Artist in Residency :: Kentucky Foundation for Women and Loretto Motherhouse 2023

This October I was granted a week as the artist in residency at the Loretto Motherhouse Art Studio in collaboration with the Kentucky Foundation for Women (KFW). They have teamed up to help artists by creating a beautiful time to get away and stay, relax, create and take in all the natural beauty on the campus. I have been on art retreats provided by KFW for the last ten years. This year’s full week was exactly what I needed to process things that often get stuffed down in my own world because of the pace of life.

For the last few years and all of the gun violence in the United States, I have been perplexed by the human race. I am interested as to why so many guns fall into the hands of people that should never have one in the first place. After the elementary school shooting in Uvalde, Texas last year, I was on a shorter art retreat at this same place. It was just hard to express the grief I had been feeling. And to get it all out just seemed like a daunting task. But I did manage to create three pieces while I was there last year dedicated to the 21 lives lost.

This year I made six pieces dedicated to the theme of peace, after much research about all of the school shootings in 2023 alone. The word peace keeps coming into my heart as I think about the state of the world today. After researching peace and symbols… I came up with these six : an origami crane, koi, a white poppy, a swan, an olive branch — and what brings me peace — trees.

I was asked by the retreat director at Loretto what my heart feels when I am working. I responded that I don’t really think while I am creating all the layers. It is almost like breathing once I get into the rhythm of making and doing. In all honesty I think my heart may even skip a beat when I get done with a piece and call it “finished.” For this I am grateful because the grief flows in a creative, non-threatening way instead of becoming bitter. We can either be better or bitter after a tragedy. I am trying live with peace and betterment.

Please enjoy this video which compiles just a snippet of my work and the peaceful time that I experienced during my week at this sacred, hopeful and farm filled, naturally beautiful place. It is a little slice of heaven in Kentucky.

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Special thanks to Kentucky Foundation for Women and the Sisters of Loretto for giving me this opportunity!

Upcoming Shows and Plans 2023

In- person studio tours are available upon request. Currently at Mellwood Arts Center in Louisville.

Come see me! Thanks for your support!

Shows and Open Studios

My booth is ever- changing… stay tuned! My son and I set this up inside my studio for an application to a show. We time ourselves each show to see how long it takes, 6 minutes is the record so far. Put those kiddos to work, artists!

One wall of my booth at Art in the Pass in Pass Christian, Mississippi (close to NOLA so we made it into a spring break trip) in April 2023. It was so windy where I was located, but the beach behind me was a great view. People in Pass Christian are some of the most hospitable folks!

I can usually be found in the back of my booth or talking to other artists and customers right around the space.

New Prints!

New limited edition, small batch prints are now available on my web site and in person. If you want to order one and have me ship it to you, please be specific of delivery. I will also have them at my studio for local pick up and in my art booth at upcoming shows. Please let me know if you see original artwork that you think would make a nice print or make into a product. I love helpful feedback!

Original work copyright Melissa Mann Bean, 2023. Returning Home. Mixed media on 16” x 20” canvas.

Print is reduced to 11” x 14” ready to frame.

Original work copyright Melissa Mann Bean, 2023. Cosmos Fields in Heaven. Mixed media on 20” x 20” canvas.

Print is reduced to 12” x 12” ready to frame.

Original work copyright Melissa Mann Bean, 2023. Barn Quilt. Mixed media on 20” x 20” canvas.

Print is reduced to 12” x 12” ready to frame.

Booths and commissions

Booths!

Want to say I love you with a greeting card?

Come buy some at one of my art booths coming soon!

This fall I will have booth spaces to buy original artwork pieces — mixed media, greeting cards, magnets and prints. My book will also be for sale, so come get one for those special kiddos in your life!

Belknap Festival, Highlands in Louisville :: Saturday, October 8 :: 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Hermitage Farm, Goshen KY :: Sunday, October 30 :: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Eastern High School Band Boutique, Louisville :: Saturday, November 5 :: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Flea Off Market at Logan Street Market, Louisville :: November 25-27, Fri & Sat 11-6pm :: Sun 11-5pm

http://www.thefleaoffmarket.org/2022-logan-street-market

I would love to see many of my buyers and friends at these events. They’re all very festive and family friendly. There will be different vendors at each, so come have fun and buy art!



Commissions!

“You’re My Forever” ©Melissa Mann Bean2022

3 feet by 3 feet mixed media with photo transfers and acrylic on cradled board

I just had the honor and fun to work on a top secret commission for one of my best high school friends. It was fun that she didn’t know what the details were and I had to finish it quickly for my own sake, so I didn’t ruin the surprise. I worked on this with her husband and we pulled it off. She loved it, I loved working on it and he got to be counted as hubby of the year for loving her so much to commission her an original artwork!

Contact me soon if you want to order a custom made design and mixed media piece for that special someone in your life. I use multiple layers and can do photo transfers of your own images and then work with acrylic paint to create a one of a kind piece.

Time is now for holiday pieces, so hurry and order your commission today!

Workshops, Learning and the Pursuit of More

Recently I worked with about 225 other artists around the world on a workshop about mixed media taught by Judy Woods. She is an amazing modern artist in New Zealand and very gracious with her knowledge. She has great wit and charm and I loved listening to her as she explained how to hone our craft. She also was very kind on the zoom calls as people could ask her questions. She is a great artist to follow and watch as she gains more publicity in her pursuit of gorgeous artwork. (www.judywoodsart.work)

“Walking on Sunshine” - mixed media - 2022 - 9”x12” on paper

Being part of this workshop, I realized how much I love to learn more now than even when I was young. I’ve always done my own research on topics and I spend time at the library scouring new information. My Dad would read the Encyclopedia Brittanica when I was a kid, and I thought it was so weird. But now I find myself devouring anything that I read, especially about things I enjoy. Gardening, flowers, art, old houses, faith, parenting, being a better human, you name it, I will read about it. I have never been a huge fan of fiction, I think because I like to create fictional things in my own art, so I like to think up images in my head.

My recent mixed media work has been about saving pieces of paper that have been forced into antiquity… maybe hidden in a book, bible, old hymnal… and I just saved a whole book collection of Child Craft books from the landfill. I use the illustrations and words to relive in artwork and not just hidden in a book, always closed. Some of the pieces are handwritten on, from a human that thought enough to write down this passage or that verse. Hidden away, they will never help another person, but I like to bring them out in my own artwork to share joy, peace and encouragement in a time of sadness and grief. We need to have joy and laughter, even on the toughest days. Not to brush off our emotions or hide the pain we may feel, but to live and survive, then thrive.

“Chicken, Cat, Duck” - mixed media - 2022 - 9”x12” on paper

“Trumpet Duck” - mixed media - 2022 - 9”x12” on paper

What I learned from this workshop was more about how to hone my craft, and also to pursue more in education. It is great to feel like being free to do that again and to strive - not for perfection - but for the process of work and doing it well.

Cheers to everyone pursuing the goals you have set before you and to the process!

New adventures in 2022: The Art of Tidy and still doing artwork!

2020-2021 brought on some surprises for all of us… pandemic, lots of racial unrest, what will we do for snacks all day for these kids at home? You name it. I feel like we all went through it. Shew! Hopefully we made it through without coming too unhinged.

“Art in the Time of Corona” by my family. We all pitched in to create a small canvas to remember the times we shared during the pandemic… even our dog had a paw in it.

We all had moments of struggle and contemplation. Some of my most contemplative moments happened on art retreats. I have been retreating for years to harness ideas for my creative, right side of my brain. I also have more creative moments when the left side of my brain is more organized — bills paid, calendars filled out, you know, the “office” side. Bridging the two sides has always been a fun time for me to grow in my artwork while also balancing home with a family.

I want to bridge these two parts of my client’s brain as well! The right side, which is highly creative — we all need to tap into this side often — and the left side, the analytical side of our brains. I jump to both sides all day, and I prefer to help clients who want to bridge the two sides of their own brains. I have created a safe space where helping people get organized can be creative and fun while starting a new system. Everyone has a unique life and career, therefore I want to harness that into systems that will create time management.

Join me on this journey as I will be posting at random this year as the work progresses. Let me know how I can be of service and check out my new The Art of Tidy section in the Menu!

**Artwork is still for sale and I will be posting new work soon, as well as my Words of Art book that I published last year. Contact me for your own, signed copy!

Justice Rolling on the River

During the month of February, this current show of mine is displayed at the Hyran E. Barefoot Gallery in Jackson, TN. Enjoy this micro-portion of images and art that I have created over the last two decades. Some are photographs, some are mixed media. Feel free to ask questions or purchase any and all of the pieces which speak to you. Check out my web site for updates in my online gallery to purchase pieces in the future! Thank you for visiting my virtual online gallery.

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CME Church with Rewards Sign

Living in Jackson, Tennessee,  I often thought I was in a sweet little bubble, especially when I traveled to larger cities. Within the bubble, I found safety and security. This image was one that I took in the late 90s on an old road somewhere in the country. It struck me that this was still going on and I had probably just not acknowledged that racism is still alive. Justice should come for the ones who had to even make this sign for their church yard.

Black and White photograph hand printed in dark room, 2000. Prints available on request.

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We Gave Peace a Chance and This Is What We Got

When I went to Ground Zero of NYC in 2002, I was overwhelmed with all of the wooden boards still up on windows of buildings and that surrounding area was still boarded up. There was a great amount of graffitti as well as notes about people who were missing. I was instantly moved when I saw this image, starting a long journey taking pictures of graffitti. It was a rally cry for the ones who were missing loved ones and an anonymous way for the writer to get out some frustration. 

Black and White photograph, 2002. Prints available upon request.

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Chicago Quagmire Walk/Rally

On a weekend fun trip to Chicago in 2003, my friends and I walked out of our easy-going hotel to a protest right outside. The people were screaming and chanting about the war in Iraq and how much of a quagmire we were in, as the US was at war still. When I looked at this older lady that held her sign, I couldn’t get the word QUAGMIRE out of my mind as I have now watched many rallies and protests over time. Quagmire, as stated in the dictionary, means “an awkward, complex, or hazardous situation.” You bet. Though it may have been awkward, but I couldn’t stop looking at each of these protestors in the eyes. I really admired their courage and bravery to stand up and make their voices heard.

Black and White photographs, 2003. Prints available upon request.

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"What if? Well, then..."

This piece has been something I've been tossing around in my mind for years. I've taken photos like this. I could've made a B&W image of these connections ... But to actually create a piece from a set of empty canvases changed the way I saw it in the end. Not black and white, but in a bunch of colors. Lots of colors - and some gold. Because life is never black or white. There have been times in my life when I would ask my Dad, “What if...” and he would reply, “Well, then...” and we would have long talks. He passed away in September 2020 of dementia, so those talks were very limited in the last ten years. What if we stop and thank someone today, no matter their race, age, ethnicity, religion or gender? Well then, we would all see more peace, justice, love and community.

Gouache, oil pastels on canvas mounted on painted wood board, 12.5” x 24” finished, 2020. Original for sale at https://www.melissamannbeanartwork.com/for-sale/what-if-well-then-

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Thank You, Mr. Lewis

This piece was a completely white canvas and I had painted a white butterfly on it. Then I waited. Sometimes canvas or other substrates need to sit and wait for the right moment to be used and worked. After watching the funeral of John Lewis, I was moved by his life’s work as a statesman and civil rights activist. His convictions in which he carried himself in the office made me take pause. What a giant of a leader and what history he had witnessed. He was one of a kind with his now famous quote about “good trouble.” May we all fight for those who are oppressed and be fair in our own lives to do what is not just right, but also what we see as merciful. There are times when we are asked to have mercy over sacrifice. I’m thankful for the people in my lifetime that have shown both with dignity and honor.

Mixed media on 20” x24” canvas, 2020. Original for sale at https://www.melissamannbeanartwork.com/for-sale/thank-you-mr-lewis

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Buy the Red Boots

When I first started working on this larger piece, I just wanted to dive in. I was surrounded with darkness and doubt and fear because of Coronavirus, the election, Louisville’s racial tension and all that encompasses... I remembered a more peaceful time when a friend and I were talking about whether she should buy the red boots or simple, ordinary black boots she had been looking at in a store. I told her, “You only will know that you truly live if you just buy the red boots. You already own black boots. Try doing something with more of a spark of your personality!” She went on to buy the red boots and now she has a very cool online fashion blog. So when the doubt, fear and darkness creep in and you wear your red boots (or in this case, a brightly colored umbrella), you will still see some days of gloom; however, be the one who isn’t afraid to stand out, buy the colorful umbrella or red boots, and shine. It’s okay to lift others up and let them lift you up in the darkest of times.

Mixed media on paper. Final finished frame edges 31” x 25”, 2020. Original for sale at https://www.melissamannbeanartwork.com/for-sale/buy-the-red-boots

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The Five Stages of Grief

“No one ever told me that grief felt so like fear.” - A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis

When I’ve gone through a grieving process, I always think back to a psychology class I took in college. We learned about the five stages of grief. Grieving is something we aren’t too good at here in the US. We rush through so many processes and grief is one process I would like to see slowed. These steps look different for everyone. In grieving, if you ever need someone to walk with you, please find help. There are many ways to get through each stage and sometimes you want to be alone. Sometimes, however, you need to sort things out verbally so that you won’t be overcome with emotions all the time.

These are hymns from a hymnal printed in 1930. These old hymns were ones that I found to have a theme about them, so many times in the church we sing things and don’t really think about their true meanings. 

Watercolor on vintage hymnal paper, mounted on 4”x4” wooden blocks, 2020. Original for sale at https://www.melissamannbeanartwork.com/for-sale/5-stages-of-grief

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Say Her Name

There have been protests and marches for justice in Louisville for months because of the fatal police shooting of Breonna Taylor. As I watched the video footage that was recently released, I hoped and prayed that justice would be served. The images I use here are ones from my own collection from Justice Square, where the protestors would gather and made a makeshift memorial for Breonna. The federal building and other buildings had been boarded up. There were headlines that were all about BLM for months. The state of Kentucky was also in the upheaval of Covid-19 numbers growing daily. There was so much tension, I could feel it everywhere. At some point during those months I felt like the state took a major dip in livelihood, but now we will hopefully start to grow and heal as a city.

Digital mixed media. 11”x 17” final digital file, 2020. Prints available upon request.

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Four Days in Louisville

Getting a call that my Dad only had two-72 hours to live was not expected in September. I knew he was declining from dementia, but I thought we would have at least another Christmas together. So the last four days of my Dad’s life were tough, not just because of his passing, but there were so many cloudy things going on here in Louisville. Higher cases of Covid-19 in the state were making people tense and tired of wearing masks and taking precautions. Tensions were mounting as the Kentucky Grand Jury made the decision about the Breonna Taylor case, causing the city to be on curfew. One of the cops had been indicted on wanton endangerment for shooting into the apartment nextdoor to Taylor’s. Nothing was resolved with her actual shooting. Homicides in Louisville were on the rise and people were getting carjacked at random. We were also in the midst of a political storm on a federal level that had escalated everyone’s blood pressure. I will never forget that Friday when Dad breathed his last breath – when I stepped outside there were helicopters overhead because the protests were all over the city. 

Digital mixed media. 11”x 17” final digital file, 2020. Prints available upon request.

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Let Justice Roll On Like a River

Our church is in Shelby Park, a small community that has been in turmoil from violence, financial insecurity and pain for years. Yet the beauty is that now small businesses are trickling into the neighborhood and people feel safer than in previous years. There are still violent things that occur randomly, but Sojourn is a harbor of light in the midst of the pain. Sojourn Arts coordinated a piece of art and put it up on the side of the building. The art was derived from Amos 5:24. “But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!” When I drove by, I was so grateful that I am in a church community that never fails to address real issues that we all go through and that we aren’t afraid to discuss hard things. I used that as a springboard to do a watercolor piece, then added images: the Sojourn Midtown building, the latest headline from December of two more police officers getting charged for the Breonna Taylor case and a picture of the Ohio River. Let justice roll on in 2021 and may we all seek God’s wisdom.

Digital mixed media. 11”x 17” final digital file, 2020. Prints available upon request.

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Micah 6:8

I have always loved monarch butterflies and made pieces about them throughout my art career, even in childhood. I am always fascinated watching a butterfly and the way it floats through the air. When I think back to all the events that happened in 2020, I will always remember when I saw a monarch land on our butterfly bush two days after my Dad passed away. It was as if Dad was telling me everything would be alright. As the days march on, this verse in Micah resounds with me when I search my own motivations and keeps me humble: 

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

    And what does the Lord require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy

    and to walk humbly[a] with your God.

~ Micah 6:8

Digital mixed media. 11”x 17” final digital file, 2021. Paper prints or print on canvas available upon request.

I Surrender All

I Surrender All © Melissa Mann Bean 2020

I Surrender All © Melissa Mann Bean 2020

It’s about how our right brain/left brain interact… surrender all in the left or right?

Or both…

The image of the butterfly is a watercolor drawing I did to remember the big paper maché butterfly I made as a kid that my parents wouldn’t throw away. Now that my Dad has had his final battle with Parkinson’s and dementia, I grieve, but I know he is no longer hurting. His surrender has happened. As painful as it has been to watch his war with his brain all these years, I’m glad he is no longer in pain or confusion. I will never forget my times with him as we would laugh, talk about silly stuff or super deep things. He was a man of faith, conviction and honor. He leaves behind so many great things as he walked with great steps all his days. NFS

Mixed media!

I’ve switched up my practice now to mixed media! I will be sending out more information on that as the days march on. This is something I’ve always been passionate about and now want to sell my work. Because I have a family, I also want to help make some extra income and get out of debt (HOORAY!)… So please check on my ART page to get the latest updated pieces to purchase or just view. I will be glad to talk with you about my work and also lend a hand to custom make your own pieces.

At the current time, I am working on a few pieces, but as we are all quarantined, it is also hard to do as much as I would like. SO this is a good time to make art, watch great art online and to huddle close to our own families. I know some days will be trying for everyone in your house. Please use your available resources to draw, paint, sketch, sculpt… whatever that looks like. Make art out of nature! You’ll never know the joy of seeing a kiddo’s face light up when they see color come from a rubbed piece of grass or even sidewalk chalk… from you! Join in the fun and explore ways you can enjoy art for yourself. It’s a great tool to help make it through the rough patches, and the great patches!

Consider donating to your favorite library, art center, fine arts performing center and all the wonderful places that we WILL get back to as soon as we can! Cheers, love and stay six feet away! ~ Melissa

Commercial Work and YOUR BUSINESS!

If you have questions about what exactly commercial work means in the photography industry, here's a list of things I can do for you and your business. I have tips to help your company, events and people shine. Just ask and I'll be glad to help you figure out how to best capture the image of your business.

1. People: this can be getting headshots with studio lights, or photographing in a more natural light setting at your office or facility. If you work from home, I can also help you figure out the best way to get a great headshot - even from your home office. Makeup and hair needs to also be considered, and I have a few people I trust to make you feel awesome about your look. If you need a more environmental image, we can include more of the background of where you choose. It's important to show your space if you have people coming to you for expertise.

Many people just need an online profile headshot that is professional versus one from your selfie albums. Let's talk about how to make you look your best in these type of shots - especially if you are job shopping!

 

2. Events: I really like being on the outskirts of large crowds and then getting close ups of your people enjoying themselves. I've photographed week-long events, graduation ceremonies, corporate events for companies to wine and dine clients, birthday parties and events at music venues.

3. Products: your company might sell products that need to be highlighted with a simple backdrop, or you may want those products in a real life environment complete with models. I can help with studio shots of your products as well as prop shopping and model scouting. It's really important to get great lighting on your product, I will assure you'll get what you need.

4. Locations/architecture: maybe you have a client that want to celebrate their new space, or you've just built a LEED certified building. Getting excellent photographs of these spaces are very important and I can work with you to make these places gorgeous. I work with people on props, plants, landscape ideas and how to best make your space look more appealing in your images.

Call me for more ideas about how I can help you and your business - no matter how large or small!

 

From the other side of the lens – family portraits :: a 3-part series PARTS TWO AND THREE

In November I wrote a blog about getting family portraits taken. These are the last two parts of that post. Hopefully this spring these tips will help if you didn’t get a chance to get portraits in the fall. 

Since I went over communication strategies and how to prepare for the shoot ahead of time, these tidbits of wisdom will help during the actual session and then after the actual session. 

part two :: DURING THE SESSION

CONVERSATION

You have prepared and have on your clothes, your kids’ shoes are tied and you’re driving to the studio or location for pictures. Depending on the age of your children, you may want to have a fun conversation on the way there. Sharing laughs will definitely make your images more enjoyable, so try to keep conversations light when you get there.

  • While the photographer changes lenses or sets up a light, talk to them. They want to hear about your story. Tell them fun things that have happened in your family and make sure to involve the kids. 
  • Ask the photographer about their work and maybe even their family. Making it more personal helps both you and the photographer get better acquainted. This makes them want to collaborate with your family and get the best images possible (trust me).

TO POSE OR NOT TO POSE

You never know how small children will respond to posing. This little guy got a bit distracted by a truck driving down the street behind me. Many times you won't get the smileys from everyone. And that's okay!

You never know how small children will respond to posing. This little guy got a bit distracted by a truck driving down the street behind me. Many times you won't get the smileys from everyone. And that's okay!

Photographers should be well versed in a variety of poses and they’ll help guide you. There are variables that will change with each session: the location, ages of your family members, time allotted and lighting. Sometimes you’ll be in a great pose, the lighting can change quickly, so they’ll work quickly and then move you. I’ve even been photographing a family in a park and a runner jog right into the shot. I had to wait, but I let the family know why I had stopped and just made small talk so the kids didn’t run off.

They had a super cute pose and in two seconds, he decided he didn't like his shoe. It made for a really cute reaction shot - this is more of real life things that happen. Keep these images, these faces say it all about parenting littles.

They had a super cute pose and in two seconds, he decided he didn't like his shoe. It made for a really cute reaction shot - this is more of real life things that happen. Keep these images, these faces say it all about parenting littles.

If you have chosen a life style session with no posed shots, let your photographer know which rooms or areas you like the most. Also let them know what you like to do as a family. Be open to showing them around and letting them explore. They may see something with new eyes that you don’t always see. 

HOLDING YOUR COMPOSURE

Children can act a bit nutty during the session, here are some tips to remember and to keep your composure:

  • Bring a snack and their favorite toy. Bribery goes a long way. 
  • For babies, make sure to have food on hand (mom may need to nurse or cap them off with a bottle for a bit if the session runs long).
  • Most kids act differently in front of the camera lens if you’re not holding the camera.
  • Try not to feed into frustration if your kids act up. Don't let your temper get the best of you. Photographers should be able to deal with kids and allow them to be themselves. Let the photographer control the situation unless the child is becoming too unruly. I have clients that just let me hang out with the kids so they’re not taking over and slicking down their hair every two seconds, making the kids mad. 

One of my favorite clients has two little boys. The oldest loved me from the minute I walked in and we’re big buddies. His little brother, however, does not feel the same fondness. He’s a great little guy, he just starts crying as soon as I pick up my camera to get images of him. It’s created some of the funniest Christmas cards! At first I was going to cull the images of him crying, but his parents said they really liked them, so we kept them. That started our love for trying to get the funniest card each year. So far, I think the first one was the doozy. And it landed on the front page of my web site for over a year.

One day we will get one without the tears … this is one of the funniest times. Real life, people. 

One day we will get one without the tears … this is one of the funniest times. Real life, people. 

part three :: AFTER THE SESSION

Follow up either the same day or the next day just to be on the same page.  This list will help you ask the right questions and prepare for anything that comes up.

  • Do you need to schedule time to review the images together? Double check on date, time and location. Ask how much time should be allotted. 
  • When will a gallery of online proofs be available? What is the duration of the gallery and can you send that link to others?
  • What is the cost of products and prints? This should have already been given to you, but you may need a refresher... or if you’ve taken a while to order, ask for an updated price guide.
  • Go over details of any deadlines with the photographer. For example, some people send out pictures when celebrating life events, so let them know when you’ll need the products in your hands.
  • Make sure to pay what you owe them. If you have an outstanding balance, pay that quickly.
  • Some photographers are more busy in different seasons than others, so don’t listen to your friends when they say they got their images in three days, four weeks or six months. Ask your photographer specifically when to expect YOUR images - both proofing and final products.
  • Learn the terminology about copyrights. When a photographer or artist creates something, it is their copyrighted original. However, if you buy a copy of the digital images from a photographer, you’re not buying the actual copyright. You can get a letter stating you have the right to make prints and products, but legally they still own the copyright and you just own a file. Some photographers don’t sell digital images, they only sell prints or products. Back in the film days, it was a rare occasion that photographers sold the negatives. I sold the negatives to my clients when I moved from Tennessee to Kentucky because honestly, I didn’t want to have to store all those negatives in the move. Again, communicate BEFORE the session to make sure you understand how they work. 
  • If you do get digital images, back them up on separate computers and also on an online gallery (either the Cloud or on a company that creates prints and products). Don’t solely rely on one backup — anything can happen. Make prints and products quickly so they don’t just become digital clutter. Ask how many years the photographer will promise to keep them on file as back up as well.
  • Remember to book early and as often as your pocketbook will allow. You will never regret the images that you get from a professional that you love working with. 

Getting to know my clients is something I truly enjoy. I love seeing you grow and change and how your relationships bloom. Find a photographer that will love your people and want you to look the best in your images. Be creative and have fun!

From the other side of the lens – family portraits :: a 3-part series

So you've decided to get family pictures taken … please read this three part series of blog posts. I hope it will help you from being on the other side of the lens (we just had family portraits taken). Great results can happen with your images by open communication and planning ahead. This will be a three part series, so sit back and relax... feel free to make notes and forward this to your friends and family as well. 

part one :: BEFORE THE SESSION

1.  Practice POSES and facial EXPRESSIONS in front of the mirror and with the other people who will be in the portraits. Make sure you like their facial expressions. You can even give names to certain poses that you come up with together. Let your kids come up with some fun stuff, too. It will give them some ownership in their own images. If you want a "serious" posed picture, make sure you tell them the difference between looking too mad and just serious. Our son decided that angry and serious were very similar … so we had to help him a little with those ideas.

This is his "I'm a serious songwriter" look. Not for family portraits, son. Please. : )

This is his "I'm a serious songwriter" look. Not for family portraits, son. Please. : )

2. Pick out CLOTHES that are your style - not the ones shown only in pinterest pictures or in magazines. If you're not super trendy, don't pretend to be. If you want a funky, stylized shoot, that's okay, but make sure you change into your regular clothes, too. Talk to your family about the outfits and get their opinions. Make sure you either text a picture to your photographer if you need color coordinating advice, or send it to your friends that are color theory experts (or at least know your style and won't steer you toward something stupid). I sent a text to two college girlfriends from our art department, and they gave me good tips. It makes it more fun to get a little advice. Let kids add a touch of their personalities - at least for a few shots or more.

Our son wore a vest that he loves, it's retro, from when my brother was a kid, so he loves it -- and it's not itchy. Make sure you pick out clothes well in advance -- at least a week or more -- and have a back up option that you don't hate in case your kid tries to pull a last minute switcheroo. You don't have to go out and buy new clothes, just look at your own wardrobes with new eyes. Don't wait until the day of the shoot to tell your kids what they'll be wearing. I've never had that be successful in all the years I've photographed families. AND! If you do choose to get new clothes, wash them prior to the shoot. I've had babies super angry because of an itchy, uncomfortable outfit and the moms can't figure out why they're crying. 

This was the first shot I texted to my girlfriends. One responded that I would look like a rockstar and the guys, well, more like my back up singers. Maybe not in those words, so I changed this to a navy jacket. Subtle changes do make a difference! …

This was the first shot I texted to my girlfriends. One responded that I would look like a rockstar and the guys, well, more like my back up singers. Maybe not in those words, so I changed this to a navy jacket. Subtle changes do make a difference! And only ask your honest friends, your mom will either tear it all down or she'll think you look great … but not so much. 

3. Talk with your photographer about LOCATION ideas if you're not using your own property. Talk to the owners or event coordinators of locations well in advance if you have a good relationship with them, but perhaps your photographer doesn't know them from boo-tattoo. There is nothing more embarrassing than saying you did talk with someone, and then get kicked out during the session. So get permission!

Jean Ann and I always work together to come up with fun Christmas cards. This year's session included time at the barn where her horse is boarded. But, I won't show you the images we got for their card (I love surprises!). They are one of the best f…

Jean Ann and I always work together to come up with fun Christmas cards. This year's session included time at the barn where her horse is boarded. But, I won't show you the images we got for their card (I love surprises!). They are one of the best families that I work with and I love seeing them every time we do a session. In the past we've done studio stuff and also shots in their backyard and at a park.

As a photographer, I also try to find more unique places than what is trending at the time. There's nothing original or cool about your pictures' backgrounds looking like every friend you have. Be proactive about driving around and scouting out new places if your photographer doesn't have ideas. Work together to figure out a good place for everyone involved. Parks typically require a permit, so if your photographer doesn't have one, talk to them about it before you get there. Also, if you want to take portraits in businesses like coffee shops or even the zoo, you MUST get permission first (not during the session, have the photographer call in advance -- or take responsibility and call them yourself.) Newbie photographers have told me they never call in advance. What? That's like someone coming onto your property to have a picnic and just plopping down to eat and then playing corn hole on your yard without your permission. Would that be cool? No? Okay, so yeah … be considerate.

Let's say you find a cool location. Take a picture and text or email it to the photographer. Make sure it's at the same time of day, and if possible on the same day of the week (because the city is busy during the week, but not so much on certain weekends) ... that way they can see shadows and where light falls. You may only see a cool backdrop, they'll see what kind of equipment they'll have to bring to get the light right. I never take all of my equipment on location, it's just too much. So make sure you talk with the photographer beforehand. 

4. Share IDEAS with your photographer well in advance. There is nothing more frustrating than when a client shows up with a list and says, "I just stayed up all night and printed these Pinterest ideas for you." If you have some ideas, feel free to talk those out with your photographer, talk with them about work you've seen on their web site, but don't always show them other people's work. Remember, you don't like being compared to every mom, dad, kid or worker, they don't like it either. So be respectful and talk – before the day of the session.

When I booked our session with Tyler Zoller, it was because I have seen his work and I know he does amazing things with studio lights. His work is great and he's a good friend. I wanted something funky and clever for our session along with candids. I already had an idea in mind that not everyone could pull off, I thought of him immediately. So I called him and asked if he'd even be willing to do this with us because he typically works with models and seniors. He asked me a few questions and we worked it all out. Making sure you've seen the person's best work is helpful. Again, make sure you're communicating with the photographer up front.

5. Other things to discuss BEFORE the session  –––

  • MONEY:: don't make $$ the only reason you're using that photographer ... The best way to handle money issues is not to just start with a talk about how much the photographer charges. Talk with them about their work first and how they work Ask them about how you'd like the session to go (candids, posed, etc...) and THEN you should talk with them about money. If you can't afford their prices, don't freak out and tell them that their prices are out of control. Just nicely tell them that is out of your budget. You never know, they may need some of your services. Let's say you are a potter, so ask them if they'd be willing to barter. But never bring that up as the only way to pay them. You should work together on the ideas of bartering to make sure it's a win/win for both parties. You could say, "Oh, that is a little out of my budget. How could we work together with XXX for a budget?" 
     
  • TIME:: session length, editing and deliverables (proofs, prints, digital files, etc) ... Talk to the photographer about how much time to set aside for the actual session. If you have to take off work, take into consideration how long it takes you to get to the location, the length of the actual session and getting back to work. Don't make it a problem for the photographer. If possible, don't leave halfway through and let your spouse deal with the kids alone. If you truly only have a few hours, tell them that upfront, but don't wait until the day of and rush them. TJ was great and we talked it out beforehand, so he took off the whole day. You may not be able to do that, but consider these portraits as probably a once a year thing. Seriously, you have an hour or two of time you can use for these important images. Just remember that years later you'll be grateful you took the time out. Your family will outlive your working hours.

    Before the session, make sure to ask how long it will take to get a gallery of the images and how long before you'll receive the finished deliverables. Every photographer delivers different products on different timetables, so make sure you get that spelled out well in advance. If you think you want digital files along with prints, please ask them if they even sell the files.
     
  • BEST ATTITUDE & OTHER IDEAS:: make sure you discuss the best time of day for the attitudes of all involved. The kids probably won't be so happy if you don't feed them breakfast. Also, don't plan the session during your baby's nap time. Make sure everyone is fed and have had naps or at least a good night's sleep. Again, think ahead. I've had people bring kids that have just had their vaccine shots, so not only are they in a bad mood, but most of the time they've been crying, so their little faces are splotchy. I know there are people with more than one kid, but think like them. Would you want YOUR picture taken after crying because of a shot? Okay, and this is a no brainer I think, but make sure your kids aren't sick. If their nose is running non-stop and it's green, you should call and reschedule. The photographer doesn't want to get sick, thank you. 

    And this might be tough, but try to keep fighting to a minimum before and during the session. Talk with your family about positive things. Bring up happy things that have nothing to do with the day, maybe about something they've done that you can praise them for.... Talk to them about things they like to do and how fun the session will be. Answer questions they might have … just make sure to try and keep it upbeat. The better your attitude is about the session, the better everyone will cooperate. If everyone is Grumpy Gus before they show up, sometimes I will just want to turn around and leave. But I don't and I also tell corny jokes to get them thinking of something else besides what is about to happen. 
Think about lighting and certain times of day are the best. You won't always be able to schedule at those times, but think differently than just in a field with weeds or at a park. Simple sunsetting shots can make a gorgeous image. You just have to …

Think about lighting and certain times of day are the best. You won't always be able to schedule at those times, but think differently than just in a field with weeds or at a park. Simple sunsetting shots can make a gorgeous image. You just have to think ahead. 

Remind everyone that it's not brain surgery. It might be awkward, but try to relax and enjoy your time. And it is only one moment in time, you'll cherish the images later.

**This may seem like a long blog post, but it's so worth looking into this to make your session a success. The next blogs in this series won't be as long, but you see how important it is to communicate prior to the actual session. I'm sure your photographer will love it when you plan ahead. 

Three cheers to you for getting your portraits taken! 

 

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Two week retreat to this old house!

December 21 through Jan 2 :: Melissa Mann Photography is taking two weeks off! A shut down. An unplug. A retreat to this old house! (and all the walls are singing amen for more paint colors)

If you need a family photo session, dates are available below, but please call now! They're filling up faster than the leaves are falling. Gift certificates are available all year (except this two week shut down), please call or email me before the 19th.

Open times for family sessions include:

• Saturdays :: November 14, 21 and December 5, 12 and 19 **If you book your session ON the 19th, you won't be getting pictures printed in time for Christmas gifts, just an FYI...

• Some days during the week. I know you're working. I know. We're all "busy" -- but take a long lunch break. Take off early. Do this for your family. And for yourself. You'll thank me later for this little tip.

Thanks to all my clients - both commercial and families. You are helping to build great things yet to come for this small business! (And yes, I am fully aware it's before Halloween, but every year someone says that Christmas snuck up on them. : )) BOO! Gobble Gobble and Ho Ho HO!!

 

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Calling all image hoarders ... yes, that means you ...

This week's blog is a bit different, I want to help educate instead of just showing images and telling a story.

It had been a while since I sat at my laptop, which I use on the go and to backup phone images. Today as I am looking through all these images, I realize I have a problem. I'm an image hoarder. You may say, "Well, you're a photographer, you SHOULD have tons of pictures." Or should I? I'm no different than you when it comes to saving personal images. I need to weed out the junk and just keep what I want Aiden to see one day. And, I really need to think about the pictures before I click and keep.

Afterall, every time you touch the shutter button, you're wearing out your device. Read:: if you want to keep an image, don't just keep clicking. Really THINK about light, composition and color. Yesterday I met a man with a camera and he said he pretty much just wings it now because of the digital world. Ugh.

Example number one:: a potty. I was having a yard sale. The potty is long gone. WHY DID I KEEP THIS PICTURE OF A POTTY? It's going to the trash. Please, do this for your sanity and someone's sanity one day. GET RID OF THE POTTY PICTURE so they don't…

Example number one:: a potty. I was having a yard sale. The potty is long gone. WHY DID I KEEP THIS PICTURE OF A POTTY? It's going to the trash. Please, do this for your sanity and someone's sanity one day. GET RID OF THE POTTY PICTURE so they don't have to look through them all!

I'm giving you the GO CLEAR THE CLUTTER commandment today -- start with 15 minutes a day. Be vigilant. If you say, "Aw, but I need all 12 images I took of little Larry that day..." Seriously, think about how Little Larry will feel if he sees all these images and not one is in focus, not one is good. Just do it. Delete. I know, some of you are gasping (Rachel, I hear you from Shelby County)... But in all honestly, if we clear the clutter out of our house, we need to clear the clutter in our digital house too. Also, who wants to clear out all that crap when you croak? 

I have no idea why I took this picture of my tea kettle. Maybe it was to write a blog one day on slowing down to brew a cup of tea and delete bad pictures? Okay, done. Gone.

I have no idea why I took this picture of my tea kettle. Maybe it was to write a blog one day on slowing down to brew a cup of tea and delete bad pictures? Okay, done. Gone.

I've started a PRINT folder on my computers so that I know which ones I want to print for walls, as gifts, etc... You may want to do this too. You could even name it PRINTS FOR GIFTS. Please make prints. Your computer, phone, ipad, i-whatever devices will not last forever. At least a print can help you retain some memory without eating up all the memory on the devices.

We spared a baby bunny from the dogs, but the bunny is now probably having bunnies of its own. Delete. (And just for the record, I had THREE of these images... )

We spared a baby bunny from the dogs, but the bunny is now probably having bunnies of its own. Delete. (And just for the record, I had THREE of these images... )

 

This might help you... my rules of deleting files (for personal pictures, I keep client files for other reasons but still cull like crazy):: 

1. If I wouldn't want anyone to see this image (a really blurry shot, it's not even halfway becoming of the person in the shot, it's a picture of a potty...)

And honestly, unless you're a food photographer or a farmer, you MUST delete the food pictures. This doesn't even look good. I wonder why I even shot this? 

And honestly, unless you're a food photographer or a farmer, you MUST delete the food pictures. This doesn't even look good. I wonder why I even shot this? 

 

2. If I wouldn't print this image, it needs to be in the Delete category -- especially if it's food or something I shot to send as a text just for a funny story to a friend.

3. If I'm running super low on storage space on any device, it's time to purge. That may mean putting things on an external hard drive. BUT delete first, and print the ones I want just in case my back up to my back up fails.

4. If I need a "clear the clutter" moment but don't want to clear out physical clutter, I can take 15 minutes -- instead of reading yet another article about food or unwanted clutter (haha) -- to clear out some hard drive clutter. Let's face it. We use "but I'm too busy" as an excuse for just about anything these days. We're not really that busy.

5. And for all you artists out there freaking out, thinking, "But your images are your sketch book..." Seriously. Maybe so, but for the love, just delete the stuff that's not even bringing back any memory in your head. Just get rid of that so your digital memory can breathe. I applaud you artist hoarders. I'm one too. But you'll have more peace if you delete (and especially if you're not "tech savvy")!

This is an okay image, but I took it because of the flooding of the Ohio. Along with about 10 more pictures. So this one goes. 

This is an okay image, but I took it because of the flooding of the Ohio. Along with about 10 more pictures. So this one goes. 

This one stays. Simply because we went for a walk down by the river and it was flooded...and Aiden didn't get to play on the playground. But it's in a folder called Personal Photographs/date/OhioRiverFlood15. And that's the only one that I'm keeping…

This one stays. Simply because we went for a walk down by the river and it was flooded...and Aiden didn't get to play on the playground. But it's in a folder called Personal Photographs/date/OhioRiverFlood15. And that's the only one that I'm keeping. If I wanted to send the other nine to the UofL archive, that is fine, but there's no need for me to keep these. 

Now, go clear some digital clutter! Have a great day and remember to always click responsibly. 

 

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Come experience Kentucky next week! Bardstown will be booming during the Kentucky Bourbon Festival

Here are some highlights from last year's Kentucky Bourbon Festival:: 

Aaron Kiser, an Owensboro painter, was commissioned to paint live during the Hall of Fame Luncheon. Congratulations to Maker's Mark! 

Aaron Kiser, an Owensboro painter, was commissioned to paint live during the Hall of Fame Luncheon. Congratulations to Maker's Mark! 

Chef John Varanese serves up some great menu items all infused with Jim Beam bourbons.

Chef John Varanese serves up some great menu items all infused with Jim Beam bourbons.

Cigars and Jazz was a delightful evening

Cigars and Jazz was a delightful evening

The Great Barrel Race is a good time to see the distilleries show off their muscle. The barrels each weigh 500 pounds!

The Great Barrel Race is a good time to see the distilleries show off their muscle. The barrels each weigh 500 pounds!

The Great Tasting and Gala is a crowd pleaser and a time to get nicely dressed and go out on the town. The food, drinks and dancing makes for a very fun evening.

The Great Tasting and Gala is a crowd pleaser and a time to get nicely dressed and go out on the town. The food, drinks and dancing makes for a very fun evening.

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