tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2289907889514189372024-02-06T18:44:46.709-08:00The Original Rock Starbrandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-87331686531172521932011-09-11T06:10:00.000-07:002011-09-11T07:04:11.138-07:00Remembering 9/11I have watched <a href="http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/tv-schedule">Nat Geo </a>several nights this past week and pretty much cried every night. They have been remembering 9/11. If you get a chance catch some of it.<br /><br />Here is what I remember. 10 years ago today I was listening to The Wheels on the Bus and doing the hand motions while driving Rachel to daycare. After dropping her off I quickly turned on the radio and heard people yelling, lots of confusion and the announcer was saying a plane had accidentally hit the World Trade Center. Work was just right around the corner from daycare so I quickly got in and turned the tv on. Robert, the pharmacist and I stood there and watched as the world changed for all of us. It wasn't long before the second plane hit and war began.<br /><br />We read stories of tragedy and war like this in school. We had to learn all the facts. The dates, the battles, who was in charge all the time thinking it was silly and useless facts we had to know and be quizzed on. Now I know why. We need to remember.<br /><br />I was proud of all of us as Americans after that coming together. At one time you could see flags on people's houses and businesses as far as you could see. Things have changed since then. Some of us have slipped comfortably back into life while some are still tortured with what happened that day. Many families lost loved ones that day and after that in war. <br /><br />Maybe 10 years later its a good idea for us to go back to that uncomfortable place and fly our flags again. Its time to walk up to a solider at the grocery store and shake his hand. Be thankful for your safety. Be thankful that we dont have to be afraid. Forget about all the politics and anger we have for one day. Make today that day.<br /><br /><iframe width="420" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZE4wjGp-80A" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />My name is Brandy Kemp and I will never forget.brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-17954992735978127152011-09-06T07:18:00.000-07:002011-09-06T07:20:51.798-07:00Rockin the UkuleleAs my husband would say...I am so easily amused.<br /><br /><iframe width="560" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Q-VWdPGGTT8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> <br /><br />Keep Rockin Freaky Japanese Rabbit and Bearbrandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-86055768069339146312011-09-06T06:37:00.000-07:002011-09-07T07:16:00.294-07:00Mapping the StarsCam my youngest wanted to go outside before bed a couple of nights ago and draw the stars on a map so she could wish on them. She went on and on about how big the universe was. How it was bigger than all of us. When I asked her what she wished for she said, "I wished for more stars." More stars? She said, "More stars so I could have more wishes." I love the way she thinks.<br /><br />I went back to the house I grew up in a couple of years ago and remember being amazed at how small the yard was. Growing up it seemed like it was as big as what I thought Texas would be. As big as the universe. Everyone in the neighborhood seemed to gravitate to our house because of the space to play. We had kickball, baseball, football, bicycle races, the occasional parade and a few mock games of the Price is Right. <br /><br />Our yard was huge! It seems like if someone hit the ball close to the road it took forever to run out there! I wont even mention the time we couldn't find the baseball and decided to play with a tennis ball. Can you say broken window? I didn't know a tennis ball would travel that far!<br /><br />While walking the yard as an adult I was shocked at how small it was. Of course the landscape had changed alot, bushes that were not there before, and trees over grown. It was sad to look at the old house. It wasn't in the shape it was in when I was growing up there. I wish I would've seen the inside and slapped the attic string against the ceiling one good time for old times sake.<br /><br />I realized on the way home that one day my girls would discover that the world is not as big as it seems. Is that so bad? Yes there are tons of places I haven't discovered and sadly some that I will never see. I want them to see more, do more and be more than I ever will. I guess in a way I want them to see how small this place is and realize there is more out there than this yard we have to discover. <br /><br />I hope they continue to discover the universe. <br /><br />Here is a song about it girls...Its a Big World<br /><iframe width="420" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/rujPiKrafts" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />I know its a corny song but I am feeling sappy today about my little girls in a big world. Especially after watching my star mapper walk in kindergarten by herself every morning.<br /><br /><strong>Keep Mappin the Stars.. er uh... Rockin</strong>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-87428511585982313142011-08-30T06:40:00.001-07:002011-08-30T07:27:23.564-07:00BelieveI cant believe it has almost been a month since I last blogged! Shame on me! With the summer days and school just starting back the appointments get later in the day and it seems like I play catch up all day long even though I seem to have the same amount of hours in each day.
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<br />I have recently conducted 3 very large business transactions. One was a complete disaster, one we are still working out the kinks and a third one went off without a problem at all. Ironically the 3rd one was the one I was staying awake at night worrying about. I cried on the way home after the 3rd one. I guess the stress had gotten to me.
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<br />After the ups and downs of all of these transactions I turned to my husband one day while we were on our way home frustrated from a meeting and told him, "I understand now why people strive for customer service." (Meaning good customer service) Its hard to find! I would bet we've all felt this way at one time or another.
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<br />I came across this quote a while back "Customers don’t expect you to be perfect.
<br />They do expect you to fix things when they go wrong."
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<br />I make tons of mistakes and beat myself up pretty bad when I do. You have no idea how bad. I know that no one is perfect but I strive to be perfect.
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<br />After the recent disaster transaction I have reflected back on my own customer service and hope and pray that I have never overlooked a person, made them feel unimportant, or have fixed the things that went wrong. Before, during or after a session.
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<br />I remember my oldest daughter coming home one day from school very upset. She told me about a problem she had with a close friend. The friend had done her so wrong. She was so upset. The first thing I told her was, "Remember how this feels. Crappy huh? Never make another person feel like this." I hate it when my kids learn lessons early in their life.
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<br />Call it stupid, call it naive, call it what you will but I will always believe in people. I want to think there is good in all of us. I know I will be frustrated. I know I will be let down and I know that I will be hurt again. It will all be worth it to me.
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<br />Nothing like a little DMB to give us a reason to believe in others
<br /><iframe width="420" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/H67uEgRZs2Y" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<br />You may thank me for the jam...until then
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<br /><strong>Keep (Believing) Rockin</strong>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-42156508788259218122011-08-03T12:47:00.000-07:002011-08-03T18:16:41.191-07:00They Make Me SmileSunday my Cam will be 5. Gosh, I cant get over how fast she is growing up and then I turn around and look at Rachel, my oldest, and she is a grown woman at 13. <br /><br />I wonder what I was like at 5. Was I as curious? Did I have an imagination like Cameron's? One that should be bottled by the way. And then I look at Rachel. Was I that confident? I know I wasnt that athletic!<br /><br />I love to hear them laugh. Rachel has this explosion laugh that almost catches you off guard and you cant help but laugh with her. Her mouth is wide open and she isnt scared to show others when she sees something funny. I like that. Cameron has this chipmunk like laugh and likes to slap her knee when she wants others to know something is funny to her. Your cheeks hurts from smiling when she laughs. They are so different but they are still the same.<br /><br />I just said the other day I wish I could record their laughter and play it over and over. One day they will want to hear it...One day they will need to hear it...One day I will need to hear it. <br /><br />I am proud of my girls. I hope they continue to laugh, smile and make others laugh. Its such an infectious sound. I read that laughter encourages concentration on "right" attitudes rather than "wrong" attitudes. <br /><br />Here is one of Cam's favorite songs she likes to sing out loud that is appropriate.<br /><iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PP_apsbNev8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />You may thank me for the jam...Until then<br /><br />Keep(Smilin) Rockinbrandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-61294412696063129892011-06-02T07:02:00.000-07:002011-06-02T07:14:06.958-07:00UnbelievableIve always heard music is a mini trip into another time. It brings back memories good and bad, it evokes emotion, it makes you sing as loud as you can in your car alone, and sometimes even makes you act a fool! A short vacation for 3 minutes, an escape.<br /><br />Today while driving a flashback came on. And it took me back to the time I was in Jr High. This song wasn't even around then but it would've def been on my mix tape. We didnt have the money to buy a big sound system that would record so I improvised. One year for Christmas I got a pink jam box...my sister got an identical one that was blue. So when a good song would come on the radio I would record from mine while holding it as close to her speakers as I could. Of course I always missed the first part of the song and one of my sisters would bust up in the room while I was trying to record. You could always hear the song start in the chorus instead of the beginning and hear, "Brandy! Can I....shhhh I am recording" over the middle of the song. Funny how time has changed...I dont even think my daughters even know the term mix tape. Unbelievable... I know<br /><br />Here's one to make you sing loud in the car <br /><br /><iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/waacof2saZw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />If you could make a mix tape what would be on it? Oh wait now it is called shuffle on your ipod. I think...anyway<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Keep <span style="font-style:italic;">"Remembering"</span> Rockin</span>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-45569623700811379172011-05-10T12:16:00.000-07:002011-05-10T13:04:52.044-07:00Lets Play Ball<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTRXpOxygtVJKY3TlBTqqGOK-_joGtD9KkMoQB-w1AP65TWHOqFRvP3jbtopM3G5kOKywQIR-bYt0VDF4tTGmetcGipzbF_wcD1_6_Rujmj_bW07FSoBp_87_VUmwQzet60-XkPXCc0A/s1600/IMG_0506.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTRXpOxygtVJKY3TlBTqqGOK-_joGtD9KkMoQB-w1AP65TWHOqFRvP3jbtopM3G5kOKywQIR-bYt0VDF4tTGmetcGipzbF_wcD1_6_Rujmj_bW07FSoBp_87_VUmwQzet60-XkPXCc0A/s800/IMG_0506.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605171763674703682" /></a><br />I realized while watching my oldest have one of her best games ever last night that this will probably be her last year of softball. As much as I have whined about driving across the county, not being home to work, red dirt in the truck, smelly uniforms to wash, grabbing supper along the way (which I cant stand to do), and sad when she has to sit on the bench. I will miss it. She's already hinted around about it so I know that it will be coming.<br /><br />I think one of the things I will miss the most is watching her up to bat. I still see her when she first started in pig tails but she is now a beautiful young lady. Having that feeling in my heart wanting her to make perfect contact with the ball and run the bases with pride. My stomach is just tight watching her. Praying she will make the play of a lifetime. So anxious I cant stand to sit down. Feeling her pain and grief when she doesn't. Seeing a pop fly coming right to her and holding my breath and talking to myself saying, "You got this. You got this." I hate the fact not that she messes up but knowing how she feels when she didn't tag the girl on second base that stole in time. But watching her smile when she comes into the dugout knowing that she just made the most awesome play. <br /><br />I will miss it but I am sure there will be many other times in her life I will be seeing her in pigtails and holding my breath. I hate the fact that she is growing up. <br /><br />Weve been through 5 years of softball and 4 years of All Stars. She has made some awesome friends and has definitely learned the meaning of the word teamwork. The past couple of years between games the girls would get on the field and do the Cupid Shuffle. Alot of times the opposing team would get out there with them...Here you go Medina Ladies<br /><br />3 up 3 down...Let me see you do the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPna1dIeUHQ&playnext=1&list=PL767BDC73CC1ED0CD">Cupid Shuffle</a>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-47227848434504598582011-05-08T11:16:00.000-07:002011-05-08T11:17:00.255-07:00Happy Mother's Day<iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/bhcA4Ry65FU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-64489649343714621112011-04-11T07:21:00.000-07:002011-04-11T11:39:01.282-07:00The ReasonTook a much needed wog this morning before the storm hit. The sky looked so powerful and at one point I ran with my eyes closed just to feel the wind on my face and the light mist of rain. I remembered this morning why I like to stay so busy. It keeps me from thinking so much. Wondering why, questioning this, asking that.<br /><br />It has been a whirl wind of a year and next month marks my one year anniversary as a full time photog. Well, I was full time before just not officially. I am very thankful for the overwhelming response to my work. There were many reasons why I or other artist want to share their work with the world. Reasons sometimes that can't be explained. I hope I never stray from my reason. <br /><br />My reason? Hard to really put into words. Sometimes we all get so caught up in life, work, "reasons" that we miss the smallest things in life. The gift we have all been given.<br /><br />I am taking a few days off next week (Yes you can pick yourself up off the ground. I am taking one of those things they call a vacation.) I want my fam to remember the reason we are all together. The reason we formed our family. The reason why we love each other. The reason why we cheer each other on. The reason why we have cried for each other when illness struck our family. The reason why we are a rockstar family. The very reason why I want to share my work with others. So they can see it in their own lives.<br /><br />Hoobastank (Dont you just love saying that?) released a song in 2004 called The Reason. It has absolutely nothing to do with this post but the name! And well, the fact that Hoobastank is such an awesome name for a band. Crank it up. <br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/fV4DiAyExN0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />You may thank me for the jam...Until then<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Keep Rockin</span>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-23161577501128670562011-03-27T09:24:00.000-07:002011-03-27T16:24:31.841-07:00Wanda and Gail<strong>For those of you that do not know about this project you can go back here to read the introduction to it. <a href="http://mebkp.blogspot.com/2011/01/make-difference.html">http://mebkp.blogspot.com/2011/01/make-difference.html</strong></a>This is Wanda and Gail, my March peeps...<br /><br />Today I want to introduce you to two very special women that were nominated by their daughter and niece.<br />The original idea for this project was to introduce very special people that I know to others and it was truly my honor to be introduced to Gail and Wanda. <br /> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ZiXQnOSqXRi7jGIUAdw6oRSGRHEYhpyA56Tl_50p0okCMMh7VbvtRlGZyTIN67ePHQxMrM5CUYEH8NpAF5YXBZw6NDzOidH91LfoqTOYIjXrHqICb9_7QOiWhxmJCINqXJtwkOa64Ec/s1600/IMG_7892+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ZiXQnOSqXRi7jGIUAdw6oRSGRHEYhpyA56Tl_50p0okCMMh7VbvtRlGZyTIN67ePHQxMrM5CUYEH8NpAF5YXBZw6NDzOidH91LfoqTOYIjXrHqICb9_7QOiWhxmJCINqXJtwkOa64Ec/s800/IMG_7892+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588801453276418978" /></a><br /><br />Mandy their niece and daughter had planned this interview for a while but was unable to work it out until recently. Gail and Wanda showed up at my studio dressed in beautiful jewel toned blouses. When I asked them if Mandy had given them a basic idea of what they were there for Gail spoke up and said " I don't have a clue. I guess we are here to have pictures made." I jumped right in and said "Mandy didn't tell you that you had to get naked?" When they snapped back and laughed I knew we were in for a good time. I explained the project to them and why Mandy had nominated them and the tears started flowing. Before it was over I was crying too.<br /><br />I immediately learned into the interview that they had recently lost their mother. A very hard time for a child. I remember being in that place, losing a parent. Everything makes you emotional. I honestly think the interview was good for both ladies to really speak of their mother. The interview quickly turned into her interview being spoken through both of her daughters who highly admired her.<br />They both in unison stated that their mother was an unselfish woman. She did everything for the family and was truly the backbone. She never worried or complained about her role as the backbone of the family. Often cleaning their rooms for them without them having to lift a finger. They strive to be more and more like her. <br /><br />In giving the world one piece of advice Gail spoke first saying, "Go with Jesus." and Wanda "Enjoy every moment because life is short." They both said "Everything happens for a reason." <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHh_KLJg0aYsJ9ZTYKOgQNKjwtK3OJH82LE9kfRmgTgxezmI9xAjsDloN0RPHVL-eFxGuVOqOoR7zTv8XH7BhOMpF_m0sj4361QxXh5crWGufwmA6uCeieW7j1qEswcL8-JildJ17lGKs/s1600/IMG_7888+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHh_KLJg0aYsJ9ZTYKOgQNKjwtK3OJH82LE9kfRmgTgxezmI9xAjsDloN0RPHVL-eFxGuVOqOoR7zTv8XH7BhOMpF_m0sj4361QxXh5crWGufwmA6uCeieW7j1qEswcL8-JildJ17lGKs/s800/IMG_7888+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588801446156578546" /></a><br /><br />Both of them spoke of how proud they were of their families. Working hard themselves to be the backbone of their own family. They agreed that children are a product of their environment and thrived to raise their children with the same values they were raised in. <br /><br />Mandy arrived deep into the interview and spoke of her "mothers" as she called them both. "Always going the extra mile not just for her but for everyone." She stated she could not live without them.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC5yKqDrhjpylIxEoEJgJ5yC5uc1LwOMvGLSYEvPGXac6Zkrogk39JOUhVOLsRXbYctIWwo_cCBzVqbBkpVSS33ZvQ4DS_E8qgqD1430S6xAbs2PodghRYtPJlvjxdYNevFuhyphenhyphenmK61SRg/s1600/DPP1_350+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC5yKqDrhjpylIxEoEJgJ5yC5uc1LwOMvGLSYEvPGXac6Zkrogk39JOUhVOLsRXbYctIWwo_cCBzVqbBkpVSS33ZvQ4DS_E8qgqD1430S6xAbs2PodghRYtPJlvjxdYNevFuhyphenhyphenmK61SRg/s800/DPP1_350+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588801440658303746" /></a><br /><br />Both ladies have become their mother. Beautiful, strong, influential women and I am not even sure if they even realized it until that day. The interview that was meant for them became their mothers which is what they have become. <br />Oh yeah, Wanda I haven't forgotten. I want to see swimming pictures before the end of the year and line dancing images from you Gail. I am holding you to your promises. Thank you ladies, It was truly my honor to meet you and share you with the world. <br /><br />After reading this Gail added: One thing I would like to say is, strength is not something we are born with, it has to be learned, therefore it has to be taught, this I believe is something our mom did indeed teach her children! The trials & struggles we go thru in life are only an opportunity to use the lessons we have been taught by the amazing people in our lives! <br /> <br />If you know someone special and want to nomiate them for this project please email me at brandykphotography@gmail.combrandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-74471064598668653162011-03-16T07:59:00.000-07:002011-03-16T08:03:48.157-07:00Nate DoggRead this morning that Nate Dogg had passed away at the early age of 41. It is so sad to hear that an icon in my era has passed.<br /><br />Nate Dogg was a four-time Grammy nominee and a major participant in the West Coast G-Funk sound, contributing memorable and chart-topping hooks to hits spanning the past two decades, starting with his heavy featuring on Dr. Dre's The Chronic. He went on to add his smooth, laid-back sound to Warren G's "Regulate," Dre and Snoop Dogg's "The Next Episode," Ludacris' "Area Codes" and Eminem's "Shake That." His most recent solo album, Nate Dogg, was released in 2008.<br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1plPyJdXKIY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />RIP Nate Dogg, you are a true legend in hip hop.brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-81584305762254339072011-03-11T05:51:00.001-08:002011-03-11T06:34:34.847-08:00The Power of Passion Tour<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczo05pBFFumGPNxpHK9GAd_SWvuDGoOqIRO0S7Vt_aX801i9pA6a_BedUTsXIMtjMkedNZSGhEdzlehmQV9KL1ugBqIFtildDPK51lwcR2KptVUG51O47zcyC6aDNdR9rpe5MbR-kezs/s1600/09-1214-Diner.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 319px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczo05pBFFumGPNxpHK9GAd_SWvuDGoOqIRO0S7Vt_aX801i9pA6a_BedUTsXIMtjMkedNZSGhEdzlehmQV9KL1ugBqIFtildDPK51lwcR2KptVUG51O47zcyC6aDNdR9rpe5MbR-kezs/s400/09-1214-Diner.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582828873254903298" /></a><br /><br />Late last night I had the pleasure of attending The Power of Passion Tour hosted by Sandy Puc. Last year I had tickets to her Family Tour and badly injured my shoulder a few weeks before then and ended up giving my ticket to another photographer because I was unable to travel, let alone lift my arm.<br /><br />So I was fired up about last night. It was like walking into a rock concert. Sandy always speaks with such "passion" about her love for photography and connecting with others. Jerry Ghionis is a show all in himself. Between the laughter, funny Australian nicknames for things we have and his raw talent, it was simply amazing!<br /><br />I proudly walked away with new knowledge of how to create moments and not to let the families we are photographing at weddings lose what is really important that day. Stress sets in a weddings and everyone is exhausted when it is over and they wonder what really happened. Jerry taught me to help my clients embrace the day and take it for what it is. A truly remarkable day that should always be remembered. <br /><br />He taught me how to challenge myself. To slow down and really take my time to capture that look. The look that I want my clients to have. <br /><br />Everyone is a photographer now. Simply that. Everyone has a camera, everyone has a camera phone, everyone. I am not just a photographer I am me. I want to show myself in my photography. Not just in weddings but in every portrait session I am involved with. I will set myself apart from everyone else by being me and not just a photographer. I will deliver the wow wedding images that everyone will want.<br /><br />I cant wait to show you the new me. Thank you Jerry and Sandy. You two are truly amazing. Thank you for helping The Wedding Divas become who we are. We are committed to making this change. I cant wait to see you on the next tour.<br /><br />I will defiantly Keep Rockin!<br /><br /><br /><em>*The Wedding Divas is a sister company of <a href="http://bkpwed.blogspot.com/">brandy kemp Photography </a>and Stephani Foster Photography. A tag team set of photographers to conquer a wedding with a new look, passion and fun experience you will always remember. </em>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-12531852228985835382011-03-01T08:49:00.000-08:002011-03-01T09:03:04.289-08:00Disco DuckI got my first record player at a very young age from my Grandpa. He use to go to these sales on Saturday nights and bring back tons of things. For some reason he got in his head that Mom collected salt and pepper shakers...she has tons of them.<br /><br />My mom and Aunt Betty gave me all of their old records to listen to on my new record player. I kept them all in a Turner ice cream bucket. I listed to everything from "The Beat Goes On" to "Montego Bay". My sisters and I even made up dances to "Stanga" (we use to call is Stand Up so that is what we would do through out the whole song) and "Jimmy Mack". <br /><br />To this day I still listen to the oldies all the time in the truck and every once in a while "Build Me Up Buttercup" will come on or another song I know and I am able to sing every word still to this day. <br /><br />This morning I flashed back to our old house in Bolivar when this one came on the air. I caught myself dancing, singing, flapping my arms and making funny noises with my mouth all while driving down the road. <br /><br />You may thank me for the jam <br /><br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/irgJPqkuakM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br /><strong>Keep Quakin (Rockin)</strong>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-50628058224252204982011-02-24T11:55:00.000-08:002011-02-24T12:17:21.134-08:00bkP Studio Wish ListStill dreaming big about my rockin bkP studio...I keep saying I am going to write down things I want. I cant write worth a crap so I thought I would keep up with them this way. Someone once told me if you don't share your dreams they may never come true. Here is a starter list<br /><br />1. A changing table-Right now the moms either lay the baby on their lap or on the backdrop...I clean everything btw...don't want germs to spread<br /><br />2. A place to change clothes-Right now I have my Fauxto Booth backdrop hanging up so it doesn't get wrinkles in it. The girls slip behind there and change. Before I would step outside the door and either freeze my hiney off or burn up.<br /><br />3. A separate viewing room-Right now I have a 42' big screen on the wall and I have to steal the dining room chairs. They make this awful noise on the concrete floor and they are not very comfortable unless you have a big meal in front of you at the table.<br /><br />4. Ceiling mounted lights-Right now I have an off camera speedlight (wireless) and an Alien Bee. Wish I had a hair light too.<br /><br />5. A bathroom-I dont know why we didnt think about this when we built the studio and no need for explanation I am sure!<br /><br />6. A long mirrored hallway-Obviously dont have this but wouldnt it be cool?<br /><br />7. A room that is large enough to pull a car in. I want it painted white from ceiling to floor. And I can pretend like I am in a Quiet Riot video.<br /><br />8. A light screen like this! Oh yeah and the microphone too!<br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/l94RU6ixyJU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />ok enough dreaming back to work...I am sure I will resume this list soon. Until then<br /><br /><strong>Keep Rockin</strong>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-17266350670069943662011-02-17T08:37:00.000-08:002011-02-17T09:16:32.541-08:00The Old Rag TopI heard a story the other day a friend told me....She is going to kill me for sharing but it has an awesome story behind it to me. So I wont tell who it was...you know who you are!<br /><br />We were on the phone when a loud buzzer came across the phone and of course I had to ask, "Where are you?" She started laughing and said she was at the car wash. She went on to tell me how nervous they make her and how she once drove a Jeep Wrangler through one (it had a rag top mind you). Of course I am beside myself laughing imagining water running in the sides and the big blowers at the end caving in the top. <br /><br />She said she knew when she drove up it was a mistake but didn't want to ask anyone behind her to back up and let her out so she went through it anyway and came out with a scary experience and a great laugh for me.<br /><br />Anyway her story reminded me of how we all get into scary or bad situations but we just dont want to tell someone no or back up so we can get out of the way. Instead we go through the experience without inconviencing someone and doing minor damages to ourselves. <br /><br />Sometimes we have to stand up and get out of the way. In one way or another, I learn this lesson every other day it seems like. If you see danger ahead or a rag top caving in your future get out of way. This is probably when you need to drive away.<br /><br />Here is a song not about rag tops but how you need to be in the driver's seat.<br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/fgT9zGkiLig" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />You may thank me for the jam...Until then<br /><br /><strong>Keep Rockin</strong>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-67878086726595609742011-02-14T12:08:00.000-08:002011-02-14T13:47:36.232-08:00Tammy<strong>For those of you that do not know about this project you can go back here to read the introduction to it. <a href="http://mebkp.blogspot.com/2011/01/make-difference.html">http://mebkp.blogspot.com/2011/01/make-difference.html</strong></a>This is Tammy, my February peep...<br /><br />Today I want to introduce you to a lady I met a few months ago. I was instantly attracted to her bubbly personality not to mention her sense of style. Later I found out she is the co-pastor of "FAM" First Assembly of God in Milan. I asked Tammy to be a part of this project so I can show you just how awesome I found out she is!<br /><br />I sat down for a little Q&A with her to get to know her a little better.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpHrwiR95t6Mq88OwcRg4fpHS7Z6SmhxaF4vx6Xxiyh9y7qg7Ud7pavhXbHjHDx5neD2PTZ0EBkM8UuP90il6CmUX0vAfQFrucgww8_XyAZV8HYkOtvRvr0f_jPy_ln76i9qQmpWbno9w/s1600/IMG_4197+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpHrwiR95t6Mq88OwcRg4fpHS7Z6SmhxaF4vx6Xxiyh9y7qg7Ud7pavhXbHjHDx5neD2PTZ0EBkM8UuP90il6CmUX0vAfQFrucgww8_XyAZV8HYkOtvRvr0f_jPy_ln76i9qQmpWbno9w/s800/IMG_4197+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573642139994176402" /></a><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> Tell me a little about your "job" if you see it as one. <br /><strong>Tammy:</strong> I do not categorize it as a job; I consider it more like a lifestyle. I would express it in these terms: This is not what I do, this is who I am. God has blessed me with this skill set & ability and in turn I use it to help people see the talents and abilities that He has given them. <br /><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> When did you realize this is what you were meant to do? <br /><strong>Tammy:</strong> At 15 I became aware of the fact that He had a plan for my life and that was when I knew I wanted to help others. <br /><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> So how did you get here?<br /><strong>Tammy: </strong>I was raised in a Baptist church and at age nine I gave my heart to Jesus. As a young teen we started going to an Assembly of God church where I ministered under the youth pastor and after high school I decided to go to Southeastern University in Florida. It was there I met my husband Rick and together we have been in full-time ministry since 1996. <br /><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> I was raised to believe that a man is the "man" of the house and in church a woman should not have a role as a pastor. I don't want to imply that is how it should be but do you feel like there is some discrimination against you as a female pastor? <br /><strong>Tammy:</strong> Not at all although I am sure that I relate better to the women in the church but I also have a very healthy relationship with the men in the church as well. My husband and I work very well together as a team. We know each other's strengths and weaknesses and we definitely work together to complement one another. I believe that God has put us together as a team. My role as a co-pastor is to help my husband to be all that he can be. To be the wind behind him and amazingly there is no competition between us at all.<br /><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> Who did you admire growing up? <br /><strong>Tammy:</strong> My mother, my pastor, and my youth pastors all had a very profound impact on my life. <br /><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> What are 3 words to describe yourself?<br /><strong>Tammy:</strong> Passionate, loyal, and loving. I have a strong desire to express these and reproduce these in others especially love which is the greatest commandment.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgze_rIy7BIzmxRN4-Qg_pkXqiMOUO5yT-xOQx-zh2zo-Ox1r8pw3gyRlQWRepDzD_kjTaR_lrsdUvUzMvvUmli2iIHt_pvwm8mdOvoJK8yDvssJC5BcrLz37Up-4JVU8yctl70kDO7AfY/s1600/IMG_4176.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgze_rIy7BIzmxRN4-Qg_pkXqiMOUO5yT-xOQx-zh2zo-Ox1r8pw3gyRlQWRepDzD_kjTaR_lrsdUvUzMvvUmli2iIHt_pvwm8mdOvoJK8yDvssJC5BcrLz37Up-4JVU8yctl70kDO7AfY/s800/IMG_4176.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573642145523139282" /></a><br /><strong>bkp:</strong> Something you’re most proud of.<br /><strong>Tammy:</strong> My family; my children; they are all truly incredible.<br /><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> If you could give the world one piece of advice what would it be?<br /><strong>Tammy:</strong> Just to be the person that you were created to be and to do it with all your heart. I believe God has given everyone of us unique gifts and talents and they should be used to their full potential. <br /><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> I read a survey not too long ago that the fastest growing group in America is people who say they have no religion at all. Why do you think that is?<br /><strong>Tammy:</strong> First of all I do not consider myself to be religious; I have a personal relationship with Jesus. I think that is where we all go wrong. There are too many rules and regulations to fit in anywhere and even religion. God wants us to have a relationship with him. One of my favorite quotes is "You can teach someone what you know but you reproduce who you are." We should set an example to younger generations and show them the personal relationship that you can have and that church can be fun even without all the rules and regulations that man has imposed. God expects me to be who I am and accepts me just the way I am. <br /><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> It has been a long time since I have stepped inside a church. The church I grew up in was very boring. I remember when I was little I use to stretch out on the pew and sleep and would only wake up when the preacher would yell. Everything was so monotone. Do you think the "new" church is the way to go? We are in a visual age where we need visual stimulation. Do we need lots of music and things to make church exciting? Do you think that strays from the traditional "church" I grew up in? <br /><strong>Tammy:</strong> Not one bit. It is the same message just a different method. You are a photographer, and you don't photograph like they did when you were 9 right? You have to stay unique, fresh, and exciting. Our church is the same way. We want to draw people in and keep spreading the message that we are here and we are part of the community as well. You have to have a relationship with your congregation. We want our "FAM" to be a family; a place where you are an important part of a family and you feel that way. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6oTP8z9hfLi4cdcLuZWVlZmwIl46VCtsV7LxWKqSezuOBfMLd_xqMOjoXKz9MwtDjitg6TjCKY_uKr5jYze5JPn4vdc9HgqSAGIeXQeHjKo0dG9WbpoTLGOQ__Ean1HE1afM_MsxEy1I/s1600/IMG_4199+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6oTP8z9hfLi4cdcLuZWVlZmwIl46VCtsV7LxWKqSezuOBfMLd_xqMOjoXKz9MwtDjitg6TjCKY_uKr5jYze5JPn4vdc9HgqSAGIeXQeHjKo0dG9WbpoTLGOQ__Ean1HE1afM_MsxEy1I/s800/IMG_4199+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573642138293737474" /></a><br /><br />Tammy and I talked for over 2 hours about her journey. She told me of the times she spoke at a large prison in North Carolina and how she zip lined across the rooftop of the rain forest in Costa Rica on a missions trip. She showed true emotion in our discussion even one time bringing me to tears. She told me of how she wants to continue moving forward. How she wants to grow her audience, not just to be in front of thousands of people but to help them recognize who they really are. It only takes a few minutes to be around her to have her attention. She is definitely one of a kind and I am happy to share her with you.brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-88138119463792558112011-02-09T06:46:00.001-08:002011-02-09T06:49:15.202-08:00Pete Eckert<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/14179548" width="400" height="300" frameborder="0"></iframe><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/14179548">| Artists Wanted | In Focus : Pete Eckert (Lo-Speed)</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/artistswanted">Artists Wanted</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p><br /><br />While working today to redesign some things on my blogsite I came across this amazing man. You can find more information on Pete at <a href="http://www.peteeckert.com/">http://www.peteeckert.com/.</a>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-76666875760829069802011-01-24T05:49:00.000-08:002011-02-02T11:06:12.285-08:00Beautiful BoyTomorrow I am driving to Melvis to photograph a newborn. Its a pretty good drive there too but I cant wait to get a hold of him! His pictures from the hospital show a head full of hair! I just love it! I wanted to share the email his mom sent me...this is why I love my job.<br /><br />"...see when my husband asked me why I wanted to use you instead of finding someone local I had to explain that you actually have a personal relationship with your clients which shows in your pictures. No cookie cutter images like the places our friends go to. Each photo shoot we do with you will have memories attached and that's what I'll think of when I look back at the photos."<br /><br />This is one of my favorite John Lennon songs...well there are tons of them but this one fits. I cant wait to hold that beautiful boy.<br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" class="youtube-player" type="text/html" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Lt3IOdDE5iA" frameborder="0" allowFullScreen></iframe><br /><br /><br />Keep Rockin Mom!brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-71522497632927995512011-01-19T09:23:00.001-08:002011-01-19T10:01:20.614-08:00The CaminoI am a HUGE fan of cars. HUGE! I love the old boats, the gangster cars. At one time I had 32 cars! Everything from Corvettes to Corvairs. Thats a story all in itself.<br /><br />So whenever I see an old car I keep an eye on it. Usually I pass by it several times and I always look. I look because I admire it. Admire the dashboard, the lights, the quirky little things about it. <br /><br />There was this old El Camino I kept an eye on. I have always liked the car/truck but never drove one or let alone owned one. It was in tip top shape too. It had that old ugly brown paint on it, no rust that I could see from the road and they had taken good care of it. I kept waiting for the day when a for sale sign would be in the window. <br /><br />I dont think many people my age appreciate the older cars, especially women and I figured it was an elderly man who owned it. The car was parked at an older home that had these great flowering bushes in the yard. The kind my grandmother use to have. I guess that is why I imagined this elderly couple that had been married since dirt was invented. I kept thinking this Camino was his memories of their younger days together and he just couldnt let go of it.<br /><br />At the beginning of the year I saw an awful wreck...an El Camino. I couldnt make out the color of the car because it was so dark. It was very close to the home of my Camino I admired. It was obvious from the wreck someone was either badly injured or had not survived. <br /><br />Since then I have looked and the El Camino has not been there. I drove by yesterday hoping that just maybe he had been taking it out for a spin the other times I had been by and it would be there. It wasnt and I thought maybe he wasnt there anymore either. My heart just sank. <br /><br />Sometimes I wonder if my imagination just runs wild. He may have put a for sale sign on it and another admirer snatched it up. I do hope this family that I dont even know is ok. I will keep looking at their home everytime I pass by. <br /><br />Funny how the love for a car and the human spirit can bring so much emotion to your life.brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-80600641390803688072011-01-10T10:13:00.001-08:002011-01-10T14:05:26.816-08:00Holly<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhinyyFODggep92-CmCSttnepOBbMSyeI92LX6mXFW1rG3yunleTl_iP1rOFq1sQW2FoMGHDa6hUHugjDN9yN83FN-dWz77kiBu7k6CUYLwFU37GjtN-J2y2jz5v_-BB6biQQNpq70iZc/s1600/IMG_1003+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhinyyFODggep92-CmCSttnepOBbMSyeI92LX6mXFW1rG3yunleTl_iP1rOFq1sQW2FoMGHDa6hUHugjDN9yN83FN-dWz77kiBu7k6CUYLwFU37GjtN-J2y2jz5v_-BB6biQQNpq70iZc/s800/IMG_1003+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560649552711733314" /></a><br />Today I want to introduce you to Holly Bryant Smith. She is a Certified Nurse Midwife at The Woman's Clinic. She definitely has set her part of the Clinic apart from the rest with exam rooms that are named after the different stages at Bonnaroo, her own personal music collection off of her ipod playing on the exam room speakers including John Mayer, Joss Stone, and of course Dave Matthews Band, and her one of a kind "hippie at heart" personality. She has succeeded in making it a non clinic type atmosphere. <br />We sat down for a little game of Q&A to get to know her better and share her with my friends. The meaning of this project was to show that there are great people out there. Some you may never meet. But they are there, willing to go beyond that extra mile to make a difference in our lives as well as their own. Here is Holly...<br /><strong>bkP:</strong> Tell me a little about your job.<br /><strong>H:</strong> I am a Certified Nurse Midwife . Part of my job is prenatal care, delivery services, well woman care, and postpartum care. This is actually my 10th year as a midwife.<br /><strong>bkP:</strong> So your job I know is very rewarding.<br /><strong>H:</strong> Oh yeah! It is an adrenaline rush. It would not be unusual to find me crying during a delivery, especially when dad starts to cry. Moms cry all the time but when Dad does I usually do too. There is something really cool about feeling a baby breathe for the first time in your own hands. I really believe that God put me here for this.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwO14mOzTUHVpjxfPHOx3UNRU-LH-oV2iZrtcnjBttdK4DSfz7UCYft3aZXCoKJaLMDYuXsYRVUZC6LE0LWtlDhP9MBgrm2lC2BFqhFi59uEixayiN4ghBM2pYLaJUaxXwAuZNyoWJ2s/s1600/IMG_1005+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwO14mOzTUHVpjxfPHOx3UNRU-LH-oV2iZrtcnjBttdK4DSfz7UCYft3aZXCoKJaLMDYuXsYRVUZC6LE0LWtlDhP9MBgrm2lC2BFqhFi59uEixayiN4ghBM2pYLaJUaxXwAuZNyoWJ2s/s800/IMG_1005+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560649664016752898" /></a><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> Growing up did you know this is what you wanted to do?<br /><strong>H:</strong> When I went into college I knew I wanted to focus on women's health care. After working in labor and delivery I knew that being a midwife was what I wanted. When I was younger, I wanted to be an astronaut. Space still amazes me to this day.<br /><strong>bkP:</strong> Who did you admire growing up?<br /><strong>H:</strong> My grandmother. She was the most patient woman I know. She lived next door to us growing up, and was a part of our everyday life. We were very close.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHuUu3sfVrMasSDZ5bGuRAzH71MQxUUZqQM6ecT7frfOqEOMcwxxr6n9xa0-8ilhtTN3njdAHHcjEqwSh3WXO6pb1lQicsyCmp4KZk-0I3qwKVMzGJZ9t1aSHUt9OfAKf_VnYrdUX9ibI/s1600/IMG_0992+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHuUu3sfVrMasSDZ5bGuRAzH71MQxUUZqQM6ecT7frfOqEOMcwxxr6n9xa0-8ilhtTN3njdAHHcjEqwSh3WXO6pb1lQicsyCmp4KZk-0I3qwKVMzGJZ9t1aSHUt9OfAKf_VnYrdUX9ibI/s800/IMG_0992+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560681584833003874" /></a><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> Do you see her in yourself?<br /><strong>H:</strong> I do when it comes to my job. That is probably where I show the most patience. She definitely influenced myself and my brothers.<br /><strong>bkP:</strong> Give me 3 words to describe yourself.<br /><strong>H: </strong>Real. What you see is what you get. Hippie at Heart. I know all of that is more than 3 words. Free Spirit.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd5tE3WPCsodFNqkvnwFoW8qis2wBaO3B_rUEJOs60hUvnM4aJLrsf2SomKtO5XJYXyAXlvGEHU__k1WzcVzKLceUoYtR9Cngb5f8DFo-0MWrJ19TfdE79-YK4GHSItjRnI7oyzi2wErI/s1600/IMG_1016+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd5tE3WPCsodFNqkvnwFoW8qis2wBaO3B_rUEJOs60hUvnM4aJLrsf2SomKtO5XJYXyAXlvGEHU__k1WzcVzKLceUoYtR9Cngb5f8DFo-0MWrJ19TfdE79-YK4GHSItjRnI7oyzi2wErI/s800/IMG_1016+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560650049965618114" /></a><br /><strong>bkP:</strong> Something on your bucket list . What is keeping you from doing it?<br /><strong>H:</strong> Skydive! I don't know why I haven't done it yet. I promise to do it before the end of 2011. <br /><strong>bkP:</strong> What is something you are most proud of?<br /><strong>H:</strong> My children. I think you can be proud of your children and then proud of what they become. I am very proud of them. <br /><strong>bkP:</strong> If you could give the world on piece of advice what would it be?<br /><strong>H:</strong> Carpe diem . Seize the day. Seize the day, but just stay out of trouble while you are seizing it! <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPoCgYB8G23nxgllTUFnUPB7QMkFfqFra-UrpnHiEgmo_8Ds8T4p_VuEvgViDzRcdbQqltA7dReWAVhPlKto5Bj_n3KTTgiiwSrmsVYnSfbHv3S5NBXOqTn0o7cIBO5q4L4w8-z6cEDh0/s1600/IMG_1017+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPoCgYB8G23nxgllTUFnUPB7QMkFfqFra-UrpnHiEgmo_8Ds8T4p_VuEvgViDzRcdbQqltA7dReWAVhPlKto5Bj_n3KTTgiiwSrmsVYnSfbHv3S5NBXOqTn0o7cIBO5q4L4w8-z6cEDh0/s800/IMG_1017+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560650230888714514" /></a><br />You can't help but fall in love with Holly's infectious laugh and smile. She is right. What you see is what you get. After our interview she sent me this message.<br />One thing that I want to stress, what I do isn't always happy and joyful. There have been many times I've had to either tell a family that their baby is no longer alive or deliver a baby that never took a breath. Then I have to go in the room right beside them and immerse myself in the joy and happiness that is that family's reality without missing a beat. Those are the difficult and sad days...the days I sometimes have to retreat to my call room and get my cry out before continuing my shift. So with each birth I count it as a blessing , whether it is helping a family through a loss or rejoicing with a family with a screaming little fighter. It's ALL a blessing to me.<br /><br />If you would like to nominate someone for this project please contact me at brandykphotography@gmail.com. <br /><br /><strong>Keep Rockin </strong>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-19806802957608343442011-01-07T07:39:00.001-08:002011-01-07T08:22:19.830-08:00Make a DifferenceThe phone call she has been waiting for all day comes. Suddenly grief stricken as the words she never wanted to hear are said, "I'm sorry but it is cancer."<br /><br />You can only imagine what goes through her mind not only at that moment but every moment until it is time to hurt no more. There are good days and very, very bad days. One day an emotional breakdown had caused her eyes to be swollen, her nose red and she had a look of tiredness all over from crying all day. She tried to hide her pain behind sunglasses as she stood in line to get the few items she needed for her family. <br /><br />When it was her turn at the checkout the cashier reached out, touched her hand and said "Honey, I don't know what is going on but I want you to know you are loved." <br /><br />The lady was my friend and she told me that was so comforting to hear at that moment. I don't know who the lady was behind the counter but I would love to meet her and hug her for making my friend have a few moments of peace. She was a stranger and did not know my friends circumstances. <br /><br />I believe that there are some people that do more than just make it through this world. They make a difference. This cashier did for my friend. <br /><br />I am introducing you to some of these people in 2012. My first interview and portrait session is with Holly Bryant Smith. A lady who truly sees the miracle of life every single day.<br /><br />Keep an eye out for her story next week.<br /><br />If you would like to nominate someone for this project please feel free to email me at brandykphotography@gmail.com.<br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DIfVmPGUA4A?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DIfVmPGUA4A?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><strong>Keep making a difference</strong>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-51881052484556424962011-01-06T10:57:00.001-08:002011-01-06T10:57:51.490-08:00pssst...<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IddaRTuYRW4">I heard a rumor</a>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-40065549404756027932011-01-05T05:54:00.000-08:002011-01-05T05:58:04.062-08:00Gerry RaffertySinger Gerry Rafferty, famous for the 1970s hits "Baker Street" and "Stuck in the Middle With You," which was used in Quentin Tarantino's film "Reservoir Dogs," has died, his agent said Wednesday.<br /><br />He was 63. A cause of death was not given.<br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/h_Cs-4kF9zQ?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/h_Cs-4kF9zQ?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />Although Baker Street was awesome and has a great meaning this is my all time favorite Gerry Rafferty song...RIP Gerry. <br /><br /><strong>Keep Rockin</strong>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-45078406063041342682011-01-04T14:31:00.000-08:002011-01-04T14:34:56.089-08:00Vivian MaierVivian Maier’s street photography was recently “discovered” just a few days after she died at the age of 83. The Chicago nanny took over 100,000 photographs and many say she may rank among the top street photographers of the 20th century. <br /><br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Cbcl2MDtLp0?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Cbcl2MDtLp0?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />Its amazing how things are seen differently. Thank you Vivian.brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-228990788951418937.post-92103727282094426722011-01-03T05:46:00.001-08:002011-01-03T06:01:27.014-08:00Goodbye 2010 Hello Twenty Eleven2010 was a great year for bkP. I stepped out and left my full time position as an office manager of 7 years. I have been truly amazed and blessed at the response from my work. <br /><br />2011 holds new things for bkP as well as a Photo 101 class for Moms that have one of nice cameras they are just really not sure how to use, speciality sessions just for little girls and little boys, TONS of weddings and events, spring time animals, senior teams, sessions for the troops, 2nd Annual Halloween Charity Food Bash, and of course we cant forget Santa! This is just a handful of surprises in store for us. <br /><br />I hope 2011 is healthy, happy and prosperous for you. I truly believe everyone is a star. Its just up to you to shine.<br /><br />I look forward to seeing you shine!<br /><br />Here is one to say farewell to 2010<br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1D5PtyrewSs?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1D5PtyrewSs?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />You may thank me for the jam....Until then<br /><br /><br /><strong>Keep Shining</strong>brandy kemp Photographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03884695189710474607noreply@blogger.com1