Astronomers have figured out how to photograph the entire universe using a telescope millions of miles from Earth. The end product is quite beautiful.

To learn what exactly it is that we see in this amazing photo, please take a look at this article. It will blow your mind!

*Photo by the European Space Agency.*

If I had a dollar for every time I encountered an article about a “Photoshop-altered image”, well, I’d have some extra spending cash which I would probably use to by the newest version of Photoshop.

BP has yet again become a big blog topic due to three photos that were released of their cleanup efforts in the Gulf of Mexico. The photos were clearly altered and whoever did it, used a cut and paste technique that did not make the new versions realistic.

I’ve ranted on my blog many a time about altering digital photos and what it can do to my profession and the credibility of all photographers. It cannot become the norm for anyone—photographers, editors, designers or even CEOs.

The reason this particular incident upsets me is because BP is in enough trouble already—they have tarnished their image this year, possibly forever. How would this kind of stunt help? Someone always finds out…thank God for the photo geeks who find these problems. Plus, BP’s reaction to it is that they are now blaming the contract photographer for altering the image and claiming no responsibility of their own.

The photographer may have done this on their own (and for that they should be punished) but BP is forgetting the one lesson they should have learned in the last three months: one mistake can take an entire company down.

View the before and after images here.

*Photo courtesy of BP via Flickr.*

One of the most powerful and in-depth photo stories I have ever viewed won the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for feature photography.

Denver Post photographer Craig F. Walker received the award to bring the Post’s Pulitzer total to six.

For more than two years, Walker documented a “boy” named Ian Fisher as he graduated from high school, joined the Army and was deployed to Iraq. Walker’s access and creativity to make every frame different after years covering the same subject is inspiring. Through his images, you can see his passion to tell this story in particular. He didn’t have a model soldier as a subject. He didn’t just want the typical “war images” from Iraq that we have all become numb to after seeing so many of them.

The story is called “Ian Fisher: American Soldier” and I highly recommend you take time out of your day to see what really happens when young men are asked to take on more responsibility than they can handle.

There are so few storytellers left in photojournalism that are given the time and resources to pursue a story and finish it. My thanks go to the Denver Post for giving Walker what he needed to make this an award-winning piece of art.

*Photo by Craig F. Walker*

A 25-year-old U.K. mother recently checked out the Google Street View and was surprised to find an image of her 3-year-old son naked, with only his shoes on. A license plate on a nearby car was blurred out but not the naked boy. The mother wants to know why the images aren’t reviewed well before being posted online.

Google later replaced the image with one that blurred out the child from the waist down.

When I first read this story, I thought that the mother was probably somewhere she shouldn’t have been, letting her son run wild with no pants on. (I’ve seen weirder things happen.) I assumed she would cry “invasion of privacy” and sue Google for millions. Then I read that this happened in her garden, I assume in the privacy of her own backyard.

Now I understand why she is so upset and why she feels sick to her stomach about finding this photo. I don’t have a child but if this happened to my husband or me, I would be outraged. I can’t think of a reason why we’d be naked in our garden but you never know!

Where do we draw the line when it comes to technology and our privacy?

This year’s recipient of the Pictures of the Year International (POYi) Emerging Vision Incentive award is truly exposing a way of life that is bizarre, intriguing and sad.

Photographer James Chance will continue to document his project called “Living with the Dead: Manila’s North Cemetery.” Through his project he is exposing a community of 2,000 people who have made their home the North Cemetery, among hundreds of thousands of Filipino presidents, celebrities and Catholics.

These families have literally built lives on top of tombs and graves. They live and work there instead of in the city slums, where many of the city’s poverty stricken people reside. Approximately 40 percent of Manila’s population lives below the poverty line.

According to Chance, 80 funerals can occur each day in the North Cemetery.

Chance’s goal is to explore the lives of the people that live among the dead. The most interesting aspect of his plan is to understand the cycle of life in this community—“babies are born as bodies are laid to rest.”

It’s rare these days to see classic storytellers receiving money to do what they do best. I’m excited to see the POYi grant awarded to Chance and I can’t wait to see what he does with the project.

*Photo by James Chance*

John and Robin are entertaining, to say the least.

My favorite part about shooting family portraits or engagement portraits is what people are willing to do, if I ask.

We traveled to Philippe Park in Safety Harbor for their photo session on a beautiful, sunny Florida afternoon. It had been a long eight years since they had professional photos taken and that was at their wedding! So, I was excited to update their photo albums and picture frames for them.

John and Robin could not be more different, in my opinion, but they have one of the most harmonious relationships I’ve ever witnessed. They laugh a ton, tease each other and seem to know what the other is thinking most of the time.

I guess that’s what eight years of marriage will do—you really get to know each other!

They were really fun to photograph, doing everything I asked. I told them, “As a professional, I think you should get on this purple dinosaur.” It works every time.

It was a pleasure photographing them and I hope it won’t be another eight years before I have the pleasure of taking their family portraits again.

“Never have I had a more comfortable photo session! Both my husband and I dislike having our photos taken; Tampa photographer Jessica Leigh managed to make the experience relaxing and enjoyable, resulting in some beautiful family portraits that captured our genuine personalities and relationship. We look forward to using her in the future for our family portraits.‎”

-Robin (Land O Lakes, Florida)

“It was eight years ago that my wife and I last had professional portraits taken of us (and that just happened to be from our wedding…), and we were finally ready to update them. We were turned onto Tampa photographer Jessica Leigh by a good friend of ours. Our ensuing hour and a half family portrait session with Jessica turned out to be an enjoyable, professional, and engaging experience - all traits I now respect and admire in a photographer. She truly took some beautiful, impressionable photographs of us that we are proud to showcase in our house. I would recommend her without any hesitation.”

-John (Land O Lakes, Florida)

When it comes to hiring a professional for a business head shot, most people go to a name they know like Sears or JCPenney because they think they’re saving money. I’m writing this article to map out the different options including hiring an independent professional photographer and going to studios in the mall.

First, let me start by stressing the importance of hiring a professional for your head shot. Asking a friend or family member to shoot your head shot with a point-and-shoot camera is not the same and it shows in the final product. The reason businesses hire professionals is that they know there’s a reason we exist. If you’re an accountant or a doctor or a lawyer, I would hire you for your services because I know you’ve been trained well to do your job and I cannot do it for you. Photography is no different.

Second, when you choose not to hire a professional photographer and use a head shot created by an amateur, it shows your client you don’t think it’s worth the money to invest in a real head shot. If you won’t invest in your business, why should anyone else?

Third, I did my research by calling or visiting these other studios in person so I got an accurate price list for Tampa head shots. I used the area of Carrollwood as my base since there is a JCPenney studio, a Sears studio and a Picture People location in Citrus Park Mall.

Let’s start with what I offer for my head shot package. For a group session (a minimum of five people), the rate is only $75 per person and I travel to your office. The best option is for me to set up my mobile studio in a conference room. The $75 head shot rate includes five final images that are retouched and ready to print. The client has full rights to reproduce these images in any way they see fit. It also includes an online gallery of raw images where the client can choose their favorite images.  I recommend a dark grey/black backdrop but I also have light gray, dark blue, red, white and black to choose from. The client may wear as many different tops as time permits.

I visited Picture People and the associate told me that for only three retouched images on CD, the rate is $90. At JCPenney Portrait Studio, the rate for three head shots on CD is $70. I called Sears Portrait Studio and after being on hold for ten minutes during normal business hours, I decided to look online for pricing information. The current sale offered on their website is one retouched business portrait on CD for $65.

The general public might think they are getting a great deal by going to a department store studio. I researched these options so others can see the difference. My rate compared to those studios is only a $5-$10 difference and, in one case, my rate is nearly 20% less expensive.

My other concern is that if you want your head shot or business portrait to look creative, it is sometimes hard to find that in a department store setting. The employee photographing you usually has a part-time position with little to no real world experience outside of the mall as a professional photographer and more importantly,  he or she may not be there if you come back with any problems or questions.

I always tell clients to do their own research. I believe in what I do and if your only concern is cost – not quality or service, then sometimes the best option is Wal-Mart. When you’re ready for a professional set of images to set your business apart from the others – I’m ready and I’ll be here to help before, during and after any session.

Have you attended a networking meeting and felt like everyone was trying to force their product or service on you?

I’ve been to plenty of them around the Tampa Bay area and Networking Girlfriends is one of the best with no hard-core sales pitching. It’s organized by my boot camp trainer, Carrie Kukuda (The Someday Coach), and the information I’ve gathered from it is worth the cost alone. We meet once each month and it’s only $40 per year.

This week I had the pleasure of shooting business head shots for ladies before and after the meeting at Piccadilly in Tampa. And because it’s summer time and so many people are on vacation (and trying to figure out what to do with their children), we had a small turnout. So, about 8 or 10 fabulous females attended compared to the usual 20 to 30 women.

The smaller group was nice for a change and we were able to discuss networking marketing topics and each other’s businesses like we never have before. We talked about social media, discounts, referrals and helping others first.

In this economic climate of everyone trying to “Sell, Sell, Sell”, it was nice to be in the company of quality women who know their businesses speak for themselves.

Working with Taylor Albertson Pinke at the University of Tampa is the best assignment a photographer could ask for.

Taylor is the Annual Fund Director in the Development and University Relations Department and she does it well. Not only is she organized, punctual and professional but she makes my job even more fun than it already is!

From reserving a golf cart so I’m not carrying my loads of camera equipment across campus in 95 degree heat to keeping a relaxed attitude about unexpected changes in the schedule, Taylor is a delight to work for. She also makes sure I see how my photos are used in publication, even if it’s months later.

I’ve included some Homecoming photos I shot for Development and I could not have gotten through all those events without staff members like Taylor. Thank you!

"I have used Tampa photographer Jessica Leigh dozens of times for various events and marketing needs. She always finds a way to capture the spirit of an event and the emotions of an individual. Her technical skills are excellent, and she has a great eye for the 'artistic' shot. Jessica is also extremely personable making even the most camera-shy person feel right at home in front of the lens. When I hire Jessica Leigh, I know I can count on her to be on time, and produce amazing images that are delivered quickly. I am very thankful to be one of her clients!‎"

-Taylor Albertson Pinke (University of Tampa)

Not even Lance Armstrong can avoid being “Photoshopped.”

His latest professional magazine photo graces the cover of Outside, a travel and fitness magazine. He wore a plain t-shirt for the photo session and Outside staff added “38. BFD.” (The numbers and letters refer to his age this year--38 years old--and that it’s not a “big f---ing deal”.)

Armstrong is pissed. He called it “weak” that they did it without his permission.

In the age of digital alterations, the only thing that upsets me is that there’s an easier solution—ask him to wear a shirt with the phrase on it in the first place. Maybe they did and he refused but no one has offered up that information yet.

The story is about his 38^th year and how he’s overcome so much and what's in store for his future. I get it. It’s kind of funny to have a shirt on that expresses his attitude.

However, so many staffers are now looking to do post-production work on photos that they forget photographers can make most of it happen from behind the lens! It’s lazy and brings more scrutiny on all publications every time there’s a controversial magazine cover photo that’s rumored to be an altered image. Outside staff defended their actions by showing they have very small print on the cover that says, “Note: Not Armstrong’s Real T-shirt.”

Just because someone admits “I’m lazy” doesn’t make it ok.

Sierra said all she wanted for her 9^th birthday was to have a glamour party.

Wish granted.

Thanks to Collective Creations, Sierra and six of her closest friends painted their fingers and toes, received professional hair styling and played “dress up” with boas, jewelry, dresses, hats and high heels.

They feasted on pizza and birthday cake and giggled until their bellies hurt.

Sierra is a wonderful, charismatic girl who has impeccable manners and a kind heart. She deserves nothing but the best on this birthday and all the ones to come! Thanks for inviting me into your home to photograph your day, Sierra!

When a business decides to embark on a new advertising campaign, change their image or design a new website, I believe the key is starting with great photography or visuals. This can be as simple as taking new business head shots and portraits.

Corless Zinober does it right.

Not only do they have a spectacular website being unveiled this month but they have also invested in new photography for their attorneys. As a consumer, I feel this creates a more personal website which helps when you’re shopping law firms that all seem to look the same.

I photographed some new attorneys and reshot others but what I like about working with them is that they are always open to new ideas. They do whatever it takes to finish a project and do it well. We decided on some tight head shots and a few portraits taken in their office on Westshore Boulevard that reflects their love for art.

Thank you to Ted Corless and the team at Corless Zinober for allowing me to be a part of their new look. Good luck!

I don’t photograph weddings every weekend. I do a few here and a few there. But when I get to do them, it makes my job so much more enjoyable to see a happy, stress-free couple that remembers what the day is all about…love.

Angela and Brad fit this description to a tee. From the time I shot their engagement portraits in December, I knew they were different. I expected there to be a little stress since the wedding was a mere four months away but they both had a calm aura about them. We walked around River Hills Park in Tampa, shot photos, played on the playground, watched ducks waddle and saw a beautiful sunset. It was one of the calmest photo shoots I’ve been on and it’s all because of Angela and Brad.

Their wedding was no different. From photographing Angela getting ready with her best friends to their peaceful ceremony to the colorful Hawaiian reception, they kept their cool and simply enjoyed the day.

Not only was their reception intimate but it was also one of the more unique events I’ve had the pleasure of photographing. It was a Hawaiian luau hosted by The Exotic Plumeria in Seffner, Florida, complete with leis for guests, dancing and traditions unlike anywhere else. Angela was born in Honolulu, Hawaii and the bride and groom both dreamed of a Hawaiian wedding here in Tampa Bay so it seemed a good fit.

The music and video was provided by the team at Celebrations of Tampa Bay and the wedding rings were designed by Spath Jewelers. The bride’s hair was styled by Synergy in Brandon, Florida and Alan Bunch at the Exotic Plumeria took care of all the catering and the performers.

Congratulations and best wishes to Angela and Brad!

Most of us would love to have a professional photographer shoot our family portraits, cover our birthday parties and weddings and photograph our children. It can be pricy so why not ask for it as a gift?

More and more people are trying to find new and creative gifts to give to family members, friends and co-workers. Why not give the gift of photography with a gift certificate from Jessica Leigh Photography?

One of the easiest ways to do this is simply add this “gift” to a wish list like www.amazon.com. Click here to add the universal wish list button from Amazon then go to my website at www.jlpflorida.com and click on “Add to Amazon” in your toolbar. You can even specify the amount or quantity of gift cards you are requesting.

Our sessions start at $75 per person for business head shots and $350 for Tampa family portrait sessions and boudoir photography. Wedding packages begin at $850 and commercial photography starts at $350.  These session rates are all-inclusive meaning the rate we quote is the rate you pay. We don’t believe in the “nickel and dime” philosophy so each session comes with a CD of the edited and toned high-resolution photos as well as an online gallery. We also include a release so you can print them at any color lab you choose.

With holiday family portraits being booked as early as September, this is a great time to be thinking of who might enjoy professional photography as a gift. There are only 203 days until Christmas and 181 days until Hanukkah!!!

The event called “Lush” at The Don Cesar in St. Petersburg is named for the feeling you get when you walk through the courtyard.

It’s an elegant and extravagant event centered around food and drinks. Once you pay for a ticket, you can sample as much as they can offer. And like all Loews Hotels events, they do everything right.

From wine to scotch (from Southern Wine and Spirits) and sushi to chocolate mousse, every guest can find something worth trying. Loews Hotels gathered some of their finest chefs from The Don Cesar and Loews Miami Beach Hotel to participate. These chefs managed to cook up culinary delights all night and I don’t think anyone left unhappy.

The Don also provided musical entertainment from ­­­Lamar Tremain and a fashion show by local designer Ivanka Ska with some outrageous and breathtaking designs.

I think I enjoyed this photo shoot so much because it gave me a chance to create food photography again. It’s been ages (it seems) that I have focused on food. I, of course, photographed the models, guests and chefs but food that is prepared by culinary masters is a visual treat for artists like myself.

One of the reasons I love the new photo exhibition at the Tate Modern in London is that the photos are a wonderful mix of very literal imagery and some that are more suggestive and subtle.

The exhibit titled “Exposed” showcases photographs from various artists that focus on the idea of voyeurism. Some are more subtle like the Harry Callahan photo (1984) of the backside of a woman standing on a street corner. The way it’s shot, it seems as though maybe the photographer is a safe distance behind her, using a long lens and trying to fill the frame with her body.

A more obvious interpretation of the voyeurism theme is seen in Shizuka Yokomizo’s photos from her “Dear Stranger” body of work from 1999. She wrote to strangers asking them to stand in their window at a specific time and date so she could photograph them outside their homes. It sounds creepy to me but apparently enough people did it for her to make a series out of it.

I visited the Tate Modern in London in 2006 while traveling with a dear friend of mine through England and Ireland. I loved the museum and have always held a fascination with modern art. Even if I don’t understand it completely, I’ve always been drawn to it.

Photography exhibits catch my eye first, naturally. Seeing someone else’s work in exhibit form is a special privilege and I don’t take it lightly. I know how much time, effort and talent goes into one show so I’m grateful there are museums out there like the Tate Modern that allow for such artistic freedom.

*Top photo by Harry Callahan; Bottom photo by Shizuka Yokomizo.*

Kellye and Nick are the epitome of being “giddy in love”.

When we decided to shoot their engagement portraits on Honeymoon Island, I was really excited. It’s one of my favorite beaches for portraits because of the white sand, beautiful sunsets and they have a dog beach (in case “Max” or “Duke” are invited in to the family portrait).

Kellye and Nick are the perfect subjects for a photographer—they do exactly what I ask with no questions! So, if I say, “Let’s go walk on the rocks under the boardwalk bathroom,” they say, “Sure!” And then I just let their personalities take control of the photo shoot.

They dated seven years before they married and I could not be prouder of them. Kellye is my cousin and a kind, sweet soul. Now that I know Nick a little better, I see why she cares about him so much and why it was worth the wait. They married in March of 2010 in Homestead, Florida and I’m sure they will be blessed all their lives.

“Jessica shot our engagement pictures shortly after we announced the big news. She is absolutely wonderful! She is professional and courtesy as well as fun and creative. She truly captures precious moments that you will cherish forever. Luckily, with Jessica Leigh Photography those moments will never be forgotten. I would recommend her to any person, business or organization in Florida looking for fantastic photos that capture the character and essence of any subject.”

-Kellye & Nick (Homestead, Florida)

*I'm posting my Thankful Thursday entry today since it’s Memorial Day and this may be something our military families need right now.*

I have a dear friend who is a military wife whose husband is a Major in the Unites States Air Force and they have a six-year-old daughter. I love them all dearly and have always wanted to do something to show them I care.

Then I met Executive Director Lisa Berg from Operation Hug-A-Hero.

You might think this organization is like any another non-profit looking for donations but to me and so many military families, they are much, much more. They offer peace of mind, love and companionship to those children who are left behind when moms and dads are deployed.

Through Hug-A-Hero, anyone can order a “Daddy Doll” or donate $25, the total cost of the doll. I decided to collaborate with my friend’s husband so we got a photo of him to print on the front, a personalized message on the bottom and for just a few extra bucks, we got a voice recorder for inside the doll so his daughter could hear his voice once he deployed to Afghanistan.

He gave her the doll right before he shipped out and I’m told she didn’t say much at first. She just hugged the doll and played the prayer over and over again. Now I'm told she won't sleep without it and she took it with her on vacations and sleepovers.

Lisa Berg honestly gives her heart and soul to her family and the military. For this, I admire her a great deal. She manages to juggle a family, being a military wife AND running Operation Hug-A-Hero. She does everything to honor and recognize our military and I have the upmost respect for her.

If you’d like to help, you can donate money (of course), buy a doll for a family in need (the military families receive dolls free of charge) or ask someone at your company if they’d like to sponsor the organization. They have many more requests for dolls than they do donations so if you’ve always wanted to show your support and didn’t know how, this is an easy, inexpensive way to do it!

Help give a little homeland security...
www.operationhugahero.org

“We have been able to give out almost 800 dolls in the last year.   While this may sound like many for such a small non-profit organization, we are not able to currently keep up with demand.  Most recently we have been putting families onto a waiting list while we push hard for donations and sponsorship.  We would love to hear about any companies that are interested in becoming a Corporate Sponsor for our organization.  One of our visions is to partner with defense-affiliated companies that provide materials, technology, etc. for our troops to accomplish their mission. Allowing these industries to come full circle and provide comfort for the Little Heroes left behind shows their commitment and support for our military beyond providing the important tools; we are an excellent opportunity for them to express that support.”  –Lisa Berg

I had the pleasure of photographing the 13^th Annual Latinos Unidos Luncheon hosted by The City of Tampa’s Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory Council at the Tampa Convention Center. Proceeds from the conference and the luncheon helped to fund the scholarship endowment at the University of Tampa. (There are also endowments at the University of South Florida and Hillsborough Community College.)

I love being a part of organizations that help other kids go to college. I was blessed enough (years ago) to receive a few scholarships from Tampa organizations and HCC plus my parents were kind enough to pay my tuition at the University of Florida. I understand not everyone has opportunities like these.

The keynote speaker was City of Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio and prominent guests included UT president Dr. Ronald Vaughn, USF President Dr. Judy Genshaft and HCC President Dr. Gwendolyn Stephenson. More than 400 Tampa business owners and community members attended the conference and luncheon.

UT hosted a private reception the night before and as always, UT proved to be a wonderful place to host a function. Donors, business owners and guests were invited to celebrate some of the accomplishments of the Hispanic Advisory Council. Council member Maritza Roviro Forino lead the event and honored UT trustee Dr. O. Rex Damron, President of the Krewe of Sant 'Yago Education Foundation.

Thanks to all who help give kids opportunities they didn’t know they could have.

Chances are, you’ve already seen Ro Martinez. It might have been in an Amscot advertisement or a commercial for AT&T or Busch Gardens.

Ro is a successful model which makes her a successful modeling coach.

“My goal is to help people reach their dream of modeling and acting without spending a fortune, while avoiding scams,” said Martinez. “I want to share my years of experience with others so they can overcome obstacles and make it easier for them to succeed.”

I first worked with Ro when we collaborated on a modeling photo shoot for one of her up-and-coming models, Oscar. Since I had never worked with Ro before, it was hard to know how the session would go. When she arrived, she had everything Oscar and I could possibly need for a successful photo shoot.

We met at a park in Ybor City in Tampa and only had about an hour to make Oscar a winning portfolio. (It helped that Oscar is already good-looking with a great attitude!)

Not only does Ro know exactly what will sell so her client will get bookings but she has an amazing attention to detail. It was like having my own personal art director by my side looking at lighting glares, clothing issues and skin tones.

For photographers, sometimes having another “leader” on a photo shoot can be difficult. The photographer may have one idea, the modeling coach has another and the model comes up with a third. But working with Ro makes a photographer feel like more than just a person behind the camera who pushes the button. She listens to ideas and offers her own with a pleasant demeanor while still serving the needs of her client.

“I offer career guidance to show the variety of work available to models and actors.  Assistance is given during photo shoots, posing, hair and makeup and photo selection with the ultimate goal of finding agency representation,” said Martinez.

She also wrote a book called Modeling At Any Age, “a comprehensive instructional guide that can be followed by anyone with a strong desire but to motivate by sharing my experience as well as showing photos of a variety of models of all ages, body types, and ethnic groups.”

Check out Ro’s portfolio here and see what she can do for your modeling career!

*Photos by Jessica Leigh Photography*

Where does the “altering” end when it comes to digital photography?

When you’re trained to be a newspaper photojournalist, you are given certain rules to abide by. One of them is don’t alter your digital image so much that it looks nothing like the original. Many photographers and sometimes editors have made the news themselves by ignoring this rule for the sake of making a “better” photograph.

I will admit there is a huge gray area so it is sometimes hard to know what’s acceptable and what’s not. Removing people from photos is NOT.

The Dominion Post in Morgantown, West Virginia took it upon themselves to alter Martin Valent's photo (he works for the West Virginia Legislative Reference and Information Center). The editor of the paper, Geri Ferrara, is under fire for her decision that she continues to defend.

The photo in question is of Governor Joe Manchin seated with a pen signing “Erin’s Law”, named after a WVU student (Erin Keener) who died in a hit and run accident. The original photo includes two members of Keener’s family and three delegates with the Governor. The newspaper removed the delegates from the photo because of “the newspaper's policy not to publish pictures of candidates running for re-election during the political season."

Ferrara said her decision is just because she labeled the photo a “photo illustration”. She is truly stretching the definition of the word. Webopedia defines it as “a type of computer art that begins with a digitized photograph. Using special image enhancement software, the artist can then apply a variety of special effects to transform the photo into a work of art.” View the story here and decide if Ferrara has created a “work of art”.

The National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) keeps a watchful eye over all newspapers, journalists and editors. They wrote to Ferrara and stated their disappointment in her decision. "Find an alternative to lying," NPPA's letter to Ferrara said. "If the there are no other photos available of this event, then do not run any photo at all or run a head-shot of the governor if you have to run something. You must value your integrity above all else. All other considerations or excuses pale in comparison."

When Ritchie and Jennifer asked me to photograph their six-month-old twin girls, I was thrilled. I had never photographed twins before and was excited about the challenge. Little did I know that twins are twice the sass, twice the energy and twice the fun!

Dillon and Mackenzie both had amazing personalities for only being in this world for six months. They never cried—they just giggled and stuck their tongue out for me.

I think the parents were more worried than I was about how the family portraits would go. It’s hard enough to keep up with twins when don’t have a photographer in your home following them around. But they were all a pleasure to work with and I hope I get to photograph them this year now that they are one year old!

“When our twin girls reached six months old we decided it was time to book a photo session and we immediately called Tampa photographer Jessica Leigh. She brought a full photo studio to our home, set up, and followed the girls around snapping shot after shot. To say we were happy with the experience and results would be an understatement. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend Jessica to other families and we will certainly use her again.‎”

-Stoner family (St. Pete, FL)

Hitler is wearing a pink uniform with a heart on his sleeve instead of a swastika. Does this sound like a joke? Well, a fashion boutique in Sicily, Italy thinks it’s kind of funny.

The boutique called New Form has caused a controversy by using Adolf Hitler in its current advertising campaign. The photo has been enlarged to 18-feet high posters and shows Hitler in a pink uniform accompanied by the slogan, "Change Style--Don't Follow Your Leader."

I believe the point of the campaign is to poke fun at Hitler while urging their target market to stand out and be your own leader in the fashion world. Good idea but not sure it’s going to go over so well with the general public.

It doesn’t offend me personally and from a public relations standpoint, I can see why they did it. The internet is buzzing about this controversial advertisement and their next one won’t be politically correct either. It features Chinese Communist leader Mao Tse Tung.

Bad publicity is still publicity.

Controversy surrounding a photo of Modern Family actress Julie Bowen breast-feeding is the latest talk of the blogosphere.

It brings up the question of most photos involving women exposing something—has it gone too far?

One could argue it’s no different than a Victoria’s Secret ad showing women in lingerie covering only what would be blurred by the FCC.

But is it the maternal act of breast-feeding that offends people? Or is it the pride Bowen showed by trying to unveil the photo on The View and then being able to do so on George Lopez’s late-night show.

I asked my husband what he thought when he saw the story and after he joked a bit, he said he didn’t see the point in her showing the photo on national television. I guess that’s how I felt too.

She said she was proud of her “double football” pose because she holds both boys at the same time while breast-feeding. I guess I’m proud of some things I do in the privacy of my own home but I haven’t photographed them and released them to a talk show host.

My question to you is, “What’s the point?”

View the story and photo here. (Photo by REUTERS.)

The first thing you’ll notice when you meet Helena Trangata is her smile. She gives off an energy that makes you want to rub against her in hopes of stealing some of it.

Helena is another rare networker who’s goal is truly to help others first. If you do your job and do it well, she’s happy to tell everyone she knows about you and your business.

The first time I photographed Helena was for Bras & Boas, an event held every few months as a pampering party for women complete with a mini-boudoir portrait session shot by me. She unleashed all the sass she had and brought the event to a new level with her humor and gusto. When she received her 8X10 print from the event, she carried it around with her to show others my work and her beautiful photo. I don’t know anyone who takes that much effort and personal time to market another person’s business.

The next time I photographed her was for a business head shot. She continues to tell people about my work and if they mention “head shot”, she’s there with my name and number.

While Helena is a funny, entertaining woman, she is also a professional on all levels. She was a sales representative for Arbonne but now she has embarked on a new journey as a life coach for Bellisimo.

“I was selling Arbonne (and still am) but found that many of the women had self esteem issues. A Compass coach talked to a room full of us gals about what we would do with more energy. The women shared and emotions flowed. I left there feeling as though I had left a powerful church service. Yet as I said to a friend that night I am not sure what to do with this,” said Helena.

She began working with Compass in October of 2009 but continued to sell Arbonne.

“As I grew in Compass I found that it truly was my passion to allow women and teen girls to experience stepping into their greatness via affordable coaching – priceless! I became a certified coach in March. I have both private and group coaching available. I have coached for years as a parent (I have two sons and five grandkids), a friend, a manager and as a banker via my many financial licenses – coached many on their financial well being. I presently concentrate on these areas: Spiritual Vision board gatherings, Heart & Soul Massages – a non physical service (to allow a more holistic approach) for spas and resorts, and “take back you” time and energy coaching. During these last few months I have had wonderful people come into my path. Never have I had a more rewarding position. I am truly blessed!”

If you’re looking for a way to improve yourself or get that extra “zing” out of life, talk to Helena. At the very least, you’ll make a new friend with a heart of gold.

*Top photo by Jessica Leigh Photography.

*Bottom photo shot at Bras & Boas event (Helena is third from left).

Cristina has dreamed about being a pin-up girl for as long as she can remember.

When I arrived at her Land O’ Lakes home for her boudoir photo session, she had four girlfriends buzzing around her, fixing last-minute hair and makeup. All were drinking wine and giggling and I thought…this is going to be one for the record books!

Cristina has a natural sexuality and energy about her that makes it hard not to smile when you’re in the same room. She’s a natural with the camera, even when she thinks she might be pushing her own boundaries.

Her theme was obviously “pin-up girl” but she also incorporated a Cubs jersey (her husband’s favorite team), an apron with a martini and kitchen accessories, Christmas décor, and lots of sexy lingerie and jewelry. This is one client that did not need my help in the least when it came to planning out her boudoir photo session.

I thought at first it might be distracting to have an “audience” while shooting her photos but it actually worked out great. The girlfriends were not only refilling her wine glass but had amazing ideas that added a little extra to each set of photos I shot.

I don’t think the 50’s pin-up girls had an idea the kind of influence they would have over future generations.

“My boudoir portrait session with Tampa photographer Jessica Leigh was fantastic. I've always loved pin-up girls, so the session was something that I could check off on my bucket list. Jessica is a true professional who takes your feelings and opinions into account throughout the entire session. I had no idea how beautiful my photos would turn out. My husband was blown away, and was super excited about the baseball pin-ups. I mean, what guy wouldn't love his girl in his favorite team gear? The photos are up in his sports room right next to his Wrigley Field sign. I have the more intimate boudoir photos in a scrapbook. What a blast! I would recommend every woman to take the plunge and do something daring. Jessica is great at capturing your inner beauty on the outside. You won't be disappointed!”

Cristina (Land O’ Lakes, FL)

When a couple gets engaged they seem to only have days of bliss, then the focus immediately goes to planning the wedding. It doesn't have to be stressful and one of the most important ways to make it go smoothly is to be educated when you choose your vendors. I hope this guide helps brides and grooms choose the right photographer for your wedding.

1)      Be honest. Sit down with your fiancé and decide what the number one factor in choosing a photographer is. Style? Cost? Wedding packages? Experience? Location? Personality? Reputation?

2)      Do your research. Explore at least ten local photographers in the city you are getting married in. This will help you understand what the local market average is for wedding photography and who is overcharging. (For example, you will be charged much more in Los Angeles or New York than you will be in a small, rural area.)

3)      Discover what your photo style is: traditional, contemporary, documentary, etc. You can easily do this by looking at the definition of each style or by asking photographers that you like, how their style is defined.

4)      Set a realistic budget and stick to it. This ensures you won’t waste your time or the photographer’s time if you have a clear idea of what you want to spend. If you want to put a priority on your wedding photos, decide what else you can sacrifice to make it happen. Can you do smaller centerpieces? Can you skip favors or Save the Dates? Maybe you can offer open bar but with wine and beer instead of top shelf liquor?

5)      Meet with the photographers if you are not having a destination wedding. Ask lots of questions. You can also get a good feeling for how professional they are by their timeliness, presentation and personality. A client once told me his deciding factors for hiring a photographer was using a ratio of 50% personality, 25% talent and 25% rates.

6)      Make sure you actually get your images! There are different schools of thought on this but I believe you should always get a DVD of your high-resolution images after the wedding. Some photographers will only show you the proofs and ask you to buy prints from them at an inflated rate. I understand others profit from their print sales a great deal but I still believe the bride and groom alone should receive their digital negatives after making such a substantial investment.

7)      Analyze the wedding packages offered. As I said above, ensure there is a DVD included. And ask the photographer how long it will be before you receive your images. My brother did not know the answer to that question and waited EIGHT months before he received the DVD. All packages are different but they should include an engagement session before the wedding, a DVD of the wedding photos and an online gallery of both. Prints and albums are optional but some photographers like me, prefer to keep it simple.

8)      Ask for two to three recent references and look for reviews online. Some photographers are listed on sites like The Knot and The Wedding Wire and will have clients post reviews about their work.

9)      Understand you will not look exactly like the couples you see on the photographers’ websites. Everyone is different so even though you will look your absolute best on your big day, you’ll still be you. And that’s ok! J

10)  This is extremely important so don’t be fooled that it’s last on my list: Read your contract! Most professional wedding photographers will have a contract that states their rights to the photos, explains what will happen if you cancel, payment schedules, refunds, how a natural disaster or illness would play out and what is required of the photographer. If you can have at least two other people besides you and your fiancé look it over, it will ensure that nothing is slipping through the cracks. Wedding photography is personal and creative but it’s still a business.

I hope this helps brides and grooms in finding the right wedding photographer for your tastes and budget. I understand I don’t fit everyone’s needs so I offer a wedding vendor list (that includes at least five other photographers) to brides and grooms so they can make an informed decision. It’s your day and it’s a huge investment so don’t rush your decision!

Good luck and best wishes!

Jessica Leigh Photography would like to welcome another new client, the University of South Florida.

While USF has an in-house photography staff as part of the University Commuications and Marketing Department, they still use freelance photographers from time to time and I'm thrilled to be on their short list!

USF was founded in 1956 but has emerged as one of Florida's finest universities. They serve more than 39,000 students each year and they reached a new high of $380 million in research grants and contracts in 2008-2009.

From private events to university luncheons to professional portraits, I am looking forward to creating fantastic commercial photography for USF and its faculty and staff.

Stay tuned for more information and photos from upcoming photo sessions in Tampa Bay!

The New York Times maintains a creative and newsworthy blog filled with impactful photos and stories.

This week the staff unveiled a project they’ve spent countless hours working on called A Moment in Time. They asked blog readers to submit photos taken from all over the world at exactly 15:00 U.T.C. on Sunday, May 2, 2010. The project was an ambitious one and the results are pretty cool.

Professionals and amateurs submitted more than 10,000 photos for the interactive globe gallery. You can click on any stack of photos from around the world and see the submissions from that region.

Projects like these keep the passion of photography alive for so many shooters.

Sometimes you meet people that were just born to sell. This is Lois Dye in a nutshell.

You’ll find her gabbing in networking groups, talking to strangers in the grocery store and racking her brain for ways to help a fellow business owner.

Lois has a fun, welcoming attitude and truly believes in her product. She makes you believe in it too. Just ask her about Arbonne.

“When I was first introduced to Arbonne I was retired and looking for another start up business of some kind and was told Arbonne had a fabulous business model, so I jumped in with both feet... based on, it's fabulous!,” said Lois. “Then I discovered the products and fell in love with them...especially the one that took my migraine headaches away and the one that improved my wrinkles and sun damaged skin. It was only then that I discovered how I could help other people have fun, look good and earn extra money....and that's why I do this to help others get what their looking for out of life.  Life is all about paying it forward!”

Arbonne is a Swiss-based company that has been selling skin care products for 30 years. Their products are superior to others because they only use natural, botanical ingredients. So, when you use them, you’re not putting harsh chemicals on your skin. You’re adding fruits and vegetables to enhance the natural balance of your body.

When I first met Lois in BLAB, she immediately started thinking of all the contacts she had that would help my own business. She’s sweet, caring and genuine. I find these attributes key in developing relationships with potential clients.

She also has a wicked sense of humor. When I told her I was using an over-the-counter liquid foundation, she laughed and said, “Honey, you’re too young to be ‘painting the canvas’ already. Try this mineral powder foundation.” I thought she was just out to sell me her product but now I see why. I tried the foundation and I love it! My skin looks ten times better and I’ll be an Arbonne client for life because of this one product and Lois’ honesty.

Jessica Leigh Photography would like to welcome a new client, the Don CeSar Beach Resort, a Loews Hotel.

The Don CeSar has launched a new special offer called the Florida Family Memories Package and we are proud to be a part of this family portrait campaign. The Don offers rooms with rates starting from $169 per night. The special is based on a minimum 4-night stay which includes a $100 resort credit plus a family beach portrait sitting with a professional photographer.

This is a great way to take a mini-vacation with your family, earn some resort credit and enjoy a one-hour photo session that you can walk to! All sessions will take place in or around the Don CeSar so it's convenient for you and your family. And if time permits, you can view your photos within hours at the resort. You will receive one 8X10 print of your choice and if you like what you see, you can order prints and a CD of the images.

I hope everone will take advantage of this special family portrait offer. The Don CeSar is a great backdrop for portraits so book your package before the summer heat takes over!

The most recent chatter about the Miss USA Pageant has nothing to do with the actual pageant.

All 51 contestants participated in a very sexy lingerie photo shoot with photographer Fadil Berisha called “Waking up in Las Vegas.”

The photo shoot has drawn some controversy because of its contemporary, sexual nature but personally, I am all for it. Controversy still draws attention the pageant, which has been less than exciting the last few years. I have never been interested in the pageant myself but seeing that they choose to go this route with a great photographer and some edgy photos, draws my interest.

A good point was made that in this photo shoot, no more skin is shown than during the swimsuit competition. It’s just different clothes to cover up X-rated areas. The women look sexual, beautiful and current but isn’t that what some of the pageant is about any way? I have never seen an unattractive woman compete in Miss USA.

What do you think? Is this too much for the traditional Miss USA Pageant or is this just what the pageant needs to bring viewers back?

Click here to view a video of the shoot.

To say that Keri has "sass" is an understatement.

Keri is funny, sexy, smart and a little crazy all at the same time. She's a photographer's dream.

We chose an unusual spot for her Tampa boudoir portraits because of the decor inside the Ybor Resort and Spa. They have some very unique and colorful rooms and we found a great place for our portraits in a red room with a white brick wall. The manager, Hank, was so accomodating and helpful that I hope to hold a photo session again there soon.

To ensure that Keri looked her best, she hired my favorite event stylist, Holly Nazario from Collective Creations. Holly did a fantastic job on her hair and make up. I can't stress enough how important professional styling is for a session of this nature.

Keri's theme had to be partly "Texas" as she and her husband are from that great state (as my mother and my husband are so I get it). She borrowed a Texas state flag and brought her own cowboy boots and guns. She even bought a temporary tattoo for the photo session with her husband's nickname on it. The response I get when people see this session is "God Bless Texas!"

Boudoir photography scares lots of people. I'm posting these images with testimonials to show people that it doesn't have to be risque and it can be whatever you choose it to be. The best part about these sessions is that it's customized to you. I've never done the same theme twice and I've never had a client tell me that their photos look exactly like someone else's. That's a wonderful thing to hear--I want people to be as sassy or as reserved as they want. As long as my clients are comfortable and the photos look great, I'm happy!

I decided to start this new series called Testimonial Tuesdays so that clients could read what others say about my photo sessions so they have an idea of what it's really like to work with me. I figured my clients can say it better than I can sometimes so I'll let them do most of the talking.

"When I decided on boudoir portraits as an anniversary gift to my husband, I was concerned the experience might be awkward. A few minutes into shooting, however, all my reservations were gone. Tampa photographer Jessica Leigh combined her technical skill as a photographer with her unique personal vision to capture and highlight what made me feel sexy as a woman. Her attitude and aptitude for her craft are empowering. She encouraged me to step outside what I felt were my flaws, and the end result was photographs that I’m not sure who enjoys more – my husband or me!"

-Keri (New Braunfels, Texas)

John Kaplan.

To most people who are not in the world of professional photography, that name means nothing.

He was awarded a Pulitzer Prize.

He teaches photojournalism at the University of Florida.

And he has cancer.

John is not your ordinary cancer patient. He has documented his struggle through chemotherapy and numerous other painful procedures and treatments in hopes of bringing some light to the world of cancer.

He said it started off when he took a photo of himself in his bathroom mirror on a whim. Now he’s created a documentary about the entire ordeal.

To call this brave and selfless is not enough. It’s difficult for photojournalists to document someone else’s struggle with a disease. We do it when we have to or when we think a story needs to be told. But to photograph your own story about cancer is nothing less than inspiring.

“As my doctor says, with some cancers you never know,” Kaplan said. “I don’t spend time dwelling on that. (I’m) just glad I’m here to be there for my family, there for my students and know this film project will help other people.”

I was fortunate enough to earn my degree in journalism at UF under the tutelage of John Kaplan. He has made me cry, laugh and work so hard to be a better photographer. When others couldn’t find the time to help, John pushed me and didn’t let me fail. I will never forget that about him. I hope his current students know how lucky they are.

Click here to watch a video of John discussing the film.

To find honesty, creativity and professionalism in one company, much less one person, is a difficult thing to do.

Jeremy Knauff, Creative Director of Wildfire Marketing Group (WMG), not only talks the talk but he definitely walks the walk.

What I first liked about Jeremy was that he looked and acted the part of a competent business owner without coming off stiff. He’s a kind, funny guy once you get to talk to him but he’s also no-nonsense when it comes to business. I respect that a great deal.

We have worked on several projects together for his business and his clients. Through all of them, he has shown me his vision, given me the reins and then expected me to deliver. Like I said, “no-nonsense”. I think that comes from his background in the military.

Jeremy said, “After I got out of the Marine Corps, I started and crashed my first company in 2000, then I worked in just about every aspect of marketing, ad agencies, internet marketing firms, in-house with Fortune 500 companies, etc. My last job before starting WMG was at an SEO firm. I found out they were billing clients for work that had never been done and when I informed the owner, he fired me. It turns out, he was aware of, and in on it.”

I think that Jeremy’s heart is always in the right place. And it’s rare these days to find someone who knows how to run a business properly and professionally but with a sense of compassion for the “little guy”.

More proof that Jeremy’s marketing skills are worth it: “I started WMG to help give small companies the tools and resources they needed to compete with larger companies. One of our first clients was in the specialty bedding industry, competing against multi-million dollar companies like Select Comfort, Nautilus and Tempur-Pedic. We enabled them to out-market their competitors online, which eventually led to a 54 million dollar contract with the Hilton Hotel Corporation,” said Jeremy.

If you have a business that has tough competition or you just need to boost your marketing and look a little different than the business next door, try out Wildfire Marketing Group. At the very least, you’ll get to see how Jeremy runs his business and maybe learn a thing or two in the process.

For most photographers, it's difficult to edit or choose our best photos. We look at our photos for hours on end and after a while, they all look the same. So, putting together something as simple as a portrait book is not as easy as it sounds.

I started with my absolute favorite images and put those on the cover and as the dominant photos on the inside of the book. Then I tried to choose a variety of images—children’s portraits, family portraits, engagement portraits, etc. After a few hours, I had switched so many photos and “tinkered” with it so much, it didn’t look anything like what I started out creating.

To finish the project, I usually have to ask another photographer or my husband to give me a “cut-throat” decision so I can order the silly book and move on. This time, I finished it alone but not without hesitation.

Photographers create these albums because everyone likes holding something in their hands. You can look at photos all day on the internet but there’s still something unique about meeting a client at Starbucks, grabbing a coffee and turning the glossy pages of a photography book.

On occasion, I will stop by Borders in Tampa, order an iced chai tea latte, find a quiet place in the back and sift through photo book after photo book.

It calms me.

It inspires me.

It reminds me of how many talented people are on this Earth doing what I do.

Take a look at my latest book and tell me what you think. One more opinion wouldn’t hurt.

POYi launched a new program that will help aspiring documentary photographers make their dreams come true.

The basic requirements are to propose a new project focused on documentary work, be an emerging photographer (not a full-time professional) and be willing to work on the project for a full year.

The part I love the most about this program is that there are no age limitations. So, this grant of $10,000 could go to an 18-year-old enrolled in college or a 65-year-old retiree. As long as you have a strong proposal and a passion for the subject you want to document, you can apply.

POYi Director Rick Shaw explained how this could change someone’s life, "So if someone is a security guard, and their whole hope was to become a documentary photographer, but they're not able to get a foothold because of the current publishing climate and economic realities, this incentive would do it."

The University of Missouri and Pictures of the Year International have a long history of being synonymous with photographic excellence. The Missouri School of Journalism was founded on 1908 as the “world’s first school of journalism.” They produce award-winning photojournalists year after year, most of which enter and sometimes win the POYi contest. The contest is in its 67^th year and is still going strong.

If you’ve ever had a desire to explore and document a social issue but didn’t have the time or money, this program is your chance to make it happen.

The application fee is only $20 and the deadline is May 31, 2010.

To read about the details of the program, click here.

To apply, click here.

Many clients like to photograph their family members in between sessions with a professional. It’s not only possible to do this as an amateur photographer but it can be easy and fun if you follow a few guidelines.

1)      Choose the right location. Think about what kind of family you are and pick a location that fits your style. Are you an artsy family that likes to dress up for special occasions? Maybe Ybor City is your style. Are you easy going beach bums with pets? Try Honeymoon Island Dog Beach. Do you love the thrill of amusement parks? Busch Gardens and Adventure Island in Tampa are great places to show your personalities for family portraits.

2)      Choose a time with the best light. Photographers call the light at sunrise and sunset “God’s light” because it’s perfect. Most people don’t want to shoot their family portraits at sunrise so aim for sunset. Arrive at your location about two hours before sunset so you can pick a place and you’ll have plenty of time to get what you need.

3)      Ensure everyone is well fed and rested. Eating a light early dinner before the shoot is a great idea. Make sure everyone had a good night’s sleep the previous night and if naps are necessary for kids, make sure they get them before you leave the house.

4)      Bring entertainment for the kids. If you’re going to an amusement park for the day, you don’t have to worry about anything! But if you’re going to a park, beach or other public place, games work best to keep everyone in a fun state of mind. On some of my family portrait shoots, families have brought water guns, silly string, sand castle shovels, Nerf balls and horseshoes.

5)      Be aware of the weather. If it’s a hot July afternoon in Florida, bring lots of cold water in a cooler so no one gets dehydrated. If the adults need some caffeine to keep their energy up, bring your soda or coffee with you or make a last-minute trip to Starbucks on the way! And, of course, dress for the weather. If you’re shooting family portraits in the middle of summer, bring comfortable clothing like tank tops, shorts and flip flops. And if senior members of the family are participating in the session, bring umbrellas and hand-held fans for them so they don’t overheat in the hot Tampa sun.

6)      Choose comfortable, “non-clashing” clothing. Some families like everyone to wear the same outfit. That’s not necessary to make a great portrait. Every person has their own personality so it’s not imperative that you dress the same. If you’d like to dress similar, choose one color that everyone can work around. If you choose blue, allow people to wear different shades of blue and different kinds of clothing—polos, tank tops, strapless shirts, button-ups, etc. Also, everyone can wear variations of blue with designs like stripes, plaids, solids, etc. If you don’t want to have a unifying color, just choose colors that go well together—pink and brown, black and red, etc.

7)      Create a reward for the kids. Maybe you can take them for ice cream or pizza after the session. Or give them an incentive like extra time doing one of their favorite activities at home. Kids always cooperate more when they know the goal and reward.

8)      If you don’t have a camera with a timer, you won’t get the entire family in the photo so let family members take turns shooting the photos. If your kids are old enough, allow them to be a part of the session by showing them how to shoot photos of mom and dad. You might be surprised how good they are at it!

9)      Clean up your backgrounds. When you’re shooting, make sure there are no other distractions in the background that would take away from your photo. If you’re shooting at a park, look for tree limbs and other families or parties that might pop up in your photos. If you’re at the beach, you probably have fewer trees to battle with but you might have more people. There’s nothing more upsetting than looking at your family portraits at home and realizing there’s a stranger in the background!

10)  Have fun! Family portraits are supposed to be fun family time and not a stressful, horrible experience. If you follow these steps, I promise you you’ll have no regrets!

One of my favorite charities to shoot for is Flashes of Hope.

The goal of this organization is to photograph kids with life-threatening illnesses like cancer and give those photos to their families as a gift.

The best part is seeing how the kids light up once they realize this is about pampering them, making them feel special and helping them to forget about their illness, if only for an hour. Being in a hospital for days on end and having to receive treatment that makes you feel worse can be exhausting.

Because the shoots are done monthly and I've only been volunteering for two years, I've done two shoots, both of which were extremely fulfilling. During the first one, we set up the studio in a break room at the hospital. A father came in to escape and get a little distraction. He told me had a 16-year-old daughter at the hospital that had cancer and was not doing well. I stopped what I was doing and sat next to him, just to listen. He went on about how he couldn't believe he had to watch his "baby girl" go through this. And he started sobbing. I couldn't help but hug him and after about ten minutes of talking and crying, he said he felt so much better. All he needed was someone to listen who wasn't a doctor or family member. He needed a shoulder to cry on and I was so touched he chose mine.

All of the people involved are volunteers and the families don't pay a dime for any of it. They receive a print package and a CD with the high-resolution photos after the photographer edits the images.

The entire shoot is coordinated by All Children's Hospital in St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay Chapter Directors Dana Hudepohl and Marc Silbiger. Aveda provides make up and styling services and local photographers rotate monthly.

So far, 185 children have been photographed in Tampa Bay.

If this charity interests you, I urge you to donate your services or money to keep it going. It means a great deal to me and I hope after seeing some of the photos, you’ll feel touched too.

Watch the FOX 13 story here.

Once again, Lindsay Lohan is making waves by doing a crazy photo shoot.

This seems to be her way to get attention when she's not doing her job, which in case you forgot is acting. The last time she shocked the world was for a photo shoot for the cover of Purple. She was dressed in a white robe with a crown of thorns on her head and her arms outstretched. She was trying to look "Christ-like."

This time, celebrity photographer Tyler Shields photographed Lohan in little clothing with a gun pointed in her mouth, with her legs above her head and with blood on her hands and all over the walls behind her. She calls it "art" and has defended it on her Twitter page.

The photos are provocative and as I've said before, most photos are shot to get a reaction. It doesn't have to be a favorable one, it just has to be an honest reaction when you see it. Shields is doing what any photographer would do--making images that people will talk about, blog about and want to see.

The shoot is called "The Dirty Side of Glamour." Check it out and see if it evokes a reaction in you.

WARNING: The video discussed in this blog is violently graphic and contains nudity. Please be aware of this before viewing it. Thank you!

Singer and rapper M.I.A. debuted the graphic video “Born Free” on Monday and the cyber chatter hasn’t stopped since.

No one is quite sure what the underlying message is but that probably is the message: think for yourself.

The 9-minute video shows SWAT-like men rounding up red-headed boys from a neighborhood and forcing them on a bus. The boys are then taken to a desert and lined up, execution style, then told to run into the desert. One boy stands there, paralyzed by fear. He is shot in the head in a scene not unlike that of Eddie Adams’ Pulitzer Prize winning photo of a suspected Viet Cong being executed.

The other boys run through the desert only to be surprised by land mines, one of which blows a boy to pieces.

Now, most people might ask, “What’s the point?” Well, you may not know her message but just like I am blogging about the video that made my mouth drop, you’ll probably have an opinion on it too. She’s hoping for a reaction, a discussion, an argument, a feeling.

While this is supposed to be a “music video”, I do understand the point of shooting something to elicit a reaction. Some still photographers don’t care if you like their photo, as long as you feel something about. We’ve all seen graphic images from war that make us cringe and turn away but we still felt something when we looked at it.

You Tube decided to pull the video from their site due to its graphic nature. I understand the need to protect others from viewing such graphic violence if they think they’re just viewing a hip hop music video. But I don’t see this being any worse than photos or videos that document reality.

Try looking at photos from the earthquake in Haiti or the West Virginia mine explosion or even Hurricane Katrina. I still think about the people I photographed in New Orleans after Katrina hit and I hope someone saw my photos and paused to think about the people in them.

After refusing to air a commercial in its entirety, Lane Bryant recently accused FOX and ABC of treating them differently than other clients because they represent and sell to plus-size women. Both networks have rejected this claim and stated that there is no validity to their arguments.

Even though the public technically doesn’t know who is telling the truth in this battle, it’s obvious Lane Bryant is trying to raise questions: are plus-size, scantily clad women viewed differently than thin, petite women, even when seen only in a television commercial?

I have to admit, I see the double standard.

I have watched Victoria’s Secret commercials for years featuring tiny women with unrealistic bodies and very little clothing. This is what society gives women as “the standard,” which we spend the rest of our lives attempting to reach (and most of us fail). I rarely saw plus-size women featured until Dove launched the Campaign for Real Beauty. This genius campaign has reached millions of women of all ages and made it “ok” to show larger women in lingerie or bras and panties.

Lane Bryant model Ashley Graham said she didn't know there would be such controversy about her commercial because she believes it was tastefully done. Read the entire interview here. 

Take a look for yourself and determine if the recent Lane Byrant or Victoria’s Secret 'The Nakeds' ads offend you or if you think one should not be aired during prime-time network programming.

View the Lane Byrant commercial here.

View the Victoria's Secret commercial here.

The Brian family is prepared for anything.

We meet annually when they arrive at St. Petersburg Beach to vacation at their condo. They need a break in March or April from the winter they've survived in Pennsylvania and they call on me for family portraits.

Not only do they manage to pack quite a bit into a few hours of photography but they are also color coordinated, ready to feed kids with snacks and juice and they always try to make it as fun as possible for their two children.

Keeping kids interested in a family portrait photo session can be a challenge. The Brians bring supplies to make sand castles, they play games, squirt water guns, swim and much more. No child wants to sit in front of a camera for hours and smile. It’s not natural.

So, every year I am amazed at how they make their photo session fresh and fun and always with a new color scheme!

We shot half of our session in their condo and half on the beach. I created a miniature studio in their condo and they invited a couple of family friends over to join in the session. Then, we took the cameras, toys, snacks and water down to the beach for some candid photos.

I've included a few of my favorites…it was a gorgeous Florida afternoon; perfect for portraits!

I find it a crying shame that the Supreme Court doesn't see the value in keeping a law that bans the sale of animal cruelty videos.

I always try to see both sides of an argument when something controversial like this comes up in the news. It's difficult though as an animal lover and owner to see our justices overturning a ruling and rejecting a law that seemed to be working.

The justices also threw out the criminal conviction of Robert Stevens of Pittsville, Va., who was sentenced to three years in prison for videos he made about pit bull fights.

The law was created in 1999 to reduce the sales of "crush videos" to fetish seekers. The videos showed women crushing small animals to death with their feet or high-heels. Of course, I don't get the fetish so why would I believe in the rights of these people to make and sell the videos?

State representatives have suggested that they will create another law to target crush videos specifically.

The justices sited free speech as the reason for the 8-1 ruling.

Please read the full story here and talk to your Florida state representative about further action here.

If you don't have a professional head shot of yourself, this event is a great way to purchase one at a discounted price. For group sessions, the cost is only $75 per person and you receive FIVE final high-resolution images to keep and use for your marketing or social networking purposes.

A professional head shot is one that is taken by a photographer with studio lighting and preferably a clean backdrop. With all the money we invest in our business, a $75 head shot should be an easy decision. If you don't need a head shot for your business, maybe you know someone who does. I appreciate clients who spread the word of my business so I try to reward them as often as possible! We hope to se e you on Wednesday!

What: Head shots

When: April 21, 2010; 3-4:30 p.m.

Where: Prudential Tropical Realty office, 20537 Amberfield Dr., Land O' Lakes, FL 34638

How much: $75 due at the time of the session

Investment: Each client receives five retouched, high-resolution images to keep and use for personal or business purposes.

Booking: Jessica Leigh 813.468.0075

The new 11-part series from the Discovery Channel called LIFE has me consumed and obsessed. And I'm not the only one.

You don't have to be a professional photographer to see the beauty in the photography captured for this series. And what impresses "photo geeks" like me is the technical aspect of the shoots.

Discovery was smart enough to post video and details with behind-the-scenes insight for people like me.

One of the most interesting scenes was one on Bulldog Bats fishing. I'm sure it doesn't sound ground-breaking but trust me, when you know what went into the three-week shoot, you can appreciate it on a whole new level.

The bats fish at night so there's obstacle number one: light. How do you shoot an animal at night with no light? The crew asked bat experts in Belize to acclimate them to light for three months prior to the shoot. The crew was hoping they would set up, start shooting and the bats would not alter their behavior.

On the first night of shooting, the bats were flying clear of the pond where the crew had set up. No one could understand why the light would affect them now after they seemed to ignore it for so many months. But as the producer was playing with the bat detector, he realized the electric box used to power the lights was giving off the same frequency as the bats. The bats’ frequency was being drowned out by the electric box. And without that frequency, the bats could not echolocate to fish. (They use sound waves to locate prey.)

So, once past the lighting and frequency obstacles, the crew had to photograph the bats flying by at 40 miles per hour and slow it down. Most filming is done at 24 or 25 frames per second. The camera used for the bats shot at 2,000 frames per second slowing the bats down a remarkable 83 times.

Next challenge: how do you know when a bat flying 40 miles per hour will grace you with his presence? The crew used bat detectors to get a warning when the bats were approaching. They set the camera to film eight-second sequences, four seconds before and after the camera was set to record. So, when they saw a bat’s first splash on the water, they got eight seconds of film as he disappeared again.

The last challenge was contending with the weather. It damages camera gear quickly and weakens photographers who often work around the clock for these kinds of projects. The camera the crew brought “died” while on assignment and another one was flown in to save the shoot. With heat and humidity to contend with in Belize, it’s amazing these crews get anything done.

Take a few minutes and check out the series. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

*Photo credit: Discovery Networks*

It may seem silly to thank my hair stylist but most women (and some men) get it. When you find a good one, you don’t want them to move out of state or change careers or cut their hours. We are selfish when it comes to our hair and that’s ok.

I have been going to Salon II in Carrollwood (Tampa) for 15 years. The owner, Michael Thomassy, is a dear friend of the family and has cut my mother’s hair for almost 30 years. I started going to Michael and then realized he is a popular man and at the time, I couldn’t schedule anything—I was a teenager and way too important to make appointments months in advance!

Then stylist Stefanie Leaver arrived on the scene.

I clicked with her from day one. She is smart, sassy, fun and most of all, she listens to what her client wants.  What a concept! I have been through perms, cuts, blond hair, red hair, highlights, lowlights, razored edges, bobs, and layered looks. And even though some of those are no longer in style now, I always left the salon feeling gorgeous.

Even when I moved to Louisiana for four years, I planned my trips home to Tampa always making sure I had an appointment at Salon II.

Stefanie is also honest, which I appreciate. If I bring in a photo of Carrie Underwood and say, “I want hair like hers.” Stefanie will kindly tell me I can’t have it. She’s doesn’t give you false hope but she also figures out what would look good on you, not Carrie Underwood.

So, I sit down in her chair about every six to nine months and say, “I’m bored with this look.” Instead of smacking me, she simply finds a new style to give me a fresh look and make me happy.

In addition to the wonderful owner and my favorite stylist, there are several others stylists to choose from, two talented manicure technicians and a receptionist with a wicked sense of humor.

If you’re sick of snooty salons where you don’t quite feel at home and want a contemporary place you can count on for years to come, try out Salon II. You won’t regret it.

Michael Thomassy Salon II, 813.968.6977

The University of Tampa is a very special commercial photography client and even though they run plenty of my images in many different publications, it's always a nice boost to the ego to get a cover photo in the Spring 2010 UT Journal.

This session was a ton of fun--we gathered four local restaurant owners who are also UT alumni. I set up a mock studio in a residence hall on campus. We asked them to bring some of the best food they serve and we would incorporate it in the photo. Little did they know we were planning to get silly!

They were all excellent sports about the photo session and didn’t mind cracking crabs or squirting ketchup on hot dogs. I find that the product always sells itself when the people involved look like they’re having fun!

So, thank you to Anne Rowland and Robin Roger of the University of Tampa Public Information department as well as our subjects—Mike Diogostine and Tyson Caner of Frankies, Andy Bonnemort of Café Dufrain and Tom Geller of Crabby Bill’s. With subjects like these gentlemen, how can you go wrong?

None of the obsessive Canon users like myself need confirmation that the company produces an amazing camera. But now the Canon 5D Mark II has made it's way to the set of the show House. Pretty cool in the photo world.

Director Greg Yaitanes said he shot the season finale with the 5D because of the tight spaces he was working in and because the shallow focus pulled the actors' faces to the foreground.

Yaitanes answered 5D questions from 'photo geeks' (a good term in my business) on his Twitter page. Check out the finale airing on May 17 on FOX.

During a recent networking meeting in Lutz, business owners were challenged to come up with five reasons why someone should choose our company over one of our competitors. Some professions are flooded with so many people, it’s hard to make the right choice for your family or business.

I thought I’d share the reasons why I believe someone should choose my photography services for a Tampa event or portrait session. I encourage you to comment, tell me I’m wrong, add something or come up with this list for your own business.

Also, ask your clients and customers why they come to you for goods or services. Sometimes others know us better than we know ourselves!

Top 5 Reasons to choose Jessica Leigh Photography:

1)      All inclusive rates: the rate you are quoted is the absolute total. It includes photographer’s time and talent, sitting fee, travel time and mileage, editing time (lab time), CD of edited high-resolution images, release to print the photos at a color lab and an online gallery. There's no "nickel and dime" charges so the rate is exactly what you'll pay.

2)      My philosophy is that everyone deserves professional photography. The reason that helps my clients is that I want you to have a professional so if my style or rates don’t work for you, I’m going to find someone who will work for you. I keep a special event vendor list for this reason. It includes a minimum of five talented photographers (and many other vendors) because I understand I am not the only photographer to choose from. I encourage clients to do their research so they are comfortable with their decision.

3)      I offer discounts and rewards to those clients who are loyal and those who pass the name of my company on to others. I work in a very competitive field (especially in Florida) so if a client returns to me or has the kindness to pass my name along, I want to make sure they know I appreciate it!

4)      Profits, believe it or not, are not my number one goal. Everyone likes to make money but this is not a joke. I would rather give a new client a discount and hope to keep them as a client than overcharge, take the money and run. I’d prefer happy, repeat clients than broke, one-time clients!

5)      I truly believe you get what you pay for in any investment. I also believe you should get the services or goods you paid for, with no strings attached. So, I offer a CD of images with all my sessions and I try to give a quick turn-around so you’re not waiting forever for your photos! My goal is to send clients images from a family portrait session, small private event or commercial photography session within one to two weeks. Editing wedding photography takes a bit more time but I still try to get the images to the newlyweds within one to two months.

Donna Riski does more than just frame your art, photographs and memories. She offers personal service.

Not only does she have a great selection but she has little overhead because she frames everything in a cottage on her private property. We met in BLAB and I stopped by her cottage to see what all the fuss was about. It’s adorable and so welcoming. I could have sipped coffee on the porch and watched the critters play in the woods all day.

Most of us probably go to Michael’s or JoAnn Fabrics for our framing needs because of all the coupons we hoard and it seems so darn cheap. Donna offers a less expensive price on framing and will deliver it to your doorstep! Does anyone at Michael’s or JoAnn’s even remember your name?

“Picture framing was something I often thought I might take up as a hobby someday after retirement, and then suddenly, after spending a small fortune to have something framed at a local frame shop, it occurred to me that I might be able to go into business doing affordable custom picture framing,” Donna said.

Donna attended the American Picture Framing Academy and officially opened Keystone Custom Picture Framing, Inc. in January of 2006. Donna said, “Of course I spent most of the first year learning all I could to master the craft which is really on ongoing process and only adds to the enjoyment.  I left the corporate world in 2007 and never looked back.”

She also offers appointments at the customer’s home or office and brings the samples to you. She’s available seven days a week to help and she always has a friendly smile.

Photographers Tracy Raver and Kelley Ryden have their hands full, literally.

These Nebraska-based sisters are also moms and claim they are so great at what they do because of their experience and skills working with newborn infants. All of their subjects are less than two weeks old and they say the hardest part of their job is posing their little bodies and keeping the babies happy and asleep.

They have published a new book with a collection of fantastic photographs with all royalties going to non-profit organizations that help newborns.

Please take a moment to browse through their images or put their book on your wish list. You can also watch their full interview on The Today Show.

*Photo by Tracy Raver and Kelley Ryden

I love photographing women who have a natural "sass" about them. They know who they are and they can explain it in one word--fabulous.

Ana is no exception to this kind of woman. She is beautiful, courageous and sexy. It was such a pleasure photographing her!

We decided to do the boudoir portrait session at a local Tampa hotel and to make the best of it, her fiance came over when we were done and they had an "in-town vacation" for the weekend.

Normally, getting a woman to come out of her shell can be a difficult task. But I am so thankful for women like Ana who go with the flow and let the session unfold.

I've included her comments on the session as well as some of my favorite photographs. Enjoy!

"Jessica did something that I did not know was possible – she made me feel comfortable in my own skin, while under the flashes of light and clicks of her equipment. Did I mention I was doing boudoir portraits to give to my fiancé as a wedding gift? I love photography, and don’t mind being in photos, but when you’re the subject in lingerie, A LOT can go through a woman’s mind. And I’m happy to say, that Jessica was there every step of the way to put my mind at ease. Not only did she make me feel so comfortable, I felt sexy, confident and had an overall wonderful time throughout the boudoir shoot. My fiancé has only been allowed to see one of the many photos from the shoot, and by the look on his face, I know he’ll be a happy man when he receives the photo book I created for him. In fact, I was so happy with the results, I’m giving this to him as an anniversary gift, and I may even create one for myself as a treat! Ladies, if you want a wonderful gift for your significant other, or to just treat yourself, I highly recommend working with Jessica – I know I’ll be relying on her for my future photography needs."    Ana—Tampa, FL

Recently I had the pleasure of meeting and photographing James Bain, a sweet man with a huge heart.

Bain was released from prison in December after serving a prison term for raping a 9-year-old boy in Lake Wales in 1974. He has repeatedly asked for DNA testing over the years to prove his innocence. In July, a judge granted his request and he was exonerated of all charges.

I met Bain at his mother's home in Tampa for the photo session. The photos were published in a French newspaper called Le Journal du Dimache for Polaris Images. Reporter Karen Lajon meet me there to interview him about his unique story.

I've included some of the photos of Bain, even though only one was published. The home was very difficult to shoot in because his mother had quite a few collectibles in a small place! I did my best and I hope he enjoyed the photos.

Please feel free to add your comment or suggestion at the bottom!

Peter Gowland died March 17 but his legacy will live on.

He was responsible for making the classic pinup just that—classic. He used lots of natural light and gorgeous beaches to create images of beautiful women and men.

Gowland seemed to know all the tricks to pinup photography and he published 26 books to share his knowledge with others.

To prevent models from tiring, he made hidden foot supports out of wood so they could stand for long periods. But what most photographers of that time remember him for are the cameras he designed and built in his garage and sold.

Please take a moment to check out his body of work.

Without a working automobile, most photographers would change careers.

I am lucky to have grown up with a father who knew everything there was to know about cars, how to keep them working and what to do when your daughter blows a head gasket on her first car (oops).

My dad owned a Goodyear store in Tampa for years and thankfully, he taught me about upkeep and maintenance so I would have a reliable car—whether it be my 1986 Sunbird or my 2005 Trailblazer. I’ve taken his lessons to heart and am so glad I did. Who knew I would have a career that would require travel all over central Florida and a second office, in the backseat of my car?

My dad sold his store several years ago so now I rely on the folks at Tire Choice in Land O’ Lakes, Florida. They are truly good people and the manager, Scott, is always up front with me about my vehicle and what really needs to be done to keep me on the road. They have excellent specials and do what they say they will.

It can be intimidating for a woman to approach mechanics because we feel like we’re not treated the same. At Tire Choice, I always feel like I can ask as many questions as needed and leave with a sense of peace about my car.

Check them out on the web and give them a chance next time you need your car serviced. Tell them Jessica sent you!

It's truly sad to hear the real story on how some magazines find their photos and the reasons why they publish them.

I understand People and US Weekly are not considered to be true journalism outlets but the deceit plastered across their covers is alarming, especially when they choose the same photo!

Sandra Bullock posed for the cover photo on both magazines but did so in the summer of 2009 for a different story. Since Bullock did not agree to cooperate with the magazines, they could not get a new photo of her for their stories on her split from husband Jesse James. So, they both bought similar photos of her because she looked less than happy in these pictures.

Read the full story and see the covers here.

Without the help of great massage therapists, most photographers would limp around and cry about their aches and pains on a daily basis.

Ok, maybe we still cry about our aches and pains but we do so less often when we find the right therapist to work out our knots. I have found those therapists in Lutz, Florida.

I had some hesitation in becoming a member at Massage Envy because there are so many therapists and it's a "corporation" not an independent spa. I didn't know if I would lose that spa feel with so many clients and so many therapists. And how do I know how to choose the right one?

Well, I did have a few that didn't match my taste but out of my testing, I found three of the best therapists I’ve ever met: Kelly, Stephanie and Danielle.

Kelly is stronger than most men I know and can work out any knot or pulled muscle. This hard-core therapist doesn’t push you beyond what you can handle but she definitely works out your problem areas. It helps to ask her to use “70% Kelly strength” in case you’re not used to what real deep tissue feels like.

Stephanie has magic hands. For the full hour you are on her table, her hands never leave your body. She is a master of the Swedish massage. I go to her when I need to escape from my daily life and relax. With her sweet disposition, it’s hard to get up and leave.

Danielle offers a wonderful mix of Swedish and deep tissue massage. She listens to what you say your body needs and adjusts her massage accordingly. No two massages are exactly the same and she cares about how you feel when you leave her table. I go to her when a long photo session or a hard boot camp has torn me down. I’ve never left unhappy.

So, thank you to Massage Envy in Lutz for hiring some wonderful women who not only do their job well but also care about their clients' well-being.

Music photographer Jim Marshall passed away in his sleep in New York City Wednesday.

Marshall photographed legends Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, the Rolling Stones, the Beatles and many more.

One of my favorite photos is the one posted to the right taken at Woodstock in 1969 during a set by Sanata. I love it not only for the color and warmth but because he was shooting with a Fish Eye lens before it was really hip to do so.

Read the article about his death here and check out his work here.

(*Photo by Jim Marshall)

Judges in NPPA's 2010 Best Of Photojournalism competition have picked winners in the Domestic News Picture Story, International News Picture Story, Enterprise Picture Story (Large Markets) and (Small Markets), Environmental Picture Story, and Non-Traditional Photojournalism Publishing categories during their fourth day of judging at the contest's host site, The Poynter Institute for Media Studies in St. Petersburg.

This contest is one of the most respected in photojournalism. I specifically enjoy looking at the photo story winners as this has always been a passion of mine. Please take a moment to view these wonderful images made by some of the best photographers in the world.

http://bop.nppa.org/2010/

A significant health care bill has been passed by the House and is headed to President Obama's desk to be signed.

I applaud the President's efforts to change our damaged health care system and provide for those in need. However, I fear this will bring about more problems and less solutions once it's fully functional.

Proposed changes like prohibiting health care insurance companies from denying applicants coverage because of pre-existing conditions could help people like my parents. But there is no guarantee.

I worry about the effect this will have on my family and my future children. Being a small business owner, this bill is supposed to help people just like me.

We'll see where the bill takes us...

Photos (top to bottom):

U.S. President Barack Obama (R) walks back to the Blue Room with U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden after Obama delivered a statement about the House of Representatives' final passage of health care legislation, in the East Room of the White House in Washington, March 21, 2010. The legislation would usher in the most sweeping changes to the $2.5 trillion U.S. healthcare system in decades. (REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst)

Supporters of the Tea Party movement hold a sign outside the US Capitol as they demonstrate in Washington against the health care bill. Democrats used their majority to muscle the measure through, losing 34 conservative party members who joined the united Republican opposition, worried about paying a political price in November mid-term elections. (AFP/Nicholas Kamm)

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee's, D-Texas, arm rests on an autographed copy of the bill after the House passed health care reform in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Sunday, March 21, 2010. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Every year, the Tampa Bay Heart Gallery asks local photographers to donate their time to photograph a child. Never has a photograph been so important.

None of these photos will win awards, be used in portfolios or be profited from in any way.

The photos are simply given to the gallery and are used on the organization's website and in a traveling exhibit to promote awareness about adoption. The hope is that someone will see the photos, hear the child's taped recording and fall in love with their personality.

The best case scenario is that the child is adopted by a loving family. At the very least, the word of adoption is being spread through the efforts of the gallery staff and maybe someone else will be inspired to volunteer.

I had the pleasure of photographing another child this year and due to privacy issues, I am asked not to display his photos. He is a lovely 12-yr-old with a quiet disposition and a sweet smile.

Thank you to Melissa Twomey and Jesse Miller for making this gallery happen every year. And thank you to Dan Weisberg for allowing me to use his photos of the session.

Javier Sola is a man with a knack for logos and an abundance of patience.

When I began my freelance business in Tampa in 2005, Javier helped me create a brand for the company with the design of my very first logo. We went through several drafts but he was determined to create something I fell in love with and could use for years to come.

I can admit I am not the easiest person to please when it comes to my business. I am very picky and want to ensure that my company’s image is perfect in my eyes.

Javier quickly realized this about me but he didn’t waiver. He just kept working.

At last, he created the logo that now graces my website, business cards and all marketing materials I distribute. I receive compliments on my cards every time I give them out. The only thing printed on the front is the logo he created.

He’s also designed a logo for a non-profit project I created called Tour of Thanks, which will be launching later this year. (The project will focus on offering free family portraits to active duty military families.)

Javier’s love for design began at an early age in Puerto Rico when he found he loved geometry. Javier said, “Through the years I found out that anything that would have to do with layout or design was meant to be my career in some shape or form.”

After having no luck finding a design school to pursue his dream, he left Puerto Rico as an adult and attended the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts in Graphic Design.

Today, Javier lives in Tampa with his family and owns Rendered Visions Creative. The company focuses on logo/brand development and web design.

To see more of Javier’s work, please visit http://www.renderedvisions.com.

I recently had the pleasure of photographing one of the most expressive families I know...the Houses. We took a trip to Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey to have some fun and take some great family portraits. With the exception of a few bug bites and some sibling rivalry, the portraits went off without a hitch. Thank you for allowing me into your lives and for being such accommodating subjects!

This blog entry has nothing to do with photography. The only connection it has to my work is that the person who wrote the following column helped me to become a better shooter. She is a writer, a runner, a mother, a wife, a friend and a brave soul.

I met this amazing woman at The Times in Shreveport, Louisiana and we worked on several projects together. Her work always made my work look better.

I've told Kym for years now that she is my hero. I'm not sure if she understands why but reading this column again, months later, it hits me that her strength is one of her best attributes. The struggles she's gone through in her life that are NOT in this column would shock you.

Please take a few minutes out of your day to read it. I hope it inspires you and maybe helps someone you know step forward about something that happened to them.

Thank you for sharing, Kym.

Please click here to read: 'My goal is to live'

Anyone who can make my hair look better than Carrie Underwood’s is on my A-list!

I met Holly in 2007 when I was planning my own wedding for the next year. I already hired a make-up artist so all I needed was a brilliant hair stylist. I had shoulder length hair at the time so naturally I gave Holly a photo of Carrie Underwood (with very long hair) and told her I wanted hair like hers on my wedding day. She didn’t flinch.

Holly not only exceeded my expectations but she also created amazing styles for my bridesmaids and Godmother. She exudes flawless professionalism and a unique talent for making you look better than you ever thought you could.

I was so impressed on my wedding day, I hired her to do my hair and m ake up for the 2009 Hearts of Fire Presidents’ Ball plus she’ll be styling me for my anniversary photo session with my husband this month.

We’ve worked together on private events, boudoir portrait photo sessions and Bras & Boas events. I feel confident partnering with her because I know she’ll represent herself well and I have nothing to worry about when Holly is on my team.

Holly attended Manhattan Hairstyling Academy and has been making women feel fabulous for ten years. Her services range from hair styling to make up application to manicures. She hopes to expand the business to include on-location massage therapy and tanning. Her events span generations and include young girl glamour parties, weddings and fashion shows.

To check out Holly’s work and learn about her team, please visit: www.inspirecollectivecreations.com.

(Photos - top to bottom:

*Holly on location with JLP for a boudoir portrait session - Photo by JLP.

*Jessica Leigh's wedding day - Photo by Karla Fountain.

*Jessica Leigh's bridesmaid - Photo by Karla Fountain.)

My pet peeve about direct sales consultants is that they can come off a little pushy or they don’t understand when you say you simply don’t need their product.

Not so with Kim Fish of Cookie Lee Jewelry.

I’ve attended numerous shows and held my own private party with Kim and she is not only laid back about her sales but her personality brings every event to a whole new level. I’ve never felt like I “had” to buy a piece from her show and she’s constantly rewarding loyal customers with discounts.

Kim also knows how to let her products sell themselves. She has a great fashion sense and wears the jewelry in different ways so others can see how to dress up their own outfits.

I think people are drawn to Kim because she’s easy to get along with, fun and stylish. Plus, she manages a home, husband and three great kids in addition to running this business full-time for four years. I admire her for being able to juggle it all and still look great doing it!

We’ve worked together in BLAB and for Bras & Boas events. I feel confident partnering with her because I know she’ll represent herself well and I have nothing to worry about.

To check out Kim’s jewelry please visit http://www.cookielee.biz/esuite/home/kimberlyfish.

*Photo by JLP*

I had no idea what poor shape my back was in until I made an appointment with Dr. Carrie Oleston and Dr. Cindy Perkins at Back in Health Wellness in Lutz, Florida.

As photographers, we accept that with the job comes lower back pain, neck pain and general muscle soreness due to all the weird positions we get in to shoot photos and all the heavy gear we lift.

However, I didn’t know there was a way to manage the pain and feel good until I met ‘Dr. Carrie’ and ‘Dr. Cindy’ in a networking group called Business Ladies Advancing Business (BLAB). These ladies do so much more than chiropractic care. I’ve received adjustments from them as well as acupuncture and massage therapy. All of which have helped me do my job better and I have a shorter recovery period (if any) after a very long photo session.

They also helped me after I was involved in a minor car accident. I didn’t have any major physical damage but my neck and back did not fare well after the crash. So, they made a plan for me to heal and a few months later, I was back to normal.

At Back in Health, the staff is friendly and helpful, which makes going to the doctor that much easier. I have benefited from pharmaceutical-grade multivitamins, Biofreeze and back and head pillows purchased at the office. All of the services and products they provide truly do inspire a ‘complete health treatment’ for your body.

To learn more about these lovely ladies, please visit their site: www.backinhealthwellness.com.

*Photos by JLP*

Toyota executives apologized today for the problems concerning sudden acceleration in some of their vehicles while continuing to deny that the problems are related to electromagnetic interference (EMI). However, others like United Kingdom-based EMI expert Keith Armstrong believe that the acceleration problem is linked to EMI and that the tests performed were not comprehensive enough to decide the root of the problem.

I photographed Armstrong for a USA Today story and while only one of his portraits was published inside the Money Section today, I thought I’d share a few of them that I liked.

Armstrong was photographed at a hotel in Brooksville, Florida while he was visiting the U.S. on business.

Fitness trainer helped Tampa photographer Jessica Leigh get fit and healthy in boot camp.

When it comes to exercise, I quit everything. I’ll try a kickboxing class, buy a Tae Bo DVD or join a gym and within a few months, I have wasted my time and money.

That all changed when I met Carrie Kukuda in 2009. We met as members of a networking group called BLAB, Business Ladies Advancing Business. She pitched herself as a life coach, a nutrition expert and a fitness trainer. Kukuda backed up all of her credentials with results.

I have been in her boot camp for approximately five months, attending a session at least twice a week. For exercise enthusiasts, that may not sound like dedication. But I can now admit I am completely addicted to Carrie’s boot camp and have no intention of quitting.

I schedule clients and personal appointments around boot camp. If I have to miss one, I work hard to fit in a “make up camp” as soon as possible. When I go on vacation, I do similar work outs so I don’t get off track when I return. I make better food choices and look forward to the “high” I get after I’m done with a session.

Since I lift heavy gear and end up in strange positions for my job as a photographer, I always have back pain and muscle soreness after shoots. Being active in boot camp has helped me gain muscle strength and stamina while I’m on my feet for hours.

Kukuda’s classes are different because I never know what to expect each day I come to camp. And I not only have accountability with Carrie but also with the other people I’ve bonded with in camp. If someone misses a day, we all ask where they are and what their excuse is for missing.

I asked Carrie to explain why she does what she does. She said, “I do what I do because I am passionate about helping people. I have a gift I can offer them to help them change their lives. It is not a job to me, it is who I am. It is what gets me up in the morning at 4am and it's what makes me happy when I go to bed at night. People should live their best life and I am happy to share the tools for them to make it happen.”

To find out more about Carrie, visit www.thesomedaycoach.com.

A picture is worth a thousand words, right?

Maya Tucker shot this photo of a neighbor holding her baby out of her window as her apartment filled with smoke from a fire that started in a closet. What’s even more interesting is that Maya Tucker is not a professional photographer. When I first saw this photo, I thought it was a great moment caught by a New York Daily News photojournalist and “right place, right time.” Not so.

Great moments can be caught by anyone but it’s rare to have a news-worthy moment documented by an amateur photographer. I applaud Maya for having the guts to photograph this—most bystanders do not think to pick up a camera during a crisis situation.

As newspaper photojournalists, we are trained from day one to do our job, do it well and shoot first, and then ask for forgiveness. If there was a photographer on scene, I’m guessing neighbors might have been watching him or her, wondering how he or she could take photos at a time like this. In the news business, we are forced to separate ourselves from the subjects, even if those subjects are victims.

During my five years as a newspaper photographer, I witnessed countless situations that broke my heart. The last and final adventure I had was covering Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. I realized after that week that I was not born to be a newspaper photographer. Some are born to cover natural disasters, wars and devastation. I am not one of them.

I'm very excited to be photographing James Bain this week. I'd like to hear what his life has been like behind bars for 35 years, as an innocent man. Polaris Images has asked me to photograph him at his Tampa home for a French Sunday newspaper called Le Journal du Dimache.

Bain was released from prison in December after serving a prison term for raping a 9-year-old boy in Lake Wales in 1974. He has repeatedly asked for DNA testing over the years to prove his innocence. In July, a judge granted his request and he was exonerated of all charges.

When Bain was released, his first requests were to have a glazed doughnut, a Mello Yello and spearmint gum. It makes me a little more thankful for all the simple pleasures I take for granted on a daily basis.

ABC News recently obtained new photos from the 9/11 attacks after filing a Freedom of Information Act request in 2009 with the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The photos show a different view of what happened that day and how far and wide the damage spread. Will these images help people to rebuild and "never forget" or will they just bring back bad memories? View a gallery of the images and make your own judgements.

*Photo by Det. Greg Semendinger/NYC Police Aviation Unit*

Sports Illustrated released their annual Swimsuit Edition this week with four Olympic athletes featured including Lindsey Vonn. The photo of Vonn on last week's cover caused some debate over whether the pose was provocative or appropriate for her sport. The latest issue features Vonn in much more compromising positions and in less clothes. So, is it ok for her to be sexy and alluring in the Swimsuit Edition? The whole point of the annual edition is to showcase beautiful women in very tiny bikinis in exotic places. So, why does the world get upset when a female athlete shows some skin but when a male athlete poses shirtless for GQ or Men's Health, it’s acceptable?