Happy 1st Birthday!

I'm not really one to take huge chances. I'm more of the "play it safe" kind of girl. When I graduated and began the hum-drum of going to a desk job.... day after day after day after day, I realized I needed something more! I was hoping for something energizing, fun, and something I could be excited and passionate about.

It's funny because I watched this show on Oprah some random day that talked about Living your Best Life. Of course it did! What else does Oprah talk about :) But the thing she said that really hit a nerve with me is "Why are so many people NOT doing what they are naturally good at." I started asking myself, what are my natural talents and God given gifts. Something that I didn't ever have to force myself in to. It made so much sense to me. I should spend my time using the talents that God has given me. So I thought about it... What am I naturally good at? What do people time and time again tell me I do well. No one has ever said to me, "Wow Ashley, you are a great musician" or "You should be a swimsuit model!" So, I won't do those things, but among others that I am proud of, photography has always been something that came natural to me. People would just casually say, "you take really good pictures". One day it "clicked" and I did something!

My mom has always been a good photographer, so I'm lucky to have grown up with well composed photographs my whole life. It was easy for me to see the difference between a good picture and a bad one. NOT to say I haven't taken many bad photos, and still do. I'm sure I always will. But it's a great thing to learn from!

What's all this rambling about... my photography business officially turns one year old this February!

Happy 1st Birthday to Ashley Schrage Photography!

I'm so excited I want to celebrate! WITH YOU of course. I couldn't have done it with out you! To say thanks for all the support, whether you've had 3 sessions already with me, or you are a blog stalker, I am giving away a FREE SESSION!

-Winner to receive a free on-location session for up to 5 members of the same immediate family. Location to be within 20 miles of Cedar Falls/ Waterloo, Iowa. Don't live in the area? No problem! If you win and live outside of the area, you may transfer your free session to a friend or family member who does. Of course if you are willing to travel for a session, please do!

-With your session, you will also receive an online gallery, 10 (medium resolution) digital files of your choice and 25% discount on any prints you may choose to purchase.

To receive this gift, simply leave a comment on THIS blog post on or before Valentine's Day(that's 10 days!). Make sure to leave your name and tell me about the special person/ people in your life you would love to capture through photography!

I will announce the winner on Monday, February 15th. So check back to claim your prize or leave your email address so I can notify you!

I want everyone to be a winner and celebrate with me. Even if you don't win, all sessions booked from RIGHT NOW until February 19th will receive a complimentary 11x14 print AND 10% off your print order. You MUST mention this blog post when booking to receive the prize. You also must be able to send in your deposit to seal the deal! Don't forget to spread the word and tell your friends about both special offers!

fine print:

-1 comment will be chosen on February 15, 2010 for a free session.

-One entry per household please.

-The free session must take place in March, April, or May.

-I reserve the right to terminate the contest if necessary.

-Winner agrees to sign my standard model release form (please email me if you would like a copy)

-No substitutions may be made to prizes.

-Please contact me through email at ashleyschrage@gmail.com for clarification on any of the above terms.