Christina Shippey

Branches and Light Scholarship Video....... Outakes and All

2010-11-11T10:40:00.008-05:00

I know....... I said no more posts on this blog...... but it felt weird posting this video on my new blog..... when the original post was on this blog. So... this really is the LAST post on this blog..... if you haven't already, head on over to my new blog and start following it! All kinds of fun new post coming up!!

So..... I promised my hubby if I won the Branches & Light Scholarship I would post this video...... and include some of the embarrassing outakes. To my complete surprise I won!! I am so completely grateful to both Caroline and Nancy for giving me this amazing opportunity!! Sometimes I go visit the Branches & Light blog post about the scholarship winner..... just to make sure my picture is still posted there and I am still the winner!! :) January is going to be amazing!!! I absolutely can't wait to meet all the other Branches & Light workshop attendees and have a day of learning and growing together!! I am so excited for this upcoming season in my life!! I feel like my husband and I are embarking on a brand new adventure.... and the sky is the limit for us!! We are entering a time of family, friends and fellowship! So thankful for all the blessings God has put in our lives.... His grace is so rich!! :) If you have no idea what I'm talking about when I say Branches & Light..... check out my previous post here. Here is the video I entered into the scholarship...... it was filmed by my sweet hubby! Thanks you so much Chris! You are amazing and I couldn't have done it without you!! P.S....... I caught my hubby the other day going through the outakes and cracking up at me..... feel free to do the same!! :)

Holiday Mini Sessions and a New Blog!!

2010-11-04T16:56:00.005-04:00

Hello!! Hope everyone is enjoying their fall and the cooler fall weather!! The trees are turning the most gorgeous colors everywhere here in Arkansas!! I'm thinking about heading out with my hubby sometime this week to capture a pic of us in all the pretty colors!! So here's some exciting news....... I HAVE A NEW BLOG!!!!! It's so amazing and great (and still a work in progress...... but I'm so frustrated with this blog, and the many hours it took just for one tiny blog post, I just went right ahead and started using my new one!!) This is the last post you will ever see on this blog...... so head over to the new blog and check it out.......www.christinashippeyphotography.com/blog!! Let me know what you think....... I added a fun new color and so far I'm loving it!!

Also...... I am headed down to Pearland for the holidays (actually Chris and I are moving to Pearland during the holidays...... but that is another blog post!) and I am offering a special for the holiday season! This is the perfect opportunity for some family Christmas pictures..... or any other type of session you want!! Here are all the details:

The dates in November are the only dates I will be offering the special session fee of $150 with 10 digital images or $50 print credit included! If you would like to book a session one of these dates simply email me at christinashippeyphotography@gmail.com and let me know the date you would like and the time you prefer (4pm or 5:15pm!) Here are all the details and dates again......

Holiday Mini Sessions:

1 hour session

30-50 images in an online gallery

Location:

Pearland, TX (specific location TBD)

Dates:

November

15th

16th

17th

18th

19th

28th

Branch & Light Scholarship Entry: This Season of Life

2010-11-01T18:52:00.018-04:00

Hello!! Are you ready for my first ever self portraits??? This blog post is part of my entry for the Branches & Light photography workshop scholarship. It is all about where I am in life and my pursuit of a full-time photography business..... and part of the assignment was a series of self portraits! I thought I would spend five minutes taking 3 or 4 shots of...... well.... my face. Instead....... I spent over an hour and ended up taking like 300 pics. Huh?!? Haha.... turns out I left my one and only tripod in Dallas, TX at the last wedding venue I shot at! I spent most of my time balancing my camera on a ladder, a stool and the trunk of my car! Plus..... I ended up really enjoying my time with just me and my camera...... I learned a whole lot and am kinda proud of myself! :)Here is what I got..... along with little chunks of my heart about why I would LOVE to win a scholarship to the Branches & Light workshop!!

Hello...... this is me!

All along I knew wedding photography was it for me- once I had been exposed to it- it completely stole my heart! I shot my first wedding a year ago. However, deciding I loved wedding photography and actually doing it have been two very different things! The last couple years as I have pursued my dream have not been easy-but they have taught me things an easily successful business never would have-patience, joy, gratitude for the small victories and perseverance. I have learned to not be so anxious for where I am going that I don't enjoy where I am.

I have been following Caroline's photography for a while now and as soon as she announced a workshop I hurried to the website to read all about it! As I read the heart behind the workshop and the topics to be taught...... I started tearing up. One of the topics was fear. Fear. I think fear is something I've dealt with my whole life..... but I had no idea it would follow me into my business. Being creative..... and putting it on display for the world to see can be a scary thing..... but .......the fear that really gets to me and eats at me is the fear of failing..... of never having a successful business. I have such big dreams that fear at times makes them look impossible! It is so encouraging to know that I'm not the only photographer who has fears. I would really love to learn how to deal with my fears...... even turn them around to use in a positive way.

One of the other things I really loved when I read about the Branches & Light workshop was the time that will be spent teaching about business. I have so much to learn about both the creative side and the business side of photography...... but I feel like it is the business side that constantly has me bogged down with questions and confusion! I often feel like I am in some giant maze......every time I think I've figured something out..... I end up right back where I started! Uggh! I am quite the idea person..... but often struggle carrying out my ideas! I often feel the more weddings I shoot..... the more I walk toward a full-time business- the more questions I have!

Right now my husband and I are in a very transitional phase of our lives. A lot of things are changing. My husband is stepping away from something he has been a part of for over ten years...... and following where he feels God is leading. We move from Springdale, Arkansas to Houston, Texas in less than a month! Money is tight...... why is moving so expensive?? Speaking of moving...... in the last three years I have lived in three different states! While it has been a little frustrating constantly starting over in new cities..... my husband and I are really excited about this new phase in our lives! We have a lot of changes going on and our lives are quite hectic....... but I feel like this next move is the perfect opportunity for me to have a really fresh start in my business and do it right...... with lot's of help and advice from Caroline Joy and Nancy Ray- two amazing photographers who know how to run successful businesses.

There are so many more reasons I would love to come to the Branches & Light workshop...... but I will leave you with one final reason. Community, friendship, encouragement..... things my heart is really longing for. Being a photographer and owning your own business can often be a lonely thing. I feel that one of the most valuable things one can get from a workshop is a friend..... or lot's of friends. Perhaps a whole community of friends who have the same passions, desires and goals I do! A group of people that will encourage and push each other to do better things and to be better people! I have no doubt that those are the kinds of people Caroline and Nancy are...... and that they will attract people just like them to this workshop. I would absolutely LOVE to meet all the workshop attendees and spend a day or two sipping tea and sharing hearts with other photographers!

Thanks so much for taking the time to listen to me pour my heart out! I will leave you with one more set of self-portraits..... as you can see I had WAY to much fun!! :)

Dallas Wedding Photographer. Delaney's Vineyard Wedding. Ashley+Tim: Sneak Peek

2010-10-27T11:42:00.005-04:00

Here is a quick sneak peek of Ashley and Tim from their Grapevine, Texas vineyard wedding! There were sooo many pics I loved that I couldn't just post one or two...... so how about four!!

This is pretty much my absolute favorite....... I adore taking photos during sunset!! This photo below is actually a miracle.... it rained and poured most of Ashley and Tim's wedding day..... then cleared up right after the ceremony for their portraits!!

These next two were taken by Chris..... my second shooter who also happens to be my hubby!!

This is one of my other favs...... such a sweet moment!!

The rest of their beautiful fall, vineyard wedding coming soon!! :)

Nothwest Arkansas Wedding Photographer. Amy+Sam.

2010-10-25T22:44:00.033-04:00

Meet Amy and Sam..... they had a beautiful fall themed wedding with pops of red and a little black! Since they got married in October I thought it would be a nice, cool day...... just the right temperature for some outdoor shots before the ceremony. Not so!! It was hot...... the whole bridal party started melting the minute we stepped outside! So ready for the cool fall weather here in Arkansas!

Amy's beautiful lace dress and ballet slippers....... Amy was smart and wanted to be comfy on her wedding day.... and choose not to kill her feet with high heels!

The flowers....

Amy's sweet little girl popped in to say "hi" right before the ceremony!

Now onto the gentlemen..... while I was in with the ladies my husband went in to hang out with the groomsmen and get some shots...... so I can't take any credit for the following shots..... they were all shot by Chris!!

Sam getting ready......

Playing cards to relax.... and pass the time!

Probably one of my favorite shots....... and my hubby took it! :)

Sam met up with his family in the hallway before the ceremony..... and said "hi" to his little girl as well! I have to say she is one of the best behaved 7 month olds I have ever met.... constantly smiling and I didn't hear her fuss once the whole day!!

Amy..... such a beautiful bride!!

Amy with her bridesmaids..... looking gorgeous despite the heat!!

The handsome groomsmen!!

Amy and Sam didn't do a first sight..... but they met around corner and I got a couple of pics.

One of my favorites from the day......

Now onto the ceremony.....

I know I said this in the sneak peek...... but..... the church they got married in was gorgeous!!! My heart smiled when I saw it!

Sam as his bride was coming down the aisle (Chris snapped this one!)

Sam..... still smiling..... awwe!

Love this pic...... not sure what the priest is doing..... but it looks so cool and official how he is raising his arm!

Hello cake!! Amy's cake was beautiful.... love the black and red against the purple wall!

Groom's cake...... go Hogs!!

The centerpieces on the tables were so pretty........

Cutting the cake.....

...... and then stuffing it in Sam's face- then very sweetly wiping it off!!

Now for some alone time with the bride and groom..... probably my favorite part of the day!!

Congratulations Amy+Sam!!!!

Nothwest Arkansas Wedding Photographer. Springdale Country Club. Denise+Tim

2010-10-21T21:46:00.022-04:00

Say hello to Denise and Tim! I second shot this gorgeous wedding with Rachel Blackwell- it was my second time shooting with Rachel and I feel like I learned soooo much from her! Rachel you are very talented- thank you so much for your generosity with your photography knowledge and for answering all my pesky questions! :) Now-onto the wedding!

Let's start with the shoes...... because...... these shoes are amazing..... I want to rewind time and wear these to my own wedding! Hello pink ruffles!

Denise had two dresses..... one for the ceremony and one for the reception..... and she looked absolutely beautiful in both!

Putting the shoes on........ and Denise's hair...... so beautiful.... and ALL real, no extensions!

This next series of shots is Denise having her earings put on..... her faces crack me up!

Denise's handsome groom getting ready.

Some couple pics before the ceremony......

A little black and white......

A few church details...... loved the stained glass in the church!

Wedding time and a church exit with flower petals!

Then some more pictures after the ceremony on the golf course..... sunset is such a perfect time for pictures!

Denise's reception was beautiful...... pink everywhere and lovely centerpieces!

The cake........ quite yummy..... I took a piece home! :)

Tossing the bouquet..... isn't Denise stunning in her red dress?!

The garter toss.....

...... and quite an eager group of single gents!

I'll leave you with this shot of Denise and Tim dancing the night away to end the post!

Nothwest Arkansas Wedding Photographer. Sneak Peeks: Amy+Sam and Denise+Tim

2010-10-17T19:58:00.005-04:00

Hey everyone! Here are some sneak peeks from two recent weddings! My blog and I seem to have a love/hate relationship...... and right now we are not getting along! Don't worry though..... I have something in the works that will soon turn this blog into a love/love relationship!! Yay! :)

Amy+Sam: Springdale Fall Wedding

I loved the church Amy and Sam got married in.... it was beautiful and went perfectly with their fall themed wedding!

Love this series of pics....... just married people are beautiful!!

Denise+Tim: Springdale Country Club Wedding

Here is one of my absolute favorites from Denise+Tim's wedding! I second shot this wedding with Rachel Blackwell... check out all her amazing shots on her blog!

Springdale, Ar Photographer. New Headshots!

2010-09-07T20:08:00.008-04:00

It's been awhile since I've had some head shots of me taken (the pic in the header is my most recent head shot, and it was taken almost two years ago!) So I headed out with my husband to have him get some updated pics of me...... and I was kinda blown away by the pictures he took...... I think he might give me a run for my money in the photography talent department! He took these with absolutely no help or direction from me at all (which is surprising b/c I can kinda be a control freak when it comes to photography!) In fact the pictures are so good I didn't do anything to them besides adding a little snap and my stamp! Feel free to leave my husband a little blog love for the pics. Oh yeah...... I am having a hard time deciding which is my fav..... leave me a comment and let me know which is your favorite and should be my new blog header and profile pic!

You don't think I was going to let my hubby do ALL the picture taking...... here are a couple of my super sweet and very talented hubby!! :)

Houston, TX Photographer. Lifestyle Photography. Luke+Harper

2010-08-23T14:47:00.008-04:00

Meet Luke and Harper! How cute are they with all that blonde hair!? This is another session I did while in Houston..... and needless to say it was pretty hot and humid! I took them to a location I hadn't seen since February and was so excited to see flowers had popped up everywhere!! Enjoy!!

This next set of pictures is pretty much one of my favorite sets of pictures ever!! :) Love Harper's expressions!

Not to be outdone Luke did some posing for the camera as well!

Such sweet siblings!

Love those blue eyes!

Pearland, TX Photographer. The O'Leary Family

2010-08-18T15:26:00.012-04:00

Say hello to the O'Leary family!! We headed out one SUPER hot afternoon in Pearland, Texas to get some family pics and a couple of their sweet little boy Ryland!

What I've Been Up to Lately. Pearland, TX. Sneak Peek

2010-08-07T11:28:00.004-04:00

Here is a little sneak peek of what I've been up to the past couple of days! My computer is going into the shop for the next couple of days (I'm getting a new battery and screen (free) thanks Apple.... :)........ so you might not hear from me for a couple of days! Enjoy!!

My super sweet niece and nephew......

Little Ryland with his book.......

Luke and Harper..... such a sweet brother and sister!

Nothwest Arkansas Photographer. Wedding Photography. Jamie+Joe

2010-07-24T15:49:00.022-04:00

Meet Joe and Jamie! Joe and Jamie are the first couple I have ever taken pictures of that eloped (I always think people who elope are so adventurous and romantic!) :) Joe and Jamie got married in a small, outdoor ceremony in Seattle and wanted some wedding/bridal pictures taken when they returned to Oklahoma. We headed out on a very sunny, humid and hot afternoon! Looking at how beautiful Jamie looks you would never know that all three of us were pouring sweat the entire time!

Love this picture...... such a special moment!

How cool is this barn.... love the colors and vines growing up the side! So glad it's owner let us use it!

Nothwest Arkansas Photographer. Wedding Photography. Jamie+Joe: Sneak Peak

2010-07-19T12:20:00.004-04:00

Here is a sneak peak from Joe and Jamie's bridal/wedding session! More coming soon....... enjoy!!

Christina Shippey Photography coming to Houston!!

2010-07-15T09:50:00.012-04:00

Yes! I'm coming to Houston!! If you are anywhere in the Houston area (La Porte, Pearland, etc.) I will be booking afternoon sessions July 26th-August 6th. I'm also doing a special session price just for this Houston trip! Sessions will be $150 (that's almost a 50% discount!) and will include an hour session (kids, family, newborn, maternity, bridal, engagement, just because) with your choice of either $50 print credit or 5 fully edited digital files! If you are interested or would like to book a session please email me at christinashippeyphotography@gmail.com! Thanks!!

Details:

*July 26th-August 6th

*$150 Session Fee: includes $50 print credit or 5 fully edited digital files

* email christinashippeyphotography@gmail.com to book!!

..........and because no post is complete without a picture..... here is a picture from our recent trip to Africa of the beautiful city of Windhoek, Namibia (haha.... and a good amount of the dirt road we were standing on.... still working on my panorama technique... :) this city and it's lovely people have absolutely stolen my heart..... can't wait to tell you more about it!! :)

Fayetteville Photographer. Inn at Carnall Hall: Lauren

2010-06-10T19:40:00.024-04:00

Meet Lauren! Lauren and I go to the same church and a couple weeks ago I got to take pictures of some of Lauren's dance classes as well! Turns out Lauren is not only a talented dancer but used to compete in pageants as well! A couple of years ago she competed in the National American Miss Pageant.... and was crowned Miss Arkansas Pre-Teen Queen 2008-2009!! Lauren had never had any pictures taken with the crown and sash..... and was about to cut her hair to donate it to Locks of Love! We headed down to Fayetteville's Inn at Carnall Hall on the University of Arkansas campus..... such a perfect setting for Lauren's pretty gowns, crown and sash! Here are a couple of my favorites!

Love soft window light!!

The one on the left is my absolute favorite..... isn't Lauren beautiful?!

Okay.... I know the next couple of pictures are really similar.... but sometimes I just can't decide between two.... so I put both!!

Love the pink and green!!

Love Lauren's eyes in this picture..... such a pretty color!!

Love that we found this location..... piano's make for nice formal shots!

Black and white...... Lauren, you are so classy! :)

P. S.......... I leave for Namibia, Africa in 3 days!!! Woohoooo!!!! Yes.... I am going to take a million pictures..... and if I get internet I will most definitely blog some!! :)

Nothwest Arkansas Photographer. Wedding Photography. Jenny+Brenton

2010-05-29T19:48:00.026-04:00

This last weekend I had the privilege of second shooting (for the first time) a wedding with Rachel Blackwell..... an amazing wedding photographer here in Springdale, Arkansas! Rachel is a super talented photographer and I learned soooo much from the experience!! Rachel was so much fun to work with and made all the wedding picture taking easy and fun for everyone...... the bride even told Rachel thanks at the end of the day for making it so fun! Check out all of Rachel's amazing work and pics from the wedding here.

Jenny and Brenton were the sweetest couple, and so in love. Jenny and Brenton got ready and had their reception at the beautiful Pratt Place Inn. I hadn't met the bride and groom prior to the wedding day, and it was so special to be a part of some of the most special and intimate moments of their wedding day.

Jenny's dress was absolutely beautiful!

Here she is getting ready with her Mom...... such a happy, beautiful bride.

A couple pictures with the girls..... the picture below on the right is Jenny with her sister..... such a sweet look between the two.

Smiles and laughter.....

On the left, Jenny waiting to see her groom for the first time...... on the right is their first sight!

Some bride and groom pics!

A couple fun moments while Rachel took the group photos..... these two were soooo in love!

With the flower girls waiting for the ceremony to start!

The Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel..... so beautiful!

A little celebrating!!

I thought this was so cute...... just happened to catch this little man looking up at Jenny while everyone else is looking somewhere else!

First dance

Some bubbles for the send off!!

Nothwest Arkansas Photographer. Just Because: Brittney+Sarah

2010-05-19T20:01:00.010-04:00

Meet Brittney and Sarah! Sarah is dating one of my husbands closest friends and Brittney is her best friend. They both live in Texas but came to visit last week and we all had a blast hanging out! We had originally planned on just doing a couples session with Cordy and Sarah..... but as soon as I saw how gorgeous Brittney was I dragged her into the session too! Brittney and Sarah are both super sweet, genuine people who are as pretty inside as they are out. They met playing volleyball at SHU and are very athletic (they ran like 6 miles a couple mornings while they were here..... made me feel like a total wimp.... I can barely run a mile!) Brittney is also an AWESOME cook..... she cooked for us all week long...yumm (haha..... I know.... what kind of hostess am I letting my guests cook for me?!?) Anyways.... I took some shots of Brittney in front of this sweet orange wall..... and then a couple of the two together! Sarah and Cordy's couple session coming soon!!

I think this one on the right is my fav..... hello..... her green eyes are soooo amazing!

This is my fav of the two together..... once again.... they are just so darn pretty!!

Nothwest Arkansas Photographer. Tuesday's Thoughts. Hope

2010-05-11T13:00:00.011-04:00

Hope. I love that word...... I love hope. Today's quotes are all about hope..... and I hope they leave you encouraged. :)

"There are no hopeless situations; there are only men and women who have grown hopeless about them."

-Marshall Ferdinand Foch (WWII hero)

"Hope... means... a continual looking forward to the eternal world... It does not mean that we are to leave the present world as it is. If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next... It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this. Aim at Heaven and you will get earth "thrown in": aim at earth and you will get neither."

-C. S. Lewis

And because no post is complete without a picture..... here is a shot from my Brainwash with Lauren Clark...... edited with her fabulous UNO tips!! More about the Brainwash (it was amazing) coming soon..... along with more pictures!!!

Tidbits for Tuesday

2010-05-04T20:32:00.006-04:00

Tidbits for Tuesday...... still working on the name..... but I have wanted to have some type of weekly post for awhile..... and I am starting it today! Every Tuesday I will post a quote (because I am kinda obsessed with quotes) and perhaps a picture from the week! Just something to think about as you go about your Tuesday. Not really crazy about calling it "Tidbits for Tuesday" so if you can think of something that sounds a little more fun/unique..... leave me a comment!! First up..... one of my favorite quotes ever.... and a couple pics of the gorgeous flowers that were on all the trees up until a couple weeks ago (I kinda think the pics and the quote go together!)

"I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else."

-C. S. Lewis

Love Affair Workshop Giveaway: Final Giveaway!

2010-05-03T16:54:00.011-04:00

I REALLY want to win a seat to Love Affair Workshop. GO read details and sign up to join in on the fun! http://www.loveaffairworkshop.com

This is it! The last giveaway..... the big giveaway!! This is for a spot at the 2010 Love Affair Workshop in Dallas, TX this September! Can't wait until they announce the winner on Wednesday!

Northwest Arkansas Photographer. Maternity Photography. Whitney

2010-04-29T18:37:00.010-04:00

Meet Whitney and her beautiful family (with another one on the way.) I had so much fun getting to meet and take pictures of Whitney and her family. Whitney is into photography too..... so we spent a lot of the session talking about our mutual love of photography! Whitney is absolutely gorgeous.... beautiful skin, beautiful eyes and beautiful hair..... made my job very easy!! Whitney thanks for being such a blast and being up for anything..... even at 33 weeks!

Quick snapshot of the family.....

Love the red hair with the bright pink shirt...... so sweet..... I just love color!

One of my favorite shots......I know I already said it once..... but Whitney your eyes are so pretty!!

Love Affair Workshop Giveaway: Kelly Moore Bag

2010-04-29T15:41:00.011-04:00

Check out the LOVE AFFAIR BLOG and enter to win a Kelly Moore Bag & a seat to their upcoming workshop in Dallas!! www.loveaffairworkshop.com

Another day of the Love Affair Workshop giveaway!! Each day I get so much more excited about the workshop...... today I've even started dreaming up ways to raise the money to go........ which hopefully I won't need to do if I just win a spot in the giveaway!! Today's giveaway is a Kelly Moore Bag...... perfect for carrying your camera and lenses around and still looking fabulous!! She even has a new bag for the guys!

Love Affair Workshop Giveaway: Get it Together Kit!

2010-04-28T17:43:00.004-04:00

I want to win the Get It Together Kit & a seat to Love Affair Workshop. GO read the details and register! http://www.loveaffairworkshop.com

Woohoo! I get so excited every time I post about this workshop!! Love Affair is a workshop put one by four AMAZING women photographers who are so talented and gracious! I really look up to and admire every single one of them. This year's workshop is in Dallas..... one of my absolute favorite town's ever (I used to live just north of Dallas!) Today's giveaway is Millie Holloman's brand new Get It Together Kit! If you have a crazy busy photography business..... and you need a little help in the organization department..... this giveaway is for you!!

Love Affair Workshop Giveaway: UNO

2010-04-27T16:44:00.006-04:00

I want a UNO DVD and a shot at the scholarship to the Love Affair Workshop! http://www.loveaffairworkshop.com

I do believe you will be hearing about this workshop and their giveaways every day of this week!! Which I think is really great...... Love Affair is just that amazing!! Today the giveaway is Lauren Clark's photoshop tutorial UNO! It is awesome..... if you want to learn more about photoshop and how to make your colors pop in your pictures like Lauren does..... this is the dvd for you!

Love Affair Workshop Giveaway!!! Woohoo!!

2010-04-26T16:18:00.005-04:00

Check out http://www.loveaffairworkshop.com! They’re giving away prizes & a seat to their workshop on the blog this week! Go enter to win!

Can you tell I'm excited!? Love Affair Workshop is having their week of giveaways! Today's giveaway is an Insight Kit by Davina Fear. Check out all of her insight kits here. I would love to win one of these kits (I already have my eye on a certain kit and will probably be buying it shortly if I don't win it!) At the end of the week Love Affair is giving away one seat to the workshop in Dallas this September! How awesome is that! I have entered the last two years and am entering again this year. My goal is to either win a spot...... or eventually be able to afford a spot at the workshop! For more information about the workshop click here.

Northwest Arkansas Photographer. Maternity Photography. Whitney: Sneak Peek

2010-04-25T21:18:00.006-04:00

Just got back from a super fun maternity shoot with this beautiful couple. I was going through the images and found this one (it was literally the last picture I took) and had to post it. I think it is my new favorite picture! More of Whitney and Jesse's session coming soon!

Northwest Arkansas Photographer. Cari: What to Do When It Rains

2010-04-23T17:37:00.008-04:00

So...... sometimes it rains when I really want to take pictures! This last week I had two session cancelled because of the rain..... no, make that cancelled because of the three day flood that hit Lubbock while I was there! After being cooped up for so long my friend Cari and I had had enough and, armed with rain boots, umbrellas and a friend to hold the umbrellas we headed out to take some pictures! We soon discovered that not only was it pouring rain, it was also windy and cold! So what did we do? We found an old parking garage, tucked away from the rain and wind, and started snapping away!

Meet Cari..... one of my best friends! I stayed with her while in Lubbock (I kinda turned her whole living room into my closet while I was there!) Cari is awesome..... she is super random and always up for something sweet (like cupcakes and frozen yogurt).... or an adventure! She was also kind of my "suger mama" while I was in Lubbock...... I accidently left my debit card in a jean pocket and she ended up having to buy my meals my last day there! Thanks Cari...... I owe you! Come visit me and I'll be your "suger mama!!" :)

Despite the rain we ended up getting some really fun pics..... helps that Cari is so pretty and we had a super fun, colorful umbrella!

This is probably one of my new favorite pictures....... aren't her eyes amazing!?

Northwest Arkansas Photographer. Senior Photography. Texas Tech Senior: Perla

2010-04-21T22:07:00.010-04:00

Meet Perla! Perla is one of my good friends who lives in Lubbock, Texas (I went there last week for a Brainwash with the one and only Lauren Clark! More about that in an upcoming post..... suffice it to say these pictures were taken AFTER my day spent with Lauren and I think it really shows!) Perla is a senior at Texas Tech and is about to graduate in May with a Interior Design degree (I am already plotting ways to get her up here to Arkansas to help me with a certain room in my house!) Perla is one of those one-in-a-million people.... she is completely herself and completely unique! There is no one like Perla..... from her voice, her laugh..... her sweet, sweet spirit! It was so refreshing to get to see her and hang out some while in Lubbock..... I don't think I have laughed so hard in quite a while! She is truly beautiful inside and out! I hope these pictures give a little glimpse of Perla's personality! Perla I can't wait to see what God has planned for you in these next couple of years!!

Have I mentioned how much I love the color turquoise....... why there aren't more turquoise buildings and walls in this world I don't know!

One of my favs...... isn't she sooooo pretty!

Serious...... and not so serious!

My sweet friend Cari came along and took pics of me taking pics..... and snapped these pics of Perla and I..... being completely serious of course!

Northwest Arkansas Photographer. Engagement Photography. Bryan & Heather

2010-04-15T10:23:00.008-04:00

Wow! My week has been crazy so far...... and I am absolutely loving every minute of it! Life is so beautiful and God is so good! Meet Bryan and Heather! We had a bunch of fun wandering around around town last Saturday, enjoying the fresh, springtime weather! Engagement sessions + spring= a match made in heaven...... I just love the two together! Enjoy!

While waiting for the steps of Old Main to clear we plopped down in the grass and ended up getting some fun shots!

Love how rich and green the grass is!

So glad I caught this kiss and reaction on my camera! :)

Dear Old Main steps...... I really like you..... and yes, I will be back for more! (Interesting piece of trivia...... Old Main is the oldest building on the University of Arkansas campus..... it was built in like 1975! So cool to me that it is that old...... someday I think I'm just going to go sit on these steps and see if I can soak up some history!!)

Love these beautiful pink flowers that are everywhere...... anybody want to come plant some in my yard?

Winner of My First Ever Giveaway!!!

2010-04-12T22:16:00.007-04:00

Thank you sooooo much to everyone who entered my giveaway and spread the word on Facebook! I had a ton of fun with the giveaway and I think I'll do more in the future! Any ideas for my next giveaway...... a session perhaps.... or perhaps another giftcard?? Hmmmmm?

Now on to the winner of the Starbucks gift card and Specs & Wings coffee cozy (side note...... when I told my hubby I was doing a giveaway on my blog his only question was if he could be the one to draw the name for me out of the bowl..... so cute :) ..... so the winner was drawn by none other than my sweet hubby Chris)........... and the winner is.................. KRISTEN BROWN!!!! Congrats Kristen!! Email your address and contact info to christinashippeyphotography@gmail.com to claim your prize!!

Didn't win but still want a Specs & Wings coffee cozy..... head over to the Specs & Wings blog and order one from Molly (she has ALL kinds of other amazing artwork that you really need to see too!!)

Speaking of giveaways....... I am heading to Lubbock tomorrow for a Brainwash with Lauren Clark...... that I won on a giveaway on her UNO blog! I am so incredibly excited to be able to learn from one of the best!! Woohoo!!!

Northwest Arkansas Photographer. Engagement Photography. Bryan & Heather: Sneak Peek!

2010-04-10T21:41:00.005-04:00

Just a quick sneak peek of the engagement session I had tonight with Bryan and Heather! More coming soon!

Starbucks and Specs & Wings Giveaway!!

2010-04-05T18:00:00.010-04:00

Yay!! My first EVER giveaway!! I'm soooooo excited! Giveaways are so much fun (who doesn't like free stuff???) In honor of my new Facebook fan page I'm giving something away! I wanted to start with something small- it took me awhile to figure out what to giveaway..... I knew I wanted to give away a Starbucks giftcard (it's my absolute favorite thing to be given) but I wanted something else fun and unique to give away with it, something that went right along with a Starbucks giftcard. Finally I found it....... a Specs & Wings coffee cozy made by the one and only Molly Swanson. If you have never seen any of Molly's Specs & Wings art head on over to her blog or Facebook page and check it out..... she is an incredibly talented artist!

Here is the Specs & Wings coffee cozy I'm giving away...... how cute are the buttons!!

Haha...... and of course I couldn't give away one with out getting one for myself as well........ I'm all about pink!!

Makes drinking Starbucks even that much more fun!! It also solves the problem I've been having lately..... when they don't give you a sleeve at Starbucks and your coffee is about to burn your hand off!! Now my hand isn't in any danger when I have a hot Starbucks drink in my hand...... and I'm being green (saving the earth one starbucks drink at a time!!)

To enter to win a $30 Starbucks giftcard and Specs & Wings coffee cozy:

1. Update your Facebook status with the following (don't have a Facebook...... twitter or email a friend about the giveaway!):

Christina Shippey Photography is giving away a Starbucks giftcard and a Specs & Wings coffee cozy! Check it out! http://christinamaeshippey.blogspot.com/2010/04/starbucks-and-specs-wings-giveaway.html

2. Come back and leave a comment letting me know what you did (also if you don't have a google or blogger profile.... please leave your name at the end of the post so I know who left the comment!)

Contest ends Sunday the 11th of April at midnight! I will put all the entries in a hat and randomly draw one and announce the winner next Monday!

P. S. I you aren't a fan on my new Facebook fan page head on over and join (Christina Shippey Photography)..... and feel free to send a few friend suggestions my way too!

Northwest Arkansas. Family Photographer. Shippey Family

2010-03-28T21:37:00.016-04:00

Say hello to the Shippey family....... my husbands brother Bryan, his wife Jodi, their daughter Scarlett and newborn Carter! Carter is exactly a week old in these pictures! We had so much fun going out as a family and taking these pictures!! I love this family soooo much!!

This picture below was just crying "make me look old timey!"

This one too.......

Such a cute family pic...... except for the fact that I covered up half of Carter's face! Had to post it though because Scarlett's expression is so cute!!

Yes...... we put a week old baby in a birdbath and took a picture!

Definitely the cutest three year old ever!!

All of us there for the session minus Nonnie (thanks for taking the pic Nonnie!)

Scarlett might like Starbucks almost as much as Chris and I do.... notice my drink is completely full..... while hers is almost gone!

Jodi and I!

Haha...... proof we are Shippey girls after all!!

Northwest Arkansas Photographer. Newborn Photography. Carter

2010-03-21T20:43:00.011-04:00

Say hello to my sweet little nephew...... Carter Keith Shippey!! My husband and I went down to Houston and spent the weekend there just to meet him!! He is precious!! This was my first ever newborn shoot..... and I'm so glad it was with my little nephew! In these pictures he is only five days old!! Soooo cute how little ones will fall asleep just about anywhere! Family pictures and more of Carter coming soon!!

Gotta love his little smile....

Carter's daddy (my husband's older brother) played baseball in college...... and I think has high hopes for Carter's athletic career!

Northwest Arkansas Photographer. Newborn Photography. Sneak Peek: Carter

2010-03-19T14:27:00.004-04:00

Ok. I couldn't wait any longer...... I HAD to post at least one!!! Meet my sweet little newborn nephew....... Carter Shippey!!! Isn't he beautiful!! More coming soon....... but until then here is one of my favorites from our weekend with him!!

Northwest Arkansas Photographer. Senior Photography. Senior 2010: Patrick

2010-03-19T09:55:00.013-04:00

Say hello to Patrick of Pearland, Tx! Patrick and his mom were so much fun...... they also showed me an awesome location for Patrick's senior pictures. An old three story mansion with an old barn out back full of really cool old junk! It was basically a photographer's heaven! I could have spent all day taking pictures there!! Patrick is in my brother-in-laws Bryan's youth group.... whenever my husband and I visit family in Houston we always try to go to a youth service at Crosspoint Church in Pearland! Patrick is such a smart guy..... he plans on getting a business degree and then going on to become a lawyer. I am always in such awe of people who want to go to school for more than 4 years (4 was absolutely ALL I could handle!!) Patrick and Cindy thanks for being so sweet and showing me some sweet new spots!! Enjoy!!

Northwest Arkansas Family Photographer. Huerta Family

2010-03-17T18:07:00.005-04:00

Meet the Huerta family! I squeezed a couple sessions into my weekend trip to Pearland to visit my new little nephew (pictures coming soon!!) and the Huerta family was one of them! I really loved getting to hang out and get to know this family during our short time together. This family oooozed love! I never had to ask them to kiss..... or smile at each other or anything..... they were always already doing it! Stephen and Natalie are some of the sweetest people I have ever had the privilege of taking pictures of! It is so obvious in these pictures how much Stephen and Natalie love each other and their little boy Joaquin!! Joaquin was so cute and was such a happy little guy..... he would look right at me and just smile!! Stephen, Natalie and Joaquin..... I had a blast hanging out with ya'll...... oh yeah...... Happy Two Year Anniversary (a little late!!! )

Love Never fails: What I've Been Listening to Lately

2010-03-10T14:49:00.005-05:00

I was driving in the car today and this song came on. Every time I hear this song I am reminded how truly amazing love is...... especially God's love for us! The fact that His love never fails is something I just can't wrap my brain around. It is comfort to my soul and peace to my heart!! Every time I hear this song I am encouraged..... no matter what is going on in my life..... I am reminded that I will always have God's love.... and His love is perfect and never fails!! Hope this encourages you to rest in His love today!!

Oh yeah...... a couple other songs and artist I've been listening to and really enjoying lately:

1. The new Passion album Awakening- my favorite song on there is "Healing is in your Hands" by Christy Nockels

2. The new Dave Barnes album What We Want, What We Get

3. I've been a little into some old school stuff too..... Jennifer Knapp's A Diamond in the Rough

4. Even more old school is Bob Dylan's album Shot of Love..... "Property of Jesus" and "Watered Down Love" are awesome!!

UNO: My Photography Story!!!

2010-03-10T10:09:00.030-05:00

This is my story..... how the whole photography thing got started. In this post you will find 1-One super embarrassing photo of me. 2- my story and some really old and super new pics 3- the word UNO (UNO is the spanish word for one) over and over again (keep reading to find out why!!)

I have always loved to see. When I was a little girl my family traveled in the car a lot...... and I would spend my time just staring at the passing scenery. My Dad loved nature and would always take pictures of mountains and trees and fields. I would get so frustrated looking through his pictures..... where were all the people?? I determined then and there that people were what pictures were all about! My pictures would have people in them..... at least UNO person in each picture!! In my family I was the picture taker.

Now for UNO embarrassing pic....... I clearly remember organizing and posing my family for this pic (I even made them wear coordinating outfits.) I was the UNO who would set off the camera timer and run to get in the pic...... maybe that's why I look a little psycho/stalkerish here (I especially like how my hands are posed on my brothers shoulder.....ughh!) Everyone has to start somewhere!

In college I was that person who changed their major not just UNO time.... but like ten times (I had yet to fall head over heels in love with photography!) I always had a creative bent (my minor was Drama) and after two year as a Biology major I decided to take a photography class for my art credit. It was a film class..... we shot all black and white film! It was probably my favorite, number UNO class my whole college career! My teacher was awesome..... he really loved photography and passed that love on to us. I spent hours and hours in the darkroom.... and I loved every minute of it. Shooting film really taught me the basics (exposure, light, DOF, etc.)...... and forced me to get things right the number UNO time in the camera. I remember at the end of the course as we were having our final critique my teacher asking me what I was going to do with photography after the class..... and I just kinda was like..... umm.... take pictures of my family?? Here is one of my favorite pictures from that class...... just a simple leaf. (Please excuse the quality..... I scanned it and realized I haven't taken very good care if it.... it's very scratched!)

Why didn't I want to do anything with photography (besides have it be a fun hobby I did on the side of my future career??) Well..... let me try to explain. To me if you wanted to do photography for a living you either did editorial work (took pics for magazines and newpapers), were an artist....... or worst of all...... had a local studio. I wasn't the super artsy type, didn't want to do editorial work..... and number UNO..... I didn't want to take pictures in the same studio in front of the same backgrounds for the rest of my life..... to me that just seemed a little boring! I'm a quickstart type person..... I love new..... new people new places. So I pushed photography to side as not really for me.

Then in 2007 I got engaged!!! In my search for a wedding photographer I started to realize how much I like photography..... it was soooo incredibly important for me to have an AWESOME photographer to capture our special day! I spent more than UNO hour pouring over photographers websites. In the end I found and chose the number UNO photographer in my book....... Lauren Clark. Looking through Lauren's pictures and seeing how much fun they were started to change my mind about photography. I realized that photography had evolved over the years and a new, modern photography had emerged. You didn't have to take pictures in the same studio day after day...... you could go anywhere..... new people and new places everyday...... my little heart lit up!!! I then and there decided to become a photographer!!

(Here is UNO of my favorite pics Lauren took on my wedding day...... I get so many compliments everytime people see it!!)

Not too much longer after that I decided to head out and try my hand at photography...... me and my little point and shoot. After taking these pictures I realized that if I wanted to go anywhere in the photography world my UNO little point and shoot just wasn't going to cut it!!

With lot's of encouragement from my hubby (he is still my number UNO fan), friends and family I started pursuing a photography business!! Here is my number UNO ever senior session (it's my little sister..... isn't she beautiful!) I am pretty sure these are the first pictures I took after I got my new Canon 5d!! Having an awesome camera helped tremendously.... but I still had a lot to learn!

This next picture marks a milestone in my story...... my UNO time EVER to be paid for a session. I was so unconfident and scared I would mess up..... I would never ask for money. Angie was my first REAL client. I took pictures of her and her two little boys. She wanted to pay me and I said look at the pictures first to see if you even like them. She looked at them and thankfully liked them and payed me...... thank you Angie for being soooo sweet, giving me confidence and being my number UNO REAL client!! This picture is still one of my favorites.... what a sweet moment between brothers!

At first I was super embarrassed to post all these awful old pics...... but something kind of cool happened as I worked on this post....... I got to look back and see just how far I've come..... how I've grown and improved! I still have sooooo far to go...... but I am encouraged to see that this next UNO picture looks a lot different from the last five!!!

Ok..... now I will answer your question. Why is the word UNO scattered all throughout this post?? Lauren Clark is giving away a free BRAINWASH (I would get to spend a day one on one with Lauren learning anything I like) in honour of her fabulous photoshop instructional video....... UNO!!! If you have never heard about UNO..... stop reading and head straight over to Lauren Clark's UNO website..... www.unobylaurenclark.com!! This post is my entry into that contest!! I would absolutely love to win a BRAINWASH with Lauren!! I feel like the more I do photography and build my business.... the more and more questions I have and the more things I realize I have no clue how to do. The whole business side of photography just baffles me! I feel like a BRAINWASH could really teach me how to run a successful photography business... (and offer my clients the best product I possibly can)... not just a hobby or side job!!

Thanks so much for reading this post and letting me share my heart and story behind my passion for photography!!!

Houston, TX Photographer. Lifestyle Photography. Coming to Houston/Pearland THIS Weekend!

2010-03-09T18:08:00.004-05:00

So I know it's SUPER late notice but I am making a last minute trip to the Houston/Pearland area and have a couple afternoons open for sessions! It can be any kind of session (senior, engagement, bridal, portrait, maternity, newborn, etc.) I will be in town this weekend and have sessions available these days:

Friday March 12th at 4pm

Saturday March 13th at 4pm

Sunday March 14th at 4pm

If you are interested in scheduling a session one of these days email me at christinashippeyphotography@gmail.com and I will put you on the calendar!

P.S. The reason I am coming into town is to meet my new little nephew..... Carter Keith Shippey!! I am so excited to meet him AND get to take his newborn pics!!

Springdale, Ar Photographer. Maternity Photography. Heather

2010-02-19T16:45:00.009-05:00

Here is the rest of Heather's maternity session! The sun was out and the light was beautiful for her session! Sadly even though the sun was out it was still pretty cold.... and there was all kinds of chilly wind! Heather was awesome and braved the wind and never once complained..... I think I complained more than she did (I'm such a wimp about cold!) We had quite the adventure..... I dragged Heather out into random, muddy fields and made her climb though branches to get some sweet shots! Thanks Heather for putting up with me and all my crazy requests.... you made my day! Funny story from our session..... I found a hotel that had turquoise doors (my fav color) so I asked Heather to pose in front of one of them for a couple of shots. Next thing we know a group of guys walk up and start talking to us (a rather gruff looking bunch of gentleman.) Then one of them actually asks if we were taking pictures in front of the hotel door because this is where the baby was conceived. He was totally serious..... who asks that??! We promptly left after that comment and I have now dubbed that hotel the "shady hotel with turquoise doors" and won't be going back there any time soon. Heather I had a blast with you and can't wait to meet your little boy!!

Springdale, Ar Photographer. Maternity Photography. Heather Sneak Peek

2010-02-18T11:02:00.005-05:00

Here is one of my favorites from Heather's maternity session.... I'll post the rest tomorrow but I couldn't resist posting this shot! Heather is my husbands cousin..... and I was so excited when she asked if I would do some maternity shots for her. It was really fun to hang out and get to know her some!! Heather braved some crazy wind, chilly weather and mud for this shot!! Isn't this just beautiful?? Once again..... mom-to-be absolutely glows!!

Maternity Photography. Northwest, Arkansas Photographer. Rachael

2010-02-15T23:30:00.017-05:00

Here is the rest of Rachael's maternity session. Isn't she absolutely gorgeous..... women like her and my sister-in-law Jodi make pregnancy look good! I had never thought very much about doing maternity sessions until my sister-in-law Jodi suggested it and let me do one for her. Ihave to say I have been having a lot of fun with maternity sessions..... in fact it just might be my new favorite thing! Women just absolutely glow when they are pregnant..... it makes my job super easy!! Rachael brought her sister Melissa along for the photo shoot..... in fact the writing on Rachael's belly was done by Melissa.... so cute! We had so much fun wandering around in the fields over by Pearland. Rachael was awesome..... walking through all kinds of thick underbrush and standing in mud and puddles of water when I asked! Rachael and Melissa thanks for being so much fun..... and up for absolutely anything!! Rachael is having a little girl and she is going to name her Malaya (thus the picture below).... isn't that a pretty name! Enjoy!!

Rachael Sneak Peek. Maternity Photography. Springdale, AR

2010-02-14T16:19:00.005-05:00

Here is a little tease of my maternity session I had with Rachael yesterday. I can't wait to show you the rest..... Rachael is gorgeous and such a stylish mom-to-be!! Her sister Melissa came along and the three of us had so much fun tracking though wet, muddy fields in our rain boots to get some awesome pics!!

Winter Wonderland: Arkansas Style

2010-02-03T17:03:00.006-05:00

So.... we had and ice/snow storm here in northwest Arkansas...... and everything is soooo pretty.... I couldn't help but take some pics! The snow makes everything look different, and beautiful, like I have been transported to a winter wonderland! Chris and I found a park close to our house with a walking trail, a cute little steam and a fishing pond!! We took advantage of the snow and went sledding, chucked a few snowballs at each other and of course..... built a snowman! We are really loving the change of scenery here in Arkansas (and I am slowly adjusting to the cold with the help of my new heating blanket and space heater!) The great thing about the snow here is that it doesn't stick around to long.... just long enough to have some fun! Enjoy!

Rewind: Jodi's Maternity Session

2010-01-19T20:42:00.008-05:00

Wow! Life has been so crazy lately! I finally feel settled in our new place in Arkansas (and have internet)..... so I thought I would return to the blogging world and show everyone what I've been up to these past months! I thought I would start with one of my favorite sessions I've done recently with two of my favorite people..... my sister-in-law Jodi and my sweet little niece Scarlett! This is my first maternity session and I'm so thankful it was with Jodi..... she's absolutely gorgeous and just glows in these pictures. You would never know it but we were all being eaten alive by mosquitos while we were taking these pictures..... especially Scarlett.... so we took these pretty quickly! Enjoy!

For the Love Workshop!!!

2009-12-31T16:38:00.003-05:00

Wow!! Hello everyone!! Hope you had a merry Christmas!! I feel like I haven't blogged in forever.....ok .... it isn't just a feeling....I really haven't blogged in forever!! I have been everywhere and done everything this past month (visited family, family cruise.... and moving from Florida to Arkansas) but I am going to have my last blog in 2009 be about something I am crazy excited about!! A photography workshop.... and not just ANY photography workshop..... but an awesome CHRISTIAN photography workshop/retreat!! For the Love Workshop is a photography workshop specifically for Christian photographers and is designed to give them a break from all the pressures of being a photographer in the modern day market and to learn how to focus on God for their inspiration and creativity!! Wow... how cool is that! It will be at a Resort in the beautiful Tennesee Smokey mountains for five days in February!! As if that isn't enough of a reason to attend the workshop.... there is more! The workshop will be taught by some of my personnel photography heroes..... Lauren Clark, Erik Clausen and Ginny Corbitt (click on their names and check out their work.... they are all amazing photographers!!!) The cherry on top of all this goodness is that each day will begin with a devotional time and then worship led by none other than the AMAZING Meredith Andrews!!! Photography, worship, plenty of time spent Jesus..... and other people who share my passion and love for Jesus and photography!! Now you know why I am so excited.... but it gets even better...... they are having a contest and giving away a spot at the workshop... and I am entered in that contest!! I feel as if I could go on ALL day about the workshop...... but suffice to say the workshop will be wonderful.... and I am hoping... and praying that my name is drawn and that I able to go and soak up all kinds of photography knowledge from some of the best.... as well as spend time focusing myself, and my business on Christ!! For more details head to the For the Love website! Much more to come soon.... I am crazy behind blogging sessions!! Happy New Years to everyone!! God Bless!!!

Seniors: Bonnie+Ashley

2009-11-25T14:02:00.014-05:00

Meet Pearland seniors Bonnie and Ashley! These girls were awesome... they were up for going anywhere and doing anything! We woke up bright and early one morning to head out and take pictures! It was quite the morning! The last few days before we took our pictures were rainy.... so it was wet and muddy everywhere. We would stop at a field to take pictures.... realize it was muddy... and hop back in the car and head on to the next field! After we took our last set of pictures and were pulling out, my tires got stuck in the mud! As I was attempting to get out of the mud (not quite sure how I was going to do that).... a complete stranger pulled up to help. We were a little apprehensive until one of the girls spotted a Jesus fish on the back of his truck. He hooked our Tahoe up to his trailer with a chain and pulled us out of the mud. As he was leaving I noticed a cuss word on his hat....hmmm... not sure how that works with the Jesus fish? In spite of everything the light that morning was absolutely beautiful.... I couldn't have asked for prettier! Ashley and Bonnie I had so much fun with ya'll, you are beautiful young ladies and I hope your senior year is the best!!

Not quite sure why I am so obsessed with funny faces.... but I am so here are Ashley and Bonnie's!!

Layne Family

2009-11-20T10:11:00.008-05:00

Meet the Layne family! The Laynes attend church at Crosspoint Church in Pearland, Tx. where my brother-in-law Bryan Shippey is the youth pastor! We had fun taking some family pictures for Christmas.... and then some of their son Cameron! I am loving the warm fall colors in these pictures!! Laynes... thanks so much for letting me take your pictures and get to know ya'll a little bit..... I had a blast!

Love the look he is giving me here..... he looks very thoughtful!!

Some silliness!!

A jumping pic.... how could we not in front of that pretty blue wall!!

This might be my favorite picture from this family session!!

Ashley+Tim: Engagement

2009-11-17T21:26:00.012-05:00

Ashley and Tim are engaged!! Ashley is my cousin.... when we were little we both lived in Dallas and hung out all the time so I was excited for the opportunity to get to see her and my aunt and spend some time with them!! Congrats on the engagement Ashley and Tim.... can't wait for the wedding!!

This picture is my new favorite picture ever!!

Vote for Me: Give Me Moore!!!

2009-11-11T16:18:00.006-05:00

So..... I know I already tweeted and facebooked about the contest I entered to win a spot at a photography workshop.....but..... I thought I would blog and give some details about how wonderful and amazing this workshop is.... and why I want to go so badly!! The workshop is put on by one of my favorite photographers.... Kelly Moore of Kelly Moore Photography! The workshop is a one day workshop called Give Me Moore! It is basically a day spent with Kelly learning all kinds of awesome photography knowledge like lighting, posing, workflow and photoshop! Why do I want to go sooooo bad (beside the fact that I have so much still to learn in the area of photography and would love to learn from one of the best)? The biggest reason I want to go is because Kelly is a rockstar with off camera lighting (don't believe me.... go check out her website... you will be amazed!!) ...... and I am just about as clueless as a person can get with my flash!! Honestly....... my flash and I are basically mortal enemies..... and I would love to form some kind of friendship with my flash and start creating some awesome pictures with off camera light!! How do I win a spot at this workshop? YOU!! I need your votes to win! Lots of other photographers have also entered this contest and whoever has the most votes by this Friday (Nov. 13th) will win a spot at Kelly's next workshop! So please, PLEASE..... head on over to her blog, scroll down and find my pic and vote (you can vote once from each computer, so if you have more than one computer around.....vote again!!!) Also feel free to tell all your friends to vote as well!! Thanks so much for all you support and encouragement and votes!!

Gator Time!!

2009-11-07T15:30:00.001-05:00

Well hello there!! A couple weeks ago a friend of ours had some extra tickets to a Gator game and invited my husband and I to go....... so we did!! It has been a long time since I have been to a big college football game and I had such a blast at this one. We went to the game where Florida played Arkansas.... yeah... the one we prolly should have lost and the officials got fired for all their bad calls and everything! Yep that's the one we went to!! The whole day was so much fun..... beautiful weather, blue sky and a nice breeze. We drove up early and walked the campus and got to see every tailgating. Then we did the whole Gator walk thing (got to see how crazy everyone goes over Tebow). We had perfect seats at the game right on the 50 yard line.... and what an intense game to be at..... kept me on the edge of my seat!! Then we finished the night of with dinner at Texas Roadhouse!! Yumm!! Here are some pics of the day!! Thanks so much Bruce for taking us to the game and spending the day with us! We loved every minute of it!!

You know you are a serious Gator fan/tailgater when your motor home is decorated with Gator colors and you have a large flatscreen tv that pops out of the side!!

Getting ready for the Gator walk (where all the players walk by and shake your hand and stuff)

There were some pretty serious Gator fans there!!

And some rather creepy fans...... notice the fingernails, cigar and orange tinted contacts!!

This man seemed to take his job rather seriously!!

The man of the hour..... Tim Tebow!!

Us at the game in front of some random car!!

I don't know why but I always think it looks so cool when they line up and do their warm-up!!

Singing the alma mater... such a friendly feel at the game!

A pano of our view at the game!!

Hunter

2009-10-31T11:11:00.000-04:00

Meet Hunter! I had a blast taking Hunter's pictures out in Winter Garden! We found the perfect pink and black wall (who doesn't love a bright pink wall?!) to take pictures in front of! It just so happened that the day we took Hunter's pictures was her 6th birthday! How fun is that!? And how can you not fall in love with those big brown eyes of hers!! Hunter I hope this next year of yours is a great one!!

My New Website!

2009-10-26T19:48:00.000-04:00

I almost can't believe what I'm about to say... can't believe that I have one... and it is finally finished! Most of all I can't wait to show everyone..............MY OFFICIAL WEBSITE!!! I know crazy huh?! I think it's the coolest thing ever.... that I actually have a REAL website!! Check it out at ChristinaShippeyPhotography.com!! Also.... very excited about this too (these things have been hanging out in purse for over a month now and I have been itching to give them out)..... my new business cards!! I couldn't give them out until now because they have my website address on them and it hasn't been ready until now!! My business cards are so cool.... each has my info on one side with my favorite color (turquoise) and a different picture on the other side of each one to show my work!! Okay.... drumroll please..... reason number three I am so excited is Ruthie and Chris' wedding is up on my new website and they have their own slideshow!! Head to the website and click on weddings!! Let me know how you like it..... or anything you don't like or think I could make better! I would love ya'lls feedback!!

Chris + Ruthie: Pre-Ceremony

2009-10-19T13:02:00.000-04:00

So you know how sometimes you have days or weeks where you work super hard to get things done..... and it seems no matter how hard you work the things you have to do start multiplying in front of you? Yeah... that is how this past week or two has been. One day I spent literally 8 hours sitting at Panera working on editing pictures and such.... and yet I still have more to be done! I guess that is the way life goes.... when you have nothing to do you have all the time in the world....... when you have a million things to get done..... the time is somehow not there anymore!! All that to say hello.... and here is some of what I do have done!! Here are a couple detail shots from Chris and Ruthie's wedding...... and a couple of the beautiful bride getting ready! Enjoy!!

Ruthie had these made with her wedding colors and put the date of their wedding on them (kind of a cool idea, every time she wears them she will be reminded of her wedding day)..... she wore these for the reception! So cute!!

The bride getting ready while her mom and nephew watch....

Ruthie's niece Kaiya watching her aunt get ready!!

Lonnie + Lori

2009-10-16T13:00:00.000-04:00

Meet Lonnie and Lori! They are some friends of mine from Texas who came in for Chris and Ruthie's wedding and let me take some pictures of them on the beach while they were here in Florida! I wish you could meet this couple in person they are so sweet and genuine, Chris and I really enjoyed getting to hang out with them while they were here! Lori is an awesome woman of God who has so much wisdom and peace it's so awesome just to sit and talk to her. This was the first time we had a chance to meet Lonnie and it was so neat to see how in love they are with each other, it's like they got married yesterday!! Lori and Lonnie you were such a pleasure to photograph! Your honest, open love was beautiful to watch and attempt to capture!! Love ya'll and can't wait to see ya'll again!!

One of my new favorite pictures... laughing pics are always my favorites!!

This picture is probably one of my all time favorites ever.... how romantic is this.... he's kissing here hand.... and not I didn't tell him to do that..... he's just that romantic!! Love it!!

Sneak Peek: Chris and Ruthie +Lori and Lonnie

2009-10-09T10:38:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone!! Here is a sneak peek of Chris and Ruthie's wedding this past weekend on the beach in Clearwater. It was the perfect sunny day for a beautiful beach wedding... can't wait to share the rest of these pictures with you.... but until then enjoy this little glimpse of their wedding day!!

Later that same day I had the opportunity to take some pictures of some very good friends of ours who flew in from Texas to Florida for Chris and Ruthie's wedding! Meet Lonnie and Lori! We had a blast hanging out on the beach.... here is a little sneak peek of their session!! More coming soon!!

Seniors: Tiffany and Erin

2009-09-10T16:19:00.000-04:00

More seniors!! Erin and Tiffany are both seniors at TFA this year. Ruthie and I headed out early one morning to take pictures of these fun seniors in some spots Ruthie had scoped out. The first spot we stopped was a big open field just as the sun was rising.... and the light was absolutely beautiful! Sometimes I wish time would freeze just for a couple minutes because that first morning light is so sweet, all soft and golden! After the field we headed to downtown Clermont and had some fun in the cute old timey streets. Tiffany and Erin you are both beautiful and were so much fun to take pictures of... hope ya'll have a great senior year! Check out the shots Ruthie got of the girls here and here on her blog..... enjoy!!

Ok... I just picked this last one because I thought it was cool that you can totally see the reflection of me taking the picture... sweet huh?!

Seniors: Holly and Shannon

2009-08-30T20:02:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I just can't get over how much I love taking pictures... every time I go take pictures I love it more... and the best part about it is getting to know the people I take pictures of. Last week I tagged along with Ruthie for some senior pictures. We got up early (6am early!) to escape the afternoon heat. Say hello to Shannon and Holly two seniors at The First Academy!! They are both super sweet girls with really fun personalities... we all had a blast wandering around downtown taking pictures. Check it out....

I think one of my favorite things about taking pictures is letting peoples personalities show through in their pictures.... and what better way than making goofy faces at the camera! These are pretty much my favorite pictures of Holly and Shannon... so cute!!

For the end of the Holly and Shannon's senior session they brought along a tea set and outfits to go with it!! This really shows how creative and fun Holly and Shannon are... and they rocked those straw hats!!

Thanks Holly and Shannon for being so much fun and letting me tag along... hope your senior year is great!!

Chris and Ruthie: Engagement Part 2

2009-08-26T17:28:00.000-04:00

Here it is... Chris and Ruthie: Part 2.... Downtown Orlando!! We had fun heading out early last Sunday morning (to escape the heat and humidity of the afternoon) to finish their engagement session. We found a parking garage rooftop that gave us a nice downtown Orlando skyline... then headed to Lake Eola where Chris and Ruthie first met!! Chris and Ruthie get married in early October... less than 40 days away! I'm getting so excited for their wedding... they are such a great couple... can't wait to see the things God will do through them!!

Ruthie and Chris: Engagement Part 1

2009-08-22T15:05:00.000-04:00

Yes!! Here it is finally Ruthie and Chris' engagement pictures Part 1:The Beach!! We took these while the guys (Chris Allen Band) were playing at a camp in Destin, Fl. The beaches in Destin are absolutely gorgeous so we headed out super early one morning to take pictures on a deserted strip of sand. Ruthie and Chris are such a cute couple... I can't wait for their wedding coming up in October! Part 2 coming soon... enjoy!!

This picture below is pretty much one of my favorite pictures I have ever taken.... aren't Ruthie's eyes just gorgeous!!

First Baptist Humble

2009-08-19T09:57:00.000-04:00

Here is a little snapshot of a camp we went to just outside of Huntsville, Tx. for First Baptist Humble. There would be more pictures but I spent a lot of the week hanging out with Sarah of Sarah Ainsworth Photography soaking up all her photography wisdom!! Enjoy the snapshot... more camps and summer fun to come!!

Emily+Michaela-Just for Fun

2009-08-09T12:44:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I went to Midland to spend some time with my family there. While there I went out one day with my sister Michaela and her friend Emily to take pictures. They got all dressed up and we had fun just hanging out and being girls! Aren't they both just beautiful... and they are both super sweet and godly women!! Emily is studying dance and is a very talented ballerina. My sister is going to Moody Bible Institute in the Fall and will be apart of their Compassion Ministry program... she is going to do amazing (and I will have to think of excuses to come visit her a lot.... the school is located in downtown Chicago, such a cool place!) This first picture I took is one of my favorites... it just shows their personalities and what it is like to be around these two.... lots of laughter and smiles!!

Normally I don't like to mess with my photos too much... but this photo looked so cool when I messed with the colors a little... maybe it's because my sister is so pretty she looks good in any color!

This is my other favorite... how could a picture in an old milk truck not be cool!?

Rangers Game

2009-08-03T16:51:00.000-04:00

Last week the guys (Chris Allen Band) led worship for the youth at First Baptist Colleyville. While in town our good friend Zack took us all to a Rangers game!! It has been years since I have been to a Rangers game... and we all had a lot of fun. Sadly I was the only female that went to the Rangers game... along with 7 guys! Needless to say I'm not up on all my baseball terminology and was not able to join in all the guys sports stats conversations. In light of this I spent the majority of the evening with my camera attached to my eye, and my finger on the shutter button taking pictures!

It's not so obvious in this picture as it is below.... but this is also a panorama I took as we walked into the game!

Ever since Jodi and I ran into our gigapanning friend at Rice... I have wanted to attempt a panorama... so here is one of my first attempts!

My row... Chris Allen band minus Cordy!

The guys that sat behind us and a couple rows up.... thanks for being the only one who payed any attention to me and my camera Michael!

My handsome husband and I!!

The Rangers in action!

Another one of my husband.... he's so handsome I just couldn't help myself!!

In the middle of the game a one of the Rangers hit a home run... and fireworks went off! I whipped out my camera as fast as I could.... and this is what I got... smoke!!

Last, but most definitely not least, the new Cowboys stadium in all it's glory!! I think if I could go to any game in any stadium across all sports, I would go to a Cowboys game in their home stadium!!

The Allen Family

2009-07-29T19:00:00.000-04:00

Say hello to the Allen family!! We took a few quick family pictures... and then spent the rest of the time taking pictures of the littlest Allen who is about turn one!! He is such a cutie with his big blue eyes and mischievous smile!! His mom Angie brought balloons for some of his pictures and we had some fun trying to figure out how get him to hold them, look at the camera and smile all at the same time!! Happy early birthday Brady!!

The Hennigan Family

2009-07-22T16:21:00.000-04:00

Here is the Hennigan family! This family was a lot of fun to take pictures of and so good looking! They stuck it out in the heat and humidity like champs!! We found this great little park in League City right next to some railroad tracks and cute old timey looking buildings! My sister-in-law Jodi found this awesome spot for me... and came along to help out with the session... thanks so much Jodi!!

Pictures From an Airplane Window

2009-07-17T10:53:00.000-04:00

The more and more I take pictures... the more I love taking pictures! Somedays I sit around trying to think of something or someplace to go take a picture of. I throw my camera around my neck and head out the door... determined to find something new and interesting. Other days I am just sitting somewhere and I see something... and bam... out comes my camera. About a week and a half ago I flew from Houston to Midland to visit my family. The flight is about an hour from gate to gate. I brought books and my Bible to read, had my computer with me, even a couple magazines in the seat pouch in front of me... but what did I end up doing the entire flight ... taking pictures! I took one look out the window at the pretty clouds and couldn't resist! Out came my camera! Thankfully no one was sitting next to me... but I did get a couple strange looks from the lady across the isle! First it was kinda grey... with just this little touch of the prettiest blue peeking through. Then I could see the ground... I love to look at the ground from airplanes and try and figure out what exactly we are flying over. My favorite part of the trip was these cute little puffs of clouds that were scattered all round! So pretty! I fly back to Houston today... I wonder what the sky will look like from my airplane window this time??

"The heavens declare the glory of God..." -Psalm 19:1

Downtown With Jodi

2009-07-14T16:53:00.000-04:00

This is my sister-in-law Jodi.... isn't she beautiful?! She has gorgeous green eyes (I love when people have super pretty eyes it just makes the whole picture pop) and the prettiest freckles and smile! Last week while I was in Houston Jodi and I headed downtown to find some fun, new picture spots. We found this fun blue wall.... then walked over to Rice University.

It was a super hot, sunny day and we soon found our way into a little snack shop to cool off! While there we found these awesome purple chairs and pure white wall... and we just snapped away. The light was so awesome!! While in the snack shop we also made a friend and were introduced to something new... gigapans!

After walking around in the heat for over two hours.... this is basically how we felt... a little bit crazy!

Tada.... my first ever gigapan!! Still not really sure what a gigapan is.... kind of like a panorama?? Apparently Jodi and I's gigapan is now one of the top 30 gigapans... cool huh?

Check out Jodi's blog to see the pictures she took of me while we were downtown!

Good Times With the Shippey Family

2009-07-11T19:29:00.000-04:00

Recently Chris and I spent a week in Houston with our Shippey family. It was such a good week, full of fellowship, fun and relaxing with our family! We did all kinds of stuff... Chris went golfing and got a tattoo with his brother, I got to hang out with the girls and and adventure out to take pics with my sister-in-law Jodi!! We went to the wave pool, celebrated fourth of July together... it was a very full and fun week!! Here is just a small bit of what went on!!

Here is the Shippey family. We are planning on doing some nice family pics later on in the year once it cools down outside.... until then this pic that we took kinda on a spur of the moment is our stand in!! I think we're a pretty good looking family... despite the fact that none of us were really prepared to take this picture!!!

Tuesday Jodi invited me to go with her and Scarlett and some of their friends to the Houston Children's Museum.... I took my camera along... it was pretty cool. They had a whole section of the museum set up like a town for little people.... it had everything... a bank, hospital, car dealership, vet, etc.!! Here is Scarlett shopping at the grocery store. She just kinda plopped down and started sorting the cans.... so cute!

Helping out at the checkout!!

Painting

This was hilarious!! The toddler section of the museum was in it's own separate fenced in area.... and to get in you either had to take of your shoes and just wear your socks.... or, for those who didn't have socks, some of these super hot hospital looking blue booties... Jodi and I rocked them out in style!!

The guys had a concert in Humble one of the nights.... here is a pic of the whole Chris Allen Band gang after the concert!!

One of my favorite things that I did all week was when Jodi and I went to scout out locations for a session I was doing. After walking around in the hot sun for awhile we stumbled across the cutest little tea room! Everything we ate there was so yummy.... and every time I look at these pictures I really want to go back and just sit and drink more of their awesome peach tea!! Here is a montage I made of the tea room (not really sure if this is technically considered a montage.... but I really like the word montage... so fancy sounding!)

To celebrate the 4th of July we went and ate, swam and watched fireworks with our family and their church. Here is my sweet little niece enjoying the pool.

Here is Scarlett showing of one of her ballerina moves... this girl can dance!

Scarlett and I... waiting for the fireworks!!
Fireworks montage!!

Ok.... what are these blurry spots you may wonder.... and why the heck did I take the time to montage (still love that word) and post them? While taking pictures of the fireworks I wondered what would happen if I threw the fireworks out of focus... and look... beautiful bokeh and bright colors!! Who knew!?

I loved every minute of my week with the Shippey family and I can't wait to go back and hang out some more in a week!!

Win a Madsen Cargo Bike!!

2009-07-11T03:13:00.000-04:00

I love giveaways.... don't you?! I love it when I go to someone's website or blog and find out that if I just do something super simple, like leave a comment, I'm suddenly entered to win some random item!! One of my favorite blog's that has regular giveaways is the Pioneer Woman.... check out her latest giveaway here. Eventually I would like to do my own giveaway's... perhaps a free mini session or such (thanks for the idea Jodi)... but until then I thought i would just let you know about a random giveaway I stumbled across today!! Madsen is giving away one of their awesome cargo bikes.... all you have to do is post a link somewhere (facebook, twitter, your blog) and you're entered . Click on the pic below for more details and to enter! I know I haven't posted in awhile.... but get ready... I have taken all kinds of pictures in these last two weeks and can't wait to post them!!

Ruthie Haun

2009-06-24T14:06:00.000-04:00

Recently while in Destin, Florida with the band I had the opportunity to take some of Ruthie Haun and Chris Allen's engagement shots. The only time they were able to take pictures was in the morning, and since I am not used to shooting in the morning, Ruthie and I headed out early one morning (6 am early) to test the light out! Here are some of the shots I took of her... check out the ones she took of me on her blog!!

Michaela in Orlando!

2009-06-19T23:00:00.000-04:00

This is my awesome little sister Michaela!! She is always a blast to be around... and a couple of days ago she came to see me in Orlando!! Now most people when their sister comes to visit do normal things... hang out, go eat... show them around town. Not Michaela and I... we decided we needed to do something different. My sister suggested a tattoo or piercing... I vetoed the tattoo idea (so not my thing... no offense to anyone... just not me at all)... so that left a piercing. I have always kinda wanted a nose piercing... I think they can be cute and a little edgy! Michaela was immediately like "nose piercing, oh yeah!" We looked online, asked around and headed to a little shop called The Black Wedding Chapel... such a sweet, comforting name. We drove up and both kinda looked at each other... and in we went! Inside were four heavily tattooed and pierced people... we so didn't belong in that tattoo shop. We told them what we were there for (they turned out to be really friendly) and headed back to the white room. This is where I chickened out... not because I was afraid to pierce my nose..... the cost of piercing my nose ($60) scared me a little more (maybe when I find a place that will do it cheaper!) So we all (my husband Chris, sister's friend Lauren and I) sat and cheered on Michaela as she bravely pierced her nose!

The black dot Josh (the piercing guy) marked to pierce her nose...
Getting a good hold of her nose... I think this might have been the most uncomfortable part!
... and the actual piercing... so brave... barely even a tear!
I don't know why she didn't just leave this in....?
Tada!! The final product!! Michaela you're awesome... thanks so much for coming to see me... and being up for an adventure!!

Destin, Fl.

2009-06-19T15:13:00.000-04:00

Our first camp of the summer was in Alabama. Our second camp was in the sweet little beach town of Destin, Florida!! One of my favorite things about being married to Chris and traveling with the band is getting to see and visit new places. I have to say Destin is probably the top of the list when it comes to favorite places we've been. Destin's beach was one of the prettiest beaches I've ever been to! the sand was soft and pure white.... the water clear and the sweetest aqua color! To top it all off the camp was actually on the beach... and we stayed in a condo within walking distance of the beach. Not bad at all!!

Our condo!
Little back porch of our condo!
View from the back porch of our condo.... yes.... the condo was on a golf course.
So of course... Chris quickly became friends with our neighbor, borrowed his clubs and went out to hit a little bit. The whole week he wanted to play the course so bad.

One morning Chris and I got up to watch the sunrise only to find out that the beach faces due south... can't really see much of the sunrise that way. We still had such a good time reading our Bibles and listening to worship music in the peace of the early morning! We even got to see some dolphins as they swam by!