Carefree, AZ. What a place to visit. I just got back from a wedding photography convention and wanted to share a few highlights from the trip. We had hotel suites with incredible views of the  mountains. And with 2 roommates, whom I’ve never met before, the rate was just as great. The weather was perfect and the seminars were insightful.

The last few photos were of different photographers who participated in a shoot swap. They are Cindy & Daniel of Orange Turtle Photography in San Diego; Ryan Brenizer from New York and Rob and Lauren from Alberta, Canada.  We took turns photographing each other for 5-10 minutes. Talk about a challenge, it generally takes me 10-15 minutes to warm up, which is why there are a few more photos of the last couple.

The Cranky Princess is the cutest little gift shop in downtown Stone Mountain.  You can find jewelry, accessories, home decor and candles.  They also offer bath & beauty products such as Carol’s Daughter which can’t be had in this area without driving to Perimeter, Buckhead or beyond.  The shop also hosts princess tea parties for little girls. She has the cutest fairy tea room complete with china, princess gowns and tiaras for the attendees.  I first met owner Lauren Oselette at the Atlanta Parent Block Party last year where we were both exhibiting. The little girls LOVED her Glam Girl glitter lip gloss and lotion where you can choose your own flavors.  I stopped in last week to visit and took a few photos. The next time your in Stone Mountain, you have to visit. And you have to buy a Cranky Princess t-shirt. I got one last year for my neice.  That shirt describes her perfectly!

When you visit, make sure to look for my portrait album which Lauren has graciously allowed me to display there.

I spent half of June in Delaware for a class & while I was there I drove down to the Capital for some good old fashioned sight-seeing.  I hadn’t been to DC since junior high (except when I was in my college band and marched in the 1997 inaugural parade for President Clinton). I spent almost a full day in the National Mall and another day at Arlington Cemetery.  A short walk from there is Marine Corp Memorial (Iwo Jima statue).  By the way, if you’re in the area, I highly recommend the DC by Foot walking tour. It’s free but your tour guide will surely earn a gracious tip.

I just wanted to share my annual birthday decor – a button I received from the my elementary school in the 5th grade.  All the kids got them but I’m pretty sure I’m the only one who stills wears it.

I came across this blog post that I wanted to share.  A woman admits to stealing from her photographer by scanning photos instead of paying for them.  She felt guilty yet continues to do it because she feels entitled to more than what she paid for.  The original article has been removed because the website doesn’t want to advocate it.  But in comment #45 is a link to her original posting.

As a photographer this is very personal to me and it’s frustrating to read the views of consumers who don’t understand the business.  Other photographers have posted our point of view.  I understand (yet disagree) with some of the consumers point of views. Hopefully some of them will read the photographers’ responses and understand that point of view.

http://www.wisebread.com/are-you-stealing-from-your-photographer