My Ongoing Quest for Amazing Photos

I'm trying. Honest. I really, really, reeeeally want to take fabulous photographs for the etsy shop and my blog, but I'm not a photographer. Well, in the strictest sense of the word I am; I mean, I do take pictures but they don't look at all polished and professional. So, what's a girl to do? There's no budget for hiring someone, or even for a new camera. Hmmmmf. (Picture me sitting with my arms crossed, hunched over, frowning.)

Okay, pity party's over. Make do with what you have, missy. So I read and search and read some more and then try stuff to see if it works. It's been so cloudy and rainy here that using outdoor light hasn't been an option, but since it wasn't actually raining yesterday, I went outside anyway. Here's the result:



The above photo was taken just outside my door, using only natural light and a little bit of editing. I'm pretty happy with it and it was a cheap solution. It only cost some time to gather a few things from the house--a big piece of paper, a metal bucket from my bathroom, a pitcher and a laundry basket.

Below is the setup:


Considerably less glamorous than a fancy studio, but that's pretty much the story of the craft business. I know, it looks flashy from the outside, but it's almost like a real job. Honest.

New Jewelry from Lori

Lori has new jewelry listings on etsy! These bracelets are just beautiful. I had a wonderful time with the pictures. My photography skills are a work in progress, but I think I'm finally making progress.

The photos were taken at Haven Hill Farms, where my children take riding lessons from Marlene Chavis. She and her husband Steve do a great job with the horses, as well as keeping the whole farm beautiful. They do weddings regularly so there are great places to take pictures.

So, here's the result of my day at the farm:

Gorgeous glass bead bracelet



Bracelet made from vintage wood beads :


Both of the above bracelets are currently listed on etsy.

I took lots of pictures and plan to list many more of these wonderful pieces this week. What's your favorite?

Mother of pearl heart earrings:


Bracelet, made with vintage beads:
Glass bead earrings:


Pssst! These glass bead earrings would be great with the blue bracelet above.