Meadows And Roses

Dark Rose

Eye of the Beholder

Sierra Joy

Stern Grove Festival Street Photography

To me, street photography is about much more than taking a picture of an interesting person. It's about capturing a moment in their life and imagining what becomes of it. It creates a connection that brings me closer to the people around me, even if it lasts for just a short amount of time. When I go to the city for street photography, a passion ignites inside of me that settles into a strong sense of belonging. Many that I know don't seem to understand the importance of street photography to me, but nothing can destroy the deeply rooted passion I have for it.

Santa Cruz Beach Photoshoot

Last weekend, my family and I went to Santa Cruz for my little sister's Jiu Jitsu (I think that's how you spell it?) tournament. Her opponent forfeited, so she had two consultation matches. Both of which she unfortunately lost. She did pretty well considering they were both above her weight class. Afterwards, we did some shopping then went to the beach, where Sloane and I took some photos. I didn't get as many pictures as I wanted, but I'm proud of the results that I did get.

-Have a wonderful day

Sierra Joy

1950's Photoshoot

This shoot has been one of the most fun of the summer so far. The two girls I worked with are a delight to be with, and they could actually be from the '50s. I'm so glad I got to do this, and spend time with some great people. 

-Have a wonderful day

Sierra Joy

Summer Job

One of the unexpected things that should have been on my to-do list happened this summer. I got a job! I'm an office assistant/I.T. for my dad's business. I enjoy it for the most part, except for when the computer is all janky, and I've discovered that I would like to have an office job later in life. Maybe for a wedding planner or fashion magazine. This job will look fantastic to other possible job opportunities, not to mention the fact that it's pretty good pay. I get paid $7.25 per hour and work 15 hours per week. Trust me; it adds up. Especially since I get paid every two weeks.

I just wanted to share that little piece of my life with you since I haven't been able to post any new photos. I got this photo editor called GIMP, and I've been pretty lazy with editing photos. I've posted some on Instagram but not on here since I like to post all the photos from each photo shoot on the same blog post. For now, you can check them out on Instagram though. Instagram

-Have a wonderful day

Sierra Joy

Photography Meet-Up 1

I had my first photography meet up of the summer this past Tuesday the 17th. It was fun to hang out with everybody, and I'm satisfied with the photographs I captured. 

-Have a wonderful day

Sierra Joy

Summer Goals 2014

Yesterday was fortunately my last day at VCS ever. Next year, I won't be returning as a student of VCS but as a student at Buckingham Charter School. It's exciting to imagine myself anywhere other than VCS because I've been growing up with the same people my whole life. It will be quite an adventure for me, but I want to make the summer between that transition the best it can possibly be. I will meet new people through my newly organized photography club and possible instameets while also connecting even more deeply with the beloved friends I have now. To ensure that I don't just end up lying around my house all summer, I've created a list (oh me and my never ending lists) of goals to complete over the summer. 

1. Stand up while surfing. 

2. Swim laps twice per week.

3. Go on two bike rides per week. 

4. Write at least three short stories. 

5. Complete at least one short film.

6. Switch to all-natural beauty products. 

7. Complete at least five planned photo shoots.

8. Host at least ten photography meet-ups (five local and five travel). 

9. Write about the adventures I have on my blog and in my scrapbook.

10. Learn to enjoy the company of others without the distraction of my camera.

As you can see, I have a variety of interests that I want to pursue this summer, and I am fully expectant of myself to accomplish all of them because I feel passionate about these activities. Please stay tuned for my physical activity, my attempted short film, and photo shoots that I'm super excited about (including a nymph shoot and a 1950's shoot). 

-Have a wonderful day

Sierra Joy

Earth Day

April 22, 2014

I decided to do something naturey on Earth Day this year. I told my dad of this desire, and he took it to the next level. My dad, Sloane, and I walked straight out of our backyard (We live in the country.) and just started walking. There were fields and fields of this tall green grass. My dad told me the name, but I can't remember. Along the way, my dad taught us about all of the plants we encountered. This tends to happen with him since he's an arborist. My dad also told us about the history of our town. He moved to Vacaville when he was in sixth grade, and the town wasn't nearly as populated as it is now. All of the suburbs we hiked by hadn't even existed when my dad was a kid. There were just empty fields. When he was younger, he and his friends would ride their motorcycles all over those fields. I wish I could have that sort of freedom. I also learned that there used to be a train that ran right behind my school to drop off fruits and nuts, the main industry if Vacaville at that time. Isn't that neat? 

Have a wonderful day.

-Sierra Joy

Easter Sunrise

April 20, 2014

This was a very special morning for me because one of my fondest memories of Easter was our family driving to this special lookout and watching the sunrise while we read the story of Jesus's resurrection. We hadn't done that tradition for many past years though. I convinced my mom and Sloane to join me. I even threatened to bike seven miles up to the spot by myself at 4:00 in the morning if they didn't come. Luckily, these drastic measures were not necessary since my mom decided to drive us. We arrived a little late, and the sun had already begun to peer over the hills. We still enjoyed ourselves though and were in awe by God's magnificent beauty.

Have a wonderful day.

-Sierra Joy