New respect for photographers

A few weeks ago, we took the kids to a fall festival held by a local nursery. The set up was adorable with old fashioned wagons and carts, handmade scarecrows, and pumpkins and gourds galore! Since we went on the fly after church when the kids were still semi-clean, I though I could get some nice fall pictures. In the back of my mind, I even entertained the thought of accomplishing the holy grail of pictures: the all 3 children looking at you and smiling shot. Here are a few samples of what was accomplished:

This was one of my favorites. Love the shirt, love the pumpkins, love the little spaced out teeth. Makes my heart beat faster.


This girl was in quite the foul mood and really didn't want to participate in any photo taking activities. So, what I got was a smirky, half smile that said, "I know what you are looking for and I have ability to give you a great picture, but I don't care and this is what I'm giving you. Work with it." I love it anyway, silly girl.


My oldest is usually the kiddo that could care less about posing for pictures. However, she was in quite the model mood, so she kept proposing ideas to keep my attention on her and away from the other two who were trying to determine the best way to de-arm a scarecrow. I love these pictures of her, but I can't stop wondering who turned on the time machine to produce this grown-up looking girl. Everyone knows that she's 6, right? What? She's 9? Sigh, I wish someone would help me keep up with these things.


Another favorite of the little man. I love the serious look and those chubby little cheeks. I dread the day when he is 9. Somehow, I don't think he's going to let me kiss those cheeks all the time when he is 9.


Anyone ever hear horror stories about the mood swings of a toddler? These 2 pics were taken one frame apart. Total frustration to total delight in the matter of .2 seconds. Life with a toddler, caught in action.

And now attempting the elusive 3 happy kids shot:

Can you feel the attitude radiating from the kiddo on the right?


Sure, nothing says "great picture" like a pair of bunny ears.


I guess I'm not the only one who didn't like the ears.


And, if your brother didn't like the ears the first time, it means you are forced to do it again.


Dad gets the bright idea to get their attention by clapping. Great idea. Moving hands are always welcomed in photos.


More attitude from the girl in the back. She gets this from her father.


This was the best of about 200 pics. Managed to get everyone looking the same general area. It helps if you squint when you look at the baby. Professional photographers around the world, my hat goes off to you. You earn your money, that's all I'm sayin'.