The excitement in the room was palpable.  Everyone was talking about how thrilled they were to be able to make it to the workshop, delighted to finally meet David Jay and Jasmine Star, photographers we all admire and have grown to know by stalking ...err, following their blogs.    

Both David Jay and J* are great speakers -- personable and funny to boot.  Even though Austin was their second stop on the tour, they were like seasoned pros.  They shared stories about their humble beginnings and the steps they took to make it such that they can enjoy their trade all the while living and enjoying life.  I took away so many things from this workshop that one week later, my mind is still trying to process everything said.  It was four short hours of inspiration from two very passionate photographers. 

It was also great to run into a few photographers that I've met at past workshops and meet some new ones as well.  To Jennifer and Stacey, thanks for coming out to dinner tonight.  It was fun and I'm looking forward to our next meeting.  To Ericka, Chasity, Grace, Ashley, Gina, Jen, and Eva -- let's get together soon!!

Remember how I mentioned that the workshop was going to be nothing short of a great time?  Well that was an understatement.  The workshop blew me away.  What amazed me about that day was not meeting John Michael Cooper, a phenomenal photographer, it was meeting John Michael Cooper, a true artist.  The time he spends mastering his craft, drawing up new ways to approach a shoot, pulling inspiration from the most unlikely of sources, and how he approaches this line of business is astonishing.  Then there is the lovely Dalisa Cooper.  What I would give to have this woman come run my business!  

I learned so many things in the short eight hours with the Coopers, but the one thing that is going to stay with me for a long time is how willing they are to share the tricks to their trade.  In fact, I find this to be quite the norm in this industry.  Everyone is willing to bolster up and support each other.  Pretty remarkable given how easy it is to hoard ideas, and in John's case, fantastic ideas to get a leg up on a competitor. 

Honestly, if you have a chance to sit in on John Michael and Dalisa Cooper's workshop, I highly encourage it.  Their tour is quickly selling out so jump online and sign up.  You will not be disappointed. 

Also, a huge thanks to Eric Doggett for opening up his lovely home and hosting the event as well as participating in the model shoot.   

Now, what is a post without sharing pictures? 

Here's one of John Michael talking about some lighting technique.

I had the pleasure of shooting an engagement session for Margie and Frank earlier this summer...and I must say, aren't these two just cute?!  To add to the cuteness, Margie and Frank brought along their two sons for a family session as well!  Despite the beating sun, everyone was all smiles.  It was a definitely a good time. 

Here's a few of my favorites:

I can't believe that two weeks since launching this blog, I'm already behind on posting.  I'll get better at this, I promise!

Tomorrow I'll be attending the very alt F workshop given by John and Dalisa Cooper, the masterminds behind the trendy and infamous Trash the Dress shoots.  John and Dalisa are making their way around the country so if you are interested in a fun and refreshing take on photography, check out their summer tour schedule at www.veryaltf.com.

This workshop is going to be nothing short of a great time.  I'll be back to post pictures from the event.