From the Heart of the Artist: A Look into My Faith

Hi Everyone!

It’s been a while since I posted a personal update, and this felt like the right time to share, and hopefully inspire.

First I want to thank all my clients for their referrals! These referrals have helped increase business and allowed me to continue what I love to do – serve my community through my art of photography.

Many, if not most, of my clients and friends know that I am Christian. But what I want to tell you is how God changed my life, gave me the courage to follow my dreams, and increased my faith over the past 5 years.

I have always been a believer, but it wasn’t until 5 years ago that I really started trusting Him more and more with my life and my dreams. I always felt He had given me a passion in the arts to serve in some way – I knew I would never be an accountant or “stuffy business person”. Through the course of my adult life, God has revealed to me that my calling is to serve my community with the art of photography – and through photography, reveal the beauty in those around me.

For 5 years, I’ve built my business on the biblical phrase or reference of “preparing for rain”. I’ve sowed seeds, prepared for the clients I knew would eventually come, and developed a stronger foundation so when adversity came, I could stand firm that I was doing what God wanted of me.

It’s amazing how working and dedicating a business to God opens up so many other doors that have nothing to do with photography. He has brought so many people into my life, and continues to show me inspiration in the simplest things. He has given me chances to serve my community, and blessed me with new clients. Through these experiences, I have discovered more of who I am, what I believe, and to stand firm in those morals and faith. Every morning I get up and give God my business. I truly feel that even though I’m the “owner”, God is my CEO, and I desire to go in the direction that He wants.

I wanted to share these thoughts and feelings with you because I know that as clients, you could go anywhere for your artistic portraiture needs. I honestly believe that it’s more than chance that brings us into each other’s lives. My clients are just as much a blessing to me as I strive to be to them, and I will continue to put everything I have into this ministry God has blessed me with.

I hope that this has given you a little more inside of my business and beliefs. When I say that “it’s not just photography, it’s an experience”, I mean it. You are more to me than a paycheck, and I value each and every person reading this. Thank you for allowing me to serve you, because it truly is my pleasure.

I wish blessings on you today and always!

~ Donna

 

 

Dazzling Light Photography | 512.508.9067 | DazzlingLightPhoto.com

info@DazzlingLightPhoto.com | Check out our Facebook page!

Check out our upcoming campaigns!

Don’t miss out on these exciting upcoming sessions and promotions!

Birthday Sessions
Attention May birthdays! We have a special just for you! Call for a free mini portrait session and 16 keepsake wallet-size portraits.

Professional Headshots
Whether you need a traditional headshot for a business card, website, book jacket or other marketing material, or you need something for auditions and casting calls, our professional headshots are a great way to put your best face forward. With a variety of lighting and background options, we will work with you to create the look you are envisioning.

Mommy & Me
Our Mommy & Me portrait sessions are a great way to create a lasting memory of the mother-child bond. If grandma lives in town, a three-generation portrait can be an extra special touch. Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and these portraits make beautiful gifts! Gift Certificates are also available.

Availability for these exciting new sessions is limited, so call to reserve yours today!

Dazzling Light Photography | 512.508.9067 | DazzlingLightPhoto.com

info@DazzlingLightPhoto.com | Check out our Facebook page!

Bluebonnets – A Texas Tradition! Reserve your Limited Edition Spot Today!

Who’s excited about Bluebonnet season?! We have several places we are watching, in Pflugerville, Round Rock, and Cedar Park! Call today at 512-508-9067 to reserve your spot and receive a $50 print credit towards your print purchase! Spots are limited, and if you know about bluebonnets, you know they don’t last long! Make sure to schedule ahead and don’t miss these gorgeous memories!

 

Dazzling Light Photography | 512.508.9067 | DazzlingLightPhoto.com

info@DazzlingLightPhoto.com | Check out our Facebook page!

March is National Nutrition Month! 13 Health Tips for 2013 by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

13 Health Tips for 2013 by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Dedicate yourself to a healthy lifestyle in 2013 with these food, nutrition and exercise tips.

Eat Breakfast
There’s no better way to start your morning—and the year—than with a healthy breakfast. The key to a good breakfast is balance. Include lean protein, whole grains and fruits and vegetables. Try oatmeal cooked with low-fat milk, sliced almonds and berries, or crust-less quiche with mixed veggies, low-fat cheese and a slice of whole wheat toast.

Make Half Your Plate Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and veggies add color, flavor and texture plus vitamins, minerals and fiber to your plate. Make 2 cups of fruit and 2 ½ cups of vegetables your daily goal. Don’t let winter stop you from enjoying produce. It might be harder to find fresh options, but frozen and canned are great alternatives.

Watch Portion Sizes
Do you know if you’re eating the proper portion size? Get out the measuring cups and see how close your portions are to the recommended serving size. Using smaller plates, bowls and glasses can help you keep portions under control. Use half of your plate for vegetables, a quarter for grains and a quarter for lean meat or protein. To complete the meal, add a glass of fat-free or low-fat milk and a serving of fruit for dessert.

Be Active
Regular physical activity lowers blood pressure and helps your body control stress and weight. Start by doing what exercise you can for at least 10 minutes at a time. Children and teens should get 60 or more minutes of physical activity per day, and adults should get two hours and 30 minutes per week. You don’t have to hit the gym—take a walk after dinner or play a game of catch or basketball.

Fix Healthy Snacks
Healthy snacks can sustain your energy levels between meals. Whenever possible, make your snacks combination snacks, including lean protein, healthy fats, fiber or carbohydrates. Try low-fat yogurt with fruit, whole-grain crackers with low-fat cheese, or a small portion of nuts with an apple or banana.

Get to Know Food Labels
Ever wonder about the difference between “reduced fat” and “low fat?” Or does “calorie free” on a label really mean no calories? The Food and Drug Administration has strict guidelines on how these food label terms can be used.

Consult an RD
Whether you want to lose weight, lower your cholesterol or simply eat better, consult the experts! Registered dietitians can help you by providing sound, easy-to-follow personalized nutrition advice and put you on the path to losing weight, eating well and reducing your risk of chronic disease.

Follow Food Safety Guidelines
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that roughly one in six Americans gets sick from foodborne disease each year. Reduce your chances of getting sick by practicing proper hand washing. Separate raw meat, poultry and seafood from ready-to-eat foods like bread and vegetables. Use a food thermometer to make sure food is properly cooked. Refrigerate food quickly at a proper temperature to slow bacteria growth.

Get Cooking
Cooking at home can be healthy, rewarding and cost-effective. Resolve to learn some cooking and kitchen basics, like how to dice an onion or how to store herbs and spices.

Dine Out without Ditching Your Goals
You can dine at a restaurant and stick to your healthy eating plan! The key is to plan ahead, ask questions and choose foods carefully. Think about nutritious items you can add to your plate—fruits, veggies, lean meat, poultry or fish—and look for grilled, baked, broiled or steamed items.

Enact Family Meal Time
Research shows that family meals promote healthier eating. Plan to eat as a family at least a few times each week in 2013. Set a regular mealtime. Turn off the TV, phones and other electronic devices to encourage mealtime talk. Get kids involved in meal planning and cooking and use this time to teach them about good nutrition.

Banish Brown Bag Boredom
While it’s important to send your children to school with a healthy lunch packed with the nutrition they need to learn, grow and play, it’s also important that they eat it.

Drink More Water
Our bodies depend on water to regulate temperature, transport nutrients and oxygen to cells, carry away waste products and more. For generally healthy people who live in temperate climates, the Dietary Reference Intakes from the Institute of Medicine recommend a total daily beverage intake of 13 cups for men and 9 cups for women.

Learn more at: http://www.eatright.org/

Dazzling Light Photography | 512.508.9067 | DazzlingLightPhoto.com

info@DazzlingLightPhoto.com | Check out our Facebook page!

Check out our upcoming campaigns!

Don’t miss out on these exciting upcoming sessions and promotions going on at Dazzling Light Photography!

Birthday Sessions
Attention April birthdays! We have a special just for you! Call to reserve your portrait session by March 31st and receive 16 FREE wallets, plus a SafeTKids ID card for Mom & Dad!

Bluebonnets are Back!
Who’s excited about Bluebonnet season?! We are, and have several places we are watching, in Pflugerville, Round Rock, and Cedar Park! Call today to reserve your spot and receive a $50 print credit towards your print purchase! Spots are limited, and if you know about bluebonnets, you know they don’t last long! Make sure to schedule ahead and don’t miss these gorgeous memories!

At First Sight Engagement Campaign
Celebrate your love’s journey with our At First Sight engagement session. Choose a location that holds a special significance to you as a couple, or go with some of our favorites, including: Old Settlers Park, Pfluger Park or Mayfield Cottage Park. Our extensive selection of Save the Date options will help you create a custom announcement that is as unique as your love.

Mommy & Me
There’s nothing like the mother-child bond. We all love our own mothers to no end, and those of you who are mothers yourselves know how strong that bond truly is. Celebrate the special mother in your life with our Mommy & Me portraits. These are held in a beautiful outdoor location of your choice for a timeless keepsake that is sure to be treasured for years to come. Gift certificates are also available and make wonderful Mother’s Day gifts!

Availability for these exciting new sessions is limited, so call to reserve yours today!

Dazzling Light Photography | 512.508.9067 | DazzlingLightPhoto.com

info@DazzlingLightPhoto.com | Check out our Facebook page!

Celebrating Fathers and Daughters at the YMCA Valentine’s Dance

On February 8, 2013, we had the great honor of photographing the fathers and daughters that attended the Chasco YMCA in Round Rock. It was a night of great fun, with an amazing desert bar, lots of dancing, and monkeys everywhere! (They were the gifts to each girl). Jason and I were able to meet all the young ladies and their escorts while they posed to show their beautiful attire and the love and happiness between father and daughter. Here are a few of the fun images that we were able to capture!

Thank you to all that came out and made this event so memorable for all these young ladies. We feel so blessed that we were able to contribute a little and help these families remember this night. Please take the time to visit the Round Rock YMCA facebook page here to thank them and consider volunteering for their next event. They are truly serving our community!

Dazzling Light Photography | 512.508.9067 | DazzlingLightPhoto.com

info@DazzlingLightPhoto.com | Check out our Facebook page!

Our new Save the Date cards are available now! Check out some awesome engagement portrait tips!

You’re engaged! Congratulations from everyone at Dazzling Light Photography!

Here are a few tips for the perfect engagement session.

1) Be TRUE
Don’t try to transform yourselves for this session, with some idea that you saw on pinterest that looked so amazing. Be honest about who you are and take this moment to celebrate that as a couple. If you both like country music, put on a pair of cute boots and he can wear his favorite plaid shirt. Are you the ultimate power couple? Go sleek and sophisticated in evening wear. Take some time to think about what makes your relationship tick and that is something that you can weave into the session for a truly unique memory.

2) Be FRESH
This is one occasion where professional hair and makeup can really pay off. Similar to your wedding day, these memories will last a lifetime. It’s also a great way to test out the hair and makeup artist you want to use for the big day. You don’t want to do the same styles, necessarily, but it’s a great way to make sure they are the person you want working for you on your big day. As far as tanning goes, less is more. You want a little color, go for it. If not, don’t stress. It’s better not to tan at all than to show up looking orange.

Your guy might need a little guidance with his style (or a lot), so have him get a haircut a week before your session date. He should be either cleanly shaven or have neatly trimmed facial hair for a polished, romantic look.

3) Be THERE
Where? That special spot. Where was your first date? Or the moment you first met? Think of the place he proposed or other romantic, meaningful locations. Maybe only a few people will understand the full meaning of the location, but it’s a sweet reminder of the bond that you share, and will last as a permanent tribute to these good times.

4) Be STYLED
Your wardrobe of course should match your personalities, as mentioned before. That said, this session probably warrants a shopping trip to get outfits that complement each other as well as you and your fiancé do. Look at a color wheel for good color combinations (opposite colors on the wheel are a no brainer). If it’s a colder month, just find darker tones. For warmer months, lighter ones. Play around with color and textures, using designs like stripes or polka dots sparingly.

While you want to make a personal statement in these portraits, the underlying purpose is to showcase your love. So your clothes shouldn’t steal the show. Keep things looking natural and understated, whether you’re leaning towards a casual look or ultra sophisticated one (or somewhere in between).

You should try to play up your feminine nature in these portraits, as your fiancé should be extremely masculine. Whatever that means to you, bring it out.

5) Be ROMANTIC
This might be a silly reminder, but some couples freeze up under the pressure of all the wedding planning and the organizing of the session. Once you are in front of the camera, it’s important to have fun. Smile, laugh, hug and kiss! Men often have a harder time with this than women, so it’s your job to lighten the mood for him and make him feel more natural. A good engagement session will lead to even better wedding portrait memories, because as they say… Practice makes perfect.

And once you have selected the perfect date for your big day, you’re ready to order your Save the Dates! Here are a few of our newest designs.

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation!

Dazzling Light Photography | 512.508.9067 | DazzlingLightPhoto.com

info@DazzlingLightPhoto.com | Check out our Facebook page!