I participate in monthly photography challenges. These challenges are built around a word each month to help us in the group "think outside the box." Currently, my photography is a melding of my vision and that of the wishes of my client. However, with these challenges, I can do whatever my little photography heart and soul desires.
This month's word was: renewal.
I began to build a story and a concept in my head about a little girl who is experiencing the changes and renewal of life that comes with springtime. She's emerging from a winter hiberation and is finally awakening to new, beautiful changes. I closed my eyes and pictured a long dress and a headband full of flowers.... a beautiful, outdoor landscape in the spring....a few blooming flowers...
I like where this idea is going....
Now I just needed a model. What little girl could perfectly fulfill that role? Maybe you a believer in fate... maybe you are a believer in coincidence. Either way, the little girl I found, you ask? Her name is LILY. Could it be any more perfect than that? A pretty, Lily, a delicate flower girl. And being people living in Central, NY, this real-life Lily was truly emerging like a new flower. I feel we hibernate all winter long and slowly we start to emerge again.
...this concept was really starting to come together. (I'd really like to take credit for thinking allllllll of these details, ha! ;) )
But where?! Where to bring my beautiful, Lily? Luckily for us, Lily's Grandma Sue has a breathtaking backyard.
(I mean seriously, this place is a photographer's dream land)
This concept came together so easily. I made Lily a skirt (which so happened to be in her favorite color, YES!) and added a few outfit choices. Lily's mom, Lily and I drove to the location and BAM! photo magic.