Nina Grace Photography

Fixed At Zero!

2012-02-06T22:39:00.000-05:00

Any of you know this song and/or this band? VersaEmerge! It's always exciting for me to watch this video because 1) I like the song and 2) I know Sierra Kusterbeck! We went to middle school and part of high school together (we were both interested in musical theater) and the first time I saw this video last year I was pretty much blown away because I remember her leaving high school to join a band. Little did I know she would make it this far! Shout out to Sierra!!

I was doing a little bit of research on Payless shoes and ran across an image of Sierra holding a shoe, turns out she is helping promote a new line at payless called, Brash. Pretty awesome! Check out the link. The shoes are kinda hot and the videos of Sierra and the rest of VersaEmerge in Paris are very cool.

Keep Saint Petersburg Local :: Launch Party!

2012-02-02T12:00:00.002-05:00

So I'm pretty much in love with this non-profit, Keep Saint Petersburg Local! It was a couple of years ago when I visited Asheville, NC that I realized I always visit the local downtown areas....in every city other than my own! I'd buy from the local community or just go exploring downtown, but I didn't know what my own downtown looked like and hardly ever shopped local here in St.Pete. I saw this sign in the window of a shop and snapped a picture. For some reason it really touched me and from that moment I decided I was going to establish relationships with people from my own community, shopping local and having a love for the creativity and business here in St. Pete.

Here we are two years later and I know pretty much every local shop in downtown and most of St.Pete for that matter! I've collaborated with quite a few independent business owners and constantly buying from places like The Trunk Stylists or Gold & Maiden! loL....I love this city and apparently I'm not the only one.

The other night Keep Saint Petersburg Local hosted their launch party which introduced me to a butt load of new local businesses and creative artists like myself! It was pretty awesome, plus the party was hosted in the gorgeous Nova 535 venue which is (independently owned) artistic, funky, and modern! I'm def. going to reach out to a few new people (now that I know about them, thanks to K.S.L.) and businesses to help spread the wealth of knowledge, love and exposure. A big thank you goes out to all of the staff behind K.S.L. especially Olga B. and Sheri K. - they are great!

Senioritis Hope :: High School vs. College

2012-01-31T23:18:00.001-05:00

Library at USF

I've burnt my brain out learning everything I possibly could this month. My brain took a 15 minute power nap and it's back at it jamming in more and more info! It's cRaZy! All the info from my classes, all the info from my internship, all the info from photography workshops, all the info I continue to learn from the bible, plus the little things I learn everyday ("you learn something new everyday" right?).

I was sitting in my school's library today, pretty much ALL day...[blah]...and at some point I looked out the window and saw probably about 75 students. They looked a little young, but not too young so I figured these were high school kids taking a campus tour. Nothing out of the ordinary. I reflected on a time (about three years ago actually) when I was in that cluster of kids, just happy to be outside of the 4 walls I was used to known as GIBBS HIGH SCHOOL. As much as I loved high school, I couldn't stand it just as much and even though I dwell on the good times a lot and vicariously live through my brother (being in his Junior year), I know I would never opt to go back to that place!

Even still; though I wouldn't go back to high school if I had the choice I could see it all over those students' faces that they had no idea what college life was going to be like. NO IDEA! I realize I've been in school for 3 and 1/2 years now and I think I've mentioned it just once here on my blog. That's not cool. This blog is about my life and school is definitely (unfortunately still) apart of my life. I'm gonna school some of you youngin's out there (youngin's, yes, that's young-ings for the people who don't understand how to read slang loL). Junior and Senior year can be some of the best, most exciting years of your life; they're also a couple of the most important years. You know what I'm sayin? ---------> insert new weekly reminiscent post here <---------- dang! just tryin to make it through those last couple of years was tough because of all the fun things I wanted (and had the capability) to do outweighing all of the work that needed to be done! Is it tough for ya'll too?

ANNOUNCING PHOTOGRAPHERS TUTORING SESSION

2012-01-28T23:59:00.002-05:00

Wanna know how excited I am? I am SO excited! Excited to announce that I am now offering digital photography tutoring sessions! Every tutoring session will be different depending on you - but, this more of an introduction to digital photography session where we'll cover the fundamentals of using aperture, shutter speed, and ISO; how to find and use natural (available) light, and I'll even tell you what the heck "the rule of thirds" is! loL. And of course we'll discuss any other questions you may have! I will soon have a link of information listing all topics that will be covered during your personal session along with other important information so keep a look out for that coming very soon!

Last week I held my first official tutoring session with the sweet Natalya :) she is definitely not a beginner in photography, but wanted to learn a few more tips and tricks to help enhance her already gorgeous photos. It was a really cool experience for me and I was extremely happy to know I was able to help her learn a few new things. We pretty much had an entire session full of hands on shooting with Q&A and a brief Photoshop tutorial afterwards. It's funny because I looked at my 101 in 1001 days list last night to see if I've accomplished any new goals that I'd forgotten about and to my surprise I had! Hosting a photography mentoring session was on my list of things to accomplish! Very cool, right? loL!

DESTINATION MEXICO!

2012-01-27T23:14:00.002-05:00

So it was super cool because I visited Cozumel, Mexico for the first time this past November with family. I only had a few hours to tour the island and there were a few "must-go-to" places I had to visit according to a few friends, one being the Tequila Factory ;-) haha! I didn't really have any expectations as to what the city would look like, but I knew I didn't want to spend too much time at the beach because 1) I'm used to being at the beach I do live in FLORIDA! So beaches aren't that big of a deal to me and 2) because I HATE tourist traps! (Again, I live in Florida so I'm very aware of the beach being a huge pulling area for tourists.) I always want to see the "real" city whenever I visit a new area.

We had a great tour guide just take us all around town to the "must see" ancient Mayan temples, tequila factory and of course just riding around the city so we could see what it really looked like. Pictures speak for themselves so I'll stop writing now and just show you some of the photos I got while I was down there :)

Okay okay, but first this photo is my absolute favorite! This is my mom (elementary school teacher holding up her school sticker) surrounded by darling school kids who were marching in the street. I believe they were practicing for a future parade so I asked the teacher if I could take a group photo of them. They were oh too happy to pose for the camera! Aren't they adorable?! This pic puts a huge smile on my face :)

Haha! Us at the Cava Antigua Tequila factory with our awesome...ahem, tipsy, tequila expert!

PAPER STREET MARKET :: COMMERCIAL SHOOT

2012-01-27T18:27:00.004-05:00

It's no secret that I am in love with our downtown area here in St.Pete. I'm always down there exploring new shops and buying from independently owned stores, ya know, Keeping St.Petersburg Local :)....I came across Paper Street Market a few months ago and fell in love with their vintage/antique household goods! I felt so fortunate to be able to work with them for a commercial shoot about a month ago now. If you are ever in the area, this store (and central ave. where it is located) is definitely a must see.

Yay! My first photography tutoring session!

2012-01-26T18:33:00.000-05:00

Oh my gosh, today was a good day! One of those pretty successful days when you actually get things done. loL....I'm kind of in a rush right now, but I want to share a few photos from....wait for it....my very first PHOTOGRAPHY TUTORING SESSION! Yepp, I'm calling it a tutoring session because there is always room to learn more and you can always keep in contact with me to answer your questions :). This was the start of a very "brand new" beginning for me so I'm extremely appreciative to Natalya for wanting to learn from me. She is great and has a super cool boudoir photography thing goin' on (find her on facebook)!

This is just a sneak peek...

And the winner is...

2012-01-11T09:53:00.000-05:00

So I want to thank all of you who participated in our first giveaway of the yea in support of Keep Saint Petersburg Local! I'm excited to announce our winner of the gift certificate to The Trunk Stylists....Morgan Schlomer! Congrats girl :-) I'll be contacting you later today to gather your personal info so I can send your gift :-)! Hey! To those of you who want another shot at winning a giveaway prize keep a look out every Monday and Friday of this month because I have another giveaway coming up soon ;-) (yay! Lol)

Keep Saint Petersburg Local Giveaway!

2012-01-08T20:49:00.000-05:00

The Deal:

I am extremely excited to have joined St.Pete's new local organization Keep Saint Petersburg Local! I am equally as excited to announce our first giveaway for this years Big Bang Event in support of them! Keep reading below to find out how to enter and win a gift certificate to The Trunk Stylist...

The Rules:

So here's the deal, in order to enter you'll need to
1) "Like" N~Grace Photography, The Trunk Stylist, and Keep Saint Petersburg Local on facebook

2) Update your status saying: N~Grace Photography is giving away a $25 gift certificate to The Trunk Stylist! http://tinyurl.com/7o4yzkq

3) Finally just comment in the box below posting your name and email letting me know you've entered :)

And that's it! You have until Tuesday January 10th at midnight to enter this giveaway! I will draw one winner at random and announce the winner on Wednesday! I'm really excited about this, are you?!

Moving forward towards the light

2012-01-04T20:07:00.001-05:00

As I reflect on what this past year has been for me, I think about a tunnel. A tunnel that I crawled through as a child at Great Explorations. In order to find my way out of the tunnel I had to figure out and recognize what I felt beneath my legs and fingers (again, I was crawling in this creepy dark tunnel). If you recognized you continued to feel the same thing every so often (grass, carpet, tile, grass, carpet, tile...) you needed to figure out you were crawling in a circle and would never make it out, but if you could feel the...grass, carpet, tile and then instead of turning right again make a left you'd feel something soft like a bed of sheets and cushions and then something else and finally you would see the light and crawl your way out of the tunnel!

In some strange way I equate that tunnel crawling experience to this previous year. One word that I think of is...knowledge, when I think of 2011. I learned SO MUCH! I'd been given many opportunities to grow and expand my knowledge this past year. Now with new beginnings in 2012, I feel like this is the year for action. Recognize the things that I'd learned last year and put those things into action for my future. I'm so appreciative of my friends and family who are supporting me in love and spirit giving me all the encouragement I could never ask for myself. If you have that kind of support really stop and take it in. If not, you can always email me and I will support you and your future endeavors!

I wish you all the best in your futures! Please keep me posted as to what you all are doing. I can't wait to see where this year (and attitude) takes us! Oh, and you can follow my new 2012 wish list board on pintrest to find out more about where I'm headed and what goals I will be accomplishing this year!

xoxo
~ Nina

Post Processing - Photoshop Actions

2012-01-04T18:08:00.000-05:00

I'm anxiously awaiting the new semester...and not in that, "Oh yay! I can't wait for school to start!" kind of way. This past semester was, OKAY. Ya know, the kind of okay that you aren't too proud of, but not afraid to tell people what grades you got. This is what I do when I anxiously await the new semester, write. Preoccupy myself with other things and hoping for the best with things to come. I know I need to print out syllabi and make sure all of my books have been placed to order (and I will do that.) but right now, we preoccupy ourselves with less stress worries.

Which brings me to something that is a little more interesting! Over the past few months I've received a few emails asking about post processing using photoshop. I decided to post a before and after post explaining my steps. Just as a heads up, though to all of you who use Photoshop actions like Totally Rad Actions or Kubota Actions just note I use none of these. I used to, because they are pretty cool, but not so much anymore.

35mm..f/2.8..100iso..1/160
Sharpened (I have my own sharpening method) at 100%
Increased Levels just a tad (only in the RGB)
Increased Contrast +4 at 84%
Increased Saturation +16 at 100% (BUT I used a layer mask in order to only increase the saturation of her eyeshadow and lip gloss, nothing else)

35mm..f/2.0..100iso..1/80
Decreased saturation -100
Increased contrast +7 (using "use legacy") at 100%
Increased brightness +3 (using "use legacy") at 100%
Sharpened at 100%

Keep Hope Alive and Continue to Set Your Goals!

2012-01-04T12:19:00.000-05:00

I'm a huge fan of Becka Robinson's Life As An Artistpreneur blog. She is an international wedding photographer based here in central Florida. I love she and her husbands work, but I'm even more in love with her personal blog. She started a new series called coffee cup chats every Monday she talks about some topic and although I'm pretty sure I've read some of these tips somewhere on her blog once before, she posted this particular topic about goal setting this past monday! I wanted to share...(all material comes from her blog).

"I started seriously setting goals for myself in 2008. I'd always been a list-maker and goal setter but in 2008 I started to take it a bit more seriously. And in 2009 my world was changed. 2009 was the year that taught me how important having clearly defined goals is because, dear friends, that's how you make big things happen in your life.

I know it sounds too good to be true, or too easy, and in some ways it is. In others, it's the hardest thing you can do. There's a lot of things about goal setting (and reaching) that are scary and extremely difficult.

If there's one thing I've learned, it's that goals have a huge return on investment.

Those goals, whether you realize it or not, are deeply rooted in your brain. As you go about your daily work, your decisions, your brainstorms, those goals are there building interest as you pour yourself out working towards them. And then you get the email, the call, the paycheck...and you realize that you just reached one...no wait... you surpassed it!

So for those of you who are interested in trying it out, here's some easy steps that I go through when setting out new goals for the year...

1. Make the right space. Schedule the time for your goal dreaming session. Clean up the room you'll be in, play music, light candles, do whatever it is that you need to do to create a sacred space. If you're setting goals with someone else like a business partner make sure you're both in the right state of mind. Don't sit down to make your lists of goals after a day of fighting. Goal dreaming comes from your soul so make sure you're created a space worthy of such an important moment.

2. Be bold. I've said it every year: "I should have written down something bigger." Don't be afraid to set a big goal. Why can't you get your work published/ be recognized nationally for your work/ quit your shitty day job/ buy that new piece of equipment/ pull in 6 figures this year/ buy a house/ etc....

3. Write it down. Literally write it down and put it somewhere safe.Writing it down makes you accountable to it later on. It also takes it from your soul and puts it out into the physical world. Baby steps to turning that dream into a reality.

4. Make it visual. My vision board for the last 2 years has had everything from photos of rooms I like and want to live in to pieces of clothing I want, to calendars, to fake checks with very specific dollar amounts. (Jim Carey did this too! In 1990 when he was still a struggling comedian he wrote himself a check for 10 million dollars for "acting services rendered" and dated it for 1995. He carried it in his wallet for the next 5 years. By 1995 the success of the Pet Detective movies had driven his acting paycheck to $20 million. Doesn't hurt to try. I'm just sayin...)

4. See it done. Close your eyes and see that goal accomplished. Really visualize the entire scene. Imagine how you'll respond when you see it/feel it/touch it/celebrate it. Who will you call first? Where will you go out to dinner to celebrate? What do you feel? Now how will you act?

5. Behave like you've already accomplished it. How would your behavior change if you had already accomplished the things on your list? Start acting like that now. Right now. Would that publication of your work make you more confident? Be confident right now. Would that extra income allow you to give more? Give more now. Would you be more dedicated to your art if you could quit your day job? Be that dedicated now.

6. Baby steps. On a different piece of paper, re-write your goals. Then take a moment with each one to break it down into baby steps. Those baby steps made the goal seem much less daunting.

7. Keep it sacred. While there is nothing wrong with publicly sharing your goals, keep them sacred. They are not resolutions for you to work 110% on for a month and then forget. Only share your goals with people who you know will be able to stand behind you and lift you up toward achieving them, no matter how big they are. (If you post them online, you may want to close comments or have a friend moderate them for you and delete any negative nay-sayers.)

8. Give yourself space. Having a deadline is fantastic. Which is why I like to make new goal lists every year. But at the same time, allow yourself space to carry a goal over if it has not yet been completed. Don't be too hard on yourself if your big dream doesn't happen in a short time frame. As long as you're moving forward, be gracious with yourself.

9. Have one goal that scares you. At the end of each year, as even the biggest goals are achieved, I always wish I had set the bar even higher. Why not? There's no harm in trying. This year I'm going to be adding one crazy big goal. One scary big one.

10. GO! Start right now. There's no reason to wait. Take your first baby step. Email a peer asking for advice. Start researching how to get your work published. Write the first paragraph of your novel. Start sketching out the floorplan for the home you want to own. Get your business license. Purchase the domain. Write the cover letter for your new resume. Goals don't just accomplish themselves. You've got to put yourself out there.

And then.....
Party like it's 1999 when you check one off. I'm talking pop open the bubbly, victory dance around your living room, celebration dinner complete with the death by chocolate cake for dessert.

I can't wait to take 2012 by storm with all of you!"

The Big Event is Finally Here!

2012-01-02T10:30:00.001-05:00

Yes! It's time you guys to officially launch our New Year's Big Bang Event! Remember the deal? We have giveaways and deals for the entire month of January {and we have some REALLY REALLY good deals and giveaways for you guys}! So be sure to check my blog and facebook page every Monday and Friday for the deal of the day. Today's deal is a picture perfect portrait session, that is, a 30 minute portrait session and three of your favorite images from the session! You have until midnight Tuesday January 3rd to email me letting me know you want to purchase this deal :)

The Untraditional Family Beach Photos

2011-12-27T20:35:00.004-05:00

Everyone deserves to be looked at as an individual. Everyone is unique and uniquely beautiful! So why is it that when you do a simple Google search on "family beach photos" you see THE SAME THING?! Everyone is wearing white shirts and jeans, and often you see families in the same poses for each photo.

I love when my clients read and apply the advice shared here on my blog about "what to wear" during their shoots. This helps to keep them unique, themselves. I had the pleasure of working with two wonderful families in the past week - both on the beach - and both stayed true to themselves :)...there's nothing like an untraditional family portrait!

Click on the photo for better quality image...

Pintrest-ing

2011-12-26T21:25:00.000-05:00

I am in love with Pintrest! I've always been a fan of finding inspirational photos ("copying" them) and saving them on my desktop - especially when I was redecorating my room. I found out about pintrest maybe 8 or 9 months ago and I can't stop "pinning" now lol. It's really quite useful. I have pinning boards for fashion inspirations, my business brand, hair styles, travel destinations, interior decorating, and more! If you'd like an invite just let me know. I'd also love to connect with you and see what things interest you, so check me out here and I can follow you too!

The Year of All Things New...The Year of Brand New Beginnings

2011-12-24T09:23:00.001-05:00

So I've decided to start the new year off with a "Big Bang" loL...I really feel it in my bones that I will accomplish all of the things that I want to accomplish in this new year, and you know what, I couldn't be happier! So happy in fact, that I really do want to share the excitement with ya'll and get you guys hyped up and excited with me! I will have officially had N~Grace Photography for 2 years next month and I see the long trail that has lead us up to where N~Grace Photography is now. It's pretty amazing what support, motivation and determination will do for you ;)

So anyway, on to the more exciting parts lol...I've got a lot of new things happening for the "new year" - new travels, new thoughts, new brands, new ideas and goals, and new accomplishments! - so the theme of this celebration is "The Year of All Things New...The Year of Brand New Beginnings!" :D Don't you just love it! Come on get amp'd up (insert amp'd up music and dancing here)!! In celebration of this exciting new time, we (yepp, WE) are going to celebrate during the entire month of January! I've got prizes, giveaways, discounts, and FUN! I like to party and have a good time so I want ya'll to look at this celebration like one big virtual party and have a good time! Oh, and everything's on me! ;)

HERE'S THE DEAL:

Every Monday (to jump start your week on a good note) and Friday (to end the week even better) during the month of January check my blog and facebook page to find out what the deal of the day is. Remember I'll be giving away prizes, Discounts, and FREEBIES! Woot Woot!

What causes great business results?

2011-12-23T04:11:00.002-05:00

I've been doing a lot of research over the past six months about positive customer experiences and how it affects business results. Many people want to know the secret of gaining lots of exposure and business (including me), but instead of flat out giving you the answer I've found, I thought it'd be cool to do a little activity ;)

Think of three brands that you've interacted with that you absolutely love and have purchased [something - service or product] from more than once. For me I think of...

Jet Blue Airlines
The Trunk Stylists
Apple

Why do I think these companies/businesses are so great? Well, I was introduced to Jet Blue when I was pretty young and I loved that they had TVs on the back of every seat so I could watch cartoons - not having to sit and watch a movie (one I prob. didn't want to see anyway) on a screen 4 rows ahead of me! Pretty convenient for each of their flyers, huh? They also provided me with a snack and drink (people always respond favorably to food loL), the airplane was clean and the seats were pretty comfy. As I got older and started paying for my own flights I quickly learned the value of "Free checked baggage" which is something Jet Blue has always offered over most of their competitors! I've experienced a few different airlines and always seem to be disappointed because none of them measure up to the standards of Jet Blue, in my opinion.
The Trunk, my favorite local boutique store! What's so great about this boutique? Simple, Aneesa and Marianne. The two of them have shown excellent customer service and we've since passed the point of owner/customer relationship, I really feel like we are friends. They greet everyone who walks through their doors and if you are a more frequent shopper they will most def. greet you by name which I think is something everyone likes. On top of selling extremely stylish clothes they provide a service that gains them promoters who spread the word of their shop and keep people coming back.
Apple. 'Nough said, right!? loL ;) - Apple produces products that are just unmatchable. They really do provide excellent products! The design of each product is always modern which appeals to people. The fact that they are a premium product, in my opinion, makes them all the more appealing to potential customers. They pay exquisite attention to detail in their product designs, customer service and marketing efforts; because of this rarity customers have jumped in line to purchase!

The point is, no matter which company or business you came up with you'll probably note that they all deliver excellent customer experiences! Whether that means they offer free checked luggage, go the extra mile in remembering your name, asking how you're doing and genuinely care and listen, or pay attention to the details that you as a customer care about and then go beyond those expectations. Remember, excellent customer experiences produce great business results because it causes people to promote you and your business! Having those "promoters" are the BEST way to keep and increase business.

And only because a post looks so much better with an image, here's a sneak peek to a photo shoot I had earlier this morning on the beach....

New Year = New Excitements!

2011-12-20T21:35:00.002-05:00

Get ready for the celebration of the year! Woot Woot! Your not gonna want to miss this ;)
Stay tuned for more info coming very soon!

The Ashmed's ~ St. Pete Family Lifestyle Portrait Photographer

2011-12-12T22:44:00.000-05:00

The Ashmed's took advantage of my Living Social deal a few weeks ago. I remember Cindy calling me asking a few questions before deciding to go ahead and purchase the deal...all I can say is, I'm so glad they did! It was a pleasure getting to hang out with them for a little while this past Saturday :) and Oh My Goodness their little boy, Levi, is beyond adorable! He has to be one of the most observant two year old's I've ever met! He is a cutie and a smartie ;-)

* Click on the photo for better quality...

Murmuration

2011-12-11T13:35:00.001-05:00

I came across this video a few weeks ago and it blew my mind! This act is called murmuration, there are 100,000+ starlings and apparently they move in such a way in order to survive (to keep from being eaten!).

They "seek safety in numbers, gathering in flocks and with every bird trying to avoid the edge where adept predators can sometimes snatch a victim." Oh and by the way this footage was shot in Ireland, the land in which I am hoping to travel to soon remember?! loL

* The Telegraph

Lemonade Stand - "Lemondae For Sale"

2011-12-09T22:02:00.001-05:00

Traveling is a passion of mine. Those who know me, know this statement is true. Just yesterday I was given the opportunity to apply and possibly get the chance to travel to Dublin, Ireland!!! I remember when I was younger a few friends of mine visited Ireland with their mom, I remember seeing photos of the extraordinary plush, green mountains just imagining I'd gone with them. And then (years later) it happened, I saw one of the best romance drama movies ever produced...P.S. I Love You!!! It was then when I fell (one of those falls when your toes are curled all the way to the back, your ankle is now facing the ground, and your face just plummets to the ground and there is no break to your fall!) in love with that beautiful country.

I have to figure out how I am going to get the money to be able to pay for the trip. I have about 5 months to raise $3500-$4500 for this trip. I will keep saying to myself "where there's a will, there's a way" but I have no idea what way I will get that money! loL I mean geez I'm still just a part-time intern and full time college student. So with that said, anybody interested in buying some lemonade for a buck fifty ($150)? loL! At that rate I'll only need to sell about thirty (30) cups ;)....Nahh, seriously though if you guys have any suggestions as to how I can raise more cash I'd love to hear them :) Mini photo sessions anyone?! I gotta make this work! I'll keep ya'll posted...

What Should I Wear?!

2011-12-01T09:16:00.001-05:00

This is one question that will never get old when it comes to getting your pictures taken :) what should we wear? It's a great question to ask because it means you care about the quality of your photos! For a more detailed suggestion as to what to wear during your portrait session you can read my first article of What to Wear?!

So what should you wear? I'm always going to push for color! Bold brights may not be your thing, so we won't even go there loL, but just a pop of color against a soft, neutral background does just fine. A lot of couples and families think you have to be uniform, but I'm here to tell you that is not the case! Instead think more about complimenting each other rather than completely matching each other. Patterns – think stripes, polka dots, florals, etc – on top of color really help to make your photos stand out, in a good way. Textures are great and details too – a favorite hat, cool watch, pretty scarf, fun jewelry, whatever makes you, you! For my portrait sessions you should always plan for at least one outfit change. Keep in mind the location we’ve chosen for your photos. And remember, you want to feel comfortable and confident (and beautiful!) in whatever you choose.

Pictures are always helpful, so here is an inspiration board for you :)...

Article credit: Mikaela Ruth, tweaked by Nina Grace

Go Anywhere...

2011-11-28T18:54:00.001-05:00

This short film is so incredibly beautiful, Tom Jenkins is amazing! I put myself in the shoes of this desk toy everyday because I too want to escape from the confines of my routine school and office life. I wish the video was longer because I soak in the mood of it all! The enviornment, soft melody, display of colors...all of it! You can find behind the scenes photos on The Theory's Facebook Page

Shay Cochrane Photography Workshop

2011-11-25T22:24:00.001-05:00

It was such a great experience getting to hang out with the women at the Shay Cochrane Photography Workshop earlier this month. I met photographers from all over Florida and got in contact with a few locals which was cool. I've been a fan of Shay's for quite some time now, not only for her amazing photography skills, but also her openness and willingness to share with others what shes learned. She and I had been keeping in touch via facebook over the past year, ironically though, we'd never met loL. So finally, finally we got to met during her beginner pro workshop at the beginning of the month! She is so sweet :) and I learned a lot from her that day which was extremely exciting! I've been happy to continue to put into practice the techniques she taught us that day. We had the pleasure of shooting a really nice couple in the super fab Tampa Heights historic building! I'd never been there before, but you can bet I will be back! I love it!

* Click on the photo for better quality...

Virginia and Kyle ~ St.Pete Portrait Photographer

2011-11-24T23:46:00.001-05:00

It was so nice to finally meet these two! I'd been in contact with Virginia for a few months trying to settle on a date that would be convenient for all three of us. It was so interesting to hear about how they met and learn of the activities they do together :) Virginia and I are both Floridians, so when she told me she wasn't really into the outdoors I could 100% relate loL! Her fiance, Kyle, is from Kentucky however and he loovveess the outdoors! She said he introduced her to a lot of the activities they now do together like hiking, camping, biking and snow boarding! I have to admit that all seems pretty cool. I wouldn't mind trying snow boarding myself and I've hiked a time or two before, but I'm still a laid back lazy Floridian at heart loL so there is only so much I can do. Anyway, he currently resides in Italy, how cool is that!? (I'll admit I'm a little jealous, I've always wanted to go) and he'll be there for another year or so...they are the sweetest people, but nothing compares to their adorable dog Troy! Their engagement shoot almost turned into a Troy photo shoot - I had to stop and remember who actually is getting married (smh lol). Well, it was such a pleasure to meet Kyle and Virginia and I wish them all the best in their future together :) I hope to have the pleasure to talk and photograph them again...

* Click on the photo for better quality

It's a photographer's world

2011-11-23T21:06:00.001-05:00

So I'm just sitting here in my room listening to music, editing pics, and browsing the web...what's new? lol...I'm looking at some of my favorite photographer's blogs - and for all of you who aren't photographers let me just tell you we are in our own little world, we have our "Beyonce's," and "Justin Beiber's" of the photography world. The celebrity photographers. - I'm looking at the blogs reading about their experiences speaking all over the world and it hit me! All of them have some sort of signature. Just like a singer has a signature sound or a top model has his/her signature walk or pose. These photographers have signature....I'll just call them signature ideas. These signature ideas are the ideas they sell to other people. They actually sell these ideas to people, well photographers, because we pay lots of money I'm talking thousands of dollars to hear them speak for just a few hours. Okay so I'll be real for a sec. because I've never actually paid more than $150 loL but seriously people spend hundreds and thousands of dollars for photography motivational speaking. If you got it like that, by all means go'head. This isn't a bash post. I'm not hatin on anyone spending or making money, it was just a thought that part of the celebrities' successes are their signature ideas. Be it the idea to use natural light or the idea to dream and continue to dream or work with film or whatever! What will my signature be?

I recently attended a photography workshop that was great! I loved it! We talked about the technicalities of shooting, amongst other things and I went away thinking okay this is how I need to shoot because this is what I like. I like this photographers style so I need to shoot like this. Well, I just had two shoots in the past week and I was not my regular self because I was thinking all about the technicalities of how I "need to shoot!" I wasn't thinking about MY signature (hadn't thought about it at that point) and it felt like I was trying to fit a circle into a square, just didn't fit and although I came back with nice photos they weren't MY photos.

I expressed that to my boyfriend last night as we were talking - and I love him because he always brings me back to Nina - he said, "Nina you know how to take a picture, you know the technicalities already and you're great at it. What's different about your images is YOU, your creativity. If you want to practice anything practice using your imagination, your point of view. Not another person's." So thinking about that and now thinking about signatures I wonder what my signature will be...I want my signature idea to be to follow your heart. Follow what you feel is right, what fits into your style and personality. It might not be the norm, but so. Television, texting, blogging, rap, heck! even digital photography wasn't the norm at one point.

I know every so often I have these rambling blog posts, but I know I'll just look back at these posts years from now and smile, reading how I had epiphanies throughout my life :) Here is a song, that I LOVE, from the musical Urinetown that I think fits this post perfectly ;-)

The 600 Block After Dark Party

2011-11-22T12:38:00.001-05:00

Last month was one of my favorite St.Pete events. The 600 Block After Dark Party! The boutiques are open late, everyone comes out looking fabulous, we have free food and drinks and there is a fashion show in the middle of, what they call, the arcade! Check out the link to the video my favorite videographer Javier Fick shot, below that are some cool photos from the night.

http://vimeo.com/32014958

* Click on the photo for better quality...

Custom Thank You Cards

2011-11-08T21:25:00.000-05:00

Yay my very own custom thank you cards! Now when I send clients their images I can thank them on personal stationary. All thanks to the lovely ladies at Beach Papery and Gifts in downtown St.Pete. They were so kind and helpful and I think the cards turned out great! I like them, simple yet meaningful (at least that's how I feel).

I didn't even realize this was on my 101 list that I made up last month until I read it again yesterday and said, "Hey! I can check that off" :D loL This is the first step to many in my new re-branding process and I can't even explain how excited I am! Things are starting off on a really good note! I can't wait to share more with you...

A gift bag and portraits...

2011-11-08T10:28:00.002-05:00

New post coming soon!!

The Trunk Stylists Commercial Shoot

2011-11-07T23:06:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I hung around The Trunk Stylists in downtown St.Pete on the infamous 600 block shooting some stills for their commercial shoot recorded by the fabulous Javier Fick! It was all kinds of fun. They started shooting inside the store for the first scene and then we moved outside onto the rooftop! The view of downtown St.Pete from up there was just beautiful...but I can show you better than I can tell you, so here goes...

Tori's Portrait Session Sarasota Portrait Photographer

2011-11-01T17:53:00.002-04:00

Sarasota is so colorful and beautiful, I've always wanted to have a photo shoot in the downtown area, so I was extremely excited to make the 45 minute trip to downtown Sarasota to visit Tori and her friend Ariel to take photos :) We had lots of fun, enjoying good conversation and a LOT of laughing! I'm so happy the weather had cleared up a bit from the down pour earlier in the day.

This is Tori... * Click on the photo for better quality*

And this is her friend Ariel (love that red hair girl!)...

"And I'm still falling..."

2011-10-25T11:53:00.001-04:00

I love this song (and my "boo" lol)...this song is inspiration #1

~ Nina

Obvious to you, Amazing to others

2011-10-25T10:23:00.001-04:00

A pretty interesting thought. I guess this means I shouldn't be afraid to share my ideas, art, and inspirations with you and the world :-)

Have a great Tuesday,
~ Nina

He's The One

2011-10-18T23:28:00.002-04:00

Yepp, he's the one. The one I tell everything to. The one I laugh with, the one that I can make smile. The one I can truly be myself around. The one who knows me and loves me for who I am (craziness and all). The one who supports me and encourages me. The one who lights up when I smile. The one who is always positive. The one that I want to make happy for the rest of his life. He's the one I love. The one I'm crazy about, yepp he's the one.

xoxo,
~ Nina

Treasure Island Beach Party

2011-10-18T18:33:00.000-04:00

Beach House Party!! My friend's girlfriend just bought a place on the beach and she had the nicest house warming party this weekend :)....we played football (my legs and thighs are still sore from all that running around), danced, laughed and ate!

I've been challenging myself lately to stop and see the details that surround me and to capture those details. I don't know what it is, but it always seems like I'm trying to take photos of "what I'm suppose to" take photos of. Does that make any sense? My brain works so fast when I'm shooting, running through a list of shots that I'm "suppose" to take, and it doesn't seem like I'm actually LOOKING at what is going on around me. I just keep shooting without paying attention to detail. Which is really awful when I'm shooting weddings and events :-/ So with this challenge I hope to improve my skill of seeing the details.

Anyway, hope you guys are having a great week so far!
~ Nina

Man! I'm really diggin these black and white photos!

101 in 1001 Days

2011-10-11T22:51:00.001-04:00

I started this list 2 weeks ago and I've yet to complete it. I wanted to wait until I filled out all 101 goals before I posted it to the blog, but the longer I wait, the longer I will put off completing my goals. It might be fun and more interesting for me to finish filling it out as I go along anyway, find out what other things I'd like to strive for in the future! I'm very much a goal oriented kinda girl - always writing down my plans - so I thought creating a 101 in 1001 list would be fun!

I think it will be fun to blog about each goal that I cross off the list. It'll help me to blog more as well and it'll be interesting to see the changes I go through over the years :)...Anyway, here is the list:

Start date: October 1, 2011

End date: June 28, 2014

Travel

Visit Sony in London
~~Travel to Mexico~~ ~~- November 16, 2011~~ (Cozumel)
Go back to Canada – Vancouver (and back toToronto)
Travel to South America
Travel to Europe
Travel to Ireland
Make plans to go to Japan
Visit Yellowstone National Park
Take a 2+ day road trip with just my brother
Visit the original Coco Chanel boutique in Paris
Walk across the Brooklyn bridge
~~Take a 4+ day vacation with family and friends~~ (November 13th - 19th, 2011)
Go on a trip with Tori to visit Jessica and Ryan

Love and Life

Watch the sunrise with my “dear john”
~~Write a love letter to my “dear john” November 24, 2011~~
Write a letter to my family members I have notseen in a while
Go on a picnic date with "dear john"
Get professional photos taken of me and “dear john”

Photography Life

Purchase a medium format camera (hasselblad ormamiya brand)
Take part in Images for a Cure
Blog each item I check off of my list
Attend WPPI in Las Vegas
Get a photo of mine published in print
Have my work featured on Green Wedding Shoes
Purchase a full frame camera body
Work on one personal/creative photographyproject each season for one year
Get a promo video created and recorded forN~Grace Photography
Have an art showing party/event displaying myfashion lifestyle work
Have a fashion shoot in New York City
~~Attend a photography workshop - November 5, 2011~~ (Shay Cochrane)
Rent [studio] space for a fashion shoot
~~Have custom thank you cards designed~~ ~~November 8, 2011~~ (Beach Papery and Gifts)
Get custom made flash drives
~~Get branded packaging material~~
Learn how to properly use flash (onand off camera)
Host my own art showing
~~Host a mentor/internship program Jan. 21, 2012~~

Education

Graduate from USF with a Bachelor's in Information Systems

Spiritual

Serve where the need is great for at least 2weeks
Auxiliary Pioneer for 3 months withing one year
Serve in new territory (for service) at leastonce/month
Get a better understanding of Daniel’sprophesies (in the bible)
Study the book of Revelation

Cha-ching!

Save enough money to move into my own apartment
Learn how to properly invest in stocks...then do it!
~~Open a business checking/savings account Dec. 28, 2011~~
Budget and save for every major trip I take, being able to pay for it outright

Mind, Body, Soul, and Relaxation

~~Start an exercise routine (and follow at leastonce/week)~~ (LA Fitness)
Read "The Starbucks Experience"
Take a photo of a whale…in its natural habitat!
Introduce myself to at least one new person eachmonth and hold a steady conversation with them (gotta get over my shyness andlack of networking skills).
Eat/cook one new meal/dish each week for onemonth
Get my teeth whitened
Pay it forward to at least 3 different people(in whatever way I see fit at the time)
Treat myself to a spa day once/month

Organization

Organize my Itunes music
Organize my emails

Everything Else!

Throw an amazing “just because” party
~~Attend an outdoor concert - October 7, 2011~~ (Chris Brown's F.A.M.E. Tour)
Buy an IMac
Learn to play golf
Take a surfing lesson
Own a Louis Vuitton (Speedy 30)
Go to one theme park I’ve never been to before
Attend Thomas’ graduation from high school!
Purchase a pair of knee high flat walking boots
Create a collage of destinations - places I've been

New Adventures

Go horseback riding
Try snowboarding
Go tubing again!
~~Make some sort of craft that I’ve never madebefore~~ (Business Cards)
Take an art class
Attend a Broadway show in NYC
Attend a film festival
Go Sailing

Small Town Getaway

2011-10-09T23:10:00.003-04:00

Getting away last Sunday was really nice. I took a little road trip with my mom and brother to DeLand, FL - surrounded by nothing but food, family and friends amounted to a real good time! We even had a little musical entertainment loL...with wigs! The weather is finally nice and cool here in Fl so we enjoyed a nice bbq out on the back patio. I love it.

New Blog

2011-09-18T19:36:00.002-04:00

Hey guys check out my new TUMBLR blog. I will more than like frequently post there as apposed to posting here. I really like Tumblr. I didn't see the value in it for the longest, but it is just so convenient and easy! Anywho, hope you all are well :) let me know what you guys think....http://www.ngracephotography.tumblr.com

xoxo ~ Nina

2nd clue -- Guess where I'm going...

2011-09-08T23:21:00.000-04:00

2nd Clue: "The weather is perfect....always"

Any guesses? loL

~ Nina

I'm going to....(guess!)

2011-09-06T18:51:00.002-04:00

This was my view last night listening to the rain pour against my window...do you see the window cracked just a bit?

On another note, I want to play a game with you. loL I'll be leaving for a few days next week to a place that I've yet to visit. I'm extremely excited to go and can't wait to share photos with you! Wanna guess where I'm going? Here is your first clue:

I hope this isn't too easy or hard loL...just fun. Any guesses yet? Keep on the look out for your next clue ;-)

Aug. 30, 2011

2011-08-30T14:02:00.000-04:00

Do you ever get that feeling like you are dying on the inside? That sounds a little dramatic in my opinion, but I had that feeling - ahh man, it was a strong feeling - today. This morning, actually, about 20 minutes ago. I've been burning to utilize the creative parts of my mind and body. I've been stuck. In a routine of work and school.
Maybe it isn't so much the routine of things, but the fact that I've been looking, literally looking, at the same scenery for the past, i don't know, 3 - 5 months now. I am in desperate need of just seeing something new. I guess that desperation presented itself to me in a "do or die" way this afternoon when I once again, was sitting at home in front of my computer screen doing a class assignment. loL

So here I am. Sitting in a local coffee shop in downtown St.Pete. The Kahwa Coffee Roasting Cafe. A quaint, modern, artsy cafe. I'm not at all a coffee drinker lol, so I ordered a carmel macchiato - a drink a good friend of mine recently put me on. I'm sitting here near the back of the cafe smelling the roasted coffee grinds, hearing the soft melody of what sounds like Billie Holiday on the stereo mixed with the sounds of expresso machines and customers coming in and out ordering latte's and danishes. Everyone looks so, for a lack of better words, artsy. Hip, bohemian, artisans. Here I am in mustard yellow shorts and a white top with sandals. Most everyone else is wearing black and have funky hair cuts with those "tom" shoes. The barista has an arm full of colorful tattoos.

A new environment for me to say the least. Art and music surrounds me. I love this feeling. This urban art feeling, surrounded by calm souls. I'm sure I will come back here. But until then I have to find a place to plug in my computer charger because it is about to die lol..I also think I'm running out of time on the meter where I parked my car...o_O loL

Have you ever gotten a hand written letter?

2011-08-09T23:30:00.001-04:00

Good night you all!

The Beauty Boutique :: A Fashion Photography Blog

2011-08-06T01:44:00.003-04:00

I've been strugglin for a while now trying to figure out how I will utilize this blog properly. Part of me wants it to be strictly for photography and the other part of me wants it to be a melting pot of ideas! And then a loud voice in the back of my mind always ends up shoutin at me sayin "why are you thinkin so much! Just write somethin!"

After having a conversation with my friend he reminded me of what I used to write about in the journals I used to write in all throughout high school and part of college....BOYS! loL, he said "write about what you know and like" lol. Maybe I will. I like boys, I know boys, I know one boy in particular that I really like and want to be with. I like fashion, I don't know a whole lot about fashion, but I do know what I like (when I see it). What if I called this blog [The] Beauty and Boys Boutique!? Huh, you like? Any other ideas? lol...The Fashion Boutique? Nahhh I'll just call it..."Nina Says..." and I say it's time for another fashion shoot asap! One to celebrate the end of the summer approaching and another for the welcoming of the Fall. Ahh man, a look back into some of the shoots I've had this spring/summer season so far while listening to my current song of choice...

Step one :: Drawing inspirtation from a Payless commercial

2011-07-25T00:01:00.000-04:00

I love these two videos! They are fun, playful and colorful. I've been thinking of making my own commercial (really you would call it a promo video) and I've been inspired from many different people and videos, but these two videos capture what I feel I would want my own video to look like. I may not actually film a promo video anytime soon but I have been thinking about it. I'll say sometime within the next year loL...should I be more specific? I do want it to happen! This is just the beginning stage I guess. Inspiration. Next comes the ideas and scripting...(is that the correct terminology?!) Well, let me know what you think.

My friend Gordon. Excellent Musician!

2011-07-01T22:49:00.001-04:00

ramble on.

2011-06-16T23:29:00.000-04:00

Hey ya'll. It's been one crazy long week! I started my summer internship and it's a lot more work than I'm used to. Don't get me wrong it's been great so far and I'm learning a lot! I'm working with a Fortune 500 company in their Sales/Marketing department. It's very exciting. It just seems like ever since the start of this month I've been in a world wind doing things all the time with really no time to sit or rest! I feel myself growing up and it's exciting and scary but mostly tiring!! All of the responsibilities and challenges I've taken on in the past few weeks is more than I'm accustomed to. I won't go into everything that I've been doing but it's just a lot loL. I know that is so vague but whatever.

Along with the internship I'm taking a summer class, another summer program which is like school on steroids and I'm still trying to make time to shoot (photograph) and have a life! My friend invited people over his house last week just to hang out and watch a movie and I literally spend 30 min. there and left so I could go to bed because I had to wake up early the next morning for a workshop training. Every weekend is packed with something for me to do. You should see my calendar. I'm booked every weekend doing something, it's crazy! I'll be out of town two weekends straight in July. Headed north one weekend and headed south the following weekend. I have projects, trainings, events, homework and regular work! But I have to say I wouldn't trade in this time for anything right now. I have the opportunity of a lifetime I think, meeting new people, getting exposure to lots of things I may otherwise not get exposure to (wow my grammar is horrible), and building some pretty cool relationships in the process! The only thing I'm sad about is the fact that I won't be able to talk to my best friend for a while, while I'm doing all of these things. it's sad because of course I love him and want to tell him about everything that is going on but at the same time talking to him will take up (A LOT OF) time and that's time I just don't have much of right now. And same with him. He's been pretty busy too so we're just gonna cool off for a while and....I'm starting to realize this probably isn't making much sense to you reading this lol. sorry! Ya know, I'm gonna call it a night. It's late and I have a 30 min drive to work tomorrow which means i have to wake up early. Thank goodness it'll be Friday! Talk to you later.

St. Petersburg Fashion Photographer :: The Trunk Stylists

2011-06-09T15:33:00.000-04:00

So a few weeks ago I was one of the photographers at my new favorite boutique's (The Trunk Stylists) Summer Fashion Preview. It was a lot of fun and the clothing was gorgeous! I met the videographer, Javi, and I love his work! It's very creative :) I hope to work with him again soon. I just wanted to share a few photos and the video Javi put together for Aneesa and Marianne at The Trunk!

It was an event to help benefit the Bay Side Optimist! Great cause :)

St. Petersburg Portrait Photographer :: Emily & Aaron

2011-06-09T13:48:00.001-04:00

Aaron and Emily have known [of] each other since grade school. Surrounded by mutual friends, they would run into each other every so often and think nothing of it....until last summer, that is. They both attended good friends Gordon and Mile's band concert at Cafe Bohemia in downtown St. Pete. For Emily it was just another mutual friend in the crowd, perhaps not thinking much of it, but I think secretly Aaron had hopes of getting her number ;-) (that is strictly my opinion). Fortunately he had that opportunity the next day when they happened to bump into each other again at the beach! Although eventually she had to go away for school they talked on the phone constantly and became the best of friends.

Now, almost a year later their relationship has grown and they are just as cute as ever! It was so nice hanging out and catching up with them yesterday :) we all attended the same elementary and middle school. I hadn't seen Emily since my senior year and I don't think I'd seen Aaron since middle school! loL They are so sweet and fun to be around. Oh and Emily's laugh is contagious!! I'm so happy for them and wish them all the best :)

So beautiful!

They love Paciugo for their galatos...

a baby lady bug...

I don't even have to say it, but I will....I LOVE IT! So adorable!

Fashion Forward Look Book Photo Shoot :: St. Petersburg Fashion Photographer

2011-05-23T21:48:00.001-04:00

It would be kind of cool if I could say this shoot was in the works for quite some time and it all came together smoothly. It would be kind of cool. But what's even better is that this shoot was in the works for about 3 weeks and it came together quite nicely! loL On the spur I texted a couple of my friends and asked if they would like to model for me :) and fortunately they said yes! I then started looking for wardrobe stylists in my area and struck gold when I came across the lovely Aneesa and Marianne of The Trunk Stylists - seriously these girls are FABULOUS at what they do - visit their Facebook Page. I found an amazing makeup artist, Hershley (sounds like Ashley), of Sweet Kiss I can't wait to work with her again. And finally I called up my good friend and fellow photographer, Naomi.

Ahhh man! Those cupcakes were delicious (from It's Icing on the Cake in St.Pete, FL)! And how cute is that fondant?! Gina (the owner) added a very nice touch :) I wanted to keep everything bright and colorful to stay in a cheerful mood and celebrate the spring weather - my favorite season.

We worked outside (in 85 degree heat) but everyone was good sport and thankfully we had plenty of shade (and ice cold drinks loL). I honestly thought this shoot would last for about 4 hours. No, no, no! I under estimated the time it would take for hair and makeup! Attention newbie photogs. who are planning a photo shoot requiring hair and makeup: allot a lot of time for hair and makeup for each model and each look!

St. Petersburg Portrait Photographer :: Ashley Senior 2012

2011-05-16T13:19:00.001-04:00

This young lady has it all! Beauty and Brains...she was just voted Senior Class President for the up coming school year! Say whaatt?! loL Good job girl! I met up with Ashley and her mom in downtown St. Pete and I have to say I really enjoyed talking and getting to know the two of them. I had no idea Ashley was involved in so many activities (setting a good example for her younger sister) - a youth council group, SGA (student government association), she volunteers throughout the school year, she has excellent grades and still manages to watch America's Next Top Model loL! She is sure to go far :)

Another (major) observation you may notice about her is that she loovveess her shoes! I was so happy when she decided to incorporate her personality - love for shoes - in her session! A great way to personalize your photos, don't you think?

TOP TEN for TAMPA!

2011-05-10T23:35:00.002-04:00

There is a huge rumor (not fact yet...) that H&M, an ultra fab clothing empire, is coming to Tampa, FL! International Plaza Mall to be precise. I'm really hoping this is true since I love practically all of their fashion! What sucks though is that the closest one is in Orlando, but I usually only go to H&M when I'm in NY, so having a store across the bridge would be great! I've created a list of reasons why I think H&M should finally come to Tampa! You most definitely can add to the list if YoU have any special reasons too ;-)

*some of these reasons are just silly and meant to be funny, please take it as such*

Dear Hennes & Mauritz (H&M),

Here are 10 reasons why I think you should build a store at International Plaza...

1. You have thousands of young men and women in the Tampa Bay area just waiting for your doors to be opened!

2. Your commercials keep popping up on my TV and I keep wondering and hoping it's because another H&M store is soon to open.....at the Tampa International Mall of course loL

3. I can guarantee if a store opens in Tampa my wardrobe will change for the better ;-)

4. I'll have a reason to drive to Tampa on a weekly basis (loL jk - for my friends who live in Tampa)

5. I'll be a little more fashion savvy =D (*2 thumbs up*)

6. This economy is horrible! Wouldn't you much rather have us spend our money in your store as opposed to in our gas tanks having to drive back and forth from Tampa to Orlando :(

7. I'm running out of reasons... loL

8. Still running out of reasons...

9. Tampa Bay is where it's at!

10. Duh! You're H&M and we're Tampa! A perfect match, don't you think!? Plus I hear we have 20,000 - 49,000 sq. ft. worth of space for you to work with - who wouldn't shop there?

I think you guys should really consider this, especially since you don't offer online shopping in the U.S. (yet!). Anyway, thanks guys :)

Love Nina!

St. Petersburg Portrait Photographer :: Kiara Senior 2012

2011-05-06T16:26:00.002-04:00

Kiara is such a lovely and smart young woman! I met her earlier this year in one of the classes I tutor here in St. Pete. This girl is HILARIOUS!! For real! I am always laughing when she is around :) I enjoyed taking pictures of her on this (HOT) Saturday afternoon at the historic St. Petersburg, FL Pier and I have to say she was a real trooper with minimum shade around - meaning the bright Florida sun was beaming, but she kept a cool attitude ;-)

Without further ado....I present to you the fabulous Kiara Allen N~Grace Photography's 1st Senior Model for 2012!

Fashion Forward: St. Petersburg Portrait Photographer - sneak peek

2011-05-01T23:55:00.000-04:00

Here is a sneak peek of our photo shoot last week!

35mm...f/3.2...1/640...ISO800

35mm...f/3.2...1/1000...ISO 560

35mm...f/3.2...1/640...ISO800

85mm...f/3.2...1/2000...ISO 180

35mm...f/3.2...1/640...ISO 900

Christrian & Becky: Beautiful

2011-04-20T22:48:00.005-04:00

I sometimes forget to interact with my couples as I shoot them loL! Being around a couple who are really in love and don't mind me being around, I just get so caught up in just letting them do their own thing, being the cute couple they are, and capturing that moment (being as quiet as possible to keep that intimacy) that I forget that they are looking at me for direction as to how to pose or what to do next loL....

Meet Chris & Becky! A couple with a lot of history and a story quite similar to mine with my boyfriend. I met Chris about a year ago when I used to go out dancing; I found out he is a GREAT DJ who has been spinning and mixing for years - I've dubbed him to be my dj for any event loL for real, if you love a little bit of Hip Hop, Merengue, and Salsa he's your man. Check him out. It wasn't until the photo shoot that I met Becky, but from everything I'd heard (and we talked a little bit on facebook) I knew she was going to be a cool girl...

The first thing she said to me was, "I'm really shy," from that point I was preparing myself to make her feel as comfortable as possible. Maybe ten minutes went by before she was jumping off benches and posing like Americas Next Top Model! loL either she felt comfortable around me and my camera a lot quicker than I thought possible or she just had me fooled ;-) loL

A Corner of England

2011-04-17T23:39:00.001-04:00

A Corner of England it is! I love St. Pete - there is a little bit of everything here! My mom, aunt and I went to this tea room a few weeks ago and not only was the tea delicious, but so was their food, and the customer service was amazing! All 3 lovely ladies who own the restaurant introduced themselves to us and kept us laughing for our entire stay (well, maybe part of that had to do with my aunt knowing the owners loL - but I think the other part of that is, they are just really nice and funny people!). I would definitely suggest giving them a try :) Although we didn't dress up, you certainly could have. They provide "High Tea" quality everything! Including some gorgeous hats ;-) best of all, they are affordable. A Corner of England should be on your list of places to eat when you visit St.Pete.

Do what you love because it makes YOU happy...

2011-04-09T16:23:00.002-04:00

I love when I'm reminded of why I do what I do, in every aspect of my life - big and small. Why I chose the major I did, why I wear the clothes I do, why I wear my hair this way, why I decided to take on the task of shooting my first wedding with an entry level camera and kit lens, why I am dating who I think is the most wonderful person...why I do any and everything!

Becoming involved in photography (and I would assume this applies to most industries) I have come across quite a few "experienced" professionals who have looked down upon me because, well I don't really know why, but I'm guessing it's because I may have gotten hired for a job they feel they deserved to get. Or maybe they think I don't have enough "experience" to say I am a photographer. These are just my assumptions, all I know for sure is that they looked down on me. For a long time I was really intimidated by "these people" because 1) most of them are a lot older than I am 2) have way more gear than I do and 3) because they have been in the industry longer than I have. But you know what? I didn't get into photography because of them! I'm in because I love art. Point, blank, period.

I feel myself conforming to the "rules of the industry" so to speak when it comes to what equipment you are suppose to have, how much experience you should have, what photographers you should be inspired by, etc., etc. As I conform I feel myself loosing the passion I had with photography. Little by little that is. I will always love it, but I know what I am doing now is because I'm trying to be like every other photographer in the industry! Ughh!! I'm not "every other photographer" I'm Nina Grace Barron! And I'll do what I please for my business. When a "celebrity" photographer gives advice or a recommendation a lot of people hear and think that's it! I have to do it just like them because that's what they said and they are famous and I want to be just like them. I'm done with that! I'll take a recommendation for just that, a recommendation.

Okay a lot of this is geared toward myself as a reminder for me. However, if you are reading this and don't like it, that's fine. You feel the way you feel just like I do. If you don't like my work that's cool too. If you do like my work that's great and I appreciate all of you who are constantly reading my blog, who have befriended (or liked) me on facebook, and have supported my business! Thank you :) For those of you who are upset because you feel like I am idk...too young, don't have the right gear, don't have enough experience, or whatever! I have a question for you, why are you reading my blog? Apparently I am upsetting you in some way and I don't want to do that, so maybe it would be in your best interest to just go ahead and stop following my posts. Hey! before you go I just want to say I truly wish you the best for your business :)

So with all that said, I am DONE being a follower. I am done trying to empress people (photographers) I don't even know and I am done! not being truly happy in an industry that has partly molded my life! I choose photography to be apart of my life because it made me happy. It's time to get back to that. It's time to get back to Nina. Here's to a new beginning!

Dependent vs. Independent

2011-04-08T18:32:00.001-04:00

I am not yet the person I want to be. I would love to have strong relationships with many people but I have yet to make them. Why? It's not because I'm "diva" and think well they should make a move to build a relationship with me, it's not even because of a bad or negative "child hood experience" my childhood was great! Dang! What is it that makes me so afraid to talk to people? The only answer I can come up with is.....(oooh I don't want to say this)....my confidence. What?! No. No! I don't have low self esteem. I don't. Okay I am shy. Well why am I shy? Neither one of my parents are shy or softspoken. Why am I?

It's not that I can't talk to people and build a relationship with them, I am very capable of doing that. My concern is that I don't take the inneciative to build STRONG relationships with people (and I don't mean just any old body, I'm talking even people in my family!) sad I know. I'm sad about it as I continue to think about it. My aunt had surgery this week and I have not gone to visit her. Wow I feel so guilty. Is this just me being selfish? Is this the era we now live in that people are so disconnected from one another because of the lack of personal communication?! We have texting (you no longer have to talk on the phone) and facebook (you no longer have to visit someone in their home). How dare I or anyone think of these alternatives as okay. How could you ever build a real relationship with a person strictly online or through a text message? Granted all of these advancements in technology are convenient, but not a substitute. I had to get this out. I had to write down what I am feeling at this very moment so that WHEN I change my attitude I can see my improvement.

I don't quite know what it is that makes me this way, but I do know I can choose to change my attitude. Becoming an independent person begins with me! I have to "break the mold" I have currently conformed to. As I think about it I think that is it. I'm so used to doing things a particular way (that is very dependent) that becoming independent and doing things by myself makes me a little nervous. At least when it comes to relationship building with others. (sigh) okay. Like I said I just needed to get this all out. I'm done now lol

Closer look: siesta key

2011-04-06T23:35:00.002-04:00

I love Sarasota, FL - a few weeks ago I enjoyed laying out on the beach with some friends at Siesta Key beach. Everything is so colorful and vibrant. If you ever visit FL you should definitely check out Sarasota (after you visit St. Pete ;-))

Your Wedding Photography (a MUST read!)

2011-04-04T22:13:00.001-04:00

To: All soon to be bride and grooms

This is a definite must read for all brides and grooms who plan to hire a photographer - which you all should! This is advice for couples who are budgeting for a wedding photographer...

If you are considering setting aside 30%+ of your wedding budget on professional photography (and I hope that you are!) then you definitely want to make sure that you are making the absolute best use of your photographer! It is without a doubt a big investment and there are a few important things that you can do, that from the prospective of a professional photographer, can be the difference between an “ok” experience and final product and an incredible experience and final product. It is all about making the most of your investment!

Here are my top 6 ways to get the most out of your wedding photographer!

1) If at all possible, meet in person for your consultation. Even better, bring the groom! Not only does meeting face to face with your photographer tell you WAY more then their website alone can, but it also gives your photographer the chance to see you two together in person before the wedding day. Everything from what you wear to your consultation to the way that you and your groom interact helps the photographer to get a feel for your personalty and style as a couple. All of this means that your photographer is even more prepared to capture what represents “you” most on your wedding day.

2) Schedule an engagement session. If it is at all possible to work into your wedding budget, schedule an engagement session with the photographer that you are considering hiring for your wedding day. This can even be done before actually booking the photographer for your wedding. Think of it as taking your photographer for a test drive before making the big investment of hiring them for your big day. You will get to see how they work with you during the shoot, their turn around time on delivery of the images, and most importantly, you will get to see the quality of the finished product firsthand. If for some reason you are not satisfied, then it is better that you figure that out before hiring them for the wedding day!

3) Shift your coverage earlier in the day. If the number of hours in the wedding package that meets your budget do not cover the entire span of the wedding itinerary my advice to clients is alway this; opt to use your hours beginning earlier in the day as opposed to trying to get the entire reception covered. Trust me on this…you will not regret missing out on the extra 100-200 pictures of your friends dancing at your reception that will never make it on your wall or in your wedding album. What you will regret is never getting any detail shots of your dress or capturing that special moment when your mom walks in and sees you in your dress and veil for the first time. Ideally, start your wedding coverage 2-3 hours before the ceremony start time. Coverage will still likely take you through the ceremony, through the “important” parts of the reception and will still leave time for plenty of fun dancing shots!

4) Do a “first glance” and your bride groom session prior to the ceremony. Hear me out on this one…tradition (and grandma) have told us that seeing the bride before she walks down the aisle is somehow not as “special” and will take away from the big moment during your ceremony. In reality, what is more special then getting to see your love for the first time on your wedding day in a beautiful, quiet and private moment instead of under the gawking eyes of all of your camera wielding guests! You will be surrounded by family and friends for the rest of your wedding day – your bride & groom session is likely the only time you will have to stop and take the moment in. Sadly this inevitably gets squished into the remaining 10 minutes between the ceremony and reception after the craziness of family portraits and when you are already exhausted from the sheer adrenalin rush of the ceremony!

5) Prioritize your Bride and Groom session! If seeing each other before the ceremony just isn’t your thing – and I completely understand, then prioritize these shots by allowing a decent amount of time after the ceremony for your bride groom session. Think about it – what are the wedding images that will end up on your walls? Not the getting ready shots. Not the cake cutting. Not the picture of uncle Bobby dancing with his tie on his forehead. When you look back on your wedding images it is the dramatic and romantic shots of you and your groom that become the most iconic. These are the images that you remember. These are the ones that get framed. These are the ones the truly encapsulate this incredible time in your lives and inevitably, however… these are the ones that get prioritized LAST in the sheer busy-ness of the wedding day. In 10 years you will NOT be disappointed if you missed the cocktail hour, you WILL be disapointed if you paid all of that money for your awesome arsty photographer and don’t have any incredible jaw dropping images on your wall to show for it because there was no time left to really create those images. Consider setting aside 30-45 minutes just for your bride groom session on the wedding day. As long as your guests are being fed at a cocktail hour they will not complain! Again, it is about making the most of your investment in your awesome photographer by making that session a prioritized part of your wedding day experience instead of an afterthought.

6) Finally, and probably most importantly, find a way to work a wedding album into your budget. Think about it, at some point in your life you sat down to look at your parent’s wedding album, maybe even your grandparents wedding album. How incredible was it to be able to hold that little piece of history? To smell the old leather as you turned the pages. It is like looking through a window into the past. The style of the clothes, those hideous bridesmaid dresses, your dad at such a young age. Digital photography has changed everything and as a result, “shoot and burn” wedding packages have become very popular. Of course you want to have digital negatives to put up on Facebook and share online but 10-15 years from now are you going to crack open your laptop and pull up Facebook to show your children your wedding day? Are you and your husband going to sit down on your 20th wedding anniversary and go through all 700 wedding images on iPhoto to relive the start of your life together? The album is almost equally as important as getting the event captured because it is what adds tangible value to your investment which only increases with time. The album should be as much as 50% of the photography budget. If you have to, opt for less hours of coverage and have only the most important moments captured and then put into an album. Talk with your photographer, there may be other album options available within your budget that he or she does not advertise but does have access to. It is worth it and you will walk away feeling like you got more for your money than if you are simply shipped a disk of images.

All information was provided by Shay Cochrance

Project Closer Look

2011-03-31T12:25:00.000-04:00

Snap shots of what I see on a day to day basis. A closer look at what I see. Objects/items/material things/nature. No people, just things. Project: closer look is in effect.

North Carolina (part 1)

2011-03-28T23:59:00.001-04:00

It has taken me sooo long to blog these photos! I wanted to edit and re-size every single one of them before I posted anything online. Well, whatever loL....this summer I spent about a week and a half in the beautiful area of Asheville and Black Mountain North Carolina :) I spent my time with about 15 of my friends on a missionary trip. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life, a step I've taken to put God first in my life. Along with feeling great about serving God I also fell in love with Black Mountain (where I spent most of my time). The people and the environment! I mean, HELLO! This place is beyond gorgeous...magnificent...extraordinary..! I have no words. Seriously, No words. I felt peace everyday. The air is fresh, the grass is green, and the mountains are breath taking.

Most people who know me, know I am a city girl. I love the city! I love to travel, but I will always travel back to the city loL...Black Mountain changed my outlook on life, people and places. I swam under a real waterfall! Not a man made (pool) romantic waterfall, but a real waterfall, with real rocks and real ice cold natural water! loL I loved it. It was freezing, but it was so worth it. We hiked a trail for about 20-30 min. to get to the "low falls" - the easier of the two available. Man, that trail was steep! But we sat on rocks all around the falls and ate lunch. I've never done that before, it was peaceful :) I put my feet in the water as I watched my family and friends admire the scenery and fellowship around them. "This is the life."

Nearly finished

2011-03-14T20:19:00.000-04:00

So my bookshelf finally came in :) my room is looking soo much better than it had. My final touches will be to add a chair, put up more pictures/art on the wall and painting my dresser and night stand glossy white (oh and installing my big daddy imac loL) I'm happy with how it looks so far, so here ya go - this is how it looks.

In the process

2011-03-09T13:33:00.000-05:00

So remember when I told you I wanted to re-decorate my room? I've been working on that idea for the past 2 or 3 weeks now..? It's starting to come together like I want :D I've gone to Home Goods which is an incredible store for "Home Goods" loL no seriously, they have so many products there to furnish your home at an affordable price - and pretty much any and everything you could be looking for to satisfy your style. For me, I'm looking for more of a modern chic styled room and I am so not an interior decorator but I've been getting some really nice ideas from blogs like Get it Girl Style...Made by Girl...Emily Clark...and different youtube videos.

I saw a bookshelf I really like from West Elm in white but it was a little out of my price range so I found a mock at target and I'm waiting for it to be delivered within the next week or so. I've never been the type to really care what my room looks like - furnishings, artwork on the wall, organized closet...that was always my mom. But now that I spend so much time in here especially on the computer editing pics I wanted to create my own little "Nina Cave" if you wanna call it that loL somewhere I like spending time. Until the bookshelf comes in, all my books, binders and folders are on the floor, so I'm not gonna show you that part of my room yet ;-) but here is my desk looking out to my neighbors backyard (too bad his yard isn't as beautiful as His neighbors yard loL) but anyway this is what my desk looks like so far...

It looks like I just moved in...

More to come soon...

I am forever greatful.

2011-03-07T10:45:00.004-05:00

Do you ever wonder why your mood changes for different circumstances? My mood can change if the weather is bad, if my room is clean or dirty, when I listen to music (and different genres of music put me in different moods), when I'm talking with friends, even if I stay in bed too long. What is it that is programed in our DNA that involuntarily makes us feel a particular way even when we try sooo hard to feel the opposite? Maybe you're trying really hard to stay mad at your [boy]friend, but once you hear [your] song you just can't seem to be mad for too long loL. Or maybe you have absolutely nothing to be upset about but it's gray outside and looks like it's about to rain (but never does) and you're just in a sucky mood! Why?! Why do we do this? I'm sure there is some neurological explanation to this question, so if you know what it is and care to explain, please be my guest!

I spent the last two days at my religious assembly, learning to separate myself from the world (meaning to separate myself from trivial worldly pursuits) and imitate Jesus in every way possible. I am materialistic. There, I said it. I am. I want all things under the sun and I want it now! That is usually my attitude, but the more I learn about the bible and actually care to understand and apply to my life the more I am changing and I love it! This weekend I associated with so many like minded people, it was great! Although these people are my friends, and I am used to being around them, this time was different. This time my mood was different. I'd gone to the assembly Sunday with a sour mood (had a rough morning) but after taking in knowledge through bible based talks/speeches and positive [up-building] association with my friends talking about what we've learned and how we want and need to apply certain things to our lives gave me such a boost of energy and the outcome is priceless!

I had a wonderful weekend and I can't wait to put into action putting God FIRST in my life (which is why I'm not waiting, I'm starting this very moment). My education, my career, my recreation all need to come after my service to Him. I'm ready for this journey I will call my life, and this blog will be here as documentary of [all things] my life. A check point at random (or maybe not so random) moments in my life. That way I can always look back and see how much progression I've made throughout the years. To all readers [if you made it this far reading this post] thank you. Thank you for allowing me to express my thoughts and feelings here. And thank you to care enough to read it.

" Two roads diverged in a wood, and I- I took the one less traveled by..." - Robert Frost

~Nina

Calling all Class of 2012 Seniors!!!

2011-02-25T11:09:00.007-05:00

Yay! Congrats class of 2012, you have one more year! We’re looking for senior representatives and YOU could be our next model! We have officially begun accepting applications for seniors - class of 2012 - in high schools around the Tampa Bay area. We’re looking for 2-3 models (male and female) for each school. Not everyone who applies will be accepted. Since we are hiring a limited amount of models, we suggest turning in your application today!

Senior Rep, what is that?!

My reps (representatives) are spokespersons for N~Grace Photography! You should be energetic, outgoing, optimistic, personable, enthusiastic, fun and a little wild and crazy ;-) You’ll be getting your pictures taken and talking about the fabulous N~Grace experience!

Here’s the job description:

You will be a senior model for N~Grace Photography. We’ll choose a fun location to have your photo shoot where you can just be yourself! No more of those boring school pictures! This means we will incorporate all things [YOU] love, like music, your dog, your friends (yes, bring your friends along), your car!, favorite sport, etc. But here’s the thing, you can’t be shy in front of the camera.

You'll receive:

3 of your awesome images to post on Facebook
Personalized Senior Rep cards to pass out to your friends at school
A gift card or cash for every person you refer (who books a session)

If this is a job, do I get paid?

Uhhh, yea!!!

You get paid and you get a discount! This is how it works: for every person you refer (who books a session) you’ll receive a $20 visa gift card (or cash)! I know you’re probably saying, “okay, what? I refer 5 people, they book a session and I get $100?” Yes! Your parents will also receive a 10% discount on any purchase from the photo shoot I took with you. Not only will your parents get a discount but your friend - the one who books the session and gets you that $20 visa card - will get a 5% discount on any package when they mention [you] referred them! That sounds fun and easy enough, right? So are you still interested? Good, keep reading. All I need you to do is:

Get your parent’s permission to participate
“Like” me on Facebook (just look up N~Grace Photography)
Fill out your application HERE

That’s it! That’s all I need to know. Just remember we’re accepting applications for a limited amount of time and for a limited amount of students, so the sooner you email me your application the better! If you know of anyone who would be interested make sure to share this information with them. If you or your parent’s have any questions do not hesitate to send me an email and I will respond as quickly as possible!

Re-decorating part Un

2011-02-25T03:31:00.004-05:00

So re-organizing my room has turned into re-Decorating my room! I currently have two huge wooden dressers in my small apartment-like bedroom. One of them has to go! loL

This is the outline of my bedroom NOW:

The scribbles you see in miscellaneous places are books, pieces of paper and other crap that I have no place to put.

I cleared out the wider dresser by hanging all of my jeans and just moving the rest of the clothes from that one into the taller dresser. Now my wide dresser is empty and I'd like to get it out of here (I've had it since I was a baby...time to upgrade loL) instead of buying all new furniture I'm thinking I will paint the taller dresser white with a glossy finish remove the wide dresser and replace it with a cute/chic chair and cubby bookshelf like this one:

Here's an outline of how I'd like my new and improved room to look

That computer you see on my desk is gonna be my big daddy iMac ;-) loL (it's coming soon enough) everything will be neat and organized. I'll have storage to hold my text books along with paperwork for "N~Grace" which is so important to me. I need to know that everything has a proper place.

Now, as for the decor :D.....my walls are a very light/soft yellow which is nice. I like a touch of color but it's not too colorful or bright. My bed is black and the rest of my furniture and doors are white; so I got that yellow, black, and white thing goin on. Mostly just black and white (bc the yellow walls are so light it looks as tho it's an off-white color) That's fine for now. I've created a few inspiration boards that I like and will continue to look at for the next month or so as this "re-decoration" projects goes underway lol

*Desk area*

*bedroom*

Guess what I've been doing..

2011-02-23T22:04:00.000-05:00

Yepp...re-organizing my closet has been an all day project. Well, it started as me just reogranizing my closet and spread into me re-organizing my room! loL I'm not done but it's getting there :)

Happy Wednesday

Dancing in the moon light

2011-02-19T22:35:00.001-05:00

My two favorite movies of all time are, "Love and Basketball" and "The Notebook" - I am a complete girly girl and a hopeless romantic! I love watching movies or reading books that express real love between two people, you know, the kind that will make you CRY...Cry...and cry some more until you eventually get a headache from crying so much. Yepp that's me! I used to be the complete opposite (for real), that is, until someone came into my life and changed my entire outlook on life itself! Seriously, I never thought I would be saying (or writing) anything like "oooh I'm soo in love" "I met my soul mate" "I can't live without him" "we belong together" - loL ok ok, you're right I'm not saying all of that just yet. I'm a 20 year old who is still in the process of getting her Bachelors degree; this can't be me right now. Can it? Is it?

Ahhh I shouldn't get into all of this right now. I'm really just thinking of our date last night. It was so nice. We went out to dinner with my mom and brother at this cool Thai restaurant downtown. Later we walked around the pier and I swear it was like a scene from my favorite movie! "The notebook" to be precise loL....we walked to the back of the pier and there is an outdoor deck with a huge area that looks like it could be a dance floor. Overhead is a roof with those christmas lights hanging and turned on overlooking the moonlit water. It was the most romantic scene and I said, "I wish there was music so we could dance." You want music, I got you. So he pulls out his phone and plays what we call our song. Eric Benet's "spend my life with you" he pulls me close and we dance under the moon light. I've never done anything like that before and it was just perfect. My thoughts of how relaxing and wonderful that it felt to be in that moment kept being interrupted by thoughts of our first dance - you know, a 1st dance at your wedding. Really Nina, your wedding?! Crazy right?! Think my marital clock is ticking yet? loL We danced, we talked, we were together and it was great.

Make Your Own Fabric Flower Bouquet (Tutorial by Josephine Sicad)

2011-02-18T23:05:00.001-05:00

Since this weeks theme is flowers, I thought this looks like a fun and EASY DIY project :)

Materials:
Fabric flowers & assorted flower hair-clips (I would have loved fresh flowers but I wanted to have something I could keep forever)
Cotton twine
A few scraps of wool
Scissors
An egg beater/whisk

Step 1:
Hold on to the whisk as shown on the image and with a little force, try to deform it into a oval/circular shape. You can use tiny wires or something to tie on the criss-cross parts to keep them stay in shape if you need to.

Step 2:
Stuff the scraps of wool inside in whisk. This will help form the shape of the bouquet.

Step 3:
Can you believe you’re almost done? I told you it was easy!
Detach the flowers from the necklaces and attach them to pins/hair clips then start clipping them and the assorted hair clips onto the whistk until you’ve covered all of the wool area to form the bouquet – go mad and be creative! I enjoyed this part so much,

You can pin/use wire to attach the flowers without clips on onto the curves of the whisk (not really to the wool directly as the wool only helps forming the whole shape.)

Step 4:
Cut off a fair length of the cotton twine and wrap it around the egg beater stem to cover the metal.

And then…voila! You’re done!

Hope you’ll enjoy making your own pretty bouquet soon!

Tutorial & Photography by Josephine Sicad

Bridal Bouquet Inspiration

2011-02-16T13:50:00.005-05:00

I've always been the type of girl who likes looking at (and receiving ;-) ) flowers. The right combination of colors and smells are just so appeasing to me. I gotta tell you, last week (not on valentines day) my boyfriend surprised me with a dozen roses! :D I mean, how can that not put a smile on any girls face?! It's the way he did it though that caught me by surprise. I usually know when he's up to something but here we are on the phone like we are every night talking about whatever and he says, "Nina, I think there is something on your front porch." Huh?? Are you here? "No, I was passing by on my way home.." Well, why didn't you stop by? "Because it's like midnight and I needed to get home, but for real I think there is something on your porch" Like you said it's midnight, I'll just get it in the morning. "No, Nina I think you should look at it now.." (me being the slow one that I am, I'm still not catching on) You do realize it's midnight, and dark out? Why do you want me to...(immediately the light bulb turns on!) Oohhh!! Did you bring me something? loL "I don't know.." (I can hear the smile on his face). I open the door and there they are, a beautiful dozen roses packaged and wrapped nicely sitting on the front porch table :) I sent him hugs and kisses over the phone. It was a beautiful way of saying "I'm thinking of you"

Wow, ummm enough about me and my excitements...on to the real post at hand: Bouquet Inspirations! As seen on The Knot website these tips are as colorful and inspiring as all of you brides are :) I hope these tips are inspiring and helpful. Happy planning!

Quick Fact: Hey, did you know that the tradition of carrying a bouquet came from brides wanting to ward off evil spirits? (I believe that's where the tradition of throwing rice came from as well)

Tip 1: Channel History

Ever wonder why many brides carry stephanotis in their wedding bouquets (besides the fact that the flowers are so unique and gorgeous)? These creamy, star-shape florets carry a symbolic meaning of happiness in marriage. Says who, you ask? Many such floral traditions are rooted in the conservative Victorian era, when every flower was given a symbolic meaning so that men could express their sentiments without words. Armed with a new edict, men began courting ladies not with love letters or serenades but with bouquets -- and soon a lady receiving coral-color roses knew her suitor was expressing the first signs of desire, while a young maiden receiving a dainty cluster of violets might blush at the notion that her secret admirer had expressed his faithfulness to her. Learn the meanings of these popular wedding flowers and incorporate a little bit of history into your wedding day.

Here are a few of our favorites to get you started:

lily of the valley = happiness

calla lily = beauty

freesia = innocence

gardenia = joy

orchid = love

lilac = first signs of love

anemone = expectation

Tip 2: Color-Code It

Choosing colorful flowers that match your wedding palette is an obvious way to personalize your bouquet. But just because you’ve picked a pretty green-and-purple combo for your wedding, doesn’t mean your flowers need to scream eggplant! Colorful adornments -- from ribbons and fabric to beads and baubles -- will make any bouquet meaningful. We love going with monochromatic blooms and bringing in color through the shape -- and shade -- of unusual additions, such as dark, rich berries, brilliant green succulents, or even jewel-tone sugared grapes. Other examples: Do as the Romans did in times of celebration and add stalks of herbs to your bouquet, such as sweet-scented, pale purple lavender. Or take a bundle of typical white wedding blooms, like stephanotis or calla lilies, and tie the bouquet with a green wrap secured with a purple snap or button. You might even string purple- and green-accented paper cranes (for good luck) from your bouquet.

Tip 3: Check Backgrounds

Flowers can speak louder than vows -- in all the pictures, at least. Another way to personalize is to choose flowers that match your personalities or are expressive of your backgrounds and beliefs. For instance, you may choose to give a nod to his Norwegian heritage by including purple heather -- Norway’s signature flower -- in your bouquet and on the guys’ boutonnieres. Or you might pair your birth-month blooms like lily of the valley with chrysanthemum, because he was born in May and you in November. Or maybe your bedroom is always awash in tulips -- your favorite bloom (a good choice, as they represent “consuming love”). Include these (you’ll find them mainly in three popular varieties -- French, Dutch, and Parrot -- though there are 3,000 varieties) in your bouquet. Did he propose while you were road-tripping in Georgia? Consider carrying a nosegay of peach-hued roses.

Tip 4: Keep It In The Family

Delve into your own family history and elevate the personal factor of your bouquet. Give your wedding flowers a homegrown flair by picking peonies from your mother’s garden; or you may choose to carry a cluster of white French tulips because your mother did so, as did her mother and her mother’s mother. There are also less obvious ways to incorporate familial elements into your bouquet: Wrap the stems of your flowers in your favorite fabric topped off with your grandmother’s vintage hat pin, or create a bouquet wrap from an heirloom silk scarf. (Remember though, fabrics may be damaged by water and pins). Consider threading a relative’s pearls around soft rose petals to add sophistication to your wedding; or simply your the florist to take silk ribbons monogrammed with both of your initials and loop them through the bouquet.

Tip 5: Remember To Remember

Keeping in sync with your fiance and your bridesmaids will help you pick personalized flowers. Start by recalling a favorite date that you and your fiance had. Was it the time you enjoyed an afternoon picnic in the park and he brought along a bouquet of your favorite flower -- daffodils -- to commemorate the occasion? Consider carrying these blooms down the aisle. Or maybe he brought you daisies for your first date? Make sure your bouquet is bursting with them. Is his favorite eau de toilet that you wear lavender scented? Ask your florist to incorporate sprigs of sweet-scented lavender into your bouquet and onto his boutonniere. You might even ask your attendants what their favorite flowers are -- you could include each of their favorites into your own arrangement.

Tip 6: Use Your Environment

Gather inspiration from the everyday elements around you. Some fresh takes: Dress a bouquet with faux freshwater pearls because you’re marrying at the beach, or dot your arrangement with small fruits for a touch of spring (we love kumquats, lemons, even cherries). Is your fall fete taking place in a botanical garden of sorts? A motif like butterflies might be an appropriate thread for your details -- let ceramic or fabric ones peek out from behind the flower petals as a nod to the season. We’ve planted the seed -- you’ll need to take it from here.

Taken with 12-1 Photography

#4, week 1

2011-02-02T15:39:00.002-05:00

Working on goal #4 for Feb. shooting a particular item every week. This week I decided it should be dresses. Practice. Practice. Practice. they say, and you'll get better at your craft. Here is me practicing. I know, I know. None of these are wedding dresses, but I needed something to use so these are just a few formal and semi formal dresses I had in my closet :)

Have a great Wednesday guys!

February 2011 Goals

2011-02-01T19:52:00.005-05:00

I love talking to Dj, he is a steady dose of support and encouragement to me. I listened to him today as he explained his current goals and how he is in motion to achieve every single one of those goals. Goals...goals are a trip loL..well, at least for me. I love making goals and I usually accomplish them (the ones I have written out and can visually see on a day-to-day or week-to-week basis) but then I write, re-write and re-write once more lists of goals and they begin to pile up one by one and slowly I end up doing nothing. Am I not motivated? Am I just lazy?! I think I can be lazy at times but I'm also a very diligent person, I guess when it comes to certain aspects of my life. Well, most aspects of my life I am diligent but ask me to cook dinner and I'll tell you I have to do homework loL. Anyway I notice my lists consist of 30+ goals that I want (intend) to accomplish in a (seemingly) short period of time.

Here are my thoughts:
1) Choose no more than 8 goals (to post on my blog) per month to try to achieve!
2) Every month list those goals for the world to see (maybe this will give me the extra push I need, if its posted on the web then I have to do it, right?)
3) Throughout the month I'll check off the goals that I accomplish :)
4) Each month when I post a new set of goals I will review the previous month's goals and see how many I actually accomplished.

So here we are, February 1, 2011 a brand new month and a brand new set of goals I'd like to achieve (did you notice how I keep going back and forth between the words "accomplish" and "achieve" is that bad writing? idk lol)

~ ~~Second/Third shoot with 12-1 Photography at the St.Petersburg Yacht Club~~

~ ~~Actually hang the pictures I have framed~~

~ ~~Get an anniversary gift for my parents~~

~ Each week dedicate one item/object to practice shooting. theme: wedding details (i.e. shoes, rings, flowers)
~~week 1 (dresses)~~
week 2 (shoes)
week 3
week 4

~ Re-write 2011 Personal and Business Goals

~ Host an online picture contest

~ Blog about my trip to West Palm Beach

Practice

2011-01-31T23:05:00.000-05:00

Practicing shooting details for a wedding...using the 50mm f/1.8

A day in the life: Dali

2011-01-31T09:30:00.001-05:00

I realized after taking this picture, I am much more comfortable behind the camera loL (which only made me wonder how I can loosen up in-front and come up with ways to get some of my clients to loosen up as well)

I do belive my brother was pretty much done with me taking pictures by this time loL

I spent the afternoon at the Dali museum in St. Petersburg, FL with my boys yesterday. we looked at beautiful paintings and sketches and interpreted them based on our own thoughts which was pretty fun loL. Dj said he feels more mature actually wanting to go to an art museum on his spare time *it was his idea* compared to a few years ago. It was nice to hear him say that because I actually like this kind of stuff ;-)

(haha here I am, talking about the arts something cool and partly intellectual and I use the word "stuff" loL shows how cool I am loL)

This was the first time I'd visited the new Dali museum building since it opened a few months back, it is so big and artsy! I love it! It sits right next door to the grand Mahaffy Theater in downtown St. Pete (so beautiful) you def should visit some day.

Nadia turns 1: St.Petersburg Portrait Photographer

2011-01-19T11:31:00.003-05:00

Isn't she a cutie! Nadia turned 1 and her beautiful mom wanted to document the moment :) I love children and I love taking pictures of them, but of course they sometimes are difficult to shoot. This girl right here though, is such a happy baby! OMG, we instantly became friends :) she even let me hold her "zoey" (stuffed animal) loL Nadia was such a pleasure to be around, smiling and laughing the entire afternoon (with the occasional exception ;-) ). I really hope I get the pleasure of hanging out with she and her mom again...

FAQ: What should I wear for my engagement/portrait session?

2011-01-15T23:59:00.004-05:00

What to wear? I'm so glad you asked loL...Enough of the white polos and matching khakis already! Unless that is how you normally dress, I want you to remember something very important, your portraits are an expression of YOU! The way you dress in your pictures should help tell the story of who you are today :) This article was taken from Webspace.com (but I found it by way of Shay Cochrane Photography) read it, take notes, be inspired by a few photos....I hope this helps!

*This article is geared towards couples for their engagement shoot, however, what you wear applies to anyone having a portrait session*

First, talk to your photographer about what he or she has in mind for the E shoot. The photographer will ask you to bring a few changes of clothes, about two or three outfits. Choose outfits that are very "you," but that photograph nicely. Of course, wear something you feel comfortable lying down, jumping, hugging, and moving around in (you'll be doing all of these poses), but also consider the colors, shape, and patterns that will look the best on film. Light colors and tiny prints don't photograph as well as dark colors or brights (which are also slimming).

Dresses are always a great choice. I love a girl in a wrap dress, which is universally flattering. Or, try accentuating the smallest part of your waist with a belt to look pretty and shapely. And as for your groom-to-be, don't get too matchy-matchy. His outfits should complement yours.

*Jamie Delaine*

Many shots will be full-length, so make sure you wear great shoes. If you're more comfortable in black or neutrals, hooray for bright, colorful shoes! They really catch your eye in the photos.

Your photographer will scout the locations he or she wants to use before the shoot. E shoots should be outdoors, forget a studio portrait. Try a field, an urban street setting, or even your home. This is where wearing bright colors comes in -- you and your fiance will really pop off the backdrop.

*Alyssa Schroeder*

*Natalie Franke*

Talk to your photographer about what props you might want to include. Consider a bouquet of wildflowers, balloons, an old car, your kids -- whatever embodies you and enlivens the shot.

Finally, just relax and let loose. Kiss, hug, climb a tree, give him a piggyback ride, eat cotton candy. I love how E shoots have evolved from a studio portrait or single bridal portrait to the carefree, colorful shoots of today.

*Jamie Delaine*

*Natalie Franke*

*Jamie Delaine*

FAQ: So what exactly is a First Look?

2011-01-15T01:08:00.004-05:00

To put it simply, it's an arrangement for the Bride and Groom to see each other (and be photographed) before the ceremony. It is taken place in a nice, quiet, intimate setting - just the bride and groom (and photographer).

The first look is such a romantic moment for both the bride and groom, seeing your future spouse for the first time on such a special day, much more intimate than it would be if you were to share a first look with all of your guests as you walk down the aisle. I've seen brides tear up because of the pressure they feel from guests looking at them as they walk - its pretty nerve wreaking - but just think about it, not only will you and your future hubby have ALONE time (probably the only alone time you'll have on your big day until its all over), get photos capturing pure love and emotion expressed between the two of you without the distraction of others, but you will also have a bit of pressure alleviated from you as you walk down the aisle :)

First Looks also allow enough time for bride and groom formals which will in turn, allow for a quicker transition from the ceremony to reception site ;-)

Planning Your Wedding

2011-01-06T13:36:00.000-05:00

In honor of all the couples who got engaged over the winter break or any couple who will be planning a wedding in 2011....I just want to say, Yay! You're engaged!!! Congratulations :) I can only imagine how excited you must be! As a woman (knowing how important the planning process will be for all you brides) and a wedding photographer I thought it would be a nice idea to post up a few wedding planning ideas/tools/sites I am familiar with in an approach to share some tools you may or may not be aware of. Hope this helps you get started :)

~Sharing the News~

If you're the type to want to spread the great news why not send your friends "save the date" cards? I really like the fact that Ashlee Proffitt designs are modern but still clean and simple.

~Budgeting~

Cost of Wedding is a great site to help couples manage their budget and it also shares some info about what the average cost of weddings are in your area! Helpful hint: Remember expect to pay, approximately, 50% - 100% more when you choose to work with experienced professionals, designer labels, popular event locations, unique or custom products and services.

~Inspiration~

Sites like Green Wedding Shoes or The Brides Cafe are two of my favorite places to find inspiration. So many "real" wedding ideas - from DIY projects to vendors and venue reviews! I also watch David Tutera's "My Fair Wedding" loL (I love him!)

~Planning for the Big Day~

So once you have a date in mind you definitely need to start talking with and booking vendors. Where would like to have your event? Will it be catered? Do you have a DJ in mind? What about the videographer and photographer?

Btw, don't take the DJ, videographer or photographer for granted. You may think you can hold off on hiring them but to be honest with you, you will want to make sure all of these vendors are a great fit for you - meaning your personalities mesh - especially the video/photographers seeing as they will be with you all day on your special day and since vendors book very quickly during the wedding season, you may want to ensure you have exactly who you want. So it's best to contact them as soon as possible to discuss dates and prices :)

Of course having an event planner could make this process 10x easier for you if you so choose to hire one. I have not worked with any event planners so unfortunately I can't give any honest recommendations, BUT I do like the look of these event designers/planners: Unique Event Design or Simply Divine Events

~Fun Tools~

Wedding Mapper is definitely a site you should check out whether you live in the Tampa Bay area or not! This site creates local maps of venues, reception locations, hotel and restaurants in relation to the venues (for your guests), vendor reviews, and more! It is a great tool to take advantage of.

Kuler can help you with choosing a color scheme.

The Knot this is just the ultimate website to find all things Florida wedding/bride!

Southern Weddings I love this magazine, many pictures and ideas here for your own inspiration board.

Martha Stewart Weddings

{sneak peek}: St.Petersburg Portrait Photographer

2011-01-04T10:54:00.001-05:00

What a beautiful family :) it was a joy working with them! Everyone was so friendly - this was without a doubt a fun shoot.

Time for...dessert? {part 2}

2011-01-03T09:12:00.000-05:00

Lemons, honey, sugar cubes, fruit, cut-up sandwiches (I used to think the sandwiches were called lady fingers - I now know lady fingers are a cookie - but I still like to call them lady fingers loL) and of course the delicious quiche!!! Omg, I love quiche :) the tea was good, I think most everyone liked the mango flavor. I guess I'm pretty plain then because I {only} like the black tea. Everything was so bright and cheery - really pretty - and all the women wore their pretty hats and dresses :) we talked, played games and laughed for a few hours. I hadn't been to a tea party in.....years! But I would do it again, it was fun.

Time for...dessert? {part 1}

2011-01-03T01:01:00.000-05:00

So this past week my mom and aunt threw an afternoon tea party. It was a lot of fun and a lot of work to prepare for...we spent at least a week shopping for tea pots, tea cups and saucers and I know mom spent hours looking for a plethora of teas! But the best part for me was baking some of the desserts :)

I remember baking when I was a kid with mom, it would always be so much fun! We'd pretend we had our own cooking show and explain to "the camera" what we were doing as we cooked loL...I loved it! I realized though, this time I was more interested in taking pictures of making the desserts rather than play with my mom and narrate as we cooked :( I feel bad a little because I think she would've enjoyed that. The good thing tho is that our little cupcakes turned out great! They were a hit ;-)

Meghan: Tampa Bay Portrait Photographer

2010-12-27T03:47:00.001-05:00

I took a few quick shots of my friend Meghan this afternoon after our religious meeting. It is soo cold down here in ("sunny") Florida! But she looks so cute doesn't she? I'm excited because tomorrow we're throwing our tea party...new pics to come soon :)

Quinceanera: St. Petersburg Event Photographer

2010-12-27T01:06:00.001-05:00

I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know a little bit about Nyarid and some of her family this night! I've known her mom for quite a few years (she was my middle school Spanish teacher, turned colleague after 7 years loL) anywho, Nyarid is such a beautiful young woman and sooo personable! I didn't know anything about Quinceanera's but I now understand it is a public declaration of the young "girl" transforming into a young "woman" and as far as I am concerned, this young woman is quite mature for her age. I wish her much happiness in her life. I am so happy I was able to get to know her a little better :)

To view a full slide show click ----> here <----

Tea Time: Day 1

2010-12-22T17:53:00.000-05:00

My mom and aunt are hosting an afternoon tea party next week! I wanted to decorate the dessert buffet ( I think while I'm at it, I'll make a tea buffet too). For the next few days I'll post pictures and links so you can be inspired to throw your own themed party. Oh, and just keepin it real - this is a good 'ol, down home, southern hospitality house (tea) party. Just a few close friends coming to our home :)

I hope mom doesn't think I'm trying to take over loL but she bought all these really cool (but very different) tea pots. Some are oriental, some are country styled, some are classic, and some are Victorian. I was thinking if we come up with a color scheme we'll be able to incorporate everything she bought so far. What do you guys think of Lavender, Green and Yellow? Mom loves lavender and we have a bunch of soft green and yellow candles and decor already (keepin it real and cost effective ;-) )

Inspirations:

I Used To Love Him

2010-12-17T23:51:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I ran into my 10th grade English teacher, Ms. Hansen. We spoke briefly and then went on our way. As I walked away I remember how life altering her class was for me. I know that sounds so much bigger than it should doesn't it, "life altering"? Really Nina? It was just a sophomore English Honors course. Yes it was LIFE ALTERING for me. She made us write journals. The last time I had written in a journal was, I want to say at 10 yrs old and then I threw it away because it wasn't "cool to have a diary"! We read "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom and after reading the story we had to write in these journals. I had no choice but to do the weekly assignment because we were being graded on it!

I had no idea what to write about in my first entry so I wrote a few class notes (loL) I confessed my love for the two guys I liked at the time (wow loL!!!) and finally about how hungry I was getting and ready for the lunch bell to ring! I got so used to writing x amount of pages per week that once we finished the assignment at the end of the semester, I just continued to write - about more significant things now (but still confessing my love for crushes loL)! It was such an outlet for me, I enjoyed it. I would sit in my room for hours, literally, and write in my journal. I would continually go to walmart and buy 2 or 3 composition notebooks at a time so if ran out of space in one I would just continue in the next. I continued writing regularly throughout high school and my first year of college (I believe I have about 14 or 15 volumes).

Starting my second year of college I didn't write as often, partly because I didn't have the time and when I did I just didn't feel like spending my free time writing the other reason was because I didn't need a journal to be my outlet anymore. I had someone in my life who was there for me. To listen to me. Someone other than my family members. Someone I cared for deeply. I expressed my thoughts and feelings through my voice, not my pen anymore. The problem with that is, all that time is lost. The lessons I learned, the adventures I faced, the things said...all are gone. I don't remember all of them and neither does that person. When I write things down I have a record, something I can come back to and see my improvements (or lack of improvements, I can see what I need to work on). I also realize that "person" whoever that person my be at the time for me...or you! may not always be there. Whether it be on purpose or accidental - I think I want to start writing again. I miss writing. It was healthy for me.

Good night all.

DJ: Tampa Portrait Photographer

2010-12-16T00:22:00.001-05:00

Let me introduce you to my best friend, Derrick! Isn't he cute?! loL {I have to admit, I have a little bit of a crush on him ;-) } Just look at that smile! Ok, ok seriously...he called me a few weeks back asking for a portrait session, mainly because he wanted to support me and my photography endeavors but he also wanted some up to date pictures of himself. We went downtown and had a little fun. He was pretty relaxed infront of the camera and a great model to work with. I just wanted to share a few pics...

Have a great rest of the week ya'll (and stay warm!)

Angelia and Dee: Tampa Bay Engagement Photographer

2010-12-13T00:56:00.002-05:00

It was 6 years ago when I met Angelia, this red head with braces. She was pretty quiet - only for the first week of class - but really nice. It was freshmen year and we were in the same Arts Magnet program, PCCA for Musical Theater. We didn't really click until Junior year, but we'd been friends ever since we met. She'd met Dee freshmen year and they hit it off fairly quickly. They both were newbies to Florida. She, moving with her family from Pennsylvania and he, coming back to the states from Vietnam. He was a year ahead of us and had the prettiest hair I'd ever seen on a guy, long and wavy! (he since cut it)

Today they celebrate being together and in love for 6 years...Angel is a model (well, duh! Look at her, Fabulous and Fierce) and will soon be working in Paris, France! I'm so excited for her, I wanted to shoot with she and Dee before she left. We had a lot of fun laughing and catching up while I observed a different kind of love. They are so sweet - they truly love one another - I hope they see it as much as these pictures show it! Love you guys :)

College Days

2010-12-08T13:20:00.000-05:00

So I know this is a Photography blog, but it is also MY blog and I can write what I want loL. I'm sitting at home right now, preparing for my orientation (I will be transferring to the University of South Florida) I am in my 3rd year majoring in Computer Science. I'm going a little crazy right now because I feel there is so much I need to get done, but in reality there isn't that much that needs to be done. Honestly, I just need to be better organized. So much is going on with school - registration, class schedules, joining organizations, fees, etc. - n~grace photography - every weekend for the past 6 weeks I have had a photo shoot, which I LOVE but because I'm not as organized as I should or could be, pictures seem to be piling up right now, so many pictures to edit in so little time. I want to edit and get the CDs out to my clients in a timely manner but I will not rush because, in my opinion, I would be sacrificing quality for time. Of course this is me editing each picture which omg! what the heck is wrong with me?! I really need to look into "lightroom" and/or an editor (out sourcing) ugh! Or should I? Is it worth the money and effort? Does anyone reading this know about either lightroom or some editor, like "Photographer's Edit"?

Anyway! loL There are so many blog posts I'd like to write but simply don't have the time at the moment. I'm excited for the winter break coming soon because I have a lot I want to share...In the meantime, here is a sneak peek for future posts :)

~Couples: Angel and Dee

~Weddings: Amanda and Dan

~Portraits: Derrick

~Events: Christine and Craig

Sneak Peek: DJ Anytime

2010-12-05T00:49:00.000-05:00

I really wish I could write more, but this is just a sneak peek of pictures I took of my best friend DJ. More to come in the next week or two