then I will fiddle when I have ten minutes here and there. Because I'm not having to create a 12x12 elaborate layout it is not so overwhelming. Every couple of weeks I will get some photos printed off and hopefully that will inspire me again to keep going. I'm excited to see the pages starting to take shape and more importantly the stories are being told about the little things.

I have also been creating some of my own journaling tags in Photoshop which have been inspored again by Ali Edwards.

These next 3 pages document my weekend away in Fremantle with my hubby including receipts and the little things I wanted to remember and keep.

Please if you are joining in on Project Life then leave me a link so I can come visit your "world" - sharing ideas is what it's all about.

P365 - What I've learned so far!

2011-01-31T11:59:00.001+08:00

Well January is nearly over and I haven't missed a day yet - as time goes on it gets easier, alot easier.

I have created a separate page called "P365" and you will find it in my new top menu here. That's if you are interested in viewing my photos taken so far.

My photos are also here at

And what's a post without a photo............my gorgeous daughters

Here's waht I have learned so far:

I'm having fun
I'm documenting the everyday - the boring and not so boring
I'm using my camera daily
I'm not complicating things - meaning I'm not after a perfect photo, I'm taking a photo so that I have a visual record
As time goes on I am taking fewer shots of the same thing because I'm checking the settings more often and thinking about light, angles etc. This kinda contradicts the previous point but I can acknowledge there is a difference
I'm using my camera in public arenas alot more (not all the time yet - but I'm getting there)
I'm learning about what's important and not so important in my life
I haven't had to use my flash yet
I'm printing more photos and telling more stories (I will be back with another post about this hopefully tomorrow)

I have so much more I want to experiment with and instead of rushing into everything at once like I normally do, I am savouring this project and being more patient and forgiving of myself, which can't be a bad thing, can it?

M's wall of photos

2011-01-25T14:46:00.001+08:00

I have another post half written, I just needed to take some photos so it wasn't just all words, but I will be back with that another time.

On Friday I was off to do the "weekly" food shopping and I bumped into a client who works in the centre where I shop. M was very excited to show me some photos taken with her phone of her lounge room wall.

When I saw these they bought tears to my eyes (I was already having an emotional day so it didn't take very much). M explained her process of getting the positioning just right by placing the frames on the floor and then on the wall and drawing with a pencil around each (clever bunny!).

This is the end result!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Just stunning. All the photos are Black and White and what a statement it makes.....I love it. Thank you so much M for sharing with me, it's so nice as a photographer to see your photographs enjoyed and loved.

Recipe Folder

2011-01-14T15:02:00.000+08:00

I'm not the world's best cook, I get by, my husband is a far superior cook to me, he can look at what's in the fridge and then prepare a truly yummy meal. Me? Nope, I need a recipe to follow and all the ingredients at my finger tips. I have several cookbooks that I'm sure I have purchased over the years just because I like to drool over the photos.

One of my holiday projects was to organise and tidy up ~~our~~ my recipe folder which I think I started about 20 years ago as the new Mrs Manning and back when my aspiration of being the next Margaret Fulton was in my dreams (today it's Donna Hay!). Well that dream didn't come true did it!

Anyway, after much time spent searching the WWW for recipe cards and how to store them, I decided that it was going to be an easier task to come up with something of my own, that suited my needs.

So I purchased one of these 38mm 3 Ring Marbig Enviro Insert Binder from Officeworks....

I borrowed some We Are Memory Keepers sleeves from another project

Created my own Recipe 6"x4" Card in Photoshop......

Download Recipe Card pdf here

Size: 6x4 File: pdf Print: at 100%

and my own Front Cover and Spine to insert

Download Recipe Front Cover and Spine pdf here (I have removed "Manning Family" on download copy, you can add your own words if you would like to)

Size: to fit 38mm Insert Binder as specified above File: pdf Print: at 100%

I really wanted some strong plastic dividers that were going to stand the test of time, but I couldn't find what I wanted at Officeworks so I resorted to trimming down some Cropper Hopper Vertical Storage Dividers that I had spare to fit into the file. I'm sure I will find a use for the offcuts in another project!

I added some good old fashioned Dymo labels to the tabs so that if I change my mind about the sections I can easily change them around.

The end result...

I'm not a fan of my own handwriting so I might just type the recipes using my little typewriter I scored from my parents the other week.

I have also added some single A4 sleeves to hold some recipes that have been hand written and I'd like to keep that way - so I intend to mix it up a bit. Now the hard part begins......sorting through years of recipes, what to include and not!

Your Creative Journey

2011-01-14T09:53:00.000+08:00

I have clipped this directly from the Creative Journey Blog here

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You may have heard and seen about the devastating flooding affecting Australians in Queensland with 75% of the state declared a natural disaster zone. Lives have been lost and loved ones are missing!!

Your Creative Journey, along with Pages2Scrap have banded together to help raise funds to go towards the Flood Relief.

We are asking you all to consider supporting this wonderful effort. It is a silent auction of art by some awesome Australian and International creatives and artists. Donna Downey and Melody Ross Workshops, amazing artwork by other well know artists… Here is a link to our facebook site

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Your-Creative-Journey-Silent-Auction-for-QLD-Flood-Victims/169057079805593

There are many amazing artists helping from all over the world contributing.

So please consider supporting this relief effort by Your Creative Journey and Pages2Scrap Thank you!!!

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I can't really add much more than this except if you only join Facebook to be part of this wonderful fund raising effort from the artistic world then it will be worth it!

New Package

2011-01-12T18:08:00.000+08:00

Sorry I haven't been back to let you know about my new limited time Photography package but I have to finalise a few details before I can release it. Thanks for being patient!

Today I spring cleaned my office....

I re-decorated this room exactly 12 months ago (Steve was laying the flooring on Boxing Day 2009) and I honestly have changed very little - everything is where it should be all labelled and at my finger tips. It functions as my office for my Photography business, Papercrafting space and the bench is also where I wrap my clients' prints in readiness for delivery.

It often becomes a dumping ground as it is near the entrance to the house (through the laundry) so today was spent giving everything a really good tidy up and dusting!

On the bench about the middle of this photo you will see 2 folders - these are 2 very different projects I have been working on when I have the time - hopefully I will get them to a stage to share with you all very soon.

My blog used to contain quite a bit about my papercraft projects but my photography has kind of taken over in recent times - I really do hope things will revert in the coming months as one of my New Year promises to myself is to get some more pages and projects done. I find it very rewarding on many levels and I think I'm a better person when I get to be creative with my hands and my camera.

Thanks for stopping by - and if you have any questions at all you would like to ask me about my space or anything else for that matter, then ask away in the comments and I will reply as soon as I can.

To all the people suffering in the Queensland floods, my heart goes out to you. We have just received some pictures of a friends house in Towoomba that has suffered badly - it is just horrendous. Hopefully there will be some sunshine in their world very soon.

P365

2011-01-10T14:21:00.000+08:00

Well my 365 project is coming along nicely, I haven't skipped a day yet and you can see all my daily photos here at 365 Project.

I thought this would be difficult for me, but it's proving to be a welcome distraction in my day and something I find myself looking forward to. I'm trying different things and challenging myself with my technical skills.

I have been referring to Akemi Photography's blog regularly to get some hints and tips on subject matter and suggest you check out Kerry's ideas, they are fantastic and very encouraging in the early days of this project.

We are sharing our photos at 365 Project and if you are too then please let us know and we can encourage one another. It also posts your daily photo to your Facebook page - this can be set up in Settings. Personally I cannot wait to look back over the year in photos!

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I'm officially back to work today for 2011 and I'm so looking forward to another exciting year in business and meeting new clients and enjoying what I love to do - making your photographs and focussing on the essence of you!

Another milestone in my business journey has been the launch yesterday of my Sharon Manning Photography Website.

Some would know that my husband and I had our own Web Development company for several years in the late 90's and are both html coders (well we were back then!). So much has changed since then but I was determined to give my website a go myself. I have kept it pretty simple to start with and I'm sure it will be a work in progress over the coming months as I have plenty of ideas to add to the site like a secure client proof viewing area.

Oh and tomorrow I will be launching a VERY special package for the ladies.....so stay tuned!

April is shaping up to be a busy month so if you are thinking spring for a photo session then you need to get in quick, I only have limited dates left!

See you tomorrow!

Sharon Manning Photography

SMART

FASHIONISTA EXPO

3 FREE Photo Sessions

Wall Displays

Just Because - Vol. 25

Fashionista Expo 29th Jan

Project Life 2012

“OLW” One Little Word 2012

Project Life / 365 Project / My Word = BIG “F”

2012 “Change”

Short and Sweet

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2012 Customised Calendars

WIN!

VALUED AT $385.00 each!

Short break in transmission

No Words…..just smiles

Value & Worth

Disconnect to Reconnect

Wedding : Jessica & Ben

M.I.A. (Missing in Action)

Personal Project : 01/09/11

iPhone Covers

Stop, Crop, Edit #2!

Have you ever watched a movie....

Stop, Crop, Edit!

Preview : C Family

So who is coming?????

I Heart Faces : Photo Challenge : Beautiful Eyes

Sanpshot Saturday

Spoil Yourself

Changes

3rd August, 2011

Absence makes the heart grow fonder!

Apologies!!!!!!!!!

Life.....

Growth : Learning : Loving

Travel

I Heart Faces | Best Face Photo from May | People’s Choice Contest

Some R&R & A Wedding

Preview : S Family

She's at the Ball tonight!

Giveaway : Workshop : Winner

Giveaway : It's my Birthday!

Preview : Wedding : Lori & Ben

Happy Easter!

Preview : T Family

Preview : Wedding : Jen & Troy

"Get Your Camera Off Auto" e-Workshop!

Can you visualise what photographs you would like on your walls?

I'm back but wanted to share this quickly!

Special Preview

Quality Control

Preview : Cheri Part 2

I Heart Faces Top 10 Winner!

Photography Workshop : Hyden 25-27 March

Perth Family Photographer : F-G Preview

I Heart Faces : Photo Challenge : Sun Flare

March Newsletter

I Heart Faces : Photo Challenge Week : Best Face Photo taken in Feb

Photgraphing Flowers

Mixed bag in point form

She Art Workshop

Teaser

Photography Resources

Preview : Cheri

P365 : Update

Jasmine Star

Shooting Calendar

We have a WINNER!

Sweet Sweet Love

20 000 Visitors - Time for a Giveaway!!!!!!!!!

On the Wall!

P365 : Idea

Winners!

February Newsletter

Win 1 of 2 Photo Sessions with me valued at $290 each!

Check out their website for more information about WTM and their services.

Freebie

Check out their website for more
information about WTM and their services.