Sunday, November 20, 2011

PONDERING.....HMMM!


The title is somewhat a clue of where and what I've been up to lately. Yes, pondering.

I'm pondering what direction I should go with my photography next, pondering what my steps should be regarding my father who is undoubtly at a concerning level of dimentia, pondering what plans to make for Christmas, pondering what to bake for Christmas holidays, pondering who to invite for Christmas or to spend it quietly at home, pondering why some people are a disappointment, pondering how many people I may have disappointed and so on and so on.

It kind of gives you the idea why posting has been on my list, but my brain is slightly on overload at the moment.

The truth be known, I'd much rather be spending the bulk of my time going to different locations and shooting whatever I'm drawn to that particular day. My heart continues to tell me I could be SO good at the photography, but I need to be more patient with myself. When I have quiet moments, I am reassured I should continue to follow my passion. I sometimes feel selfish as I feel right now, I would love more 'me' time.

I was going through a box of clippings I've cut out and saved over time and came across this article I saved out of a newspaper. I have no idea of the author or when I cut it out. It's kind of karma, that I should find it at this particular time.

Here is the clipping I saved....

Ponder and know that HOW you live is YOUR choice alone!

The less you associate with some people, the more your life will improve.

Any time you tolerate mediocrity in others, it increases your mediocrity.

An important attribute in successful people is their impatience with negative thinking and negative acting people.

As you grow, your associates will change.

Some of your friends will not want you to go on. They will want you to stay where they are.

Friends that don't help you climb will want you to crawl.

Your friends will stretch your vision or choke your dream.

Those that don't increase you will eventually decrease you.

Consider this: Never receive counsel from unproductive people.

Never discuss your problems with someone incapable of contributing to the solution, because those who never succeed themselves are always first to tell you how.

Not everyone has a right to speak into your life.

You are certain to get the worst of the bargain when you exchange ideas with the wrong person.

Don't follow anyone who's not going anywhere.
With some people you spend an evening: with others you invest it.
Be careful where you stop to inquire for directions along the road of life.
Wise is the person who fortifies his life with the right friendships.

If you run with wolves, you will learn how to howl. But, if you associate with eagles, you will learn how to soar to great heights.

"A mirror reflects a man's face, but what he is really like is shown by the kind of friends he chooses."

The simple but true fact of life is that you become like those with whom you closely associate - for the good and the bad.

Note: Be not mistaken. This is applicable to family as well as friends.

Yes...do love, appreciate and be thankful for your family, for they will always be your family no matter what.

Just know that they are human first and though they are family to you, they may be a friend to someone else and will fit somewhere in the criteria above.

"In Prosperity Our Friends Know Us.

In Adversity We Know Our Friends."

"Never make someone a priority when you are only an option for them."

"If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you have to develop the habit in little matters.

Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude
."

P.S...HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY YOUNGEST DAUGHTER, LINDSAY!

Your entire family loves you!

Thursday, November 3, 2011

BILL HORNBOSTEL .... ANOTHER TALENTED ONTARIO PHOTOGRAPHER



Bill Hornbostel is a relatively new member of the Spirit of the Hills Arts Association which we both belong to in our area.
I had the privilege of 'sitting' with Bill at the Warkworth Maple Syrup Festival Juried Art Show earlier this year. He was most gracious and put up with so many questions I had for him.
The more I speak to other photographers, the more blown away I am at how much I still have to learn.
My apparent ability at composition is something many tell me is a gift. Since I don't know any different and I trust these people's opinions, I am flattered, to say the least.
I will admit when I speak to photographers, such as Bill, I am so envious and yet chomping at the bit, to learn and soak in all that I hear.

Thank you, Bill for giving me some of your time. In his own words, here is the interview of one fantastic photographer.

When did you first get interested in photography?
I first had a bit of interest in photography back in high school; out of curiosity, I took a course in it, and learned the basics of shooting and printing.
What kind of camera was your first and what do you use now?
My first camera was a Nikkormat ELW; a film SLR and a good, solid piece of machinery. Nowadays, though, I’ve switched to digital, and I use a Pentax K-20D.

What, in your opinion, are the advantages and disadvantages between ‘point and shoot’ and ‘DSLR’?
A point-and-shoot camera can be good because it is compact; it can also be good for learning the basics of shooting. However, point-and-shoot cameras have serious limitations when it comes to having control; many lack advanced controls, while on others they are buried beneath layers of menus.
A DSLR, on the other hand, gives a shooter much more control over the shot. It is bulkier, though, and with extra lenses, filters, etc., there ends up being a fair bit to haul around.

What type of pictures do you tend to shoot the most?
I tend to shoot landscape photos the most. In the area around Port Hope, that usually ends up being farmland, forest, and lake scenes.

What type of art, photography etc. do you have in your own home?
Most of what is on the walls in my house right now is photographs; however, there are also some oil paintings and watercolours waiting to be hung.

What is one tip you’ve learned to improve your photography?
Keep experimenting, trying new things, whether it is fiddling around with the settings on the camera, or trying out new compositions, or working on new ways of processing the results of what was shot. Through constant experimentation, one becomes a better photographer.

What type of photography is more difficult for you?
That would be portraiture. I am more accustomed to the quiet stillness of the places devoid of people.

Is there a particular photo you just haven’t managed to shoot yet, but you really would like to get?
Painting with light is one of the odder things which I have been meaning to experiment with, but the necessary condition (long nights) have not yet come around again.

Who influenced your love of photography?
Art Wolfe. A few years ago, seeing some of his work reawakened my interest in photography, which had been dormant for a long while.

Name one photographer you admire living or dead and why.
The artist I most admire is not a photographer, but rather a painter, Caspar David Friedrich. He was a German Romantic painter from the late eighteenth/early nineteenth centuries, and his works have a dramatic and evocative quality that I have sought to emulate in some of my work.

Which shot, up until now, are you most proud of?
One of the shots of which I am most proud is a shot I took at dawn on the shore of Lake Ontario during the winter.

What awards or acknowledgements have you received thus far, if any?
In August, my photograph "Town Hall in False Colour Infrared" won third place prize at the juried photography show in Warkworth.






Please visit Bill's website at:

www.billhornbostelphotography.com

If you would like to leave a comment, I know Bill would very much appreciate it. Bill, continued success and I hope one day we can do some shooting together.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

4th ANNUAL KEENE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

The weekend that just passed is a pretty big deal in the Village of Keene, where I happen to live.
The was the fourth year for this event which offers something for all ages, however, the main focus is really the children. For me, this was the very first one I've attended and participated in as I've been at one of my daughter's homes when it has taken place prior to this year.
Children are invited to display their carved or painted pumpkins to build a 'Pumpkin Pyramid'. Their is a costume parade, pony rides and a petting zoo, face painting and a 'Kid's Zone'. Their is a definite energy that comes from kids of all ages. Although, the weather was damp and cold, it didn't seem to affect the spirits of the children. Face painting is especially in demand.



For the adults there's also an opportunity to dress up in costume, an antique car and tractor show, a pumpkin pie contest, raffles, fiddlers and square dancing. The most anticipated event is the Giant Pumpkin weigh-off. This year the largest pumpkin weighed over 1100 lbs.



For all, there is the arts and crafts tent. This year I opted to rent a table and try selling my photography. At the end of the day, I decided this was not a venue for photography. Now, if you were offering food, sweets or baking those were a huge hit.



Last but not least, there was a beer tent and the day ended with a Ham n' Harvest Church Supper.
I didn't get a chance to see some of it as I was at my own table. As someone who had not attended or participated before, I was really impressed. The organizers and the town in general did an amazing job.
People in the Village really get involved. Many driveways and entrances to homes were decorated very impressively.
If you are curious and would like to attend next year, hear is the website link...
www.thekeenepumpkinfestival.com

Friday, October 21, 2011

MAGGIE'S STUDIO TOUR OVER.....A BIT DISAPPOINTING!


Well, once again, it's almost a month since I've posted on my blog. There have been some family issues that needed to be handled. I've done three different art shows and of course, my own studio tour planning and implementing.
Although, I did make a little bit of money over the two day studio tour, I must admit to being slightly disappointed in the turn out more than anything.
I'm kind of scratching my head and wondering what I could have done better to draw more people. I thought I did a really good job marketing.
I posted an invite on Facebook, on LinkedIn, on Branch Out which exposes it to many, many people.
I belong to Chamber of Commerce and handed out and mailed to many members. Only one person from Chamber came. I belong to Spirit of the Hills Arts Association and posted on the website. Only one person from that group came. I sent out postcard invites to almost 150 people who I felt could make use of my photography in their various businesses. Only three people came from that mailing.
I put ads in the local Village of Keene paper, a posting in one of the local newspapers in their Calendar of Events. Posters were placed at various strategic places in town and postcards were put in a few restaurants. I did get a few people from the restaurant postcards. Some family and friends came for support as well.
I offered framed and matted photography, just matted photography in three different sizes and note cards as well.
I had baked for the event and felt I served up a nice assortment of refreshments. The people that came were very impressed and pleased at my offering to them.

I offered a draw for a framed piece of art as well.
I had a sign made for outside announcing the event with balloons attached so people would take notice driving by my place. A few people did drop in because of the sign.
My expectation was optimistically to have about 100 - 150 people come. Unfortunately, only about 35 came.
It will take me a bit of time to reflect on what could have been done better or what other things I might have done to draw more people. At the moment, however, I'm getting ready for a one day show tomorrow at the Keene Pumpkin Festival.
Disappointed, yes, but will learn from this attempt. I will definitely try again once I resolve my questions on this studio tour. I'm a little down, but more determined than ever.
Here are some pictures from the studio I set up in our family room.





Wednesday, September 28, 2011

LEAH MURRAY.. UP AND COMING PHOTOGRAPHER...REMEMBER HER NAME!


I'm excited to present my next photographer to feature in this blog. I only recently met Leah, however, we have communicated by Facebook and email for over a year now. Following my goal to feature photographers I admire in Ontario, Leah is actually the first woman. We are both members of Spirit of the Hills Arts Association and are equally grateful for the support and encouragement we draw from this group.

Leah is also a writer and just recently got news that a piece of her poetry is about to be published. I believe there are so many great things coming her way. I'm so pleased to introduce her to my blog followers. Trust me, I do believe many will know her name in the near future!

Leah, on a personal note, I'm honoured to now call you one of my new friends...you go girl!



In Leah's own words, this is the interview as written:

When did you first get interested in photography?

I got hooked in my teens, when my dad got a job in West Germany – I can’t remember ever NOT being interested, but I definitely got hooked then. We got to travel all over Europe from there, and I did my level best to bankrupt my parents with film processing costs over that 3 years.

What kind of camera was your first and what do you use now?

The first camera I remember using was a Brownie box camera that we had when I was very little. I still have some of the prints that were made from photos taken with that camera. Now my workhorse is a Canon D20 and my daily hike camera is my iPhone.

What, in your opinion, are the advantages and disadvantages between ‘point and shoot’ and ‘DSLR’?

Point and shoot gives you freedom of movement and flexibility in a tiny package – can’t beat it for a widely varied day of shooting in multiple venues. It’s also great for a wide range of photographers from the absolute beginner to the emerging professional, especially the ones made nowadays, which have all kinds of controls to explore on-board.
DSLR gives you much better control of each individual shot, and with its interchangeable lenses, widens your options for interpretation of the image considerably. It’s heavier, though, and takes a bit more time to set up perfectly, and it requires a bit more knowledge to use successfully.
Then there are the medium and large format cameras, which are another issue altogether – I’d love to get one of these with a digital back and play around with landscapes – incredible depth of field and detail in my landscapes would be heavenly!

What type of pictures do you tend to shoot the most?

I call them “slow documentary”: I tend to explore a place thoroughly through my lenses, paying attention to the local flora and fauna and light patterns. Every place I go I find a wonderland of sorts. For the last few years I’ve been documenting a vast ruined industrial park in the town where I live. The industry that used to be there was a WWI munitions plant, and it blew up in 1918, leaving huge craters in the ground and twisted girders, crumbling foundations and massive concrete slabs tumbled everywhere. The plants that were used in landscaping went wild there, so now, 90 years later, it’s a veritable paradise of natural and escaped domestic plants, including wild berries, rosehips, a fruit bearing pear tree and two apple trees, wild carrots, bulrushes, 16 varieties of native grasses, butterfly bushes, meadow milkweed, snapdragons, vetch, loosestrife, sumac and so on. Birds and rabbits swarm there, along with garter snakes, coyotes and
deer. Right around it is a busy more modern industrial park – and none of the tenants there realize the history and ecology that’s in their back yard.














What type of art, photography etc. do you have in your own home?

I have a couple of original oil paintings by local artists, one or two prints, a collection of my own work on one wall, a dozen different kinds of small sculpture, basketry, bits of fabric and leather craftsmanship, a quilt or two, some wood carving, digitally produced art prints by another friend – it’s pretty eclectic. I like fine craftsmanship of any sort, so quality work in any form gets cherished.

What is one tip you’ve learned to improve your photography?

Look at the ordinary things around you until you see the extraordinary in them. Then photograph that, however long and hard you have to work to capture the extraordinary lurking just below the mundane surface.

When you do portrait work, what is your biggest challenge?

Doing portrait work with humans!! I tend not to do this much – I really come alive doing portraits of animals, as I find them much easier to interact with through the lens. Dogs and cats and horses and birds and sheep and goats and bulls and tigers all enjoy themselves so much in a portrait shoot that it’s impossible not to enjoy it right along with them. I’ve ended up with a few great shots of people by accident while I was photographing their animals – but I’m not a portrait photographer by any means.

What type of photography is more difficult for you?

Indoor horse and livestock shows – capturing the best portrait of the animal and handler in motion indoors is technically challenging in most of the venues AND trying to get more than an ordinary not very exciting reportage shot under such circumstances is artistically challenging. This is, of course, stuff I love to do, too!!

Is there a particular photo you just haven’t managed to shoot yet, but you really would like to get?
Yes: I’d love to get an infrared film series done on my above mentioned “slow documentary” ruins – haven’t had the money for the film and processing time in a darkroom (gave up my own black and white darkroom 3 years ago due to lack of space). It’s still burning away in my dreams, though, and I’m still harbouring hopes of someday being able to do it.

Who influenced your love of photography?

Jerry Uelsmann, Ansel Adams, Stephen Bulgar of the Bulgar Gallery in Toronto, Sorin Alb, Yousef Karsh, Bob Pearson, Freeman Patterson, Steve Curry, Daniel Cox and always Frans Lanting. A pretty eclectic list!! Locally Bob House, Bob Leahy, Ted Amsden. At home, it was my Dad, who has been a shutterbug almost all his life, and my mom, who paints with words in ways I wish I could emulate.

Name one photographer you admire living or dead and why.

Only one??? Well, I’d have to say it would be Frans Lanting: he’s combined great photographic skill, incredible creativity and good business sense and done amazing things with it. I’d love to live in his head for a while – it must be amazing in there! A paradise of things to learn and try and do!

Which shot, up until now, are you most proud of?

Hard to say: I have a couple that I really love, one of a simple bit of timothy grass backlit by the summer evening sun, and one of a deep red day lily that came out so detailed and sharp that you can almost feel the velvet on the petals – also a couple of the shots of my friend Cliff’s utterly gorgeous Arabian horses. But there’s always another image coming around the corner or up the trail, and I’ve discovered that I’m not a one-shot photographer, at least, not yet! If I ever shoot something as iconic as Steve Curry’s nomadic girl, I may fall in love with that, but so far, while I like a bunch of my images, I’m not able to name just one that stands out in my own mind as “yeah, that one, that one is as perfect as it gets!” There’s always some little bit more that I see later I could have done to perfect an image, and there’s never enough time to go back and make the best ones perfect. So I do the best I can at the time and move on – time is a river, right?

One tip you could give a relatively new photographer.
Don’t try to learn it all at once! Like living, most of the best stuff happens on the way there, and once you get there, “there” moves – it’s never HERE. So you will have to keep trying to get HERE anyhow. Don’t rush it or push it – just learn your craft at your own pace and take the time to enjoy it while you do it. It’s really a journey worth the
savouring.

How do you use social media to grow your photography business?

I shamefacedly admit that I don’t, at least not yet. Unless you count texting on my iPhone as social media! I have a Facebook page and a web site, but I’m just starting to seriously think about blogging and tweeting, even though I’ve had a Twitter account (@Old_Crone) for a while now.

What shot has eluded you so far?

The perfect Tae Kwon Do shot: I am STILL trying for one I consider really good – one that captures the spirit of the sport and the practitioners. A close friend is working toward his 3rd Dan black belt, and I go along to his tournaments and competitions sometimes to be the cheering section, taking the camera along for the ride. I love watching this stuff, especially at the black belt levels – it’s REALLY fast and furious action at that level. Hard to shoot well though!

What is your ultimate goal as a photographer?

My ultimate goal as a photographer is to combine images and words in such a way as to awaken at least one other person to the wonder of the world we live in – this is truly an amazing and magical place. So many of us walk around in the middle of it unaware and sunk in the misery of our lives rather than celebrating the awen of it all. (Awen is a Gaelic word meaning a state of rapture, bliss, total engagement, a “being in the zone” sort of mindset.)

What awards or acknowledgements have you received thus far, if any?

A few folks have been kind enough to buy my art prints – that is always very exciting because I know I’ve reached them on some level. I get minor notice in photography shows – my work isn’t spectacular or wildly innovative as yet so I tend not to stand out in a crowd. I’ve been really nicely treated by the Spirit of the Hills folks in Northumberland County, who help me exhibit and really encourage and support me in a lot of different ways besides letting me roam all over the
sheer beauty of their rolling hills! And people hire me to photograph their livestock and pets a lot – I think they notice that the animal is totally my focus above all else when I’m working with them, and they often remark on how happy the animals seem to be, doing what we are doing. I’ve done a bunch of small art photography for other artists, which I just love – doing that kind of product photography is deeply gratifying. Taking someone’s beautiful work and placing it
perfectly under exquisite lighting in studio and coming out with a photo that you can almost feel the material in is unbelievably satisfying.

Leah Murray
Photographer & Digital Imaging Artist
.

Digital Visions Imaging
leah@leahmurray.ca

www.leahmurray.ca
.
Thank you, Leah. I wish you wonderful, new things to come your way.

For my readers, there is an option to comment on my posts at the bottom of each and every post. I'd be grateful if you would comment. Comments that are positive would be great, but constructive input is also gratefully received.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

MY POOR NEGLECTED BLOG!!!!

Yes, I'm still alive and kicking! It's over a month since I've posted anything here and there are so many reasons why that's the case. The reasons aren't important at this point. Writer's block seemed to take over and one finds it difficult to begin again. I'm sure I'm not the only blogger who has had this experience. Rather than covering the events during my 'block', I think I'll just move forward.

Very shortly, I plan to feature another Ontario, Canada photographer whom I know personally. I happen to admire much of her work and she has been so supportive and encouraging to me. Her name is Leah Murray. She is also a writer who just found out one of her poetry pieces is about to be published.

Myself, I'm currently in a show at the Kawartha Artists Gallery with three pieces. At the opening reception, I sold one piece. Each time this occurs, I feel blessed and it adds another layer to my confidence. It's so amazing how much photography has
become a vital part of my life. I really do look at things with a completely different eye. Another piece of my photography was picked to go on the poster for this show...cool! This is the piece that sold!

On the weekend, I'm participating in two different art shows in the Town of Port Hope. The Square Foot Show that is along side the All Canadian Jazz Festival is my second year to enter. As the title of the show states, no piece can be larger than one square foot. I must say, it has a lot of impact when you walk into the show and every single piece is exactly the same size.
The second show is at the Ganaraska Art and Framing shop. I'm entering one piece only and really hope people like it. I'd be ecstatic if it sold.


In the middle of October, I'm holding a Studio Tour here at my home for my own works. I've ordered the lawn sign, ordered postcards(invites)to mail out on Monday, got pricing for a newspaper ad, posted on Facebook and will post on LinkedIn as well.
To prepare for this show, my husband has made many museum shelves to set my art on for display. We hung the shelves and positioned the art on the weekend. I'm really pleased with the overall look. It's the best I can do without renting out space. I hope it will bring more recognition and revenue.

Restraint is hard for me on many levels, but I really hope and expect to do well this weekend...I am meant to do this!

Sunday, August 7, 2011

STRESS.......

I decided to take a slight detour today.
A friend sent this piece on stress and I felt it should be shared. There are some wonderful truths and some statements that made me smile. Who can't use a smile from time to time, right?

STRESS.....

A young lady confidently walked around the room while leading and explaining stress management to an audience; with a raised glass of water, and everyone knew she was going to ask the ultimate question, 'half empty or half full?'..... she fooled them all...

"How heavy is this glass of water?", she inquired with a smile.

Answers called out ranged from 8 oz. to 20 oz.

She replied, "The absolute weight doesn't matter. It depends on how long I hold it. If I hold it for a minute, that's not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I'll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, you'll have to call an ambulance. In each case it's the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes." She continued, "and that's the way it is with stress. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, as the burden becomes increasingly heavy, we won't be able to carry on."

"As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden - holding stress longer and better each time practiced. So, as early in the evening as you can, put all your burdens down. Don't carry them through the evening and into the night... pick them up tomorrow.

Whatever burdens you're carrying now, let them down for a moment. Relax, pick them up later after you've rested. Life is short. Enjoy it and the now 'supposed' stress that you've conquered!"

1 * Accept the fact that some days you're the pigeon, and some days you're the statue!

2 * Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them.

3 * Always read stuff that will make you look good if you die in the middle of it.

4 * Drive carefully... It's not only cars that can be recalled by their Maker..

5 * If you can't be kind, at least have the decency to be vague

6 * If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably worth it..

7 * It may be that your sole purpose in life is simply to serve as a warning to others.

8 * Never buy a car you can't push.

9 * Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time, because then you won't have a leg to stand on.

10 * Nobody cares if you can't dance well. Just get up and dance.

11 * Since it's the early worm that gets eaten by the bird, sleep late.

12 * The second mouse gets the cheese.

13 * When everything's coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.

14 * Birthdays are good for you. The more you have, the longer you live.

15 * You may be only one person in the world, but you may also be the world to one person.

16 * Some mistakes are too much fun to make only once.

17 * We could learn a lot from crayons. Some are sharp, some are pretty and some are dull. Some have weird names and all are different colors, but they all have to live in the same box.

18 * A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour.

19 * Have an awesome day and know that someone has thought about you today.

20 * It was I, your friend!

*Save the earth..... It's the only planet with chocolate !*

Monday, August 1, 2011

LONG LUNCH JURIED PHOTOGRAPHY ART SHOW... AUGUST 20 AND 21ST

This has been a very tough week for me personally, but I have to regroup and get ready for a juried art show I've entered in Warkworth, Ontario for August 20th and 21st.

Last year at this show, I placed second and was so thrilled! It was my first win and there was a cash prize as well. That was the icing, so to speak. What meant more to me was validation that I'm on the right track doing what I love to do! The judge for this show is a photographer for MacLean's magazine. Here is the photo I won with:


As an added bonus the show committee selected this photo to be the cover for the poster and flyers and such for this year's show.

I always find it difficult to select which pieces of work to put in every time I enter a show. After a lot of thought, and many changes of mind, I finally picked three(which is the maximum you can enter). I picked a scenic shot, a nature shot, and one that I think is cool, but pretty random in category.
(MORNING FOG)
(HOLDING PATTERN)
(RELIEF)

It would be great to win or place, both for the recognition and the money, but I truly enjoy the judges critiques after they make their selections to learn for the next time....and I do try to learn something.

I have found both a website and a Facebook page called 'Photography Talk' It is fantastic and I've joined(free) and there's an amazing group of photographers willing to give input and support from all over the world. I'll post more at a later date, when I'm more comfortable with it.

This week I put new works in at the Kawartha Tourism Centre and put three framed pieces in a wonderful gift and decor shop called Bridget Anastasia's in the local area. If you live in the area, check it out. She has wonderful art, gifts and decor items that are quite different from the normal gift shops.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

PROMOTING ONE'S SELF...... GETTING EASIER!

Well, I've been doing photography as a serious venture for about 3 years. I began the pursuit of my creative side in a number of ways once retirement came my way. In doing so, I realized I have a passion and a growing talent for photography. I've only just begun! I can't wait to see where this takes me!

When I realized that some of my work was good enough to sell, I made a committment to get better at promoting myself and my work.

This journey has many twists and turns. What it has taught me, thus far, is I enjoy networking, however I have so much to learn. Although not 100% confident as yet, I have no doubt I will get there.

I joined the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce and this is a great place to promote one's self. As a member, it allows me the privilege of a membership directory, putting my business cards at the Chamber of Commerce office downtown. Last but not least, the privilege of meeting some wonderful, wonderful people that may be interested in purchasing at some point for themselves and/or giving me referrals. At the very least, they give tremendous support.

It helps to join a selective few art associations locally, and then worldwide via the internet. Added to this, is the need to get involved on committees for various local events and charities. I'm still working on that aspect of my personal marketing, but that's getting a little easier as time goes on.

Vista Print helped me design my photography rack card. I can hand it out, mail it out and place it in critical locations around the city. It's another item potential clients can take away with them from any of the shows I'm part of. It's all about getting your name out there in both local, national and international markets. Social media is something that is here to stay and one can't underestimate the power it holds to make people aware of one's talent. I seem to be 'behind the eight ball' when it comes to the technology aspect of promotion. I'm working on it and have found great people to help me out.


My heart says I'm doing exactly what I'm meant to be doing. My confidence continues to grow. I've learned not to be afraid of the word 'No'!

I can't end this post without saying I also love to promote other photographers. For the most part, the ones I've met are quite happy to share their tips and secrets. Thank you to all those who have helped me to this point!

Saturday, July 16, 2011

PHOTOGRAPHER EXTROIDINAIRE ! .... MEET JESSE BRENNEMAN


Continuing with my effort to feature talented Ontario photographers amateur or professional, please meet Jesse Brenneman. I met Jesse a week ago today at the Lakefield Jazz Festival and Art Show. He and his wife were actually there to browse and listen to the jazz. They are from the Kitchener area of Ontario. We were talking and I discovered he is a photographer as well. We shared a few tips and some of our history. I was most impressed with his willingness to take some time out of his personal weekend to discuss photography so I asked if he would consider letting me do a feature...he said, 'yes'.

Here we go!...in Jesse's own words.

When did you first get interested in photography?

ABOUT 5 YEARS AGO, IN MY SECOND YEAR OF UNIVERSITY, WAS THE FIRST TIME I REALLY HAD ANY INTEREST IN TAKING PHOTOS.

What kind of camera was your first and what do you use now?

I STARTED WITH MY MOTHER’S FUJI A303 POINT-AND-SHOOT CAMERA, AND AFTER ABOUT A YEAR AND A HALF UPGRADED TO AN SLR. I AM NOW USING A CANON 40D.

What, in your opinion, are the advantages and disadvantages between ‘point and shoot’ and ‘DSLR’?

POINT-AND-SHOOT CAMERAS ARE GREAT FOR BEING COMPACT AND QUICK, AS WELL AS BEING FAR LESS COSTLY THAN SLR's. SO, I DON’T MIND TAKING MY POINT-AND-SHOOT CAMERA OUT IN A CANOE OR SOMWEHERE ELSE WHERE IT MIGHT GET WRECKED…I WOULDN’T DARE DO THAT WITH MY SLR. ON THE OTHER HAND, THE SLR OFFERS SO MUCH MORE DIVERSITY, ESPECIALLY IN LENSES AND FULL MANUAL CONTROLS, IN ORDER TO TAKE PHOTOS WITH MANY DIFFERENT MOODS AND EFFECTS. THE FAST FOCUSING IS A DEFINITE BENEFIT AS WELL.

What type of pictures do you tend to shoot the most?

I MOSTLY SHOOT LANDSCAPES AND ARCHITECTURE, AND REALLY LOVE TAKING THESE PHOTOS AT NIGHT. I ALSO LOVE TO TAKE PHOTOS OF PETS AND OTHER ANIMALS.

What type of art, photography etc. do you have in your own home?

AT THE MOMENT, MY WIFE AND I JUST HAVE FRAMED SETS OF PHOTOS FROM SOME OF OUR VACATIONS. BUT I HAVE PLENTY OF OLD MOVIE POSTERS STORED AWAY THAT I PLAN ON PUTTING UP WHEN WE HAVE MORE SPACE.

What is one tip you’ve learned that has improved your photography?

EXPERIMENTATION IS KEY. BEING COMPLETELY SELF-TAUGHT, I LEARNED QUICKLY THAT YOU JUST NEED TO TAKE LOADS OF PHOTOS TO LEARN THE SETTINGS AND CAPABILITIES OF YOUR CAMERA, AND TAKE EVEN MORE TO FIND COOL WAYS TO PUT THEM TO USE. ALSO EXPERIMENT WITH COMPOSITION. DON’T JUST TAKE THE ANGLE YOU FIRST THINK OF. TAKE MANY MORE…AND THEN MORE ON TOP OF THOSE…YOUR FIRST THOUGHT IS VERY RARELY YOUR FAVOURITE FROM THE SET.

When you do portrait work, what is your biggest challenge?

PORTRAITS ARE TOUGH FOR ME. I FIND THAT RELATING TO THE SUBJECT IS VERY HELPFUL, BUT IS NOT ALWAYS EASY TO DO IN A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME. UNDERSTANDING THE SUBJECT HELPS YOU TO LOOSEN THEM UP AND MAKE THE SHOOT FLOW EASILY AND MORE NATURALLY. BUT I FIND THIS DIFFICULT.

What type of photography is more difficult for you?

PORTRAITS. I FIND MOVING OBJECTS MORE DIFFICULT TO DEAL WITH, BUT THE CHALLENGE IS GREAT FUN WHEN I DO PORTRAIT SESSIONS

Is there a particular photo you just haven’t managed to shoot yet, but you really would like to get?

I REALLY, REALLY WANT TO DO SOME SUPER-LONG EXPOSURES OF THE SKY AT NIGHT TO GET “STAR TRAILS,” BUT JUST HAVEN’T HAD THE TIME LATELY TO GO PULL IT OFF

Who influenced your love of photography?

MY WIFE’S FATHER IS A VIDEOGRAPHER, AND SEEING HIS WORK WAS A LARGE INSPIRATION, AND MY BEST FRIEND WAS ALWAYS FOOLING AROUND WITH HIS CAMERA, AND WAS ANOTHER SOURCE OF INSPIRATION AND KNOWLEDGE

Name one photographer you admire living or dead and why.

ACTUALLY, MY BEST FRIEND HIN FAN. HE HAS BEEN MY MAIN SOURCE OF MOTIVATION AND KNOWLEDGE IN THE WORLD OF PHOTOGRAPHY. HIS PHOTOS ARE ALWAYS SO UNIQUE, AND EVERY TIME I SEE UPDATED PHOTOS ON HIS FLICKR PAGE, I AM INSPIRED TO GO OUT AND TAKE SOME MORE PHOTOS OF MY OWN.

Which shot, up until now, are you most proud of?
I AM MOST PROUD OF THIS IMAGE OF LIGHTNING OVER THE RIVER. I AM A HUGE STORM-CHASER WHEN I HAVE THE TIME. LIGHTNING IS SUCH A FUN AND FRUSTRATING SUBJECT. I SPENT ABOUT 3 HOURS DRIVING AROUND ONE NIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF A MAJOR STORM TO GET GREAT LIGHTNING SHOTS. I STARTED OUT IN THE COUNTRY, BUT THE RAIN WAS TOO CRAZY….IT WAS ACTUALLY SCARY. I GOT A FEW SHOTS IN, BUT THE RAIN WAS TOO HARD TO CONTINUE. SO I DROVE BACK INTO TOWN, FOLLOWING THE STORM CLOUDS, AND WHEN I GOT TO DOWNTOWN CAMBRIDGE, THE RAIN HAD STOPPED AND THE LIGHTNING WAS JUST GOING WILD. SO I GOT THE TRIPOD OUT AND STARTED CLICKING. WITH THE LONG EXPOSURE ISO REDUCTION TURNED ON, A 3-SECOND EXPOSURE TAKES ANOTHER 30 SECONDS TO REDUCE THE ISO….SO THE LIGHTNING ALWAYS COMES DURING THAT TIME. I STUCK WITH IT, AND GOT THIS GREAT LIGHTNING SHOT…I WAS ECSTATIC!!

One tip you could give a relatively new photographer…

ONE TIP I TRY TO GIVE PEOPLE IS TO EXPERIMENT WITH EXPOSURE. IT IS NOT ALWAYS NECESSARY STICK TO THE “RULES” THAT YOU MIGHT HEAR ABOUT. TRY FUNKY ANGLES AND TRY DIFFERENT WAYS OF FRAMING A SUBJECT. DON’T RELY TOO HEAVILY ON PHOTOSHOP. IT IS A GREAT TOOL FOR TOUCHING UP AN IMAGE, BUT LEARN THE ART OF COMPOSITION, BECAUSE PHOTOSHOP CAN’T HELP WITH COMPOSITION

How do you use social media to grow your photography business….

CURRENTLY, I ONLY USE FLICKR. I HAVE BEEN AT SCHOOL FOR THE PAST FEW YEARS, AND TIME HAS NOT BEEN IN ABUNDANCE. BUT, FLICKR HAS BEEN A GREAT WAY OF SHARING MY WORK AND GETTING MY NAME OUT THERE VIA GROUPS

What shot has eluded you so far?

THE MOON.I REALLY WANT TO TAKE SOME GREAT CLOSE-UPS OF THE MOON, BUT HAVEN’T YET.

What is your ultimate goal as a photographer?

MY GOAL, FROM THE VERY BEGINNING, WAS TO LEARN HOW TO USE A CAMERA WELL ENOUGH THAT I COULD PUT SOME PHOTOS ON MY WALLS WITHOUT HAVING TO BUY ART. IT TURNED INTO AN OBSESSION TO CONTINUE TO GET BETTER PHOTOS. NOW MY GOAL IS TO CAPTURE PHOTOS ON MY TRAVELS THAT MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY WANT TO HANG ON THEIR WALLS…AND HOPEFULLY SELL SOME OF THOSE PHOTOS AS ART!

What awards or acknowledgements have you received thus far, if any?

I HAVE ATTACHED ANOTHER PHOTO (A TREE LANDSCAPE) WHICH HAS WON AWARDS IN THE LANDSCAPE AND OVERALL CATEGORIES IN THE GLEN MORRIS LIBRARY PHOTO CONTEST AND WHICH WON FIRST PLACE IN THE LANDSCAPE CATEGORY, AS WELL AS THE “BEST-IN-SHOW” AWARD IN THE 2010 KITCHENER PUBLIC LIBRARY AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST.


THE FINAL ATTACHED PHOTO RECEIVED THIRD PLACE IN THE ARCHITECTURE CATEGORY IN THE 2011 KITCHENER PUBLIC LIBRARY AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST.

On a personal note, I'd like to thank Jesse and I have no doubt that his name will be recognized by many in the future.....amazing work!
If you wish to see more of Jesse's photography go to:

www.flicker.com/trdyaris
Below are a few of my favourites he sent......please enjoy!



If you like Jesse's work and want to comment or get in touch with him, you can email him at jmb.photo at yahoo.ca

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

DUAL HOLIDAY WEEKEND...FUN FOR ALL!


This past weekend was both fun and busy for people on both sides of the border. In Canada, we celebrated 'Canada Day' on Friday, July 1st. Also, in the USA they celebrated 'Independence Day' on Monday, July 4th. It's a time when many families and/or friends get together for picnics in parks, water fun at cottages, and of course, a night of fireworks. In order to honour both countries, I hang both a Canadian and American flag on either side of our garage.


Since I lived 11 years in the USA, and my daughters both married Americans and now hold dual citizenship, I feel a connection to both holidays.
For me, a big part of 'Canada Day' was gardening, making note cards ... so pretty mundane by comparison to what many were doing. However, late afternoon my friend Marg called and invited me out for the evening.
We have a beautiful lake in the middle of our city with a bandstand. Each year from the end of May to the end of August, the city puts on 'MusicFest' which are free concerts in the park by the lake. Every Wednesday and Saturday evening they showcase various gendres of music, both local artists and from across Canada. This year, Musicfest kicked off with Natalie McMaster and her husband Donnell Leahy. For Canada Day, there are activities, cultural events and a very big concert with fireworks in the evening.
My friend, Marg has a VIP membership (which one pays a yearly donation for the privilege) which allows up close parking and a designated area to sit close to the stage. Marg, our friend Laurie, and myself had a 'girls night out'. We had a blast!
The band was local and were fantastic! They were called Keith Burton and the Footloose Band. They did impressions of such people as Shania Twain, Michael Jackson, Roy Orbison, BTO, Madonna, Faith Hill, Tina Turner and Lady GaGa. Musically, they were amazing and they did their best to look like them, but that lacked a little!
Marg, Laurie and myself knew many of the words to the songs and we sang along and danced and danced....FUN!
At the end of the concert, they had a full 15 - 20 minutes of non-stop fireworks that were spectacular!!!



Afterward, we went out for coffee...yes, just coffee. We talked and talked and talked, so it was really late when I got home.


Sunday, I had my oldest brother, Dennis and my sister-in-law Bette come for the afternoon and dinner. We had spareribs, baked potatoes, corn on the cob, and Greek salad. For dessert, I made my brother's favourite rhubarb and strawberry pie and served with ice cream.
Monday, I drove to Campbellford, Ontario to check out my show 'Life is Good' at the library. My one woman show will end on July 14th. Although I've only had one sale, the people at the library said there have been really great comments. A few people have come back twice to see it! Now, if only more people would purchase some pieces! Times are tough for many people, including myself, so I just need to hang in and be patient. My heart tells me I'm doing exactly what I should be and to stick with it....until!
I will be putting 5 new pieces at the Kawartha Tourism Centre this week with a summer theme.
Saturday, I'm participating in an art show at the Lakefield Jazz Festival so I'm doing all the last minute stuff to make sure I'm ready. This is my first time, so I'm looking forward to some potential sales and listening to some pretty great jazz!