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Giveaway and Feature: Introducing the Trundle from Quietude Quilts

2012-05-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

If you haven't discovered Quietude Quilts yet, you are in for a serious treat! They offer the most gorgeous, high quality, and affordable (seriously, you've got to check out their prices) baby beds and accessories I have yet to find! I purchased a baby bed from them several months ago and it has been on of my best investments! I use it on sessions from newborns up to 2 or 3 years old and they are always the cutest shots!

Kelsey and Jonathan are a husband and wife team and the creators of Quietude Quilts. They are an absolute joy to work with!!

I am so excited to have the honor of introducing their latest creation! The trundle! This adorable little trundle is the perfect accessory to your baby prop bed, but it is also a fabulous prop all by itself. As a photographer who specializes in newborns I can honestly say that you can never have to many adorable things to put baby on/in. The trundle is my new favorite and has been a client favorite every time I've used it!

It's a must have prop for any newborn and baby photographer! So versatile and adorable and at only $30 it won't break the bank!

DISCOUNT ALERT: Mention Frame Worthy Shot at checkout and get your trundle painted for free! You can choose from any of their 18 organic, child-safe paint colors (a $15 value)!

And now, giveaway time! You could win a $50 gift code to Quietude Quilts!!

Mandatory entry:

Like Quietude Quilts and Frame Worthy Shot on Facebook

Optional extra entries:

1) Check out Quietude Quilts and comment here with your favorite item.

2) Leave some comment love on the QQ Facebook page.

3) Share this giveaway! You can share on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, your blog, or your favorite photography forum. (1 entry for each thing you do, so up to 5 entries for this, please leave a link in your comment)

4) Purchase something from Quietude Quilts (3 entries)

This giveaway will run for two weeks. It will end Wednesday may 30th at 11:59 PST. Winners will be chosen by random.org and announced here on Friday June 1st!

Winners!

2012-05-09T21:52:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who participated in these giveaways! Congratulations to the two lucky winners, they have both been notified via email and have 24 hours to claim their prizes!
The lucky winner of the May giveaway extravaganza is. . .

Andrea J. Photography

And the luck winner of the $250 gift certificate to Bad Sass Backdrops is. . .

Lindsey

May Giveaway Extravaganza

2012-05-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

This giveaway is now closed

If you thought our last giant giveaway was awesome, get ready for this. . . over $1,500 in prizes from 28 fabulous vendors! Here are the amazing prizes you could win:

A $500 store credit to On the Spot Studio- Logo Design and Photoshop Actions!

A $200 store credit to Photographer's Bling!

A $100 store credit to Bird Design!

A $100 store credit to Ashe Design!

A $50 store credit to Photo Prop Floors and Backdrops!

$100 store credit to 7thAvenueDesigns!

A $50 store credit to Beautiful Photo Props!

A one year membership to Clickin' Moms!

An action pack from Pure Photoshop Actions!

A $50 store credit to Wildly Sweet Designs and a set of Facebook timeline covers!

A $50 store credit to Fancy Fabric!

A $35 store credit to Sling Bebe

A newborn-3 month bonnet from Soul Blossom Boutique!

A $20 gift certificate to One Mama's Junk (Photography props at wholesale prices)!

A fabulous action set from Square Balloon!

A boy/girl twin prop set from Petunia and Ivy!

A $35 store credit to Vintage Rose Wraps!

A custom newborn hat from Faas Design!

A ruffle wrap and headband from Punte Bella!

A $25 store credit to Karly's Kloset!

A $40 store credit to The Shoppe!

A vintage bloom headband from Baby Joy Studios!

A $40 store credit to Photographer's Cafe!

An adorable owl hat from Bumble Bee Knees!

Want to enter?

Mandatory entry:

Like the facebook page of each and every vendor who so generously contributed to this giveaway (from your personal account). I have listed all the links at the end of this giveaway. You do not need to comment on the vendors' pages. Leave one comment here telling me that you liked all the pages on the list.

Optional extra entries:

1) Blog about this giveaway on the blog that you regularly use AND pin this post to Pinterest. If you do not have a Pinterest account you may just blog it. Leave just one comment telling me that you did both or that you blogged it and do not have a Pinterest account.

2) Share this giveaway on Facebook AND Twitter (if you do not have a Twitter account you can do just Facebook). This must include a link to this blog post. Facebook status should also include @Frame Worthy Shot in the text somewhere so that it links to the Frame Worthy Shot Facebook page. Leave just one comment here telling me you did both or that you shrared it on Facebook but do not have a Twitter account.

3) Purchase something from one of the vendors and make sure to tell them Frame Worthy Shot sent you in the checkout notes. You can get an additional entry for each vendor you purchase from, just be sure to tell me what you purchased in the comment here. Leave one comment for each vendor you purchase from.

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That's it, easy peasy! This giveaway will run for one week. It will end Tuesday May 8th at 11:59 pm PST. Winners will be chosen using random.org and I will announce the winner Thursday May 10th. Be sure to check back to see if you won because winners will need to claim their prize within 48 hours or a new winner will be chosen. I will check to make sure the winners indeed liked all the sponsor Facebook pages.

Facebook Links

https://www.facebook.com/KiwiandKiki

https://www.facebook.com/puntebella

https://www.facebook.com/PurePhotoshopActions

https://www.facebook.com/birdesign.etsy

https://www.facebook.com/Lovebycc

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sew-Whimsey/115849235139626

https://www.facebook.com/photographersbling

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Clickin-Moms/144244264619

https://www.facebook.com/BeautifulPhotoProps

https://www.facebook.com/7thavenuedesigns

https://www.facebook.com/OnTheSpotStudio

https://www.facebook.com/AsheDesignLLC

https://www.facebook.com/karlyskloset

https://www.facebook.com/slingbebe

https://www.facebook.com/pages/FAAS-Design-TM/120445918001098

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petunia-and-Ivy/200063480020431

https://www.facebook.com/babyjoystudios

https://www.facebook.com/TheShoppeDesigns

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fancy-Fabric/166055450162199

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Soul-Blossom-Boutique/169768993085842

https://www.facebook.com/WildlySweetDesigns

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Vintage-Rose-Wraps/113208952035112

https://www.facebook.com/BumbleBeeKnees

https://www.facebook.com/PhotographerCafe

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Izzys-Attic/216270401726098

https://www.facebook.com/PhotoPropFloorsandBackdrops?ref=ts

https://www.facebook.com/pages/One-Mamas-Junk/252986894716589

These vendors were incredibly sweet to donate to this awesome giveaway so I hope you'll spend some time looking around at the fabulous things they have to offer when you stop by their pages :)

DISCLAIMER: This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. You are providing your information to Frame Worthy Shot and not to Facebook. The information you provide will only be used for the Frame Worthy Shot March Madness Giveaway. By entering the contest you are agreeing to these terms and conditions. You may not reside in Belgium, Norway, Sweden, or India according to Facebook

Bad Sass Backdrops Giveaway and BOGO Sale

2012-04-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Giveaway now closed

One lucky Frame Worthy Shot reader will win a $250 gift certificate to Bad Sass Backdrops!!

I have backdrops from just about every vendor out there and I can honestly say that Bad Sass gives you the biggest bang for your buck! Their backdrops are on high quality canvas, not paper and they have so many gorgeous backgrounds to choose from: including the fabulous work of Jessica Drossin Textures! Their splits and tri-splits offer incredible versatility and are so easy to use.

And the cherry on top? Bad Sass Backdrops is currently having a buy one get one free sale! Take their already great prices and add this fabulous sale and you've got yourself a pretty sweet deal! Let's be honest here, it doesn't get much better than buy one get one free! Click here to go check out all the details of the sale. And be sure to tell them I sent you!

I had the pleasure of reviewing a 10ft split backdrop and I have literally used it in every single session since I received it! It is so versatile. You can use it together, use just the background by putting another "floor" on top of the floor portion, or flip it around and use just the floor with a different backdrop. Here are some of my favorite shots using my Bad Sass Backdrop:

Backdrop and Floor used together

Backdrop alone

Floor used with a different backdrop

As you can see, the split works great with all types of sessions! It is lightweight and easy to move around as you need. And this thing is durable! My floor has even been peed on (common occurrence in newborn sessions) and it was not harmed!

The customer service is fabulous! Kristen, the owner, is so sweet. Shipping time is fast. Products are gorgeous.

A good backdrop selection can make a big difference in how professional your studio appears. My backdrop and prop selection are a big part of what set me apart in my town. A few fabulous backdrops is one of the best investments you can make in your business. The splits and tri-splits make it easier to get a larger variety for the money- and the buy one get one free sale doesn't hurt either ;)

Okay now that I have introduced you all to this fabulous vendor, let's get on to the giveaway.

Want to win a $250 shopping spree at Bad Sass?

Mandatory entry:

- Like Bad Sass Backdrops AND Frame Worthy Shot on Facebook. (1 entry for liking both pages)

Optional extra entries:

- Blog about this giveaway on your business blog. (1 entry)

- Share this giveaway on your business Facebook page (tag Bad Sass and Frame Worthy Shot so we know you've done so). (1 entry)

- Share this giveaway on your favorite photography related forum and leave the link in your comment below. (1 entry)

- Take advantage of the Bad Sass buy one get one free sale and make a purchase (be sure to tell them I sent you!). (4 entries)

- Check out the recent photographer interviews here on Frame Worthy Shot and stop by both of their Facebook pages (like and leave a comment letting them know you are stopping by from Frame Worthy Shot and enjoyed their interview). (1 entry)

- Display the Frame Worthy Shot button on your blog, follow Frame Worthy Shot via RSS or email, follow Frame Worthy Shot on Pinterest. (1 entry each, for a possible total of 3 extra entries if you choose to do all three).

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Please leave one comment for each entry as each comment counts as an entry. If something is worth 3 entries, leave 3 comments for doing it. This giveaway will run for two weeks. It will end Wednesday May 9th at 11:59 PST. The winner will be announced within 48 hours here on the blog as well as on Facebook so be sure to check back and see if you are a winner! Happy Wednesday!

Photographer Interview with Lindsey VanTiem

2012-04-09T06:00:00.002-07:00

I hope you all had a fabulous Easter yesterday! I actually did a session in the morning, I know I'm crazy! I have a fabulous photographer interview for you today so read on and meet the talented Lindsey VanTiem!

So Lindsey, you do a little bit of everything. What types of sessions do you like the most and why?

I decided this year I would specialize in newborn through age 1 with a few older children's portraits as well. Newborns are definitely my absolute favorite subject which is why I specialize in that age through 1 year. If I am not called the "Baby Whisperer" at least once during their session then I am not doing my job to make the baby feel comfortable or the parents feeling at ease with choosing me as their photographer. I love newborns for the fact that they are so new and fragile yet durable {If that makes sense}. They can be molded, folded and posed all the while staying asleep if I am doing my job properly. Having a sense of confidence, calmness and a soft approach comes in handy as well.

You have so many adorable props! What are your favorite prop shops?

I have been collecting props since high school which is not something my parents were thrilled about having in their basement. But they supported the fact that they would eventually be used more than once a month. As time goes on I have amassed a vast collection from all over the place. I don't really confine myself to any specific store but you can often find me at any second hand store or a fun thrift shop, flea markets, antique malls and obscure hole-in-the- wall stores- you never know what they might have. Although I would be lying if I didn't say Hobby Lobby, Marshalls and TJ Maxx are my local go- to places. JoAnn's, Michaels and even Home Depot or Lowes have some great finds for backgrounds, moldings and wood flooring. I have also discovered the greatness of Ikea so I will be utilizing that store a lot more. My husband is shaking his head at this but supports my business and therefore me so he just smiles all the while crying inside at all the collectibles laying around the house most days.

We all love to hear how others got started in the business, tell us how you got your start in photography and what things you feel have made you successful.

I think my parents started me in photography without ever really trying. They bought me my first camera for Christmas in 5th grade- it was neon green and a Kodak. I bought film with my birthday money and really have not looked back. Every year they would "upgrade" my camera to something more durable and age appropriate but never the expensive ones {With the exception of my first point and shoot digital} that my Dad dropped and broke shortly after I received it. In high school I was part of the year book class and often took a ton of images. I look back at the yearbook and I am pretty sure I took over half the images in there which is fun to think about but also dates me so we won't go there. Eventually I went on to attend Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. They didn't have a major in Photography so I went for Art History with a concentration in the History of Photography. I worked with an amazing mentor, Claude Baillargeon, who helped me work my major into something that would work for my life plan. I took every Studio Art class available in hopes of the college offering it as a major. They did in my final year so I was fortunate enough to have taken all my classes prior and work it out where I could minor in Studio Art but mostly concentrate in Photography. I am debating on going back for a full major in Studio Art with a concentration in Photography. I think I am three classes shy of another Bachelors of Fine Arts. Maybe someday but until then I am enjoying where I am today and happy with just one BFA. I think part of being a successful photographer is being a "People person/pleaser" to some extent. Just knowing I work for my clients and their happiness depends on putting my heart into each image drives me to want to be the best I can be. Never would I think about talking down to my clients in any way, shape or form that is disrespectful toward them or their children. I treat everyone the way I would want to be treated as a customer. Also without all the mentors I had throughout college and the supportive network of family, friends and peers I would not have the confidence in my abilities nor would I know how to "keep it real" and be humbled by the journey I have made up to this point. In turn I try to help others as much as I can to pay it forward.

And we have to ask, what do you shoot with and which are your favorite lenses?

I am a Canon girl but have had my fair share of different cameras. As you know I started out using the Kodak in 5th grade and in college I ran with a Pentax K1000. I just upgraded to the 5D Mark ii which seems a little less impressive now that the 5D Mark iii is being released {Insert a low, whimpering cry now}. My backup camera is now the Canon 50D. And to be honest when I first started in digital I only had kit lenses because all my really nice equipment and money went into the equipment I had for my manual 35mm Pentax from college. No one knew I was using kit lenses so I guess it was okay for just starting off but then again the digital era had just made a turn and no one really could tell the difference between a shotty lens and the grain caused from only having an 8 mp digital :) I would not do it that way if I had another option at 19 years old but rather I would have continued to use my 35mm film camera and save, save save. Right now I have the 50mm 1.8 but am upgrading to the 1.4 within the next few months, 24-105 L, 28-135, 75-300. I have a flash but prefer my studio lights on a trigger to add more light than my flash would offer. I use Photogenic Professional Lighting System at every session. If I am shooting a wedding I rent my lenses from Borrowlenses.com. My fave right now if the 24-105mm L glass. It has a great zoom but still has that sharpness and allows for some good bokeh similar to the 50mm.

What ages do you find the most fun, easiest, and most challenging to photography? Any quick tips on overcoming any of those challenges?

When I first started out every age except Seniors were a bit difficult. But now after doing this for so long I have each age group nailed down to what I can bribe them with. The easiest sessions for me are newborns (Well most of them anyway). The hardest age I would say is 3-4 months because they are stuck in the can't sit, want to roll, floppy baby stage. Props come in handy for those sessions. All other ages are pretty simple as long as you stay calm, have patience and know that children are going to be movers & shakers then you will have more fun than stress. Oh and of course my secret to all the different ages are bringing Gerbers Puffs for little ones (really easy to edit out of fingers, sitting on props or on wood floors), a jar of candies for toddlers and siblings to see sitting next to me- Yes I bribe hardcore!! Once they finish with their portraits they can pick one piece or two if Mom says it is okay (I always ask before I even bring in the jar). Even communicate with the parents to see when nap or lunch time is so you can avoid those two most cranky times for a child.

And finally, tell us a little more about you (the non-photographer side of Lindsey)

I am the Mom of two wild, crazy boys and am thinking of adding a third to the mix {I blame this on all the newborns lately}. I married my high school sweetheart who is a fiercely, loyal fan that is always pushing me to do what I love. On any given day or should I say night I am up until 3 am or later working so I do not take away time from my family. Although I am pretty sure it is because I have insomnia! Humor is my ice breaker for everything especially when I am nervous. I am obsessed with movies- all movies, love em all! Any Nicholas Sparks novels, the Twilight movies {I even went to a movie premiere and met Kristin Stewart and stood next to Taylor Lautner- Nerd alert} and basically any chick lit that is by Emily Giffin are on my table all year long. I have a school girl obsession with Channing Tatum and Robert Pattinson and if they were ever in front of my camera I could not physically function to take their pictures. Hmmm what else...Indie music is my muse, old jazz with all the instruments of that era makes me instantly calm and doing something artistic or crafty makes my mind feel free. Other than that I am an old soul who collects vintage cameras and would rather sit home & watch movies or read while hanging out with my family. That is me in a nutshell.

Big thank you to Lindsey for giving us some fabulous insights into your busy world! Stop by and visit her website or facebook page to see more of her gorgeous work.

Photo of Lindsey and Lindsey with her family courtesy Shanell Edwards.

Editing 101- Making your photos pop using curves

2012-04-06T23:09:00.048-07:00

This is the first tutorial in my brand new series- editing 101. Learn some tips and tricks for making your photos look more professional, one lesson at a time. Please excuse the small size of this video. Between this video and the next I will be working on getting them to show up larger here (without having to go full screen).
This lesson is on using curves to give your photos that pop that really takes your image from flat and amateur to professional. Knowing how to use curves is SO essential to making your photos look professional. If you are still intimidated by curves you are not alone, but it's time to dive in and start playing with the most powerful tool in Photoshop! There are many things you can do with curves and this is just one of them. Be sure to follow Frame Worthy Shot on Facebook so you can be informed when new tutorials are posted!

Here is the final edit of this photo. Other aspects of this edit will be covered in future tutorials.

Winner! Poppy Tree Frames giveaway winner

2012-04-03T14:50:00.000-07:00

The lucky winner of the Poppy Tree Frames giveaway is #71, Steph. Congrats Steph! Please email me at frameworthyshot@gmail.com within 48 hours to claim your prize or a new winner will be chosen. Be sure to follow along on Facebook so don't have to worry about missing the winner posts.

Exciting things coming here at Frame Worthy Shot. I stopped by the mall today and picked up a nice headset to record some editing video tutorials for a new Photoshop series coming soon!

Free Birth Announcement Template

2012-03-29T06:00:00.005-07:00

Today is my youngest son's first birthday! To celebrate I have an adorable birth announcement template to share with all of you :) If you want to stay informed when future freebies are posted, be sure to follow Frame Worthy Shot on Facebook!

If your studio is anything like mine, Spring is full of newborn sessions. I have been gearing up for the season by preparing some adorable birth announcements for my clients to choose from. I am particularly fond of this Hello World Announcement and I wanted to spread the love and share it with all of you! You can download your free copy of the template here. Enjoy!

This template was designed using the specifications of Miller's Luxe Flat 5x7 Ornate Card.

Photographer Interview with Amy Parrish

2012-03-23T06:00:00.003-07:00

I met Amy at After Dark, where she was a teacher. She is truly an inspiration! I actually had the pleasure of having her take a few photos of my own family and they are truly the kind that take your breath away. It's no wonder Amy has been able to build a very successful business!

1) Amy, you have truly been a trendsetter in family photography! How do you keep yourself inspired and creative?
Really? A trendsetter? I think all I do is go out there and try to have as much fun as possible. I do get bored rather easily. When I get tired of the same locations/looks, I try to force myself to do something new. In the past couple of years I've also started working on more personal projects and have found that these have made a huge impact on the work I create for my portrait clients.

2) When you aren't hard at work, what do you love to do?
I love meandering through the woods and being close to nature. I just moved into an old farmhouse and, aside from moving/painting, have been keeping myself entertained by digging in the mud, splashing in the creek and have been on the lookout for salamanders (no luck yet!).

3) You always seem to find just the right angle at just the right time to create a family portrait that is stunning and emotional. Any tips for new family photographers?
For me, photos are a side effect. My primary focus is to get a family connecting with each other. Once you get them to forget that there's even a camera there because they're so wrapped up in each other, it's quite simple to capture those really special moments. I love getting in very close for these with a wider angle so the viewer almost feels as if they're part of that moment.

4) Let's not forget the typical question: what do you shoot with and which are your favorite lenses? Let's spice it up a little this time and throw in: Do you like to shoot wide open as much as possible or is it ever changing depending on the portrait?
I primarily photograph with the Canon 5D MKII. My Canon 24-70 2.8 is almost always on my camera, but I usually pull out an 85 1.2 a few times through a typical session as well. I shoot wide open more often than not, but (especially in family sessions when I need to have several different planes of focus), I'll also shoot at smaller apertures.

5) Tell us how you got where you are today. Did you always know you wanted to be a photographer? When did it become a profession for you? What amazing things have you experienced in the journey?
Photography was a bit of an accident for me. I first wanted to be an actress, studied Speech Communications & English in college and graduated thinking I'd become a videographer. I purchased my first DSLR a few months after college and got a job working at a high volume portrait studio. It wasn't long before I felt ready to branch out on my own, though, when I first started my website, www.amyparrish.com, I purposefully left out the word "photography" because I wasn't entirely sure it would be a direction I'd stick with (remember earlier when I said I get bored rather easily??). I invested a lot of time and money, but the emotional payback kept me going. Since then I've met so many incredible people, in all walks of life: these interactions have reaffirmed that there is still a whole lot of goodness and love in this world.

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Thank you Amy! You can see more of her fabulous work at Amy Parrish Photography or on her Facebook page.

Feature and Giveaway with Poppy Tree Frames

2012-03-22T06:00:00.001-07:00

Are you loving the boutique picture frames that are all the rage right now? I know I am! My clients can't get enough (and let's be honest, neither can I)! If you haven't checked out Poppy Tree Frames yet, you are in for a very pleasant surprise!!

They have the most gorgeous selection of frames! Tons of shapes and sizes to choose from. . . solid colors and prints. . . the possibilities are endless. And better still, their prices are amazing! With these prices you can actually make a profit offering them to your clients. My studio is decked out with boutique frames and my clients ooooh and awwww over them constantly!

To make things even easier for us, Poppy Tree Frames has come out with pre-arranged groupings (also at amazing prices). They have a grouping to fit just about any space you could imagine. Now you can impress your clients with a fabulous grouping to fit the needs of their home and match the grandeur of their images.

Want to win a fabulous 5x7 Faint frame to start your studio displays off on the right foot?

Here's how to enter:

Mandatory:

Like Poppy Tree Frames on Facebook. Then come back here and let me know you did so.

Optional extra entries:

1) Browse the Poppy Tree Frames website and come back here to let me know which frame style is your favorite.

2) Like Frame Worthy Shot on Facebook AND follow it on Pinterest (if you have a Pinterest account)

3) Share this giveaway on your blog, Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest (one entry for each thing you do). Please leave a link in the comments below so I know you have done so.

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Be sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do. This giveaway will run for one week. It will close on Thursday March 29th at 11:59pm PST. The winner will be announced that weekend.

New Giveaway Winners

2012-03-19T11:45:00.001-07:00

New winners were chosen by random.org

Grand prize winner is. . .
Mandy S.

The original second place winner contacted me on time.

Third place winner is. . .
LindseyLu

Congrats to the new winners! Please email me at frameworthyshot@gmail.com within 48 hours to claim your fabulous prizes!!

Photo Challenge Winners

2012-03-19T10:22:00.000-07:00

Our fabulous guest judge this week, Melanie Anderson of Anderson Photographs, has chosen a first place winner! Here is here choice:

This adorable shot by Laura Hernandez Photography.

The second and third place winners are:

Photography by Natalie

Samantha Grace Photography

Congrats to the winners! If you are the first place winner please email me at frameworthyshot@gmail.com so I can send you out a stork pouch!

Speaking of winners, I will be announcing 2 new winners of the March Giveaway Extravaganza later today. I have gone ahead and deleted the initial winners post because let's face it, if you won and missed it, you wouldn't want to know!

So check back later today to see if you are one of the new winners!

Weekly Photo Challenge Linky

2012-03-14T12:38:00.002-07:00

After experimenting with hosting the photo challenge on Facebook I have come to a conclusion. The photo challenges will be hosted here on the blog as it was last week, BUT if you would prefer to post your photo on the Facebook page with the title "weekly photo challenge {insert weekly theme here}" I will link it up on the blog for you. This will make things easier for our guest judges and hopefully make it easier for you to enter having both options.

So here is this week's linky. I will be adding all the entries that were already submitted on Facebook. Let's have some more participation so our amazing guest judge (Melanie Anderson. . . to be introduced first thing tomorrow morning!) has a large selection to choose from!

This week's winner will receive a stork pouch in multi-toned pink (not red as shown below). Lovely image by Cherise Kiel Photography.

Submissions will be open until Thursday at 11:59pm PST.

Click here to stop by the Facebook page and submit your photo to the challenge. Or enter using the linky below.

DIY Prop Tutorial: The 3 Minute Bow Tie

2012-03-14T07:00:00.001-07:00

Okay, so here's the story behind this bow tie. I had this fabulous stylized session planned for my son and his adorable little friend (also known as my best friend's daughter). I wanted to give his outfit more of a vintage feel so I decided to add a bow tie. The only problem is I live in Western Washington when the weather is super unpredictable.

When all of a sudden tomorrow is supposed to be sunny and 60 degrees I was not entirely prepared. I was throwing things together all day to beat the sun and catch that gorgeous backlighting. (Luckily we made it because we haven't had a nice day since. In fact, it snowed here today!!) Anyways, as we were about to walk out the door I realized I still needed my bow tie!

So here's how I whipped out an adorable bow tie in about 3 minutes.

Supplies

- a sheet (or scrap) of felt in desired color

- scissors

- a hot glue gun

- a piece of bulky or extra-bulky weight yarn

Tutorial

Step 1: Cut a piece of felt approximately 1 1/2 by 4 1/2 inches.

Step 2: Fold the piece of felt in half lengthwise. Put a small dab of glue down at the bottom of the fold.

Step 3: Fold both sides back down like so. Secure them down with hot glue (careful not to burn yourself)! This will then be the back of your bow tie.

Step 4: Cut a piece of bulky weight yarn about 20 inches long and glue the middle of it onto the middle of the back of your bow tie. When you are tying onto your little one you will want to tie a very small bow, then trim the ends short so it can all be tucked under the collar.

That's it, you're done! It's not something you would want to sell (lol, funny thought, I know) but it cost me less than $1 and it sure looked cute in my photo shoot, didn't it?!

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial, thanks for reading :)

Weekly Photo Challenge #2: Love

2012-03-12T18:25:00.002-07:00

This week's photo challenge theme is love! Let's face it, you really can't go wrong with a picture of love so join us in the fun and share your best photo for the theme!

Our guest judge for this week will be announced (and introduced) later this week. The top three winners will be featured here on the blog and the #1 winner will recieve a stork pouch in "shades of pink" from Baby & Me Boutique. Note the stork puch will not be red as the one photographed but will be a multi-toned pink. Thank you Cherise Kiel for the beautiful image!

This week I am going to experiment with conducting the Photo Challenge on Facebook to see which format I prefer. So stop by the Frame Worthy Shot Facebook page and post your photo to the wall with the caption "Weekly Photo Challenge Love." Be sure to leave a link to your page as well so we can stop by and admire your work.

Submissions will be open until Thursday at 11:59pm PST.

Click here to stop by the Facebook page and submit your photo to the challenge.

Rock the Shot March Photo Challenge Submission

2012-03-11T17:06:00.000-07:00

This month's theme at Rock the Shot is Spring. I live in Western Washington where it's cloudy and rainy about 75% of the time, so I waited very impatiently for the first sunny day this year to come around. When it finally came I set to work on this adorable session that I had been planning for months. To me it is the epitome of Spring! Warm back lighting and children playing. . . Warms my heart :) You can see more from this session on my business blog here.

Photo Challenge Winners

2012-03-11T12:59:00.000-07:00

This week's photo challenge was judged by the fabulously talented Cherise Kiel (interview coming soon!) Without further ado, here are this week's winners:

This sweet and engaging photo by Jessie Mason Photography.

This stunning photo by The Simple Things.

This little cutie, photographed by RJ Photography

Congratulations to all the winners! In the near future I'll be creating a winners button you can proudly display on your blog if you would like, so check back to snag yours. Thank you to everyone who participated in our first ever photo challenge! The first place winner can email me at frameworthyshot@gmail.com with your mailing address so I can get your headband out to you!

Question for everyone, would you prefer the photo challenge stay here on the blog or would you rather it take place on Facebook simply by posting your photo to the Frame Worthy Shot wall?

Canvas Prints by Fedex Office

2012-03-07T23:47:00.003-08:00

I recently had the opportunity to review Fedex Office's canvas printing. I didn't even know Fedex Office printed canvas, but as it turns out they have fabulous options for ALL your printing needs.

I printed two 16x20 canvas prints. I could tell they use high end printers and calibrate them often because my coloring was spot on. The images were crisp and beautiful. Both the prints are now displayed in my studio. I framed one of them and had my husband build me a little frame to stretch the other around, thus turning it into a gallery wrapped canvas.

The customer service was great and it was nice being able to pick up my products the very next day right here in my own town. I give Fedex Office two thumbs up! Stop by and check out all the fabulous products they offer.

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disclosure: I received a $100 gift card from FedEx Office to make this Canvas Art Print.

DIY Prop Tutorial: The Itty Bitty Headband

2012-03-06T09:49:00.002-08:00

I am guest blogging over at Prop Insanity today! {yay!} Go check out my tutorial for making these adorable little headbands that are oh so popular in newborn portraits right now. You may be surprised (or maybe not) at just how fast and easy they are to make! Etsy online classes should also be able to teach you how to create other cute baby accessories.

Also don't forget, you can win one of these by entering our first weekly photo challenge! Click here to go enter and join in the fun {please :)} ! The top three winners will also get featured here on Frame Worthy Shot. I'll be introducing this week's fabulous guest judge Wednesday or Thursday!

March Giveaway Extravaganza is still open so if you haven't entered yet go check it out for your chance to win almost $1,300 in fabulous prizes! And if you have been considering purchasing anything from one of the awesome vendors remember that lands you an extra entry!

Weekly Photo Challenge #1: Winter

2012-03-05T06:00:00.002-08:00

Welcome to the first of many weekly photo challenges here at Frame Worthy Shot! This week's theme is Winter. This is my hopeful way of saying farewell to winter. I live in Washington so it's still pretty chilly here and I've been dreaming of warm backlighting and fun summer sessions for over a month now! So here it is, help me say goodbye to Winter by showing off your best winter work.

Here's how it works:

1) Post your photo in a blog post, on your Flikr account, or on Facebook. There can only be one photo in the post or link to be considered. Link directly to that blog post or photo using the linky widget below.
2) The blog post must include the Frame Worthy Shot button (found in sidebar). If the image is on Facebook or Flikr just be sure to include a link to Frame Worthy Shot.
3) We will be having a fabulous guest judge each week. This week's judge will be introduced later in the week. He or she will choose three winners and each will be featured here on the blog. The top winner will also win a fabulous prize!
4) The linky will be open until Thursday at 11:59pm PST. Winners will be announced over the weekend.

This week's winner will get an itty bitty newborn headband from Baby & Me Boutique!

I can't wait to see your beautiful Winter images!!!

First Weekly Photo Challenge Starts Tomorrow!

2012-03-04T21:30:00.000-08:00

Our first weekly photo challenge begins tomorrow morning at 6am PST! The theme this week is "Winter" so stop by between tomorrow and Thursday and help me bid Winter farewell by showing off your best winter image. The top three winners will be featured here on the blog and the top winner will get a fabulous prize as well. This week's guest judge will be introduced later this week.

Don't forget about the March Giveaway Extravaganza going on now! Almost $1,300 in prizes from some of the very best vendors out there! There will be 3 very happy winners later this month! Click here to go check it out.

The Giveaway of All Giveaways

2012-03-01T05:00:00.013-08:00

GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED!

Alright folks, the moment you've all been waiting for! $1,289 worth of amazing prizes. . . 3 winners. . . 26 fabulous vendors to discover. These are all vendors that I myself use and love so I promise they're awesome!!! So what are we waiting for? Here are the fabulous prizes you could win:

First Place:

This adorable 2-fer background from Photo Prop Guy!

A $100 gift certificate to Marshmallow Dog!

A $100 gift certificate from Wild Sorbet Frame Company!

A $50 gift certificate to Pretty Presets! Also use code frameworthy to get $10 off any two collections from Pretty Presets!

A $50 gift certificate to Fototale Designs!

An oh-so-adorable baby bed from Quietude Quilts! Also use code QQANDFWS15 to get 15% off all bedding and accessories during the giveaway!

A $45 gift certificate to Posh Little Tutus (which by the way has way more than just tutus! Check out their gorgeous Easter collection.)

A fabulous fringe blanket from Mitzi Knitz! Also use code FrameWorthy for 10% off your order from Mitzi Knitz!

This adorable birthday prop set from Fuzzy Cheeks Boutique!

A sweet aquapolitan petti romper from Chic Baby Rose (hand-made in the US)

5 cheesecloth wraps from Baby Bliss Props!

This cute Little-Bo-Peep diaper cover and hat set from Sherbet Baby!

A $25 gift certificate to Crowned Embellishments! Also use code LEAP for 15% off your purchase!

This adorable pixie gnome hat from Oops i knit it again

Second place:

The seriously amazing Once Upon A Dream Collection photoshop action set from Oh So Posh Photography! Use code Dream20 for 20% off your purchase!

One of these yummy newborn backdrops from Couture Props (winner chooses between Mist, Iris, or Linen)!

A $50 gift certificate to Chic Bebe!

A $50 gift certificate to Leighton Heritage! Also use code LHSHARETHELOVE to get your entire first purchase 10% off!

A $40 gift certificate to My 2 Lil Pixies prop shop!

A $25 gift certificate to Yummy Design Studio!

Third place:

A $50 gift certificate to Pepperlu! Also use code Sweetconfections10 to get 10% off your purchase in the month of March!

A $50 gift certificate to spend on patterns from Dreamspun Kids!

A $25 gift certificate to One Mama's Junk (Photography props at wholesale prices)!

A black 5x7 Ether frame from the fabulous Poppy Tree Frames!

This adorable fuzzy bear hat from Hookaholic!

A photographer's headband package from Baby & Me Photo Props (who also sells crochet patterns for photographers here)!

Want to enter? Of course you do! Here's how:

Mandatory entry:

Like the facebook page of each and every vendor who so generously contributed to this giveaway (from yoru personal account). I have listed all the links at the end of this giveaway. You do not need to comment on the vendors' pages. Leave one comment here telling me that you liked all the pages on the list.

Optional extra entries:

That's it, easy peasy! This giveaway will run for two weeks. It will end Thursday March 15th at 11:59 pm PST. Winners will be chosen using random.org and I will announce the winner Saturday March 17th. Be sure to check back to see if you won because winners will need to claim their prize within 48 hours or a new winner will be chosen. I will check to make sure the winners indeed liked all the sponsor Facebook pages.

Facebook Links

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Frame-Worthy-Shot/193203987438784

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wild-Sorbet/312490171588

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Confections-Photography/131452416884759

https://www.facebook.com/pages/One-Mamas-Junk/252986894716589

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fuzzy-Cheeks-Boutique/205516146149334

www.facebook.com/pages/Chic-Baby-Rose/64102649232

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamspun/120157318008975

https://www.facebook.com/pages/My2lilpixies/151212148281995

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sherbet-Baby-Boutique/193059357371876

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Photoprop-Guy/291356107579611

www.facebook.com/prettypresets

http://www.facebook.com/fototaledesigns

https://www.facebook.com/pages/ChicB%C3%A9b%C3%A9/146984665315790

https://www.facebook.com/MitziKnitz

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Leighton-Heritage/143994975624180

https://www.facebook.com/yummydesignstudio

https://www.facebook.com/OopsIKnitItAgain

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Posh-Little-Tutus/104482446870

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hookaholic-Yarn-Design-Studio/271546871710

https://www.facebook.com/QuietudeQuilts

https://www.facebook.com/OhSoPoshPhotography

http://www.facebook.com/PepperLu

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Poppy-Tree-Frames/259054167474889

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Couture-Props/115280685226117

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Marshmallow-Dog/118855054853951

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Baby-Bliss-Photography-Props/218389574855587

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Crowned-Embellishments/245453182136207

These vendors were incredibly sweet to donate to this awesome giveaway so I hope you'll spend some time looking around at the fabulous things they have to offer when you stop by their pages :)

March Giveaway Extravaganza Starts Tomorrow!

2012-02-29T18:31:00.000-08:00

Almost $1,300 in prizes from 26 of the most fabulous vendors out there :) 3 lucky winners. Stop by tomorrow morning and check it out!

Free 5x7 Birth Announcement Template

2012-02-18T23:35:00.001-08:00

Hello all! This is one of my favorite girly birth announcements, the Emma Announcement :) I've been working hard on some awesome new designs so you can expect many more great freebies like this one.

I love sharing awesome digital freebies with my loyal readers! If you download my templates and love them, please share the love and comment here and/or share this post on Pinterest or Facebook!

You can download the Emma Birth Announcement Template here.

Download the fonts I used here and here.

Rock the Shot February Photo Challenge

2012-02-11T22:46:00.000-08:00

Rock the Shot is one of my favorite photography blogs! This month's photo challenge theme is 'love.'

Ever since seeing this fabulous photo shoot by Crave Photography I have felt inspired to take more lifestyle/candid portraits of my own family. Instead of looking through all my portraits of other people I decided to take my son and my niece out for a day at the marina and see if I could capture any tender moments between the two of them. This one melts my heart. If that's not love I don't know what is :)

http://www.rocktheshotforum.com/