All in the Family

One of the biggest artistic influences and inspirations in my life is actually my sister. If you compliment me on an outfit I either borrowed it from her ever expanding closet or was inspired by something I saw her try. Though I have always been the one obsessed with cameras and film, the minute my sister starting creating and posting on Flickr, I was blown away by the way she sees things and how she is able to convey that to the rest of the world. That is exactly why I had her by my side the first time I shot a wedding.

I would not hesitate to say that she may be the artistic innovative one between the two of us. Its a blessing to see this talent and know that it runs in our blood - our grandfather, the photographer, was constantly capturing lovely portraits of our family. I used to spend hours gazing upon the wall with tiny and large frames alike, each with a different moment in the lives of our family not just because they were familiar faces, but because they were beautiful photographs. From baby pictures to wedding portraits, it was all there, thanks to Grandpa. Who also passed on the gene to my cousin Eric, who is a wedding photographer in Iowa. :)

My sister also caught the streak of creativity in fashion from our grandmother. She takes things that she sees and makes them her own. She's not afraid to take risks.

And the girl knows how to work the camera. These are "test shots" from Alex & Stephanie's wedding. They say so little and so much about my dear sister.

In recognition of the inspiration that my sister gives me daily, i'm having a little giveaway. I want to put these creative juices to good use (as well as find out who EXACTLY is reading my blog) I am giving away a 1 hour family portrait package to the first person who emails me at courtlynn.photography@gmail.com and shares briefly about what inspires them to do what they do...whether its art, soccer, engineering, cooking i want to know what fuels your passion!

I will announce the winner and their response on my blog at the end of the week.
The stipulations for prize winners are as follows:
- Package includes an 8x10 print and a copy of high-res negatives
- Session must take place by December 31, 2008
- Session can take place anywhere in Southern California
- Family Portrait session includes newly-wed couples (you are your own family now) and does not have to be used by the winner...it can be conveniently given as a gift upon approval by photographer. (That's me!)


So since I'm fairly positive that there are about 4 people reading my blog, this could be a VERY easy giveaway. Hopefully I won't have to make something up! :P I look forward to hearing from you!