It is always around this time of year that I begin to consider homeschooling. I am a much better mom in the summer, when I don't say "hurry up" six times before 8:30, when I can let the child work on their own rhythm of late nights and long sleep-ins. I feel like I am more loving, more consistent , a better watcher and a better teacher and guide in the summer. When I can pull over on the side of the road to look at the sheep in the field, or spend hours in the library looking at photos of Egypt.
So the thought of homeschooling hits me at some point during the summer. Yesterday it happened after a hour long bike ride in Campbell River, where we discussed birds, feminism, healthily choices and how they relate to patience and effective planning - all while exercising. On our way home the light was stunning, so we ran home, grabbed some cameras and headed out again.
I felt 100% present, and I could tell she was 100% relaxed and receptive.
Now, as for homeschooling, those of you that know my busy life, no need to panic and stage an intervention, just allow me to play with the idea in my dreamy summer state, don't worry I go through this every summer and no rash decisions have ever been made.
Selah captured the image of me on the right tonight, I see she has my eye for strong foregrounds and breaking compositional rules, the photo cracks me up...
Our dog Utah hasn't made a blog appearance in some time, she had a hair-cut today and is sporting what I call the Cugly, ie. Cute-Ugly-Do, she was along for the ride with us last night -
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I'm better in the summer
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It typically goes down like this -
Once you book a session, you and I chat and talk about feel, environment, and vision for the session. Well, when I talked with the super stylish Erin, she just kept telling me "I just want a nice family photo," - she was so open to the feel and vibe, that it left me really excited to be open to what happened.
We decided on our starting point, and after creating some family sessions there, moved to two other spots I had picked out. In there we did a clothing change and lots of goofing around. Olivia and Nolan and absolute sweethearts, totally warm, fun-loving and interesting. Erin and James, you have created a beautiful family that alludes the warm, laid-back and kind vibe you both have.
Your family is adorable! Thank you for the lovely evening.
Oh - one more thing, I have WAY to many fave's... it was painful to decided between them - however this first one makes me so, so happy -
Kids, feet firmly planted in a big, big world....
because they have an awesome family to help them grow -
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Erin, James, Olivia and Nolan-strong family love
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I was so excited to have the chance to photograph Owen again! His mom wanted to create a session that showcased this little man and their bond.
I love it when parents think forward, realizing how valued a photo with them in it will be to their children in the years to come.
This first photo gives me goosebumps, I can feel the joy that Owen brings to his mom's life.
and here is the little man, such a boy, all boy.....
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Celebrating Loving Owen
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I really don't have to write more than LOVE. Because that is the word that best describes them. I fell for the Leakey's when I photographed Sarah and Sean's wedding, it was such an honour to be part of their celebration and get to know them well enough to call them friends.
Sean, Sarah, parents Wayne and Jan and sister Jenny came together for a photo shoot and Sean and Sarah's house last week. They are such a connected family, who vacation together, bike together, and really just thrive on spending time with each other. They all have much in common and share a similar sense of humor. You really can feel the respect and friendship they have with each other.
The pleasure was all mine when it came to photographing them as they are just so much fun to be around with. I am surprised we even managed to squeeze images in with all the chit-chat!
I have to give Wayne a little special treatment, and share this photo first, (your comment about my hair gave you extra cred!)
Sarah Leakey:
Aww the hair credit from Wayne, hee hee, love it Karen, ha! How can you tell he was raised with girls who love to chat hair! He was very thankful when Sean came on the scene and they could chat Nascar instead ;-) We truly had so much fun that evening with you Karen, your talent is amazing and you are so fun to be around, it felt like a happy hour date not a photo date, love the shots..can't wait to see the rest. I was like a kid at Christmas waiting for these, ha! Enjoy your well deserved break on Hornby~ See you soon xoxo Sarah & Sean
(07.28.11 @ 02:10 PM)
Karen McKinnon:
Thanks Sarah!
(08.02.11 @ 01:44 PM)
Lisa Black:
Everytime I see Sarah she makes me smile how can she not with always being so happy all the time. The photographs look great, can't wait to see what you choose Sarah.
(08.03.11 @ 03:54 PM)
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Leakey Love- Vancouver Island Family Photography
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I'll admit it, lately, I don't always photograph in the nicest of places, well that is, the nicest smelling places. The last few weeks have found me in some stinky alleys, some old no longer used barns and surrounded by manure, well actually, in manure.
So when presented with a beautiful morning and a stunning family, I thought we should head off to a gorgeous location, that all our senses would enjoy. Off we went to be surrounded by lavender at the stunning Shamrock Farm.
Once again, we beat the rain that has been (note past tense..yay!) plaguing us, and we could smell the lavender and enjoy the sounds of the animals.
It took about five minutes before Tiffany and Alina were all warmed up and laughing and playing with me. We were able to capture some lovely moments and have a great time.
Seriously, wish I could have played with these gals all day! Such a wonderful handsome family.
As I had created photos of Tiffany when she was younger, we focussed much of the session on Alina.
It only lasted a minute but check out the champion pout on the top image -
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The Tancon's - scratch and sniff?
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