10 Things Family and Lifestyle Photographer Jessalyn Prins Loves
Here are ten things I really love! It was actually a little hard to make this list; there are so many things in life that bring me joy. I kept adding things to my list, taking them off, re adding trying to discover my 'favourite' things in life. Finally I just changed the title from 'my favourite things' to 'things I love!'. That was much easier!
1. books!
Books - I love reading. When I was pregnant with my first (and actually had time!) I would go to a local bookstore curl up and read for hours or, if time was more limited, I would just walk along, scanning book titles, reading paragraphs here and there, and always always sticking my nose in and enjoying the new book smell.
2. rain
Rain - I have my Dad to thank for my love of rain. Whenever the clouds would open and rain would drench the earth he would gather us together on the porch to watch the rain come pounding down, breathe in the freshness of a newly watered world, and just sit, all cozy together. I carry that tradition on with my boys - though it usually involves them with buckets to hold over the edge of the porch and then dumping them over top of each other’s heads.
3. conservation areas
Conservation Areas - I am so thankful to live in Ontario and be surrounded by such natural beauty. I love our conservation areas (we have so many near where I live) and each one has something unique to offer. We have had so many adventures exploring, sneaking peeks of wildlife, splashing in creeks, and coming out covered in dirt with gleeful smiles on everyone’s faces.
Conservation Areas - I am so thankful to live in Ontario and be surrounded by such natural beauty. I love our conservation areas (we have so many near where I live) and each one has something unique to offer. We have had so many adventures exploring, sneaking peeks of wildlife, splashing in creeks, and coming out covered in dirt with gleeful smiles on everyone’s faces.
5. my rocking chairs
My Rocking Chairs - I found this pair on the side of the road with a free sign attached - score for me! They are actually super comfy and I have enjoyed many afternoons curled up watching the rain, watching the boys play, and reading some of my favorite authors.
7. mounted prints
Mounted Prints - I adore printing my work. Seeing what I have been able to capture printed and in my hands - a tangible memory - is such an incredible experience; so meaningful compared to just seeing it on a digital device. I love printing my work on styrene - it makes a thick print, extremely durable, and doesn’t need a frame! I have picture shelves that I love and have my images sitting on those, and I can swap them out without any hassle.
9. the sound of the dishwasher
The Sound of the Dishwasher - this might be a little weird but I always look forward to turning on the dishwasher in the evening and listening to the swish swash as I work. Maybe because it signifies a (finally) quiet, clean house and a chance for some me time before bed. Or maybe it’s just because I know something is working hard and doing a job for me!
2. rain
Rain - I have my Dad to thank for my love of rain. Whenever the clouds would open and rain would drench the earth he would gather us together on the porch to watch the rain come pounding down, breathe in the freshness of a newly watered world, and just sit, all cozy together. I carry that tradition on with my boys - though it usually involves them with buckets to hold over the edge of the porch and then dumping them over top of each other’s heads.
4. 135 mm lens
My 135 mm Lens - I love this lens so much; it allows me to be a good distance from my subject but still capturing up close images. I have captured so many of my favourite images this way; just sitting waiting for magic to happen, out of their space, and capturing their little expressions without having to move!
5. my rocking chairs
My Rocking Chairs - I found this pair on the side of the road with a free sign attached - score for me! They are actually super comfy and I have enjoyed many afternoons curled up watching the rain, watching the boys play, and reading some of my favorite authors.
6. babywearing
Babywearing - We wouldn’t be able to go on half the adventures we do if it wasn’t for my Ergo baby carrier. It makes life so much easier to just settle my 1.5 year old on my back and set off. He doesn’t get exhausted and my hands are free (this isn’t true - my older son just gives me rocks, sticks and dirt to haul instead).
Plus....baby snuggles!!
7. mounted prints
Mounted Prints - I adore printing my work. Seeing what I have been able to capture printed and in my hands - a tangible memory - is such an incredible experience; so meaningful compared to just seeing it on a digital device. I love printing my work on styrene - it makes a thick print, extremely durable, and doesn’t need a frame! I have picture shelves that I love and have my images sitting on those, and I can swap them out without any hassle.
8. my littles
My Littles - these little people have captured my heart in a way I never thought possible. They keep me on my toes, always push me towards our next adventure, and bring out the kid in me. They have taught me so much about life and so much about myself. If you want to grow and stretch as a person - have kids! They have a knack for pushing you to your limits, filling you with crazy joy, and their little snuggles - I would hold on to those forever if I could.
9. the sound of the dishwasher
The Sound of the Dishwasher - this might be a little weird but I always look forward to turning on the dishwasher in the evening and listening to the swish swash as I work. Maybe because it signifies a (finally) quiet, clean house and a chance for some me time before bed. Or maybe it’s just because I know something is working hard and doing a job for me!
10. cathy marie hake
Cathy Marie Hake - My bookcase is crammed with books I have read several time - but there is a special shelf reserved for this author! I have read her books dozens of times (not exaggerating) and am nowhere near tiring of her works. She makes me laugh, cry, and her work is like a magnet - I just can’t get away. Writing this...I think I may just go read one of her novels again right now.