Melanie Barrett Photography Blog

Baby Ashton---Santa Rosa Beach Photographer--photography

2012-01-29T18:35:00.000-08:00

Ashton was born almost two months early, and had a special condition in the womb. The little guy has undergone some procedures and surgery, has been poked and pricked and has thrived and is home now after 65 days in the NICU in Pensacola.
He will be three months old in a couple of days, and Momma and Daddy are proud to say that he is a bit over 9 pounds now, and is developing his own little personality. He is their little "peanut" and they know that God has awesome plans for his life.
God bless you Ashton!

Destin/Santa Rosa Beach--photography

2012-01-25T18:26:00.000-08:00

Julie and Tim own a local pet store in Santa Rosa Beach--Furry Fanatics--where they sell top of the line pet foods and cookies and pet accessories. They are a couple who relocated here from Atlanta, and opened the store over a year ago. When you meet them, you feel like you have found a long lost friend.
Last year they lost their beloved Gracie. While Gracie lives on in their hearts, I created a slideshow of her life for them to cherish.

Rest in peace, Gracie!

Help for aching muscles, etc....personal post

2012-01-20T18:54:00.000-08:00

I am all about learning of new things/ideas...new recipes, new editing programs, new photog tips, new closet design ideas (thanks Pinterest)...
So when I had a leg injury, I was ELATED to find something that worked...something that didn't involve prescription drug or surgery.

About a year ago I pulled something in my right thigh. All I did was lift my leg to tie my tennis shoe (to go jogging) and SNAP! Felt like a rubber band pop. It didn't really hurt right then...the only way I can describe it the first day or two was that it felt like I needed to stretch my thigh. Then, about the third day--WHAMO! I couldn't get out of the bed! I could not put weight on it, nor could I use crutches to keep my weight off it because it was excruciating to even bend it to keep it off the ground.
After a bit of bed rest and hobbling, I mentioned it to friends and someone recommended acupuncture. Well, I was all about holistic medicine, because, as I said before, there ain't no way (hehe) this gal was going to go under the knife, if that may have been the case. So off to acupuncture I went last February to Dr. Wu at Healing Arts in Miramar Beach.
After reading through his notebook of testimonials, boy was I impressed. Acupuncture really didn't hurt at all, and I believe it helped somewhat. But I only went for about a month, and then got so busy with photography that I didn't take the time to go anymore. Until this past October.
I have been going every week through present (with the exception of a couple of weeks over the holidays) and it continues to help...not as much pain. And by the way, my massage therapist and my husband's chiropractor both came up with what my problem must be....a strained IT band...google it, cause I had never heard of it!
But then.....TRUMPETS SOUNDING!!!! I mentioned my condition to my sweet neighbor Angie (a physical therapist assistant) just last weekend, and she said, "I can wrap it...I have some tape."
Well, I'm thinking, tape like an ace bandage. Wrong.

This tape is called Kinesio tape...according to the website kinesiotaping.com, ..."The Kinesio Taping® Method is a definitive rehabilitative taping technique that is designed to facilitate the body’s natural healing process while providing support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting the body’s range of motion as well as providing extended soft tissue manipulation..Kinesio® Tex Tape alleviates pain and facilitates lymphatic drainage by microscopically lifting the skin. This lifting affect forms convolutions in the skin thus increasing interstitial space and allowing for a decrease in inflammation of the affected areas."
Not sure what all that just meant, but I am a walking example that it works! There is less pain in a week than in a year of acupuncture!
So I googled the tape, and see pictures of how all sorts of athletes are being taped, runners are taped for marathons, and on and on. If anyone out there has arthritis, I would google to see if it would help that. And my friend Angie, well she said she tried it on back pain and it alleviated it within a day.

Kinesio Tex Tape

You can order it online and there are videos of the application on youtube. And there are colors choices...black, pink, blue and tan. I don't know...next time I think I'll be brave and go for the pink. Fashion statement!!

New Year, New Goals....personal

2012-01-19T15:38:00.000-08:00

I had lunch with a friend today whom I haven't had the chance to catch up with since before Christmas.

It seems both our worlds have been hectic, planning things to come in 2012. Mary Kay is an incredible jewelry designer who uses antique and vintage objects in her pieces.

We caught up on one anothers lives...and in our shared passion of everything BRAVO tv...Real Housewive of Beverly Hills (yes, Kim is a hot mess!), It's a Brad, Brad World, Real Housewives of Atlanta...well, you get the idea.

Then she and I discussed how we approach a new year. We both agreed that we don't make resolutions, but rather goals. That seems more attainable; more positive; more exciting that dreadful!

And reaching those goals for me, anyway, begins a week with a "to do" list, broken down in to such a list for each day. That helps to keep me focused, with my eyes on my goals, so as not to get distracted when I get a phone call or an email.

And that is how I roll...! :-)

Favorite things...personal...photographer Destin, Santa Rosa Beach

2012-01-09T11:52:00.000-08:00

These are a few of my favorite things...Every Christmas I pick up some unique items--either before or after Christmas at sales.

This year my favorites are---the battery powered tea lights. No worries about burning down the house!!! I bought these for $1 for a pack of three from Dollar Tree. I thought--dollar store--surely these won't work very well, if at all. But boy was I wrong!!! These state that they will burn for 60 hours, and I believe it!

There were a couple of nights that I forgot to turn off the switch, and they kept on going. After Christmas, I went back and bought some more, and put in storage for next year.

My other find was a pack of "Scent sticks" at Walmart. You hang these on your tree--whether real or artificial--and they have a scent of evergreen. They truly work. I found them in the Walmart in Destin, when I checked out in the garden scenter. They were hanging by the register

And my third favorite thing to use this Christmas was the ornament holders I found on sale last year at Target. Didn't see them this year, but keep on the look out in the future. These things are Amazing, and stay on the tree so well!!

Oh, and did I mention....I have bought so much wrapping paper on sale for 75% off in recent years (I didn't have to this year) that I don't have to buy wrapping paper for Christmas for the next three years, at least. Same with Christmas cards....even though I didn't sent out any this year!!! Got too busy!

Christmas 2011---personal, Santa Rosa Beach photographer

2012-01-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

As we welcomed in the new year, I knew it was time to put away Christmas 2011. Christmas is a favorite holiday for my husband and me, so we/I go all out with the decorations. It took me 2 weeks to get all my decorations in place, and about a week to put them away.
I have collected Santa Claus ornaments and statues for 25 years. Every year during that period, I have tried to find unique Santas, and mostly after Christmas at the sales!
Since Craig and I married 7 years ago, we began collecting nativity scenes and Christmas trees.

This year, I decided my collecting is pretty much over, seeing how we have run out of room to display things! Unless, of course, I find something at an after Christmas sale that I can't live without!!

Photographer--Destin, Santa Rosa Beach

2012-01-09T11:13:00.000-08:00

This family from Alabama has become friends over the last several years, after I photographed one of their daughter's weddings in 2008. They are near and dear to me, and I actually captured their togetherness on Christmas day!

Christmas family--Destin, Santa Rosa Beach photography

2012-01-09T10:45:00.000-08:00

Just a couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity to photograph one of the last sessions of 2011 with a sweet family from Kentucky. This was their first time to Destin, and they LOVED what they saw. The weather was wonderful, and there wasn't the huge amount of traffic that we usually have in the summer.

They have two beautiful daughters who looked gorgeous in their red on the beach!

Baby Portraits--Destin Photographer--Santa Rosa Beach Photographer

2011-11-21T18:38:00.000-08:00

Sweet little Audrey! You are so precious and quick to smile...we had no meltdown moments...just wardrobe changes and a magnificent personality for a little one not even a year old!

Destin photography, family photography, Santa Rosa Beach family photography, child photography

2011-11-16T20:31:00.000-08:00

What are little boys made of? Frogs and snails and puppy dog tails...that's what little boys are made of.

Or so goes the nursery rhyme...but I like to add: sand and surf and birds and water...how could little boys resist?

I just had to post this portion of a recent family sunset session with Cherie and Eric, and Paige and Aiden.
Aiden...you are such a boy's boy!!! And I LOVED how you just got down and dirty in the sand and the water---and no one got onto you! And the water was cold and so was the air!

Out of all the years and hundreds of children I have photographed, I don't think I have had one yet that had such a great time at the beach! Aiden, you are such a little man!

Sunset....Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach, Watercolor, Rosemary photography on 30A

2011-11-12T20:11:00.000-08:00

When I saw the clouds today, I knew that it would be a beautiful sunset...I guess that is just something that I have learned, as a photographer in this area. I watch the sky during the day, and I have learned how the day is going to end. It really happens as I have watched it.

Today was such a day...and I thank God for the masterpieces He creates every day.

Kathryn's senior session--slideshows, Destin, Panama City senior photos

2011-11-09T02:40:00.000-08:00

Kathryn is a beautiful young lady who recently came to the beach from Tennessee and she really was excited to get her senior portraits made here. Especially since she LOVES the beach so much!

Check out her slideshow, with music of her choice!

Sunset....Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach, Watercolor, Rosemary photography on 30A

2011-10-31T18:33:00.000-07:00

I knew when I took Marley out for an evening walk yesterday that the sunset was going to be special. As soon as I saw a hint on pink in the sky, I told Craig that we needed to get down to the beach for sunset.
I even knew it when I walked out of church service after noon on Sunday. There is something about the clouds and how they form in the sky that clues me in on how the sunset will wrap up. It's nothing psychic...it's just a matter of experience in watching the sunsets here over the past 18 years. I just have gotten used to what the sky does.
And what it does is never disappoint me. I never fail to be amazed and appreciative of watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico. Thank you God for your amazing palette!
:-)

Melanie

Destin photography, Maternity, family photography

2011-10-26T18:41:00.000-07:00

Alisha, Justin and little Aubry visited Destin and were anxiously awaiting the birth of baby brother!

The Tennessee family were looking forward to the arrival of their little boy, and I bet Aubry will be a great "big" sister! She was just a doll, as I captured her candid photos.

Family beach portraits...Destin, Santa Rosa Beach...business

2011-09-29T18:27:00.000-07:00

Beth and her husband and their two daughters and their husbands traveled to the area for some early fall R&R...She has a lovely family, and the most fun part of the session was getting to spend time with 8-month-old Nolan, her only grandchild...But she does have another on the way.
Have to say...love me some babies...especially babies in buckets!
:-)

Melanie

Life between the dash. Personal

2011-09-25T19:05:00.000-07:00

I have been out of town all week attending a video seminar in Orlando. This marks a year since I decided to branch out into videography in addition to my photography business. I specifically will be offering high end video for weddings along the Emerald Coast, including Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Seaside, Rosemary and destinations in-between. I have been considering this--along with my husband's urging and support--for quite some time. My background is in television...I once was a reporter/videographer/producer after college graduation, at stations in Panama City, and south Alabama.

1985-2011
When I returned, my husband left to travel to Jacksonville, FL, to attend the funeral of a family friend. The young man was only 26 when a vehicle accident left him in a coma for many weeks...unfortunately he never recovered.
My husband described to me the service, and one part that really made an impact on me was a poem he said was read. It is called The Dash, and it was written by Linda Ellis.
It speaks of a memorial to a person deceased, and the dates listed on the tombstone...The date of birth, separated from the date of death...by a dash.
The poem explains that the most important part of a person's live is lived in the dash...the time only friends and loved ones know how that person has lived. Material things don't matter, as we should all learn. It is only important of the person we are to ourselves and our loved ones. We need to slow down, love and be considerate of others.
As my husband said others described this young man's life--and even how my husband knew him, I just imagine Jordan would have been proud of the way his friends described how he spent his dash.
You never know how much time you have on this earth. Do things to make your dash a wonderful legacy.
Melanie

Telah & Casey and a night of karoke...Destin weddings

2011-09-17T14:30:00.000-07:00

Three years ago Telah and a friend decided to go to karaoke...little did she know that there would be the place she would meet her future husband! A self-proclaimed lipgloss freak (!), Telah was applying some of the shiny stuff, when Casey happened to walk by. As he did--seeing her putting the gloss on her lips--he puckered up in the air. Well, Telah just thought that was the appropriate time to lay some smack on him! And that she did!
That peck led Casey to later take Telah and her friend out to breakfast...the rest is history, and they were married on the beach in Destin/Okaloosa Island on 9-10-11.
You two are such a beautiful couple, and Telah, it is obvious that Casey is so in love with you. I could see it as I stood snapping photos of your wedding.
You two will make some pretty babies!!!
God Bless!
:-)
Melanie

Telah & Casey, 9-10-11

2011-09-17T14:22:00.000-07:00

Telah and Casey were married last Saturday during a beautiful ceremony on the beach on Okaloosa Island, complete with a sand unity ceremony.
Here is a slideshow of their day...pics will follow in the next post.
Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Robison!
:-)
Melanie

Ann Marie & Kenny*****30A weddings

2011-09-09T20:42:00.000-07:00

Ann Marie and Kenny knew each other in high school, and then reconnected just more than a year ago...
That's when they realized that fate had set itself on their lives, and they were meant to be...they go married just a few days before they came to the beach; with friends gathered who had no idea what was happening..it was just supposed to be a send off for the couple! But Kenny and Ann Marie knew what was going on, and they love the surprise they had for their friends! Once they got to the beach, they knew they wanted pictures there...to celebrate their love.
They are such a beautiful couple, and her wedding bouquet was...OMG! She had brooches and pins from days gone by....a bumble bee pin that her father had given her mother when they were in the 2nd grade....and then there were others from both of her grandmothers....but most important, that touched my heart...Ann Marie's dad's wedding ring pinned to her bouquet. You see, he had died when she was just 10 years old...
Ann Marie, do you know how GORGE you are? Thanks for letting me be a part of your lives!!
:-)

Melanie

Jotta A.-Agnus Dei - Programa Raul Gil

2011-08-23T12:32:00.000-07:00

This is an amazingly talented little boy and his rendition of the song gives me goose bumps! Had to share...
:-)

Destin Photography-A starfish engagement

2011-08-20T19:14:00.000-07:00

Don called me about two weeks ago to discuss a photo session he wanted to have with Kelly, when they arrived in town for their vacation from Tennessee. But extra special was this session to be, because Don told me he wanted to propose to Kelly. They had been dating for more than a year, and though they had both been married previously and had grown children, he still wanted it to be special. I was so excited to be in on the secret, I actually got butterflies when we were on the shoot. He had told me he was nervous, so I guess it was contagious!! Anyway, I came up with the idea that I would bring along a starfish as a prop, and then when Kelly wasn't looking, he would place the ring on the starfish and propose.
And it worked!! Thanks guys for letting me be in on such an intimate moment!
:-)

Melanie

High school senior photographers in Destin

2011-08-11T14:11:00.000-07:00

Katy is excited to be entering her senior year, and as a cheerleader she will be VERY busy this year!!

When her family decided to take their vacation in Destin this year--from Missouri--her mom thought it would be a great idea to have her senior photo session while they were at the beach. We all had a great time, and Katy and her mom are just great to be around...Good luck in your future, Katy!

Destin Photography

2011-07-14T15:07:00.001-07:00

Heading out for a session a bit early because it looks like rain is heading our way!!!
:)
Melanie

Destin High School Senior Photographer

2011-07-01T19:07:00.000-07:00

Hayley was the third of out-of-state high school seniors to travel to the Emerald Coast this week for family vacation. And while they were here, she had planned out that she wanted to be different from her peers back home in Oklahoma, and have HER senior pics made at the BEACH. Even though it was hot, hot, hot out on the beach, we got some great pictures of this pretty young lady. And even the local lifeguards participated!

Little Ones...Photography Post for Destin, Florida photographers

2011-06-03T21:06:00.000-07:00

My connection with people is what I attribute to my success as a family/children photographer. I have approximately 200 portrait sessions a year, and 99% of them are environmental sessions....meaning we meet outside for the photo shoot. And, of course, being a tourist destination, most all of you want your pictures taken at the beach!
Of those sessions, most all are of families--versus, say, couples (although I love being with the "big kids" too! :)
And within those families are several children each. So needless to say I photograph hundreds of children a year. And with all that experience under my belt, I can pretty much tell what is going to go down on a photo session.
There have been many times when I meet up with the families and one or more of the children are shy, crying or don't want to have anything to do with me whatsoever....but it never ends like that. I always have success in winning the little ones over. Most important, I believe, is due to the fact that I am VERY patient with them. And I try to build them up: "You're so handsome....look how pretty you are; you look like a princess..."etc.
You see, they are just little people, and they have feelings too. So I make it my goal to have everyone involved in the session experience a good time. And we have laughs before it is all over.
A couple of things I have learned over the years:
*When on the beach, little boys ALWAYS put their hands in the sand when I have them sitting for a pose...ALWAYS!
*I will always take the posed pictures first...then, I just let the little ones do what they do--be themselves. They are playing and having fun and I am shooting away. Parents are always pleased with the results.
*Children always make the cutest, funniest faces when I don't even ask for it.
*I guess my background/training as a journalist/photojournalist has me always looking for that unique moment, when I can snap away!
*When there are many people/multiple families in the photo session, just let me be the focus when photographing the children. I find that the little ones especially, tend to be overstimulated when there are four or five adults in different places behind me trying to get their attention. That oftens winds up in a teary session for the child! If parents will turn away, and just talk amongst themselves, I quickly grab that child's attention and get some great candid shots!
Just always know that I treat your children as I would my own. I have fun with them; they have fun with the beach session. And that results in happy children and happy parents!

:) Melanie

Time Flies...Destin, Santa Rosa Beach--personal post

2011-06-01T14:44:00.000-07:00

Oh, shame on me!! It has been about six weeks since I last posted! But here is why: WE MOVED!! I am still unpacking boxes and still have some furniture in storage and still don't know where a lot of things are!
We finally finished building our dream house in Santa Rosa Beach. For those of you who don't know where that is, it's about 30 minutes or so east of Destin, past Sandestin. We live off 30A, which is a county road that runs through the beach communities of Dune Allen, Santa Rosa, Blue Mountain, Grayton, Watercolor, Seaside, Seagrove, Seacrest, Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach--parallel to Hwy 98.
It definitely is a different life out here. We moved from Fort Walton Beach, and prior to that, I had lived in Destin since 1993.
We live in a two-story house built on stilts...we describe it as a "rivercamp" house. It's not really like the beach houses out his way, like at Seaside and some others. Behind our lot is a state forest that encompasses thousands of miles. People mountain bike, hike and hunt out there. And yes, there's bears in them thar woods! And coyotes!!
Our carpenter is still with us, working upstairs to finish that out, so we can finally move the rest of our furniture out of storage into where it belongs! He had to finish laying the hardwood floors and trim, and now is working to complete our bathrooms. We wanted to go ahead and move it once the downstairs was complete, so we didn't have to wait any longer.
All during this time, I still have had weddings and portrait sessions to focus on. So while I have been shooting and editing and unpacking, I have let my blogging go to the wayside.
But now, I will play catch up.
In the meantime, I try to get in my exercise along 30A. This is a very active community. There is a wonderful bike path that invites joggers and cyclists every morning and evening; and it is very pet friendly with doggies on the bike paths with their owners and also on the beach. Property owners out here in Walton County can pay to have beach permits for their dogs. Just this morning Marley and I went for a bike ride to the beach, which takes 5 minutes. And then we went for a jog on the beach for about 30 minutes or so. By the way, I sure can tell summer is almost here...it is HOT!!!
At night my husband, Craig, and I like to sit out on our porch (his man cave) and watch tv and listen to the frogs and sometimes, whiporwills. And if it's really windy out at night, we can even hear the waves crashing at the beach 7 blocks away.
Life is good.

Jones & Jade...photography

2011-04-13T15:44:00.000-07:00

I couldn't leave Jones out of the blog, since he was such a big part of the photo session. I mean, he was the one fetching the stick...and hopping through the water like a kangaroo. And stalking the heron.
Here ya go Jonesy!

<3 Melanie

Jade & Jones(y)...photography

2011-04-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

I met Summer at PAWS (Panhandle Animal Welfare Society) a couple of weeks ago when she assisted me in photographing the doggies and kitties for their website/facebook pictures. And let me tell you. That is one BIG job. When it comes to the dogs, someone has to go back to the kennels and get the dog out without all his kennelmates getting out. It's actually funny and chaotic, all mixed in one. After the session, Summer asked me about doing a session with her Dobermans--Jade and Jones. It was important to Summer, in particular, because Jade has cancer and it has spread throughout her body.
Summer, who serves our country, already had two-year-old Jones when she came across the urgent story of Jade on the internet. A friend on Facebook had cross-posted a cry out for help for a 10 year old female Doberman, who had been used for breeding purposes all of her life, and who was about to be euthanized at an Atlanta shelter the next day since she had cancer. It seems that her breeders had no further use for her. They just dropped her off at the shelter.
Summer--being the soft-hearted animal lover that she is--contacted the shelter. Two months later and Jade has adjusted to her new family. With total love.
Thanks Summer for being the good person you are. And thanks Jonesy, for being Jade's brother. And you Jade? May you continue to live out your doggie days in peace and happiness!
<3 Melanie

Nadine and Steven's e-session. Photography.

2011-04-11T18:43:00.000-07:00

Nadine and Steven met three years ago in north Alabama, and so they choice their anniversary of meeting to come to the beach for their anniversary. They will exchange their vows in Destin in the fall. They met through a mutual friend, and Steven was not impressed with the lack of puncuality of Nadine and her friend that first night!! This is a couple who love to laugh...and it was evident during the session. She works in government contracts and he is a genetic engineer. How cool is that?! Nadine says he doesn't look that smart! :) All kidding aside, she said he works to determine the makeup of diseases like cancer, Parkinson's, etc., and turn off the switch.
Congratulations to you two, and I was honored to participate in your love!

<3 Melanie

Tricia and Albert's wedding

2011-04-10T15:40:00.000-07:00

Tricia and Albert's wedding

I had a great time with Tricia and Albert and their family and friends yesterday capturing their wedding. Tricia, I don't know if you realize it, but you were an absolutely beautiful bride! Albert looked handsome, waiting in the foyer as Tricia and her bridesmaids got ready in a back room. He was a bit nervous, he admitted to me when I asked. The mass was a special part of the ceremony, and the entire wedding included family in some parts.

Afterward, I saw what fun the bridal party was, when we traveled to several locations around the area and I got to see true colors emerge!

Thanks for choosing me for your wedding day photography coverage. I am very honored. I know your marriage will last forever. Tricia's dad said it best, when describing how they compliment each other, comparing their relationship to how a car works. She is the accelerator. He is the brake. You can't have one without the other.

<3 Melanie

A Blended Wedding...photography

2011-04-09T09:30:00.000-07:00

Two beautiful heritages will blend together today when Tricia and Albert tie the knot! She is of Indian descent, and his family is Mexican. They met a couple of years ago at Starbucks, when he got up the nerve to talk to her. A long time. And now, this afternoon at Christ Our Redeemer Catholic Church in Niceville, they will say their vows in front of family and friends. Thursday evening they had rehearsal and wore traditional Indian attire to honor Tricia's family roots. The children who will be in the wedding party were adorable and I can't wait to see how they act during the wedding! You never know with the kiddies. It was good to see Father Roy, whom I have know for almost 20 years when he first came to Resurrection Catholic in Miramar Beach.
Congratulations in advance Tricia and Albert. Thank you for the honor of capturing the moments of your special day!

<3 Melanie

Williams family....photography

2011-03-31T19:04:00.000-07:00

It's been about a week since I last posted...shame on me! However, I have been busy getting ready to move in two weeks into our new house. At least that's my story and I'm sticking to it! :)
Really though, it is the time of year when clients come out of the woodwork for weddings and beach photography sessions. I think people are really ready to get to the beach this year, since the news media last year jumped on the oil spill and made it seem awful in this area, when really it wasn't.
Last Friday I had the opportunity to spend time with the Williams family from Montgomery, AL. They have a second home here, and come down about every other weekend. I don't blame them. If I didn't live here, I certainly would want to come every chance I got.
They are a fun family, who obviously love each other. And I'm blessed that I had the opportunity to meet them and share in their love...

<3 Melanie

Cutie patootie! Photography post

2011-03-24T20:46:00.000-07:00

I have the amazing opportunity to photograph some wonderful families who either live here, or vacation here! And within those familes are some adorable little ones. Last night I got to capture one of those...:) And she was SO happy to have her picture taken!!

Tech Tuesday...and Marley. personal post

2011-03-22T16:23:00.000-07:00

Well, today was my first official "Tech Tuesday." I have decided to set aside one day a week to do all things technical that have to do with my business. And if I do not schedule it on my calendar, it will not get done.
There are so many things I need to do behind the scenes of my business, and most of the time they are easily pushed aside. Like weekly refreshing my website, keeping new content there and adding more pictures, etc., not only for potential clients, but also for Google to find. That way I am able to rank higher in searches. And that is how my out-of-state clients find me.
There are other things I want to do, that I seldom take time for: checking on Twitter throughout the day and clicking on the links of other photographers and wedding industry leaders to see what information they have. And since I have begun using Twitter daily, I have learned things from a lot of people. I would encourage anyone to set up a Twitter account, and begin following people in your industry, or your interest topics. Some photographers across the country may post on Twitter a link that might take me to their website or blog where they have information on a unique way of lighting a wedding reception, or something like that. Now on Tuesdays I will make myself spend time reading just things of this nature.

But today, after I had spent several hours on the computer, I had to break away. I took Marley on a long walk. And she got to go swimming for the first time this year!

Horses in Heaven!! Personal post.

2011-03-19T20:27:00.000-07:00

I was SO excited to find that there are horses, less than a mile from our new house. Gulfside Trail Rides is located on 393 in Santa Rosa Beach. They offer guided tours through the woods, and also board horses. Their stables are awesome...And they are nice people!! Cross the street to go to the beach. Go behind the house to ride horses...Hmmmmm...which to do first?

House progress...personal blog

2011-03-19T20:06:00.000-07:00

Today we went by to check on the progress of our cabinets..which are being built by a carpenter in Fort Walton Beach..and being constructed of cypress...that is 100 years old...where it has been sitting in the Choctawhatchee River. Craig showed me the pile of wood that is going to be our countertops. Can't wait to see the finished product!!

Work continues at the new house...personal blog

2011-03-19T20:02:00.000-07:00

Every weekend we go out to our new house--which we plan on moving to in a month--and do some sort of work there. Today it was stripping the antique doors we are using in the house. I know. Fun, fun!! Everyone else was soaking up rays at the beach.. :(

Personal blog

2011-03-19T19:57:00.000-07:00

This may not be much...but when you are building a house...any inspection that is passed...is a huge goal attained!!

Some shopping...and time with a friend. Personal post

2011-03-16T20:10:00.000-07:00

I began the day with picking up a friend in Ft. Walton who needed a ride out to Santa Rosa Beach to pick up her car. That was fine with me, because I had an appointment in Destin at 10 anyway.
She wanted to see the progress of the house, since she hadn't seen it in a couple of weeks. We make the tour...see the pine flooring, the brick walls in the kitchen, and the lighting fixtures and fans that have been installed. As I said in an earlier post, The pecky cypress walls in the den, and the floors both came from a sawmill in Bruce, FL, just north of here about 45 minutes or so. The were made from trees that were over 100 years old and came from the local Choctawhatchee River. Craig found them doing research and I am so proud of him/them!!
After the tour, I dropped her off, and headed back to Ft. Walton. I didn't get far down the road when she called and said her clutch had gone out. So I turned around and picked her up. The tow truck was coming from Panama City and would be an hour to arrive. We decided to go to lunch at P.F. Chang's, about 1/2 mile down the road to give the driver time.
While there, my friend received a phone call from the tow company saying the tow truck had broken down, and now another one was coming...about another hour and a half. By now I was laughing!!!
I mean, who has that luck??? Or lack thereof??

We go back to her car after lunch, hid the key with the car, and head back to Fort Walton.
The tow truck got there about 4:30 and picked up her car, to drop it off at a mechanic in Destin.
My friend was very appreciative that I had put aside my work day to help her, and I was glad that I could!
My point is, if you have a friend in need and can help them, it will always make you feel good to do so.
Then Craig and I ended our day with a trip to Lowe's--our home away from home, now that we are finishing up our house--to buy our hot water heaters!!

PAWS flyer

2011-03-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

Tricia, the executive director of Humane Services over at PAWS, the local animal shelter in Fort Walton Beach, emailed me their latest flyer. I had a great time capturing the furbabies pretty faces during last week's photo shoot. The flyer is being sent out to 55,000 households in hopes of boosting doggie and kitty adoptions. Kudos to Debbie Gent of Dragonfly Graphics for the AMAZING design work.

Melanie Barrett Photography--photography

2011-03-03T19:26:00.000-08:00

Hayden is a beautiful, classy young lady who is a senior and cheerleader at Crestview High School, who has her sites set on Tallahassee Community College. We had a fun time this beautiful spring-like afternoon for her senior session. Good luck to you pretty girl! I know her parents are proud of her!!

Melanie Barrett Photography...personal

2011-03-03T18:49:00.000-08:00

Every couple of weeks I go over to Fort Walton's animal shelter, Panhandle Animal Welfare Society--PAWS--to take pictures of the most recent adoptees they have. Every time they just seem to get cuter. I love the time I spend there, to be able to show their personalities in photos! And it gives me a chance to get to love on them! Thanks Shannon and Renee for your help in wrangling the doggies!

Our house

2011-03-02T15:39:00.001-08:00

As many of you know, we are currently building a home in Santa Rosa Beach, not far from Seaside, just on the north side of county road 30A. And we have been building it for quite some time!! But we have remained faithful, and we are now coming to the end of the process. I wanted to show some recent pictures. Will update this weekend, as the pine floors and brick for the kitchen walls have been delivered, and more interior lights have been installed.

Justin Bieber

2011-02-23T19:48:00.000-08:00

Okay, I admit it...I took in a matinee today and saw "Never Say Never," Justin Bieber's documentary. Don't be a hater! :} It was a really good show, and believe me, I am old enough to be his mom. What a great story of empowerment for any kid. He kept going even when he was told no, again and again. It's a good example of never quiting, for any young person. He was found after putting his homemade videos on YOUTUBE AT THE AGE OF 12...Scooter Braun found him in 2008, and arranged for him to meet Usher, in Atlanta. He then acquired a recording contract with Island Records by L.A. Reid.

According to the movie, he visited schools and radio stations to get his name out. And used viral marketing via twitter to drive his claim to fame...His mom and dad had him at young ages, and he was the product of a single mom, and her parents. Then he saw Taylor Swift a year ago, at Madison Square Garden...and decided that he would be there a year later...He sold out that venue of 20,000 in 22 minutes. He seems to have a great team behind him...They pray before every concert. How can you not admire him?

Personal Post-President Reagan

2011-02-07T17:28:00.000-08:00

Wow! I missed it yesterday, that President Reagan would have been 100 years old. So I am offering a memory to him today, and in awe that I actually got to see him in person. It was back in July of 1986, when he came to Dothan, Alabama, as part of his grassroots tour across the U.S. to speak in favor of his tax cuts. I was a reporter for the Montgomery (AL) Advertiser--covering the southeastern portion of the state. My now 24-year-old son was there too, but only in my belly!!

How many people can say that they got to hear a president speak? I was blessed!!

Christmas 1962--Personal post

2011-02-01T19:05:00.001-08:00

Back before Christmas, I asked my mom if she would like for me to have her old films transferred to DVD. Of course she said yes. I found an AMAZING company online--imemories.com--and boxed up the films and shipped them off. I heard back from the company that they had received the box. You pay up front for them to process each film roll. Then today I finally received an email letting me know the transferring was complete, so I have had a bit of nostalgia as I have taken a peek into days long ago. I have seen Christmases with my brother, and with other relatives. It's great to see my dad, my mom's sister and her husband, and both sets of grandparents, who all are in Heaven now. If you want to give your parents a special gift, check out imemories.com

Personal

2011-01-28T14:56:00.000-08:00

I just can't help it. When I am working on the computer, Marley makes herself cozy! She is too cute!!

Tricia and Albert's slideshow

2011-01-26T16:52:00.000-08:00

Now presenting Tricia and Albert's engagement session---set to music! We had a fun time walking around the beach, and stopping for shoots here and there. Here is their slideshow, set to the music of their choice. Congratulations you guys!! April will be here around the corner!

Tricia and Albert

2011-01-25T18:15:00.000-08:00

Just about a year and a half ago, Albert got the nerve to go up to Tricia at Starbucks in Fort Walton, and asked her if she had room at her table...Good for him!! They stayed there and talked for 4 or 5 hours, and the rest is history. They became engaged in September 2010, and their wedding is in April. So excited for you guys!! Check the blog out later this week for a slideshow of their e session.

Alison and Jordan

2011-01-21T15:05:00.001-08:00

A month or so ago I posted pictures from Alison and Jordan's engagement session, near Panama City Beach. They are such a cute couple, and have waited quite a while--through previous relationships--to be together. And now, after about a year of being engaged, they will marry in June. Yes, Jordan was patient, and he will be rewarded for that. Here is a video/slideshow of their session. God Bless you two, and thank you for letting me share in your bliss!! :)

Adoptive animals at PAWS

2011-01-20T15:02:00.001-08:00

This was one of the weeks that I gathered a couple of friends/volunteers to help wrangle the kitties and doggies from their cages to the photography backdrop for the animals to put on their best faces to be seen by everyone who is searching for a rescue from Panhandle Animal Welfare Society in Fort Walton Beach. The beauties appear on the PAWS website and their facebook, in hopes of finding their furever families. It is a lot of work--especially getting the many dogs out of their kennels while keeping the others from getting out! But we always get laughs out of the sessions--like when Marley kept escaping from us with her football, running around the play area! Thanks so much Shannon and Martha for your help...couldn't do it without you!

Personal post

2011-01-12T19:51:00.000-08:00

My grandson, Noah, playing tug-of-war with Marley...or trying to!

Personal blog

2011-01-12T19:34:00.000-08:00

Who says that the laser light is only for the cats!

Personal blog

2011-01-12T19:02:00.000-08:00

Just getting around to posting some vid clips of Christmas with my son, Dustin and his wife, Joy and son, Noah, on New Year's Day...always knew Noah was a cool baby...he likes to hang out in the freezer!

Molly & Shonna

2011-01-12T13:14:00.000-08:00

Two cute girls who are seniors at Niceville High School kept me on my toes for their recent session! They were full of energy, photogenic, and always laughing...BFFs, Shonna has the longer hair of the two. They both have goals to attend college. Like my dad always said, "you know what's sillier than a teenage girl? Two teenage girls!!"

Lauren and Jamison

2011-01-05T18:31:00.000-08:00

Lauren and Jamison met 4 years ago at the University of Tennessee, Memphis...They had no idea that several years later, they would become engaged. Lauren remembers that, about a year ago, Jamison took her to look at several houses that they were considering buying. And that special house--her favorite-just happened to be the special one. He got down on one knee, and she told him not to do so...she kinda freaked out. But then when she knew he was serious, she said yes. And that house is theirs today, and they have been renovating it. Lauren is in law school, and took enough time to get married on New Year's Day in Seagrove. At a house on the beach. In the middle of the pouring rain. Thank goodness there was a backup plan! :)

Adoptive animals

2011-01-04T19:18:00.000-08:00

Here is a video slideshow from my most recent photo shoot at Panhandle Animal Welfare Society in Fort Walton Beach...Enjoy!!

Panhandle Animal Welfare Society

2010-12-15T14:49:00.000-08:00

With the most recent photo shoot for the PAWS doggies and kitties, I created a slideshow for everyone to enjoy!

Bailey's slideshow

2010-12-01T16:23:00.000-08:00

As promised, here is the slideshow I created for Bailey with her portrait session.

Beautiful Bailey

2010-12-01T16:12:00.000-08:00

Here is a sneak peek at Bailey's recent portrait session. She is a very involved high school student in Fort Walton Beach, at Choctaw, and was FINALLY able to take a break to have her portraits made. Bailey is editor of the school newspaper, among other social activities.

My mom's 80th

2010-11-29T15:46:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday mom...it's your 80th...kick off your shoes and dance a little! Anyway, I created this slideshow for her...just a look into her life.

The Dowds

2010-11-20T19:57:00.000-08:00

Had sooo much fun with the Dowd family. They come back every year for pictures, to remind them of how their girls have grown!! Chelsea and Lacey are a mess, and I told their parents that they are in for trouble in the future!!! They are two beautiful young ladies, who like to show off their cheerleading skills on a regular basis!!

Why I help PAWS

2010-11-17T16:52:00.000-08:00

PAWS---Panhandle Animal Welfare Society--is our local animal shelter in Fort Walton Beach. Who doesn't love a cute doggie or kittie? I have to give kudos to Tricia, who is the director of the shelter and does ALL she can to get the homeless placed, and Dee, who heads up animal control--where the officers go out on a daily basis and pick up strays or neglected animals.

Why do I give of my time to photograph the animals every few weeks for PAWS' Facebook and website? I love my photography business, and well, I LOVE animals...From the time when I lived in Orlando at a young age and used to bring home fallen birds and ducks walking down the street!

My husband says that if I was an animal control officer I would probably be arrested---for punishing those who have been cruel to the animals!! I admire you guys who can do that!

Anyway, in April of this year, I decided that a good fundraiser would be to hold a community yard sale at the Fairgrounds in Fort Walton Beach. We solicited donations and made a bunch of money for PAWS--the most of any fundraiser they have held. So, I said, let's do it again in the fall.

Hence, we are in the midst of organizing and pricing the items for Saturday's yard sale (7-1 p.m.), which I am SPEAKING will be bigger than the one in April.

Why do I put my business on hold for a week twice a year for the animals? (Well, I have to spend the time catching up at night until late, fulfilling print orders and doing edits for family portrait sessions. Thanks hubby, for understanding! :)

It's all in memory of Deebo, my son's pit bull.

You see, Deebo was killed in the line of duty three years ago, at the ripe ol' age of 3. The line of duty he was carrying out was chasing a cat up a tree, after my son let him outside to use the bathroom. Still, to this day, I can hear my son's voice over the phone, crying to me that Deebo had been shot...Sweet Deebo, who wouldn't hurt a flea. Who literally smiled at you when he came walking toward you. He just ran into the wrong yard, doing what dogs do--chase cats-- and the neighbor kid came outside and shot Deebo in the side as he was running away.

The 20-something kid chased Deebo home, and yelled something to my son like, "be glad I only shot him with a .22." The kid's aim was good...he happened to get Deebo in the lung and he bled to death.

Dee and Mary at PAWS tried their best to have the kid prosecuted, but he claimed that he shot Deebo in self-defense. Who is a state's attorney to believe--a person, or a misunderstood breed?

Anyway, it is in Deebo's memory that I put my business aside every couple of weeks, and now, twice a year, to try and help the homeless doggies and kitties out there. Thanks in advance for helping! I will NEVER forget you Deebo!

Cloudy fall skies

2010-10-31T19:30:00.000-07:00

When I saw the cloudy skies today, I knew what the outcome would be at sunset. Have had WAY too many family portrait sessions on the beach at sunset over the years...and I love them all!

Nicole and Kyle's 10th anniversary

2010-10-23T19:37:00.000-07:00

Nicole and Kyle traveled from Louisiana to Destin to celebrate their 10th anniversary...it was a beautiful October sunset, as usual, and they had a good time; with Nicole constantly thanking her husband for posing for the pictures! She is a beautiful lady; a natural model...so he should have had no problem agreeing to the pictures for his wonderful wife of 10!

Story continued

2010-10-20T19:31:00.001-07:00

Posted here are Carol and Scott.

The doctors have told McShane that he is terminal, and in his last stages of cancer. I refuse to believe the doctors, because I know the Great Physician. We will only speak words of life over McShane.

In the meantime, Carol's wish is to have her home remodeled by Extreme Home Makeover, and that is why I videotaped her message today. In Holly's honor, she would like to have a handicapped accessible home to offer families of children at St. Jude, where they could come and have a stress-free vacation at the beach, or to live there, if only for a moment, like McShane and his mom. But improvements need to be made. And Carol dreams of having a small, mother-in-law suite built on-site, next to the house, where she and Scott could live while they give up their home to a family in need.

All I can do is put together a video and application with pictures to Extreme Home Makeover...What can you do?

God Bless.

Holly continued

2010-10-20T19:17:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, Holly's mom, Carol, called me on the first anniversary of Holly being in Heaven. She wanted to thank me for all that I had done for her only daughter. I felt blessed, and told her so. She then continued to tell me that she had opened her home to another St. Jude family, and was contemplating applying to Extreme Makeover, Home Edition, to see if they would consider revamping her home in Crystal Beach.

The request was not selfish. No, very far from selfish. I told Carol that I would be more than happy to video the application for her. She said she had not even thought about me doing that, but was very grateful.

Now we will get to the second family blessed.

When Carol and her son, Scott, were at St. Jude's during Holly's treatment, they met McShane and his mom, Hope. McShane, 15, was undergoing treatment for cancer that caused tumors throughout his body. Last year he was diagnosed, and as a result, lost a leg and now wears a prosthetic. Posted here are McShane and Hope.

McShane's parents are divorced, and due to financial issues, were planning to live in Cantonment in an RV park. Carol invited them to visit her home in Crystal Beach. Once they came, she told them they didn't have to leave. She said they could live in her house. She had no idea where she and 12-year-old Scott would live...she didn't worry though, she trusted God.

Who does that? Who offers up their home for someone to live in, when they don't even know where they will live?

Since then, Carol and Scott have been like nomads, she told me, moving from friends' garage apartments here and there.

Blessings

2010-10-20T19:06:00.000-07:00

Sometimes God sends people into your life for you to bless, or for them to be a blessing to you...today, I was blessed.

I met Holly last year when I photographed her senior portraits...we went to the beach near her house, then on to some other locations. Her fiance', Kyle, accompanied us. I knew then that Holly had been diagnosed with cancer, and had had several operations, and was soon to return to St. Jude in Memphis.

I kept in touch via email, with her mom, Carol. At one point, she told me that Holly and Kyle were going to be married at a plantation in the south. A foundation was going to pay for her to go there, and for the wedding. I quickly got online and found a photographer there and asked if he would donate his time for her wedding coverage. He graciously accepted the request.

Then, not long before their nuptials, Holly passed away.

Here is the video slideshow I did for Holly's senior pics last year. Then I will continue.

Lacey's maternity session

2010-10-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

North Alabama family

2010-10-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

I so enjoy October at the beach. The sunsets are always gorgeous, and the water is a beautiful color during the last hour of the day's glow. I had the opportunity to finish this day with Latham and John and their three gorgeous daughters. They are such a beautiful family, and I just loved spending the time with them and their girls! Enjoy a sneak peek...

Sigh...

2010-10-04T15:52:00.000-07:00

Close your eyes for a moment and think about the love that makes you sigh. I not only find it in the arms of my loved ones, but in the caress of a sunset, the kiss of the moonlight and the gentle brush of cool air on a hot day. They are the sighs of God. Take the time to stop and listen; you will be surprised at what you hear. Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Hayes twins

2010-09-24T20:17:00.000-07:00

Laurel and Larken are the one-year-old blessings to their family. Had a great time enjoying a beautiful sunset with them and their parents...Gotta love that red hair!!

A Senior Session

2010-09-20T16:54:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous Amber is a local senior, who could easily be a professional model! Here is a sneak peek of her session today...

Barnes family

2010-09-17T19:52:00.000-07:00

I loved meeting Norma and her family...2-year-old Brooke is a doll, though a bit apprehensive...but she warmed up to me after a while!

Parker

2010-09-15T20:13:00.001-07:00

Not often do I have a family with a toddler who knows how to smile on command!! :)

Alice and Drew have trained Parker how to do so... but he is so adorable, who cares if he smiles!!