Elisabeth Ashliegh Photography
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The Hands That Hold Us: Celebrating Motherhood Through Photography

5/6/2026

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There is something about a mother’s love that is hard to put into words.
It is in the way she reaches without thinking.
The way she comforts, even when she is tired.
The way she shows up, over and over again, in a thousand quiet ways.
Motherhood is not always loud or seen.
Most of the time, it lives in the in-between moments.
And those are the moments worth remembering.​
The Love That Lives in the Little Things
It is easy to think the big moments are what matter most.
Birthdays. Holidays. Milestones.
But when I look through my lens, it is rarely those moments that feel the most powerful.
It is the way your child leans into you.
The way your hand instinctively reaches for theirs.
The way you look at them when they are not even paying attention.
Those small moments hold so much love.
They tell the real story.
​Every Version of Motherhood Matters
Motherhood does not look just one way.
It is brand new and learning as you go.
It is experienced and steady.
It is messy and beautiful all at the same time.
It is the mother who is holding her baby for the first time.
It is the one chasing toddlers and trying to keep up.
It is the one watching her children grow into who they are becoming.
It is also the grandmothers, the bonus moms, the women who step in with love and care.
Every version of motherhood deserves to be seen.
Why You Should Be in the Photos Too
I hear it all the time.
“I just want photos of my kids.”
“I am not ready yet.”
“I will wait until…”
But one day, those photos will be looked at differently.
Your children will not be focused on how you looked.
They will see how you loved them.
They will look for you in those memories.
They will want to remember your presence, not your perfection.
You deserve to be in the frame.
Not just for you, but for them.
Holding Onto What Matters
Time moves quickly in motherhood.
The stages change.
The routines shift.
The little things you once knew by heart slowly become memories.
And that is why these moments matter so much.
Because one day, you will look back and realize how much love was living in this season.
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For the Mothers, Right Now
Whether you are in the thick of it, soaking it in, or wishing you could slow it down just a little
this season matters.
The love you are giving every day
even in the moments that feel ordinary
is something worth holding onto.
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    ​Let’s capture the love you pour into your family every day 🤍

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The Beauty of Becoming: Spring Sessions & New Beginnings

4/13/2026

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There is something about spring that feels different. 🌸

The air softens. The light lingers a little longer. The world slowly begins to wake up again and with it, so do we.
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Spring is not just a season. It is a feeling. A quiet reminder that life is always moving, always growing, always becoming something new.

And that is exactly why it is one of the most meaningful times to capture your story.

🌿A Season of New Beginnings

So many of life’s biggest chapters begin in the spring.

A growing baby bump.
A ring placed gently on your finger.
A family that somehow looks a little different than it did last year.

These moments may feel small as you are living them, but they are everything. As a photographer, I see it all the time.

The way a mother rests her hand without even thinking.
The way two people look at each other when everything is about to change.
The way children grow right before our eyes.

Spring holds space for all of it.

☀️The Beauty You Don’t Realize Is Happening
One of the most beautiful things about this season is that it does not rush. It unfolds.

The same is true for your life.

You do not always notice the becoming while you are in it. You do not always see the beauty in the middle of the growth or the change. But one day you look back, and you realize that this season, this version of you…this moment in time was worth holding onto.

That is what photography does.
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It lets you see the beauty you did not even know was there.
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🌸Why Spring Sessions Feel So Special

There is a softness to spring sessions that is hard to explain, but you feel it the moment you step into it.

Soft light filtering through new leaves.
Neutral tones that let connection take center stage.
A sense of calm, of slowing down, of simply being present.

It is not about perfect poses. It is about movement, laughter, and those quiet in-between moments. It is about capturing your life as it is…beautiful, evolving, and real.

🤍Your Story, Right Now
You do not have to wait for everything to be perfect. You do not have to wait for the right time. Because the truth is, this is the moment.

The season you are in right now… whether it feels full of excitement, change, growth, or even uncertainty
it matters.
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It deserves to be remembered.
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🌷Let’s Capture Your Becoming
Spring is fleeting.
The blooms will fade.
The days will shift.
This version of your life will quietly turn into the next.
But your memories do not have to.​

    ​Let’s document this season of your life before it becomes a memory 🤍

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Chasing Your Dreams: Senior Year & The Journey Ahead

3/17/2026

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Senior year. It’s that moment in life when everything feels like it’s moving at lightning speed, but also like time is standing still. It’s the year of lasts…your last first day of school, your last game, your last performance, your last late-night fast food run with friends before curfew. But more than that, it’s the year of firsts…the first big decisions about your future, the first time stepping into independence, the first chapter of the rest of your life.

And let me tell you, this is just the beginning.
Dream Big. Dream Bold. Dream Fearlessly.
Some people know exactly what they want to do after graduation. Others are still figuring it out. Guess what? Both are okay. The beauty of this moment in your life is that you get to dream as big as you want.

Maybe you see yourself starting your own business, designing the next big fashion trend, traveling the world, helping people, or creating something that leaves a mark. Maybe you don’t have a clue where life is leading you, but you know you want it to be something incredible.

Here’s the secret: there’s no right way to chase your dreams. You just have to start.
Capturing This Moment in Time
Your senior photos aren’t just pictures. They’re a reflection of you in this exact moment, at the edge of everything new and exciting. They should tell your story.

📸 Are you an athlete? Let’s get shots of you in action, doing what you love.
📸 A creative soul? Bring your art, your music, your passion, whatever lights you up inside.
📸 A dreamer? Let’s capture you looking ahead, stepping forward, ready to take on the world.
📸 Just being you? That’s the best part. Your energy, your personality, your joy - it all deserves to be celebrated.

Because here’s the thing: You are a masterpiece in progress.
What Happens Next?
The truth? Life doesn’t always go as planned. You might change your major (twice), take a gap year, switch careers, or discover a passion you never even considered. That’s not failure. That’s growth. That’s you figuring it out.

So whether you’re stepping confidently into your next adventure or still deciding what road to take, remember this:

Your dreams are valid.
Your passion matters.
Your future is bright…even if you can’t see exactly where it’s going yet.
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Let’s Celebrate YOU

Your senior photos should feel like you. Not stiff, not forced…just a celebration of everything you’ve accomplished and everything you’re about to become.

I’m excited to help you create something that reminds you, years from now, who you were in this moment…the dreamer, the doer, the believer in endless possibilities.

    ​The journey is just beginning. Let’s capture it.

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Why January Is the Perfect Time to Plan Your Photoshoots

1/6/2026

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The new year feels like a clean slate… a chance to set intentions, make plans, and dream about what’s ahead. And if family photos are on your list for 2026, January is the perfect time to start planning.

​Booking early means you get first pick of dates, plenty of time to coordinate schedules, and the chance to choose the season that truly fits your family’s personality. Each one has its own unique beaut. Here’s how to decide which is best for you…

​🌸 Spring – Fresh, Soft, and Full of Life
  1. Settings: Flower-filled parks, blooming orchards, botanical gardens, or green fields dotted with wildflowers.
  2. Colors: Soft pastels like blush pink, lavender, baby blue, and buttery yellow pair beautifully with the season’s natural palette.
  3. Outfits: Flowy dresses, light cardigans, button-ups in soft hues, and comfortable shoes for walking on grassy paths.
  4. Vibe: Perfect for families who love that fresh, hopeful feeling and want bright, airy images.
☀️ Summer – Bold, Bright, and Full of Energy
  1. Settings: Beaches, open fields at sunset, forest trails, lakesides, or even a backyard picnic.
  2. Colors: Rich and vibrant tones like cobalt blue, coral, sunny yellow, or classic white with denim.
  3. Outfits: Sundresses, linen shirts, rolled-up jeans, sandals, and bare feet for a relaxed feel.
  4. Vibe: Perfect for playful, adventurous families who love warmth, greenery, and those dreamy golden-hour sunsets.
🍁 Fall – Warm, Cozy, and Timeless
  1. Settings: Tree-lined parks, pumpkin patches, rustic barns, or anywhere with vibrant foliage.
  2. Colors: Earth tones like burnt orange, mustard, burgundy, forest green, and cream.
  3. Outfits: Chunky sweaters, flannel shirts, boots, scarves, and layers that add texture without feeling bulky.
  4. Vibe: Perfect for families who want that rich, cozy look and a built-in seasonal feel for holiday cards.
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❄️ Winter – Crisp, Cozy, and Magical
  1. Settings: Snow-covered fields, twinkle-lit downtown streets, evergreen forests, or inside your home for an intimate, lifestyle session.
  2. Colors: Deep jewel tones like emerald, navy, and wine red pop beautifully against white snow or muted winter skies.
  3. Outfits: Wool coats, scarves, knit hats, warm boots, and cozy layers for snuggling.
  4. Vibe: Perfect for families who love the idea of a peaceful, magical atmosphere or want to make the most of the holidays with a session that feels festive and intimate.
Why Plan Now?
When you choose your season in January, you have time to dream up the perfect location, plan outfits that complement your backdrop, and make sure your date is secured before the calendar fills up. It turns your session from a rushed “we need photos” moment into an experience you can look forward to and enjoy.

So while it might be chilly outside now, it’s the perfect time to picture yourself surrounded by blooms, laughing barefoot in a summer field, crunching through fall leaves, or sipping cocoa in the snow. Let’s pick your season and make it happen.

    📸 Ready to start planning? Let’s choose the perfect season for your family and get your 2026 session booked!

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Slowing Down to Savor the Magic of Christmas

12/15/2025

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The older I get, the more I realize Cindy Lou Who had it right… Christmas magic isn’t something you find at the mall or in a perfectly wrapped package. It’s in the tiny moments that would be so easy to rush past if we’re not careful.

​It’s in the quiet of a snowy morning, when the world feels still and you can hear the hum of the tree lights. It’s in the smell of cinnamon and cookies drifting through the kitchen. It’s in the way kids run into the room, cheeks flushed, eyes wide, convinced that magic just happened overnight.
But if you’re anything like me, December can feel like a whirlwind with shopping lists, school events, family get-togethers, trying to make everything “just right.”

It’s so easy to blink and suddenly the season’s over.

This year, I’m making a promise to myself to slow down. To drink my coffee by the tree before the day begins. To sit on the floor and help build the gingerbread house instead of just watching from the counter. To let the wrapping paper stay scattered for a while after gifts are opened, because there’s no rush to tidy away joy.

Christmas has a way of reminding us what’s important… family, love, connection, and the kind of moments you can’t put a bow on. 
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So my wish for all of us is that we let go of perfect and lean into present. That we notice the twinkle lights, the shared laughter, the messy, beautiful chaos of being together.

Because at the end of the day, that’s the kind of magic that lingers long after the tree comes down.

​Merry Christmas, friends. May it be warm, slow, and full of the kind of moments you’ll hold close forever.

    If this season has you craving more presence and fewer rushed moments, I’d love to help you preserve the magic you’re living right now. Reach out below and let’s create something meaningful together.

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Grateful Beyond Words: A Thank You to Every Family I’ve Had the Honor to Photograph

11/20/2025

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November always makes me want to slow down a little, wrap my hands around a warm cup of coffee, and really think about all the good that’s happened over the past year. And every single time, my mind goes straight to all of you… the families, couples, and individuals who have trusted me to capture your moments.

​From the very first click of my camera years ago to the most recent session I’ve wrapped up, I’ve been blessed to work with some truly incredible people. You’ve invited me into your lives during milestones big and small… engagements, new babies, family reunions, graduations, “just because” moments, and everything in between.
It’s not lost on me how meaningful that is. You’ve let me see your love, your laughter, your chaos (because let’s be honest, family sessions sometimes come with a little chaos!), and the kind of in-between moments that make your story yours. And in turn, you’ve given me the gift of doing what I love…preserving these memories so you can hold onto them for decades to come.

​I’m thankful for the toddlers who make me chase them through fields, the couples who laugh through every pose, the parents who trust me to get just one perfect family shot, and the seniors who bring their own spark and style. I’m thankful for the weather that doesn’t always cooperate but gives us the most unexpected, beautiful light. I’m even thankful for the occasional muddy shoes or windblown hair because those are the photos that tell the real story.
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This job isn’t just about taking pictures for me. It’s about connection. It’s about knowing that years from now, you’ll flip through your gallery and remember exactly how that moment felt. And that is the greatest honor I could ever ask for.

So from the bottom of my heart… thank you. Thank you for showing up, for trusting me, for laughing with me, and for letting me be part of your family’s story. I’m endlessly grateful for each of you, and I can’t wait to see what moments we get to capture together next.

Here’s to another year of love, laughter, and memories we’ll treasure forever. 

    I’d be honored to help you tell your story — reach out and let’s create something beautiful together.

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Fall Family Sessions: Why This Season Is Perfect for Photos

10/10/2025

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I’ll just say it…fall might be my favorite time of year for family photos. 

The air has that crisp, cozy feel, the leaves are showing off with all their golds, reds, and oranges, and the light… oh, the light! October has this warm, golden glow that makes every single shot look like it belongs in a storybook.
The colors? Nature really goes all out this time of year. You don’t have to travel far… local parks, tree-lined streets, even your own backyard become stunning backdrops. Those rich tones make photos feel so warm and timeless.

The outfits? Fall is the season for sweaters, scarves, boots, and layers you actually want to wear. Plus, all that cozy clothing makes snuggling up in front of the camera feel natural (and keeps the little ones warm when we’re chasing those giggles).

The light? Golden hour in October is chef’s kiss. The sun sits lower, giving us that dreamy, soft glow that flatters everyone and makes colors pop without harsh shadows.

The timing? It’s perfect for holiday cards. Your photos will be ready with plenty of time to spare, no frantic last-minute printing needed.
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​And honestly? Fall just feels like family. It’s apple cider, pumpkin patches, crunchy leaves, and that extra closeness that comes with the season. When we do your session in October, we’re bottling up all those warm, fuzzy feelings to look back on for years.
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    ​Let’s make some magic this fall. Bring your cozy layers, bring your smiles, and let’s capture the season you’ll want to remember forever.

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Capturing Candid Moments: Tips for Natural Family Photography

9/11/2025

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When it comes to family photography, some of the most treasured images aren’t the ones where everyone is perfectly posed and smiling at the camera… they’re the ones where the real moments shine through. The giggles, the bear hugs, the way a child’s hand fits perfectly in yours… those are the memories that tell your family’s story.
As a photographer, my goal is to create a space where those authentic interactions naturally unfold. Here are some of my favorite tips for capturing candid, heartfelt moments during family sessions.
​1. Focus on Connection, Not Perfection
Forget about “say cheese.” Instead, lean into the little moments… holding hands, whispering a secret, or making your kids laugh with a silly face. When the focus is on enjoying each other’s company, genuine expressions follow.

2. Move Around
Movement creates life in photos. Walk together, twirl your child in the air, or have a tickle fight. These little actions often spark laughter and unplanned moments that are full of personality.

3. Choose a Comfortable Setting
Whether it’s your favorite park, a field at sunset, or your own backyard, being somewhere familiar and relaxed helps everyone feel at ease, and it shows in your photos.
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4. Let the Kids Be Kids
Some of the sweetest images happen when children are free to explore, run, or play. When we let them be themselves, we capture the magic of who they truly are in this stage of life.
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5. Be Present
The best candid moments happen when you’re not overthinking the camera. Be in the moment with your family, and let me worry about the angles and lighting.
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At the end of the day, natural family photography is about more than just creating pretty pictures. It’s about preserving the moments you’ll want to hold onto forever. When you look back on your gallery years from now, I want you to remember the way it felt to be there, together.

    ​Ready to capture your family’s real, beautiful moments? Let’s create memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

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Engagement Photos That Reflect Who You REALLY Are

8/14/2025

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As a photographer, I see my work as more than just taking pictures. It’s an art form that allows me to capture the beauty of human connection and the magic of love. Engagement sessions hold a special place in my heart because they aren’t just about celebrating a wedding on the horizon; they’re about capturing the story of who you are as a couple, right now, in this moment.

​Far too often, I hear couples say, “We’re not sure what to do in front of the camera,” or “We want our photos to feel natural, not posed.” And I get it! Engagement photos should never feel like an obligation or a performance… they should feel like an extension of your relationship, a reflection of the laughter, the quiet moments, the inside jokes, and the deep love that brought you together in the first place.
The Magic of Being Yourself
There is no “right way” to take engagement photos, only your way. Your session should feel like home, like comfort, like the love that is uniquely yours. The goal isn’t just to capture beautiful images (although we will absolutely do that), but to create something meaningful, something that looks and feels like you.

​Think about the little things that define your relationship… the way you always grab coffee at the same café, the Sunday morning walks with your dog, the songs you sing too loudly in the car together. Those are the moments that matter. And those are the moments I want to capture.
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How to Make Your Session Uniquely You
  1. Pick a Location That Feels Like Your Story
    Where did you first meet? Where do you love spending time together? Maybe it’s a quiet bookstore, a favorite brewery, or the hiking trail where one of you finally worked up the nerve to say, I love you. Whether it’s in your home, downtown at your favorite coffee shop, or barefoot at the beach, let’s choose a place that holds meaning for you.
  2. Wear What Makes You Feel Amazing
    This isn’t about matching perfectly or dressing a certain way because it “looks good in photos.” Your engagement session should feel comfortable, so wear what feels like YOU. If you love a cozy sweater and boots, rock it. If you feel your best in jeans and a leather jacket, do it. If you want to dress up and go full glam, I’m here for it. The more comfortable and confident you feel, the more your love will shine through.
  3. Embrace Movement and Real Moments
    Some of the best photos happen when you’re not even thinking about posing—when you’re dancing in the street, laughing until your stomach hurts, or just holding each other in a way that feels familiar and safe. Don’t be afraid to run, spin, whisper something ridiculous to each other, or close your eyes and just be in the moment. Let go of perfection and embrace the movement, the chaos, the joy.
  4. Bring a Piece of Your Story
    Do you love camping together? Let’s set up a campfire shoot. Are you obsessed with cooking? Let’s document a session in your kitchen making your favorite meal. Maybe you want to include your pets, your car, or even something totally unique like roller skates or a deck of cards. Whatever feels like you, let’s make it happen.
A Session That Feels Like Home
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At the end of the day, this is about capturing a chapter in your story. A moment you’ll look back on years from now and remember exactly how it felt to be wildly in love, on the edge of forever, dreaming of everything yet to come.

So let’s create something real. Let’s step away from stiff poses and expectations, and instead, celebrate your love in the most authentic way possible. Because your engagement photos should be more than just beautiful…they should feel like you.
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    ​If you're ready for an engagement session that truly reflects who you are, let’s make magic together.

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You Belong in the Story: The Power of Moms Being in Photos

5/7/2025

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Mothers are the keepers of memories. We document first steps, first words, lost teeth, birthdays, and ordinary moments that feel extraordinary in hindsight. We pull out our phones or cameras instinctively, capturing the laughter, the messes, the milestones, preserving childhood one snapshot at a time.

But too often, we leave ourselves out of the story.

​Not because we don’t want to be in it, but because we’re focused on them. We are the ones pressing the shutter, ensuring every detail of their little lives is remembered. And somewhere along the way, we forget that we are just as much a part of these moments as they are.
Your Presence is Part of Their Story
One day, your children will look back at these images, flipping through albums or scrolling through digital folders, piecing together the story of their childhood. And they won’t just want to see pictures of themselves. They will want to see you.

Not just your hands tying their shoes or your reflection in the background of a birthday party shot. They will want to see you holding them, laughing with them, being there. Because in their eyes, you are home. You are the safe place they have always known.
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This is why you deserve to be in the frame…not for how you look, not for how the photo turns out, but because you were there, and that matters.
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The Power of Being Seen
Stepping in front of the camera isn’t about vanity. It’s about legacy. It’s about presence. It’s about showing up in a way that says, I was here. I was part of this. I loved and was loved.

Years from now, when your children grow up and look back at these moments, they won’t analyze the background or the lighting or whether you were “camera-ready.” They will just be grateful that they can see you holding them, guiding them, loving them.

And when they see these photos, they will remember.

They will remember how you always hugged them just a little longer before bed. How your eyes lit up when they accomplished something small but important. How you held their tiny hand when they were nervous. How you showed up, again and again, with a love so deep it was never in question.
A Call to Be in the Frame
This is your permission and encouragement to step in. Hand the camera to someone else. Book the session. Take the selfie. Be present in the photos, not just the memories.

Because one day, these images won’t just be pictures. They will be proof of your love, the tangible evidence that you were here, living this life, soaking up every moment.

And that, more than anything, deserves to be remembered.

    ​Let’s make sure your story is captured. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to schedule a session, let this be your sign. Your presence matters. Let’s document it together.

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    Hello There.

    I am Elisabeth.

    Welcome to my little blog corner where you never know what you might find. Here is where I share tips, topics I find interesting, photography session highlights & more.

    Really, no topic is off limits in my little side of the world.

    I am so glad you are here! Want to chat?

    Let's Chat
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