New Family Member, and New Affiliation

This is Izzy.

Probably short for Isabel, but she was named by my 5 year old Grandson...

There is nothing quite as wonderful as a curious puppy, and the puppy smell - there is nothing quite so calming and peaceful.

My business is weddings and portraits, but I so rarely get to practice on the very cutest subjects, puppys.

On another subject, Mindy and I have joined a volunteer organization of professional photographers called "Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep", whose purpose is to provide photographic services to families who have lost a baby. This tragedy happens from time to time, and families are usually so stricken with greif that the idea of photography is not on their mind.

Later on, the family has nothing to remember this life, that was lost before it even had a chance to begin. A mother develops a bond and love for the baby before it is born, and what we provide is a remembrance of what is good and wonderful about the time that they did have.

Yes, it's hard. The enormity of the loss hits home every time. The family may not want photos until years later, but they exist, done in a careful and loving way. It is what we can do.

For more information, the organization's web site is www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org.

Article and Photos Submitted

This past week, an assiciate of mine Steve Chesler (www.cheslerphoto.com) and I completed an article for Life in the Finger Lakes magazine.

It was an exhilarating experience, and I hope it will be well received by the readers.

The article is intended as a public relations item for our organization, the Professional Photographers' Society of New York State, Finger Lakes section. Our organization exists for the advancement and education of its members. The finger Lakes section also has the reputation of being the friendliest section in the state, one I won't dispute.

Frankly, I am delighted at the opportunity of being published is this quality magazine, whose photography is in the same ball park as Arizona Highways, Country and even (dare I say) National Geographic.

By all means, check out the web site, www.lifeinthefingerlakes.com. Even the web site is seriously classy.

And while you are checking out web sites, visit my new site at www.paynefamilyphotographers.com. I am, of course, delighted with it, and wish to pass on my kudos to Ellen Chesler od Lake Effects Web Design, who has used her considerable skill in creating a very professional, classy site.