Blu's Daily Blog

Missouri's Lauri Baker

Weekends at BluDomain

** Emergencies Only call 303.895.6196

** Deadline approaching- tonight at midnight!  Send in a photograph of your dog (only if he/she is cute)  They could win $100.00 to www.trixieandpeanut.com Sunday we will announce our pick of the top 10 cutest dogs. And then Monday our kindergartens will choose the cutest dog! 

** Who is this cute dog?  It's Max sent in by Jenna Slomp.

** Visuals of Interface 27 "Rock Star" to launch on Wednesday.  Interface 27 launches on Monday October 9th.

** FREE interface 27 and a 2GB iPod Nano to be given away on Tuesday October 10th.

The entries are coming in and WOW I love them.  All you have to do is take a picture of one of your neighbors. The neighbor MUST be displaying the "peace sign"  Love thy neighor for they could win you something that totally ROCKS!  Send your entries to info@bludomain.com 

** Don't forget Pictures-Magazine is offering 2 ads for 1 until October 2nd. Don't be left out!  Your ad will be placed in the "Find a Photographer" section. Pictures-Magazine has received  so much positive feedback that you don't want to miss out on this opportunity. For more information check out www.pictures-magazine.typepad.com/advertise 

** Have a good weekend!!

 

Jack's Trip Around the World

I'm a big fan of John Michael Cooper not only has he corrupted Jack with is incredible creativity but he is an incredible artist with an alternative body of work. If you have not read his BLOG you should.  It is as different and creative as his images are. I'm addicted. www.altf.com   Click on image to read about Jack's day as he drives the Cadillac!

Who's That Girl???

My name: Lauri Baker
My hometown:  Paradise Valley, AZ, but now in St. Louis, MO
My style: Natural light, mostly black and white

A piece of equipment I can't part with: my enlarger, even though I can't remember the last time I used it.

My strength in my profession is- my awe for motherhood and life

My weakness in my profession is- overshooting

How I separate myself from the competition- I try to make my portrait work an extension of my art photography, so portraits can be "art for your home."
 
The perfect client is- one who "gets" my vision, lets me shoot my vision, and then points out my favorites as her favorites when ordering.  That's not asking too much, is it? ;)

How I balance life & work- I don't!  But at least my work is something I love.

Customer service is- key.
 
If not a photographer I would have been- a burned-out corporate controller. 

Something I have learned along the way- that mice are hard to get rid of.

" Don't wear low-rise pants to shoots. Unless you're also wearing a really long top."

Lauri's favorite image of recent

My girlfriends think I'm- I don't know...married, probably.

My least favorite body part- my nose

How I spend my money- on our 100-yr-old money pit

If I have the munchies I usually crave- coffee ice cream

I'd prefer not to- eat lima beans. Actually, I refuse.

Top 2 items in my garage- my car and a big old antique chair
 
Whose style do you admire- So many photographers.  Two of them are Rene Asmussen and Robb Aaron Gordon.
 
This annoys me- my hair grows too fast, so I have to color it too often.

Check out Lauri's work at www.lauribakerphotography.com

Louisiana's Christina Louvierre

   

Meet The Dogs of BluDomain

** We have dog days at BluDomain where we can bring our dogs into work. And located downtown is the best Doggie Bakery.  They love it!   Meet Nikita (she has the  flower around her neck) Monkey (is playing with the flower pot) Rico is the black dog and Jasmine is our little blondie.

** Two more days until we announce the cutest dog!  Send in your favorite photograph to info@bludomain.com The winning dog is going to love their $100.00 shopping spree at Trixie & Peanut.

** NEW PHOTO CONTEST  Send us a black and white photograph of your neighbor. The neighbor can be old or young but MUST be displaying the "peace sign" with two fingers.  If we like your neighbor then you will be the winner of Interface 27 "Rock Star" and the winner of Apple's New 2GB iPod Nano.  Winner will be announced on Tuesday October 10th. No serioulsy you don't want to miss out on a new interface especially one that ROCKS!  Send your entry to info@bludomain.com 

** If you dreamed of stalking someone then practice with BluDomain. BluDomain's fall line-up is so worth it. 

** BluDomain is ready to shoot our First Annual Christmas Card. Photographer will fly into Colorado and have fun with our team!  We can't wait.  Can you believe Christmas is right around the corner.  Today for some reason I just want to talk and talk and talk.  So you know I'm half annoying everyone at BluDomain who is trying to concentrate. 

Jack's Trip Around the World

John Michael Cooper!!!!!!  I can't believe how naughty Jack is being.  Is he even going to the bathroom? Click on image to read.  Visit John Michael at www.altf.com   For those of you who are new to Blu's Blog Jack is our gnome and is traveling the world. He has stopped in California, Kentucky, Florida and now "Sin City"  He will be leaving Las Vegas in 2 days to travel to a new destination!  If you can handle Jack for a week email me at kailee@bludomain.com  

Who's That Girl???

My name:Christina Louvierre

My hometown:Welsh, LA

My style: fresh, fun

A piece of equipment I can't part with:anything by Canon and a great personality (it will get you far)

My strength in my profession is- offering a different look to things  and wanting to see the lighter side

My weakness in my profession is- all the new gadgets and anything whcc puts out-they kill me!

How I separate myself from the competition- I try to be the fun goofy one. all my clients and I end up friends b/c I am on their level.

The perfect client is- one that has cool clothes and is willing to do whatever I want them too

How I balance life & work- Well I always say that my first priority is my family then my business and any out of town shoot always becomes a mini vacation:)

Customer service is- the thing that will keep them coming back!

If not a photographer I would have been- in advertising

Something I have learned along the way- that people may not like you but you gotta keep being you!

"Learn your marketing! It is so important."

Christina's favorite image of recent

My guy friends think I'm- silly

My least favorite body part- hmmm toes

How I spend my money- Shoes, camera equipment ,shoes--wait I said that

If I have the munchies I usually crave- cookies--its a weakness

I'd prefer not to- be mean

Top 2 items in my purse- wallet (for all those shoes) and chapstick

Whose style do you admire- Jessica Claire, Lauren Clark and Kelly Moore

This annoys me- Negative over critical people.

Check out her NEW site at www.christinalouvierre.com

Instant Rock Star boots for girls!  Keep your little girls feet warm and comfortable this winter.  The slip-on design makes them easy for kids to get them on and off!

www.zappos.com 

** When it comes to Halloween there is only one thing kids care about: Candy.

I love these new felt bags that are perfect for young trick-or-treaters at Pottery Barn Kids.

** The hot candy of the year- Hubba Bubba Mummy Tape Bubble Gum

** What is your child going to be for Halloween this year? The most adorable costumes this year are at www.potterybarnkids.com How adorable is this dragon costume! If you like to sew and make your children their yearly Halloween costume you will find 100 easy-to-make costumes at www.familyfun.go.com   Moms will love this site- great costume ideas, crafts, games and party ideas.

  ** Another great Christmas idea!  A Szechaun Scarf Kit that includes all the ingredients you'll need to knit a spicy new full-length scarf!

Knitting is hot for fall! Both of these all-in-one kits are great for beginners. Only $18.99.

www.modernartisans.com or www.amazon.com 

** October is Breast Cancer Awareness Week-  Did you know that one in eight women have a risk of developing breast cancer. To save your life get your yearly mammograms.  Annual mammograms are recommended for women over 40. If you have a first-degree family member that has been diagnosed with breast cancer you should schedule your yearly exams starting at 35. The best time to schedule an exam is 7 days after your period. Four out of five lumps felt in the breast are benign.  More than 9 in 10 women with early breast cancer survive.

** Did you know that a single female mouse can pop out 45 babies in a year?

I can't kill anything and even though mice are scary and freak me out I would much rather trap them in a "Live Trap", take them to a field and relocate them.  Now you have to check on the trap every few hours so that if you trap a mouse they don't overheat! www.abundantearth.com 

Already at the top of every girl's "most wanted list"  The Olivia in Black by Gryson combines a slouchy street-chic look combined with it's ultra luxe Italian pedigree making it the must-have bag for fall. www.bagshop.com 

** Did you know that hot spot MY SPACE could be worth 15 billion in 3 years?

Approximately $380.00 and worth every penny!  Sony Ericsson and Fossil have teamed up to bring you this Blue Tooth Watch that features a caller ID,  notification of text messages, and digital time readout.  If you can't locate your phone fast enough, just look at the caller ID and then push the button on the side of your watch to ignore the call.

www.sonyericsson.com 

What I'm listening to now-

The Okonokos by My Morning Jacket- all I can say is more please!  If you get a chance to see them live you won't be disappointed. www.itunes.com 

Another Good Daily Menu Plan!   I have so many friends who are obsessed with their health.

Morning: 1 piece of fruit. I 45 calorie piece of bread. 1 1oz stick of cheese.  1 yogurt

Morning Snack: An energy bar (Luna Bar, Balance Bar etc..) and a piece of fruit

Lunch: Peanut Butter Sandwich (always on 45 calorie bread)  or 6 oz of turkey or chicken. Fruit. 3 triscuits and a salad.

Mid-Afternoon Snack: 1/2 bagel and 15 almonds

Dinner: Healthy Choice Frozen Dinner or some kind of Healthy Frozen Dinner, salad and 1/2 cup of brown rice or 1 whole low-fat graham cracker

Night Snack- an energy bar

UK's Crash Taylor

 

World News

** Another day, another cute dog!  This is Winston sent in by Lisa Ferguson. You only have a few more days (September 30th) to send us a photograph of your dog!  If he/she is deemed "cutest dog" then they will win $100.00 to Trixie & Peanut.

** BluDomain hires a project accountant.  We are excited to have Daniel on our team. 

**  It's loud in the office today as creative team members collaborate on new designs, concepts and new projects. I'm so excited at where BluDomain is headed. 

** Interface 27 is full of "Rock Star" qualities! Plum, greys and blacks! The debut of fall. Launches on Monday October 9th. Common question: Will interface 27 have this, this and this? "Yes, Yes and Yes" Stay tuned.

** New Simply Blu interface to launch very soon.  Smokin' hot!

** 6 renowned photographers collaborate with Blu's Creative Director Harald Hasselbach in this falls "Collection"  and 1 photographer from Blu's Blog will join them. More details soon! 

** NEW PHOTO CONTEST to start tomorrow.

Who's That Guy???

My name: Crash Taylor

My hometown: Los Angeles but now living in the UK

My style: Artistic, chilled out and crazy at the same time

A piece of equipment I can't part with: My MacBook Pro

My strength in my profession is- striving to create my own unique style

My weakness in my profession is- perfectionism

How I separate myself from the competition- I do what I believe is awesome and not worry what the competition thinks.

The perfect client is- someone who lets you be you.

How I balance life & work- I always make sure I spend quality time with my family and do things that we enjoy together.

Customer service is- number one!

If not a photographer I would have been- a marine biologist specializing in the study of great white sharks. My dream is to photograph these awesome creatures one day.

Something I have learned along the way- To take life one day at a time and live life to the fullest.

"Move it from the middle, move in close, watch the light, aim for impact and then capture the moment."

Crash's favorite image of recent

My guy friends think I'm- stoked to have a gorgeous Finnish wife.

My least favorite body part- my hair, as I seem to be losing it day after day.

How I spend my money- on traveling with my wife and two rescued mutts Ben and Bruno

If I have the munchies I usually crave- pretzels

I'd prefer not to- wake up to an alarm clock

Top 2 items in my garage- don't have a garage.

Whose style do you admire- Jerry Ghionis and Bruno Bisang

This annoys me- animal abuse and everything in the mornings.

Check out Crash's work and NEW site at www.crashtaylor.com Jack's Trip Around the World

Jack is seriously living the "bachelor life" this week.  Now rumor has it that Mr. John Michael Cooper has a hot lady however it appears to me she left the boys home alone for a week!  Beer, chips, pizza. computers, gadgets!!

Jack is feeling very manly!  Click on image to read John Michael's comments.

See more of his work at www.atlf.com 

Random thought "Can you believe that American Idol Winner Clay Aiken beat out Justin Timberlake this week in album sales??"  So annoying!

What I'm listening to- Scissor Sisters new album "Ta-Dah"  A snappy mix of disco, glam rock and witty lyrics.

My favorite song " I Don't Feel Like Dancin'" 

Love this CD!  www.itunes.com 

Congrats to Joel Eckman Emaus who just won 1st place in the www.wjpa.com in the reception category!  Woo-hoo!

How cute is this boy? Woo-hoo!

www.emausphoto.com 

If you have any good news, awards, celebrity encounters, birthdays, baby being delivered, divorce news, single news, want to sell your children, anything goes send it to me at kailee@bludomain.com

** Dark lipstick is popular for the fall

** If you are glued to your computer all day then you must download this new program at www.stretchbreak.com that reminds you to stop and stretch.

** Did you know that fifty-one percent of people who drove to work are obsese or overweight?

** Try concentrating on your quality of your lovemaking session and not the frequency.

Things to Think About 

Mark your calendars for November 17th, the official day of mayhem.  The long awaited PlayStation3 console will hit stores. PS3 features a built-in Blu-Ray drive, a powerful microprocessor dubbed Cell, wireless controllers courtesy of Blue tooth and a 60GB hard drive.  $599.00

** Need some accessories to your sex life? Turn your naughty world of sex accessories into flirty, fabulous fun with lingerie, body treats,  love kits and sex toys from www.bootyparlor.com 

Love this Good Girl/ Bad Girl Whipper/Tickler for only $22.00. One end is maribou feathers perfect for tease or caress. The other end is fringed with rubber whipper strands ( a very persuasive tool for getting what you want)

** Need a good wine tonight? Try Antiyal's "Maipo Valey Kuyen 2004"  a dark fruit- plum, currant and fig- layered with smoky toast, loam and mineral notes. Yummy!

** With holidays and weddings coming up you may have to prepare to give a "toast"  Why is it called a "toast"?   The term comes from a Roman custom of adding a piece of burnt bread to their cheap wine to absorb unpleasant contaminants before drinking an offering to the emperor, as was required by law and custom. Eventually, the piece of toast gave it's name to the practice of making the offering.

** If you have to give a toast- keep it short and simple. have good posture, stand up straight. make eye contact with the audience and the honoree (mean what you say). speak slowly and clearly. make it personal. (that means try not be funny if your not) and finally ask everyone to make a toast ( bad etiquette includes toasting with an empty glass or a glass of water)

I'm In Love With Urban Outfitters (what I found there after work that I must have)

** An Oktomat Camera by Lomography. Take fun action shots and 8 mini shots all on the same photo. Only $40.00.  This is a neat gadget to take on shoots and show your fun style!

** All my girlfriends are going to love these wild guava scented candles for Christmas. I'm in love with this black etched heart and arrows with bird grace cream-colored candle.  $16.00.

Convince your mailman or everyone else that may see your mail that you are weird!  Prank envelopes. My favorite: The Complusive Masturbation Assistance Group. $8.00

** The perfect way to release tension when your boss is driving you insane. Load your gun with your boss (actually the mini jerks that come with it) or your actual "client". Pull the trigger and aim for bull-eyes. I could see BluDomain investing in a couple of these.  Sometimes you have a very high maintenance client. Boss Toss yours for oly $8.00 www.urbanoutfitters.com 

Random thought- If you haven't seen Jackass 2 you must!  I laughed the entire movie and got the best ab-workout ever.

Love everything about this new multimedia device "Mylo" by Sony. Make Skype calls. IM via Google, Talk or Yahoo messenger. Listen to digital audio, look at photos or watch MPEG-4 videos.

Reminds me of Sony's only handheld PlayStation game! www.sonystyle.com 

If you would like to learn something new stop by any bookstore and pick up a copy of "Pink Box" by photographer Joan Sinclair. Sinclair explores Japan's love hotels, no-panty cafes, and anime-costumed call girls. A peek into the country's $80 billion-a-year fuzoku (commercial sex) industry.  An intimate view that you may never likely get. (unless of course you become a paying customer)  www.barnesandnoble.com 

** I hope all of you have completed your week-long daily walks for 30 minutes.  I didn't cheat once!  I am now committed to my body and my health. First of all I didn't realize that there are some hotties at the gym. Second of all if there are hotties and I'm single then I must have pants that make my butt look exceptional.  TORN sweatpants that give you comfort and a nice booty. www.revolveclothing.com   Random thought-  Did you all know that Project Director Aundrea is going to debut her "booty shake" on her birthday in December. Yes that is her current goal in life.  She test drove that little booty of hers this weekend and I haven't told her this yet but nothing really moved. Sorry it was so hilarious and something just made me think of it again. It's so nice to laugh daily!

** The goal this week is to run a mile 5 times this week.  That's all a mile! Think under 15 minutes and you'll be done.  I'm trying to teach you that routine is not necessary good, it's fun to mix things up, and if your bored or if your goal is not easy to attain then you face burn-out.  I'm going to start after work! If you can run 2-3 miles that is even better. Remember the goal is to do one mile for 5 days.

** Jen our genius flash programmer is going to debut her "New Body" right here on the blog in October.  I can't stop looking at her daily she is a knock-out!  30 pounds gone! So if you think you can't transform your body you can.  It's called dedication, discipline and making healthy food choices.

Yesterday I had Jen right down a sample menu:

Breakfast:
2 oz of cheese or 2 eggs
45 calories of bread (one slice of wonder light white bread)
protein drink

lunch:
4 oz of turkey or chicken
4 oz cooked veggies or 8 oz of uncooked (lettuce with cucumbers and celery mostly)
3/4 cup strawberries or 1 small orange
protein drink

snack:
protein drink

dinner:
4 oz of lean meat
4 oz cooked veggies or 8 oz of uncooked (zucchini is a favorite)
45 calories of bread

San Francisco's Augie Chang

Blu's Daily News

** Don't forget to send in your favorite image of your dog. Deadline is Saturday!  This is Charlotte she is the puppy of Lisa Stovall. Can you believe how cute she is?  I have a kindergarten class lined up to judge.  The cutest dog will receive a $100.00 gift certificate to www.trixieandpeanut.com Send your photograph to info@bludomain.com 

** Interface 27 launches on Monday October 9th. Visuals to be shown right here on the blog next week.

** Modern 7 to be announced in a few weeks.

** BluDomain announces the collaboration between Blu's Creative Director Harald Hasselbach and Renowned Photographer Brianna Graham. Stay tuned.

** Starting tomorrow lots of fun interviews. Including Mr. David Jay. 

** BluDomain 2 will be upgraded Tuesday night at midnight. All interfaces will be down for 4-5 hours including www.bludomain.com .  Thank you for your patience. This is the last server that must be upgraded. If you need to reach BluDomain at this time please use info@bludomainhosting.com 

** Have an emergency contact 911@bludomain.com 

Jack's Trip Around the World

Jack's a little envious of Blu's 2006 Photographer of the Year "Jessica Claire"  Click on image to read.  Renowned Photographer John Michael Cooper has given Jack some much needed downtime. I'm so nosy that I can't wait to find out a little inside information about John Michael Cooper's digs. www.altf.com 

Who's That Guy???

My name: Augie Chang
My hometown: San Francisco Bay Area
My style: Contemporary, warm and fun

A piece of equipment I can't part with: My Canon 70-200L 2.8 IS.  Love this lens.  You can pretty much shoot anything and it'll make your pictures look good. Gotta shoot it wide open at 2.8!!

My strength in my profession is- details, details and more details, I am all about the details.  Anything from my great BluDomain web site to my communications with my clients.  Attention to detail is what makes my business unique.

My weakness in my profession is- now with digital photography, I can spend endless hours playing around with images.

How I separate myself from the competition-offering quality rather than quantity in everything I do.

The perfect client is- one who focuses and enjoys your work and not necessarily concerned about what comes in my collections.

How I balance life & work- My son.  He keeps me in check.  Spending time with him is the best thing in the world.

Customer service is- not only taking care of your clients, but also taking care of your client's family and friends.

If not a photographer I would have been- a musician (drummer).  I've always enjoy music.  Although I am not very good, I really enjoy playing my drums.  How can you not like being the loudest one in a band!?

Something I have learned along the way- that you are never done learning.  There's always more to learn and there's always better photographers.

"If you enjoy baby shoots like me, make sure to check those potential baby toe jams.  You don't want those little guys showing up in your closeups."

Augie's favorite image of recent

My guy friends think I'm- blessed to be able to do what I love and they also think that I am a perfectionist.

My least favorite body part- is my one lazy eye. That is why I love to wear my glasses!

How I spend my money- Traveling with my wife throughout Europe, buying music on iTunes at 2am in the morning.

If I have the munchies I usually crave- chips. Gotta be those Doritos baby!

I'd prefer not to- get stuck in traffic.

Top 2 items in my garage- My road bike and my BMW.

Whose style do you admire- David Beckham's ever changing hair styles.

This annoys me- wasting time

Check's out Augie's new site at www.augiechang.com 

Kailee's Picks For Halloween 2006

Whether you stay at home or go out on the town to celebrate, there is sure to be a costume out there for you. I have researched the the hottest Halloween costumes of 2006

** I have found my costume- Geisha Girl.  Geisha's are professional hostesses who entertain guests through various performing arts. (so now I must find my talent) They are not ordinary hostesses or prostitutes.

I'm going to be an exquiste and exotic beauty from the far east!

www.buycostumes.com 

** Strongly influenced by the wild success of Pirates of the Caribbean, pirate costumes are going to be more widely seen than ever this Halloween season.

A pirate outfit can transform you men into a daring, and adventurous romantic.

Don't forget your short-skirted, cleavage-displaying pirate wench.

Now if your body is not the hourglass standard that MTV would have us believe is the norm then there are many choices for you.

www.3wisheslingerie.com 

 

You'll be faster than a speeding bullet with this muscle chest Superman costume.  Make a formidable presence at any costume party. I love that you can be mild mannered reporter Clark Kent one minute and then Superman the next.  www.spirithalloween.com

A classic women's Medusa Halloween costume? Everyone will want to run their fingers through your hair.

Add some season favorite black leggings and Chanel "Black Satin" nail polish.

Turn a beholder into a stone just by a single glance. Beautiful but deadly!

www.costumes4less.com 

** People don't get, you just won't stay dead!   Scratching and clawing your way of the nearest graveyard.

The ultimate creepy costume www.costumefest.com 

Stay tuned tomorrow for more must-have costumes.

Elmo shortages will lead to childhood crises in millions of homes this Christmas. The new version has Elmo  laughing, slapping it's knee or rolling on the floor.

It's hitting stores and selling out quickly!!!  FYI

Nevada's John Michael Cooper

www.altf.com
Jack's Trip Around the World

Binge time for Jack after many weeks of good living and a healthy diet Jack thought he would have himself a "cheat" day. Jack is visiting renowned photograher John Michael Cooper.

** Creative Director, Harald spent his birthday with friends in Los Angeles.  Who did he see while there-  Project Runaway "It" girl Heidi Klum & famous singer Seal, Scrubs Donald Faison and Alia's Michael Vartan and Trapt's Simon Ormandy.  He had so much fun!!

** New Blog entry later tonight.

Nevada's John Michael Cooper

www.altf.com

Jack's Trip Around The World

Jack safely arrived in  Las Vegas where he is the guest of renowned photographer John Michael Cooper. That's what you gotta love about John Michael he lives on the edge. For those of you who don't remember he is the one who shot the famous photo of the "bride on fire" I truly love that Jack is having a lazy day we all need a few of those.

** Creative Director Harald's birthday a success
** David Jay is single ladies and Kailee has been granted an interview with what most female photographers say "the hottest photographer in the industry" You be the judge. Stay tuned
** Interface 27 underway and under construction
** Send in that favorite photograph of your dog to info@bludomain.com. Contest ends September 30th.

**Any hosting emergencies this weekend call 303.895.6196

Happy Birthday Harald!!

Happy Birthday - Happy Birthday to our Genius Creative Director Harald. I couldn't resist this baby picture of Harald. Is he not adorable? Boy does he have some fun lined up for this weekend especially if I'm there!  And of course I will post the "not so good" shots if he has too much fun! 

I love birthdays! If you chat with him today SING to him!  He is very excited about his birthday because he just bought himself a birthday present-

The new Mac Pro with all the guts inside of this monster! Rumor is that he is selling his G5 loaded with every design program and photo editing software known to man!  If you want to send him Birthday Wishes or inquire about his G5 do so at harald@bludomain.com  I want him to blush guys so help me out!!

Happy Birthday to you!!

** Don't forget to send me your favorite photograph of your puppy or dog.  I can't wait to post some of these adorable animals! We have decided this will be way to difficult to judge so we are putting together a board of kindergartners to judge.  If you dog is voted the cutest he or she will win a $100.00 shopping spree at www.trixieandpeanut.com And we must know their name! Send your entry to info@bludomain.com

** The Spotlight will be on- Interface 27.  You will look at it, lust after it and then the craving will begin.  Visuals to debut one week from this Friday. A fresh spin on an old concept. A concept that will grace fall's must-have interface!

** Okay so how cute is this?  Florida's Ray Santana sent in this picture of Harald or "Big H" in perfect condition. He fixed all the blemishes. What a sweet guy I knew my tackiness would bug someone but I'm not that good!

Thanks Ray www.raysantanaphotography.com

Who's That Girl???

My name: Lindsay Jane McCormick

My hometown: Knoxville, Tennessee (but I live and work in Layton, Utah

My style: Fun & Funky

A piece of equipment that I can't part with: My reflector- I use it whenever I can!

My strength in my profession is- being young- I can relate to brides.

My weakness in my profession is- being young- I don' t get as much respect as the men who have been around for 30 years.

How I separate myself from the competition- my new Blu website.

The perfect client is- up for anything!

How I balance life & work- taking Sundays and Mondays off, playing with my husband.

Customer service is- becoming best friends with your clients

If not a photographer I would have been - a singer

Something I have learned along the way- Quality is more important than quantity.

Check out www.asukabook.com They have the cutest coffee table books that work great for parent albums!

Lindsay's favorite image of recent

My girlfriends think I'm- lucky to have such a wonderful husband

My least favorite body part- my big hands

How I spend my money- Plane tickets back home

If I have the munchies I usually crave- Reese's peanut butter cups

I'd prefer not to- cut my hair

Top 2 items in my garage- my 4-Runner & my roller blades!

Whose style do you admire- Jonathan Canlas...he's a local.

This annoys me- when people take things that don't belong to them!!

Check out Lindsay Jane at www.lindsayjanephotography.com 

 

Kailee's Friday Favorites

**  Leather Rock Bands are smokin hot.  So are these ad campaigns!  If you are obsessed with fashion, want to generate good energy, and need the next must-have in the world of fashion check this company out. www.leatherrockbands.com 

  ** Okay I'm a little moody about this discovery.  Birthday Socks for only $12.00 available in more colors than you can count!  A tradition that everyone who loves their birthday must start. No more boring birthdays! Hang your Birthday Sock out and let everyone know they can stuff your sock with goodies. Where was my birthday sock on my birthday??
www.thebirthdaysock.com

Jack's Trip Around the World!

Jack has bid farewell to Caroline Johnson & Florida. He is due to arrive in Nevada in the morning to be a guest at the renowned photographer- John Michael Cooper's pad!

I'm sure things are about to change!  Thanks to Caroline! For those of you who have yet to see her work check out www.cjphotographer.com

** Need something for your note taking or sketching you will find these mini journals irresistible.  From un-lined journals, to note cards, to notes you will find something you must buy!  I love the unique designs, color combinations and unlined paper! Check out the Snow Day Collection! www.deweyhoward.com

** DId you know- that New York was recently deemed the number one safest place to live. 

Graphic Designer Stella Bugbee's lace tape. Decorative tape that makes any present prettier! www.mattermatters.com

Halloween is Almost Here

Spooky! Show your holiday spirit by laying a few of these eyeballs around your home!

www.illuminations.com

Make some "Bird Poop for your little munchkins.  Mix 5 cups of your favorite crunchy cereal, 3 cups of rice crisp cereal, 2 cups of skinny pretzels, and 2 1/2 cups of mini marshmallows. Melt 1 bag of white chocolate chips in the microwave for one minute. Pour the chocolate over the mixed ingredients and spread on wax to dry. Eat!

** A special Halloween treat that keeps your hands clean! Anti-bacterial soap that smells like pumpkin. Only $10.00. www.bathandbodyworks.com

Just when I thought I was going on a diet I can't!  Candy, cookies, candy, cookies! Gingerbread jack-o'-lantern cookies handmade from a traditional family recipe. Sets of 3 that can be personalized. 

www.williams-sonoma.com

** The perfect bowl for candy! Did you know that only 20% of kids say that they eat all of their candy they get from trick-or-treating.  www.crateandbarrel.com

What is my favorite candy store? www.groovycandies.com

Are you a good boy but can't keep away from the Jack?  Hide your 4 oz stainless steel flask inside this cross-bearing hardback.

www.suck.uk.com

Blu's 2006 Photographer of the Year Winner Jessica Claire

                                                                     

Blu's 2006 Photographer of the Year - Jessica Claire         

Congratulations to Jessica!  Literally thousands and thousands of votes trickled in for her.  She was voted by her fans, photographers who admire her and are inspired by her, famous people, brides from around the world,  her clients, forum moderators, Blu Blog fans, photographers who believe she is the best in the industry right now and even her MOM. The vote for Jessica was overwhelming.

Here's what her fans have to say-

"fantastic photographer" "beautiful images" "She totally rocks!" "Her style is modern, whimsical and bold!" "Jessica's blog inspires "Innovative ideas and photography "follow-through" is fantastic" "Wish I had known about her when I got married" " It's obvious right away that she is upbeat and energetic- you want to work with her!" "Utterly phenomenal" "Hands down she wins my vote. Being a fellow photographer it's important to love what you do. Jessica loves what she does" "She's fresh and spirited, her photography is sharp, amazing composition in each image, bold use of color and creative b/w, sepia"  " This is a photographer going where no female photographer has been.. to the top." "He photos portray whoever or whatever she is shooting in such a "real-life" setting that the colors, light, feelings are POPPING out at you!" "A unique eye!" "What you love about Jessica is that she is not one of those prissy, nose-in-the-air types, but a regular gal is easy-going, funny, adventurous and always willing to try new things." "Wow looking at all the nominees Jessica wins my vote, it's obvious I will get something unique and personalized." " From a girl who takes celebrity pictures I find Jessica so accessible with her cool site and blog that it isn't even funny!" "she is ridiculously talented" " I feel like I stalk her, I have been following her for over a year as a new photographer of the industry this woman inspires me daily" "I love, love Jessica Claires work and she is so giving when it comes to giving information to a beginner like me" "She has her own style, she is extraordinare, she is a breath of fresh air." "Hot, hot, hot does that count as a photographer you would hire her just for that smile!" "She has the whole package, branding, exceptional work, a blog that truly inspires and an attitude that ROCKS!"

If you haven't checked out her site you MUST www.jcsphoto.com

And the comments poured in!

Jessica wins $500.00 to spend (hopefully on something for herself), a trophy, and something Blu! And a secret surprise to let her truly know she is Famous!

We thank The Becker [b] for sending us these shots of Jessica and rumor is that is he one of Jessica's biggest fans!

Now we must say a very big "Thank you" to all the  famous photographers who took time to let me interview them.  Thousands of e-mails thanking all of you for the tips, motivation, inspiration and true spirit.  We know  you will continue to be famous. The e-mails and votes we received showed us that you carry a lot of respect in your industry. Every photographer for different reasons.

Jessica Claire just happens to be ULTRA-FAMOUS!

This has been so much fun! I thank the guys playing chess at Starbucks for tallying all the votes. To all the fans who voted.

Blu's Blog continues to grow by the minute and it's so much fun!

Now due to an overwhelming amount of photographers ( I think mainly girls) who wrote in to ask WHY David Jay didn't make the list. Well he wasn't too far off the list but we had to cut if off somewhere.

But due to his popularity and my need to see this cute boy (that's what I'm hearing "hot and talented") I'm going to try and secure an interview with him... so stayed tuned!

Also stay tuned for my PICKS of the photographers who are going to be Famous very soon!  I may need some help so if you have a  photographer you think is just around the corner from being discovered let me know at kailee@bludomain.com

And I'm in love, so in love. Interface 27 takes my breath away.  If you're addicted to BluDomain stay away.  hehe. 

And let's all celebrate and toast tonight to Jessica Claire, Wednesdays, Kailee finding a man, and to all the photographers around the world who capture memories and special moments!

   

Vote Blu's 2006 Photographer of the Year

NEWLY UPDATED POST BELOW

** Due to the serious "Blu's 2006 Photographer of the Year" in progress all NEW BLOG POSTS will be directly under this post until Wednesday when the winner is announced. 

BLU'S TOP PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

BluDomain announces the nominees for Blu's Top Photographer of the Year 2006.  We hope you enjoyed all the interviews from your peers who you most admire, worship, are inspired by and think highly of.

Now there can only be ONE so it's up to you to vote for our 2006 Photographer of the Year.  They will win $500.00, a trophy, flowers and something Blu!  We info@bludomain.com Only one vote per person.  If you missed their interviews you can find them in the archives under August and this month.

Remember all of our contests are meant for pure fun and if you didn't make the list this year you will next year.

I have to give a shout out to the thousands and I'm talking thousands of people who are VOTING.  Photographers from around the world, famous photographers that are famous but not as famous as the nominees, photographers who are famous but noone knows about them I mean everyone except Tom Cruise (Only because he supposedly is days away from getting married)  Even getting calls from people on the THE KNOT.com asking our suggestions for some good photographers and some Public Relations people calling with some interesting information. Hmm..  Gosh the winner will truly deserve the recognition!  Vote now if you haven't!!

VOTE NOW!!!   Will it be - Jenn & Stephen Bebb- Mike Colon-  Dave & Quinn Cheung- Anna Kupenberg-  Barb Uil- John Michael Cooper- Jaclyn & Nate Kasier-  Joseph Victor Stefanchik-  Jeffrey & Julia Woods- Vicki Anne Taufer-  Doug & Chenin Boutwell - Denis Reggie-  Tim Schooler- The Becker- Jessica Claire- Audrey Woulard- Kelly Moore- Lori Nordstrom- Gary Fong

Jack's Trip Around The World

        

Jack's Trip Around the World

I'm glad someone likes their vegetables!  Jack has been hanging out with Florida's Caroline Johnson for the past week.  Adorable Caroline Johnson!

One day we can all look back at the prices of vegetables and tell our kids "how inexpensive things once were"

Jack & Caroline make a great team for ideas, branding and overall concepts!

Sad news though Jack has to leave today!  He is scheduled to arrive in Nevada to hang out with  one of Blu's Famous Photographers "John Michael Cooper" For those of you who know John Michael you can only imagine what Jack's in for!

Thanks to Caroline for her hospitality and for those of you who don't know this talented photographer check out her NEW Blu site at www.cjphotographer.com 

** Where's interface 27? 2 1/2 weeks out and something nice for the Fall.  Fall colors, moody music and I think I'm in love. Do you know see why I'm single. I fall in love every other week.

** Did you know I'm "intern" to the creative director so when he's not designing or pulling new concepts then I do a lot of office work.  BluDomain initially hired me to write this blog only. So I love that I have the best of both worlds and I hope that you enjoy reading this everday chatter.

**  Don't forget to send in your favorite image of your puppy or dog to info@bludomain.com  How do we judge this one?  The dog who is named Blu's cutest wins a $100.00 gift certificate to www.trixieandpeanut.com 

** Tomorrow is a big DAY at Blu as we announce Blu's 2006 Photographer of the Year.  Thousands and thousands of votes to tally.  We are blown away by the votes and the photographers from around the world, every forum, every industry who have taken time to cast their vote.  Believe me you chose the Best Photographers out there and everyone is famous in my eyes.  Well one will just be Ultra-Famous!

Actor Mel's Gibson's only daughter Hannah married blues-rock guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd this weekend in California. Rumor has it that Blu's Famous Photographer nominee, Mike Colon shot this star studded wedding!  Check out www.mikecolon.com 

Dear Diary..

The 5-day challenge is on!  I can't believe the amount of people participating.  The 5-day challenge this week is to walk 30 minutes a day.  Inside or outside and enjoy nature. Remember this is non negotiable.

I have chosen to walk before I start work, so that there are no excuses.  I feel energized!  It's amazing what happens when you actually say "I matter" and you choose NOT to "neglect" your body, health and overall well being!  I loaded my iPod and enjoy the "me" time listening to my favorite songs, breathing fresh air, and pollution and thinking of different routes to take. 

If you absolutely can't work out without looking smoking hot then you will find any piece by Stella McCartney a necessity!  www.adias.com/stella 

Health Tip-  There are basic lifestyle habits that are important to incorporate into your daily life- one of them is drinking hot water with fresh squeezed lemon!  Lemons help prevent disease, and assist in cleansing the system of impurities, helps the digestive system of symptoms such as heartburn, bloating, and belching. It can also aid in eliminating waste more efficiently thus controlling constipation and diarrhea. Lemons are wonderful stimulants to the liver, and help to nourish brain and nerve cells.

** If you are in need of some luxury underwear men you'll love these briefs or boxer by Zimmerli. The ultimate in comfort and quality. I hear if you try them once you'll swear by them for life!  And best of all they offer lots of support! Men in briefs good golly!  www.hisroom.com 

** If money is no object and you want top notch customer service you'll be a fan of H. Couture Beauty.  Tubes of lipstick adorned in thousands of Swarovski crystals for $150.00 which includes concierge service, which means you get free refills for a year. If you need mascara it's yours with an 18K gold plated top and 2400 Sworovski crystals for only $589.00.  www.hcouturebeauty.com 

 

** Indulge your hands, feet and skin with these new intoxicating scents from www.jaquabeauty.com 

Perfect holiday gifts, lots of fun collections.  So yummy! Some of my favorites include Mint Chocolate Body Butter & Pink Champagne Shower Syrup.

Guess what I'm giving my girlfriends for Christmas! Life is a celebration and relaxation is the destination for my body!!

** A new hot product I have my eye on- Sonos Multi Zone Digital Music System.  Wirelessly stream digital music and internet radio, all over your house in up to 32 rooms.  The best part, Sonos just partnered with Rhapsody.  A $10.00 a month membership to Rhapsody allows you instant access to your library anywhere in your home or office.  Men will love this and I can't keep giving you girls enough hints for those hard to buy for men out there!  www.sonos.com 

  **  Time to start thinking of cool fall days, crisp leaves, hot chocolate and tweed! Yes tweed is back as a fashion fabric. Slick back your hair elegantly with this headband by www.amiciaccessories.com 

** What are the hot colors for fall?  Anything found in nature- ochre, terracotta, honey and dark green. Gray, purple and ruby red will be huge this season and gold will be the hottest color of all.

** What I'm listening to- Raul Malo's "You're Only Lonely"  A intensely romantic CD. You may all know Malo as the frontman for the Mavericks.

A fine line between rock & roll, country and salsa rhythms.

This CD definitely brings out memories and longing for the semi-perfect

www.itunes.com