Do you have an interest in photography but don't know where to start? Do you want to have more control over the photos that your camera takes? Are you looking to take the next step in your photography but are, perhaps, a little intimidated? Then this series is just for you! We will take a closer look at shooting in manual mode in this four part series: Aperture Shutter speed ISO Hints & Tips. At the end you should have a better understanding of how to shoot in manual mode. But do't worry - no fancy jargon here (or the least amount possible!) and we have plenty of photos to help you out along the way. Ready to get started? Aperture The easiest way for me to define "aperture" is, it is the size of the hole that allows light in when you are taking a picture. Aperture … [Read more...]
How to Decorate with DIY Marquee Letters
Marquee signs have been used for generations to display details of the entertainment or performers at a venue. Since the 1930's, marquee signs have been displayed at theaters, circus tents and at the top of arcade games to illuminate the name. Today, you can find marquee signs in many, many places, even in homes. More commonly, you'll find marquee letters in homes to display the family's monogram. It's likely that most of these letters are found at antique and thrift stores, salvaged from old buildings or theaters {how cool is that?!}. But, most of the marquee letters you'll find in homes are likely handmade! I have found a couple of simple DIY tutorials on how to make your own Marquee Letters for you today. As a bonus, I've gathered a few decorating ideas. Not only does adding a … [Read more...]
Luck of The Irish Wreath
Whether you’re Irish or not, you have to love St. Patrick’s Day! I always look forward to the gold-foil chocolate candy coins, but the pinching is something I do my best to avoid. When March 17th rolls around, you better be wearing green or you’re bound to get pinched. To ward off any happy pinchers, I made this Luck of The Irish Wreath to hang on my front door. As long as the wreath is hanging, anyone in my home on St. Patrick’s Day is safe from being pinched. However, once they leave my home, that’s an entirely different story. What you need to make this wreath: 18” Wire Wreath Form Gold Twist Ties, 21” Green Deco Mesh Wreath St. Patrick’s Day Ribbon Foil Clover Garland Hot Glue Gun Plastic Glitter Shamrocks Plastic Gold Coins Wreath Door … [Read more...]
How to Make an Orange Pomander
Remember when you were a kid and your teacher brought in the supplies for you and your classmates to make a beautiful Orange Pomander? The craft was simple but, FUN! And, do you remember the smell? Mmmm... Today I'll show you the simple basics on how to make your own orange {or any citrus, really} pomander to fill your home with the spicy clean aroma of Fall! You'll need: Oranges {or any citrus} Whole Cloves a Toothpick Ribbon {optional} Step one: Using a toothpick, poke holes where you would like to put your cloves. Trust me when I say, your fingertips will thank you. Step two: Continue poking holes and adding cloves. Step three: Just keep adding cloves until you feel you've achieved your ultimate design. You can fill the orange up with cloves, make a swirly design, add a … [Read more...]
How to Sew a Simple Bunting
You've seen them all over Pinterest, in Etsy shops and maybe even in your friends homes. You know they've got to be simple enough to make on your own. But, how? I'm here to show you today how to sew a simple bunting in just a few easy steps. If you can sew a straight line then you can sew a bunting. First, gather your supplies. You'll need: Supplies for a Simple Bunting: a sewing machine thread that coordinates with your fabric choices a pair of scissors at least three coordinating prints of fabric {unless you want only one} a self-healing cutting mat* a rotary cutter* a quilter's ruler* {*The last three supplies are optional. If you don't have them, don't worry. You can cut your fabric by hand, it's just easier and quicker with these tools.} Let's get … [Read more...]
How to Take Great Photos of Your Kids
Do you want to learn some tips on how to take great photos of your kids? Do all of the photos of your children include super cheesy smiles or the back of their head as they run away? I have photographed many children during my career, and photographing my daughter can still be the most challenging subject for me. But there are a few things I have learned along the way. Keep reading to learn five tips on how to take great photos of your kids! 1. Get down on their level One of the things that can set apart a "good" photo from a "great" one is the angle in which it was taken. As an adult it is second nature to take photos on your level, and to point the camera down on kids when trying to take their photo. While you might get a good snapshot that way, try moving down to your kids level … [Read more...]
