Happy Earth Day

I have to say that, after all the nice weather we've had thus far this spring, today's cool temps were a bit disappointing.  We tried, instead, to radiate the sunshine from within our hearts, celebrate Mother Earth, and renew our commitment to her.  Don't forget to reduce, reuse, and recycle!

Recommendation: Do all of nature a favor and get your children to read Don't Squash That Bug!  Natalie Rompella, an author from our own state of Illinois, wrote this informative book (suited for grades 2-4).  The kids are going to LOVE the amazing photographs and they'll learn so much about the importance of insects in our world.  Wish this book had been around when our budding photographer, Lindsey, was little! She's always been interested in insects.  Check out some of Lindsey's award winning "bug shots" in the Featured Galleries on the Nichols Photography website, www.nicholsphoto.com.

Colored Eggs, Chicks, & Chocolate

Happy Easter to all my peeps!  Hope each and every one of you had an amazing family day and got to participate (in some way) in an awesome Easter egg hunt.  Spring is in the air!

Please take a moment to review the Easter safety issues discussed in my post of March 26, 2009.

(Thanks to Jason for his whimsical artwork.)

Mike is teaching again!

Photoshop Tips and Tricks (at SIUE, Tuesdays, April 10-24, 6:30-8:30 p.m.)
If you're already familiar with the basics of the Photoshop program, you can join Mike in a class that will build on your skills.  Would you like to open eyes, swap faces, add or subtract people from your shots?  This is the class for you!  Learn to choose and use the correct tools for each photographic task, control color and contrast, even work with layer masks and blending modes.  Fasten your seat belts, it's going to be an exciting ride!