Author: Keep Opening Doors

A Bowl of Photos

Posted on by Keep Opening Doors

On a visit to an antique store, I stumbled upon this bowl of photos for sale.

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As a person who places such importance on photography and capturing moments in time, I found myself searching through the photos, in disbelief. I felt a loss for the families of the people in these images. So many moments captured and now gone: visits with grandparents, family vacations, afternoons with friends, and birthday parties.

How did these moments end up here in this bowl, so far from where they belong?

When I was finally able to pull myself away, I felt even more compelled to continue my journey of taking photos every day. Our day-to-day routines, milestones, adventures, and the people and things we love are significant; they show us who we are, were we come from, and what we value.

These moments should live on and not be forgotten.

Favorite Photo Friday: Picture Books

Posted on by Keep Opening Doors

This photo awakens memories of adventures shared, cuddled under a warm blanket at bedtime. Delightful memories of being together, reading stories with our girls before going to sleep.

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A Gift: Behind the Scenes at Flour Chylde Bakery

Posted on by Keep Opening Doors

Recently, I was given a gift: an invitation to photograph behind the scenes at my favorite bakery, Flour Chylde.

Over the past few years, I’ve taken many photos in the front of the bakery. The atmosphere and light are warm and inviting. blog-Flour-Chylde-8190

I love the way the soft light streams in and gently touches the old baking pans blog-Flour-Chylde-0235and creates intriguing reflections.  
blog-Flour-Chylde-9833I  was excited to discover what I would find in the back of the bakery.

As someone who likes to photograph the details, I was initially drawn to all the mini baking rings and muffin tins ready to be filled and placed in the oven, blog-Flour-Chylde-9926-BW blog-Flour_Chylde_9616

the mixing equipment, blog_Flour_Chylde_9395

and work areas awaiting their next project.blog-Flour-Chylde-9860

When I shifted my focus to some of the people who have become so familiar to me from the front of the bakery, a delightful dance began to take shape. A dance, which was full of swirling,
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twirling,blog-Flour_Chylde_0263-BW

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and joy.blog-Flour_Chylde_0172I was amazed with the amount of preparation,blog-Flour_Chylde_9588

focus,blog-Flour_Chylde_9933-BW

skill, and precision that went into every step.blog-Flour_Chylde_9484

In the middle of a flurry of activity, I found laughter, friendship, dedication, and teamwork.blog-Flour_Chylde_9495This wonderful gift, which allowed me the freedom to explore, to be involved in my own way, and to share my photography, led me to the true heart of the bakery. I am so grateful and am looking forward to more discoveries!

Perfect in its Imperfection

Posted on by Keep Opening Doors

I love this moment; I love this photo.

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For me, this photo captures pure excitement and joy; the kids are jumping up and down with their dad, past bedtime, celebrating the first day of winter break.

I watched the excitement building, grabbed my camera, quickly turned up the ISO, and captured the moment. Thankfully, my priority had been in the moment, not on the correct camera settings; had I stopped to set my camera properly, I would have missed this moment, completely.

This is perfect in its imperfection.

Continuing My Journey

Posted on by Keep Opening Doors

This morning, I woke up inspired, energized, and focused. I made a decision: I decided to begin my third 365 photo project.

I’ve been taking photos every day for two years. This journey has helped me to keep my eyes open and to really see and experience the world around me.

With my camera by my side, I’m ready to capture memories

de_buren_Photography_journey-P and moments, which may have otherwise been forgotten.

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I’ve realized my fondness for storytelling

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as well as for motorcycles and vintage cars.

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I’ve challenged myself to photograph difficult lighting situations,

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and to see the beauty in everyday life.

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This morning, I move with a purpose–with my camera at my side–making time to take photos and enjoy doing what I love. I look forward to another year of photos!