This past weekend I attended PhotoLUSH 2013. It’s a photography conference put on by photographers for photographers in Bellingham, WA. All the talent that taught and participated was LOCAL. I was stunned, intimidated and in aw that all of these great professionals were in my community. Some presentations were moving, (I may have cried once or twice)…Some were nerve wracking, (One word: taxes)….and others were inspiring (Rachel Vos and her DIY everything concept.)

I left there feeling emotionally exhausted and like I could accomplish anything.

One of the high points to PhotoLUSH was the live modeling at the heritage flight museum  We had three different stations that taught different lighting techniques. Let me start by saying I am have no experience with off camera lighting or flash in general. So I was like, “SWEET! I totally need to know how to do this!” Here are some of the results. I also got a little edit happy in lightroom and am trying out some new choices. Any feedback is always appreciated!

When Jaylene asked me to photograph her gender reveal party I was soooo excited! She had modeled for me in the past and between locations, she had told me about a gender reveal party she was going to for a friend. I definitely needed it explained to me. When I first heard the phrase, I pictured a gay style coming out party but for a transgendered individual…not the case. Though I don’t judge either way….

What is a gender reveal party? It’s a party to announce the gender of your baby. It’s similar to an engagement party in the sense that it announces your new status. Pregnant and carrying a *boy or girl.*

Jaylene modeled her wedding dress for a bridal session for me a few months ago and I have to say, her bump isn’t a whole lot bigger. I hope that when I eventually have kids (in 3-5 years) that I look as adorable as she does. Don’t believe me, check out the photos below. Her and her husband Tarrin revealed the gender of their baby by opening a box of balloons. I loved that they were surprised too!