Cindergirl Photography

Family V

2012-02-09T21:16:00.000-08:00

Lifestyle Photography~ Baby H

2012-02-05T21:48:00.000-08:00

Boneless Skinless Chicken Wings

2012-02-05T18:39:00.000-08:00

Super Bowl Food?? OKAY!

Boneless Skinless Chicken Wings (3 Ingredients)

1 cup Franks RedHot Hot Sauce (any variety)
1- 1/2 cups brown sugar
1 tsp. apple cider vinegar

1. Combine brown sugar, hot sauce, and vinegar in a sauce pan and bring to a low boil.

2. Boil for 3-5 minutes or until brown sugar completely disolves and becomes thicker.

3. Layer thawed boneless, skinless chicken strips on to a greased baking sheet.

4. Sprinkle with salt & pepper & bake for 20 minutes. Then turn onto broil and broil for 3 minutes.

5. Take chicken out of the oven and drain all the liquids off.

6. Baste with wing sauce top and bottom.

7. Broil for 2 minutes.

8. Baste with the rest of the sauce and serve.

Red Rock Canyon

2012-01-31T10:01:00.001-08:00

Nanaimo [Nuh-nye-moe] Bars

2012-01-25T14:29:00.000-08:00

My friend Laureen Carruthers, from Brittish Columbia (who I met on facebook) sent me a recipe!! Laureen and I seem to have quite alot in common including 3 boys, a dog, a passion for photography, and a love of food. And guess what else?? She sent me a package in the mail...

...with custard powder in it, because apparently they don't sell it in the US. I seriously LOVE her for doing it, and I think she's super amazing!!! So, thanks Laureen! These pictures are just for you!

Ingredients:

1/2 c. butter
1/4 c. white sugar
5 Tbsp. of unsweetened cocoa powder
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla extract

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

1/4 cup butter
2 cups powdered sugar
2 Tbsp. vanilla custard powder
3 Tbsp. milk

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 Tbsp. butter

1. Mix 1/2 cup butter, sugar, cocoa, egg, and vanilla in a heavy sauce pan. Stir over low heat until mixture is of a custard like consistency.

2. Combine graham crackers, coconut and walnuts and add to the melted mixture. Mix well and pack into buttered 9 inch square baking dish.

3. Cream 1/4 cup butter, powdered sugar, vanilla custard powder and milk. Beat until creamy and spread over the cookie base.

4. Refridgerate till hardened.

5. Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips with 2 Tbsp. of butter and pour over the top of the cold custard frosting layer. Refridgerate. When completely hardened, cut into square bars.

Las Vegas Team Wedding Photographers

2012-01-09T19:05:00.000-08:00

Dynamic Duo: Amy Leavitt & Cindy Larkin
I'm really excited to announce that Amy Leavitt of [Amy Leavitt Photography] and I will be combining forces to photograph weddings! We have both photographed weddings individually, and we feel that a second shooter is very beneficial in capturing all the important moments.

A little about us:

Amy and Cindy have over 13 years photography experience combined (Amy- 4 years, Cindy- 9 years)
2 experienced photographers can provide a rich gallery of all the details of the wedding and ensures those priceless moments will be captured.
2 creative minds working together evokes synergy, that will surely encompass your unique style.
If one of us has equipment failure, the other will be able to pick up the slack. Think of it as a safety net.

Pricing:

Half Day Coverage (4 hours) starts at $2500
Full Day Coverage (up to 8 hours) starts at $5000

We're "PORTFOLIO BUILDING" which means we're lowering our rates for a short time.

Half Day Coverage (4 hours) - $1500,
Full Day Coverage (up to 8 hours) - $3000

Sneak Peek: Family H

2011-12-29T15:12:00.000-08:00

Vintage Camera ~ Photograph Collection

2011-12-29T00:17:00.000-08:00

During the holidays, while taking family portraits for a wonderful family, I got the chance to meet an older gentleman who used to work for a little company called "Kodak"...ever heard of them?? His family started to tell me about his collection of cameras, and of course I HAD to see them...A photographers dream to stumble onto an old collection in hopes of finding something valuable and unique . Although this collection isn't worth alot, it does have the "vintage" factor that I truly love. And now, I have started a collection of my own (of photographs that is).

Although Kodak is not known for expensive professional equipment, they are a major contributor in the 1900's for bringing photography to the masses.

A $40 camera in 1915 would equal a $900 camera today.

An $80 camera in 1940 would equal a $1200 camera today.

A $120 camera in 1970 would equal a $670 camera today.

(Owner Sr. Vick) 1914-1927 Original Price: $24

(Owner Sr. Vick)

(Owner Sr. Vick) 1946-1957- Oringinal Price: $10

1968-1970 Price: $55

(Owner Sr. Vick) 1953-1962-Original Price: $5

(Owner Brooke M.) Citation-8mm movie camera. Original price 1949: $69.50

Sneak Peek: Family M

2011-12-22T22:42:00.000-08:00

Recipe Share :: Magic Cookie Bars

2011-12-14T23:17:00.000-08:00

1. Melt 1/4 cup butter in a 9x9 in. baking dish
2. Sprinkle 3/4 cup crushed graham crackers on top of melted butter

3. Layer 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips over graham crackers

4. Layer 1/2 cup shredded coconut on top of chocolate chips

5. Drizzle 1/2 can of sweetened condensed milk over coconut

6. Top with 1/4 cup chopped pecans

7. Bake at 350* for 25 minutes
8. Let cool completely before cutting

Bon Appetit!

Sneak Peek :: Family Session

2011-12-05T23:18:00.000-08:00

Photographing Your Holiday Feast

2011-12-05T23:02:00.000-08:00

For all you foodies out there, I thought it would be fun to post a few tips I've discovered on my journey to learning more about food photography. Keep in mind that I'm still learning this craft, and I am in no way an expert. I love it none the less. Enjoy!

1. Always use natural light if possible. I have found that shooting during the day, and near an open door or window is the best place to shoot. If you really need to shoot during the evening, don't use a flash directly on the food as it can be too stark. Bounce the flash off the ceiling or wall, or use a diffuser.

2. Shoot from varied angles. Move around and really take a look at the food from all directions. It's okay to take too many shots, especially when you're practicing. This is my favorite way to discover what works and what doesn't.

3. Styling your food can make it stand out in a nice way, but keep it simple. You want it to look good, but not too good to be true. Use a clean and clear background, removing any unwanted clutter. Add only necessary props.

4. Use a macro lens if you have one, or simply zoom up close, filling the frame of your camera so the viewer can almost smell the food. Details are awesome!

5. Take pictures during the process. Preparing and cooking the food can be just as fun to shoot as the finished product.

6. Capture the food at its freshest, when it's hot and steamy or when it's still glistening. From experience, waiting too long can have a disappointing effect.

7. Lastly, don't forget to photograph the people surrounding the food. After all, they are the main reason the food was made in the first place! Cooking together is such a rewarding tradition, but having the pictures to look back on, makes it even sweeter!

~~~

RECIPE SHARE- 2 Crust Fruit Pie

Ingredients:

4 cups flour
1 tsp. salt
2 cups cold butter
1 1/4 cups ice water

* Sift flour and salt together in a medium bowl.
* Add cold butter after cutting it into 1/4 inch slices.

* Add ice water and mix with a fork until the butter is mixed thoroughly, but not over mixed.

* Divide the dough in half, then roll the dough out flat on a piece of wax paper, and place it in your pie pan.

* Add pie filling, and then the top crust. You can either do a lattice top (pictured) or you can do a simple casing that covers completely.

* Bake at 450 degrees for 35 minutes, and then reduce the temperature to 350 and bake another 15-20 minutes.

[Making pies in Grandma's kitchen with Aunt Cindy]

Sneak Peek :: Couple J

2011-12-05T21:14:00.000-08:00

Las Vegas Photographer Magazine~ Christmas Edition

2011-12-01T09:37:00.000-08:00

[Cover image by Mary Lynn; Cover design by Cindy Larkin]

Go check the newest issue of Las Vegas Photographer {here}! AND I'm excited to say that I wrote one of the articles this month, including a favorite recipe and lots of delicious pictures!! Go check it out {here} :)

Sneak Peek :: Family J

2011-11-30T13:02:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek :: Family D

2011-11-30T12:21:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek Family B

2011-11-30T12:17:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek :: Headshots

2011-11-14T23:50:00.000-08:00

Holiday Session :: Family P

2011-11-07T10:19:00.000-08:00

Event Photography :: Baby Shower

2011-11-07T10:10:00.000-08:00

Creamy Baked Cheese Cake:

2011-11-05T11:17:00.000-07:00

1- 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup butter, melted
2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
3 large eggs
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 (8 oz.) container sour cream, at room temperature

HEAT oven to 300ºF. Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar and butter in small bowl; press firmly into bottom of ungreased 9-inch springform pan.

BEAT cream cheese in large bowl until fluffy. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add eggs and lemon juice; mix well. Pour into prepared pan.

BAKE 50 to 55 minutes or until center is set. Remove from oven; top with sour cream. Bake an additional 5 minutes. Cool 1 hour. Chill at least 4 hours. Garnish with pie filling, or chocolate sauce if desired.

Family Session:: Family F

2011-11-03T13:11:00.000-07:00

Holiday Mini-Session::Family P

2011-11-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

Comfort Food: Crock-Pot Pot Roast

2011-11-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

Layer in your crockpot...

Ingredients:
1 medium chuck roast with good marbling
1 sm. bag of baby carrots
1 medium onion sliced or quartered
1 Tbsp. beef bouillon
one sprig of fresh rosemary (optional)
course ground salt & pepper
1/2 cup water
Cook for 6-8 hours

Heaven Sent

2011-10-16T20:52:00.000-07:00

Family Portraits for the Holidays!

2011-10-06T13:26:00.000-07:00

Have you been thinking about who's going to create your family portraits this year?? I'm so glad my name crossed your mind! :) It's time to start booking!! Click {here} for packages and pricing.

Honey Glazed Salmon

2011-10-04T11:38:00.000-07:00

Glaze: soy sauce
honey
brown sugar
ginger
mustard
fresh ground pepper

Pour glaze over salmon and bake in oven at 400* for 20 min.

October 2011 Issue

2011-09-30T11:49:00.000-07:00

Hot off the press, the October issue of Las Vegas Photographer is now available for your viewing pleasure! Click {HERE} to read the fantastic articles and enjoy the emotional images!!

Cover Image by Todd Ellis

Cover Design by Cindy Larkin

Avocado Salad

2011-09-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
tomatoes
cottage cheese
avacado
garlic salt
Mrs. Dash (garlic & herb)

Fresh & tasty!

Sneak Peek

2011-09-15T12:20:00.000-07:00

Homemade Krispy Kreme Donuts

2011-08-27T11:42:00.000-07:00

Homemade Krispy Kreme anyone??

INGREDIENTS: 2 envelopes yeast
1/4 c. warm water (set aside to let rise)

1-1/2 c. lukewarm milk
1/2 c. sugar
1 tsp. salt
2 eggs
1/3 c. butter
5 c. flour
1 quart vegetable oil (for deep frying)

GLAZE: 1/3 c. butter
2 c. powdered sugar
1-1/2 tsp. vanilla
4 Tbsp. hot water

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. After the dough is made let it rise to double size
2. Next roll out the dough about 1/2 inch thick
3. Cut out with a donut cutter and let them rise again
4. heat oil in a deep pan or use a "fry daddy"
5. slide the donuts into the hot oil and cook until lightly browned

Mini-Sessions!!

2011-08-14T21:35:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a professional alternative to school portraits this year??

We've got you covered!

Here's What You Get:

Individual sitting fee (not available for families or groups)

20-30 minute photo session
1 location
1 CD with 5 high resolution images (B&W and Color)
*For more options click {here}

LOVE and War...

2011-08-01T15:20:00.001-07:00

Sneak Peek Miss L

2011-08-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

August 2011 Cover of Las Vegas Photographer

2011-07-31T11:27:00.000-07:00

LOVE this month's issue of Las Vegas Photographer Magazine!! There are some amazing images to see! Check it out {here}!!!

Cover image by Lisa Kryschuk
Cover Design by Cindy Larkin

Sneak Peek Sunday: High School Seniors!!

2011-07-10T21:20:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-07-02T11:07:00.000-07:00

Ingredients: 1 choc. cake mix
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Mix together Bake at 350* for 10 minutes

Sneak Peek Family "E"

2011-06-21T13:56:00.000-07:00

Homemade Bread

2011-06-02T11:28:00.000-07:00

I made homemade bread the other day (mmmm...), and today I got to enjoy the fruits of Lindsey and Kim's labors. They made homemade apricot jam. Sheesh! I could hardly take the picture because one bite was just not enough. (Yes, I was eating while photographing it). Can you stand all the apricot deliciousness??

Ingredients:

1 egg beaten

1 cup warm water

1/4 cup butter melted

1/4 cup sugar

3/4 tsp. salt

3 cups flour

2 tsp. yeast

Directions:

Add egg & warm water together and beat, then pour all ingredients into bread maker.

Let it go until it starts to rise. Then turn out into a greased bread pan. Bake at 350* for 50 min.

Fabulous Father's Day Discount!!!

2011-06-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

In honor of Father's Day I'm giving everyone a HUGE discount on my "Custom Digital Package".

Here's what you get...
1. 1-2 hour photo session
2. 1 CD of 20-30 high resolution images (negatives)
3. A shared copyright release so you can make as many enlargements as you want

Here's what you have to do... (yep, you have to work a little but it's oh, so worth it!)
1. Post this webpage to your blog or facebook
2. Send me a link to your blog or facebook page
3. Book your session by July 1, 2011

*Pricing Page {Here}

LVP June Issue now available!

2011-06-01T13:32:00.000-07:00

The June issue of Las Vegas Photographer is now available for your viewing pleasure! Click {HERE} to see more from our fabulous new photographers!

Cover image by Julianna Collett
Cover Design by Cindy Larkin

Engagement Sneak Peek

2011-05-16T16:08:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake

2011-05-15T10:53:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

1 devils food cake mix

1 small package chocolate pudding

1 cup water

1/2 cup oil

4 eggs

1 cup sour cream

1 cup chocolate chips

1 cup chocolate frosting

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350*
2. Grease bundt pan with nonstick spray

3. Mix all ingredients (except frosting) together until well blended

4. Spread evenly in a greased bundt pan
5. Bake for 50 min., or until a knife inserted comes out clean

6. Let cool 10 min. in pan

7. Turn out onto a cool rack and let it cool completely

8. After cake is cool place on a cake stand or on cardboard cake circle

9. Microwave chocolate frosting for 20 seconds

10. Drizzle 1/2 can of warm frosting evenly over peak of cake allowing to drizzle down the sides.

Photo Challenge~Motherhood

2011-05-10T09:50:00.000-07:00

"Motherhood is beautiful in so many different ways, but seeing it through the eyes of a child feels like a glimpse of heaven". C.L.

i{heart}faces.com

Apricot Cobbler

2011-05-09T15:11:00.000-07:00

1/2 C. butter (softened)
1 C. sugar
2 C. sifted flour
1/2 tsp. salt
4 tsp. baking powder
1 C. milk
8 C. apricots pitted
2 C. juice from cooked fruit
1/2 C. sugar
Cinnamon (optional)

Cook 8 cups of pitted apricots in a large pot (adding 3 cups of water and 1/2 cup sugar). Set aside.
Cream butter and sugar, sift flour, salt, and baking powder together and add to creamed mixture
alternately with milk. Pour into greased and floured 13" x 9" pan. Spoon apricots and liquid on top of cake batter. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar if desired. Bake at 350* for 50 min. or until nicely browned on top. When baked, the apricots settle to the bottom and the cake ends up on top with a beautiful marbled effect!

Cindergirl's Recipe Book

2011-05-04T22:26:00.000-07:00

I take pictures of my food on a regular basis, and my family thinks I'm a little crazy. In fact while I was taking pictures of the Aspargus Chicken, my sons friends were over. I heard them whispering, "Bryson, is your Mom photographing the food? " He laughed heartily and said, "She does it all the time".

I don't know what it is, but I think I may just have a small love affair going on, with food. It's beautiful for one thing, but it also tastes so good, and it would be a shame not to share. So, in hopes of capturing some of my favorite recipes to pass on, I've decided to collect them all right here on my blog. :)

Recipe #1: Asparagus Chicken by Cindy Larkin

1. flatten one piece of chicken with a meat mallet
2. layer one slice of ham, 1/2 slice of swiss cheese, and two aspargus spears
3. pinch together and secure it with a toothpick
4. roll it in Stove Top crumbs
5. layer in a baking dish and bake at 400* for 25 min.
6. serve with mashed potatoes and green salad

Edible Flower Salad

2011-05-02T11:22:00.000-07:00

This salad is made with edible flowers. It tasted amazing!

Military Family--{We Miss You Dad}

2011-04-29T18:03:00.000-07:00

"Counting the days until you come home...one penny at a time".
I love that they put a penny in a jar every day until the day he comes home. :)

::Newborn Session

2011-04-18T08:06:00.000-07:00

Photo Session Share: Playing Dress Up

2011-04-10T20:39:00.000-07:00

The Andrew Sister's played on Pandora while three grown women primped in front of the mirror. Panty hose, make-up, and jewels were scattered across the vanity while we tried on each vintage dress and hat, hoping to find the perfect match for our photo session.

Jana and Brooke came down to see me this weekend for a specialized photo session, and with them, about 5 trunks filled with vintage clothing, shoes, hats, and accessories. They all came from Brooke's magical closet which is stuffed with time-period pieces. She has the most extensive collection I've ever seen, and I'm sure she could open up her own store! But for today, we were the lucky girls that got to play dress up with her.

After packing Jana's Tahoe until it was bursting at the seams with our gear, we headed for the dry lake bed and Eldorado Canyon for our photoshoot. The weather was cloudy, and the wind was wild, but then the sun came out for a while and graced is with it's presence. We spent the entire day on our photo project, and we had a splendid time doing it!

Newest Edition of LVP!

2011-04-01T18:35:00.000-07:00

Just posted our newest addition to Las Vegas Photographer!!! Can you believe we've been in business for 1 year this month?? It's kind of exciting to see that we now have 300 fans on facebook! I love associating with so many wonderful photographers that have turned into great friends. Come check out our great articles, and there may even be one about someone you know! Haha! Happy Birthday LVP!

Cover Image: Yasmin Tajik
Cover Design: Cindy Larkin

Meet Family "N"

2011-03-30T21:44:00.000-07:00

I shot this session in full color, but after editing, I'm loving the vintage black & white overlays! These guys were so fun to photograph! Jason kept telling me to take more "kissy" pictures because they were his favorites. What a CUTE couple and family!

Sneak Peek Saturday

2011-03-26T21:34:00.000-07:00

Save The Date

2011-03-17T22:20:00.001-07:00

Cindergirl~Giveaway!!

2011-03-07T11:35:00.000-08:00

Thank you for "liking" my facebook page! I JUST opened it up so, it's time to celebrate with a Give-away!! Here are the rules:
1. Go to my facebook page {here} and click "like" at the top of my page.
2. Share this with your friends on facebook!
3. Comment in the post on my fan page, and tell me that you shared it!
A drawing will reveal the winner of a FREE portrait session & CD!!!

Sneak Peek Family E

2011-02-26T23:51:00.000-08:00

I had so much fun with this photoshoot! One minute it was sunny, and the next minute we were ducking for cover to get out of the rain! We captured so many great shots, and I am dying to finish editing. You're gonna love 'em!

For Ms. Avedesian

2011-02-19T10:41:00.000-08:00

It's a beautifully overcast day here in Summerlin, and it snowed on the mountains last night.
What a gorgeous day! My friend Joy asked me to take this picture for her, so I jumped in my car and
headed up the canyon for a little drive. Hope you enjoy it Ms. Avedesian!

{Recipe/Photo Share}--Banana Bread Muffins

2011-02-18T20:27:00.000-08:00

You can always tell how good the recipe is by how dirty the page is...this one is marvelous! ;)

The Joy of LOVE | 07: GENERATIONS

2011-02-06T19:57:00.001-08:00

These are my Grandparents on the farm in the 1950's! Aren't they adorable?? I feel so lucky to have this priceless photograph.

Click here to read more about this picture and about making memories last in Las Vegas Photographer Magazine. (article written by muah!)

Click here to find out more about The Joy of LOVE by Willette Photography

The Joy of LOVE | 01: What They DO

2011-02-01T23:26:00.001-08:00

I just started the FREE 28 day "Joy of LOVE" class by Willette! Today was the first day, so there's still room to get signed up if you want to do it too! {Pssst} You don't have to be a professional photographer to participate :)

What they DO: Homework of course!

Sneak Peek Miss J

2011-02-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

February Cover

2011-01-31T13:35:00.000-08:00

Check out our featured photographer for February and enjoy reading our fabulous articles in Las Vegas Photographer Magazine!!!

[Cover Photography by Malea Ellet-
Cover Design by Cindy Larkin]

Sour Cream Roll Outs

2011-01-25T16:15:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day is coming and I wanted to share my favorite sugar cookie recipe with you! It's good enough that you might even be tempted to eat the dough all by itself. Enjoy!

1-1/2 cups sugar
2 cubes butter softened
1 egg
1 cup sour cream
2 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
4-1/2 cups flour

Directions:
Cream sugar and butter; add egg and sour cream; stir in vanilla;
Sift dry ingredients and add to creamed mixture. Scoop out dough
onto a floured surface and knead the dough until it's not sticky anymore.
Roll and cut out. Bake at 425 degrees for 8 minutes.

Photo Share~Manhattan Beach

2011-01-24T15:32:00.000-08:00

Bryce would be busy with meetings most of the trip, but he asked me to come along anyway. I said, "Yes!" enthusiastically. How many chances do I get to be all by myself where nobody knows that my name is usually Mom? Not many. So, this morning I kissed Mr. Larkin goodbye, and stuffed my$5 trolley ticket and map into my camera bag and stepped outside the hotel doors. Walking a few steps to the curb, I met up with a few other tourists who would be boarding the red trolley that would take us to Manhattan Beach.

The driver was only 4 minutes behind schedule.

After chatting with a few of my fellow passengers about departure times, I headed down this concrete road sandwiched between these lovely beach houses. Look! Do you see the ocean??

As I meandered along the boardwalk, I noticed several houses being renovated. I thought about how nice it would be to bring Bryce and the boys here to stay a while. A week would be perfect...then I smelled the ocean! I like the smell of the ocean...sort of. It's one of those smells that is associated with good times.

I didn't take me long to get to the Pier! Isn't this ah-mazing?!

I took my shoes off. The sand was warm on the surface, but cool beneath the top layer. Then I called my Mom & sisters to see what they were doing on this fine day.

Time to sit for a while..."Wish You Were Here" by Incubus kept playing in my mind.

"I dig my toes into the sand
The ocean looks like a thousand diamonds
Strewn across a blue blanket
I lean against the wind
Pretend that I am weightless
And in this moment I am happy...happy
I wish you were here"

What is it about cool sand between your toes and the ocean breeze through your hair, that makes everything feel so splendid?

Sand volleyball on a warm California morning, anyone?? Looks like fun!

The weather was surprisingly warm. Oh, I love it here!

After a couple of hours of soaking up the sun and wandering aimlessly on the shoreline collecting seashells, I decided to take a walk on the Pier and get a bite to eat...secretly I wanted to steal this bicycle and go for a ride on the boardwalk.

Fresh clam chowder and a dog, drenched with mustard...just the way I like it. :)

Oops! Time is up! Gotta get back to the hotel. Bryce should be done with his appointments and I have an evening date planned...Sunset on the beach, and dinner on the Pier. He will love this! {Stay tuned for more pics of the beach at sunset!}

Favorite Photo's From 2010...

2011-01-10T12:46:00.000-08:00

A few of my fav's in no particular order

Favorite Photographer's Challenge of 2010

2011-01-10T09:55:00.000-08:00

Photo By Amy Leavitt

"When I read Mandi Nuttall's story about how she got involved with her Beauty Campaign I cried because I empathized with how she felt about herself. I don't know what it is about women, but we sometimes have a hard time seeing our own beauty. However, when I saw Mandi's photographs I knew I wanted to do this too.

The first thing I did was facebook my closest photographer friends to tell them about it, and see if they wanted to do this challenge with me. They were all excited except for one little thing...like me, they were nervous to be in front of the camera instead of behind the camera. After we got our schedules aligned (which seemed to be a task all by itself), we decided to meet on the Las Vegas Strip for our Photographers Shoot-out. I've got to tell you, I was nervous! Not only was I going to be photographed in front of hundreds of people, but I also had the challenge of photographing some of the best and most beautiful photographers I knew. What if my camera malfunctioned? What if I screwed up their images? What if I was a complete dork and my pictures turned out terrible? These were only a few of a hundred concerns racing through my head as we drove to our location. After we introduced ourselves to each other (some of us had only met on facebook), the tension started to disappear. After a couple of shots, I realized that we were all in it together, and I began to loosen up. We had a great time! It was fun and I loved being together with other creative women! Here are a few of the things I learned:

1. It's okay to be assertive in giving directions on how to pose and what to do. In the past I've been somewhat timid to tell my clients what to do, how to stand, how to smile, etc. But now I realize that they need me to tell them these things. Generally people are a bit nervous and don't feel confident on how to pose, and they can't see what I see behind the camera. They want and need my expertise to create a fabulous photo!

2. Sometimes the photographer and the client have different ideas about what is beautiful. When I was looking at photographs of myself, it was really hard not to see my own flaws. The picture may have been technically perfect in every way, but if there was something about my face that I didn't really like, I ended up not liking the picture at all. In the past I've taken it personal when a client didn't particularly like a photo of themselves. After my experience, I've realized that it may not be anything I did as a photographer that made them dislike the photo. It could just be an insecurity they have about themselves.

3. It's okay to photoshop a little. Removing blemishes or liquifying a pudgy spot is AWESOME!!! We have these tools for a reason and it's okay to use them! As long as we're not destroying the integrity of the photograph or changing a persons over-all appearance, most people will welcome the removal of a scar, a zit, or a slight enhancement.

4. It's amazing the difference between my photographs when I loosened up and just went with the flow, and the ones where I was uptight and nervous. When I can help my clients feel comfortable (in front of me and in front of the camera), I am able to find their true inner beauty and capture an image that they will absolutely love!"

Photo By Jennie Slade

Christmas Card Sneak Peek

2010-12-15T22:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Holiday...

2010-12-14T09:41:00.000-08:00

From our family to yours!!!

Sneak Peek Family R

2010-12-05T20:43:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek Family T

2010-12-03T11:31:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek Family R

2010-11-29T12:47:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek Family C

2010-11-23T07:17:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek Couple C

2010-11-22T16:54:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek K & M's Wedding

2010-11-16T09:12:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek Family M

2010-11-14T02:39:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek Family C

2010-11-14T02:32:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek Family B

2010-11-10T23:27:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek: Ms. M, Ms. E, and Ms. B!

2010-10-22T12:27:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek Miss A

2010-10-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

[Click on image to view larger]

I Heart Beef Photo Challenge

2010-10-11T07:20:00.000-07:00

@ I Heart Faces http://networkedblogs.com/8XrHH

Sneak Peek Engagements

2010-10-10T23:35:00.000-07:00

[Click on image to view larger]

Girls Night Out On the Town-Las Vegas

2010-10-06T07:41:00.000-07:00

Back To School Mini-Sessions

2010-09-29T21:35:00.000-07:00

Hey Mom & Dad,

School pictures are coming up!! In the past, you've spent good money on pictures that were just like everyone else's, and frequently not suitable to hang on the wall. Come on! You remember the cheesy fake backgrounds, and images that were taken just after recess when their hair was a mess. This year consider a professional alternative...

Back To School- Miss Sarah & Miss Grace

2010-09-22T17:09:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek Family H

2010-09-19T23:01:00.000-07:00

For My Friends in the Red Rock Stake...

2010-09-16T15:31:00.000-07:00

...AND their friends they share it with!!! If you've seen this on your friends blog or facebook status, then you're getting the discount too! All you have to do is share the love!

Custom Digital Package includes:[Normally priced at $500- you will get if for $300]
1-2 hour photo session
1 CD of 20-30 high resolution images/digital negatives
A shared copyright release so you can make as many enlargements as you want
All photo's are retouched and custom edited [color, black & white, & texture overlays]

**Offer only applies if you repost my link on Facebook AND your personal blog. Please contact me for more details! :)

http://cindergirlphotography.blogspot.com/2010/09/red-rock-stake-discount.html

Sneak Peek Family K

2010-09-12T15:47:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek-Pinevalley

2010-09-08T21:35:00.000-07:00

September Magazine Cover

2010-09-02T11:21:00.000-07:00

Check out our featured photographer for September and enjoy reading our fabulous articles in Las Vegas Photographer Magazine!!!

[Cover Photography by Frank Selmo-
Cover Design by Cindy Larkin]

Sneak Peek---Back To School Mini- Session---My Three Sons

2010-08-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek Sunday

2010-08-22T23:56:00.001-07:00

Sneak Peek Mrs. W

2010-08-04T09:34:00.000-07:00

Project Sharing: Yellowstone National Park

2010-08-04T09:25:00.000-07:00

Check out my images from Yellowstone in the Las Vegas Photographer Magazine! Also, Miss Stacie Hawley is our featured photographer for August!

[Cover Photography by Stacie Hawley-

Cover Design by Cindy Larkin]

Project 365

2010-06-25T22:12:00.000-07:00

Life passes by so quickly and sometimes it's hard to remember what happened yesterday, much less a year ago. When I started Project 365 on January 1st of this year, I began a new journey of taking notice of the things in my life that bring me joy on a daily basis. Whether it was my family, a good book, the beauty in nature, or a well cooked meal, my picture of the day has become my reminder that life is good! Capturing one photo every day, has not only given me a great way to remember the year, but it has also made me a better photographer in the process!

Go check out Las Vegas Photographer magazine for more details on how to get started!

Give Us Your Best Shot: O.C.F.

2010-06-24T10:41:00.000-07:00

July is going to be a very exciting month for Las Vegas Photographer magazine! Stay tuned for more on Ali Hohn our Featured Photographer and O.C.F. guru, plus a first ever Photo Challenge called "Give Us Your Best Shot-O.C.F." We are looking for your O.C.F. Masterpieces! Submissions are being collected now, and will be posted after July 1st. If you would like to be featured in July's Photo Challenge please check the blog. All submissions will be published along with your photography website!! What a great way to network and share your work!

[Cover Photography by Ali Hohn-
Cover Design by Cindy Larkin]

Sneak Peek Edward & Ashley Engagements

2010-06-17T08:08:00.000-07:00

Wedding Photographer's Checklist

2010-05-28T18:36:00.000-07:00

Check out my article as featured in Las Vegas Photographer On-Line Magazine!
[Cover Photography by Jennie Slade- Cover Design by Cindy Larkin]

Seven Must-Have's by Cindy Larkin

1. Have a portfolio:
You will want to show your work from an entire wedding. This will show the bride and groom that you are capable of doing a great job throughout the whole wedding, not just taking a few lucky shots. It's preferable to have an album or a set of proofs from a recent wedding that you have done. This will assure them that this is not your first wedding and that your style fits theirs. They will be looking for examples that they would like to see in their own wedding images, such as black and white, photo-journalism, family groups and special post-processing actions.

Hint: If you are new to wedding photography, you'll need to start somewhere, right? Ask a friend or family member to let them use you at their wedding as a second photographer, or offer to do their wedding for free, so you can get the experience and portfolio you need. Free photo gigs are a great way to increase your porfolio in any area of photography you choose.

2. Be professional and Courteous:
Little things make a big difference. Always treat them well on the phone, and get back to them within a reasonable amount of time, if they have left you a message. Remember, they may chose you as their photographer not only because they like your work, but because they like you. Keep in mind that if they are happy with your service, they will most likely give your name as a referral to their friends and family members in the future.

3. Have Your Prices And Services Clear:
Let them know ahead of time what type of services you offer, such as how many hours of your time are included in the price, and what your overtime rate is. Let them know how many images they will get back, and if your price includes black and white, as well as color. Let them know if the price includes an engagement sitting and, if not, how much the engagement sitting costs. One of the things they will want to know is what the package price does and does not include. The more information they can get from you before hand, the better.

4. Be Punctual:
Make sure that you are on time for all appointments and well organized, especially the day of the wedding. Being a few minutes early will help ease your mind while you get everything in order. This will not only release some of your tension, but the family's as well. Imagine how you would feel on your wedding day if the photographer did not shown up on time.

5. Have Back Up Equipment:
Always have a back up camera and extra batteries. Accidents do happen and no photographer wants to be stuck on a special day, such as a wedding, without proper equipment.

6. Dress Appropriately:
You will want to choose an outfit that will blend in with the crowd, but keep in step with this formal occassion. I have found that choosing a classic black pantsuit or shirt and slacks, is appropriate in almost any setting. Also, wear comfortable shoes, as you will be moving around alot.

7. Be Prompt with the Proofs:
The Bride and Groom will want to get their wedding proofs or images back within a reasonable amount of time. Two to four weeks after the wedding is a good rule. I generally tell my clients four weeks which gives me enough time to edit them, but I also like to send a "Sneak Peek" via email within a few days, to let them see a couple of my favorite shots. This does 2 very important things. It helps appease them while they are waiting for the remaining pictures, and it also helps ease their mind about how the pictures turned out. I have also found that the sneak peek gets them very excited to see more!

Las Vegas Photographer

2010-05-07T12:25:00.001-07:00

We just launched our new Blog/Magazine Las Vegas Photographer! I want to personally invite you to come and check it out! We are going to be introducing and featuring new photographers each month on our magazine cover and posting some fantastic articles and tutorials from our amazing photographers!! Right now we are still looking for some input and ideas. Come share with us! http://www.lasvegasphotographer.blogspot.com/

Come check out Amy Leavitt as our featured photographer for May!!!
[Cover Photography by Amy Leavitt- Cover Design by Cindy Larkin]

I {heart} Faces Photo Challege~Smiles

2010-04-28T11:49:00.000-07:00

This had to be my entry for this challege! It makes me laugh out loud every time I see it.

http://iheartfaces.blogspot.com/

Sneak Peek Family T

2010-04-26T10:36:00.000-07:00