Cel's Project 365

Day 365

2009-08-01T19:13:00.001-07:00

The end., originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

My final shot for my project365. Maybe not as showy or spectacular as some of you were hoping for but if you had any idea how hard it was to stick the bloody things together to properly show the numbers then I think you could appreciate it. The numbers were cut out of cardstock and taped to the balloons as well. That was the easy part. Of all the different types of scrapbooking adhesive and tape I tried plain old packaging tape worked the best for sticking the balloons together.

Taking part of this project was a huge undertaking for me. A photo a day for an entire year didn't seem too hard at first but these past few months have been challenging for me. Thinking of something creative and new every day can take its toll.

I am so glad I took part in this challenge and was able to connect with may other project365ers that were out there. It has helped me grow leaps and bounds as a photographer and has made me appreciate the smaller details in life. Never have I paid so much attention to the clouds, the weather, the sun and its beautiful glowing light.

The beginning of my journey started with a hope to become a better photographer and learn my camera. When I started last August I used one setting on my camera: Auto. In the weeks after I slowly started to study photography and work outside my comfort zone. Some days were a snapshot of the day and others, little by little, began to show pieces of me.

I am so thankful for everyone in helping to guide me along the way by providing feedback and encouragement. My family has been so supportive with my dad being one of my biggest cheerleaders. My husband, though rarely seen in my photos was also a huge supporter and always the willing pack mule for my gear on outings.

I would like to encourage everyone to stick out the rest of their current photography projects because if I can do it, anyone can really!

If you would like to continue to follow my photographic journey then please see my new blog dedicated to my photography at http://celinawyss.com

Day 364

2009-07-31T20:00:00.001-07:00

Old Guitar, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

My husbands old guitar. One of the "to-do's" that was on my 365 list. Better late than never I suppose. I never even noticed the cherubs on it until I got it out to photograph it.

Day 363

2009-07-30T19:06:00.001-07:00

Shiny and new, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Finally got my new laptop today after a week of being "laptop-less." My old one was nearing the end of its lifespan when the cat knocked it on the floor the other day. I would think that would pretty much do any computer in.

Day 362

2009-07-30T19:05:00.001-07:00

Little hands big noise, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I love how the light was shining off of my daughters hair when she was sitting on the floor the other day. I tried to get her to pose nice for me but I all she wanted to do was her own thing. After I backed off for a moment she started playing with her keyboard and I saw my shot.

Day 361

2009-07-28T20:47:00.001-07:00

Summer Flowers, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

The flowers in my front flower pot are now almost overgrown. All different types are growing and not a single one I can actually name.

Day 360

2009-07-27T20:08:00.001-07:00

As night falls, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

This is what my last days of my Project365 have come to. Seeing what random object I can find at the last minute to throw in front of an interesting background.

I also now have a permanent spot burned into my retinas.

But fear not! I do have a plan for my final day. It is just the days leading up to it that we all have to suffer through.

Day 359

2009-07-26T18:11:00.001-07:00

Warm Glow, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

My husband and I just finished up watching the first season of the HBO series, Rome on DVD. This kind of reminds me of the photography and lighting used in a lot of the indoor shots. It is actually a melt warmer (AKA wickless candle) I have in the house.

Day 358

2009-07-26T18:10:00.003-07:00

Bokeh, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

This is a hanging outdoor decoration I got for my birthday. I used our textured bathroom window for the bokeh.

Day 357

2009-07-26T18:10:00.001-07:00

Night Horizon, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

This is another nighttime view from my backyard. I remembered late that I had yet to take my photo for the day. My husband pointed out how orange the moon was so as I was setting up to shoot I accidentally fired off this shot. It sadly turned out more interesting than the in focus ones of the moon and lights.

Day 356

2009-07-23T15:07:00.001-07:00

New Shoes, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

My daughter got some new stylish Crocs today. These are the ones she insisted on getting.

Day 355

2009-07-23T15:06:00.001-07:00

HOT, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

The temp in our backyard gets so hot against the house. It was officially over 100 degrees for the day but not actually this warm. I tried to take this with my iPhone next to it showing the actual temperature and forecast but could not get it balanced next to it so I relented and just used the thermometer.

Day 354

2009-07-21T18:11:00.003-07:00

Oven fresh, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

When all else fails: shoot dinner.

Day 353

2009-07-21T18:11:00.001-07:00

Star light, star bright.., originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Last minute attempt at a photo. I was putting away my daughters magic wand and accidentally turned it on and thus the light bulb when off in my head.

Day 352

2009-07-19T19:11:00.001-07:00

Old or New?, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

My dad suggested this as a black and white. I think the sepia brings out a little more detail in it though. Thanks Dad for letting me borrow your phone!

Day 351

2009-07-18T16:33:00.001-07:00

Straws, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Today was Scotty Kelby's 2nd annual Worldwide Photowalk. I was so glad I participated last year and was able to go again this year. This shot was taken inside Goody's Ice Cream Shop in Boise, ID. The air conditioning felt so good in there. They have wonderful ice cream and even make their soda the old fashioned way.

I chose this as my daily photo because it is one of my favorites for the day. I wasn't happy with how many of my shots came out. Might have something to do with the fact that I discovered halfway through I forgot to reset my ISO from the day before.

Day 350

2009-07-18T15:53:00.001-07:00

Basking in the sun, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I liked the light highlighting Rosey's hair when she was sitting in the living room. You can't really tell with the processing but she keeps getting into something and her nose is black all around the edges.

Day 349

2009-07-18T15:52:00.001-07:00

Oh Nooooooooo!!!!, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Not how I envisioned this turning out but I ended up going with it. I found him in the store this week and just had to buy him. Maybe I will set up a better shot for him soon.

Day 348

2009-07-15T18:26:00.001-07:00

Berry Good, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

This is all that is left from the raspberries our neighbor brought us from her garden. I could easily eat fresh berries every day.

Day 347

2009-07-14T18:03:00.001-07:00

Twitter Warp, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

As soon as I get back from my trip the lackluster motivation for my project 365 is sinking back in. So sitting at my desk tonight looking at Twitter, you get this.

Day 346

2009-07-13T16:45:00.001-07:00

Halfway, Oregon, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

This is the Valley where I spent my teenage years. A small town in Oregon called Halfway. Population approximately 500. I never really fit in and still don't when I go back. It is a whole world so different from city life. The land is beautiful though.

Day 345

2009-07-13T16:42:00.001-07:00

originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

We went down to Hell's Canyon to let my daughter experience fishing for the first time. Sadly she didn't catch anything but I think she had a lot of fun. We had to pack up after a wind storm came through and cut the day short. Next time I am sure she will have all sorts of fish stories.

There were all sorts of butterflies hanging around the boat dock. They all seem to like wet ground. I didn't have the right lens on when I spotted this one so I edged as close as I could and fired off several shots. I love how much detail and beauty you can see in it's wings.

Day 344

2009-07-13T16:38:00.001-07:00

Finally got my hummingbird shot, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Not that I haven't tried this before but have never had the patience or the luck to get a shot this close of a hummingbird. They were all over at my moms in Oregon so I got several decent shots.

Day 343

2009-07-11T08:42:00.001-07:00

Summer night, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Quick iPhone shot for yesterday. I am getting so behind in uploading pictures. Yesterday was my birthday and I was so tired by the evening I didn't feel like putting in the effort for a decent shot. I had a great dinner with my family at Bonefish complete with my favorite martinis there. Hubby got my the battery grip for my camera which I plan on taking with me this weekend to try out. We are off to Oregon until Monday.

Day 342

2009-07-11T08:34:00.001-07:00

I R Tired, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Kitten update: Rosey has settled in as part of our family. Her and Tika can even be seen sleeping together at times. They still play and chase each other and when Rosey gets too ambitions, Tika will put her in her place.

Day 341

2009-07-08T18:29:00.001-07:00

Summer Fun, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

We got to see one of our friends from Virginia today along with her cute baby boy. It was nice to get to take pictures of someone else's child for once as mine is tired of seeing the camera.

Day 340

2009-07-08T18:28:00.003-07:00

Zen Rock Garden, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

This is my daughters creation. She found some tiny rocks outside and collected them to line up on the outside table.

Yes, I am behind on uploading photos again as well as behind visiting everyone's blogs and Flickr streams. I will get through the rest of the project365!

Day 339

2009-07-08T18:28:00.001-07:00

Just another flower shot, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Not sure what type of flower this is but it is growing in the planter we have full of all different types.

Day 338

2009-07-05T16:31:00.001-07:00

Summer, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Lazy Sunday here today. Gearing up for a busy week ahead.

Day 337 - Happy 4th!

2009-07-05T16:30:00.003-07:00

Happy 4th!, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Hope all my American friends had a great holiday. We settled at home for a BBQ and had the in-laws over for fireworks. Our neighbors greatly outdid ours with their illegal ones but we enjoyed watching them all go off.

Day 336

2009-07-05T16:30:00.001-07:00

Kabobs, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I am not a very good cook and this was my first time attempting grilling kabobs. And...like usual I tried to do too many things at once and forgot about them on the grill. They turned out ok. This is kind of a blurry shot but in my sudden bout of laziness this was the only shot I took that day.

Day 335

2009-07-05T16:29:00.001-07:00

The look of innocence, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Rosey is settling in to our house so well. Tika and her are getting along so much better than I predicted. I could not resist another cute photo of her.

Day 334

2009-07-01T18:49:00.001-07:00

Gotcha, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

There is no excuse for the quality of my 365 photos lately. It is plain and simple laziness. I am so ready to get to day 365 and be done. Picking of the camera every day is getting to be a chore and I think in order to rediscover my creativity I'm going to need a break. It is almost as if I'm going in reverse quality-wise.

Day 333

2009-07-01T18:48:00.001-07:00

First Impressions, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Don't ask me why I thought it was safe enough to get on the floor with the camera within reach of claws. Tika is actually doing better than I expected with Rosey's arrival. There has been a few hisses but mostly a lot of air batting. Today they almost seem to be playing together at times running and jumping. I think it will all work out very well. If nothing else, Tika is getting some much needed exercise.

Day 332

2009-06-29T16:45:00.001-07:00

Meet Rosey, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Funny story. My husband asked me to run to the pet store to pick up cat litter since we were out. Every time we go to PetSmart we always have to visit the animals up for adoption. Usually I ooh and aww over them and we go on. But today something just clicked and we brought home Rosey. Tika is less than impressed so right now they are separated until we can gradually introduce them to each other. Do you blame me though after seeing this face?

I'll try to keep the cute fuzzy pet photos to a minimum.

Strobist: SB900 full power on camera bounced off ceiling.

Day 331

2009-06-28T18:33:00.001-07:00

Slam Dunk, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

It was HOT out today. Actually starting to feel like summer around here. We got this nifty little blow up pool and slide for the backyard and the little monster really got into it today. Perfect day for it.

Day 330

2009-06-28T18:32:00.001-07:00

Dinner., originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

How does that saying go? "When the kids are away the parents will play?" My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our kid free day yesterday. We spend the morning playing video games like slackers, hit a movie in the afternoon and had ice cream for dinner. The vodka was not immediately consumed with the ice cream I might add. That is just icky.

Day 329

2009-06-27T07:56:00.003-07:00

Simple Sunset, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

My daughter is spending the weekend with grandparents so in enjoying my free time I almost completely forgot to take a photo. Luckily I remembered right at sunset.

Day 328

2009-06-27T07:56:00.001-07:00

My excuse, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

The reason I have been a slacker lately with my 365 and also why all the creativity has been sucked out of me. I'm working hard on building my town in Animal Crossing: City Folk. Enough said: you can laugh now.

Day 327

2009-06-24T19:34:00.001-07:00

Backyard Retreat, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I'm sort of cheating today and using a shot from the real estate listing I took today. Usually I would take a separate photo but their backyard was too beautiful not to share.

I'm still very much learning shooting real estate. I think my outdoor shots are improving because I am taking multiple exposures and merging them in Photomatix. I struggle inside using lighting and think I may switch to that method as well.

Day 326

2009-06-23T17:33:00.001-07:00

Home., originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Home.

Day 325

2009-06-22T18:34:00.003-07:00

Shoshone Falls, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

This would be why Shoshone Falls is called the Niagara of the West. You may remember my shot from earlier this Spring. I had the chance to revisit it today and found an impressive spray. So much so that many of my shots have little dots of water on the lens. I tried to bring out the rainbow a little bit more in this shot but it ended up making the sky look quite dark.

Day 324

2009-06-22T18:34:00.001-07:00

Objects in the Mirror, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Another lame last minute shot. Getting quite good at taking these.

Day 323

2009-06-20T20:08:00.003-07:00

Dreaming of Palm Trees and Sandy Beaches, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I was going to use an iPhone shot for today but at the last minute scrapped it and headed out to the backyard with my camera. Been kind of lazy with taking pictures lately, but I can't slack off too much as I'm on the home stretch of my 365.

Day 322

2009-06-20T20:08:00.001-07:00

Cherries, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

This is a bad last minute photo. Cherries on the cutting bored. I tried to rescue it in Lightroom but it still fails. Little effort in yesterday's shot and today's isn't looking much better.

Day 321

2009-06-18T21:03:00.001-07:00

Mmmm...cherries, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Today we ventured out to the annual Emmet Cherry Festival. Lots of great vendors along with the typical carnival stuff. It was a beautiful day for it. Plus I got me some tasty cherries for home.

Day 320

2009-06-17T17:46:00.001-07:00

Welcome to my neighborhood, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I'm actually pretty tickled with how this turned out. I was cooking dinner spotted my sunglasses on the counter and ran out and shot this in less than a minute. Shrubbery makes for fabulous bokeh it seems!

Day 319

2009-06-16T20:34:00.001-07:00

Simple, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Quick post and run today, ejoy!

Day 318

2009-06-15T19:08:00.001-07:00

Faux Vintage Buttons, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Just playing today with textures and processing. I wanted to shoot these buttons with the end result of aged in mind. There were actually very bright shiny buttons but I always think button collections look much more interesting aged. If I wasn't so anal about keeping my craft supplies organized I would dump them all in an old jar just for looks.

Strobist: SB900 shot through umbrella camera right +1 power.

Day 317

2009-06-14T19:19:00.001-07:00

Black Canyon Dam, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Took a quick road trip today and happened to time our stop at Black Canyon Dam with a patch of sunlight in between rain showers. Yes, the water flowing from the dam really did look that green.

Day 316

2009-06-13T19:31:00.001-07:00

Rainy Daisies, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Lazy rainy day shot today. I was using the 300mm to try to get some shots of the birds in our backyard but they didn't want to come out once they saw me out with the camera. So I settled for flowers.

Day 315

2009-06-12T20:32:00.001-07:00

My Name in Lights, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

A car wash here has been featuring local artists on their huge electronic signs in downtown Boise. I finally got up the nerve to submit my work a few weeks ago and this weekend I am the featured artist! No matter how cliche it is, seeing your name in lights is really amazing the first time. My photos looked really good on the sign but the pictures of it didn't turn out as well. This picture does not do it justice. I imagine the signs look much better after dark. But here I am!

Day 314

2009-06-11T18:08:00.001-07:00

Red on White, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Paint or Ketchup? You decide.

Day 313

2009-06-10T19:06:00.001-07:00

Into the Storm, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Settling for an iPhone shot today. We had some decent thunderstorms in the area today. This was taken looking up through the sunroof in my car. Processed using the Photo fx app on the iPhone and used Lightroom to remove some noise.

Day 312

2009-06-09T10:39:00.001-07:00

Sprouts, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

It's a miracle! I got something to grow! I got this pack of seeds for $1. It stated it was a mix meant to attract butterflies. So far only a few have sprouted up but I'm more impressed they are growing at all.

Day 311

2009-06-08T21:33:00.001-07:00

For the love of pastels, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Last minute inspiration as the sun was dipping below the horizon outside. Made for some tricky harsh shadows. I spent more time trying to figure out where to stand to frame the shot and whether or not I wanted to block the sun completely.

Day 310

2009-06-07T18:04:00.001-07:00

I Spy.., originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I struggled immensely for something to shoot for today's photo. I was outside pretty much taking pictures of anything I could find like the fence when I spotted the crack. A little work and I was able to focus on the farm behind us.

Day 309

2009-06-06T19:21:00.001-07:00

Night Reading, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Still recovering today from not feeling well yesterday. It ended up getting worse before it got better. I will just say I am not meant to take prescription meds. I am the type of person that will get any and all of those fine print side effects they warn you about on the labels.

So this is my last minute shot for the day.

Day 308

2009-06-05T16:47:00.001-07:00

Happy Friday!, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Not feeling well today. Not even well enough to want to crack this open. But I figured with everyone doing their alcoholic shots on Flickr lately I would put yet another in the mix.

Day 307

2009-06-04T19:00:00.001-07:00

To Dream, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Spent most of the day watching storms form around me and then pass our area by. Finally this evening we got hit. A nice way to cool off after a scorching day.

Day 306

2009-06-03T15:45:00.001-07:00

To be Free.., originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Had a lot of fun outside with the bubble machine and my little running man. He took a little abuse today and was covered in bubble suds by the end. Thankfully one of the beginning shots ended up being a keeper. Photoshopped out his little stand holder thing to let him be free to run in the grass.

This was inspired by a fellow Flickr users shot.

Day 305

2009-06-02T16:54:00.001-07:00

Summer Bloom, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

It was raining most of the day today which the yards here greatly needed. So the daisies are all closed up for the moment. They looked very pretty in the sun.

Just 60 days or 2 months left on my Project365. So expect a few lazy flower shots. Going every day for this long sometimes just gets challenging.

Day 304

2009-06-01T18:07:00.001-07:00

Bubbles, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I don't know even what to call this photo as it morphed into something entirely different. This is a macro shot of the new wasp trap in the backyard. The sun had been beating down on the water/attractant mixture and created a bunch on condensation bubbles. It is super gusty outside this evening so hand holding a macro shot didn't make for the sharpest image.

Day 303.

2009-05-31T18:33:00.001-07:00

Anniversary Gift, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

My gift from my hubby for our 7 year anniversary. I got him a wireless outdoor speaker. I'd say we both did pretty good.

Day 302

2009-05-30T15:18:00.001-07:00

In full bloom, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Quick post and run today as we are off to Melting Pot for our Anniversary Dinner. 7 years tomorrow.

Day 301

2009-05-29T16:11:00.001-07:00

Lollipop Lollipop, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

One of our leftover treats from Disneyland. My daughter licks them a whole 5 times then she is done.

Day 300

2009-05-28T17:10:00.001-07:00

The Writing's on the Wall, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Spelling with bathroom toys is actually harder than it looks. Being creative with the letters I had was even harder.

Strobist: SB900 camera left shot through white sheer shower curtain. +2 EV

Day 299

2009-05-27T17:00:00.001-07:00

Green!, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Attempting to NOT shoot flowers today and mix it up a little bit.

Strobist: SB900 camera right. Shot through umbrella 1/1 power.

Day 298

2009-05-26T18:50:00.001-07:00

First bloom, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

One of my Daylilies opened up today. They are one of my favorite flowers to plant in the yard because they are low maintenance. They don't die in the harsh heat we get here and I always manage to keep them alive. This is kind of a lazy last minute shot today as I spent most of the day putting finishing touches on my new website: http://celinawyss.com. This is going to be my business site for updated customers and showcasing my work. It is still very much a work in progress. Once I am done with my Project365 on this site I will probably only continue to update the new sie.

Day 297

2009-05-25T13:13:00.001-07:00

Pretty in Pink, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

These are the flowers my daughter picked out for me on Mother's Day. Somehow they are still alive. I thought today I would take them outside for a nice tribute as they are starting to wilt just slightly.

Strobist: SB900 camera left -2.7 EV.

Day 296

2009-05-24T19:29:00.001-07:00

Hang on Little Lady, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

When we were over at my parents house for a BBQ today I took my camera in the backyard to look for today's shot. My Dad told me that the plum tree had lots of green plums started on it which was originally what I was going to shoot then I saw this little ladybug in a big hurry. If you look close you can see the aphids she is after. Dad: you have an aphid problem on your tree!

Day 295

2009-05-23T14:18:00.001-07:00

Field of wildflowers, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

This is one of my favorite shots from the photowalk today. Field of wildflowers? Not really, just a patch we found in the park.

Day 294

2009-05-22T17:05:00.001-07:00

Magic Glass, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

When we were in Disneyland I ordered a "Glowtini" one night at dinner. It came with a light-up plastic ice cube as a souvenir. I love martinis but I also ordered the drink partially for the glowing cube. I wanted to take it home to see what else I could do with it. It has several different colors that it changes to so I am so excited about playing with it more in the future.

This was set up using a glass dish on top of a mirror. I elevated the glowing cube on a higher object draped in black cloth directly behind it. Inside the dish are also glass marbles. I played around with several different versions of this shot before I settled on one I liked.

Day 293

2009-05-21T14:52:00.001-07:00

Field of Honor, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

The Field of Honor currently on display in Eagle, ID.

"This living display of heroism will fly as a temporary patriotic tribute to the strength and unity of Americans, and will honor all veterans and currently serving men and women who have served and are serving our nation to preserve our security and freedom."

Day 292

2009-05-20T16:04:00.001-07:00

What grows below, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Very harsh sunlight out and a tad bit breezy. Maybe I need to try this again after the sun is down.

I also have a sad update on the Killdeer in our yard. This morning I heard all sorts of racket going on outside and looked out to see a big black crow massacring the eggs. They are no more. This is the cycle of life I suppose. It was fascinating to see at least 4 more Killdeer show up later on. They all circled around where the nest was and were chirping away. Its like they all showed up in support. That or the constant squawking of the distraught mother bird.

Day 291

2009-05-19T18:42:00.001-07:00

Zoo Boise, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I'll admit this is a lazy shot today but I am still trying to get caught up on vacation photos. We recently joined a new mom's group and today we joined them in an outing to the zoo. Our zoo is a slight disappointment after regularly visiting the National Zoo in DC though. But, last year they opened a new Africa exhibit that is very nice and definitely adds to the character of the zoo.

Day 290

2009-05-18T19:44:00.001-07:00

In Bloom, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

My daughter got to pick out and plant her own flowers in her own pot earlier this Spring and they have just started to bloom. What we thought were pink daisies were actually purple but pretty all the same. By the way, she was the official water spritzer for this shot.

Day 289

2009-05-17T19:56:00.005-07:00

Squatter, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

This not so bright mama bird has decided to nest on the patch of rocks leading to our RV pad. Right out in the open. She gets all in a tizzy anytime anyone nears her nest and does the whole "broken wing" act. We have decided to just let her be. Any idea how long it takes for baby Kill Deer to hatch?

Day 288

2009-05-17T19:56:00.003-07:00

Glowing Cocktails, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Our last night before returning home we ate at the Storytellers Cafe in the Grand California Hotel. I got a special glowing martini and my daughter got a Tinkerbell Lemonade. Splurging on your last night is a must!

Tink by the way being her favorite character of the whole trip. So much so we had to wait in line, twice, to see her.

Day 287

2009-05-17T19:56:00.001-07:00

The Magic, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

We finished off day 2 at California Adventures and watched the Pixar Parade. My daughter was a little disappointed to have to leave her balloon behind at the hotel when we flew home.

Day 286

2009-05-17T19:52:00.003-07:00

In a Fairytale Land, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Our first day in Disneyland. The weather was really nice, not too hot but sunny. The haze burned off quickly each morning too.

This is the mote around the famous castle. I found myself trying to take a ton of shots that did not include random people. I just am kind of strange that way.

One of the first rides we went on was the Matterhorn. Not a great choice for my daughter as the dark tunnels and scary monsters popping out at her made her think twice about any other rides that had a tunnel for the rest of the visit.

Day 285

2009-05-17T19:52:00.001-07:00

House of Blues, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Our first day in California. We dined at the House of Blues in Downtown Disney. I was enthralled with the ceiling. Hand held shot with high ISO.

I have 300 plus photos to go through from the trip so I am just picking some simple ones to post as my dailies until I get through them all, rather than bore you with a ton of family vacation shots.

Day 284

2009-05-12T17:32:00.001-07:00

Packed!, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

We are Disney bound tomorrow! So, just a quick shot today as most everything is packed up and ready to go. I'm trying out a new camera bag for the trip. My current ones were either too large or too small. I'm the Goldilocks of the camera bag world!

Strobist: SB600 camera left bounced off of bathtub below. Yeah I was shooting in my tub again. :)

Day 283

2009-05-11T21:06:00.001-07:00

Spring Planting, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

To say I have been getting lazy with my Project365 lately is an understatement. I rarely switch lenses and haven't wanted to bother with setting up lights recently so I have been just kind of winging it. This was taken in the backyard in natural harsh sunlight against the cement patio.

Day 282 - Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T19:57:00.001-07:00

Portrait Time, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I told my daughter the one thing I really wanted for Mother's Day was her to sit nice for a picture for me. Darn it all to heck that I had to mess it up on the soft focus. She barely sat still long enough for me to do this so I didn't have much time to check settings. This just reaffirmed to me that I am no way a portrait photographer let alone a childrens photographer.

Day 281

2009-05-09T18:55:00.001-07:00

Cloud Catching, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Finally it is starting to feel like spring again! I have had this photo idea in my head for awhile but it didn't quite turn out how I wanted it to so I started playing around with a texture I took of the sand. Very different from my normal style but still minimalist.

Day 280

2009-05-08T16:11:00.001-07:00

We found snow!, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I took the little one on a spontaneous trip to the mountains today. We went all the way to Bogus Basin resort where the last of the winter snow is melting away. My daughter is becoming less and less cooperative in front of the camera but she did tolerate one shot for me today.

On another note, there is something very strange about being alone in a ski resort area. Especially if you have seen it packed in the winter.

Day 279

2009-05-07T15:05:00.001-07:00

"I'm too sleepy mama", originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I originally had a different shot in mind for today but as I was setting up my lights SOMEBODY plopped down in my spot and got comfy. Tika rarely stays put when I bring out the strobes because she likes to watch the light bounce around the room but today she was just too sleepy.

Strobist: SB900 camera right shot through umbrella at 1/2. SB600 camera left 1/32.

Day 278

2009-05-06T18:21:00.001-07:00

Under the Archway, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

This is the arch in my parent's garden. I honestly don't know what kind vine is growing on it but thought it would be a fun shot looking up with the wide-angle lens.

Day 277

2009-05-05T16:28:00.001-07:00

Fading, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

The dandelions in our yard have been, for lack of a better word, exterminated. They are all curled up and wilted. This was the last remaining fluffy one. I am so run down and exhausted this week that this is the best I could come up with today.

Day 276

2009-05-04T16:29:00.001-07:00

Pushing, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

I have this little guy sitting on my desk waiting for a day like today when I am out of ideas.

Day 275

2009-05-03T16:29:00.001-07:00

Walking the Rope, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Eh, every day can't be a winner of a shot, right? We took our daughter to the circus today and we were all less than amused. It sadly just was not the best show. I also saw in the official "rules" before the show that no cameras with detachable lenses were allowed. So I was stuck with my point and shoot along with 3200 ISO.

Day 274

2009-05-02T18:42:00.001-07:00

Pink, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

My daughter and husband found me the perfect fluffy dandelion out walking yesterday and gently carried it home. I had already taken my shot for the day so I clipped it in my clamp and hid it in the close hoping it would last another day. It got very droopy but it survived! I had a lot of fun shooting this one and took a ton of pictures. It was hard to pick my favorites.

Day 273

2009-05-01T18:04:00.001-07:00

Fairy Mum, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Several weeks ago when I purchased flowers to shoot I dunked this Spider Mum in water and sprinkled glitter over it. I took a few shots but nothing I was happy with posting. So I decided to set it aside and let it dry to see what it would turn out like. I'm happy to say this is the finished product.

I did increase the saturation a bit in Lightroom because as it dried it definitely sucked some of the color out.

Strobist: SB900 camera right 90 degrees. SB600 camera left bounced off white shelf above.

Day 272

2009-04-30T19:22:00.001-07:00

At Sunset, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Note to self: Do not look directly at the sun, even through the camera. I'm still seeing spots. Could not see a damn thing trying to line up focus but luckily the first one turned out the best. Probably because my retinas were only partially damaged at that point.

On another note I would like to shamelessly self promote my new Etsy site. Some of my better works are now there for purchase as prints. More coming soon! Shutterbugcel.etsy.com

PIF Winner

2009-04-29T20:46:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who expressed interest in paying it forward on your own blogs. My husband drew a name for me this evening and the winner is Charlene Woods. Congratulations! I will be in touch to arrange sending you your cards!

Thanks again to everyone for playing.

Day 271

2009-04-29T17:48:00.001-07:00

Fading blooms, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

The last of the flowers on my front shrub are blowing away and falling off the bush. I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to shoot them one more day.

Last Day for Pay It Forward

2009-04-29T10:30:00.000-07:00

Don't forget! Today is the last day to leave comments to be entered in the Pay it Forward giveaway.

To see details please check the post below.

Day 270

2009-04-28T15:59:00.001-07:00

Jump!, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

My daughters very quick stint outside jumping in the rain. She high-tailed it right back inside at the first crack of thunder. I only got one shot so this had to be the one. I cropped out her foot because I thought it took away from the shadow.

Day 269

2009-04-27T18:50:00.001-07:00

Looking out, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Today was not such a great day so I was feeling a little less than motivated to set up anything.

Day 268

2009-04-26T17:42:00.001-07:00

Zen Cooking, originally uploaded by Shutterbug Cel.

Too bad I spend way more time working on setting up shots and photography than I do actually cooking.

Strobist: SB600 camera left bounced off white shelf above. SB900 camera right bounced off shelf above.