Sally Seymore

First birthday - Olivia (ladybird theme)

2011-07-13T11:09:00.002+02:00

Aaah, first birthdays are so adorable! Olivia celebrated her big day the ladybird way. The detail was astounding, her mommy worked herself to a stand still to get everything ready on time.

Well done Estie, your parties are amazing!

Lets start with some decor shots and then move over to all the little ladybugs!

This is Olivia and her little friends:

So excited about that first candle!

A little help from big sis...

Many more happy birthdays little Olivia!

Love much!

S.

New born photography - Leandro at 7 days old

2011-05-04T07:52:00.000+02:00

Oh, how I love new born babies! They are such wondrous little miracles. When you hold a brand new little person in your hands, you cannot help but marvel at the work of God's Hands.

Leandro could not wait to get a start on this live. He was kind enough to give mommy three weeks off pregnancy. His timing was perfect, as daddy was on leave as well.

Here comes the yawn! Oh, this is too cute!!

Mommy Buela, looks picture perfect - as you can see! Not a trace of sleeplessness on her face.

May your little boy and your gorgeous family be truly blessed!

Love much!

S.

Children Photography - Danika's 5th birthday

2011-05-03T22:37:00.000+02:00

Danika had a fun filled 5th birthday! There were lovely sweets and treats. Games were played and the jumping castle properly enjoyed.

Happy birthday little girl, may there be many many more!

Love much!

S.

Blessed Easter - Forgiveness

2011-04-25T23:21:00.003+02:00

On Friday morning my husband took out our special children's Bible. It is a "real" Bible, without any pictures, but written in language my second grader can read and (mostly) understand on his own. We read about the events of Easter, and reflected on this precious time as a family.

On Sunday morning we went to church. We were a little late, and missed most of the praise and worship. Even so, I am so glad we went. We sat in the chapel, which is adjacent to the big auditorium. It is comfortable for parents with small children and nobody frowns on busy toddlers who can't keep very still or very quiet! As we sang the last song or two, I was still tying the girls hair. I know this is terrible, but, sometimes it just is not so easy getting yourself and three small children ready and presentable early in the morning! This is not our norm, and I believe the Lord understands and knows we truly wanted to be there...

The pastor spoke about true forgiveness. This is a message I will not easily forget. It was so simple, yet so mighty! The girls colored in happily and we could listen to most of the sermon. In between, another toddler handed his used tissue to my husband and my youngest had to have an urgent bathroom break. (I will get the cd during the week for the part I missed!)

What I am taking along with me from this service I would like to share with you. As pastor Leonard said, you can't really celebrate Easter without thinking about forgiveness. My purpose is not to preach to you, this is just something that truly touched my heart. I am also not repeating his whole sermon, but this part hit me between the eyes:

"How do you know that you have truly forgiven someone?

- You don't have to tell anyone else about what happened,

- You don't try to make the person feel guilty who hurt you, and

- You let them save face by covering their sin."

If we keep on repeating to others stories from our past where somebody hurt us or keep bringing up old hurts in relationships, we have not yet truly forgiven that person.

Forgiveness is a decision we need to take regardless of whether somebody asks for our forgiveness or not. It is important to forgive, mostly, for our own sake. Un-forgiveness affects our state of mind and even affects our health. We also need to forgive, so that God can forgive us... And what wonderful relief does one experience when you set people, and yourself, free in this way!

I had a heart-to-heart with myself, thinking about so many things that the pastor said. I need to make sure that I truly forgive. I will probably have to do this on a daily basis. But with God's help, I know that it can be done!

After church we had a special breakfast with my mother at a family friendly restaurant. Arriving home afterwards, the children were delighted to find the Easter bunny had paid us a visit and left a trail of Easter treats! We were delighted to know that this year, our children and ourselves learned a little more on Easter.

I hope you all had a wonderful long Easter week-end, spent with loved ones. And may the true meaning of Easter be carried in your heart for much longer than this.

Love much!

Wedding photography - Janine & Eddie at Leopard Lodge: part 2

2011-04-21T12:48:00.000+02:00

Janine looked a little nervous, but Edward smiled reassuringly as he helped her into the game drive vehicle. We took a quick drive through the grasslands. The antelope were wild, and not keen to be included in the couple's photographs! Nonetheless, mother nature smiled magnificently on the bride and groom with a double rainbow...

Herewith the follow up of were we left off in part 1:

I wish you both the best life together. May you days be blessed and plenty!

Love much!

S.

Wedding photography - Janine & Eddie at Leopard Lodge: part 1

2011-04-20T12:55:00.001+02:00

The day Janine & Edward joined their lives in the beautiful Hartebeespoort region, God smiled down on them. There were butterflies, there were rainbows, what else other than love and happiness can this mean?

Friends and family were emotional as Edward's farther led the service. The couple pledged their love to each other overlooking the lush valley below, which was almost as green as Janine's eyes. Sealed with two first kisses, laughter abound. The day was celebrated in style at Leopard Lodge.

Tips on Tuesdays #3 - pixels count!

2011-04-11T22:45:00.000+02:00

When I purchased my first digital SLR, I looked at the entry level SLR's that were available at that time. I did my novice comparison and made my decision. Now, I am not one to hastily make decisions when it comes to spending large sums of money. So, this must have taken me a couple of months to decide. But the one thing that probably made up my mind, was the megapixel capability of the cameras at that time. As entry level SLR's have evolved, the difference in pixel counts of the various brand is not as vast as it once was.

Like I said, this was a novices' comparison, and today there are even more things that you need to consider before purchasing a camera. The tip, however, that I want to give to you today, is this: maximize pixel count.

Simply put, a pixel is a little dot. And millions of dots make up an image. A megapixel = one million pixels. The mega pixel count of your camera is therefore the measure of how many pixels it can capture in an image.

The more pixels you have in your image, the more information has been captured in it. The more information you have in your image, the clearer and better it looks, and the more you can do with it (editing, enlarging and so forth). That boils down to - the bigger the better.

Have you noticed how you can only enlarge your cellphone photo's up to a certain extent, until the picture loses detail? That is because of a low pixel count.

Set your camera to its highest pixel count capability. Why only capture at a portion of your camera's pixel count? If you have it, use it! Get a bigger memory card if you have to, or download more frequently. But, do not compromise on quality.

I shoot in RAW, which is the file type that captures the most information. I will explain in a later post what RAW is all about as opposed to JPG. If you capture in RAW, however, you will always need to do post processing. It is however worth my while. But more on that at a later occasion.

Keep those questions coming!

Happy photographing!

Wedding photography - Janine & Eddie at Leopard Lodge: quick sneak

2011-04-04T22:36:00.000+02:00

This past week-end Janine & Eddie got married at the picturesque Leopard Lodge in Hartebeespoort. I know how eager one is to just have an idea as to what your wedding pictures look like, so I am sneaking a little peek of the day...

Hope you guys have a wonderful honeymoon! More photographs and details to follow in a week or three.

Love much,

S.

Dora the Explorer Birthday Party - Delia's 5th birthday

2011-03-31T15:10:00.000+02:00

Delia's 5th birthday was celebrated the Dora the Explorer way!

Mommy worked for hours trying to get everything just right. I was grateful to have Daddy near by, and two of my dearest friends popped in the morning to help get everything ready for 2 pm.

Last week I posted on some of the preparations. Now here it is, the final result!

Backpack and Map treat bags:

Here is our version of the star pockets as per Nick Jr website instructions. I wanted the star pockets to be complete beforehand, so we did not do the coloring thing for the kids. We pasted some explorer stars on the wall with press stick for the little ones to pick off.

I added a piece of ribbon so that the star pockets can be carried like little handbags.

This is Delia's favorite star - Glowy. Estie Scheepers, my creative sis in law, did the polystyrene art as well as the balloon bouquets.

She also made the bracelet:

My biggest worry, and subsequently, accomplishment was the Dora birthday cake! I had a quick telephonic tutorial on how to work with fondant by Susan from Just Baking. It was a live saver! I feel like shouting: "We did it! We did it! We did it! Yeah!" I know it is not perfect, but this was my first ever cake I decorated using fondant icing. And most important of all - Delia was thrilled!

So, here is my version of a Dora birthday cake:

The birthday star of the day with the cake she wanted most of all:

Attitude!

A cake definitely is for eating!

The bottom of the cake I made from rice crispy treats and the top star is normal sponge cake. I gave both a good spread of butter icing before the fondant.

Some starry cupcakes:

My angel...

My other angel...

Delia and I:

The granny and the birthday girl:

Some actions shots of the party and special guests:

It was such an exciting and exhausting day! We could not help but fall asleep on Grandma's lap...

Happy 5th birthday my precious Delia! Hope you will remember this day, as I fondly remember my 5th birthday.

Much love,

Mommy.

Wedding photography - Yolandi & Riaan part 3 of 3

2011-03-29T22:13:00.000+02:00

I love sharing the last part of Yolandi & Riaan's wedding. What I will remember most about this wedding is probably how easy going this lovely couple is and the beautiful view!

I love the expression on these two's faces! This was the garter and bouquet toss winners, who had to make a debut on the dance floor together.

The first dance as a married couple...

Love much!

S.

Tips on Tuesdays #2 - Watch those shadows!

2011-03-28T22:28:00.002+02:00

In the first edition of this series, I shared on some basic editing. But today a want to take you even one step backwards.

The audience reading this is varied from cell phone snappers to SLR lovers. I probably will not in every edition be able to pitch at all levels of experience. The one thing we all have in common though, is loving to capture our lives and memories and wanting to do that in an expressive way best we can.

While writing the first articles of this series, I am trying to recall the questions and dilemmas I was faced with when I started out in digital photography. I am therefore inviting you to send me your questions that you have if this is where you are at.

When my first digital SLR finally arrived, I of course had to test it ASAP and on the nearest person! That happened to be my wonderful grandmother, "Oumie", who was visiting me for my son's 3rd birthday. I happily snapped away! The wonderful thing about digital, is of course, the instant gratification! Oh, but I was not happy with the first couple of photographs I took. And I learned a lesson I still unconsciously apply with every photography I've taken ever since: watch those shadows!

If you want to instantly improve your pictures where a face is involved (portraits or group shots), always first take a good look at where the shadows are on the subjects face. This may be very simple, but it is very effective. Either change the angle from where you are shooting or reposition the subject.

At the expense of my Oumie, this is a good example of a terrible portrait. You cannot see her eyes, and the shadow across her mouth is totally unflattering.

I made a simple adjustment by repositioning her, and the results were so much better!

Oumie was 78 when this was taken, isn't she beautiful even at that age?

Hope this will help even just a little, or maybe remind you of something you already knew.

Happy photographing!

Planning a Dora the Explorer birthday party - part two

2011-03-22T18:22:00.003+02:00

Dora the Explorer is such a popular children's birthday party theme, thank you for the e-mails in this regard! I decided to post an update of how my planning is progressing. I am definitely not a cook or baker of mention, so this is just my humble efforts. You are welcome to make suggestions, I would certainly welcome any help!

Here is the color scheme: purple, orange and pink.

I used the cooky cutters I found in a local Clicks store. Unfortunately they had six point stars as opposed to the Dora stars which are five point stars. I even used the simple cooky recipe, and it work quite well. All that I can add is, if the dough is too soft (I think there was too much butter in my batter) add some more flour and refrigerate until it is easier to handle.

I used the smallest fondant stars I had previously made, and pasted it unto some of the cookies with icing sugar (mixed with water).

I used clear wrap cut into squares to individually wrap the cookies.

I also made some larger star cookies. The middle was filled with clear sweats that were broken into small pieces. You can find the recipe for these star cookies on the Nick Jnr. website under Dora the Explorer. (There are also loads of other fantastic ideas for Dora birthday parties!) However, do not put plastic lollipop sticks in the oven, they will melt. Rather impress one on each cooky before you bake, and while the cookies are still hot, press them into place. (If there is a better way, please share!)

The other thing I have been working on, is the Backpack treat bags. I tried a nice little backpack that you can make yourself, but it would not stand upright :-( . So, I searched high and low for some purple gift bags. I then duplicated the backpack face piece by piece (the eyes and brows by printer, the mouth I had to trace on red cardboard) and cut them out individually.

This is the first draft of Backpack. Next I will be working on Map which will be adhered to Backpack. Do you think I need to make a flap on the front and straps on the back?

Something I need another opinion on is Backpack's eyes. Should stick on those little bobbly eyes or just use the original? Please let me know what you think.

Now, this is how far I have progressed. The biggest worry I have, is getting the cake right. I don't have high expectations in this regard. It has to be pretty, but I doubt if it will be spectacular. So hold thumbs please!

Here are some inspirational images I found on the web:

My favorite Dora cake

Another one, which might be more on my capability level:

I like these stars:

I also still need to make the star pockets.

If you would like to spare yourself the trouble of making templates for the Backpack face, comment on this post and send me an e-mail to which address I will forward you my templates.

Happy partying!

S.

PS: Here are some more links to posts related to our Dora party:

Dora the Explorer birthday party - Delia's 5th birthday
Planning a Dora the Explorer party - part 1

Wedding photography -Yolandi & Riaan Part 2 The Ceremony

2011-03-22T09:41:00.000+02:00

Yolandi and Riaan got married on a bright and beautiful day in the beautiful Mpumalanga. Herewith are some of the highlights of the ceremony.

The bride leaving for the chapel:

The groom waiting anxiously in the chapel:

Riaan's face just lit up when Yolandi entered the chapel.

The little ring bearer was just as cute as you could ever come across! The adorable little girl gave a squeal of excitement when her mother let her run free in church, to the delight of all the guests.

Family Fridays - planning a Dora birthday party

2011-03-18T08:00:00.018+02:00

Come March each year, Easter eggs and bunnies make their appearance everywhere, and in my household, my eldest daughters birthday draws near.

This year we are celebrating Delia's 5th birthday and, as always, her mother is amazed to think her baby girl is another year older.

Delia has very specific ideas as to what kinds of birthday parties she would like. Last year we staged a spectacular little mermaid under the sea party. I had lots of help from my two wonderful sisters in law.

This year, my instructions are for a Dora the Explorer party. More specifically, star catcher. Susan is on holiday, but she helped me with a cute Dora party planner. Luckily Estie is still close by.

So, the date has been set and her friends invited. Next is the color scheme - Dora wears a pink T-shirt and orange shorts and a purple back-pack. As long as there is something pink, Delia will be happy. Great!

Estie has already jumped into making polystyrene stars. They are looking fantastic! Now, my problem comes in with the cake! The cake topper has been sorted, also thanks to Estie. Hopefully I will be able to bake a edible cake and ice it smoothly! So now, I am practicing making cup cakes. (The topper I am using here is not the one that will be on the actual birthday cake, it is just to try to get the feeling!) Oh, how I wish I had just a drop of Susan's baking talent.

Delia was however thrilled, except for the size - it needs to be MUCH bigger. Bear in mind sweetheart, that somebody has to eat all this cake even before the birthday party... and mommy really cannot afford for it to be her!

Next is the party packs, which is hopefully going to resemble Back-pack. I am also considering making star cookies on lollipop sticks. Then there's the tables, chairs, table cloth, confetti, sweeties, and, and, and! Luckily I still have nearly two weeks to get it all sorted and make my little girl's 5th birthday dream come true.

Of course, I will share the photo's soon...

Love much!

S.

PS: Here are the links to subsequent posts on the Dora party:

Planning a Dora the Explorer birthday party - Part two

Dora the Explorer birthday party - Delia's 5th birthday

Wedding photography -Yolandi & Riaan Part 1

2011-03-16T20:55:00.000+02:00

Nestled between the green mountains of Mpumalanga, near the end of a narrowing dirt road, a rustic sign announced the wedding of Yolandi & Riaan. The setting is romantic and picturesque, much like the couple themselves.

Yolandi was the most relaxed bride I have yet to come across. Her wedding mirrored this, and everything went smoothly. Riaan could not keep his eyes off his green-eyed bride, and who could blame him, she was a vision!

Yolandi, you look breathtaking in your photographs!

I wish you both a lifetime of love and happiness.

Tips on Tuesdays #1

2011-03-15T08:00:00.002+02:00

This is the first edition of photography Tips on Tuesdays! I believe this is going to be exciting and interactive...

I am by no means a photography know it all, but I can share what I have learnt over the years. These blog posts will be aimed at anybody longing for better photographs, starting at a basic or entry level and progressing. I do not want to bore you by getting too technical! You are invited to e-mail me or comment with any questions you would like to see answered. Also, feel free to post your comments and tips at the comments section of the blog. I would love to hear if this has been of any value to you! I intend to make a post in this series every second Tuesday.

In 2006 I started my digital journey. I had been photographing on film all my life. I cannot remember a time that I did not own some or other form of camera. When I got my first digital SLR there was a whole new world to explore. An SLR is a single lens reflex camera; in simple terms, it is a camera where you can change lenses. (There are many other technicalities on the different types of cameras, but I will not go into those details now.)

What I want to share today was the shock I encountered when I first saw my digital photographs straight out of camera (or SOC). I started using the camera in the programmed modes that it offered. Film is usually “edited” by your photo shop where you have it developed. When you shoot digital, you need to do most of the editing yourself. If the picture you took does not look quite how you pictured it, do not despair. There is still much you can do.

So, here is photography tip #1. If you are like me, and do not want to spend hours in the digital darkroom developing your photographs, the following two adjustments can bring you far.

Auto levels
Auto contrast

Use the editing software that comes supplied with your camera or search online for a popular program. I used the program that came with my Canon SLR in the following example. I took this picture in JPG on 28 October 2006. This is a noteworthy date for me, as it was the first wedding I photographed.

Here is the photograph SOC:

The first adjustment I made was auto levels:

Looking much better!

Secondly I adjusted the contrast. The program does not have an auto contrast, so I bumped it up a little until I liked what I saw:

Can you believe it is the same photograph?

Hope you enjoyed the first edition of Tips on Tuesdays! Keep me posted on your efforts and enjoy your photography!

What's in the box?

2011-03-14T08:16:00.000+02:00

Oh, don't you just love beautifully packaged gifts? Some people just have a gift for wrapping gifts!! Here is how I package the DVDs with all your wonderful, awesome wedding photographs - in a little box to treasure and keep safe for many years to come.

It is always a good idea to have a back-up of your photographs. So I suggest you keep a copy somewhere on a computer and/or external hard drive and on disk. Keep your disks in a cool dry place and always handle with care!

I am grateful for the ever growing size of external hard drives! As camera bodies evolve, the files are getting enormous. Here is my back-up procedure:

At a wedding I have several CF cards on which I shoot. I shoot in RAW format. During the reception, I download all photographs to my notebook as a back-up. When I get home from the shoot, I download to my external hard drive. I do my editing on the copy on my notebook. When I am done, I back-up the edited JPG files to my external hard drive. I cut two sets of DVDs with the final photographs, one for you, my treasured client, and the other for myself. I also back-up the RAW files to DVD. When I am done, I have a copy of both the RAW and JPG files on my external hard drive and DVD. I am still not sure how long I will keep the photos on the hard drive though. I remove the files from my notebook once it gets too full on a first-in-first-out basis. (On my wish list, is yet another external hard drive, just in case!)

So, how do you safeguard your digital memories?

Happy photographing & back-ups!

Tax, family & photography

2011-03-11T09:54:00.000+02:00

Yesterday morning I attended an annual tax update. Having three small children, a morning can be pretty unpredictable so I got up earlier than usual to make sure there is ample time. I took a warm bath to help me wake up. Having been in the corporate world for the past 12 years getting ready for work was my usual routine. The previous four years I worked from home. July last year (2010) I left that world and have been trying to find my feet in a semi-normal life where targets, deadlines and time sheets do not rule.

While waking up in my bath, the familiarity was pleasant. It is much easier to put your make-up on and head off to the office than fixing breakfast, pack lunch, the household, the kids, all the admin and challenges of being a work from home mom. That's when I started thinking of the possibility of again taking on a half day office job, maybe as a lecturer at a university or something. Tax, audit, accounting all seem so easy if you've been doing it for so long. It is easy to go back into that world, easy to get a job, easy to fall back into that. Not like trying a new venture, going into a new field where there is no fixed course. Nobody to tell you what step to take next. Oh sure, I do not love that work, but I've survived it for so long, surely I can go on doing that.

I took a seat at my dressing table and enjoyed the peace and quiet before my family starts storming me. Just then, my eldest daughter cried for me from her bedroom. Her head was aching and she was a little warm. At that moment all the negative and stressful work related feelings came flooding back. Having to leave your little ones in someone else's care when all they want is there mother nearby, especially when they are sick. Having to leave home and seeing them cry for you through the glass panel of the front door. Not knowing what goes on in their little world for most of their day. Not having the power to make decisions that influence your life, being at someone else's mercy.

Luckily, my husband could be with the kids yesterday and I had peace of mind that morning. My tax knowledge is back up to date and my CPD hours for this year is mounting up. But what matters most to me is still my family. And most important to me is the time I have with them; being part of their lives and witnessing it first hand. Can anything else ever make up for that?

My other passion in life I love holding in my hands. I will try my darnedest to keep doing just that, and having the most fun I possibly can. It brings a break to the mundane and lets me be creative.

Here I am doing just that, a photo sneaked in by my trusted second shooter in photography and life. Have you ever been dared to leave the familiar and explore the unknown? Have you ever had your stomach in a knot most of the day, but still loving every moment?

I've got to keep faith, and that is what I'll do! Got to try to live my life as best I can. Hope you do too!

Love much!

I feel inspired!

2011-03-10T08:30:00.000+02:00

As I move in behind my computer screen this morning, I am feeling inspired!

Last night I could not sleep, I had a sudden burst of energy that kept me awake until well after 1 o'clock in the morning. Have you ever had that feeling of high emotion, rosy sunglasses and overall optimism? I know it does not last always, but some days you feel it and and you do not want to shake it off! It is on those days that I have to make the most of it. Get a pen and paper and write down all the wonderful ideas and dreams that come streaming into my thoughts. If I have something concrete to go back to after the high emotion subsides, I can look at it realistically and form a plan of action. All these inspirational ideas then seem simple and clear cut, and I can get the ball rolling.

Where does my inspiration come from? I only need to look to my right and see my two small daughters painting each other's toenails. When I walk down stairs and trip over a rugby ball and a few tennis balls, my heart is drawn to my seven year old son who is at school at the moment. My family, my life, my faith. I have much to be thankful for.

When I was younger I firmly knew I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. Somewhere though, life threw me a few blows and I realised that one does not have quite the control over things that you might like to have. Now I know, that where ever life is taking me, I can find purpose therein and I can make the most of where I am. I believe that God has a plan for me, and that it is better than what I may have planned for myself. And even if I make mistakes along the way, He will make it work out to the best for me, if I only trust in Him.

So, here is a new day and new inspiration.

Proverbs 16:3 - "Roll your works upon the Lord (commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thought to become agreeable to His will, and) so shall your plans be established and succeed."

Love much!

Engagement photography - Janine & Eddie part 3 of 3

2011-02-11T15:35:00.000+02:00

This is the last part of the pre-wedding photo shoot at the Pretoria Botanical Gardens. Eddie and Janine's girls are just lovely. They also warmed up quite nicely to the camera. I cannot resist to give them their own little piece of spot light!

Doesn't she belong on the cover of a teen magazine?!

Looove the attitude!

Aaah, this is so gorgeous... Angel face...

I am looking forward to the wedding in April. These girls love to steal the lime light, but I am sure they'll give their beautiful mother a chance every now and then on her special day ;-).

Love much!

Janine & Eddie part 2 of 3

2011-02-11T08:07:00.000+02:00

Janine politely asked if she could bring their girls along. Now, girls always bring something special to a photo opportunity, so we kind of had a family photo shoot as well!

What more could any dad want? The face says it all!

Families are precious, always to be treasured.

Love much!

S.

Engagement photography - Janine and Eddie 1 of 3

2011-02-07T21:04:00.000+02:00

I love doing a pre-wedding photo shoot! If there is ever a must have for a bride, then this is it.

Whilst mailing Janine this past week, it became evident that this lady is a good planner. She had her day all mapped out, much like a mini wedding day. Meeting bridesmaids, hair, make-up and photo session all wrapped into one. Quite clever! And a good taste of the big day to come.

I'm doing this blog post in three parts, mainly because the shoot covered three components: the engaged couple, a family shoot, and the girls. In that order!

So here is the happy couple in the Pretoria Botanical Gardens.

Hope you enjoy.

Love much!

S.

Pre-wedding photography - Janine and Eddie, just a peep!

2011-02-06T22:34:00.000+02:00

A quick peep of Janine and Eddies photo shoot. More to follow soon!

Love much!

Dora the Explorer at the Johannesburg Zoo

2010-12-20T13:05:00.000+02:00

Dora the Explorer seems to have taken children's worlds by storm. If my two year old sees anything Dora in a shop, she reckons it is hers!
When we heard that Dora and Boots were having a birthday fiesta at the Johannesburg Zoo, there was just no way of getting out of going to see them.

The first show of the day was only at 17h30. We decided to make the day a family outing. We arrived just before two in the afternoon and did some exploring of our own. The zoo is enormous, and we were glad we took the baby pram along to give a break to tiring children's legs.

At five we took a brake for some ice cream and watched while the gazebo's were being put up.

Ooh, the kids' faces when Dora eventually made her appearance on stage!

They danced and sang and had a wonderful time.

The half an hour was over too soon. We took another stroll to see the Christmas lights which had been switched on in the mean time. My youngest kept on asking when Dora would "come out again" and yip, we walked back to see the show for the second time.

By then the sun had set and we went to the tree of light.

What a wonderful day! I am so grateful for my family and loved ones, especially this time of year.

Love much!

S.

Engagement photography - Charlene & Riaan

2010-11-24T14:26:00.000+02:00

Charlene and Riaan opted for a fun engagement photo shoot at carnival city. Thunderstorms were predicted for the afternoon, but we were lucky enough that only a few drops of rain fell towards the end of our shoot.

They are such a fun couple to photograph and the venue suited them well!

Wedding photography - Deshnee & Anton

2010-10-21T08:18:00.000+02:00

Deshnee and Anton had their wedding at Summer Place in Boksburg. Deshnee had her groom sweating for nearly an hour... Poor Anton was already nervous just before he left from home!

When I first spoke to Deshnee we found out that we had much in common - both of us were qualified CA's and experienced in the corporate world. Deshnee is such a bright and beautiful young woman, and was an absolute pleasure to photograph.

Everything was absolutely gorgeous. But where words seem to lack, I am sure these photographs will fill in the gaps.

Wedding photography: Deshnee & Anton - sneak peek

2010-10-20T21:08:00.000+02:00

Just a little glimpse of Deshnee and Anton's beautiful wedding...

Love much!

S.

Wedding photography - Nicole & Jurgens

2010-10-18T19:15:00.000+02:00

Nicole and Jurgens got married at home. It was a festive affair under a marquee complete with a spit braai.

Love much!

S.

Wedding photography - Nicole & Jurgens sneek peek

2010-10-13T16:10:00.000+02:00

Just a little peek of Nicole & Jurgens' wedding last Saturday... more to follow soon.

Love much!

S.

Children photography - Abigail's second birthday

2010-10-08T16:03:00.000+02:00

We celebrated Abigail's second birthday while on vacation. I was hoping to have a little beach party, but unfortunately the weather did not play along. Never the less, it was still an occasion to celebrate: we as a family are so grateful that she is healthy and well!

So, the girls put on their party dresses and Susan from Just Baking did her magic. Abigail got her Baby Bop, or rather, Barney Bop, as she calls her, birthday cake... Here are some of our highlights.

In case you were wondering who Susan is, here is a (rare) photograph of the talented lady:

Love much!

S.

Interior photography - Richtershuyz Lifestyle Guesthouse

2010-09-29T21:01:00.000+02:00

Richtershuyz Lifestyle Guesthouse is updating their website and brochures. I had the fortunate opportunity to take these photographs of the beautiful Pretoria guesthouse for this purpose.

Richtershuyz Lifestyle Guesthouse is ideal accomodation for wedding guests, brides!

Keep an eye on their website for more...

S.

Event photography - Corrie's 30th birthday party

2010-09-25T18:02:00.000+02:00

Corrie has always been a jet setter. I think it is in his blood. Strangely enough he detests flying and always climbs on board in a cold sweat. He spent his 30th birthday strolling the streets of Sydney. Luckily for him he has a wonderful cousin who, despite of him not being here, organised a surprise 30th birthday party for him upon his return to South Africa.

It was a little hilarious though - Corrie could not understand why he could not get one of his friends to go out with him the first Friday when he was back. He was rather hot and bothered and I think felt a little left out... That of course all changed when he walked straight into the chocolate fondue party!

Happy birthday Cor, may the next 30 be even greater wherever life may take you!

Love much!

Engagement photography - Leoni & Gallie

2010-09-20T20:46:00.000+02:00

Leonie and Gallie took to the local stables not sure what to expect... Oh, I do believe they will be pleasantly surprised. I had such fun behind the lens, I just could not stop. The possibilities were endless. This is a looooong post, but I could have had three of these!

They are such a pretty couple and Leoni is absolutely gorgeous. But, let me not bore you, please see for yourself:

Where have you EVER seen such an hourglass figure!?

Love much!

S.

Baby photography - Olivia at 2 months

2010-09-20T11:49:00.000+02:00

I shared some photo's of Olivia when she was just born. Here she is now at 2 months old already!

She is one of the easiest babies I have ever seen. She sleeps through noisy guests, her sister shoving at her pram and the whole of the night! Wow...

Love much!

S.

Baby photography - Ane' at 13 days old

2010-09-20T11:32:00.000+02:00

It seems like only yesterday I photographed Marietjie & Alex's wedding (I assure you though, it was not!), and here I am sharing photos of their little daughter Ane. Precious little bundle, giving mommy sleepless nights.

Congratulations to a fabulous couple. May there be much joy in your precious family...

Love much!

S.

Event photography - Corrie's 30th birthday sneak peek

2010-09-15T12:53:00.000+02:00

We celebrated Corrie's 30th birthday last Friday. It was a surprise party and chocolate fondue at that! My hubby took this shot of him and me. (My brother so I get to be in the pic too ;-) ) I will be posting some more photo's of this fun event a little later...

Love much!

S.

Children Lifestyle Photography - Elane's Second Birthday Part 2 Decor

2010-09-11T22:27:00.000+02:00

The white and pink butterfly themed party was beautifully executed. Here is all the detail!

Children lifestyle photography - Elane's second birthday (part 1)

2010-09-08T23:37:00.000+02:00

I have been burning to share these photographs! So here they are at last!

Elane' turned two years old last Sunday. She is turning out to be just as photogenic as her mom. Wow, she is just too beautiful for words, so let the pictures do all the talking...

Time to blow out the candles:

Mommy Estie went through a lot of trouble to make this birthday party extra special and it really showed. There were months of planning and days and nights of putting it all together. No caterers, no party planners, all done from scratch! I will feature all of that in part 2...

Love much!

S.

Children lifestyle photography - Luhan's first birthday

2010-09-08T22:33:00.000+02:00

When I delivered Luhan's first birthday photo's to Adele this week, Luhan showed off a couple of his first steps! Too cute for words! Just one, two and boom back on the bum... thank goodness for nappy insulation.

Here is the little guy celebrating his first birthday. He was just happy to crawl around, tasting everybody's sweets that were lying around and then retiring to his rocker for a bottle.

Hope you have a wonderful new year Luhan, with so many new steps to take!

Love much,

http://www.facebook.com/sallyseymorephotography

2010-09-08T20:27:00.000+02:00

Hi there,

Just to let you know this is my facbook address: http://www.facebook.com/sallyseymorephotography . So please come join me and remember to click on "Like" ;-) .

Love much!

S.

Children lifestyle photography - Leando's 2cnd birthday

2010-09-06T22:14:00.000+02:00

For Leando's first birthday his mother planned a wonderful traditional birthday party at home in the garden. Maria woke up that Saturday morning to probably the coldest and most certainly wettest winters day of the year in Johannesburg. This year she changed her strategy and hosted his second birthday party at a venue. The weather played along and Leando thoroughly enjoyed the farm themed celebration. Here are some of the highlights!

Happy birthday little big man!

Love much!

Technology - finding Facebook...

2010-09-06T21:30:00.000+02:00

So, my wonderful sister in law has given me pointers on getting a business page open in FaceBook. This post is merely to test if I set op the RSS feed correctly.

Please excuse my being a novice, but we all have to learn this at some stage!

Children photography - Three birthday parties and a baby

2010-09-06T16:04:00.000+02:00

Here is a sneak peek of upcoming blog posts.

The first birthday party is that of Leando turning two.

Next is Luhan's very first!

Elane' also just turned two this past week-end.

Ane' is our new born, a mere two weeks old.

More pics to follow a little later...

Also coming up is the bridal fair draw. Please watch out for my e-mail brides!

Love much!

S.

Personal - Abigail in hospital

2010-09-05T01:30:00.000+02:00

This next post is on a personal level and written in my mother language. If you do not understand Afrikaans and would like the English version, please send my an e-mail.

Abigail in die hospitaal

Dit is vandag presies twee maande sedert Abigail in die hospital opgeneem was. My kind is vandag gesond. Ek is so dankbaar teenoor die Here daarvoor. As ek haar saans in die bed sit, vind ek dat ek nog ‘n minuut of vyf langer talm om haar warm lyfie net nog ‘n rukkie vas te hou en om net nog ‘n soentjie op haar wangetjie te plant... Sy het in hierdie twee maande, soos wat dit maar in die eerste jare van ‘n mens se lewe gaan, so baie ontwikkel. Sy praat so oulik, se’ die kostelikste goed, met tye hans en is oor die algemeen sommer net ougad. Ek voel ek het haar nou soveel beter leer ken. Sy is nogals ekstrovert, kan haar goed wip maar lag net so maklik weer, sy hardloop oral waarheen sy gaan. Sy gee baie liefde – daardie armpie om my nek om my nader te trek en styf vas te druk; honderde soentjies saans as sy nie eintlik lus het om nou te gaan slaap nie. Sy is baie lief vir diere. ‘n Tawwe klein dogtertjie van die dag wat sy gebore is! Weer voel ek net so dankbaar ek is die kans gegun om dit te beleef en al die res wat nog voorle’.

Wanneer jou kind siek in ‘n hospitaalbed le’ gekoppel aan pype en masjiene, twee spesialiste oor haar bekommerd is en jy sien hoe sy voor jou oe’ wegkwyn durf jy nie dink aan die ergste nie. Nee, jy los haar nie vir ‘n oomblik alleen nie, jy huil nie voor haar nie, jy gee al die liefde wat jy kan en al wat jy doen is om te bid en te bid en te bid. Midde in die omstandighede smag jy om te weet hoe lyk die dag oor twee weke... Jy weet dit gaan verby, maar wat daar anderkant le’ bly onbekend.

Abi het aanvanklik ‘n los magie ontwikkel. Sy was andersins nie siek nie en het dit maar toegeskryf aan twee jaar tande wat moontlik oppad is. Na ‘n week was haar maag steeds los maar het nie meer gereeld gewerk as normaal nie. Nou en dan het dit vir my ‘n tipiese gastro reuk gehad, maar daar was nie enige ander verbandhoudende simptome nie. Daarna het sy een of twee keer in die nag opgegooi. Haar magie het vererger. Dit het binne ‘n dag of twee baie erger geword en ek het bekommerd geraak dat sy sou dehidreer. Dit het ook nou te lank geword vir ‘n gewone gastro of selfs Rotavirus in my ondervinding. Ek is die Vrydag na ons huisdokter toe. Hy reken dit is gastro en skryf ‘n paar goedjies voor. Ons probeer ons bes en kry darem redelik vloeistof in wat sy inhou. Maar, my kind word nie beter. Sy le’ net die hele tyd in haar stootwaentjie.

Teen Sondagaand weet hierdie ma dat hier iets ergers aan die gang is. Bring haar weer Maandag in, se’ my dokter. Na ekstrale van haar buik word ons verwys na ‘n pediater toe. Teen laat middag sit ek met ‘n hoogs onstelde peutertjie op ‘n drip in pediatrie.

Nou behoort sy vinnig reg te kom, reken ek. ‘n Drip kan tog wondere verrig! My kind is baie gedehidreer en het ook baie gewig verloor. Die pediater kan geen dermklanke hoor nie.

Iewers tussen Maandag en Vrydag moet ons twee keer weer die drip opsit, moet sy gaan vir ‘n sonar, nog ekstrale en ‘n barium anema. Ek slaap snags by haar op ‘n stoel wat platslaan in ‘n bed. Sy is meeste van die tyd in my arms, dag en nag. Pediatrie kyk mooi na ons.

Abigail is redelik swak en kan nog geen kos inhou nie. Dokter laat haar ‘n entjie loop, sy is wankelrig en van balans af. MRI. Dit kan ‘n breintumor wees. My kleindingetjie word gesedeer om in ‘n wrede groot raserige masjien ingestoot te word. Cindy bel my net voor sy ingaan en bid dat ek voel hoe my trane my gesig en nek sopnat maak. Sy bid teen trauma vir Abi. Dankie Here, net in tyd kry ek weer ‘n bietjie krag. Soveel mense bid saam met ons vir Abigail, tien talle indien nie honderde nie. Hoe lank is so ‘n skandering? 20 minute? Dit voel soos ‘n ewigheid. Ek kyk heeltyd van haar gesiggie na die hartmonitor, is sy ok? Sy slaap so diep onder hierdie geweldige lawaai. Dis verby, en ‘n vriendelike jong vrou lig my in dat die radioloog se’ alles lyk reg. Wanner sal ek weet wat die uitslag is? Als lyk o.k., se’ sy weer, die dokter het vlugtig geloer. Ek voel sommer lam van verligting...

Woensdaggoggend bring die pediater ‘n dermspesialis saam. Hulle sal Vrydag ‘n gastroskopie doen as die bloedtoetse nog geen antwoorde verskaf nie. Woensdagaand wil ek net my dokter bel. Haar magie is so geswel dat haar naeltjie al buitentoe uitstaan.

Donderdagoggend en altwee die dokters lyk bekommerd. Donderdagaand ontwikkel Abigail geweldig koors wat ons nie gebreek kry nie. Tien uur die aand verander die dokter haar antibiotika, hy wil haar op vier ander sit. My kind is in toksiese skok. Sy bly braak. Ten spyte daarvan dat ons haar lank genoeg sonder kos voor die narkose gehou het, braak sy gal Vrydagoggend. Nou is dit teater toe. Ek kan nie ophou huil nie, ek kan net nie.

Dit is nie ‘n lang prosedure nie. Maar naderhand wys die horlosie dit is al amper twee ure later. My senuwees kan dit nou nie meer hou nie. Ralph vra ‘n suster om net asseblief te hoor waar die babatjie is, is sy nog nie uit teater nie? Ja, sy is al uit, sy is in intensiewe sorg. Ons hardloop van die sewende vloer tot die elfde. Hoekom het niemand vir ons iets gese’ nie? Wat gaan aan? Wat het foutgegaan? Bo gekom is Abigail nie te vinde nie. ‘n Oproep kom van teater af, “Aaa, sorry, I made a mistake.” Terug op die sewende vloer kry ek ‘n koppie swart soet tee. Die spesialis kom uit. Haar dunderm is erg onsteke, septies, en sal nie enige kos kan duld nie, derhalwe sal sy nie deur ‘n gastriese buis gevoed kan word nie, hulle moet ‘n "direkte lyn" vir haar insit. Dan sal sy in ICU opgeneem moet word.

‘n Rukkie later stoot hulle haar uit teater uit. Sy skree soos ‘n babatjie, maar ek kan hoor daar is ‘n buis in haar keel. Dokters en verpleegsters skarrel rondom haar. Sy is briesend kwaad! Nou huil sy na my. Haar stemmetjie klink weer normal. My tawwe peutertjie het die buis uitgepluk. Ek kan nou ingaan en haar vashou, sy is dadelik rustig. Later vind ons uit, sy het onder narkose opgebring en geaspireer.

Ons spandeer die volgende week in ICU. Die binneaarse voeding vat ‘n ewigheid om te kom. Meeste van die susters is nors, ongeskik, weet nie die eerste ding van kinders af nie en baklei oor wie wanneer op middagete en teetyd kan gaan. Mense word ge-“re-suss”. ‘n Jongman langs ons is breindood. Daar is heelwat ou mense en geliefdes kom neem afskeid. My kind is siek en maer, sy wil nie meer in my arms wees nie, net op haar bedjie le’. Dit is ‘n marteling.

Abigail begin beter lyk.

Sondag werk haar magie spontaan en ek huil in my ma se arms. Haar dermpies begin weer werk! Sy gaan o.k. wees. Waar sy so swak was dat sy net kon plat le’, sit sy sommer ewe skielik regop. Later bou sy legkaarte tot vervelens toe.

Na twaalf dae word ons ontslaan. Die laaste aand spandeer ons terug in pediatrie. Ek kan weer my warmlyfie teen my vashou. Sy slaap heel nag in my arms, dis so lekker. Dankie Here.

Na twee bladsye vol bloed- en ander toetse kon die dokters steeds nie hul vinger op die sondebok sit nie. Die pediater glo dit was Staffilicoc bakterie’ wat weerstandbiedend was teen jou deurslag antibiotikas. Dis nou nie meer belangrik nie. Sy is gesond, sy is weer tuis.

By die huis aangekom wil my liefding net aangaan soos gewoonlik, maar haar beentjies gee onder haar mee. Boetie en sussie spring in om in die pret te deel – hulle kruip saam met Abigail rond! Dit het ‘n goeie maand gevat vir haar om te normaliseer. Daar was baie slegte drome en mense in blou uniforms het haar onstel.

Nou het ek gedeel wat ek kon in twee of drie bladsye. Ek sien nie eens kans om weer te lees wat ek hierbo geskryf het nie. Al die details is lewensgroot voor my geestesoog. Om alles te herleef laat my net besef dit is genade dat ek hier kon deur.

Ons prys die Here vir Abigail se herstel en gesondheid. Dankie aan almal wat saam met ons gebid het. Dit is waar dat al weet ons nie wat aan die ander kant van ‘n situasie le’ nie, kan ons weet dat God saam met ons daar is. Ons God is groot en getrou. Dankie Jesus.

Children photography - 7th birthday

2010-09-04T18:51:00.000+02:00

When Abigail first got sick Walter James' birthday was still far into the future. When she finally came home, it was a mere week away! I was relieved when he asked for a Spur birthday party. Seven year old boys are energetic and rough most of the time, and Spur is well suited to this! It spares my home a rampage and my son gets to invite all his friends...

Here are some of the highlights of the day:

Mountain bike surprise at sunrise...

Susan from Just Baking sported the "Lego Bat Man" cake.

A little bit of soccer world cup fever:

Happy birthday Walter James, and many many more!!! Love you so much!