As the fourth-ish post in my #TampaLocal collection, I think this one actually FINALLY qualifies me as full local, and I'm honestly a little disappointed in myself that it took this long for me to make it to ZooTampa! I am a HUGE fan of animals and wildlife photography, so naturally getting the chance to break out my camera and take photos of random creatures just makes my soul happy. And, since Julie and I almost always seem to end up at a zoo of some sort, it was only fitting we check this one off the bucket list together!


Located in Lowry Park, ZooTampa features a multitude of different animals from all over the world, as well as rides for kiddos, and (amazingly) a beer and wine garden for the adults! They also have the largest Christmas tree I think I've come across in Tampa, as you can clearly see!

Though a decent amount of the exhibits had some sort of maintenance going on, our whole trek around the zoo took around two hours, including the "Expedition Africa" safari ride. And damn, it felt so good to break out my camera and dive into the way a shot lines up and the colors and exposure.

   To kick off the series, I went to Netflix in search of a Disney movie I didn't own, and consequently haven't seen in years. Since I've recently fallen in love with Paris, I decided to indulge my fantasies and start with the films set in Paris. Leading to, drum-roll please, our first post: The Aristocats! 
  I honestly didn't remember how charming the film is; from its upbeat songs to the adorable little kittens, I found myself giggling and singing along just like I was a little kid again. Plus, I'm a sucker for the classic animation style.

"Ladies don't start fights, but they can finish them!"

 And, of course, to the project inspired by the film! I decided to go for a manicure inspired by little Marie, as her sass, her spirit, and her little bow were adorable and a perfect inspiration for a summer nail look!