Happy New Year

Best wishes for a safe, fun

&

Happy New Year!

A Very Merry Holiday

Christmas is one of my very favorite times of year. (minus the cold snow) I love the colors of the season, Christmas music starting the day after Thanksgiving and the focus on why the season is celebrated. Every year Craig and I say that we will go look at the lights on Temple Square in Salt Lake City and unfortunately have not made it there...until this year! I was in awe of how many strands of lights are used, the various colors and the great attention to detail. We were lucky to go after a snowstorm that melted and I loved the reflection of the lights on the pavement.

I loved the simple glow the lights provide around the Square.

One of my favorite things about Christmas is the chance to decorate my Christmas tree. This year I decided to spruce up my little 'Charlie Brown Tree' with one of my favorite photography props as seen here. I smiled when I saw that one of my favorite photographers, Jasmine Star, displayed her tree in a similar way.

One extremely touching opportunity that I had at work this Christmas was to be in charge of sponsoring a family to provide Christmas for in our area. The family we were able to help has suffered many trials this year as the father/dad was diagnosed with Sarcoma, a soft tissue cancer, earlier this year. I was slightly nervous as I set up our tree with various ornaments that were labeled with the family's needs.

Just a few days before Christmas I gathered all of the donated items and you can see how they filled my living room! I was extremely humbled and touched seeing all of my co-workers come together to help people they didn't know. After all the presents were wrapped, I drove to their home with butterflies and anticipation to see how the family would react to our items. Seeing their positive outlook on life and great love for strangers that were willing to help them brought tears to my eyes. I left their home with a feeling of reverence, truly grasping the meaning of the season and complete love for a family that I just met. I hope that their battle with cancer is one with a positive outcome with many happy years to come.

Nash Family -- Logan, Utah Family Photographer

Meet the Nash family.

I have known Mike & Jessie (top right corner) now for several years. You will never meet a more kind, compassionate, caring person & baker extraordinaire or a fun loving, sarcastic, goofy person. {I think you most definitely know who is who} I really miss having them as my neighbors.

It was fun to spend time with the entire Nash family. Even Ariel was extremely cooperative after his first curse word for the session which brought giggles from everyone around :-)

One thing that I love about the Nash family is the annual pumpkin blow that they hold each Saturday after Halloween in Weston, Idaho. If you're ever in the area it is a must...here is the 2009 pumpkin blow for your viewing pleasure.

Hundreds of pumpkins+several dozen sticks of dynamite=AWESOMENESS!

Baby Blue Eyes -- Logan, Utah Child Photographer

There are many things that I love about newborns and infants. The perfect little curl to their eyelashes, the way they yawn and stretch at the same time, rub their eyes, their little cooing noises and intense love to snuggle.

One thing that I love on e-v-e-r-y baby are their toes. I love the way they curl. When parents ask me if they should have socks and shoes on for a photo shoot, I smile and say how much I prefer naked little toes . . . unless it's a colorful pair of shoes, especially See Kai Run. I love those too.

Future Aggie -- Logan, Utah Newborn Photographer

When someone calls to schedule a session I always encourage them to find something to make the session unique and personal for them. Mandy decided that she wanted to do a few 'Aggie Family' shots. I was really excited about that, being an Aggie myself. When I saw this little Utah State bow I absolutely melted!

As I was shooting these I knew that I wanted to do a little black and white 'vintage' feel. I love how they turned out.

Here is one of very my favorites from the session:

An Apple A Day -- Logan, Utah Child Photographer

I love this cheesy little grin!

One of my favorite places to actually photograph a session is at a client's home. I absolutely love the Welling's back yard! It was full of apple trees, a rock fireplace, beautiful picket fence and two dogs next door that definitely wanted us to know they were there. I can't believe that little Wyatt is getting so big! You might remember his session from last year. (No worries when you see his picture from last year. He had 5 hand warmers, was in a basket, wrapped in two blankets, didn't cry and was only in this pose for less than 10 seconds!)

He had a blast playing with apples on the ground. He quickly discovered that they were squishy and made the most determined face as he played with each apple. Mom and I just giggled at the cute faces he would make. Once he tried to actually eat the apples...that was one step too far!

I will just add this to yet another reason that I seriously love fall!

A Thankful Harvest -- Logan, Utah Photographer

I love the fall!

Leaves changing color. Pumpkin pie. Breaking out the sweater collection. Hot cocoa. My new yummy fragrance in my house. I especially love fall decorations. I have decided that we will start a new tradition in our house...the wreath of gratitude. I made this wreath last week with miniature clothespins to hang leaves with things that we're grateful for on them. I'm really excited as I've found many new craft blogs that I will be blog-stocking as often as possible: tatertotsandjello and whipperberry.

Happy Monday!

Dandelions - Logan, Utah Child Photographer

The sigh of dandelions in seed makes most adults cringe and think of them as 'weeds'. I think of them as a link to childhood. I have never met a child that doesn't love to kick or blow off all the seeds from them. I saw this field and new that it would perfect for an upcoming session I had.

I was right. :-) ....Life is all about celebrating successes. Right?!

I love this moment when Benjamin saw the field full of dandelions, paused for a moment, stretched out his hands, then ran trying to kick as many as he could.

The joys of being two!

The Other Sister -- Logan, Utah Newborn Photographer

Meet beautiful baby Hannah. You might have seen her sister here. I really enjoyed working with this gorgeous family. These little girls look so much like their mother, my friend, Crystal. I was tempted to post some funny pictures of us from middle school or high school...but I didn't want to die :-)

The Big Sister -- Logan, Utah Child Photographer

I myself am a big sister. There's just this 'thing' about big sisters. They love to nurture, take care of their siblings. Quite frankly, I can't beat around the bush, they also love to boss around their younger siblings.

This beautiful girl, she's a big sister...through and through.

She wanted to hold her sister, became very sad when her sister cried, and then when her 5 week old sister started to cry excessively she said, "Stop crying." When I asked her why, she said, "Because I said so and I'm the boss of her!"

I giggled about her answer :-)

Crystal, here is your first sneak peek of your oldest daughter. More to come soon!

Clayton Family -- Utah Family Photographer

For this family photo shoot we went to their family cabin in central Utah. I loved this drive! The area was beautiful! It was nice to be away from the rush of everyday life in an area that is extremely peaceful and serene. I loved spending more time with this family. I can't believe that their little guy is getting so big! Thank you Clayton family!

Mandy & Andy Engagements -- Logan, Utah Wedding Photographer

I'm really excited to post these engagements and next week post the wedding! I really enjoyed working with this couple and it helped that I knew the back story to their relationship :-) Mandy's office was across the hall from mine at work. I heard the excitement, frustration and pains with other guys she dated. I was there for some of the ice cream days...sometimes the Ben & Jerry days.

With Andy everything was different.

Mandy was beaming each time she went on a date with Andy, when he would bring her lunch at work, when he would call her while she was on her lunch hour. It was fun to hear about the time Andy got pulled over because he was paying too much attention to Mandy, how he accidentally played a part in breaking her nose while doing a home remodel project, to their first 'date' feeding the ducks at first dam. It was rewarding to see Mandy so incredibly happy!

I loved my engagement session with these two! I laughed so hard at Andy's jokes that I had a stomach ache and was crying by the end. Thanks Mandy & Andy for a great session!

A Wonderful Weekend -- Logan, Utah Newborn & Child Photographer

Fall is a wonderful time of year! I really look forward to the leaves changing colors and the crisp fall air. This weekend was a packed with a wedding, newborn session and family session. Blog posts of all three will be coming soon :-)

It was an ideal weekend and I loved it!

I was also uplifted by listening to LDS General Conference. It was a wonderful weekend full of family, time to meditate, snuggling with my husband and good food. For an extended family dinner I made this yummy Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle. (with added chocolate of course!)

While at dinner my dad asked what our favorite thing from Conference was. I've been thinking a lot about it and loved this talk by Presidence Dieter F. Uchtdorf. I appreciated his counsel to slow down and focus on the basics. I often get too caught up in the fast pace of life and all the things I'd need/have/love to do...unfortunately it's easy to stay busy.

I was really grateful to be surrounded by my family this weekend!

I love you all!

Tips & Tricks For A Newborn Session -- Logan, Utah Newborn & Child Photographer

I LOVE NEWBORN SESSIONS!

Today I decided that I would give various tips and tricks that I have learned to help during a newborn session:

-It's best to schedule your session several weeks before your due date. I know that babies come on their own schedule, not on their 'due date'. I'm really flexible! Typically a mom or dad will call or email me a day or two after their baby is born and we will then solidify the day for our session.

-Between 5-10 days is the best time for the session to occur. At this time babies are extremely sleepy and flexible. If we wait around 2 weeks babies start to have acne settle in. A newborn session can be done as late as 4 weeks, however there is a distinct difference in how a baby looks between 5 days and one month.

-A session should be scheduled right after a feeding and when the baby is the sleepiest. If a baby has a full tummy, in a warm room and ready for sleep they are happy!

-Regardless of if you are breast-feeding or bottle feeding please be prepared to take time during our session to do a feeding. I have yet to go through a session where the baby doesn't at least eat an extra ounce or two.

-I encourage families to bring any props with them...blankets, hats, outfits, a parent who loves baseball may chose to bring a baseball and mitt with them, etc.

-Typically a newborn session will take 1.5-2 hours but may go as long as 3. I encourage moms to enjoy the time having some care for their child and relax with a good book, game or cross-world puzzle.

If you ever have a question about what's best before a session please send me an email at belinda@belindaolsen.com. Here is a preview of a beautiful baby I photographed today!

Fun On The Farm -- Southern Idaho Family Photographer

I love learning about my clients. I learn how they met, what they love about their spouse, where they work, hobbies, I listen to the music they like. I make new friends.

I loved my time with this family out on their farm. It was a dream location with beautiful lighting. I loved to tease and get various reactions. Sometimes I get the 'Belinda, you're crazy look'. Other times there are no walls, no barriers, just sheer joy and love. Overall, on a session we have fun! Thank you my Idaho friends for this beautiful session and the opportunity to photograph the newest addition to your family.

If you'd like to see an adorable little cowgirl in action visit here.

The What And Why Of Custom Photography -- Logan, Utah Child & Newborn Photographer

I was recently out running some errands and walked by a chain photography location as part of my shopping. As I walked by I couldn't help but stop and be a spectator of what was happening. There was a little 4 or 5 year old unhappy little girl crying because she didn't want to have her picture taken. At the photographers request she was saying 'cheese' (between gritted teeth) for each picture. The mother was frustrated and threatened taking away bikes, toys, dessert, games, etc unless her daughter would smile. The photographer was posing the little girl based on images in a catalog and quickly firing off the flash on the camera. I continued about my shopping nearby and saw the mother and daughter leave a few minutes later. No one looked happy. How sad!

This brings me to talk about two questions:

What is custom photography?

Why should I choose it?

As I turned to handy google to help see what other people had said about this topic I found this wonderful consumer guide by Marianne Drenthe. For me custom photography is all about my clients. Their personalities, likes, dislikes, hobbies, favorite places to go, where they would like to display their images in their homes, family heirlooms...it's part of telling a story. Not my story. Their story.

I love to email clients to find out about them. Who they are. Are they wanting images to capture a special occasion? Milestone? For Fun? Each of these reasons plays a different part in their story. What props would they like to bring to a session? What would they like me to bring?

Someone can go to a chain photography studio and no story is really told. Rarely is true personality displayed. Many families who book with me are the same. The mother wants...no feels obligated to have pictures taken, the father is usually along because he loves his wife and children only think of their past experiences having pictures taken. My philosophy is that it is all about fun! I am silly. I make lame attempts at jokes, tease, have treats, make funny faces, embarrass myself and just play.

I had a session a couple weeks ago where I played and had fun. This family played and had fun. I love the images of Miss Ashlyn. This is who she is. She was singing a song to a stick she found. None of this was forced, timed or threatened.

Watch Out Cowboys -- Southern Idaho Newborn Photographer

I have the best clients. Ever. I was humbled and flattered with this client sent me an email saying that her sister in law would be contacting me for a newborn session. I was excited for the referral and excited for the opportunity to branch out the family tree that I had worked with. The mother of this beautiful little cowgirl and I emailed back and forth. I literally jumped up from my computer with excitement to do a session on a farm! (I then turned to my husband and asked him about the various types of farmers...I'm clueless when it comes to country life) I love everything about these pictures and really enjoyed my time working with this little girl. More to come of their family pictures soon!

PS I LOVE the little spit bubbles that babies make!

A Newborn Photographer Of Different Sorts

Last year I had a chance to go down with my friend Kristin to a photography workshop by Sandy Puc'. Kristin won some free goodies, I purchased some workbooks. We both intensely filled our notebooks with creative and business ideas. I learned about an organization during the workshop called Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep (NILMDTS). NILMDTS is nonprofit organization created for providing remembrance photography for parents that will never be able to take their babies home due to the tragedy of death at such a precious, early age.

I have a friend that has suffered immensely this past year with the loss of her own son. I remember hearing about her story and seeing the beautiful images that were captured by a local photographer nearly ten months ago. I had the opportunity last week to talk to my friend about her experience with NILMDTS. She was extremely candid about her experience and love for her son and the photographer that gave her a complimentary priceless gift. Since my visit with her I have been feverishly working to finish my review process to be an eligible photographer. As soon as I hear back from the review board I'll let you know...wish me luck!

My Dream Hour -- Logan, Utah Child Photographer

I love the calm of early mornings. Call me crazy. (or old) There is something extremely serene and peaceful that lends itself to meditation. Today is a big editing day for me. I was reviewing several recent photo sessions to make sure that all edits were up to date and I found this image. It made me reminisce about the time I spent on the beach while I was on vacation a few weeks ago. If I lived on the beach I would spend a few hours every morning there with my camera and a good book in hand...okay maybe I might make it turn into days or weeks!

(On a random tangent I just finished 'The Help' and am just starting 'The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society' which I'm really excited about! Let me know if you have any great books that you would recommend for me to read next)

The Diva -- Logan, Utah Newborn Photographer

I was extremely honored and humbled when Aimee booked her session with me and said that she would be driving up from Ogden to have me photograph little Madelyn. The quick backstory: I served in a church calling with her husband, Brandon. (back in the day before they were married) Brandon moved away and one day I noticed that his relationship status on facebook went from being 'in a relationship' to 'engaged'. I was extremely excited for him and teased him about how he should make sure that his wife enjoyed family history :-)

Flash forward a few months...

Aimee and Brandon moved into my neighborhood! I gained a lot of respect and love for Aimee especially through her teaching abilities. I completely admire her never ending compassion, always being poised, and amazing style! I was excited when she announced she was pregnant and watched as someone made being pregnant extremely fashionable. It was bittersweet when they moved to Ogden for an amazing job offer. Luckily facebook was there to keep current on how they were doing and their updates.

Aimee, here is your quick sneak peek to your beautiful daughter!

The {Almost} Clothing Thief -- Northern Utah Photographer

I decided today that I needed to combine both my personal blog and my photography blog. There was no way for me to keep up with the two! As a result I'll tell you a little bit about my day at the laundromat. We have always been spoiled and had a washer and dryer in the apartments that we have lived in...until now. (I hope we find a used set soon) As a result I packed my baskets of laundry and quarters to head to the first laundromat I could find that had Wi-Fi. Here's my list of pros and cons for the laundromat.

Pros:

-colored chairs

-bigger washers and dryers that do the load in half the time

-the vending machine that gave me a free water

-fun colored machines

-pinball and pac-man

-fun things to photograph (while people looked at me like I'm a psycho)

-nice owner man who opened the door for me when I was carrying in my 4

(yes, you read that right....FOUR) loads of laundry

-awesome laundry carts on wheels

Cons:

-paying to do laundry

-the college kid that tried to steal my clothes!!!

The story: I was sitting between two rows of washers using my computer while I was watching a creativeLIVE workshop. I specifically chose to sit there so I could watch my clothes that were in the dryer. All of a sudden some college kid opens my dryer and starts putting my clothes in his basket. I approached him and asked him if he was grabbing clothes from the right dyer. Needless to say we had a little banter about who was the owner of the clothes until I picked up a very girly t-shirt. At that point he dropped the laundry basket and ran out the door. What the?!?! Some people.

Despite my crazy experience I think I'll go back again.

The T Family -- Logan Utah Family Photographer

I love scouting out new locations! I love to go to obscure places. I don't prefer to use the same locations over and over and over and over . . . you get the point. I was ecstatic when I was running an errand for work and found this location.

Wonderful family. Great location. Great outfits. Lots of laughing. Fun family session. (even dad had a good time)

Golden -- Northern Utah Newborn, Child and Family Photographer

If you were looking for my me last night at midnight I could've been found at Borders with my husband waiting for 'Mockingjay' to be released. This might sound crazy silly but all day today I was thinking about the book and how often things are taken for granted. This sign was ugly, rundown, surrounded by weeds and full of splinters. From a different viewpoint it was beautiful and unique. Sometimes I feel like that sign after a day of running non-stop. I have to remind myself to not take some of the most simple things for granted. Today at work I made myself take a break, stretch my legs and watch the sun set for just a few short moments.

Remember today to take time for yourself! :-)

The H Family -- Logan, Utah Family Photographer

When someone schedules a session I always prepare them that will be a small family portrait collection. I love it when parents are excited to have 'their' time with their little one. (in this case tease each other about who could get Miss Z to giggle more :-) I loved watching this family interact with one another. It was obvious how much they love each other and enjoy spending time with each other. We went on location and everyone had a blast!

Thanks H family for another great session!

Miss Z, Oh How The Time Flies -- Logan, Utah Child Photographer

I was ecstatic when I knew that I would get a chance to spend time with this little girl. I couldn't believe that it was already time for her 6 month session! There are different things that I look forward to based on the age of the child. At 6 months babies are really starting to show their personalities, the things they like and dislike and respond to their environment. This little girl loved the flowers she was surrounded by and loved to touch and smell them.

Had A Great Night--Logan Engagement Photographer

I'm not sure what you did tonight but this is a quick sneak peek of what I did tonight...a great engagement session! I look forward to showing you more of their session and their wedding in October.

M.I.A. --I've Been Found!

Where has the time gone? I can't believe that summer is over, kids are headed back to school

- and -

it's been a month since my last blog post :-/

Since my last post I've moved, sunburned (this is vary rare for me!), went to a family reunion, received a promotion at work, purchased a new awesome phone, been really good at taking a picture each day trying to catch the simple things in my day to day life, spent some time developing my website with a new blog to come soon, spent countless hours watching the nearby ducks, had an awesome wedding consult, the list goes on and on. Wow, I have a lot to tackle!

To start the update here is an image of where my brian has been. On vacation in beautiful, sunny, relaxing, peaceful Cal-i-for-n-i-a!

Pardon The Dust -- Logan, Utah Newborn & Child Photographer

I'm really excited for some upcoming changes with Belinda Olsen Photography! The official website is under construction and should be up in a few weeks thank you to the help of my brother in law. I'm studying feverishly to become a Certified Professional Photographer which includes a written exam and an extensive image review. I'm extremely excited and nervous in preparing for them. I've been taking my camera and flash cards with me everywhere I go. It reminds me of my days at Utah State University.

One great opportunity that I hope to get is a workshop with Nicole V Photography. Nicole runs Flourish a site for photographers and bloggers to get various templates, actions and textures. I love that she has lots of freebies to try. One of my favorite things is the memoria border set which gives a great finished look to any photograph.

Since every post is better with a picture, here is one from a recent first birthday session. This little guy is absolutely adorable!

Pure Joy --Logan, Utah Newborn Photographer

One of my favorite places to do a newborn session is in a client's home. I love the personalities of each client being captured. This is a way to showcase what makes each client unique and special, their love, background and interests. As soon as I walked in and saw this green chair I was extremely excited. I knew where a portion of our session would occur. :-)

A Miracle Baby--Logan, Utah Newborn Photographer

Each newborn session is fun, special and unique. I particularly loved this session with Ms. Austin! I have worked with her mom for several years. It was fun to hear when my friend Carrie was pregnant, heard the baby's heartbeat for the first time and found out that she was having a little girl. I enjoyed getting regular updates of how Carrie was doing and what she was doing to get ready for her baby. One day I came to work and overheard an emergency phone call that my office received saying that Carrie had gone to the hospital to have her baby almost 7 weeks early. I was worried, panicked and extremely relieved when I heard from her the next day that she had her little girl and they were both doing well. Austin spent several weeks in the NICU and I call her the miracle baby. Thanks Carrie for letting me capture these precious moments and time that you'll only have once.

To see more of Austin's photo visit here.

My Favorite Thing....Details

Life goes by extremely fast. In the first few years of life their are many milestones...how your child looks with their first tooth, first haircut, first steps, first words. One of my favorite milestones that a lot of people overlook is when their child first learns to tie their own shoes. I asked what the best thing was about being 5 years old and I quickly received a step by step demonstration and lesson :-)

Really More Than Just A Hole In The Ground

A few weeks ago my husband and I had the opportunity to visit some friend's that live in Phoenix. On our way down we stopped at the Grand Canyon. I, like many, also thought that the Grand Canyon was just a giant whole in the ground. Quite the contrary-I loved it! The colors were very rich and vibrant. One of my favorite places to photograph was called 'The Watch Tower'. There were beautiful cave paintings and man made bridges there. If I go MIA, I'm in Phoenix enjoying the real sun compared to this Cache Valley summer that can't decide to be cold or warm.

For the love of weekends!

I love weekends! I love being able to sleep in and enjoy snuggling under the covers. I love being able to clean. I love dedicating some time to the Man Upstairs. I love being able to go for a leisurely walk. This weekend was spent with my new camera, which I love! Check back for some exciting changes with Belinda Olsen Photography.

Make today a great day!

The Love Of Flowers -- Logan, Utah Photographer

Today a random little tidbit about me...I LOVE FLOWERS! My passion for flowers was encompassed in my photography logo and business identity. :-) With my current 'day job' I've been able to receive extensive training from an amazing florist. I've loved flowers since as long as I can remember and love each minutes I spend in the floral department. I love the way flowers smell. I love the way they look. I love arranging them. I love creating bridal bouquets and seeing how individual stems come together to create a beautiful piece of art. You can see two of my creations featured in Autumn and Kaylene's bridals.

Oh, The Beauty Of Green Outdoors--Logan, Utah Family Photographer

I love it as the weather changes and the grass starts to turn green! One of my favorite trees in my yard is just barely starting to blossom and I get giddy each time I see a few more blossoms just starting to bud. :-)

One thing clients will often comment on is the fact that print credit is included with their session. This is something that both clients and I LOVE! I include this credit because I feel that it is extremely important to actually see and hold your images. Lots of people are content with receiving a disk of their images but they don't ever -do- anything with their images. There are countless aspects of photography that I love. One of my favorites after the session is packaging the prints and hand delivering them!

Fun At The Playground -- Northern Utah Child Photographer

For this session we decided to head to the playground. I think the kids had a great time being in a really relaxed environment for them.

Mr. 'L' didn't really like the camera and I was ecstatic when I captured this raw, candid moment of him playing in the rocks. I love how children are amused and entertained by the simplest things.

Ms. 'C' loved running around the playground and was extremely cooperative when she was asked to stop and smile. I love the color of her eyes, they are beautiful!

Happy Easter -- Family Photographer Logan, Utah

The Photo Challenge

This morning I've decided to post something completely non traditional for this blogsite....I have the best family of in-laws. We have almost all become camera connoisseurs and participate in a weekly photography challenge. Here are two of my submissions for the category 'signs'. (Part of our challenge is to push ourselves to creatively interpret the theme too) I have developed a new found love for the bright and vibrant colors of graffiti!

Sophie Grace--Northern Utah Newborn Photography

I love spending time photographing newborns, children and families! Each newborn despite being little has a lot of character and personality. Little Sophie Grace has a little bit of spunk and contagious giggle that will make your heart melt. I especially love the last image with Sophie in her little bear pj's :-)