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Hi, welcome to the Carolyn Bowles Photography blog! On these pages you'll find session sneak peeks, studio news, and all things photography. I love visitors and building a creative online community. So please, whenever you stop by, be sure to leave a comment and say hello!

• cheery, yellow flowers make me happy •

I have a confession to make. It’s been a long, gloomy winter for me. One of my best and oldest friends, my Grammy, passed away. We struggled with the decision on whether or not to move across the country (we’re not, we’re staying!) And if I’m truly honest, my beautiful home simply got messy and chaotic. So, with the warmth of spring on the horizon and the sun that is finally starting to shine again, I’m feeling quite optimistic and more like my old cheery self.

Then when I saw these lovely flowers today at the market, I just knew the clouds were lifting. This tiny bouquet of simple daffodils made me so happy. I knew I had to have them. The moment I got home I pulled out a favorite small glass vase and placed them in a special spot where I can see them all day long. The color. The freshness. The bright green stalks. The sweet aroma. The yellow. Ah, I love everything about these little flowers.

So, now that I’m back blogging, I have to get back to my new year’s drawing. I had promised to send out ten gift cards to ten amazing blog readers as a thank you for a wonderful 2009 and to kick off the new decade. So, the winners of this contest are: rachel olsen, ann westerman, melissa surprise, jane combs, cindy chen, sharon mccafferty, tracy larsen, gwendolyn waite, jen roberts, and rachel clare. The ten dollar gift cards are to my favorite places, including: starbucks, ann taylor loft, trader joe’s, sephora, and the gap. You will each be receiving an email from me notifying you of being a winner, asking your mailing address, and seeing if you have a gift card preference. Maybe we have a few loves in common! Thanks everyone for a wonderful last year, and for a great year ahead!

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piper kinney - yes, so glad to see you here again and happy for your old self to back :) Keep the beautiful images coming!

Ann Westerman - So excited to see you back to blogging! I always look forward to your beautiful, colorful, happy images!! Your work is so uplifting!

gwen - Carolyn, such beautiful, bright photos. You've had some tough decisions and hard times this winter. We're always here for you, just remember that, whether you're feeling your usual cheerful self or not! Can't wait to see you next month!

Jane Combs - So sorry to hear about your Grammy. Glad the flowers were uplifting for you, they're beautiful. Hope to get together soon! I never win anything, can't believe it.

Melissa - Great to have you back my friend. I am sorry for all the tough days and decisions you had to make. I am happy you are staying put but at the same time sad you won't be closer to me ;) Hugs and know I love ya! Can't wait to see what you have in store for us.

• over the moon •

I loved entering into the peaceful home of this precious 15-week old baby girl and her mommy and daddy who have just been over the moon since her arrival. Sweet miss o was so enjoyable to photograph. Documenting a baby’s early days in her nursery with those who love her like crazy, well, it was a wonderful way to start the new year.

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This new mommy is so calm, loving, and gentle with her new baby girl. Images of a mommy and her baby are so special.

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This daddy warmed my heart. His adoring eyes and tender love for his little princess is so amazing.

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Love these tiny hot pink socks.

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Can you believe this little knit dress and lace tights were the mommy’s when she was a baby? I love family heirlooms and when things have special meaning. This is the dress miss o plans on wearing to her upcoming baptism. How beautiful!

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In just the hour and half I was there, I felt the strong bond these new parents share with their baby. They adore her and it’s easy to see why!

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Such tiny toes and feet.

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One of my favorite moments was at the end of our time together when baby was so worn out and tired. Mommy scooped her up in her arms, wrapped her in a blanket, and rocked her to sleep. I was so happy to stay and photograph this behind-the-scenes event that is now so regular and routine in their home as a new family.

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gwen - Such beautiful, real moments you have captured. What a wonderful memory for this family!

cindy chen - I love the realness that you capture in your sessions Carolyn. What a precious and priceless gift for this family.

Rachel Clare - Carolyn, These are priceless. Just perfect!

Alison - simply perfect!!!

Melissa - Wow, look at those eyes! I love the pictures of the parents peeking into the crib. So sweet.

Rachel Olsen - Oh Carolyn- you captured such pure moments! What a doll she is. Gorgeous light and composition as always. I just want to squeeze her!

Jane Combs - What a doll!

Lauri - Wow, the color is amazing. Very inspiring session as I head to one next week with with a kiddo this age!

robyn - as usual, your photos make my heart melt

Cara - Great work. Love the shot of Olivia falling asleep. Maggie loved them all too - she was smiling so big as we looked through them.

Molly Feldhaus - I love them already! Made me cry! So is so sweet! Cant even wait to see the rest. How am I even going to choose! Thank you so much!

Alison - So lovely and such beautiful lighting! I love the image of the baby looking over her mother's shoulder.

Karie McLain - Beautiful Carolyn!

• two sisters + two brothers = sweetest family •

It was so wonderful to meet all the kids of this amazing family. They are so charming, kind, sweet, and fun! And I couldn’t believe how excited they all were for our day together. Truly, they made my job so super easy! We started off in their home as the kids proudly showed off their adorable bedrooms and fun toys such as guitars and cameras. Budding photographers we have here in the making! From there, we all jumped in the big mini van together and drove to the quaint town of Lebanon, Ohio. It was a brisk day, and mom was ready with the cutest ensembles of scarves, hats, and sweaters. We sauntered down the streets—pausing for photos in cool alley ways, in front of gorgeous brick walls, and all the textures the town has to offer. Then, when we couldn’t take the cold anymore, what did we do?! Stop for ice cream! It was a welcome treat for all. The kids finished the day playing in the leaves, running on the sidewalks, and just having fun being outside together. I left feeling so inspired and loved and happy. Yes, these four kids can make you feel that way. They are simply that amazing.

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It was so fun to be on the other side of the camera! They would each take a picture of me and excitedly show off the portrait.

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These kids are so good to each other. I loved documenting their tender interactions.

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Could this mom and dad be any more stunning, or in love?! I can feel the romance oozing through these images.

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cindy chen - What a gorgeous session and gorgeous family! These images are so much fun. I love that you can just feel their love and happiness in these images. You are a fabulous photographer Carolyn!

Melissa - What a great dressed family! And a lovely family at that. Looked like a fun time.

Irene Frankhouse - I love the crisp look of all the images. They are amazing!!

Candace Sheets - These are AMAZING Carolyn! Looks like everyone had a blast :)

gwen - What a fun family, and such wonderful captures! You must have such a fabulous time at your sessions - it truly shows!

Tiffany - We know the Baldwins and love them! What amazing pictures you got of their beautiful family! LOVE them all. You are crazy talented!

Jane Combs - Another adorable family. You must attract them. Great family shot, everyone looks so happy!

Lauri - I love the family shots. What a sweet family!

Ann Westerman - Wow - what a beautiful family and all the images are GORGEOUS! I cannot get over how happy they all are. Your sessions must be a blast!

Wiff - Sooooo cute! These make me so happy! You are a bucket of talent!

• happy new decade •

Happy new year to all my wonderful blog readers! I wanted to say a big thank you for taking the time to comment on my posts and to become involved in our online creative community this past year. You all warm my heart so much! So, to kick off the new decade, I will be giving away $10 gift cards to 10 lucky winners to my favorite stores. And to enter there is absolutely nothing you have to do! If you’ve made a comment at all this past year on my blog you will automatically be entered into the drawing. It’s my way of saying thank you for all your support, love, enthusiasm, and participation. All my blog readers rock and I am super grateful to each one of you. Best of luck to you with the contest, and in the start of the new year! Check back next week to see if you’re a winner!

This contest is also to make up for the fact that my original blog contest fizzled as the busy season approached. So sorry! This has been the busiest season ever for Carolyn Bowles Photography and I’d just like to thank all my super duper clients for an incredible year.

Candace Sheets - I'm so happy you had a great year Carolyn; here's to 2010 being even better!

gwen - Congrats on a fabulous year, and wishing you an even better one next year! Can't wait to see what you have in store!

piper kinney - Congrats on such a wonderful year and here is to 2010!!!

Melissa - Have a fantastic 2010, I can't wait to see what the year has in store for you!!!

robyn - busiest season ever for you - yeah! let's celebrate w/ the girls! congrats!

Cara - We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! Thanks for sharing such awesome photos all year!

• siblings •

Upon entering this family’s house just before Christmas, I fell in love with all their holiday decorations, burning fireplaces, and huge 16 foot tree. I knew this was a fun, festive family who would be a joy to spend the morning with. And I was right! We had a ball with the three sweet, kind, and playful kids. (Well, the oldest is more like a teen, but he was super cool and really didn’t seem to mind playing with his siblings for a few shots.) Yes, they were all so wonderful. We started the morning focusing on just the littlest guy then moving into images of all three and finally ending with the sister showing off her pink room. From the big round eyes of the baby’s face to the sister’s shy smile to the oldest initiating games and fun, we documented special moments for this very special family. Thanks for a great day.

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Candace Sheets - Looks like you have such fun on your shoots! Love the shot in front of the tree (is that tree upside down?)

Wiff - These are so so so cute!!!!

Rachel Clare - Yep- that Christmas tree shot is perfect! And I love the ones of this pretty girl in her room. :)

Rachel Olsen - What fantastic moments! I adore the first one- those eyes are to die for! And the Christmas tree shot is fabulous. Wonderful work! Best, Rachel

Ann Westerman - Beautiful images Carolyn! I love the images of the little girl in her bedroom. Gorgeous colors!

Melissa - Just awesome! The babies eyes look like glass, the little girl, so sweet, and one proud big brother. Great work!

Jane Combs - The hat photo in front of the tree is great. So creative!

• new york city kids •

When a mom from New York City contacted me for a session, I was so glad our schedules coordinated. I would be in town that weekend and was happy to squeeze in a session. So, we scheduled our time together and crossed our fingers for good weather. Well, the gods must have been on our side that morning as I woke to a warm sun and gorgeous light. Yes, I knew right then and there it’d be a good day. I then hopped into the cab that would take me to the beautiful old steps that led to the family’s apartment. It wasn’t long before buzzing their front door that I was greeted by the most amazing mom, dad, and kids. They were so friendly, full of smiles, and up for anything. In short, my kind of people! We strolled from their place toward Central Park—stopping along the way to take in the unique architecture, flower shops, bright yellow taxis, and all the things that surround their everyday world. Once in the park, we enjoyed doing things kids love to do such as climbing rocks, jumping in leaves, picking up sticks, and taking a visit to the playground. The park was filled with kids, families, and dogs. It was such a vibrant place to be on such a beautiful day.

Whoever says taxi cab drivers aren’t friendly hasn’t met this one. This guy was so nice to allow us to photograph his cab. Here, he’s making googly faces for little miss j.

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This corner flower shop is just a short walk from their apartment. Beautiful!

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I love the joy that exudes from these kids’ faces as they walk the city streets they call home.

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Ah, the park is loads of fun. Everyone loved playing with the leaves, saying hello to all the doggies, and partaking in the slide and swings. Mr j pretended the big rocks were pirate ships. You had to be on the rocks to be safe from the sharks. Yes, he had quite the imagination. Made our time together even more fun to play!

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Thank you p family for being the most gracious hosts. It was a big treat to meet all of you!

Melissa - I can't wait to shoot in NY! How fun!

Ann Westerman - What a fun session! I love how in all of your sessions the children are always so relaxed and having so much fun. You capture such genuine expressions. And the colors are gorgeous!!

Kelly - Wow! I love the colors in the flower shop photo. The flowers themselves with all the blues and greens in the steps are amazing, not to mention the beautiful children! You are soooo good at what you do Carolyn!

Cara - Fabulous shots Carolyn! I love how you capture the joy and happiness each time.

Rachel Olsen - What a fabulous shoot! I can only hope for nice weather for my visit in Jan. I love the shots walking down the street- such joy! I hope that you had some great relaxing time too while you were out there! Wishing you the best, Rachel

• 8 days old •

I had photographed this family two years ago when I first opened my doors as a photography business. They were such a pleasure, so I was thrilled when they contacted me saying they were expecting their third boy! During my emails with the mom there were a few days of silence. I had figured she went in to have her new baby—and yes, I was correct! During that time I started to clear out my schedule and planned on coming over shortly after their return from the hospital. I consider it such a privilege to be one of the first to run over to a family’s home to meet their newest addition. What a joy! We had a sweet afternoon of photographing, holding, swaddling, comforting, and simply enjoying the freshness of a new baby. Their family of 5 now seems so large and I am beyond happy for them. I think their images turned out as beautiful as their family is together.

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Could this baby be any sweeter?

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The proud big brothers were so happy to be in the spotlight too!

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They were unbelievably loving to their new baby brother. Mom has lots of help on her side!

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I love this tender interaction between dad and son. I’m so happy that I got this shot as I saw the moment unfold out of the corner of my eye. Grabbed my camera just in time.

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And the big family couldn’t be happier. Congrats to you all again!

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Rachel Olsen - Wow, wow, wow. What beautiful images! I adore that first collage. Great inspiration going into my newborn shoot this weekend :)!

Cindy - What an gorgeous session. Love every single one. Amazing heartfelt images as always Carolyn!

Sharon McCafferty - Really? This family has an 8 day old baby in the house and they are already so relaxed? Echoing other comments - the photos are beautiful and the family is clearly a team. I love how you were able to get so many great shots of EVERYONE. Very inspiring. The light is just beautiful and it all looks amazing. Also echoing the comments about Mom - did you really just have a baby 8 days ago? You look amazing - as does the family. Thanks for sharing!

Jane Combs - Great shots and beautiful subjects. Should we be happy or upset with the fact that Mom looks so fabulous? Let's go with happy!

Tracy Larsen - AMAZING as always! Love them all.

gwen - You've really captured the interactions between this beautiful family so very well Carolyn. Beautiful photos that they will treasure for a lifetime.

Cara - Absolutely beautiful! All the boys are adorable. Keep up the great work.

Melissa - What a sweet family, mom looks great for just having a baby. That is how I see my future, 3 boys.

• boys, warm autumn evening, ice cream cones •

The mix of all elements for our session couldn’t be more perfect. The warm autumn air. Sweet as pie boys. Parking lots just waiting to be used as marvelous backdrops. Ice cream cones from the best parlor in town. Mommy & daddy excited and ready for anything. Yes, all the stars aligned for a fantastic session. I truly loved every moment with this family. Looking at the images just reminds me how great they really are as individuals and together as a unit. Glad I had the opportunity to meet and spend the day with them.

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This is a classic image to me—all the boys together, yet totally doing their own thing.

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I love these individual shots too. These boys were so happy to run around and play. I simply snapped away at them having fun.

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Even a dingy old parking lot becomes beautiful when graced with an awesome family. The guard rail was a perfect place for this family to kick back together. I love this setting and image—especially knowing mommy & daddy used to live in this part of town.

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These boys are so good to each other. It warms your heart to see.

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I adore the casualness of this photo. The boys totally into their ice cream cones while mommy & daddy catch a break. I was so happy it was warm enough for ice cream that day as an end-of-session treat. I mean, how often is it nearly 70 degrees this time of year in Ohio?

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Thanks again f family for a great day! Your online slideshow will be ready in just a few days.

piper kinney - Will you come to Texas and shoot my family? I love these images, great job as always!

Katie Williams - You have such a clarity to your photos that most photographers strive for...these are amazing!!!

gwen - What a fun photo session! It looks like everybody had such a great time together, and you captured some gorgeous photos of all of them. Beautiful!

Jane Combs - Great! I didn't even notice the setting, I was too busy looking at their beautiful eyes. :)

• pink chucks running all over a playground •

When this cool family asked me to take portraits of their soon-to-be three year old on the playground, I knew it’d be a fun day! Mommy, daddy, and little L love to hit the playground scene. And from our time together, I can tell you she especially loves the slide! Happiness swells up inside knowing that we documented such a special time in this toddler’s life. It was pure joy to see her climb the steep steps, freely slide down the slides, swing high in the trees, test out the see-saw, go through tubes, under steps, and just crawl all over having fun. Her facial expressions were of delight, which made me know that during our time together, at those moments, she was exactly where she wanted to be. And that made it all the more sweet. Thank you h family for a really fun day. Oh, and if anyone finds hot pink chucks like that for grown-ups, send them my way!

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gwen - Gorgeous photos! Love the one with the polka dot pants and her pink high tops! So cute!

Tracy Larsen - What sweet images!

Kris - Carolyn, we are thrilled! You did such a wonderful job and we had a blast. Thanks!

Ann Westerman - Carolyn - such beautiful images! These are such special memories and you captured this moment in time perfectly.

• happy halloween •

I looove halloween. There’s always been something about the crisp fall air when little ghouls, goblins and fairies get to fly free in the neighborhood. The sweet stickiness of candy filling the brim of your plastic orange pumpkin. And the way everyone’s excitement lights up the dark streets. It’s all so magical. Soon the sun will be going down and our jack-o-lanterns will come alive with their silly, scary, happy, toothless smiles. Their illumination will brighten the porch, and our hearts.

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Tracy Larsen - What a sweet Halloween memory!

Carolyn - Yes, mine is the smiley face one!!!

Melissa Surprise - I bet yours is the big happy smile on the right! Nice and happy like you.

Cindy Chen - Happy Halloween!!! All the pumpkins are so cute (especially that one on the left)!