From the Haugen Heart

“I like my job because it involves learning. I like being around smart people who are trying to figure out new things.” Bill Gates I came across this quote from Bill Gates this morning. I totally agree with the sentiment. I have found that being a photographer is not just about creating visually pleasing images, it seems to be all about learning new things. New software, new equipment, new ways of marketing, new ideas. The amount of "new" stuff to absorb is breathtaking, sometimes scary, but never, ever boring! Sometimes, I need to let the left side of my brain rest and let the right side play for a bit so I am working on new backgrounds and sets, both for the studio and for 8.5 acre portrait park. Here is one that I have been having fun with. I am calling it "Silver Tiles" but really need a catchier name, don't you think?

I got to meet baby Emma today. At 10 days old she is still settling in to this life on the outside. She misses Mommy's nice warm tummy but she loves music and Daddy's touch.

It Was a Glittery Day I have been a member of the Corvallis Chamber for awhile and just love going to Greeters. Every week, a bunch of business owners meet at someone's business for coffee and networking. I enjoy the open, friendly atmosphere and have gotten to know some really nice people there. Louise-Annette Burgess, a very dedicated Mary Kay rep, has been a very faithful attendee at these functions right up to her due date. Baby Emma decided to make her debut into this world on Sunday so I have a feeling we won't be seeing Louise-Annette as much at Greeters! These images were done a week ago today. At last week's Greeters, Louise-Annette introduced me to Ananda Elyse Reeves who, in addition to teaching and Life Coaching, paints pregnant tummies! Photographer of expectant moms and painter of expectant moms is a natural fit, right? And gee, here was a very pregnant mama right before us. A painting/photography session was meant to be! Since Louise-Annette's baby, Emma,...

The Oregon Coast doesn't often get this sunny and warm so we were reveling on Saturday! My favorite time is September. There is less chance of rain, fog and wind than at any other time of year. I got a chance to meet the whole Naughton clan and play with Dashiell and Clara. Doesn't get much better than this!

Alison and Brian Click on the link above to see the slide show.Alison and Brian were so much fun to photograph!

Wedding video

1. A color scheme is the first priority with group portraiture. There is not one color scheme that is the best and only possibility. Take a look at the room in which the main portrait will hang and select colors that will harmonize with that room. You don't want a portrait over the mantle that clashes with the room! Here are some ideas. • Dress everyone in one family of colors. For example, light to medium blues (like denim) work well with many decors, compliment any skin tone, and are easy to find in most closets. White or pastels can be wonderful, particularly at the beach or with a lighter background. • If you are challenged getting everyone to agree on one family of colors, try for muted tones, like blues, grays, and browns. • With large family groups, consider separating sub-family groups by color. This works best if clothing styles match closely. (For example, everyone wears blue jeans and each sub-family group wears a different colored shirt or sweater.) 2. Solid colo...