New Online Portfolio of Children's Photography

Working on a new online portfolio ~  Check out the preliminary cut ~
at:  http://www.behance.net/ShellyPerkins

click on the link below:

Five iPhone Camera Apps You Want

Here's a link to check out ~
http://lightstoppers.com/top-5-iphone-camera-applications/
http://lightstoppers.com/top-5-iphone-camera-applications/

Five iPhone Camera Apps you don't want to be without ~

 Photo by Free Wallpaper:  www.freewallpapersdb.com

Shelly Perkins Art from Kids to Crazy

I've been very busy finishing up this semester at OU. I'm about to finish up my first year at art school. I've had a great time experimenting many different aspects of my photography. I'm usually a kid photographer by trade but working with other new emerging artists and being pushed by the faculty, I've found a whole other side to my work. By all means, many of these photos are not exactly everyone's taste but isn't that what art is all about? Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

This summer I will be back to shooting more kid portraits and team pictures but also I'm working on several other projects that I may showcase through my personal blog. This blog is basically my online journal in my world. It's not a "site specific" kid photographer site but a whole hodge podge of what's going on inside that eccentric head of mine. I've been working on a few "alternative" works which are a little edgy and maybe a little disturbing to some. Okay I'll say it, some may just think the work is really strange. God has blessed me to see beauty is so much that others wouldn't and I really enjoy experimenting with many different genres in life. I was born an Okie, married a New Yorker and had the chance to be a New Yorker for about five years. I appreciate that not everyone is the same and many people are open to other lifestyles or types of photography.

So before I freak everyone out here, just look at my images and creations for what they are ~ works of art. Sometimes art is unexplainable and sometimes it is misunderstood. I'm just here to create and enjoy life. God bless you guys ~

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Oklahoma Trips on a Tank Full

With summer fast approaching you may be wondering like me, how do I keep these kids entertained all summer?  Luckily, if you live in Oklahoma like me, there are many opportunities that this great state has to offer.  I've included a link to the Oklahoma State Department of Tourism where you can request free brochures and receive free coupons for children friendly museums and activities.  http://www.oktourism.com/literature-request/

From trips to the Oklahoma City Adventure District visiting the Oklahoma City Zoo or the Oklahoma Science Museum to trips to Frontier City Amusement Park and White Water, there is so much to do. Of course, the Oklahoma Aquarium and the Bricktown Ballpark are great destinations for summer fun but have you also visited Andy Alligator's in Norman or Leonardo's Discovery Warehouse in Enid? Looking for a cool place to eat with your kids that won't break your bank?  Check out Pop's on Route 66 in Arcadia or Meers Restaurant in Meers near Lawton and Altus. If you're near Stillwater of course you have to check out the world famous Eskimo Joe's.

My family travels frequently and we love to travel around Oklahoma.  You don't have to travel far or spend a lot of money in gas (which is going up again!!!) to find something to do.  I encourage you to look around Oklahoma before making your expensive travel plans for the summer and notice all that Oklahoma has to offer.  Is this a great state or what?

www.shellyperkins.com
Shelly Perkins Photography

Blast from the Past ~ from Chanel

Blast from the Past ~ from Chanel I LOVE THIS !!!

God's Beauty at Oklahoma Lake

The Wichita Mountains in Southwestern Oklahoma has several lakes and many gorgeous viewing areas. This is an image I created in the spirit of Ansel Adams and his idea for black and white landscape photography. I am not, by any means, saying I can duplicate his amazing talent but I'm learning and loving what I'm doing. I'm proud to live in Oklahoma where we have a diverse landscape from flatlands and prairies to hills and mountains. I hope you enjoy this shot of God's Beauty that I found at Ketch Lake near the Wichita Mountains. Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Moore Oklahoma's Buck Thomas Park at Sunset

I am blessed to live in Oklahoma with many amazing people. Moore is one of the great towns with great people and Buck Thomas Park is where many residents spend lots of time with their kiddos. Moore has been hit several times by tornadoes, as recent as last year. Many people lost everything they had but the people of Moore have rebuilt and gotten stronger. The people help each other and can rely on each other in times of need. I just wanted to make an image at sunset to show the beauty of the Moore area and God's graciousness on this land.

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

HAPPY APRIL FOOLS ~

Happy April Fools Everyone. Hope you enjoyed your day and was able to play a joke or two. I will be busy this week shooting photos for my final assignment with the University of Oklahoma. I may need a few models over the next couple weeks ~ facebook message me if you're interested. (All ages = non-monetary modeling work with possibility of no charge FB images)

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com


xray photographer image found at http://blackistheonlycolor.tumblr.com/post/7354921013 ~ check out his guy

WHAT SIZE OF PHOTO DO I ORDER ??

If you're having trouble deciding which size of portrait or art work to order, here's a chart to help you. Many people order 8x10's thinking that's a "wall" portrait, when in fact it's a table top or desk size photo. This chart will help you quickly decide what size is right for you but the best way to determine size is to measure. Use a measuring tape to accurately measure the area you plan to hang your new portrait or artwork and that's what you should order.

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com


graphics from http://pinterest.com/pin/226939268693028219/

Fun at the Nature Center at Lake Thunderbird

I wanted to share a few pics of our afternoon at the Lake Thunderbird Nature Center in Norman, Oklahoma. This is a great place to spend a little time with your kiddos. It is located off Oklahoma State Highway 9 on the south side of the lake. The center is free since Lake Thunderbird is a state park and is open everyday 9-5 except Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

The center has an official park ranger on duty to talk about the wildlife found in Oklahoma and locally in Cleveland County around the lake. The park ranger can also give you maps and point you to great hiking and biking trails or places to play in the water, even if you don't own a boat or a ski-do. The Lake Thunderbird Nature Center is a fun place to spend an afternoon.

For more info check out:
http://www.travelok.com/listings/view.profile/id.4386


Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Please Join Me in EARTH HOUR on March 31st

Have you heard of Earth Hour? Are you still unsure of what Earth Hour is and how you can participate?? Check out this short video ~ BE A PART OF SOMETHING HUGE ~ EARTH HOUR





Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Join EARTH HOUR on March 31st

Sohail Shehada's Ballerinas at JRB Art Gallery

I had a great time this evening visiting Oklahoma City's JRB Art Gallery located in the ever so-cool Paseo Art District. It was opening night for Sohail Shehada, who is an amazingly talented artist and professor at the University of Oklahoma. Shehada works with brozne, lead, clay, pastels and various materials to create his designs and is inspired by African culture, the supernatural, opera and ballet. His current exhibition Ballerinas is on view at JRB until the end of March. Shehada's sculptures captivate the viewer and leaves a person wanting more. I not only had the opportunity to visit with Shehada at the opening, but I also have the great honor of studying with him at OU. If you have a chance, take a trip the gallery to see Shehada's work for yourself. For more info about Sohail Shehada or the JRB Art Gallery go to: http://jrbartgallery.com/

Shelly Perkins, Oklahoma Artist
Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

White Daffodils on my Daddy's Birthday

Today was Daddy's birthday but it was his first spent in Heaven. What an amazing gift I found when I woke up and looked outside in my front yard. Last spring, my Dad and I planted a few spring bulbs and what do I see? Daffodils had bloomed and were swaying in the gentle Oklahoma breeze. It made me smile and remember planting them and everything that he helped me do. He always helped with the kids and around the house. Papa John, as everyone called him, was an amazing guy. I sure miss him but it also blessed my soul to see the beautiful flowers. Here is one of the white daffodils which were a gift to me on his birthday, sent from Heaven.

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

The Oklahoma Aquarium Offers Family Fun

Recently two of my daughters and I were able to visit the Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks, Oklahoma for the first time. What an amazing place not so far from home. I've heard great things about the aquarium but never took the time to visit. It is a public, non-profit aquarium just minutes from Tulsa devoted to their mission "Conservation Through Education."

We had a great time and I would love to share a few photos from our visit. Who would have known that such an amazing aquarium existed in land-locked Oklahoma? If you are near Jenks, Oklahoma or visiting the Tulsa area, I suggest you stop in for at least a few hours and see what you've been missing. My girls had a great time and I'm sure we'll be back.

Pondering Thomas Eakins' The Gross Clinic

Thomas Eakins painted The Gross Clinic which is considered to be my many the greatest 19th-century American painting. This was such a controversial representation during 1876 and yet today when viewers gaze upon it, seems like a dated non-sterile surgical procedure in front of students.

I'm very compelled with this image ~ wondering what was going on in Eakins mind at the time of his painting and if he worried about how it would be received? I wonder how many other people at this time "got" his work? Do you think you would have GASPED in SHOCK if you were living at this time when viewing this work? Do you think you would have been compelled to step closer for a more in-depth look or run away with disgust? Hmmmm... Just pondering.




Thomas Eakins-the artist has been deceased for more than 70 years, therefore no copyright laws have been abused or broken.

Ode to Mondrian

Stuck

So these two photographers got stuck in the DFW Airport because of a delay. Instead of spending the night at the hotel they use their photography and film equipment to film while they entertain themselves. I needed a good laugh and wanted to share.

The Little Girl Who Was Forgotten

Husky says I Love You

Goodness, just had to share this video. It's totally true.
When I was in high school our family had a dog that would sing with my mother. I sure wish I had a video of it.

Farewell to my Precious Daddy

Today was my Daddy's funeral. Oh how hard it was but I'm so thankful for our family and friends who helped us through this difficult time. My father's services were held at Brown-Cummings Funeral Home in Enid, Oklahoma. They did a great job and he had a lovely service. We had the service in the chapel with a message from both my pastor and my sister's pastor, played some of his favorite music and showed a video with his photos through his life. There were many flowers around his flag-covered casket and two large portraits at each end, one of him alone and one that I recently took at Thanksgiving with his five grandchildren.

After the service, we went to the cemetery where the United States Air Force Silver Talon Honor Guard conducted full military honors. My dad had served in the Air Force both in Germany right after he graduated high school and again for years in the Air Force Reserves where he was part of Operation Desert Storm. The Honor Guard played taps and presented me with the flag which had draped his casket. Oh it was so hard to listen to the bugle with the sound which I had heard so many times before but yet this time was different. This time it was for someone I have loved my whole life. This time Taps were being played for my sweet Daddy, our Papa. My lip quivered and I wanted to throw up. Surely this was a dream in which I would awake but I didn't wake up and it continued.

My father had cancer for quite some time and through his last hospital stay which was about three weeks, I watched him go from a strong man I looked up to as he changed to a frail weak shell of someone I wanted to heal and protect. I still can't believe he's gone. I tried my hardest to become his advocate and speak for him as I was able to spend much of those precious three weeks with him.

I know my life will never be the same because I've lost someone so dear and special to me. I was a Daddy's girl and will always be. My dad helped us so much through our lives. He was a selfless man who would give anything to anyone who was in need. While my husband was battling cancer and receiving medical treatment on the east coast, he lived with my kids for six months so we could continue his treatment. My Daddy was a good man and I will miss him so much. Please pray for my family. My kids and my sister's kids loved him so much and are going to have a hard time with this. I just feel lost without him already. I want to call him like I did everyday and talk to him. I want to see his smile and hear his voice. I want to smell his shaving cream and touch his hand. I love him so much and will always love him.

I've managed to stay busy planning his funeral driving back and forth to Enid with my sister. I haven't had a chance to truly to think about and believe that I will no longer see him. I do have one comfort though.... I believe he was saved and has gone to Heaven. I believe that I will see him again someday. If you have faith and believe that you're a sinner and ask Christ for forgiveness and have faith, you'll be saved too. I have faith that I will see my Daddy again. I'm selfish though and wish I still had him here with me. I hope to make my Daddy proud through all the rest of my life. I love you Daddy.

My Daddy went to Heaven

My Daddy went to Heaven today ~ please pray for our family.

"The Scent of Lavender" painting by Shelly Perkins

Acrylic on Canvas.
16x20".
2011.
Shelly Perkins

I wanted to share a painting I made of the scent of Lavender. Lavender is cool, soothing, and calm. Lavender is all inviting and moving. I hope you enjoy my work.


Shelly
Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Follow Shelly Perkins Photography on Pintrest

Click the link ~
http://pinterest.com/perkphotography

Cadillac Wagon vs Ferrari ~ Wow

The Cadillac Wagon vs Ferrari ! All I can say is WOW !

Top Ten Regrets of the Dying

Top Ten Regrets of the Dying

This is a really good read. Click on the link... it makes you think about a lot.

http://exposingthetruth.info/top-five-regrets-of-the-dying/

Happy Birthday Georges Seurat !

Happy Birthday to French Post-Impressionist painter, Georges Seurat, most famously known for "A Sunday on La Grand Jatte" or as some people call it A Sunday at the Park. The painting is juxtaposed of tiny multi-colored paint dots. The dots allow the viewer's eye to combine the paint instead of actually being combined and mixed on the canvas. It took about two years for the artist to complete the work which show various social classes of people enjoying the park. Today would have been Seurat's 152nd birthday and even in death, his work lives.

Tips for Great Holiday Photos of your Children by Shelly Perkins Photography

Can't afford to hire a professional photographer for this year's custom portraits? Well, let me give you a few tips so you can have some great photos to share with your loved ones this holiday season.

Christmas time is the one time when grandparents and extended family expect to see a new photo of your crew. This especially holds true for those older relatives who don't "Facebook" or do everything through their iPhone. So don't fear, I will give you a few tips to shooting new portraits of your kiddos that you'll love.

I have been photographing children for, dare I say it?, nearly twenty years. Wow! I just felt really old but it's one of the things in my life I continue to love and have never lost a passion for capturing new shots. I absolutely love children and I absolutely love to capture the bright eyed looks and smiles of the innocent. I am an artist and love to make custom portraits that aren't like those you sit on the X while employee #87 takes your picture for your $9.95 package.

I really try to put a lot of work into each and every shoot I do. Often times I scout locations for several hours, looking for a new place or a great new background for your custom portrait. This is something that you can do also. If you don't have time or extra fuel to waste, then look around your house or yard. You have different looks and little corners that other people don't have and you can use this to your advantage when taking your photos.

Get down on the same level as your children. Try several different angles and views for your pictures. If you shoot down upon your children, they'll look small and child-like. This is great for a certain look but also don't forget to get down on their level. This will provide a better view of your child.

When taking photos of your child and you tell your kids, "Just One More" then only take one more. I am so guilty of this but limit your photo time so your kids don't begin to hate having their photos taken. I was so proud of myself when I took photos of my children and my sister's children on Thanksgiving. I promised them I wouldn't take more than five minutes to make their portrait and that's exactly what I did. I had them all wear jeans and shirts in the same tone and let them go outside to play. It was windy and freezing, so I worked quick and they didn't complain too much this year. All the while, I got the great shots that I wanted.

So your kids absolutely will NOT take any kind of picture for you this year? Go to your computer and look through your photos you've snapped throughout the year. I bet you will find some great shots that you can put together to make a collage and copy to printer paper or make into a greeting card. So what if your kids were all wearing mismatched clothes? Convert your favorite color shots to black and white and it won't matter, plus it makes for a timeless look. Pull out several of those photos you've taken throughout the year to show a visual update of your children growing and changing throughout the year.

These are just a few tips and have lots more for taking great holiday shots of your children.

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Checking out Rick Sinnett's Work for Public Arts Project 66

I was able to meet Rick Sinnett this past weekend at The Womb Art Gallery.  Great guy and amazing artist doing some colossal things in Oklahoma along Route 66 and throughout the state.  He showed me his drawings which will stimulate the old wheat elevator that now houses Rocktown Climbing Gym in OKC.  What a great idea to not only use public art to revitalize an area but also to tie the state together.  I can't wait to see it and photograph this talented artist's work.  Thanks Rick for sharing your vision.

Xandi's SR 2012 Pics by Shelly Perkins Photography of Moore Oklahoma

Check out Miss Xandi's Senior Pics. This High School Senior from Northwest Oklahoma traveled to OKC for an afternoon with Shelly for some unique shots. Check out her video. We had a great time.

Thanksgiving is BEST when Shared with Cousins

~

~








Unique Kid Portraits by
Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Thanksgiving Weekend Photo Tips

Thanksgiving Weekend Photo Tips ~
Check out this link to taking better Thanksgiving photos.



http://photodoto.com/thanksgiving-photo-tips/
Photo and article by John Watson

MINI PHOTO SHOOT on Black Friday

Here's a little promo I'm doing ~ If you follow my posts or know my work you know I've gone back to art school at the University of Oklahoma. I'm having a great time at school but with my crazy schedule I've had to limit the number of shoots I'm doing. I've decided to do a few Mini Sessions this month and next to allow for those who want me to shoot their portraits some time with me as well as get an incredible deal. I'm going to offer a mini session photo shoot with the digital downloads of five of the images taken.


My first available date for this shoot is on Black Friday, November 25, 2011. So let your kiddos sleep in while you go shop ~ then come back and meet me in Norman for a quick, fun photo shoot. Like I said, THESE ARE EXTREMELY LIMITED ~ so call to reserve your spot ASAP.

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Every One Helps One Scholarship Campaign at the University of Oklahoma

If you're looking for a good cause to donate your money during the holiday season please consider the University of Oklahoma. Every One Helps One Scholarship.

To Beautify or Uglify

Check out this great link~ How to Beautify or Uglify a Face with a Camera Lens

http://gizmodo.com/5857279/this-is-how-lenses-beautify-or-uglify-your-pretty-face?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=pulsenews

Portraits taken by Stephen Eastwood

Shelly Perkins Photography is on TWITTER

Are you on Twitter? Do you Tweet?



Follow us~ http://twitter.com/#!/perkphotography

STOP THE GREAT FIREWALL OF AMERICA

Did you know that a Bill is being debated in Congress which will change how we use the Internet in the U.S. FOREVER!!
~I am a photographer and I don't want my photos to be "stolen" just like anyone else. However, by shutting down our First Amendment Rights on the Internet is WRONG!!! This will affect how you put videos on YouTube of your family, your content on Twitter, and even your posts on Facebook. This BILL will change the way the Internet is used, similar to China's.
~
Alarm at the infringement of creative works through the Internet is justifiable but PLEASE CONTACT your CONGRESSMAN & SENATORS to SAY NO the PROTECT IP ACT.
~
Please take a few minutes to read this N.Y. Times Click on the link below. Article by Rebecca MacKinnon.
~
Illustration by Greenberg
~
Click Here~ PLEASE READ~

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/16/opinion/firewall-law-could-infringe-on-free-speech.html?_r=1

MINI PHOTO SHOOT on Black Friday

Here's a little promo I'm doing ~ If you follow my posts or know my work you know I've gone back to art school at the University of Oklahoma. I'm having a great time at school but with my crazy schedule I've had to limit the number of shoots I'm doing. I've decided to do a few Mini Sessions this month and next to allow for those who want me to shoot their portraits some time with me as well as get an incredible deal. I'm going to offer a mini session photo shoot with the digital downloads of five of the images taken.


My first available date for this shoot is on Black Friday, November 25, 2011. So let your kiddos sleep in while you go shop ~ then come back and meet me in Norman for a quick, fun photo shoot. Like I said, THESE ARE EXTREMELY LIMITED ~ so call to reserve your spot ASAP.

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Happy Birthday Picasso

Today is Pablo Picasso's 130th birthday! He was born on Oct. 25, 1881.



One of my favorite works by Picasso is "Girl in the Mirror," c. 1932.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PICASSO.

Colten Rocks ! Senior 2012

I had a great time spending the afternoon with Colten, a 2012 Senior from Edmond. He took me to some of his favorite places to create his senior pics. He's a great guy and I wish him the best with the rest of his senior year.

Five Quick Stress Busters for your Monday

Have you been feeling stressed lately?
Here it is ~ another Monday!!

Here are FIVE QUICK STRESS BUSTERS to help you through your week.

Use these quick techniques whenever you feel stressed at work or home:

1. Count to 10 slow and take deep breaths.

2. Do five slow, small circles with your head, stretching out your neck muscles.

3. Stop what you are doing and get up. Walk around your office or go to another room for just a few minutes. It's amazing what just by getting up and moving how much it can help you.

4. Picture yourself in a place you find relaxing. Close your eyes and go there in your mind for a few minutes.

5. The most important one of all, TRUST IN GOD. Say a prayer, remember you don't walk alone and if you trust in God, he'll carry you through the rough spots.

Now get out there and Enjoy your Monday and make it a great week !


Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com



post idea credits:
photo=http://www.itimes.com/public/people/iti133802/blog/Stressed-Out-Be-Mindful-Creative
stress buster list=http://foggybottomrambles.blogspot.com/

Taylor Swift Concert Rocked OKC

I had a great time tonight with my kiddos at the Taylor Swift concert. They wanted so badly to have floor seats but unfortunately we were up pretty high. I even bought our tickets months ago, within five minutes of them going on sale. I believe it was a sold out event.

I must say, Miss Swift is quite a performer. I was amazed by the talent of her entire band and crew. The greatest thing which surprised me was how much she interacted with the crowd. She came down and walked through the crowd and even performed several songs at the opposite end of the stage. I was able to get a few good shots of her for my kids, even though I didn't have my big camera. If you want to take your family out to see a great performer, you won't be disappointed with Taylor Swift's concert. Taylor Rocked OKC!

2011 OU Football - There's Only One!

9/11 Never Forget

9/11
We must NEVER FORGET

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Kiplinger's 12 Things College Students Don't Need

Check out this article of Kiplinger's "12 Things College Students Don't Need by Mark Wajno. Some really great tips that I've never thought of and wanted to share about saving money.
http://www.kiplinger.com/features/archives/2009/08/10-things-college-students-do-not-need.html

OU Duct Tape ?

While shopping this week from my never-ending list of art supplies for my classes at the University of Oklahoma, I noticed that OU has found yet another thing to brand.... Duct Tape! Wow, who'd ah thunk it? I can buy one roll of duct tape for TEN BUCKS!! Yet since it's branded with the OU logo, it is so special and makes it worth $10 instead of $3 or $4. Although I was tempted to buy several rolls of the crimson tape, I had to spend my money on the art supplies and my duct taping projects will be without the crimson and creme that I love so much.

AmeriKidz Magazine

Check out the COVER on the latest issue of AmeriKidz Magazine ~
Meet Karmin ~
Photo by Shelly Perkins Photography

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Fashion's Lastest Pop Star at Age 90

photo by awesome photographer Martha Camarillo


Check out this New York Times article about Ms Iris Apfel. You may have seen her on the news or in print and recognize her but not know who she is. I LOVE that she's 90 and she's doing so much. I just wanted to share this fun little article about this interesting lady who I'd LOVE to meet.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/25/fashion/iris-apfel-90-stylish-and-on-hsn-up-close.html?_r=1&WT.mc_id=GN-D-I-NYT-MOD-MOD-M216-ROS-0811-HDR&WT.mc_ev=click

Meers Longhorn Burgers at Meers Store and Restaurant

Wow, what a great burger joint we discovered in the southwestern part of Oklahoma near Fort Sill in Lawton, Oklahoma. This place is located in an old gold mining town called Meers and is pretty much all that's left of the town. Meers Burgers are quite famous in its parts and as we discovered from the many articles hanging around that it's actually famous nationwide. Several newspapers and foodies have been there and trumped it, even including the New York Times, Travelocity Editor's Pick, Tulsa World, made a list on Man Vs. Food, and has been included in a documentary.

Getting to Meers Store and Restaurant is half the fun. Traveling just a little over an hour southwest from Oklahoma City on I-44, you'll head to Lawton. Hungry patrons will find it located in a little spot in the country near the Wichita Mountains, which is hidden but easy to find. You'll discover the fun decor which makes you feel like you've stepped back in time going out for a bite with your grandpa. Meers is a place where people can put their business cards up for those who made need your services or where military members hit up the doors with their "zaps" from their squadron. My husband, a retired Air Force pilot, noticed a sticker from his New York squadron zapped proudly on the men's room door.

When you look at the menu you'll notice that everything is made to order. Served in gold panning plates, the HUGE longhorn burgers are cooked well done and the "cowboy burgers" include mustard. However, for all of you ketchup lovers who eat "yankee burgers" or the mayo burgers which are "sissy burgers," you can order them up also. Our family ordered BBQ brisket, a Meers longhorn burger, a chili cheese dog and even cheese fries. They were served with several sides of potato salad, cole slaw, beans and a hot roll. Everything was delicious. Our drinks were served in glass mason jars which my daughters thought were cool and wanted to take home. We really didn't have room for dessert but when we found out they have IBC root bear floats and cherry cobbler a' la mode made with real homemade ice-cream and served in giant bowls, we HAD to have some. We left with full tummies and headed for a drive up to the top of Mount Scott in the Wichita Mountains. My kids had a great time at Meers Store and Restaurant and I'm sure we'll return again.

www.meersstore.com

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Adopt a New Family Member from your Local Animal Shelter

Goodness what a HOT SUMMER we've had here in Oklahoma. You know as hot as it's been, most of us can go inside and turn on our air conditioner to get out of the heat. However, in our great state of Oklahoma and many other places throughout the United States, there are many pets who are in need of a home. These dogs and cats are outside, roaming these hot, desert like streets who would love you and your family.

Whether you live in the Oklahoma City metro area or any other area, I encourage you to stop by your local animal shelter to adopt a new member into your family and into your heart. I have three cats, who were all strays that I've adopted over the years. While we still lived in New York we adopted "Kitty" from the local animal shelter in the Hudson Valley. He even flew on the plane with us when we moved back to Oklahoma. He's been the best member of our family, never complains, always stops to say hello and lets you know how much he appreciates his home. I love him so much.

If you have a big heart and want to be loved unconditionally, visit your local animal shelter and adopt a dog or a cat. You're life will be filled with lots of love.

Visit the OKC Animal Shelter in Oklahoma City
Click below to visit their info site.
http://www.okc.gov/animalwelfare/

Also visit this website to view the animals currently up for adoption.
http://www.okc.gov/animalwelfare/PetGallery.html


Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

post credit: dog days of summer photo-http://kingsbrookvet.blogspot.com/2010/07/dog-days-of-summer.html

Photo Art made with Cell Phones at ArtSpace at Untitled

Can You See Me Now? Photos made on Phones

A new art exhibit has opened at ArtSpace downtown OKC. It is called "Can You See Me Now" and is a collection of photos made on cell phones. Photos came from as far away as Italy and feature some really great images. The exhibit will run through October 1st and if you have the time, I encourage you to stop by to visit.

KFOR's Galen Culver visited the museum for his segment "Is this a Great State or What?" and I've included a link to his work. Check it out.

http://www.kfor.com/videobeta/?watchId=cb7fb6ed-0b5a-45fb-9e96-ea7ac4cdd1da

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Oklahoma Sooners - The Boys of Fall

It's almost that time folks and I LOVE MY SOONERS!
If you're an Okie, you know how much we love our football. At my house, it's a house DIVIDED! With both an OU and OSU student, we love 'em both, but I wanted to share a Sooner video with you.

Highway to Heaven VBS photos by Shelly Perkins Photography

Highway to Heaven VBS

HIGHWAY TO HEAVEN was the theme for Highland Baptist Church's annual VBS week. I was blessed to have the opportunity to spend the week photographing the kids as they learned Bible stories, heard about missions, played games, made crafts and even got to see the 316 race car! Here's a video for you of the week's fun events.





http://youtu.be/SavWbjbFFqM

Grandma and her Kiddos by Shelly Perkins Photogrpahy

I had a great morning photographing Grandma Sandy and her kiddos. It's been so hot in Oklahoma this summer which has limited my location shoots to early mornings or late evenings. These times offer the most optimum lighting situations anyway, especially before the heat returns to 100 plus degrees each day. I wanted to share my favorite image I created for this family's new home. Grandma Sandy is such a great grandmother and these kids really love her.

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Cheeky Monkey Photographs Himself !

I just had to share this link ~ This monkey snapped a self-portrait ~ LOVE IT!!

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2011051/Black-macaque-takes-self-portrait-Monkey-borrows-photographers-camera.html?ito=feeds-newsxml