New Camera - House Pics

Three of my readers, MaryLynne, Brandee and Joanne, are gifted photographers.  I am hoping that each of them will weigh in on this post, and help me to determine what the strengths of my new camera are, and what the difficulties may be.  I know, of course, that the person behind the lens needs to learn more than a few things, but just looking at this as a point-and-shoot, please share what you see and observe.

I bought a little Nikon Coolpix from Costco the day before Christmas.  I miss the old Nikon D-300 that went with Brett.  I particularly miss the depth of the pictures it took, and the fact that I could snap it hundreds of times and keep up with the action (this is particularly true of pics of Izzy).

I had been so disappointed with the pictures of the house that my Iphone took, that I decided to retake a number using my new Nikon Coolpix.

I had not taken any pictures of the dining room in my first post because I feel it is still a work in progress.  I am waiting for the right art piece, or mirror to take the place of the too-small picture by Waterhouse.  I am also struggling to find the right pieces for the buffet . . .

My new dining room is significantly smaller than my last.  I am still wondering if I am going to keep the formal table here, or if I am going to sell it and put my glass round kitchen table here instead.  I don't ever sit at this table by myself, but it is perfect when people come over (not often).  On the other hand, I feel the glass table is much less formal and I would definitely sit there every day - but, would have to seat guests on the sofas if I had more than six . . .

I really like the open feeling of the main floor, and that is the main reason I fell in love with this house in the first place.  The architects made good use of space, and I feel very comfortable and at home. I tried to go much less formal in this house than in the last house, hence the touches of whimsey in the lighting.

 This picture captures the scale and layout of the rooms as they relate to one another.

The living room opens into the main office; although the rooms aren't particularly large, the open cutouts make everything feel more spacious.

Below, is the main office, that I use for my design business.  I had the opportunity of taking off of Edward Jones last week to work exclusively with clients from Virginia, and it was a wonderful experience.  Each day, my "creativity bucket" was filled, and I was much happier as a result.  The 134 fabrics we chose for their home are spread over the desktop.

Upstairs, there is a large landing that accommodates several pieces of furniture from my former home:

Upstairs, is my writing library.  I haven't actually done any writing there lately, but it is certainly an inspiring place, and I am eager to get the opportunity. (The aforementioned round glass kitchen table is in this room, with it's large glass top hidden behind library shelves.)

The guest room overlooks the park (pictures below):

Kids' room (also overlooks the park):

The Master from the upper hallway:

The Master is by far the most spacious room in the house, and pure luxury.  I don't spend much time there, but when I do, I feel very blessed.

During one of my darker days, I felt the whisper of the Lord give me a two-word path to follow: "Pursue Beauty."  It seemed appropriate to put that phrase in a prominent spot to remind me on a daily basis:

My client and friend, Laura Buchthal, presented me with the house-warming gift of this beautiful chandelier.  What a luxury!

I really love my kitchen, and am particularly grateful to have gas again, after living with an electric range.

 The park across the street, and visible from the Guest and Kids' rooms:

My backyard has just been completed by the landscapers.  I hope all the tender plants survive the snow and ice!  I can't wait to see everything blooming in the Spring!!