Dear New York
August 29th, 2011 § 8 Comments
Day 241
I’m glad Irene didn’t phase you too much. When I heard you were completely closing down and forcing people to leave you, I got a little worried. I trust that by the time I see you, everything will be back to normal. As always, I miss you terribly.
Love,
Caitlin
C’mon Get Higher
April 18th, 2011 § 6 Comments
Day 108
Let’s play a game today. What is this to you?
To me, it is not simply a fire escape. It’s a reminder that sometimes you have to go down before you can come back up again.
Your turn.
Subway Love
April 14th, 2011 § 6 Comments
Day 104
It’s been awhile since I waxed poetic about my beloved New York. As I was sifting through my ever-growing iPhoto library, I realized I never imported these photos into Lightroom. I actually played around quite a bit with the settings here so what you’re seeing is in a very different light and exposure than what I shot in. Still, I think the tender, quiet moments are captured well.
I’m sure someone has already done this, but wouldn’t a documentary or book solely about subway riders be fantastic? I really love the hodgepodge of people, styles, fashion and snippets of life you see riding underground with a bunch of strangers. One of my favorite games to play is “tourist or resident?” I find myself getting wrapped up in every possibility my imagination can conjure up of the very life of someone who thinks of the subway the same way I think of my car – as a means to get around. On this last trip, I started seeing the city as more than just a fun place to visit. I saw it as home to so many people who frequent the places I can only recall via photographs from many miles away.
Oddly enough, the subway is one of those places. I don’t claim to be an expert on navigating it – not yet, anyhow – but I do love the whole concept of quick public transportation so many Eastern Seaboard cities have in place.
That reminds me of when Carrie and I got on the C line, dressed to the nines for a night out and wondered why we were the recipients of so many stares. As I clutched the railing and came to a screeching halt several stops later, I looked at the station name, feverishly glanced at my map, turned to her and said, “Um, Care? I think we’re in Brooklyn?”
Needless to say we were a bit late for dinner.
And being the hopeless romantic that I am, I’d like to think this gentleman is making his own dinner plans with a special someone. Hopefully she has a better sense of direction than I do.
Scenes From A Cafe
March 30th, 2011 § 3 Comments
Lucky Ducks
March 29th, 2011 § Leave a Comment
Day Eighty-Eight
When the forecast called for rain the one full day we were in New York, my heart sank. As if it’s not enough for a girl to have to deal with the possibility of frizz and splashing passersby, it was a very important day full of appointments for Carrie to try on wedding dresses in hopes that after 10 months and three trips, she would finally find the one. But, as always, we persisted and went off into the dreary morning, umbrella overhead, boots on feet, ready like two ducks facing the weather head on.
Looking back on the shots I took that morning at Gabriella New York Bridal Salon the rain was actually a gorgeous backdrop to so many small details in the shop. I love the drops on the windows distinct against a blurred background of taxis and traffic lights.
I could have spent an entire rainy afternoon in that airy loft in Chelsea.
I’m happy to report Gabriella’s was the spot where we returned hours later to toast a glass of champagne in celebration, and let’s face it – relief. After much consultation, videos and photos sent via email and text message to family in Pennsylvania, a few more appointments across the city just to “make sure this was it” and a teary conversation with the groom, the decision was made – she had found her dress (and no, it’s not any of the ones shown here – I know the rules having been a bridesmaid five times.)
Focus
March 28th, 2011 § 3 Comments
Day Eighty-Seven
One of my favorite things to do with my camera is play with the focus. I love standing in one spot and only moving my camera to different depths and distances as well as framing the shot in as many ways as possible. I used to do this with my point and shoot as well, especially in the macro mode. I love the challenge of using a lens without a zoom because it forces me to teach myself what distance I need to gain in order to get the shot I want. Which is your favorite?
You’d never know she was just beyond the edge of the shot – but I turned my body 30 degrees to the left and there she was!
Have you checked my studio out on Facebook and given it a “like” yet?
New York Fashion
March 27th, 2011 § 3 Comments
Day Eighty-Six
As funny as it may seem, I really love dressing in layers and miss the ability to pile on a long coat, a scarf and my bag – much like the woman pictured here – now that I live in the South. I snapped this first because of the vibrant greens but after a second look and editing, I realized how much I love the familiarity of her outfit even more.
City Dogs
March 25th, 2011 § 2 Comments
Day Eighty-Four
The concept of dog runs in cities has always fascinated me. Having always lived in an area where there was ample space if I chose to have a pet, I tend to forget in places like New York and Philadelphia, that luxury is not afforded to pet owners. I loved taking some time out of a crazy day to just watch these pups play, run and socialize with one another. At times, their interactions mimic that of people and I just have to laugh. Plus, I’m a sucker for any breed with a pug nose.
My studio has a Facebook page now! Head on over and give us a like for more photography goodness!
Rainy Day Remembrance
March 23rd, 2011 § 5 Comments
Day Eighty-Two
There are so many things I love about this photo.
I love that it the forecast called for rain and Carrie packed her gorgeous umbrella with the wooden handle. I love that we only had to use it for the 10 minutes we walked to breakfast. I love that we feel New York enough to have “our” breakfast spot that we visit every morning each time we visit New York. I love the dull yellow from the wall behind it. I love the bright green. I love how you can’t really tell that it was raining in this photo, but that memory will tell me forever that it was. Most of all what I love about this photo is that it makes me feel warm and happy and loved. It takes me right to that spot in Chelsea, sitting in that wooden chair in the crowded French patisserie that envelopes me in appreciation and starts my day off right.
To me, this is what photography is all about.
Do you have a photo that does the same thing for you?
My studio has a Facebook page now! Head on over and give us a like for more photography goodness!
Blend Birthday
March 18th, 2011 § 3 Comments
Day Seventy-Seven
It’s hard to believe that just about a year ago I attended FitBloggin and met some amazing women – blends! – who happened to share the same interests as me. And as if it wasn’t enough that we all devoted our time to this crazy little hobby, it just so happened that we had a lot of other things in common, too. Life beyond our blogs, it seemed, was just as relatable as what we read on screen. Prior to the conference, I had never read Gracie’s blog. Fast forward to today and it’s one I read every single day.
As is often the case, Gracie and I have grown closer via email over this last year. We’ve faced a lot of similar struggles and have turned to one another for advice and support. I couldn’t help but feel a wave of pride and admiration when she made the big move a few months ago and started life on her own in the big city.
I was lucky enough to spend an evening with her while I was in New York. We reunited at a favorite spot of mine, catching up over crostini and chatting about an array of topics that email, busy schedules and life changes get in the way of. As it always goes, the time was too short but the company was just right.
I love reading Gracie’s blog because it’s unpredictable. The recipes are there, yes, but she also talks about her outlook on life, the importance of her faith and shares silly stories. I’ve learned from reading her blog – about makeup and beauty and prayer and friendship. Health is important to her, but it’s not the only thing in her life. She’s got a killer sense of fashion and many mornings, leaves me looking at life in a different light. As a consumer of many, many types of media, there’s nothing that keeps me coming back more than that.
Today Gracie celebrates her 24th birthday. I got to be one of the first to wish her an amazing year on Wednesday. I’m so blessed and thankful for our friendship and can’t wait to see what the next year has in store. Please head over to her blog and wish her a Happy Day!
Happy Birthday gorgeous Gracie! xo
Resistance
March 17th, 2011 § 2 Comments
Day Seventy-Six
Don’t let this fool you. This little guy is being pulled – unwillingly – into the scary abyss better known as the Union Square Dog Run. He was shaking and resisting and not excited one bit.
This is exactly how I feel every time I leave New York. As always, I have a lot to say about the time I’ve spent here – even though it was short. For now, I’m pulling the leash, fighting back against my flight itinerary. Eventually, I’ll have to succumb. Planes don’t just up and wait for anyone, you know.
The silver lining is that I know when my next trip back will be. This time, I’ll be able to take one look back toward my beloved City, smile and quietly say to myself, I’ll see you soon, New York.
Modern Day Greek Poetry
March 16th, 2011 § 10 Comments
Day Seventy-Five
Do you remember reading Homer’s The Odyssey in high school? There was one really important silent character – Helen of Troy, the face that launched a thousand ships.
This is my Helen of Troy. You may also know her as Carrie.
This is the face of someone who has held me up more times than I have fallen. The one who does my eye makeup every time we go out. The only one I trust to touch my nails. She’s taught me how to compliment a stranger, manage a team and stand up for my faith. She’s stopped the car in the middle of morning rush hour traffic to give me a hug when I was homesick. She was the last hug I gave before I left Pittsburgh. She’s my morning Skype date and my drive home from work phone call. She’s a confidante in my love for Michael Kors, Tiffany and Kate Spade. She’s my dining partner when the menu calls for cheap sushi.
She’s brought forth so many changes in me since our friendship began that I have to say I truly would not be the same without her. She’s given me confidence, love, support, a stage on which to shine and a safe haven when I needed to hide from the world.
She brought me to New York and I couldn’t be happier about it. Between bridal appointments filled with lace and styling, we tried falafel for the first time and walked arm in arm throughout the City. She pointed out some great angles when I whipped out my camera yesterday and as always, obliged when I made her my model.
We’re off to take on another day. Amidst the raindrops, on every stop we have to make to consult the map, through the subway and in boutiques we’ll go – me and the face that launched a thousand wonderful memories, characteristics and lessons in my life.
Blur
March 15th, 2011 § 2 Comments
Day Seventy-Four
I’m up before the birds this morning to make a trip to my beloved New York. The next couple days are sure to be nothing short of a blur with all we’ve got on our list. I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ve waxed poetic on my love for this place before and simply can’t wait to be inspired and excited again. Catch you from the flip side.
Stream of Consciousness
February 28th, 2011 § 3 Comments
Day Fifty-Nine
It’s time for a few weekend confessions. Ready?
I wore flip flops and shorts this weekend. I pulled my hair back in a ponytail and could just feel spring. Considering my dislike for sweating just thinking about going outside in the summer months in Texas, I’d like temperatures to stay right where they are, thank you very much.
Every morning when I go to post, I have to pull up my blog to know what day I’m on for Project FOR Life. I have absolutely no concept of order. Or a memory apparently.
I spent my Saturday night baking three dozen yellow cupcakes. Half were from scratch using Jenna’s recipe, half came from a box. I ran out of frosting with a dozen to go. They were made per request for a coworker on her last day. Turns out she didn’t show up. I’m sure you understand everyone’s disappointment as they stuffed their faces with chocolate frosting and sugary sweet sprinkles.
After a 12-hour day, the only thing that sounded appealing to me last night was pizza and some quality alone time. After a quick stop for a $5 pie, I threw on an oversized t-shirt that used to belong to my Dad, some flowery shorts and caught up on 10 days of DVR. And although I was stuffing my face like a grown man in an eating contest, you know homegirl was tuned into the Oprah Winfrey Network. Juxtaposition, people.
Oh yeah, I also spent a small fortune booking my next trip to New York. I really enjoyed that pit in my stomach feeling when I realized making travel accommodations two weeks out was not the brightest idea I’ve ever had. Then I realized it will be less than 14 days before I’m packing my bags and heading to the most amazing place on earth. It was all warm and fuzzy from there.
I’ve got a lot of really big photography developments coming down the pipe in the next few weeks. This is wonderful because I spent several days last week without so much as a glace at my Canon. Also, did I just use the phrase “coming down the pipe”? I am so my high school science teacher.
Oh, and one more thing about the pizza. It was fabulous for breakfast.
Today’s lovely photo was made possible in part by our sponsor Cailyn and Brian.
Stop and Go
February 23rd, 2011 § 5 Comments
Day Fifty-Four
I’m a pretty visual person.
I’ve seen these signs all over New York and always stopped to admire them. I know what they mean. I know they’re about cars.
But what if we thought about it on a bigger spectrum? Couldn’t the same be said for life?
After all, there is no stopping. Time continues to march on in the same fashion, at the same rate no matter what we choose to do with it.
Sometimes I’d like to tell time to pause and stand still with me just for a moment – while I relish in happiness, while I cope, while I question, while I take a deep breath and figure out what to do next.
“Nope,” time says to me, wagging its finger, “not gonna happen.”
Today’s picture is actually the screen saver on my phone. A visual reminder that I won’t catch a break – and neither will anyone else.
Because here’s the thing – sometimes when I’m going through a struggle, I just need something raw and real to ground me.
It doesn’t get much more raw and real than New York.
