I suppose I can't fool her anymore...

After three sessions with me, the mom of these two cuties has probably learned that even when it seems like no one is cooperating and we are getting nothing, the in-between moments are perfect!

I looove this bunny series...

Usually it's the younger kiddo that changes the most between sessions, but this time I think that little man Jack has grown leaps and bounds!

One more for the sneak peek, and then I'll have to keep them to myself until their gallery goes up...this was another "in between" moment that worked out perfectly!

Time to tackle a few more faqs that I've received...
What type of processing software do you use? Also, do you use any actions when processing
your images? Do you have a secret to your black and whites?

I currently use PSCS3 for my post processing. I like to keep my post work fairly simple and similar to what can be done in a traditional darkroom - cropping, dodging/burning, adding contrast, etc.

For my black and whites I typically use channel mixer or lab color mode and curves and adjust each image separately. Typically a great black and white image will contain the full range of tones from black to white without losing detail in either. A common mistake is to simply use grayscale to convert, which often will leave an image gray and "muddy". The *best* way to achieve a full range is by using great lighting and proper exposure. I tend to gravitate toward more directional rather than flat lighting, which lends a natural "depth" to an image.

Actions are great time savers (and I do use them to speed up my common commands and batch resizing for web and print), but I have yet to find an action that works perfectly on every image. I prefer to hand tweak each image instead. A great learning exercise is to take a multi step action and learn how to use each step individually - that way you will know what it is doing to your image and how to use that step by itself. There are a million ways to process images, all depending on the artist's style - with some time you will find what works best for you!

Comments

[Anna]

Oh I just adore those shots of the little one on the couch or chair, so sweet. You have a way with children that is unique and wonderful.

[Corey]

Beautiful images! I LOVE the bunny series!

[allie]

Awww.......... love love love those bunny images! Gorgeous as usual. :)

[Brandy]

That bunny series is just too cute!

[Lisa Kelly]

these are gorgeous and the bunny shots are just perfect

[Melanie A]

I love these shots too- so adorable. And thanks, Stacy, for sharing such great info with those of us who are new to the photography business. I know the times I have emailed you- you have always been so wonderful to answer and give advice. It means so much to learn from someone like you.
Thanks again!

[Meggan]

The "in between" moments are often the best! :)

[Sarah]

Gorgeous work! LOVE the diptych!

[Angela]

So beautiful, sweet and classic!

[Shelley Rankin]

Wow just gorgeous! Love your use of lighting and that one with the rabbit is perfect.

[Kris Leigh]

Awwww, these are so beautiful! I just get lost in your images Stacy!

[Susan Braswell]

wow that bunny storyboard is amazing - I can totally see that on art paper, matted and framed really big. Do you sign your artwork?

[Suzanne]

Wow-- the proud mommy here! You are right Stacy... to keep the bunny metaphor going, you pulled a rabbit out of a hat on this one, especially since Ben wasn't exactly in a cooperative mood! Gorgeous. Can't wait to see the gallery...

[Ritz Rivera]

Oh the bunny series is sure worthy of a storyboard, LOVE IT!!!

[Paula]

Yes...the bunny series is great! I just love your style.

[Kirsten]

Aww! The bunny one is too sweet, I love it!