Who doesn't love a sale?

 For those who know, I have an Etsy shop. In it, I keep digital items that can be printed or used on a digital medium. 

Currently, I am featuring some planner pages. They are cute and functional to go along with a notebook or to print out and put on the fridge. There is a monthly page and a weekly page. They are very functional. I would love feedback though.

So, it's the new year. We are all starting new habits and focusing on goals. 

I am running a sale!

*10% of the minimum purchase of $5 is required.

Obligatory Happy New Year Post :D

Happy New Year!

I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year. I pray that each and every one of you find peace and joy. That you learn the truth and follow it passionately. May the way be bright and obvious.

2023 was a year of transition that left many projects on the back burner that doesn't really stay more than lukewarm. ;) 

2024 is a year that I desire to be intentional. I want to set goals and meet them. I want to complete that which I set out to do. I think we all feel that at some point. :)

So... after walking a 5k on Thanksgiving morning I decided I was going to do another one in May and do better. Unfortunately, I got out of the habit of daily exercise. So my first goal is to get back in the habit of consistent exercise.

In the last couple of months, I have felt creative, or artistic, again. I have done a couple
paintings and am still working on a mural sketch that I want to paint. My second goal is to complete one artistic project a quarter.

I miss writing regularly. I have had a terrible block. I have decided I will start journaling daily. Doing that and feeding my soul with consistent exercise should be a plus. The key here is simple to write. It can be diary entries, bible study, poetry, short stories, world-building, whatever... JUST. WRITE.

How are you planning on entering the new year? Do you set goals or resolutions? Does the new year mean anything or is it just another day?

I feel having goals is healthy for me. I have discovered that there has to be something I am working toward in order to push. 

• 5k walk/run - motivates me to work on my health, both activity level and the way I eat.
• Being creative - motivates me to sit down and take a minute to create and be artistic. I often find myself busy being busy.
• Writing - this one is a big one for me. The simple fact of writing every day requires me to use my mind. As long as I am writing, I am able to process thoughts and emotions. Plus I have several notebooks that need to be used. LOL.

One way to help with this is by having a planner. Get one. I highly recommend getting a planner. Find one that works with your brain and have at it.

  

Pictures! Honey Moon and Close-ups.

Getting a new toy is always a fun thing. Getting a new lens for the camera is really a fun thing. Having a clear night on the night of the 'honey moon' is amazing! (I used my Canon EFS 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II Telephoto Zoom Lens.) Capturing this full moon was a trick, our tree line blocked it for some time.

On to my excitement!

I recently purchased the Canon 50mmf/1.8 lens. So far, I am quite impressed. I am hoping to use it in a session this weekend. The lens body is plastic and it takes patience to focus, but I am quite satisfied with it. I had to order a UV protection filter specially for it because it is smaller than the other lens I have.

I have taken a few pictures already with the lens and I like what I have captured. The depth of field is amazing. The lens focuses on the subject and blurs the background so the focus is where it should be.

As a photographer it is always a plus to add to my arsenal of lenses, every lens I add allows me to increase my ability for a wider range of photographs.

This first shot is of a hedge of knock out roses. I did tweak the color a little in Picasa. The photo was taken right after a rain and showed the colors very vivid. I love the focal point and the mystery that the background creates.

The next photo is moss on a willow tree. The picture has an allure to it. I am unsure if my desire to visit the mountains has overcome my senses or not, but the bark almost resembles a cliff.

After I played with capturing nature, there were these remarkable creatures in my back yard that I tested the new lens on. I think these pictures turned out well too. In my mind I am thinking, I am content with the photos taken, how much better would they have been if the subjects were prepared.

The sky was overcast and we are under the shade of the massive willow tree. This darling was playing on the swing set and I just had to capture her beauty. She is a sweetheart that keeps the boys in line. Notice how you can make out what is behind her but that it does not take over the picture? The only edit is a crop.

Next in line on the swing set is this guy. I had to make him stop for a moment because he is all over the place building and rebuilding and coming up with an obstacle course at the moment. Always busy. This picture too is taken under the willow tree with an over cast sky. The focus is on him and the trees in the background almost disappear. Just like the one prior, no edit aside from cropping.

There was one other creature outside on this day. I am not completely happy with this picture, but my happiness is because the grass is too green. It had rained and the grass was happy. I did try to calm the color down some. The picture is okay. I still like the focal point. The distortion to the background meshes too.

As I mentioned earlier, I love how the focus is on the subject and the background blurs away. The eye is drawn to where I want it to be, regardless of the junk in the background.

This last picture I am sharing was taken in the house without lights on but right by the glass french doors. There was plenty of natural light coming in. There is no editing on this picture other than a crop.

The key to the lens is lighting. And the potential for black and white photos are amazing. Needless to say I anticipate using this lens in sessions. I am in love with it.

Do you want to set up a photo shoot? Contact me Faith(at)FaithTilleyJohnson.com I am located in Dickson County, Tennessee. Depending where you are and where you would like to set up the shoot, it would not be a problem.

Like my landscapes? Would like a print? Contact me and we will see what we can work out.

Oh... The above links associated with the camera lenses are associate links to Amazon. Your cost does not change going through the links. I bought the lens on my own accord and the opinions stated above are mine and mine alone.

Every writer needs an editor and a photographer a filter... hitting home for a minute

I am an individual with a creative streak that is a mile wide. I love to write, I love to photograph, I love to draw, I love to sing, and I love to decorate.

Sounds great, right? 

It is, except for with so many variations of creativity it can be quite distracting. The different pulls on my creativity can be so distracting that I may not put forth my best on any one area. That is when there is a problem.

I have become tied up in the berating myself here lately. See, I know I can do better when the conditions are right. The problem being that the conditions are not perfect and my full expectations are not met. I am distracted.

I have learned over the years how to control my quirks so that hardly anybody will notice them. Unfortunately, here lately I have been overwhelmed. The manifestation on my mind causes me to not be able to focus.

This lack of focus can be rather interesting. For the typical person, if they are unable to focus, they may forget their keys or a grocery list. For me, it is much different. When I lose my focus, I start with forgetting where I have placed things but then it gets worse. I get grouchy and moody, depending on what the causes of my lack of focus are. Then, when I know I have to step back and take some time off, I lose my filter. Not everybody understands that term. What is a filter?

In this instance, a filter is a gatekeeper or a channel that keeps the thinking before speaking in check. When the filter shuts down, I speak before I think but I also lose the ability to see where what I say can be received harshly. The basic social aspect of communication goes out the window.

Another side effect of my lack of focus is I become oddly sensitive. Say I was to say something that was harsh and the person I said it to complained about it to somebody else. This situation would wound me. The reason? Because when I am overwhelmed, I only allow certain people around me for more than pleasantries. This is because I expect those I allow in to understand me.

Man, I realize this looks like a rather selfish post. Sorry about that. I just feel the need to explain things. In order to do so, I have to talk about me. Anyhow, about writing and photography.

With my writing... my inner editor continually second-guesses what I write and I have been unable to complete a manuscript in two years. That takes a toll. Sure, I was making excuses, like having academic papers and research papers to write while working on various projects with church and school. (I am not saying these projects were not worth doing, they just took away from my desires.) I need to be able to focus. There is a story that has been evolving in my head for years and I need to get it written.

With my photography... I am eagerly waiting for the person that I can collaborate with and we can have an amazing photo shoot. Although I look forward to working with everybody. I feel the work I have done is lacking mostly because I am facing challenges that I knew would be there if I were to pursue photography as a career. I have been burned in a couple instances and regret the way things turned out. I am still taking pictures and want to enjoy working with individuals that want their portraits taken. I know I have the skill and ability; I need to work on my marketing.

Life in general. I have forgotten that I do not have to do it all. I also forgot whom I need to please and what it is that I am suppose to be doing. 

I am primarily a writer. I need a part time job with deadlines. I am pursuing my Masters and will be working (still waiting on confirmation) at the school this fall. I would love to have photo-sessions once or twice a month to boost an income. 

Have you ever gotten lost in the chaos around you? That is where I have been. We have had crazy personal stuff go on and instead of looking to the almighty Father; I have tried to fix it myself. This of course leads to being overwhelmed and stressed. (Which I am prone to anyway.) This however is not what God wants for us. 

God wants us to be happy. He wants us to have His strength. All we have to do is call out to Him.

Blessed be the Lord, Because He has heard the voice of my supplications!

The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusted in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart greatly rejoices, And with my song I will praise Him. - Psalm 28:6-7 (NKJV)

Best Friend Farewell

One of the best things about being a child is the friendships that are made. Friendships that are amazing and bring a smile to your face, even on the bad days.

One of the saddest things about being a child is when those friendships require a farewell. That day when your best friend has to move away and your world, at least for that moment, has come crashing down.

This wild, crazy, compassionate, and adorable group of boys found themselves saying good bye to each other. They became friends out of compassion and continued that friendship with crazy and wild antics that young boys are so good at.



"A friend appreciates the good in you, overlooks the worst in you, and brings out the best in you." - Anonymous

What better way to have a reminder of the good times, than to have a few candid photos?

"A farewell is necessary before we can meet again, and meeting again after moments or a lifetime is certain for those who are friends." - Richard Bach

 In childhood, we tend to hope that the friends that have left us will return, perhaps one day we will meet again and pick up right where we left off.

Talking about video games and Nerf wars. Sharing mine craft videos and singing our favorite songs.

Running outside and pretending an epic battle is going on, enjoying just taking a swing. All and all, having a good laugh and happy memories.

"There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart." - Mahatma Gandhi 

I have watched the ebb and flow of this friendship for the last two years. Both of our families have been made better for the heart of these two boys. While we would love to be able to cherish the moments as they grow up together, we know that their place is elsewhere. We love you guys! And we will miss you. Be blessed as your family is whole once more.

Local Upcoming Seniors, need pictures?

You need senior pictures done, right? Do you go to DCHS or CWHS? This deal is aimed at you. Pretty simple. For fifty dollars, you have me and my camera for an hour. We can discuss location and we can discuss groups. In turn, I will provide you with a disk that contains your pictures. I will also provide an authorization to print form.

Interested? Email me your name, phone number, school you attend, and possible locations for your shoot. I will then get in contact with you shortly.

Not a rising senior, but still want pictures? Contact me.

Outside of Dickson County is feasible, there will however be a travel charge.

Children's Spring Pictures

 As a photographer, we occasionally get that one individual that really does not want to cooperate with us. The key is not to expect a photo that can be placed on Vogue or whatever else magazine that you can think of. When I take photos, my desire is to capture the personality of the individual. 

This guy is absolutely adorable. He is a bundle of energy and is nothing but a walking miracle. (I may be a tad bias.)  He hates having his picture made. In fact, when it is time for school pictures he typically has a scowl on his face. The scowl is why I was blessed to take his picture, I have the time to work with the child.

 Older brother is a ham. He loves his picture taken and will pose all day long if you let him. There may be problems once he is older. He is a cute fella' and was absolutely ecstatic to be climbing trees for pictures. Of course, at 10, who wouldn't want to climb a tree? My problem was convincing him we were finished.

This guy is a veteran. He knows what pose he wants and is ready to get it done. A no-nonsense type of guy. Ready to be an adult and take on the world, but still happy to climb some trees. Like his brother, having fun is important. I enjoyed doing their shoot.

The three boys were entertaining and enjoyable. I can not wait to see them again.

Spring Photo Sessions

I still have openings if you would like to take advantage of this special. You can also purchase the package now, before April 30, 2014, and use it within six (6) months. Message me for more information!

Spring Pictures!

How has your spring been? I have been able to get a couple photo sessions in.

This post is featuring Ms. +Maryann Walker. She was looking for casual pictures that captured nature and her personality. MaryAnn is a laid back individual that loves nature. I am also happy to report that she likes them. I enjoy the opportunity that I have to do photography at the local state park. There is always a perfect backdrop for any picture that is desired. 

Wildlife Excursion

Today I went to Montgomery Bell State Park to a Predators to Prey exhibit they had. It was quite interesting and the animals that were featured were gorgeous.

 

Candycane Corn Snake
 & Corn Snake

The first presentation was the corn snake. There were two of these friendly creatures, one being a Candycane Corn Snake and the other the Corn Snake. The lighter colored of the two is the Candycane Corn Snake and is a result of captive breeding.

The Corn Snake is a nonpoisonous snake that is indigenous to corn fields. This is a type of rat snake and kills its prey with constriction.

The Corn Snake is often a beginner pet to snake and reptile lovers.

Are you interested in Corn Snakes? Check out this link. Do remember if you choose to home a Corn Snake, you need to check into your local government's laws to see if possession is legal.

Caiman 

The next creature that was shared with us, was the Caiman. Our presenter stressed that this fella is not the friendly type. While this guy was rather small at only about 20 inches, we were told he could do damage if he got ahold of a finger.

Caimans are from Central and South America. They can get up to about five foot in length.

For more information about this cousin to the alligator, check out this link.

Prairie Dog

The next animal that we all fell in love with was the prairie dog. We were given a lot of information about him and his family. While we were told that he is closely related to the squirrel, he lives underground and doesn't eat trees.

In the United States, prairie dogs are very beneficial to the eco-system but they were treated like pests and many were destroyed. They are indigenous to the Western United States where there are four known 'cities'.

Fr more information on the Prairie Dog, check out this link.

Eurasian Eagle Owl

The treat of the exhibit was the Eurasian Eagle Owl. One of the largest birds on the planet and a magnificent specimen. With a wingspan of five-foot, this particular owl is not quite full grown.

Eurasian Eagle Owl

Approximately twenty months old, he weighs right about five pounds. His wings are silent and he is a ninja of the skies. Look out small animals, when this fella gets hungry he is coming to get you.

As his name suggests, he is indigenous to Eurasia.

For more information about the Eurasian Eagle Owl, please check out this link.

Bobcat

Last but not least, we met a lovely teenager that could very well live right outside here in the South. He is known as the Bobcat. During the exhibit this fella was rather lazy and wanted to be carried around.

He looks rather large, and weighing in at 22 pounds he is the size of a medium breed dog. (We laughed because our Neko-chan is 20 pounds but he is not quite as large.)

Bobcat

The Bobcat is known for being elusive and nocturnal (most cats are nocturnal). He is named for his bobbed tail that is really longer than a typical bob. They are carnivores and eat small animals. This is a good reminder to not leave your small pets out and unprotected.

Evidence of Bobcats shows that they cover the majority of North America and are not picky about the environment.

For more information of this great cat, please visit this link.



I know I had fun getting to know a little more about these animals and reptiles, I hope you did too!

Photo Sessions Available

I will be committing one Saturday a month to photography. This means I will be doing a monthly photo-shoot as long as there are at least 2-3 people that sign up.

The sessions will be 30 minutes and I will provide you with 15-20 digital prints on CD along with consent to print form. The cost is $50 and is to be paid in order to book the session. (i.e. If you want 2pm on Jan. 25, I need to receive payment by the 20th or arrangements need to be discussed.)

I will only be able to take a certain number of sessions each day, so if there is a specific event coming up please check with me. For January the date will be the 25th with payment due on the 20th. I know this is short notice, but it is the day I have available. Sessions will be from 11am - 4pm.

January 25th

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This would be a great date for Valentine photos. Location is to be determined based on those that sign up and weather. I will have a set location by January 20th.

January won't work for you? I have February's date set for February 22nd with payment due by the 17th.

February 22nd

·         11:00 -

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I will still be available for private sessions reserved on other days. This price is not effective for those. Please contact me for contracted sessions.

Ah, yes… I did hint there would be a surprise. So here it is. I will be giving away a session every month, starting in February on the Saturday shoot. All you have to do is enter to win.

How do you enter? Follow this blog and comment in below that you are doing so. (+1) "Like" me on Facebook and comment here to let me know. (+1) And you can earn up to five more entries by referring a friend, they have to say they were sent here by you.

Comments below will enter you for the February Session. Deadline is February 

Why hire me as your photographer? #sale

 The short answer? I have a great sale going on right now. For $50 you get a 30 minute session, 10-20 images on disk, and a copyright release to print. You do not need to have a date right now, and you only have to pay a $25 deposit towards the session. The receipt you will receive is good for one year from date of purchase.

So, what kind of pictures  would you be interested in?

Family Pictures

Prom Pictures

Engagement Pictures

Senior Pictures

Casual Pictures

Senior Picture

Casual Pictures

Special Event Pictures

Baby's 1st Birthday

Or is there something else that you would be interested in? Right now is the time to contact me. The special is only good until December 10, 2013. 

Support a small business, me!

Copyright notice, all pictures are the creative work of Faith Tilley Johnson. All Rights Reserved. May NOT be used or reprinted without written permission.