I have always been fascinated by photography. I have spent countless hours studying photographs of people, while considering the angles, the lighting, and the editing the photographer used. I love the fact that photography has the amazing ability to transport us to a different time, or place with one single shot.
It was not until I started blogging that I decided to take photography more seriously. With camera in hand, I started experimenting with photographs of my apartment, of friends, and family. It was after experimenting in this way that I realized my passion for photography. I have no formal training or background in this field, but I realize that passion can open your eyes to the impossible, so not only did I invest in the proper equipment I also spent the necessary time to learn everything I could to enhance the skill it takes to be proficient with this passion.
I enjoy, and appreciate the opportunity to photograph bloggers, couples, influencers who make an impact in their profession, families, and also lifestyle type setting. I take an individual approach to each person I photograph. I make every effort to embrace and highlight the focus of what they are trying to convey to their audience with each session.
I look forward to working together and capturing the potential magnificence of your moments through my eyes and the lens of my camera.
Finding unique accessories is so exciting to me. I love having a closet full of basic and timeless pieces but sometimes you just need a little funk. When I first saw these shoes on Instagram I freaked. I had to hunt them down and try to make them mine. After a few days of searching I finally found the talented designer, Mara + Mine.
Mara & Mine is a unique, fashion forward shoe collection created by two Australian transplants living in LA, Jasmine Yarbrough and Tamie Ingham. Having two very different backgrounds in fashion- Jasmine as an international model and Tamie a fashion stylist- they combined their love of fashion and design to create one hell of a slipper! Their Jem Xray Slipper is my personal favorite, and that of many different celebrities, but their new Billy Bull slippers is no underdog. With new and old designs coming for spring, it is safe to say Jasmine and Tamie are two pretty badass and very talented designers!
A few weeks ago it was time to shoot episode II for M.A.S. Video (see episode one). I had the bright idea to use this video to collaborate with other Dallas based fashion bloggers. So, two weeks ago I had an idea, and a vision, but because of the approaching holiday season I had one week to pull it together. I immediately called my girls Molly and Lynsey (who I turn to for solid advice) and they said this was something we had to do. Right after passing the idea by these girls Lynsey called and connected me with Kelle, of the amazing Droese PR. Once the details were finalized (I originally pitched a winter wonderland video but the day of the shoot a heatwave came through and it was 87degrees…typical) it was time to choose locations.
Dallas is full of the most amazing shopping and local eats, which made it a challenge to narrow it down to only a few locations. Having a certain vision in mind I went with Blushington Make-up, Lublu, Five and Ten, and Hotel Zaza/ Dragonfly. After the locations were set I was able to breath a bit easier. I knew the video would have great subjects, because I asked all my closest blogger friends whom I respect and admire, but securing amazing places to shoot made me realize the video was actually going to happen.
The day of the shoot my I was nervous/anxious/nervous/excited. Ummm, did I say I was anxious and nervous? Because I was! I wanted everything to go smoothly and the day to be a success. I met my friends, and fellow Dallas bloggers, Amy of Dallas Wardrobe, Molly of A Piece of Toast, Krystal of Krystal Schlegel, and Lynsey of Law of Fashion at the it spot for make-up application, Blushington. From the receptionist to the actual artist, everyone is so adorable and professional. It really stuck out to me just how talented and passionate they were about their job. I absolutely loved chatting and getting to know my make-up artist. She was an absolute doll and provided useful information for when I do my own make-up (like how to highlight your bone structure).
After getting our make-up done Amy, Lynsey, and I headed to Lublu to do a quick change (into the most fabulous ensemble that is). Lublu, which means “I love…” in Russin was created by Kira Plastinina, 21. Her beautiful fabrics and tailored silhouettes are making her quite the household name here in Dallas and around the world. Kira, her store, and her designs are so beautiful and truly unique I was beyond excited to share them in the video. She also just collaborated with a Russian designer to make one-of-a-kind head pieces that are to die for! You must check these out if you are in Dallas.
While we filmed at Lublu, Molly and Krystal headed to a local hot spot for all things fashion, Five and Ten. I absolutely love this store. You are sure to find something you need (or want) and will never walk out empty handed (by choice). They have everything from The Row sneakers to J. Brand leather. I mean you really have to try to not find something fabulous. It is THAT amazing.
After our quick change we all met back at Hotel Zaza. From the very beginning they treated us like gold. Passing us Veuve Clicquot Champagne (a personal favorite) as we walked into the tent and served us signature cocktails throughout shooting. The peppermint martini was by far my favorite. The glass was lined with real peppermint and the drink itself was so yummy I can’t describe it here. You must try one for yourself. Mmm mmm mmmmmm. After shooting we were all exhausted, but ready for our surprise five course meal Hotel Zaza’s restaurant Dragonfly had prepared. They just revamped their menu, which now includes the best pork belly you could dream of, and so many other choices of yumminess! Your biggest problem of the night will be, which was your favorite dish. I mean the food was melting in our mouths. We all kept looking around at each other and saying, “Oh my goshhhhhh! This one has to be my favorite.” It just got better and better (if that was even possible).
With fully bellies and happy hearts our day of shooting was complete. I hope you all like our final product as it was a labor of love.
special thanks to everyone who helped me make this possible; Adam Salazar Videography, Droese PR, Blushington Make-up Dallas, Five and Ten, Lublu, Hotel Zaza / Dragonfly, and all my girls, Molly, Lynsey, Krystal, and Amy!
I first discovered Pour Porter via Pinterest. I believe I came across the Reality Zone Boot and had to know who made such an interesting piece. Once I was directed to the site, I fell in love. Everything looks handmade and unique. I have been looking for a gold hand to display my rings but haven’t wanted to spend the $1300 Mrs. Wearstler is asking (although she did just come out with a more wallet friendly version). I can’t believe I found such a similar piece and for $64. That is crazy good! The site boast a long list of very talented designers who are so skilled in their fields which is why I am excited to introduce it to my readers. I think it is right up our alley and has something we will all fall in love with! I hope you enjoy!
