Merry Christmas Everybody!

Merry Christmas Everybody,

I’ve said it before - this is my favorite time of the year.  I love the bright twinkling lights, the rich colors of the season, the wonderful carols playing on the home stereo, car radio, Pandora, I-Heart Radio, Spotify, Rdio, et. al. And, I love the wonderful fragrance of pine in the air – yes, we put a REAL tree up every year ;~)  I like looking over the Christmas card list in the mail and reminiscing about the good times, over the years, I've shared with all the special friends and family on that list.  I like reading every holiday card that crosses our inbox or mailbox.  And I love what this season stands for compassion, love, joy, peace and sharing. And we all know the world needs a lot more of that.

That indeed is the most important thought to keep in mind during this wondrous time of the year.  Christmas isn’t made special by shopping till we drop, rushing from one party to the next, or heading to the latest opening movie on Christmas Day.  Christmas is a celebration of life and love.  It’s about touching others lives and hearts in our own thought, word, and deeds. Christmas is made special when we take a pro-active approach in doing just that. 

Most of us will be spending time with family and friends enjoying this wonderful (day)season. From kids to grandparents and beyond, families and friends will be enjoying everything this holiday season has to offer - friendship, laughter, good food, and love.  But, take an extra step and reach out and help make Christmas special for everyone you come in contact with these next few days. The easiest way in the world to have a great day is to help someone have a great day first – Christmas season is a good place to start.

I wish each and everyone one of you the most wondrous of holiday seasons and pray that they too find peace, caring, compassion, and love at Christmas.

Merry Christmas Everybody!

-David and LaDawn

"Merry Christmas 2011 From The Ziser’s"

"Merry Christmas From The Ziser’s"
©David A. Ziser

Last year we had a week long of beautiful snowfall leading up to Christmas. This week has been mostly non-stop rain.  So instead of posting a rainy day Christmas picture from this year, I’m sharing with you the image I took last year about this time.  It feels a lot more like Christmas too ;~) The challenge was to get down the drive, get the shot, and back quickly with out “freezing to death”.

May God continue to bless you and your loved ones this holiday season and throughout 2012.

Camera specs: Canon 7D fitted with 18-200mm IS lens at 40mm, F4.5 @ 1/8 (handheld) second, ISO 2000.  Enjoy!  -David

Christmas Wishes - 2010

Merry Christmas Everybody,

Can you believe it, tomorrow is the BIG day.  Most of us have been busy with delivering orders to our clients, and been on a Christmas shopping spree or two.  But today things must be winding down for all of you and you can relax and enjoy this weekend’s celebration.

My wish to each and every one is that your day be filled with the joy and peace of the season.  Embrace every moment with love this weekend.

Embrace the weather – cold and snowy, enjoying the icy  sensations as you breath in that brisk cold air or the warm glow of the sun on your face. Embrace the wonderful aromas of the season – the scent of pine in the air, homemade cookies in the oven, and hot spiced apple cider on the stove. Close your eyes and take a deep breath, and smile.

Embrace and relish the time spent with family and friends this Christmas season.  Even if some of them can’t be there personally, take a quiet moment by yourself and send your Christmas wishes to them in spirit.

Remember what it is we celebrate tomorrow and embrace that most of all.  Regardless of the faith or religious inclination, the spirit of tomorrow is about peace and has been for over 2,000 years. I wish each of you and your loved ones overflowing feelings of peace and joy!

Have a wonderful holiday everybody!  David and LaDawn

And Speaking of Christmas Lights

How do you get the perfect exposure all the time? Watch the short video below for some quick tips. You can get a lot more detailed information over at the Strobist. It's a really well done article on the subject. Check it out right here. Here is another post on "How to Photograph Christmas Lights" over here at LightingMods. Here is their link to the Flickr Christmas Tree Light group right here too. Just one precaution while out shooting - just don't spill the hot chocolate on you as you are driving around. That's it for today, gang, have a great holiday in how ever you celebrate December 25 and I'll see you back here on Wednesday. All the best - David!