Alison Douglass Photography- Sabattus, Maine

Kicks & Kisses- Sabattus Maine Maternity Photographer

2012-01-28T17:13:00.000-05:00

She is sweet, outgoing and had an amazing laugh. He is funny, bright, and has a killer dimple when he smiles. She settles against him as if they were made to fit together. He wraps both of his girls in his arms effortlessly. He grounds her, and she does the same. As they wait these last few weeks for their little girl to arrive, they share the excitement, the apprehension, and the dreams. They fit, they make sense.

Meet Tyler and Bre (and their daughter too!)

Bre, you are absolutely beautiful. Just had to make sure you knew that (though I am sure Tyler tells you often!)

I am torn on my favorites from this session between the first image and this one above.

Bre & Tyler, thank you for coming to hang out with me at the studio. Your willingness to consider outdoor photographs in January was amazing but I am very glad we vetoed the negative temps!! It is such an amazing time of life and I so enjoyed capturing it for you. I am looking forward to meeting your little girl and photographing your new family as you continue to grow and change!

Bits & Pieces: Breanne & Tyler- Maine Maternity Photographer

2012-01-23T20:51:00.000-05:00

New. The emotions- all 987,896 of them. The excitement- the smallest moments that mean the most. The movement- that first moment you realize you are not the only being occupying your body. The fear- self doubt and worries that can creep in. The love- unconditional love for someone you have never met. The months waiting for a new life to arrive come with so many new things. It can drag on forever and rush by in an instant at the very same time.

In the middle of that rush, of that waiting, Breanne and Tyler came to the studio yesterday to capture the right now, the last few weeks before their little girl arrives.

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick peeks at a session that usually involve anything but a face. Be sure to check back and like my Facebook page (the little link at the top of this page!) to catch when the full peek is available!

Quilts & Cocoa- Sabattus Maine Family Photographer

2011-12-27T22:07:00.000-05:00

They are each others opposite. She is the talker, the list maker, the whirlwind. He is the quiet one, the observer, the rock. They are each other's biggest cheerleaders in everything they do. And oh my do they have chemistry. Together they have built an amazing family and chased their dreams. Together, they are unstoppable.

Meet the Lawlor family.

This little guy has grown! Last fall Rylan was just getting his feet going. This year, he is interested in everything (except having his picture taken) and loves the leaves we found. He has the best laugh I have heard in a long time and is just too sweet for words.

Brennan and I played a lot of hide and seek getting some photographs of that amazing smile. He had me laughing so hard with his crazy faces and then I would see this sweet little face peek through. He is so bright and full of life, it is contagious.

Oh Miss Hyland. I wanted to wrap her up and take her home with me. She is so kind, so sweet and such an amazing big sister. If she hadn't already won me over, the huge bear hug I got at the end of the afternoon sealed it for me! Um, Jenn, your little girl is growing up into a beautiful young lady.

Jenn is an amazingly talented photographer based out of Georgia. I am so glad we met by accident almost two years ago and I am honored to watch her business continue to grow and flourish. 2012 holds some amazing things for this woman and I will be in the front row of her cheering section!

This moment is exactly what I mean about Jenn & Brian being each other's rock. In the middle of shivering in the Maine cold and the kids were done, there was this moment. Definitely my favorite of the day.

Sometimes, no matter how much we want that family photo, things just aren't going to work. What I love about Jenn and Brian is they just adapted. And every single time I look at this shot, I laugh.

Jenn and Brian, thank you. You endured some brutal cold for your southern bodies and didn't lose your sense of humor. I am grateful for your friendship and really, lets do summer next year:)

Merry & Bright

2011-12-24T16:25:00.002-05:00

I went over the list again in my head. It only takes one distraction for me to lose my train of thought. Of course the stickie note I wrote it down on is still three stories up on my computer. The light turned red as I approached. I impatiently flipped radio stations and looked at the opposite light to see just why it hadn't changed already. I had too much to do and only a short time to do it. Sitting still wasn't an option.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw him. He was perched on the bench in front of the Lewiston Library in a patch of winter sun. His black jacket was zipped against the breeze. His guitar was cradled against his chest as his fingers strummed. His eyes were closed and his head flung back with a huge smile on his lips. I couldn't hear a thing, but I could see the music streaming from within him.

The light didn't matter any more. I had to hear what could possibly give this stranger so much joy. I pushed the button to drop my window. The sound of a rough, worn voice and guitar chords floated across the intersection. He wasn't terrible. He wasn't amazing. But he was so in love with that music at that moment, it was infectious. A second later, he finished his song with a huge flourish and he threw his head back further and let out a laugh. Not a quiet giggle, not a fake performance laugh. It was something from deep within, something filled with great joy and satisfaction. It was contagious and I found myself alone in my car laughing along with him.

I don't have any idea who he was or what his story is. But for that moment, watching him so involved in his love of his music, in that moment of simple joy, I was jealous.

We complicate things and we lose track of the very things that bring us joy and satisfaction in life, make our hearts full and soothe our restless minds. We get so busy with running here and there it is easy to for get to slow down. It is next to impossible in the overwhelm of technology and constant contact to carve out those moments to just be with who we love and do what feeds happiness in our souls. We forget that it is not things that that feed our souls.

The car behind me reminded me that I was driving with a honk of its horn and I rolled through the intersection still thinking about this man. It was a simple moment, but it reminded me of what this season is really about. To show kindness. To sing (in the car with the windows rolled up, but to sing anyway) because it makes me happy. To write because it brings me peace. To snuggle in for that extra few minutes with the kids. To help others who may be in a tougher place. To love because it is all that I am and make sure those around me hear it.

I wish each of you a very Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, or for those who do not celebrate anything, happy Sunday. May you have many moments of joy, much love, and many blessings.

Bits & Pieces: The Lawlor Family- Maine Family Photographer

2011-12-20T21:40:00.000-05:00

Some days, you just want to hide from the world and no amount of sweet talking, mama kisses, and bribery will change that. Other days, life is good and everyone is your friend. The awesome days are the ones where both overlap. Fortunately for me, I found one of those days.

I had such a great time with the Lawlor family yesterday shivering and braving the cold winds. This is even more remarkable when you learn they are visiting from Georgia! In the year since I met them last, the kids personalities have grown and blossomed and I had so much fun chasing them around a bit.

___________________________________

Bits & Pieces posts are a first sneak peek at a session that usually show the less notice details and anything but a face. Be sure to check back soon to see the full sneak on the blog.

Friendship & The Journey- Damariscotta Maine Photographer

2011-12-18T22:31:00.001-05:00

I was the new kid. At my old school, I was the fat kid everyone picked on so the thought starting again was terrifying. Turned out the new school wasn't so different from the old one. Each morning, I climbed on the cold bus, shuffled to my assigned seat and settled in. Most days, I just stared out the window and watched my small world go by. She was in first grade. I was in third. Mr. Bowman reassigned her to my seat one day. Her legs were still too short to reach the grimy floor of the bus. I was entranced as I watched her quickly knot the yarn coming from her paper bag. In my bossy way I asked her what it was. She told me she was finger crocheting a garland for her Christmas tree. And she smiled at me. I knew right then that I liked her.

She has known me through the ups and downs. She has picked up my pieces more times than I possibly can count. She laughed at my twisted sense of humor that no one else understood. She was the optimist to my eternal pessimist. She had goals and dreams where I had none. She never held it against me that I couldn't wait to leave that little town. I tried to be even half of the friend to her that she was to me. Secretly, I wanted to be her when I grew up. We both grew and changed, we were in different schools, different friends, but still we always came back together, picking up right where we left off. She new me through hippie days and purple hair, nose piercings and (partially) shaved head. To this day, I have boxes of letters she wrote me on any available surface- soap wrappers, junk mail, bits of paper, candy tins. Every time I got one, I would call her and we would talk for hours. There was nothing I couldn't tell her. That was rare in my life. She taught me so much about unconditional love.

As we have grown, lived on different sides of the country and even the world, she is still my home base. She was there, she remembers, often better than I do, the history of me, of us. My husband often threatens to bribe her for embarrassing stories. When I found out I was pregnant with a girl, it didn't take me long to decide on my daughters name. She allowed me to know her in the same way and there isn't a day that goes by I am not humbled by that fact.

Over the past two years, we have finally done better about keeping in touch via email, facebook, phone calls and texting. We finally made the time to meet for a picnic lunch and spent three hours in the same spot overlooking the beautiful river talking, listening, crying and laughing. My sarcasm still makes her laugh. Her words still cut through my bullshit facade. She is my biggest cheerleader and I hope I can be hers.

Gwen asked me to capture her as she is right now as we embark on a personal project together that I have had in my head for some time. We spent the morning together laughing, being silly, talking and creating. It was an honor and a pleasure to slow down and really watch Gwen through my lens, to be able to capture her as I see her. She is one of the most beautiful women, inside and out, I have ever known. I can only hope she can see herself in the same light.

This image is my favorite of our time together. It is just her in every way- beautiful, private, graceful and full of laughter.

As we sat in her studio taking, I caught site of our conversation in the mirror. It absolutely grabbed me with the little snippet of her life, of our relationship & exactly how I picture Gwen in my head when we talk on the phone.

Gwen, thank you. Thank you for your grace, your forgiveness, for teaching me to see the good and for loving me when all I could see was the bad. Thank you for standing by me when many would have given up and allowing me to be a part of your life for so very long. I love you so very much and I am grateful to have the chance to show you just how amazing you really are. I am right here as you step into fog on the path in front of you. You are bound for many wonderful things along the way. Thank you for allowing me to push your comfort level and knock on your barricades. And thank you for thinking I am still a little funny after all of these years. Here's to so many more years to come.

Bits & Pieces: Gwen- Mid Coast Maine Photographer

2011-12-12T21:59:00.000-05:00

The way her fingers gracefully tuck her hair behind her ear. The thing her eyebrows do when she laughs so hard the noise doesn't come out. Her grace as she moves. The way she looks at me and sees right through all of my walls. She knows everything about me and loves me in spite of it. Or perhaps because of it. When friendships span as many years as our has, these are the things I see and I am so grateful for. Spending three hours together talking with a few (hundred) shutter clicks in between felt like a luxury.

As I moved around her home enjoying the warmth, comfort and familiarity in a strange place, I could see the little pieces of her life, of her path leading to right now. I am so excited to be able to document the pieces leading to the future. Check back for more photos from our time together here on the blog soon!
____________________
Bits & Pieces posts are a quick first peek at a session that usually contain anything but a face. Like my facebook page to be the first to know when the full sneak peek at the session is posted here on the blog!

Imperfect & Mine- Sabattus Maine Photographer

2011-12-07T18:24:00.000-05:00

The week before the open house, everything felt like it was going wrong. The canvas collection arrived wrong, the books wouldn't mount to the wall right, one of my favorite images stuck to the glass and ruined the print, the floors wouldn't shine no matter how many times we washed them, and I still had a to-do list that required stapling to hold all of the pages together. And I think my marble went down the drain... (bonus points if you can name that book!)

I got home Thursday night and I just lost it. I cried. Not cute little tears, but full-out red, runny nose, trying to catch my breath and leaving a huge wet spot on J's shoulder kind of tears. And J wrapped his arms around me and let me soak his sweatshirt. When I was done, he asked me what was going on. I gave him the list of everything that had gone wrong. And he asked me what was really wrong. A new wave of tears started as I finally admitted the truth-I was terrified. I was terrified I was crazy to do this. I was terrified that I wasn't good enough. I was terrified that all these things were signs that I was doing the wrong thing. He took me by my shoulders, looked me in the eye and with four words, he made it ok. "I believe in you."

See, there are times I am my worst critic. Many times I can't see how far I have come because I am too busy looking at how far I have left to go- standing in front of that damn mirror in the bathroom in the morning, picking apart the very words I have written, viewing my own work- the list is embarrassingly long. J's calm (and sometimes exasperated) reassurance is my antidote, my voice of reason. He reminds me that I have to live outside of my own head, that I must focus on the present not the future, keep the goals in mind not every minuscule step along the way. So I started breathing again.

Saturday's open house was wonderful. Friends, family, clients, coworkers and some new faces stopped by to say hello and see the space. I shared my passion, my work and my dream and as I stood in a room surrounded by people who saw that dream, I believed it too. And that terror eased.

So I have been sitting down to write this blog post to share photos of my space and coming up empty for the past two weeks. I finally realized that I was trying to put the sunshine and rainbows (unicorns and glitter) spin on it- it is perfect, it went smoothly, everything looks just how I envisioned it in my head. Problem is, that isn't the truth. The overwhelmed, scared, snotty nosed me two days before opening is the truth. The me with crazy hair and a 7 year old scrubbing the floor with rags on Saturday morning was the truth. The arms of the people I love and the encouragement from the others that share the space and my family and friends are the truth. Admitting I can't control the entire world yet again is the truth. And that is what I am about.

In the whirlwind of my everyday life, it is easy to forget that I am my business. My crazy, chaotic, wonderfully imperfect life is who I am, is who Alison Douglass Photography is. I am passionate about being real, about bring your authentic self to the surface and capturing those interactions, those emotions and that very beauty in my photography. I don't want to photograph perfect people. I want to photograph real people- the people celebrating who they are right now as they are, even with the extra 20 pounds, the imperfect hair, and the zit (that I will clone out if you like!) I want to photograph the kids that yell at each other one minute and snuggle up close the next. That make silly faces, have snotty noses, their socks don't match, and give me a hug when we are done. The parents that get exasperated with the kids until one little hand slides into theirs or a bear hug comes their way. I want to photograph the couples who share their first quiet moment together in three weeks in front of my lens and they look at each other with exhausted but new eyes. I want to photograph mom's who have stretchmarks on their bellies and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in their purse and might have forgotten just how beautiful they really are. I want to photograph dad's who can swaddle faster than a Nascar pit crew and put together that Lego fire truck for the 785th time and sit down to tea parties before firing up the power tools. That is who I am, those are the people I love, and those are the lives I want to photograph.

We spend so much time searching for and racing toward perfect, keeping up with the Jones', and trying to present our best possible face to the world that we forget the very things that make us imperfect, that make our lives unpredictable and emotional and real are the very things that are perfection.

My studio space isn't perfect. But I love it. I am sitting at my desk writing this surrounded by my work, by photographs of the people I love and it feels like me. This isn't the blog post I had planned to reveal it, but then again, it is rare life goes according to plan! This is the new studio space for Alison Douglass Photography. I am proud to show it to you.

This is my work space and a tiny fraction of my prop storage. I love old buildings with nooks and crannies and closets!

I have admitted my Pinterest addiction on several occasions. These cool shelves made of books are one of many ideas I found there that I integrated into my studio space and the open house. I chose books about writing, medicine and the law representing the career paths I have taken to get here. On them are my grandfathers camera and my beloved Canon handed down to me by my father. The faces of those most important to me are there as well.

The shooting space with two huge windows.

The reception room is still a work in progress and will have some more seating added shortly. I am in love with my canvas gallery wraps from the amazing Pixel2Canvas. The hallway to the right leads to the conference room, kitchen, bathroom and my space.

This is my year with Rosie- a shot of her hands, her feet and her face from each of our five sessions documenting her amazing first year.

And our kitchen space. I realized as I was reviewing all of these that I managed to miss a shot of some of my work in the hallway and will have to post those soon!

I am excited about the opportunities this space offers! January will see lots of boudoir sessions for Valentines day, a SLR boot camp for those wanting to learn the ins and outs of their D-SLR (give me a call to purchase a spot as a Christmas gift!!) and some wonderful new babies! If you would like to stop by and check out the space and say hello, just give me a call and we will find a time that works!

Remembering & Passion

2011-12-01T17:32:00.000-05:00

I sat in front of the computer, running through my morning routine of email and Facebook while getting ready to face my day. It was the third post down on my Facebook feed. I had forgotten it was today, and I was instantly disappointed in myself.

Today is World AIDS Day. Yes, it isn't the trendy cause of the moment. Yes it still carries a huge social stigma. Yes, it still scares people to talk about it even after all these years. Yes, it is still a huge problem. Yes, we have gotten lax in teaching our children, friends and family about this disease and the infection rate among teens and young adults show this.

But for me, it is real. It is personal. It is urgent. It is everyday. What my father shared on Facebook was the post below, which I wrote in 2008. It is just as important today as it was then. With a little updating, I wanted to share this again today.
______________________________________________________________________________
To this day, I can see the picture in my head a clearly as if it had been yesterday. Tom Brokaw was a regular member of the family at dinner time and he did most of the talking around the table. The 10 inch color TV with its extended rabbit ears sat in the corner of the kitchen next to my chair. It was my friend and my lifeline to the world out side my ridiculously small town. I was always on the outside looking in because I was “different”. No one knew it but my family and a few other select people, but I felt like I wore it on my chest. My biological father was gay. I had grown up knowing that and internalizing every insult, condemnation, joke, and hurtful word that came from most everyone in my life.

That night, Tom got all serious. He started talking about this new disease but it was “only” killing homosexuals. That was his intro, loosely translated to my hypersensitive teenage ears. I don’t remember the rest of the story specifically because I remember staring at my plate trying not to cry and repeating to myself over and over and over “I hope that doesn’t happen to my father.” I remember curling up in bed that night and crying myself to sleep. My father had just come back into our lives after many years absent and here was this horrific thing that was going to steal him away again and then everyone would know my secret.

For a long time, I pushed it aside, moved on with my drama ridden existence. It was easier and less frightening to ignore it. My father came to Maine for a visit in 1989. I was so scared of getting "found out" and being singled out because of who he was. During his visit, he called my brother and I to sit around the kitchen table with my mom to talk. I don’t remember the words, or any of the conversation afterward. All I remember is my father telling us he was HIV +. My world stopped. Everything I knew at that time was filtered through the bigoted ears of those in our community and what little tiny information I could gain from the network news. In other words, next to nothing. I was sure my father would be dead before the end of the year.

I immediately started writing for information, finding any little bit I could to learn about this and keeping it all stored safely away where none of my friends would see it. In those first years, my father was living in a large city where he qualified for drug trials and was places on AZT and a variety of other drugs as soon as they were brought for testing. The risk of trial was worth the result. He remained healthy.

I finally broke my silence at summer camp between my sophomore and junior year of high school. I was sure everyone was going to hate me and ostracize me when they found out that I was a kid with not just a gay parent, but an HIV+ one. Instead, those around me gathered me close and hugged me while I cried. Not one of them walked away. It changed everything.

Not long after, I found my voice. I talked to people at home about it. My junior year, the most amazing thing happened. I met another teenager who was in the same situation. His step father had contracted and died with AIDS. His mother was positive. My voice got louder, and a lot more pissed off. During my senior year of high school, I did work with the Names Project AIDS Quilt and spoke at several events. People started listening. No one ran away.

When I went off to college I was probably a bit in-your-face with my anger and information but I was passionate about my new found freedom to speak, to share and to try to educate others. Three friends and I took an overnight bus to Washington D.C. to see the Names Project AIDS Quilt in its entirety. My friends had never seen a panel of it, let alone the thousands of panels together. Standing on a rise with my arms around my friends watching the staff unfold each of the sections in the early morning sun still plays clearly and easily behind my eyes. I found panels for people I had known who had died. My friends finally understood the toll this disease took. They saw first hand how many lives were gone and how many lives each of those dead had touched.

I am blessed and fortunate. My father has been HIV+ for 20 23 years now. His viral load is still zero. We have had other health scares, but his HIV continues to be quiet. He is now in his sixties and just as crotchety and stubborn as ever. I am grateful to the doctors and scientists who have given so much to give us the advances that have brought him this far. So many years ago, sitting around that table, I never thought he would be around to see me graduate from high school let alone be at my wedding and meet his grandchildren, yet here he is. I finally feel like I can stop measuring his life in milestones he didn’t miss.

So what do we do now? We can push our lawmakers to advocate for stem cell research and to keep the research programs and medical trials funded. We can educate our children starting at a young age about what HIV and AIDS is, how people become infected, and how to keep themselves safe. We can talk to each other and remember. We can embrace those around us as they go through this horrific disease so no one else has to live and die alone or afraid. There is so much to be done, but unless we each find our voices, it will not get done.

Please take the time today to remember those who have died and to keep those living all over the world with this horrific disease in your thoughts. Take the time to speak for those who do not have a voice. Take the time to educate yourself so you can educate others. Each voice, even if it shakes, makes a difference.

Small Business Saturday Sale!!

2011-11-24T19:23:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!

I have enjoyed a day of family and gratitude, of overeating and laughter, of comfort and love. I have so very much to be grateful for.

Do you have your shopping plans made out?? I have my own secret strategy- sleep in and go out around 9 to the must hit places. Most of the time, the stuff I am looking for is still there at the same price as 5 am without the insanity!

This year I am participating in Small Business Saturday with a special offer for you! On Saturday November 26 from 7am to 7 pm, I will be offering 10% off all gift certificates. This a great chance to share
the gift of custom photography this holiday and to pick up a gift certificate for your own 2012 session at a discount!

The studio will be open from 9-12 am on Saturday at 20 Main Street in Sabattus on the third floor. Stop by, see the space, pick up your gift certificate, and drop your name in the hat for a $50 gift certificate
giveaway! Jessica St. Amand of Healing Hands Therapeutic Massage will also be offering discounted gift certificates as well! You may also purchase by e-mail or phone at 522-9742 to receive this discount.

Please feel free to let me know if you have any questions!!!

Randomness & Gratitude

2011-11-23T21:07:00.000-05:00

As we all get ready to spend time with family and friends for the holiday, I thought I would take a minute to share a few things I have found over the past week or so that that I fell in love with, made me laugh, I need to buy or just made me think.

Source

I need these. I mean, like really really need them. On my front lawn. With my other light up Christmas flamingos. Did I mention I love all things flamingo? I do. Lots.

Source

I was recently talking with a client about stretch marks and boudoir photographs. I believe it was the following day I saw this image and read these words. As I struggle to accept my own stretchmarks, this has helped me put it into perspective.

Source

I am a huge Muppet and Sesame Street fan. The minute I saw this mug from this Etsy shop, I was smitten. She has the most amazing stuff for sale, I need to go poke around some more but this guy needs to be on my desk.

Source

Who knew a grater could be cute??

Source

Dr. Suess on love. It is perfection.

Source

I confess I have never been a huge Marley fan, but this quote is amazing. I wish I had understood this when I was younger because I spent far too much of my life looking for that perfect that doesn't exist.

This just made me laugh. A lot. I can never look at rhinos the same....

This has been an amazing year on so many levels. I have so much to be grateful for. I get to chase this crazy dream I have with some of the most amazing people behind me and beside me cheering me on. I have met so many clients who I can now call friends. I am blessed to document families as they grow and change year after year. It doesn't get much better than that!!

I will be spending tomorrow with my family and reflecting on those things. And enjoying lots (too much) food and taking just a little longer with loved ones. I wish you a day of peace, laughter, good food and memories. Hold on to every last one of them and savor them for that extra moment.

Scarves & Ivy- Lewiston Maine Auburn Maine Photographer

2011-11-20T20:48:00.001-05:00

I asked them to snuggle and they melted into each other. His eyes closed briefly as her cheek rested against his chest and he breathed deeply. The morning light began to warm the chilly November morning as the stress melted from her face. I asked her to make him laugh. With little effort, his dimples showed up and her giggle was contagious. They compliment each other perfectly. His mellow personality to her high speed demeanor. Her (amazing) high heels and fishnet stockings to his jeans. But together, they make sense. They are complete.

I love it when I get the chance to photograph someone who is a huge part of my life. Kelli is my drill sargent, my business sounding board, my frequent lunch date, and most importantly my friend. She is the power behind the amazing SPRQ studio and the 20 Main project (of which I am so excited to be a part!) bringing new life to the business community in Sabattus. I am so very grateful for her and her entire family in my life.

Meet Caleb. He is independant, creative, and energetic with a sense of humor that comes out of nowhere. As we were shooting, he was the first one to jump in front of the lense, sometimes looking all handsome and sometimes just being a goofball.

Meet Mateja. She is 90% princess and 10% tomboy. She is 100% loveable even when she is being michevious. She loved getting in front of the camera and hamming it up a bit, but loved it even more when she just got to snuggle mom.

Love love love that they brougth these hats!!

It was near impossible for me to choose a favorite, but I think I have to go with this one.

And I couldn't pass up my favorite wall...

Kelli, I am honored to call you friend and there are no words to tell you how excited I am to watch your dream continue to take flight. Thank you for imcluding me in it! Thank you all for coming out on a chilly early morning to jump through the dry weeds and wander in the empty parking garage! I had a blast and hope you love these! I will have your full gallery for you soon!

Bits & Pieces: Whirlwind- Lewiston Auburn Maine Family Photographer

2011-11-13T21:12:00.001-05:00

I noticed their shoes and they made me smile. Each person in this family is drastically different from one another but they fold so easily, so perfectly into one another those differences don't matter. That is what family is.

I adore this family and it was an honor to photograph them yesterday even with the November chill in the air. I cannot wait to be able to share the rest of their peek with you all shortly!

_______________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Photography on Facebook you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog.

What would you do?

2011-11-04T21:48:00.001-04:00

I wasn't a kid who dreamed of the some day. I didn't plan my wedding. I was never going to get married. I wouldn't allow myself to be vulnerable like that. I didn't dream of children. I was never going to have any. I knew I would screw them up and fund their therapists vacation home. I didn't plan what I was going to do when I grew up. Because I didn't want to fail. I would play it safe and keep a roof over my head and my body fed. Even though deep down I knew safe didn't feed my soul.

Life, fate, and God had other ideas. Over the years, these ideas, these fears, the resolutions have slowly been chipped away. I became a parent and fell in love and I didn't completely ruin either one. A little bit at a time, I tried on the idea of daydreaming. Life happened, I got knocked down and as always, I brushed myself off and kept going, pushing onward, but not necessarily upward.

Somewhere along the way I realized I had to stop waiting for what life gave me then wondering why I wasn't happy. I had to stop waiting for my life to happen and instead go out and make the life I wanted happen.

I just got back from a late evening of wiping inches of dust from cupboards, sweeping floors, hanging curtains, and moving the same throw rug six times. Bit by bit it is coming together. My dream. My passion. It feels so weird to say my studio. I still don't know what my end vision is, but I am going for it, I am taking that running leap. I fight the fear of failure constantly. I don't want to return home tail between my legs and defeated. But I cannot live with never taking the chance at my dream.

I saw this sign on Pinterest (can you say addiction?) today and it just hit me like a truck. So tell me- What would you dream of? What are you passionate about? What would you do if you knew you could not fail? And to help fuel that dream, one person who leaves a comment about their dream will win a $15 gift card to their choice of Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks! Comment contest will be open until Sunday November 6th at 5pm.

Ducks & Treats- Oxford Maine Photographer

2011-10-30T21:32:00.005-04:00

Unconditional love. Listen without judgement. Happiness without fail. His face positively lights up when he talks about Comet. As we chatted, Sidney told me about his best friend. His faithful sidekick. His shadow. They are bonded in a way that defies description and I enjoyed my time with them so very much.

Sidney's daughter purchased a mini session for him as a Christmas gift and he chose to wait for the gorgeous fall weather. We had beautiful weather and Comet was very interested in the ducks, pigeons and seagulls who roost on the banks of the Androscoggin. Oh, and the treats we had to offer didn't hurt either!

Sidney, it was a pleasure to meet you and Comet. I hope you enjoy your peek here on the blog and I will have the full gallery for you shortly!

Frost & River Smoke- Poland Maine Photographer

2011-10-27T22:18:00.002-04:00

The sun just cleared the horizon. The grass crunched under our feet. Our breath gathered in puffs in the cold October morning air. Both of us wiped the last of the sleep from our eyes. We moved through ideas and locations, stopping a little traffic and enjoying the amazing morning light.

It has been two years since I last photographed Cameron. It is always amazing to get to visit with my clients and see how much they have grown and changed. Having the chance to hear about Cameron's sports involvement, meet his lovely girlfriend and hear a little bit about his dreams for his future was exactly what I needed.

I am torn between this shot and the first one as my favorites of the session.

Cameron, Hannah and Cheryl, thank you for hanging out with me in all sorts of odd places so early in the morning! I hope you enjoy your sneak peek and your full gallery will be available shortly!

Bits & Pieces: Sidney & Comet- Oxford Maine Pet Photographer

2011-10-25T19:34:00.002-04:00

I love it when I get to photograph a dog and owner together, a chance to capture personalities, bonds and relationships like no other. My time with Sidney and Comet on Sunday was just that. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to share him in a quick Bits & Pieces. There is so much more to come in the full peek coming soon! Make sure to click the link to my Facebook page to keep up with my latest posts!

Bits & Pieces: Cameron- Poland Maine Senior Photographer

2011-10-24T23:00:00.000-04:00

The sun crested the horizon as I sat sipping my coffee and watching the colors changed. It is the changing of the seasons here and the end of my season of photographing high school senior. I cannot thing of a better way to round it out than with this young man!

_______________

Sticks & Sisters- Auburn Maine Family Photography

2011-10-23T21:07:00.000-04:00

When I arrived at thier front door, Sam had just finished spending an hour doing her hair and getting ready for her photographs, right down to the pop of color on her nails. Lila was in the living room doing time for a recent transgression. They may be different as night and day but in those quiet moments, I can see such a strong connection to one another. When they showed me the pinkie swear I shared in Bits & Pieces, I can see that very same pinkie swear 20 years from now, no matter the miles or events that come in between.

We spent some time on Sunday afternoon hanging out, giggling, finding sticks and remembering how to empty tire swings filled with fall rain. The girls showed me their quiet places and goofy faces. (I can totally see these two as an awesome Christmas card!!)

But most of all, I got to spend some time with two girls I have been so fortunate to photograph and hang out with over the past three years. Lila is quiet, funny, beautiful and independent.

I am probably going to embarrass Sam a little bit, but as we were talking and shooting, I realized how grown up she is these days. She is sweet, funny, bubbly and downright gorgeous. Seeing all of the changes in her over the past year make me smile and I cannot wait to watch her in years that come.

Laura, Sam & Lila, thank you so much for my hugs and making me laugh so hard. I had such a good time with you! I hope you like your peek and I will have your full gallery for you shortly!

Bits & Pieces: Autumn Afternoon- Brunswick Maine Photographer

2011-10-16T22:15:00.001-04:00

A sweet smile in a quiet moment. The anticipation of what's just over the horizon. The joy of right now.

They are as different as night and day. The five years between them puts them in different worlds. They antagonize each other, they roll their eyes at each other, but most of all, in those quiet moments, they love each other and have each others back until the end.

My third year with these two sisters showed me the bond between them is stronger than ever. Be sure to check back to see the full peek at their session soon!
___________
If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog

Milkweed & Sock Monkey- Maine Family & Children's Photographer

2011-10-02T21:12:00.000-04:00

We sat down to chat with the sounds of giggling and Olivia in the back ground, the four footed family members milling around our feet, and a plate of whoopie pies quickly disappearing into young bellies, the evidence plain to see on faces. We talked about common friends, careers, kids, and life. Eventually we picked a location and talked about clothing , but it was all of the other stuff that mattered more. These families are so different but so connected.

We visited Vaughn Woods in Hallowell last weekend on the most amazing fall day. The air was warm and moist. The paths were busy. The water was running fast. So were the small feet. Between giggles and snuggles, jokes and Pez, and running and walking we were able to play and capture some amazing images.

James is an intelligent, sweet and funny young man. He serenaded us with his saxophone at the waters edge and can aim a mean reflector when needed!

This smile from Miss Kaeley completely made making a total fool of myself worth it. She is sweet and shy, but I was graced with glimpses of her wild and silly side too.

Independent, funny, bright and busy, Joey is an absolute charmer. His smile can melt icebergs and once he figured out how the Pez worked, he loved to have his picture taken!

As we were shooting, sock monkey (he has no other name, not even Fred I was informed) made an appearance. He is worn, stitched and loosing a little of his fluff, but so well loved. As the boys were talking, James told me that sock monkey used to be his, but he wanted his little brother to have him. All the more reason to add him into the photographs... And melt my heart a bit more!

Melissa, James, and Melissa, Thank you so much for allowing me to hang out with you all for the afternoon. You guys were troopers on the goat paths! I had such a great time getting to know you all and I hope you enjoy this peek. Your full gallery will be ready shortly!

Bits & Pieces: The Greenwood Tremblay Families- Maine Family Photographer

2011-09-26T22:17:00.000-04:00

These hands explored moss & mud, stone & wood, pez and milkweed pods. Yesterday's unseasonably warm and humid weather allowed us to run, play and explore the amazing spaces at Vaughn Woods in Hallowell.

And this guy has stories to tell. I can't wait to introduce you to his current and former owner in their full post later this week!

___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog

The Whole Enchilada- Sabattus Maine Photographer

2011-09-25T22:50:00.001-04:00

I have written and rewritten this blog post about 12 times on the computer and about 90 in my head. Writing about others comes quite easily for me. Writing about myself- not so much.

First the most obvious- the new look of Alison Douglass Photography.

About six months ago, I took a look at what Alison Douglass Photography looked like and I decided it was time for a change. I wanted this to feel more, well, like me. Comfortable, relaxed, fun, simple and just a little off center. I want visitors to my blog and website to get an idea of who I am and if I might be the right photographer for them. With the talents of Lori Pickens, Meredith Perdue, Rita and Fastline Media, (website overhaul in progress!!) it has all come together and I cannot tell you how thrilled I am with the results!

Second- the even more amazing and exciting news!!!

I am thrilled to announce I will be opening a studio location on Main Street in Sabattus this fall! I am so excited to have a beautiful space to offer newborn and boudoir sessions in a private and comfortable space. I am absolutely giddy with all of the wall space I have to play with and being able to offer an option for photos during Maine's cold winter months. After quite a few requests, I am also considering some small workshops this winter and spring as well!

We will be hosting an open house celebrating all of the businesses in the building (much more on them soon!!) later this fall! I will share the information as it becomes available. I also hope to share some before and afters of the space as the cleaning and transformation happens!

And the final note for tonight- I will be opening my 2012 calendar shortly for sessions. I am already fielding requests through next summer so please contact me early to reserve your preferred dates! I am accepting 1-2 newborns per month (going by due date) so if you interested in finding out more about these sessions, please contact me during your second or third trimester to ensure availability! I am looking at dates in early January to host another boudoir session marathon day just in time for Valentine's Day. Please drop me an email at alisondouglassphotography@gmail.com if you would like to be added to the email list to receive information on these sessions.

So many amazing changes all at once! Thank you to my amazing family, friends and clients who have been my test subjects, critics and cheerleaders. Words cannot come close to expressing my love and gratitude.

Seashells & Butterflies; Yarmouth Maine Children's & Family Photographer

2011-09-19T20:48:00.000-04:00

In 12 short months, she has changed everything with just her presence.She has blossomed into this beautiful, independant, bright and silly little girl who adores her parents who adore her twice as much. I have been honored to document not only her growth, but also the growth of this family.

Meet Miss Rosemary at one year.

I have been so excited about this session because Rosie is always so much fun to play with and photograph. As I have been editing though, I realize I am a bit sad. This is our final session as part of the First Year program (newborn, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months) and honestly, I can't get over how different Rosie is today from the tiny little newborn who slept like a rock on my beanbag. But there are still many things that are the same- the way she studies me as soon as I walk in the room. The fall of her hair. The way she lights up when she sees her parents. I am already counting down until our next session (Yes mom, I am all good if you want to keep going every three months until she is 18!)

As always, Rosie was by far the best dressed one year old for miles around.

During Rosie's newborn session, we were looking at clothes in her nursery. They showed me this beautiful sweater that had been given to them. Holding it up to this little tiny girl, we were sure it would be perfect for her six month session. A year later and it now fits, and it was just perfect with her dress on the blustery day.

Rosie's grandmother made these wonderful dolls (remember the coolest trucks and train ever from our earlier session?) and we originally set out for a bit of tea party feel. Rosie wasn't as interested in sitting in the chairs as her friends so we tried another approach. This one of many favorites from this session.

A quiet stolen moment warming up in the blustery wind with mom on the beach at Cousen's Island.

A quiet moment with dad just taking it all in.

I couldn't go without this amazing smile. Her nose crinkles the same way at 1 year old as it did at 3 months old and it makes me smile very single time I look at this.

Jim, Susan, and Rosie, thank you. Thank you for letting me into your world. Thank you for sharing your amazing daughter with me. Thank you for trusting me with this amazing time in your lives. I look forward to continuing to watch her grow and change. I will have your full gallery for you soon!

Apples & Wagon Wheels- Sabattus Maine Family & Children's Photographer

2011-09-18T13:26:00.001-04:00

A year ago, I met a little boy who had just found his feet. He was a little shy, a whole lot curious and had the biggest blue eyes I have ever seen on a one year old. Last weekend, just a couple of week shy of his second birthday, I hung out with Brody again. He is still a little shy and very curious. The big blue eyes study everything going on around him. The child of two teachers, he is in love with books and asks questions about everything in them. His laughter is totally infectious and he has so much to say. Watching him interact with his parents puts a smile on my face. Simply put, he is amazing.

Tracy mentioned an old wagon in a field near their house that she had been eyeing for a while thinking it might be a good spot for a photograph. Old wagon? Field? She had my curiosity peaked. She was definitely right! This is my favorite from this session.

See what I mean about his smile? I bet you are sitting there with a smile on your face...

Eskimo kisses with his mama.

Checking out the apple trees at Willow Pond Farm and catching a quick snuggle with dad.

As we were talking, Brody looks at me, pulls on his little vest and says "I'm handsome." Yes you are my little friend!

This photo reminds me just how much Brody has grown. Both of his parents had to stretch down to hold his hands last year. This year, he barely needs to raise his arms to find thier hands.

Tracy, Brandt & Brody, thank you for spending your morning with me. I had a great time and I hope you love your peek! I will have your full gallery ready for you soon!

Bits & Pieces: Rosie One Year- Yarmouth Maine Childrens Photographer

2011-09-12T21:56:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was a day I thought would take forever to get here, but it so quickly. I spent some time with Rosie & her family yesterday enjoying the last days of the warm summer sun, toasty sand and stiff sea breezes.

I first photographed these feet at 5 days old and many stops in between. She is just amazing. I can't wait to show you who she is now her full blog post coming soon!

___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Remember

2011-09-11T10:01:00.000-04:00

That day. That day changed so much. That day showed us the worst in people. That day also showed us the best. That day made me question God. It made me question what I believe. It will made me question bringing children into a world where this day could happen. That day made so very clear the things most important in my life.

She was two. We had been married for 3 months. Our life was nothing out of the ordinary, but it was a life we loved. We were busy. Both of us were at work. She was at daycare. A phone call changed it all. A plane hit the World Trade Center. My ever present sarcasm muttered something about a drunk guy in a puddle jumper. My coworker grabbed the television and it became clear so quickly how wrong I was. Those first hours felt like days as we watched in horror at what unfolded. I finally reached my husband. I checked on my daughter. I wanted to grab them both and shut myself in my house.

We didn't know. We didn't know why. We didn't know who. We didn't know where they would strike next. We couldn't understand why. We didn't know how many were gone. We didn't know how to live.

In the hours, the days that followed we saw something different. Self centered Americans turned to one another and offered words, an ear, kindness unseen in generations. Political antics were suspended. People long suspended in their own worlds reached out and reacted. They reacted and helped in their own communities. Jumped into cars and drove hours to help in the streets of New York, the field in Pennsylvania, and the Pentagon. Signed their name and their life to honor their country. Dropped to their knees in prayer.

We had a choice. We could become angry, bitter, hateful and lash out at the world. Or. Or we could use that day, the memory of those who died, the anger at those who killed them to strengthen ourselves, our families, our lives, and our country. Fortunately most people chose to find strength in their sorrow.

This week, my son asked me what September 11th was. It took me a moment to process that he never knew the world that existed before. I realized that I sheltered my then two year old daughter from the horror of that day and the ones that followed. From the fear and uncertainty. From the reality of that day. It was necessary then, for her good but also for mine. But now, ten years later, it is my job to teach both of them what happened that day. What it meant and continues to mean. Why it is such a difficult day. What has changed and why. And what it means for their lives. It is my job to share with them the questions of life, faith and country and what I found in seeking the answers.

It is our job to remember, strengthen, and teach so those lives lost and the lives changed were not in vain. It is our job to remember the past so we do not repeat it. Most of all, it is our job to continue to live.

Bits & Pieces: The Remington Family- Sabattus Maine Family Photographer

2011-09-10T20:53:00.000-04:00

These feet belong to an adorable little boy who has been doing some growing, changing, and running over the past year. He is very bright, sometimes silly and curious about everything. He also has two parents who adore him beyond words and I had such a good time hanging out with them today.

I thought he was cute before. Now he is indeed the definition of cute. Really. We looked it up.

___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Apples & Feathers- Lewiston High School Maine Senior Photographer

2011-09-09T21:25:00.000-04:00

With each sunrise comes the opportunity for a clean slate. The weight of the dew pulls away the layers of dirt from the day before. The early rays of light soften the harsh shadows. Critters and insects awaken slowly calling out to one another greeting the day.

As I photograph high school seniors each fall, I notice they are in that same place- shrugging off the weight of childhood, peering cautiously at the shadows searching for the next steps, stretching their wings and investigating new people and places as they get ready to take those next leaps. They stand with their toes on the line waiting to cross over to the real world, to adulthood.

Meet Amber. She is beautiful, sweet, very funny and she is ready to take on great things. She has a great sense of style, had me laughing so hard I couldn't shoot, didn't hesitate for a moment when I mentioned shooting at 6:30 in the morning at Willow Pond Farm and even forgave me when we had to climb around a few spots of manure. Oh, and she tried to tell me that she couldn't do a serious look. Huh, could have fooled me!

Bright blue horse trailer, beautiful young lady, and gorgeous morning light- sign me up!

As I took this shot, I already knew it would be my favorite, though it has some close competition.

As a side note, if you are looking for a gorgeous local orchard, Willow Pond Farm on Route 9 in Sabattus had rows upon rows of trees laden with organic fruit. Wonderful people in a beautiful spot and a great way to support local farming. If you in a hurry, the farm stand by the road has pears and apples available by the bag.

Amber, thank you so much for allowing me to capture these photos of you! I had such a good time with you and Caleb and I hope you love your photos! I will have your full gallery for you soon!

Bits & Pieces: Amber- Lewiston High School Senior Photographer

2011-09-04T16:38:00.000-04:00

The sun rose unseen yesterday behind thick clouds. The dew soaked our feet and clothes quickly. Animals awoke, some greeting us, others ignoring our presence. Amber, Caleb and I explored the amazing land at Willow Pond Farm in Sabattus yesterday morning. As Amber and I discussed what she loves, it was very clear animals and nature are a huge part of who she is. This was a perfect fit.

They both had me laughing and she was a trooper as we braved manure piles and slugs, cold metal and dampness to capture some amazing portraits. I can't wait to share them soon!

___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Curiosity & Zerberts- Lewiston Auburn Maine Family Photographer

2011-08-20T16:02:00.000-04:00

Between games of chase and changing diapers. Between teaching Zumba and teaching children. Between running races and strumming guitars. Between these every day moments are things that matter most. Between these moments is when I saw a quick glance, a shy smile, a head on a shoulder or a hand reach out. Through these moments runs the string that makes them a family.

Meet the Ritz family.

Beckham is so full of personality- equal parts sweetness, curiosity, and mischief. He can run faster than any two year old I have met before and is slightly addicted to Pez (I may or may not have had something to do with that.)

Callie is just six weeks old of pure girlie goodness. She loves to be held and snuggled and has a killer wardrobe- this cute little top had the cutest flare jeans to go with them! I am looking forward to seeing her grow and to witness the amazing girl she will become.

This is my favorite of this session. I can still hear Beckham's laughter and it makes me giggle every time I look at it.

Jeff & Jess, thank you so much for letting my family spend time hanging out with yours. I had a great time playing, chasing and getting my baby fix as well as getting a chance to talk with each of you. I hope you like your peek and your full gallery will be ready soon!

Treasures & Tap Shoes- Brunswick High School Senior Photographer

2011-08-18T19:41:00.000-04:00

She is the quiet one. Until she has something to say. She is shy. Until she cracks a joke out of no where and has everyone laughing. She is talented in so many ways. Yet she will shrug off any attention for it. She is absolutely beautiful. Yet she has no idea. She is the baby of her generation in her huge family. Until one day we turned around and she is all grown up.

Meet Michelle.

Michelle is not only part of our family, she has become my right hand over the past few months as my assistant on shoots. She has a wonderful way with kids, the patience to deal with my scatter-brain I get while I am shooting and is right there with everything I need and then some. I am looking forward to watching her continue to grow as a person and photographer.

I texted Michelle and asked if she had an old chair. When they brought their great-grandmother's rocking chair out of the back of the Jeep, I may have squealed a bit. This gorgeous tree on the campus of The Hyde School in Bath was the perfect place for this family treasure.

In case you missed the memo Michelle, you are gorgeous! And please don't ever try to convince me again that you can't do serious!!!

It was virtually impossible to choose a favorite from this session. I have a top five and this one is definitely in there!

I love absolutely everything about this photo because this is how I picture Michelle when I think of her.

I have to tell you I got a lot strange looks when we were taking this photograph. It may have had something to do with the fact that I was laying on my back in the middle of a street in downtown Bath. I say well worth it!

Michelle is also a life-long dancer so she broke out the tap shoes for a few shots!

Michelle, I had so much fun with your senior photographs and I have loved getting to know you even more as we have worked (and continue to work) together! I hope you love these and I hope mom is happy with them too! I can't wait to show you the rest!

On a side note, often times when I mention photographing in an urban setting, people get nervous. The term urban brings to mind graffiti, decay and dirt. While I like to use those in moderation, the urban setting is all about color, texture, shapes and atmosphere. These photos were taken at The Hyde School and in downtown Bath, Maine. Virtually every town, small or large, has lots of places to explore and photograph. If you aren't sure if your area does, give me a call, I am happy to talk with you about it!

Bits & Pieces: The Ritz Family- Lewiston Auburn Maine Family Photographer

2011-08-14T22:07:00.000-04:00

A stolen moment snuggled together under a majestic hardwood tree made it easy to see how their solid love of one another has created something so much bigger. Joined hands and the gift of rings was just the beginning of this wonderful family.

These are the moments, the memories and emotions I love to capture. I cannot wait to show you the look of pure joy on this little guy's face as he blissfully swung between his parents, came down and started the count down again.

Jess & Jeff, I had so much fun hanging out, talking and playing with your crew today. I am so excited share you big sneak peek shortly!

___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Farmland & Architecture- Leavitt High School Maine Senior Photographer

2011-08-13T12:47:00.000-04:00

The things that are the most important are also the hardest to define. Often when it comes down to the answer, it is the people, things and events in life that make us feel something, that evoke emotion that rise to the top of the list. As he answered my long list of questions to prepare for his session, it became crystal clear that this young man already gets that.

Meet Caleb. He is a little bit country, a little bit city. He is a little bit shy and a whole lot funny. He is extremely bright and fiercely loyal to his friends and loved ones. He is a young man with a huge heart poised to take on the world.

Choosing a favorite from this session was so difficult, but I believe the one above is the winner.

Field- Check. Farmhouse- Check. Handsome guy- Done! Caleb, I think we got it!!! This was a close second as a favorite.

Caleb, thank you so very much for allowing me to photograph you. I had a great time getting to know you and I look forward to keeping up with all that you accomplish! I hope you enjoy these and I will have your full gallery for you soon!

Bits & Pieces: Michelle- Brunswick High School Senior Photographer

2011-08-12T22:58:00.000-04:00

All week it looked like we might be rained out. All week, we cautiously planned knowing that it may all get shuffled. In the end, we were blessed with warm summer breezes, fluffy cartoon clouds and gorgeous evening light as we explored for Michelle's senior photos. This was a moment between shots, a moment when no one was watching, but a moment that speaks volumes in its solitude.

I had such a great time photographing Michelle last night as we explored several locations and chased the last drop of sun from the sky. The full sneak peek from her session will be shared soon!

___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Bits & Pieces: Caleb- Leavitt High School Maine

2011-08-06T19:43:00.000-04:00

The sun had risen just over the tree tops. The soft morning light fell softly across the fields. Shoes were squishy with morning dew as we moved through the waist high grass. Bugs and critters of every size were waking. The horses on the opposite hill side stopped grazing to watch us with curiosity. Warm moist summer air surrounded us as we stopped to just drink it in for a moment.

It was the perfect spot to start adventurous senior photo session with Caleb this morning. Many thanks to Rip and Susan Swan of Hallelujah Farms for allowing us to use a bit of their gorgeous property today. I look forward to showing more of this location and the many other we visited today!

___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Kisses & Crosses- Lewiston Auburn Maine Baby Photographer

2011-07-31T09:07:00.000-04:00

Every family is different. We all have beliefs, values, and life experiences that shape who we are and who our children become in this world. Having the opportunity to meet so many different families and document their lives, grab a little bit of those values and beliefs in their photographs is so important to me. When I met Lena, Dana and their boys for Lena's maternity session I saw something so special among them. There is strength, peace, respect and love among this family that speaks very loudly of their faith. I have been looking forward to the call from Lena telling me the newest member of their family had arrived and to have the opportunity to capture him as he joined this family.

Meet Xander. He is loved, cherished and pretty close to perfection. He is a snuggler, he loves to stretch out and he is so mellow!

Xander has three older brothers who absolutely adore him. As we prepared to get some shots of all four boys together, there was a bit of a discussion over who would get to hold him. I have to say my heart melted just a little as each of the boys snuggled him while I photographed them.

One of Lena's friends made this amazing flannel alphabet quilt as a gift to welcome Xander. We had another one as well but it met with the hazards of photographing naked babies before we even got the first shot...

I do believe Xander may have the most perfect lips I have ever seen on a baby!

Lena & Dana, thank you so very much for inviting me into your home to photograph your family. It has been wonderful to get to know you all and I look forward to watching Xander grow! I hope you enjoy the peek, I will have your full gallery for you soon!

Bits & Pieces: Xander- Lewiston Auburn Newborn Photographer

2011-07-25T21:29:00.000-04:00

These words are so much more than pretty decoration. They are the core of this home. Faith and love have built a very strong foundation for this family. Watching them prepare for and welcome the newest member of the family with warm, strong, safe arms has been a joy and an honor.

Spending time with Xander and his family yesterday was wonderful. He is perfect in every single way and I can't wait to share more of his photos with you!
___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Peek-a-boo & Icing- Southern Maine Children's Photographer

2011-07-23T12:10:00.000-04:00

The car thermometer read close to 90 degrees. Each breath in the summer air felt heavy and sweat beads formed with little effort. I adjusted the air conditioner, turned up the ipod and belted out a very off key version of a Sugarland song. It was just under one year ago when I photographed Carter when he was 4 weeks old. He was a handsome snuggly little guy who won me over in 2 seconds. When I arrived, I was met by a little boy who was different in so many ways but as I played and watched him with his family, I could very much still see the same handsome snuggly little guy.

After hanging out (quite literally as you can see the last photo!) we headed out into the evening shade to play and explore some more.

Did I mention his eyes and that handsome part?

Mom found an inch worm and Carter was fascinated, though I am not sure if he wanted to pat it or eat it.

This face makes me laugh. Each time he finds something interesting he exclaims "Oooooooooooooo" through snoopy lips as he studies intently. It is adorable!

And then there was the cake...

He tested it cautiously, discovering the dots were quite tasty.

Then dove in with abandon.

As Brandi pointed out, if she hadn't wanted him to get the shirt dirty, it would be covered. Figuring it would get trashed, notice it is still spotless?

A quick clean up in the sink...

The cutest game of peek a boo ever....

And Carter was ready for some snuggle time with his best friend (who is also Dad's childhood best friend!).

Brandi & Scott, thank you so much for allowing me some much needed play time and to photograph Carter again. I had so much fun and can't wait to get together with the whole family soon! Your full gallery will be ready soon!!

Bits & Pieces: Carter- Southern Maine Children's Photographer

2011-07-18T19:57:00.000-04:00

There are little pieces of people that tell so much of who they are and where they are in life. Those are the parts that fascinate me, the parts that I strive to capture and preserve. One year ago, these feet were smaller than the length of his Dad's thumb. Yesterday I got to see them coming and going and every which way in between.

Last year, these hands fit around one of mom's fingers. Yesterday they were busy moving exploring, and playing one of the cutest games of peek-a-boo every. I was fortunate enough to visit with Carter yesterday one year after his newborn session. I cannot wait to show you all of the differences in this handsome little guy!

___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Duck Calls & Camouflage- Brunswick, Maine Newborn Baby Photographer

2011-07-12T21:36:00.000-04:00

Sometimes the smallest beings have the largest rippling impact on the lives around them. I have been honored to be a small part of the preparations, excitement and love surrounding this little guy's arrival. I have enjoyed watching as grandparents, aunts and uncles, a boat load of cousins and friends have helped welcome this new life into the world. Now that he is here, he is absolutely perfect. Meet Austin.

He absolutely melts into his mother's touch.

I am not sure if Shannon & Derek are more in love with Austin or the reverse. I do know that they are wonderful parents and I loved watching them watch him.

I am loving the warmer weather and being able to spend some session time outside especially when the outdoors are such an important piece of the family.

This photo makes me smile and gives me the warm fuzzies every single time I look at it.

Before our session, I mentioned to Shannon that they can gather things that are important, things they love, stuff they love to do. Derek is an avid hunter and had gathered his new camo jacket, some duck decoys (which are actually larger than Austin!) and a few other items. I gave him fair warning his jacket was in the true "line of fire" with a naked baby. He assured me it was fine, the jacket was waterproof, so on we went. Not even 5 minutes later Austin christened the jacket. I am happy to say, the waterproof claim is in fact true!

Shannon, you are one beautiful mama. Just want to be sure you know that!

Shannon and Derek, thank you for allowing me to photograph your beautiful family. Austin is just perfect and I am looking forward to watching him grow and change and watching you guys grow right along with him. I hope you enjoy the sneak peek, there are many more to come soon!!

Wet Grass & Wheelbarrows- Lewiston Auburn Maine Children's Photographer

2011-07-10T21:07:00.000-04:00

I have been looking forward to this session for the past six months. Not only did I get to photograph Rosie for her 9 month session, I was able to meet, play with and photograph her two handsome cousins! I am so grateful for their amazing parents who provided the entertainment behind me and my assistant Michelle who I am quickly realizing I don't want to live without! These three were so very sweet, very mellow and so much fun! It has been near impossible to narrow down my choices to share for their sneak peek.

This smile and the huge blue eyes that go with them absolutely won me over from the moment I arrived. Sam is sweet, polite, bright and funny. He was a little shy but we chatted about all of the things he loves to do and his really long list of friends he gets to play with every day, all of the really important things in life when you are two and a half. After that, it was all ok.

Every time I photograph Rosie, she is more beautiful and engaging than the last. Being able to watch her grow and change over the past nine months has been such an honor. She is curious about everything around her, just figured out how to get around, is totally in love with her mom and dad and no flower is safe in her presence!

Charlie spent a lot of time studying me before he decided I was alright. Charlie is sweet, laid back, and is the definition of a happy go lucky kid. He absolutely adores his big brother and watching him when he saw Rosie when she arrived was absolutely adorable.

Jim & Susan and Leah & Josh, thank you so much for allowing me to spend the morning with your amazing families and capture this time in your lives. I enjoyed myself so much and I cannot wait for you to see the rest of the photos from our session!

Barbed Wire & Birthday Pancakes- Maine Children's Photographer

2011-07-07T23:37:00.000-04:00

Today is Elliot's birthday and I have spent much of the day with mixed feelings. He has changed and grown so much in the last year. He has developed real friendships and has become such an amazing young man. He is figuring out what he likes and what he doesn't. He is learning he can disagree with his sister's opinions and demands. He still worships the ground that she walks on. He doesn't like to give kisses but has not outgrown his snuggles with us. A few weeks back, he and his sister finally agreed to allow me to take some real photos and I jumped at it. Today felt like the right day to share them here on the blog.

I am far from a perfect mother. I lose my patience. I say bad words sometimes. I don't always let them speak before I jump in with my own words. I cook weird food and sing loudly in the car. I can be embarrassing in front of their (Gwen's) friends and have recently learned that it is very embarrassing when Jason and I kiss each other in public (which only makes it that much more fun!) I am strict. I expect a lot of them and I sometimes forget to let them be kids. I can only hope I can be the parent they need and raise them to be good, passionate, ambitious people.

But I am so proud of my children. They have taught me so much more than I could ever possibly impart to them. They challenge me daily to be myself, to learn more patience, to see the humor in the simple, the everyday things and a finer appreciation of fart jokes. They have taught me a greater appreciation for my own parents and to learn to stop and look at situations from more than one side before jumping to conclusions. They have showed me how to love in a way I never thought possible and they have taught me that there is no limit to that love. I am so grateful to be allowed to be their mom.

I catch myself staring at my daughter sometimes. She has absolutely no idea how stunning she is.

Sometimes you have to go through a lot of these ^^ shots....

In order to get to ^^ these shots!

I love everything about this photograph. This is Elliot- hands fiddling with something and a huge smile on his face. I can almost hear his giggle when I look at this. it is still as infectious today as it was the first time he laughed at his sister as a baby. I tickle him just to soak that sound in.

I have given the kids the job of planning another session toward the end of the summer in a different environment. I can't wait to see what they want to do and will definitely be sharing the results of that one!

Bits & Pieces: Austin- Brunswick Maine Newborn Photographer

2011-07-06T21:17:00.000-04:00

Every opportunity to photograph a new life, an expanding family, and gorgeous parents is so special for me. It is an honor to be a part of those intimate first few days of life. It is even more special when it is the newest member of our extended family on the other side of my lens. I spent a few hours with Austin and his parents this weekend capturing his softness, his wrinkles, his many faces and even his cries. This is just a quick peek, there is so much more to come!

___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Bits & Pieces: Cousins- Maine Children's Photographer

2011-07-03T21:56:00.000-04:00

These three sets of feet kept me busy yesterday in the best of ways. We played, we giggled, we chased, we talked, we chased some more. I learned from Sam that the swings in the back yard can go as high as the moon. I learned from Charlie that he can freeze mid crawl for more than two minutes and move nothing more than his eyes. I learned from Rosie that stumps are fascinating and flowers are most fun when decapitated. But the most important thing I learned is how fortunate these three cousins are to be growing up together in such an amazing family.

I had so much fun with this family and I cannot wait to share more of these photos!
___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Counting & Waiting- Maine Maternity Photographer

2011-06-22T20:52:00.000-04:00

You know that glow pregnant women have that they always talk about? I have never really gotten it. Then I met Lena. She was fixing her hair as she walked into the living room and I could see it. As we talked about life, cameras, babies and beautiful barns, I could see it. When she introduced me to her husband and all of the boys, I could see it. There really was no denying it. She had that glow.

There are few things in the world more beautiful than a pregnant belly and all of the hopes, dreams, and fears they represent.

Dana and Lena's connection with each other is amazing They communicate without words and reassure with a touch. I asked Dana to whisper in Lena's ear something that would make her laugh. I am not sure what it was, but I am in love with this response!

Lena and Dana (and boys) thank you so much for inviting me into your home and allowing me to capture this amazing (and short) time in your lives. I am very excited to spend more time with all of you and get to know Xander when he gets here! I hope you enjoy these and I will have your full gallery for you shortly!

Star Wars & Tutus- Auburn Maine Newborn Photographer

2011-06-13T22:30:00.000-04:00

fam•i•ly

[fam-uh-lee, fam-lee]noun, plural -lies, adjective

–noun

1. a. a basic social unit consisting of parents and their children, considered as a group, whether dwelling together or not:

Family takes all shapes and sizes. It is not defined by where one resides, but rather those closest to us who reside in our hearts. I am fairly certain that Des and Tory often hear commentary on the size of their family but for them, there is always room in their home and their hearts for one more member of the family. The fact that the most recent member is a gorgeous, cuddly, stubborn little girl makes it all the easier to welcome her in.

I love asking siblings what they think of a new baby because I never know what I am going to get for a reply. Sometimes they make me laugh long and hard. Other times, it just sums it up perfectly. I asked Gwen’s youngest big brother what he thought of his baby sister. He nodded his head of curly hair, gave me his amazing smile, and said very matter-of-fact “Yep, she’s good.” That was it. That was the end of the conversation. He carefully touched her fuzzy head and went back to sliding on the hardwood floors and giggling while he listened to his brothers answer mind boggling Star Wars trivia. With a smile on my face, I slid a headband on Miss Gwen’s perfect head and set about settling her on the beanbag. That pretty well summed it all up.

There is something so moving watching a baby girl with her daddy. Watching Tory talk to his new daughter and watching Des watch them both was a beautiful thing.

Over the past seven years of our friendship, I have had the privilege of photographing part of Des & Tory’s wedding and was thrilled to be asked to photograph their children on several occasions. I have witnessed their amazing love for each other and their family. I have been humbled watching them handle triumph and devastation with grace, faith and humility. I look up to them as parents and as people. One of these days I am going to convince them to allow me to photograph just the two of them together because a love like theirs needs to be captured. Until then, I will continue to enjoy their friendship and their children (and nag Des until she agrees to allow me to photograph her).

Thank you guys so very much for your friendship and sharing your life with me. I cannot tell you how much it means to me. I hope you guys enjoy these and I will have your full gallery for you shortly!

Bits & Pieces; Gwendolyn- Lewiston Auburn Newborn Photographer

2011-06-07T10:11:00.000-04:00

See that beautiful, perfect little finger? That is exactly where her daddy is wrapped around. And her mother. And her brothers. And her big sister. Through the exhaustion and craziness of life with a newborn, they are all completely and totally in love with her. After spending a few hours with her, I can see why.

Des & Tory, thank you for sharing Miss Gwen with me! I know how much these little teases drive you crazy Des, so I kept this one short. Mostly because I love you and think you are a pretty incredible mom and woman. Who happens to be married to a pretty incredible dad and man. And I might be just a little scared of the payback involved if I made it too long...

___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Footprints & Piano Keys- Greene/ Leeds Maine Newborn Photographer

2011-05-28T21:02:00.000-04:00

home [hohm]–noun

1. a house, apartment, or other shelter that is the usual residence of a person, family, or household.

2. the place in which one's domestic affections are centered.

Home is so much more than shelter, than simple definition. Home is about love. Home is about safety. Home is where we heal. Home is where our dreams are born and flourish. Home is about history and building a future.

I arrived to meet the whole family a few weeks before Cohen was born and Danylle showed me their home. She told me about the history, she showed me the progress, but most importantly, she told me about the dreams they hold. Dreams not just for the house, but dreams for their children, for their life. She told me about what brought them to the country, about the funny things that come with characters that are sometimes found in the back woods, and about the future. These things are what make a home.

Caleb is quiet and introspective but I watch him take everything in. He teases his sister and questions his parents like most kids his age but he is an amazing big brother. I also happened to catch a glimpse of the young man he is going to become. His parents have much to be proud of.

Remember this face. Miss Cadence is a performer through and through and her rendition of "Soul Sister" absolutely made my week. I only wish I had recorded it to share here on the blog. She is bright, enthusiastic about everything, and a total love. And she loves to talk. Jeff & Danylle love to say she hasn't stopped talking since the day that she started. She made me laugh, she told me some very important things (she has the ocean in the shell on top of the piano. I was lucky enough to hear it), and absolutely loved the camera.

And this is Cohen. He a handsome, sweet, and mellow little guy and he fits into this family perfectly. I look forward to watching him grow and develop his own personality, to see where he fits.

I love catching the love of parents as they look at thier baby, whether it is thier first or their third.

Danylle, you are beautiful. Just wanted to make sure you knew that!

Danylle & Jeff, thank you for inviting me into your home, sharing your life with me for a short time and allowing me to capture this time for your family. It is an honor. I hope you enjoy your peek and I look forward to sharing the rest of your session with you shortly!

Bits & Pieces: Cohen- Central Maine Newborn Photographer

2011-05-22T21:32:00.000-04:00

It is the little things. The crunch of the gravel when you turn on the road. The smell of the fresh turned garden. The crow of the rooster outside of the kitchen window. It is the story of the almost 100 year old house and the love being put into its restoration. It is the shells arranged on the piano, each with its own story. It is the sound of five sets of feet, knowing another set will join in with time. This is what creates family.

This is just a part of what makes up the life they love. This is home.

I was able to spend a few hours with Cohen and his family on Saturday. He is remarkably mellow, absolutely adorable and surrounded by so much love. I can't wait to introduce you to Cohen and his entire family in their full blog post soon!
___________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Blooms & Chance- Western Massachusetts Family photographer

2011-05-18T21:30:00.000-04:00

They are opposites- he is a rabbit kind of guy. She loves cat. He greets friends with bear hugs. She is more reserved. He comes from a small family. She comes from a large, close knit family. He can make anyone laugh with the silly voices. She looked at me like I was crazy when I asked her to get him to laugh. But a love of Sci-fi and vegetarianism combined with a healthy dose of random chance introduced two people who complete each other.

They walked in and they knew it was the right place. It wasn't the first place they saw, it was more of a whim to check it out. Together, they could see beyond the layers (and layers and layers) of wall paper and paint, beyond the odd color carpet and see what could be. Bit by bit, project by project, they have made it their own.

Most importantly there was an apartment for her mother right there. She could be close. She could have her own kitchen. It was perfect. It is theirs.

That same random chance brought Maxine into their life. She showed up on the front porch one day and has been a part of the family ever since. She is the watcher, walking window to window with the occasional stop for some love or some cat nip.

Lena joined the family second. She is aloof. She is curious but reserved. She is in love with Him and is convinced She is the maid. We discovered that she is a bit of show off in front of the camera as well.

When they asked me to travel to Western Massachusetts to photograph their family and their home, they mentioned the gardens. As they showed me the way through the paths, I learned about the sticks. See, her mother can grow anything. Avocado pits become trees in the dining room. Lemon seeds become a tree in the library. The stems from the roses that were given become beautiful bushes full of blossoms. If you look in the corners of the beds, you will notice the sticks. It is said she just sticks stuff in the dirt and smiles at it. Next thing you know, they are flourishing.

I honestly could have photographed the blooms all day. Jer and Shamala, thank you so much for inviting me into your home and allowing me to capture your family. I had a wonderful time enjoying wonderful food, window peering, and photographing your family. I hope to do it again soon! I am so very excited to share your full session with you- as you said Jer, you clean up good!

Bliss

2011-05-13T21:41:00.000-04:00

Two things about this photo make me happy. First was watching the beautiful twelve year old young lady who took it play with my camera. Second is the total simple bliss Vickie experiences hanging her head out the window, enjoying the sunshine and letting her lips flap in the wind. We should all do that more often, lips and all.

Masks & Fountains- Auburn Maine Senior Photographer

2011-05-11T14:55:00.000-04:00

He touched her shoulder tenderly. That 1,000 watt smile appeared on her lips immediately. He excused himself to make a phone call. Her eyes kept wandering to him as she told me of his family's heartbreak, making sure he was alright. Her touch reassured him. Her words brought a smile to his lips. They compliment each others movements, they know each others thoughts. I asked them to snuggle up and they melted together.

I had such an amazing time working with Julia last summer to create unique senior photos that fit her personality. When she emailed me about doing photographs for prom, I jumped at the chance to photograph her again. Seeing her with Ryan made my heart happy. They are so comfortable with each other and in front of the camera, it was a joy to capture. The prom had a masquerade theme and the masks that Julia created were gorgeous.

Ryan & Julia, thank you for asking me to be a part of your big night! You guys made me laugh and I love the chemistry you have together. Anytime I find a couple who hops into a dry fountain without question I am in heaven! I look forward to a grilled PB&J and tossing around some ideas with you both again soon.

Honesty & Alzheimer’s

2011-04-23T00:12:00.000-04:00

I sat next to your hospital bed tonight and took it all in. I listened to your voice a little more carefully. I studied the veins in the back of your hands. I watched your face as you tried to answer the doctor's questions with little evasions. I smoothed your hair and explained the IV in your arm for the 17th time. I tucked the warmed blankets up over your arm to help you remember to keep it straight on the bed. I told you how old my children are for the 5th time and answered lots of questions about why the nurses and doctors where having so much fun.

I sat next to your bed tonight and just took a deep breath. I am learning to slow down. I am learning to take it all in. I am learning true gratitude for all that I have been blessed with in this life. I am learning that there is never enough time and I have to fill the time I do have carefully with the things most important. Tonight, that was sitting by your side for a few hours and just enjoying the moment. It was a reminder that there may not be that many more moments.

A few weeks ago, we celebrated your 92 birthday.  Some of your great grandchildren surrounded you, snuggling you, playing with your stuffed animals and patiently answering your questions about ages and how tall they each have gotten. You were able to meet the newest member of the family and enjoy some cake. I watched from behind my camera with a little bit of wonder and even a tad of envy.

As I grew up, you were right there. We spent many summer days and school vacations at the house in the woods. It wasn't always willingly, but they are now some of my most cherished memories. You were such a different woman then. You were reserved. Everything was saved, reused, had its place and you had your way of doing most everything.  The nights we stayed with you we were tightly tucked into the twin beds under the paper thin bedspreads. I can still trace the pattern of them with my fingertips when I close my eyes. We sang songs from the little green song book and I always asked for One Tin Soldier and you always allowed it. You laughed a little, but I always remember you as being serious, proper and busy.

I sat with you and mom tonight, three female generations of our family, and I saw such a different woman.  You crack jokes at the most random times. You enjoy simple things. You have no plans, no things that need to be urgently accomplished. You accept your daughter's attention, directions and love with a little resistance, a bit of talking back and eventually, a touch, a kiss or a hug. When you couldn't answer when the doctor asked you where your sons lived, you looked at her and shrugged your shoulders and told her you were pretty certain they were on this half of the planet. I had to smile. I sometimes wonder if this is the woman who was inside of you all of those years as the reserved minister's wife. Did you sit at those dinners and just want to blurt out what you really felt? Did you ever just want to say what came to mind and feel whatever your feel? Did you ever just want to say the hell with it and giggle with your friends? Because that is who you are now. It is different. It is hard to accept. It is bittersweet.

I sat next to you remembering the conversation I had with God on the way to the hospital. Yes, I am finally learning to talk with him. It wasn't a begging kind of conversation. It was one of gratitude. It was one of realization that you and I aren't all that different. It was one of asking for peace and strength for all of those around us. It was one of asking for peace for you.

I sat next to you tonight and for the first time in 36 years, you didn't know who I was. You were sure I was a hospital employee and wanted to know all about my life. I am glad you could not see the tears that welled in my eyes as I told you about my children and how old they are and how long we have lived in our house.

I sat next to your bed tonight and swabbed your mouth because it was still dry. I pulled the covers to your chin and tucked them around your arms. You asked me why I was doing that. I smiled and kissed you on the cheek. "Because you spent all of those years taking care of me, now it is my turn to do the same for you." You smiled at me and I am very certain you knew exactly who I was, even if only for a few minutes.

When I was leaving tonight, I watched you and mom discuss the IV in your arm for the 23 time. I knew I could walk out the door and come back in in five minutes and the entire evenings conversations would be new to you. But also knew that every moment of tonight was safely tucked into my memory and heart. I haven't said it nearly enough times, but I love you grandma. I am so very grateful for every moment we have shared and every one have left.

Simple, Sexy, Beautiful- Maine Boudoir Photographer

2011-04-13T22:02:00.000-04:00

Sometimes simple is sexy. It is the hint of what is hidden. It is that glint in the eye, the fall of the hair or the way a hand touches the skin. Sexy is about what shines from within, not just what can be seen from outside. Sexy is not about a single digit clothing size, it is about finding comfort in your skin and embracing the bumps, lumps and stretches.

M was so very nervous when she booked her mini session with me as a Valentine's gift for her husband. She had been working out and loving it and she wanted to show off her accomplishments. When she arrived at the studio, she was shaking. She had her hair and makeup done by the wonderful Crystal Coffin and looked gorgeous. I asked her to trust me, and she did. When our time ended, she was amazed. I was thrilled to hear her say "I had so much fun, I wish I hadn't been so scared." Her response (and hubby's!) to the finished images made my day.

M gave me permission to share these images here on the blog. She is beautiful, sexy and confident and it shines through in these photographs. Thank you for trusting me with these.

On April 23, 2011, I will be hosting a day of Boudoir shoots at a residence in Auburn, Maine. Not only will you feel sexier than you ever have before, you will have images that will knock your socks off! These sessions are about having fun, embracing who you are and celebrating it. I will be offering 30 minute mini sessions with 5 5x7 prints for $75.00 and 60 minute extended sessions with a 2.5x3 accordion album and 3 5x7 prints for $125.00. The amazing Crystal Coffin will be offering hair and makeup services on site for an additional $25.00!

To book your session or get more information, please call me at 207-522-9742.

Fruit & Kindness- Sabattus Maine Photographer

2011-04-11T22:09:00.000-04:00

It was early. I had woken up late. I was exhausted. My hair decided it had oppositional defiant disorder. I had not had my first cup of coffee. I realized as I drove on auto pilot that I didn't have anything to snack on for the day. I swung my car into the grocery store to grab a couple of things. I rolled my eyes and sighed as I stood in the growing line at the one open cashier. Patience without coffee is not something I do.

I wouldn't have noticed him most days. A man, probably 60 years old, a little disheveled, but dressed and clean in his plaid jacket and sweat pants. He could be anyone in this French Canadian working class town. He stood in front of me and shuffled a few steps forward with each completed transaction. When he got to the belt, he hesitated for a moment then set it down quickly and gingerly. I saw him steal a sideways glance at me as his feet shuffled back and forth while he waited.

As the cashier rang him up, he smiled at her and noted it was a beautiful day. She never looked at him. He told her that he was going "upta camp" to go fishing. He left quietly with his change in his hand, head tucked down, and without hesitation.

It was 7:36 in the morning and he was buying a bottle of bottom shelf vodka. That was all.

And I stood there judging him.

As the cashier rang up my fruit, I found my mind formulating a smart ass Facebook status, and writing the man's story in my head. I automatically looked down on him.

Bag in hand, I walked out to my car. In the middle of the parking lot, it hit me. Who was I to judge this stranger? I don't know his story. I don't know the burdens he carries with him, day in and day out. I had written this man's story in my head in those brief moments standing in an early morning line at the grocery store. I thought less of him to make myself feel better. What kind of person does that make me?

As I walked through Railroad Park later that day listening to my Ipod and struggling with my own life, my mind kept going back to the quiet man in sweatpants in the grocery store. Those few moments stuck with me. We each have our demons- our own pain, our own loss, our own loves, our own battles with demons unseen. But we seem to forget that when we look at others and rush to judgement.

As I thought of him again, it wasn't with pity or judgment, but a thought, a prayer that his burden be eased and his personal demons grant him some peace. It was with the hope that the next time I am faced with a moment like that, I will be able to choose kindness over judgement.

Story Books & Belly Laughs- Maine Baby Photographer

2011-03-31T13:18:00.000-04:00

Wrapped safely in her fathers arms, she leaned forward to peer at me. Those big brown eyes were full of curiosity mixed with a bit of shyness. She was still as she examined me, checking out the stranger in the middle of her familiar world. I chatted with Jim & Susan, learning about what she loves, the amazing blanket featured in my Bits & Pieces post, and life in general. I glanced over and caught a shy little smile as her feet began to kick. She was ready for her close up.

The past three months have passed by in a flash. No matter how long I spend around babies, I am always amazed at how much they change in such a short time.

One of my favorite parts of this mini session was watching Rosie with her parents. It is difficult to say if they are more in love with her or she with them. They have a remarkable bond between the three of them and I am thrilled I was allowed to capture it.

Oh how I love chunky baby legs and the round little feet! Once babies are mobile they both disappear so quickly there was no way I could possibly pass this chance up!

Jim & Susan, as always, I had a wonderful time visiting with you all. Thank you for inviting me to photograph your beautiful family. I am so excited for our next session in the warm weather!

Bits & Pieces; Rosemary at 6 Months- Lewiston Auburn Children's Photographer

2011-03-27T23:09:00.000-04:00

I needed this. I needed to squeeze some soft round baby feet and lay on the floor to see her view and watch beautiful wide eyes take in every sound and every movement. I needed to watch a mom and dad adore their little girl and her adore them right back. It was a beautiful morning to go play for a short time, but even more, it was a surprise blessing to walk away feeling a bit renewed.

Today was my third session with Rosie and I love watching her personality emerging as she grows by leaps and bounds. As we talked about ideas for photographs last week, Jim mentioned Rosie's grandmother made her a blanket we could use. I wasn't prepared for the amazingly complex creation. The time love and detail that went into this blanket is amazing. Roads, fields and lakes are laid out and waiting for the one of a kind vehicles to travel down them, including the purple truck just like dad's (Yes, Jim, it is blue). I am head over heels with these creations and Rosie is too- apparently the sailboat and train taste the best! And to top it all off, I can actually say that I have photographed a baby in the middle of the road!

Jim & Susan, thank you for having me come and play today. I couldn't help but smile as I flipped through the images tonight. You have an amazing daughter and you are not biased- she is gorgeous. I cannot wait to share the full blog post of Rosie's six month session soon!

________________________________________________________________________
If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

Faith & Diapers- Mid Coast Maine Newborn Photographer

2011-03-20T17:43:00.000-04:00

Sometimes there is something missing. We often don't know it, but there is a spot in our heart waiting to be filled by something. By someone.

Sometimes, life has a way of changing the way we think everything will be. Our comfort level gets shaken at its core. Often something beautiful results.

Sometimes there is a defining moment- the moment when everything hangs in a balance, the moment of fear, the moment of holding our breath when we call out to whatever power we believe in for help. Those are the moments of faith. The moments we know everything will be alright whatever happens. The moments of comfort. Those are the moments we realize how much we are truly capable of loving another human being.

Quinn's arrival three weeks ago filled that space, that something that no one knew was missing. Until he arrived. Now no one can imagine life without him.

When my sister got married almost ten years ago, I loved the custom rings she and Chris had made. As I was working with Quinn, I knew we needed to use them. I smile every single time I look at this image.

I will be honest with you. Every time I photograph a newborn, I fall a little bit in love with them. Every one of them is a new person, a new life and a new chapter of a story. With Quinn, I fell completely head over heels in love with him, but since he is family, I guess it is alright!

I shared a photograph of Quinn & his two brothers feet together in the Bits & Pieces post earlier this week. That photo led to this one, which quickly took its place as my favorite photo of the day. Quinn is such a laid back, easy going little guy he made photographing him so much fun I had a hard time putting my camera away.

Tiff and Chris, I hope you enjoy these. Thank you so much for letting me come play for a few hours and getting some snuggle time with Quinn. He is amazing and so is your family. I have a ton more photographs for you soon. I love you guys!

The Larson Family- Maine Family Photographer

2011-03-16T21:21:00.000-04:00

While I was in Las Vegas, I was fortunate enough to attend a garden party put on by the amazing Me Ra Koh and Sony. I am so grateful my friend Melisa told me about Me Ra and invited me to attend her platform. It was amazing to be among so many other women with similar passions and dreams!

One of the things Me Ra planned for her guests was the opportunity to photograph the Mike, Rachel and Hannah Larson. They were so accomidating to the mass of lenses pointed in thier faces and Miss Hannah was the perfect little subject. I just wanted to take a moment to share a few of the images I captured.

Mike and Rachel, thank you very much for taking the time from your busy WPPI schedule to allow us to photograph your family. You have a gorgeous family!

Bits & Pieces: Quinn- Mid Coast Maine Newborn Photographer

2011-03-14T21:07:00.000-04:00

The waiting is the hardest part. For parents, siblings, grandparents, even the cat. Toward the end of pregnancy, it feels like hurry up and wait. All of the questions, changes and emotions play themselves out over and over again. Then the waiting is over, a little life is here, and we cannot imagine life without them.

I am always anxious and excited to meet a new baby, but the wait for this little guy was harder than most. My nephew made quite an entrance two weeks ago and I was so anxious to hug my sister and meet Quinn for the first time. He is just amazing.

I asked Quinn's two older brothers what they thought of the baby. Jake (the oldest) told me he is small, loud, and he smells. I love kid's honesty. I asked the boys if I could get a photo of their feet with their new brother because he was so much smaller than them. Even though there were a few protests at first, pretty soon the older boys were giggling as they looked at their feet with Quinn's.

Chris & Tiff, thank you for letting me come and play for a few hours. I loved being able to snuggle and kiss the little guy while we played. It was great to have a chance to chat and catch up with you guys too. I cannot wait to show you more of what we captured very soon!!

_____________________

If you are new to the blog, Bits & Pieces posts are quick sneak peeks at a session that generally show anything but a face. A full blog post featuring photos from the whole session will be shared shortly, so please be sure to check back! If you "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook (just visit the link at the bottom of this blog page) you will be among the first to know when the full post hits the blog!

A Beaver Tale- Our Own Story

2011-03-03T20:58:00.000-05:00

This is Elliot's best friend, Super Beavie. He was picked out on a whim during Elliot's first visit to the Gray Wildlife Park. Little did we know that he would be come one of his most prized possesions. We also didn't know that in the middle of the night (with a sleep deprived mama) Beavie would become a superhero with the ability to scare away all bad dreams, make thunder quieter and his own fashionable wardrobe of fleece capes.

Last night, we had a bit of a crisis. Beavie was missing. Missing- as in we took apart the bed, searched behind and in everything, even Gwen's room. Beavie was no where to be found. Nada. Elliot suprised us and held it together, telling us he knew he would be back soon. He snuggled into bed with his other friends without another word.

As Elliot and I were driving tonight, J called to let me that he had found Beavie. There was a whoop from the back seat from one very, very happy little boy. I swear I could hear the smile from behind me. As we motored on toward home, my favorite lispy voice came from the back seat. "I knew he would be back mom. He just went on a trip." I settled into my seat with my own grin and asked how he knew that.

"Beavie flew to India in an airplane (because his invisible jet pack was broken) to visit his cousin Idaho (but they call him Ida for short) so they could play frisbee together using Ida's pet turtle Ohio. Then Beavie flew on to Africa to see his other cousin Bob. They took Bob's dog, Opus, for a walk. Then he flew on a plane to LA (Los Angeles, not Lewiston Auburn) to see his other cousin Ice so they could play in a hockey game together. Beavie then flew to see his cousin Vickie in New York so they could go see the Justin Beaver (yeah, he said it!) concert together. Beavie missed home so much, he flew back home. Steve the Dinosaur (that is a whole other post) picked him up and drove like crazy to get him home before bedtime tonight. Steve crashed the car in the driveway and Beavie went flying and got stuck head down in the couch cushions with nothing but his tail showing. That is why Daddy found him there."

I absolutely loved listening to his mind unfold this story, asking some general questions to see where it would take us. The way his mind works amazing me and his sense of humor just cracks me up to no end. When I tucked Elliot and his best friend into bed tonight with a hug and a kiss, Beavie was already planning his next adventure. Stay tuned...

Leaving Las Vegas- Our Own Story

2011-03-01T20:27:00.000-05:00

I returned home to my everyday life after five days in Las Vegas attending WPPI (Wedding and Portrait Photographers International) a conference with over 15,000 other photographers. I have been struggling to find the words to explain the whole experience. As I was showing my photos from the trip to Jason and the kids, I stopped on this photo. This is how my mind feels right now- thoughts and ideas racing in different directions and other parts at a complete standstill. Through all of this, it is hard to step back and see the big picture, the beauty of my life that is right here and right now. Dreams and goals are a necessity but I find myself getting so focused on the things ahead I forget to savor the here and now.

I learned so much from the photographers who poured their hearts and souls into their presentations but as I have been thinking about my whole experience, the strongest and most amazing things I learned during my trip weren't taught in a classroom.

- I am stronger than I give myself credit for. But I am still prone to crying when I am frustrated.
- I can dream bigger than I ever thought possible and reach them if I just give myself permission.
- Listen to your mother and carry extra undies, a shirt and toiletries in your carry on. Really.
- There are amazing photographers in every corner of North America. I know this without ever having seen their work. I was blessed to get to know just a few of them.
- Comfortable shoes trump cute shoes any day of the week.
- Given the opportunity, complete and total strangers will amaze you with their compassion, kindness and heart.
- A simple and heartfelt thank you, to the $20,000 per wedding photographer or the young lady behind the counter, can change everything in a split second.
- Stating what I want and expect is a much faster and less frustrating way to get anything accomplished. This is particularly true when dealing with the unfortunate world of airline customer service.
- Learning to use the mental edit button (that wonderful filter between my brain and my mouth) has been a blessing. See the previous point.
- Embrace who you are. All of it. There is no need to pretend to be someone or something you are not. The act will become completely transparent. Every quirk we have, be it snorting when you laugh or collecting garden gnomes or embracing your dorkiness (mine) is what makes us, well, us.
- No matter how busy you are, well known your name is, or much money money you make, taking the time to be genuinely interested in meeting and talking to the "little guys" will take you farther than any amount of publicity.
- I realized I have the ability to start a conversation with just about anyone. Sadly this is a new realization. What and who have I missed out on?
- Where I am and where I want to go is only a dream and an action apart. It is up to me to make my life happen.

I walked away from my week with a head full of ideas and inspiration. Quiet time on my own was disorienting, but nice for a short time. I was more than ready to return home to my husband and kids and all of the craziness our life entails. I boarded the red eye flight back to the east coast with a full heart- full from the goodness I saw in people, the amazing people I met, and because I had been given such a gift to be able to just be a part.

Sea Salt & Balloons

2011-02-10T21:29:00.000-05:00

Back in October, Jason and I spent a blustery fall day hanging out with some photographer friends to laugh, talk business and shoot just for fun. Our hostess Liz Hayford of Windy Hill Photography and her husband Paul recruited their kids and some friends to model for us as we explored the incredible rocks by the lighthouse at Pemaquid Point. We went on to Fort William Henry and the stunning harbor views even on a cloudy gray day.

I have known Liz since third grade. I still remember so clearly that I was the awkward new kid in a tiny town and she was one of the first people to be nice to me. Over the years we had countless sleep overs, lots of mischief and all of that pre teen and teen angst. The fact that we have kids that are old enough to look like this is just mind blowing! Lilia may cringe when I say this, but I see so much of her mother at this age when I look at her.

I loved watching Grady and Chelsey together, especially in those moment they thought no one else was looking. Those tend to become my favorite shots and the one above certainly falls into that category.

I stole a moment alone with Chelsey off to the side to grab a few shots of her on her own as well.

And then there was Alex. She is incredibly comfortable in front of the camera and wasn't thrown off by a whole herd of photographers asking her to do six different things all at once. Then they all get distracted talking to each other and start all over again. She was amazingly patient and gracious.

Alex also happened to have her toe shoes with her and was brave enough to show us her amazing form while balancing on the stone wall of Fort William Henry.

As I started to write this, I had to laugh because we all kept complaining how cold it was that day. I just looked at the thermometer and it is currently -7 degrees. I am fairly certain that day would feel tropical right now! Thanks again Liz and Paul for a great afternoon and the warm welcome into your home for dinner (especially the mulled cider with a kick!!) I can't wait to do it again this spring!

Frigid- Our Own Story

2011-01-24T21:43:00.000-05:00

In case you are one of the fortunate folks who is living somewhere other than the Siberian tundra of the northeast this week, it is cold up here! This morning I checked the outside temperature when I got up. It was all of -15 degrees here at the end of the earth! Yeah, as in below zero.

Our dog, Vickie, is an American Bulldog/Boxer mix who doesn't have a whole lot of hair and shivers when it dips below 40 degrees. We haven't gotten her a jacket (I know, I know, bad dog parents!) so I quickly grabbed one of my t-shirts, a twixt clip from the junk drawer and our lazy man's hunting scarf we crafted out of a knit hat in an attempt to and McGuyvered a quick dog jacket. It wasn't pretty as you can see in the first photo. The dog sat in the middle of floor giving me a look imploring me not to make her go out looking like that. She was sure the neighbors would see her. She even tried to run back in the house before taking care of business in an effort not to be seen!

Gwen immediately offered up a spare sweatshirt and when we got home tonight, showed me the appropriate way to dress the fashionable bulldog, complete with a variety of scarves. A few treats and I was able to grab a few quick and rough photos of the things this poor dog puts up with.

And yes, we will be getting her a proper coat soon. Otherwise she may eat us in our sleep.

Curiosity & Ceiling Fans- Maine Baby Photographer

2011-01-23T10:45:00.000-05:00

I spent the last day of 2010 spending some time with the beautiful Miss Rosemary and her parents. Her father summed it up perfectly- she is such a little lady! After photographing her as a newborn it is so cool to to see her personality emerging. She is very curious, happy and content. She does not want to miss a thing that is going on in the world around her. She is completely in love with her parents as they are with her. She is an absolutely beautiful little girl.

Rosemary was quite interested in the camera and trying to figure out what the strange lady was doing. It made my job shooting super easy. It made my job picking photos extremely difficult!

This session marked a first for me- this was the first time in three years that I delivered a finished gallery to the family before I blogged it. I have to say I didn't like it much and it will NOT be becoming my norm! I love sharing photos here as I go through my editing process and I kept feeling like I forgot something!

I am honored to have been invited back to continue to capture Rosemary's first year. Being allowed to watch the whole family change and evolve along with her is an honor. I am already looking forward to our six month session!

I am pleased to announce my First Year program for 2011. First Year includes a full newborn session, mini sessions at three, six and nine months and a full session to celebrate that first birthday. Select photos from each session will be compiled in a beautiful 20 page fabric covered album to enjoy for years to come! First Year is a great opportunity to save more than 10% off of the session fees and products to capture the milestones that pass so quickly. If you or someone you know may be interested in this program, please contact me during your last trimester so I have a chance to hear your story and answer any questions you may have. I am happy to tailor this program to your family's individual needs.

Icing on the Cake

2011-01-12T10:11:00.000-05:00

Ok, I know I have talked about the Spread the Love Workshop here on the blog a number of times. I know a lot of you may roll your eyes. I mean, its some people in a room talking, how much impact could it possibly have on someone’s life? The short answer is a lot. The long answer is reserved for a good meal and a cup of coffee if you ever want to hear it. Still don’t believe me? There are still a few spaces left for the 2011 Spread the Love Workshop in Boston (as well as other places around the country) in August. I challenge you (and you do not need to be a photographer!) to attend and walk away not feeling changed. It won’t happen. I would stake that good meal on it!

Spread the Love 2010 spurred the beginning of a group of Maine photographers from different skill levels and areas that is based on fun, non-competitive sharing of ideas, resources, and creativity for photographers. One of the things I have taken away from the group and our shoots together is how much I love to work with other photographers. I find myself learning so much from the way others work and I don’t feel odd for asking a question about how to do something or trying a new technique. I am a hands-on person. Written words are fine (after the 9^th or 10^th time reading them), but give me a chance to get hands on, face to face and everything clicks on a deeper level. I am all about the emotion, the connection of photography, both for the subject and the photographer. That is not something that can absorbed through the written word.

I have been blessed. I won the opportunity (through Justin & Mary’s blog) to travel to Las Vegas next month to attend the Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI) conference. This is an opportunity to meet and learn from a boatload of other photographers, network, and have a little fun too. To say I am beyond excited and slightly (ok really, really) terrified is an understatement. To state my tremendous gratitude for the 976th time still doesn’t seem like enough.

Asking for anything else when I have already been so fortunate feels more than a bit selfish. I have written this, deleted it and written it again a bunch of times, but here I am putting it out there for the world, selfish or not. Justin & Mary announced yesterday that they will be doing a shoot- out workshop for only 20 photographers during WPPI (in addition to their platform presentation "How to Be a Rainmaker" on Thursday, Feb 24th at 9am.) and I hope to be able to be one of those fortunate 20. I have been inspired by them on so many levels, and they have touched my life in obvious and subtle ways. To have the opportunity to learn from them hands on would be icing on an already abundant cake!

If you are a photographer headed to WPPI, please feel free to flip me an email at alisondouglassphotography@gmail.com. I don’t know may people going and would love to have the chance to connect with people!

When More is Less- Lewiston Maine Boudoir Photographer

2011-01-05T20:29:00.000-05:00

"I could never do that."
"I don't like my _______ so I could never take those kind of photos"
"I want to take these photos, but I need to get in shape first."
"I don't want to show all of my skin."
These are all things that I have heard while talking with women about doing sexy fun relaxed photos. And every single one of them is a valid statement. At the same time, for every one of those statements there is a way to have fun, celebrate who you are today, and create something sexy all within your comfort zone.

Kelli gave me permission to share a few more photos from her recent session where she looks so very sexy but has much more covered than the first images we shared. Sometimes more is just as sexy as less and I am happy to help create some for you.

I still have several session times left for the boudoir mini sessions this Sunday January 9, 2010 in Lewiston that I would love to fill! If you are on the fence, give me a call or send me an email. I am happy to talk with you and answer any questions or concerns you may have. Need a little motivation? If you and a friend book (your own private) mini sessions, you will each receive 2 extra 5x7 prints with your package for a total of 5 prints to keep for yourself or share with that special someone. Please call me at 207-522-9742 or email me at alisondouglassphotography@gmail.com to reserve your time!

Bits & Pieces: Rosie at 3 months- Lewiston Auburn Children's Photographer

2011-01-03T21:28:00.000-05:00

I had no intention of doing a bits and pieces post of my mini session with Rosemary and her parents on New Years Eve, but as I was doing a quick sort of the images, I just couldn't pass up these shots!

I am always amazed a how quickly babies change and Rosie is no exception to that. Wait until you see her gorgeous smile! I am so happy that I will be able to watch and document her as she grows and evolves into her own person over the coming year. Check back soon for her full blog post!

Heels & Lace- Lewiston Maine Boudoir Photographer

2010-12-28T20:52:00.000-05:00

I have to start this blog post with a warning. While all of these photos are PG-13, I want to give fair warning to my readers so that if they don't wish to view some skin, they can skip this blog post. There, you have been warned! My client's comfort and privacy are of the highest importance to me with all sessions, but particularly with boudoir sessions. Kelli has graciously given me permission to share these photos here on the blog.

Sexy isn't about perfection- the right weight, perfect hair, and no stretch marks. Sexy is a feeling, an attitude, about being comfortable with who you are right now. Sexy is the little things- how you bite your lip when you are thinking, the look you give over the rim of your glasses, the way you play with your hair when you get nervous, and the way your favorite necklace lands in your cleavage. It comes from within and we all have it. Sometimes we just lose track of it.

Kelli is all about helping women bring the sexy back. She is the owner of SPRQ Studio in Lewiston where she teaches burlesque classes in addition to Zumba and fitness classes. She has an amazing energy and an ability to help her friends and clients step outside of their comfort zone and challenge themselves. She is amazingly strong, beautiful and intelligent mom who has found her own sexy. Kelli & I recently spent a Sunday morning capturing some sexy, fun and comfortable photos at her at the studio. We had a great time chatting, laughing and shooting photos. These are just a couple of the many photos.

On Sunday January 9th, 2011, I will be offering a limited number of mini- boudoir sessions at SPRQ Studio in Lewiston. These will be 20 minute private photo session at your comfort level. You will receive 3-5 fully edited images in a password protected online gallery to chose from. This session comes with 3 5x7 prints discreetly packaged to present or to keep for yourself. As a special in time for Valentine's Day, these sessions will be priced at $50. I have a very limited number of time slots available, so please contact me right away to book your session at 207-522-9742 or by email at alisondouglassphotography@gmail.com

Christmas Withdrawl (and a Winner)

2010-12-26T20:20:00.000-05:00

Christmas 2010 has come and gone in the Douglass household and we had a great day. Unfortunately, a very dry tree dictated that it is already down and outside and the outside decorations have been stashed away in anticipation of the foot of snow we are expecting tonight so it feels like a bit of blur. The kids had a great time opening gifts, eating slim jims at 7am (ugh) and visiting with family. We did decide that we have the only tween who gets excited to open socks and a six year old who can open a gift faster than you can say "Santa Claus"!

I promised J and the kids I wouldn't post photos of them in their pajamas out for the world to see, even if they are really cute! The cats and dog weren't left out of the celebration. J & I recently discovered Fetch on the recommendation of a friend and we fell in love with the place! The cats got crocheted critters stuffed with catnip and some dried fish. As you can see above, Opus enjoyed his parrot (and quickly figured out how to get it open and get to the goods).

Zoe was a bit more camera shy but I caught her enjoying some bonding time with her giraffe.

Miss Vickie was spoiled rotten for the day and was even kind enough to buy the kids a new pooper scooper as a gift! She basked in all of the attention and goodies from visitors. Unfortunately I didn't catch it in this shot, but Santa brought her a new flamingo dog collar. I am pretty certain she set a new record for disabling the sound in a new stuffed animal as well!

On a totally different note, I was completely blown away by the response to the 2010 Favorites on Facebook! Not only were there 311 qualifying votes cast, but over 300 new people "liked" the page! That was far beyond what I dared hope for and I appreciate everyone who joined in! As promised, one comment was chosen to win a $50 gift certificate for services or products from Alison Douglass Photography. Using the total number of qualifying votes, I assigned numbers starting with the first photo. I used an online random number generator which chose #276. Congratulations to Jennifer Michaud-Goucher! Please send me an email at adouglassphotography@gmail.com or call at 207-522-9742! I look forward to meeting you!

Favorites of 2010 Contest! Sabattus, Maine Photographer

2010-12-17T21:18:00.000-05:00

I have been keeping this photograph a secret for two and a half months, and honestly, it has been killing me! I have fallen in love with so many photos this year, but I have to admit, I think this is my favorite one. After our shoot, Rosemary's parents asked me to keep this a secret until the holidays. I was thrilled to see Rosemary this week and even more thrilled when her mother mentioned I had the all clear to finally share this!

Looking back at the years photos, I have far too many favorites. I could probably pick 3 or 4 (or more!) from each session. I decided to take the easy way out- leave the choice to others! I have loaded one favorite from session I had the honor of photographing this year into a folder on Facebook (if you had more than one session this year, I picked one photo to represent you). This is where all of you come in!!!

If you were a client this year (or even if you weren't!), spread the word- send information out by Facebook, email, carrier pigeon, whatever you have. Have your friends and family visit, take a look and vote for their favorite by leaving a comment on the specific photo. ***Edited to add: Due to Facebook's setting for business' you need to "like" Alison Douglass Photography before it will allow you to comment. This setting is beyond my control. I apologize for any confusion this has caused!** If they "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook, their vote will count TWICE! Each person can only vote once please!

The family or individual with the photo with the most votes on Christmas Eve (December 24th) at 4 pm will win their choice of an image from their session on a floatwrap or a 20 page book of photos from their session!

To sweeten the pot just a little bit more, one commenter will be chosen to win a $50 gift certificate to Alison Douglass Photography as well. To be eligible to win, the commenter MUST "like" Alison Douglass Photography on Facebook!
Good luck, spread the word, and thank you again for making 2010 such an amazing year for me!

Combat Boots & Minivans- Sabattus, Maine Family Photographer

2010-12-04T21:47:00.000-05:00

Once upon a time, like so many other times, a girl met a boy. They met working the same shifts, became friends, teasing each other, spending time together and admiring each other from afar.

One day, the boy joined the military and left for basic training. As soon as he left, they both realized something was missing. Each other.

Fifteen years ago, they realized that apart, something was missing, but together, they were whole. They make each other laugh. They hold on to each other when times are tough. Their love spans not just time, but great distances.

There have been amazing joys and some heartache. There have been long separations, army moves, deployments and joyful homecomings. Regardless of the world threw at them, they remained a team.

And then the team grew. Three very distinct personalities, bits and pieces of each of their parents, but definitely individuals.

Hyland was fast to tell me she was all about having her photo taken and jumped right in. She has a smile that will melt your heart in a second and I caught some great giggles to boot.

I have to admit, Brennan gave me a run for my money. He is a spit fire and I so enjoyed him. When he turns on the charm, watch out!

Oh this little man! There is no shortage of smiles from Rylan as he explores everything around him. He also has the most amazing eyelashes I have ever seen as he bats those huge brown eyes!

Jenn is a wonderful Georgia based photographer and I was honored when she asked me to take photos of her family while they were home for Thanksgiving. When we talked about what she hoped for, she told me it was only one thing- a photo of her whole family, together. Jenn, we got it! I am thinking BIG float wrap for this one!

Jenn, you are beautiful. Just thought you should know. I also decided you are the bravest woman I know after our time together. You have to be to drive a minivan with three kids and a wiener dog with a white interior!!! Hats off to you my friend!

Brian, thank you doesn't seem like nearly enough to thank you for all you have done and continue to do for our country. The sacrifices you and your family have made and continue to make do not go unnoticed or unappreciated.

Jenn & Brian, thank you for allowing me to photograph your family. I have had a blast talking shop and getting to know you and I look forward to catching up on your next journey north! I hope this post finds you safely nestled back home after your long journey. Thank you for your patience as I have been getting the blog up, I have had a hard time choosing from all of the photos. I hope you like them and I will have your full gallery ready for you shortly.

Bits & Pieces: The Lawlor Family- Sabattus Maine Family Photogerapher

2010-11-28T20:04:00.000-05:00

I kiss my wedding ring when I can't kiss her.

This is what Brian told me in his answers to my many questions before our session. The answer takes on even more meaning since Brian just returned last month from his fourth deployment to Iraq. It is an answer that has brought tears to my eye and this image to my mind. As I read his other answers, it was so very apparent the love and respect he holds for his wife and the pride he has in the family and life they have built together.

He can always make me smile even when I want to cry

This is what Jenn told me in her answers to my pile of questions. This answer takes on even more meaning when I am able to see her face as she talks about him, their children, their life they have built together. It is very obvious she is proud of him and what he does.

I have been looking forward to this session for quite a while. Jenn is a Georgia based photographer with roots here in Maine. We have gotten to know each other via Facebook. When she asked me to photograph her family when they came to Maine for Thanksgiving, I was honored, excited and a bit terrified. The terror was unfounded on my part though. I had a great time getting to know this family yesterday even with the fresh coat of ice and snow and frigid temperatures.

Jenn & Brian, thank you for your patience waiting for your Bits & Pieces post. I will have your full peek for you soon!!!

Spread the Love 2011

2010-11-25T09:43:00.000-05:00

Last March, I posted here on the blog after attending the Spread the Love Workshop with Justin and Mary Marantz. It was the first photography workshop I had attended and I wasn't sure that I would get all that much from it. I am not a wedding photographer. My business is new. I had (and have) lots of self doubt. I left the workshop with a million ideas, but more important with renewed belief in myself and my business.

Justin and Mary have just released the schedule and locations for Spread the Love 2011. Jason and I will be attending the Boston stop in August and I am so looking forward to it!

Before you roll your eyes and move on to the next blog, STL is about business and about life- it is not just about being a photographer. If you want to learn about living your life for yourself and not for your business, this is the place for you!

I am happy to talk about my experience or any questions or visit http://www.justinmarantz.com/ to check them out! Hope to see you there!