In keeping with an annual tradition of mine, I’m taking a look back at all my posts from last year.
The year in review 2018 has links to stories you may have missed.
When pulling the photos for this post, I didn’t realize that most of my work on this blog last year involved food.
That doesn’t mean that I’m turning this into a food blog. My efforts on this site last year just represents my growing interest in developing my food photography and styling skills.
I hope you’ve been inspired and also learned some new things about photographing food too.
Whether you come here for the eats & drinks, the handmade & handcrafted, the home & garden or the lifestyle & seasonal inspiration, please know I’ll continue to strive to deliver on all those fronts with an eye toward helping you create a home and life you love.
Happy new year.
Roasted Red Pepper & Goat Cheese Tarts
Orange Syrup-Drizzled Nectarine Tarts
Blueberry & White Chocolate Muffins
Saveur Magazine Blog Award Nominations
Chocolate Chip Cookies (Pan Banging Technique)
Molded Sweater-Shaped Gingerbread Cookies
Thanks for stopping by.
I’m looking forward to another year of providing inspiring and delicious posts for your enjoyment.
See you back here next time.♥
Laura janning says
So much beauty and inspiration Lisa. Thank you for sharing your craft and impeccable talent. Happy new year!
Lisa Tutman-Oglesby says
Thank you sweet, Laura.
I appreciate you popping over to let me know you’ve been enjoying my work.
Happy new year to you too.
Shirley @Housepitality Designs says
Lisa…2018 was a year of sheer beauty!..Beautiful recipes, thoughts, photography, inspiration…I could go on and on….May I just say that every time your posts land in my inbox, I cannot wait to open it and see what delights you have for us!!! Cheers to another beautiful year…thanks Lisa!
Lisa Tutman-Oglesby says
Shirley, that just puts the biggest smile on my face.
You are such a wonderful, encouraging supporter and I’m so glad we’re friends.
I’ll see you in your neck of the woods this year, I’m going to make sure of it.
Hope you have a wonderful new year.
Kathy says
Your photography is absolutely stunning. You could write about fire hydrants and I would open the blog post just for the photos. I haven’t seen anyone in blog land who has mastered the use of light in their photos as effectively as you have. I look forward to every post.
Lisa Tutman-Oglesby says
That’s high praise indeed, Kathy.
Thank you so much for your kind words.
I have a Photography section in the Lifestyle drop down category in the navigation bar.
There are quite a few posts on photography and styling tips that I’ve learned along the way, if you’re interested.
Thanks for popping by and for taking the time to leave me a wonderful comment.
Have a lovely (creative) weekend.
Rita says
Lisa, what a fantastic blog you have. I happened up on it just this year and I must say I have thoroughly enjoyed every post (I’ve gone back and read all of them). You are very inspiring and I look forward to seeing all of the coming post this coming year. Happy New Year!
Lisa Tutman-Oglesby says
Rita, you are so sweet to go back and read so many posts.
I appreciate that and I hope you’ve found a few projects and recipes that you’d like to try yourself.
Drop me a line anytime, if you get stuck on any instructions and I’ll get you through the project.
Thanks again and happy new year to you.
Deborah Berryman says
Happy New Year to you, Lisa! I love everything you write about & post!
Lisa Tutman-Oglesby says
Thank you so much for that, Deborah.
I’m going to try to get back to my regular blogging schedule this year too.
It’s always hard to post as often as I’d like with life and other stuff constantly jumping in the way (smile).
Happy day to you.
Marisa Franca says
Oh, Lisa!! I just sigh when I look at your photos. You’ve always been fantastic at capturing the mood but now, whew, you’re into the stratosphere. I can appreciate what it takes to get there. I’ve had a really difficult time with glare and getting 3 products into one photo. I’ve got so much to learn. Along with needing a new tripod, I believe I’ll have to get some lighting equipment. Anyway, I love what you are doing and the dark photos are wonderful but your bright tart is fantastic!! Sending you one super huge hug!!!!
Lisa Tutman-Oglesby says
Thanks so much, Marisa.
That really means a lot. Especially since I feel like I’m still feeling my way through and figuring things out.
A tripod will make a big difference but in terms of lighting, I only use natural light.
I use a diffuser in front of a well-lit window to soften the light and white foam core boards to bounce light onto a subject.
And don’t forget, I also use Lightroom to help me create those really dark moody shots and to color correct and sharpen my photos.
I think I’ll write a blog post on how I use Lightroom.
Happy weekend to you, sweet friend. Thanks for all your wonderful support and encouragement.
Nancy Olson says
Re: Molded Sweater-Shaped Gingerbread Cookies
I really like the sweater gingerbread cookies. How do you keep the detail? When I’ve made other cookies they tend to “blob”. Maybe because it’s gingerbread instead of a cookie with a high butter content?
Lisa Tutman-Oglesby says
Glad you like the sweater cookies, Nancy.
Believe me, I’ve made my share of messes using cookie molds.
The key is to use a recipe that is specifically for “molded cookies”. I don’t remember the difference in ingredients but you can search online for “molded cookie dough recipes” and several options will come up.
If you use regular dough, they just don’t turn out.
Good luck with your next batch.
Elaine Tutman says
Another creative an productive year- well done! Nana Banana
Lisa Tutman-Oglesby says
Thanks, Mom.
Shirley says
Lisa I love all of your recipies, DIY projects and your inspiration that you give to all of us. Here’s to another wonderful year. Thank you for all that you do.
Lisa Tutman-Oglesby says
Thanks, Shirley for all the support for my creative efforts last year.
I’m a lousy blog visitor but you’re not and I appreciate that you always find the time to leave me a sweet note of encouragement.
Hope you have a wonderful week.