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jenstuberphotography.com
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Tue Aug 7, 2012, 12:55 PM




It's hard to believe it's been so long since I've posted here. My last journal post was back in November! My life has changed drastically since then.

To summarize quickly, I started therapy for depression in November and I've been battling through my recovery since then. It's going really well though, so that's promising. It was very, very difficult in the beginning but I can see that I am making progress.

=Chaotica-I and I went to New York together in January! It was amazing, one of the best trips I've ever been on in my life. We saw Darren Criss in How To Succeed Without Really Trying on Broadway and we had hot chocolate on the red steps in Times Square, went to Central Park, toured the Museum of Natural History, we did SO much stuff in only 3 days.

My dog Haley passed away shortly after I came back from New York. It was devastating, like losing a family member. In February we brought a new dog into our family, her name is Maya. No one could ever replace Haley, but we have so much love to give that we knew we could give Maya a good home.

I graduated from college in April. It was difficult because I was dealing with the worst of my depression through most of it, but I passed all my courses and that's what counts. I won two print competition awards again this year so I was happy. I miss being in school now, being out in the real world is over-rated.

I taught photography for the first time in my life to grade 7 and 8 students in May. That was a nerve-wracking ordeal but it was actually quite enjoyable. Most of the students really enjoyed getting to play with the cameras.

I met both of my idols--Darren Criss and Chris Colfer--this summer. I'm still not over that. I met Darren in Toronto when he came for the MuchMusic Video Awards in June, and I met Chris as his book signing in Ohio in July. Some friends and I are planning to go to the Toronto International Film Festival to see the movie that Darren Criss is in in September as long as we get tickets, so I'm looking forward to that.

I spend most of my internet time over on Tumblr now. I will still probably post stuff here sometimes but as you've probably noticed, updates are few and far between. deviantART used to be a huge part of my life, but things change as we get older. At the end of the day I feel like I've grown out of deviantART. Most of you that follow me follow me because you like my Marineland photos and that's fine. I like Marineland too, but I don't really post that much anymore. If you want to see MLC photos I post them all on my Flickr though. Most of what I am doing right now is professional photography work and portraiture, and crafting. Most of you don't enjoy looking at that judging by the lack of comments they've gotten and that's cool too, it's a different audience.  

Things change. I've certainly changed. But it's been for the better. Time to grow.

Hope you're all doing well.

Jen

4 Comments
  • Mood: Big Grin
Change August 7, 2012 4 Comments No Favourites

My second DD!

Thu Nov 10, 2011, 3:06 PM




I can't believe it, I was awarded a daily deviation today for my recent martini glass photo. I am honestly shaking, I am so excited and honoured. Thank you so much to =xthumbtakx for suggestion and to ^Kaz-D for featuring me. I am overwhelmed. I would have never expected this in a million years.



What makes this award mean even more to me is that it was on a piece of work I did for school. For those who don't know, I'm currently attending college for photography and I am in my second year. I have been struggling greatly these past two months with my classes which is why I have not been posting much. I have not feeling very confident in my school work but this... it just makes me feel incredible to know that I'm moving in the right direction. Words cannot express how grateful and wonderful I feel.

I'd like to take this time to thank all of my friends and followers as well for sticking with me over all of these years, you are all wonderful and I appreciate every single one of you.

Thank you.

Jen

33 Comments
  • Mood: Big Grin
My second DD! November 10, 2011 33 Comments No Favourites

Commissions Open!

Journal Entry: Sat Jul 2, 2011, 8:32 PM


Commissions

Commissions are currently open!

Make sure there is a commission spot open before you send your order. There are only 5 spots available at one time and they are on a first come, first serve basis each time they open. Please only grab a spot if you expect to have money within the week, otherwise I will give your slot to the next person on the list. If you get a spot, I will contact you and ask you for further information. I will then give you a price estimate based on your needs and your shipping costs.

If you would like to commission something other than a hat, grab a commission slot and we will discuss details.

Note: This is for CUSTOM purchases only. If you want to purchase something I've already made, please look on my Etsy store. If it's not there, it means that it's currently not for sale. Check back frequently to see if it goes up for sale again, it usually does within a week or two. I most frequently sell out of the Toothless and Red Panda designs quickly, so they go in and out of the store on a regular basis. I cannot guarantee I will answer comments about Etsy store purchases on deviantART, it's best to contact me about those on Etsy.

Commission Spots:

1. =Chaotica-I (Plushes)
2. Open
3. Open
4. Open
5. Open

Previous Customers from deviantART:

:iconhellsing-s-cry-ed::iconegyptianruler::icontransient-orca::iconlittlesinnerchrono::iconskyebobpiepants::iconalannahpwnsyou::iconmurphydoll1::iconteiza::iconrootfortheunderdog::iconcetaceannerd::iconsweetshamu::iconpurevintage::iconsweetshamu::iconlady-of-dragons::iconsmudge-92::iconrapta-galexy::iconbladebandit::iconkaratechick13::icontvd-photography::iconkitcat4056::iconorcalover182::icondalekal::iconmasterinflames::iconmoongazer22::iconzekaire-aquanimus::icontheleatherdragon1::iconsnerken::iconionaic::iconbloospider:

*In order to keep track of interested people, I will hide comments of those people that have already received hats. That's why there are hidden comments in the comment section.*

Additional Hat Information



Hat Pricing Examples:

Simple Hats: $25
Hats that have 3 or less add-ons (ears, tails, etc) and few hand-sewn details.

Beluga, Polar Bear

Moderate Hats: $30
Hats that have more than 3-5 add-ons and some hand-sewn details.

Rhino, Jack Skellington

Complicated Hats: $35
Hats that have multiple add-ons and hand-sewn/machine sewn detailing.

Red Panda, Orca, Shark, Dino, Rainbow Unicorn

Challenging Hats: $40+
Hats that have extensive hand-sewn/machine sewn detailing. This could also include speciality fabrics other than solid fleece.

Cheetah, Dragon, Toothless

Hat Pricing Details:

Prices are listed in American dollars.
I will supply you with a quote based on the difficulty of the design and cost of material.
They are made of 100% polyester fleece and are machine sewn with hand blanket-stitched details.

Time Frame:

Hats are completed as quickly as possible and should be finished within 1-2 weeks of your order or sooner, depending on the complexity (if you have alterations made). Order may be subject to longer completion time depending on my school and work schedule but will be completed in a timely matter while still ensuring quality.

Payment

I accept Paypal payments in US or Canadian Dollars (keep in mind all prices are listed in US dollars). Paypal payments should be made to dolphinanimalluver@hotmail.com. You can also pay in concealed cash or money order. The last two methods must be mailed and construction on your hat will not start until payment is received.

Shipping

Items are shipped in a brown packaging envelope. This ensures the shipping cost will be as low as possible while keeping your hat safe on its journey to you. If for any reason you want your hat to arrive faster, I can switch to a faster shipping method at a higher cost. Below are the most economical costs.

Canada:
I ship all orders using the Canada Post, Regular Parcel which should arrive in 2-9 days. Cost depends on your province (distance from Ontario), so the shipping fee will be calculated when ordering.

USA:
Hats shipped to anywhere in the USA will be done under Small Packet - USA Surface through Canada Post. Shipping costs $7.00 and will usually arrive between 6-10 days.

Australia:
For some unknown reason, Australia is not qualified as International like Europe is, they charge $9.00 ship it. It will be done under Small Packet - International Air. It should arrive in 2-3 weeks.

International:
Any order placed outside of the countries mentioned above will be $8.00.

Cancellation, Refund and Return Policy:

Any time before payment you can withdraw your order and your spot will be given to the next person in line. After payment is made however no refunds will be issued, the hat will be completed and sent to you as all sales are final. If you can find someone to exchange with, you may do that but make sure to contact me. If for some reason I am not able to complete your order, your money will be completely refunded.
If for some reason your hat arrives with a defect not easily repairable by yourself please notify me and we will arrange something to fix the problem.


Hat Designs



Some designs I have already created.



Simple & Clean NG CSS: `ClaireJones | Silk Icons: famfamfam
170 Comments
  • Mood: Big Grin
  • Listening to: UPular
Commissions Open! July 2, 2011 170 Comments 3 Favourites

Well hello there!

Mon Feb 28, 2011, 4:23 PM




Hello everyone!

It feel very odd writing a journal. I haven't written to you guys in over 3 months now. I missed wishing you all Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and doing my annual print giveaway, things have been very busy. I hope you are all doing well and that your holidays were wonderful.

My first semester of college went very very well, I'm pleased with all my grades. Second semester is more difficult, but I'm also learning a lot of new things which I'm enjoying. The big print competition at the college is quickly approaching, where all the photography student compete against each other for prizes, marks, and bragging rights, so I am pretty much freaking out about it. I'm not sure how it will goes, but I am worried about being torn apart in the judges… They are very, very harsh, but they have to be. I will keep my fingers crossed and see how it goes. I can only do my best.
If you'd like to read more about my school, make sure you check out my Tumblr account: [link]

My businesses are going well, especially Under The Seam. I am still surprised at how well it has taken off, and the amount of support I am getting especially from deviantART. I really hope that between that and my photography business, I can pay my way through college. Being able to do what you love is something I believe very firmly in, and I certainly love this. I am optimistic, but not unrealistic. We will see what the future holds.
Jennifer Stuber Photography: [link]
Under The Seam: [link]

I also redesigned my photography website, so please check it out if you have some time! :) [link]



If anyone is interested, I have a beluga hat that is ready for purchase right now! It's premade and ready to be shipped.

Just as a reminder, I don't post a lot of my work on deviantART. I only post the stuff I think is really good, which isn't much. If you're interested in seeing all my school work (you can also see that on Tumblr) and Marineland photos, please check out my Flickr: [link]

Last but not least, I wanted to mention my blog. I've been working hard on my Marineland Canada blog, so if you are at all interested, please check that out. MLC Fans: [link]

I apologize for this journal being so short and full of links! Thanks for watching my work and thank you for your support! I hope you're all doing well!

Jen

10 Comments
  • Mood: Big Grin
Well hello there! February 28, 2011 10 Comments No Favourites

Stuff For Sale!

Sat Oct 23, 2010, 12:13 PM
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Hello!

Hey everyone! I have been sewing quite a bit in my spare time and have a few things I'm looking to sell if anyone of you are interested! I have lots of other plans so I hope you don't get tired of seeing journals like this. After everything is gone I'll just update this journal or update any time I do new things.

I am having trouble finding a job here so I'm trying to survive off my own work. That includes my photography and sewing. I'm currently saving up for my second semester of college, so any money I make is going straight into my college fund. Thanks in advance everyone!



The Goods

All items do not have shipping included! It's around $6-$9 depending on your location.

Beluga Plush - $25
15" from head to tail and 8.5" tall
100% Ultra soft Polyester fleece
100% Polyester stuffing
Available


Rhino Hat - $30
Fits most head sizes
100% Polyester fleece
Polyester stuffed horn
Blanket stitched eyes and nose
Available

*shipping not included


Skin made by =fantasy-alive
40 Comments
  • Mood: Exhilarated
  • Eating: Banana
  • Drinking: Milk
Stuff For Sale! October 23, 2010 40 Comments No Favourites

College, Assignments, Marineland, Busy!

Journal Entry: Tue Oct 5, 2010, 9:12 PM
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Busy!

Hello everyone!

College has been going really well from me. A lot of my friends and family have told me that my work has improved at the short time I have been in college, which is really rewarding. One of my professors says that I have a lot of talent, which means the world to me. I think the access to equipment and the motivation to get out and shoot has really had an effect on me. As far as learning how to shoot photos, we haven't done a whole lot of that in class. It has mostly been theory. Not that we haven't been shooting a lot, because we have! If you read my Tumblr, you will know that last week was photo week, which is a week of field trips. We have been taking photos almost every day and getting tons of assignments. I have been trying to get my assignments done quickly when I get them, because they very quickly pile up.



College has been taking up almost all of my life. When I'm not in class, I'm usually shooting photos for assignments. When I'm not shooting, I'm editing photos. When I'm not editing, I'm usually sleep or eating. :lol: It really has been a lot of work, but in the best way possible. I have no problem at all spending hours shooting and editing things for assignments. In fact, I really enjoy it. Much better than anything I ever did in high school. It has been really rewarding so far, and we have only just started the second month.

I have a lot of hat and plush commissions to get through that have been taking longer than I hoped, I really hope to plug along at them next week because I purposely finished all my assignments this week for the next week. Of course, I will get more assignments next week but at least I should have some free time to work.



The other main reason I have been working to complete all my assignments this week is that I am going to Marineland this weekend! It is the closing weekend of Marineland for the season, it will be closed until May so I definitely have to go. I will be heading down Friday and coming home Monday, spending three days at the park, and some days with =Chaotica-I, Katie, and ~SloanerTaku. It is going to be amazing! I am so excited to see all three of them, as well as all the animals of course. I haven't been since July!



I think that's about it for me, not much else going on other than I got really sick in the month of September which was not fun. I'm feeling a lot better now, just the occasional headache. I also wanted to say thanks for all the comments on my recent uploads, I really appreciate the comments on my current school work. I know it's not whales and dolphins and most of you only comment on that, but I plan to explore lots of different opportunities and focus on other things rather than only cetaceans. That is not to say you won't see cetacean photos from me, you will just see less. Thanks for your support!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone and to my Canadian friends, happy early Thanksgiving! :heart:

PS: I would just like to say, rest in peace to Kalina, who passed away Monday at SeaWorld Orlando. She was a beautiful orca and will be truly missed. I saw her before Believe years ago when I visited the park, and will miss never seeing her again.


  

15 Comments
  • Mood: Big Grin
  • Listening to: Honesty by Mike Thompson
  • Reading: Assignment Sheets
  • Drinking: SunnyD
College, Assignments, Marineland, Busy! October 5, 2010 15 Comments No Favourites

College Kid

Journal Entry: Fri Sep 3, 2010, 10:27 AM
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College

Hello everyone!
As usual, it's been awhile since I wrote a journal.

I start college this Tuesday so I have spent a lot of time this week preparing for that. Yesterday was my orientation which was amazing. It has me all excited to start school! The staff is amazing and so nice, it's so much better than high school. One of the things we went over is some excursions that are planned, one of which is the Toronto Zoo so I'm happy about that. I love the zoo!

Today I went and picked up my MacBrook Pro. My Photography program supplies all photography students with MacBooks (it's included in tuition). I LOVE IT. This MacBook Pro is so amazing. It has top notch software, specifically CS5 which I really look forward to using. My program also offers equipment rentals, so I'm very excited to rent a macro lens and a nice telephoto lens some time. I am so eager and excited to begin learning and enhance my skills at college. It's going to be amazing. I really look forward to working in studio, because my studio wok and lighting skills definitely need improvement. I will be sure to keep you guys as update as possible on college if you're interested.

While I start college soon, I'm not one of those people who is going to say that school is here and therefore I'm not going to be posting much. Quite the opposite for me! I plan to post my school work here, so you'll still see fairly regular submissions from me.  

Other than college, I have been on family vacation the past week which has been nice. I'm hoping to make a couple more trips to Marineland before it closes for the season in October. I'd also like to get to the Buffalo Zoo at some point. I entered some of my photographs into the annual Western Fair Competition. Here's hoping for the best! I've never placed, but continue to give my best effort every year. I was also award some money from a couple of smaller scholarships which has been great, especially because I just had to buy supplies and my textbook. I've been working on cleaning out my room which is a massive project in itself. That's about it!

Thanks for your continued support everyone!

PS: I bought a Nikon lens mug. (:




31 Comments
  • Mood: Big Grin
  • Listening to: The Midnight Beast
  • Watching: Youtube
College Kid September 3, 2010 31 Comments No Favourites

HUGE Print Discounts! Check it Out! :)

Thu Aug 26, 2010, 7:04 PM
Commissions Flickr Prints Website Facebook 1 Facebook 2 Youtube FAQ



Prints For Cheap!

Here are some hugely discounted prints that I have up for sale. You can get any of these prints for $10 plus shipping! Normally these prints would be around $30, so that's more than half off! I would really like to get rid of these because I have no where to keep them and they are taking up my dining room table! These are first come, first serve! You will never see discounts like this again!

Here are the prints I have:



Any of the above photos are for sale. They are 11x16 or and 12x18, plus the one is a square 12x12 (bottom left corner). They are currently being used in a competition but I will have them back in late September, so I can mail them then. I can provide closeups of the photos that are not in my gallery. *Prints do not come mounted. The polar bear, wolf and puma are no longer available.

11x14


11x16
Sunfest 2009

12x18


Why are they discounted?
All of these prints are gallery prints. This means they have been used in competitions and displays, and have been mounted on to foam board (white board). In order to mount them, I used small square pieces of double stick tape (like you use for scrapbooking), which do not come off easily. These prints still have these pieces of square tape on the back of them. However, the tape does not affect the photo in any way, and are invisible when the picture is put into a frame or even just taped onto the wall like a poster.
They are also discounted because I just want to re-coop the money I spent on getting them printed, mounting supplies, and entrance fees, so I can continue to participate in future competitions.

How much is shipping?
Shipping depends on where you live. Shipping anywhere in America is an additional $10.

Thanks everyone!

PS: I have a beluga plush that needs a good home, if anyone wants it! The buyer backed out on me... $25 plus shipping. Etsy says they are made to order but I have one completely finished and in a box!
Click here to go to my Etsy shop.





Features



Skin made by =fantasy-alive
41 Comments
  • Mood: Joy
  • Watching: Youtube
HUGE Print Discounts! Check it Out! :) August 26, 2010 41 Comments No Favourites

All About Now & Thank You!

Wed Jul 21, 2010, 8:46 PM
Commissions Flickr Prints Website Facebook 1 Facebook 2 Youtube FAQ



Hello!

Hello everyone! I need to get my butt in gear and writing in my journal more often. It's funny, because this time last year I was one of those people that wrote all the time. Now I'm lucky to write once a month.

First, I just wanted to say thank you too all of you! I recently passed 1,000 watchers and was blown away. You are all amazing, I love each and everyone one of you. :hug: I have the best watchers in all of deviantART! Hehe. <3

As some of you know who also watch my friends (if not, why aren't you?!) =Chaotica-I and !WildByDesign, I travelled to Niagara Falls two weeks ago. Aelia and I spent three days together. The first two were at Marineland, where we met *Okura and ~Artreus. *Okura is on holidays right now and visited from New Zealand and ~Artreus is a former regular, so we spent the day with them. Ike was less than interested (though he did come to say hello twice) and the Frienship Cove belugas were interested a little bit in the morning. Apparently they had changed the water levels which made the water very cloudy, and the belugas were skiddish. We were lucky to have awesome interaction in Arctic Cove though! We played with some of the adult females and the babies for such a long time. The females were just as playful the next day as well. It was incredibly hot those two days, so we were so exhausted.


After two days at Marineland, the two of us and Aelia's family went to Jungle Cat World where we met up with !WildByDesign. We got to play with two lynx kittens, two Arctic wolf puppies and a tiger cub! I had an absolutely amazing time, I miss those little guys! We walked around the park and photographed a little bit before I had to head home. I definitely need to go back. It was such a wonderful few days, and it made me realize how awesome people from the internet are even more. :giggle:


I wanted to throw in a few things about school. I finished my high school career with the highest grades I've ever had, so I'm very proud of myself. I do think I will miss my high school, but I'm ready to start college now. I had to buy a professional tripod for school (along with many other photography related things) so that set me back quite a bit. I needed it though, so it was necessary. I have all the equipment I need for school now though, so I don't have to worry about anything.

My logo is almost finished, and I will make sure to let you all know when it's done. I've been very busy with commissions, which I'm not complaining about! My Etsy shop is empty now so I need to get to work and put some more things up. I just wanted to thank everyone who has supported me and purchases things from me. It's really helping me out, it's hard making ends meet when you are self-employed but I know I can make it happen. For reading this far, post a link to one of your deviations in the comments and I will feature it in this journal!
I also just scheduled my first wedding for September so I'm really excited! I haven't been having much luck finding work in photography but I'm not discouraged. When people are cutting costs, photographers are the last thing they think of! The future will be better though.

I have been having some health issues and family issues (as always) so I've been distracted a little bit. I hope all of you guys are doing well though!



Features

:thumb171715894:


Skin made by =fantasy-alive
39 Comments
  • Mood: Optimism
All About Now & Thank You! July 21, 2010 39 Comments No Favourites

Important Things!

Fri Jun 25, 2010, 11:22 AM
Commissions Flickr Prints Website Facebook Youtube FAQ



Hello!

I know it's been a really long time since I've written a journal, these past two months have been really busy for me. I feel so disconnected from you guys! :heart:

Here are a couple of 'important' things:

1. If you sent me a comment in the last week or so and did not receive a response, please note me! I have been away from my computer and responding to comment with my iPod touch. I only now just realized the comments aren't being sent, and then your comments are being deleted from my message center, so I have no way of knowing whose I have replied to. I'm sorry!
2. If you don't already know, I upload a LOT more photos onto my Flickr account. I upload almost all the photos I take onto my Flickr account, and save a select few for dA. If you want to see more work from me, make sure to make me a contact on Flickr or check back periodically. Right now I have photos from an Olympic ceremony we had a couple days ago, as well as almost all of my Marineland photos.
3. If you have any logo designs you haven't submitted, please note me them at your earliest convenience! I will be making a final decision soon, because I want to get some labels printed so I can start sewing the, in.
4. I have a fan page for my business, 'Under The Seam' on Facebook now! You can become a fan (or 'like' it) if you like. :) I am currently working on a few commissions, as well as designing two new plushes. If you guys have any ideas for hats or stuffed toys, send them my way!

If you guys are interested in the photography job that I was hired for, you can read about it in this blog post. It's very short and has some pictures. :) It was awesome!

In the month of May I did that photography job, and before that I spent some time with =Chaotica-I (you may have noticed by the photos!). We went to Marineland together on opening day, which I had never done, and we had an awesome time together. I got so many photos of the belugas and I'm much better at IDing them this year. I also worked some hours at a local gallery, but the place has been closed since June and I no longer have that job.
In June I was awarded the Technology Award at my school which was wonderful. I was nominated by my tech teacher (who is one of the sweetest teachers ever). I'm all finished high school forever now and I'll be off to college in September. It was sad saying goodbye to my teachers, the two of them were really wonderful this year and very understanding to everything that went on. They were both very supportive when I had to take the week off to work, and with all my other issues. Hopefully my exams went well! I also just did my WRIT test for college, which is a test where they evaluate your level of writing. I think I did well in that. I also paid my first semester of college (it is cheaper if you pay all at once rather than in installments) so it's official! Hehe. Now I just have to wait to see what kind of textbook costs I have, and I also need to buy a tripod.

Plans for the future include camping next week for the entire week with my family while our roof is being fixed/redone. After that I have some trip plans that I am VERY excited for which I'll be sure to write more about later (you can read Dave's journal if you want to know right now! ;).

I think that's all I planned on covering. :giggle: Have a good weekend everybody!



Contest Feature






I'm sorry this is so delayed! *Rasiris won a contest called Season and Elements at my club, #TheEndlessForest. Congratulations again!


Skin made by =fantasy-alive
13 Comments
  • Mood: Exhilarated
  • Listening to: David Choi - By My Side
  • Watching: LLS with Craig Ferguson
  • Eating: Peach Yogurt
Important Things! June 25, 2010 13 Comments No Favourites

More updates! & Free Print Giveaway!

Journal Entry: Thu May 13, 2010, 8:07 PM
Journal Design by *chi-u | Coded by =Jamaal10


Bye!


I will be back May 24th!
You may see some photos and updates randomly from me if I find computer access while I'm away. :)
Lots of awesome stuff in the next little while!

Stay safe! :wave:

PS: I will most likely delete all my deviantWATCH deviations and journals when I get back, but I will get to your comments in time! :)


Print Giveaway on Facebook Fan Page




For this giveaway, you can choose any print of mine you'd like off my Flickr account or website if you win!
Print sizes can be an unframed:  8x10, 8x12 or 8.5x11! You choose.
Everyone who 'likes' my photography page on Facebook has a chance to win!

There are two ways to win!

1. The first way to win is random, each persons ballots will be placed in a hat and one will be drawn. You must comment on the associated Facebook note in order to be  entered into the giveaway.

2. The second way is not completely random, whoever has the most ballots at the end of the contest wins! Please read below to see how you can get  more ballots.

How can I increase my chances of winning?

1. Buy a print! You could win your print for free if you are the winner, too. You will receive 10 extra ballots per purchase.

2. Follow me on Twitter to increase your ballots by 5. [link]

3. Invite your friends. For every friend you invite (that says they have  been invited by you), you will receive an extra ballot. If you invite  20 friends and those 20 friends say you invited them, you now have 20  more chances to win! The people you invite must comment on this note  with your full name.

The deadline for this is going to be May 31st and the winners will be revealed the next day, June 1st!

Best of luck to everyone!*

*Only open to American and Canadian residents unless willing to pay shipping costs.


Features






Business

Let me tell you a quick story. Many of you may remember last year around this time, I entered a photography competition. This photography competition was called 'Skills Ontario' ([link], which is a province wide competition in all things technological. My teachers asked if I was interested and I nervously agreed to participate. To make a long story short (I won't bore you with the details) I ended up placing first in the competition, to my surprise!

Fast forward to recently. I had been editing photos and realized I never uploaded my Skills Ontario photos to my Flickr account, which is where I upload all my work. One afternoon I received an email from a Skill Canada - Ontario representative who told me he had spotted my work and wanted to hire me as the photographer for the competition this year! I love the competition itself, it was wonderful being able to photograph all the student participants.

This is very big news for me and I am very excited to be photographing the competition this year, which takes place on May 17th, 18th, 21st, and 22nd. I will be sure to keep you all updated (if you're interested) on how things go and I will be uploading my photos to my Flickr website ([link].

Until then, thank you all for your support!





12 Comments
  • Mood: Excited
  • Watching: The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson
  • Eating: Banana
  • Drinking: Milk
More updates! & Free Print Giveaway! May 13, 2010 12 Comments No Favourites

Ask Me A Question! & We Won!

Sun Apr 25, 2010, 4:50 PM
:iconbubblywums:




As me a question, you silly head! The title says it all, I'm open for questions! You can ask me basically anything you want to know, it can be about me or photography in general, it can be about animals or work, whatever you like! Feel free to ask as many questions as you want. :)



Thank you to everyone who watched ~rootfortheunderdog and I's video on drug and alcohol abuse. Thanks to you guys, we ended up winning! I couldn't have done it without you guys, so thank you from the bottom of my heart! We have taken on two more video projects so we will be very busy with that.



I also wanted to share this article with you about the relationship between photographers and their gear. It is very short and an interesting read: The Camera Only Does So Much by `TwiggyTeeluck. My favourite line in the article is "Saying that a camera is responsible for a good photograph is like saying a typewriter is responsible for a good work of literature."



Lastly I'll give you a life update. I have some big business stuff going on next month which should go well and I'm eager to participate in. I've also got to dedicate some time to working on scholarships because I have been procrastinating on that! I've also been getting a few more hours at work, but I know I need to get a second job at some point in order to pay for school. Here's hoping something works out.



I hope all is well with you!




<img src="[link]"  border="0" width="500" height="2">






designed and coded by ~LeMex
75 Comments
  • Mood: Joy
  • Listening to: Bill Gates on How to Fix World’s Biggest Problems
  • Watching: Bill Gates on How to Fix World’s Biggest Problems
  • Drinking: Orange, Mango, Banana Juice
Ask Me A Question! & We Won! April 25, 2010 75 Comments No Favourites

Why are you awesome?

Mon Apr 5, 2010, 4:58 PM
:iconbubblywums:





This journal is inspired by ~lindseyp because she wrote me a huge, wonderful message today that made me think. I have been feeling down lately, so I want to write and read some things that will cheer me up. :)



I honestly want to know: why are you awesome? This is a blog entry for good and happy thoughts only, so no negativity or I will hide your comments. Don't tempt me!



I want to know, why are you awesome? And don't try to say you aren't awesome, because everyone is awesome! What is it about you that makes you so awesome? Maybe you're awesome because you are a really good listener and try to help your friends whenever you can. Maybe it's because you work everyday to improve your art by practicing relentlessly. Maybe you get really good grades or play a musical instrument that you're really good at! Maybe it's because you volunteer or work really hard at your job. Or maybe it's because of something you've accomplished or been a part of, or helped someone else to accomplish. It can be as small as always saying please and thank you to as large as scoring your dream job.



This is your chance to boast and brag about how awesome you are! Be as cocky as you can!



Why am I awesome? Well I'm awesome because I use every opportunity to learn something new when it comes to photography. I will photograph anything, even if the subject is uninteresting, just for the experience of playing with my camera and (trying my best to) flatter whatever subject I have.



DSC_4429 DSC_4481 DSC_4483 DSC_4486 DSC_4350 DSC_4427



Just over a year ago I was at square one with my photography, I bought and learned how to use my first DSLR camera and I have come so far. I won the biggest competition of my life and started my own business, and I was accepted into college for photography! I am excited for what the future holds, and todays setbacks are only minor inconveniences that push me one step further to my dreams.



So tell me! Why are you awesome? Post a comment below! ;)




<img src="[link]"  border="0" width="500" height="2">






designed and coded by ~LeMex
109 Comments
  • Mood: Shitty
  • Listening to: Freezepop
  • Reading: SAP Textbook :(
  • Watching: Life
Why are you awesome? April 5, 2010 109 Comments No Favourites

Everything! 50k & 600th winner!

Sat Mar 6, 2010, 4:13 PM
:iconbubblywums:




Hello everyone! Here is a very long (tl;dr) journal for you! I've divided into into paragraphs in case you want to skip through :lol:


50,000 & DD


Last night I gained my 50,000th pageview! Since no one caught it right on the dot, it was =SkyebobPiepants (who also had a photography account, *SkyeMarree) who caught the 49,999th and 50,001th! :giggle: Congratulations! She won a print of her choice, a 1 month sub, and a feature. :D A shout out goes to the adorable =TVD-Photography for trying her best to catch it. <3 I also successfully replied to all the comments left on my DD, which amazes me because I didn't realize how many comments that was until I checked! I tried to thank everyone for watching me, but I fell so behind! I will try to catch up with that. I forgot mention that !Videogame-Fangirl13 won a one month subscription for being my 600th watcher!


Birthday


My birthday is in two days! I'll be turning 19. I'm not extremely thrilled that it's my birthday, it will probably spent at home doing not much of anything. I was going to have some sort of birthday party but I don't know. I don't want to have people over at my house right now because I know it wouldn't go well, and I'm dirt poor so I can't afford to go anywhere. Does anyone have any good birthday ideas for the pathetic student? :P


College


As I mentioned in my last journal, I was accepted into college! I applied for the Photography program and was very nervous, because the program is highly competitive. Luckily =Chaotica-I calmed my nerves so I could function until I got the results! I am actually really excited to start college, the extra year I stayed in high school gave me more time to prepare and feel more confident about the whole college experience. Last year I just wasn't ready for college, but I truly feel like I am now! I can't wait to start.


School


Right now I only have two courses in high school which are SAP (Sociology, Anthropology, Psychology) and Communication Technology. I have my afternoon off, which I've been spending working at my previous co-op placement and sewing. Eventually I will need to find another job with more hours if I plan on not going into debt. Classes are going well, I find SAP really interesting. Right now we are talking about social pressure and mental illnesses, it's really interesting stuff. In Tech we are working on video production. ~rootfortheunderdog and I are partners in every single project, we just finished a work safety video and we are starting a drug prevention video very soon! I really like video editing, so that's fun stuff. Grades have been good, I need to get my SAP grade up above 80 so I can get a 90% overall mark for the year. I've got my fingers crossed that I can do it!


Family


I'm just going to talk about my family situation briefly because I want to keep this as happy as possible. Tensions are still high, I think the family is in for a very long journey with this, it's not just going to go away. I was watching Dr. Phil (which I never do) today and it was comforting to know we are not the only family facing this sort of challenge with my sister, but it didn't make it any easier. I'm just trying to focus on myself and what I need to do for me, no one else will.


Work


I have some very exciting things with my business that are to come, but I don't want to tell you guys about it until everything is finalized. It will be a great opportunity for me and I'm thrilled! Just know that things are going in the right direction. ;)



I also wanted to mention that I got one of my photos printed as a poster (please excuse crappy photo):





It turned out so good, if I do say so myself! I got it laminated and it is now hanging on my wall over my bed. I've never had one of my own photos on my wall, but I love seeing Ike's face when I walk in my room. :D It's 24" x 36" (2x3 feet) and mounted on Plak-it with a blue edge.


Thank you again everyone for the comments, faves, watches, everything. :hug: It means a lot to me! Have a good weekend. ;)




<img src="[link]"  border="0" width="500" height="2">






designed and coded by ~LeMex
48 Comments
  • Mood: Bliss
  • Listening to: Send Me On My Way - Ice Age OST
  • Drinking: Juice Box
Everything! 50k & 600th winner! March 6, 2010 48 Comments No Favourites

Thank you all so much!

Thu Mar 4, 2010, 6:52 PM
:iconbubblywums:




Thank you everyone. I am blown away, one of my pieces from my Black series has been given a DD! I literally had a heart-attack when I logged into deviantART today and saw the amount of messages I had. I still didn't believe it until I clicked on my photo and there it was. That little box below my photo. I know this sounds silly, but I really did start to tear up. Most of you don't know me well but I have been going through some tough things with my family, but this has put a huge smile on my face that can't be erased.



It means the world to me that people like my work. Just last week I found out that I had been accepted to college I really wanted to attend for photography! I have been having doubtful thoughts about my work and my decisions about my future, this came at a wonderful time for me. It is unbelievable how supportive complete strangers have been to me. You are wonderful people, thank you deviantART. Special thank you to `kkart for featuring my photo and to everyone who suggested it. You are wonderful. :)


I will make another journal a little later, I have a ton more I want to tell you guys (college, school, work, my birthday in 3 days, etc). :)


PS: My 50k is only about 500 pageviews away! Make sure you read the rules: [link]




<img src="[link]"  border="0" width="500" height="2">






designed and coded by ~LeMex
76 Comments
  • Mood: Bliss
  • Watching: The Ellen Show
  • Eating: Peanut Butter on Crackers
Thank you all so much! March 4, 2010 76 Comments No Favourites

50k Giveaway Approaches!

Mon Feb 1, 2010, 7:05 PM
:iconbubblywums:




I just noticed that my 50,000th pageview is approaching pretty fast, 5.5k left to go. I never officially announced I was giving a prize away, so I thought I should do that now!


If you catch my 50,000th pageview (note me with a screenshot), I will award you with a one month subscription, a feature, and a print of your choice (size to be determined)! The only catch is that you have to be a watcher of mine before this journal was posted. No random people coming up and scooping the prize that I don't even know. If it comes down to a tie that more than one person catches the 50,000th at the same time, preference will be given to the person who is a more active watcher. :)


Have fun!


PS: I also just randomly decided I'll give a one month subscription to my 600th watcher. That won't be for awhile but if I write it here I won't forget! I was going to do 500 but then I totally forgot. Or maybe I will give a subbie to my most active watcher when I reach 600. I haven't decided yet.





<img src="[link]"  border="0" width="500" height="2">






designed and coded by ~LeMex
28 Comments
  • Mood: Stupefied
  • Listening to: The Fountain Soundtrack - Stay With Me
  • Watching: Heroes
  • Drinking: Hot Chocolate
50k Giveaway Approaches! February 1, 2010 28 Comments No Favourites

I don't know.

Mon Jan 4, 2010, 3:22 PM
:iconbubblywums:




Hello everyone.


In recent weeks I have been dealing with some things in my life, probably the most difficult things I've ever had to deal with in my entire life. And to be honest, dealing isn't the right word, because I don't know how to deal with it. It feels like everything I knew is now crumbling around me. My family has fallen apart, and that is a very crushing feeling. I never knew anything could hurt this badly. It is pretty bad, and I don't know how things are going to get better from here.



I don't want to bother you guys with my problems, but I just wanted to let you know if you don't receive comments from me on your works, it's not because I'm trying to be rude. I can't bring myself to do much of anything right now, I'm struggling just to get up and go to school. I have a collection of pieces I've really wanted to comment on in my message center that just keep building up. I think I'm going to take some sort of hiatus. I'll still be helping with the clubs I own/admin and try to reply to the comments I get.



I really appreciate you guys and I just wanted to tell you. And it may be just because I'm all emotional, but just reading your comments makes me cry. You have NO idea how much your support means to me.



Happy New Year.


<img src="[link]"  border="0" width="500" height="2">






designed and coded by ~LeMex
82 Comments
  • Mood: Defeated
I don't know. January 4, 2010 82 Comments No Favourites

Winners! And Christmas

Journal Entry: Wed Dec 9, 2009, 1:38 PM






Hello everyone!



What are you wishing for this Christmas? I want to know! This Christmas I can't really think of much to ask for, my parents kept bother me to make a list and I couldn't think of much to put on it. I'm the kind of person who is predictable, I like dolphins, cameras, and jewelry. As I get older the Christmas season has begun to drift away, it doesn't even feel like Christmas to me right now! It's terrible. I haven't even got some of my shopping done, I really need to get my butt into gear. Have all of you got your shopping done? I did get gifts for my family but I don't have anything else done, well I did my Christmas cards! I still love Christmas though, even if it doesn't feel the same.



Christmas Gift To You

Well the results are in! Here are the following three winners:



:bulletgreen: =Chaotica-I


:bulletred: =TVD-Photography


:bulletgreen: ~SloanerTaku



Please send me your addresses in a note so I can mail you your prize! Thank you everyone for participating and watch out for next years contest. :santa:




Marine Mammal Christmas Avatars

Here are my cetacean/pinniped avatars from last year, I noticed a few people have already dug them up again and are using them which makes me so excited, but for all my new watchers and friends who haven't seen them, feel free to use them!






CSS created by `NyssaB


23 Comments
  • Mood: Hysterical
  • Reading: Messages
  • Watching: AFV
Winners! And Christmas December 9, 2009 23 Comments No Favourites

2 days left of Xmas Contest & Xmas Avatars

Journal Entry: Sun Dec 6, 2009, 6:15 PM






Hello again! I just wanted to bump this again and add a few more things to my journal. If you put in your entry already for the contest you don't have to enter again on this journal, that part is only people who haven't entered yet.



I have been a little discourage at how little exposure my portraits have been getting on here, I guess that's what I get for basing myself mostly in the cetacean community here on deviantART. I've worked really hard to get better on human portraits and they are getting skipped over when I'd really like to get some feedback on them...



As far as hats go, I don't think I'll be taking any orders before Christmas expect for the the three that already contacted me. If anyone backs out of their order or if I finish the one I have in progress I'll put them up to anyone who wants one. Right now I have 2 others hats I need to finish by Christmas so I won't have the time. I finished my beluga hat the other day and need to take some picture of it. I need some design tips on it if anyone is interested. I'm currently working on the polar bear hat for my aunt. I'm sewing the ears together right now. :)



Business today was discouraging, I didn't have any sales while selling my prints but a lot of people complimented my work which was nice. Still didn't cover the price of my table! Maybe next time I suppose. I also came home yesterday to a huge family fight that didn't end well. Somehow I ended up getting yelled at and feeling isolated, wasn't wonderful.



The Endless Forest Calendar that I put together, which was where most of my time was dedicated in November! Do yourself a favour and check it out, there are many talented artists featured!





Make sure to enter the contest, it's so easy! See you again soon.



Christmas Gift To You

The Christmas season is quickly approaching and I want to spread some joy once again, as I have done the past 2 years. That is why I’m holding a contest specifically for my watchers because you guys have been so wonderful to me and I love you all so much. I wish I could give everyone something but since I’m not made of money (especially this year) that is quite impossible! I came up with the idea to send some of my prints out for Christmas.



There are only a few rules:

1. You must be an active watcher of mine (must be watching me before this journal was put up). This contest is only open to them because they have been such good friends to me and I want to give back to them.


2. Please only make one post to this journal with the URL of the print you would like to receive. If you are chosen (I will make another journal with the winners) you MUST note me with your address.


3. Do not post if you are not allowed to give out your address. In order to send the print I need your mailing address. If your parents do not allow you to give it out, you can’t participate in this contest. I’m sorry!


4. I'm going to open the contest to anyone in the world this year, so international friends feel free to join in! However you can not enter if you won in the past 2 years.


5. You have one week starting today to make your comment!



I will make a list of all people who post here and put all the names into a hat (probably my orca hat!). Next Tuesday I will then randomly draw 3 names out of the hat and those people will be the winners! I always hated those ones where you had to be the first to post because I always lost, so this way some of the slower of you can participate too! ;D



That’s pretty much it! You have until Tuesday around noonish (8th) to post a message, sorry it isn’t longer but I need to get these out as soon as possible.



The prints themselves won’t be huge due to funds, probably 5x7 or 8x10. Depending on what the prices are to ship them (due to location and postage) size will vary.



I hope you enjoy them. :) Post away! :santa:




Marine Mammal Christmas Avatars

Here are my cetacean/pinniped avatars from last year, I noticed a few people have already dug them up again and are using them which makes me so excited, but for all my new watchers and friends who haven't seen them, feel free to use them!






CSS created by `NyssaB


22 Comments
  • Mood: Neglect
  • Listening to: Lady Gaga - Telephone
2 days left of Xmas Contest & Xmas Avatars December 6, 2009 22 Comments No Favourites

Thank You & Free Print Christmas Contest!

Journal Entry: Tue Dec 1, 2009, 6:18 PM







Happy December my friends! I can't believe how close Christmas is. It makes me very excited. I love the holidays!



I've been pretty busy lately so I haven't had much time to write but I knew I wanted to make a journal on December 1st for the annual contest I hold. It gives me an excuse to fill you guys in as well.



I wanted to start out with a thanks, to all of you who have recently been sending me incredibly nice comments and messages about my work, and myself. You guys keep me functional, I hope you know that! It's 100% true. You give me so much confidence in not only my work, but in myself. As corny as that may sound, I mean it. Here on deviantART I've been getting new watchers every day and I'm so thankful that people enjoy what I do. Hello all of you! I don't know what it is but lately people have just been extremely nice to me, and there isn't a minute that goes buy that I am not thankful for that. Over on The Endless Forest I'm running a Secret Santa for the players and so many people have been thanking me for putting it on, it really makes all my hard work worth while to know everyone is enjoying it so much! It just makes me feel like a good person, and that I'm doing some good in the world, even if it's only in our little community. So thank you to everyone, I feel all emotional. :lol:



I've been pretty up and down in general, family has still been gradually getting worse. Never in my life did I think I would have to choose between a family member and my values, but I can't change my values because of some mistakes people that I love make. I can't support them. And that is a very tough thing for me. I feel very alone in my family because I'm out of the frame, I go to school, I come home, and I'm in my room on the computer, playing guitar and sewing, by myself. Not that anyone would notice with all that's going on. Maybe I'm just being over-dramatic. School has been pretty good, I'll admit it's a joy to be there right now. I had my doubts at a 5th year of high school when I first started. I never would have been ready mentally and emotionally for college. I feel ready now though, I feel like I'm in a good place with school. I'm doing really well in all my classes and I may keep a 90% average this semester for the first time in my life. My teachers are all super nice which makes a world of a difference. In Fashion I'm currently making a plaid dress that I'm excited to wear, as long as all goes well! In Geography I'm happy, I'm with my friends and my teacher is a really nice guy and I've been doing really well on my tests. I've always liked Geography. My co-op is going well, I'm with ~CPurch every day and we do advertising/marketing/whatever else we're assigned to do. Haha!



I did some Christmas family portraits since my last journal which I think turned out really well. I'm also doing some Christmas Bazaar's in order to sell my prints, which have led to some success. I'm still positive! Fall and Winter have been very good to me when it comes to work that's for sure. If all works out I could be getting into some amazing stuff, but I don't want to jinx it. ;)



One last thing I wanted to mention was The Endless Forest Calendar that I put together, which was where most of my time was dedicated in November! Do yourself a favour and check it out, there are many talented artists featured!





Anyways, enjoy the contest. I hope you guys are having a good December so far, thanks for reading! :heart:



Christmas Gift To You

The Christmas season is quickly approaching and I want to spread some joy once again, as I have done the past 2 years. That is why I’m holding a contest specifically for my watchers because you guys have been so wonderful to me and I love you all so much. I wish I could give everyone something but since I’m not made of money (especially this year) that is quite impossible! I came up with the idea to send some of my prints out for Christmas.



There are only a few rules:

1. You must be an active watcher of mine (must be watching me before this journal was put up). This contest is only open to them because they have been such good friends to me and I want to give back to them.


2. Please only make one post to this journal with the URL of the print you would like to receive. If you are chosen (I will make another journal with the winners) you MUST note me with your address.


3. Do not post if you are not allowed to give out your address. In order to send the print I need your mailing address. If your parents do not allow you to give it out, you can’t participate in this contest. I’m sorry!


4. I'm going to open the contest to anyone in the world this year, so international friends feel free to join in! However you can not enter if you won in the past 2 years.


5. You have one week starting today to make your comment!



I will make a list of all people who post here and put all the names into a hat (probably my orca hat!). Next Tuesday I will then randomly draw 3 names out of the hat and those people will be the winners! I always hated those ones where you had to be the first to post because I always lost, so this way some of the slower of you can participate too! ;D



That’s pretty much it! You have until Tuesday around noonish (8th) to post a message, sorry it isn’t longer but I need to get these out as soon as possible.



The prints themselves won’t be huge due to funds, probably 5x7 or 8x10. Depending on what the prices are to ship them (due to location and postage) size will vary.



I hope you enjoy them. :) Post away! :santa:



Featured





CSS created by `NyssaB


33 Comments
  • Mood: Thanks
  • Listening to: Lady Gaga - Telephone
Thank You & Free Print Christmas Contest! December 1, 2009 33 Comments No Favourites