Kelly Moore Bag

I've been eyeing these Kelly Moore camera bags for a while. They're functional and stylish and don't scream "photographer in the house!" in any way. It might conveniently show up on my Christmas wish list along with the 25 other gadgets that a girl with a camera desires. Happy shopping!

From Hong Kong To Shanghai

My family and I just got back from a trip to China where we visit my parents every year. I spent eight years growing up in Hong Kong, and in many ways, it still feels like home. Now, before you think I'm crossing over into fashion photography, there was this stunning model standing in the middle of the street. Helloo. Wouldn't you whip out your camera, too?

A bit of local street fare and my personal favorites (sorry if the first one makes you gag) -- fishballs drenched in curry sauce, and fresh sugar cane that can either be munched on or made into juice. Mmm.

A typical Chinese delicatessen:

I naturally had to snap one of the kids posing under a gigantic Buzz Lightyear.

Moving on to Shanghai, one of China's largest, most Westernized cities. Population: 20 million. It has one of the most booming economies in the Far East according to my dad.

While the trip is usually one big food and shopping fest for us, the main reason for our visit to Shanghai was to see Expo. I remember going to Expo in Vancouver, BC more than 20 years ago. It was such a cool experience. Here inside the Chinese Pavilion, many of the local children displayed their artwork. I don't ever remember painting or drawing like this! I love the effort and attention to detail:

Inside the Taiwan Pavilion, a beautiful "guanyin" -- meaning "goddess," only this one's in male form:

We were pretty lucky to be able to see the Italy and Germany pavilions as well. Masses of people stood in line for hours in the heat to get into some exhibits. A couple of abstract photos for fun...

Leaving Expo...

We had an awesome time and plan to check out Beijing and the Great Wall one of these days, maybe when the kids are older. I need to give a special shout-out to my husband who spends almost all of his vacation time making these trips possible. Until next year, China... zai jian!

Bye-Bye Seattle, Hello Winslow

We took a little day trip/ferry ride to Bainbridge Island over the weekend, and it was a nice, quick escape from the city. We (okay I) especially loved perusing the quaint shops in Winslow. This one in particular, Hollydays, was right up my alley. You might also be a sucker for accessories and doodads -- especially when they're so adorable!

I wanted to give a special mention to Heather who was working there, for letting me snap away and for being one of the sweetest people EVER. She also made those lovely charms above. The wooden frames on the wall are made of old "junks" or boats from Hong Kong Harbor. Coolio!

Other yummy destinations included Mora Ice Cream and Blackbird Bakery (we went to both being the gluttons that we are). The kids had a blast, as did we.

Until next time!

Deliciously Kolo

While I don't offer albums at this time, here's where I might send a client or go to make a personal project. I'm digging the simplicity of these Kolo albums made from cloth and paper, although a few leather options are available. Lots of fresh styles to choose from. Affordable, too, so of course me likey! My faves are the Noci and the Vineyard. (I wish I could take credit for these cool product pics.)

Did I mention the pretty ribbon?

If you're in a lazy kind of mood, toss those prints into a Havana box (not too shabby, I say).

I love the opening for a picture on the front cover:

Whether you're doing an album, a photo book, or a scrapbook, I hope this gives you an idea for your next photo project.