Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Breast Cancer Awareness

Chi has a thing for rollie pollies... and though she thinks Mama is absolutely crazy, I couldn't help snapping away at her feverishly digging up the little bugs and gingerly placing them in a container to observe for a few days. 

Now I've got lots of shots of her harvesting the creatures, but the picture I'll cherish most is this one:
10.3 (laura)
I sacrificed the only bloom on my parent's wild rose bush in the hopes of adding a little pink power to the picture. You see, it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month and I want to celebrate life!

I shot without flash on a day when the sun spent most of its time hiding behind the clouds. A 50mm prime lens at f2.8 gave the background its blur (which is great because I shot toward a street crowded with parked cars).

And my darling Chi? Well, she gave my image life with her glowing smile.  This is how she warms my heart - impromptu laughter, a scrunched nose, her almond eyes squinted to the point of creating tears.  It's my best because she's the best. 

Notice that her birthmark - a heart - is totally visable on her neck.  What a beautiful stamp God gave her, my own Queen of my heart.

On the processing:  I located a really cool Black and Color process action in a free set called "Aly's Vintage."  I auto toned the photo in PhotoShop, adjusted my layers to improve the shadows, and then ran the action.  I then went back and erased the action on the wild rose.  A quick crop for size (5x7) and viola!

11 comments:

TOLIVER FAMILY said...

super cute! love her hair

Unknown said...

This is one of the best pictures I have ever seen in my life. I haven't seen you around in a while. Hope you are doing well : ) LOVE this shot. It is magical!

Color [Me] Happy said...

I am in love with it! It sure is full of emotion! Love,Love.

Kerry Maddux said...

Exuberant!!! Oh, I just love love this so much!!

Kristi said...

Just the best -- her expression combined with the brightness of the beautiful pink... I love it.

Anonymous said...

beautiful expression! Love the flower too.

Sarah Hendrix said...

I love the happiness in her face. The bright pink flower adds the perfect pink touch!

DreamaReneePhotography said...

I absolutely love this!

Mandy H. said...

I adore the pure happiness on her face!!

Anonymous said...

I absolutely adore it when my daughter gives my a genuine smile :) Such a lovely picture. Please let me know what you think of my entry if you get a chance.

Christina said...

That is fantastic! What a contagious smile!!
I'm sorry about your friend...she/they are in Good Hands. I hope that God does mighty things in her body and her life.