Alison Douglass Photography- Sabattus, Maine

Vows & Salt Water- Coastal Maine Elopement Photographer

2013-07-26T17:30:00.000-04:00

It was meant to be. They met because of a gift. It was chance, it was fate, it was a million different things, but it was the right thing. The way they look at each other, laugh together, finish each others stories and, most importantly, the way they love one another than makes it clear, from the very first instant you meet them, it was meant to be.

Shelly and Chris exchanged vows and rings on Hermit Island, a coastal slice of heaven I never knew existed. It was quiet, personal, emotional, intimate and perfect. I was honored they invited me to capture such a personal time with them.

Watching these two together just made me smile. Like, all the way to my toes smile.

Oh Petro, you are still incredibly gorgeous!

I had the hardest time picking a favorite of these, but I think this one is the winner.

Pardon me while I get juvenile for a moment: Shelly & Chris, sitting in a tree (come on you know you want to sing) K-I-S-S-I-N-G...

We walked onto the beach and all three of us knew this photograph had to happen. Definitely a close second for my favorite.

Shelly and Chris, I cannot thank you enough for asking me to join you for this amazing day. It was so wonderful to witness your love, meet Chris and catch up. I could have stayed for many more hours laughing and talking and we will definitely be hanging out together soon, I need to meet your beautiful beautiful girl! Much love to you both!!

Changes

2013-07-05T17:45:00.000-04:00

We see the same things day after day. They become normal, expected, boring. It isn't until they change or are taken away that we see the true beauty and value. Every single day, I drive past this field at least four times. Some days, a lot more. I noticed its beauty one evening making my way home after an emotional day. This little place, with seemingly nothing in it, held such beauty and peace, it pulled me in. I began to notice the changes every day, each season, even the difference between morning and evening. It amazes me how a place with nothing in it changes so often.

Life changes when we least expect it. As the seasons changed from winter into spring, my marriage ended. Our lives have changed, been shaken, tossed around, but we are still moving forward. Life since then has been focused on caring for the kids, for myself and adapting to a new normal. In that process, the blog has been on the back burner, my words too personal and emotional to share here. As days have gone on, the seasons changing again, I feel stronger, I feel my words returning & the fog of emotion has lifted. I am so grateful for friends, family, and even strangers who have offered support, humor and wisdom and for those of you who continue to support my love of sharing how I view the world with words and photographs.

I have several sessions to share, several I wish I could share (have I mentioned how fun boudoir sessions are?) and working on revamping the Good The Bad, & The Mildly Entertaining soon! I am currently booking sessions for the end of the July through the fall (Including Senior Photographs for Class of 2014- now is the time!!) so please contact me to book early! Thank you for all of your love, patience & support!

Balloons & Blossoms- Lewiston Auburn Childrens Photographer

2013-06-07T17:30:00.000-04:00

365 days. One year. Warnings about how fast time flies by are passed out like candy during pregnancy and when little ones arrive. Turns out they are right. Last January, I photographed Bre's maternity session. In those short months, I have photographed this amazing little girl five times. She has grown and changed so much in that short time and this family has as well. I have loved every single moment of it. Seeing her taking a few tentative steps already reminds me just how quick it passes by!

We spent a recent rainy morning in the studio for Lyla's one year cake smash. She was more interested in the balloons at first, but soon got into her beautiful pink cake!

She wasn't crazy about the taste of the cake but really enjoyed painting with the frosting!

The weather cooperated with us the next weekend as the apple trees bloomed. We spend some time exploring the orchard at Willow Pond Farm looking at the blooms, the pond and the flowers. Lyla is curious about everything- touching, talking and in some cases tasting everything!

Love this one of Lyla and her mom! Bre, you are gorgeous!

This last shot was just before Lyla decided that dandelions must be for eating!

Tyler, Bre and Lyla, I am honored to have been able to watch and document this past year of your life! Watching you evolve as a family and Lyla grow into such a sweet, bright, independent little girl has been so much fun! I will have your full gallery for you soon!!!

Brothers & Babies- Auburn Maine Newborn Family Photographer

2013-05-28T20:51:00.003-04:00

They chose to be surprised. For them, it wasn't about pink or blue, boy or girl. It was about knowing whoever this little person was, he or she was the part of their family who was meant to be. When it was time, the baby arrived, healthy and happy, and a perfect fit to their family. And he happened to be a boy.

Meet Damian at two weeks old.

I was so excited when Amy contacted me to photograph their newly expanded family! We had so much fun last summer when we explored the Bates campus together for their family pictures. To meet Damian for the first time and catch this smile was just priceless!

Damian is just perfection with his sweet personality, amazing little lips and so much hair! He was a champion sleeper as well while I moved him all over the place!

Julian happens to be the awesomest big brother ever created. That and he is way too much fun to play with and kicks a mean soccer ball!

Love this!

Amy and Estevan, thank you so much for inviting me to photograph your growing family! I had such a great time, and honestly, you have two simply amazing boys! I will have your full gallery for you to view shortly!

Baby Dolls & Cereal Puffs- Lewiston Maine Children's Photographer

2013-05-07T07:00:00.000-04:00

Just a couple of months makes all of the difference- She can sit, she is on the verge of crawling, she babbles, she is shy when faced with new things, and she loves her cereal puffs. But somethings are still the same. She is beautiful, sweet, has a smile that would melt an iceberg, loves her mom and dad and she is totally gaa-gaa for her big brother.

Meet Hannah at 8 months.

That awesome big brother also let me photograph him. He is cute beyond words, an excellent dancer and knows his animal sounds better than any two year old in the history of the world!

Thank you Pat and Amanda for coming out to enjoy a gorgeous spring day with me! You have some amazing kids and I can't wait until our next one!

John Deere & Red Sox- Lewiston Maine Newborn Photographer

2013-04-28T19:12:00.000-04:00

Nine months of waiting, dreaming, hoping, praying, buying, and preparing feels like an eternity. Then suddenly, the switched is flipped. These amazing little people somehow manage to make hours bouncing, snuggling, feeding, changing, and, hopefully, sleeping disappear. Days run together and suddenly weeks have passed by in a blink. But, even in those sleepless hours, we wouldn't trade them for anything.

Meet Dominic at (just shy of) four weeks old.

Ok these boots? Cutest thing ever!

Amber & John, thank you so much for sharing Dominic with me! It was great to spend the time with you and he is just perfectly amazing! I can't wait to show you the rest shortly in your full gallery!

Poetry, Chocolate & Laughter- Portland Maine Photographer

2013-04-05T17:29:00.002-04:00

Words. They have the power to wound or the power to save. They have the ability to make us laugh and make us cry. They can guide us in difficult times and escape us in excitement. Robin knew from an early age words were where her heart could be found. She followed her passion and her words to become a writer, editor and poet.

Robin found me via another Maine author, telling me she is terribly un-photogenic but she was in the market for some headshots. Robin, it gives me great pleasure to tell you that you are wrong. You are beautiful!

When I texted Robin to let her know that her first sneak peek was up on Facebook, she told me her face was sore from all of the time we spent laughing. We really had a blast people watching, dodging pedestrians and exploring together. Be sure to check out Robin's website HERE to find out about upcoming work and appearances!

If you are considering new photos for your job and passion, lets work together to capture your brand and personality! Please call me at 207-522-9742 to schedule your session.

Hibernation & Renewal

2013-03-21T12:51:00.001-04:00

I hibernate. The dark cold hours of winter send me scuttling for soft, comfortable clothes and leave me curled in the corner of my chair for hours. My usual motivation to get a million things done in a tiny amount of time disappears. A cup of coffee, a book, a game with the kids, or movie night with the kids become a priority.

It is the same time of year that leads to goal setting, prioritizing and daydreaming. I have noticed this year, I find myself sitting in silence and just taking it in. Sure, there is the constant hum of the fridge, giggles from another room, and the rhythmic snore of the dog on the couch. But I don't feel the need to fill each moment with words. I am learning to be okay with just being.

I grew up the granddaughter of a minister, the daughter of an ex- minister and a part of one of the founding families of a church up on the coast. I was expected to attend services each week, to participate in church school, to follow the course. As with most things that were expected of me, I refused. I was physically there, but never mentally involved. I am fairly certain I slept through the majority of my confirmation classes and refused to join the church at the end of them. Other than attending my beloved summer camp run by the church, that was the end of my involvement.

As I have settled into my annual winter hibernation this year, I have felt pulled to return. The kids have asked to go and I I found myself longing for the familiar, kind of like those soft comfortable clothes I live in. Last weekend, I sat in the hard wooden pew at the back of the church, the notes of the organ and the voices of the choir swelling, surrounding me and rising up the curved wooden ceiling. I found myself breathing slowly, listening with my heart as much as my ears, and focusing my mind on just being present. As the minister delivered her sermon, a time I had always dreaded in the past, I found comfort in her words, her encouragement to take the time to brush away the excess, the noise, the distractions, the chaff to get to the real matters. The important things. The heart and the soul of us. She shared the quote above and it just resonated within me. It has been rolling around in my head ever since, and I have found myself turning to it often in my self imposed hibernation.

The blog has been quiet for a bit. It is a part of the annual cycle of renewal, of turning inward rather than outward, and taking the time to clear away the extra to focus on what is most essential. In doing this, I feel I bring so much more to my life, my sessions, my clients and my business. I have an exciting spring taking shape as I meet new clients, pursue some personal projects and enjoy my children. In the meantime, please don't mistake my silence as disinterest! I would love to hear from you about your ideas, your questions and how I can help. Don't hesitate to email me at alisondouglassphotography@gmail.com or call me at 207-522-9742.

Hiccups & Snuggles- Maine Newborn Photographer

2013-01-27T12:52:00.002-05:00

She knows how to make an entrance. Everyone waiting for her arrival, anxious to meet this beautiful new life. She was most definitely worth every single moment.

Meet Lilah at 11 days old.

Already learning about the body parts with Dad, big brother and The Magic School Bus!

Some quiet snuggles with Mom.

I was excited to get to see this little guy again. I asked him what he thought of his little sister. He told me very matter of factly that he liked her but she has crazy hair. Love it!

Maura, Justin, Allistar & Lilah, thank you so much for allowing me to photograph your family and your beautiful little girl. I always look forward to spending time with your family!! I hope you enjoy your peek, so much more to come!

Borrowed & Blue- Southern Maine Wedding Photographer

2013-01-21T19:39:00.002-05:00

Every love story has a beginning, a "Once Upon a Time..." for telling to future generations. The moment they met, how they knew they were in love, and the moment they decided on forever. The next chapter of Tom & Erin's love story started with a beautiful, personal and intimate winter wedding. Here is a peek!

I spent some time with Erin as she got ready with the help of her mother and sister.

The beautiful bride as she waited her Man of Honor arriving to see her for the first time.

Of note: military dress gloves do not lend themselves to putting on a necklace!

Tom and the guys were undergoing preparations of their own next door. The fabulous Ryan Moore helped me capture the day and spent some time with the guys.

The handsome groom ready to see his bride for the first time.

Erin & Tom chose to have a First Look, a chance for the bride and groom to privately see each other for the first time before the ceremony. Not only does it allow for an intimate chance to see each other, having photographs taken during this time keeps the day flowing smoothly.

The bride on her way to the first look. Erin, I cannot tell you how stunning you are!

The groom awaiting her arrival.

The approach and first glace. Ryan's view left, my view on the right.

A quiet moment together. I love photographing love like this.

I love the look on Tom's face at his first look at Erin coming down the aisle.

Husband and wife!

We whisked the bride and groom away for some quiet moments with us to just bask in the joy of being married and a few portraits in the freezing weather.

Erin, you are gorgeous. Please don't tell me you aren't photogenic again, I don't believe you!

While I was photographing the wedding party, Ryan grabbed this amazing shot of the ring bearer and flower girl!

These folks knew how to fill the dance floor!

Erin & Tom, may your story be long with many characters, much joy, and endless love for all the years to come. I hope you have enjoyed the peek, there is MUCH more to come! Thank you for inviting me to be a part of your day!

Gowns & Bows- Maine Baby Photographer

2013-01-15T16:57:00.000-05:00

I celebrated the new year with the gorgeous Miss Hannah in the studio for her Heads Up mini session. She is full of smiles, curious about everything around her and has the most amazing eyes! I can't wait to see her for her Sitting Up session in just a few months!

A few shots in her Christening dress, though she was much more interested in eating the bows!

Oh this smile!!!!!

Thank you for bringing Hannah into the studio Pat & Amanda!

Headbands & Baby Feet- Portland Maine Newbon Photographer

2013-01-10T17:58:00.003-05:00

In the midst of story times, naps, chapstick (pronounced chalkstick by two year old lips), & life she has slid quietly into the pattern of their days. She is mellow, snuggly, sweet & content. She is welcomed by many, loved by all and adored by a big sister and mom and dad.

Meet Beatrice.

As I photographed Beatrice, we remembered two and a half years ago when I began photographing this beautiful young lady. Rosie has been very busy developing into quite the amazing young lady. She had lots to tell me about with all of her books and has fallen into the roll of big sister beautifully.

Baby feet. One of my favorite things.

Being able to document the continuing growth of one of my favorite families with the addition of this gorgeous girl was the perfect way to restart my winter season! Jim, Susan, Rosie & Beatrice, thank you so very much for allowing me to spend a few hours on a snowy afternoon photographing your family!

Sweaters & Snowflakes- Sabattus Maine Baby Photographer

2013-01-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

Oh Miss Lyla! She is a little bit shy, very curious, newly mobile, full of smiles, and so completely loved by her family. I had a great time with her in the studio last weekend. It is hard to believe she is 9 months old already!

Tyler, Bre & Lyla (&Tisha) Thank you for coming up to the studio and sharing Miss Lyla with me. She is too sweet for words. I am already looking forward to our next session!

New Year & Workshops- Sabattus Maine Photographer

2013-01-02T13:00:00.000-05:00

Winter is a difficult time for me. The cold, the dark, the rush of the holiday season all overwhelm me fairly quickly. Toward the end of November, I start entering hibernation mode. Each and every year, I promise myself I will take December to wrap up loose ends, plan, and most of all, recharge with my family. Each and every year, I fail.

This year, finally, I did it. I climbed into my flamingo flannel pants early, I snuggled with my kids and bulldog, and the biggest news- I actually sat down and watched three entire television shows in a row! That may not sound like much, but for me, that is HUGE!

I am so glad to have recharged, but looking at the blog, I appear to have forgotten to let anyone else know! The great news is I am kicking off 2013 in a big way and I am so very excited for what it holds. I have one last fall session of a wonderful family, some new faces and some familiar faces as well as a very special wedding over the next couple of weeks, so make sure to check back often and watch my Facebook page for all of the peeks!

Before I get to all of that sharing however, I want to share my schedule for winter workshops this year!! There is something for every skill level and camera type and I would love to have you join us! Here is the information, but don't be shy- email me at alisondouglassphotography@gmail.com if you have any questions or to register!

Picture It Better
Saturday February 16, 2013 1p-4p
(all levels and camera types)
"I am learning to be braver with my camera and do more experimenting. I really enjoyed your class. I can't wait until I have a little spare time to attend another." -Danylle
Do your photographs of your family, friends and life look like you had envisioned them in your mind? Do you find yourself struggling to capture the right moment? In this workshop We will spend time talking about simple, fun ways to improve your photographs. This class is for any kind of camera, so don't be shy!We will cover a lot of ground, laugh a lot, answer questions and get hands on in trying out different ways to capture the images you want! This class will be limited to 10 participants to ensure time to ask & answer questions.
This workshop is $40 per person and pre-registration is required.

D-SLR Bootcamp
Saturday February 16, 2013 9a-12p
(SLR stands for single lens reflex camera, such as the Canon Ti3 or Nikon D3100)
"I had only purchased my DSLR a month prior to taking Alison's class. After two classes, I had learned things that more experienced photographer friends hadn't fully grasped! Alison also has a way to make the atmosphere comfortable and learning the material FUN!" - Andrea
Are you giving someone special the camera they have always wanted? Is there a D-SLR Camera on your wish list this year and you just don’t know where to start? Do you already have one and want some help learning what it can do? Not really crazy about reading the manual or just can’t understand it? Change a setting and have no idea how to get it back?
I often hear friends and clients say they are so overwhelmed with features, they just don’t use their cameras as much as they would like. SLR Boot Camp will help you get oriented with the different functions of your camera- from changing settings to focus points. This workshop is NOT covering composition or shooting techniques! I will be limiting this workshop to 8 participants so I can make sure everyone gets their questions answered!
This workshop is $50 per person and pre-registration is required.

Take Off the Training Wheels: Start Shooting Manual
Starts Saturday March 23rd, 2013 9-1130am
This class assumes you have a working knowledge of your DSLR or have completed my DSLR Bootcamp workshop. THIS IS A FOUR WEEK LONG CLASS MEETING EACH SATURDAY.
"I had take photography courses previously and Alison taught me more in a few sessions than I learned from all the those others."- Barbara
Take the first steps to learning to use shutter speed, aperture and ISO to photograph your favorite things in full manual mode with your D-SLR! Learning this will allow you to have more control over your photographs and allow you more creative options as you continue to grow as a photographer.
This class assumes you have a basic working knowledge of your DSLR (or have completed my DSLR Workshop!). This FOUR WEEK workshop will involve one hour of teaching and one hour of hands on shooting in and around my studio each week. Classes will meet each Saturday for four weeks at the same time. Please plan to attend all weeks of the workshop to get the most benefit.There will only be 5 spaces available for this workshop to ensure one on one attention.
This workshop is $150 per person (for all four weeks) and pre-registration is required.

All workshops take place at my studio in Sabattus.

Last but definitely not least, sessions in the New Year. I am pleased to say while I have added new services such as wedding coverage and revamped (and pampering) boudoir packages I will not be increasing my product prices or session fee this year! I am booking sessions into 2013 and I would love to talk with you about scheduling your session.

The Pen & The Hound- Maine Head-Shot Photographer

2012-11-20T18:05:00.002-05:00

Jen and I met in the days when I had a nose ring, partially shaved hair, wore mostly black with my over-sized John Lennon glasses and combat boots. We were introduced through mutual friends and a love of theater. Long before email and cheap phone calls, we would write each other long letters between our coastal towns. As high school came to a close, we had headed in different directions.

Earlier this year, a friend posted on Facebook about Jen's upcoming book and I instantly knew it was her. Connecting via Facebook, I have had a chance to watch (and buy and devour) Jen's first two novels in the Erin Solomon series (All the Blue Eyed Angels and Sins of the Father) launch with great success.

Jen recently got in touch with me to shoot some new head shots for her. We spent a beautiful fall afternoon on the banks of the Kennebec River with the hounds exploring granite walls and abandoned buildings and talking like not time at all has passed.

The third book in the Erin Solomon series is slated for a spring release, so there is time to get caught up!

Jen, I cannot thank you enough for entrusting me with these photos! I had so much fun poking around, chasing the sunlight and getting to catch up with you!

Goodbyes

2012-11-03T22:37:00.004-04:00

Most memories of my childhood have her in them. In a life that was at times inconsistent, she was one thing that didn't change. Sometimes that was good, sometimes not so much. But she was there. She was stoic, proud, and stubborn as all get out. She was also giving, kind and incredibly smart. She never missed a trick, much to my trouble- making dismay.

She was there for school concerts, summers at the lake, winter tobogganing (and ice slide creation), wood hauling, birthday cakes, frog swings, afternoon rests and songs before tucking in. She watched eighth grade, high school and college graduations. She traveled the world and made sure family, no matter how distant, were among her stops. Her tiny frame stood strong caring for my grandfather as he grew ill and grieved when he died. She wore his wedding ring reshaped as a heart around her neck for years. She tried to bully her way past the nurses when her first great grandchild was on the way. She was equally excited with each new life, each new branch welcomed into the family tree, be it by blood or love.

(Sally 93 years old & Gwen 13 years old October 2012)

The year my little girl was born was the year we all started to see signs of her decline. She was so adept at hiding the signs, many around her had no idea. She devised and executed some amazing plans trying to maintain her independence for as long as possible. In 13 years, I have watched my daughter grow up and my grandmother's decline into the grip of Alzheimer's disease. My daughter's trip through the toddler and preschool years saw my grandmother's teenage-like rebellion against those trying to help and protect her. When Gwen was about 7, the similarities between their development were about equal. Gwen has continued to mature into an amazing young lady and we watched my grandmother slip further and further away.

I thought I said my goodbyes a long time ago as the proud, put together woman who had been such a constant in my life started to fade. Just a few weeks ago as I sat watching my daughter read Dr. Seuss to GGma (great grandma was just to long for little mouths) while Elliot snuggled close it hit me that I wasn't ready. The kids made her giggle, answered her questions patiently and hugged her so tight when we left. I hugged her too and realized I still needed to say goodbye.

Jason and I visited her just a few days ago. She was comfortable and at peace as she listened to the conversations going on around her. When I leaned down to kiss the paper thin skin on her forehead and a tear slid down my cheek, I whispered "I love you." She very clearly whispered back "love you too." I am so grateful to have had the chance to make sure she knew that.

She died today. It is bittersweet. I know in my heart she is free, she is herself and she is happy. I know it was time. In that light, it feels selfish to be sad that she is gone. I sit here in the silence of this house, the first moment all day to really just sit with this, and while the tears streak my cheeks and the tissues are piled up, in my heart, I am relieved. She lived a life to be remembered. She was loved by a vast number of friends and family. I am so grateful to have had her as such a part of my life and my children's lives for so long. And so, I let go. I sit here remembering, writing stories so I won't forget, and smiling through the tears as I know she is home.

Goodbye Grandma. I love you.

Hearts & Faces- Maine Family Photographer

2012-10-26T14:12:00.004-04:00

In a quiet spot beside the smooth water of the pond, six of these little stone hearts sit on a bench. As they sit and reflect, on life, on gratitude, on their growing family, the hearts get rearranged, stacked, scattered or simply lined up. These little fingers show it so well- their children, their family, and their love is everything for this family.

Meet the C. Family.

The stories that accompany their sweat, tears, and probably a little blood that went into their home make me love the above photograph even more.

A's face makes me grin every single time I look at this photograph.

I love asking kids to show me different faces and these were too cute not to share- Scary, surprised, another surprised, and just plain silly!

Oh M, please don't try to tell me you don't look good in photographs!!!! You are gorgeous my friend.

J, M & A thank you so much for allowing me to join you for the afternoon. I had a wonderful time at your beautiful home and exploring the fields and pond. I cannot wait to show you the rest of your gallery!!!

Bitty Boudoir- Maine Boudoir Photographer

2012-10-18T20:53:00.002-04:00

The holidays are coming... Want to give the perfect gift and have fun and feel amazing at the same time? Bring your authentic self, your sense of adventure and your sense of humor and create perfect give for your special someone- and yourself!

Have you been thinking about a session but are nervous and have some questions? Feel free to call me at 207-522-9742 or email me at alisondouglassphotography@gmail.com I am happy to answer them all!

Can & Can't- Lewiston Auburn Maine

2012-10-13T14:31:00.002-04:00

I have struggled with my weight, real or imagined, since elementary school and the battle was a losing one. Bad knees (and doctors agreeing) and lack of self confidence had me convinced that I couldn't do many activities. I ate healthy food, just too much of it. I was at my heaviest weight ever. I was winded from doing simple things. I was exhausted all of the time. I was missing out on a lot with my kids. I tried to pretend that it was alright, that it didn't bother me. In reality, I was miserable in my own skin.

Three years ago, I got sick and tired of sick and tired. I realized that I was the only reason I could not do the things I wanted. With that came the realization that I was the only one who could make a change. Weight Watchers (I affectionately call it Eating for Idiots) guided me on food. My family jumped to support me and cheered me on. Through friends and circumstance, I met Kelli at SPRQ Studio and started taking classes with her. It didn't take long for her to become my drill sargent, my motivator, my cheerleader and my friend. She constantly told me I could when even my own mind said I couldn't. With my family and Kelli behind me, I succeeded in losing over two thirds of the weight I set out to lose in just about two years. I won't lie- it was not easy and I continue to struggle with it daily.

Through all of this, there was one thing I never thought I could do. One doctor told me I could run if an ax murder was chasing me. Even then, run slowly. If I had been able to take on cross fit and Zumba, why couldn't I run? Warm weather arrived this year and very very quietly, I started the Couch to 5K program, running just one minute intervals on our quiet dirt road where no one could see me. Finishing that first run was one of the hardest but most gratifying experiences. Much to my surprise, I liked it.

Today, I crossed the finish line of my first 5k in 42 minutes (that would be me in the red up at the top thanks to Jason manning the camera today).

As I stood in line for my well earned omelette, the chef who was cooking shyly told me that she had always wanted to run but didn't know if she could. "I had always been told I couldn't run, so I did." I told her. "You did it just because they said you couldn't?" she asked. Confirming that, I could see the spark light in her eye. I can only hope it will catch fire and perhaps next year she will pass me on the course.

Every day, we limit ourselves. When we dare to dream, we smash those dreams with all of the reasons we couldn't possibly make those ideas, passions and dreams come true. There are always plenty of reasons we tell ourselves we cannot do something. What I finally realized is it only takes one reason why we CAN.

What is your dream that sparks the long list of why you can't? What is that thing(s) that you have always preface with "I wish I could..."? Leave me a comment or send me an email (confidentially of course at alisondouglassphotography@gmail.com), give it a voice. Sometimes just speaking it out loud can help you find that one reason you need to make it happen!

Apples & Sunflowers- Maine Family Photographer

2012-10-03T19:19:00.001-04:00

Every time I see her, her personality grows. The person she has become an will become is showing through. With it comes clear reflections of her parents. The more time I spend with this family, the more I see their love for each other and excitement for each day, each change and every smile, the more I love them. Six months seems to have flown past, but I am already looking forward to nine months! I knew when I released the shutter on this first photo it would steal my heart, just like this little girl!

I love every single thing about this shot. It was a neck and neck run for my favorite for this session.

Tyler & Bre, thank you so much for coming out to check out the orchards with me. We could not have picked a better evening! Lyla is so sweet and I had a blast!!!

Full

2012-10-01T18:26:00.000-04:00

“What fills you up?”

It seems like a pretty simple, straight forward question. But I found myself squirming uncomfortably in my seat.

I started talking about photography and my clients and the satisfaction I get when eyes well up when viewing their photographs.

“Yes, but what fills YOU up?” she insisted.

I stopped. My lips were still. I searched the corners of my mind. “I don’t know anymore” I finally answered.

“Why not?” was her logical next question. And I had a pile of excuses. But not one single reason.

See, I spend my time focused on my awesome but challenging kids, marriage after 11 years to my husband, my full time job, and my business and all of the challenges, trials, triumphs and schedule that go with them. I talk about chasing dreams and following passion. And I am so very blessed by all of these things. But the reality is, I am talking about all of the things that (as much as I love them) take from my well. Not once to I talk about what I do to replenish it.

I have spent the last few weeks mulling this question over and over in my mind, searching for the answer and trying to rise to the challenge. We all must do things just for us, to nurture ourselves, to build ammunition to silence the negative voices and give rise to the strong ones, to recharge our lives, our loves, and ourselves. I am really good at naming all of the things that do not work for me. I am not so good at naming a couple that feel good, that feel right to me.

One of my biggest challenges is carving out time. Most days, my minutes are claimed and when there is a spare one, there is always something waiting to fill it. I have recently found myself partaking in extreme multitasking- Completing client paperwork while at sports practices and squeezing in a run. Returning a client email while searching for plumbing parts at Lowe’s I justify it in my mind by reminding myself “everyone” is in the same boat. . It was not until this question was posed to me, I hadn’t realized how far it had gone. It is time for some adjustments.

So, what am I going to do? I am going to breath. I am going to step away from the computer screen to play a trash talking game of Connect 4 Launchers with my son. I am going to drive and talk with my teenage daughter about what is going on in her life. And tell her some of the stories of mine, even the painful ones. I am going to put on something nice for date night even if we are cooking frozen pizza and watching a DVR movie. I am going to take time off from work and business and just be for a few hours. I am going to read more. I am going to write when the inspiration strikes. I am going to call a longtime friend or two just because. And I will see what it is that will fill me up and along the way, have some fun.

I would love to hear from others what they do that fills them back up- leave me a comment and tell me about it!

Sequins & Bare Feet- Auburn Maine Family Photographer

2012-09-15T15:47:00.001-04:00

When it comes to children, time is a funny thing. In the thick of it- the diapers & feedings, first steps & first words, temper tantrums & first I love you, starting school & starting independence, sibling squabbling & making up, I think every parent finds themselves wondering at some point if it is ever going to pass. There is a spot, and I think it is different with every child, when all of a sudden, it is rushing by too fast. There is that time where we suddenly realize just how soon it all passes and we long to slow it down, even just a little. Then we become that crazy lady at the grocery store telling the mom with the toddler behind us in line to hold onto it because it will pass so fast.

This is the fourth year I have photographed these girls. Time is passing far too quickly with them. Three more years and Sam will be having her senior pictures done. When I first met Lila, she didn't even reach her mothers waist yet and she wanted nothing to do with me. But one thing that hasn't changed is when you get past the sister arguments, they love each other so completely. That relationship has only grown stronger over the years and I look forward to watching it.

Morgan, you are a natural in front of the camera! You have a great eye and your help was really appreciated.

Laura, Lance, Morgan, Sam & Lila, I look forward to this session every year. Even though I see you guys often, it isn't until I have you in front of my camera I realize how much has changed. I am so blessed to have you guys in my life! I can't wait to show you the rest of your photos!

Snuggles & Curls- Lewiston Maine Newborn Photographer

2012-09-07T20:04:00.000-04:00

The way she yawns several times in a row. The passing smiles. The way her long dark hair already touches her ears before it flies away. The perfect fingers and toes. The way she smiles contently as she settles into her parents arms. She has arrived with flourish, but at 8 days old, it seems she has been a part of this family forever.

Meet Hannah.

Hannah's big brother Ethan joined us for a bit. He is full of energy & smiles, with just a dash of shy mixed in. He is still adjusting to his roll as the big guy, but he gives his sister the sweetest kisses!

Amanda & Pat, thank you so much for sharing your wonderful family with me! Hannah is a wonderful snuggler, and I had such a great time catching up with you guys as well! I look forward to sharing your full gallery with you soon!

Fall Leaves & Family- Maine Family Photographer

2012-09-04T20:40:00.000-04:00

As I stood on my back steps waiting for my dog as the sun rose, the chill in the air confirmed that mother nature has flipped the switch. The days of cut offs and flip flop, jumping in the lake, evening runs to the ice cream stand and (thank goodness) mosquito season are coming to an end . We have braved the stores to clothe the kids and purchase supplies, started the annual outside clean up and pulled out the sweat shirts. There is no denying it. Fall is here.

Don't get me wrong- I love throwing on jeans and a comfy sweater, cheering on the kids sports teams and hauling out my flannel comfy pants with flamingos on them. Best of all, I love photographing families in the fall! The colors are vibrant, the cooler temperatures make it fun to snuggle in together and I don't have to edit out that mosquito biting Mom's shoulder!

Bring your family to celebrate the change of season (and get those Holiday cards and gifts done early) by joining me on Sunday September 23, 2012 for a day of Family Mini Sessions! I will be spending a day on the grounds of a local farm and I would love to photograph your family!

The details:

- A 20 minute session at a local farm for up to 5 people.

- 10-15 retouched photographs in a private online gallery

- 3 5x7 and 1 8x10 print of your favorite image

- One 11x14 print *OR* 1 package 25 5x7 two sided holiday cards (choose

from 3 designs)

- 10% off additional print and product purchases from this session *including

digital images*!

The cost: *$100.00*

This is by far the best deal of the season! These sessions are booked on a first come first serve basis! Please do not wait to contact me to save yours! Call 207-522-9742 to reserve your time!

Arboretums & Arsenals- Hall Dale Senior Photographer

2012-09-03T21:33:00.001-04:00

A little bit of here. A little bit of there. A little talk of the future. A little talk of history. A little bit of jet lag. A little bit of country. A whole lot of gorgeous evening sun on a summer Maine evening combined with a whole lot of blind faith. Mix together for a beautiful evening for senior photographs.

Meet Max.

We spent some time at the Viles Arboretum in Augusta. This was my first visit to this beautiful spot and I am looking forward to return to explore many more of the trails.

We then headed over to the Kennebec Arsenal on the edge of the Kennebec River. The stone mansions remain but have been vandalized and neglected over the years. The beauty of them still remains in the wear time has added to their character.

Max, thank you so much for taking the time to explore these two areas and humor me! I had a great time getting to know you a bit and wish you every success as you head into your senior year! I look forward to sharing the rest of your gallery with you soon.