Please note: All images (except where noted) are original works of Miki Baxter and cannot be duplicated without permission.

Friday, July 29, 2011

A Nightie On The Town

Project Runway launched its new season last night!!! 

We have decided (Noel and I) to do each challenge as well.

Noel is my absolutely fabulous/creative wonder/genius friend with the warmest heart ever.  I had the privilege of working with her to design a Christmas Tea extravaganza, and our friendship was sealed in the midst of furious sewing machine roaring-glue gun blazing-drama overflowing-peacock feather fluffing fun. Last year, she flew out to Colorado for a Project Runway Finale Party.  Though we were crushed that our favorite, Mondo, was robbed of the grand prize, we had a wonderful time putting together our outfits and accessories and hanging out!

Last night, we watched the premier episode while messaging each other on Facebook.  An idea was born:  we are going to do each of the challenges!!!  Modified in ways that make it doable for us, we are going to work on our version, accessorize and take a picture due on the Wednesday after the show.  

The first challenge is "A Nightie On The Town." Transform a garment normally used for "sleeping" and create an outfit for a night out on the town.This will be done with styling and adding other essential pieces, not by cutting and sewing for this challenge.

Will join us on these challenges?  If so, e-mail me a picture by Wednesday following the episode with your version!  Do you have any early favorites from the show?  Which outfit from last night's episode did you like the best?  Did you agree with the judges???

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Animal Portraiture

When the children and I visited the Denver Zoo last year, 
I decided to look for the ART there
vs. taking numerous pics of the kids squinting at the camera.

Presenting...Animal Portraiture:
It was fascinating watching these grizzly bears play 
as they were released into their enclosure.
They were kind enough to offer me a variety of poses:

Even in the middle of a back scratch, this bear held his pose to give me a clear shot.
Just like a professional model.

The head angle, relaxed body and fierce expression...
obviously not new to having its picture taken:

Showing personality is such a key element to a great portrait.
You get a sense of these creatures' personalities in the way they present themselves:



Zooming in on unique features is another key to a great shot, 
like this profile of Monsieur Elephant:

Action shots are always fun too:

Group shots are difficult unless everyone is cooperating.
No Prima Flamingos here, upstaging everyone else.

I spent quite a bit of time with these delightful fellows,
whose temperaments seemed to be total opposites.
Mr. Attitude, alternating between showing me his teeth and yawning with boredom:
And this melancholy guy with his back to the glass.
When the majority of the crowd moved on to another exhibit,
I caught him peeking over his shoulder.