PHOTOGRAPHY Archives - Page 6 of 15 - Keeping With The Times

“app” happy wednesday #24!

October 1, 2014 by Barb 9 Comments

Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #24 and all things phone photography! If you are new to the party, this is a link-up to share your photos edited with “apps” of any kind! Let me stress there are no rules!! Just join the fun and share any kind of artsy creation.

PLEASE NOTE: Instead of having a link-up every Wednesday, it’s now going to be on the first Wednesday of each month.

So, the next one will be November 5th, and then December 3rd. Each party will start at 5:00 am.

I do hope to see you here!

You may have noticed that I’m a little obsessed with my succulent plants … I’ve been uprooting and re-potting a few in order to over-winter them. I set this one inside a grey pot without thinking much of it, and then I did a double-take … what an amazing match!

I set it down on a rustic bench with a piece of black foam core behind it. It was the bright and harsh sunlight that caught my eye …

Original taken with Camera+

Then I took it into Mextures where I pretty much had a field day!

succulent pot, phone photography, app happy wednesday

What an amazing difference a few filters can make! I have to admit, I can’t remember which ones I used but all it takes is a bit of playing around to find a combination that you like.

succulent pot, phone photography, app happy wednesday

Earlier reviews:

PS Touch

Camera+ Part I

Camera+ Part II

So now, let’s see what you’ve been up to!

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up! You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.
Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
Each party will start at 5:00 am on the first Wednesday of the month.

*sorry … this series is closed

Potting Bench Adventures

September 30, 2014 by Barb 17 Comments

From the potting bench this morning, I bring you my crabapples, clay pots, succulents, pumpkins, and mums, with a sprinkling of autumn leaves! #iseehearts

from the potting bench, texture tuesday, keeping with the times dot com

from the potting bench_3

from the potting bench_2

from the potting bench

Yesterday we had a “Be Still Connect”. I always look forward to them and inevitably come away with fresh new ideas.

One thing that struck me was how overwhelmed a lot of us feel with all our commitments. Everyone agreed that we should cut ourselves some slack, and then try to whittle away some of the stuff that isn’t working for us anymore.

I made a list and found one thing I could finally let go … it was a hard decision and has taken me over a year to finally get to this point. We resist change, but it’s happening to us every single day.

Our interests, goals, passions … they change … just like the seasons. I first needed to accept that, and now I can let go. I’m off to send that e-mail …

Have a happy Tuesday!

kk_within LR preset with adjustments

Texture Tuesday at Kim Klassen dot com

Dolgo Crabapple “Find”

September 26, 2014 by Barb 25 Comments

Finding these beautiful Dolgo crabapples has been a highlight of my autumn preserving ritual. When making jelly, you won’t find a more beautiful, red, jewel-like result.

Earlier in the summer, I kind of “stumbled” upon the trees in a Superstore parking lot! At the time I didn’t know what they were, but every time I filled up with fuel, my eyes were drawn to the “berries” that were forming on them.

I assumed the trees must be some kind of ornamental variety … why would there be crabapple trees in a parking lot?

dolgo crabapple, keeping with the times

Yesterday, I was simply driving by and I couldn’t believe how loaded the trees were. I actually made a u-turn, headed back, and stopped to pick one of the fruits. I could smell the most wonderful “apple” scent and I knew right away. These were the real deal. Whoa … how could I walk away … well, obviously I couldn’t.

dolgo crabapple, keeping with the times,

I went back to my car, grabbed bag, walked up to the trees, and started picking. I didn’t look at anyone, in fact I kind of tried to hide behind the branches. It was one of those moments where, as a child you think “if I can’t see you, you can’t see me.”

dolgo crabapple, keeping with the times

At first I thought I’d just pick a few … enough to take some photos … but who was I kidding? I could not stop until I knew I had enough for one batch of jelly, at least.

dolgo_crabapple02

I rushed home and started cooking them right away. Oh the house smelled divine, absolutely divine. And the jelly is red, shimmery, tart and tasty. Oh yumm …

So guess what I did? I went back and picked some more. Now that is chutzpah! but wait until you see the jelly …

Go here if you want to check out a good article on the Dolgo crabapple.

These images are also for the Be Still 52 class where the prompt is “Organic”. I love this prompt … so full of possibilities (especially at this time of year) and I do have another “Organic” theme on the way …

Have you signed up for my newsletter? I’d love to be able to send you a happy note about once a week! Many, many thanks to those of you who already have!

“app” happy wednesday #23

September 24, 2014 by Barb 6 Comments

Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #23! If you are new to the party, this is a link-up to share your phone photos edited with “apps” of any kind! Let me stress there are no rules!! Just join the fun and share any kind of artsy creation.

PLEASE NOTE: Instead of having a link-up every wednesday, it’s now going to be on the first Wednesday of each month. So, the next one will be October 1st, then November 5th, and then December 3rd. Each party will start at 5:00 am on the first Wednesday of the month and will stay open until the next party begins! so party on!!

I do hope to see you here!

In an effort to use my phone to create still life images that I could use for TT, or Start to Finish, or Be Still 52, I’m experimenting with VSCOcam.

I took this shot, cropped it, adjusted exposure, and then applied the S1 filter. Even though this is not the best shot ever, I’m pretty happy with it! And the coolest thing is that when I uploaded it to WordPress, the description area reads: alt=”Processed with VSCOcam with s1 preset”. Way too cool! That information was saved with the photo!! A.ma.zing.

Processed with VSCOcam with s1 preset

When I downloaded the app, I decided to buy the Launch Bundle for $5.99 which was basically all the presets.

I must say that the interface is not all that friendly but I found a great tutorial at iphonephotographyschool dot com which I would highly recommend. If you can’t find it, email me and I’ll send you a link.

So now, let’s see what you’ve been up to.

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up! You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.
Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
Each party will start at 5:00 am on the first Wednesday of the month and will stay open until the next party begins! so party on!!

*sorry … this series is closed

Autumn is a New Beginning

September 23, 2014 by Barb 13 Comments

Good morning, and happy first day of autumn! Where I live, the autumnal equinox started at 8:29 pm last night. It’s astronomical! Literally …

“autumn is a second spring where every leaf is a flower” albert camus

I love September, I love autumn, and I love the feeling of a fresh new start. To me, it feels more like a new beginning than January 1st.

I’ve been feeling extremely energized and creative. One minute I’m outside cleaning flower beds, then suddenly I spy a mushroom and I’m off to grab my camera … 30 minutes later I remember what I was doing in the first place, and head back to the garden.

Next, I spy some gorgeous, mottled cotoneaster leaves and am off to grab my camera again. This time, the quote by Albert Camus came to mind and I ended up creating an autumn flower.

Right after breakfast I’m heading out on a photo search … it’s another perfect day with a little bit of cloud cover. I want to soak up every single delicious autumn moment before it’s gone.

I’m excited to begin the new Start to Finish class later today, and I have some more baking to do, so I’d better get a move on!

Have you signed up for my newsletter? I’ve already sent out two this month, and there’s been a great response so far. You can sign up using the form on the sidebar – I’d love to have you!

One last thing … there’s going to be a slight change to “app” happy wednesday, starting tomorrow. I love seeing your art, and I hope to see you there!

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Autumn Colour Inspiration

September 22, 2014 by Barb 5 Comments

On Sunday morning, we took one more tour around the lake for some autumn colour inspiration; brilliant blues, yellows, greens, and golds.

It was a perfect morning with wispy white clouds painted across the blue skies, calm glassy water, and other than a couple of people fishing, we were the only ones out there.

Later in the day the lake exploded with boating activity complete with music blaring from speakers until about 10:00pm when it was completely dark. There are two types of lake-life here … early morning coffee cruisers, and late night partiers. Kind of hard to picture the latter when you see this: autumn colours {keeping with the times} Autumn Reflections Morning02 Autumn Reflections Morning04 Autumn Reflections Morning05 Autumn Reflections Morning06 Autumn Reflections Morning07 Autumn Reflections Morning08 Autumn Reflections Morning09 Autumn Reflections Morning10 Autumn Reflections Morning11 Autumn Reflections Morning12 Autumn Reflections Morning13 Autumn Reflections Morning16 Autumn Reflections Morning17 Autumn Reflections Morning18 reflections of autumn Autumn Colours Autumn Reflections Morning21

So this is it for my autumn lake reflections (I know, it was a bit of a photo dump). We’ve brought the boat in, put it away, and covered it for what is surely coming … the autumn colours will inevitably be replaced with browns, and greys, and eventually white.

If you want to see our evening tour, check out my post, Autumn Reflections.

Have a Happy Monday! and thank you for dropping by!

Autumn Reflections

September 21, 2014 by Barb 9 Comments

One of things I look forward to in September is our last tour around the lake, to take in the autumn reflections. Here’s the view from our dock, and you can see that some of the leaves have already fallen off the tallest trees. It happens so fast …

autumn, {keeping with the times}

Autumn Reflections_15 Autumn Reflections_14 Autumn Reflections_13 Autumn Reflections_12 Autumn Reflections_11 Autumn Reflections_10 Autumn Reflections_9

We were the only people on the lake … and it was absolutely incredible. The photos don’t do it justice.
Autumn Reflections_8 Autumn Reflections_7 Autumn Reflections_5 Autumn Reflections_4 Autumn Reflections_3 Autumn Reflections_2

Summer ends, and Autumn comes, and he who would have it otherwise would have high tide always and a full moon every night

~Hal Borland~

Organic Photography

September 18, 2014 by Barb 15 Comments

This week in Be Still 52, Kim showed us how to create organic photography that is both earthy and moody, and she so very kindly provided us with the perfect LR preset to help us in our quest.

I’d been planning on baking up some zucchini or carrot bread, and I had some brown eggs … hmmmm … I never buy brown eggs, but last week, for some unknown reason, my hands picked them out of the grocers refrigerator, propelled by some strange force … the compulsive photographers force, perhaps?

Organic Photo Shoot

I’m certainly a novice at this type of photography, but I find that I really love the style. So, for inspiration, I’ve created a Dark, Moody Food Photography board on Pinterest. I’ll be adding lots more to it in the days ahead.

But the really incredible news for me is that I created this completely in LR! OMG – I never thought I’d see the day. But with Kim’s wonderful and timely help, I did it. I can’t thank her enough.

Now I’m off to bake that zucchini/carrot bread! Oh, but first! Check out my newest venture – my newsletter! I sent my first one out on Tuesday and I received some pretty positive feedback – it’s like me, writing a note to friends … sign-up form on sidebar …

Joining in tomorrow at Friday Finds.

“app” happy wednesday #22

September 17, 2014 by Barb 4 Comments

Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #22! If you’re new to the party, this is a weekly link-up to share your photos edited with “apps” of any kind! Let me stress there are no rules!! Just join the fun and share any kind of artsy creation.

The trees are turning very quickly now. Every morning I notice more colour, and I swear by the end of the day there’s even more again. Oh how I wish I could hold on to it!

I edited this photo in Mextures with a very soft touch, just enough to deepen and brighten ever so slightly.

Camera+ Mextures

Camera+

I’ve been experimenting with VSCOcam this past week, but I don’t feel comfortable sharing anything yet. It’s a great camera and I want to do it justice. So that’s what I plan to post next Wednesday.

If you missed it before, you can check out my post on PS Touch, or Camera+ here, and here.

So now, let’s see what you’ve been up to!

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up!
Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
Each party will start at 5:00 am on Wednesdays and will stay open until the following Sunday night at midnight.
You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.

*sorry … this series is closed

Wabi Sabi: Setting Up a Still Life

September 16, 2014 by Barb 19 Comments

Today I want to share my process in setting up this still life, and how a simple change of angle gave my wabi sabi image much more impact.

I’d been watching a gazania wither and dry for over a week. As the days went by, I knew it was going to be my post for Texture Tuesday. It could qualify for Be Still 52 as well because it took some thought (but not effort), for me to visualize what I wanted to do with it.

I knew I was going to set it on an old wooden door I’d salvaged quite some time ago. I also knew the photo was going to be taken “from above”, and that I’d be using my little garden snips, and twine.

I really wanted to show you a “before” image as a mouseover, but I cannot get it to work in WordPress… grrrrrr … if WordPress doesn’t like a certain html code, it takes the liberty of stripping it from a post … major grrrrr. If anyone knows a workaround for this annoyance could you please share it with me?

Anyway, following is the image I was working on to start with, and I just did not like it … can you see what’s wrong?

This is the back of the door, and the support board was going straight across from left to right and it was really bothering me. It didn’t look crooked, but it did not look straight either.

wabi sabi gazania

So, I ended up tipping the whole image, and instantly, everything felt right! ahhh … don’t you agree?

I think this is a much better version… wonderful and very wabi sabi!

I processed it in LR with kk_whisper, then added a layer of kk_quiet on soft light at 50%.

wabi sabi gazania

The following close-up image was processed in LR with kk_gentle.

I’m loving these presets from Kim I tell ya! They add instant charm and a beautiful feel to every still life, and you just know it’s going to be perfect.

lr preset: kk_gentle

I hope you’ve enjoyed the explanation of my process!

I’ve registered for the new round of Start to Finish that begins later this month, and I’m so looking forward to it! Who else out there is taking it?

Oh, and please don’t forget to join me here tomorrow for “app” happy wednesday!

“app” happy wednesday #21

September 10, 2014 by Barb 8 Comments

Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #21!

If you’re new to the party, this is a weekly link-up to share your photos edited with “apps” of any kind! Let me stress there are no rules!! Just join the fun and share any kind of artsy creation.

So, when I heard we were going to get snow and freezing temperatures, I went out to my garden and picked as much as I could and then made a few flower arrangements. I took photos with my DSLR and my phone, and I have to tell you I much preferred the phone photos. Hipstamatic wins again!

Dream Canvas with Jane lens.

I was struck at how “autumny” my coleus looked so I added a pumpkin to the mix …

These photos also remind me of the 70’s or 80’s or something … hmmm… must be the harvest gold and green …

Dream Canvas with Jane lens.

Then there’s my pretty echinops:

Dream Canvas with Adler 9009 lens

Now you might want to put on some sunglasses for my bright “pink sunrise” in Waterlogue!

Waterlogue now has the option to not use a frame, so I thought I’d try it, but I think I like the frames better.

"app" happy wednesday

Well, that’s it for me today. Now let’s see what you’ve been up to!

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up!
Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
Each party will start at 5:00 am on Wednesdays and will stay open until the following Sunday night at midnight.
You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.

*sorry … this series is closed

Texture Tuesday: Silverware and Serviettes

September 9, 2014 by Barb 19 Comments

Wrap vintage silverware with twine and a spring of rosemary for a great addition to any autumn tablescape!

Good morning! I’ll try not to whine too much about our overnight dump of snow … but I did have to mention it, so as to get it out of my system … ugh …

Many of my flowers are mush now … but not my herbs, they’re fine, so I decided to bring a few in and play around with them.

I edited these images in LR, first adjusting exposure, cropping, and then I applied the preset kk_lightly.

For the first two, I added the texture kk_leslie, at soft light (65%) which warmed them up …

Silverware-and-Herbs

Silverware-and-Herbs1

The following set has just the preset with no added texture, which left them cooler …

I can’t decide which I like best! Usually I prefer the cooler tones but this time … it may be a tie! What do you think?

Silverware-and-Herbs

Silverware-and-Herbs2

kk_lightly only:

Serviette-and-Silverware2014

Many thanks to all who have signed up for my newsletter! I’m thrilled and honoured that you did! I’m looking forward to communicating in a more personal way.

So … exciting changes for me! The automatic RSS driven e-mail subscription will not be available after today …

Pink Sunrise

September 7, 2014 by Barb 7 Comments

Good morning! Happy Sunday to you!

Last week I was sitting in my office and glanced out the window to see a sky that was so pink I could hardly believe my eyes. I grabbed my phone and hurried down to the lake.

After I took all these photos I was wishing I’d taken my big camera … I’m just so out of the mode … and I need to change that … but here is what I did get:

pink-sunrise5-copy

pink-sunrise-copy

pink-sunrise1-copy

pink-sunrise2-copy

It lasted maybe 10 minutes maximum, and then it vanished.

Today we are going on a mushroom hunt (I know how strange) but I think it’s going to be quite interesting. My friend is most interested in finding the mushrooms to eat … I’m most interested in taking photos… and yes, it’s guided so we shouldn’t be poisoning anyone!

See you tomorrow … hopefully …

Printing Instagram with Printstagram

September 5, 2014 by Barb 15 Comments

It’s no secret that I love Instagram, but I love it even more when I get my photos printed!

I’ve tried other companies and have always had great results, but this time I chose Printstagram because they offered greeting cards in three different sizes. I chose the 4×4 square complete with kraft paper envelopes.

Prinstagram, Instagram, Greeting Cards, Keeping With The Times

There’s something so intriguing about seeing your very own, little works of art, printed out as cards.
Prinstagram, Instagram, Greeting Cards, Keeping With The Times

Prinstagram, Instagram, Greeting Cards, Keeping With The Times

I wrapped up a few cards and gave them away as gifts! but I have to admit I had a hard time parting with them …

Prinstagram, Instagram, Greeting Cards, Keeping With The Times

I highly recommend Printstagram (I first learned about them from Kim Klassen) … thank you, Kim.

Ordering was easy, delivery was very prompt, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the quality. Here is where I mention that this is NOT a sponsored post, this is my own, authentic opinion and I will be ordering from them again in the future.

So this was basically my big find for the week! Love it when happy mail arrives!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

“app” happy wednesday #20

September 3, 2014 by Barb 10 Comments

Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #20!

Today I simply laid down on the sofa and played around in DistressedFX. I haven’t used it for a while and I thought my barn was a good subject.

I used “Pith” and added the “swirl” birds.

"app" happy wednesday, distressed FX, barn

Then I took it into Camera+ and softened it with a blur and added the Vintage frame.

barn4-copy

My favourite barn never gets old!

So that’s it for me today. Now let’s see what you’ve been up to!

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up!
Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
Each party will start at 5:00 am on Wednesdays and will stay open until the following Sunday night at midnight.
You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.

Feeling Wishy-Washy

September 2, 2014 by Barb 11 Comments

I’m feeling kind of wishy-washy tonight as I prepare my post for TT. A busy week last week and a busy weekend combined with computer woes, e-mail problems, updates, passwords … all spinning around in my head … ugh … double ugh … I’m really hoping I finally have everything sorted out. I look forward to a quiet and uneventful September … fingers crossed.

I did so much to this photo that I can’t even begin to explain … I’ve been practicing in LR with presets and I’m pretty sure all that really ended up on this is Kim’s kk_lightly. I’m loving the 31 Days of LR with all the fantastic info and wonderful free presets! Yes, I’m behind but what can I say. I’m behind in just about everything right now.

gazania and tea

So for now I’ll bid you a “good-night” even though it will be morning when you see this!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

PS: I’m giving away a copy of Photoshop Elements 12 (draw on Friday, September 5). Check out this post for details.

Good Monday Morning!

September 1, 2014 by Barb 8 Comments

Just popping in to wish everyone a happy holiday Monday and to share some tidbits of my week!

I also want to remind you that I’m giving away a copy of Photoshop Elements 12, so if you’re interested go to this post to enter the draw!

I pass this lovely barn many times on my travels and I have dozens of photos … it just never gets old …

autumn leaves, keeping with the times

#asseenonmydriveway #autumn #wereontheverge

autumn-leaves-copy

What a gorgeous time of year!

harvest-copy

Thanks so much for dropping by!

“app” happy wednesday #19

August 27, 2014 by Barb 9 Comments

Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #19!

Do you use PS Touch? I’ve been using it more and more and the reason for that is the new Creative Cloud feature. It’s so convenient to access photos and textures!

I have Creative Cloud since it comes with the Photoshop Photography Program.
You can see I have a folder called iPhone 2014.
I offload my Camera Roll to my computer with LR and then upload them to the Creative Cloud. Of course your phone and iPad will share photos if you have the Photo Stream turned on, but I had turned mine off for a while since it was driving me crazy … .
I’ve also uploaded some photos to “DSLR Photos” taken with my BGC (which I do not post on IG – ever) but I can use them when posting to my blog from my iPad.
The best part is I uploaded tons of textures so now when I use PS Touch they are conveniently available to use on my images:

PS Touch Screen Shot, "app" happy wednesday, keeping with the times

iPad Screenshot

So what can you do in PS Touch? Well, for one thing you can work with layers.

Here I added two textures, both different opacities and blend modes. I also added a filter to the actual photo layer.

Here’s my final image after I added the frame in Camera+

… this creation is not one of my favourites and I will admit working in PS Touch feels awkward. But the whole point of this exercise for me is to push myself to learn the ins and outs of using different apps. Sometimes it just takes a while to warm up to something new and unfamiliar.

And just because I felt like torturing myself further, I used PS Touch to resize the images and then I created this post on my iPad. Arghhhh!! Why?!?! Why I ask myself?! I’m major fumble fingers when I don’t have a mouse … it’s a miracle I didn’t hit Publish halfway through.

One last thing to note – notice that I have a bouquet of peonies in August? How did I manage that? Well, way back on July 3rd I snipped 5 unopened buds, put them in a bag and left them in the fridge until yesterday. After I cut the ends and put them in water they burst open almost immediately! Way cool!!

So that’s it for me today. Now let’s see what you’ve been up to!

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up!
Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
Each party will start at 5:00 am on Wednesdays and will stay open until the following Sunday night at midnight.
You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.

*sorry … this series is closed

Friday Finds: Oregano

August 22, 2014 by Barb 20 Comments

I seem to be drawn to tiny, understated flowers, so when I saw that my oregano was blooming I had to snip a few sprigs to play with.
oregano-copy-2

I think it would make a great bridal bouquet … for an elf …

Friday Finds: Oregano, keeping with the times

The cute font is free and is DJB Jacked Up Kinda Love from our own fontographer, Darcy Baldwin (from Digital Scrapper). You can find her fonts in the shop here, and Darcy can also turn your very own handwriting into a font! Check that out here.

LR Preset: kk_lightandairy

Texture: kk_poetic

“app” happy wednesday #18

August 20, 2014 by Barb 8 Comments

Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #18!

I found this delicate little mushroom in our lawn, it’s about the size of a dime and once again turned to Hipstamatic:

Film: Dylan

Lens: Tinto 1884

Mushroom I and II, "app" happy wednesday, keeping with the times

Film: Blanko

Lens: John S

mushroom2-copy

There were about 10 kayaks in our bay last week and I walked down to see what was going on. Turns out it was a group of women just out and about enjoying the calm waters. I wanted to join them but our kayak has been sitting in the reeds and is full of spiders – yikes! I didn’t feel like kayaking that much …

Film: Dylan

Lens: Tinto 1884

"app" happy wednesday, keeping with the times

Who knew clouds could be this artsy?

"app" happy wednesday, keeping with the times

So that’s it for me today. Now let’s see what you’ve been up to!

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up!
Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
Each party will start at 5:00 am on Wednesdays and will stay open until the following Sunday night at midnight.
You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.

*sorry … this series is closed

Time to Start Thinking About It

August 19, 2014 by Barb 15 Comments

Autumn Whites

Our summer this year was amazing. We had above average temperatures and no violent storms. We had lots of time with our family which we spent out on the lake, having campfires, and just generally hanging out.

Now the sun is rising later and setting earlier … there’s just no getting around it. That’s one of the first signs that things are changing. The leaves are looking tired and so are my flower pots.

I have to admit I’m a bit relieved to have some rain and cooler temps this morning and I plan to do some baking, something I haven’t done for weeks because of the heat.

And as far as blogging goes I feel like I’ve fallen off the grid and must now either step it up or … else …

So I pulled an image out of the archives this morning; something that has become a lot easier since I’ve been working on my LR organization. However, I was watching one of the videos for the 31 Days class and oh.my.heavens … my keywords are a disaster … oh my … but onwards and upwards!

Today I’m posting a creation and that’s what counts! I ran kk_lightandairy_film and then added one layer of kk_quiet on soft light.

Don’t forget “app” happy wednesday tomorrow! I hope to see you there!

Friday Finds: It’s Chokecherry Time!

August 15, 2014 by Barb 16 Comments

Sometimes you don’t have to go far to find something interesting.

As I stepped out my front door, I wasn’t feeling particularly inspired. In fact I was feeling pretty much the opposite of particularly inspired. But then I spied a pink flower in the bushes and went over to investigate. The flower was pretty, and quite unexpected (it was a volunteer Lavatera), but then I spied the chokecherries.
Chokecherry on Towel, Friday Finds, Keeping with the Times

It’s a big sign that we are tipping over the edge of summer.

This brings a ton of mixed feelings; the urge to scream no, then excitement and anticipation for the time of year I love most, a bit of nostalgia, and a feeling of calm.

I’ll soon be making jelly with these sour little bullets. I can’t wait to be pouring the dark burgundy liquid into hot jars, sealing them tightly, and adding a cute little lid and tag. Treasures ready for gifting.

Chokecherry on Towel, Friday Finds, Keeping with the Times

Oh, and here’s the pretty volunteer Lavatera that drew me in …

Chokecherry on Towel, Friday Finds, Keeping with the Times

Thank you so much for stopping by and have a wonderful weekend everyone!

“app” happy wednesday #17

August 13, 2014 by Barb 7 Comments

Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #17!

Since I’ve been spending hours and hours on the lake this summer there have been plenty of opportunities for me to capture some pretty awesome sparkling water bokeh!

bokeh, camera+, "app" happy wednesday, keeping with the times

To capture bokeh in Camera+, focus in on a small object by tapping the screen, then touch the Focus Lock (I circled it in red). Lift the camera up and your image should be out of focus and you can capture your bokeh! That’s it!

camera+, focus lock, bokeh, keeping with the times, "app" happy wednesday

If you want, you can read more about my experiences with Camera+ here, and here.

So now, I leave you with some shots of the week that was…

bokeh, camera+, "app" happy wednesday, keeping with the times

tubing-copy

IMG_3033-copy

IMG_2874-copy

IMG_2884-copy

IMG_3027-copy

IMG_3210-copy

carrots-copy

bokeh, camera+, "app" happy wednesday, keeping with the times

Just a whole lot of fun and love.

Now I can’t wait to see what you’ve been up to!

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up!
Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
Each party will start at 5:00 am on Wednesdays and will stay open until the following Sunday night at midnight.
You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.

*sorry … this series is closed

Texture Tuesday: Oh What an Inspiration!

August 12, 2014 by Barb 12 Comments

echinops, lightroom, adobe, adobe photoshop, lightroom template, kim klassen

Today is TT and I’m late to the party … but as it turns out, it’s a good thing.

When I read Kim’s post I was so struck by her words “something good is about to happen” …

Those words! So full of promise, anticipation, excitement.

Something good is about to happen!

I don’t really know what she is referring to, but that doesn’t matter. It’s not the point. If I saw these words on my bathroom mirror every morning I’d be so excited to start the day wondering what it could be … Perhaps it’s only that …

it’s a most beautiful summer day here
the echinops in my garden are glorious
I found the best tools and cleaners for my windows which are now beyond sparkling
I spent over 30 minutes organizing LR and now my presets are in order
I thought of a great new idea for an (autumn) wreath
and on and on … who knows? the day is not over.

For today’s image I used kk_melancholy and the font is Arsenale White on Overlay Blend Mode

Don’t forget! tomorrow is “app” happy wednesday!!

Square White Space

August 11, 2014 by Barb 12 Comments

Good Monday Morning! What are you having for breakfast? Bowl of Cherries

I’m having white space.

One of our challenges in the Be Still 52 class was to create a still life around a spoon. Once again my love for clean, minimal, and white kicked in.

I took this with my DSLR and I have to tell you that it’s becoming more and more difficult for me to set up for a square image. I’ve become so used to my phone which makes it a breeze because of the option to take a square shot to start with.

So here I first set everything on a 12×12 inch piece of scrapbook paper and then removed it when I was ready to shoot. That helped but it wasn’t perfect. I still had to crop and straighten. Then I had to lighten, brighten, dodge and burn. Oh well, it turned out in the end and I achieved what I was going for.

Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful day!

“app” happy wednesday #16

August 6, 2014 by Barb 10 Comments

Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #16!

Once again a week has flown by! How does that happen??

Well, we just returned from another boat ride and as I sit and type this I’m still rockin’ and rollin’ … you know the feeling? when you come in and still feel like your swaying? Well, I guess that’s how the time flies.

We’ve spent endless hours on the lake; boating, swimming, tubing, touring, and fishing. We’ve been having some wonderful family time this summer and through it all I’ve been snapping photos and tucking them away to be savoured when things slow down.

A couple of days ago I decided to turn to Hipstamatic and let it do the work.

I just don’t have time to play around with editing … I bought the “Groupie SnapPak” so I’d have something new to play with and I love it!! It includes the film “Dylan”, the Pop Rox Flash,and the Adler 9009 Lens. Just to confuse things, I didn’t use the new lens with the following shots, I use a different one.

I’m pretty happy when it when it captures images like these …

"app" happy wednesday, Hipstamatic, Tinto 1884, Dylan

… I seriously adore the focus and blur … but honestly, I’m not sure how it focused in on that duck because I didn’t do that …

hipstalakeview1

Here’s the info on the above two shots. I didn’t use the lens that came with the new Groupie SnapPak, I changed to Tinto 1884 because I was getting some great colour with it.

hipsta info

Then it does this and I kinda have mixed feelings about the light leaks …

"app" happy wednesday, Hipstamatic, Tinto 1884, Dylan

I like this one better:

"app" happy wednesday, Hipstamatic, Tinto 1884, Dylan

So there’s a snippet of what I’ve been up to. I apologize for not being around to visit much lately … summer has taken hold and it won’t let go … but I promise I will return.

Now I can’t wait to see what you’ve been up to!

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up!
Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
Each party will start at 5:00 am on Wednesdays and will stay open until the following Sunday night at midnight.
You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.

*sorry … this series is closed

August: Inspiring Reverence or Admiration

August 1, 2014 by Barb 9 Comments

It’s August! Did you know it’s the only month this year to start on a Friday? Cool interesting fact!

Did you know that the Gladiolus is the birth flower for August?

I wasn’t really aware of that as I picked up a bunch of these stately flowers. I felt a bit guilty paying money for them but, hey … they cost $5.00 and I won’t be seeing them at this price for another year.

Gladiolus, August, Keeping with the Times

noun

AUgust

1.the eighth month of the year, containing 31 days.

adjective

auGUST
1. inspiring reverence or admiration; of supreme dignity or grandeur; majestic: an august performance of a religious drama.
2. venerable; eminent: an august personage.

Gladiolus, August, Keeping with the Times

So that’s what I found this week. I’m going to treat this month with the respect and dignity it deserves.

Have a wonderful weekend!!

Ahhh, the Stillness …

July 31, 2014 by Barb 17 Comments

From the Potting Bench, keeping with the times, from above

Last night I was taking a look at the Be Still 52 assignment for Week 11. Talk about perfect timing! I’ve had a very busy 10 days with three of my grandchildren visiting and I’ve loved every moment of it.

But this morning suddenly, I am all alone …

So I had time to think … what does stillness look like to me?

Well, it’s a quiet cup of coffee all by myself. Looking out the window. It’s being able to concentrate on one thing at a time (ahem … it getting harder to multi-task as I age) and so when I have the grands, it’s all about them. I don’t go trying to set up a photo shoot, it just does not work for me. Plus I want to be present for them.

But today! ah the freedom!!

It wasn’t long until I wandered out into the garden. Then I found myself at the potting bench with a handful of flowers and berries, excited to set up a little vignette. These potting bench vignettes take time: I create an arrangement I think will work, then I have to run up the stairs to look down on it, and then back down the stairs to rearrange, then back up, then back down … I can do this 10 times before I’m satisfied.

This morning I had a couple of prompts from IG that I was trying to incorporate. One was “vantage point” and the other was “shapes”. I’m quite pleased with the results. I took the photo with my phone since it’s the easiest and today it’s all about easy …

Now it’s time to head out for the day. I have places to go, things to do (no people to see) and I’m quite sure I’ll be taking a few side trips down country roads. I hope I “find” something to share with you tomorrow. Until then, have a creative day!

“app” happy wednesday #15

July 30, 2014 by Barb 13 Comments

Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #15!

Well, its summer. The middle of summer, and tonight I’ve run out of time … so I’m simply going to share some of my garden shots; most taken with Hipstamatic.

I have a little creation in the works and hope to share that later in August when things slow down a bit.

So for today, I present My Garden (caution – serious photo dump)!

"app" happy wednesday

su-copy

succulent2JPG-copy

succulent3-copy

garden1-copy

coleus-copy

"app" happy wednesday, keeping with the times

IMG_2538-Edit-copy

IMG_2527-Edit-copy

IMG_2510-Edit-copy

IMG_2507-Edit-copy

IMG_2306-Edit-copy

IMG_2189-Edit-copy

IMG_2334-Edit-copy

IMG_2116-Edit-copy

IMG_2340-Edit-copy

I can’t wait to see what you’ve been up to!

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up!
Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
Each party will start at 5:00 am on Wednesdays and will stay open until the following Sunday night at midnight.
You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.

*sorry … this series is closed

Texture Tuesday: Daisy-a-Day

July 29, 2014 by Barb 14 Comments

daisy, still life, texture tuesday, keeping with the times

kk_way

Oh my, July is whizzing by … as I spend beautiful day after beautiful day with grandkids on the lake or in the yard as they play, I make sure to say a little thank you every day for all my blessings.

lake fun 2014

Here’s my day yesterday:

6:00 am – greeted my youngest grandson (said a little thank you inside) … gave him breakfast and set him up in front of the TV (yes I did).

6:00 – 8:00 I wrote a tutorial. Yes. I wrote a tutorial! Sometimes you just gotta do what you just gotta do.

8:00 – greeted my two older grandchildren (said a little thank you inside) … and then helped hubby prepare breakfast for all.

Spent some time washing their clothes and towels, then made lunch to take out onto the boat. We were out on the lake from 12:30 – 3:30.

lake-fun1-copy

When we came in hubby and I spent the next couple of hours in the yard while they splashed around in the pool.

Hubby lit a fire and we roasted hot dogs and then s’mores. When I glanced over at the youngest grandson I could see he was staring straight ahead with s’mores all over his face. He was zoned out, but blissful.

I took him in, gave him a bath and put him to bed (he actually asked to go …).

At 8:00 I took some Ibuprofen and laid down on the sofa with my iPad and proceeded to watch a marathon of LR-Begin classes. I’m so behind but I really want to get this one finished – it’s bursting with info.

Took a little break and helped the other two fold their clothes and get ready for bed.

Then I went back to LR-Begin. I remember drifting off a few times … I hope I was at least getting subliminal messages …

lake fun 2014

See you tomorrow at “app” happy wednesday!

“app” happy wednesday #14

July 23, 2014 by Barb 13 Comments

Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #14! If you’re new to the party, this is a weekly link-up to share your photos edited with “apps” of any kind!

Let me stress there are no rules!! Just join the fun and share any kind of artsy creation!

I’m participating in the Big Picture Classes Phone Photography Project. I really enjoy this one for some reason … I’ve met a lot of new IG’rs through it.

Yesterday the prompt was #lines so I had my eyes open, hoping to capture something close to home since I do have 3 grands visiting and have to be efficient!

This chair sitting in our bedroom never has anything piled on it (ahem … just kidding) well, at least this morning it didn’t. I immediately saw all the lines! Not sure I would have if I hadn’t been paying attention. What I am usually aware of is the sun when it shines through the blinds because it very rarely does so. Only for a few minutes during the summer does it ever grace this room.

Of course I bumped up the colour and light!

"app" happy wednesday, big picture class, phone photography project, keeping with the times, picsplay pro, distressed fx, pstouch I used Distressed FX “Finch” to warm it up and then the “Tailfins” filter found in Camera+ to add the sun rays you see in the above photo. I then desaturated the final image just a touch.

"app" happy wednesday, big picture class, phone photography project, keeping with the times, picsplay pro, distressed fx, pstouch

That’s it! Now let’s see what you’ve been up to!

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up!
Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
Each party will start at 5:00 am on Wednesdays and will stay open until the following Sunday night at midnight.
You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.

*sorry … this series is closed

« Previous Page