I posted a few weeks ago about the photography class that I am taking online, Through the Lens: Digital Photography 101.

The first assignment was a challenging one—reading the camera manual. I am definitely a “learn by doing” type of person, so reading directions and then attempting to follow those directions isn’t exactly my chosen learning style. But, I have to say, I am glad that I did this assignment. I did learn much about my camera that I was not aware of and this helped me to approach my picture taking with a little more thought, instead of just setting it on Auto and then attempting to “point and shoot”.

The next part of this assignment was to take pictures. Anything that interests me. hmmmm. I take pictures of my family all the time… I love taking pictures of my family. I also have been wanting to take better pictures of the jewelry that I design. So, I am going to focus on photos of my jewelry (maybe I can learn a few things about placement, lighting, etc.)  And I’ll probably post pictures of my family as well–just because it makes me smile

So, here are a few photos of a pair of earrings that I designed ( I changed the background and positioning):

The next photos are of my family from various events this summer:

Let me know what you think about the photos–especially the photos of the jewelry–hopefully by the end of this online class, you will see a noticeable difference!

I have been thinking for several years now about the idea of simplicity. It seems that we as a culture would be wise to really think about what we consume, why we consume and if we really need to consume. I am especially aware of simplicity when it comes to raising my children. I want to teach them to be good stewards of the earth and the things they are fortunate to own. I want to model this to them. With the addition of a toddler into our home, that is still in diapers, I have been particularly cognizant of the burden that using disposable products places on our environment.

I have come across several blogs, websites, newsletters, etc., that focus on the idea of simplicity. Many of them have given me a wealth of information that really causes me ask the question, “why do we do what we do?” One of the blogs that I have come across recently is one authored by Michelle Kennedy Hogan called Organically Inclined. The range of topics found at Michelle’s blog includes homelessness, homeschooling, simplicity, gardening, raising teens, eating well, etc. She has authored several books as well, none of which I have read, but I certainly hope to in the near future.

Michelle has a contest happening right now:

“Organically Inclined has just gotten some sweet products. From today (July 8, 2008) through next Friday (July 18, 2008) make a comment on any of our blog posts and you will be automatically entered to win an Organically Inclined cotton tote bag (check them out here) filled with a copy of Michelle’s book “Without a Net,” a copy of Michelle’s book “The Big Book of Happy,” a gift certificate for one gDiaper cover of your choice; an Organically Inclined bumper sticker and a variety of green cleaning supplies!”

I hope you will be encouraged to read Michelle’s writing and that you would be truly inspired to simplify your life in actions and in community with others.

Let me first say that photography does not come easily for me. I enjoy taking pictures, especially of my family, but I know that I could get a better picture, if I knew how to “really” use my camera. Speaking of my camera, I have had it for about 3 years now and after taking literally hundreds of pictures (mostly of my family), I still use it mostly to “point and shoot”—even though it has many settings to help me take a more realistic photo—I just have been unable to use it to it’s full potential. Until now…..

I was fortunate to come across a blog recently that is offering lessons in taking Digital Photography, so I am going to try and learn a few things about my camera. Through the Lens- Digital Photography 101 is just what I needed to get myself motivated to take some awesome pictures (hopefully!)The first assignment was to get acquainted with the camera manual and begin taking pictures—anything—the idea is to start playing with the settings on your camera to produce the desired picture. So, hopefully, in a few days, I will be able to post some photos of my practice sessions!

HT: Heather