“Surround yourself with things that have a story attached to them”

It’s a philosophy that made me think about my approach to photography. Looking around my living room, I realize that I’m surrounded by unique objects from my life and travels and that each artifact tells a different story. As someone who enjoys exploring other cultures, I realized that the stories I collect aren’t just about objects. They are about people and many of the treasured items on my walls are photographs. Pictures of people, families, and friends in places both here and abroad.

A Brand New Blog
I’ve been chronicling your milestones on my blog since 2009, and it has grown into a vast collection of over 700 of your stories. It’s recently been revamped for easier navigation. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next shoot or just want to stroll down memory lane, take a peek, it’s all there. “Subscribe” to my blog in the header to be notified of new posts. Be sure to dive into the “Categories” section.

Special Offer for a limited time: Give a Gift Certificate and get an extra bonus gift card
Thinking ahead to the holidays? Through November 30, every gift certificate purchase comes with an extra 10%-20% value in the form of an extra bonus gift card. Use it, share it, whatever you’d like. For example, spend $200, and get an extra bonus gift card for $20. Spend $550, get a bonus gift card for $60. (Buy Gift Certificates here). They’ll ship for free, to you or the recipient, in a cute yellow envelope, ready for the holidays. More ideas will be arriving in your email soon. I want your photographs to become an integral part of your everyday surroundings, not forgotten in the depths of digital storage.

One of our stories… a story of celebrating Songkran, the Thai New Year, and belly laughing all-day-long. When Jeff and I hopped on a scooter to drive though the streets of Koh Samui we had no idea that we were in for a huge street party full of live music and a massive, water fight. People collect water in buckets, squirt guns, and anything else they can find, then hit the streets to playfully splash each other. On the back of the scooter, I had my iphone in a plastic bag videoing the chaos. One of those perfect days.

Fall and Winter in the Mountains: A Time for Stories
The mountains are more than just a backdrop for photos; they’re a canvas for adventures. This year especially, the beauty is unparalleled, due to a gentle fire season and a notable lack of smoke. I’ve reconnected with so many of you already this fall and it’s just beginning.  If there is anything I can help you with, just let me know.

Stay Connected, On Your Terms
Life gets busy, and I totally understand. If you ever feel like taking a break from our updates, no problem at all. Just click at the bottom of your email to opt out, and know that you’re welcome back anytime.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving. I am grateful for your support of my small business – it’s been over two decades in El Dorado County! I look forward to capturing more of your stories this holiday season and beyond.

Warmly,
Lisa

I read this today- a good reminder:

“I just want to remind you now so you’ll take care if this before Thanksgiving. Buy the little tripod for your phone or camera. Take the family photo. Take it in the living room on the couch or go outside; It doesn’t have to be perfect. Even if you weigh more than you like, your outfits aren’t coordinated, or your kids got food on their clothes. Take the photos because death is a thief. It snatches people away without warning, and none of the silly stuff matters. Just take the photos.”

Blog title quote from Luke Russert, “Look for Me There,” a story of travel, self-exploration and healing, following his father’s passing.