One month down! {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait-Child and Family Photographer}

Can you believe that the end of January is today!  We hit February, in which we get to celebrate our 2nd wedding anniversary, (refer back to this post if you don't know what I am talking about), Valentines day, and that much closer to spring. I miss spring I really do! I don't really mind snow. I'm just more like, let it snow for two days, let the kids play, and then we are done!  I don't handle the cold too well!  I was considering setting up Valentines Day mini-sessions, since it's all about the season of love. What do you think?

If I do set it up, it will be possibly a 1 or 2 day shoot, with time mini session time slots, and you order images a la carte.  I have to think of some awesome bonus for you to order!

If I do come up with the idea, I will definitely inform all of you.

Have a fantastic day!

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I need a newborn fix! {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait-Newborn, Child, and Family Photographer

I absolutely adore photographing babies! And since Charlotte is now a two year old who hates me taking her pictures, I need my baby fix. So bring your soft, cuddly, adorable little babies this way.  Babies under 3 months are ideal, but the younger the better.

In fact, since I am jonesing for such a baby fix, and it's my wedding anniversary, I am going to give you an amazing gift.  Book a regular portrait session ($275 session fee), by this Sunday 2/2 and receive a $75 print credit to use towards purchasing products from your order -OR- 15% off your entire order.  In your email please mention *newborn promo* so I can know exactly what you are talking about!

2013 was an amazing year for newborns, I look forward to 2014. Take a peek from some of the adorable newborns from 2013

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Corset Story v1.2 {Delaware lifestyle portrait & fashion photographer}

Part 1 of the Corset Story series have been released. Let me tell you now it was no easy task picking through the images and deciding which ones would be in their gallery which ones the participants would pick.  I am still editing the first batch of photos from the first session! The second session is March 8th, and I hope it is just as equally amazing as the first one.

But for now, here is a sneak peek!

Be sure to stop by the website to check it out! www.marisataylorphotography.com  and the faceook account. http://www.facebook.com/marisaseasan/corset-story

I will have more series coming out soon! Including stemapunk, body mods, and men dressed up all dapper like. So stay tuned!

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You time {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait Photographer}

24 hours in a day. In that 24 hours, most people have to sleep, eat, work, drive to and from work, run errands, clean if they choose, socialize, go to school, do homework, take care of your kid or kids, and the list goes on.  The saying "Not enough hours in the day" really does ring true. Most days, I absolutely feel like I need a clone so that I can get my to-do list, which is typically a mile long done.  It seems like it never ends.  One of the things that I found that helps immensely is me time.  It may be hard to take some time for yourself, especially when you have 1,001 things going on, but it is important to do so.  Oh, and when you have kids and other people to take care of, caring for yourself usually gets put on the back burner. But you can't take care of others if you aren't well taken care of. So it's super important to make time for yourself, even if it's little things.  Want to know some of the things I do?

1)Take a shower.  Now, this should be part of your routine to begin with. My my shower is my sanctuary. I lock the door, light candles, play music and sing to my hearts content. Those 20-30 minutes (my normal showers are about 5-10 minutes, but when I splurge I spend longer), are just what I need to refresh myself.  I typically feel more refreshed and energized when I take a shower during the day, especially early in the morning. It gets me ready to take on the day. If I take a shower at night, then I want to go straight to bed.  I know for some, especially with kids, getting alone time in the bathroom is hard enough, but try it. Especially then the kids are napping or when they are in school.

2)Driving.  It doesn't matter what time it is, but night time is the best. Get on an empty road and drive. Sing your heart out while you are driving. Have your own dance party in the car while at a red light. Get crazy!  And then drive back home.

3)Dine out.  If you have a s.o., especially if you have kids. It is super, super important to take some time off and enjoy time together. Before you were parents, you were lovers. Don't forget that.  While parenting is a huge job, the two of you need to be happy and maintain that love with each other.

4)Read. Find 10 minutes. Even if you have to lock yourself in the bathroom and read a couple of a pages of a book you live. Allow yourself to escape. Nevermind the little fingers reaching underneath the door to get your attention. Reading is your escape!

So, those are the typical four things that I do when I am feeling stressed and need some me time. Or, I just take a nap if the opportunity presents itself! Pin It

Guess who's going to The Steampunk Worlds Fair?!

I am!  Well of course I am! We go every year since it has started.  And every year we have an even more amazing time than the last. We have met some amazing people there, and have become close friends with many people.  It's truly an event that if you have not attended, you should go.  If you have an interest in Victorian, Cyberpunk, Goth, Steampunk, Jane Austen, Downton Abbey and the like, then this is the event for you.  There are a huge range of activities too! Yoga, belly dancing, classes on how to make steampunk trinkets and clothing, meet and greets, music, dancing, duels, and more.  Trust me, you should go! Check it out for yourself!

Here is the website:  http://steampunkworldsfair.com/  and be sure to check out their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SteampunkWorldsFair

But wait, it gets better!

This year, for the first time EVER! I will be vending at the SPWF!  I will have a room set up at the Embassy hotel, for unique historical boudoir and creative portraiture sessions. I am so ecstatic and over the moon that I was accepted and get this opportunity, it is going to be big.  I will be offering sessions that range from glammed up victorian inspired boudoir sessions, as well as creative portrait sessions for couples, and small groups. I will be doing this under my fashion brand, Marisa Seasan, which, by the way you should become a fan of! https://www.facebook.com/marisaseasan

I am currently working with other vendors to perhaps have some of their awesome pieces laid out to help you accessorize your outfits for the shoots. But other than that, come in what you have, get spruced up, and have amazing photos. I will have samples coming up shortly!

Spread the word!!!

Here are some candids from last year!

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Happy Anniversary...

Today is my wedding anniversary! Well technically we have two wedding anniversaries. We are a bit unconventional, and typically stray off the beaten bath. So when we first got "married", it was in the form of a handfasting.  That was back in 2009.  Then we legally got married, and by legally I mean obtaining a marriage license on February 15, 2013. Funny story about that actually.

On Valentines Day last year, Wes went into work, and while there he was having severe chest pain.  His job called the ambulance, and they rushed him to the hospital. While there, he called me, and the first things out of his mouth were "Don't freak out, I am in the hospital".  Needless to say, I did freak out.  Of course I would freak out!  So we spent Valentines Day in the hospital together, and the next day, we decided to go to the court house to get married. And that is our official wedding story.

It's been close to 10 years that we have been together. We have had our ups and downs, our struggles and amazing moments.  There were people that thought we wouldn't make it, there were people hoping that we wouldn't make it.  From our love, we created an amazing child, and everyday her giggling and shrieks of excitement make everything better.

He makes me a better person, I make him a better person. We push each other, because we know that we can achieve more. We are each others biggest supporters.  He is the reason why Marisa Taylor Photography started. He believed in me so much, even when I thought it was crazy to jump into a business full time, it was he who talked me through.

I still get butterflies when he walks in the room. He still grabs me and swings me around like when we first started dating. We made a vow to each other to always have fun, to always love, to always be happy. And even though we have moments where the happiness seems not to be there, we find our way back to it.

So happy anniversary to my love, my rock, my best friend, my husband. Wesley, I love you more than you will ever know.  10 years together, here's to many, many more awesome years.

Taken by Natasha Esguerra Photography

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Before you were mommy....

Yay more snow! Not really. But since I am snowed in today, since my husband took the car, I decided to get a few business related matters done.  And as I became distracted on Facebook, and scrolling through my newsfeed, I came across this article that a friend posted.  And of course, after reading it, I cried. Like a baby.

Before you were mommy, before you were daddy, you were theirs.

http://www.scissortailsilk.com/2014/01/24/before-you-were-mommy/

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Charlotte the Snow Princess {Delaware Child Photographer}

Are you tired of the snow yet? Because I definitely am! As much as I love the snow for taking some awesome outside pictures, I am tired of the cold. I miss the warmth!  But even still, Charlotte wanted to go outside and play in the snow. While it was too cold to actually play for a long time, I did dress her up, take her out, and snapped some photos.  Even though it was just five minutes, she had her fill.

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Corset Story {Delaware Fashion & Portrait Photographer} Catch up blog-Day 2 of 7

As you know, I have branched off into fashion photography. I have been loving it thus far. It gives me a whole different subject to photograph, and pushes me to be even more creative than I am. One of my big projects this year was the Corset Story series.  Which is a series of photos of different women of all shapes and sizes wearing gorgeous corsets with varying wardrobes.  Since I love hisotrical costuming, doing a shoot revolving around corsets seemed to be the only logical thing to do!

I have part 1 of Corset Story posted on my page, please take a look! http://www.marisaseasan.com/corset-story

I have a second part of the shoot set up for March 8th, which I know will be as equally amazing. I so look forward to seeing my visions come to fruition!

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Brandsmash with Mike Allebach- Catch up blog- Day 3 of 7

There's a guy I know. He is an amazing photographer, and an amazing teacher. He has a genuine interested in helping other photographers succeed.  In an industry where it seems like there are wars between photographers, and competition is thick, he is secure in his work, his niche he has created. And because of that, he has chosen to pay it back and teach other photographers along with the help of some amazing industry people. Who am I talking about?

Mike Allebach of Allebach Photography, also affectionately known as "The Tattooed Bride Photographer".

He has created a group called Brand Smash, dedicated to helping photographers grow while developing their brand.  So far, every week, he has a Google+ hangout going over various topics that relate to photography and business. Last week was how to use Google+ more effectively, in which I learned SO MUCH from.  This weeks was Sales for Photographers.

If you want to meet some pretty amazing people who just happen to be photographers, I highly suggest you head over to the Brandsmash page and jump right in!  I promise you won't regret it!

He is also holding a workshop THIS Sunday in his studio in Philadelphia.  How to get cred, get clients, and go viral..  If I could go, I would! I already know that it is going to be amazing!  Take $100 off of your registration fee with the following code: http://brandsmash.workshopslive.co/workshops/b7b3a050d3e9d7bc

Even if you don't make it to the workshop, definitely join the Brandsmash group and his emailing list. There is so much valuable information for new and established photographers!

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Styled Portrait Session : The Campebell Sisters {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait Photographer} - Catch up blog-Day 4 of 7

I've talked  before how I would like to add more studio sessions to my repertoire this year.  I definitely want to do more style sessions with a pre-consultations before your big shooting day, and following through with your products. Let's pick outfits, color schemes, props, and more. Want to tell a story? Let me know what you want, and I will work to make your story come to live through pictures.

Please take a moment to looks at this images from Brooklyn and Jordyns adorable sibling styled session. Enjoy!

And just to have a little fun, aren't these the most adorable little minions that you have ever seen?

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Snow Day-Catch up blog- Day 5 or 7

I tell you, I have never seen so many school days as those that I see in Delaware. I can completely understand closing down the road sand schools and business when the roads are an absolute terror.  But even still, there have been worth days.  In New York, it would take well over 12 inches of snow for school to be closed down. In this state, it seems like 3 inches and the whole state shuts down

Of course everyone runs for milk, eggs, and bread at the grocery store. I guess they are going to make a lot of french toast!


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Resolutions-Catch up Blog-Day 6 of 7

It's been 7 days since I last blogged. What can I say? Life gets hectic sometimes, and I just plain forget. Even though I missed 7 days, I still plan on having 31 blog entries for the month of January!

Did you make New Years resolutions? Are sticking them?

Most people make resolutions to go to the gym more, eat healthier, etc.  My resolution?  Be happier.

I let way too many have power over my happiness. I forget how to be happy sometimes.  But thank goodness I still have the little things to show me what happiness is. My husband and daughter dancing and singing.  Our baby jumping on our bed in the morning urging us to wake up so we can play, and every little moment in between.

My 2014 is set to make me happy! What about you? Pin It

14 Days of Love [Delaware lifestyle family & portrait photographer}

It's important to tell the ones you love that you love them. If you are like me, you say I love you sometimes without even thinking about it. And at times, you are so busy, you forget to say it. Or what's worse. You just assume.  So when this link popped up on my facebook newsfeed, I knew it had to be fate, especially since my husband and I just had a talk about this.

14 days of love. Starting February 1st.

Every day, write a new reason why you love your husband/wife/child/sister/brother, whomever you care about it. And post it on their door when they wake or, or email, or text them in the middle of the night so they can wake up in the morning and see it.  I plan on doing this, and I hope everyone knows that I love them!

http://decorating-by-day.com/2013/01/27/starting-feb-1st-i-let-them-wake-up-to-a-new-heart-on-their-door-to-something-i-love-about-them-love-this/

(image from the blog link posted above)

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Braided T-Shirt Bracelet Tutorial {Delaware Lifestyle Fashion & Portrait Photographer}

I love all things crafty!  I especially love the look of braided items. Braided head bands, scarves, and more. I found the most amazing braided cuff tutorial and wanted to share it with you!

http://www.oldthingsnewblog.com/2013/04/braided-cuff-tutorial.html

(image from link posted above)

All you need is an old t-shirt, some time, and if you want to get extra fancy, a vintage button for the rosette!  I definitely see using this tutorial to make tie-back headbands in the future.  Have fun!

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Storytelling Sessions {Delaware Lifestyle Family Photographer}

2014 is a new year for me to introduce new and exciting ventures for my business.  From the very beginning, my goal has been to tell stories.  That is why I am a photographer.  My goal is to capture your day, whether it be a wedding or a family session, and tell your amazing story.

Seeing that my focus has been on families and babies, I wanted to offer something a bit different than my normal lifestyle or portrait sessions. So I introduce to you Storytelling Sessions with Marisa.

These sessions are about creating and showcasing your amazing family.  We will discuss the exact theme you want to go with, whether it is photographing your family in the comfort of your home on a Saturday morning, or a more elaborate set up complete with a fun location and props or even both! We will then work together to acquire what is necessary to complete the theme and bring it to life.  There will be no time restraints, no rush, no looking at the clock.  I will be there for your whole story.

Once your session is over, and your images are edited, you we will start designing your unbound album from HH Boogie, to keep those precious memories of that amazing day in.

Storytelling Sessions are priced at a special rate of $1400, and this includes the prep time, your session, your unbound album, and a disc of images from the session.

For more details and to start your story, contact me today.

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Getting your name out there {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait & Fashion Photographer}

I will tell you, one of the most important aspects of business is having people know your name.  People love to talk, especially when they have had good experiences. People also talk when they have bad experiences. Either way, you want to make it your goal that people are talking about you in a good way.

When I was photographing weddings, I paid for a lot of advertising.  And for me, that advertising did not pay off at all. I did not get one single lead from paid advertising.  Which for me is somewhat hard to believe considering that I am centrally located to areas like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and can even travel to New York.  3 years of spending money on advertising gone down the drain that could have been put to amazing thank you gifts for advertising that worked.  Want to know what that was? Word of mouth!

I will readily say that almost all of my business has come from word of mouth. My clients are amazing, and I treat them like such. And I want them to tell their friends and family members about their time with me.

As of late, one of the best tools that photographers have used for advertising and connecting with our clients has not been as valuable as of late. And that is Facebook. Yes, it is free and that is a great thing.  But a lot of photographers are finding that we are reaching less than 5% of our fan base with free ads, and if we want more of our fan base to see that, we have to pay.  Being that Facebook is free in the first place I am not going to complain too much. I have no idea how their algorithms work either. Some days, new people and new pages show up on my newsfeed, other days they don't.  I have a couple of ways to keep my name and business out there and to keep my name fresh.

1) Have your fans interact with your page.  It's not all about posting your photos and your work.  Have conversations on your page.  When people comment or like on your page, it shows up on the ticker, and more often than not, people will want to see what they are up to.  Since I photograph families and babies, I have no problem with bringing up topics on childhood, activities, food, and fun things.  The more people that interact by commenting and liking, the more my post is seen, and more people can come see my work.

2) Don't rely completely on social media.  While that may seem like an odd thing to say, it is true.  We definitely cannot rely completely on social media. While tools like Facebook, Google+, and Twitter are amazing tools for connecting and showing your work, ultimately, connecting with people on a real, personal, face to face matter is what is important.  So make sure that any encounter with your clients is one that they will remember.

3) Offer a reward program.  This is probably one of the biggest things that work for me, rewards!  Whenever a new client books that is referred from a previous client, the client that referred them gets a gift print credit that they can use towards ordering images from their own sessions. It has been a blast!

Hopefully these tips will help get and keep your name out there! Pin It

Lace covered mason jars! {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait & Fashion Photographer}

I love mason jars! I know they are a passing fad now for weddings and such, but I will never stop loving them. I have jars all over my house! I use them for juicing, storage, and I have even painted a couple and have for decoration.  You know another thing I love? Lace!  So guess where I am about to go now....lace covered mason jars!

So recently, I was researching Downton Abbey inspired wedding dresses, because if we ever do our vow renewal, that is what I want it to be like.  And through various clicking, I found this blog entry about lace covered mason jars:

http://www.lovewedbliss.com/wedding-diy/diy-wedding-projects/how-to-make-lace-mason-jars/

Take a look at how pretty they are!

(All images are from the blog linked above)

Aren't they just gorgeous! Obviously you don't have to use them for weddings. They make great home decor.  If I had the clean, organized, well decorated house of my dreams, there would be mason jars in pretty much every room!

Also, if you ever need a project to do on a rainy day, this is it! I'm sure kids will love it.  You can take it an extra step and mod podge the inside, put glitter inside and cover the whole inside, and then put the lace on the outside. So that hint of color can peek through. http://www.lilyshop.com/how-make-glitter-mason-jars

Have fun!

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Postpartum bodies and loving yourself {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait and Family Photographer}

Besides my resolution to blog more in January, another one of my resolutions is to love myself and my body more, and to help women love their bodies also. A lot of women, especially mothers start to dislike their bodies after having a baby. The phrase "having  baby ruined my body" runs rampant most of the time.  But the one thing we must realize is that while having  baby has definitely not ruined our body, it has changed our body.  It grew life inside of it, and birthed an amazing child.

I wanted to share a bit from an article that a friend posted that moved me to tears.  You can find the full article here: http://blackheartsandbliss.com/post/72866172943/on-the-postpartum-body

"When I got pregnant for the first time I was 18, fresh out of cheerleading, doing Yoga daily and in the best shape of my life. Though I gained a mere 15 pounds during my pregnancy, my body stretched and pulled in ways it has never truly recovered from and I struggled a lot with the way it looked and felt after Samara was born.

It was partially my circumstances too, my ex husband regarded me with words of criticism despite walking out of the hospital in the same size 0 jeans I’d walked in wearing. I heard my mother complain my entire life about her body and the ways carrying four full term girls had changed it. In fact - I’d never heard a single positive thing about postpartum bodies that I could readily recall.

My self esteem dipped into the negatives, I was bitter in every sense. I had this beautiful daughter and now my body was fucked up. The trade off was a worthy one, but that didn’t make it suck any less."

Mother or not, love your body. It's the only one that way have.

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Take time and make time {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait & Fashion Photographer}

Hello, my name is Marisa.

I am a wife, mother, business owner, Doctor Who fanatic, craft addict, SCA-dian, belly dancer, and the list goes on.  I have a pretty full life, and with my husband and daughter by my side, it is quite exciting. I wouldn't trade it for the world.

But I have a problem.

My problem is that I have horrible time management.  You see, sometimes, well quite often actually I spend too much time working and not enough time living. Part of the reason for having my own business is so that I can work on my own terms, and have time to spend with my friends and family.  But also as a business owner, I am not just taking pictures. I am editing, doing the accounting, doing the networking, and marketing, designing albums and promo materils, and more.  Sometimes I sit down at the computer with the goal of only working two hours, and then spending time with my family, and before I know it 6 hours have gone by.  I will tell myself "Okay, let me just email these clients, prep these images, and update a couple of things, and I will spend the rest of my time today with Charlotte and Wes".  Then before I know it, Charlotte is getting ready for bed, and Wes is settling down.

Our FIRST professional family photo session with Natasha Esguerra Photography

Admittedly, work is not the only problem.  Managing a household, cleaning, grocery shopping, managing the bills, and other things tend to take time away.  I know that I need to learn better time management. And I know that there are many in my position: Spouses, business owners, etc that need to hear this:

Take time and make time.

Seriously, it's important!  Emails can wait an extra hour or two.  Editing can wait also. Grocery shopping can be put off, as well as cleaning. Unless you are entertaining the Queen of England, I don't think that anybody really cares what your house looks like. Do you know what can't wait?

Your child, your family, your loved ones, your friends.

So I vow to myself and to everybody that I care about, I will take time and make time to spend with them.  Even if I have to set aside a certain about of absolute hours to be with my family, I will. But I do realize that they are more important.  Nothing I accomplish is more important than them.  I know how easy it is to get into the zone, especially when you are trying to make your business work, but take it from me. Sending out those emails on time will never replace those minutes lost laughing with your little one.

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Tips for shopping online! {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait & Fashion Photographer}

Hey everyone!

If you are like me, you loathe going shopping. Sometimes it's just to much to wake up, roll out of bed, put on acceptable clothing, get the kid(s) ready, load the car, drive, deal with traffic, deal with people, not have any coffee, get to a place to find your item only to find out that your item is not there. I know this makes me sound anti-social, but I swear I'm not!  It's just that when I go shopping, I want to get my item and get out without any interruptions.  Which is why I do a lot my shopping online! And I have learned a couple of things. So here are some of my favorite ways to shop.

Amazon Prime:
$79 per year, but it is WELL worth it and pays itself off. With Amazon Prime, you get the following benefits:

The benefits include:

• FREE Two-Day Shipping on eligible items.
  Note: If the item you're ordering is out of stock or unavailable to ship, we'll get it to you two days after it's back in stock. Remember to check the cut-off time shown on the detail page. Orders over $1300 may require a signature.
• FREE Standard Shipping on eligible items.
• FREE No-Rush Delivery (typical delivery one week after placing an order).
  Note: You may receive promotional credit for selecting No-Rush Shipping. Credit will be automatically applied to your Amazon.com account once the first package from a No-Rush Shipping-eligible order ships. You'll receive an e-mail as soon as the credit is available. You may select No-Rush Shipping as many times as it's offered to you, but you won't be eligible for the credit if you cancel your No-Rush Shipping order or return items from it.
• Shipping Upgrades to expedite delivery.
• Free Prime Instant Video access for paid or free trial members in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
  Note: Instant Video isn't available to customers receiving free Amazon Prime shipping benefits through Amazon Student, Amazon Mom, or as guests of another membership.
• Kindle Owners' Lending Library access to members in the U.S. For more information, go to Kindle Owners' Lending Library.
  Note: Customers in a paid membership, free trial or receiving a free month of Prime benefits with a Kindle Fire activation are eligible. The Kindle device must be associated with the Prime account that's eligible for the benefit.
• Early access for members in the U.S. to download a new book for free every month from the Kindle First picks. For more information, go to Kindle First.

Note:

• Amazon Prime isn't available for customers who purchase products for the purpose of resale or use Amazon Prime to ship products to their customers or potential customers.
• Your Prime Membership may be subject to sales tax in some states.

(taken from Amazon's website)

The free two day shipping alone was a win-win situation for me. Especially during Christmas.  But I love that if I order something, in two days it will be in my arms, and that makes me incredibly happy.  My sister loves the Kindle Owners Lending Library and the fact that you can stream over 40,000 titles.


In addition to Amazon Prime, there has been another thing that my friends have been buzzing about, and that has been Amazon Mom.  The benefits of Amazon Mom are:

• 20% off diapers and wipes subscriptions with Subscribe & Save (exclusive to Amazon Mom)
• 20% off other family essential subscriptions when 5 or more Subscribe & Save items arrive on your monthly delivery day (exclusive to Amazon Mom)
• FREE Two-Day Shipping on millions of items with Amazon Prime
• 30-day trial of unlimited instant streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with Prime Instant Video. Note: In some cases, it may take us 24 hours to activate your streaming benefits.

And that is just for the three month trial period! If you want to extend your membership beyond three months, you get the following benefits:

• 20% off diapers and wipes subscriptions with Subscribe & Save (exclusive to Amazon Mom)
• 20% off other family essential subscriptions when 5 or more Subscribe & Save items arrive on your monthly delivery day (exclusive to Amazon Mom)
• FREE Two-Day Shipping on millions of items with Amazon Prime
• Unlimited instant streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with Prime Instant Videos
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month from the Kindle Owners' Lending Library
• Other Prime benefits: invite up to four household members to share your Prime shipping benefits for free
• A 15% baby registry completion discount

But wait! Things get better! There is another site that I love to use in conjunction of my Amazon Prime account. And that site is called Ebates.com .  So basically Ebates.com has different cash back rewards for shopping at different online retailers and sometimes in specific sections of those retailers.  You have to look every carefully at how much you will get back for shopping.  But basically you sign up for an account (you can click the link above), look through the stores and the offers that they have for cash back, and click on that store to start shopping! It's very important that you click on the store link from the Ebates.com site so that it can create a tracking ticket that will monitor your purchase to see if it qualifies for the cash back. Usually the cash is back in your account 2-3 days later.

I just found out about Ebates.com only a few weeks ago, and I wish I had known about it last year when I was ordering things almost every week!

So I hope this helps you shop and save you some money! Enjoy!

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A Journey into Fashion... {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait & Fashion Photographer}

It's been one crazy winter!  I dove head first into fashion photography back in November, and it has been amazing!  I wanted to step outside of the box, and look at photography in a different way. I will always love photographing babies and families, and will continue doing so, but fashion and creative portraiture give me a chance to do things that I obviously couldn't do with little babies and families.  However, the skills and styling that I do with fashion can definitely translate over into my family and baby sessions, which leads me to want to do more stylized family and baby sessions!

Take a look at some of my latest sessions below.  You can always become a fan of Marisa Seasan and visit my website at www.MarisaTaylorPhotography.com

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You. Beautiful You. {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait & Fashion Photographer}

I saw this video floating around recently,

It gives a very real look into a part of advertising, especially when you use women as the product, and how even the models don't actually look like themselves.  There is a lot of manipulation that goes into changing women to fit into an "ideal image".

I photograph a lot of women. Women who have just had babies, women whose babies are now teenagers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, cousins, single women, and everything in between. Almost every time, I get asked "Can you photoshop me into a super model?". Even though there is laughter during this question, I know the feeling of not loving your body completely and accepting it. Especially in photographs.

My job is to tell YOUR story. Featuring YOU. Unedited, lovely, happy, full of laughter and even pain. But at the end of the day, it is to capture you beautifully in a natural way. Pin It

Workflow, workflow, workflow! {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait & Fashion Photographer}

Every photographer has their own workflow. Some have complex ones, some have easy ones. Overtime, we develop our workflows based on what works for us, time, ease, and the tools that we use.  When I first started out, I was strictly an Adobe Lightroom user. I lived by that program.  That was mainly because I was scared to use Adobe Photoshop! I'll be honest, Photoshop was like being the only person left on the dodge ball court with the biggest, most awesome player on the other team. You size them up, see that they can palm the ball with one freaking hand, they are snarling at you, and you know that you have no chance. Ok, maybe it's not that bad, but that's how it feels sometimes!

I started adding Photoshop to my workflow over the past two years after playing around and teaching myself how to use it. Lots of nights spent testing out the features, watching Youtube videos, reading tutorials, and just lots of trial and error.  As it took me a while to define my photographic style, it took me a while to define my editing style also.

So what is my workflow?  Here is what I do!

1) After the session, I usually come home and upload the images to my computer, IMMEDIATELY!  I have a need for instant gratification, so things need to be put on my computer ASAP! I do not erase the images off of the card.

2) I take those raw files, and save a copy of those to my external hard drive.  You never know if your equipment is going to fail on you, and it's better to be safe than sorry. I've had my whole motherboard fail on me before, and felt as if my world was crashing down. Especially being that it was in the middle of my busiest season, and I had weddings and some family sessions that I didn't edit yet.

3) The images get uploaded to Lightroom.  Like I said, I used to use Lightroom exclusively to edit my images.  I use it now to cull my images, and save the catalog as an extra back up for the images.  I have heard many praises for PhotoMechanic that makes it very easy and extremely fast to cull images.

4)  I export the images from Lightroom, to Photoshop. I run an action on all of the photos using my basic retouching action (exposure, levels, curves, etc).

5) I then go through each image and edit from there. Fixing skin, stray hairs, removing objects, extending backdrops if needed, sharpening, etc.

6)  I then use another action to close all the layers, and save all of the images as a jpg in the same folder that the Lightroom images were exported to.

7) Now, this is important. In the past, I have gotten trigger happy, and have deleted images accidentally.  By having the regular jpgs from Lightroom in the folder, and then having an extra folder with the newly edited images, I have two back ups.  At this point, I create a folder of the session name "Family-Insert Name Here" onto my external drive, and copy and paste the images that are in that new jpg folder of the original location to it.  Then I deleted the unedited jpgs, and move the edited jpgs to the folder.

8) I next use Pixieset to upload the images to my clients gallery to be ready for their viewing and ordering session.

And that folks, is my workflow!



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A word to photographers, both new and old. {Delaware Lifestyle Portrait & Fashion Photographer}

2013 is out the door, and here we are on the fifth day of 2014.  A whole new year to do new and amazing things.  This past year, the photography community has been in somewhat of a buzz. There have been plagiarism issues, company issues between big name photographers and companies, sponsors, rock star photography drama, and the list goes on and on. And of course there is the never ending battle of new photographers coming in,that's making lots of veteran photographers angry.

When I first started, I was told that I wouldn't be able to do this.  And I will admit, while hard, I am still here. Most new business give up within three years.  This will be my 5th year in business, and I am so happy. There have been a lot of things that I have learned from others and within myself. Some mistakes that I made in my business, but I came out stronger than ever. So with that said, here is a word to photographers, both new and old:

Make 2014 about YOU. Don't compare yourself to other photographers. Don't wonder why they got to where they are, worry about why you are not where you want to be. And then change that. We hold our cares in our hands, and no one but ourselves can hold us back.

It's ok to look up to other photographers, and gain inspiration, but remember, you are not them, they are not you. No two photographers are the same. We are each unique artists with a different flair to add to our work.

Besides technical aspects of your work, do not let anyone define your style.  Every photography should know how to take a technically sound image, but how you present that image, your artistic image is completely up to you. Do not let anyone define who you are.  Your path to success is completely different from someone else's.  You can both do the same things, use the same equipment, but your work will look completely different.

It's important to be yourself and shine.  Don't let anyone take your light from you.

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Quick and easy mittens! {Delaware Lifestyle, Home, and Fashion Photographer}

When I came across this project, I squealed at my computer. Yes, squealed.  I thought this mittens were absolutely adorable. And they look so easy to make.  Take a look!

(image from DIY Garden & Crafts on Facebook)

Again, these look super easy to make. Once you have two (clean) pairs of socks, a contrasting fabric/color for the heart or any shape you want, some needle and thread, you are done!  I think thick, wool socks would work the best for these mittens.  

The best part, is that you don't even necessarily need a sewing machine. This project can be completely hand sewn using a simple back stitch.

I plan on making myself and Charlotte a pair pretty soon. First though? I have to find socks!

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Home: Slow Cooker Melted Chocolate {Delaware Lifestyle, Fashion & Home Photographer}

I am sticking to what I said. Blogging everyday. Well right now, I am catching up on 4 days of not blogging, so this should have been posted on 1/2.  But I am here!

Like I said, my goal this year is to turn my blog into a place that not only features photography, but a place my clients can enjoy. Cooking, crafting, family, and just lifestyle topics in general.  I am a photographer, but photography is not my life. If I can connect with my clients even more than I do now, that makes our photography sessions together even better.  So with that said, who likes chocolate?

I do!

I found this Slow Cooker Melted Chocolate idea over on a blog called TheYummy Life.  The link is here: http://www.theyummylife.com/Slow_Cooker_Melted_Chocolate

(images are from TheYummyLife.com)

I have had a slow cooker since last Christmas. I'm talking Christmas 2012.  After making it clear to everyone in the house that 2012 would be the year of the slow cooker, and I have actively cooked with it...ONCE.  It has been used a total of three times though. Two of those other times being my sister and then my friend cooking.  So my poor crock pot needs love. And I love chocolate, see where I am going here...

They suggest putting different types of chocolate into glass jars, placing in the crockpot with a bit of water to melt, and bam! Instead chocolate dipping party!  You can put fruits, pretzels, crackers, and whatever food item you dream of on a skewer and get to work!

Just think how easy the prep time for this is! And what's even better? THE CLEAN UP IS BASICALLY 0! Leftover chocolate can go in the fridge to be reheated later (be careful reheating glass).  And jars that have been completed used can be placed in the dishwasher or washed by hand.  No washing different pots for different chocolates.

I am thinking of having a little lunch get together for the sole purpose of having chocolate covered EVERYTHING there. And if I do, there will be pictures.

Enjoy!

Please feel free to share with family and friends!

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New Year brings New Things! {Delaware Lifestyle & Fashion Photographer}

Happy New Year!!!

I hope you all had an amazing time during your New Years Eve celebrations. Whether it was spent at home low key, or getting all glammed up and going to a party.  My husband and I went to friends party, and I must say we looked quite spiffy. I am sad to say though, that I did not get any images of us at all!  I am so bummed. We barely dress up, so that night was truly a once a year event.

Ok, so moving on! Happy New Year to all of you. New businesses, new clients, new ventures, just so much newness.  This is the time when so many people put so much positive energy out into the world in hopes for a rebirth, it's hard not to jump on the bandwagon.  So let's start with a couple of my personal and professional new years resolutions.

1. Stop comparing myself to other photographers.  There is nothing wrong with viewing others work, making friends, and being inspired. But when I compare myself, I immediately put down all of the hard work, sweat, and tears that I have put into this business.  2014 will be a year to focus on my business even more so in that past, and that leads to...
2. Pour more of myself into my business. Give my clients an experience that goes above and beyond.  Start our connection at the beginning, and keep building on top of that.  Marisa Taylor Photography is much more than just taking your photos and getting them to you, I want you to have an experience with me. From initial contact to when you have your images in your hand, I want to be there through every journey.  And that involves more time spent styling your session wardrobe, picking the perfect location, props if needed, and an amazing Viewing & Ordering session in which you will see your images for the first time.
3. Believe I am as amazing as my husband believes I am.  He is my number one supporter. My backbone. The reason why I have not quit when the only thing I wanted to do was sell off all of my gear and props and crawl into a hole.  If he has heart and soul invested into my business as much as I do, then I owe it to him to continue to grow and learn as an artist and put out amazing work.
4. Blog. Blog a lot! Blog like a crazy person.  I am constantly in awe when I see blogs that have daily entries. Even if it's something like a simple joke or story, taking the time to blog each day is a commitment, and it is one I want to make.  I want to turn my blog into a resource that my clients can come to for things like home life, cooking, crafting, and fun activities.  You let me into your lives with my camera, I feel like I should let you into my life.  So my goal for the month of January is to blog every single day.  I am already 4 days behind, so that means 4 blogs to catch up on, but I will do it!

So thank you for sticking with me through 2013 and making it amazing.  I am definitely looking forward to what 2014 has in store.  I am eager to step outside of my comfort zone, try new things, meet new people, and continuously grow and learn as a photographer and business women.  I want to be in tune with what potential clients want, and tune what I put out to attract people.

As far as stepping outside of the box, here has been some of my latest work!

I have been doing a lot more fashion/editorial type work as of late, and have been loving it. It gives me a chance to step outside the box of what I typically new, and stretch some new creative muscles.  Using backdrops, styling the wardrobe and sessions, using different sources of lighting, and new editing skills, it has been amazing.  And all of this can translate back into my baby & family photography.

I would love to do more stylized baby and family sessions.  Picking out the location, hair and make up for the adults and glamming up the kids, and having an amazing editorial style session. Of course lifestyle photography is still my love, and I want more of that too!  More gorgeous homes, fluffy bed spreads, kids jumping and hiding underneath the blankets, the whole family together in the livin g room.

My purpose has been, and will always be to tell stories by capturing love and the growing family.  I hope you allow me to do that.

www.MarisaTaylorPhotography.com | www.Facebook.com/MarisaTaylorPhotography

And my new fashion page! www.MarisaSeasan.com | www.Facebook.com/MarisaSeasan

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