Day 1

I thought it was fitting to photograph my first entry during the downtown stroll last night. Steven and I hitched up the car seat and trailer, I packed some food and the four of us headed downtown on our bicycles.

F 1.8 at 1/99th second, ISO 1600

I knew where I wanted to photograph the fireworks from, but in the chaos of the evening, and my cell phone not working, we got separated. I was cycling along with Mickey in the trailer, trying to find him, then the countdown began, so we rushed to Presa and Market streets. McKayla loved the view, and we shot some great frames. She even helped me push the shutter a couple times.

So with this great bonding moment, I figured the best way to show my appreciation for my almost-seven-year-old, is to make her photo my Day 1.

Mickey has been my little helper for years. As a photo enthusiast, I posed her, used her to test lighting before clients get to a location, she was the official equipment holder and also helps hold reflectors. She is my assistant, a very patient little girl. Then when everyone is gone, she is the center of attention and loves posing for the camera.

This photo was taken after I took a few photos of the new LED Christmas lights downtown. They do not reflect on the water the same way last years bulbs did, so I was having a hard time illustrating their reflection. Mickey was tiptoeing to look over the railing to see the lights on the water.

This photo was taken with my new 50 mm 1.8 lens which I LOVE! Mickey is facing a light post and looking toward the light, which highlights her face and is nicely diffused. I like that this picture used natural light, instead of flash.

She looks beautiful and I look forward to tackling new territory in the year to come.