VIVA Photography

They do things a little differently in India, Y'all

2009-10-04T20:16:00.000-07:00

In case y'all haven't heard, they have arranged marriages in India. Basically Ma and Pa pick a few guys for the girls to interview, and within weeks matches are made. Part of the process requires exchanging photos, so guess what I was lucky enough to do... You got it! I got to photograph a beautful, Indian bride-to-be. Makes me want to move to start a VIVA Photography branch in the subcontinent.

2009-09-22T07:58:00.000-07:00

Little Liam

2009-08-28T14:56:00.000-07:00

Babycakes here was born at the beginning of August, and I got to photograph him with his elated parents a few weeks later. Sooooo precious! Don't you just love the hair?! Congrats Teresa and Jason. Nice job!

I LOVE LIFE!!

2009-08-14T03:57:00.000-07:00

So what do you do when you get a last-minute invitation to photograph the biggest Hare Krishna holiday celebration of the year? Well, if you're like me, you kick off your shoes, throw on your best sari, and high tail it to the woods where the New Goloka temple sits peacefully amidst the trees. That and you send up a prayer of thanks.

Every now and then, a girl just needs to get away...

2009-07-27T23:57:00.000-07:00

...but that doesn't mean that she puts down her camera! At least not this girl. Thanks, Hansi, for the DC respite.

Big Move

2009-07-25T14:17:00.000-07:00

After having lived her entire life within a few hours of Chapel Hill, the owner of this home decided to pick up and move to San Francisco. She'd spent years lavishing every little nook and cranny of her home with love. So before she diassembled, donated, gifted and packed it all away, she hired me to photograph it. Bon voyage, Karla and Rugby. Good luck on your new adventures! Chapel Hill will miss you!

Field Trip

2009-07-09T22:01:00.000-07:00

Whijin and Wonjin here were two of my ESL students. On the day of our last lesson, I took them on a field trip to Locopops. Like most folks, they were pleasantly surprised by the flavors: pineapple lemongrass, mango chili, mojito, even chocolate bacon. (WARNING: the rest of this story is not for the squeamish!) Fortunately, we had polished off our pops before the boys started getting creative. "They should make banana beef...cherry chicken...watermelon fish!" This kind of talk quickly escalated into a full-fledged gross-out contest, and you can imagine where the minds of adolescent boys go. If hanging out with my nephews has taught me anything, it's that there's only one way to handle such a situation. You've got to jump in with both feet. "How 'bout cinnamon armpits?!" I offered. In my opinion, this was a much less offensive suggestion than some of the others that had been batted about, so I was quite surprised by the boys' responses. "Uuuuuuugh! If they make that, they bankrupt!" and "That make my mouth hurt!" When the gagging and giggling had subsided, I had a moment of quiet satisfaction. I had won the gross-out contest!

"It's true he pushes all our buttons...

2009-07-01T21:25:00.000-07:00

When this family's mom called to tell me she wanted a family picture made, she told me that her eldest was about to head off to college after 18 years of home schooling. The kids weren't very excited about having their pictures made, until I told them they could be silly in a couple. After I took this one, I took them aside one by one to make individual portraits. I asked each of them, "So how do you feel about William going off to college?" Clarissa was excited, "because I'll finally get to be the oldest in the house." Matthew was looking forward to, "having my own room." But it was 6-year-old Joshua who had the biggest perspective. "It's true he pushes all our buttons, but I think we'll be a little sad when he's gone". I couldn't have planned it better myself, guys.

SUUUUUUUUUUUU-WEEEEEEEEEEE!!

2009-06-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

It's Hillsborough Hog Days, y'all! And let me tell you, these folks are ser'us about some bar-b-que! Despite the fact that temperatures reached triple digits (and that was away from the grills), the event drew hog cookers and aficionados by the thousands. And if bar-b-que's not your thang, try the fair rides, the live music and the antique car show.

Meet Nigel

2009-06-19T17:55:00.000-07:00

I almost can't even say anything. Just look at this guy!! He's such a character, and he was sooooo fun to photograph. I especially love his piggy imitation (in honor of hog day?) in the last picture.

Sexy Solar Technology

2009-05-29T15:47:00.000-07:00

The Orange County Economic Development Commission called me up and asked me to make some photos at Solar Tech South, a local company that installs several solar photovoltaic and solar thermal systems. (Check them out at solartechsouth.com) Who knew cool techology could be so hot?!

Little River Park

2009-05-24T21:22:00.000-07:00

I recently discovered this park in northern Durham. The quiet and well-kept property used to belong to a tobacco farmer. The original house still stands at the front of the lot. Hmmm...hope that plant wasn't poison ivy!

Folkmoot Forever!

2009-05-01T17:17:00.000-07:00

The lucky kids at Seawell Elementary School put on an international festival every year, which culminates with a dance recital. I tutor several students in English as a Second Language, so I got invited to Folkmoot this year. There were dances from all over the world, complete with authentic music and costumes. Does this third grader dancing a cumbia remind anyone else of Marilyn?

HapPy bIRthdAy, ChaRliE!!

2009-04-18T20:15:00.000-07:00

Awww...I love kids' birthday parties: bright colors, loads of sugar, and big smiles everywhere!

Y'all remember Little Miss Simone?

2009-03-23T12:27:00.000-07:00

What can you possibly say after a face like that?! At nearly one year, Simone absolutely delights everyone she meets. Clearly I was charmed...

AnimalKind

2009-02-25T16:52:00.000-08:00

AnimalKind (see link at right) is a local not-for profit organization whose mission is, "to end the unnecessary euthanasia of cats and dogs in Triangle-area shelters, by subsidizing pet spay/neuter for the lowest-income families." I wanted to contribute to their cause, so on Saturday, February 21, I photographed their free rabies vaccination clinic. I got to spend the whole day hanging out with pet people and lovin' on puppies and kitties. BiG ThaNkS to AnimalKind, Animal Protection Society of Durham, SNAP-NC, Coalition to Un-Chain Dogs, and Durham County Animal Control for all you do on behalf of the animals!

Local Talent

2009-02-17T21:17:00.000-08:00

In the mood for some live jazz or folk standards? Tina and Josh, this lovely UNC duo, have got you covered. They're preparing to make a big mark on the music world, so look for them at local venues this spring.

Happy Valentine's Day, Mom!

2009-02-05T17:53:00.000-08:00

While these crafty girls made Valentine's Day cards for their mom, I got to capture the action. Now Mom will get hand-made cards, and portraits that document the fun. My pictures are all about keeping it real. In years to come, I want this family to laugh and tell stories when they look at their pictures.

Happy 2009!! (A Serendipitious Story)

2009-01-07T18:11:00.000-08:00

In February of 2008, my darlin' hubby Jeremy was working in New Mexico when he received word that he was second runner-up in nationwide writing contest. The Dell Award of Asimov's Science Fiction magazine, was to be awarded just a few days later at a conference in Florida. Try as he might, Jeremy couldn't get there in time. His biggest disappointment was not being able to meet the esteemed author Joe Haldeman.

Flash forward to June of 2008, when Jer and I were catching up with dear cousins, Stephanie and Eric, at a family reunion. We told them the story of the award and the missed opportunity. Turned out they attend Joe's New Year's party every year! Next thing we knew, we were planning a trip to Florida!

Joe and his wife Gay were gracious hosts to a houseful of eclectic guests. Some played guitar or piano or sang. Others sat in circles knitting socks and wrist warmers. The kitchen and dining room were standing-room-only (and well worth it, for the food and drinks!). The biggest surprise of the evening came when one of the guests, who refers to himself as "Juggle Geek", invited us outside to watch him juggle fire!

The whole event was a blast, and I have to believe it bodes well for 2009...

Gene & Lulu

2008-12-16T19:59:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'll admit it. I'm a sucker for kitties. Puppies, too. Hamsters, African Gray Parrots, hedgehogs, even snakes. You name it, if it's a critter, I probably love it. Today I got to meet two especially darling critters, Gene and Lulu. I fell for them immediately... I didn't stand a chance...

S'mores!!

2008-12-04T21:49:00.000-08:00

When this family told me that wanted "something different" for their Christmas cards, I got really excited. I told them to pick an activity they like doing together, and I'd photograph them. They picked making s'mores around the fire pit in their back yard. Fun *and* yummy!

Tuckered Out!

2008-12-04T21:32:00.000-08:00

This sweet puppy was worn out from decorating the Christmas tree. As is his habit, Tucker grabbed the nearest pillow and snuggled in for a rest.

Little Anu's Homecoming

2008-11-25T09:57:00.000-08:00

When I received a call at 9:30 last night, I was in my pj's curled up with my kitty and reading a little Calvin and Hobbes. Being an early bird, my lights are routinely out by 10pm. The call was an invitation to document the homecoming of tiny little Anuragini, the first and only child of Dilip and his wife. Anxious to join her parents for Thanksgiving I presume, Anu had arrived 3 weeks early. As quickly as possible, I threw on some day clothes and dashed to Durham. No amount of rain or chill could dampen spirits in that home! The love and warmth of this new family made me high for hours. Welcome home, little Anu. And thank you Dilip for inviting me to share this precious time with you.

Wish Tree

2008-11-05T23:14:00.000-08:00

Every year the Chapel Hill Service League (see link at right) puts up Wish Trees throughout town to collect toys for children in the community. The kick-off event was a huge success with the help of a few local elves, the Carolina Youth Ballet, Bouncing Bulldogs, and Carolina Women's Basketball team.

Splish, Splash!

2008-11-05T09:58:00.000-08:00

Mr. Blue Eyes, age 6 months, loooooooves takin' a bath.

Who are the people in your neighborhood?

2008-11-01T19:59:00.000-07:00

When I announced a Family Photo Day in my neighborhood, these kids answered the call! We had so much fun playing outside on this glorious fall day!

Birthday cake and sugar high...

2008-10-19T15:07:00.000-07:00

What could be sweeter?
Only Miss Vi!

Simple Pleasures

2008-10-04T21:32:00.000-07:00

More than anyone else I know, my friend Helen enjoys the simple pleasures in life, like being barefon a warm day. She is equally grounded and open, present in every moment. Her friendship is a true gift.

Chatham County

2008-09-23T16:27:00.000-07:00

On a crisp morning in early fall, I woke up before sunrise, packed my camera in my trusty ol' Beetle, and headed for Chatham County. My assignment: nature and landscape photos. The more I shot, the more excited I got! By the time I returned home, I was practically turning cartwheels! Incidentally, if you'd like to see more from this shoot, there are a dozen hanging at the Burger King on 15/501.

I LOVE LUCY!!

2008-09-10T16:02:00.000-07:00

Lucy, aka Ms Lu, Lucy-kins, Lulu, and occasionally, Lucy-fur, has been my most devoted companion for the past 10 years. A couple of weeks ago I took her to the vet to update her vaccines, and they came back to me with a completely unexpected and terminal diagnosis. After I had a good cry, I started doing some research. I'd seen holistic healthcare work wonders on humans, so I knew it had to be good for kitties, too. Fortunately, I found Bowman Animal Hospital and Cat Clinic in Raleigh (see link at right). When I explained my situation, they got me in ASAP. Once there, I only waited maybe five minutes before being taken into an examining room. Between the vet and her staff, they spent an hour with us patiently examining Lucy and even more patiently answering all my questions. Before we left, we we're given a type written page summarizing our visit, the vet's findings, and our treatment plans. The next day, someone from the office called to check on Lucy and to see if we had any more questions. The best news of all is this vet disagreed with the diagnosis! Lucy still has a little health concern, but it is not nearly as grave as we'd been led to believe. So if you're looking for a good vet, I highly and whole-heartedly recommend Bowman. VIVA Lucy!!

SWOOP

2008-08-23T22:01:00.000-07:00

Do y'all know SWOOP (see link at right)? SWOOP is exactly what it says it is, Strong Women Organizing Outrageous Projects. Once a month or so these women get together to help out an individual, neighborhood, or even another organization with construction and landscaping projects, among other things. I've wanted to be involved since I first heard about them a couple of years ago, but to be honest I was a little intimidated. I'm not exactly the power-tool wielding, or even the green-thumb type. Recently the ladies got together for a pig pickin', some bluegrass music, and a silent auction. When I heard they were having a fundraiser though, I knew I'd finally found my chance to help out.

Au naturale

2008-08-22T19:34:00.000-07:00

What a fun photo shoot I had at Umstead State Park today with this little cutie!

Lucky indeed...

2008-08-04T20:02:00.000-07:00

HOORAY! Hooray, hooray, hooray! After five long years, I finally returned to my heart-city, Chicago, for a week. I got to enjoy the sights; some familiar, some new; savor the flavors; reconnect with dear friends; and make a few snapshots. I am a lucky girl, indeed.

Ah, summer! Part 2

2008-08-03T11:42:00.000-07:00

Doesn't this just make you want to be a kid again? Out from school, playing all day long, and splashing about in a pool to tame the heat.

My Roots

2008-07-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

From a girl's bedroom in Mississippi...

Ah, summer!

2008-06-30T10:03:00.000-07:00

Time for the family reunion! When I was a kid, this was easily the most greatly anticipated event of the year, even more than Christmas! It was like going to camp and already knowing my fellow campers. During the day there were games and activities for all ages and temperaments . In the evening, dinner brought the whole lot of us back together. Except for our ever increasing family, not much has changed over the years. Come to think of it, it is still the most greatly anticipated event of the year!

Hair with a Heart

2008-06-29T19:33:00.000-07:00

Syd's Hair Shop (see link at right) is a fun and funky salon here in Chapel Hill. They cater to crowds ranging from the of-the-moment student set to uber-practical family folks and everything in between. And they are every bit as friendly as they are talented. Once a quarter they open up on a Sunday and donate 100% of the proceeds to a worthy cause. Today, they raised nearly $1500 for the Jessica L. Dovi Foundation, which promotes awareness, support and research of melanoma.

Enjoying the good (country) life!

2008-06-11T17:39:00.000-07:00

What a lucky couple! For work Elizabeth and Tony travel to beautiful places and take photographs. When they're not working, they like to play outdoors and enjoy some of the finer things in life. I wanna' be like them when I grow up!

Home Sweet Home

2008-06-03T20:42:00.000-07:00

This beautiful woman is my friend Susanne Gaddis (aka The Communications Doctor--see website to the right). A highly sought after speaker, Susanne spends loads of time in transit, living out of suitcases all over the country. So when she's home, she likes to *be* home surrounded by things that feed her spirit, not the least of which is her pooch Miss Lizzy Poo. In her sanctuary Susanne can lavish herself with the same love, care and attention that she generously shares with everyone she meets in her travels. She's even named her home...The Place Where Dreams Come True!

Meet Simone

2008-05-20T16:51:00.000-07:00

Would you just look at how sweet this young family is? And how adorable little Miss Simone is? Is it any wonder I just *love* photography?

Quinceanera!

2008-05-18T16:37:00.000-07:00

Quince-what?! Lucky Latin American girls turning 15 have special parties to welcome them to adulthood. It's kinda' like a Sweet 16 birthday party and a debutante ball mixed together. There are all sorts of lovely rituals involved. The celebrated girl gets to wear high heels for the first time. Her mother reads a passage from the Bible and tells a story about her daughter. The girl chooses a symbol of her childhood and presents it to the youngest girl at the party. Her father gives her a toast and shares a dance with her. Her friends and family then gather around for more ballroom dancing. There are fancy attire, festively-wrapped gifts, and even a big ol' cake.

If anybody out there reading this thinks we need to start this practice in the US, let me know! It was truly one of the most touching events I've ever witnessed.

LOVE the Animals!!

2008-05-17T16:27:00.000-07:00

Wow, what an amazing day at the Walk for the Animals! I met sooooo many fuzzy friends (aka dogs, and one miniature pony) of every size, shape, color, and variety. And their people weren't half bad, either. :) Here are a couple of flyers I put together for the event.

Gearing up for the APS Walk for the Animals!

2008-05-15T09:55:00.000-07:00

My pal Gene Crowder over at Very Import Pets Professional PetSitting (see link at right) invited me to join him at the Animal Protection Society's 8th Annual Walk for the Animals this Saturday. Check out links to the right for more info on VIP and APS. While sifting through some pet portraits, I came across these darlings...

The Chapel that Chapel Hill is Named for

2008-04-17T17:17:00.000-07:00

Richard is an avid outdoorsman, and I told him I wanted to take his pictures in a place that he really loved. I expected him to suggest a nearby river, a park, or even the botanic gardens. But Richard surprised me. He wanted his pictures made at this historic chapel. He said it's a place he comes to for hope.

Little Miss Violet

2008-03-29T07:02:00.000-07:00

Ooh, the sweetness!

Eight Months and Counting

2008-03-28T16:45:00.000-07:00

Wow, my baby sister's about to become a mamasita! Good gracious, Ashley's bodacious! How cute is she?! Can hardly wait for the newbie pics...