Photography: Baby bump in Portland

I'm trying to develop my photography skills. I am trying to go beyond Instagram... daring I know. I love instagram, by the way.  I just want to learn how to use a real camera. Aperture, Depth of field, Shutter speed, etc. 

I'm looking for some basic classes, and I have found a few places that offer them. Pro Photo has some, PNCA has continuing education classes and also New Space has some too. I just need to pick one. I'm very excited to start this new chapter of my life!

Before I left I took some maternity pictures for my friend Jenn, who is due very soon. See above. I was happy with the light in that picture and she looks like such a beauty with her bump. So stunning. Maternity pictures are so gentle and sweet.

This week, my friend Vita was in town visiting her sister for the Persian Naw Ruz celebration. I took some bump pics of here when she was over at my apartment having a chat. I love bump pictures. There is something quite intimate and feminine about them. My computer is still in transit so I couldn't do any post production on this (the wrinkle on the bump!) But I love the colors and the shadow. 

I can't wait to learn how to use my camera properly! 

Ps. A short Marmite update: I ordered some from Amazon for a staggering $11.66. It arrived this afternoon. I am so happy.

Friend Interview. Frinterview.

Moving to Portland and not knowing a soul is a bit intimidating. But it didn't stop me. I figured I would meet people and stay in touch with friends separated by distance.

My experience is that everyone knows someone in the Pacific Northwest. Some people know people in Portland. They are all always very happy to connect you. This morning I met this wonderful Portland based photographer Ashley Forrette. We had a long chat over a cup of earl grey tea. She stumbled into photography as a hobby and now is a full-time photographer based in Portland. I love her images, they are so light kissed and happy.

She told me about a number of exiting creative happenings around Portland that I am excited to check out. The Portland Art Museum hosts free lectures by photographers, gallerists, historians, curators, and collectors every month. You bring a lunch and meet interesting people. It's a winning combo if you ask me!