My little Bella-Bug is 1 year old today. Wow.....that went by quickly! She is just the sweetest and I can tell by the way she reacts to this big lens in my face, that she's going to be a total ham for me! Just did a little reflecting today on what she was like a year ago......
and now.......
Happy Birthday, sweet girl! Love, Aunt Tracy
May you all have a blessed Christmas with your loved ones. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your memories this past year. I have met some incredible families doing what I love to do so much. We have had a fun year, and I will strive to make next year even better. Merry Christmas to you and your little blessings and a wonderful New Year in 2012.
Yes it's that time already! We are gearing up for Halloween pictures at Belly & Baby and Hopscotch next weekend, October 8th. If you missed this opportunity, don't panic, we'll also be set up in November for Christmas pictures. More details to come soon!
Grandparents are special people! You can't always appreciate them when you're younger, but sure do as you get older. My parents are grandparents to three special little people that all have different stories for arriving into this world. I know the value that grandparents have and what they teach us when we're young. And on the flip side, grandparents get all the loving and spoiling with those babies and can get away with it! So here's a special wish for my parents as they celebrate with three of their favorite people!
This weekend will be the 1st Annual Kacey James Hendrix Kingfish tournament at Marker 37 Marina. Kacey, age 12, passed away after a tragic drowning accident on May 15, 2011. He was a kind, sweet, and caring boy who touched the lives of many. In his honor, a near shore tournament will be open to the public Saturday, August 20, 2011. All proceeds of the tournament will be donated in Kacey James Hendrix's name to the Coast Guard Foundation, Corpus Christi Division. Registration to enter the tournament online today at www.kaceyjameshendrix.com or in person at Marker 37 at 6:00 tonight.
I know you've all seen the disaster/trauma that's been developing in Japan. It truly breaks my heart that any human being has to go through such heart ache. I am constantly thinking of the children looking for a family member and the ache that goes with the parents' search for a child. We are all touched in our own way. I have a cousin living in the Southern part of Japan, so thankfully, he and his family are safe. My son also has a friend who has family there as well.
I know that every channel/internet site has a way of donating relief to Japan. I think it's our own way of feeling like we are doing some good. I am writing my own check this week and I'm sure many of you are as well. I wanted to offer a way for my clients to donate as well as get something in return. All profits from sales this week (March 19-March 26) will go directly to World Vision and Save the Children charity groups. I have looked extensively on these groups and how they use their funding. I feel like many groups need the money right now, but I'm specifically targeting the ones helping the children this week. I just think of my own 9-year old son and the fear he would have, alone in the destruction, searching for us. That thought truly terrifies me. So this is why I've chosen these groups.
So if you've been wanting to order reprints, or haven't had the time to order from your session, this week is the week to do that. All profits will be sent to Japan and in return you'll get that warm, fuzzy feeling that you've helped those children and the portraits you've been wanting to order anyway!
Please email me if you have any questions at sweetpeabytracy@yahoo.com
Peace,
Tracy
ahhhhh, the pure innocence of a baby's eyes. I love this age! Between 6 and 9 months is so much fun to photograph and yet they have so much wonder about the world around them. I photographed this little guy when he was just a few days old, so I was so excited to get to see him sitting up and smiling!
Stay tuned for information to follow regarding Easter pictures at Belly & Baby and Hopscotch. Our pet bunny "Pearl" is looking forward to lots of cuddling!
Need I say more? Just feeling very appreciative of my little family and "normal" life. Trying not to let little moments pass me by too quickly and not letting anything getting in the way of our daily joys. It goes by too quickly. I'm so happy to be able to capture these little moments in time and preserve these memories for our family (even though there is quite a bit of resistance from those around me!) But I carry on because I know it's important and I want to remember the little things. I'm feeling exceptionally thankful for this little guy who's growing up too fast.....
OK, I have to warn you before you read any further that "sappiness" is about to follow! I saw a Hallmark commercial (see, I warned you!) about two people falling in love. It was so sweet, but at the very end it's what they showed on the screen that caught my attention. They said "Life is a celebration." If you think about it, we celebrate every kind of holiday, event, and occasion, all of which are important of course. But it's life in general that needs celebrating every day. Sometimes we get caught up in what "event" is next in our lives, but really, we need to celebrate life.....just life. Every day life. This is why I can spend hours on my knees photographing the most precious and newest little lives, and every single one is rewarding. I know that these parents have this moment in time captured forever....and that is life!
Dear friends of ours had their first precious little girl. I had the best time and she was a sweetheart.....fits right in with her parents and their love for her! Congrats again!
DId I mention you'll be seeing more of my new niece? :) She's growing too quickly~~Three weeks already and already loving Aunt Tracy's camera! hee hee! And of course her proud big sister is always ready!
Can you believe we are already thinking about Easter pictures. I had a talk with "Pearl" today and she said she was ready! But only if she doesn't have to share the carrots and celery with Dozer!
I am a tad bit late at getting back to blogging and catching up on life after the holidays, but better late than never! I am making the resolution to take each day slowly and as it comes. Nothing is more important than the moment you are in. If you've heard the George Strait song "The Breath You Take" it is a touching song about being in the moment and how quickly those moments pass. It's about your life and the moments that take your breath away. I'm resolving to live my life this year in the every day moments that take my breath away. Just stop for a moment and realize the joy around you. We get caught up on deadlines and stress. I just want to not regret missing the moments in my life with my family. Just be in the moment.
My life was blessed with a new niece at the end of December. She is a little doll and was perfect for her day long photo shoot! :) I'm so happy for my brother and sister in law!
This year I promised my son that I would be "Mommy" for more of the holiday time and that SweetPea Photography would take some vacation time to do family things. That's exactly what I'm doing and my promise is solid to him. We will be soaking up some long overdue sunshine, going to the park, and just enjoying the Christmas season. It's important that we all remember what Christmas means to each of us.
SweetPea Photography will be closed from Monday, December 20th - Sunday, January 2nd. I will contact you as soon as I am able. Enjoy this last week of Christmas preparations!!
This is the time of year that we all need to count our blessings. Each one of us has many things to be thankful for these days. This past week was no exception. A friend of mine was blessed with triplets....all healthy, all beautiful, each one a little miracle. At 5 days old I photographed these little angels. And I do mean angels.....they couldn't have been more perfect. I'm just so thankful that they are all doing so well and the family is adjusting! There will be a few more of these darlings to show off, but for now, here's a sneak peek for my friends. Happy Thanksgiving!
Yes, I can say that because she's my niece! She and I went "exploring" and looking for gopher traps (I'm not really sure why this was fascinating, but I went with it!). She was dressed in her Christmas best and had the sweetness to match!
This family made my job incredibly easy....just look at them! We had so much fun exploring and capturing some closeness. Thank you to this wonderful family for putting up with a little craziness! I hope everyone got outside this weekend to enjoy this beautiful weather we had!!
It's about time to get those holiday cards ordered. They should be on my website by the end of this week. Information regarding pricing and ordering will be on there. www.sweetpeabytracy.com
I got to photograph this sweet bundle just a few weeks ago and now have the opportunity to capture her with her loving brothers.
This little sister is going to be completely taken care of by her big brothers! I could just tell they are going to be the kind that really protects her. So sweet!
OK, if this doesn't put a smile on your face today, then nothing will! I occasionally get a smile from a newborn....but this little one week old was smiling throughout the session. It was so funny to see him do this! He was a perfect little angel! :)
We are already booking sessions for Christmas portraits at Belly & Baby and Hopscotch. Their number is 361-991-2540. Spots will fill up fast. Christmas cards will be available at a reduced price for these sessions. Email me if you have questions: sweetpeabytracy@yahoo.com
Calling all witches, ghosts, and goblins! It's time to bring out the spooky fun and head over to Belly & Baby and Hopscotch for Halloween portraits! There are a few spots left, but call quickly for a spot before the hauntings appear! (appointments being taken now at Belly & Baby and Hopscotch at 361-991-2540)
Just wanted to remember September 11th, 2001......a month before my son was brought into the world, my husband and I sat stunned at what was happening with our country. What a terrible day, but through it, we have gained strength and honor and patriotism like never before........we will never forget.......
I see many military families throughout the year. It's always an honor and I love photographing things that mean something special to each family. Here are just a couple of the ones that have been photographed in the past.
Sure, it's raining outside and the wind is howling as the tropical storm makes it's way on land. But as I send my sweet little guy off to school, it's a simple reminder of why I take so many photographs of him....he's growing up, changing every single day. Time is flying by and I can't do a single thing about it....except capture the memories along the way. That's one of the things that got me so passionate about photography....I never wanted to miss a single moment or take anything for granted. So while everyone else packed coolers and snacks for their labor day weekend, I packed my camera and some nice clothes for him. And I took him out for a few minutes one morning because I needed....yes, NEEDED a new picture of him....and he was happy to get it over with!
What an amazing summer this has been.....not because of any fancy trip we took or exciting things we did, but just because it was nice to just PLAY!!!!! As some of you know, I work for the school district, so I do love summer (after all, isn't that why some people become teachers?!) There's not enough room in one blog post to show the sessions I've done since I have neglected it over the summer. I do apologize for not keeping it updated and just keep saying to myself, "but it's summer!" Well now that summer is officially over (for those of us in school, that is) it is officially time to get back on track! Here are some points of interest:
* I have already begun taking appointments for the holidays (crazy, yes, but necessary!) This year, all family Christmas sessions will be done before December 1st. This gives me plenty of time to get in orders and Christmas cards. There are limited slots, so if you're interested, please book NOW!
* I have a new website! www.sweetpeabytracy.com This is something I actually worked on over the summer and wanted to get up and running. This is where you'll view your session proofs and place orders for prints. Family and friends can view it as well and do their own ordering, so they won't have to bother you with their order. All orders are shipped directly to the person placing the order.
* I've started offering handbags! These are so much fun. There are diaper bags, wallets, purses, beach bags, and more! Even GUY gifts like shaving kits. Start thinking now for Christmas gifts. These will take several weeks to come in once they're ordered.
* Check out my facebook profile: SweetPea Photography by Tracy and become a fan. Sometimes I post specials on there only for facebook fans, like free wallets, or a special discount. Don't miss out!
I'll leave you with a photo I took this summer of a special little girl. Her mom and I went to school together, took violin lessons together, and she was in my wedding. This little one is quite the ham, but I caught this at the end of the session (I don't know if I was more tired or if she was!) Anyway, we had a great time.
Thanks for taking a peek and I promise I'll be updating again soon!
I'm a little behind in my father's day post, but it's only because I was spending time with my 2 favorite dads in my life: my own dad who is the sweetest man and best dad a girl could have, and my dear husband who is a wonderful, loving father to our son! So I hope all the dads out there had the best father's day possible. Here's my little tribute to some recent dads I had the honor of photographing!
...especially when they're dear friends of mine. This family has followed me during my photographic journey and offered me models along the way! This session was very special (ok, I know they're all special!) with their 3 day old baby boy. And my model family (yes, mom delivered this baby 3 days ago and look how amazing she looks.....I know we're all jealous!) was very patient as I got every shot I wanted to of this little guy. There are tons here, but I couldn't help myself! Thanks for taking a peek!
Oh my.....this little sweet thing was so much fun to photograph! My son is home for the summer, so he joined us in making her smile. Well, let me just say, these parents are in trouble!!! She was so sweet and giggly to my son. All he had to do was wave and she was just a bundle of smiles! It was so funny! Anyway, there will be more of this session soon because we also did a "cake smash" so I will put those up as well. For now, enjoy these and thanks for looking!
I love the spring colors in these photos. This family was adorable and kept me moving! The weather is
warming up and we are heading outside for the summer! Sessions are very limited and are filling up about a month ahead so call (361)774-1754 or email: sweetpeabytracy@yahoo.com if you're interested.
Oh my......this little guy was just the sweetest bundle ever! There's many more to go through, but wanted to give the family a little sneek peak!
I do love a good cake smash! This little one took her time getting messy, but then enjoyed a few good handfuls! Throw in a tutu and it makes my day! Thanks to the family for a great time!
Oh we had so much fun last week for "Bunny week!" I am posting a few samples here but will try to get a few more up this week. Thanks again to Belly & Baby and Hopscotch for allowing our crew to set up and take so many pictures with our bunny Pearl! We had a blast with everyone that came out in their beautiful Easter/spring outfits! Thank you to all who joined in the fun!
Wow....that was fast! I didn't realize there was such a demand for "Pearl" this year! :) I have just a couple of spots left at Belly & Baby and Hopscotch ((361) 991-2540) for the March 20th mini sessions.
Here's a sneak peek for the family of my first Easter session of the year. Thanks again guys!
I had a sweet designer make me logo (I've already confessed on more than one occasion that I'm really not a Photoshop Pro!). I think she did a great job and am proud to be official!
OK, I know I just had a Valentine day post, but I've already had so many calls about our Bunny Sessions that I had to put something out there for all to see! The week of March 15-18 will be reserved for Bunny Sessions with our sweet bunny "Pearl!" Also, March 20th, I will be working with the fabulous Belly & Baby and Hopscotch to bring "Pearl"/bunny sessions for the day! These sessions booked up fast last year, so please e-mail me if you're interested in booking a time slot. More information will be up at Belly & Baby and Hopscotch this week. If you're interested in a studio session with Pearl, those time slots are limited, so let me know ASAP. I will have the details of the photo session soon.
Here's some pictures of our sweet Pearl (or Earl if you know the "real" story!) ;)
In honor of the "sweet" weekend coming up, I'd like to have a sale! Today through Sunday, February 14th, you can take 14% off your entire order! Please email me at sweetpeabytracy@yahoo.com All orders must be placed by Sunday in order to have the discount.
Now, time for some pictures! These are some more of the "smiling" newborn from their session. Thanks again to these sweet parents for sharing their baby boy with me!
Well, most photographers will tell you that this doesn't happen often! It's purely the "by chance" gassy smile that one would only hope to capture! This little guy was almost two weeks old and quite the trooper! I'm not quite done with the editing on this session, but wanted to give mom and dad a sneak peek of their angel!
I had the great pleasure of photographing some dear friends who had an an adorable 3 month old that was just a bundle of happiness! He was such a cutie and smiled most of the time he was being photographed! We also had a great time with the two 3-week old puppies that came along with them! Babies and puppies....does it get any better than that??? Here are a few samples from the session. Thanks guys for coming over!
OK, I am REALLY behind in my blogging! I'm so sorry it's been so long. I think I'm finally beginning to catch my breath after the past few months! I wanted to start the year by looking back over 2009. WOW....what a great year! I met so many nice people and kiddos! I went back through and am posting many of my favorites. Some of these you've seen before in my posts, but others are just ones I liked as well. I wish I could've posted a sample of everyone's sessions, but I just couldn't! There were so many that made me smile! It is such an honor to look back at all of the families that allowed me into their lives. THANK YOU!! So here goes...
I also wanted to honor the SweetPea friends that we lost this past year:
It was such an honor to know both of these beautiful souls and to be able to capture the love with their families.
I am looking forward to another great year. I have some changes in the upcoming months, so be on the lookout for new products and hopefully a "real" website! :) I will post new information here as well as my facebook page "SweetPea Photography by Tracy"
You can email me with any questions at sweetpeabytracy@yahoo.com
This is what it's all about......family.......yours and mine. Throughout the year I get to meet so many incredible families. I get to hold the newest little lives, at only days old, and get to be a part of the happy memories you create as a family. It's what it's all about........
As we near the end of the year, I want to extend my gratitude to each and every one of you. Thank you for being a part of my year. Thank you for trusting me with your memories. Thank you for letting me into your family circle to capture these beautiful lives.
Peace has set in....Life is good! Have a blessed Christmas season. Spend time with your family and remember what this season brings to each and every one of us!
Merry Christmas....from my family to yours!
~Tracy~
Yes it's that time of year that families come together for their annual portrait. I'm lucky enough to photograph my friends during this time as well. As a mom I certainly know how stressful it can be to get the family ready and the clothes coordinated. But in the end, what's important is that you all came together. This family is special to me, and I'm thrilled I was able to photograph them together! Thanks guys!
If you are in the South Texas area, then you know what gorgeous weather we had here last week! I had 5 beach sessions, and only the last one was cancelled by the rain yesterday. During this beautiful weather, we battled the red tide, thousands of dead butterflies, jellyfish, and coastal flooding.....but you wouldn't know it by looking at the pictures! It was probably the most beautiful week of weather I've seen in a while. I will be sharing some beach samples over the next few days.
This week I'm offering a free 8X10 if you place your Christmas card order by Friday, November 13th!
Yes, it actually is time to start thinking about Christmas cards! Sessions are almost booked for November and there will be limited sessions in December. All Christmas card orders will need to be placed no later than December 12th in order to have enough time to customize them and get them back to you to mail. Last year's cards are still available and can be seen on the November 2008 posting on this site. Below are this year's designs. The price listed below is for a flat 5X7 card with envelopes. If there isn't any writing on the front, then the sentiment can be added on the back. Some of these already come 2-sided. There are two 5X5 cards as well. Folded 5X7 cards are also available.
Click on the image to view it larger.
A special thanks goes out to all of my models!
All cards come in sets of 25. Prices for 5X7 flat cards with envelopes are:
Please e-mail me if you have any questions at sweetpeabytracy@yahoo.com
Here we go!!!! Halloween is over and we are in full swing with Christmas sessions! I have just a couple of spots left for November. All Christmas card orders will need to be placed by December 12th. This will give you time to get them in and address them in time to send out. I will be placing Christmas card samples on here in the next day or two. I just couldn't resist putting this adorable family on here for their sneak peek! What an amazing time we had with absolute angel children!
I hope everyone has had a fun and safe Halloween tonight. I will be in a sugar coma soon, so I thought I'd quickly post some of my Halloween cuties over the past month. Some of these are from the Belly & Baby and Hopscotch sessions and some are just from regular sessions. Check back this week as I will be posting Christmas cards samples!
I can't help but smile when I look at these photos. This family is dear to me and I had an absolute blast while photographing them. They are so gorgeous! They were good sports and I tried my hardest to wear them out! Here's a few for their sneak peek.....thanks guys! You were great!
Oh, and my absolute favorite is the one where the kids are making the "gag" faces while mom and dad are kissing! Priceless!
I've learned to appreciate the world a little better over the last 8 years. My son recently had a birthday, and in my house, that means time for his new portrait. Oh, don't get me wrong, there are still all the other portraits throughout the year, but this gives me an excuse to dress him up and make it official! I've learned in these past 8 years that he's going to do exactly what he wants to do in his picture. Sometimes this means not smiling. I'm ok with that. In fact, I've learned to appreciate the genuine emotions of my child, but it's taken a while to get there. It's the emotional integrity of a portrait. I've learned to love that about his photos....he's not always smiling, but that's him, and that makes me love his pictures even more!
Here are a few from our "birthday" session with my son and his almost two year old lab! Thanks for taking a peek!
You may remember the beautiful family I photographed on the beach with the expecting mother. Well, I was honored for them to come back so I could photograph the newest addition to their family. How gorgeous they look! Here are a few sneak peeks for them!
