Since preschool photography isn’t something I *normally* do, I thought I’d share the setup – especially for other photographers out there that might want to get into it, but not how how to set up.

This setup is in a storage space of the preschool. The school has blue walls and carpet, so I didn’t have anything that I could use that was already there. I had ordered a faux barnwood floor, but UPS lost it. So I went to Lowe’s and got this vinyl plank and bought a non-slip rug pad to hold it in place. A curtain is on my background stand, and I’m using my Alien Bees for light (it’s a pretty dark space). In this image you can also see my toy stash, which I use to help the kids smile.

This shoot is taking my entire week, so please bare with me with emails and phone messages.

I loved watching how Saxon would run toward her older sister, hold her hand. And how gently Suri was with her. I think that they will be very good friends as they get older. And they’re cute as can be!! Mom did a great job picking out their beautiful white dresses and shoes. They completely fit in with the beautiful decor of Dunvegan Keep where we had their Austin portrait session.

Thank you for a lovely time girls!

Last night as I crawled into bed, the side table light was on and Ryenne was passed out on my pillow. The lamp cast the perfect amount of light across Ryenne’s face.

Though she has her own room, she sneaks into my bed nightly. I really don’t mind. I have a great, big California King bed all to myself since Peter and I sleep at opposite times. I love the snuggles she gives me.

I love this little girl. I don’t give her nearly enough credit and praise for how wonderful she is. I love how she believes whole heartedly in magic. When there’s morning dew on the grass she is excited that fairies visited. She thinks that bird houses are fairy houses. She believes without any doubt that there is a Santa Claus and an Easter Bunny. Magic is alive within her – she is pure magic. I have no doubts she was dreaming of magic last night. My beautiful girl.

I challenged myself to think of goals I want to accomplish in 2011 for myself and for my business. Here’s what I came up with.

In keeping with the “sharing more personal images” goal – I thought I’d share with you my kiddos on Valentine’s Day. Barely edited – in all their sweetness.

The blog has been a little quiet. As you can see, Kai is wearing his Maui Built ALOHA shirt. I have been feeling homesick and a little sad. I have something big in the works for Maui. I’m working on it – stay tuned for the news.

She turned on the sass. For some reason she seemed so much older to me. I had such a hard time picking her picture for her cards to pass out to her classmates. This one isn’t “the one” for the card, but I love it so.

While it was wonderful seeing everyone, this day was also about raising funds for the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas and Austin Pets Alive – thank you to the families that donated generously! We raised over $160! This money will do a lot of good in our community – thank you again.

XOXO,

Mariah

Cruz took four steps today. I can’t believe it!

We were playing after the mini-sessions today and he stood up and stepped. I adore how proud he is of himself. I also adore how proud Peter is. Their faces are priceless!

Mark your calendars! January 29th I’m doing Valentine’s mini-sessions!

The fine print: These sessions are for children only and will take place in the afternoon at the Happy Cow Farm in South Austin (off of Brodie, south of Slaughter). You will receive a link to view your four proofs on January 31st. To receive your free set of wallets (eight of the same pose), and to receive discounts on print products, all orders must be placed by February 6, 2011. Orders placed after that time will be subject to shipping charges and billed at the regular rate. All photographic prints (excluding Canvas) are on sale for 50% off (for this event only). Press printed valentines cards are on sale for $50 per set of 25 (regularly $75). I have adorable V-Day designs to choose from that I will share in your viewing gallery. I am suggesting a $10 cash donation, however, leave it to your discretion. 100% of the donations from this event will be split between my two favorite charities: Austin Pets Alive and the Capital Area Food Bank.

To reserve your session, please E-MAIL me mariah@mariahmilan.com and note that you want availability for the Valentine’s Special on the 29th.

And the other big news???? My new logo is up…. but that’s not all…

The Dagupion ‘Ohana is heading home to MAUI

Join me on Maui for some awesome beach photography! We’ll be there July 27 to August 17th – no travel fees are added and I’ll be creating some very special session pricing for while we’re there.