Edit Me Challenge

Edit Me 2012 - Week 21

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 23 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Hello there, editing friends! Branson here. I hope you are having an amazing week! With this being Memorial Day weekend, we decided to keep the challenge fun and easy this week! I am going to judge, and I hope this little burst of summer fun will inspire you to play a little before you head off for your weekend adventures. This is a photo of my niece taken with my point and shoot, and I can't wait to see what you do with it. I really encourage you to play around and have some creative fun this week! And don't forget to share your posts with us on Facebook and Twitter, too!

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD COPY FOR EDITING

This challenge is all about taking a photo and making it your own with the editing program of your choice! It is also about learning a little bit from each other, and exploring new styles! There are no restrictions (unless specifically stated within the post for the week), but we do ask that you share a little bit about how you arrived at your finished product.

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with!

<a   href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img   border="0" alt="Edit Me"   src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb414/stephaniesclark/editbutton200x200-3.jpg"   /></a>

Edit Me 2012 - Week 20 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Clark) — Tue, 22 May 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Awesome week you guys! We are so glad to see so many of you joining us on Facebook!

You can tag us in your Facebook post or mention us on Twitter (@editmechallenge or #editmechallenge) and we will be sure to share your edit with everyone!

Thank you to everyone who entered a comment to win the spot in Mom Tried It's Online Workshop!

The winner is Twiggy from The Dirt Life!

The idea behind the workshop is for you to learn the basics so you can edit your photo the way you want! No more crossing your fingers and hoping an action does it for you. The workshop will cover sharpening, using your dodge and burn tools, custom contrast, how to use layers, and much, much more! In other words you are not only learning steps on how to accomplish a specific task, but also how to put it all together into a workflow that works for you!

Read even more about this workshop, including how to register on Kim's blog: Mom Tried It.

Now a refresher on this week's judge Nancy from A Rural Journal:

I am a 52 year-old farm wife and mother of two grown sons. My union iron worker husband and I live in a 100+ year-old farm house in eastern Nebraska, United States. In my spare time, I enjoy photography, knitting, reading, cooking, hiking and blogging (which I've been loving since 2007.) We live on 80 acres of conservation reserve land in a rural county of about 20,000 people. We have three dogs, several farm cats, geese, ducks, turkeys, chickens and one guinea -- all of which keep me company and extremely busy. My blog is primarily a place to feature my rural photography, talk about what's happening on our quiet, lazy farm and to meet talented, friendly people from all over the world.

Be sure to visit Nancy on facebook and twitter, and thank her for a wonderful photo to edit this week!

Nancy had a difficult task this week! You guys did a great job with this beautiful photo!

Here are Nancy's Top 3 and what she had to say:

Julie H

Loving this edit, mostly for the vintage-y frame. It compliments the old bench wood so well and captures the farm/rural theme of this photo.

Summerfugl Design

The editing brings out the rich tones of the background and kitty's torti-shades. Plus, I adore the quote that was presented.

Overall winner: Fotocplicity.

The brown and white edit was so unique and really caught my eye. The tones bring a calming essence to the photo, which I love.

CONGRATS TO OUR WINNERS!

DON'T FORGET TO GRAB YOUR BUTTONS!

A NEW CHALLENGE STARTS TOMORROW.

Edit Me 2012 - Week 20

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 16 May 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Welcome to another week of editing fun! We have an amazing guest judge this week, as well as a very cool prize. Please read the prize instructions carefully as we will be awarding it differently this week. We will get to the how and why of that later, though. First, meet Nancy from A Rural Journal:

Be sure to visit Nancy on facebook and twitter, and thank her for a wonderful photo to edit this week!

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD PHOTO FOR EDITING

I mentioned that this week's prize will be given away a little differently. That is because it is a seat in an awesome editing workshop!! Because this workshop is specific to Photoshop & Photoshop Elements, we want to make sure it goes to someone who could use it! So, this week everyone who enters an edit will be eligible to win, and we will select our winner from the comments. If you would like to win a seat in this workshop, please leave a comment letting us know when you link your edit up! Be sure your name in the comments matches the name you use to link up your entry so we can verify you have submitted an edit. If you have any questions at all, be sure to let us know.

The workshop we are giving away is taught by one of my very favorite bloggers, Kim Young. Kim is incredibly talented, but also very easy to talk to... just what you want in a teacher! Not only that, but the proceeds from the workshop are going to help fund some pro bono work she is doing for local foster children! Here is some of what the workshop covers:

The idea behind this workshop is for you to learn the basics so you can edit your photo they way you want to. No more crossing your fingers and hoping an action does it for you.

How to sharpen your images
How to use Dodge and Burn to make your photos pop
How to add custom contrast
How to brighten and adjust exposure
How to use layers to make your images the best they can be
How to convert to black and white
How to add textures and manipulate the effects
How to adjust skin tone
How to optimize for internet
Plus much more

In other words you are learning steps on how to accomplish a specific task, but also how to put it all together into a workflow for editing images.

Read even more about this workshop, including how to register if you don't win the free seat, on Kim's blog: Mom Tried It.

Last but not least. here is a review of the challenge guidelines:

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with!

<a   href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img   border="0" alt="Edit Me"   src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb414/stephaniesclark/editbutton200x200-3.jpg"   /></a>

Edit Me 2012 - Week 19 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Clark) — Tue, 15 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Thanks for another great week friends!

Welcome first time Edit Mers! and Welcome back to old friends who haven't been here in a while!

This week's fabulous guest judge was Andi @ The Hollie Rogue! We really appreciate Andi jumping in and doing such a great job this week! And that photo! Precious. Andi also hosts the Photo Friday Link Party and sells beautiful handmade necklaces in her etsy shop!

Now then, let's get to know Andi a bit:

I am Andi--an elementary teacher turned SAHM to two little ones, a wife, follower of Christ, crafter, etsy shop owner, and lover of all things vintage. I am a self-taught wanna-be photographer who just loves to learn new things about the art of photography. I am on a journey to learn more about myself and my passions through this amazing avenue of blogging.

Be sure to visit Andi on Facebook and Twitter and thank her for judging this week!

k*handtke clicks & keys

This photo is one of my favorites because of the unique texture used and the way the light is literally shining off of her face. It almost feels as if she's glowing! Creative and masterfully done!

sommerfugl design

Dreamy, warm, summery photos always make me happy and this photo has all of that! I also admire the use of the sun flare added and really appreciate how that adds to the story of the photo. Superb editing skills!

WINNER!!!
Mama Schell Says

I so appreciate the color contrasts and perfect blends of warmth and "pops" of color in this photo. I would love to hang it on my wall at home! Fantastic work, Jenn!

Jenn you won this print from Etched and Sketched! Check it out:

Etched and Sketched is a shop focused on creating great wall art. Our prints are inspired by mid-century modern items, vintage advertising, antique etchings and inspirational quotes. The prints are great for Interior design and room decorating ideas.

Please visit this week's sponsor on Facebook and thank them for providing our prize!! And don't forget to check out more great wall art in the Etched and Sketched etsy shop!

CONGRATS TO THE WINNERS!

DON'T FORGET TO GRAB YOUR BUTTONS!

A NEW CHALLENGE STARTS TOMORROW!

Edit Me 2012 Week 19

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 09 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

This week's fabulous guest judge is Andi @ The Hollie Rogue! Not only is Andi a sweet gal and great blogger, but she is also co-hosting a fun photo challenge that is wrapping up this week! We wanted to make sure you guys knew about it in time to jump in! (Branson is actually one of the judges for the challenge, so that makes it double fun!) It is the Photo a Day Mommy Moments Photography Challenge. There are nine awesome prizes up for grabs, and fun prompts for each day. You can read all about it here!

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD LARGE COPY FOR EDITING

This week we have a great prize for our winner! It is a print from Etched and Sketched that I just love. Check it out:

Last but not least. here is a review of the challenge guidelines:
This challenge is all about taking a photo and making it your own with the editing program of your choice! It is also about learning a little bit from each other, and exploring new styles! There are no restrictions (unless specifically stated within the post for the week), but we do ask that you share a little bit about how you arrived at your finished product.

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with!

<a   href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img   border="0" alt="Edit Me"   src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb414/stephaniesclark/editbutton200x200-3.jpg"   /></a>

Edit Me 2012 Week 18 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Clark) — Tue, 08 May 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Thanks again for another great week here on the Edit Me Challenge Blog! We love interacting with you guys via Facebook and Twitter! By the way, I love that Edit Me is International. Our judge this week lives in beautiful Australia! It makes me happy that this challenge connects us with people all over the world!

Our guest judge this week was Kaylene Maalste from L'INSTANT and Gum Nut Photography and Digital Art. Here's a little refresher on Kaylene...

I am retired and live in Berri, Australia with my husband and bossy cat. I have always been interested in creating, in my early days it was playing around with beading, paper maiché, mosaics, quilting and embroidery. I always felt that I needed to focus my creativity into one if not two mediums and I have accomplished this with Art Quilts and photography. My surrounding countryside is full of many different landscapes, in fact sometimes I do not need to even leave my garden. I love taking photographs and then playing with them in my editing software (Photoshop PSE 10) and several great plug-ins. I cannot draw so the computer screen has become my canvas. I participate in challenges that have given me the opportunity to develop my editing skills. I use a CoolPix L120 camera (basically a point and shoot), and I am looking forward to the day I can move up the camera ladder. My husband is very supportive and has grown used to me asking him to pose for me, and coming to an abrupt halt when we are driving so I can take a shot.

Be sure to check out Kaylene here and here to tell her thank you for judging this week!

Now here are Kaylene's Top 3:

Jennifer from Fotoplicity.

This edit is intriguing in how the use of the different blending layers has brought a touch of drama to the photograph and also given it depth and perspective. Bravo.

Seeing Beauty by Amanda.

One of the goals of Edit Me is to make the photograph belong to the editor. Amanda has accomplished this by adding warmth to the image through adjusting the tones, and also the cloning out of the fence etc. gives the viewer an uninterrupted view of the wheels. Well done.

And our overall winner is:
K*handtke from clicks and keys.

This edit had me coming back more than once and the reason is that the edit draws the viewers’ attention to the wheels and the large reflection in the river. This was also accomplished by lightening the bottom of the photograph and drawing out the colours in the wheels. Excellent.

CONGRATS TO THE WINNERS!

DON'T FORGET TO GRAB YOUR BUTTON!

A NEW CHALLENGE STARTS TOMORROW!

Edit Me 2012 Week 18

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Clark) — Wed, 02 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome to another week of the Edit Me Challenge! We are so glad you are here. Don't forget that you can follow the challenge on Facebook and Twitter for even more editing fun!

Our guest judge this week is a dedicated Edit Me participant, Kaylene Maalste from L'INSTANT. We are so happy to have her this week! Here's a little more about her...

I am retired and live in Berri, Australia with my husband and bossy cat. I have always been interested in creating, in my early days it was playing around with beading, paper maiché, mosaics, quilting and embroidery. I always felt that I needed to focus my creativity into one if not two mediums and I have accomplished this with Art Quilts and photography. My surrounding countryside is full of many different landscapes, in fact sometimes I do not need to even leave my garden. I love taking photographs and then playing with them in my editing software (Photoshop PSE 10) and several great plug-ins. I cannot draw so the computer screen has become my canvas. I participate in challenges that have given me the opportunity to develop my editing skills. I use a CoolPix L120 camera (basically a point and shoot), and I am looking forward to the day I can move up the camera ladder. My husband is very supportive and has grown used to me asking him to pose for me, and coming to an abrupt halt when we are driving so I can take a shot.

Be sure to check out Kaylene here and here to tell her thank you for judging this week! Here is the photo she has provided for us this week. Let's get creative!

CLICK PHOTO FOR LARGE SIZE DOWNLOAD

If you are having trouble getting a jump start or being inspired this week, check out
Stephanie's editing tutorial for this week's photo over at Behind the Camera and Dreaming!

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with!

<a   href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img   border="0" alt="Edit Me"   src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb414/stephaniesclark/editbutton200x200-3.jpg"   /></a>

Edit Me 2012 Week 17 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Clark) — Tue, 01 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Thanks again for joining in this week! We had a great turn out! Keep 'em coming! As always we want to welcome our new friends who joined in this week. Remember you can find us on Twitter and Facebook for more Edit Me Challenge community fun!

Our wonderful guest judge this week was Diane from Butterflies In Time Photography. Here is a little bit more about her...

Hi, My name is Diane O’Connor and I share my photography work at Butterflies In Time Photography. Truth be told, photography is not my main profession (not yet anyway) but I do have a never-ending craving to be creative in everything I do. Although I only began to seriously delve into photography in 2011, my husband encouraged me long before this to do “something creative”. Well, after much contemplation, I bit the bullet and here I am and I absolutely love it! I truly am a diehard photo-enthusiast who takes pictures of everything (and I mean everything!), wherever I go.

Be sure to visit Diane on Facebook or her Photo Challenge Page to thank her for judging this week!

Here are Diane's picks and what she had to say about each:

Julie H. you made the Top 3!

I truly love that my photo was turned into a work or art. The painted effect was very impressive,

I loved the background being dark and uniform and the added texture was perfect.

This made me want to place it on a canvas to hang on the wall.

Kaylene from L'INSTANT you made the Top 3!

There was a glow to the back of the tulips that I was really drawn to.

Made it feel like the sun wascsetting and added nice warm tones.

The details popped too. This was a very pretty edit.

. The overall winner is Lyne Nagelele

I was truly floored when I saw this edit and my eyes kept going back to it. The dark, black background makes the tulips pop, the details of the petals are amazing, the entire processing of this edit blew me away. Then the postcard stamp added just enough of addition charm and creativity.

Congrats Lyne! You will receive some lens bling from out sponsor Happy Acres Farm (and we're a little jealous)!

Please email the Edit Me Challenge with your shipping information!

View the full selection of lens bling in Jessi's shop!

Here's a little bit about Jessi:

I am Navy wife and mother of 4, I am a photographer. This all started from me making something for my best friend and fellow photographer to help get the kids attention. From there I started my etsy store and facebook page and it has really been so much fun!!

You can also find Jessi on her photography website and facebook!

Be sure to thank her for sponsoring the Edit Me Challenge!

Don't forget to grab your buttons!

A new challenge starts tomorrow!

Join us, won't you?!

Edit Me 2012 - Week 17

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Welcome back, friends, and hello to our new followers! This week we have a gorgeous photo for you to edit that just screams Spring! And a pretty cool prize for our winner, too! Don't forget that you can follow the challenge on Facebook and Twitter for even more editing fun! Now then, on with the show...

Our guest judge this week is Diane from Butterflies In Time Photography. Here is a little bit more about her...

Be sure to visit Diane on Facebook or her Photo Challenge Page to thank her for judging this week! Here is the photo we have for you to edit:

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD LARGE COPY FOR EDITING

And how about a great prize for this week? Anyone who takes photos of children could use one of these, and I am so happy to welcome back Happy Acres Farm as our sponsor this week!

Jessi from Happy Acres Farm is offering this week's winner their choice of lens blings. The photos above are just a few of the options! View the full selection in her shop!

A little bit about Jessi:

You can also find Jessi on her photography website and facebook!

Last but not least. here is a review of the challenge guidelines:

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with!

<a   href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img   border="0" alt="Edit Me"   src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb414/stephaniesclark/editbutton200x200-3.jpg"   /></a>

Edit ME 2012 - Week 16 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Clark) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Thanks for another great week guys! We are growing and love it! The more we grow the more we learn and the more great prizes we can get our hands on for you guys!

I want to quickly mention the Tip of the Week. It can be found on the sidebar. All of the previous tips can be found on the Tips and Tricks Page at the top of the blog. The past couple of weeks I (Stephanie) have been a little behind on getting those out there for you guys. SO, if you spot something that you think is share-worthy don't hesitate to let us know via twitter, facebook, or email! I know sometimes it's hard to visit everyone and I want to make sure your great information is getting out there!

Now, on to what you came for! This week our guest judge was Kat from Living Like the Kings! Kat describes herself as:

A 20-something blogging about the important things in life - like food, babies, and dogs. I married my roommate 4 years ago and now we're raising our first baby. Follow along as I try to figure out how to keep up a healthy marriage, take on the challenge of raising our first baby, and still manage to have a little humor in life.

Be sure to visit her on Twitter and Facebook, and thank her for judging!

Here are Kat's Top 3 and what she had to say!

2012 Adventures

The adjustments and saturation changes really bring an almost-3d effect to this photo.

I like the way that these edits make the water feel almost real.

They also bring out the sun kissed effect.

Julie H.

I absolutely love the scrapbook feel of this edit and the quote that Julie chose.

I also really like the light and level adjustments.

And this week's Winner is:

Karen of Clicks and Keys

I love the way the baby is off center in this photo, bringing even more attention to her.

I also really like the overall edits of this photo, the increased reflection, the way the sun hits her face, and the color adjustments. All in all this photo is my favorite because it took a simple beach photo and made it look like a magazine ad.

Congrats Karen!

This week's prize is provided by our very own co-host, Stephanie from Behind the Camera and Dreaming. In addition to being an awesome photographer, Stephanie also loves to do design work. In fact, she is the one who is responsible for the fabulous design here on the Edit Me blog right now! Stephanie also has an etsy shop where she sells printables! For this week's winner, she is offering a blog design! She will work with you to create a new look for your blog, including a header, button, and social network icons.

Please contact us via Edit Me Challenge Gmail to claim your prize!

DON'T FORGET TO GRAB YOUR BUTTONS!

A NEW CHALLENGE STARTS TOMORROW!

Edit Me 2012 - Week 16

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome to a brand new week of editing fun (and another great prize, too)! This week our guest judge is Kat from Living Like the Kings! Kat describes herself as:

Be sure to visit her on Twitter and Facebook, and thank her for judging! Here is the ADORABLE photo we get to edit this week... (are you as excited as I am?) :

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD LARGE COPY FOR EDITING

Now then, this week's prize is provided by our very own co-host, Stephanie from Behind the Camera and Dreaming. In addition to being an awesome photographer, Stephanie also loves to do design work. In fact, she is the one who is responsible for the fabulous design here on the Edit Me blog right now! Stephanie also has an etsy shop where she sells printables! For this week's winner, she is offering a blog design! She will work with you to create a new look for your blog, including a header, button, and social network icons. (You may remember Sarah from The Stiles Files won a similar prize a few weeks ago... have you seen her new look?) We can't wait to see who gets a bloggy makeover this week!

Last but not least. here is a review of the challenge guidelines:

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with!

<a   href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img   border="0" alt="Edit Me"   src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb414/stephaniesclark/editbutton200x200-3.jpg"   /></a>

Edit Me 2012 - Week 15 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Clark) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 05:01:00 +0000

This week was again an awesome week for the Edit Me Challenge! It seems ALL of you had your creative juices flowing this week for Kristy’s photo! I wonder if we'll be seeing more textures in future challenges?!

We want to give a warm welcome to the newcomers and encourage all of you to connect with one another to keep building our community! You can do so by subscribing to the blog on the sidebar or joining us on Facebook and interacting using the #editmechallenge hashtag on Twitter (or all three)!

This week we had a special treat for you! Not only did our guest judge give us a great still life photo to edit, she also provided a prize for our winner! Here’s a little refresher on Kristy from Life-n-Reflection:

If I had to label myself , I'd likely have the term Artistic Entrepreneur stamped to my head. I come from family sporting either the same or similar stamps. I don't know if the word ambitious even beginnings to touch the way I like to steer the wheel. I was received my first published artwork in a coffee table book at the age of 18. Signed up with agency and moved across the country a year later. It was one of the best experiences I ever had. I later became a public relations director and along the way a graphic designer. My passion for photography has never changed. I currently design templates, textures, and branding materials for photographers in my home office. I am filled with gratitude each and every day. It's not a secret, "Dreams Do Come True"!

Be sure to visit Kristy on Twitter or Facebook, and thank her for judging!

Here are her choices and why she thought they were Edit Me Top 3 material!

Amy of Little Adventures

Not only did Amy share an edit, she did two! Each one is so unique! She layered outdoor photographs, textures, and applied actions.

Alicia of Project Alicia

Alicia entry brings to mind a mixed media journal. Layered with a black and white photo of her daughter, scrapbook paper, textures, and a cute little Polaroid frame!

and the Overall Winner is:

Mirka of Sini Blue Blogs

You can tell by looking at Mirka’s edit that she really put some time and thought into it. She gave the image a butter hue, applied story spinning script textures, and tucked it into a sweet little taped frame. To top it off she shared an inspiring message with us too!

Mirka you are the WINNER of your choice of texture pack from Life-n-Reflection!

So head on over to Kristy’s boutique to pick out which one you'd like, then, please contact us at editmechallenge [at] gmail . com and we will connect you with Kristy!

Overlays: Cabernet via Life-n-Reflection

AND that's not all!
Kristy is offering EVERYONE:

25% Off all Textures

Coupon Code: EDITME25
Expires Fri at Midnight
www.boutique.lifenreflection.com

Here’s more about the Life-n-Reflection Boutique, if you haven’t please go and look around!

I am often asked, "What do you design"? In three words I design Presentations to Inspire. For any portrait photographer presentation is the key to product sales! I design products to fill your website and studio. Presenting your clients before and after portrait sessions with personalized announcements, invitations, mini books, collages, rep cards, albums, and mini canvases will inspire them to fill their home and heart with just about everything you have to offer!

Winners don't forget to grab your Winner's badge!

A new challenge starts tomorrow!

Edit Me 2012 - Week 15

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 05:00:00 +0000

This week we have a special treat for you! Not only has our guest judge given us a great photo, she is also provided a prize for our winner! So, let's get to it! Meet Kristy from Life-n-Reflection:

If I had to label myself , I'd likely have the term Artistic Entrepreneur stamped to my head. I come from family sporting either the same or similar stamps. I don't know if the word ambitious even beginnings to touch the way I like to steer the wheel. I was received my first published artwork in a coffee table book at the age of 18. Signed up with agency and moved across the country a year later. It was one of the best experiences I ever had. I later became a public relations director and along the way a graphic designer. My passion for photography has never changed. I currently design templates, textures, and branding materials for photographers in my home office. I am filled with gratitude each and every day. It's not a secret, "Dreams Do Come True"!

Be sure to visit Kristy on Twitter or Facebook, and thank her for judging! Here is the photo we are challenging you to create your own work of art with this week:

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD LARGE VERSION FOR EDITING

And a little bit about her shop and the prize she is offering our winner:

I am often asked, "What do you design"? In three words I design Presentations to Inspire. For any portrait photographer presentation is the key to product sales! I design products to fill your website and studio.

Presenting your clients before and after portrait sessions with personalized announcements, invitations, mini books, collages, rep cards, albums, and mini canvases will inspire them to fill their home and heart with just about everything you have to offer!

If you follow Kristy's blog, you already know that she is a master of using textures! This week she will be giving our winner their choice of texture packs from her shop. To qualify for this prize, you must leave a comment on this week's post, letting us know which texture pack you would like to win!!

And last, but not least, a review of our guidelines:

Here are the details:

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with!

<a   href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img   border="0" alt="Edit Me"   src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb414/stephaniesclark/editbutton200x200-3.jpg"   /></a>

Edit Me 2012 - Week 14 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Clark) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 04:06:00 +0000

I'm wowed (if that's a word) by the entires this week. So many different takes and yet SO many beautifully finished products. Welcome to our new participants, we HAVE noticed that you are here and are so glad you've joined us! Please continue to share and be an active part of our Edit Me Community as we grow!

This week we were lucky to get to work with Alicia who is the amazing photographer who captured this week's photo. She blogs at Project Alicia. You can click here or here to learn more about her and her little piece of the blogosphere. She lives for projects. Project Alicia is dedicated to photography, scrapbooking, photoshop, and life projects of all kinds.

Last week she teamed up with Kristi of Live and Love out Loud and Rebecca of Bumbles & Light to bring you the Leap Into Spring! Photo Challenge - a 6-week photography challenge, April 6 - May 18, aimed at capturing the beauty of spring. You can find more details here.

Here's what Alicia had to say about this week's entries:

Holy cow! Picking favorites is one of the hardest things I've ever had to do, after moving cross country and birthing my children of course. :)

So many outstanding entries. Not one alike. All unique and beautiful in their own right. Some cropped vertically. Some removed the fisheye effect almost completely. There was a stellar "photo planet". Shadows. An added clothesline. Clean edits. Drastic transformations. Heck, someone even removed the tree completely. Talk about talent! Top notch! I think YOU should be teaching me!

But since I could only pick three, these are the ones that spoke to me just a little louder...

Beth of Snaps of Our Life

Beth kept this one simple, applying an action from Florabella. I love the soft, vintage tones. But more than that she proved it didn't have to be a time consuming, labor intensive task to create something beautiful.

Lyne Nagele

Lynn lightened and altered the saturation levels. Really love the ultra textured effect in this color palette. This would be perfect on a canvas.

And overall winner....

Diane of Butterflies in Time Photography

Diane added some sepia magic to produce added drama and emotion. The brown hues literally transformed the feel of the photo. She also cropped the photo to align it more with the rule of thirds which is visually appealing. This should be mounted and hung. Beautiful!

Job well done ladies!

But seriously, kudos to you all! Thank you so much for taking the time to edit my photo! You have opened my eyes to the endless possibilities...

Thanks for this opportunity!

Thanks again Alicia for being our judge this week!

Congrats to the Winners - Grab Your Button!

A NEW challenge starts tomorrow!

Edit Me 2012 - Week 14

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome back, friends! And to all of our new visitors, we are excited you are here! Just a quick reminder that if you are on Twitter you can use the tag #editmechallenge to both keep up with other participants and gain exposure for your post as we share them throughout the week! Now then, on to this week's challenge!

Our fabulous guest judge this week is Alicia from Project Alicia. You can click here or here to learn more about her and her little piece of the blogosphere. She lives for projects. Project Alicia is dedicated to photography, scrapbooking, photoshop, and life projects of all kinds.

Starting this week she is teaming up with Kristi of Live and Love out Loud and Rebecca of Bumbles & Light to bring you the Leap Into Spring! Photo Challenge - a 6-week photography challenge, April 6 - May 18, aimed at capturing the beauty of spring. You can find more details here.

Here is the photo Alicia has provided us with this week:

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD LARGE VERSION FOR EDITING

Here are the details:

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with!

<a  href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img  border="0" alt="Edit Me"  src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb414/stephaniesclark/editbutton200x200-3.jpg"  /></a>

Edit Me 2012 - Week 13 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Clark) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Thirteen must be lucky because this was an awesome week of edits here on the Edit Me Blog! If you haven't had the chance yet, be sure to explore the changes here on the challenge blog. We have some new tabs to guide you through your editing experience and as always submit any questions/suggestions you have for us via Facebook, Twitter, or Email!

I am beyond excited to announce our winners this week, but first here's a little more about this week's AWESOME judge, Pam:

Hi, I'm Pam Bowers and I blog over at Kassie's Beach (named for my puppers Kassie and her favorite place to play). I started blogging in 2007 mostly to keep up with family and friends across the country. In 2009 I got my first dslr camera. That is when my blog started it's journey into photography. I have always had a passion for pictures. Learning how to shoot a dslr in manual was like having blinders removed from my eyes. I had no idea there was so much more to photography. It has been so much fun learning my way with many of you through your blogs both in photography and in editing.

Be sure to visit Pam on her blog, or on Twitter, and thank her for judging this week!

Here's what Pam had to say about this week's Top 3:

Third place: Elena at Cropped Stories

I loved this edit because it is a clean edit. That is my go to editing style. I love the crop too.

Second place: Sarah Halstead - The Naptime Momtog

I love this black and white edit. It's just gorgeous.

First place: Sarah at The Stiles Files

When I came across this edit I fell in love. It's bright and warm. It's dreamy.

She did all this without taking away the wintery feel to the picture.

CONGRATS WINNERS!

DON'T FORGET TO GRAB YOUR BUTTONS!
If you are a past Winner/Top 3 and display our button on your blog - feel free to grab the new one!

And Sarah Hudson we have a PRIZE for you this week! Branson is offering you a little blog design love! She will work with you to create a lovely new header, button and social network icons! If you are currently happy with your design, this is definitely something you can share with a friend! You can view some of her designs here.

If you are interested in a blog makeover of your own and want to contribute to a great cause, check out this post from Branson and the Peterson Family!

A NEW CHALLENGE STARTS TOMORROW!

Edit Me 2012 - Week 13

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 05:01:00 +0000

This week's guest judge is someone who has been participating in the challenge since the very start! It is Pam from Kassie's Beach. Here is a little bit more about her:

Hi, I'm Pam Bowers and I blog over at Kassie's Beach (named for my puppers Kassie and her favorite place to play). I started blogging in 2007 mostly to keep up with family and friends across the country. In 2009 I got my first dslr camera. That is when my blog started it's journey into photography. I have always had a passion for pictures. Learning how to shoot a dslr in manual was like having blinders removed from my eyes. I had no idea there was so much more to photography. It has been so much fun learning my way with many of you through your blogs both in photography and in editing.

Be sure to visit Pam on her blog, or on Twitter, and thank her for judging this week! I am excited about the photo she has given us... definitely makes me miss hiking! Can't wait to see what you all do with this one:

CLICK PHOTO TO DOWNLOAD LARGE COPY TO EDIT

Here are the details:

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

And, we have a PRIZE for you this week! I (Branson) will be offering our winner a little blog design love! I will work with you to create a lovely new header, button and social network icons! If you are currently happy with your design, this is definitely something you can share with a friend! You can view some of my designs here.

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with! And, as always, if you are interested in judging or sponsoring a challenge, be sure to let us know!

<a href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Edit Me" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb414/stephaniesclark/editbutton200x200-3.jpg" /></a>

Week 12 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 05:01:00 +0000

First of all, what do you think of our fabulous new design?? Be sure to update your buttons this week, and thank the lovely Stephanie for her hard work on this change! You can thank her on her blog, twitter, facebook... and anywhere else you might find her! She rocks! (the challenge facebook page was updated, too! Do you "like" us yet?)

Now for this week's winners! Our judge this week was Beth from Snaps of Our Life! Here is a little bit more about her: "I am a SAHM to two girls, Lauren is 4 and Avery is 2. I love taking photos and have recently taken up the treadmill, which I do not love. I have been married nearly 5 years and we've lived in Minnesota for 4 of those years. I love to drink dark chocolate campfire mochas, and play Words with Friends on my phone. My blog is a mix of pictures and advocating for my daughter, who has Down syndrome." And here are the winners she selected:

Butterflies in Time - I loved the crop and how real the berries looked.

Gatorette and Me - I really liked the slight vintage, airy feel to her edit.

{Overall Winner} Let Them Eat Cake - I chose this because it reminds me most of the summer day I took this. The warmth and clarity and overall feel of the photo.

Thanks to everyone who linked up this week, and congratulations to our winners!

Don't forget to grab your winner's badges!
A new challenge starts tomorrow!

Edit Me 2012 - Week 12

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 09:40:00 +0000

This week's fabulous judge is Beth from Snaps of Our Life! Here is a little bit more about her:

I am a SAHM to two girls, Lauren is 4 and Avery is 2. I love taking photos and have recently taken up the treadmill, which I do not love. I have been married nearly 5 years and we've lived in Minnesota for 4 of those years. I love to drink dark chocolate campfire mochas, and play Words with Friends on my phone. My blog is a mix of pictures and advocating for my daughter, who has Down syndrome.

Be sure to visit Beth on Instagram or Twitter, and thank her for judging this week! Here is the photo she has provided for us:

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD LARGE VERSION

Here are the details:

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with! And, as always, if you are interested in judging or sponsoring a challenge, be sure to let us know!

<a href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Edit Me" src="http://i958.photobucket.com/albums/ae63/adams925/Our%20tiny%20BIG%20Life/editmebutton.png" /></a>

Edit Me 2012 - Week 11 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Clark) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 05:01:00 +0000

We had some great entries this week. Thanks to all who participanted and to those of you who have liked our Edit Me Challenge Facebook page! We are hoping to expand our Edit Me community through facebook. Feel free to share tips, tricks, or even comment on your favorite edits of the week! You can also follow our twitter feed @editmechallenge!

This week we started something new called Tip of the Week! You can find it on the side bar to the right! Each week we will feature one of you and a great tip you’ve shared. Be on the lookout for some more changes coming up here on the challenge blog!

Now, on to this week's Winners:

Last week's guest judge was Belle from Belle Pics Photography (her new blog is in the works, stay tuned!). Here is a little bit more about her: "Hi, my name is Belle! I am a teenage photographer... I am from a family of 10 kids! loving it! Jesus is my biggest passion, living each day to his Glory! Photography is my favorite hobby!"

Without further ado here are Belle's choices:

In third place: God Is Greater on Flickr

Belle says, "Love love love the vintage effect! Gives such a neat color!"

In second place: Karen from Clicks and Keys

Belle says, "I love how clear this picture is! The lighting and color is awesome!"

Karen is also our featured tip of the week! Great job girl!

And 1st Place this week goes to:

Jennifer from Fotoplicity

Belle says' "When I saw this one, I knew it was gonna be a winner...I love the faded and old look, but it does not take away from the picture! Love it!"

Congrats Jennifer!
Please email us at editmechallenge@gmail.com to claim your prize!

Here is a little refresher on this week's sponsor:

Hi, I'm Amy, from Mimibeth Photography. I'm assuming you all like free stuff as much as I do, so I have a great website for you! It's a search engine called Swagbucks. You can earn "bucks" by searching, watching videos, taking surveys, inviting your friends to join, voting on polls, or even by playing games! When you earn swagbucks they are saved up in your account and then you can redeem prizes with them. I've gotten over $160 dollars worth of gift cards in just over a year of searching. One of my favorite ways to earn is to invite my friends, because when they earn swagbucks, I earn them too! You can help me out and get started on earning your earn swagbucks by signing up today at this link!

Thank you again Amy for sponsoring this week's challenge!

Don't forget to grab your winner's badges!
A new challenge starts tomorrow!

Edit Me 2012 - Week 11

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 05:00:00 +0000

First things first - a couple exciting updates:

As you hopefully know, the amazing Stephanie recently jumped in as our new co-host here. I am excited to announce that she brought a couple awesome ideas with her... two of which are now in the works! First, you will find that we now have an official facebook page! Here we will share not only weekly challenges, but also your posts and editing tips and tricks. We are super excited about this, and hope you will stop over and "like" us.

And the second new development is a way to feature some of the really terrific tips, tricks, and tutorials that you guys are sharing when you submit your edits. We have always said that sharing things like that is one of the main objectives of this challenge. So, starting this week, we will be selecting one post each week that has great information for us, and that post will be featured in the sidebar.

Now then... on with the new challenge!

This week's guest judge is Belle from Belle Pics Photography (her new blog is in the works, stay tuned!). Here is a little bit more about her: "Hi, my name is Belle! I am a teenage photographer... I am from a family of 10 kids! loving it! Jesus is my biggest passion, living each day to his Glory! Photography is my favorite hobby!"

This week she has given us a darling photo to edit! I can't wait to see what you guys do with this one:

CLICK PHOTO TO DOWNLOAD LARGE COPY TO EDIT

Here are the details:

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

And this week we have a little prize for our winner!
A $5 Digital Gift Card to Amazon.com!
Here are the details from our sponsor:

Hi, I'm Amy, from Mimibeth Photography. I'm assuming you all like free stuff as much as I do, so I have a great website for you! It's a search engine called Swagbucks. You can earn "bucks" by searching, watching videos, taking surveys, inviting your friends to join, voting on polls, or even by playing games! When you earn swagbucks they are saved up in your account and then you can redeem prizes with them. I've gotten over $160 dollars worth of gift cards in just over a year of searching. One of my favorite ways to earn is to invite my friends, because when they earn swagbucks, I earn them too! You can help me out and get started on earning your earn swagbucks by signing up today at this link!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with! And, as always, if you are interested in judging or sponsoring a challenge, be sure to let us know!

<a href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Edit Me" src="http://i958.photobucket.com/albums/ae63/adams925/Our%20tiny%20BIG%20Life/editmebutton.png" /></a>

Edit Me 2012 - Week 10 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Edit Me) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 05:01:00 +0000

We had some amazing entries in this week's challenge! Welcome to the newbies. We hope you'll join us again soon! I'm so excited to announce our winners for this week, but first here's a little refresher on this week's photographer and judge, Amy from Little Adventures.

I live in the beautiful Bahamas with my husband and our amazing son. I have been doing photography on the Island since 2006. Portraits, Landscapes, a few weddings, you name it! I love writing, drawing, painting, photography, etc... I studied Fashion Design in Tampa, FL for a year when I was 17 years old, but my love for the islands became even more evident and I couldnt stay away any longer. Not long after, I got my Happily Ever After and a few years later was blessed abundantly with a sturdy home my father built and a beautiful Son.

Here's what Amy had to say about this week's challenge and winners:

First, I wanted to officially thank each and every one of you for such beautiful edits.I love getting to know and viewing all you wonderful lady's blogs. You can find me at Little Adventures, on facebook, or by email. This photo meant so much to me. This was taken on our vacation to Pulaski, New York last year. It was a vacation filled with firsts. It was our sons first "long distance" plane ride, it was my first out of Florida plane ride, it was our first time to go to J.F.K airport (we were pretty thrilled as tourists normally are :P), it was my first time in the "forest" hahah, first time on a four-wheeler through the woods, and so much more! This horse was my girlfriends mothers horse and she asked if I would take a few photos of them (it was another more pony looking one), and I was HONORED that she liked my photos that much to ask. It made me SUPER happy to see how much each of you enjoyed editing this beautiful animal.

Now onto the winners, as I know that's the exciting part :P

It is REALLY tough to choose only 3 winners... but 3 winners it shall be...

So here are my Top 3...

(and Thank you again to everyone!)

Denise @ The New Yorker that loves Jesus

I loved this from the moment I saw it ... I loved that she kept the chocolate-y

color on the horse... and I just LOVED that the flowers looked like a field

of snow-white wildflowers. Great Job Denise!

Cathy @ A Bit of This & A Bit of That

This edit came in towards the end... and when I spotted it ... I just knew

it had to be in top 3... I loved that the wildflowers were cloned behind

the fence... and the warm feel of it like a warm summer day in the woods...

It brought back memories from that trip ... Great Job Cathy... I love it!

And now for my #1 :o)

Overall Winner this week ....

Drumroll please...

Amanda @ Seeing Beauty

This was edit #2 and I have had my eye on this since day one. I first noticed the

straight fence it no longer caught my eye. She also took the rope out and brightened

up the horse's face a bit. I just loved the soft, fairy-tale feel of this. It belongs

on a wall. I also really loved that she took out the houses in the background and cropped it close

to the subject so that the beautiful horse is where your eye is drawn to! Amazing Edit girl.

I loved it from the moment I saw it!

Be sure to thank Amy for being such an awesome judge and check out her edit of this beautiful photo!

Congratulations to our winners!
Don't forget to grab your winner badges from the sidebar.
A new challenge starts tomorrow!

Edit Me 2012 - Week 10

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 06:01:00 +0000

This week's guest judge is Amy Sands from Little Adventures. Here is a little bit more about Amy:

Hmm About me? I live in the beautiful, Bahamas, with my husband and our amazing son. I have been doing photography on the Island since 2006. Portraits, Landscapes, a few weddings, You name it! I love writing, drawing, painting, photography, etc... I studied Fashion Design in Tampa, FL for a year when I was 17 years old, but my love for the islands became even more evident and I couldnt stay away any longer. Not Long after, I got my Happily Ever After and a few years later was blessed abundantly with a sturdy home my father built and a beautiful Son.

Be sure to visit Amy on her blog or on Facebook, and thank her for judging for us! Now on to the photo she has provided! I am excited about this one, because I can't remember the last animal photo we had...

CLICK PHOTO TO DOWNLOAD LARGE COPY FOR EDITING

Here are the details:

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with! And, as always, if you are interested in judging or sponsoring a challenge, be sure to let us know!

<a href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Edit Me" src="http://i958.photobucket.com/albums/ae63/adams925/Our%20tiny%20BIG%20Life/editmebutton.png" /></a>

Edit Me 2012 - Week 9 Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Clark) — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 06:01:00 +0000

First, let me say Thank You to Branson for allowing me the opportunity to be here and get to know all of you a little bit better! Just in case you missed my introduction last week:

I’m Stephanie. I am an almost thirty full-time working new mommy with a photography habit…okay addiction. I blog over at Behind the Camera and Dreaming, try to support my addiction with Gray Mornings Photography and enjoy my offline life in Jackson, Mississippi.

I am ECSTATIC to be joining Branson as co-host! I have enjoyed this challenge for a while now and really feel like I've connected with so many of the participants! There is much to learn in the editing world and I love seeing the unique perspective each participant brings. I hope to gain more knowledge from you and share a little of what I've learned along the way. It’s great to be here and I hope to get to know all of you a little better! You can find me blogging, tweeting, facebooking, pinning, and instagraming.

Now, on to this week's challenge! I am so happy that all of you took the time to edit this precious photo of my little man. This is actually the first photo I've been able to get of him actually sitting up and looking up. We are still working on core strength and balance! =)It was so hard to decide on just three, but ultimately these are the ones I kept coming back to. So, here are my Top 3.

Amy from Little Adventures

I really loved the added brightness and the uniqueness her cloning gave to the background!

Great job Amy!!! Can I come visit you in the Bahamas? =)

Robin from Playdough In My Carpet

I love the smoothness of his skin, the brightness of his eyes and the added blue to the washed out sky! Robin you made my cutie even cuter! Love it!

And my overall favorite and this week's winner:

Sarah from The Stiles Files

I have taken notice of Sarah's edits over the past few months and let me say I am a fan! I love the crop, the warmth, the smoothness, the sparkle in his eyes! Sarah really took this photo that had a lot of potential and perfected it. Thank you Sarah! I really love it! You rock girl.

Congratulations to our winners!
Don't forget to grab your winner badges from the sidebar.
A new challenge starts tomorrow!!

I didn't quite make it for the link up, but really wanted to share my process for this photo, using much inspiration from all of you as always! To see it you can hop on over to my blog!

Edit Me 2012 - Week 9

noreply@blogger.com (Branson Merrill) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 06:00:00 +0000

First things first, thank you so much to those of you who responded to my request for a new co-host. I really appreciate the support, and will definitely keep each of you in mind for future projects, vacations, etc! I did indeed find a new co-host, and I am excited to introduce her this week! She is someone who has been an active participant in this challenge since the early days. In fact she recently had a baby, and one of her very first posts back was an Edit Me post (an edit of my photo, actually) and I couldn't help but smile at how quickly she jumped back in! So... I will quit rambling on and introduce her!

Hi, I’m Stephanie. I am an almost thirty full-time working new mommy with a photography habit…okay addiction. I blog over at Behind the Camera and Dreaming, try to support my addiction with Gray Mornings Photography and enjoy my offline life in Jackson, Mississippi.

I am ECSTATIC to be joining Branson as co-host! I have enjoyed this challenge for a while now and really feel like I've connected with so many of the participants! There is much to learn in the editing world and I love seeing the unique perspective each participant brings. I hope to gain more knowledge from you and share a little of what I've learned along the way. It’s great to be here and I hope to get to know all of you a little better! You can find me blogging, tweeting, facebooking, pinning, and instagraming.

Stephanie is going to judge this week's challenge, and we thought that there was no better way for you to get to know her than to edit a photo of her adorable little man! So, she has given us a photo of Jonah... we can't wait to see what you do with it!

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD LARGE FILE FOR EDITING

Here are the details:

When you link up, please use your edited photo as the thumbnail!
If you use the mouseover code or right-click protect your images, you need to either add a copy to the flickr pool (preferred) or it will be assumed that you agree to allow us to use a screenshot of your entry if you are a winner!
The judge for the week will choose the top 3 edits from the entries, and the overall winner of the 3
If you would like to post multiple edits, specify which one is your choice for judging. Only one photo is eligible for judging, and it must be clear which one you are entering.
Don't forget so share your editing steps, or some tips and tricks so we can learn from each other!
Don't forget to use the #editmechallenge tag when you share your posts on Twitter.
The linky will open at the time of the post on Wednesday, and close the following Saturday at 11:59 PM (central time).
Winners will be announced the following Tuesday.
Don't forget to visit the other participants, and leave some comment love! As usual, the more you participate the more feedback you will get!

So, there you have it! Have fun, and can't wait to see what you come up with! And, as always, if you are interested in judging or sponsoring a challenge, be sure to let us know!

<a href="http://editmechallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Edit Me" src="http://i958.photobucket.com/albums/ae63/adams925/Our%20tiny%20BIG%20Life/editmebutton.png" /></a>