Lucky Star Designs and Photography

What to Wear to your Fall or Winter Portrait Session | Denton County Photographer

2013-11-20T15:35:00.001-06:00

Every fall/winter it begins again... my clients rushing to call and book their family portraits in enough time to design and mail holiday cards. The two most frequent questions I get are: "Where are we going to take our pictures this year" and "What do we wear?"

I am emphatically opposed to the matchy-matchy looks of the 90's. You know... everyone in white button ups and jeans, or everyone in black tshirts and jeans... or the other variations of the entire family wearing the exact same outfit. Where is the personality? Where is the color? Do you really want to look like one big blob of white and denim? No. I promise. You don't.

For the past couple years I've stressed the importance of coordination but not matchy-matchy outfits to the families I photograph. However, some of my clients still get stressed at the idea of picking out the right clothes for each member of the family and having it not only look good, but reflect each individual style while maintaining comfort and confidence.

So I put together a few tips before you go hunting in the closet or the department store to piece together the perfect family ensemble. And since I am a bit obsessed with lists, of course it's in a list form:

1. Coordinate - do not try to "match"... the days of all black or white tshirts with jeans are long over. Please choose outfits that reflect each person's individual personality and don't be afraid to mix texture, color and prints. Think clothes that coordinate, not match. For example, everyone in dressy more formal fabrics but different colors... some in pants and some in skirts/dresses. Or everyone wearing winter wear (coats, scarves, hats) but each one different and unique.

2. Layers - Speaking of hats and scarves, fall is the perfect time of year to layer your clothes. It adds texture, and also gives you more options of different looks without the hassle of changing outfits.

3. Shoes - comfort verses fashion... the age old dilemma. Do pay attention to shoes, as they will end up in some of your poses ... heels are GREAT, if you know how to wear them and feel comfortable. If you really want heels, but your location isn't ideal for them, bring some comfy shoes to walk around in and change into the heels during poses.

4. Pants - make sure they are long enough, because if they aren't, your socks and shoes will look funny. Unless they are cropped pants, capris or shorts, they should hit mid-way down your shoe or longer.

5. Socks - speaking of seeing your socks... when you sit down, we might see them. Choose accordingly.

6. Hats/Scarves/Jewelry - GREAT way to change a look. Just be careful not to wear ALL three. Then you will look overdone. Pick one or two and then keep everything else more subtle. One dramatic accessory can go a long way towards stating your style. Too many, and you will get lost in your outfit.

7. Logos/Prints - Avoid anything with logos, graphics, characters or labels of any kind. These will distract the viewer from the primary subject of the photo (YOU) and will date the image.

8. Color - choose one or two people in your family to be the splash of color. Have them wear a bold colored scarf, or shoes or shirt. Dress everyone else neutrally with maybe small accents of that bold color. It will coordinate but also provide personality and interest.

9. Comfort - Now isn’t the time to break in new shoes or wear anything tight or constricting. If you’re not comfortable, it will show in the images. Pick clothing that accentuate your best feature or make you feel good.

10. Hair - always get your hair cut and/or colored at least a week before your session, that way if it's the wrong color or needs to settle some, there is time and you don't look too overdone.

I hope these tips helped you as you get ready for your family session in the next week or so. Trust me, I stress over it as much as you do. But don't feel like you need to go out and buy all new stuff. Sometimes the perfect outfit is right in your closet, or in my case, in your sister's closet (ha... I borrowed the dress in our family portraits from my sister... finally payback for years of her raiding my closet). Everyone in our pictures had these outfits in their closets (or borrowed it, like me). Nothing was new. I didn't spending any of our holiday budget to come up with new outfits.

My daughter wore a shirt of mine that I never wear with my tall black boots, my oldest son wore a sweater he got last year but wore with a different combination of pants and shirt for our family holiday dinner. The youngest is in a shirt handed down from a friend, jeans from last year and a sweater vest my mom picked up for him from a thrift store. My husband is wearing his standard button up that he wears to work with his best jeans and boots. The dress I am wearing was borrowed and my shoes and belt are several years old but I hadn't wore them in a while. No one person saw our outfits and said "I've seen that before". (Well except my sister, but she doesn't count). And we got TONS of compliments on our coordinating (NOT matching) outfits. Not to mention, we were comfortable, felt confident in what we were wearing and the outfits reflected our own personal style.

image credit: Snapberry Photographs

Whatever you wear... have FUN and create MEMORIES. Don't let the idea of family portraits stress you out or cause you and your husband to argue or yell at the kids. If you smile, have fun and enjoy this moment together, it WILL show in your images. And you will treasure them for years to come.

Need to book a family session? There are limited spots before I close shop for the Christmas Holidays. Check out www.luckystardesigns.net for current images, promotions and to get my contact information. Happy Holidays!!

How to ROCK your Corporate Headshots | Denton County DFW Photographer

2013-10-28T11:54:00.001-05:00

If you are in the corporate world today, you know that image is everything. Companies are not the only ones with brands and corporate identities to protect. With social media taking over nearly every aspect of our daily lives, we each are our own personal brand and image. We are are not only an extension of our family, our companies and our organizations, we are an example of it. The window in which others look through to get a snapshot of what you are representing.

So it's important that your LinkedIn profile, Facebook page, website and other media outlets have something more professional than a cropped cell phone picture that your daughter snapped of you.

I'll be honest. It's growing beyond just the typical industries of real estate and mortgage to have professional images of yourself. The list of companies requesting their employees to have professional head-shots on file is growing.

As a professional photographer, it's been a year of corporate work for me. Several assignments to take corporate headshots of entire teams and a couple events. I really enjoyed myself, even though there isn't as much artistry to corporate stuff, it tends to be more conventional and conservative. I do pride myself on making my clients feel comfortable and helping them get their personality to shine through. Getting images for your business cards or online social media does not have to be painful. Do I daresay it can even be fun sometimes?

Now, as you can see from my examples here, many people go for the standard black background for a more conservative look. And it does look sharp on business cards and websites, I do admit. Black just states "I mean business", "You can take me seriously", "I know what I am doing."

However, I urge you to consider an on-location set-up for your head-shots. Take it outside or even in front of your corporate office. Take it to the street, especially if what you do is more in the field than behind a desk. Let your clients see you in your natural habitat.

Still nervous? Not convinced head-shots are for you. Want more specific information on how to ROCK your head-shot session?

These are my top five tips
for taking great professional images:

1. Have Fun: Don't be afraid to smile. The more casual and approachable you seem, the more people will want to pick up the phone to call you for your product and/or service. Get some serious images if you think you need them, but smile too and be sure it's a genuine one. Even laugh. Think of something that makes you happy. Enlist a friend to stand behind the photographer and talk about things that will make you chuckle. A natural smile is the most attractive thing every person possesses.

2. Clothes: I tell all my clients that they don't need to go buy new clothes for a portrait session. If you feel it's necessary though, be sure you have a few basics covered. Don't wear anything with a logo (unless it's your corporate or business logo, but even then, I say post the logo online separate from your picture. It will be too small to see anyways and only distract from the subject). Don't be afraid of prints, but keep them simple. Stripes, poka dots, chevron... they all work to bring in some personality and color. You just don't want anything too small (you won't be able to see it anyways) or too busy and bold. Stick to classic styles. You may have this picture for 5-10 years if you don't like getting them done often, so wear something that won't go out of style by next fall. And most important, whatever you wear needs to be comfortable! Make sure it fits well, that you can stand AND sit in it and you feel good in it. If you are not comfortable or feel confident in what you are wearing, it will show in your picture. Women, stay away from big or bold jewelry. Keep it simple.

3. Hair and/or Makeup: Whatever you do, don't get a haircut RIGHT before you get pictures done. You always feel better about a new hairstyle or color a few weeks after it's settled and you have gotten use to fix it (especially women). Don't do any drastic changes. If you feel comfortable, don't be afraid to go get your hair professional styled the day of, but keep to a style that fits the way you look normally. Women, having professionally applied make-up helps too. They tend to go a little darker and dramatic. If you do your own make-up, be sure to put on a little more than you usually do. False eyelashes are great too if you want your eyes to pop and standout. Stick to subdued lipcolor. Bright and dark lips can make the rest of your face look washed out in pictures.

4. Posing: A good photographer will be able to pose you and help you relax and look your best. But there are a few tricks to remember for posing in the most flattering way. Don't forget your posture. You want to look relaxed and comfortable, but you still need to make sure your shoulders are back and you don't slouch. Positioning is important too. Although you want your face to the camera, it always looks better if your body is angled away slightly. This helps slim your body and bring attention to your face. And don't forget to relax. I always tell my clients that if it CAN BEND then it SHOULD BEND... so relax those fingers, elbows, knees, neck, etc. Bend them slightly so you don't look stiff. And finally, take a deep breath, think of something happy and smile while looking directly at the lens.

5. Location: As I mentioned earlier, you don't have to do the standard black or gray background. You can of course, if that's what works for you. But there are so many other options. Go to a downtown area, or a park, or a museum. Just pick a location that reflect you and what you do. Don't feel limited to what others have done. There is no real standard here, and if their was, we should be breaking the mold anyways. It's not about what is behind you anyways, it's all about what's ahead. Make eye contact and show your clients where you want to go, with confidence and experience.

Now go get cleaned up and get those head-shots.

Stop procrastinating. Don't wait.

Are you a corporate professional or business owner? You realize that your first impression is everything and that includes how you present yourself online through mediums such as Facebook, LinkedIn, etc. Professional head-shots can make all the difference in attracting new clients and business prospects. Let me help you capture classy and professional images of you at a location of your choice. I even have group specials where I can get everyone in your team or company done on the same day.

Headshots run from $60-120 per person and include digital images for your use on Facebook, LinkedIn, and other online uses. Need a quote? Contact me today to schedule your session!

Copyright 2013 Lucky Star Designs & Photography. All Right Reserved. For better quality images, visit www.luckystardesigns.net.

Class of 2013: Rocking those Senior Sessions (Denton/DFW Area Photographer)

2013-04-15T16:06:00.000-05:00

It's no lie when I say some of my favorite subjects to photograph are high school seniors. There is just an energy about them. The excitement, anticipation and sense of nostalgia too is evident when I meet with them. They are closing one chapter and embarking on a new one in their lives.

Caitlin was so much fun to work with. When her mom first contacted me, we had planned to break her session into two meetings, one early in her Senior Year and one later after she got her cap and gown. This is a great option for clients that want to get their senior stuff ordered early, but don't want to miss out on those more traditional cap/gown portraits as well.

Now I'll be the first to admit, girls like getting their pictures taken more than guys do. It's just a fact. Guys just don't like all the fuss, the haircut, the changing outfits and the posing. I feel for you guys, I truly do. But moms love to see their little men all dressed up and smiling for the camera. Just accept it. And you are about to venture out into the world and choose when and how you do stuff from now on, no one to tell you what to wear (except your boss someday) or how to cut your hair, or even to nag you about your gas tank level or if you have eaten breakfast. Let mom have the last opportunity to be mom and capture you as the boy, turned man, that she helped raise.

Grayson was a great sport at this. He managed to keep his eye-rolling and brooding sighs to a minimum as his mom joked and cajoled him into smiling and showing us that handsome dimple.

Congrats 2013 Seniors, Caitlin and Grayson! It was a joy to be your Senior Portrait Photographer. Good luck to both of you as you venture towards independence and knowledge. I know you will both do GREAT!

Alex + Chase Engagement Session by Denton County Photographer

2013-03-07T09:59:00.000-06:00

Engagement Sessions may be my favorite thing to do. And meeting with a new couple is always exciting. It was a ridiculously windy day, and meeting in the middle of the Las Colinas Canals didn't help. This gorgeous couple completely rocked their session however and I was left spellbound by the love that exudes from them both.

Alex is the niece of another client and dear friend, and I could tell right away she inherited her aunt's sweet spirit. I enjoyed my time with her and even had fun helping her tease Chase to get some genuine smiles out of him (we all know how much guys hate this whole picture-taking thing).

And did you see that ring? Absolutely beautiful. When I told Alex, "He did good!", she just beamed at me, looked at Chase, smiled and said, "Yes. He did." Sigh. Isn't love sweet?

Congratulations Alex and Chase. You are a lovely couple, both inside and out. It was a pleasure and a joy meeting you and capturing this special time in your life together. Enjoy the journey towards marriage and beyond. Wishing you many blessings.

Spring 2013 DSLR Workshop in Denton County

2013-02-25T14:40:00.000-06:00

If you haven't seen my most recent post, you may not know I've recently partnered with Texas Tatertot Photography to offer DSLR Workshops (and Photoshop Classes) in the Denton County area. We are so excited about our first class coming up in April. Space is limited to 10 participants and we already have a few signed up, but more classes are coming.

You can find out more by going to www.clicksngiggles.com or clicking the image below. Be sure the fan the Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Clicks-n-Giggles/376063959158787. Contact info@clicksngiggles.com for more information.

2013 High School Senior by Denton Area Photographer

2013-02-25T13:53:00.000-06:00

As we wrap up February, I know many of my clients are getting excited about the upcoming Spring. Not just because of the warmer temps and sunshine and flowers, but especially those that are graduating from high school and college to move on to new exciting adventures.

Caitlin was one of my favorite high school seniors to shoot. Vibrant red hair, beautiful smile and a cowgirl attitude... what's not to love?

We headed to one of my favorite locations for her senior session in the middle of one of our coldest days in December. This girl is no sissy, she brought short sleeves, dresses and of course... her boots. (Thank goodness she also brought mom and sister along to carry a blanket, jacket and help warm her up between shots).

If you are a 2013 High School Senior, it's NOT too late to get your session done. Contact me soon, as slots fill up fast in the spring. Are you a 2014 High School Senior? I am accepting applications for my Senior Rep Program, contact me for more details. (email miranda@luckystardesigns.net).

Thanks to Caitlin and her mom for such a fun senior session and thanks to little sis, Kenzie, for being my awesome lighting assistant that day as well. Ya'll rocked!

Mommy and Me Session by Denton Area Photographer

2013-02-25T13:30:00.000-06:00

My first session of 2013 was a BEAUTIFUL "Mommy and Me" session with two sweet ladies. I am always honored when friends choose me as their photographer and this time is no different.

I met Teresa ~~10 or 11~~ a LOT of years ago when we both were a part of a Book Club (erm maybe we should call it a Wine Club, if we are being honest). We hit it off and I loved her wit and personality right off. She was fun and smart and beautiful. A triple threat.

Although the Book/Wine Club disbanded much too quickly, we can thank Facebook and several big life events for being able to keep in touch over the years . I was thrilled when I met her daughter, sweet little Ava, during my fall mini sessions last year. That little beauty is so much like her mommy, full of life and energy and charisma.

This "Mommy and Me" session was a special one, as this pair is embarking on new adventures together. With beauty and spirit such as this, how can they fail? I can't wait to see them in front of my camera again soon (hopefully when it's warmer). Thanks to Teresa and Ava for braving the cold temps and letting me capture these fun images of the two of you. Love you lots!

Clicks 'n Giggles, DSLR Workshops by Denton Area Photographer

2013-02-25T11:23:00.000-06:00

I am severely behind in blogging... but I have a good excuse. Lots of new stuff in the works for Lucky Star Designs & Photography.

1. New Logo

click image to launch website

2. New partnership for workshops and classes

click link to launch website

3. Coming Soon --- New website and blog design for Lucky Star D&P.

4. Now offering WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY. After avoiding the wedding business for a few year now for several reasons, I now have the equipment, experience and insurance to make wedding photography a reality. I can even provide a 2nd shooter for larger weddings. Contact me to get a bid on your special day.

Don't forget -- I am still shooting families, children and newborn portraits. We will have mini-sessions throughout the year, so be sure to fan www.facebook.com/luckystardesigns to keep up to date. Or respond to this post with your email address to be added to the email list for special promotions.

Workshops and Classes will be held exclusively through my partnership with Texas Tatertot Photography. Keep up-to-date on upcoming classes by liking our Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/Clicks-n-Giggles/376063959158787.

Private Photography lessons and Mentoring is still available. Just contact me directly for more information.

Corporate Services include: headshots, event photography, logo design, marketing consultation and designs, advertising design. I can help you revamp or create a brand from scratch. Let me know what you need help with!

Have a GREAT Monday everyone.

LOVE by Lucky Star Designs & Photography

2013-02-05T15:24:00.000-06:00


Click to see Larger Image

I haven't had time for photo challenges lately. We just bought and moved into a new house (hello beautiful home office and studio. I heart you.)

But I saw this one by I Heart Faces and knew I had the perfect picture. The theme is LOVE.

This is my little guy. He's six months old. He LOVES me to take his pictures in my new studio. Can't you tell?

Go join the fun over at I Heart Faces and participate in their monthly challenges. They are fun.

Wall Art Wednesday (a day late)

2013-01-03T10:30:00.000-06:00

I am holding a drawing --- go to this post on Facebook and "share" on your wall to tell all your friends to "like" Lucky Star Designs & Photography's page and you could be one of three lucky fans to win a framed print of this wall art.

Share by Friday, January 4, 2013 at 5pm. Drawing held that evening. Winners will be notified via Facebook.

More contests coming throughout the year!

For better quality images, visit www.luckystardesigns.net

2012, a year in review - Denton Area Photographer and Graphic Designer

2013-01-02T18:18:00.000-06:00

Okay - I admit it. I've seriously neglected my blog this year. Both my personal and photography one. (Sounds like the beginnings of a new year's resolution, right?). I promise to TRY and be better.

But to make up for it... ((((drum roll please))))... I am going to do a 2012 review of some of my favorite images from the past year. It's going to be tough to choose, since I shot some amazing families, kiddos, professionals and couples this year. I feel so blessed to do what I feel passionately about and hope you enjoy seeing what I did this year. (click on the images to see them larger, if you want).

Photoshop Class - Denton County Area Photogapher

2012-09-12T10:50:00.000-05:00

All Photoshop and Photography classes are now provided through my partnership company:

Visit us at www.clicksngiggles.com for more information on upcoming classes!

Do you want to Know:

Why do my pictures look different on the web than in print?

What are all those little dots in my pictures that make it look gross?

How do I edit my pictures so they look crisper and brighter?

Can I save an underexposed or overexposed picture?

How do I add text to a picture?

like us on facebook:
www.facebook.com/luckystardesigns

Wall Art Wednesday

2012-09-11T21:51:00.000-05:00

My sisters and I are obsessed with Pinterest (you too? ... some crazy awesome ideas on there, right?!).

Anyways... we are always pinning craft projects, quotes, wall art we like, home decor and other things and then discuss how we can recreate it.

Well when she sent me a link to a framed piece, I knew I could do it, and possibly better. I love the way it turned out and can't wait to see it adorning her super cute laundry room (Misty... be sure to send me a picture!).

Want this for your laundry room too?

Order your digital download here:

Endless Love & Laundry Wall Art - digital download on Square Market

2012 Halloween Mini Sessions - Denton County Photographer

2012-09-10T18:50:00.002-05:00

click to see image larger

It's that time of year again... time for Lucky Star Designs and Photography's Halloween Mini Sessions. This year there are morning sessions (for the toddlers and preschoolers) and evening sessions for the bigger kids.

Book your session by emailing: miranda@luckystardesigns.net

Info on the Session:

2012 Halloween Mini Sessions are $50 and include:
Up to 3 children under age 12
(1) digital image
(1) 5x7 and (8) wallets
20% off additional prints*

Friday October 26 - 15 to 20 minute sessions.
Space is Limited. Book early for best session times.
Flower Mound Pumpkin Patch ($5 entry fee for the patch).

*20% discount on prints and packages purchased within 3 days of the gallery being emailed to you.

Info on the location:

Double Oak Ranch
5100 Cross Timbers Rd
Flower Mound TX 75028
(817) 430-4536

http://www.flowermoundpumpkinpatch.com/

Hours of Operation

Seasonal from October 1 - 31
They are open from 9AM - 7PM (sessions are held from 9 am - 10 am & 4pm - 6pm)
If it is raining or muddy they will not be open. During inclement weather, please check the website for the latest information on the home page and contact Lucky Star to reschedule. Additionally, weather updates can be heard on their incoming phone message.

Driving Directions

Directions from I-35 East
They are located off of highway FM 1171 which is Main Street in Lewisville (Cross Timbers in Flower Mound). The entrance is on the north side of the road approximately 6 1/2 miles west of I-35E or 2 miles west of Long Prairie Road (FM 2499), and a short distance east of Tour 18. They have plenty of parking!

Nursery Wall Art

2012-06-28T09:44:00.000-05:00

I missed posting this yesterday for Wall Art Wednesday, but better a day late than not at all right?

I've been working on lots of projects around here lately (furniture refinishing, new bedding for the master bedroom, etc). My most favorite project lately has been decorating my soon-to-arrive baby boy's nursery.

I am as addicted to Pinterest as everyone else these days and have compiled a Pin Board of my favorite Wall Art. I decided to use some of the pins as inspiration for a wall collage for my little man of my favorite quotes and images.

So I thought I'd share what I have so far. The following will be part of a larger wall grouping. I am printing them and framing with bright and colorful wooden frames and adding newborn and maternity pictures to the mix.

Enjoy the sneak peek. I will post pictures when the nursery is complete!

(Now I am off to do more nesting!)

Designs by Lucky Star Designs & Photography

photos by A & O Photography

Credit Card Charges may be Fraudulent

2012-06-13T08:29:00.017-05:00

PLEASE STOP CALLING ME... I cannot help you. I have NOT charged your credit or debit card. CALL YOUR BANK OR ZEEK OR ZEEKLER. (If anyone has advice on how to get the phone calls to STOP... please let me know.) I am at over 2,000 hits to my website about this issue and HUNDREDS of phone calls. I am not returning the calls and only answering some of them. The ones I answer, I will apologize if I am short and direct and end the call quickly, this issue has been taxing on my time and energy.

After about 6 months since my original post, it's happening again. Someone is using Lucky Star Designs and Photography's name to place possible fraudulent credit card charges on people's account across the U.S.

First of all, I am a Photographer and Graphic Designer in the DFW area of Texas. I do some business nationally in other states, but most of my business is here and local. I process credit card transactions, but only for portrait services and products and graphic design services and products. All of my customers sign a contract up front before I charge their credit card and also receive an emailed receipt for the charge. If this is not you, then I assure you, I have not charged your credit or debit card for any services or fees.

From what I understand, the people/company that is charging your accounts may possibly originate out of Costa Rica. I've been told some of the charges MAY be legitimate if you worked with an organization/company called Zeek or Zeekler. I would still recommend calling your bank to verify any charges made under the name of Lucky Star Designs.

UPDATE 6/20/2012 --- waiting on a call from Zeek Executives to get this straightened out. New comment today stated: "Just got off the phone with ZEEK customer service. They stated that the $10.08 charge-on June 5th-to my card IS A LEGITIMATE CHARGE for ZEEK from the 'new bank' they are now using, showing up as "LuckyStarDesign8883609989" on my statement. They also stated that the charge is for my monthly subscription. ZEEK AFFILIATES OLNY: leave this lady alone and check your Zeek News for updates. -- Michael Malone...'Inglewood!'"

UPDATE 6/19/2012 --- see this blog post about Zeek memberships and specifically the comment area: http://behindmlm.com/companies/zeek-rewards/zeek-rewards-surround-themselves-in-secrecy/#comment-80010

Update: A recent caller said MSNBC was reporting a huge hack into LinkedIn accounts stealing passwords and credit card information. If you have used your credit card on LinkedIn, you might look into changing your password and removing your credit card info.

UPDATE 6/14/2012: There have been about 700 hits on my website due to this issue and I've probably received close to 100 calls and several emails. A couple of the emails seem to point to these charges being legitimate and through a program/website called Zeek or Zeekler. I would still check with your bank to insure the charges are legitimate, especially if you have not signed up or bought anything through a company called Zeek or Zeekler. From what I understand, Visa approved the charges and put the wrong company name on the statements (lucky star designs & photography instead of Zeek). Here is one such email to me:

"Hi Miranda, I read your blog about fraudulent credit card charges, actually I googled Lucky Star Design after noticing what I thought was an unauthorised incursion into my finances. The guy at National Australia Bank said that he didn’t think it was an error, upon further investigation it appeared to originate from a vendor called Zeekler, but for some reason was logged under perhaps the name of a holding company. Anyway, since I did recently enroll with Zeekler, it appears to be a bona fide charge. I thought this information might be of use to you if you are receiving lots of calls from disgruntled people who you could perhaps turn into customers. Thanks for posting the advice on your site. Kind regards,
David"

Here is a recent comment from my other blog post about this topic several months ago:

"Just happened to me for 4 charges $.08, $.79, $10, and $99. But they did spell it correctly. LuckyStarDesign88836 INTERNATL EXCHANGE FEE CARD NBR: -8049. The strange thing aobut this is I am and have been a professional Photographer for 36 years! GO figure!"

As a reminder:

1. I am not an LLC, but a sole proprietorship (and I am also NOT a holding company for anyone else).
2. It is spelled Lucky Star Designs & Photography
3. I am in DFW area of Texas, not Costa Rica
4. I provide a receipt via email for every credit card transaction I do.

If you have been charged by these means, I assure you it did not originate from Lucky Star, they are just unfortunately using our name.

Feel free to have your bank contact me if there are any questions.

Thank you,

Miranda

I Heart Faces "Happiness" Challenge for April

2012-04-03T08:48:00.002-05:00

I always enjoy the challenges over at I Heart Faces... and when they announced this month's theme as "Happiness", I immediately knew which picture I would submit.

This one was taken on Sunday at the Zion Cemetery in Frisco, Texas. There is a HUGE (and I mean HUMUNGOUS) bluebonnet field there that we decided to do a session at. My friend Karly brought her three boys and her friend Kristin, who has four boys of her own. That's right folks... we had SEVEN little boys all under the AGE of 7 running around in bluebonnets. (I suppose if the theme was "Chaos" this month, the theme still would have fit, haha).

Anyways... towards the end the little ones were getting cranky, but the older boys were still full of smiles and mischief, so when these three friends jumped up on the fence and said "TAKE OUR PICTURE!"... how could I resist? I snapped and they cheesed it up as they laughed and tried not to FALL OFF the fence.

Oh boys. They are a unique and entertaining bunch. So for me today, this picture was the epitome of happiness... that joy you feel when you are with your closest friends, at ease, feeling silly and all is right with the world. What could be better?

Happiness

March of Dimes - March for Babies - Show your Support!

2012-03-29T08:40:00.001-05:00

Everyone who knows me knows I LOVE BABIES. Yeah, I know that they spit up, poop and cry... it's just part of the package. They also smell great, can light up an entire room with a smile and learn SO quickly, it's just an honor to see how much they grow and change.

Over the past few years I've gotten to know a sweet client, turned friend, Andee, who has two precious kiddos of her own (even if they aren't babies) and have had so much fun photographing their entire family for each major milestone. Through Andee I was able to meet her sister Brooke and take some adorable (BABY!!) pictures of her son Carter.

All this is being shared with you because Andee has another sister that touched my life and I have never even met her. Over a year ago Erika was pregnant with triplets. A beautiful and touching journey that she shared on a personal blog. Because of Andee and Brooke, I followed the blog and even Erika's Facebook posts weekly to keep up on the news.

As often happens, the babies were born much too early and faced challenges from day 1 of coming into our world. Baby Sloan, Lane and Jens had such a tough road that first month of life, and unfortunately for his family, Jens went to be with our Lord shortly after arriving to meet his parents. But God is good and he allowed the family to find peace and joy in the blessings that Lane and Sloan brought into their lives. It took many months and the support and help of doctors, nurses, The Ronald McDonald House and many friends and even strangers to bring the twins home, but everyone rejoiced when Erika and her husband were able to say "We are Going Home!".

It's been nearly a year since Sloan and Lane went home to start their lives with their parents, but no one that has touched their lives has forgotten what a miracle they both are. So when Andee called me this week to help design invitations to a March of Dimes event they were participating in, I jumped on it. Of course I wanted to be involved and to help!

What is the March of Dimes? They are an organization that helps moms have full-term pregnancies and researches the problems that threaten the health of babies. What a simple but overwhelming mission to accomplish!

Why walk? When you walk in March for Babies, you give hope to the more than half a million babies born too soon each year. The money you raise supports programs in your community that help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies. And it funds research to find answers to the problems that threaten our babies. People have been walking for this cause since 1970 and have raised an incredible $2 billion to benefit all babies. This year, more than 7 million people will join their family, friends and colleagues in 900 communities across the nation to raise awareness and funds.

How can you help? The Stedje, Edwards and Condry families (and MORE!) are participating in the March of Dimes Walk for Babies to both remember and celebrate the little ones that have blessed their lives. They are inviting you to join them by either walking or making a donation to their team. You can visit their website HERE for more details.

March for Babies is a wonderful and worthwhile cause to become involved in.

“Children are the world's most valuable resource and its best hope for the future”.

John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Spring Family Portrait Sessions - Denton County, Flower Mound Photographer

2012-03-15T09:37:00.000-05:00

All the windows are open today and I am enjoying the mid-70's weather that Spring Break brought with it this week. Talk about "Spring Fever", even my camera keeps beckoning me to get outside and shoot!

How long has it been since you had a family portrait taken? Something besides the $14.99 package from Sears (where your son had the goofy expression and your hair looked like it was blown out by a light socket)? Yeah, me too. Honestly. I need a new family portrait, so I am betting some of my favorite clients do as well. Especially the ones that seem to only use me for adorable pictures of their precocious kiddos.

My springtime challenge to you is to get in the shot! It's time to take advantage of this beautiful weather and get a great family portrait taken. Print it BIG and PROUD (maybe on canvas??) and you won't regret it. (I am currently clearly off a spot above my fireplace for just such a portrait of our family soon).

I have a few openings in April and May right now for Family Sessions, but they will go fast (especially the weekend sessions). We can go to any location of your choice within DFW (and I have a lot of great suggestions if you don't know where to start). Capturing this time in your family's history is priceless, don't let it pass you by.

Have a blessed Spring! -- Miranda

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Black and White Photo Challenge for I Heart Faces (Denton County Photographer)

2012-03-08T08:37:00.002-06:00

Sibling Love

It's been a while since I did one of these, as life has been pretty busy the past few months. However, when I Heart Faces announced that their next challenge would be a black and white one, I couldn't resist. Black and White Photography was my first love that started back in High School.

Of course, that was in the film days and I'd shoot rolls and rolls of film before I got my lighting, subject and exposure just how I wanted it. (One of these days I'll share some of my early work... as embarrassing as it is... just to show how a photographer continues to grow and learn along their path).

This particular photo was taken during a session with a brother and sister pair. They wanted to surprise their mom with a nice portrait of the two of them. It was such a fun shoot, as they were obviously close and goofy with one another. As I was interacting with them and capturing candid moments from my lens, I couldn't help but think about my own son and daughter and fast forward 10 years. I hope they have this same joy and closeness with one another. (And in case they are reading this, I hope they surprise me with a photo shoot of just the two of them someday... especially since neither of them will hold still long enough for me to take their pictures now).

Enjoy this snapshot of Sibling Love... I hope you love it as much as I do. Thank you Nicole for letting me spend a lovely couple of hours with you and your brother.

Sibling Love - I Heart Faces B&W Challenge March 2012
taken by Miranda Krebbs in Rockwall, Texas

Spring 2012 Photo Walk Workshop in Flower Mound (Denton County)

2012-03-07T10:48:00.000-06:00

All Photoshop and Photography classes are now provided through my partnership company:

Visit us at www.clicksngiggles.com for more information on upcoming classes!

Spring Mini Sessions in Flower Mound, Denton County, Texas

2012-03-02T10:57:00.002-06:00

click the image below to view it larger

Announcing Spring Mini Sessions

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Photoshop and DSLR Class for Beginners in Flower Mound

2012-02-28T11:47:00.002-06:00

Update:

All Photoshop and Photography Classes are

now being done through my other website

www.clicksngiggles.com

Visit Clicks N Giggles to register for

Denton County

Photography and Photoshop Classes

for beginners through advanced users.

$49 fraudulant charges - Contact your Bank!

2011-11-14T07:27:00.001-06:00

UPDATE: this is an older post. A newer updated post about this issue can be found HERE.

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I've recently been made aware that someone in Costa Rica is charging credit cards and using "Lucky Star Desings, LLC" as the name of the company charging the cards.

1. I am not an LLC, but a sole proprietorship
2. It is spelled Lucky Star Designs, not Desings
3. I am in DFW area of Texas, not Costa Rica
4. I provide a receipt via email for every credit card transaction I do.

If you have been charged by this fraudulent means, I assure you it did not originate from Lucky Star, they are just unfortunately using our name.

Feel free to have your bank contact me if there are any questions. As of right now, I've had about 5 individuals contact me about these charges and dozens of hits for "lucky star desings, llc", so I am assuming it's happening a lot more.

Thank you,

Miranda

2011 Halloween Mini-Sessions in Denton

2011-09-29T09:55:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again. Dress the kids up (and/or yourself) and come out to the square in Denton to get some memorable pictures made. Fun for everyone!

Saturday October 29, 2011

8:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Sessions are for 20 minutes

Include: (1) 5x7, (8) wallets and 20% off additional prints

Contact Miranda today to book your spot - space is limited

Only $40 for each session.