Stacee Lianna Photography

WE HAVE MOVED!!

2011-01-01T11:01:00.001-08:00

Stacee Lianna Photography is no longer going to be updated here. If you would like to continue to follow this blog please update your bookmarks and RSS feeds to:

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A Photoshoot Extravaganza: part two

2010-12-28T07:08:00.000-08:00

Today is my last full day in South Dakota. I'm heading out to watch one of my cousin's at his high school varsity basketball practice this morning and to photograph him in his new jersey. With an *almost* promise from my dad to drive through Spearfish Canyon for some photo ops depending on how high the snow is. :D

Tomorrow I'm heading home. I can't wait. My own bed sounds stupendous right now! As do the many people I have been missing; especially Jack, I really miss that boy.

Anyway, as promised here is the second round of this massive photoshoot I hosted a few weeks ago this time featuring Brenna, Karen, Cassandra, Denise, Shanna, & Phil.

Happy Tuesday!

A Photoshoot Extravaganza: part one

2010-12-27T09:01:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it's nice to take a break from deadlines and just take pictures for fun. Being on vacation this week I'm learning to appreciate this fact even more.

At the beginning of December I had the privileged to photograph some of my greatest friends just for fun. A field, lots of people, and even more laughing. Have I ever mentioned how much I adore laughing? I am so happy with the results of this shoot! It was just FUN! So, I decided to be a jerk and spit it up in to two posts. ;]

Here's the first round featuring Katelynn, Danielle, Jessica, and Susanna.

Enjoy!! ♥

Sturgis, SD: personal

2010-12-26T17:27:00.000-08:00

I have spent every single one of my 23 Christmas's in South Dakota visiting family. And up until I got my first job I also spent 2 weeks every summer in the same place. Never, before today, have I taken the time to wander the streets and take photographs. I wanted to last year, but it was snowing so bad the entire time we were here we never even left my Grandma's house. Today my dad went to go wash his car [it got pretty filthy driving across the country] and I asked him to drop me off on Main Street so I could take a few pictures.

In case any of you were wondering, the back alleyways of Sturgis are like an ice skating rink. Watch out for the ice.

Christmas Morning: personal

2010-12-25T11:21:00.000-08:00

When I left Los Angeles on Tuesday night it was pouring rain. It was 500+ miles before we drove out of the rain; and I mean scary pouring rain. We drove right in to fog. It has been days and days since I've seen real, beautiful, sun.

This morning I woke up to sun.

Happy Christmas!

you can see the sparkle of the snow in this one!! :D

Number 41: 101 in 1001 days

2010-12-22T07:11:00.000-08:00

When this blog posts and people are actually awake to read it I'll be faaaar away from my home in Southern California. I'm leaving in about an hour to start driving to South Dakota to visit family for the holidays. It's kind of a bittersweet trip, I'll have a grand total of 12 days off from my day job which is AMAZING but at the same time I'm leaving behind a lot of people that I love. Jack gave me The Rule 7 times the other day just to make up for the times I'll be gone; it hurts my heart to leave him. 8 days.

But, in other more exciting news: I crossed something off my 101 in 1001 Days list!! I have a long way to go before I even make a dent in this list, but Number 41 is officially DONE! I am the PROUD owner of a 24mm 1.4 lens and I LOVE it! I haven't had too much of a chance to use it since it arrived in the mail so I'm particularly excited to shoot with it while I'm traveling!

I should probably think about packing my laptop now.

Happy Wednesday!

And because Zoe is so cute, and I'm going to miss her so much.

A Grown-up Purse: personal

2010-12-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

You know you're a photographer when you have a photoshoot with your new purse.

I feel like a lot is changing in my life and in my business lately.

It's a large mix of my sister moving out, having a baby down the driveway to cuddle, eating healthier, learning to say no; but balancing saying no with not missing out on life and friends. Some days it's incredibly hard to navigate. Then throw 2 full time jobs in to the mix.

I'm also in the process of completely redesigning my blog and FINALLY finishing my website. I've tweeted and facebooked about it but haven't officially announced anything. So here it is: after many late nights, and many late nights to come Stacee Lianna Photography is going to look a loooot more polished in the new year. I'm SO excited.

With all of that I'm sure you can see how I could really use something constant in my life right now. So, I decided to buy a new purse.

The problem is, even in purse buying I had to go and change!

I'm 23 years old and have never owned anything more than a tote or messenger bag for a purse. I mostly use my purse carrying to support bands or organizations like To Write Love on Her Arms. Yesterday I bought my first Grown-up Purse. I'm not used to it yet, but I'm not really used to this new chapter in my life yet either. I think we'll all grown on each other soon. Here's to changes and the hope of new constants for me to depend on.

Happy Thursday!

Kerrie & Matt: Maternity

2010-12-14T09:41:00.000-08:00

Matt & Kerrie have known each other nearly their whole lives. They were babysat together when they were young and then Kerrie's family started attending Matt's church. They're long long time friends turned husband and wife and now they're expecting an addition to their family.

When Matt called me a few weeks ago to talk about scheduling a maternity session I was was THRILLED! As I've mentioned before, maternity sessions hold a special place in my heart. [my audience of Mom/Doula friends rejoice ;] hahaha] When Matt & I were talking about shoot location ideas we were mainly talking about parks when he said, "I know it's unrealistic, but we really love Disneyland" I love that being a Disneyland passholder makes nothing unrealistic. It was settled. We were going to Disneyland!

I can't even explain how much fun I had with these two. It was like photographing friends I'd known for years even though we'd just met in person that morning. We laughed, laughed, and laughed through the entire session. I'm excited to see what life has in store for these two and can't wait to meet their little boy coming in January!

Matt & Kerrie's little boy is going to be named Andrew. They've already bought this Woody stuffed toy for him. SO cute!

One thing I love about these two is that going to Disneyland for them isn't about rides. It's about walking around or sitting on Main Street with a cup of coffee ready to spend the afternoon people watching. That's what I love about Disneyland! As we were walking from Frontierland to New Orleans Square Matt pointed out that this bench was "their" spot. Of course we stopped for photos.

A Christmastime Disneyland tradition with them, is to stop and get gingerbread cookies so of course we did that too :D

Christmas Trees: personal

2010-12-13T06:34:00.000-08:00

Last night I got a text that said something along the lines of "We're going to see Santa. Steven says you have to come."

My neighbors, the Anderson family, have decided to make it their mission to make me love Christmas as much as they do. So, I had to walk 100 miles up and down the streets of our neighborhood, barefoot, looking for Santa. I complain like I didn't have fun. ;] Then I went back to their house, down the driveway from mine, and Alexis told me stories about the ornaments on their Christmas tree. I'm so blessed to be included in their magic.

Their oldest daughter, Phoebe made this one.

An ornament for their middle daughter, Eden.

This was the tree topper for the first Christmas tree Steven & Alexis decorated before they were married.

This was the first ornament they bought together.

The top ornament was for the Christmas Steven & Alexis decided they wanted to have a baby, and the bottom ornament is for the first Christmas of their first baby, Noah, who came 2 years later.

A Christmas tree. With Tom & Jerry playing in the background.

When we finally found where Santa was going to stop last night I sat on the curb next to Jack. We were talking, he was probably telling me a joke and ending it with, "get it? geeeet it??" because that's his new thing now. Then I asked to take a picture of him. His response was: "Um.. Stacee, you should just do your library job. You shouldn't do that photographer job anymore." I didn't get a picture of him.

So, since Zoe isn't old enough to tell me no yet. I'll just take pictures of her. ♥

South Dakota Snow Special

2010-12-09T09:41:00.001-08:00

I haven't blogged in ages. :[ and this is a total cheap blog that doesn't even count. I proooomise I'll be back to blogging soon!

I am going out of town on December 21st. I'm leaving southern California and road tripping with my family to Sturgis, South Dakota to be with family over the holidays. I'll be back home on December 29th BUT I'd REALLY love to do some photo shooting while in South Dakota! It's not every day I can take pictures in the snow at home ;]

I'm going to be avaliable for shoots on December 26th, 27th and 28th and I'm up for anything! Family sessions, engagement sessions, bridal sessions, portrait or senior sessions. I just want to take pictures! Shoot me an email if you're interested and I'll plug you in to my calendar!!

*Danielle Nicole & Brenna get credit for choosing the photo in the promotion flyer ;]

Days off: personal

2010-12-02T17:39:00.000-08:00

Today has been amaaaazing! I LOVE having a day off!

I babysat my favorite kids this morning. I got to hold a sleeping baby girl for a long time. I cut all my hair off! :D I've packaged up a bunch of photographs for my clients. And I'm drafting a list of office supplies that I want to invest in, like post-it notes. Because life is so much better when you have cute post-its. I have decided it.

Before I head out to the post office to mail packages to my amazing clients I thought I'd share a few photographs I took yesterday after work as the sun was setting.

Happy Thursday!!

The Anderson Family: families

2010-11-30T07:16:00.000-08:00

These pictures have been buried in my laptop for weeks. I'm a bad friend. Alexis asked me if I would take a few family photos before Zoe was born. And then Zoe was born and time has gotten away from all of us, I think. It was really weird to go through and edit these photographs now that Alexis isn't pregnant. I can't believe Zoe fit in her belly... weird.

Anyways, here you go, neighbors! Happy Tuesday!

Hacienda Hotel: venues

2010-11-29T07:09:00.000-08:00

A few months ago I took pictures of two sweet girls in downtown Long Beach. Last week their father contacted me about photographing the hotel he manages.

The Hacienda Hotel.

My goodness! I have driven by this hotel countless times, but never been inside until this last week. I can't even begin to describe it to you. First, it's GIGANTIC! You would never imagine it when you see it from the street but this hotel has over 600 rooms and as one of it's employees said, it is an "oasis away from the city". It most definitely is! Second, it's stunning! I can't get over how much I loved the decorations, the paintings, the candles-- it's amazing! I will let the photographs speak for themselves.

while we were waiting for the sun to set so I could see the courtyard all lit up at night I shot images of a few of the hotel rooms. They're amazing!

All of the paintings featured in these photos were done by an artist who lives in the hotel. I was completely floored as I walked through the halls and the courtyards of the Hacienda. Her artwork is breathtaking! Her name is Selwyn and if you're interested in contacting her email me!

Intern Reunion: personal

2010-11-26T07:35:00.000-08:00

Last week I was such a good blogger! This week just got away from me. Lame.

I can't believe it's been over a year since I went to Vancouver, BC for the IMAGINE internship. I also can't believe how much has changed for me in the last year. Personally and for my business SO many things have changed. I couldn't name them all even if I wanted it.

Besides a year having gone by since I was in Vancouver, a year has also gone by since Heather, Marissa, and I have been in the same room. They were my intern girls, we shared many many laughs and long nights in Jamie's basement and let me tell you: I miss those nights!!

When Heather decided to fly down and spend a week in LA we made it a mission to meet up with Marissa so the three of us could be together again! We were able to get together a few Friday's ago and it was quite amazing. We talked life and business and took pictures.

Heather.

Marissa.

I'm in love with her nail polish.

Then it was my turn. This is what I usually look like when I'm forced to be in front of the camera:

Even though we were running late and fearing traffic we couldn't leave without a few group shots :D

Zoe Gabriele: newborn

2010-11-19T10:27:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting here trying to write a blog post that matches up with the beauty I see in this little girl. But all that keeps playing over and over in my head is, "I didn't expect to love her this much." I knew I would love her. But not this much.

I didn't know it was possible for me to be so overwhelmed with love for a little girl I've hardly known 8 days. I didn't think my eyes would well with tears EVERY time I held her. I didn't think a little baby would teach me something so profound in just the short time I've known her.

In 8 days, Zoe has taught me I need to learn to say no.

I don't want Zoe to grow up knowing the person I am now. The stressed out, rushed, often times frantic person that I am now. I want to be able to go to her house and laugh SO hard with her mom and dad, because that's what we do. I want to enjoy time with her sister and brothers, because they're growing up SO fast. I want to look at her and see how big she's gotten in the last week and over the weeks to come and know I was there to witness it.

Even more than that I want to go home from work and have dinner with my parents, because I don't see them enough. I want to see my sister more than just when I walk in the door and go straight to bed after a day that's been too long, because I miss her laugh. I want to be a part of my sister and brother's lives. I haven't even been to their new apartment. :| I want to stop sending text messages to my friend about how I miss her or actually plan a dinner frate with a girl I love so much and NEVER get to see.

I want to stop waiting for life to calm down to be a part of it.

I need to force life to calm down so I don't miss it.

Zoe taught me that.

At this point it had only been hours since Alexis had had her C-Section. She looks beautiful.

mom

dad

sister

brother

Shanna & Phil: weddings

2010-11-18T16:40:00.000-08:00

Because this was my sister's wedding it was different than any other wedding I've photographed. I was constantly surrounded by the planning and the stress and the fun of everything. It was a very different experience. I was so close to everything I thought by the time the wedding day finally arrived I would be numb to any emotional part of it.

I was wrong.

I started getting emotional during the rehearsal and knew that come wedding day all the stress of the day would pass and I would watch my sister walk down the aisle and marry the man of her dreams. It was pretty amazing.

I LOVE this shot Kristin got while we were out taking the bridal party photographs!

My parents, I love them.

Don't judge me ;]

Shanna and Phil had cards printed and invited everyone at the reception to draw pictures for them. They're going to compile a book of everything.

We had to get one "creeper" picture.

The bridal party is way too busy to care about things like weddings. ;]

I also want to say a HUGE thank you to Kristin and Heather who were my second shooters for the day. They were SO incredibly helpful! Especially because I wasn't allowed to have my camera during the ceremony. I'm SO grateful for all the work they did for me. They are both truly amazing!

Shanna & Phil: bridal portraits

2010-11-16T09:23:00.000-08:00

They met in art school.

I remember Shanna coming home from school one day so excited to show off a picture she had secretly snapped of him during a group project. After class most days he would accompany he would accompany her to my dad’s office and they would work on homework together. Or get Tommy’s. Whichever sounded better at the time. Being the pesky younger sister I thought they were both crazy. Who would want to hang out in my dad’s office for fun? But I’m sure it was in those moments that Phil stole Shanna’s heart.

Look at me, getting emotional writing this. *shakes head*

Like I said yesterday, I’m SO glad Shanna & Phil chose to do a first look. Because they did we were able to travel off site from the church and take bridal portraits in fun places! First Looks = MAGIC!

We wandered the streets of Old Torrance for their portraits. Not much is better than wedding dresses and alleyways right? ;] I know I said this yesterday too but seriously, I have never seen my sister so happy. It was really beautiful to see her smile and laugh SO much. I’m so very glad she found someone as amazing as Phil. [Yesterday I sent him a text message to tell him I started blogging their portraits and he responded saying, “Thanks, sis!” Man, I love him!] He really brings out the best in her.

Shanna & Phil: first look

2010-11-15T11:07:00.000-08:00

I think I’ve cried more in the last 5 days then I did during all the angsty teenage years of my life. Maybe that’s an exaggeration. Maybe.

It’s been a fantastic last few days. But they have completely worn.me.out. I’m physically and emotionally drained, so if you see me on the streets don’t be nice to me. I’ll break out into hysterics.

If you follow me on Twitter or are my friend on Facebook you’ve probably heard that my older sister, Shanna just married my most amazing new brother, Phil 9 days ago. They got back from their honeymoon last night so it seems most fitting that I post their first of a few blog posts today. You know, to give people something to read during their monday work day. ;]

I was very VERY excited when Shanna and Phil opted to do a first look. I just love first looks. They really set the tone for the day; most weddings are rushed, stressful and absolutely crazy with no real time for the bride and groom to just BE together. First looks give the bride and groom a moment to slow down and remember what their wedding day is really about: each other. I’m glad my sister got to experience that.

Here’s a few photographs from the start of her day along with her first look.

Good way to start the morning? I think yes.

I've never seen my sister smile as much as she did November 6th 2010

Home From The Hospital: personal

2010-11-12T23:40:00.000-08:00

I learned from reading blog posts Mr. Anderson has written that you should always write down and document important events in your life. Like submitting college applications... or babies being born. So that's what I'm going to do. Write down a few things as I eat In 'n Out way too late at night. I'm a little delirious.

1. Being a mom is hard. It's even hard when you're only a mom for 48 hours to 3 children you love very dearly. When I walked in the house just now I hugged my mom. I've never appreciated moms more than I do today.

2. Washing dishes is theraputic.

3. I left my shampoo and conditioner in the car. Washing my hair = last priority right now.

4. Sometimes big ugly cries, no matter how big and ugly they may be are just what you need. And sometimes you need them twice.

5. When you have a C-section, your body doesn't automatically realize you had a baby. Because it didn't happen naturally. So often it takes a day or 2 for your body to catch up and do all the normal "you had a baby" stuff.

6. When you're nursing there's two kinds of milk. The New Milk, colostrum, and there's only a little bit of that then about a day or two after the baby is born Full Milk comes.

7. I've never seen a more beautiful baby. I'm biased, I know. But Zoe is gorgeous.

8. I cannot have children. They would give me a nervous breakdown. In the last 48 hours I've had at least 100 panic attacks that range from thinking I lost Phoebe [she was in the restroom], to imagining car accidents with the 3 Anderson kids in my back seat, to a mix up of babies at the hospital [it was Zoe, she looks just like an Anderson]

9. I've never been more in love with this family than I am right now. Even after long days and seeing them worn out, tired, heavily medicated, and cranky; they still fill my heart with such happiness. I'm very thankful to be a part of their magic.

The Wallis Family: portraits in the park

2010-11-12T09:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was such a full day. My Alexis had her baby yesterday. Zoe Gabriele was born. I'm getting ready to head back to the hospital to see this precious baby again but I wanted to share this amazing family with you first.

I met the Wallis's through the Anderson's so it's only fitting I post their blog on such a special day. :D This family, let me tell you, they are troopers. Our session was only 30 minutes long and not even 5 minutes in it was literally raining. You could see the drops falling from the sky and they still stuck it out for pictures. They're *amazing*!! Jacob and Natalie have the cutest smiles, especially when Natalie crinkles her nose. It's one of the cutest things I've ever seen.

You know how I said it was raining? The kids wanted to ride their bikes and Natalie had just learned how to ride without training wheels so Steve ran next to her, in the rain, just to make sure she didn't fall. Um.. can we say Dad Points?!

Another thing I LOVED about this session was, while we were shooting Marina said she hasn't had portraits done of her and Steve since their wedding. How privlidged am I to be the first to take portraits of them??

The Yollin Family: portraits in the park

2010-11-11T09:18:00.000-08:00

I met the Yollin family while working at the library. The first time I helped them their youngest son was trying to check out a Clone Wars DVD and he was very concerned about it being scratched and unwatchable. It was pretty adorable. Another thing I love about this family is Peter, the dad, *always* comments on my hair. He can't believe I was born with such a vibrant color. Because, clearly, it's natural.

Jessica & Elizabeth: portraits in the park

2010-11-10T07:02:00.000-08:00

You may remember Jessica from this post earlier this year. For Portraits in the Park Jessica was joined by her sister Elizabeth so they could get some fun Christmas photographs taken. :D

Sarina & Ryan: portraits in the park

2010-11-09T07:32:00.000-08:00

I spoke with Sarina months ago about doing portraits but she and her husband, Ryan, decided to hold off for awhile because what they really wanted was maternity portraits. When I announced Portraits in the Park, Sarina emailed me almost immediately wanting to sign up AND telling me that early next year she would want to book a maternity session because she was 2 months pregnant. I couldn't be more excited for her and her husband!

I had never met Sarina and Ryan in person, I'd only emailed back and forth with Sarina and let me tell you: I was really excited to meet her!! We'd talked so much through email I felt like I knew her already and that I was taking pictures of an old friend. I LOVE that!!

Monday Morning: personal

2010-11-08T11:30:00.000-08:00

I don't know very many people who like or appreciate Monday mornings.

When I woke up this morning I was tired and had REALLY bad hair. Plus, it was all rainy and I have a family session this afternoon! Talk about cranky.

Then I started thinking back to the weekend. On Friday I was able to meet up with Marissa, we haven't seen each other in AGES! And not only that but Heather came down from BC and stayed with me for a few days so we had ourselves a whole IMAGINE: intern reunion! Fantastic!

On Saturday my sister got married. I just think about Saturday and get so happy. First of all, I have to share the bathroom with one less person. Score! Second, my sister married the most kind and genuine guy I have ever met. I love him so much and am so very glad I get to call him brother. Cue a host of emotions.

My friend Danielle wrote on Facebook this morning, "I swear the wedding has made everyone all emotional and thankful and inspired."

When I think about this weekend that's exactly what I feel: emotional, thankful, and inspired; and Monday morning doesn't seem so bad.

It's been said that a blog post isn't complete without a picture, I have to agree so I present to you the cutest ring bearer I have ever seen. I'm biased though, because he holds my heart. Well, he holds my heart with one hand and with his other he holds a DS. ;]

Also, to my Portraits in the Park clients: I have NOT forgotten you! By the end of the week you will have your photos, I *promise* ♥

Stephanie & Mike: portraits in the park

2010-11-04T14:09:00.000-07:00

The best thing about Portraits in the Park this year was getting to photograph people I have never met before! Stephanie and Mike were some of those people! They're engaged and getting married next year and they brought their *ADORABLE* puppies out to the park for some photos. It was such a pleasure meeting them, and their dogs. :D I had a really hard time narrowing down the photos for my blog :D

Joy & David: portraits in the park

2010-11-03T07:09:00.000-07:00

Joy & David are my friend Denise's niece and nephew.

My GOSH they are adorable!! I know I've said it with each Portraits in the Park post, but I got really excited when Denise contacted me about doing pictures of these two. [I get really excited a lot :D] They're just sooo freaking cute!! They came along with their grandma for their session and it couldn't have been more fun :D

The cutest part was a few days after our session I say Joy at church and she, who was *super* shy during our shoot, yelled "Hi, Stacee!" and then announced to the room of children that I took her picture. It was one of the sweetest things I've ever seen!

Eunice & Jake: portraits in the park

2010-11-02T08:29:00.000-07:00

I've known Eunice since Ms. Gima's 9th grade Biology class. We had some good times in that class! And throughout high school :] I've photographed Eunice and Jake's two beautiful daughters Addison and Elliette, but never the two of them! So, of course, I was extremely excited when Eunice asked if I would take anniversary photos of her and Jake during portraits in the park :D

Hannah & Mark: portraits in the park

2010-10-30T11:35:00.000-07:00

I know I've said it before but, I LOVE maternity portraits. There's just something so special and meaningful about documenting a pregnancy. I'm sure with every maternity shoot I do I will tell you all how much I love them. So, just be prepared ;]

Needless to say, I was ecstatic when Hannah and Mark contacted me about booking a maternity session during Portraits in the Park! I just love it!!

New Planners: personal

2010-10-29T16:09:00.000-07:00

For as long as I can remember writing down my schedule has been a huge part of my life. Every year buying a new pocket calendar was the highlight of the new year.

At the begining of 2010 I decided: I have a smartphone, I will use it to the best of its abilities and take advantage of the calendar feature.

False.

I didn't even make it to May before I was having mental breakdowns, forgetting to put events in my phone, having scheduling conflicts and just general chaos. So one afternoon on my lunch break at work I drove to Borders and bought the cutest Paperchase planner and immediately filled it with my life. Everything was once again right with the world.

Last weekend I was thinking about how the year is quickly coming to an end and that means I'm going to need a new planner! Then suddenly [ok, "suddenly" may be a streching the truth a *little*] I found the cutest planner! It's like it was made just for me! Best part: It's a 19 month calendar. So I can start using it NOW!

It's the little things in life. Happy Weekend!

and because my puppy is so darn cute!

Angie & Katy: portraits in the park

2010-10-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

Like Athena, you may remember Angie from Portraits in the Park last year.

One of the best parts of photographing people annually is getting to reconnect and catch up on life with people you haven't seen for awhile. I so enjoyed getting to do that with Angie! This year she came with her friend Katy, which was extra special because the whole shoot was a surprise for Katy's birthday. I love that!!

Athena: portraits in the park

2010-10-26T14:21:00.000-07:00

I'm working a split shift at my day job today, and it's almost AMAZING. I mean, of course I'd rather not go back to work at 5, but the 4 hours of uninterrupted editing time I'm getting in at Starbucks this afternoon is quite magical.

You may remember Athena from last years Portraits in the Park. I'm completely blown away by how much she's grown over the last year! I love being able to look back at older pictures and see the change in little ones. Kids change so quickly and I think it's so important to document that change. I definitely consider myself blessed that Athena's family has trusted me to photograph her 2 years in a row. ♥

The Canadians: anytime

2010-10-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

"Elizabeth walked right over the dragon and opened the door to the cave.

There was Prince Ronald. He looked at her and said, "Elizabeth, you are a mess! You smell like ashes, your hair is all tangled and you are wearing a dirty old paper bag. Come back when you are dressed like a real princess."

-The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch

It's hard not to get emotional as I write this blog post. I don't know if it was how adorable Canadian Zoe was as she scooted across the floor on her tushkin [bum], or they way they said "sorry" and actually meant it, the maple leaves, or how we could stay up talking till 1am like I'd known them forever [and it wasn't awkward!], or maybe it was the way they looked at my friend and how they came from across the country just to see her, love her, and bless her before her last baby is born, but Meredith, Jennie, and Canadian Zoe captivated my heart.

Long before they landed at LAX we decided that some time on Sunday would be reserved for a photoshoot. We ended up driving to the OC looking for some sun, we were unsuccessful at finding any but that didn't have an effect on the amount of laughing we all did.

I will not soon forget the moments I spent with these ladies.

We paused the photoshoot early on and made a stop for candy.

Canadian Zoe clearly stole the show. ♥

laughing so hard your nose krinkles is the best kind of laughing

Angie & Family: maternity

2010-10-20T17:05:00.000-07:00

My very first photo shoot with an actual client was a maternity session.

My friend Alexis, who wasn’t even my friend, yet, asked me to take pictures of her pregnant belly as soon as she found out she was pregnant with her 4th child, her daughter Eden. When I look back on that day it was borderline disastrous: my batteries died, I was SUPER self conscious and awkward. It was terrible. But every time I walk in to Alexis’ living room I see a framed photo from that day on her wall.

Maternity sessions have a very special place in my heart.

Angie’s sister, Christy, texted me a few weeks ago asking if we could all get together to talk about scheduling a maternity shoot and I couldn’t have been more excited! Even looking at the pictures now that the session has ended they still make me excited! This *has* to be one of my favorite shoots to date. The lighting was GORGEOUS, the family was stunning, it was quite near perfection!

It had rained a few days before our shoot and I didn't think it would have made a big deal. I was wrong. As we were walking back into the park my shoes got completely trashed. My foot was submerged in mud at one point. good times!

Hoarders, Forever, & Maple Leaves: personal

2010-10-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

I can't stand the show Hoarders. But, everyone in my family watches it so oftentimes I'm forced to watch as well. After being subjected to watch an episode the other night [I say it like I couldn't have left the room, that's dramatic. hahah] I was talking to a friend about how I could never be a hoarder. I throw everything away.

Then I stopped and thought for a second.

That's not true. I throw everything away, EXCEPT some random reciept from when I went out to dinner 4 years ago and someone drew a smilely face and a heart in the corner for me and told me to keep it forever. I take "keep this forever" statements extremely seriously.

Yesterday, two friends I've never had the pleasure of meeting in person flew to Los Angeles all the way from Ontario, Canada. After work I sat on the stairs in my friends living room talking and laughing with these amazing ladies like I'd known them for years, when in reality our only interaction before yesterday evening had been via Facebook.

An hour or so in to our conversation Jennie got up and said "Oh! We brought something for you!" Now, gifts kinda freak me out so my first response was "What!? Why!?" until she returned holding pressed maple leaves. But, not just any maple leaves, CANADIAN maple leaves. Legit! My leaves sat next to me on the stairs the rest of the night. They make me so happy!

When I was getting ready to head home and I started saying my goodbyes I told Jennie that I would be keeping these leaves forever, and I take keep these forever statements very seriously.

Happy Friday!

Phoebe's Birthday: personal

2010-10-11T21:40:00.000-07:00

Today was a very special girls 10th birthday.

I see Phoebe nearly every day, and if not everyday at LEAST three times a week. There's always some reason for me to end up at her house, and I don't mind one bit. :D [Especially since I live 2 minutes away now!]

Today I stopped by for a little birthday baking and decided to document our fun day.

Happy Birthday, Phoebe! I love you!

we tried to get a little creative with the flour ;]

Tarah & Casey: just for fun

2010-10-10T21:10:00.000-07:00

Today I spent my day as I usually spend Sundays. Church in the morning, lunch with my family and great friends, errand running, grocery shopping, and Starbucks drinking with two amazing women, evening TV with my sister watching shows that have cracked us right up and now a few friends have joined us to watch The Amazing Race.

I'm pretty sure this was the best way I could have spent my 10/10/10.

Here are some photographs of my friend's Tarah and Casey. You may remember Tarah from a post a few months back. While we were out shooting the first time my camera broke, so I picked her and her cousin/friend Casey up from school not too long to finish the shoot she had that was cut short. Enjoy!

my *FAVORITE*

Portraits in the Park 2010

2010-10-06T09:17:00.000-07:00

I'm really excited to be offering Portraits in the Park this fall!

Shoot me an email if you're interested in booking. Like the graphic below says, the date is October 24th 2010 at Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach. I'll be there shooting all day but PLEASE email me to schedule your session! The cost is $60 and that includes a 30 minute session and an 8x10 print of your choice. Additional prints, a disc of images, and individual digital negitives will also be avaliable for purchase.

I'd love to take your holiday pictures!

A Priceless Masterpiece: personal

2010-10-04T06:16:00.000-07:00

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

I spent my weekend in Thousand Oaks, CA at a Ladies Retreat with a group of women from my church. On Friday night I had the distinct privilege to photograph each and every woman attending the retreat for a special project the leaders had planned. I didn't know about it ahead of time, it was a last minute "Hey, you're a photographer. Can you do this?" type of thing.

When our Friday night session was coming to a close and it was announced that before you could leave the conference room you had to be photographed. Immediately groans and verbal protests filled the room. Eventually a line was formed and for the next 45 minutes I had one on one contact with each woman and heard countless pleas for skipped turns, comments about being ugly, or not photogenic, or hating pictures in general.

As I walked into my hotel room that night my heart hurt.

I'm a photographer, taking pictures is what I do. Nothing warms my heart more than being able to show someone through photograph how beautiful they are, no matter what their personal opinion may be. To hear so many people so opposed to even try to look for that beauty in themselves resonated in me.

The main thing it resonated in me was hypocrite.

Who am I to find beauty in others when I don't want look long enough to find it in myself? Everywhere I go I hide behind my camera, using it to shield me from myself. I dread looking at photos of myself and openly cringe when I'm tagged in a photograph on Facebook. This isn't news to anyone who knows me.

Who am I to make a judgement call on all of these women when I'm just like them?

When I look at these pictures I see women who inspire me. I see Jane, Pam, Antoinette, Kathy, Debbie, Alexis, and Terri. Women who may never read this post. Women I see in passing every Sunday and Wednesday at church. We may not even exchange more than a simple "Hi" but the example they have set for me as a 20-something will forever be imprinted in my mind. They are women I want to be like when I grow up.

My friend Alexis knows me better than basically anyone in the world, and on Saturday I asked her if she would help me by taking a few photographs of me. We wandered for 30 minutes just between our room and the conference room. It was uncomfortable and awkward and I wanted to hate it, but I did it anyway. This weekend that's the most tangible thing I learned, I didn't have a typical crying altar call retreat moment. I had a mini hotel parking lot photo session where I tried to appreciate something in myself that too often I try to ignore: I am a priceless masterpiece.

Happy Monday!

Sometimes, you make weird faces. That's life, and you just have to embrase it.

And sometimes, you look at a picture of yourself and actually like it.

Katia & Szofia: family

2010-10-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

Wow. These girls. I'm pretty sure they define cuteness. I don't think I will ever be as cute as they are and were in front of my camera on Sunday. Even while editing these photos I would come to a picture and turn my laptop around to whoever was close and say, "They're SO cute!" I can't get over it. Maybe it's the red hair and freckles. ;]

Meet Katia & Szofia.

These girls are Irish dancers so I asked them to show me a few of their moves. I was so impressed, I really want to see them dance for reals one day!

p.s. If you aren't my facebook friend or connected on my facebook fanpage you may not have heard about this years Portraits in the Park. It's October 24th at Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach. Please send me an email if you're interested I'll give you all the details or you can find them on my facebook page :] I'd LOVE to take your picture. For realsies.

Le Salon Specialiste

2010-09-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I went to get my hair cut, like normal. My sister needed her bangs cut, I needed my hair too short to put in a ponytail or I'd be too lazy to fix it [I'm just being honest], and my friend Cassandra wanted to drastically change her appearance. You know, the usual.

While we were there hanging out my photography slipped into the conversation and by the end of my hair appointment I'd booked a photo session with the lovely ladies at Le Salon Specialiste to update the photographs on their website.

They just wanted one quick group shot, but I've never taken just one picture in my life so we had a quick mini session across the street from the salon. [I totally made them j-walk, I'm a terrible person!]

Welcome to Le Salon Specialiste!

I am absolutely in LOVE with all the frames this shop has!

A few of the stylists opted to get individual headshots done. :D

This is my aunt, she is the first person who ever put red in my hair. Red streaks in probably like... 9th grade. I haven't turned back since ;]

Shanna & Phil: engagement

2010-09-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

My whole life I've always been surrounded by sisters. An older and a younger. Our house has always been a constant flurry of girls. Fighting for the bathroom to get our makeup and hair done in time for school and work, stealing each others eyeliner, brushes, and nail polish, late nights staying up laughing and laughing in the living room watching youtube videos and crappy reality tv.

In 44 days I'm going to have a brother.

I suppose techically I've had a brother for the last 7 years, but in 44 days it becomes official. I couldn't be more excited to welcome Phil into our family. He's the best brother I could ever hope for [that is of course, until Susanna gets married *wink*].

Last weekend we trekked out to Disneyland for their official engagement shoot. I'm really excited to share these pictures because I'm kind of impressed with them. :D Shanna & Phil, I hope you love them and that they grace the walls of your new apartment and that you smile every time you see them. I love you both so much.

You can find previous posts about Shanna & Phil here, here, and here.

Susanna get's credit for the bubbles, she was our master bubble gun user along with the help of Brenna who tried to keep them in the frame of the picture. Thank you both so much!

A Bachelorette Weekend: personal

2010-09-18T12:20:00.000-07:00

Today is proving to be a *painfully* difficult day at my day job. But I'll blog about that on another day. I've decided to spend my lunch break at The Coffee Bean and take time to remember last weekend. Where my sister, along with 6 of her 7 bridesmaids and The Mother of the Flower Girl ventured out to Disneyland to celebrate her upcoming marriage with "The Jams", Baby Buzz, swimming, hotel rooms, World of Color, creepers, hipsters, Burgerland, The Floor is Lava, and most importantly: laughter.

"She Gotchu, She Gotchu! CHU!"

Only my sister hahaha

We played the most intense game of The Floor is Lava in the history of the universe. I'm sure of it.

Our last morning there I made the mistake of washing my face with hotel soap and had an allergic reaction which resulted in my skin/eyes burning all day. It was quite magical.

It's not a bachelorette weekend without Chip&Dale ;]

Creepers:

The infamous Hipster Hat

The Bride to Be:

A real life creeper!

I had to end with one embarassing picture of Nicky. ;]

Exactly 7 weeks from today my sister is goingn to tie the knot. I can't wait! :D

Donny: anytime

2010-09-16T13:57:00.000-07:00

I met Donny for the first time in 9-3, his sophmore year. I can't believe I've know him that long!! When I started photographing the students who pass through 9-3 Donny was one of the first to befriend me. I could always count on a hug from him every time I walked through the doors. He just started his senior year of high school and over the summer he contacted me about headshots. Of course I was excited to do so!

Last school year Donny was involved in a production of The Wiz, he was fantastic! And since then he's gotten in to dancing and performing. I'm excited to see what this year has in store for him, what colleges he's accepted to, and where life takes him... if only he could get to class on time. *shakes head* ;]

Shay, Tahjana, & Alex: anytime

2010-09-07T10:26:00.000-07:00

When Shay first posted on my Facebook wall asking about a photoshoot I had my normal "Yay! a Photoshoot! I get to take pictures!" excitement. When I asked her what her ideas for her shoot were and she told me she wanted to walk around her school and capture her first days as a college freshman I was... I'll just say it: giddy!

Shay just started college at USC as a political science major. I'd only been on the USC campus one time before last Monday with Shay and I could not wait to shoot at such a beautiful location with a stunning girl! When I arrived at her dorm [she picked the dorm right above Jamba Juice, can we say win!?] I found out she was bringing along a few friends. We wandered the campus in the amazing light, I pointed out every fake smile, and taught them about "laughing on command". ;] So, to Shay, Tahjana, and Alex, thank you for inviting me in to your dorm and in to your day. I hope you enjoyed yourself and that your freshman year at USC is more than you ever imagined!

my *favorite*!

Susanna: anytime

2010-09-06T09:49:00.000-07:00

Today my baby sister turns 19 years old.

If you ask her, she'll tell you when we were younger there was no way we'd grow up to be friends because I refused to play Barbies with her. Psssh. She lies.

About 3 years ago we moved into the same room and from that moment on we were twins, and we haven't turned back. She makes me laugh every day. Whether we're sitting in the living room listening to our "jams", watching youtube videos, House marathons, or getting Yogurtland [twice in one day], we can catch each others eyes at any given moment and burst into hysterical laughter. I love her.

Susanna, I hope your birthday is amazing and epic in so many ways. I hope we laugh until we cry no matter what we end up doing. I love you so much, and I'm glad you're my twin.

AVID Ohana Outdoor Photoshoot: just for fun

2010-09-01T13:06:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that it has been almost 2 years since my friend invited me to spend the day in his high school classroom. Looking at that blog post today brings tears to my eyes because when I stepped foot in 9-3 for the first time I never expected that I would build the relationships I have now. That I would look back and see photographs of people who now have names and stories, who I have shared many laughs with, but on that first day I knew nothing about them.

Back then there was only one AVID class, and they were Sophomores.

Over the summer Mr. Anderson and I planned a photoshoot with his two AVID classes. So, for once, there would be some pictures of them off their high school campus just out having fun. Let me tell you, it was fun. We just spent a couple hours hanging out and laughing and really, there's no better way to spend an afternoon.

Today, school starts again. The Sophomores in some of those early pictures are starting their Senior year of high school, and the newest editions to the AVID Ohana are starting their Junior year. I can't believe how quickly time flies. This post is dedicated to the Ohana I am so blessed to be a part of. I hold you all so close to my heart. I hope that this school year brings you everything you want and everything you work hard for. That the pressures of Junior year won't be too much for you to handle and that you'll cherish your Senior year, because sooner than you think college acceptance letters will be pouring in.

I hope you each have a wonderful first day back! ♥

The Ramirez's: family

2010-08-30T14:03:00.000-07:00

Wow. I feel like I've barely had a chance to breathe the last few days [or weeks... but who's keeping track?] let alone sit down and write a blog post. I have exactly 57 minutes before I need to be heading out the door on my way to USC for a portrait shoot that I'm *incredibly* excited for!

So since I found a few spare minutes with memory cards emptied and batteries fully charged, hanging out in the living room with my little sister watching Spongebob [much to my dismay, might I add]. I decided it was a perfect time to introduce you, my faithful blog readers [I'm talking about you, Brenna and Jenn♥] to the Ramirez family! I grew up with Shay and her sisters, but I haven't had a chance to see her in years. Since I last saw her, not only has she graduated High School but she's married with an *adorable* little boy! It was so fun meeting her family and spending time down at the beach with them! I really love what I do. :]

Genesis: anytime

2010-08-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

I get butterflies before every.single.session. I get nervous that I'm going to be too awkward, or that I'll run out of things to talk about with my clients. I often live in fear of my own quirks. But only once before I met with Genesis last Thursday did I think "Oh Crap! What if I mess this all up!?" Because Genesis is so fun to be around and laugh with her photo session was more like walking on the beach with a good friend.

I couldn't stop smiling as I drove home because I felt so blessed. That I had the chance to photograph a friend, that her hair caught the light just perfectly, that we never ran out of things to talk about, and that I never felt awkward. I was reminded just how much I love what I do and how God has shown me time and time again over the last few weeks just how much He loves me. I'll admit it, through the smiling a few happy tears were shed as well. ;]

Genesis, Thank you. I had such an amazing time with you! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you! For trusting me when I told you to stand in a dirty alleyway, or in front of a garage, and for putting up with my abuse when I yelled at you for fake smiling ;] I'm so excited to see you this Thursday for an epic Disneyland trip! ♥ ♥ ♥

Um... does she or does she have the BEST hair?!

Amy: anytime

2010-08-23T03:36:00.000-07:00

When Amy told me she wanted an "urban" photoshoot I wracked my brain for urban places I've never been that we could have fun shooting in. Then just a few days before her shoot I went to Downtown LA with some friends to go bead shopping and was reminded just how much I love this city. As soon as I got home I messaged Amy and asked what her thoughts were on going Downtown for her shoot. She was game, and I was excited! Downtown LA never has a lack for interesting walls and alleyways or people for that matter. We wandered from 9th to 4th street stopping just about everywhere and my heart fell in love all over again :D

This past Saturday Amy moved on campus ready to start her first year of college and today she starts her very first day of classes. I can’t wait to read her Facebook updates as the day goes by about her professors, classes, and new friends.

Amy, I hope you’re having the most fantastic day, that your nerves have calmed, and that your year at MSMC is a great one! ♥

Alyssa & Donnell: anytime

2010-08-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

Today is Alyssa and Donnell's 3 and a half year anniversary. We got together over the weekend to celebrate their half anniversary with portraits! I was *so* incredibly excited to meet these two because I've been talking to Alyssa for almost a year about doing portraits. We met at Averill Park, which is where these two used to meet when they started dating in high school. I love when shoot locations have sentemental value! It makes the whole session more special!! We had so much fun walking through the park, laughing, almost falling in the pond... more than once, and singing N'Sync-I'm not ashamed to admit it hahaha!

Alyssa and Donnell, I hope you have an amazing day today. It was fantastic meeting you!! ♥

Alexis: maternity

2010-08-16T13:01:00.000-07:00

It's funny to me that of all the times I have offered to take pictures of this lady, this blog post is the *first* time she's been featured alone on my blog. Over the last 2 years I've begged her to model for me on *so* many occasions; like the time we got to our "location" only to realize I forgot my memory cards at home. Or the time we just decided all lighting everywhere was terrible and gave up, you know, instead of looking for the light and using it creatively. I've come a long way since those days. Besides just modeling for me Alexis has sat me down at her kitchen table, computer desk, couch, and living room floor and taken countless notes helping me plan photoshoots, design my blog, and bounce any ideas I've had off her. Stacee Lianna Photography would not be where it is or heading in the direction it's going without all her help and support. That's the truth.

I wish I could tell you the exact day I found out Alexis was pregnant with her 5th baby, Zoe Gabriele. I can't remember. It was a Wednesday night, and I was dropping something off at her house after church. I sat in my car in front of her driveway talking to her through the window. When she said "I have something to tell you" with the most genuine smile my eyes filled with tears, much like they are now. I just knew. God heard the most desperate prayers of so many people for this baby and my heart was happy.

I remember waiting anxiously for a phone call to find out if this precious baby was a boy or a girl as I drove through Colorado earlier this summer. Standing in the parking lot of a Subway on speaker phone with Steven and Alexis I cried again when I found out for sure that I would be meeting Zoe in November. A girl. It's a girl.

86 more days until we get to meet Zoe. I couldn't be more excited. I've felt her kick, heard her heartbeat, in 2 weeks I get to see her ultrasound, and I've seen a family come together *so* eager to meet their new daughter and sister.

Here is Alexis at 6 months pregnant ♥

In case you haven't noticed The Anderson family is incredibly special to me so I couldn't think of a better way to debut my new logo than with pictures of one of my favorite people. It makes me so happy! :D And I have to give a HUGE thank you to Heather who has been working SO hard on my logo, blog, and website. Hire her. You will *not* be disappointed.

The Sobaje's: family

2010-08-13T17:13:00.000-07:00

Back in May I hit my 100th blog post and for the occasion I decided I would give away a photoshoot on this here blog. I was so excited about all the entries that were left in the comment box! After I announced that Lauren was the winner and started emailing back and forth with her, we decided to wait until after her baby boy was born to do a family photoshoot. That way the family was complete. :] 3 weeks ago little Benjamin was born and this week we had the cutest little backyard family portrait session ever! I love photographing new faces! Especially faces who are in love with Toy Story ;]

Meet the Sobaje family.

This little guy was just so cute! I couldn't help but take a ton of pictures of him!

Mandi Hayen: personal

2010-08-09T20:46:00.000-07:00

I met Mandi when I traveled to North Dakota in May.

The last few days I have prayed that my friends in Ellendale would be enveloped with love and comfort from God as they face the tragedy of Mandi's sudden death. My eyes have welled with tears and my heart breaks as I see people write on her Facebook wall and tag her in pictures. Everyone was so encouraged by her life, by her words, her wisdom, and her laughter. I hope that one day God will use my life to impact people the way she did during her near 25 years.

This post is dedicated to the amazing life Mandi led.

Number 66: personal

2010-08-06T12:52:00.000-07:00

I don't have much time to write this morning because Brenna is sitting next to me ready to go run errands and I'm still in pajamas. She ran out of reality TV that I've been saving for her on my DVR and now I think that means she's ready to go... but I'm so not. Oops.

A few months ago I blogged my 101 Things in 1001 Days list and this morning I am happily announcing that I offically completed number 66. Go a month without Starbucks. I'm so incredibly proud of myself because that's kind of a huge deal. When I told my dad I was attempting this he just laughed at me. HAHAHA! We're both highly addicted, it's one of the many things we share ;] But I did it!! And the morning of August 1st, before church, I stopped in for a White Chocolate Mocha. It was like heaven in a cup. Seriously. ;] I have a buuunch of shoots coming up over the next few weeks and I'm so excited to share them with you! So I promise you'll be seeing more of me on this blog shortly.

Happy Friday!

Real Pictures: personal

2010-08-02T13:42:00.000-07:00

I’m not going to lie. I’ve been planning this blog post for a month. Ever since I read a blog from Jessica Shae's blog. It’s taken about a month to gather all these pictures together so I imagined when I finally sat down to blog them it would be “an epic of epic epicness” as the Scott Pilgrim vs. The World trailer says. I would have so much to say I wouldn’t even know where to begin. Planes. Clouds. Secrets. Sunsets. Robots. Movies. Puppies. Babies. Tea. So many stories. But instead as I pieced these pictures together all those stories fell aside and lost their importance.

Instead I only saw one face as I scrolled through a months worth of pictures on my cell phone and only heard one question: “Can I touch your nose?”

Jack.

Trying to describe this 4 year old is a near impossible task. He’s obsessed with the color orange, knows his multiplication tables and what words like protruding mean. He has a self proclaimed “Adorable Tushkin” and would spend every waking moment playing DS if his mom would let him.

But besides that, at 4 years old, he sees something in me that most of the time I can’t see in myself.

To him, I’m always a good friend. When I have red paint on my face he checks to make sure it’s paint, not blood, just so I’m ok. When we arrive at his house and he climbs out of my car, after spending the whole day with me, he sweetly asks if I’m going to come inside and stay just a little longer. He makes sure I’m invited on family trips to the beach and wants me to be at his birthday party. He runs after me just to give me a kiss goodbye. When he crawls onto my lap, holds my hand, or wants to sit next to me “just because” all becomes right with the world. His giggles never fail to bring a smile to my face.

He loves me for me. Even when I don’t love me for me.

So today, instead of telling you stories of my month I'm asking you to look at the poeple in your life and appreciate the ones who love you unconditionally. The ones who bring tears to your eyes just thinking about them. Those are the people that matter. Even if they're 4 years old.

Tarah: just for fun

2010-07-08T14:05:00.000-07:00

I remember when Tarah was in elementary school. I remember when she would try so hard to hang out with the older crowd. You see, I was friends with her older brother and when I would pick him up as we all went to the bowling alley or while we sat on the bleachers in the gym at church she was always in the background wanting to be with us but not quite making the cut. I remember when I would go to plays at my high school to see Danielle perform. Tarah would always make her way onto the stage after the curtain had closed mingling with the high schoolers and dreaming of the day she would be on that same stage.

About a month ago I sat in the auditorium of my former high school and my heart swelled with pride to see Tarah, in high school, singing and dancing on the very stage she dreamed about for so long. Two days ago Tarah turned 15. She is no longer that little girl pining for the attention of her older brothers friends. Instead the tables have turned and she has grown into a beautiful young lady whose bubbly personality and infectious laugh make everyone want to be around her.

Meet Tarah. I love this girl.

I'm so envious of her freckles.

favorite!!

Our day didn't end up lasting too long because my camera broke right in the middle of our session. This is the last picture I snapped before the mirror in my beloved 5D broke. He's been sent off to Canon to be fixed but as soon as he gets home Tarah and I are going to finish this session in an epic way. So stay tuned. ;]

Eileen, Melissa, & Myldred: seniors

2010-06-19T21:09:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to remember the first time I met these girls.

I'm sure it wasn't all at once, and honestly it's possible we were never formally introduced. That happens when I spend time in 9-3. Often I stand around the classroom observing, learning about students through watching, photographing, and getting little tidbits of information from Mr. Anderson as the day goes by. I often don't "meet" students until after they add me on Facebook and we start "liking" each others statuses.

Eileen, Melissa and Myldred are seniors in the class of 2010, they actually graduate in less than a week! [I'm sure as they read this they're loving the reminder that "real life" is right around the corner haha!] They're always among the first to say hi and give me hugs when I visit the school and I have really loved getting to know them this year. I had so much fun hanging out with these ladies last weekend and getting to capture a glimpse of their lives at the end of high school.

Santa Cruz: personal

2010-06-11T11:55:00.000-07:00

At the end of last summer my friend Pancho moved up to Santa Cruz for school, Brenna and I vowed all year that we were going to make it up to visit him. I mean it's only a 5 hour drive. That's nothing! Well, it took us until finals week to make our way up north, but we did it! And we're already planning another road trip for January, be prepared Pancho. ;]

I've lived in California my whole life and honestly never appreciated it's beauty until this trip. Seriously, this state is GORGEOUS! We drove PCH home and I was completely in awe of how beautiful the coastline is.

After spending our first day in Santa Cruz we dropped Pancho [who we did not take any pictures with! what kind of photographer am I?!] back at his dorm and Brenna and I drove 60 miles to see the Golden Gate Bridge. Just because we could.

This trip was seriously one of the most fun things I've ever done. I sat in the car for 3 days straight and almost cried when I had to get back in the car to drive to work Tuesday. But now I'm fully prepared to do it all over again. Who's up for a road trip??

Bridals: wedding

2010-06-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago when Elisabeth Carol was in town we threw together a bridal session and shot together in Laguna Beach. So. Much. Fun. We wandered the beach and around some of the neighborhood. Multiple times our model, Danielle, was congratulated and we laughed and laughed. And at one point we were all standing in an alley way and an SUV drove past, reversed, took a picture of us and drove away. Good times for sure!

Look how cute Elisabeth is with her new Shootsac cover

the hairpieces were made by my friend Alexis at Dreams of Eden.

*LOVE* these girls

Escalate Live: photography

2010-06-04T22:02:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I just have to laugh at myself.

I’ve been in a weird Glee-like funk for a few days now. I look at my life and I just get frustrated. I want more, but I can’t seem to get what I want to come to pass. So I just dwell in my frustration and become no fun to hang out with. Sorry about that.

Last night I’m working on my Bible study homework and the lesson was all about finding satisfaction in God. [For those of you going through Breaking Free, don’t judge. I know I’m behind on my homework. hahaha!] In my head I’m like “Duh, I this is common sense.” But looking at my life I’m so clearly not satisfied. But recognizing you have a problem is the first step to recovery, right? So I went to bed all “Tomorrow’s going to be different. I’m going to find my satisfaction in God and it’s going to be a great day!”

But then my alarm went off.

I had to get ready for work instead of snuggle my puppy. Then there was no parking at work. Seriously? It’s 9am on a Friday morning. Why is the parking lot completely full? Then my coworkers were just generally irritating. Clearly if I was someone else, ANYONE else but Stacee Lianna this would not be happening. Sometimes dramatic is the only way I know how to be. So I started drowning my unsatisfied sorrows by browsing Facebook on my phone. I came across Jamie Delaine’s most recent blog post about traveling to NYC later this month, and as I read it on my phone I convinced myself that my life would never be like Jamie’s. I’d never be able to pick up and go to New York. And have I mentioned I’m *never* going to be as cute a Jamie? She defines “cute photographer”. Yes, all of these things run through my head. How embarrassing.

Then I stopped.

Seriously? Wasn’t it just last night that I was planning to find my satisfaction in God? AND aren’t I leaving on a road trip to northern California tomorrow?! Aren’t I going to be driving across the country with a great friend I haven’t seen in months in just 2 weeks? Plus at the beginning of May I was not only able to go to the EscalateLIVE conference, which no joke, brought me to tears more than once. [I'm not kidding, Escalate was AMAZING. Go here and buy the Video on Demand. You will NOT regret it!] I was also able to meet in person [!] Elisabeth Carol, a photographer I have grown to love dearly through Twitter, Facebook and blog stalking. Who am I to be so unsatisfied?

Sometimes I just have to laugh at myself.

Jasmine Star is my hero. That is all.

So, in focusing on being satisfied with God and seeing the life He gave me the way He wants me too, I'm super excited to announce that I get to capture images of the Free Photoshoot contest winner Lauren! Blog commenter number 8! I'm typing up an email to you as I post this Lauren! I can't wait to work with you! :]

North Dakota: personal

2010-05-24T15:05:00.000-07:00

When I landed in Fargo, ND I had no idea what was in store for me over the next few days. I knew I'd be staying with my cousin and I knew I'd be shooting a fantastic wedding but outside of that there were a lot of hours that needed to be filled with laughing and fun.

I was a little [ok.. a lot] nervous about being in a place I'd never been and meeting new people. I'm slightly socially awkward, don't judge ;] But let me tell you from the minute I got into town I was welcomed with open arms by *so* many people. From all the compliments on my hair, to people mentioning specific blog posts and pictures I've taken [wait, people actually read my blog!?] I was blown away at all the love I was shown while I was there. Completely blown away. I have honestly never felt so loved an appreciated in my life, and this was from complete strangers. So, to Benita and Ken, thank you again for inviting me to share your special day with you. Elise and Dusty thank you for opening your home to me I had such a great time staying with you! Glenda, Ryan, Mandi, Andrea, Sarah, Mindi, Ellen and anyone I may have forgotten thank you. Your kind words and actions have forever made an impression on my heart and I truly hope our paths cross again.

These first pictures were taken around Ellendale. I walked through the town in the rain, it was quite magical and I very much enjoyed myself. Then there are a few of Elise and Dusty my amazing cousins. Enjoy!!

Also, I'm still giving away a photoshoot! If you want to be entered to win click here and leave a comment! I've gotten some great entries so far!!

*LOVE* this one!

Mindi & William: anytime

2010-05-20T00:56:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been an absolute blur. Traveling, a wedding, looots of picture taking, coming home to catch up on work and editing, taking *tons* more pictures, and then this week I spent an absolutely fantastic time at EscalateLIVE and with Elisabeth Carol taking even more pictures. I have so many blog posts to come!

But those are future blog posts, this blog post however is quite important in itself. First of all, it features an aboslutely fantastic couple that I met while I was in North Dakota. I smiled the entire time we walked the alleyways of Ellendale. These two LOVE to laugh, like serious faces were almost impossible. I *LOVE* laughing! Mindi and William thank you SO much for spending time with me and allowing me to photograph your smiles and laughs. I had so much fun with you both!

Second, this very post marks my 100th blog post. To me, that's kind of a big deal. A huge deal actually! In February this year I was booked for a wedding in North Dakota. On May 7th 2010 I crossed off number 43 on my 101 Things in 1001 Days list. That's also kind of a big deal to me. So, to celebrate these two monumental moments in my life I want to do something fun and exciting. Comment this post before June 3rd with something monumental you'd like to accomplish in the next 1001 days or just in general and I'll randomly select some one, some couple, or some family to win a FREE Photo Session! You must be willing to have your session in Southern California [unless you're willing to pay for a plane ticket, I do enjoy airplanes ;]] and your session must take place before July 31st 2010. Happy commenting!

LOVE this one!

Benita & Ken: wedding

2010-05-18T06:15:00.000-07:00

From the moment I drove into Ellendale, ND I felt appreciated and welcomed and truly overwhelmed by all the love people were showing me. I can't express how extremely blessed I am to have been given the privlidge to shoot Benita and Ken's wedding. Having someone trust me enough to want to fly me to another state [even though we've never met!] just so I can share *their* day with them. Wow. I am so blessed.

May 7th 2010 I woke up and looked out the kitchen window to see snow falling. The California girl in me had a *slight* panic attack ;] But watching Benita get ready that morning not stressing about her hair, or makeup, or a wrinkle in her dress she just kept saying, "Can't I just go get married?" I loved her attitude. Their wedding was aboslutely beautiful, the chapel at Trinity was filled with people who loved and supported them and their marriage. I found out later that Benita and Ken shared their first kiss at the altar. How amazing is that!?

I have so much to say about my trip to North Dakota that I'm trying to bite my tounge and save it for the blog posts to come. But from the bottom of my heart thank you Benita and Ken for inviting me in to your day, for laughing, smiling, *freezing*, and completely trusting me.

Dolly Couture: weddings

2010-04-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

Today I'm sitting on a cozy couch with 3 children and 2 friends. What started as a morning of babysitting has turned to an afternoon of watching old VHS tapes of Veggie Tales. I can't think of a better way to spend my Thursday. Yes, I am singing along to Silly Songs with Larry and I'm quite proud I still know all the words. Considering this tape came out in 1999.

These pictures are from alllllll the way back in February, I found them the other day and went Oh! Hi, I never blogged you! So here they are. :] I joined the Photo Sharp Shooters for a vintage themed shoot at the Heritage Museum in Orange County. The Museum is breathtaking! as were the models and the Dolly Couture dresses they wore.

VINTAGE CARS- Dennis Spillman –

MODELS:
JESSLABELA AVELAR Model, Makeup Artist, VINTAGE HAIR ACCESSORY DESIGNER - http://www.jesslabelle.com/
jesslabelle@ymail.com
FACEBOOK

JENNIE MELLO – Model, Makeup Artist, Esthetician, Hairstylist.
She works at Salon Amerige in Fullerton. For appointments call her at (714) 738-8800
E-mail: mellojennie@yahoo.com

YENITZA MUNOZ – Model and owner of Yenitza’s All Occasions (Bridal Boutique) located at 1500 E Village Way # 2256, Orange, CA. (714) 279-8667 inside the Village Mall
e-mail: munozyen01@yahoo.com
FACEBOOK

HAIRSTYLISTS
STEPHANI MORRIS - Hairstylists and Makeup Artists.
Stephvee.com - stphvee.face@gmail.coom (714) 595-9312
FACEBOOK

DESIREE ARMAN KIRST – Vintage Hairstylist Owner of Dyzdesi Designs- dizydesi@gmail.com 714-858-0289

VENUE: Heritage Museum of Orange County AVAILABLE FOR PHOTO SHOOTS - CONTACT THE MUSEUM www.heritagemuseumoc.org.
Book your next photo shoot at this Spectacular Vintage Museum. Contact Candace A. Chromy at (714) 540-0404 ext. 223 or e-mail her at weddings@heritagemuseumoc.org - LET HER KNOW YOU WERE REFERRED BY PHOTO SHARP SHOOTERS or Nancy Ramos

BRIDAL DRESS DESIGNER: DOLLY COUTURE – Dolly Thicke is the fabulous designer of these vintage inspired dresses.
http://www.dollycouture.com/
http://www.shortweddingdress.com/
FACEBOOK

FLOWERS: The Enchanted Florist created the beautiful bouquets.
http://www.enchantedfloral.com/
107 South Glassell Street, Orange, CA (714) 997-7673

Sundays: personal

2010-04-16T19:03:00.000-07:00

“Is it true you plan to teach?”
“Yes we’re going to teach Americans in Paris how to cook.”
“Madame Child, I must tell you, you have no real talent for cooking… but the Americans will never know the difference.”

Ouch.

I’m sitting here watching Julie and Julia, editing pictures from 100 years ago, and dreaming of things to say on my blog, since I’ve been writing and deleting posts for days. When I heard this I looked up from my computer screen, fascinated.

I rewound and played it 3 times.

Julia Child didn’t let words stop her.

I’ve been going through a bible study for the last few weeks called The Inheritance with Beth Moore. In this past Wednesday’s study Beth Moore said, we need to know ourselves. We need to be so firm in who God made us to be that when people come against us we don’t cave to what they say we are. I… haven’t quite perfected that skill. If I’m being honest, the last month has been a quick downward spiral where I crash-landed back into who I was; sad, insecure, and discouraged, when I know God has made me to be full of laughter, not quite but almost confident, and encouraged. All of this spiraling and crashing came from words, words that like the ones spoken to Julia Child, cut deeper than deep and were probably meant with the intention hurt but, unlike Julia, I haven’t been able to rise above them.

Instead I’ve had quite a few emotional breakdowns similar to those of Julie Powell lying on the kitchen floor. Except mine take place in my car outside the gym, sitting on a pew at church, or on the most comfortable couch in the universe with my face buried in a red tear-stained pillow. I’m hoping with each deep breath I take as I type this my next breath will be like the breaths of the girl I knew last summer who was excited for what the future held instead of the girl now who is daily reminded of the past and is daily bound by fears of repeating the past. This is why I've taken a blogging break for awhile, I'm sure this post hasn't been the most fun to read.

So, here’s a post dedicated to not freaking out because I have friends who love me. To laughing out loud at inappropriate times because of a funny text. To friends who listen to you and give you advice while you openly weep in their living room. To little boys who see me across the church and come crawl in my lap to give me a hug and a kiss and who say “No! Her is a nice friend!” To Miley Cyrus, N*Sync, Snoop Dogg, and Ke$ha who provide so much entertainment when sitting in LA traffic. To the phrase “I would NEVER lie to you”. To the coming Zombie Apocalypse. To moving on, even though it still hurts.

And mostly I dedicate this post to the people I spend Sundays with because their company melts my heart every week.

There's something I absolutely love about this picture. It's so simple, but I'm in love with it.

Sprinkles... *judge* ;]

Driving: personal

2010-03-31T12:23:00.000-07:00

I’ve always had a great love for being in the car.

When I was younger my family used to drive from California to South Dakota twice a year, every year. We’d spend 2 days in the car each way. There was never a dull moment. In high school I worked for my former youth pastor and he used to take me with him to run errands. As we drove around town he would ask me the most thought provoking questions [which I absolutely *hated* of course] and he would teach me life lessons about family, friendship, loving God, and even my future marriage. I’m not going to lie, sometimes I took notes. ;] When I got my license my car was always a place to get away, if I needed to get out of the house I had the freedom to just leave. I also finally had the freedom to pick friends up, go places, and blast Disney mix CDs that Danielle would always pick.

More recently I think of nights like once when Candice and Cassandra were over and we decided to get Golden Spoon, Starbucks or *something* and them, Susanna, and I drove around with the windows down and Punk Rawk Show or See You Again [we're not ashamed LOL] blaring as loud as it would go. And laughing. I love laughing. And there was one time when the four of us drove all the way to Solvang and back in one afternoon. If I was making a list of my favorite days that day would be so close to the top. Or, before Brenna got her drivers license I would pick her up alllllll the time. We recently decided we miss those pre-license days because now we never get to spend an hour in the car just talking [or singing along to Paramore... same thing right?].

Last week my friend Brian was home from UCSB on Spring Break. One of the days I saw him I asked when he was going to head back to school and his response was, "Whenever I can find a ride." I, being the great friend that I am ;], immediately volunteered Zoran to drive him back and invited myself to come along. I was 90% kidding but 10% praying a mini road trip would actually take place. On Saturday when I got a text asking if I could ride up to Santa Barbara with them on Sunday I was ecstatic. Sunday morning I could not stop smiling and by the time church was over it was taking *everything* in me not to jump up and down saying, “Are we leaving yet? Are we leaving yet? Are we leaving yet?!” I’m like a child sometimes.

I don’t know what it is about long car rides, but they feel like home.

Annie was supposed to be writing a paper... she took a nap instead ♥

Yeeeeeep. Zoran had N'Sync in his car. He swears it isn't his. We tried to listen to it... but it didn't play anymore.

On this trip I learned that the Carpool Lane is like a relationship. At first when you get in you have the option to get out, but once the double yellow lines come you better be ready for a commitment because theres a wall on one side and a ticket on the other. :D

I love this picture, even in all its blurryness.

This was one of the best days I've had in a long time. ♥

Danielle, Katelynn, & Robyn: just for fun

2010-03-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

Danielle is becoming quite a regular face on my blog ;] I never imagined when I took pictures of her and Alan last year that we would rekindle a friendship that had faded since high school. Since September Danielle has kept me company at PitP, dropped of Christmas gifties ♥, randomly stopped at my house during bike rides, watched the entire season of Glee with me in one day, faithfully attended Buried Life Mondays, and become a familiar face at my house every Sunday after church. [why do I always start to cry writing blog posts?! gah! darn you emotions!] I love this girl, and am beyond grateful for the friendship we have. I hope you know that Danielle Nicole. ♥

These pictures are coming up a little late. In addtion to my car battery dying my new laptop decided to stop charging so it was away getting fixed most of last week and I just could not bring myself to blog from the desktop computer. It's *not* the same. ;] Danielle, Katelynn, and Robyn, it was great spending the evening with you! I hope these pictures make you smile and remember your friendship for years to come.

Happy Monday everyone!

Photo Swap: photography

2010-03-24T00:36:00.000-07:00

Ok. First, I'm a horrible blogger. I only posted ONCE in between Photo Swaps. What's up with that? Second, I am about to die right now. An hour ago I left the gym and was so tired I sat on the parking lot ground before I got in my car to go home. Forgive me if I'm a bit delirious. HAHA!

Here is our second round of Photo Swapping. As much as it stresses me out having a deadline to get pictures to each other and to have a blog post up [which I clearly failed at doing today as it is after midnight] I really enjoy the challenge. :] this rounds theme was Water and People brought to you by the fabulous Elisabeth Carol.

Elisabeth Carol
[shhhh don't tell anyone but her picture was my favorite this week ;]]

Lizzie Kimball

Heather Mulholland

And mine :]

What a Week: personal

2010-03-20T00:18:00.000-07:00

What a week it has been.

Today I was driving home from the beach with my amazing friend Alexis, and her 3 children. We're literally around the corner from her house. .87 miles. 2 minutes. [yes, I mapquested it.] when my car completely shuts down. At first I was like OMYGOSH I'm out of gas! Because, well, I was basically out of gas. I had planned to stop to get some after dropping Alexis and the kids off. But clearly that plan wasn't going to work out now. I try to restart my car, did I mention it was about 5pm? and there was traffic? I get my car to turn on long enough to pull into the parking lot of a bowling alley, which is right next to a gas station. But of course it won't stay on long enough to make it through the parking lot to the gas station. So I get out of the car and start pushing, with the help of Noah, my 11-year-old hero. [He would probably die if I said that to his face] We make it to the gas station fairly drama free, and with the help of 2 extremely nice guys who were also getting gas.

At this point I'm like, alright, that was nothing. Pssssssh. Noah and I totally handled it. ;] [Noah, who by the way now wishes he had a List so he could have put "push a car" on it and then he would be able to cross it off HAHAHA!] I fill up my gas tank trying not to notice the $3.19 I'm paying per gallon when down the street by my house I know it's only $2.90-something. Get back in the car and you know, expect it to start. That would have been toooooooo easy.

An hour later my car still isn't running, the gas station owner guy has yelled at my dad and me because we're blocking a gas pump. Sorry. And AAA is on the way to tow me away because a jump didn't do annnnything. AAA comes, sparks fly from my battery as they try to jump my car... more than once. I'm glad I can laugh about this now, I couldn't earlier. In the end my car needed a new battery because mine was beyond dead. Who needs the sample albums I was going to order tomorrow? Clearly not me because my car decided to steal that money out from under me. Thanks. Thanks a lot. ;]

Like I said at the beginning of this post, it has been quite the week. So, I'll end with a few shout outs to the people who helped me get through it with no grace whatsoever. I'll admit it I've been a complete wreck. :D

Alexis, who invited me to sit on her couch and watch Ellen with her for hours. Who gave me advice and support and prayer when I desperately needed it and who stayed at the gas station with me today when she didn't have to.

Brenna, who kept me company very late at night when she had to wake up very early in the morning, who could read right though my fake “fine” and be ok with the fact that I wasn’t, and who doesn't judge me even though she knows what I want to be when I grow up ;]

Steven, who did not have a seizure and die in front of his children today when he tried to jump start my car, who sent me texts that made me laugh out loud, and who doesn't find it weird that I ended up at his house probably every day this week.

Cassandra, who wants my bad romance, who can easily make me laugh and cry in the same text, and who wanted to come party at the gas station just so I wasn't sad.

Zoran, who legitimately cares about me and what's going on in my life. And who spent an hour donating blood with me and hopefully realized that was the best hour of my day.

I can’t wait for next week. It can seriously only go up from here. LOL.

I’ll leave you with some photographs I took a few weeks ago of some of the most amazing people in my life. I love these girls.

Danielle is also working on a 101 Things List and #6 on her list was go barefoot for a day.

I told them to laugh on command... and to think of CoverGirl ads. We couldn't remember "Easy Breezy Beautiful CoverGirl" for anything so everytime I said CoverGirl Cassandra said "Maybe she's born with it" How do you not laugh at that?

Photo Swap: photography

2010-03-11T22:49:00.000-08:00

Last night I imagined that I would be writing an eloquent blog post from the comfort of my couch early this morning sipping coffee and enjoying the quiet before everyone woke up. This morning I realized I’ve never written anything eloquent in my life and that me actually getting out of bed with enough time to write a blog post before the sounds of my family distracted me was *not* going to happen. Instead I am, not yet, but *almost* frantically typing this from the break room at work trying to get something worth reading up here on this dear blog of mine before Friday slips away. So far, I’m probably failing. ;]

A few weeks ago I was chatting with my good friend Heather, I had just returned from the last PhotogShootout and I was sorting through my images and I randomly sent her one I was proud of. We continued chatting and then she sent the image back fully edited. I joked that I should just hire her to do all my editing and then genius struck. We talked about how much fun it would be for us to swap images with a few photographer friends and edit each others pictures to see how our styles vary. “Photo Swap” was born. Somehow I was chosen to pick the first theme… something about getting me out of my comfort zone, personally, I think it was just mean ;]

I’m so blessed to have met great photographer friends online over the past year and am grateful especially for these girls who I have so much fun chatting with and emailing. I can’t wait to meet in person [hopefully this summer!] So, here is our fabulous Photo Swap group, Heather Mulholland, Elisabeth Carol, and Lizzie Kimball.

Our first theme is *drumroll* ;]

Coffee!

Photography by Heather Mulholland

Photography by Lizzie Kimball

Photography by Elisabeth Carol

Photography by Stacee Lianna

Friday: personal

2010-03-04T13:43:00.000-08:00

I started this blog post yesterday ready to tell you about my amazing day spent with my friend and my sister sitting in my living room watching Glee and laughing. But I couldn't find the words and this post sat blank. Today I'm getting ready to run some errands which, sadly, doesn't make nearly as good of a blog post as a story about laughing with my friends.

These were drawn by my friend Brenna, the daughter of one of the librarians at my work. I'm so cheesy I totally got teary when she called me "Picture Lady" that's all I really want to be :]

Happy Friday! Hope everyone has a great weekend!

SoCal Photog Shootout: weddings

2010-03-02T10:15:00.000-08:00

I’m finally starting to catch up! *exhausted sigh* I spent literally all day last Saturday editing and made quite a huge dent in my to do list. Thank God. Haha! Now I just need to get to blogging everything. So expect lots of updates this week… if you expect them, that will force me to make them ;]

Going to Shootouts is amazing for so many reasons, but one of them is being able to experiment with your pictures afterwards. You get to play around with Actions and do things to pictures you normally wouldn’t for clients. I took it upon myself after this fabulous Shootout to just play with my pictures [probably why it took me so long to edit :P] and the funny thing is when I was picking everything out for my blog yesterday I hardly recognized them as my own because they looked so different from what I normally do. It’s so funny how just one simple step can change the entire feel of an image. I hope you enjoy viewing them as much as I enjoyed taking them. :] And like the last post credit to everyone involved in this amazing day is at the end.

Thanks for reading! ♥

VENDORS:

Coordinator: Amanda Auer of In the Now Weddings
Venue: Ron at the Romanesque Room www.castlecaterers.com
Florist: Honey and Poppies
DJ: Marcel Gonzalez FirstChoice Entertainment
Videographer: Nick Bowser, Crafthouse Productions
Stationary: Alison Howell
Rentals: Town & Country
Catering: Jay’s Catering
Venue Concierge: Mary Lallande
Bakery: Colette at Fancy That! Cupcakes 909.524.1864
Linens: Wildflower
Styling: Michelle Cunningham

Hair/Makeup: Kacee Geoffroy & Becca
Hair/Makeup: Alisha Baijournas
Specialty: Classic Party Rentals

The Rotation Leaders:
1. Garrett Davis
2. Cean Orrett
3. Gavin and Erin Wade
4. Brian Khang
5. Wai Reyes
6. Matthew Saville

Big Bear: personal

2010-02-27T20:05:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I decided that since I was off today I was going to spend the *whole* day editing. I'm kinda impressed with myself, I have actually spent the entire day working on pictures and I've made quite a dent! Yay!! :D I've also watched 2.5 discs of Veronica Mars [yes, one of the best shows ever!] It's kind of been the best day. ;]

I decided to take a quick break from editing to share some pictures from a trip to big bear last weekend with my churches 20 Somethings group. :] Enjoy!

A little Texas Hold 'Em.. i think... maybe it was something else. I went outside after they started playing ;]

I believe the conversation went something like "Lay in the snow" *blank stare* "No. Really, lay in the snow" *lays in the snow* :D

I *LOVE* these ones!

That first picture makes me smile, Brenna's like "Oh, Stacee..." ♥

Legitness right here.

I seriously *LOVE* these people

and this girl, basically couldn't live without her ♥

we're in pjs because our clothes were soaking after hours of playing in the snow... but the sun was just *so* good I couldn't pass up picture time LOL

Cassandra has also just recently published her 101 in 1001 Days list and number 41 was "Build a 5'7 Snowman". I hardly have words to express how happy I am that she accomplished this!

Everyone was pretty tired by the end of the day

Dear Alexis: personal

2010-02-23T01:25:00.000-08:00

You already know everything I'm about to say. :] When we started hanging out by accident I never imagined we would be where we are today. Never in a million years. Over the last 2 years you have let me put my head on your kitchen table countless times, franticly scrubbed red hair dye off the floor/chair/counter so it would be gone before Steven came home, made me cry in your living room, texted me to tell me you were "just driving and I saw the *perfect* place for a photoshoot". We've wandered the aisles of CVS, Target, and Albertsons because errands are more fun with a friend, experienced "Ugly Day" in another state, driven in rush hour traffic so you could watch me blush being in the presence of my heroes, you let me store my couch and magazine walls at your house for.. years? probably years. And so many trips to Starbucks... so many. You listen to me voice my insecurities almost every day about EVERYTHING and you know me so well I'm sure you've already guessed that inside I'm having a panic attack about blogging this... because we may break up next week. ;] You welcomed me into not only your home but also into the magic of your family and I am forever changed by the love you have all shown me.

I hope your birthday today is special and magical and something you will always remember. And just in case I haven't told you lately I love you and I'm so extremely grateful for our friendship. I'm glad we accidentally started hanging out, although I *clearly* got the better end of the deal. Happy Birthday Alexis.

SoCal Photog Shootout: weddings

2010-02-22T15:39:00.000-08:00

Look at me, trying to catch up on blogging ;]

You know how everyone refers to your wedding day as “the happiest day of your life”? It’s the beginning of something brand new and as a bride you get to celebrate it by dressing up in a beautiful dress, amazing shoes and makeup standing next to the man of your dreams. I can see how this would earn “happiest day of your life” status. As a photographer I can honestly say that wedding days are the happiest day of my life as well. Every one of them. At the end of a wedding day I fall into the car completely exhausted and ready to crash but with the hugest smile on my face and the happiest heart. It’s something I want to experience over and over and over again :D

When I heard the SoCal PhotogShootout group was putting on a mock wedding for their 1 year anniversary. I was *so* excited and incredibly nervous to participate! [Especially since the event sold out in TWO minutes!] Like, couldn’t wait and had nightmares the whole week leading up to the shoot. I’m so dramatic sometimes ;] I still haven’t finished editing through everything from that fabulous day but I wanted to show you some of the magic I got to experience since it’ll be a few days before I can settle down to edit. These are from the first rotation I went through, this couple was absolutely gorgeous and a complete joy to work with. I am so blessed to have been able to attend this event and extremely grateful to Hanssie and Matthew for taking the time to plan this day. You can check out all the amazing vendors who participated after the pictures.

There is something I absolutely adore about these photos.

VENDORS:

Coordinator: Amanda Auer of In the Now Weddings
Venue: Ron at the Romanesque Room www.castlecaterers.com
Florist: Honey and Poppies
DJ: Marcel Gonzalez FirstChoice Entertainment
Videographer: Nick Bowser, Crafthouse Productions
Stationary: Alison Howell
Rentals: Town & Country
Catering: Jay’s Catering
Venue Concierge: Mary Lallande
Bakery: Colette at Fancy That! Cupcakes 909.524.1864
Linens: Wildflower
Styling: Michelle Cunningham

Hair/Makeup: Kacee Geoffroy & Becca
Hair/Makeup: Alisha Baijournas
Specialty: Classic Party Rentals

The Rotation Leaders:
1. Garrett Davis
2. Cean Orrett
3. Gavin and Erin Wade
4. Brian Khang
5. Wai Reyes
6. Matthew Saville

The O'Neil's: family

2010-02-18T16:35:00.000-08:00

I am a horrible blogger. True story. And then I go so long without blogging I'm ashamed to show my face in the blog world. Here I am, asking forgiveness ;] and trying to get back in to the habit of posting regularly. I do have a bunch of fun stuff I'll be posting soon like wedding shots from the latest SoCal Photog Shootout [which was SO incredibly amazing!] AND this weekend I have a shoot featuring the gorgeous dresses from Dolly Couture. I can't tell you how excited I am for that! :D

But until I have time to sit down and edit everything I've been doing lately I'll leave you with these pictures from a family session I did back in December. I've known this family basically my entire life, Karen and I went to school together from elementary on and she is now my oh so fabulous hair dresser. It is thanks to her that my hair stays nice and bright ;]

I *love* this one!

This little boy, my gosh. He has the most adorable eyes!

I told Karen to "sit like a mermaid" she didn't get it. Isn't that exactly how she's sitting?! Like a mermaid! hahaha

Make up: vendors

2010-02-05T09:09:00.000-08:00

My friend Denise is an amazing makeup artist :D and last weekend she decided to invite us all over for a fun makeup night! Originally the facebook invite said "Come watch Cassandra get Lady Gaga-fied" but everyone who entered her apartment that night ended up getting their makeup done. It was so amazingly fun! If you're interested in hiring a makeup artist let me know and I can pass Denise's info on to you! And I'm I'll be convincing her to make a facebook fan page soon ;]

While everyone else was getting their makeup done Cassandra was inspired to have herself a mini photoshoot. Of course I happily abliged and I'm seriously in LOVE with these pictures! They're so dark and fun and amazing! Love them!!

101 Things in 1001 Days: personal

2010-02-02T09:57:00.000-08:00

I *finally* finished. I was inspired to start this list at the beginning of January and it has taken me quite a long time to reach 101 goals. I didn't want my goals to all be about me and I did want to make my next 2.75 years epic. So this is my "List". I'll be documenting my journey through it here on my blog. :D Think about making your own, at least 5 of my friends have started writing their own which makes me SO happy! Even if it takes you months to come up with 101 Things imagine how accomplished you'll feel at the end. :]

The Mission:
Complete 101 preset tasks in a period of 1001 days.

The Criteria:
Tasks must be specific (ie. no ambiguity in the wording) with a result that is either measurable or clearly defined. Tasks must also be realistic and stretching (ie. represent some amount of work on my part).

Why 1001 Days?
Many people have created lists in the past - frequently simple goals such as New Year's resolutions. The key to beating procrastination is to set a deadline that is realistic. 1001 Days (about 2.75 years) is a better period of time than a year, because it allows you several seasons to complete the tasks, which is better for organizing and timing some tasks such as overseas trips or outdoor activities.

My Start Date: February 1, 2010
My End Date: October 29, 2012

1. Participate in a Flash Mob
2. See the Northern Lights
3. Go to an airport and take the next flight out
4. Blog every day for a month
5. Mail a secret to PostSecret
6. Send something by mail once a week for a year [0/52]
7. Regularly set aside time to go to coffee shops alone
8. Have portraits of myself done more than once
9. Travel to Rochester, NY and Kitchener, ON
10. Purchase a Mac
11. Make cool movies with my FlipVid
12. Post a video blog
13. Pay off my credit card debt
14. Donate family portraits to families in Communities Child and/or Teen Challenge
15. Go a week without text messaging
16. Make a list of 101 things that make me happy
17. 2nd shoot a wedding with someone I admire
18. Get a tattoo
19. Attend WPPI in Las Vegas, NV
20. Get my own apartment
21. Memorize 52 Bible verses
22. Read the entire Bible
23. Redevelop a journaling habit
24. See a meteor shower
25. Watch the sunrise and sunset in the same day
26. Write a letter to myself to open at the end of 1001 days
27. Photograph a band I loved in my youth
~~28. Go on a road trip~~ [completed June 2010 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Cruz, CA and Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA
29. Visit 5 states I’ve never been to [North Dakota]
30. Take a photograph every day for one month
31. Have a “Mall Monday” night again with the old group
32. Travel to Greece or Italy [or both!]
33. Give someone flowers just because
34. Send thank you notes for small unexpected reasons
35. Photograph someone I admire
36. Decorate my room and love it!
37. Exercise regularly
38. Run a 5K
39. Hike to a waterfall
40. Buy a 50mm lens
~~41. Buy a 24mm lens~~
42. Buy a 70-200mm lens
~~43. Shoot a wedding in a state I’ve never been~~ [completed May 7, 2010]
44. Take Polaroid pictures for fun
45. Make that Skittles drink I saw online
46. Meet in person the photographers I have met online [Elisabeth Carol May 2010, Lizzie Kimball July 2010]
47. Send someone a care package
48. Donate blood regularly [March 2010, May 2010]
49. Donate platelets
50. Become a full time photographer
51. Say “yes” to something I normally wouldn’t
52. Visit friends in Dallas, Phoenix, and Vancouver
~~53. Give away a Photo Session on my blog~~
54. Attend at least one Photography Workshop per year
55. Publish my photography in a book
56. Go back to Illinois
57. Get a press pass and shoot at a concert
58. Accessorize… cutely
59. Make time to call friends that I don’t get to see regularly
60. Give gifts to businesses I visit regularly [like Starbucks & Samys]
61. Take a train somewhere
62. Keep my car clean for a month
63. Go on a scavenger hunt
64. Go whale watching
65. Volunteer for the Make a Wish Foundation
~~66. Go a month without Starbucks~~ [completed July 2010]
67. Go a month without In n’ Out
68. Dress up [like, wear heels] and go out with friends
69. Go to garage sales regularly for fun
70. Design my logo/branding
71. Stay off Facebook for a week
72. Go on a cruise
73. Shoot at least 12 weddings
74. Complete and post 15 photo assignments Alexis gives me
75. Get glasses
76. Complete a Wreck this Journal
77. Take a week off to volunteer somewhere
78. Make a prayer list/journal
79. Make a difference in someone’s life
80. Participate in the 40 Hour Famine
81. Walk Maggie regularly
82. Learn to talk on the phone better
83. Buy a Desk
84. Visit Ireland
85. Have a lemonade stand
86. Decorate my bulletin board
87. Take regular photo walks
88. Be in a music video
89. Change my bad attitude
90. Define something on UrbanDictionary.com
91. Volunteer for Littlest Heroes Project
92. Volunteer for Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep
93. Recreate a famous historical photograph
94. Follow the yellow movie signs
95. Participate in a Sh1ft.org 26 Things project.
96. Geocache in another State
97. Have my photography featured on a “big” blog
98. Save all my change for 1001 Days and give it to a random stranger
99. Have a Pillow Fight
100. Ask someone one thing they want to do before they die and help them accomplish it [like The Buried Life]
101. Learn to accept compliments

New York City: personal

2010-01-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

If I was organized I would have blogged every night I was in NYC. I would have come back to the hotel room after our eventful day, uploaded all my pictures, edited through the blog post worthy ones, and written something witty and slightly sarcastic that would make me laugh in years to come when I remember this trip with my dear friends. None of that happened. Instead I've been home for 3 weeks avoiding these pictures like the plague because well, they aren't that great or magical or even interesting. They're just pictures of NYC.

I had so much fun on this trip with my 3 amazing friends Cassandra, Candice and Susanna. We decided a couple years ago that we were going to ring in the new decade in Times Square. It sounded epic so we joked around about it and pretended like it was actually going to happen. Then in early 2009 we were hanging around and actually started talking seriously about going like, looking up hotel rates and airfare. By June we had booked a hotel in Madison Square Garden and it seemed like we were actually going. Our epic idea was actually going to turn into an epic adventure. I'll spare you all the details of our week because I'm sure they only really matter if you were there. ;] I'll tell you this though. It.was.cold. I don't think I've ever been so cold in my life. But now, after having had 3 weeks to warm up and reflect it was worth it. Stepping out of the hotel our first morning there without scarves, gloves, or anything warm bursting into fits of giggles at how ridiculous we were and freezing in the rain for 13 hours on New Years Eve in Times Square, I don't think I've ever sang in public more than I did that day. Memories like that make me look at New York lovingly even if it is bitterly cold. Yes, I'm a California girl. ;]

These are mostly "artsy" pictures... if you want the more personal stuff I'm going to post them all on my Facebook page today, so you can check all those out later :] And, I think I'm too lazy to make this 2 blog posts.... so be prepared for looooots of pictures. :D

I had a thing for the Subway... I *really* loved it.

Christy [Brenna & Alexis]: just for fun

2010-01-21T09:26:00.000-08:00

One of the first couple times I met Christy I was taking pictures in the classroom of 9-3 and she passed me a note that said "Hi. :) So happy you made it!" I hardly knew her, but made a mental note that she was one of the sweetest people I had ever met. This last summer I got to spend more time with Christy and learned things like she'll jump into a swimming pool fully clothed just to earn "hero points" [thug life ;)], that she is TERRIFIED of sharks but loves Shark Week and wants to go cage diving, that she has a great and epic love of hot cheetos, oh! that she is strangely attracted to guys that are at LEAST twice her age. ;] hahah! I love you Christy!! and that she is in fact one of the sweetest people I've ever had the privilege of knowing.

I don’t get to see Christy as often as I’d like because she’s a freshman at the University of Rochester freaking FAR away from Southern California; but when she came home for winter break I told her she was having a photo shoot and there was nothing she could do about it. I’m pretty sure we aren’t friends anymore after forcing her to be in front of the camera. ;] Alexis and Brenna came along to keep us company and they were also forced to participate in the shooting. I’m telling you, it sucks to be friends with a photographer, they force you to do all kinds of things you don’t want to. :D This was one of my favorite days though we laughed so hard, we trespassed, and we “spoke” about so many things.

Like I said, Christy was NOT a fan of being in front of the camera. Brenna and Alexis tried to help her out a bit. ;]

hands down this is my favorite picture of the whole day.

these girls made my summer :]

2010-01-20T09:12:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged by my good friend Denise. So I am supposed to put 10 honest things about me up here... lets see how many I can come up with ;]

1. I have a favorite coffee mug. I got it at the Seattle Airport after an incredible 52 hour road trip/vacation to Seattle. Besides the part where it's adorable it is also attached to many memories that make me smile and I think about them every time I pour my coffee.

2. I cannot stand the instant messanger sound on Skype. I don't know why but it drives me absolutely insanse. And now that I chat on Skype nearly every day my laptop volume is always off.

3. I am addicted to Happy Aquarium. Yes, it is true. I get all giddy and pathetic when I move to the next level and everything. But, I never name my fish; I always use computer generated names. Because if I named them I would become personally and emotionally attached and would never be able to sell them and get new fish.

4. Everyone should already know this but I love my puppy more than anything in the world. Every day she brings a smile to my face. Just this morning I was putting my contacts in and she heard that I was awake but didn't know where I was so she ran through the house trying to find me. I don't know what I would do without her.

5. 90% of the time my iPod is never charged. I always forget to bring it inside so it usually sits dead in my car for weeks. I should invest in a car charger.

6. PostSecret is my all-time favorite blog to read. I get all excited when I remember new secrets are up. :] I feel like it's a great way for people to feel less alone AND it has an artsy twist. I own all the books, two of them are autographed, I've seen Frank Warren speak twice, and I have secrets hanging on the walls in my bedroom.

7. I feel very deeply. I've come to recognize this in myself over the last few months if I love something I LOOOOOOVE it, like I'm all in. I'll be your #1 supporter and the first to "fan" you on Facebook. If something bothers me I can pretty much burst into tears in 30 seconds... whether it be in someones living room or sitting on the floor alone in my bedroom.

8. I am a texter. I can easily send HUNDREDS of text messages a day... in fact my phone has actually been confiscated by a friend to make sure I would not text during important times. Yes, I am ashamed. ;] I have a problem... but I don't really think it needs to be fixed. :D

9. Laughing and glitter keep me sane. Those are the key ingredients to a magical life. I try to always laugh even if a situation isn't going my way. I'd rather smile and remember the experience than get upset. [Look at me feeling all convicted writing honest things about myself... I need to remember this one when I'm at work later] And well glitter, every day is automatically better when glitter is involved.

10. I am socially awkward and really, kind of boring in person. I can't really elaborate much on that one... but trust me. It's true.

That is all. :D
Oh! I almost forgot now I get to tag people muahahahaha!! ;]
Lizzie
Heather M.
Elisabeth
Cait
Natalie
Heather G.
Vida

My Sisters: family

2010-01-18T21:12:00.000-08:00

Today I had quite a productive day! I had the night off work so I was able to spend the entire day attacking my bedroom. I just got my own room for the first time in my entire life about 2 months ago... give or take a few days. It's pretty amazing having my own space the problem is I haven't had a dresser that entire time. I'm sure you can imagine the disaster my room has been. Not good. Well, I *finally* got a dresser yesterday! So my room is way more amazing, not to mention clean. :D I'm pretty excited!!

I have so many things to blog, including a family session, a great friend, my trip to New York! and a project I've been working on for almost 2 weeks. I was inspired by my good friend Heather to write a 101 Things in 1001 days list. So *soon* I will be posting more regularly! I promise. :] Until then, here are my amazing sisters. I forced them out in to the blizzard after my cousins. I think we went out 3 times in 15 minute intervals because we were so cold hahaha! Snow is pretty amazing :]

Today: personal

2010-01-15T00:38:00.000-08:00

It's after midnight. For the last 2 days my goal has been to blog and I have officially failed twice. It sounds so bad to "fail" at blogging. But it's ok, I embrace it. Today [or yesterday I suppose] I planned to be out of bed by 9:30, at the latest. In reality rolled out of bed at 10:41. When I started this blog it was 5pm; I was still in my pajamas with left over curly hair from yesterday and ZERO makeup on. Now that it's 12:30 I still have left over curly hair... that really needs to be washed before work tomorrow. Still no makeup, well there was mascara for a minute but between the tiredness, the stress, and the momentary tears it is long gone. But I finally did change out of pjs because my sisters wanted to go to Borders. It's been one of those days where I'm trying to figure out who I am, who I want to be, and who God has made me to be. It's hard. :[

So here is my blog to publicly admit that I by no means have everything figured out. That, while most days you will find me curled up on the couch with a cup of coffee listening to Owl City; sometimes I can be in the same place drinking orange soda listening to Lady Gaga. That usually I don't leave the house without makeup... but if my sisters want me to go to Borders with them I'll make an exception. That I try to put on this face like I know what I believe and I'm not going to let things hurt me… but really I cry. That the more I learn about myself the more I am going to be able to reflect it in to my business and as stressful as it is and as crazy as it makes me I can't wait to see the finished product.

Because a post isn't complete without a picture, here's me in during my trip to New York City. We were just heading out to see Rock of Ages on Broadway. What you can't tell is that I am COVERED in glitter. :] Good night everyone. ♥

The Hess & Glanzers: Family

2010-01-06T12:50:00.000-08:00

A few months ago my cousin Elise sent me a message on facebook asking if she could book a session with me over the holidays. We joked around about me "fitting her in to my busy schedule" while we were both visiting our family in South Dakota for Christmas. She was so excited to get pictures done it was adorable!

Fast forward to Christmas Day. There's a blizzard outside. I nervously stared out the window all day hoping that it would let up enough for us to squeeze a quick but freezing photoshoot in because I had been so excited to have a photoshoot while I was there! New models and new scenery? Come on, what's better than that?? Saturday morning we all woke up and the storm hadn't let up... at all. I stared out the window for awhile and then decided what the heck? Snow shouldn't stop us! Thankfully Elise agreeded! The rest of the family wasn't too keen on the idea but after some begging ;] everyone ended up out in the snow storm. We took 3 trips outside so we could warm up in between and we only went out in my Grandma's front yard. [Everyone's cars were snowed in.. we couldn't get anywhere]

I love this girl! When I first got to South Dakota I was at her parents house and we were talking about all the places we could do portraits and she was telling me how she shamelessly "blogstalks" me. I was *so* flattered. Then, when we were out in the snow walking from my Grandparents house she literally jumped up and down saying "I'm going to be on the blog! I'm going to be on the blog!" I could not stop smiling. It was the *best*!

LOVE this one!!

New Year: personal

2010-01-05T10:36:00.000-08:00

I intended for this blog to be about 3 sentences long. About how I’m a horrible person for getting so busy over the holidays that I pushed blogging to the backburner ;] and how every time I had the chance to sit down and write something I was in an airport without wi-fi. [*that* by the way, should be illegal] But posting just that seemed cheap and like I still wasn’t really making an effort because who really knows if I’m going to find the time to blog later this week between unpacking, cleaning, adjusting back to Pacific Time and trying to catch up on everything I missed over the last 2 weeks.

Instead, I’m going to write a suuuuper long post. You have been warned.

I was chatting with a friend recently and she told me "as we come into the new year one thing is for sure, you can't look back at 2009 and say you haven't changed." At first I was like, what? What does that even mean? But then I stopped for a second and remembered who I was at this time last year and I am not the same. The only thing I really have in common with the January 2009 Stacee Lianna is the red hair, and even that looks better now. ;]

“That’s my New Year’s Resolution. I need to let things go. Not let them rule my life anymore and just *simply* be with Jesus. I honestly think if I can manage that... then everything else will fall into place. Friendships will mend. I will loose my negative self esteem points. I won’t be so afraid of everything. Maybe I’ll be able to accept a compliment without fighting it. Maybe I will be able to make eye contact. ;] and maybe I’ll believe in love.”

That is a quote from my New Years blog post last year on my personal blog. If you’d like to read the whole thing you can find it here. [Don't judge my personal blog... I used to be super angsty…and sometimes it still flairs up. Also, don’t judge my punctuation… that’s improved in the last year as well LOL] I read that blog post on New Years morning after spending 13 hours in Times Square waiting for the ball to drop [more on that will come later]. While my 3 friends slept I teared up reading this knowing if I’ve learned anything this year it is to let things go. And in letting go I've discovered so much more about who God made me to be than I ever imagined possible in a years time. I am not the same person I was at the begining of 2009 and I am so blessed because of that.

I don't have any grand and profound Resolutions to share with you for this year, I only hope and pray that I can continue to let things go, lay them down at the feet of my Jesus, and continue to become who He created me to be. I'm *so* excited for what is to come in 2010!

Because no post is complete without a picture, here are the 2 things I missed the most while I was gone in New York. My puppy, who still snuggles with me even though shes 3 years older and not nearly as tiny as she is in that picture. And Jim, my penguin who as childish as it may seem means the world to me. :]

Espinoza & Perry Siblings: family

2009-12-27T06:46:00.001-08:00

I don't have much to say to intro this shoot, except I laughed really hard. I adore these people. I had to wait to blog these photos because they were a Christmas gift and on Christmas morning Cassandra sent me a text message that made my day.

"So, for the record, ALL of my moms are crying over your beautiful pictures. Thank you ♥ Merry Christmas"

Later in the day Rino left me a comment on Facebook:

"I must say Stacee, Thank you so so much. You made our Christmas the best ever for our moms. They cried when they saw the pictures which made us all cry cause they were crying cause they loved them so much. You are absolutly awesome at what you do. thank you again so much Stacee."

I *LOVE* what I do.

I love this one :D

Actually, I love this wall. I want to visit it every day.

The shoot ended when the girls decided to run into the ocean. It was pretty epic. How many people can say that in the middle of December they ran into the ocean with their Christmas Picture clothes on ;]

The Dreilings: family

2009-12-26T09:03:00.000-08:00

Happy Christmas!! I haven't blogged in ages! And let me tell you I feel so behind! I've been shooting and working and taking plane rides to the Mid West. But after spending Christmas in the house because of blizzarding conditions outside [I'm not going to lie, it was pretty awesome!] I'm all kinds of rejuvenated and ready to catch up on this blogging thing. ;]

Meet the Dreilings.

I *love* this family, I've known them basically my whole life. Sarah, Annie, & I grew up in church together and have only gotten closer as we've grown older. Jane is the absolute sweetest, while Sarah & Annie are off at school she makes sure to come find "20 somethings" at church and get hugs from us. [AND when Jane signed me up for the last church camping trip she signed me up as Stacee Lianna LOVE!] I was so excited when I heard they wanted a Family Session while everyone was home during the holidays.

There was lots of "smizing" during this shoot. I was cracking up!

I seriously *love* them!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T20:30:00.000-08:00

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:11

Kiss Wedding Books: photography

2009-12-18T14:51:00.000-08:00

OHEMGEE. I have a gazillion things going on this weekend and am going to have a gazillion things to post on my blog coming up soon, including an ever so fabulous session from yesterday!! But I had to stop right now and post this blog really quick, in between the photobooth with a Junior High class and running off to pick up lenses for the weekend and then off to see "the" Christmas Lights with some of my favorite people [and THEN a sleepover!!] Because when I walked in the door right now I was greeted by a HUGE package from KISS Wedding Books. I almost cried I was so excited!

Having my first package waiting for me from KISS makes me feel like a real live legit, dare I say professional photographer. Nothing I have done thus far has made me feel this way. So, I had to blog this moment... so it will forever be documented in my photo business history. ;]

I am in love with these albums! There are 2 "Little Kisses" and 1 10x10 album. I want to hold them all the time and never let them go. [Too bad I have to actually deliver them to my amazing clients LOL] I want to get packages in the mail like this everyday! So everyone I've taken pictures of, you should ask me about ordering an album, like I'm not even kidding! They're kinda the greatest thing EVER! ;]

I have to take off, but I hope all of you, my amazing blog readers, take a moment to remember a time in your life you were absolutely giddy with excitement and smile with me today. Love to you all! ♥

Ugly Sweater Party: personal

2009-12-14T19:31:00.000-08:00

You know when you laugh so hard your eyes start to tear up, and it becomes impossible for you to catch your breath, your face turns bright red, and I’ll be honest *sometimes* a snort escapes… sometimes more than once. [I’m not judging you Cassandra <3 LOL] That sums up my day yesterday. A giant gasping-for-breath, fit of laughter.

It started at church in the morning, then continued on at our church Christmas banquet, and on through a long line in the Starbucks Drive Thru, Goodwill, Goodwill again, K-Mart, Ralphs and eventually to “The Bridge” 20 Something’s Ugly Sweater Christmas Party. I was inspired by Jessica Claire’s blog post last year to make an impromptu Photo Booth to showcase our "Ugly Sweaters" and with the help of my amazing Alexis was able to throw one together in the hallway. That’s where I spent most of the party, the hallway, smiling bigger than I have in a long time with people that I love more than anything in the world.

Last night as I was crying tears of joy in the hallway I was again reminded of how blessed I am. My circle of friends, as small as it may seem at times, is genuine. I thank God for days like yesterday where the smiles and laughs the tears and glitter carry over into the days to follow.

"I have such great friends that all we need to have fun is a sheet, a stool and a camera. <33" - Brenna

Alexis, my amazing Assistant and photo "student" gets credit for this shot.

I'm not going to lie, she was probably the cutest girl there last night. ;]

The newly engaged. :D

They... aren't engaged. LOL

This is Lizzy.

Lizzy was awesome enough to take a few of the pictures of me in the Photo Booth. :D She's quite an amazing photographer herself and I think you should go check out here work here. <3

I literally had to shove this girl down the hall to get her picture. SO glad I did! because her shots are some of my favorites!

I love these girls, and these next 2 pictures. <3

Alexis also took this picture for me. :D

A few last words to all the people at the party last night and then this loooooong blog post will be over. ;] There are like 50 more photos that I didn't include because... well, that would be the longest post ever so after work I'll be adding all of those to my Facebook page. :D

Rain: personal

2009-12-07T14:47:00.000-08:00

This morning when my alarm went off and I heard the rain outside I knew today was going to be epic. I love rain. I was supposed to drive to Downtown LA with one of my most favorite people but because of the rain we decided it would be better to go next week. So this morning I snuggled close with my puppy and made my internet rounds. Checking Facebook, Twitter, blogs, and having a heartfelt conversation with another favorite person in my life.

Then I decided to embrace my inner Jamie Delaine and go outside in the rain and take pictures. I spent an hour walking down the equivalent to "Main Street" in the city I live in and smiled and laughed and got completely soaked. It was absolutely magical. I love rain.

Now I'm back in my warm house snuggled in on the couch thinking about how I should start getting ready for work because my hair still looks like I spent an hour in the pouring rain ;] But instead I'm laughing with my sister while we eat Top Ramen out of a cup pretending its Cup 'o Noodle. [Because really, what's better than Cup 'o Noodles in the rain? LOL]

I am in love with today.

Farmlab: just for fun

2009-12-06T21:43:00.000-08:00

I am *so* tired! I was just taking a nap on the couch with my beloved puppy. Yes, a nap at 9:45 at night. Why not go to bed you ask? I have no idea... that just makes too much sense. I was going to tell you this epic story about how Brenna and I went on a museum excursion this last Friday for her Art class and how we almost died. But my brain is *so* not working well enough for that story to make sense right now. Instead I'll leave you with a definition that is cracking me right up.

for realsies: It's usually used when you are surprised to learn something. Other uses are to add how serious you are being about something. The last and most obscure usage is to explain the status of a couple. They are "For Realsies" if they are officially dating.

Usage 1:(shock)
"Koalas aren't bears they're marsupials!"
"For realsies?!?"

Usage 2:(add sincerity)
"I have always dreamed of being a plumber"
"Are you serious?"
"For realsies."

Usage 3:
"Did you here Jack and Jill are for realsies now?"
"For realsies?!?"
"For realsies."

Brenna loves chickens. Who knew? ;]

Just the other night I was sitting in traffic driving through downtown LA and I couldn't help but notice its beauty. There's just something magical about the lights and the skyline and even the traffic because sometimes you need it to make you stop and notice. Random tangent sorry LOL. [I said I was tired! :P]

Brandon: "welcome to the legend"

2009-12-02T16:16:00.000-08:00

Good morning! So far this morning I've learned how to launch a bomb in the Batman game for DS AND that throwing a green filing cabinet at Wolverine does NOT in fact kill him. It always cracks me up how dramatic and reluctant I am to say "yes" after asked to babysit [and how I usually ask someone to come for moral support/backup... I'm not kidding, I'm dramatic. LOL!] Kids are *so* not my thing, but these kids... I don't know. It's just different. :]

When Brandon emailed me about doing a shoot I was super excited, not only have I *never* taken pictures of him [this is epic, I've known him my whole life] but he would was giving me another chance to use my new camera! What's not to love about that whole situation!? A couple days before his shoot we were texting back and forth working out the details and he said he was so excited to have his pictures taken by, I quote: "The legendary Stacee Lianna". I couldn't stop laughing and I couldn't figure out when *I* had become legendary. Clearly he has me mistaken with some other Stacee Lianna. I am hardly a legend! hahaha! But, we decided that our shoot would be titled "Brandon: Welcome to the Legend" That's how it's written in my calendar. No joke. LOL!

I was kind of out of my element taking these pictures because they were inside but It was so fun playing with the stage lighting! [after we figured out all the light switches LOL]

*LOVE* this one!! Definitelymy favorite!

Stacey & Eric: just for fun

2009-12-01T18:10:00.000-08:00

Stacey [you may remember her from a senior session earlier this year!] is my oldest friend. Not age-wise but years-we’ve-been-friends-wise. LOL! We’ve been friends long enough that she was actually my babysitter before she was my friend. By comparison Eric is a much newer friend, but a friend just the same. :] Seeing these two so smiley and happy during their session made me so happy. It's nice to know your friends are happy. :]

Angie, Brittney, & Danielle: portraits in the park

2009-11-28T12:19:00.000-08:00

You know, I wasn't planning to blog these pictures because they were taken spur of the moment when Danielle came to visit me during Portraits in the Park. [Because come on, even if you didn't book a session who could pass up sitting on a couch in the park? really?] I was inbetween sessions and made them pose for a few minutes. But now that I've finished editing from those days and the rush of getting everything to clients has passed I was uploading these to facebook and couldn't help but feature these beautiful ladies on my blog.

If you've been reading my blog for any length of time I hope it's obvious that I love people and that relationships are important to me. Whether it is a romantic relationship or a friendship. But, having never experienced a real romantic relationship myself, friendships have an extra special place in my heart. [I'm tearing up writing this! What's wrong with me?!] It's rare that you see friends getting together to have portraits done, maybe it's awkward because you're not blood-related and you think hiring a photographer is for something more "important". It's not.

I'm going to go somewhere I never dreamed I would go on my blog LOL! "Most women define themselves in terms of their relationships, and the quality they deem those relationships to have. I am a mother, a sister, a daughter, a friend. Or, I am alone. I'm not seeing anyone right now, or my children aren't calling, or my friends seem distant. This is not a weakness in women-- it's a glory. A glory that reflects the heart of God." -Stasi Eldredge, Captivating.

God designed us to be relational people and documenting the joys and the laughter in friendships is just as important as taking family or engagement portraits. Friends are just as present in peoples everyday lives as family or boyfriends/girlfriends. Thank you lovely ladies for letting me capture a moment in your friendship because your smiles and laughs resounded in my heart more than I ever expected. ♥

Thanksgiving: personal

2009-11-26T16:18:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting on my bed alone in my room as I type this. I'm overwhelmed with all of the things I have to be thankful for. Perfect cups of coffee [like the one sitting on my nightstand beside me], french vanilla creamer, pajamas, sisters who laugh loudly at inside jokes and bring me flashdrives filled with newly downloaded songs from last nights episode of Glee, a puppy who cuddles with me while I edit and lovingly kisses away my tears when I'm sad, friends- new friends I've made over the last few months, "new old" friends that I've reconnected with recently, and just plain friends that I can always count on. I'm thankful for cameras, and for the people who trust me to capture their memories. Most of all I'm thankful for my God, who has taught me so much in the last year about who I am and has provided time and again in ways I never dreamed would happen. I am truly blessed.

My Return to 9-3: just for fun

2009-11-24T11:55:00.000-08:00

"Ohana means family in an extended sense of the term including blood-related, adoptive or intentional. It emphasizes that families are bound together and members must cooperate and remember one another." Whenever I walk into 9-3 I always feel right at home. It's intentionally more than just a classroom; it's a place where laughter, learning, mocking, and group hugs are expected and accepted. I love visiting!!

Besides sitting in the TA Chair and drinking a Caramel Brulee Latte from Starbucks my purpose in visiting this last Friday was to take pictures of Mr. Andersons' AVID Ohana. It was so awesome sitting in on this particular day because the AVID Class of 2011 is just beginning to mentor the AVID Class of 2012 so each class received letters from their mentor/mentee. Everyone was so excited about it! It was so fun to see the energy in both classes.

One of my favorite parts of 9-3 is the details. I could walk away with hundreds of pictures without ever capturing a person. [Which I have to admit would be quite an accomplishment considering how many people come through that class in a day!] The room kind of reminds me of a life-sized PostSecret.

When Brenna and I walked into the classroom I told her I wasn't going to take any pictures of her that day... I *so* lied!

I know there are already a million pictures in this blog post but it was hard for me to narrow them down to even this many! So, [later tonight] you can check out these and more over at my Facebook page. To the AVID Class of 2011: Thank you for welcoming me into your class again. I really enjoyed seeing you all again! To the Class of 2012: It was great meeting you for the first time! I look forward to visiting you again! ♥

The Steinbach Family: portraits in the park

2009-11-23T19:31:00.001-08:00

So much has been going on lately I feel like I have a million blogs already lined up. I’m all over the place with things I want to say and things I want to save for later. In an effort to save some stories for later I’ll tell you something that happened at work tonight: Someone asked me if I dyed my hair this color for Christmas. Why yes, I thought I would make a statement about how very much I love Christmas… year round… for the last 5ish years. I love working with the public ;]

There is a natural redhead in this family you are about to see. Yes, I’m quite envious. LOL I am *so* excited to blog these pictures! [I know, I always say that… but I *really* mean it… every time!] Dave & Cherish were the first to book a Portraits in the Park session and I basically couldn’t contain my excitement when I got their email. I love this family! Dave & Cherish were my youth leaders when I was in Jr. High and High School and I have spent countless Sunday mornings in the Sound Booth with Dave. Since my days in youth they have two new additions to their family, Conor and Madi. ADORABLE! I just couldn’t get enough of those two! It was so incredibly great to be able to catch up with this beautiful family I definitely miss seeing them as often as I used to. I love you guys!! <3

Their eyes just look like that. No photoshopping required! :D

LOVE this one!!

Candice & Family: portraits in the park

2009-11-21T18:13:00.000-08:00

You may remember Candice from a blog I posted earlier this year. [I love being able to link to previous posts! I feel so legit! LOL] Well, now you get to see her whole family! :D I was so excited when Candice booked a PitP session for her family because her family is moving up to Washington at the end of the year so this was a fun time to get portraits of them all together before the move.

I always mention that I laugh during my sessions and I have to admit, again, I was cracking up while wandering the park with this awesome family. :] I am truly blessed that I have found something I love to do so much.

Sarah: portraits in the park

2009-11-20T20:28:00.000-08:00

Meet Sarah. :]

Taking pictures of Sarah was extremely exciting for me because she was the first person I booked based only on seeing my work. She saw these pictures I took a few months ago and saw a link to PitP on facebook and booked a session! It's magical when my photos speak for themselves.

Besides automatically loving Sarah just because she loves my pictures ;] I had a fabulous time hanging out with her! Sarah is an actress and is performing right now at the Westchester Playhouse in A Little Night Music. From what I've heard from our mutual friends she has a most AMAZING voice! We also share an extreme love for fall, the colors green and purple, and laughing. :D This girl is amazing.