Day #2 {Seven Mothers}

#2

I love Audrey.

You know when you meet someone and unexpectedly become friends with them? That is how I would describe how I know Audrey.. she is many things I am not.. a small (like a fairy), sparkly, high-heeled wearing cutie:)  Behind all her bling she has this really sweet soft heart, and it most definitely leans in the direction of her daughter, Marissa.  Audrey was one of the entrees that opted for the editorial shoot.  She wanted to spend some time at their home away from home.. the horse barn.  The best part about this editorial shoot was the time I was able to just sit and spend with them.. I do love me some good conversation.  Hearing all about Timon (the horse) the lessons and shows.  The dedication it takes on the part of the rider (and the riders Mom!) all of it.. loved it.  Love these images.. this was one of those shoots when I have 10 x’s the amount of photos than I’m showing, they were all good and this was a lovely way to spend an afternoon.  Audrey you are a good Momma and I’m blessed to call you friend.

Day #1 {Seven Mothers}

# 1

Dani wanted to include four generations of ladies in her family.. um.. yes please.

I’m not lying when I say this image could be the poster child for why I even do 7 Mothers. What a perfect way to start off an amazing week. Perfect weather, perfect light and of course beautiful, beautiful ladies. Images that will be forever remembered, forever cherished.

Thanks to Dani and her sweet family for setting aside a few hours time to create a forever memory.

****Winner-Winner Chicken Dinner!****

First…

A HUGE thanks to the ladies who entered and to the many of you who took the leap and wanted to try the editorial shoot.  Seriously you have no idea how much it means (and I’m not just saying that either!) to me.

Your comments made me smile and made my heart all squishy.  You’re awesome. (like you didn’t already know that)

Second… (but not less important)

I HATE the part when some of you don’t win. It makes me sad that some of you might be disappointed. That part is not easy for me:(

With that being said…

Third… (last but certainly not least)

(once again I had my trusty helper draw the names aka the 9 year old..he keeps me honest)

Winners..

Dani D.

Audrey M.

Liz M.

Cyndi A.

Shannon S.

Lani L.

Heather C.

Back-up peeps..(in order)

Jessica L and Rachel E

I will be in touch with you soon to arrange the details.  PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE be in touch ASAP if something has come up and you can’t make it.

I can’t wait for May..it’s going to be epic!

YAY you!!

7 Mothers Project 2012

******IT’S MY FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR!!! YES, I’M YELLING!!!******

2012 is year four of 7 Mothers.  Wow.  I’m not even lying when I say it is my favorite thing I do all year.  I love giving presents, and giving of my time and talent is just about the best ever. I have loved all the wonderful relationships I have forged, when I look back over the past years I can’t help but smile.

This year I’m changing it up a bit..

In the past, I have opened up 7 photography sessions the week before Mothers Day.  7 Mothers, 7 days in a row.  The only qualification is you have to have a Mother, be a mother or have a Grandmother, be a Grandmother.  It could be a session just for you, or you and your children, or you and your siblings with Grandmother and Mom.  Just as long as there is a Mom involved  (preferably your own).

7 Mothers has always pushed me artistically. Makes me think on my toes, pushes me past my comfort zone.  I love the challenge and getting to meet so many wonderful people in a short amount of time is like a salve to my soul.  Every single session I walk away more in awe of women and the passion in which we care for those around us.. amazing.

This year I knew I had to push myself even more, in addition to traditional portraits, I knew I wanted to do something else.

When you think about your life as a Mother/Grandmother you don’t think about those picture perfect moments. Mostly your children are not all dressed in coordinating outfits with bright shiny smiles (or distant moody glances).  No, as a Mother you think about that sweet moment just before bed, at bath time, around the dinner table, driving to _____  practice and the quiet early moments before school.  This is real life, the rawness that is Motherhood.  Am I trying to make is sound a bit more edgy than it really is? Maybe (I love me some dramatic effect), but from my experience, Motherhood is about as real, raw and gritty as it gets. Nothing I know can fill you with so much love, then seconds later rip your heart right out of your chest quite like parenthood can.

So I want to follow you, I want to capture those moments.

Bath time? Bed time? Visiting your aging Grandmother? Dinner time? Getting ready for work in the morning? Are you a Mommy photog, working out of your home?? Dropping off at day care? Homeschool? Do you coach your child’s soccer/baseball/softball team? In your home, in your car, at your job.  REAL moments.

I want to take your portrait in front of your home, on your living room sofa, sitting around your kitchen table. Moments the hold meaning, that sink in deep.

I realize this editorial style is not for everyone..that’s ok.  You have the option of a traditional style shoot or an editorial style.

BUT I’m REALLY REALLY REALLY hoping a few of you will and to sweeten the pot I will enter your name TWICE if you do.

(the deets)

7 Mothers, 7 openings. The dates of the actual shoots are the week of May 14-20.  One family each day. If you chose a the traditional portrait you will have to come to one of my chosen locations close to Monroe/Snohomish.  If you chose the editorial style shoot you must live within a 20 mile range of Snohomish Washington. I will plan on spending about one hour with you and your peeps, doing what you do. Both sessions come with a 5×7 of your favorite image along with about 10 images from the session printed.  If you would like a CD you can purchase one for 5.00 (just to cover my cost). All of us are strapped for time, if you can’t make that week, please don’t enter the contest (of course I will be more than happy to schedule you a session anytime!!!).

Think about the editorial session like this: Tres Birds is doing a visual editorial on your life as a mommy. Nervous? Don’t be.  You’re perfectly and wonderfully made.. and I can’t WAIT to capture all that you are as a Mother.

I plan on blogging about each session for 7 days.  If that is problem for you please email me and I’m sure we can work something out. Don’t let that hinder you entering!

Contest starts March 28th and runs through April 4th.  I will announce the winners Friday, April the 6th.  Remember, that week scheduling is a BEAR so winners should have at least two dates that would work best for them, somehow it always seems to work out:)

You are awesome, and thanks so much for coming along with me on this journey.  If you have any questions at ALL please email me at tresbirdsphotog@hotmail.com and I will gladly answer them.

**********Post Edit**********

To enter just leave a comment about which shoot you would like and why.  Also I’m so sorry but if you have already been a 7 Mother then I kinda think you should let others have a chance at it:)

Now ENTER..and tell your friends too!!!

*******Entries Now Closed..Winners posted soon!****************