Capture Minnesota

This weekend, I was delighted to attend the Capture Minnesota IV book release party & exhibition at Mall of America.  After 2 months of waiting, I would finally learn which of my images was selected for publication. The publishers (Explore Minnesota & Twin Cities Public Television) had 407,536 images submitted for consideration, and narrowed it down to 200 images to be published. To my surprise I had not 1 but 2 images in the book!  (The most humbling note was that I did not submit the images for award consideration.  The editors reviewed my portfolio and selected them.)

Both were very old images from my profile on Capture Minnesota's website and probably would not have been would I would have chosen on my own from my wider portfolio of work for publication. But, it was such a delight to see these silly moment portraits included in a book full of breathtaking landscapes, macro imagery and beautiful nature shots. So, congratulations to Emily Nelson, Caroline Zrust and Jonathan Mundy.,.. you have been published! (A copy of the book will soon be in the mail to you!)

'Emily' by Christie Rachelle
A quick capture shot of my niece. She was out running in a park enjoying a beautiful day. She fell and began to cry (for about 20 seconds), then stopped and looked around, then began to laugh at herself for being so silly.

'Young Love' by Christie Rachelle
Anyone can be passionate.  But, it takes real love to be silly!

Now... to eagerly await the publication of my next images in Samantha Rei's new book on fashion design. What a truly blessed life. . . to spend my days doing what I love and to have moments like this where others recognize it with value.

Love, Like Christmas, is Where You Choose to Seek It

This week I spent time with one of  my favorite couples capturing a perfect handmade Christmas.  From stringing popcorn and cranberries to driving around to scout the perfect tree, it was a grand experience watching this couple build upon traditions that will carry them through their lives.

Now enjoying their second Christmas together, they have already amassed a collection of beautiful hand styled ornaments, including a fox which has become their personal mascot.  Though our time together would be cut short by a busy photographer's day, it was not without a lot of beauty, love and holiday spirit.

Merry Christmas, Everyone!  While it may no longer be a white Christmas in the Twin Cities, I am positive that for John and Caroline  it will be full of many wonderful memories and a whole lot of love!

Be sure to check back in the next few days for more images from this great day!