Of course we bring our cameras to special events. Why wouldn’t we? Weddings, family reunions, company picnics, birthday bashes… all are “camera worthy” occasions.

But everyday moments can be just as special.

There are so many memories locked in my brain that I wish I had the power to display in a photo. If I could just plug a USB cable into my ear and blink twice to get those images framed and onto my walls… *sigh* Sadly, that technology has yet to be created. Until then, along with keys, cell phone, and jacket, I know never to leave the house without my camera.

Ever.

I wasn’t always prepared for the ordinary occasions. I learned these habits only after having my heart broken over too many lost moments:

• Keep a camera bag packed and ready to go with lenses, flash, and spare batteries for flash.
• Keep a spare camera battery recharging at all times.
• Download all of my shots once I return from a portrait session or from any bit of casual shooting I might have enjoyed that day.
• Carry a point-and-click in my handbag.

Of the ordinary occasions that I’ve recently captured are kids running through water fountains, catching a lady bug at the beach, and a morning of decorating cookies with the girls.

All memories that I will cherish as much as (maybe even more than) special occasions.

All gone in a flash… but captured forever.