This has been one busy holiday portrait season! This family drove far to see me so I was really excited the weather cooperated with us that afternoon. I loved the outfits they picked out.

This girl is such a natural in front of the camera. This is the second time I’ve photographed her and every picture she’s in looks amazing. She brought her stuffed animal with her and required me to get some shots of them together.

Giving is Awesome is a simple effort by photographers worldwide to give back to their communities. Last year this program raised over $565,000 worth of custom photography to families across the globe. This year we hope to double that number. All you have to do is nominate someone in need. That’s it. So simple!

You know someone. You know someone who’s experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is raising kids while holding down more than one job, or is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances. You know someone who can’t afford custom photography, but who would cherish it this holiday season. You know someone who deserves a year-round reminder of their family’s spirit, love, and beauty.

You know someone. I guarantee it.

I want to know who they are, and I want to give them the chance to experience complimentary custom photography — $650 worth, to be exact. Whether it’s canvas or albums, prints for Grandma, or images on a CD to watch over and over, it’s in your power to give them the artwork they deserve this holiday season.

Oh, and the best part? The person who nominates the winner receives a $150 print credit. What better reason to show some love could there possibly be, people?

The rules:

* You cannot nominate yourself, and the person nominated must sincerely be incapable of purchasing my services. (Being unable to make mortgage payments for a two-million-dollar-vacation-home in Paris does not qualify as sincere financial need.)

* The nominee must reside in Georgia. I will travel any where in the state. Tell me who you know, what they’re experiencing, and why they deserve my artwork. Please include a way to contact both your nominee and yourself as well.

* You must e-mail me the full story : lg@lauraleighphotography.com NO LATER than December 20th, 2009.

The winner will be announced on Christmas Eve — get nominating! I can’t wait to read all of your entries!

Open your heart to someone this holiday season — and thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.

With love,

Laura | Laura Leigh Photography

This sweet boy was so little I just assumed he couldn’t sit up yet. Boy did he surprise me. Not only was he sitting up but he showed off a little and showed me how he could stand. He still has the same gorgeous big eyes from when I photographed him at 3 months.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and ate way too much food the last couple days!

I had a great time hanging out with this family. They’ve added a new member to the family since the last time I saw them.

Be thankful.

Such a fun family! These sisters were cracking up the entire time. I also happen to think they both have the most gorgeous eyes!