When I’m out on location at a photography session I am OFTEN asked about where I got “my purse.”  I get this question particularly from mom’s of the children that I am photographing because what girl doesn’t love a cute handbag?!  This question about “my purse” always makes me all giddy inside because it’s not a purse, but my camera bag.  That’s right, a camera bag that protects my gear and looks like a Kate Spade bag.  And that is JUST my style. I knew that those black, puffy, suitcase looking camera bags were never going to be for me so I was always actively looking for other alternatives.  But everything I could find that was stylish would not protect my camera.  You can see my problem. Well, then I found The Emera Bag. I can’t remember if I’ve had it for 2 or 3 years, but I’m pretty sure I was one of the first 50 people to buy it when they came out. And I remember once the word was out they went fast.  My camera bag is called the “city tote” and sadly for everyone out there that wants one they don’t make this fabric anymore. (That of course makes me love my bag even more now that the fabric is “retired” and it’s even more unique).  BUT, they have other options if you go on their website and I think that quilted bag is super cute.  So while Christmas may be over, Mother’s Day is just around the corner and wouldn’t one of these bags be a great gift!

I wish I had more images to show you, but this is a shot my friend at Valerie Ott Photography took for me when we did this portrait session. I don’t have any photos of the inside of the bag to show so I”ll have to take some and do that another time.  But the inside is padded and has these compartments that can be moved around to fit your camera.  And there are fun pocket for an IPhone, business cards and all kids of other things!

Contact Melanie to Set up a Spring or Summer Portrait session

Today is one of those days I am just feeling grateful. Maybe it’s because of the warm weather. The idea of spring being close by certainly lifts every one’s spirits! And I suppose the fact that it’s Friday doesn’t hurt either.  But there are just times when I reflect on life, my photography, my family, children and husband and even though you have some “not so great days” you know you are truly blessed.  Spring makes me think about new birth – and makes me excited to see what the Lord has in store for me this year. Thank you to all my wonderful clients that support my vision and art by allowing me into your homes and lives to capture your love, life, and memories all year long.  I am truly thankful!

So here are some photo images to remind us that spring in Missouri is closer than we think!