excited & scared

Friday, February 24, 2012  

Recently, I've been anticipating the future — a lot. Opportunities are opening up to me everywhere I look, and I'm really embracing what it means when people say, "You've got your whole life ahead of you." Because I really do. I have the power to make the choices that shape my future. I have so much potential stored up inside of me — and I don't want to waste any of it. I'm scared of growth, but I'm scared of staying where I'm at. I'm scared of success, but I'm scared of mediocrity. Basically I'm just worried about the future. However, for all the nervousness, there is an equal, if not greater, amount of excitement. I'm excited for this life. I'm stressed about what I'm going to do about college — but I'm so excited, too.

People have been asking me more and more about my photography, and I'm booking more sessions with people. My business is just kicking off, and I'm so stoked about it. This will be a great way for me to earn money doing something I absolutely love.

More things to be nervous about — I'm turning sixteen on Monday. Is that crazy, or what? Two more days, and then I'm there... That age I used to dream about when I was younger, that age everyone wants to be. Sweet sixteen. The phrase holds so much promise. What will I do in my next year of life? How will I spend this age? I want to live it fully, and as Hannah says, intentionally. I want to make the most out of this year. I want to grow in my relationship with God, hone my skills, and be a better, more beautiful person inside.

My dad is looking into getting me a driver's permit soon — we've procrastinated about it, so I haven't gotten it yet — and I'm so excited and scared. That kind of describes me right now.

excited & scared.

But it's a lovely combination of feelings, isn't it? It really is.
written by Kailyn at 7:43 PM 11 comments

tips on newborn photography

Sunday, February 19, 2012  

As I'm starting off with my photography business, I realize how really lucky I am to be able to practice newborn photography on my sister. I've learned so much already, just by being around her every day. I know that I want to include newborn photography in my services someday, so this is great practice. I wanted to share a few tips with you that I've picked up.


one // make sure you're prepared.

There is so much involved in newborn and baby photography. You wouldn't believe how hard it is! I was surprised when I found out just how tricky it can be. During my sessions, Kya has cried, spit up, pooped, and peed all over the blankets. Prepare for the worst to happen -- because you never know what will happen with babies. There are a few essentials that you should have:
  • blankets galore
  • towels (for mopping up messes)
  • space heater and heating pad
  • white noise maker (or music)
  • burp cloths
  • diapers
  • wipes
  • accessories
  • baskets, beanbags, etc.
Also, you should make sure the parent knows what to do. The baby should be fed and sleepy, and preferably wearing only a diaper when you arrive at your client's house. You will need one or both of the parents to assist you in moving the baby around, consoling her, making sure she doesn't fall, etc.



two // make sure you're comfortable working with newborns.

Even if you love kids, newborns are a different story. They feel fragile and tiny and they're very loud. You have to be comfortable enough to pick up the baby if necessary, calm her down, etc. I'd recommend babysitting first, to get a feel for how to work with infants. They require a lot of attention, so it's important to know how to handle them.


three // observe experts. a lot.

There are hundreds of things to learn -- photography is a learning experience, all of it. So pay attention. Maybe, if you have a friend who's a photographer, ask if you can tag along on one of his or her sessions and see how they do it. Take note of everything, and ask questions, because it's all important!


four // be creative.

There are endless ideas out there when it comes to newborn photography. You can either get photos of the baby in a studio, or you can do more of a lifestyle session with the parents -- or both. Pinterest is a great place to go if you're looking for inspiration. Don't be afraid to experiment and try out a new idea. Look for different angles, different apertures, different ways to make the photo more appealing.

Thanks for reading, and good luck! I know you'll do great.


Kya Jade is seven and a half weeks old already... almost two months. Can you believe it? I can't. It seems like she was still in the hospital just yesterday. She grows cuter and cuter every day, and she's starting to be even more aware of us. She's ten pounds of cuddly, kissable softness, and I love everything about her. She's still so tiny. I wish I could remember her smell forever -- the smell of babies is just so amazing! I'm so grateful for this blessing. :)

PS: I did a gust post at this blog about the basics of manual mode in DSLR photography! I think it's fairly helpful; you should check it out! :)

Have a lovely Sunday, everyone. ♥
written by Kailyn at 6:00 AM 6 comments
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my life in pins

Thursday, February 16, 2012  





Source: tumblr.com via Kailyn on Pinterest



Source: flickr.com via Kailyn on Pinterest







Source: pickchur.com via Kailyn on Pinterest





Source: google.co.uk via Kailyn on Pinterest



Source: flickr.com via Kailyn on Pinterest





Source: flickr.com via Kailyn on Pinterest




Source: flickr.com via Kailyn on Pinterest







If you've never heard of a website called Pinterest, then you're seriously missing out on some good stuff. I love it. It's a never-ending well of inspiration and creativity. Recently, Hannah introduced me to a blog post by Olivia, in which she encourages us to create a blog post consisting entirely of pins that describe us -- our personality, our dreams, our inspiration. And I had a tough time narrowing it down to what you see here. If you want to see the rest, you can visit one of my boards here.









I love this idea. You should do it too! Head over to Olivia's blog and link up with your pins! :) Happy Thursday!
written by Kailyn at 1:51 PM 9 comments
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