What is an RSS Feed?
An RSS feed is an easy and efficient way to keep track of when a website adds new content. Instead of checking Site A, Site B, and Site C every day to see if there’s anything new, you can subscribe to each site’s RSS feed and you will be instantly notified by your RSS Reader when new content is added.

So what is an RSS reader?
An RSS Reader is an application you use to view RSS feeds. Similar to how an email application can gather messages from multiple email accounts, an RSS Reader gathers feeds from multiple sites so you can view them in one location.

There are two types of RSS Readers: Web Readers and Desktop Readers. The difference between the two is fairly minimal. The main advantage of Web Readers is that they store all of your subscribed feeds on the internet, so you can access them on any computer. On the other hand, Desktop Readers download subscribed feeds to your hard drive, so you can view them even if you don’t have an internet connection.

Where can I get an RSS Reader?
There are many RSS readers available today and most are free to download and use. Just do a search and I’m sure you’ll find one that you like. Once you select an RSS Reader, you can start subscribing to site feeds.

Now it’s really easy to subscribe to the MJP Photography blog. Simply click on the “RSS FEED” link at the top of the right hand column of this page and it will take you to options that will allow you to become more easily notified when the blog is updated.

If your browser is unable to act on the “RSS FEED” link, you can add the link below for my blog into an RSS reader.

http://mjp.bigfolioblog.com/weblog/rss

Here are few photos from a recent session with Deidre, Murray and their beautiful baby boy. These were taken from a session a few weeks ago, when we had one of the biggest snow storms of the year. I know I probably shouldn’t have said that, but just goes to show how time passes by.

Enjoy


From now until Friday, I will be offering clients that have already placed a print order a chance to purchase a gallery wrap canvas print at a savings of 25% off! This is a great opportunity to see your favourite photo in a big, beautiful work of art.

Offer applies only to clients that have already placed a previous order. Offer ends Friday April 18, 2008.

If you would like to place an order or have any questions, please let me know.

Thanks

I’m really thankful that I’m in the position that I am, and that I’m able to do something that is so satisfying to both my clients and myself. It means so much to me to not only provide a service to people, but to connect and touch people on an emotional level is something that can’t really be described.

Over the course of the last year I’ve had the opportunity to photograph Kathleen’s maternity session and then four sessions throughout the year. It’s always amazing to see how fast babies grow in their first year and this little girl is no different. She always seemed to be in good mood for me and I loved seeing those little smiles every now and then. I look forward to seeing her grow and having mom and dad chase her around in the future.

Enjoy


There are many factors to consider when you’re planning for a portrait session. Some of the factors we have no control over such as weather and lighting conditions, if it’s outside. We do however have complete control over the clothing choices which is what I want to talk about. I’ve listed a few details below you might wish to review before your session.

Please don’t become too worried about the number of options listed here, and just remember they’re intended to serve as helpful guidelines and not be considered requirements.

In general, solid colours always photograph best, so avoid stripes, patterns, short sleeves, and clothing with any large wording or large brand name logos on it. Classic styles will “age” better over time as opposed to the latest in fashionable clothing.

Ladies: We suggest having a variety of clothing for your session. We recommend a traditional dress outfit for a more formal look if you have that type of session scheduled. Darker solids work best for formal portraits and off the shoulder dresses are nice, but you should remain conscious of tan lines. As well, you may want to have a selection of casual outfits that best show your personality. Basic primary colours as well as black and white are great for casuals. Whites or pastels work best with lighter backgrounds. You can also accessorize with shoes, jewelry, belts, etc. but remember clothing and accessories should be flattering and complimentary, rather than overpowering. It is your face that is the most important element in a portrait, not your clothing.

Guys: We also suggest a few outfits for your session. For a formal session, we recommend a suit or sport coat, and remember that your dress shirt should be pressed to avoid wrinkles. Ties should be not so colourful or flashy that they take attention away from your face or the rest of the image. As with the ladies, casual outfits are best kept to solid colours, with no stripes, patterns or logos. Denim jeans always photograph well along with black, white and other solid earth tones.

Babies: Babies look their best in light colours, pastels or just a diaper. Loosening the diaper and/or socks 15 to 20 minutes before the session will help to eliminate any red marks on the baby’s body.

Children: Children should follow the same general clothing guidelines as their parents.

Family/Groups: Clothing for group portraits must be carefully selected to blend the bodies together. Amongst the group, try and decide beforehand what the desired tone of the image will be. For example, cool tones such as white or blue or warm rich tones such as brown or black. Groups should always attempt to dress appropriate for the setting (formal or casual), and their outfits should complement each other in style and colour. General guidelines above regarding stripes, patterns, logos apply here as well.

Finally, always remember that in a portrait session whether it’s an engagement or family session, that your personality and comfort level are extremely important and I want that to come out in your photos.

Take care

I want to say congratulations again to Cheri and Dave who are the proud new parents of a beautiful baby girl.

She was really quiet during the session, which is a different story from what mom and dad are telling me I know it’s hard now but believe me times will get better. In a month from now, you won’t even remember what happened and you’ll be taken up with something new.

They grow so fast so try and enjoy those brief moments while you can.

Here are some of my favourites.

Enjoy


He’s getting so big and growing up so fast, I can’t believe it sometimes. I look back at photos from just a few months ago and he looked so different and chubby! I wish I could just freeze him and keep at this age.

I’m just thankful that in a few years we’ll be able to sit down with him and show him how he was at this stage.

Enjoy

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