what time in the mountains looks like

I am excited to be joining an amazing group of photographers and friends in a beautiful  project called What         Looks Like. In mid-July, we headed to Georgia to spend some time in the mountains. It was just the five of us, plus our almost 15 year old lab, Buster. It is hard for me to put into words how much this trip meant to me. We had long meals on the porch, hikes in the woods and hours exploring on the river.We laughed and loved and just lived in ways that we all needed. I didn't realize how much we needed time for just us.

Today, I share with you What Time in the Mountains Looks Like. These memories will be in my heart forever.

Head on over to see what Jules Trandem's month looks like. She always amazes me with the beauty she captures in her everyday world.

kindred spirts

When I began studying photography, Stacey was one of the first photographers I started to follow. Her work always had something special about it that I admired. Over the years we began talking online through email and social media. Last week, we finally met in person when she brought her three awesome kids over to hang out with us for the day. It is such a blessing to see how God really had a hand in our friendship. It is amazing to realize all we have in common, the more we get to know one another. We are such kindred spirits.  Stacey was one of those people I felt like I've known forever immediately. We talked and laughed for hours with such ease.

I feel so grateful that we got to spend this time together and look forward to another play-date soon.

You can see some of Stacey's favorite images from our day together here. I love the words she shares and couldn't agree more. I have found that this phase of life is often very busy as a mama, but having true friendships is such a God given gift. Life was not made to travel alone. I loved that in this one day we were able to share our current joys and difficulties with one another and see how God was working in both of our lives through it all. I was reminded to take time for days like this. We all need to sit on the porch more and open our hearts. It really is good for the soul.

Everyday Beauty Workshop | Student Reviews and Features

My fourth class of Everyday Beauty finished last month.  Each opportunity I get  to work with these students is always so unique and such a gift. During our time together I am always excited to see my students grow and continue to be inspired by their daily lives. Below is a collection of work and words from some of the ladies from my May class. Thank you each for taking part in our three weeks together. I hope you will continue to seek the beautiful moments and details in your everyday life. (You can continue to follow the students from my past classes at the Cherish this Day blog.  It is a project filled with inspiration.

Tiffany Dahle

website | instagram | facebook | pinterest

Taking Ginger's workshop has completely changed how I approach photographing my girls. It gave me the time to take a breath and step back from the action. I learned to document what was happening before me without manipulating the scene too much. I have finally learned how to capture childhood without posing it.

Lara Gowder

website | facebook

I had this workshop on my to do list for a while, and I am so glad I was able to get in this time! I love Ginger's work, the way she captures her daily family activities so beautifully, is something I have wanted to do with my boys. Ginger shares so much with her students, from her tips on what to capture, how to look for the perfect light, and so much more. Her own images of her family are so full of love and fun.

I needed a push because I was in a creative rut, and this class pushed me in so many ways. From exploring new rooms in my own home, to finding light throughout my home, to view our everyday in different ways. I truly believe I have grown and my photography has grown, just from this workshop. The lessons are very well laid out, and Ginger is so giving with her feedback.

Jill Marzion

blog | website | facebook

If you are considering this course….take it!  you will not be disappointed one bit!  Ginger is by far one of the best instructors I have experienced.  She is extremely organized, the class is set up in a way that you keep building on what you have learned, the feedback is very helpful and Ginger is so easy to contact and beyond willing to answer anything. In fact, she continually encourages me, this course was a great reminder to photograph all the little moments and details.  I walked away from the course feeling refreshed and full of new ideas for documenting my four kids!

Emmy Treganza

I’m not a professional photographer.  I’m simply  a mom who takes a lot of photos of her kid.  And taking Ginger’s Everyday Beauty workshop was pure inspiration.  I adore her style and jumped at the chance to learn from someone whom I admire.  I believe her philosophy and approach to capturing everyday beauty is one of the main reasons why I admire her work so much.  She has definitely helped shape my thinking and approach to taking pictures.  I can’t give away the specifics.  All I can say is take her workshop!  Do it!  You’ll be happy you did.  I know I am.

Kristin Wahls

Ginger's workshop truly opened up my eyes. Prior to the Everyday Beauty workshop, I was in a creative rut where I thought my life just wasn't photogenic enough and that capturing my busy 10-month old day to day was far too great a challenge. Ginger helped me to be unafraid of any lighting condition and encouraged us all to look at our everyday world in a new way. Suddenly, the way the light hit my son's hair became truly beautiful and worth capturing. The way his eyes lit up while playing with his dad became much more noticeable...or how his wrinkly little hands clung to bath toys in the tub. Little details that went unnoticed before suddenly became moments worth photographing and now pieces of art I will absolutely cherish forever. Ginger and her encouraging words as well as the supportive women in the workshop with me helped me climb out of my rut and celebrate my day-to-day life, however perfectly unperfect it may be.

Emma Morgan

I love Gingers work, it drew me to this wonderful workshop. I have enjoyed every part and have come away with more insight on how to observe, be part of and capture the moments of unspoilt everyday beauty. Really inspiring, I'm feeling so much more connected with my photographs.

Andrea Skidmore

instagram | google +

I'm not very good with truly expressing myself through words, but wanted to take the time to say how thankful I am to Ginger and for the opportunity I had to take her Everyday Beauty class. From the very first time I saw Ginger's work I knew I wanted to learn from her. Through her images it is easy to see her passion for her family, photography and the beauty of every life...I wanted the same thing for myself.

When I signed up I was in a slump photography wise; and had been for the past few years. I was stuck and exhausted after retiring from the business of photography. Pictures of my family were only quick snapshots without much thought given. I wanted more for my family and myself. Ginger's class has given me the kick I needed. She was so attentive; always answering questions and giving great feedback. It was so nice to take the 3 weeks to slow down, pay attention, and really see the beauty of my family life. I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to learn from Ginger. I know this class will be something I look back on for inspiration time and time again.

Christy Balogh

The Everyday Beauty workshop was such an inspiration for me. I have been taking pictures for many years and have really felt burnt out lately. This workshop inspired me and taught me how to capture beauty in our everyday world! Ginger was such an encouragement and was open to teaching, helping, and relating anything she knew to us. Thank you Ginger for being an inspiration to me and the other photographers in the workshop! Worth every penny!

Mikki Skinner

website | facebook

I was in need of some inspiration and perhaps a reconnection as to why I love to take photos so much. Signed up for Ginger's class and am so incredibly thankful I took the plunge! So much of Ginger's heart is weaved into her class, everything from the materials, the videos, the critique, the encouragement, the love. I have learned to let it go, and just let your heart direct. Take photos to remember the place, the story, the details, the memory. Thank you Ginger for a beautiful handful of weeks!

Gina Baggs

After discovering and viewing Ginger’s images online, I knew I had to take her class!! Her images are just beautiful, filled with so much emotion, story and soul. I learned so much from her; from sparking my passion of learning photography, seeing the everyday beauty of everything around me in all different perspectives, and becoming a better mother/wife and to embrace and enjoy every minute with my family.

Ginger and her workshop is a blessing and inspiring!  Thank you for sharing your amazing talent and abundance of knowledge with us!

Janielle Granstaff

facebook

When I signed up for Ginger Unzueta's Everyday Beauty workshop as a silent student, I wondered how much I would be able to take away from it if I wasn't having that one on one interaction with her. But I also knew this was not something I wanted to pass on yet again. And boy was I glad I didn't. The class was so organized, so well presented, and so interestingIt definitely kept me on my toes the entire 3 weeks, always looking forward to more knowledge, more tips. And she delivered those every time. She was able to not only open my eyes to the things that surround me, but to keep them open and to SEE them in a new perspective. Ginger has a magical way to show you the world around you and this is a lesson I will forever keep with me.

Melissa Rowley

website

I can’t thank Ginger enough for all her encouragement during her amazing Everyday Beauty workshop.  The first time I saw her images, I fell in love with the simple but powerful way she was documenting the life of her family through her photography.  I signed up thinking that I was going to learn technical skills that would magically translate into emotion and connection, but it was through her lessons in honing in on the details I wanted to remember about my children, the memories I wanted to preserve, and the thoughtful stories that I wanted to share with others that I learned to be patient with my journey and process, and that’s what created emotion and connection in my images.  I especially appreciated her gentle way of giving critique and the confidence she instilled in all of the participants.  I truly believe she gave her all to support us during the workshop as an instructor and will continue to support us after as a mentor and friend.  This workshop is one of those life changing experiences - I will be forever grateful for all that she taught me.

Angie Schueren

website | facebook

The Everyday Beauty workshop with Ginger Unzueta was beyond perfection. Ginger was a true inspiration and taught us how to think outside the box to capture the moments of our every day.  Besides teaching us composition, lighting, framing and all of the technical photography information, she taught us how to be present within the moments of our children's life, how to capture the emotion and not take any moments for granted.  She was phenomenal at answering all of the questions that were submitted, no matter what the content.  Ginger was truly devoted to all of the students, and she cared about each and every student's outcome of the course.  She pushed everyone to see their true talent, and was so encouraging.

Thank you Ginger for being my inspiration and to help me see the everyday beauty within my chaos called life.

Staci Schonbrun

website 

Hi Ginger- I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed taking your course. I specifically did not want to take a class that told me how to do this technique or set up lights a certain way, but rather wanted a class that would focus much more on the everyday. You fit the bill with a beautiful class that not only encourages, but celebrates and highlights the beauty of everyday life. This class really encouraged me to improve my way of looking at the normal chaotic scene of life and seeing small parts of it that elevate a snapshot into a beautiful piece of art. You patiently answered the many questions asked of you and always left encouraging feedback that made the next assignment even better. I am  sad to see the class end, but thank you for the wonderful opportunities and insight that you shared. I hope to continue and build on the inspiration you filled me with. Sincerely, Staci Schonbrun

Amy Bernard

think perhaps the most meaningful 'takeaway' for me - in learning from Ginger - has been in how it impacted the very way I function in my everyday.  With my camera, and without.  Somewhere in the course of motherhood I'd lost perspective and got stuck in an 'on to the next' rut.  And while I'd long looked to my photographs to kind of pause and appreciate or truly 'see'… it was during Ginger's class that I rediscovered and owned a bit of more of the moment.  Being present.  I mean, sure - there have been other influences (hello life) but it's all about the timing and these lessons just could not have come at a more giving time.  When I look at Ginger's Joy Project what I have envied most - and am drawn in most by - is the feeling that she is there and that framed the way I took in what she offered.  Some of my own recent / favorite images came about from letting the lessons sink in, and what I found most especially helpful was the examples she provided of her own images and the background story of light or composition, the perspective and just the 'why' this moment.  It allowed me to process the technical information on a practical level while also prompting me to focus more fully on capturing my children and our days as I see them.  I intend to keep going back and re-learning from the materials and truly loved having this window in to Ginger's approach and workflow.

Registration for Ginger's September class is open NOW. This will be her last class for 2014. There are a few active seats left at this time. You can register here.

Everyday Beauty | September 2014 Workshop

Registration will open next week for my last Everyday Beauty workshop of 2014.  You can learn more about this class and  read reviews from past students here.  Sign up for my newsletter and you will receive the registration information first.

Click Magazine Giveaway

I am thrilled to have one of my favorite images in the July/August 2014 edition of Click Magazine. Seeing my work in print is something pretty special and I am so grateful to be included.  This publication is by far one of my favorites to get in the mail. Every issue is filled with gorgeous inspiration and thoughtful articles.

I am so excited to be able to give away THREE 1-year subscriptions to Click. The giveaway will end Friday, July 11, 2014 at 11:59 pm.  The winner will be announced on Saturday, July 12, 2014.

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Mozi Magazine The Family and Children Issue | June 2014

When Mozi Magazine contacted me to write for their Family and Child issue, I was beyond excited.  It means so much to me to be a part of this amazing issue. I am grateful to be able to share a passion that I love so much .  Capturing my family and finding the beauty in the everyday is how I create art. My family is the reason I pick up my camera. Realizing that I can be an artist, without being in business, was one of the most freeing moments for me on my journey as a photographer.

God has given me these talents and this passion and I pray that I will use them for His glory. He has given me the eyes to see that each day is so far from ordinary and that each moment should be cherished and celebrated.  My daughter and I share a love for the song Write Your Story, by Fancesca Battistelli.  I never want to forget that my life is His to use.

                    I'm an empty page. I'm an open book.Write Your story on my heart. Come on and make Your mark.                     Author of my hope. Maker of the stars. Let me be Your work of art. Won't You write Your story on my heart.

                    My Life. I know it's never really been mine. So do with it whatever You like.I don't know what Your plan is. But I know it's good.

I am giving  away one free digital copy of this gorgeous magazine. You will love the imagery in this magazine from cover to back. It includes so many amazing photographers. 

Thank you again to everyone at Mozi Magazine for including me in this fabulous issue. And if you can't wait to see if you win a copy, you can purchase a digital or print copy here.

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from our hearts

Matthew 5:4 "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

The online photography community has been a blessing to me in many ways. I have been able to meet people from all over the world that I would otherwise never know.  I believe each friendship is not by chance, but through God's provision and plan. One of those special friends is Ashley Meiners Wilson. We have gotten to know each other in a beautiful way over the past year.  I am grateful for our conversations and friendship.

Last week, Ashley suddenly and unexpectedly lost her husband Jon. He left behind Ashley and two young children.  In December, Ashley did a beautiful tribute to her husband as part of our 10 on 10 project.  You can see her amazing work and love for Jon  here.

A group of 28 photographers have come together to show Ashley our love and support.  In times like this there are so few words that seem enough, but we wanted her to know how much we love her and that we are standing behind her.  You can find out how you can help and see our collaboration here. 

rainy morning bowling

It was Monday of Spring Break and it was raining, so we decided to head to the bowling alley with some of the cousins and Aunt Katie. What a fun and chaotic time we had together. The bowling alley doesn't have the best lighting and some of these images missed focus, yet, somehow they come together to tell the story so well. One of the things I am trying to embrace more often is imperfection. I want to save the snapshots in addition to the more polished pictures, because this is life right now.

Please head on over to the Cherish this Day blog to see the everyday beauty captured in the lives of some very talented  and special ladies.

Everyday Beauty Workshop| Student Reviews and Features

The third class of my Everyday Beauty workshop with The Bloom Forum just wrapped up. I am so grateful for each student that has seen something in my work and signed up to be a part of this class.  It is a gift to get to know them each on a personal level and have a glimpse into their world . I always feel inspired as our time together comes to an end.  I love to see their growth, their excitement, and their love for photographing the every day blossom. Today, I would like to share the work from some of the  students in my July and January classes. Thank you all for the friends you have each become. It was such an honor to get to have this time together.

Amy Nowak

Facebook | Blog

The minute I first saw one of Ginger's images online, I knew I had to find a way to learn from her.  I quickly emailed her and found out that she was teaching the EverydayBeauty class through the Bloom Forum.   I was so lucky to be able to have an active seat in her July workshop, and she taught me so much more than just how to take pictures and find the beauty in everyday.   I love her heart and soul more than anything.  She pours her heart into teaching and her photographs- sharing with us her children, her faith, and her passion for motherhood, family, and capturing the beauty that surrounds us every day.  I could look at her images all day long because I just see so much love in all of them.  That is what I wanted to be able to do.  Ginger taught me how to shoot with more than just my camera.  She taught me to shoot with my heart.   She taught me how to "see" the light.  And as she would say..."even in the darkness."  She taught me that we are all on our own journey, that we all can tell our story, and that even those small, mundane moments are important and gone before we know it.  It is in these small moments that I have begun to find the real beauty within my family.  I realize that to capture these times is making me a better mother and a more fulfilled person.  I  now feel like I am now part of a very special group of women in photography that has been blessed by Ginger's gift of teaching.    I can not thank Ginger enough for opening my eyes to Everyday Beauty.  It has been such a blessing for me and my whole family, and I know that years down the road, they will look at these images and be able to drift back into their childhood.  They will be reminded that there are simple moments in life that shaped who they are, and it is these moments that will be cherished and treasured the most.

Carey Pace

Facebook | Blog

From day one in my photographic journey, I’ve taken “everyday” type images.  Documenting the reality of my children’s lives was always my goal, and has always been all I’ve ever done.  It’s just “all I know.”  However, as artists, there is always room to learn, grow, and evolve our art.  I took Ginger’s workshop hoping to learn a thing or two for my ongoing project of photographing my kids in a beautiful, memorable way.  On the other side of the workshop now, I sit, utterly blown away.  I feel like it is THE best class or workshop I’ve ever taken.

A huge portion of photography is seeing the light and learning to utilize it to create the art you see in your mind.  Ginger touches on that certainly, but the large goal of this workshop is the other portion of photography — seeing what to actually include in the image.  Whether you are someone who has never attempted to take documentary, real life images of your family or someone who has never done anything but, you will walk away from this workshop changed.

She walks you through seeing your children, your home, your life environment through the eyes of a documentarian, and teaches you how to compose and create images that reflect your reality in beautiful ways.  Every lesson and assignment are accompanied with myriad examples, to solidify the written concepts for the visual learners out there (which I suspect a lot of photographers are).  My biggest takeaway from this workshop is becoming much more intentional, purposeful about my compositions.  I’m always photographing, but participating in these assignments and lessons has given me new eyes for how to create my work.  If you are someone who doesn’t know where to begin in trying to create lifestyle photography for your own family, this workshop is a gold mine.

On top of all that, Ginger is one of the most kind and genuine souls I’ve ever known.  She takes her role as teacher incredibly seriously.  She truly wants all of us to learn to photograph our own family beautifully as she does her own.  I appreciate someone who does what they say they are going to do.  Forum posts are made on time, everyone is given thorough, thoughtful, constructive yet encouraging feedback, everything is organized clearly, formatted nicely, etc.  Ginger goes the extra mile for everything.  In today’s world, this stands out.  I could not recommend this workshop more highly.

Camille Vaughan

Facebook 

Ginger Unzueta and the "Everyday Beauty" workshop was beyond inspiring.  It was obvious from the beginning that Ginger put her heart and soul into this workshop and she wanted to make sure we all walked away seeing life and our surroundings differently.  I have a new understanding of finding the light in my home, not forgetting the details and most importantly capturing and telling the story of my children's life.  I truly feel like my photography grew by leaps and bounds in those two short weeks.  I also loved how Ginger created such an uplifting learning environment.  She kept the workshop very interactive and the other huge bonus were the new friends that I walked away with that share the same passion I have for photography.

Cindy Cavanagh

Facebook | Blog

I was privileged  to participate in the "everyday beauty" workshop in July. The information Ginger provided was easy to understand and was complimented by her beautiful images. The attention to detail that she pays to her images shined through during the workshop. No question was left unanswered and her critiques were honest and helpful.

Hope Davis

Facebook | Blog

Ginger's workshop goes right along with so many personal projects I am currently working on. I wanted to share one of Chris and Carson I captured yesterday. Carson was having a hard time saying goodbye to his daddy who was getting ready to leave for a mission trip to Haiti. I'm sure I would have missed this tender moment if it wan't for Ginger's assignment. I can't thank you enough Ginger for opening my eyes to everyday moments right in front of me.

Maria Manco

Facebook | Blog

I am SO glad that I signed for this class.  I am no stranger to taking photos of my child – I have tons.  But this class has helped me to start approaching photography with my heart and think about what is important to me and what details I want to remember forever.   She leads with lots of examples and more than just showing the photo she explains the why – why did she want to remember a certain moment, why did she choose her camera settings, etc.  It was really insightful and inspiring.  We had lessons on finding the light in your own home, composition, perspective, details, story telling, and more.  Ginger is encouraging in her critiques while still making suggestions on things to try or think about for next time.   Thank you so much Ginger for a wonderful class and a great experience.  I feel recharged about WHY I love photography so much – to remember how life feels at this moment.

Janet Crouch

Facebook | Blog

I first heard Ginger Unzueta's name while I was taking my first Finding the Light workshop.  Praises rang out from numerous participants about her amazing talent as a photographer as well as her faith and character.

Always searching for inspiration, I looked her up and immediately fell in love with her work!  Her images of her family are stunning and real and I was excited to learn that she was teaching the Everyday Beauty workshop on The Bloom Forum.  I could hardly wait to sign up because I, too, wanted to be able to capture the same mystique that drew me to her website over and over.

The Everyday Beauty workshop became more to me than just a collection of beautiful photographs.  Aside from the many talented photographers I connected with, Ginger taught me how to be true to myself by being able to focus more on enjoying my family and cherishing the times we're together as I capture the memories that we experience.

There were lessons on lighting and composition, and the importance of being camera-ready; connecting with your subject and capturing details.  Although all of this had been considered at some time or another, Ginger had a way of teaching these concepts, and so much more, by blending them together with personal photographs and inspiration.  I never dreamed I could gain so much from a two week workshop!  It was life changing!

As a grandmother, I would encourage not only young mothers, but mothers of all ages to pick up your camera, take this workshop, and be prepared to view your life and your family in a refreshing new way!

Thank you, Ginger, for spending so much of your time working with this class and for sharing your wealth of knowledge, faith, and friendship.

Rachel McCalley

Facebook | Blog

What draws me back to Ginger's work time after time is the way that she is able to capture small moments with her children.  You can actually FEEL how much she loves them in her photographs. When I saw that Ginger was hosting a second "Everyday Beauty" workshop this summer with the Bloom Forum, I could not wait to sign up and begin to learn how to do this in my own photography.

The workshop was AMAZING!  Her critiques were so helpful, always giving me positive yet constructive feedback.  She pushed me both technically and creatively and helped me to try things that I'd always admired in other people's work but never thought I could do with light.  But most importantly, she helped us to find the beauty in the everyday, the ordinary moments and she taught us to tell stories through our photographs.

And for that, I will be forever grateful.

A friend of mine commented on a photo I posted a few weeks ago.  She said, "You always capture such emotion in your photographs."  It was probably the nicest compliment I have ever received.  And truth be told I don't always capture it.  But since taking Ginger's workshop, I can tell you it's what I strive for every time I click the shutter.

XO ~Rachel McCalley

Jin Van Stee

I am so grateful for your wonderful class! The class really inspired me to open my eyes and see the beauty around me. The perspectives, the details, the light, and most of all the connections. Your lessons and photographs are genuine and insightful. I not only picked up on a couple of technical tips but more importantly the gospel behind lifestyle photography - its beauty, its truth, and its soul. 

I have a few favorite images from the class... but I think this one is up there. I wouldn't have caught it, in the way I did, if not for the class!

Bethani Giannini

Facebook | Blog

I so loved this class.  The Everyday Beauty class is just that- It taught me how to capture the beauty of my everyday life so that I can remember and cherish those special in between moments in the years to come.   This class taught me how to see and slow down - the little moments of everyday life are some of the most important to capture.  How do you want to remember your life?  What may seem mundane today will be beautiful to you tomorrow, if you're not aware of it already.  Take this class.  It will change how you look at your everyday.  Not only will you capture those moments, but you will appreciate them more.  Ginger will help you learn to tell a story through your images, to document, and to reinforce the saying "Enjoy the little things in life.  For someday you will realize they were the big things."

Michelle Shumaker

I just finished "Everyday Beauty" with Ginger Unzueta…and wow!  Where should I begin?  I had made my New Year's Resolution to explore lifestyle photography.  This class started the 3rd week of January…perfect timing. I have always admired Ginger via Facebook and couldn't wait for this class to start.  I love photography, but I was stuck in a rut of posed pictures….too much planning and directing.  I was making photography a chore for my kids and even myself sometimes…longing for more emotion in my images (especially indoor).  After taking this class, I feel inspired.  I love the everyday moments…capturing my kiddos as they are at this age, this moment in time.  I have a list right next to my computer of some of the lil' things I want to remember about my kids at this time…hoping to capture these moments/lil' quirks.  Like the image below of my son…he always has one sock off, and one sock on at home.  As soon as he gets home from school, he takes off a sock.  I want to remember this.  Thank you Ginger…this class was eye-opening and inspiring…there is beauty and emotion in the "everyday."  We just have to stop looking so hard and see what is right in front of us.  No perfect outfits, or perfect houses, or perfect smiles….just kids being kids.

Kerry Chea

Facebook

We just wrapped up the Everyday Beauty workshop and as part of my final assignment, I brought my toddler and baby to the library.  I got home and reviewed the photos and while there were a fair share of technical imperfections - I found that I had never cared less!  The photos brought such a huge smile to my face, and suddenly I realized what the true gift of Ginger's teachings are.  I had signed up hoping to learn technical skills, but I've taken away so much more in terms of how to think about making memories from our daily lives.  Ginger packs the workshop with practical tips and inspiration from her own work, and creates a very supportive and responsive environment for learning; she is generous with her advice and enthusiasm, but also does not shy away from offering specific suggestions for improving your images.  Thank you Ginger for helping me focus on why I want to become a better photographer!

Karen Montgomery

Blog

Ginger presents an amazing series of lessons and feedback that challenged not only the way I used my camera, but the way I looked at my day to day moments.  In such a short time, I began to capture real emotion in the pictures of my kids.  The growth of my photography and my style from this experience is unbelievable.  Ginger fosters a caring and safe forum for questions, critiques and feedback.  I would recommend this class to anyone who feels like they are constantly getting the same shot when they take pictures, want to capture true emotions of the moment and want to create photos that will preserve the moments we often overlook or forget, but are so important in the everyday!

Jessie Oneal

Facebook | Blog

I have been looking forward to taking Ginger's Everyday Beauty Workshop for some time now. It appealed to me for so many reasons. The biggest was to see a little into Gingers mind and learn from her how to capture everyday moments in a beautiful lasting way.

The class outline covered more than I could have hoped for and was so inspiring. I especially appreciate her well thought out assignments as they kept me continuously pushing to look deeper and see things from a new perspective.

Thank you Ginger for sharing your amazing talent with us!

This class has been unforgettable.

Chelsea Williams

This class was such an amazing experience! Ginger is so inspiring and it is such a treat to be able to get a glimpse into her world. Her critiques are so uplifting and very insightful! I see my life and my kids with such different eyes after this class. What a wonderful experience!

Kim Kelly

If you are considering taking Ginger’s Everyday Beauty class do not hesitate, in  my opinion it is simply the best!  I feel that it has helped me out of my creative slump and finally find my style of photography!  I have taken many photography related online classes prior to this class and while I learned something in every class I never felt I could pinpoint my style of photography.  This class has given me direction and focus and also the courage to look at things from a different perspective. Ginger shares everything, I mean EVERYTHING,  with her students and you can tell she genuinely wants everyone to succeed.   After the first two modules I felt like I had my moneys worth because the lessons really made me stop in my tracks and reflect on what I wanted to do with my photography journey.  I realized that I needed to stop trying to do what I thought others wanted and start doing what I wanted.  I feel that this new direction will make me so much happier and I now have the confidence to make the steps necessary to get there.  The step by step building of lessons helped me develop a focus that I lacked before and also provided me with a plan for how I will arrange my future sessions.  Ginger is extremely honest in her critiques but sensitive at the same time, which allowed me to post questions freely and also share my work without feeling nervous.  In addition to Ginger the other workshop attendees offered great inspiration and support through the forum style of the class and I cant wait to follow all of them and see how we all grow.

Ginger Lobb

Facebook | Blog

I was so excited to take this class. Ginger's photography has been a huge inspiration to me for sometime now.  I love the emotion captured in her lifestyle images. I was at a place where I needed to be taken back to the reason I fell in love with photography. Being able to shoot for myself and feel good about my images is what I was looking for and I felt a great sense of confidence and pride in my pictures after taking this class.

Holly Donovan 

Facebook | Blog

I received Everyday Beauty as my December birthday gift from my mom. I had no idea how much of a gift, in the end, it would be. This was my first workshop at the Bloom Forum, is was on the top of my 'to do' list for photography. I had admired Ginger's work for months, I could go through her albums for ages. When I heard of the class I knew I had to take it and learn how she produced such inspiring and beautiful work. I could relate to her vision and was in awe at the small everyday moments she captured so perfectly. I started my first 365 a few weeks before, with the hope I would grow from this class and that it would help keep my motivation steady. What I wasn't expecting was the level of personal attention from Ginger. All of her feedback was genuine and honest, and so much more than just a few words. She left me feeling good about work I turned in, even though there were days I knew it wasn't my best. Her kind encouragement kept me shooting for my 365 during some very hard weeks at home, not to mention in our very cold climate where shooting everyday can feel like a chore. The techniques from the lessons in this class were exactly what I needed to gain to produce lifestyle images of my children at home. I thought I knew the basics, but I was missing so much. The workshop gave me all of the tools I needed going forward with capturing creativiely composed and meaningful memories and I use them every single day in my work. This class was exactly what I needed at the right time, shooting indoors can be a struggle and motivation can be my biggest challenge during the winter months. At the start of it, I had thought maybe I was taking it at the wrong time, but in retrospect, it was the perfect timing! I practice the lessons every time I pick up my camera. Ginger's encouragement, kindness, wonderful CC was such a great bonus alongside all of the detailed material which included beautiful examples which were such a big help. Everyday Beaty was one of the best workshops I have taken to date, and that is saying ALOT! So grateful!

Mickisha Glenn

website |  facebook

The drive behind my photography has always been to capture my life in a beautiful way!  I remember early on in my photographic journey looking at images from different photographers and trying to pin down what transformed them from a snapshot of someone’s life into art.  I stumbled upon Ginger’s work one day and was drawn to the beauty, light and joy in her images.  Her work spoke to my heart--this is what I wanted to achieve, to be able to capture my family and the events of our life in a transformative and beautiful way!

I wish I had the words to sum up how amazing Ginger and the Everyday Beauty Workshop are!  Ginger truly helped me to look at the ordinary moments of my day and turn them into magical memories that can be enjoyed forever!  No matter what point you are in your journey as a photographer she helps you to look at your life and your photography with a fresh perspective.  To break down and analyze the different aspects of photography, light, and the spaces in which you photograph.  Her thoughtful instruction and examples of her beautiful imagery were the perfect combination to help me understand and apply the lessons during the workshop.

More than anything Ginger has taught me to be more intentional and thoughtful with what I photograph--to look for the beauty in my life, my home, and my family.  To stop and think about what I want to remember and what memories I want to make and to record all the aspects of my life.  These skills have not only impacted me as a photographer but also as a mother and woman.  Photography has always helped me to stop and see the beauty in my life.  After taking Everyday Beauty I have more knowledge, vision, and intention to continue to seek out and record the beauty of my everyday!

Kaleidoscope | february

Last year I became friends with a very special group of ladies and participated together in a 10 on 10 project.  This year we wanted to continue to do a project together, but wanted to do something a little different.  Our new project is called Kaleidoscope.

Kaleidoscope  is derived from the Ancient Greek (kalos), “beautiful, beauty” (eidos), “that which is seen: form, shape” and (skopeo), “to look to, to examine.”  Hence “observation of beautiful forms.”

We are a group of friends, moms, visual artists and photographers from around the world who are passionate about capturing images of the real, the messy and the magical-the wonder of the everyday.  Like a kaleidoscope, our photographs are playful and experimental, ever-changing and infused with light and colour.  Once a month, we assemble a single mosaic comprised of our collective pictorial tiles, one submitted by each of us, that reflect the shared meaning and beauty in our lives.

I love seeing how each photographer sees her part of the world.  It is beautiful to see these images all together. Please be sure to head on over to our blog to see our Kaleidoscope for February.

This month my image came from a group of images from one afternoon on the lake with some of the cousins. The sun was shining, the skies were blue, and the water was inviting.

10 on 10 | the November edition

There's something so timeless and soulful about black and white photography that I really appreciate.   More often than not, when I click my shutter, I am visualizing that moment in black and white. The light and the dark come together in such a fascinating way. Shadows really stand out, as do beautiful highlights.  This month's 10 on 10 includes 10 black and white images that I captured throughout the month.

Please be sure to continue on to the blog of the super talented Rowe Timson. She lives quite the exciting life in Bali.   I always love her images.

everyday beauty | a bloom forum workshop | January 2014 class

Join Ginger in this three-week online workshop to learn how light, composition, connections, and details all come together to create memories that will last a lifetime. Ginger will give insight into observing daily routines and spaces within your home to capture authentic moments. In addition, she will present ideas for you to create your own story telling session from start to finish. Finally, she will discuss shooting in public places and the importance of getting in the pictures yourself. This three-week mini workshop will include 4 assignments with personal critique and feedback from Ginger on each assignment. You will receive a PDF of all of the course material and assignments.

A Q&A section will also be provided. At the end of the course there will be a private section on Bloom where participants can continue interacting and sharing with one another.

A DSLR camera and basic knowledge of shooting in manual is recommended.

You must be a member of the Bloom Forum to participate.

Read reviews from past students here.

Early Registration Details:

(this is your chance to sign up early, before registration is announced and opened within the forum)

Workshop Dates: January 27-February 17, 2014

Active Seat:  $250 (all active seats for the January class are SOLD OUT)

Silent/Read-Along  Seat: $200

If you are not a member of the Bloom Forum yet, you can join by clicking on the icon below:

To register for a silent seat, click here.

If you have any questions please email: ginger@everythingbloom.com

Note: Workshop fees are non-refundable.

I will be offering Everyday Beauty again in May 2014. If you are looking to purchase an Active Seat,please follow my facebook page and/or blog for announcements about early registration.  Seats are always limited. Thank you.

11 on 11 | october

"Suddenly, there is inner stillness. And within that stillness there is a subtle but intense joy, there is love, there is peace."-Eckhart Tolle

Last month I started this fun new project called 11 on 11. You can see my first post and read about the project here.  This month I am back..and well, I am breaking the rules a bit.  I do have my 11 images, but the image with "me included"  did not happen this month.  I promise to be back next time with one, but I didn't want to miss out completely this month.

We had a rainy morning one day  this week and my daughter had a wonderful time with her watercolors. She loves to paint more than anything, so I try to let her do this as often as possible.  I love to hear about what she is creating and watch while she works.   This morning was no exception; she was so full of life as she painted her beautiful creations.

Please follow along to the blog of Fran Barker and see what wonderful images she has to share this month.  Her work is always beautiful.

10 on 10 | the october edition

This month for my 10 on 10 I decided to pick 10 images from a project I recently took part in called the 5 minute project.  Essentially, you capture life around you in 5 minutes.  You can read more about this awesome project here.   I decided to capture 5 minutes at the soccer field, because we happen to spend a lot of time there.  My daughter and her cousin have the best time having their own practices while their big sisters are playing.  As I looked through my images, I loved seeing the little subtleties that go on in five minutes.   You can see more of the images I captured here.

Next up in our blog circle is Jackie Tyghem l Boca Raton Lifestyle Photographer who always captures her day to day in a most lovely way.

cherish this day | october

"Life is fleeting. It is to be enjoyed."-Tori Amos

One morning this week my 4 year old daughter woke up asking for her cousin to come play.   We had a car to get washed, groceries to buy, dinner to start, and schoolwork to be completed.  BUT I told her that we would try our best to have her over some time during the day.  While out grocery shopping we stopped in the dollar tree and stocked up on some fun craft supplies: glitter, foam crowns,  and sequins.   I was able to talk to my sister n law and arrange a play date while our older kids were at church later that afternoon and evening. It was perfect because I was able to give the little girls my full attention so we could make beautiful princess crowns.   We couldn't have asked a more glorious evening, so I set up all of our supplies on a picnic table in the yard. I gave the girls the glue, paint, glitter and sequins and let them have fun until their hearts were content.  Glitter was thrown, paint was spilled, and the mess was everywhere. It was wonderful.   Everyday beauty....it's a true gift indeed.

Now, head on over to the Cherish this Day Blog and see what other beautiful every day moments have been captured.

kids were here | october 2013

"If you must look back, do so forgivingly. If you must look forward, do so prayerfully. However, the wisest thing you can do is be present in the present... Gratefully." -Maya Angelou

be sure to head on over now to the Kids Were Here Blog and see all the wonderful images our group has collectively shared.

11 on 11 l september

Today I am taking part in a new project for me called 11 on 11. I have enjoyed getting to know this group of ladies the past couple of months and I am thrilled they invited me to join them in this fun project.   11 on 11 is pretty simple-11 images, posted on the 11th of the month. No specific rules, except one... I need to be in atleast 1 of the images.  I really didn't think I'd be able to start another project this year, let alone this month, but then at the very last minute, I decided to challenge myself . I could not narrow our jam packed morning into 11 frames.  Here is a day in the life of us (well, morning to lunchtime-and as you can see, we get a lot done in a short amount of time).  A morning playing on the lake before school, breakfast (mama finally said yes to pop tarts), school time turned painting time, outside shower and play time and lunch time devotions. And yes, if you look really really closely you will find me in the frame.  Many people often ask what our typical day looks like.  It does vary from day to day but one thing I see constant as I look at these images is the connection my children share. It is something special...I won't ever take for granted.

Today, September 11, as I look at these images, I am especially grateful. So many men and women have sacrificed so much for our country so that we can enjoy these freedoms daily.  Being a military family, we have seen first hand the sacrifices it takes to keep our country free.  I am grateful to God for the life He has blessed us with and thankful to live in a place I can really cherish these every day moments with our children.    Hope you enjoy a look into our little world.

Be sure to follow along our circle and see some amazingly talented and beautiful ladies. First up is Lina Jarmond l Raleigh, NC newborn photographer.

10 on 10 l the september edition

For this month's 10 on 10 I featured a recent overnight trip we made to Orlando for Disney's Night of Joy.   My 9 year old daughter and I have become big fans of Jamie Grace over the past year.  We knew we could not miss it, when we found out she would be one of the featured Christian artists of this amazing night of music at Walt Disney World.   I would definitely say the highlight of the night was being on the front row of her performance. Jamie Grace is such an inspiration and role model and I feel so grateful that we could be there.  And yes, Disney, was pretty great too! hotel fun

pool time

baby rapunzel hanging with the sharks

rapunzel taking care of her babies

a magical exit

checking out the renovations

first roller coaster

sisters

Jamie Grace

the castle

Please be sure to continue along our blog circle and see what  Ali Deck, Columbus Ohio Lifestyle Photographer has captured this month. She is such a beautiful artist and mother.

cherish this day | august

This  week we began our new school year which marks our third year of homeschooling.   After having done this for the past two years we were all excited to get started again. I have found that as much as I appreciate and LOVE the long, lazy days of summer, I do enjoy the routine of school as well.  And, as I told our children, since we live in Florida and we home school, summer is really not over. We have many more days ahead of playing outdoors and we keep our school schedule very relaxed. I am by no means a homeschooling pro but I will say that I am so much more confident and relaxed in my choices as we start this new year. I have been able to see all the benefits and lovely way of life this choice for schooling offers us.   That is not to say there are not hard or frustrating days, but I am much more at ease in handling them.

This year our children will be in 4th grade, 1st grade, and pre-school.  It will be our third year using Sonlight Curriculum. This curriculum works well for me and our children. I love that the lesson plans are made for you and I can then make changes if I chose.  This will be our second year using Singapore math for our older children.   We are starting a new Science Curriculum which I am loving so far called Nancy Larson Science. I am using one unit and making it work so that all of our children can learn and grow with it.  We are also trying something new this year with our schedule.  This year we will do our Math and Science combined on one day and History and Language arts on another day.  We will repeat this through the week. Then we will do handwriting, Bible study and reading all five days.  For my preschool aged daughter I am working on introducing letters and doing a lot of hands on learning with her. She loves to create things so I am trying to incorporate this into her learning. I will use a very relaxed style of learning with her as I want her to love to learn.  I plan to include her in reading time and other areas as well to expose her to what her brother and sister are learning. I have been reading a book called The Three R's, which I have enjoyed getting ideas from as well.

I really love that through homeschooling parents can pick curriculum and learning tools based on their children's interests and learning styles. I talk to so many other mothers that do things completely different and it works awesome for their family. I love that!

Our first day of school began with homemade waffles and the start of our new Bible Study called...Who is God?  (And Can I really know Him?) After breakfast we worked in the school room for a couple of hours on our daily lessons.   We took a break for lunch and our afternoon reading and quiet time.  Finally, we tie dyed.  This has become an annual first day of school tradition which the kids LOVE.   The day ended with porch play in our pajamas and popsicles.  I'd say it was a wonderful first day.  I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to spend this time with my children daily. Its such a blessing to see them growing together in the Lord daily.

Please be sure to stop by the Cherish this Day Blog and see all of the amazing images from our group.

10 on 10 | the august edition

“Wherever you are, be all there." I have lived the runner, panting ahead in worry, pounding back in regrets, terrified to live in the present, because here-time asks me to do the hardest of all: just open wide and receive.-Ann Voskamp

I read these words this week and they struck a chord with me.  I could have written these words myself.  My natural tendency is to look behind and see what I could have done differently, or plan ahead to how I can make tomorrow perfect.  But what I want more than anything is to sit and enjoy today for each moment I am given. To wake up and realize every day is a gift and live like that.   To really live with the Faith I know deep inside that God has a plan for me and my life. PERIOD.  I don't have to be in control always, because He is.

I have started reading a book called 1000 Gifts by Ann Voskamp and my mind has been stirring a lot about this.  I thank my friend Ashley for our recent conversations which ultimately led me to start reading this book.  I love the way God uses people in ways you would never imagine.

 This month's 10 on 10 is a collaboration of 5 days spent solely at home in our backyard by the lake.  We had cousins in and out of our home all week enjoying the carefree days of summer and childhood.   I feel like each of these days I was able to be there fully content in the present. I didn't want to be anywhere but where I was.  It's a beautiful thing to feel this. To live this.  I want to wake anew each day and see the gifts all around me...big and small.  They are infinitely there and I am grateful.

Next in our 10 on 10 group is Jackie Tyghem.  You don't want to miss seeing her beautiful lifestyle work.