Last week we enjoyed a retreat with a group of fabulous photographers, members of the Connecticut PUG; even the name of the retreat is cool- "Annual PUG Rock N’ Roll Retreat." We ventured to a lakehouse in the Berkshires for a little goal setting, photography, and R&R. We made some great new friends and enjoyed the camaraderie of this super talented crew.

We didn’t just get cozy with our cameras though. It was also the ideal location to take a look at where we are and where we want to be, in life and in work. We jotted down 101 goals to be accomplished in the next 1001 days.

As it turns out, I wanted to be in the water. Goal #84 -go swimming in Amanda’s lake- was tackled that weekend. I made sure Dave captured a few shots. Dave borrowed the cowboy hat and created some in-camera texture and vignetting to achieve this image.

And then he got creative. When we were in Australia taking a day tour, our guide told us of a hair care advertisement in which the model flung her hair while standing in a beautiful lagoon. So I became a model and proceeded to joyfully fling my hair. It was actually pretty fun. Here’s one of Dave’s images. I am looking forward to seeing those of the other photographers who captured the moment.

I wasn’t the only model. Dave grabbed a few of some of our friends.

Justin and Cooper hanging out on the float.

Now we can’t wait to try swimming with Max.

And the shake-off.

Mary chilling with Cooper.

Dave was able to nab another model/photographer. Carrie looks great and was so at ease in front of the camera.

Again Dave created some in-camera texture and vignetting by shooting Travis through the hat.

Self-framing by Kiva.

Dave wasn’t alone taking pix.

Remember that R&R I was talking about.

A huge thank you to Amanda of Orchard Cove Photography for hosting us and to Mary and Justin Marantz of Justin Marantz Photography for organizing. It was just what the doctor ordered.