Self Portraits

These days it is easier said than done to get out and take photos. Yesterday I listened to a webinar on photography tips. I've also been pouring over photos from various artists and freelancers on Instagram. It was inspiring to see so many good photos making their way around the world. 

Today I wanted to go take some self portraits, not only because I wanted to try out new tricks with portraits but also because my child and husband get very tired of being my models all the time.
The day began as usual, I make a wonderful list of all of the things I would like to accomplish in the day. Since having the baby I have found that I make the list shorter and shorter so I don't set myself up for failure... I was going to get the baby down for a nap then get all ready and run outside and take some photos.
Of course it never goes the way you imagine it all to work out. The baby didn't sleep so I had to pack him up and bring him along.

I am so blessed to be able to live where I do. The fresh snow and magnificent trees worked amazingly as a back drop. Not to mention, the snow was a perfect natural reflector!
There were more failed attempts that successful shots. We are our biggest critics. I didn't like the poses, or my expressions. Then there was the whole issue with my focal point and getting that spot on while running back and forth on 10 sec. timer.
The best thing about the day, I got out and made it happen!
When looking at the photos I was reminded that I am a good photographer. I am pleased with my work.
Some days I get so discouraged that I'm not good enough and everyone else is so much better. So today, though a struggle with my scheduling not going the way I wanted it to, was a good day.
I am thankful. I am blessed.
May your day be just as blessed! 

This past summer I was able to get a wedding shoot in around the baby being born. It was a very fun and eventful summer. Here are a few shots of the wedding. It was a beautiful day and a fun group of people to work with. I had the joy of having my sister as my assistant and we were able to capture some great moments. Enjoy! 

Today I find myself singing the High School Musical song, "Something New". It's the start of something new... 

I cannot say that I am proud that I have most of that song memorized but that's the way it goes. 

I have finally created a website for my photography business and an Instagram account to boot! You could say that I am getting serious about spreading the word. It is quite a feat to accomplish these seemingly simple tasks with a little one. 

My website can be found at: http://mhulsphoto.wixsite.com/photo

There may be some photos up that you haven't seen yet so check it out! 

My Instagram account is @maggiehulsphotography

Feeling accomplished today! 

Fall is in the Air

The greatest place to begin any fall season is in the midwest. 

 I adore the old farms and the excessive amount of trees that all have leaves changing to a full spectrum of colors.

Not to mention the flowers and other fall foliage. 

Fall has the crisp mornings and the perfect weather for bonfires and outdoor activities. Oh and the amazing drinks and baked goods! What a great season! 

Aluminum Reflections

The other day I was doing a fairly common task of feeding the dogs. When much to my surprise I was reminded of Edward Weston's green pepper photos. I grabbed my phone and snapped a photo of the great refractions of light and thought I'd share. 

It's those little things in life that make it great. We just need to keep our eyes open, because they come when we least expect it... even when we are feeding the dogs. 

Frosting Days and Unbelievable Sunrises

It's been a frosty winter full of snow and cold weather. With each passing day the desire for me to trade in my front wheel drive car for any four wheel drive vehicle increases. Apart from the snow drifts, icy roads, tire chains, and tow ropes there is beauty beyond compare. It is kind of fun living in a winter wonderland every now and then... 

A small explanation of the above photo: my grandpa's cows like to rub on the barbed wire for a good scratch. Hair gets onto the wire, just like any of our hairbrushes. The cool thing about this is that it looks about three hundred times cooler when it frosts over. 

First Round of Pictures

The red dirt that so easily clung to our feet. 

Learning to make bio-sand water filters. 

Putting up more solar panels.

Bubbles for the first time. 

Giving out some reading glasses. 

Painting nails. 

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