This picture represents a lot. I was brought up around different cultures and lifestyles. So doing this shoot was exciting to capture a different element within senior portraits. The model's name is: Dimple Patel. She was very nervous on how people would judge her as she walked around in her traditional clothing. But, I made sure to assure her that no one is judging. The key to photography is that you are bringing beauty to the photo whether it's inside or outside the subject.
#MyOklahoma is still going strong in its second year, with more than 56,000 submissions on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
The hashtag started as a way to showcase why we all live in and love Oklahoma. It was also a way for the community to come together in the aftermath of the May 2013 deadly storms.
Since then, #MyOklahoma has allowed people to celebrate our state and all its beauty. We’ve even been able to form friendships with many of the talented photographers through Instameets and #SundayStories.
For the latter, we wanted to know more about the thought process of a photo and how it was edited. People say a picture is worth a thousand words, but we wanted to know more about what’s behind it.
In late 2014, we started posting #SundayStories on our account, and the response has been incredible. Not only are people seeing more photos, they’re learning about the photographer’s story, artwork and journey.
We also select a #MyOklahoma photo to run in The Oklahoman every day and will continue to share your photos on our @News_OK Instagram account.
It’s inspiring to see so many perspectives and photos from across the state. Thank you all for your contributions. It’s your hashtag. It’s your community.
<figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-73fe6f5f8409fec7216e0ca0c4004e66.jpg" alt="Photo - @ggrozny
Enjoying the great outdoors with my son, Caden, in our backyard. Naturally, every 2 year old loves to spin around. I wanted to capture the moment, so I hooked my camera to my chest with a belt and we spun until we couldn't spin anymore. " title=" @ggrozny
Enjoying the great outdoors with my son, Caden, in our backyard. Naturally, every 2 year old loves to spin around. I wanted to capture the moment, so I hooked my camera to my chest with a belt and we spun until we couldn't spin anymore. "><figcaption> @ggrozny
Enjoying the great outdoors with my son, Caden, in our backyard. Naturally, every 2 year old loves to spin around. I wanted to capture the moment, so I hooked my camera to my chest with a belt and we spun until we couldn't spin anymore. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-ca57845063b618b954cfeb2d632adcdf.jpg" alt="Photo - @jk_fink
The photo is of my friend Rachelle Foster. This was during the World Wide Instameet (#WWIM11) at the Myriad Gardens in OKC. We teamed up the SocalityOklahoma and raised money for Charity Water.
" title=" @jk_fink
The photo is of my friend Rachelle Foster. This was during the World Wide Instameet (#WWIM11) at the Myriad Gardens in OKC. We teamed up the SocalityOklahoma and raised money for Charity Water.
"><figcaption> @jk_fink
The photo is of my friend Rachelle Foster. This was during the World Wide Instameet (#WWIM11) at the Myriad Gardens in OKC. We teamed up the SocalityOklahoma and raised money for Charity Water.
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-33c6cbd2788442ab07edc09ba4a434b7.jpg" alt="Photo - @ruffelements
When I took this photo, I began to reflect on all the places I lived due to both my parents serving in the Navy. I really liked the mirror effect.
" title=" @ruffelements
When I took this photo, I began to reflect on all the places I lived due to both my parents serving in the Navy. I really liked the mirror effect.
"><figcaption> @ruffelements
When I took this photo, I began to reflect on all the places I lived due to both my parents serving in the Navy. I really liked the mirror effect.
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-fd84166da6bb645d82987c4ee94fda80.jpg" alt="Photo - @k.trattner
Every year, my mom has an incredible garden. It's usually overgrown and wild by the end of the summer, full of butterflies. " title=" @k.trattner
Every year, my mom has an incredible garden. It's usually overgrown and wild by the end of the summer, full of butterflies. "><figcaption> @k.trattner
Every year, my mom has an incredible garden. It's usually overgrown and wild by the end of the summer, full of butterflies. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-a6b74206cc89d3d3370549ba02ddd821.jpg" alt="Photo - @dustreed
The Blue Whale is a roadside attraction located in Catoosa, and it's one of the most recognizable icons on historic Route 66. It was originally built in 1972 by Hugh S. Davis, a zoologist and family man. He had originally built the blue whale as an anniversary gift for his wife. He envisioned the whale as a special place where his grandchildren could play and swim in the nearby pond. " title=" @dustreed
The Blue Whale is a roadside attraction located in Catoosa, and it's one of the most recognizable icons on historic Route 66. It was originally built in 1972 by Hugh S. Davis, a zoologist and family man. He had originally built the blue whale as an anniversary gift for his wife. He envisioned the whale as a special place where his grandchildren could play and swim in the nearby pond. "><figcaption> @dustreed
The Blue Whale is a roadside attraction located in Catoosa, and it's one of the most recognizable icons on historic Route 66. It was originally built in 1972 by Hugh S. Davis, a zoologist and family man. He had originally built the blue whale as an anniversary gift for his wife. He envisioned the whale as a special place where his grandchildren could play and swim in the nearby pond. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-75fac04dd288be7fbf532bbf774d3492.jpg" alt="Photo - @sherylsalisbury
I took this picture of my children, Kelsey and Kaden, at Hoboken Coffee in Guthrie. It's rare when both my kids are off work on the same day. When it happened, we went on a drive to some of our favorite stops surrounding OKC. First stop, was Hoboken Coffee. We love Hoboken mainly for the coffee but it pleases our Bohemian/Hippie creative style. After this picture, we proceeded to Pops in Arcadia, Blue Seven in OKC and The Mule in OKC. " title=" @sherylsalisbury
I took this picture of my children, Kelsey and Kaden, at Hoboken Coffee in Guthrie. It's rare when both my kids are off work on the same day. When it happened, we went on a drive to some of our favorite stops surrounding OKC. First stop, was Hoboken Coffee. We love Hoboken mainly for the coffee but it pleases our Bohemian/Hippie creative style. After this picture, we proceeded to Pops in Arcadia, Blue Seven in OKC and The Mule in OKC. "><figcaption> @sherylsalisbury
I took this picture of my children, Kelsey and Kaden, at Hoboken Coffee in Guthrie. It's rare when both my kids are off work on the same day. When it happened, we went on a drive to some of our favorite stops surrounding OKC. First stop, was Hoboken Coffee. We love Hoboken mainly for the coffee but it pleases our Bohemian/Hippie creative style. After this picture, we proceeded to Pops in Arcadia, Blue Seven in OKC and The Mule in OKC. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-d55f40fe71030146e550aa6863886bdf.jpg" alt="Photo - @koonvega
Just another summer day in Mesta Park. " title=" @koonvega
Just another summer day in Mesta Park. "><figcaption> @koonvega
Just another summer day in Mesta Park. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-b0152d6d9570982a6fb833e4dbb78696.jpg" alt="Photo - @beatallover
This shot was taken right out in front of Craig's Emporium in the Paseo. The girl is Katie Shreve, my sister (@katienotholmes). Craig's is definitely a gem — full of wonderful oddities and a killer vibe that embodies the district. " title=" @beatallover
This shot was taken right out in front of Craig's Emporium in the Paseo. The girl is Katie Shreve, my sister (@katienotholmes). Craig's is definitely a gem — full of wonderful oddities and a killer vibe that embodies the district. "><figcaption> @beatallover
This shot was taken right out in front of Craig's Emporium in the Paseo. The girl is Katie Shreve, my sister (@katienotholmes). Craig's is definitely a gem — full of wonderful oddities and a killer vibe that embodies the district. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-3629e5fd29d00a2b5f67f94e29be1bc9.jpg" alt="Photo - @twharms
This was during the Neighborhood Film Instameet. I made it to the Memorial before the rest of the crowd, and I couldn't resist this color from the setting sun. It wasn't yet that vivid gold, but I thought it was perfect. I love reflections and this just stopped me in my tracks. I'm always amazed at this place. Such beauty in a place of such tragedy. I remember watching the rescue workers climbing through the rubble looking for any signs of life. Those emotions run through my mind every time and tears always flow. But then beauty like this happens, and I remember what an incredible people we live with here in this state. " title=" @twharms
This was during the Neighborhood Film Instameet. I made it to the Memorial before the rest of the crowd, and I couldn't resist this color from the setting sun. It wasn't yet that vivid gold, but I thought it was perfect. I love reflections and this just stopped me in my tracks. I'm always amazed at this place. Such beauty in a place of such tragedy. I remember watching the rescue workers climbing through the rubble looking for any signs of life. Those emotions run through my mind every time and tears always flow. But then beauty like this happens, and I remember what an incredible people we live with here in this state. "><figcaption> @twharms
This was during the Neighborhood Film Instameet. I made it to the Memorial before the rest of the crowd, and I couldn't resist this color from the setting sun. It wasn't yet that vivid gold, but I thought it was perfect. I love reflections and this just stopped me in my tracks. I'm always amazed at this place. Such beauty in a place of such tragedy. I remember watching the rescue workers climbing through the rubble looking for any signs of life. Those emotions run through my mind every time and tears always flow. But then beauty like this happens, and I remember what an incredible people we live with here in this state. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-12de6018691e899fd2465d08f3c03d83.jpg" alt="Photo - @daviddfilms
My whole life I've always been pretty sheltered and steered clear of any danger and or exciting occurrences that may happen. Once I picked up photography, I really wanted to step out of my comfort zone like most photographers probably do. My brother and I decided to head to the Wichita Wildlife Reserve to see the beautiful landscapes. I mentioned to him that there are bison around and I would love to snap a couple shot of them. " title=" @daviddfilms
My whole life I've always been pretty sheltered and steered clear of any danger and or exciting occurrences that may happen. Once I picked up photography, I really wanted to step out of my comfort zone like most photographers probably do. My brother and I decided to head to the Wichita Wildlife Reserve to see the beautiful landscapes. I mentioned to him that there are bison around and I would love to snap a couple shot of them. "><figcaption> @daviddfilms
My whole life I've always been pretty sheltered and steered clear of any danger and or exciting occurrences that may happen. Once I picked up photography, I really wanted to step out of my comfort zone like most photographers probably do. My brother and I decided to head to the Wichita Wildlife Reserve to see the beautiful landscapes. I mentioned to him that there are bison around and I would love to snap a couple shot of them. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-6b8928e9fa80c4d7b7ba3b8194165979.jpg" alt="Photo - @tceezy
This is a picture of my friend, Cayla Lewis. She's the executive director of the Plaza District and has such a bright, refreshing personality. I wanted to convey that in her portrait.
I love making these shirts and taking these portraits because they make everyone smile and feel a sort of childlike whimsy about the world. It's amazing that we're alive and aware, and these portraits are a celebration of that. " title=" @tceezy
This is a picture of my friend, Cayla Lewis. She's the executive director of the Plaza District and has such a bright, refreshing personality. I wanted to convey that in her portrait.
I love making these shirts and taking these portraits because they make everyone smile and feel a sort of childlike whimsy about the world. It's amazing that we're alive and aware, and these portraits are a celebration of that. "><figcaption> @tceezy
This is a picture of my friend, Cayla Lewis. She's the executive director of the Plaza District and has such a bright, refreshing personality. I wanted to convey that in her portrait.
I love making these shirts and taking these portraits because they make everyone smile and feel a sort of childlike whimsy about the world. It's amazing that we're alive and aware, and these portraits are a celebration of that. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-acff41ef11d7ec02b9f67b8e0ad4c5b3.jpg" alt="Photo - @ty_the_videoguy
I snapped this picture one night while driving home from work. My girlfriend had mentioned we should drive down route 66 for a honeymoon. That's what brought the highway to my mind. Plus, this is just a cool looking sign at night. " title=" @ty_the_videoguy
I snapped this picture one night while driving home from work. My girlfriend had mentioned we should drive down route 66 for a honeymoon. That's what brought the highway to my mind. Plus, this is just a cool looking sign at night. "><figcaption> @ty_the_videoguy
I snapped this picture one night while driving home from work. My girlfriend had mentioned we should drive down route 66 for a honeymoon. That's what brought the highway to my mind. Plus, this is just a cool looking sign at night. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-5d54b45c5312623b7122668cf0e367a5.jpg" alt="Photo - @yogiab • https://instagram.com/p/5S5Kx9BFDy/
I took the photo at Livesay Orchards during a family outing near Porter, which is about 35 miles southeast of Tulsa. " title=" @yogiab • https://instagram.com/p/5S5Kx9BFDy/
I took the photo at Livesay Orchards during a family outing near Porter, which is about 35 miles southeast of Tulsa. "><figcaption> @yogiab • https://instagram.com/p/5S5Kx9BFDy/
I took the photo at Livesay Orchards during a family outing near Porter, which is about 35 miles southeast of Tulsa. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-441a4c1301939a888771ebc5d8bbadf7.jpg" alt="Photo - @ashlijh
The little blonde by the pitcher's mound is my ten year old cousin, Hannah Hitch (lovingly known as "Junior"). This was taken at her last softball game of the season on June 10, at Babcock Field in Stillwater. " title=" @ashlijh
The little blonde by the pitcher's mound is my ten year old cousin, Hannah Hitch (lovingly known as "Junior"). This was taken at her last softball game of the season on June 10, at Babcock Field in Stillwater. "><figcaption> @ashlijh
The little blonde by the pitcher's mound is my ten year old cousin, Hannah Hitch (lovingly known as "Junior"). This was taken at her last softball game of the season on June 10, at Babcock Field in Stillwater. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-853bf9ddf9ae263683d59bec314816a2.jpg" alt="Photo - @thechaletwoodshop
It is a picture of a stack of our Oklahoma Cutting boards. It was shot in the morning as we were working on our inventory. The boards are pictured halfway through the making process. They are made of Maple and Cherry or Walnut. " title=" @thechaletwoodshop
It is a picture of a stack of our Oklahoma Cutting boards. It was shot in the morning as we were working on our inventory. The boards are pictured halfway through the making process. They are made of Maple and Cherry or Walnut. "><figcaption> @thechaletwoodshop
It is a picture of a stack of our Oklahoma Cutting boards. It was shot in the morning as we were working on our inventory. The boards are pictured halfway through the making process. They are made of Maple and Cherry or Walnut. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-c048b8741bd5009d8ee3121ed296cb27.jpg" alt="Photo - @okconi
My name is Connie Chappell McBride. Photography is my hobby. This was taken while riding by the Devon Tower, I have so many pictures of this building. " title=" @okconi
My name is Connie Chappell McBride. Photography is my hobby. This was taken while riding by the Devon Tower, I have so many pictures of this building. "><figcaption> @okconi
My name is Connie Chappell McBride. Photography is my hobby. This was taken while riding by the Devon Tower, I have so many pictures of this building. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-9aace60966a512bf5da84d3fbd023fc6.jpg" alt="Photo - @qwvyne_
This is my dog Lucille. She is a miniature dachshund and she loves the lake so much. She can't stay out of it. " title=" @qwvyne_
This is my dog Lucille. She is a miniature dachshund and she loves the lake so much. She can't stay out of it. "><figcaption> @qwvyne_
This is my dog Lucille. She is a miniature dachshund and she loves the lake so much. She can't stay out of it. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-eef96c5773109953707b5e570dd6dcb1.jpg" alt="Photo - @rhysfunk
This brick sign was recently uncovered during renovations along a series of storefronts on old Route 66, commonly known as 11th Street in Tulsa. The entire area is going through a bit of a rebirth with development. Hopefully, the new shop owners will be keeping the signage, even though it's now an interior wall. " title=" @rhysfunk
This brick sign was recently uncovered during renovations along a series of storefronts on old Route 66, commonly known as 11th Street in Tulsa. The entire area is going through a bit of a rebirth with development. Hopefully, the new shop owners will be keeping the signage, even though it's now an interior wall. "><figcaption> @rhysfunk
This brick sign was recently uncovered during renovations along a series of storefronts on old Route 66, commonly known as 11th Street in Tulsa. The entire area is going through a bit of a rebirth with development. Hopefully, the new shop owners will be keeping the signage, even though it's now an interior wall. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-5733db7a56267a432449d089ea15841c.jpg" alt="Photo - @beatallover
This shot was taken at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History in Norman. This is Bom Bom, a male silverback gorilla who died at the Oklahoma City Zoo in 2012. His body was donated to the museum and stands now as a testament to the importance of conservation. " title=" @beatallover
This shot was taken at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History in Norman. This is Bom Bom, a male silverback gorilla who died at the Oklahoma City Zoo in 2012. His body was donated to the museum and stands now as a testament to the importance of conservation. "><figcaption> @beatallover
This shot was taken at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History in Norman. This is Bom Bom, a male silverback gorilla who died at the Oklahoma City Zoo in 2012. His body was donated to the museum and stands now as a testament to the importance of conservation. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-870acff78b75fd2a5d767b3f04d76ea2.jpg" alt="Photo - @winnterfresh
This photo was taken at the Wichita Mountains about 3 miles west of Mt. Scott.
" title=" @winnterfresh
This photo was taken at the Wichita Mountains about 3 miles west of Mt. Scott.
"><figcaption> @winnterfresh
This photo was taken at the Wichita Mountains about 3 miles west of Mt. Scott.
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-020ed81a9ef6cb90f59779fbad380173.jpg" alt="Photo - @oneeyefocused
This picture represents a lot. I was brought up around different cultures and lifestyles. So doing this shoot was exciting to capture a different element within senior portraits. The model's name is: Dimple Patel. She was very nervous on how people would judge her as she walked around in her traditional clothing. But, I made sure to assure her that no one is judging. The key to photography is that you are bringing beauty to the photo whether it's inside or outside the subject. " title=" @oneeyefocused
This picture represents a lot. I was brought up around different cultures and lifestyles. So doing this shoot was exciting to capture a different element within senior portraits. The model's name is: Dimple Patel. She was very nervous on how people would judge her as she walked around in her traditional clothing. But, I made sure to assure her that no one is judging. The key to photography is that you are bringing beauty to the photo whether it's inside or outside the subject. "><figcaption> @oneeyefocused
This picture represents a lot. I was brought up around different cultures and lifestyles. So doing this shoot was exciting to capture a different element within senior portraits. The model's name is: Dimple Patel. She was very nervous on how people would judge her as she walked around in her traditional clothing. But, I made sure to assure her that no one is judging. The key to photography is that you are bringing beauty to the photo whether it's inside or outside the subject. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-7b033b0b4ea0216df1b2c8d4a6bfc954.jpg" alt="Photo - " title=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-9011827e29bd25644d5c1484c3d66366.jpg" alt="Photo - " title=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-88ccfe47c228570425129a4e70fdbcaf.jpg" alt="Photo - Instameet at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum Saturday, July 25, 2015. [Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman]
" title=" Instameet at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum Saturday, July 25, 2015. [Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman]
"><figcaption> Instameet at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum Saturday, July 25, 2015. [Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman]
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-1cefb0fc67159185f9d1a7bf1e4e5b91.jpg" alt="Photo - Corey Kehn waves the Gay Pride flag with his partner Benjamin Ault during the marriage equality victory rally at Freedom Oklahoma parking lot, Friday, June 26, 2015. Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman " title=" Corey Kehn waves the Gay Pride flag with his partner Benjamin Ault during the marriage equality victory rally at Freedom Oklahoma parking lot, Friday, June 26, 2015. Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman "><figcaption> Corey Kehn waves the Gay Pride flag with his partner Benjamin Ault during the marriage equality victory rally at Freedom Oklahoma parking lot, Friday, June 26, 2015. Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-6d475b7d651ae551ec42445e93af13e1.jpg" alt="Photo - Amanda Lane watches her daughter play during the Fairy Ball in the Paseo Saturday, September 24, 2011. Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman. " title=" Amanda Lane watches her daughter play during the Fairy Ball in the Paseo Saturday, September 24, 2011. Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman. "><figcaption> Amanda Lane watches her daughter play during the Fairy Ball in the Paseo Saturday, September 24, 2011. Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman. </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-97242479ed8b1d5f4885a3a5040fae72.jpg" alt="Photo - Instameet at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum Saturday, July 25, 2015. Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman " title=" Instameet at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum Saturday, July 25, 2015. Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman "><figcaption> Instameet at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum Saturday, July 25, 2015. Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-4951fab6d442301b99739e7d58b5d377.jpg" alt="Photo - @priscillatris
Just me and my shadow on a morning's bike ride. " title=" @priscillatris
Just me and my shadow on a morning's bike ride. "><figcaption> @priscillatris
Just me and my shadow on a morning's bike ride. </figcaption></figure>
Nathan Poppe
Entertainment Writer and LOOKatOKC Editor Nathan Poppe is a documenter of all things entertaining.
The Middle of Nowhere is his blog and a depository of everything that makes the Midwest unique. The coasts have a massive amount of influence on...
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Tiffany Gibson
Tiffany Gibson has worked for The Oklahoman since August 2011 and is a member of the enterprise team and digital desk. In addition to writing and web editing, she creates interactive features for NewsOK.com and assists with data visualization and...
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