Southwark Cathedral

Southwark Cathedral is very near the Thames next to London Bridge. Pronounced "suthark" as with every word here with a "w" at the beginning of the second syllable, the "w" is silent. Warwick is then "warick" and Chiswick is "chisick." You have to mentally drop that "w." It takes some getting used to as my American brain really wants to give that "w" its proper respect!

Obamacade

President Obama arrived in London today. In fact he came to my kids' school tonight (no, they weren't invited). And the school just happens to be directly across the street from us. I didn't vote for Obama in the recent election, but I still respect him and support him as our nation's president. I couldn't resist the opportunity to experience a passing presidential motorcade. Although way past his bedtime, Dallin and I snuck down to take a peek. These photos are nothing special, but they do tell the story. Obama was on my street!

The school head on the steps with police beginning preparations for Obama's arrival as taken from our kitchen window.


Roof sniper


Okay, these night shots are pretty harsh. At handheld minus a flash I was doing well to get anything useful. And since my ISO was jacked all the way to 4000 (for those photog techies out there), these images are pretty noisy, but enough with the disclaimers . .

Police


Don't mess with Obama


Police escort


Mr. President


Can you see him?

Statues

A couple of weeks ago I went on a weekend-long photography workshop. It was an exhausting weekend shooting before the sun came up and after it went down. Despite how much this challenged me physically, it was heaven on earth to have the experience shooting with a seasoned pro. I learned a lot, and most of all I learned that I have a lot to learn! I'll be posting snippets from this photog weekend as time permits here and there on the blog. Our first stop was this interesting fountain near the Thames.

Aunt Andrew & Uncle Elizabeth

Our first house guests arrived yesterday! Last week as we counted down the days until their arrival, Madeleine squealed in delight exclaiming, "oh I'm so excited for Aunt Andrew and Uncle Elizabeth!" We all burst into laughter, but those mixed up names have sort of stuck (sorry guys!). We've only had one day with them so far, but we're already having so much fun! Here's a peek at our first day out on the town.

A Shot in the Park

A sunny, warm spring London evening. Low, warm light filtering through the trees. This was the perfect setting I had for my most recent shoot. To complete this idyllic scene was this beautiful family! An older brother who clearly loves his younger sister, he quickly jumped to hold her hand when asked. The little sister/big sister who has cute style to match her fun personality. A fun little guy who lights up a scene with his big smile. A dad who is cool, but first and foremost devoted to his family. A mom, and mom-to-be-again, who is stunning in every possible way. Recently life has thrown some curve balls, but they roll with the punches. They are devoted to what they do and to those they love. Sadly they will be leaving us here in London soon, and we think of all the lucky people waiting for them across the pond. We'll miss you guys!