Lights, Camera, Actions!

I'm addicted to actions.  I downloaded some free ones to Photoshop and can't stop using them now.  They make editing photos sooooooo much easier.  What did I do before them??  Oh I remember!  Spend an insane amount of time editing my pictures and they still never turned out great!  My friend, Ree, otherwise known as The Pioneer Woman has some free actions.  OK..so we aren't really friends, but I did meet her and she did sign my cookbook so I like to tell myself we're friends.  I also got some wonderful, free actions from Rita at Coffee Shop Blog Design.  Rita did my awesome blog makeover.  She has all sorts of neat stuff on her blog.  You probably know all about her site, but in case you don't, go check it out!

Here's an example of a before and after.  I took this picture of my nephew last summer when I was in Michigan.  

Before

I used one of Rita's actions on this...I think it was a vintage one.  I also added a texture.  I need to get the hang of textures, but for the most part I am pleased with it.

I used Rita's Sun Kissed action and a texture on this one.  The spot on his lip is from the sun flare from the action.  I could move it around so it's not there, but I didn't take the time to do that yet.

I am definitely just a beginner at all of this, but the actions allow me to edit with the click of my mouse.  They come with really easy instructions on how to download too. I know I will be taking a lot more photos this summer and doing a lot more editing.  I want to be ready when we finally have our little one home.  I'm also wanting to learn to shoot in manual more than I do now.  Goals for the summer.


Thanks for all the well wishes on the last post.  Our social worker called today just a short time before our appointment (our agency is an hour from our house).  He had to cancel today due to something going on.  The nice thing is that he is just going to do everything when he comes to our house on Wednesday.  I was freaking out a little at first because I am such a planner and control freak.  Once again I learned....I'm not in control here.  So we'll see what Wednesday brings.