www.davisphotographer.com

2010-09-15T10:51:00.001-07:00

I am REALLY inactive here on our blog, though we'll be starting a new one for our Thirst for More Tour Blog but anyway, if you'd like to be friends on facebook please request my friendship, clients, colleagues, friends, family, ALL are welcome! Just search Jim Davis-Hicks and let's be friends, also if your on Twitter my call is @jimdavishicks

Remember Jesus LOVES you deeply!

Jim

2010-03-17T22:21:00.001-07:00

I was recently honored to be published in Rangefinder Magazine. This is the top honor for publishing in the wedding and portrait business and I give all credit to God for his blessings in our life! Check out the article and learn the story behind this image. The last two weddings I've booked came as a direct result of this image more than any other. It actually came to me as a vision while I was listening to fellow photographer Jesh De Rox, pretty cool to see what came of this shot. It also served as the inspiration behind the Tanzania Trip that Grace Ormonde published in Wedding Style Magazine .

I first processed this image using www.actionrunner.com using my D Matrix Action then hand tweaked to perfection.

READ OUR ARTICLE

2010-02-20T22:08:00.000-08:00

Mike Colon and I are speaking at WPPI on "Cause Marketing, The Marriage of Higher Profits and Purpose" please check out this quick video with an invitation to attend by Mike Colon at the end! http://thirstrelief.jppiercephotography.com/

You can see a great article on "philanthropic photography" in this issue of Grace Ormonde, featuring the work of Thirst Relief.

2010-02-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

You can bid on the mentor of your choice, including Thirst Founders Jim and Lara Davis-Hicks at this year's 2010 Thirst Relief Mentor Auction, February 16,17 with face time at WPPI in Vegas or over the phone. Go HERE to sign up!

2010-02-02T08:19:00.000-08:00

ActionRunner 3.0 is going live at WPPI!

We are excited to have a booth this year at WPPI so we can demonstrate just how powerful a time saving tool this amazing product really is, stop by booth number 1567 to say hi and start saving time and money.

Also, stop by Midwest Photo Exchange's booth as they will be selling ActionRunner 3.0 also! If you haven't seen our new demo video and site go to www.actionrunner.com and check it out.

What others are saying:

Gary Fong: Brilliant!

Chip Gillespie of Blog Stomp wrote: "*****" I think Action Runner is a phenomenal PS tool! We use it often! The benefits of its artistic conversion capabilities are amazing, but don't forget its utilitarian functions, too! Need to resize 1000 .jpgs for an online gallery? Or flatten $ save album layouts? How about converting hundreds of images to black and white in seconds?? ActionRunner is definitely a tool I would not be without!

Elle Zober: Honesly, I cannot live without my actionrunner! This is the best invention since the camera itself!"

Sheye Rosemeyer of Eye Candy Actions wrote: Hi JimStraight up, I've fallen in love :) Your product is fantastic and I've had a blast this morning seeing what it can do. It really is so easy to use.

2010-01-03T22:41:00.001-08:00

Shoot Q is donating $5 to Thirst Relief for everyone that signs up during the month of January!

Check it out HERE

Also, be on the lookout for the WPPI Mentor Auction, coming soon.

2009-09-22T20:25:00.000-07:00

TWO GREAT ANNOUNCEMENTS!

ActionRunner 3.0 for PC is available online at www.actionrunner.com and it's completely amazing! If you use actions, even multi step one's you'll LOVE actionrunner.

Secondly, we are having a photography workshop at our home based studio on Oct. 19, 20 and it will be really amazing! Check it out at THIRST for MORE WORKSHOP!

2009-09-02T10:01:00.001-07:00

so neat to see other people posting about our work on their blogs! This is a post from Humanitarian Photographer Matt Powell, read on:

Wedding Photographers Shooting Relief

20th July 2009

Comments (1)

As someone who shoots weddings on the side, I’ve started to believe that really good wedding photographers are some of the best shooters on the planet. Now here’s a project that just might prove me correct. 14 wedding photographers on assignment in Tanzania to document the relief projects of Thirst Relief. I’m excited to see the images that come from this. You can follow their blog here . Looks like they will also be doing a bridal fashion shoot on location, with images to be published in the Spring 2010 edition of Grace Ormonde|Wedding Style Magazine. What an innovative way to obtain high quality images and further a good cause!

Evidently Thirst Relief’s founder & president Jim Hicks is a wedding photographer himself, visit his website here.

2009-08-26T09:14:00.001-07:00

We've been making some REALLY great changes to ActionRuner 3.0 that are well worth the wait. Hang on it's coming very soon!

2009-08-19T23:13:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to soon be announcing, like in the next 24-48 hours the release of ActionRunner 3.0 for PC and very soon ETA 2 weeks for Mac! You can see and read about it already at www.actionrunner.com

Here is what one user say's about it's impact in her life!

Elle Zober

I am blessed to still be able to do photography AND spend time with my wonderful kids because I have Action Runner! That sounds all brown-nosy.... but a few years ago my son (then 2) came to me in the middle athe night while I was working a wedding - because that is when I could do it! And he said, "no more computer mommy...". With Action Runner - there is no more computer and alot more Mommy!!! :)

2009-07-30T13:10:00.000-07:00

I sat next to Justin on the plane from Dar TZ to Dubai UAE. As we discussed our individual reasons for being in Dar the contrast of the Kingdoms became very evident. I was there to drill for (and filter) clean water, he was there for oil. I cared about the kids, he said let them "f-ing" die (his words not mine) both of us were married, had kids and are 34 years old. In the end I said "I live as though God is real, you do not." I sought understanding. In the end the suffering and pain of the world led him to believe there is no God! Awe, a sense of justice is in every man. Thus the need for the cross, justice that is. Anyway, I illustrated with 4 people, Justin, Me and two others. I share what I have, he lets them die. If we all live like Justin it appears there is no God, if we all love and care, God's is revealed!

2009-07-29T09:16:00.000-07:00

Just imagine carrying a bucket this size on your head with water in it. Fill up a bucket and try to lift it. Kids carry water from dirty shallow hand dug wells all the time, like this. But just imagine it making you sick after you drink it. For 1.1 billion in the world, this is life. But a Bio-Sand Filter changes everything for kids like this. Instead of the water they've worked so hard to get making them sick it actually hydrates and refreshes them! $5 makes a world of difference!
This bad boy got really close to our jeep and he was kinda angry, it was fun! So beautiful!

These are the working hands of a Bio-Sand Filter Technician! We are providing clean water and income to people that are in desperate need.
I never dreamed I'd be this close to a lion, without a cage in between us. I only had my 70-200 with me, as the converter didn't work. This gives you an idea of how close I was!

I miss everyone on the trip so much. We had such an amazing time!
When I opened it up for sharing at the end of the trip, there was barely a dry eye. You just don't realize what a difference $5 can make for someone until you see how people live in such poverty and then you see the filter in their homes and you hear their story of how it's transformed their lives, health and restored hope, productivity, joy and more!

Thank you to everyone who helps to make it possible!

I'll continue to post images from the trip, I just can't publish the gown images until Grace Ormonde Wedding Style features them. Also, we are gonna have a big shin ding at WPPI this year!

2009-07-25T05:43:00.000-07:00

I am back from Tanzania! What a trip. Unbelievable group of photographers! We had such unity and joy on the team it was unbelievable. Such a privilege to participate in and lead such a great group of people! We can't publish images from the fashion shoot until Grace Ormonde does the feature in Wedding Style magazine, but I'll be posting other images from the trip until then!

Here is just one of my favorites! This is a little orphan girl in a village where we implemented a filter!

You can see other images and read more about the trip HERE too!

If you want to make a donation to take clean water to little one's like this one go to www.thirstrelief.org and become a recurring donor, it's crazy easy and every $5 donated provides a long term clean water solution to someone in need!

2009-07-10T22:27:00.000-07:00

For those who would like to follow the trip to Tanzania where I'll be shooting designer gowns to benefit Thirst Relief you can go to HERE and see what posts we make as internet is available!

This trip has finally become a reality! It's amazing how much effort goes into coordinating 15 photographers, 2 videographers, 2 South African models from BOSS Capetown and turning it into a raffle and auction fundraiser all in one! And getting fair trade jewelry from Africa for the shoot from LEAKEY!

Keep us in your prayers for safety, depth and joy in the midst of some crazy days!

Blessings!

2009-07-07T13:33:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY LOVE! You are loved!

2009-06-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

We just returned from Las Vegas where we shot the wedding of Rachel and Chad! Such a great couple! The wedding was originally going to be in the Riviera Maya of Mexico but the violence and all turned it back north. We had such a blast staying at the Wynn and shooting all around Vegas and throughout the hotel grounds. Here are a couple of my favorite images. I'll be covering some of the editing and flash techniques I used for these images at our seminar coming August 10,11, 2009. Feel free to email me if you want more info about the seminar at info@davisphotographer.com and look for the details to soon be uploaded and updated at www.davistools.com Lastly, a big shout out to Kenny, our limo driver who did such an amazing job carting us around Vegas for all the shots. If your shooting in Vegas and you want to do it in style ask me for Kenny D Oh's info!

2009-05-27T07:24:00.000-07:00

FOR DETAILS ON THE TRIP GO TO: http://thirstrelief.shootq.com

2009-05-22T21:41:00.000-07:00

Join Mike Colon, Jim Davis-Hicks and twelve other amazing photographers on a once in a lifetime photo adventure! Shoot designer gowns on location in Tanzania to benefit Thirst Relief. Help build and deliver life saving Thirst Relief Bio-Sand Water Filters. See some of the most beautiful wildlife on the planet on an African Safari! Top it off with Grace Ormonde Wedding Style Magazine featuring the whole trip in her Spring/Summer 2010 issue!

Two Seats, Two Ways to Win.

Trip Dates July 13-23, 2009.

Details and Dates for Auction and Raffle Coming Soon, VERY SOON!

VOID WHERE PROHIBITED
Federal and state laws restrict the online sale of Tanzanian Benefit Shoot raffle entries and the online Tanzanian Benefit Shoot auction to only those state or local residents who specifically meet the requirements as set forth in the applicable statutes, regulations, and terms and conditions that apply to the raffle and the auction and Thirst Relief does not currently allow raffle entry purchases or auction entries outside the scope of these restrictions. Raffle entries are reserved on a limited basis. Thirst Relief does not allow any illegal participation in the Tanzanian Benefit Shoot raffle nor the auction. Proceeds of the raffle and the auction benefit Thirst Relief International, Inc. Raffle winners will be selected by random drawing and all participants have an equal opportunity to win. Raffle winners will be notified by Thirst Relief at the address provided. Must be a U.S. resident and 18 years of age or older to participate and to win any raffle and/or auction prize. This is not a solicitation. This is for informational purposes only.

2009-05-02T06:56:00.000-07:00

This pic represents 7000 drops of water, each one equals a life that has been impacted with the gift of sustainable, clean water and each for less than $5! To reach the 100,000 lives we've reach in the last 3 years you'd have to multiply this thing 14 times! That's alot of people! Thank you to everyone that gives so much to make it possible.! Right now we have a matching grant, if you give $5 it equals $10, $20 equals $40, $100 equals $200 etc. etc. go to www.thirstrelief.org and donate online!

2009-04-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

I'm teaming up with Mike Colon on a trip to Tanzania in July with a group of very talented photographers to benefit Thirst Relief International. The very generous Grace Ormonde of Wedding Style Magazine will be featuring the images in a 10 page spread in her January 2010 issue. More details to follow!

2009-04-25T20:48:00.000-07:00

This is my son! He's one of my favorite people on the planet. What a true gift from God! He is such an amazing little man with artistic talent, passion and joy! I consider it to be one of my greatest joys in life to be his daddy. He just turned 7 and I can't believe how fast time goes by. Life is what happens when your too busy trying to get ahead or plan for the future!

2009-04-21T10:33:00.000-07:00

I urge you to oppose H.R. 1913 – the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act, or any other federal “hate crimes” bill that could lay the groundwork for censorship of America’s most basic freedoms of speech, conscience and religion.

Laws already exist in all 50 states to punish violent crime, making this legislation unnecessary, unfair, indefinable, un-American and constitutionally suspect. The reality is that H.R. 1913 – the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act is not actually designed to aid in crime fighting. Wrong thoughts are undeniably the sole aim of “hate crimes” legislation and could make thinking Biblically a “hate crime.”

Go HERE to do something!

2009-04-06T11:51:00.000-07:00

"We are proud to announce that Davis Photography has been rated by local brides and voted The Knot Best of Weddings 2008/2009 Pick. Please pick up a copy of The Knot Best of Weddings 2009 magazine and check out our listing."

2009-04-03T20:47:00.001-07:00

"Difficult times have helped me to understand better than before how infinitely rich and beautiful life is in every way, and that so many things that one goes worrying about are of no importance whatsoever." — Isak Dinesen

2009-03-23T10:55:00.000-07:00

I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around [the banks] will deprive the people of all property until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered. The issuing power should be taken from the banks and restored to the people, to whom it properly belongs.

Thomas Jefferson, (Attributed)
3rd president of US (1743 - 1826)

2009-03-07T20:11:00.001-08:00

I had my first engagement session of the season this week, it was so fun! I was feeling a bit rusty but ended up totally pleased with the outcome! It's so easy to not follow the leading in your heart and I almost didn't, but in the end with only about 15 min. before they had to take off we jumped in the car and took off to this cool little spot that I remembered seeing one time. In my mind I was thinking "We have some great shots, but I want better. These fancy digs would look amazing next to that old rustic building. Should I do it? They have to go in 15 . . . . ah, heck let's just do it!" I am so glad I did!

Gary and Angie are a great couple and I'm so looking forward to their wedding this summer!

2009-02-26T08:54:00.000-08:00

Ever seen a Big Horn Ram spar with another? It's am impressive and powerful display of what a man should be no matter his color, shape or size. Strong in himself simply as a man. I'm not talking all macho, fluff but able to stand his ground free from fear and intimidation. The kind I'm talking has nothing to do with physical strength or stature.

AHO Authentic, Honest, Open

These are three words that I am growing to appreciate more and more.

Authentic, are you being really you? NO MATTER what that means are you being authentic?

Honest, are you being honest about your authenticity? Are you lying about hidden things, covering up who you are, what you struggle with, putting on a facade to impress etc.? Even honest about victories or good things? Often pride will cover itself with false humility by not letting the glory of God shine in your life!

Open, are you open to letting others lead you, help you and support you in your needs and desires? Open to correction, encouragement and love? Open to non conforming ways? Open to adventure and trusting God to lead you wherever He wants?

Every man is an equal. A man is simply that, a man. I have recently come into relationship with a group of authentic and great men that are challenging me in ways I've not been so in awhile!

For that I thank God!

2009-02-01T21:24:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Amy G. for winning our auction! We'll post more about her and our mentor time after we connect! Be on the lookout for our "Life in Art Workshop" this summer! It will change you and the way you run your business!

The Auctions Have Closed!

Thanks for helping us raise $25,392.08.

That saves 6,595 lives!

The photo community has once again shown themselves strong by supporting the Thirst Relief Mentor Benefit Auction!

I am amazed at the level of generosity shown especially by the mentors! Many of you gave not just your 90 minute mentor session but also dvds, albums, photo shoots, workshop seats and more! Simply amazing. Thank you.

And thank you to all of you who bid! Once you make your payment your mentor will be given your contact information and they will contact you shortly.

Be sure to come by the Thirst Relief booth at WPPI #1565 and say hi. Also, some of your favorite photographers will be hanging around our booth so feel free to come by and visit you can also buy a Thirst Relief Shirt, bring $20 cash so we can get you sporting our colors around the show!

Lastly, Mike Colon and myself will be making a big announcement at WPPI about an international workshop to benefit Thirst Relief so be sure to stop by the booth #1565 and inquire! It wont just be a workshop but an experience that will change your life and you just might get published in "Grace Ormonde, Wedding Style" magazine since we'll be doing a shoot for her while we are there!

2009-02-01T12:32:00.000-08:00

OUR MENTOR AUCTION INCLUDES ONE SEAT IN OUR "LIFE IN ART WORKSHOP" THIS SUMMER! THE WORKSHOP WILL BE SOMETIME BETWEEN JULY AND AUGUST.

AUCTION ENDS TONIGHT!!!!!!!

BID HERE!!

2009-01-27T23:09:00.000-08:00

Would you like to spend some time with Lara and I talking business, personal life, non-profit, family life or anything else for that matter? You can at WPPI 2009! This Thursday January 29th the WPPI 2009 Thirst Relief Mentor Benefit Auction will go live! Bid on us there!!!! ALL proceeds benefit Thirst Relief International! A BIG thank you to the ShootQ team that built us a custom site this year for the auction!

GO HERE FOR THE AUCTION

Details of the auction:

The Thirst Relief Mentor Benefit Auction will start this Thursday, January 29^th

Those who want to bid will need to register before they will be able to start bidding.

The auction will close on Sunday, February 1^st at midnight EST.

When someone is outbid they will be notified by email.

As soon as someone has paid in full for your auction you will be notified and sent contact information for the person who won your auction.

We are very excited about what we can all do together for people around the globe.

In three years time we have we have taken 100,000 people long term sustainable clean water solutions for an average of $3.85 a person!

Our specific auction will include a 90 minute mentoring session with both of us, a copy of ActionRunner 2.0 w/a free upgrade to 3.0 upon release and a seat in our "Life in Art Workshop" to be held this summer at our home studio. Happy bidding.

This isn't what I posted about below so stay on the lookout or come by the Thirst Relief Booth at WPPI and inquire.

2009-01-20T09:16:00.000-08:00

Something really big is coming! I'll be announcing it in the next few weeks so stay tuned to my blog and be on the lookout as it's going to be a really amazing opportunity for photographers!

2009-01-17T17:05:00.000-08:00

Rachel and Andrew Lacour-Niesen of Shoot Q, the amazing folks that are building the ALL NEW and Totally IMPOVED and CRASH PROOF WPPI mentor auction site (coming Jan. 29th, 2009) were really sick this past week? Why? Because they picked up a parasite while in India over the holiday's.

How ironic that someone who is building a site that will host the 2009 WPPI Mentor Auction gets a parasite from unsafe drinking water! Compassion is best learned through suffering I guess.

Reminds me of being up in the middle of the night with my youngest son while he cried in agony fighting acid reflux as a very young baby. I thought to myself "God why would you let me experience this, it's so hard? I'm trying to help people all over the world." I didn't really need an answer, simply presenting the question made the answer obvious. That night compassion was strengthened in my heart. My suffering had an end, for so many the end is simply death.

When you donate $5 to thirst relief your not just doing a little good, your truly providing hope and life to someone who is desperatly needing it!

Thank you to all who gave so generously in 2008! In three years time Thirst Relief has been able to bring nearly 100,000 people long term, sustainable, clean water solutions for less than $5 a person! Amazing! Thank you to all who make it possible through your generosity!

2008-12-13T14:20:00.000-08:00

karsyn has found her best friend! so fun to watch her and lu together!

2008-11-13T11:44:00.000-08:00

Lara and I just returned from a destination wedding in St. Lucia where we had the privilege of shooting Brandon and Kisha's wedding on the beach! What a great time! It was so hard to come back from sunny and 85 to cold and rainy and gloomy, but we are adjusting back to normal life!

We shot the whole day of the wedding, had a photo excursion day and throughout the trip captured details of the resort, enjoyed "dirty bannanas" (an amazing milkshake type drink) sat in the pool, went snorkling twice (saw a 6 ft. long baracuda, an octopus, blowfish, flute fish and many other cool ocean life specimens), we also kyaked across the bay, ate lobster and many other wonderful delacies, it was truly an incredible trip! What a great time. At the airport we were surprised by a free first class upgrade! They really treat you like royalty up there! What a trip!

Thanks so much to Brandon and Kisha for a great time doing the engagement shoot in Kentucky and an amazing destination wedding in St. Lucia! I'm thinking more Caribbean Wedddings need to be in our future! Can't wait to shoot Rachel and Chad's Cancun wedding this spring!

2008-10-30T20:08:00.000-07:00

49 million American babies have been aborted since Roe V. Wade in 1973

Tomorrow I'll be voting early and I'm voting for John McCain. Is it because I'm a business owner that would love to create some jobs for others but don't want to be taxed more, forced to provide health care or any other economic issue???? NO NOT AT ALL, though I am deeply passionate about a balanced budget, justice for all, civil rights, equal opportunity etc. etc. etc. For me the single most important issue is the issue of life!!!

Now I'm going to paste in a text from John Piper, he say's exactly what I feel about the single issue voting argument. Below this text I'm going to include two photos, one of a fetus that has not been aborted at 7 weeks and then one that has, I'm also going to include a link to one of the most aweful yet very real and honest sites I've ever seen. Image after image of aborted babies and late term, I'm mean they are truly horrible, but they are real, every day 4,400 babies are killed in the USA alone. Think about all those tax paying, social security building citizens that we murder in the name of choice! There are plenty of choices to be made before getting pregnant and plenty of humane ones to be made after getting pregnant, but killing a child for any reason is never ok. I've spent the last 5 years of my life laboring to save children's lives and yet people "choose" to kill them every day!

Here is John's text, so worth reading:

By John Piper

Investigating dog life in Minnesota has solidified my decision to vote against those who endorse the right to abortion. So then what is my response to the charge of being a one-issue voter?

No endorsement of any single issue qualifies a person to hold public office. Being pro-life does not make a person a good governor, mayor, or president. But there are numerous single issues that disqualify a person from public office. For example, any candidate who endorsed bribery as a form of government efficiency would be disqualified, no matter what his party or platform was. Or a person who endorsed corporate fraud (say under $50 million) would be disqualified no matter what else he endorsed. Or a person who said that no black people could hold office—on that single issue alone he would be unfit for office. Or a person who said that rape is only a misdemeanor—that single issue would end his political career. These examples could go on and on. Everybody knows a single issue that for them would disqualify a candidate for office.

It's the same with marriage. No one quality makes a good wife or husband, but some qualities would make a person unacceptable. For example, back when I was thinking about getting married, not liking cats would not have disqualified a woman as my wife, but not liking people would. Drinking coffee would not, but drinking whiskey would. Kissing dogs wouldn't, but kissing the mailman would. And so on. Being a single-issue fiance does not mean that only one issue matters. It means that some issues may matter enough to break off the relationship.

So it is with politics. You have to decide what those issues are for you. What do you think disqualifies a person from holding public office? I believe that the endorsement of the right to kill unborn children disqualifies a person from any position of public office. It's simply the same as saying that the endorsement of racism, fraud, or bribery would disqualify him—except that child-killing is more serious than those.

When we bought our dog at the Humane Society, I picked up a brochure on the laws of Minnesota concerning animals. Statute 343.2, subdivision 1 says, "No person shall...unjustifiably injure, maim, mutilate or kill any animal." Subdivision 7 says, "No person shall willfully instigate or in any way further any act of cruelty to any animal." The penalty: "A person who fails to comply with any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor."

Now this set me to pondering the rights of the unborn. An eight-week-old human fetus has a beating heart, an EKG, brain waves, thumb-sucking, pain sensitivity, finger-grasping, and genetic humanity, but under our present laws is not a human person with rights under the 14th Amendment, which says that "no state shall deprive any person of life...without due process of law." Well, I wondered, if the unborn do not qualify as persons, it seems that they could at least qualify as animals, say a dog, or at least a cat. Could we not at least charge abortion clinics with cruelty to animals under Statute 343.2, subdivision 7? Why is it legal to "maim, mutilate and kill" a pain-sensitive unborn human being but not an animal?

These reflections have confirmed my conviction never to vote for a person who endorses such an evil—even if he could balance the budget tomorrow and end all taxation.

Excerpted from A Godward Life, Book I: Savoring the Supremacy of God in All of Life by John Piper (Sisters, OR: Multnomah Publishers, 1997, pp. 279-280). Used with Permission.

To see more pix go here:

http://www.priestsforlife.org/resources/photosbyage/index.htm

2008-10-29T20:03:00.000-07:00

This is kinda long, but well worth the read, if your going to vote please read it. I don't know if it's a legitimate phone number or not but I agree with what is being said and I also don't think that spending an additional trillion dollars and taxing business owners to do it is the answer. Nor do I think that the biggest issue is economics, it's life.

THIS LETTER MAKES MORE SENSE THAN ANYTHING I HAVE SEEN, HEARD, OR READ,
CONCERNING THE UPCOMING ELECTION...
IT'S A LETTER FROM A U.S. CITIZEN... WHO LIVES IN ILLINOIS ... AND OBVIOUSLY
IS A "SELF-THINKER"... NOT JUST A "FOLLOWER"!!!
IF YOU ONLY READ ONE THING, REGARDING THIS ELECTION... LET THIS BE THE ONE
THING!!AFTER READING IT, YOU WILL PROBABLY WANT TO FORWARD IT TO OTHER
AMERICANS WHO ARE "SELF THINKERS"!!

An impassioned letter from a "nobody".
But he gives his telephone number at the end.

Dear Friends:

My name is Joe Porter. I live in Champaign , Illinois . I'm 46 years old, a born-again Christian, a husband, a father, a small business owner, a
veteran, and a homeowner. I don't consider myself to be either conservative or liberal, and I vote for the person, not Republican or Democrat. I don't believe there are "two Americas " - but that every person in this country can be whomever and whatever they want to be if they'll just work to get there - and nowhere else on earth can they find such opportunities. I believe our government should help those who are legitimately downtrodden, and should always put the interests of America first.

The purpose of this message is that I'm concerned about the future of this great nation. I'm worried that the silent majority of honest, hard-working, tax-paying people in this country have been passive for too long. Most folks I know choose not to involve themselves in politics. They go about their daily lives, paying their bills, raising their kids, and doing what they can to maintain the good life. They vote and consider doing so to be a sacred trust. They shake their heads at the political pundits and so-called "news", thinking that what they hear is always spun by whomever is reporting it. They can't understand how elected officials can regularly violate the public trust with pork barrel spending. They don't want government handouts. They want the government to protect them, not raise their taxes for more government programs.
We are in the unique position in this country of electing our leaders. It's
a privilege to do so. I've never found a candidate in any election with
whom I agreed on everything. I'll wager that most of us don't even agree
with our families or spouses 100% of the time. So when I step into that
voting booth, I always try to look at the big picture and cast my vote for
the man or woman who is best qualified for the job. I've hired a lot of
people in my lifetime, and essentially that's what an election is - a
hiring process. Who has the credentials? Whom do I want working for me?

Whom can I trust to do the job right? I'm concerned that a growing number of voters in this country simply don't get it. They are caught up in a fervor they can't explain, and calling it "change".

"Change what?", I ask.

"Well, we're going to change America ", they say.

"In what way?", I query.

"We want someone new and fresh in the White House", they exclaim.

"So, someone who's not a politician?", I say.

"Uh, well, no, we just want a lot of stuff changed, so we're voting for
Obama", they state.

"So the current system, the system of freedom and democracy that has
enabled a man to grow up in this great country, get a fine education, raise incredible amounts of money and dominate the news and win his party's nomination for the White House - that system's all wrong?"
"No, no, that part of the system's okay - we just need a lot of change."

And so it goes. "Change we can believe in."

Quite frankly, I don't believe that vague proclamations of change hold any promise for me. In recent months, I've been asking virtually everyone I encounter how they're voting. I live in Illinois , so most folks tell me they're voting for Barack Obama. But no one can really tell me why - only that he's going to change a lot of stuff. "Change, change, change." I have yet to find one single person who can tell me distinctly and convincingly why this man is qualified to be President and Commander-in-Chief of the most powerful nation on earth - other than the fact that he claims he's going to implement a lot of change.
We've all seen the emails about Obama's genealogy, his upbringing, his
Muslim background, and his church affiliations. Let's ignore this for a
moment. Put it all aside.

Then ask yourself, "What qualifies this man to be my president? That he's a brilliant orator and talks about change?"

CHANGE WHAT?

Friends, I'll be forthright with you - I believe the American voters who
are supporting Barack Obama don't have a clue what they're doing, as
evidenced by the fact that not one of them - NOT ONE of them I've spoken to can spell out his qualifications. Not even the most liberal media can explain why he should be elected. Political experience? Negligible. Foreign relations? Non-existent. Achievements? Name one. Someone who wants to unite the country? If you haven't read his wife's thesis from Princeton , look it up on the web. This is who's lining up to be our next First Lady? The only thing I can glean from Obama's constant harping about change is that we're in for a lot of new taxes.

For me, the choice is clear. I've looked carefully at the two leading
applicants for the job, and I've made my choice.

Here's a question - "Where were you five and a half years ago? Around
Christmas, 2002. You've had five or six birthdays in that time. My son has grown from a sixth grade child to a high school graduate. Five and a half years is a good chunk of time. About 2,000 days. 2,000 nights of sleep. 6,000 meals, give or take."

John McCain spent that amount of time, from 1967 to 1973, in a North
Vietnamese prisoner-of-war camp.

When offered early release, he refused it. He considered this offer to be a public relations stunt by his captors, and insisted that those held longer
than he should be released first. Did you get that part? He was offered his freedom, and he turned it down. A regimen of beatings and torture began.

Do you possess such strength of character? Locked in a filthy cell in a
foreign country, would you turn down your own freedom in favor of your fellow man? I submit that's a quality of character that is rarely found, and for me, this singular act defines John McCain.

Unlike several presidential candidates in recent years whose military
service is questionable or non-existent, you will not find anyone to
denigrate the integrity and moral courage of this man. A graduate of
Annapolis , during his Naval service he received the Silver Star, Bronze
Star, Purple Heart and Distinguished Flying Cross. His own son is now
serving in the Marine Corps in Iraq . Barack Obama is fond of saying "We honor John McCain's service...BUT...", which to me is condescending and offensive - because what I hear is, "Let's forget this man's sacrifice for his country and his proven leadership abilities, and talk some more about change."

I don't agree with John McCain on everything - but I am utterly convinced that he is qualified to be our next President, and I trust him to do what's right. I know in my heart that he has the best interests of our country in mind. He doesn't simply want to be President - he wants to lead America , and there's a huge difference. Factually, there is simply no comparison between the two candidates. A man of questionable background and motives who prattles on about change can't hold a candle to a man who has devoted his life in public service to this nation, retiring from the Navy in1981and elected to the Senate in1982.

Perhaps Obama's supporters are taking a stance between old and new. Maybe they don't care about McCain's service or his strength of character, or his unblemished qualifications to be President. Maybe "likeability" is a higher priority for them than "trust". Being a prisoner of war is not what qualifies John McCain to be President of the United States of America - but his demonstrated leadership certainly DOES.

Dear friends, it is time for us to stand. It is time for thinking Americans
to say, "Enough." It is time for people of all parties to stop following
the party line. It is time for anyone who wants to keep America first, who wants the right man leading their nation, to start a dialogue with all
their friends and neighbors and ask who they're voting for, and why.
There's a lot of evil in this world. That should be readily apparent to all
of us by now. And when faced with that evil as we are now, I want a man who knows the cost of war on his troops and on his citizens. I want a man who puts my family's interests before any foreign country.

I want a President who's qualified to lead.
I want my country back, and I'm voting for John McCain.

MY THOUGHTS NOW. I've been thinking about the "spread the wealth" comments. What if instead of spending our tax dollars on groups like "Planned Parenthood" and ABORTION, instead we put it toward micro business loans for those living below certain levels of income etc. and we encourage entrepreneurship in the inner cities etc. Handouts don't work and encouraging having more babies without marrying is not a good system! I could go on and on. Just think about these things.

2008-10-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

Meet Rich Nathan. Rich was born and raised in NYC as a Jew, had little to no knowledge other than a negative one of Jesus and later in life while at college came to know Jesus. He was a lawyer for a number of years and a law professor at OSU before becoming a pastor. I consider it a true privilege that week in and week out I hear such balanced and healthy teaching from a well thought yet incredibly spiritual mind! Rich pastors Vineyard Church of Columbus, such a great place! You have wealthy, poor, black, white, hispanic etc. all worshiping together! Anyway, this is the single best message I've ever hear regarding money! In light of our current economic crisis do yourself a favor and listen to this incredibly balanced view on wealth, poverty, injustice, justice, giving, building wealth, squandering, family, God etc.

Rich or Poor, Republican, Independent or Democrat take the time to listen to this message all the way through.

LISTEN HERE

2008-10-24T16:15:00.000-07:00

This Holiday Season give the gift of life! Contact Thirst Relief at info@thirstrelief.org to find out more!

2008-10-21T19:25:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61wj4tJICcc

You have to watch this video regarding the upcoming election, simply amazing. You just have to ask yourself, what matters most?

2008-10-19T21:58:00.000-07:00

I gotta tell ya, after tonight's "self family photo session" I really have to say that my job is incredibly valuable! Let me clarify as to not sound arrogant. We took the kids out tonight along with an incredibly un-cooperative dog and tried to do some "self portraits" this was a far greater challenge than I realized. We've done our own family pix before but not really the way I like to shoot! I like to let the family have fun, interact, be together and while I try to control the setting and lighting etc. I prefer for them to just be together in a "camera unaware" fashion. These make for the best pix! However, you really need a professional artist to pull it off with success and most importantly with fun! It was pretty crazy and hi stress in the end, but at least we got a few photos that turned out pretty cool! I love the look on the boys faces in this shot because I just said, "stand there and look cool!" So there you have it, this must be cool! Funny thing is is that Brayden is one of the coolest cats on the planet but if you tell him to look cool this is what you get! So funny! Anyway, we were far too close to dark to get what I wanted out of the whole experience, but you can be sure next time I'll be hiring a "professional!"

If your interested in learning more about our "Life in Art Sessions" and discovering how a family is saved every time we capture yours feel free to contact us and visit http://www.davisphotographer.com/, we still have a few more openings this fall before it gets too cold!

2008-10-15T21:51:00.000-07:00

Today is my day to take all three kids and have fun, teach, love, train, play and just be with while Lara works on her Signature Album designs! She loves the creative break, I love the time with my kiddos. But honestly it can seem a little stressful with all three at once, then I receive an email from one of our water partners in Zambia and you see a mom like this with 6 kids in a shack of a home and before she had her Thirst Relief Bio Sand Filter beside her she would have had to deal with the craziness of all the sickness that goes with bad water! It's amazing how in so many homes like this one, upon questioning you discover that they've already lost a child or more due to contaminated water! That was my experience in the Amazon. These filters truly save and change lives for the long hull and cost less than $65 to produce and implement! Right now we are pushing to raise $250,000 to be able to purchase 6800 plastic BSF! I wont go into that right now, but it will revolutionize our ability to distribute these life saving filters. If you want to know more visit http://www.thirstrelief.org/

I genuinely mean this. If it were not for my amazing clients that have such confidence and trust in us and hire us for the art we create from their lives Thirst Relief would not be what it is today! By hiring us as your photographer you have empowered me to serve as the volunteer president and ceo of this great organization! In essence you are truly saving lives by allowing us to capture yours! Thank you!

2008-10-09T22:58:00.000-07:00

So we are back from an amazing few days away at the cabin. LOVE being there and just loving my family. Here is a shot of all of us around dusk just before our return. So hard to leave. Thank you to all who were patient for returned calls and emails.

Brayden had to shave just before we left and Ashton fell asleep on one of the couches at the cabin with our latest addition to the family our golden retriever pup!

Also, please let me know if any of you are hearing our new website with the last two songs sounding like the chipmunks, they are not supposed to play that way but I heard them like that tonight on Lara's computer. So bizzarre.

2008-10-02T23:07:00.000-07:00

We are just about to launch the all new http://www.davisphotographer.com/ so be on the lookout!

jim

2008-09-10T23:18:00.000-07:00

Just finishing up in L.A. at the Pictage Partner Conference where I was honored to have a booth for Thirst Relief! I also had the privilege of speaking with my good friend Mike Colon to some of the photographers about "Purposeful Photography, Cause Marketing with Class!" I shared about my amazing clients and how by tying the cause of TRI to our business we are actually providing a pathway to our clients to donate by simply hiring us for the job! It was great to share the story about how Thirst Relief developed and how the photo industry has so powerfully supported our efforts! Just 3 years ago I sat down and shared my vision withe Mike about Thirst Relief, now we are already in 8 countries with over 50,000 people having received long term, clean water solutions for less than $5 per person! Truly incredible. All credit and glory to God for it!

Here's Mike and I sporting our matching Thirst Relief shirts!

2008-09-04T21:35:00.000-07:00

Tonight Lara sent me an email that contained all sorts of photos of human suffering. It was enough to make me want to vomit. It wasn't just a downer, you suck email, but rather a comparison of the life we live compared to so many others.

The truth is, we live in a culture that so often worships self, serves self and cares most about whatever involves self and we try to ignore "those types of things" because they just make us uncomfortable!

I so desperately want my life to be about so much more than my own vain ambitions! I want God's heart for those that are hurting and suffering. I want His blessings to flow through me not just to me! We have so much, yet often truly enjoy so little! Oh God by your mercy open our eyes and enable us to be blessed to be a blessing to others and may we find greater joy in serving others than ourselves!

This photo especially touched my heart as the little one on the left looks so much like my little one and yet the one on the right is barely recognizable as human if your looking at the bottom cheeks. There is no excess, there is no fat, no nutrition, seemingly no hope!

With absolute conviction and certainty I can tell you that if you would like to give your money to an organization that is truly saving lives, truly helping the hurting and making EVERY dollar go as far as it can then go to http://www.thirstrelief.org/ and GIVE, sign up as a monthly donor. $5 saves a life! $5 provides a long term, sustainable drinking water solution for $5 per person! I have not received a dime to date and I am the president of this org! If you give somewhere else and you know they are faithfull with your donations too then GIVE MORE, generate more, create ways of promoting your business that encourage donations etc.

God be with you.

Warmly,

Jim Davis-Hicks

2008-08-19T10:31:00.000-07:00

This just came from one of our water project leaders in Zambia, so amazing! It is such a privilege to participate in making a difference around the world and it's because of my amazing clients that I am able to do so and the continued support of so many generous donors to Thirst Relief!

"We recently went into the compound of Mackenzie where 65 biosand filters have been installed, most of which were funded by Thirst Relief. The community leaders were overwhelmed with gratitude and continually expressed their joy at what a substantial change had occurred in their community. They went on to say that since the presence of the sand filters there have been no incidences of Cholera reported, a disease which previously ran rampant through the community. Several people whom we interviewed explained further that when they went out to work in the fields or to visit other communities they would take the water from the filter with them and would not drink from any unclean water source. It is evident that, because of the presence of the sand filter in their homes and the education of hygiene practices, the lives of these people have been radically changed. Although you already know the influence that your work has the capacity to do, we wanted to share with you the true scope of what it has done. What you have done has not only brought health but hope which is a much greater gift. The consistent support of Thirst Relief, in many ways, has opened the door for SHIP to impact the community in a more holistic manner because of the foundation of trust laid through the effectiveness of the biosand filters.

God bless you,

Kirk"

2008-08-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

I just received this today from an ActionRunner user in Portland! So encouraging especially since 2.1 is about to be released. For real, I don't know how I lived before I started using ActionRunner. It is the single most powerful time saving tool in my business!

Hey Jim,

Next Monday I am attending a photographer's "Happy Hour" at a local studio. It just kind of a hang out and meet people thing - then they cover a topic - I think like packing for travel is this months topic.
I wondered how you would feel about my burning 20 -30 CD's of the Trial download of ActionRunner to hand out? I think this is right up there with my Gary Fong - I simply cannot live without it!
However, I wouldn't want to step on any toes - or upset you - or commit copyright violations - but software in your hands is more power than a paper description.
Just let me know!
elle

Pretty cool testimony! Gotta love being compared with Gary Fong considering his reputation for selling helpful products to photographers over the years!

For $99 there is simply no better, faster or more effective way to run multiple batch actions in photoshop, giving your images the look and feel you want without spending the rediculous amount of time so many have grown accustomed to!

2008-08-06T23:03:00.000-07:00

I had such a great time up in New Philadelphia this past weekend! While there I had the distinct privilege of shooting some promotional pix for a really great band called Shilo Moutain Trio! They are amazing. I could listen to Ben play the banjo all night! Ben, Suzy and Naomi are brother and sisters! They come from a family of 12 children and have grown up singing together their whole lives! What a joy for them to now share it with others! contact me at info@davisphotographer.com if you want more info on them!

2008-08-05T21:30:00.000-07:00

I was up in New Philadelphia this past weekend for my nieces b-day party and for a shoot with a band, Shiloh Mountain Trio! While there I took my boys and my two nieces and nephew to see their Great Grandparents, Smith's grave! It was so cool to go back there, haven't been for many years, while there we talked about who they were, how their Great Grandpa was an honest and godly man and practiced law to uphold justice for all etc. It was a neat time of reflection and learning for all. As we finished up Ashton say's "Dad, what is that?" I looked down and there was this locust crawling out of it's shell! So cool, I've seen locust and I've seen shells but never one actually crawling out! Pretty cool!

2008-07-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

Little Princess!

2008-07-21T19:10:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went to "Natural Bridge State Park" in KY! It was so fun, we actually traveled there for an engagement session with Kisha and Brandon. Brandon is doing his residency as a Dr. in Lexington so we traveled down there to do the session. So we decided to make it a family get away at the same time. We rented a cabin via Natural Bridge 5 Star Cabin Rental and it was awesome! We had so much fun, we hunted crawdads and we ate them too! Really we only ate a couple of them but it was more the novelty of it. Sat. night Kisha and Brandon and I hiked to the top of the mountain to see the "natural bridge" and do some shots after we took some pix on a caboose. None of us had been there before so we didn't realize the "sky lift" was closed at 6:00, this meant we had to hike. Kisha actually was the one that wanted to do it, so she took off her boots and hiked to the top in her socks! There we got some really great shots.

The next day I took Lara and the kids to the top using the "sky lift" and then Lara and Karsyn rode it down, but Ashton and Brayden and I hiked down and meet Lara and Karsyn at the pool! It was such an amazing time. We had so much fun and didn't want to come back!

I feel I am perhaps the most blessed person on the planet. Thank you Jesus for my amazing family and my amazing clients that enable me to live such an amazing life. This fall you'll see some pix from Kisha and Brandon's wedding in St. Lucia (Caribbean)

There are quite a few pix but enjoy!~

2008-07-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

When I was a little boy I roasted a fish over a fire on a stick with my grandma because "That's how the indians did it!" I so wish I had a photo of that! But I don't and this past week I took my boys on a little fishing trip while lara stayed back and designed albums! (her designs are through the roof and all one of a kind creations!) Anyway, so I wanted my boys to have the same memory. By the time we were done fishing, we caught a gang but only kept two, it was dark. So the pix are a bit dark and grainy with no flash and no tripod, but we had so much fun! If you look closely you'll see the fish on the wood pieces where we descaled them, then on the sticks and both boys Ashton is on my lap and Brayden on grandpa's. It was so funny because the idea of it sounded better than actually eating it to the boys. Had it not been for my extensive fish experiences while being a missionary I might have been grossed out by the look of it, but it was great and tasted wonderful! You can see the boys faces while watching me pull the meat out. They both ended up eating it, Ashton cause he loves all food, Brayden cause he wanted to gross mom out by telling her he did it! I am so blessed!

2008-07-09T10:36:00.000-07:00

Kelly and Doug were so fun to shoot!

Kelly is actually Lara's cousin.

I'm excited to shoot their wedding!

2008-07-08T11:54:00.000-07:00

My www.davisphotographer.com website and my photography email are both down right now.

Sorry for any inconvenience, enjoy the blog.

jim

2008-06-24T19:34:00.000-07:00

Friday I came home a day early from my vacation to shoot a great wedding! By the time I had my cards downloaded and all backed up it was 3:00 a.m. I woke the next morning to prepare for an engagement shoot and then the call came. One of my dear friends and fellow wedding photographers was in a really bad spot. His father-in-law had been battling cancer for a while now and they believed that he was in his last 24hours. He asked if I could help him shoot it so his wife could be with her father. I suggested he stay with her and that Lara and I would shoot it together as soon as she got home too. So, I shot my engagement session and headed off to the church. Lara arrived a couple hours later and we had a delightful time with Adam and Devon a super amazing couple! That night at 5:30 my friends father-in-law died. He and his wife both were able to be there for his last moments and we had the honor and privilege of being a part of it! What's crazier is the story about the wedding we had booked for that day, but was cancelled and allowed for us to be there. It's a long story but once again proof that even in our pain God is in control and works all things together for good for those that Love Him! We love you guys and pray for God's grace and peace in this pain, your dad was and is an amazing man!

2008-06-12T19:26:00.000-07:00

Click below to hear Jim's interview on F-StopBeyond!

F-Stop Beyond

2008-06-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

Later this week I'll be interviewed on F-Stop Beyond for the work that we do with Thirst Relief International combined with our businesses Davis Photography and Davis Tools.

F-Stop and Beyond is a Podcast from Ron Dawson of Cinematic Studios.

Ron is one the premier videographers of our day serving some of the industries top wedding professionals and beyond. It's a great honor to be chosen for this interview as I find myself in some really great company. Also, Ron is a class act.

Be on the lookout for the link that will feature our interview! For now feel free to follow the link and hear a really touching interview of Sandy Puc, founder of Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep (NILMDTS).

Warmly,

Jim

2008-05-17T19:06:00.000-07:00

We were recently published nationally again in Studio Photography for being a "green" photo business. We are all digital etc. and some of that is part of it but the real recognition comes from being the Founders of the leanest meanest water relief organization on the planet! We provide long term water solutions for $5 per person! Click HERE to learn how and click HERE to read the article.

I actually serve as the volunteer president of Thirst Relief Int. and it's because of my amazing clients that I am able to do so! Thank you!

Also, in the article we were given credit for a photo that Dave Webster actually shot and donated to Thirst Relief, way to go Dave!!!!

2008-05-03T21:04:00.000-07:00

In the past we've been known for weddings more than anything else, it's really the only type of photography we've promoted but we're launching the portrait side of our business here in a few weeks! Mention that you read about it on this post when you call to book a session and receive 50% off of the sitting fee! (first 10 bookings only)

Here's a portrait of our own kids that we did just today!

2008-04-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

Most of you don't know it but I used to be a competitive bass angler! I'm not joking.

Well a couple weeks ago I went on vacation to NC to visit some family and do a photo shoot. While there I was able to spend a good bit of time fishing and I had the joy of pulling in this 5lb. lunker! I also found this other fish dead, it truly bit off more than it could chew! How crazy that he'd even attempt to hit such a larger bait fish. This why I love bass fishing, they are so aggressive!!!!

More news to come.

2008-03-28T16:20:00.001-07:00

We recently were published on the cover of Columbus Bride! Love that magazine!

Congrats to Danielle and Frank for the cover and pix inside! Also, Brandon and Emily were on two full page spreads!

And today Davis Photography was featured on Shutterbug Radio click below to hear the inteview!

Davis Photography and Thirst Relief on Shutterbug Radio

2008-03-11T23:34:00.000-07:00

Really, why ruin it with words!!!!

2008-03-06T21:32:00.000-08:00

I did a photo shoot a couple months back for an artist named Gary Jones. He's great, check out his new site! http://www.garryjonesmusic.com/ this pic was one I caught as he was laughing at his wife! I loved it! I grabbed it from his site so it has some text on it. What a great couple too!

2008-02-14T22:38:00.000-08:00

61 Mentors
450 Registered Bidders

$33,546.55

10,500 LIVES!!!!

I am so proud of my photo community in the wedding and portrait industry! The support that has been shown to Thirst Relief International from some of the most influential photographers in the world has left me near speechless! All I can say is THANK YOU!

2008-02-12T22:08:00.000-08:00

The bids are going back up as I type, they will be up for another day, closing in 15 minute increments one at a time starting on Thursday morning. Find the mentor you want to win the most, bid your MAXIMUM amount the first time if you can (the auction site will only bid you on proxy, meaning it will only up your bid if your being challenged, therefore you will not pay any more than you have to.) Try not to constantly refresh, revisit etc. (I know this takes a ton of fun out of it, but we don't want another crash.)

Happy bidding and enjoy. We are already looking for other host options for next year's auction.
Thanks so much for your patience and support, we are so thrilled at the generousity and support of both the mentors and those bidding!

BID HERE

Together with you saving lives and changing the world.

Thirst Relief International

2008-02-08T09:20:00.000-08:00

If you would like to bid on us as mentors CLICK HERE, then click on the Thirst Relief logo at fotoverite, register as a new user and start bidding! Auction goes live Feb. 9th.

The Mentor Time is to be held at WPPI in Vegas but could be done here too.

This is our profile on the auction site. Happy Bidding. I must say, the mentor times we've done in the past have been amazing! We've seen couples cry, we've prayed for them and then watched their businesses thrive as they headed to a new level.

"For Jim and Lara Davis-Hicks, the combination of pro photography and global charity is a dream come true!

Jim and Lara Davis-Hicks live a life of interesting contrasts. One day, Jim might be floating down the Amazon River, bringing life-saving water filtration systems to remote villages. The next, he’s floating rubber duckies in the bathtub with his kids back in Ohio. He could be shooting documentary images in Sub-Saharan Africa on Tuesday and wedding photos in Columbus on Saturday. While these may seem like wildly different worlds, to the Davis-Hicks team it’s all part of the big picture that is their life.

Jim and Lara form the team that is known as Davis Photography http://www.davisphotographer.com/ but they’re also the founders of Thirst Relief International. Together they capture compelling wedding and portrait imagery and together with the help of an amazing team they lead a global effort to save lives and change the world.

The highest bidder will receive a 90 minute one-on-one session with Jim and Lara and a free copy of the BEST TIME SAVING TOOL you can imagine, it’s called ActionRunner ($199.00, free trial at www.davistools.com) created by the Davis-Hicks team so they could live the dream mentioned above without losing their precious family in the midst of it! (They have two sons 5 and 4 and a daughter 5 months.)

Jim and Lara’s images have been published nationally, most notably the cover of Studio Photography and they host workshops helping photographers to take their businesses to the next level or even just get started. In less than 5 years they took their business from their first $300 commission to as much as $15,000.00 per commission.

Though they live their dream, Jim and Lara are both known for their willingness to share honestly about the very real struggles of raising a family, maintaining a marriage and trying to run a home based studio and non-profit.

Jim and Lara both give credit to God for the abundant blessings in their life!"

2008-02-07T13:21:00.000-08:00

I just read this from another email. It is thought provoking and true. I like it because it points to the truth without speaking in a derogatory way towards others. Are we not all guilty if we are passive and peace loving at the same? Like someone said "Evil prevails when good men do nothing!"

Read on and consider the issues that face our security as a nation.

A German's point of view on Islam"
by Dr. Emanual Tanay, Psychiatrist

A man whose family was German aristocracy prior to
World War ll owned a number of large industries and
estates. When asked how many German people were
true Nazis, the answer he gave can guide our
attitude toward fanaticism.
'Very few people were true Nazis 'he said,' but many
enjoyed the return of German pride, and many more
were too busy to care. I was one of those who just
thought the Nazis were a bunch of fools. So, the
majority just sat back and let it all happen. Then,
before we knew it, they owned us, and we had lost
control, and the end of the world had come. My
family lost everything. I ended up in a
concentration camp and the Allies destroyed my
factories.'
We are told again and again by 'experts' and
'talking heads' that Islam is the religion of peace,
and that the vast majority of Muslims just want to
live in peace. Although this unqualified assertion
may be true, it is entirely irrelevant. It is
meaningless fluff, meant to make us feel better, and
meant to somehow diminish the spectra of fanatics
rampaging across the globe in the name of Islam.
The fact is that the fanatics rule Islam at this
moment in history.
It is the fanatics who march. It is the fanatics
who wage any one of 50 shooting wars worldwide. It
is the fanatics who systematically slaughter
Christian or tribal groups throughout Africa and are
gradually taking over the entire continent in an
Islamic wave. It is the fanatics who bomb, behead,
murder, or honor kill. It is the fanatics who take
over mosque after mosque. It is the fanatics who
zealously spread the stoning and hanging of rape
victims and homosexuals. The hard quantifiable fact
is that the 'peaceful majority', the 'silent
majority', is cowed and extraneous.
Communist Russia was comprised of Russians who just
wanted to live in peace, yet the Russian Communists
were responsible for the murder of about 20 million
people. The peaceful majority were irrelevant.
China's huge population was peaceful as well, but
Chinese Communists managed to kill a staggering 70
million people.
The average Japanese individual prior to World War
ll was not a warmongering sadist. Yet, Japan
murdered and slaughtered its way across South East
Asia in an orgy of killing that included the
systematic murder of 12 million Chinese civilians;
most killed by sword, shovel, and bayonet.
And, who can forget Rwanda, which collapsed into
butchery. Could it not be said that the majority of
Rwandans were 'peace loving'?
History lessons are often incredibly simple and
blunt, yet for all our powers of reason we often
miss the most basic and uncomplicated of points:
Peace-loving Muslims have been made irrelevant by
their silence. Peace-loving Muslims will become our
enemy if they don't speak up, because like my friend
from Germany, they will awaken one day and find that
the fanatics own them, and the end of their world
will have begun.
Peace-loving Germans, Japanese, Chinese, Russians,
Rwandans, Serbs, Afghanis, Iraqis, Palestinians,
Somalis, Nigerians, Algerians, and many others have
died because the peaceful majority did not speak up
until it was too late.
As for us who watch it all unfold, we must pay
attention to the only group that counts: the
fanatics who threaten our way of life.
Lastly, at the risk of offending, anyone who doubts
that the issue is serious and just deletes this
email without sending it on, is contributing to the
passiveness that allows the problems to expand. So,
extend yourself a bit and send this on and on and
on! Let us hope that thousands, world wide, read
this - think about it - and send it on.

Emanuel Tanay, M.D.
Ann Arbor, MI

2008-02-05T07:27:00.000-08:00

This year once again we'll be participating in one of the best fund raisers of the year! It's the WPPI Thirst Relief Mentor Benefit Auction! Last year over $25,000.00 was raised to help bring clean water to those around the world who otherwise would not have access to it!

Most people don't realize it but 1.1 billion people don't have access to clean water, 2.5 million people die annually because of water related disease and 90% of those are children under the age of five!

Most people also don't realize that $5 can save a life!!!!!! We can provide a long term, sustainable source of clean water for one person for less than $5!!!!!!!!!!!! It's really true. Visit http://www.thirstrelief.org/ to find out how.

Now, the details. On Feb. 9-12 we'll be auctioning a 90 minute one-on-one mentor time to the highest bidder! We'll also throw in a free copy of our ActionRunner software for free ($199.00 price but priceless time saver!) The mentor time is supposed to be at WPPI but if your not going to WPPI this year we'll be happy to do it here too.

Bidding begins on Feb 9th CLICK HERE to visit the auction site, the Thirst logo will be present but the auction is being set up and will be live on the 9th:

Note: Davina Fear has once again run with this incredibe fundraiser and we are so grateful for it!

Fotoverite.com has been so kind to host the auction again this year for free, but do note that the bidding will continue so long as bids come in, meaning, the highest bid wins, not the last bid before midnight on the 12th. So bid away, pay what your really willing to and let us all go to bed a little earlier this year!!! :) last year the bids continued on until 3:00 a.m. when Becker finally ended the war by saying he'd do two sessions! He brought in more with his two bids combined than Gary Fong did with his big $6k bid! It was so fun!

2008-01-27T15:52:00.000-08:00

"I want to go but I don't want to go!"

This is what Brayden said to me as he was about to leave for a 3-4 day get away all by himself at my mom and dad's (most amazing parents/grandparents in the world!) He was so sad to be leaving us, yet so excited to go. That is exactly how I felt too! All of us did! Today was his 4th birthday! We celebrated last night with a big party and alot of fun shared with friends and family. I put together 100+ pix real quick into a slideshow right before the party, all of him and I was brought to tears! I had just prayed earlier that day "Lord don't let me miss out on the joy of my own son's party, by being too busy to enjoy it!" Putting together that show allowed me to do just that, it brought me to tears seeing how quickly he is growing up. I know I only have one chance to love him in his younger years and soon he'll have endless options on how he spends his time, but Lara and I are still his favorite choice! Oh Jesus, by your grace empower me to live effectively as a provider but efficiently enough to not spend any more time doing things that can be done with excellence without missing out on being an excellent dad!

I love my boys, and karsyn and my wife so much! It's amazing how the most important things often receive the neglect that comes from busyness! I am determined to run my business with excellence but also with efficiency and to make the most of every moment I have been given so that I fulfill every role I have been entrusted with to it's fullest, without compromising or neglecting that which matters most! Not just my family but even time alone, prostrate before God! Seeking His will, His direction and His wisdom for how to run a business, raise a family and lead Thirst Relief Int~! God, you have entrusted me with sooooo much. Thank you and help me to be faithful. At the end of my life I want to look back and think "I am sooo glad I didn't compromise who I was or time with those that I love or waste emmotions and energy on things that just didn't matter!" I guess I want to have others look at how I lived my life and say "He desperately relied upon and loved God and it shined brightest in the way he loved everyone he encountered but especially in the way he loved his family!"

Happy Birthday Brayden, I love you sooooooo much, more than you love me (we argue over who loves eachother the most all the time, I tell him I have special daddy love and it's from God's love so it trumps, but he insists that "kid love" is the most powerful, then we end the debate by agreeing that all love comes from God so our love must be the same!)

For real, happy birthday Brayden, your daddy loves you so much.

(he just called after being gone for 30 minutes and he didn't want to get off the phone with mommy! So cute.)

2008-01-06T14:20:00.000-08:00

MONSTER TRUCK JAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ashton, Brayden and I headed to the Monster Truck Jam last night at Nationwide Arena! It was so fun. A full night of Trucks crushing cars, flipping on their sides, crazy stunts (even a back flip on a dirt bike) and more! We had so much fun. It was crazy loud, late and tons of fun!

So, we came home from church today and after nap time we decided to paint the monster truck creative car kit that Ashton received from his cousin for Christmas! I was so proud of Ashton, there were four trucks and he share one with me, Brayden and Mommy. It was so fun to paint them and now we are waiting for them to dry so we can put on our own Monster Truck Jam for mom tonight! Pictured above is Grave Digger (painted by me) Brutus (painted by Brayden 3) Super Man (painted by Ashton 5) and Safe Auto Minimizer (painted by Mommy 30 something.)

2007-12-21T21:57:00.000-08:00

About 1 crazy hour of shooting, 7 over stimulating parents, 11 grandkids, (one was not present but added in later) and 4 different photos combined to make one heck of a Christmas present for Lara's parents! I'm pretty certain they don't even know we have a blog so I think I'm safe on posting it here! If not, love you guys! Merry Christmas to ALL and may God truly bless your New Year! Remember this year it's all about knowing Him, the rest is just part of the journey!

2007-12-18T11:19:00.000-08:00

These three images represent why I LOVE working with a select number of clients each year!

Because I love what I do and choose to work with fewer clients to keep it that way, I am stimulated and encouraged to get creative and unique images at every wedding! I take every wedding I shoot as a personal commission to capture the most artistic and creative images I possibly can! I'm not happy with simply a "good enough" attitude. I want excellence, fresh perspectives and crazy cool stuff at every wedding I shoot! So whether it's some guys getting crazy and having fun in front af a wall and capturing their shadows or whether it's a night shot and dragging my shutter to get some colors or using amazing windows and a beautiful bride to create a timeless bridal shot I go above and beyond to make it happen! Each of these images was created under a tremendous time crunch with unique circumstances that could have made it easy for me to say "Well, you can only get what they'll give you." But, because I come to my weddings fresh, excited and committed to capturing cutting edge images, I go for it every time! I absolutely love my job! I am truly blessed!

Thank you to all my wonderful clients this past 2007! Have a very merry Christmas and happy new year!

God bless you all! jim and lara

2007-12-13T09:19:00.000-08:00

I recently had the privilege of shooting some promotional/cd cover pix for a really amazing individual Garry Jones. Gary and his wife Leesa are really wonderful people and it was as much fun hanging with them as it was taking their pix! Gary most recently has been a part of Mercy's Mark, but is now producing his own cd, it's really good! I received a complimentary copy. As soon as his website is up I'll post a link for the new stuff. Be on the lookout for it.

2007-12-10T12:38:00.000-08:00

So last night I'm laying in bed with Brayden and I'm telling him how wonderful I think he is etc. and after I finished he say's to me "Dad, I think your the best gotopher ever!" I said "what honey? I don't understand?" He replied "Your the best gotopher ever." I still didn't understand, so I said "What honey?" He said "you know, work." I said "Oh, photographer!" He said "Ya!" So there it is, I have won the ultimate photography/gotopher award of all time!

2007-12-08T21:43:00.000-08:00

A Tree, a really, really old cool tree. I actually think it's dead, so sad.

2007-12-04T20:29:00.000-08:00

Santa Clause is coming to town, Santa Clause is coming to town, Santa Clause is coming to Town!

Dan "Beard" Banks aka Santa came over for a shoot last week! So fun. The kids LOVED it!

2007-12-03T13:22:00.000-08:00

Karsyn is the most angelic baby I've ever seen! She is so happy almost all of the time! Rarely if ever cries and LOVES her brothers, mommy and daddy! When you make eye contact with her and smile this is what you get back! I am so thankful to Jesus that He has blessed us with such a treasure!

2007-11-22T04:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

What are you Thankful for!

Come on, don't be afraid to leave a comment!

2007-11-19T12:31:00.000-08:00

Announcing!!!!!!! ActionRunner 2.0 for PC and MAC.

For real, this tool has saved me more time than any other tool! I LOVE and use ActionRunner for every single wedding and event I shoot! No exceptions! It's really incredible.

2007-11-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

So Tuesday night we had our nephew over for a sleep over! Good times right? Well until about 9:00 p.m. when Lara say's my stomache is hurting really bad! She'd had some pains all day but not too crazy. She's pretty tough with all she has been through, so I knew it must be bad if she was complaining about it. So, I went on line and she had all the symptoms for Appendicitis.

She headed to the emergency room (while I took care of our boys, nephew and Karsyn, kinda crazy, the boys that is.)

Joshua my brother in law came over and spent the night while I took Karsyn to the hospital to nurse and see Lara. It was appendicitis and yesterday she had an emergency appendectomy. They said if she had waited a day longer it would have burst.

So, the boys are at my parents, I am home with Karsyn and Lara is recovering in the hospital. They hope she'll be home today but it's taking more out of her than anticipated and she doesnt' feel good at all. She actually vomitted last night after I came home and is feeling really rough.

Pray her migraine headache goes away, the infection doesn't spread anywhere else and that she'll recover quickly. The Dr. said it was one of the worst one's he has seen and wants to have her come back for follow up as it could easily lead to more if it doesn't heal up free of infection etc.

What a year! This has been one of the best and hardest years of our life! God has brought us through so much, I'm just thankful that it has been together!

2007-11-05T13:09:00.000-08:00

It's so fun having really great camera equipment on hand! I was outside blowing my leaves down to the street and Lara say's "Hey let's get a family picture in that big pile!" So, we got semi ready for it (I desperately need a haircut so I opted for the hat I had on!) and we set up the tripod and the camera and got some great shots with the whole family! Besides our initial shot at the hospital this is the first real family portrait we have!

Many of you don't know this, but I'm independently wealthy! My net worth is around 4 billion! Each of those billion are pictured with me above! For real I'm the wealthiest man on the planet!

And for the record, I'm not selling any of those valuable assets so I still gotta pay my house off, so if you want any pix like this one above give me a call! :)

2007-10-20T23:13:00.000-07:00

I LOVE my wife and kids! I am so blessed. Very tired with a newborn and very busy with two active and social boys, but very much blessed and in love! I am REALLY trying to keep focused, keep first things first and am determined to not look back on this season of my life and regret the way I lived it. My children will only be young once and before long they'll have plenty of other options, but right now I am their first choice! O LORD help me to live wise! So little matters that we live and strive for and it's so easy to overlook that which matters most! I think hell will be a place where we'll always know what we could have had, should have had but we refused to choose it! As a wedding photographer I'm reminded how precious little ones are and how fast they grow up. I see mom's and dad's doing their father daughter and mother son dances and you can always see in the tears what they are feeling. Most often the tears I witness are one's that say to me "O how fast you've grown, I desperately wish I could go back and relive it all over, only this time I'd do it more carefully!" Rarely, but on occasion I have the privilege of witnessing those that are simply crying tears of joy! Joy, because they raised them well, without regret and now they see the fruit of their love and sacrifice as their little one has found their own love! I'm sure every parent has a little of both and I'm not always discerning things correctly but I just know I want to look at my little one's as they grow up and not look back with a bunch of regret because I wasted my life trying to impress or do so much for others (or rather myself) that I neglect that cherished moments on today! Today this manifested in letting my boys help me prime my deck. Can I tell you that it's really, really hard to get dried primer off of a 3 year old!!!! But we sure had fun working together. 4 times they both said "Dad, thanks so much for letting us paint with you, this is alot of fun! So, though I sure have alot of drips and high spots on my deck, they'll only remind me of how fun it was to do it together! Thank you Jesus for my wonderful wife and kids!

2007-10-10T21:03:00.000-07:00

I love being Karsyn's dad. It's quite an adjustment but so good!

As my blogging tells, she's keeping us quite busy.

2007-09-26T20:32:00.000-07:00

A star is born!

Here is a quick snapshot of Karsyn's first commercial shoot!

It was for an insurance company out west but was filmed here! It was pretty cool to be on a live set and see how they do stuff~ One cool thing they did was make it seem like day time when it was pitch black outside. Anyway, enjoy the shot!

She was a pefect angel, slept the whole time and has been sleeping great at home too!

Thank you Jesus!

2007-09-22T11:11:00.000-07:00

Well we are settling into to home now with our new little bundle.

She's a great sleeper so far, we need to work on it at night though! She's kinda got it backwards, but not as bad as brayden did so I think we'll survive.

Funny quick story. We were being considered for karsyn modeling for a commercial that needed a baby, but they said we were pushing it too close to her birth etc. So they picked two other babies instead. However, I sent her pic anyway and they contacted us and said, "We canceled the other two, we want Karsyn!" Soooo, I assume that my bias has nothing to do with how cute she is!!!

We are headed off to watch the Buckeyes at grandma and grandpas house. We have the cutest little onesie (sp?) for her to wear that has buckeyes on it!

God bless you all!

Speaking of "God bless you all", have any of you read "Irresistable Revolution"? Wow, gotta read it, it's really making think about all I have, do, possess and access and asking tough questions about it all.

Also, if you haven't done so, please consider going to www.thirstrelief.org and sign up as a monthly donor, it's so easy and so effective. One $5 a month contribution will save a life every month! That's a life time of water for one individual for ony $5. Each month someone new will receive a lifetime of water! If you want to understand more about how $5 can really save a life read about it on the home page of www.thirstrelief.org

For real, God bless you all!

2007-09-20T09:06:00.000-07:00

Introducing . . . Karsyn McKenna Hicks! 7lb 3oz, not sure how long but cute as can be!

Pray she stays as easy as she is so far! She's nursing great, beautiful and very happy so far!

If pregnancy wasn't so miserable and dangerous for lara we'd probably have more! Wow, 2 hours or so of contractions and 2.5 pushes and she was out! Dr. Raymond is an incredible Dr. and did a great job!

And I'm sooo proud of Lara, she's such an amazing woman and it was so wonderful to experience this together. After it was all done and visitors faded, we had the most amazing time in the birthing room just sitting and enjoying as we turned the lights off and enjoyed the sun coming through the window and we just sat with our little girl! What a hard road this has been but so worth it! Thank you Jesus! For real, thank you Lord! What a gift from above.

We are soooo in love already! More pix to come in the future. I'm off to the hospital!

2007-09-18T12:30:00.001-07:00

Wednesday around 2:00 p.m.ish we expect to meet Karsyn face to face! Karsyn is our new little daughter that we are so excited to meet! I really am crazy excited to meet her. Honestly I'm a little afraid it wont be a her as my friends Mike and Kim Lotz thought they were having a girl too and it turned out to be a boy!!!! Our Dr. say's he's 99.9% sure and our boys were very obviously boys when we did the ultra sounds with them, soooooo, we'll see! Either way we'll be very excited to meet Karsyn or Carson :)

Now, a tribute to the beautiful woman that helps me look good in the photo above! My wife Lara. Wow, what a woman. She has been through a pretty rough ride with this pregnancy. Not sure how many of you know the details but she gets incredibly sick during her pregnancies to the point of total bed rest and in home care just to keep her from vomitting! She ended up this time hospitalized (was previously too, but before it was hydration related) this time she had an infection in her leg where she was receiving her anti-nausea meds. It turned very ugly, very fast. She could have easily lost her leg or have died! Dr. Raymond sent her to a specialist immediatly and they hospitalized her right away. Then, while in the hospital she almost died due to an allergic reaction! Our friend (and creative assistant) Anne Marie called her in the hospital and woke her up, she realized she couldn't breathe as she was passing out. So she hit the nurse button and a ton of Dr.s came rushing in and were hooking her up to a bunch of stuff etc. and going kinda crazy! They said "good thing your friend called you honey!" Well, she made it through and has just been dealing with the general overall misery of pregnancy that "most" women experience I think (though i hear some bizzare stories about those that actually feel better pregnant!" All that to say, Lara, I commend you, honor you, love and respect you for carrying three of our babies even through the misery of it all! I love you and so appreciate you for all you have and will do! Thank you. I'm excited to have a daddy's girl!

And YES, we do plan to be done, we're all about adoption from this point forward!

2007-09-14T11:42:00.000-07:00

Quick Question for anyone reading this.

Would you be ticked if this image came to you in an email, unsolicited but as the result of signing up for Columbus Bride magazine? (Advertisers receive free access to their mailing list and I've never done anything with them until now, and only cause we've had so much fun shooting these sessions we figured we'd market to those that may or may not have been happy with their wedding pix. Not our couples of course :) but for those that maybe couldn't afford our wedding coverage but would still like a similar style only on a weeknight shoot!)

Anyway, I'm excited to shoot the sesssions for those that were happy to get it! No offense was intended if you did receive it and didn't want to. (this goes for any photogs that could be offended too, I've not had any negative response from any but I thought about it later and thought "Hmm, that could be offensive to a photog too if they think I'm trying to take their clients away from them or indicating that their work wasn't any good."

2007-09-10T20:50:00.000-07:00

I did a Sr. Port session the other night. I had hoped to do alot of outside stuff too but it was just raining like crazy. I suggested we reschedule but they wanted to go ahead with them. We actually did a few shots in the rain too but I like the studio stuff best.

Anyway, Jackie is a super sweet girl and it was fun to get to know her and her mom!

2007-09-07T13:15:00.000-07:00

This has been a pretty big week for Ashton! Tuesday was Orientation at Kindergarten (I seriously cried like a baby. It was very hard for me to send him off to school and still contemplating alternative ways to educate.) I actually heard a great quote from John Wimber "I don't mind education so long as it doesn't get in the way of learning!" This can be very true when a child doesn't learn affectively in a traditional "education" model. Ashton is definitely a artist who reflects much of me, my parents say he's EXACTLY like I was at that age. (artistic, talkative, creative and managing, he's always orchestrating something and getting others to help him fulfill his plans.) Anyway, we'll see where that goes. I have so many thoughts on this, but I'll save it for some other time.

On Wed. we did a daddy date and went crawdad hunting for hours in the river! What an amazing time. Ashton kept saying to me "Dad, this is soooo fun. I'm so glad we did this!" I even blitzed on an important conference call as a result of not having my watch or phone with me in the river. It was absolutely worth it and they were incredibly gracious in understanding.

Then the first and second day of kindergarten and a lost tooth! Enjoy the pix above they are of the first morning of school and the lost tooth. The last pic it's hard to tell but he's holding his tooth on a string.

I'm so blessed.

Karsyn is on her way in less than 2 weeks! Keep us in your prayers.

2007-08-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

WOW! That's about all I can say! Wow!

We just finished the first ever Davis Photography, Davis Tools Seminar!

It was titled "Summer Revival Seminar" and that it did! I can't tell you how fun it was to hang with some amazing people and grow and learn together as we discovered and shared knowledge on lighting, capture, editing/workflow, album design, (a favorite of the attendees,cause my wife rocks!) business sense, marketing and cause marketing and more! It was awesome!

I'm gonna post a little show it web show later that incorporates all the images from attendees and all! Also, I'll post links to their websites!

Thank you Mike Lotz for all your help! You rock! Also, thanks to Rob from Encore! And thank you all who supported our event by giving some great hook up pricing on some cool products! Bludomain, Show it Web, theknot, Me Ra Koh and our very own ActionRunner!

Also, a big thank you to our amazing models Devon and Rachel and Elliot! You guys were amazing!

Last but not least, thank you to all who attended! I'll be posting links and our group shot soon!

God bless you all,

Jim and Lara

2007-08-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to do our up coming seminar!

So far we have attendees from Ohio, Indiana, Michigan and . . .

Congratulations to Linda Turnbough for winning bragging rights for the farthest traveled so far for the Summer Revival Seminar on August 27th and 28th.

She's coming from Texas!

3 Seats are still open! If your serious about taking your images and business to the next level or even just getting started in the business of photography (especially weddings) then you will certainly have spent your money well.

2007-08-10T06:09:00.000-07:00

A little over two years ago Lara and I, along with our friends Greg and Jennifer Gibbs and Gary and Karina Sammons and with the help of Mike Colon, David Jay and many generous donors, started an organization called Thirst Relief International. Our mission "Together saving lives and changing the world." How, by providing LONG term pure water solutions to those around the world that are dying simply because they lack access to clean water. WATER is one of the most abundant natural resource available to man, yet over 1.1 BILLION lack access to it. Often it's running in abundance right outside their door in a contaminated river, or it's 30 feet below their feet in an underground spring. However, without the proper tools to access and or purify this water these people are sick and dying. Nearly 25 MILLION deaths ANNUALLY are attributed to water borne diseases. So, why do I write this today? To call others to action! Inspire and say that WE can all make a difference if we simply care and are willing to help make a difference in this world. Since it's inception Thirst Relief Internatinalover has proivded 20,000 people with access to clean water, this from just a simple idea that is helping to change the world.

Two years ago it was a handful of friends giving of time, money and energy to start a revolutionary water project, now it's a network of children, professionals, churches, businesses, individuals and our field laborers that continues to grow and make a difference around the world. How can you get involved?

CLICK HERE to watch an awesome video by Nickleback that will inspire you to find someway to get involved in making a difference in the world!

2007-08-04T07:16:00.001-07:00

Click HERE to see the promo video for my upcoming seminar! REGISTER HERE!

2007-07-19T22:24:00.000-07:00

So my buddy from Lotz Photography asked me if I wanted to go downtown and do a bridal shoot that he could video and make a promo piece from for us for the Summer Revival Seminar! Of course I said "Absolutely! Let's do it!" So he provide the true married couple and all of us (lara, me, mike, kim, ashley and cody) headed downtown!

We had such a great time!

Here are some of my favorites from our time together.

Enjoy!

I'll be demonstrating the editing techniques that I did to this image at the seminar!

2007-07-19T14:01:00.000-07:00

http://www.davistools.com/

I'm finally doing it! I've had so many people contacting me asking for training opportunities and if I would mind helping them get started in a photography business that I decided to do a seminar. This seminar will be for both working professionals that want to take their business and images to the next level as well as a bonus session that will focus on a quick start guide to starting a wedding photogaphy business.

It's gonna be great!

Click HERE to learn more.

2007-07-10T09:10:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple more shots from the studio portion of my shoot with Brit and Andrew. I am so loving doing more studio work now that the old carriage house studio is almost complete!

2007-07-07T17:22:00.000-07:00

I just had the privilege of shooting engagement pix for Brit and Andy! What a great couple! I am really excited to shoot their wedding! should be a great time!

Here's a shot to enjoy.

God bless you guys. I enjoyed getting to know you guys.

2007-07-03T18:50:00.000-07:00

Today I had the privilege of doing some studio work for Dan "Beard" Banks. He's a great voiceover guy and you can see his site HERE. Crazy thing is, is that his wife Georgia was my 4th grade teacher! Awesome couple!

I liked this one.

2007-06-23T06:24:00.000-07:00

My son Ashton came in the other day and said "Dad, look I drew a Thirst Relief International picture. It's you, taking a water filter to a little boy."

I love having a dream job like photography that allows me to be more philanthropic than just entrepreneurial.

I'm so excited to spend the next few days on vacation enjoying my family and God!

Enjoy the pic. (I added the logo of course.)

www.davisphotographer.com

so neat to see other people posting about our work on their blogs! This is a post from Humanitarian Photographer Matt Powell, read on:

Wedding Photographers Shooting Relief

The Auctions Have Closed!

Thanks for helping us raise $25,392.08.That saves 6,595 lives!

Thanks for helping us raise $25,392.08.

That saves 6,595 lives!