One thing as a photographer, you are constantly learning and always trying to improve your product.    This is one of the reasons I upgrade my software, or lighting equipment or even computer equipment.  Recently I have upgraded my studio lights, purchased new BW software, subscribed to Kelby Training and also purchased a stylus tablet to help with my editing.  These items cost money and make photography a very expensive hobby for some and a costly business for others.   I support the makeup artists who spend a lot of time improving their craft as well as the costs involved in their business.  I also want to help the models gain the experience they need to further their careers as well.  I didn't mind in the beginning and still will on occasion pay for specific projects with models to improve both our portfolios.  But I need to move on and build my own business and create income to pay for my costs and if this means reducing my work with models, so be it.  I don't mind doing the odd TFP (trade for portfolio) as it benefits both parties.  My concentration is now on working with the average everyday woman and this weekend I get to photograph 3 of them and none of them are models.  This image of Mystaya is a great example of my new direction.

This image of Shadia is one of many favourite shots I took at a shoot we had back in January.  I may have mentioned it before but I've always wanted to do a photo session with her with the emphasis on capturing her beauty.  I had done two previous shoots with her but they were more glamour and fashion and this time I wanted it to be different.  I was very happy with the result!!!

Beautiful name, beautiful person !!!  I had the opportunity to photograph her last night and it was a great shoot.  We used various lighting techniques and different scarfs and got some amazing shots.  It is wonderful to work with women and make them feel beautiful and bring this beauty out in them.  That is my focus and goal.