Enough Is Enough

I try not to get sucked into the millions of possibel articles and pieces of information that is floating on the news pages of every search engine out there, but one particular story caught my eye. It was an article about a woman who was told that the reason she received rotten treatment was because she was not pretty enough.

I can be a bit of a gabber, but for the moment I read that, I was struck speechless.

Wow.

It's funny how this is so easily believed by a lot of women, even those who appear to be camera ready-model-thin, have blemish-free skin, and sport hair that makes her look like a walking advertisement for Pantene.

And how funny it is that this lie motivates the wrong things, and de-motivates the right things women ought to live by. Like a healthy perspective on her body, a respect for her thoughts and opinions, love for everything she is a whole person. And though I certainly have my own "Am I good enough, smart enough, upbeat enough, positive enough, encouraging enough, pretty enough, strong enough" - type of moments, it still always, always, always comes down to the same truth at the end of every single day.

I am enough.

And yes, so so are you.

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." - Psalm 139:14

Happy Tuesday!

Heart Hugs

I never, ever get tired of photographs like this that are like a big hug for your heart. And we all know - hugs never get old. 

Make it an awesome weekend, everyone.

Happy Friday!

PREVIEW: Georgina, 2013. Bay Area, Glamour Photo Session

Being able to use my photography as a means to give back to the community is something that truly excites me. I'm learning that giving back in whatever way you can is as equally important as growing the business itself.  And for someone like me who can be a bit stubborn and too focused on myself, the reminder to give back is something I regularly have to do not only to check my head, but also my heart.

One of the ways I like to give back is by offering organizations whose causes I believe in, a photography session that they can give away at their fundraisers or auctions. I met Georgina and learned that she was the lucky winner of one of the sessions I'd given to a local fundraiser. It definitely brought a smile to my face to hear the excitement in her voice as we discussed over the phone the details of her shoot and makeover. 

Below is just a sneak peak of Georgina's photo session -  you know there's more,  so stay tuned!

Happy Thursday!

A special thanks to Angela LaFlamme of Flame Angel Design for her beautiful work on 

hair and make up!

Sirens and Family Time

This weekend was a whirlwind of family and a little bit of crazy. Because in my world, family and crazy always belong in the same sentence. Always.

"Loud" doesn't even begin to describe my mother's side - they love to eat, talk, laugh, talk, laugh,  eat some more, and occasionally belch a bit too loudly.  I've just now learned that if there is any type of public gathering that involves my family, a warning siren should probably go off just to caution the innocent bystanders who may fall prey to their level of crazy.

It's wonderful and crazy fun, something I wouldn't trade for anything.

Happy Tuesday!

Making A Difference

I love being able to work with women who are making a difference in the world with the skills they have been given. It helps push me to not only develop my own craft in photography, but to also look for ways it can help leave a mark of good in the world beyond just a photograph.

Julie is a marriage and family therapist, who was also honored by the Silicon Valley Business Journal as one of the 100 Most Influential Women in the Silicon Valley in 2011. This is just a little sneak peak into her photo session, so be sure to stay tuned for more!

Happy Wednesday!

Snail Mail Surprises and Hamster Marathons

It can be very easy for me to get caught up and get busy in the seemingly "important worries"of my life. So much so that I quickly become a relentless hamster on a wheel, sprinting with intense fervor, not realizing that the wheel has no end in it's circular motion. Working, editing photos, building a business, folding laundry, paying bills, sitting in traffic, exercising enough, saving enough, calling my parents enough, wondering if I'm spending enough time with the husband, friends, and family, thinking I should get that blinking light checked out on my car.

Etc.

But then -  I receive something in the mail that beckons me to stop the hamster-wheel marathon.

This colorful card of beautiful images came from a good friend of mine after she has just finished a trip to Nicaragua with the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children. My friend is studying to become to a dietitian and I am so proud of the work and efforts she was a part of in Nicaragua this summer.

Though the card as a thank you for a small donation we made towards this endeavor of hers, a part of me feels like I actually owe her a thank you. For making me stop amidst the "seemingly important" stuff in my life to see that there is a world out there beyond my little hamster wheel and me. An awesome world of smiling faces and the people working hard towards making a difference in it.

Sharing Is Caring

One of the things I love most about summer is the excuse to eat ice cream and frozen treats any old time I want - with Kona Bean watching me the entire time.

And after seeing this photo, I am convinced that my dog has been trying to tell me that sharing is caring.

Happy Thursday!

Hiking Muir Woods and A Side of Fries

On my commute this morning, I got to thinking about health and weight. I'm not sure why weight crossed my mind - maybe because I'm a woman and that topic ranks right up there with chocolate-for-dinner as far as our daily thoughts go. Or, it might have something to do with the fact that in a few weeks I'll need to fit into a bridesmaids dress for my sister's wedding and extra weight isn't an accessory I'm wanting to sport in the photographs.

As much as possible, I try to be as healthy as I can. High blood pressure and high cholesterol run in my family which means that the gym and I have had a bit of a love/hate relationship for most of my adult life. (Really, why do people run for fun on a machine that goes no where?!?) I just don't want to have to suffer the possible diabetes and heart attacks and all the other health issues that tend to follow unhealthy habits. Believe me, there are days that eating broccoli when I'd rather eat a bag of potato chips with my dinner (mmmmm, Ruffles....) - can be a real challenge, but thankfully there are benefits that result from the effort.

We had recently hiked the beautiful trails through San Francisco's Muir Woods with some friends. It was a clear day and the fresh air mixed with the spectacular view of sun rays softly beaming through the towering trees along the path made for an awesome way to get some exercise in. Muir Woods is definitely a must see, a hike I truly recommend to anyone visiting the beautiful Bay Area.

Confession time - is it ok to say that halfway through our little adventure all I could think about was a burger and a side of fries? Mmmm...fries....

Happy Monday!

The Perfect iPhone Case

I've recently decided to make the switch over to an iPhone and in doing so, I have discovered the fun in looking for the perfect case. A case that will communicate my inner creativity, professionalism, and coolness to the rest of the world every time I whip out my phone to call my mother.

And this is what I came up with.

Some things are just too cool for words.

Happy Friday

Those Grace-Filled Days

Around my desk, I like to keep little faith reminders, post it quotes of inspiration and Scripture, cards, mementos, and photographs posted up in various spots where I can easily see them. Every day, they help shift my focus to something above the myriad of tasks, to do lists, and emails set before me. And this is good for someone like me who buries myself a little easily under the tasks at hand and loses sight of the overall goal and bigger purpose each day.

Today, I found my eyes wandering over to an old email printout I keep posted up near my computer screen. I have no idea who the author was, but whoever you are, thank you for this and for generously sharing it. It helps remind me to stay focused on the more important things and also reminds me to keep trusting God every second, every minute, every hour even on the days I don't want to.

I am far from perfect and believe me, there are days I could have lived better - but thankfully, every day is a new slate, filled with grace and new chances.

Happy Thursday, everyone!

1. Pray.
2. Go to bed on time.
3. Get up on time so you can start the day un-rushed.
4. Say No to projects that won't fit into your time schedule, or that will compromise your mental health.
5. Delegate tasks to capable others.
6. Simplify and declutter your life.
7. Less is more.
8. Allow extra time to do things and to get to places.
9. Pace yourself. Spread out big changes and difficult projects over time; don't lump the hard things all together.
10. Take one day at a time.
11. Separate worries from concerns. If a situation is a concern, find out what God would have you do and let go of the anxiety. If you can't do anything about a situation, forget it.
12. Live within your budget; don't use credit cards for ordinary purchases.
13. Have backups; an extra car key in your wallet, an extra house key buried in the garden, extra stamps, etc.
14. K.M.S. - Keep Mouth Shut. This single piece of advice can prevent an enormous amount of trouble.
15. Do something for the kid in you everyday.
16. Carry a Bible with you to read while waiting in line.
17. Get enough rest.
18. Eat right.
19. Get organized so everything has its place.
20. Listen to something while driving that can help improve your quality of life.
21. Write down thoughts and inspirations.
22. Every day, find time to be alone.
23. Having problems? Talk to God on the spot. Try to nip small problems in the bud. Don't wait until it's time to go to bed to try and pray.
24. Make friends with Godly people.
25. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand.
26. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a good 'Thank you, Jesus.'
27. Laugh.
28. Laugh some more.
29. Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all.
30. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can).
31. Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most).
32. Sit on your ego.
33. Talk less; listen more.
34. Slow down.
35. Remind yourself that you are not the general manager of the universe.
36. Every night before bed, think of one thing you're grateful for that you've never been grateful for before. God has a way of turning things around for you.

Love Transforms People | Bay Area, Glamour Photo Shoot | Dee. 2013

There's no doubt about it that I am excited about building and growing a photography business that focuses solely on getting the message out there that every woman is beautiful. This focus and mission sits squarely in the middle of the heart and direction of Heartbox Photography because it's something I personally believe in as a woman who has battled my own challenges with confidence for many years.

Every new technical aspect of my camera I learn, every new client's story I get to hear, every new look my stylist creates for the client, every new result I see captured in the final image - I love it all and am inspired by it constantly.

But even in the midst of all of this awesomeness, I too can easily lose sight of the inspiration and what drove me to start Heartbox Photography in the first place. Sometimes, I get way too caught up in the what ifs of failure, the fear not knowing, the opinions of naysayers, worrying what others think of my efforts as an artist, a photographer, a young entrepreneur with big ideas who also still has to work a full time job until what I dream of comes to fruition to do this beyond the weekends only. There were countless times when I have talked myself out of even trying something new because the fear that it would not work practically debilitated the hope in my heart. It's not a fun feeling and can instantaneously get me to focus on the half-empty rather than the half-full glass. And while in this slump, inspiration and direction can seem like a million and one miles away.

Which is why this particular photo session is special to me. 

As I watched the last of the edits being produced for the final images and video footage, I couldn't help but notice a little jolt in my heart with every re-watch. A little smile every time the music played, every time I heard the story. It was as if I was getting a big reminder from God that this journey is more than just about taking a nice photograph and certainly way more than building a successful photography business meant to satisfy my whims. It was a reminder that this can grow into something much bigger than what my plans limit and can help reach into the lives of women on a whole new level. And most importantly, I am reminded to aim for something bigger and beyond me, myself, and I. Because of this reminder, I am inspired and excited once again to keep walking down the path of what I know will be a mind-blowing journey. 

I am proud to present the latest photo session from Heartbox Photography, "Love Transforms People" a makeover and photo session of a good friend of mine, Dee Murphy. 

Here's to always being inspired to help transform people...and the world.

Happy Tuesday!

To see more of this photo shoot, feel free to view the photos and video below or also view the video here!

Special thanks to Tammy Do of A List Make Up for a beautiful job on hair and make up 

Friday Random Thoughts

My Random Friday thoughts:

1. I really, really think that I've got some Karaoke skill that need some showing off to the world. Especially if I'm asked to sing an 80's hit.

2. I love rushing home when I know it's going to be a comedy movie night and dinner with the hubby and our four legged therapist, Kona Bean.

3. Is it bad that before 10 AM, my recycling bin is already littered with chocolate candy wrappers?

4. Melted cheese....gosh, that stuff is so darn good.

5. John Mayer has a point in his song "83" - What DID ever happen to my lunch box??!?

6. Is my little sister really getting married? It seems just like yesterday our afternoons were spent riding our tricycles in dizzying circles around our backyard in the warm sunshine. I just love these memories.

7. I am thankful for my family. Even the weirdo individuals in it. We won't name any names. =)

8. I wish I knew how to breakdance.

9. July photo shoots are coming up and I AM SOOOOO EXCITED!

10. Why is it so hard to find nude colored heels that don't look like they're made of plastic?

And my final thought this Friday afternoon...

Happy Friday!

Words and Webster

Oologist - noun - 1: one specializing in the study of birds' eggs 2: a collector of birds' eggs 

Not as in oooh-did-you-see-that-chocolate-fountain?!

Technology is great in many ways and I love me some Google, but my memories of frequent visits to the local library as a child have embedded in me a great love for information that still can be found on paper. This includes anything made by my BFF, Webster.

I've always loved words and writing and have found that though most of the ways I use to express myself are through the images captured by my camera, words still play a vital role in telling the full story of an image, even help bringing the image to life when sharing the images through even a blog. 

The other day a colleague of mine was in the midst of clearing out a few things from his desk and almost gave away what I consider a treasure everyone must have in their home. A Webster's Dictionary.  Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary, Copyright 1987, baby! Complete with an old library smell to it and EVERYTHING.

Again, it's nice having Google to be able to find a word's meaning in a milisecond, but even Google's milisecond abilities can't provide the thrill of leafing through paper thin pages on a hunt for the definition of a word, can't provide that grade school library smell, can't provide me with a childhood nostalgia of days when the Dewey Decimal system was how you found a book in the library. And just knowing 

Needless to say, I carried that old dictionary home with a smile on my face and a feeling in my heart that I had just hit the jackpot for finding this. And, needless to say, my happiness over receiving an old dictionary for free confirmed my husband's suspicions that he did, in fact, marry an undercover nerd. 

Cheers to words, their ability to bring the everyday stories to life, and the smell of old paper dictionaries.

Happy Wednesday!

Sharing and Contributing

Early on this endeavor to build a women's portrait photography business, it was strongly impressed upon me how the best photographers seem to be the ones who gave back. Not necessarily in finances, though many have done that, but the generosity contributing their talents and time to help grow and sharpen the community of aspiring professionals like myself.

I used to think that connecting and sharing with other photographers was a sure fire way of contributing to my young business' demise (what with all the competition so prevalent in our industry). Yes, because I foolishly thought that giving away that secret function on my camera would absolutely ruin my chances of any success.

Key words to highlight from that paragrapph? I foolishly thought.

But now, after learning so much from other professionals who have generously given to me, after being encouraged and guided by photographers far more experienced in this industry than me, I can see that, truly, it is far better to give than to receive, to help exchange knowledge than to withhold it out of fear. And, if anything, I believe that any healthy competition keeps me on my toes artistically and serves as a much needed fuel to keep complacency and laziness with my business and my craft at bay.

Tonight, I had the privilege of receiving input from another photographer who also happens to be an attorney by trade. I connected with her through a mutual network group and she has been nothing short of generous with her legal expertise and business input. Connections like this? Priceless.

One day, I hope to make a huge impact on the lives of other photographers the way that others have done for me.

Happy Tuesday!

Happy Birthday, Bubbers!

I love my husband for many, many reasons. It makes a difference in my life to be able to enjoy each day with your best friend - the one who LOVES my karaoke signing, loves me even if my cooking skills don't really extend past boiling pasta, the one I get to pray with and for, to argue and grow together with, to laugh together with as we peruse YouTube for the latest comedy clips because we don't have cable.

Today is his birthday and I count myself blessed to be able to celebrate another year of my best friend's life.

Oh, and this photo? It just goes to show that Miami Vice ain't got nothing on my husband's style.

I love you forever, Bubby!

Happy Friday, ya'll!

Karaoke Dreams

You remember when you were a kid and used to dream up all of the things you wanted to be when you grew up before you made a decision? Everyone's list was different but besides photographer  my list of dream occupations included:

1. A secret agent. With great hair and slick ninja moves. 

2. Wonder Woman

3. Rainbow Brite

3. A lawyer

4. A writer

5. Something that involved colorful paint and Disneyland all day

6. A dancer

And yes...even a super star singer. Mom's turkey baster made a great microphone to my many enthusiastic renditions of Cyndi Lauper's "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" growing up.

But for now, I'll settle for karaoke any day. And to do it for a tank of gas? I'm so there.

When I am Frustrated...and The Joys of Ice Cream

I laugh to myself sometimes when I see the reaction I get from new acquaintances after I confess to them that I can become pretty unglued at times. Nine times out of ten they always react in abrupt surprise and tell me that it's hard for them to picture me wigging out and losing it. "Oh, trust me, I've wept over many bowls of ice cream in my life and it ain't pretty!" 

As with most people in this world, I want to be able to be comfortable with being the real me to everyone I meet, even if it means a continuous practice of taking off the mask. It hasn't been easy sharing with others how unglued but who ever said it was easy to be yourself and openly tell folks that yes, you don't have it all together, that yes, you eat too much ice cream when life throws you a curveball?

When I feel frustrated:

I let my emotions fall.
I eat too much chocolate.
I eat too much ice cream.
Heck, I just eat too much of everything that is opposite of a salad.
I go to the gym.
I journal.
I pray.
I dwell on the issue.
I cry. With hiccups.
Did I mention I cry? 
I talk to my sisters, my friends, my husband...and then repeat.
I spend too much time on Facebook looking for distractions.
I organize or clean something. (Control issues much? Nah.)
I pretend everything is ok.

And then after it's all said and done and I just can't eat any more ice cream, I get back up, try again and hope again.

That right there? Definitely the most important thing from the list.

 Happy Tuesday!

She's Always Right

I have a tendency really want to think things thoroughly before acting upon them. Which, I guess isn't a bad thing in and of itself especially when it has to do with creativity, exploring possibilities, etc. But the downside is that overthinking things just drive me into the ground, weighing pros and cons to the point that the scale is breaking with my tipping back and forth with each idea. I have so many dreams and aspirations with photography that if I'm not careful, it can drive me a little bonkers.

And then, right when I'm a mess of anxiety, I see this face. You can almost see the little conversation bubble:

"Just keep it simple, Mommy. Like in my world."

And I love when she's right.

Happy Friday!

Birthday Wishes & A Grateful Mindset. Glamour Photo Session, Bay Area, 2011.

My parents instilled in us early on the importance of having manners. "Please" and "thank you" were very much a part of our every day vocabulary from as early as I can remember. Often at times, even during our birthday parties in which our eyes met disappointment at a gift we were given that wasn't exactly the Barbie doll we were hoping for, you can still bet that Mom would be close by to nudge us into saying "thank you" nonetheless to the giver of the gift. Simply because it was the right thing to do. 

As I grew older, saying "please" and "thank you" became more than just the "right" thing to do - it became more like the very least I can say for what has been given so generously to me. Especially being an entrepreneur, every little bit of help, advice, encouragement, and time that has been given  to help grow my business by various individuals along the way has reminded me of all that I have to be abundantly grateful for.

A few years ago, I was in the midst of building up my portfolio. Needless to say, I solicited the time and untapped modeling skills of various acquaintances and friends to grace the front of my camera. It's amazing the inner-Vogue skills some folks have if you just venture out and ask!

One of my models, Ariane is featured in the photograph below and in one of the earlier promotional videos here. Today is her birthday (I am slowly becoming a little better about remembering birthdays with the help of, ahem, Mr. Facebook!) and in addition to wishing her a very happy and blessed birthday, I'd like to also like to express a huge thank you for not only allowing me to photograph her but for also being one of the many faces of women photographed by Heartbox Photography. As many of you know, my photography primarily focuses on photography and makeovers for all women and Ariane was one of the early models when I decided to shift the business focus entirely on this genre. 

Thank you again, Ariane, and happy, happy birthday!

Happy Thursday!

Monday Christmas Shopping

Humor that fights the Monday Schmondays and traffic blues? Now that is priceless. 

I saw a few t-shirts on Busted Tees that have assisted me in my early attempts to Christmas shop. Love these!

Happy Monday!