...Then over the Bridge of Gods and onto the Historic Scenic Highway where the photos above were taken. Just about 100 miles for the morning and early afternoon. All thanks to this...
July 14, 2006
Oh the Things I've Seen...
The morning started out with an Americano and conversation with Bob. At a little after 9, we hit the rode and onto hwy 14 headed East...
...Then over the Bridge of Gods and onto the Historic Scenic Highway where the photos above were taken. Just about 100 miles for the morning and early afternoon. All thanks to this...
...Then over the Bridge of Gods and onto the Historic Scenic Highway where the photos above were taken. Just about 100 miles for the morning and early afternoon. All thanks to this...
July 09, 2006
My Suzi, or should I say, Jeanne...
Music | Amazed by Poe
I haven't had the time to really take the bike out for a long ride, but I've sneaked in 2 short ones. I'm sure I need a good tuner to dial in the carburetors, but still the bike has been a joy to ride. If I don't pull hard from a stop, the breathy exhaust is similar to hearing Jeanne Moreau whispering in my ear and I yearn to hear what else she has to say to me (in French of course...) if I opened up on the accelerator. At speed, the bike is solid and steady. I'm not sure how nimble it is when I go thru corners. I'm still getting to know the idiosyncrasies.
I do know I'll have to get a throttle lock, because my carpal tunnel bugs me after a few miles. I also have to sort out the turn signal problem as it doesn't work at all. The old technology should be easy to figure out, but I never was good with electrics.
All ready I know that I'm really going to enjoy riding a motorcycle again. Being out in the HOT elements and getting hit by bugs aside, I've enjoyed myself immensely. As I sort out the little issues that arise, I'll maybe think about a day trip where I can really get away. It is only looking bright...
I haven't had the time to really take the bike out for a long ride, but I've sneaked in 2 short ones. I'm sure I need a good tuner to dial in the carburetors, but still the bike has been a joy to ride. If I don't pull hard from a stop, the breathy exhaust is similar to hearing Jeanne Moreau whispering in my ear and I yearn to hear what else she has to say to me (in French of course...) if I opened up on the accelerator. At speed, the bike is solid and steady. I'm not sure how nimble it is when I go thru corners. I'm still getting to know the idiosyncrasies.
I do know I'll have to get a throttle lock, because my carpal tunnel bugs me after a few miles. I also have to sort out the turn signal problem as it doesn't work at all. The old technology should be easy to figure out, but I never was good with electrics.
All ready I know that I'm really going to enjoy riding a motorcycle again. Being out in the HOT elements and getting hit by bugs aside, I've enjoyed myself immensely. As I sort out the little issues that arise, I'll maybe think about a day trip where I can really get away. It is only looking bright...
The Light of Day...
Music | Jayne by Ornette Coleman
Beautiful bride, wonderful location, amazing light and not once was a flash used...
Beautiful bride, wonderful location, amazing light and not once was a flash used...
July 03, 2006
Traditions...
[music | A Love Supreme by John Coltrane]
Way back when, when I was a young'in, my Dad called for me while sitting in the car in the driveway. I can recollect I was between the ages of 7 to 10. The car was a really nice 1966 Chevrolet Caprice, silver with black cloth interior. Power windows and power steering and brakes. I'll tell you how I know about the power brakes in a second... My Dad is pretty conservative in his ways, and wasn't into lots of adventure. To my utter surprise, he asked me if I wanted to drive the car! I guess I was older in the age range I mentioned before, because now I remember just barely able to see above the dash and still reach the pedals even while sitting in my Dad's lap. Even in my early years, I knew cars. I can still tell you every car my Dad ever owned by year, model and make. Gas pedal, brake pedal and steering wheel. I've known the basics for many years! So, my Dad goes on to explain the "basics" and besides putting the car in gear, he lets me loose. Never once did he mention anything about finesse!!! I floored the big V8, slamming my body backwards, but still knew well enough to put on the brakes. We both lurched forward as I almost cracked my skull against the steering wheel. The adrenalin started flowing and I was on a rush!!! Patient, my Dad actually gave me another shot and I made it down the driveway sporadically, but I made it.
2006, July 2nd around 11 p.m. On our way back from checking out fire and belly dancers and fire eaters underneath I 5, my daughter and I are about 3 blocks from home. I don't know what hit me to make the decision, but she just had a birthday a few days ago, so I stopped the car, asked my kid if she wanted to drive. The look on her face was just priceless! Eyes wide open, she got out of her belt in a flash. She got in my lap and all she could do at this point is steer. So, I put the car in 1st and off we go. Now the difference between her and I is that she all ready has a sense of finesse. Slowly moving the wheel a bit to the left, a bit to the right, she keeps the car straight for the most part. Another big difference is that she got to drive 5 whole blocks with a few turns in between, obliterating my driveway experience... Her level of concentration was pretty damn good, and not only until after she got out of the car did she do her happy dance.
I hope when she is older, she will have the fond memory of driving the car with her Dad for the first time and reminisce about the joyous moment as I do...
Way back when, when I was a young'in, my Dad called for me while sitting in the car in the driveway. I can recollect I was between the ages of 7 to 10. The car was a really nice 1966 Chevrolet Caprice, silver with black cloth interior. Power windows and power steering and brakes. I'll tell you how I know about the power brakes in a second... My Dad is pretty conservative in his ways, and wasn't into lots of adventure. To my utter surprise, he asked me if I wanted to drive the car! I guess I was older in the age range I mentioned before, because now I remember just barely able to see above the dash and still reach the pedals even while sitting in my Dad's lap. Even in my early years, I knew cars. I can still tell you every car my Dad ever owned by year, model and make. Gas pedal, brake pedal and steering wheel. I've known the basics for many years! So, my Dad goes on to explain the "basics" and besides putting the car in gear, he lets me loose. Never once did he mention anything about finesse!!! I floored the big V8, slamming my body backwards, but still knew well enough to put on the brakes. We both lurched forward as I almost cracked my skull against the steering wheel. The adrenalin started flowing and I was on a rush!!! Patient, my Dad actually gave me another shot and I made it down the driveway sporadically, but I made it.
2006, July 2nd around 11 p.m. On our way back from checking out fire and belly dancers and fire eaters underneath I 5, my daughter and I are about 3 blocks from home. I don't know what hit me to make the decision, but she just had a birthday a few days ago, so I stopped the car, asked my kid if she wanted to drive. The look on her face was just priceless! Eyes wide open, she got out of her belt in a flash. She got in my lap and all she could do at this point is steer. So, I put the car in 1st and off we go. Now the difference between her and I is that she all ready has a sense of finesse. Slowly moving the wheel a bit to the left, a bit to the right, she keeps the car straight for the most part. Another big difference is that she got to drive 5 whole blocks with a few turns in between, obliterating my driveway experience... Her level of concentration was pretty damn good, and not only until after she got out of the car did she do her happy dance.
I hope when she is older, she will have the fond memory of driving the car with her Dad for the first time and reminisce about the joyous moment as I do...
July 02, 2006
The place we dream of...
Of Courage... "Any intelligent fool can make things bigger, more complex, and more violent. It takes a touch of genius -- and a lot of courage -- to move in the opposite direction."
E. F. Schumacher
And of Collaboration... "No one wants advice, only collaboration."
John Steinbeck
When in fact we have no fear to collaborate, and when these 2 elements combine, amazing things can happen. When living in the safe zones of our lives, being comfortable often leads to stagnation. Pushing limits beyond our comfort zone however gets the blood rushing, the heart beating and knowing in real time when we are in that zone of the unknown, we are alive.
It wasn't so much that I was leaving my comfort zone in my latest portrait session. I had planned, but left open room for serendipity. My subject however was asked to leave her comfort zone and open up in a way that was uncommon. There was a certain amount of tension in the air, but not the kind you could cut. This tension was malleable, almost gelatinous.
Going over the images, I later saw more depth in them than when my excited eyes were merely capturing them. Things that speak over a period of time often have the most to say. I love the fact that there is initial beauty, but these images may mean more to me because it opened up my eyes, my brain and let me into a new place that I only vaguely knew of.
The door was there to be opened, I take credit for having the courage to go in.
E. F. Schumacher
And of Collaboration... "No one wants advice, only collaboration."
John Steinbeck
When in fact we have no fear to collaborate, and when these 2 elements combine, amazing things can happen. When living in the safe zones of our lives, being comfortable often leads to stagnation. Pushing limits beyond our comfort zone however gets the blood rushing, the heart beating and knowing in real time when we are in that zone of the unknown, we are alive.
It wasn't so much that I was leaving my comfort zone in my latest portrait session. I had planned, but left open room for serendipity. My subject however was asked to leave her comfort zone and open up in a way that was uncommon. There was a certain amount of tension in the air, but not the kind you could cut. This tension was malleable, almost gelatinous.
Going over the images, I later saw more depth in them than when my excited eyes were merely capturing them. Things that speak over a period of time often have the most to say. I love the fact that there is initial beauty, but these images may mean more to me because it opened up my eyes, my brain and let me into a new place that I only vaguely knew of.
The door was there to be opened, I take credit for having the courage to go in.
June 28, 2006
Suzi
I did something I hadn't done in probably over 5 years. A twist of the wrist, my body gets pulled back and I have to hang on a little tighter. Roll on the throttle some more and the breeze on my face gets stronger. In a matter of minutes, I'm on some back roads with nice soft hills and gentle curves, enclosed in a tunnel of trees. I'm still getting used to this machine, so my lean angles are conservative, as is my speed. But what lacks in motion, is still made up audibly. The throaty Kerker was loud, but not obnoxiously. It did let you know that there was serious power waiting to be unleashed. At least it did sound that way. As my confidence grew, so did the speed, so did the angles and so did the decibles. To really open it up, I got on the Interstate and rumbled up to 90 mph. Oh and there was lots of room left on the throttle.
Lots of rough spots, but I think manageable. I'll take ownership of this somewhat vintage beast. Almost 30 years old, this was at the time one of the big bore engines that dominated its day. Soon, the Suzuki GS 1000 will be mine.
Riding motorcyles was a serious hobby of mine thru the mid 80's to l999. I managed to put on over 75,000 miles on one bike, traversing to both coasts from the midwest. I only owned 3 motorcycles, but enjoyed them immensley. It really wasn't just a hobby, but a way of life in many respects as well. I made many great relationships that started with motorcycling. And the places I've gone, the adventures I've lived, will be remembered to my dying days. It is going to be great coming back.
Lots of rough spots, but I think manageable. I'll take ownership of this somewhat vintage beast. Almost 30 years old, this was at the time one of the big bore engines that dominated its day. Soon, the Suzuki GS 1000 will be mine.
Riding motorcyles was a serious hobby of mine thru the mid 80's to l999. I managed to put on over 75,000 miles on one bike, traversing to both coasts from the midwest. I only owned 3 motorcycles, but enjoyed them immensley. It really wasn't just a hobby, but a way of life in many respects as well. I made many great relationships that started with motorcycling. And the places I've gone, the adventures I've lived, will be remembered to my dying days. It is going to be great coming back.
June 25, 2006
Is this what it is like to be busy???
I've shot 2 jobs, 1 personal shoot, had 3 meetings, personal shoot scheduled for Tuesday, 3 more shoots scheduled and toss in a few more meetings next week as well. I'm really concerned about keeping my calendar up to date on my ipod so I don't forget anything. I'm not even thinking about all the processing I have to do from my Connecticut job, besides the stuff I shot in NY. Do I see a new computer on the horizon?
An odd thing happened to me today. I had to shoot film. I pulled out my one and only film camera body that I've held onto only for this reason. I shoot artwork for a few artists and many still require slide film to enter juried art shows. I had to buy a battery for it because it has been countless number of years when I last replaced it. I put a lens on it and hit the shutter. The sound was like a song I hadn't heard from in a long time. The auto wind along with the mechanical shutter took me back 10 years. Do I remember how to load this thing? The automatic gestures that go along with using a film camera did not come back easy. I had to make sure to concentrate every step of the way from loading, shooting and unloading film. We've all one time or another accidently opened the film chamber before rewinding the film! I made it thru 4 rolls of film with no mishaps. Now the L O N G wait. I have to drive to the lab, direct a Normal/Normal process time and process instructions and wait at least 3 hours before I see my results. In the meantime, my set back at the studio with my lighting and tripod position are gaffer taped to the ground. Better not kick the tripod leg!
An odd thing happened to me today. I had to shoot film. I pulled out my one and only film camera body that I've held onto only for this reason. I shoot artwork for a few artists and many still require slide film to enter juried art shows. I had to buy a battery for it because it has been countless number of years when I last replaced it. I put a lens on it and hit the shutter. The sound was like a song I hadn't heard from in a long time. The auto wind along with the mechanical shutter took me back 10 years. Do I remember how to load this thing? The automatic gestures that go along with using a film camera did not come back easy. I had to make sure to concentrate every step of the way from loading, shooting and unloading film. We've all one time or another accidently opened the film chamber before rewinding the film! I made it thru 4 rolls of film with no mishaps. Now the L O N G wait. I have to drive to the lab, direct a Normal/Normal process time and process instructions and wait at least 3 hours before I see my results. In the meantime, my set back at the studio with my lighting and tripod position are gaffer taped to the ground. Better not kick the tripod leg!
June 23, 2006
Ode to the Photographer's showing at Throckmorton...
I photographed this today with the images at the Throckmorton Gallery still fresh in my mind...
June 21, 2006
Last Hours...
Check out was 11 A.M., but I was out by 9:30. My favorite morning spot had settled down to a nice pace, where I was able to relax and enjoy the moment. My only plan for today was to see, CLASSIC BEAUTY: Photographs of Female Nudes at the Throckmorton Gallery on East 57th. The show had not even been hung, but I was welcomed to view the prints waiting for their places. Along side the great Manuel Alvarez Bravo, I discovered another amazing photographer named, Valdir Cruz, a Brazilian spending much time in NY. If you can find, Nude Study "Mary Ann" 1989 NYC, your heart will go pitter patter.
If the patrons of photography want to see silver based prints, the galleries are most certainly showing them, I certainly can understand why. My view of film based photography has shifted after seeing this show. It has been some time where I was so affected by what was in front of me. Seems like this has occured many times on this trip... Rich, luscious, profound are how I would describe many of the photographs I saw early this afternoon. And though most certainly the same could be said for gicleé on art paper, there is a noticable difference.
As my time is setting, I'm having epiphanies at an alarming rate. I have so much running thru my head that I can't think. I'm hoping that this trip will have taught me something, something significant to my development as an artist, a person. There is so much out there!!!
If the patrons of photography want to see silver based prints, the galleries are most certainly showing them, I certainly can understand why. My view of film based photography has shifted after seeing this show. It has been some time where I was so affected by what was in front of me. Seems like this has occured many times on this trip... Rich, luscious, profound are how I would describe many of the photographs I saw early this afternoon. And though most certainly the same could be said for gicleé on art paper, there is a noticable difference.
As my time is setting, I'm having epiphanies at an alarming rate. I have so much running thru my head that I can't think. I'm hoping that this trip will have taught me something, something significant to my development as an artist, a person. There is so much out there!!!
June 20, 2006
C Lin
2006-06-20
Knowing that I was going to be in NYC for about a month in advance, I made a call out to my network of internet acquaintances living in or going to be in the NYC area, to see if anyone would be interested in a portrait. My one and only response was from a singer songwriter living in Chicago. C Lin let me know she would be in NY and playing a few gigs in town. Today was our day. We met at Kenny's Castaways, a very old bar in the heart of Greenwich Village. It didn't take more than 2 blocks to find various great locations for this session.
It was great to work with someone who wasn't shy, knew how to move and had a good awareness of the camera. Rarely did I direct as I didn't have anything other than making this portrait to have a NYC feel.
Having had the opportunity and seeing some of the results of this shoot is a really nice send off from my way too short visit to the Big Apple. I'll have a few more hours of glory, then off to JFK for my flight home...
Knowing that I was going to be in NYC for about a month in advance, I made a call out to my network of internet acquaintances living in or going to be in the NYC area, to see if anyone would be interested in a portrait. My one and only response was from a singer songwriter living in Chicago. C Lin let me know she would be in NY and playing a few gigs in town. Today was our day. We met at Kenny's Castaways, a very old bar in the heart of Greenwich Village. It didn't take more than 2 blocks to find various great locations for this session.
It was great to work with someone who wasn't shy, knew how to move and had a good awareness of the camera. Rarely did I direct as I didn't have anything other than making this portrait to have a NYC feel.
Having had the opportunity and seeing some of the results of this shoot is a really nice send off from my way too short visit to the Big Apple. I'll have a few more hours of glory, then off to JFK for my flight home...
West Side | Times 4
I've seen a few of these parking arrangements around town. Do you think real estate is at a premium here?
I was on my way to the Hasted | Hunt Gallery to see some amazing photographs of Martin Schoeller. Huge 40 x 50 inch C prints hung in frames displaying the face of Angelina Jolie, Jack Nicholson, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton among many others. My favorite is of Christopher Walken. The Big Head series is worth seeing in you happen to be in NY.
Just as I start to settle in on transportation here in NYC, I'll sadly be leaving tomorrow...
I was on my way to the Hasted | Hunt Gallery to see some amazing photographs of Martin Schoeller. Huge 40 x 50 inch C prints hung in frames displaying the face of Angelina Jolie, Jack Nicholson, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton among many others. My favorite is of Christopher Walken. The Big Head series is worth seeing in you happen to be in NY.
Just as I start to settle in on transportation here in NYC, I'll sadly be leaving tomorrow...
2006-06-19
I've walked more miles in the one day than I have in weeks! Early afternoon got me out of my nice air conditioned room and out into the heat. It doesn't look like it is going to let up with possible thunderstorms coming tomorrow. More humidity... but I took the 6 all the way down to the Brooklyn Bridge and walked half way across. I realized that with the abundance of other people walking as well, I was not going to get the solomn photograph of the bridge I had envisioned. I walked on back without even pulling out my camera and managed to find the 2, 3 , 4 line.
I wanted to walk Greenwich Village. I got off at 14th and 8th and had absolutely no idea where I was. I decided to walk west towards the Hudson and wing it. I really had no idea that this neighborhood was really a neighborhood. I love all of the buildings, stacked right up next to each other with their "stoops" in the front for their entrance.
Tree lined and quiet and a pace I could really be a part of. I still had no idea where I was, but I did in fact make it into the Village and circled my way back towards 8th and 14th by way of Bleeker. My legs thru various points of my walk were in true pain. I don't know exactly what shin splints are, and since I don't run, I don't think I have that. However, the pain being described with shin splints was what I was feeling. If I rested a few minutes off my legs, I felt better and was able to move foward. At some point, the pain was gone entirely, only being over taken by pure exhaustion.
Early evening brought me back to my breakfast joint where I was able recharge a bit with a fruity drink of some sort, really good though. I came back to the room just totally exhausted. I realized I needed to eat. I found this great italian joint and got a mediteranian salad and 2 slices of tomato, mozzarella and basil pizza. OMG was the pizza delicious!
I know I could find somewhere to go on a Monday night in NY, but I am just too wiped out! I bathed, and am washing cloths now. I found that the laundry room is a point where I can connect to someone's network. Bed will be an inviting place for tonite!!!
June 19, 2006
Yes, It's Hot
So it is, but this city moves on. Sunday night travelling back from the East Village to the East Side near midnight, there was still only standing room on the 6. I didn't have to wait more than 5 minutes for the train to come either. No matter where you are, there are LOTS of people out and about. I could stop by several places to have a drink or get some food.
My café of choice near where I am staying is just hustle and bustle. The number of people out walking past my window is 10 fold from yesterday. There is a crew across the street setting up 10x10's and 20x20's with lights everywhere. You can tell the New Yorkers from the tourists because all the tourists are stopping to gawk. The New Yorkers are on their merry way not even noticing...
AvantJazz...
My first afternoon was spent in a relaxing uneventful bliss. It was swealtering hot in the mid 90's and humid. I managed to walk a few blocks to get drenched in sweat. Maybe a trip entitled like the song, "Autumn in New York" has to be put into the works. I stayed in air conditioned comfort of either a nearby café or my room. Today climbs only to the upper 80's, but no less humid, no doubt.
I hit the subway towards the East Village, then walked across to Alphabet City. I met Setsuko at Esashi and had an incredible sushi meal. We got the treatment as Setsuko knew the sushi chef. Across Houston to Norfolk we walked to the Angel Orensanz Center where Vision Arts XI was taking place for the last night.
Whit Dickey Trio: Whit Dickey (dr), Daniel Levin (cello), Matt Moran (vibes)
Setsuko's husband, David S. Ware was closing out the show with his amazing quartet. I don't even know the name of the first song, but it could bring tears to your eyes if you weren't guarded. The music continued with a most captivated audience. The experience is so much deeper when there is appreciatation as a collective.
lf to rt | Matthew Shipp, William Parker, David S. Ware, Guillermo E.Brown
After the show, I met the band and felt crutched in emoting my appreciation for such an amazing exhibition...
June 18, 2006
some photos, many more to come...
Portland International Airport.
Ridgefield CT.
In Ballard Park across the street from where I stayed.
Update
I've been without an internet connection for 2 days. This must be a record for me in quite some time. My gig went fantastic over a period of 2 days and a total of about 8 hours. All I can say about the event is that I am in complete awe at how some people live...
I'm on the corner of 44th and Third Ave in NYC. I arrived about an hour ago, via another limo ride. I did feel really uncomfortable getting out, in front of the Vanderbilt YMCA that will be my home for the next few days. Actually it is very nice, with lots of people from around the world staying as well.
I'm feeling like I need to be doing something and can't seem to concentrate on any one thing. NY has so much energy in the air. Every 5 seconds or so, another intersting person walks by on Third. East Indians, Asians, Europeans... I can't count how many gorgeous women have walked by. I must have heard at least 5 different foriegn languages walking the 3 blocks to get where I am. Young and old, poor and affluent, it really is amazing.
This evening I'll have dinner at Esashi, a Japanese Restaurant with my cousin and her husband. After that, we go to Angel Orensanz Foundation For The Arts to hear some serious AvantJazz. I am so excited about this evening I can't stand it. I've got a few hours to burn before I can check into my room. Lots more walking until then, but this damn backpack is filled with camera gear and computer.
I'm on the corner of 44th and Third Ave in NYC. I arrived about an hour ago, via another limo ride. I did feel really uncomfortable getting out, in front of the Vanderbilt YMCA that will be my home for the next few days. Actually it is very nice, with lots of people from around the world staying as well.
I'm feeling like I need to be doing something and can't seem to concentrate on any one thing. NY has so much energy in the air. Every 5 seconds or so, another intersting person walks by on Third. East Indians, Asians, Europeans... I can't count how many gorgeous women have walked by. I must have heard at least 5 different foriegn languages walking the 3 blocks to get where I am. Young and old, poor and affluent, it really is amazing.
This evening I'll have dinner at Esashi, a Japanese Restaurant with my cousin and her husband. After that, we go to Angel Orensanz Foundation For The Arts to hear some serious AvantJazz. I am so excited about this evening I can't stand it. I've got a few hours to burn before I can check into my room. Lots more walking until then, but this damn backpack is filled with camera gear and computer.
2006-06-16
Having to have a safety net of arriving a day earlier than when the gig is supposed to start has allowed me the luxury of somewhat of a vacation! I finally got a good amount of sleep, awakening around 8:00. I seemed to have made that adjustment to local time, because if I really thought about it, that is 5 A.M. my time. Anyway, I enjoyed a nice brunch on the front porch of the very quaint Inn I'm staying at. I got to read the NYT, most importantly the Arts section as to what is going on over the weekend. I won't be there until Sunday, but I'll be filling up my time. I'm in the very spot where I had my breakfast earlier. If I knew trees, I could tell you about more than 7 of them from what I can see sitting here. Across the street is a public park with manicured grounds. I'm hoping to shoot there in the morning. It takes the space of maybe 2 city blocks, lots of trees, a beautiful flower garden, a lazy gravel pathway, all surrounded by more rock and stone bounderies with wrought iron fencing on top.
Today I got moved to a suite, sort of a Martha Stewart mini mini apartment. I've got views to the South and West, mostly thick trees and greenery.
Today I got moved to a suite, sort of a Martha Stewart mini mini apartment. I've got views to the South and West, mostly thick trees and greenery.
June 15, 2006
CT.
So if you can't sleep on the red eye, the flight can suck big time. I managed to doze on and off, getting no more than I image 20 minutes sleep at a time. And having direct TV on board is a huge distraction, as everyone is watching something... The second you open your eyes, you end up seeing at least 4 screens from where I sat. Bowling for Columbine and various sports shows were on. I wasn't sure to be happy or not when the sun started coming up. I realized that I hardly got any sleep, but time must have past a few hours for the sun to be rising. I for sure didn't get any sleep at that point...
My Limo picked me up after a phone call and on the ride to Connecticut I went. KG was a well groomed, well informed gentleman that knew the art of conversation. Most importantly, he knew when not to converse. As I again dozed on and off, he never once interrupted my cat naps. But we managed to talk about how gas prices suck and how the president is managing to really fuck things up for everyone. He insists that the world is stuffing money in the pckets to a handful of people, the Bush's being 2. We talked about the difference between South Side and North Side baseball in Chicago and how D. Wade was going to take the Heat back to Dallas for the series.
So now I sit on the front porch of the Elms Inn in Ridgefield, CT. Hilly and meandering roads passing multi-million dollar homes, horse stables and century old stone fences line either side. I think if I were ever to be filthy rich, I'd be more of an East Coaster rich guy. I'd at least have the guise to be of old money, living in a huge old colonial with trees lining the quarter mile driveway. No bling, but lots of classic taste. I'd be kicking it in a 1960's silver Mercedes convertable...
Reality check... OK I'm sitting on the front porch of the Elms Inn in Ridgefield, CT. I can't believe I can't find a freaking wi-fi connection. I went to the local library, but they said I had to have Internet Explorer, otherwise they couldn't help me. Bill Gates I'm sure is laughing somewhere in the background. So, I write this in text edit and won't be able to post until I find a connection. Besides that, I' just barely able to keep my eyes open. I need to go to bed!!!
My Limo picked me up after a phone call and on the ride to Connecticut I went. KG was a well groomed, well informed gentleman that knew the art of conversation. Most importantly, he knew when not to converse. As I again dozed on and off, he never once interrupted my cat naps. But we managed to talk about how gas prices suck and how the president is managing to really fuck things up for everyone. He insists that the world is stuffing money in the pckets to a handful of people, the Bush's being 2. We talked about the difference between South Side and North Side baseball in Chicago and how D. Wade was going to take the Heat back to Dallas for the series.
So now I sit on the front porch of the Elms Inn in Ridgefield, CT. Hilly and meandering roads passing multi-million dollar homes, horse stables and century old stone fences line either side. I think if I were ever to be filthy rich, I'd be more of an East Coaster rich guy. I'd at least have the guise to be of old money, living in a huge old colonial with trees lining the quarter mile driveway. No bling, but lots of classic taste. I'd be kicking it in a 1960's silver Mercedes convertable...
Reality check... OK I'm sitting on the front porch of the Elms Inn in Ridgefield, CT. I can't believe I can't find a freaking wi-fi connection. I went to the local library, but they said I had to have Internet Explorer, otherwise they couldn't help me. Bill Gates I'm sure is laughing somewhere in the background. So, I write this in text edit and won't be able to post until I find a connection. Besides that, I' just barely able to keep my eyes open. I need to go to bed!!!
June 14, 2006
NYC Bound
I love the Portland International Airport. On the entire main level, there is wi-fi. Everywhere! Right now I'm reading a full signal and connected without any frustration. The only thing I could complain about is not having a seat in a chair with an ac outlet nearby. I'm drawn to sitting on floors anyway, so I sit along a wall, in the vast terminal E as other travelers meander by.
I haven't done a red eye before, or least I can't remember, but so far, I'm digging this. No one is in a rush, getting thru security was a breeze and I'm calm, like everyone else seems to be. I guess things will pick up as flights in the terminal start to depart. I've got another hour and 15 minutes before mine is scheduled to leave.
The thought of getting into NYC at 5 A.M. however I am not digging. When I was younger, I travelled a lot. It would be no problem for me to adjust almost immedietely to the local time. However... I'm not looking forward to getting into NYC at 5 A.M. my time. Ha-ha, a sign just went up... it is from Jet Blue Airlines. It says,
"Buh bye red eye
Hello shut-eye"
I just saw on my boarding pass I have 36 channels of Direct TV programming. Is that a good thing?
Shortly before I got this gig, I made a goal for myself to get the hell out of Dodge, at least 2500 miles. I'll make it with over 300 miles to spare, a least by googlemap standards. Having this opportunity to travel, I had to make some me time, especially since it is NYC. The extra days there have all ready turned into some opportunity for me. All ready I know I'm going to see a world class exhibition of some fine art photography. I know I'll be seeing some world class jazz musicians playing for the last time, together as a unit. I'll be meeting another musician from Chicago, who will be meeting me somewhere in the meat packing district to shoot a portrait. All these opportunities have some off the cuff. I love serendipidy.
I haven't done a red eye before, or least I can't remember, but so far, I'm digging this. No one is in a rush, getting thru security was a breeze and I'm calm, like everyone else seems to be. I guess things will pick up as flights in the terminal start to depart. I've got another hour and 15 minutes before mine is scheduled to leave.
The thought of getting into NYC at 5 A.M. however I am not digging. When I was younger, I travelled a lot. It would be no problem for me to adjust almost immedietely to the local time. However... I'm not looking forward to getting into NYC at 5 A.M. my time. Ha-ha, a sign just went up... it is from Jet Blue Airlines. It says,
"Buh bye red eye
Hello shut-eye"
I just saw on my boarding pass I have 36 channels of Direct TV programming. Is that a good thing?
Shortly before I got this gig, I made a goal for myself to get the hell out of Dodge, at least 2500 miles. I'll make it with over 300 miles to spare, a least by googlemap standards. Having this opportunity to travel, I had to make some me time, especially since it is NYC. The extra days there have all ready turned into some opportunity for me. All ready I know I'm going to see a world class exhibition of some fine art photography. I know I'll be seeing some world class jazz musicians playing for the last time, together as a unit. I'll be meeting another musician from Chicago, who will be meeting me somewhere in the meat packing district to shoot a portrait. All these opportunities have some off the cuff. I love serendipidy.
June 13, 2006
June 12, 2006
NYC Opportunities...
Only in NYC. I was communicating with my cousin, who is married to David S. Ware the amazing avantjazz artist who started making HUGE sounds back in the day when he played with Cecil Taylor. Out on his own, he formed a band in the late 80's which in 2001, the jazz critic, Gary Giddings says,
"Let's be bold: the David S. Ware Quartet is the best small band in jazz today." On the 18th of this month, I'll be attending the very last performance of this of this specific band. Over 15 years they have created ground breaking music. I get to attend their last. Thanks Setsuko!
VISION FESTIVAL XI: The David S. Ware Quartet
"Let's be bold: the David S. Ware Quartet is the best small band in jazz today." On the 18th of this month, I'll be attending the very last performance of this of this specific band. Over 15 years they have created ground breaking music. I get to attend their last. Thanks Setsuko!
VISION FESTIVAL XI: The David S. Ware Quartet
June 10, 2006
Movies... to see
One I have seen and recommend highly...
Last Life on the Universe -
and this one was highly recommended to me...
Lovers of the Artic Circle -
Last Life on the Universe -
and this one was highly recommended to me...
Lovers of the Artic Circle -
June 07, 2006
a letter to a friend...
G,
I'm reminded of a carriage house I lived in back in Chicago in the late 80's. It has been to this day my most favorite home to live in. It had a deck right out my front door, a 2 car garage underneath where I kept my car and 2 motorcycles. I had a little hibachi grill on the deck and because to the west of the deck was the back of the "main" house, afternoons into the evenings was absolutely gorgeous because I never got the direct sun light that heated up during the summer months. Inside was just 3 rooms, which consisted of a very large kitchen/dining area, living room and bedroom. The bathroom to the place was also very large. It had a sliding door closet, where I ended up setting up my enlarger and developing gadgets, etc... I had a stainless steel sink that I made to fit above my bathtub to soup all my prints and film. It was the only pain to printing, having to set up that sink.
It was evenings similar to tonite where I decided to get started on working a selected image and create, and print into the morning. My carriage house was its own building, no neighbors to piss off because of my pacing back and forth, loud jazz playing on the radio from station WBEZ. Neil Tesser, then Larry Smith opened up so much new music to my ears. I often shut down as Larry did around 4 A.M. In and out of the "darkroom" to the kitchen I paced, to view my latest test strip, then photograph....
Those days to me will always be heartfelt because of the creativity that exploded out of me and into me. I led a carefree life, without headache or heartache to deal with. Opening up a new file, late into the evening, [my daughter] sleeping in her bed, new music playing out of itunes and me in front of my screen working on a beautiful image... I'm making fond memories for myself and I'm realizing it in real time. The desire to create and keep on creating has suddenly become much more important, the desire to seize, much more important...
Thanks,
Ted
I'm reminded of a carriage house I lived in back in Chicago in the late 80's. It has been to this day my most favorite home to live in. It had a deck right out my front door, a 2 car garage underneath where I kept my car and 2 motorcycles. I had a little hibachi grill on the deck and because to the west of the deck was the back of the "main" house, afternoons into the evenings was absolutely gorgeous because I never got the direct sun light that heated up during the summer months. Inside was just 3 rooms, which consisted of a very large kitchen/dining area, living room and bedroom. The bathroom to the place was also very large. It had a sliding door closet, where I ended up setting up my enlarger and developing gadgets, etc... I had a stainless steel sink that I made to fit above my bathtub to soup all my prints and film. It was the only pain to printing, having to set up that sink.
It was evenings similar to tonite where I decided to get started on working a selected image and create, and print into the morning. My carriage house was its own building, no neighbors to piss off because of my pacing back and forth, loud jazz playing on the radio from station WBEZ. Neil Tesser, then Larry Smith opened up so much new music to my ears. I often shut down as Larry did around 4 A.M. In and out of the "darkroom" to the kitchen I paced, to view my latest test strip, then photograph....
Those days to me will always be heartfelt because of the creativity that exploded out of me and into me. I led a carefree life, without headache or heartache to deal with. Opening up a new file, late into the evening, [my daughter] sleeping in her bed, new music playing out of itunes and me in front of my screen working on a beautiful image... I'm making fond memories for myself and I'm realizing it in real time. The desire to create and keep on creating has suddenly become much more important, the desire to seize, much more important...
Thanks,
Ted
June 06, 2006
Throckmorton Gallery | NYC
My timing to see 2 really important exhibitions in NYC was impeccably horrible as Graciela Iturbide's show closes the day I would be able to see it and then the opening to...
CLASSIC BEAUTY: Photographs of Female Nudes
Photographs by Manuel Alvarez Bravo, Lucien Clergue, Valdir Cruz, Fritz Henle,
Flor Garduño, and Edward Weston
June 22 - September 2, 2006
Throckmorton Fine Art Gallery
opens the same day I leave. I emailed the fine, fine folks at Throckmorton Fine Art to see if I could somehow come in before the opening and was ecstatic to find in my email today...
"Dear Ted,
Spencer and I will be out of town but Luke Leonard will be here
and he can show you the exhibition. Please call him in advance to set
up a time.
Thank you so much.
All the best!
Regards,
Kraige Block, Director
Throckmorton Fine Art"
The thought of seeing original works by Edward Weston, Manual Alverez Bravo, and Lucien Clergue is making me want to leave for NYC now. I'm also interested in seeing the works of the 2 artists I am not familiar with.
With this as my kickstart, I'll have to do more research to see what else is happening in the Big Apple as my day slowly approaches.
by Manuel Alvarez Bravo "La Buena Fama Durniendo
(Good Reputation Sleeping, 1938)"
CLASSIC BEAUTY: Photographs of Female Nudes
Photographs by Manuel Alvarez Bravo, Lucien Clergue, Valdir Cruz, Fritz Henle,
Flor Garduño, and Edward Weston
June 22 - September 2, 2006
Throckmorton Fine Art Gallery
opens the same day I leave. I emailed the fine, fine folks at Throckmorton Fine Art to see if I could somehow come in before the opening and was ecstatic to find in my email today...
"Dear Ted,
Spencer and I will be out of town but Luke Leonard will be here
and he can show you the exhibition. Please call him in advance to set
up a time.
Thank you so much.
All the best!
Regards,
Kraige Block, Director
Throckmorton Fine Art"
The thought of seeing original works by Edward Weston, Manual Alverez Bravo, and Lucien Clergue is making me want to leave for NYC now. I'm also interested in seeing the works of the 2 artists I am not familiar with.
With this as my kickstart, I'll have to do more research to see what else is happening in the Big Apple as my day slowly approaches.
by Manuel Alvarez Bravo "La Buena Fama Durniendo
(Good Reputation Sleeping, 1938)"
June 01, 2006
PAW
Picture a Week was a series I started towards the end of last year. I started that exercise to keep myself behind the camera and shoot as often as at least once a week. Obviously I haven't kept up with PAW, but I have to say in my defense that it has worked to get me going in regards to thinking about photography and paving a direction for me to travel.
You'd think as a photographer, I'd constantly be shooting. But in my case, it doesn't work out that way. I don't take things that I have to shoot for granted, but it is not as imperative as the things I want to shoot. Personal work, or work as an artist to me is what measures my growth.
PAW has put me on a path for my self. I have been shooting not as often as once a week, but I'm still shooting. Subject matter is still all over the place and I think in time I'll focus and will come up with a series to maybe even have an exhibition. That is new territory, but I'm begining to find it intriquing. So the roads less travelled are taking me to new places.
You'd think as a photographer, I'd constantly be shooting. But in my case, it doesn't work out that way. I don't take things that I have to shoot for granted, but it is not as imperative as the things I want to shoot. Personal work, or work as an artist to me is what measures my growth.
PAW has put me on a path for my self. I have been shooting not as often as once a week, but I'm still shooting. Subject matter is still all over the place and I think in time I'll focus and will come up with a series to maybe even have an exhibition. That is new territory, but I'm begining to find it intriquing. So the roads less travelled are taking me to new places.
May 31, 2006
North Light Continued...
I've been up for over 20 straight hours. I thought I would have taken a nap in the afternoon, but I was running errands for most of the day. Opportunity to rest didn't happen. With the turmoil going on for the past week, I didn't get the chance to go over some images I shot a week and a half ago. My make shift studio is working out pretty nicely with the big picture window facing the north. I think my processing skills are getting better too.
May 30, 2006
A.M.
This getting up early in the morning business might be a good thing, but I think even the most early riser will think this is ridiculous! I got up around 4 a.m. and couldn't get back to sleep. This happens every once in awhile and I either watch a little TV to fall back asleep or get on the internet until my eyes lids become too heavy to keep open. I went back into my bed, but I just layed there. Knowing I wasn't going to sleep, I decided to do some laundry, wash the dishes and clean the kitchen, arrange my office (a little...). It was 6 a.m. when I finished the kitchen. I found this feat so amazing, I had to write about it.
The sun starts to light up the sky around 4:30 or so. I've never seen the sun shine so directly thru my northern exposure dining room window. A tiny little spider greeted me in one of the bowls I was about to wash. Wow, a neighbor gets up and starts his car at 4:45. Other people are awake at this hour!!! At 6:15, my 2nd load of laundry is in the machine. My morning tea tastes a little better than I remember. Outside is a strange site to behold. Light is in my eyes in the dining room, shadows are invading places I've never seen... wtf?
I'm feeling like that commercial for the army or marines... You know, it goes something like, "We do more by 6 a.m. than most people do in the entire day!" This is just crazy...
The sun starts to light up the sky around 4:30 or so. I've never seen the sun shine so directly thru my northern exposure dining room window. A tiny little spider greeted me in one of the bowls I was about to wash. Wow, a neighbor gets up and starts his car at 4:45. Other people are awake at this hour!!! At 6:15, my 2nd load of laundry is in the machine. My morning tea tastes a little better than I remember. Outside is a strange site to behold. Light is in my eyes in the dining room, shadows are invading places I've never seen... wtf?
I'm feeling like that commercial for the army or marines... You know, it goes something like, "We do more by 6 a.m. than most people do in the entire day!" This is just crazy...
May 29, 2006
May 27, 2006
MakingRoom Magazine
MakingRoom Magazine : Mark Tucker : Louisiana & Salton Sea
A site that speaks with substance... No techno jargon, idiot questions and answers to what type of camera was used with what lens and f stop... Here, we have process. Articles from the artists point of view in his own words.
The link to the site is directed specifically at the Mark Tucker Feature. He's been an artists I've followed for several years now. Check it out. I think you'll like it.
A site that speaks with substance... No techno jargon, idiot questions and answers to what type of camera was used with what lens and f stop... Here, we have process. Articles from the artists point of view in his own words.
The link to the site is directed specifically at the Mark Tucker Feature. He's been an artists I've followed for several years now. Check it out. I think you'll like it.
May 24, 2006
Ruby...
She made her 12th birthday on the 7th of May. We've been together for all of 11 years, 9 months and 17 days of her life. Today, she's gone, part of the earth now. As we put her there, Mother Nature let us know how she felt as tears started to fall out of the sky. Her weakened body couldn't hold her spirit any longer and I knew it was time to let her go. My comfort is knowing that she no longer feels her pain and discomfort and can run as her spirit intended.
RIP...
RIP...
May 22, 2006
Chance or Intent
Along the same vein of my Rant post, I was speaking with a fellow artist/photographer, SJ Hammack about how she thought digital photography was a totally new medium. the rules are all different, so there can't really be a comparison. My thought is that all digital is trying to do is emulate what its analogue counterpart could do, just much more quickly with more possibilities.
On another forum I frequent, the question came up about being a lessor photographer if you never shot film. It is funny to think I am now one of the old codgers who remembers the good ole days. Anyway, this particular forum is made up of mostly newer shooters who began their careers as digital shooters (at most, the last 6 years). Some are quite amazing, others not so. I managed to be diplomatic and brought up the fact that I have a reference coming from film as to what is possible in print, where photography was all about the print, not as digital files that could be viewed only on screen or seen as a machine made "plastic" print. If you've never seen a print on Gallerie or Portriga paper, your missing the point entirely. I'll not even mention what a Platinum/Paladium print looks like...
What I often hear on these forums is what are the quick and easy ways out. There isn't the skill involved as much when we relied only on film. We knew in the back of our heads that every exposure we shots cost money. That alone would hone your skills quite a bit. I shot a few weddings back in my film days, and I remember shooting roughly 10 to 12 rolls of film - at least 360 to 430+ exposures. Now some of the photographers on that forum are shooting in the area of 1000 to up to as many as 3000 exposures. If you have your cards, you can shoot as much as you want without any expense.
And here lies the concept to the title of this blog. The question could be, "Are we any lessor photographers if we rely more so on chance, than on intent?"
SJ Hammack may be correct in saying that photography is not the same, that it is a different medium as to what it once was. I'm feeling more and more the like the old timer who will always reflect upon the way things used to be... And time moves on...
On another forum I frequent, the question came up about being a lessor photographer if you never shot film. It is funny to think I am now one of the old codgers who remembers the good ole days. Anyway, this particular forum is made up of mostly newer shooters who began their careers as digital shooters (at most, the last 6 years). Some are quite amazing, others not so. I managed to be diplomatic and brought up the fact that I have a reference coming from film as to what is possible in print, where photography was all about the print, not as digital files that could be viewed only on screen or seen as a machine made "plastic" print. If you've never seen a print on Gallerie or Portriga paper, your missing the point entirely. I'll not even mention what a Platinum/Paladium print looks like...
What I often hear on these forums is what are the quick and easy ways out. There isn't the skill involved as much when we relied only on film. We knew in the back of our heads that every exposure we shots cost money. That alone would hone your skills quite a bit. I shot a few weddings back in my film days, and I remember shooting roughly 10 to 12 rolls of film - at least 360 to 430+ exposures. Now some of the photographers on that forum are shooting in the area of 1000 to up to as many as 3000 exposures. If you have your cards, you can shoot as much as you want without any expense.
And here lies the concept to the title of this blog. The question could be, "Are we any lessor photographers if we rely more so on chance, than on intent?"
SJ Hammack may be correct in saying that photography is not the same, that it is a different medium as to what it once was. I'm feeling more and more the like the old timer who will always reflect upon the way things used to be... And time moves on...
May 16, 2006
a rant...
It is by nature that communication via the internet be mostly on the technical side rather than on the aesthetics. It is because of the digital revolutions that the world has become smaller. There are so many so called experts in various fields because they have managed to latch onto the latest catch phrases of an industry and get on their soap boxes to spread the word even further. It is all about how to do this or make this look like that, via photoshop or some trickery. No one spends time to figure out the process on there own. They hit the forums on the internet, ask questions and get answers. Often times, the execution is perfect, but much lessor times does the result ever have any soul.
I bring this up because of the forums I frequent and see all the vast knowledge being freely passed back and forth. I think the internet is a great tool for communication. But often times all the banter is about technology. Getting from point A to point B in the quickest, shortest possible way to reach your destination. When I used to ride motorcycles cross country, I often opted for the back roads, the roads less travelled. Sure the interstate would get you to your destination in the shortest amount of time, but your losing out on the things you don't see and experience.
Is the world becoming more Type A? Will all of our wisdom come from what we've initially read on the internet? Where has romance gone?
I bring this up because of the forums I frequent and see all the vast knowledge being freely passed back and forth. I think the internet is a great tool for communication. But often times all the banter is about technology. Getting from point A to point B in the quickest, shortest possible way to reach your destination. When I used to ride motorcycles cross country, I often opted for the back roads, the roads less travelled. Sure the interstate would get you to your destination in the shortest amount of time, but your losing out on the things you don't see and experience.
Is the world becoming more Type A? Will all of our wisdom come from what we've initially read on the internet? Where has romance gone?
May 15, 2006
Decadent
Rich's Cigar and Magazine Shop in downtown Portland is a treat to enter. Not only do they seem to carry every magazine available, the aroma of tobacco puts one in a sense of calmness. It is a good balance for me as the racks of magazines can be more to bear!
About a year ago, a friend was having a Port and Cigar party. I don't smoke cigars, but one of the guests brought in various clove cigarettes. I was offered one and just loved the smooth, sweet taste, which also enhanced the flavor of the port. I succombed to have another, but cut myself off at that point. Off and on through out the following months since, I often thought about a pack.
Flash forward to yesterday, while walking to pick up some art supplies, to my pleasant surprise, I was walking right by Rich's. As I enter, the aroma hits me, to the left, the magazines, to the right, too many to count tobacco products. At the back of the shop, multitudes of various cigars behind counters and humidors. I could have spent hours in there, but I had an agenda for the afternoon. So, just pick up a few magazines, and a pack of one of the finest Indonesian clove cigarettes and I'm off.
I didn't crack the pack open and smoke. This had over the months of being deprived become an event for myself, to enjoy my first clove cigarette in over a year. This morning, sitting at one of my favorite cafés, having an americano, outside in the rising temperature of the day, the time was right. 2 of the regulars had surprising looks on their faces, as they've never seen me smoke before. I was offered a light and took my first toke. Just as I remembered... smooth, and sweet, enhancing even the flavor of coffee. The wait was worth it...
About a year ago, a friend was having a Port and Cigar party. I don't smoke cigars, but one of the guests brought in various clove cigarettes. I was offered one and just loved the smooth, sweet taste, which also enhanced the flavor of the port. I succombed to have another, but cut myself off at that point. Off and on through out the following months since, I often thought about a pack.
Flash forward to yesterday, while walking to pick up some art supplies, to my pleasant surprise, I was walking right by Rich's. As I enter, the aroma hits me, to the left, the magazines, to the right, too many to count tobacco products. At the back of the shop, multitudes of various cigars behind counters and humidors. I could have spent hours in there, but I had an agenda for the afternoon. So, just pick up a few magazines, and a pack of one of the finest Indonesian clove cigarettes and I'm off.
I didn't crack the pack open and smoke. This had over the months of being deprived become an event for myself, to enjoy my first clove cigarette in over a year. This morning, sitting at one of my favorite cafés, having an americano, outside in the rising temperature of the day, the time was right. 2 of the regulars had surprising looks on their faces, as they've never seen me smoke before. I was offered a light and took my first toke. Just as I remembered... smooth, and sweet, enhancing even the flavor of coffee. The wait was worth it...
May 14, 2006
May 13, 2006
May 11, 2006
NYC
There is "Autumn in New York", "April in Paris", but for me, it will be "New York in June".
I just booked my flight out to NYC this morning. I am so excited to getting back to one of my most favorite cities in the world. I'm shooting a gig up in Connecticut, but will be spending some free time in the Big Apple for several days. I would have been happy just wandering the streets of Greenwich Village, East Village and visiting my old neighborhood in Brooklyn, taking photos of the vignettes that are New York City. But earlier today, I got a message on another one of my blogs. I had expressed sorrow that I was going to miss a performance of a musician who I haven't met, who was going to sing in my home town at a place that I had spent a lot of time studying photography Y E A R S ago. We started a dialog and it turns out she is going to be in NYC at the same time I am. I expressed interest in taking her portrait with a NYC aura around her. She wrote back saying she is interested. I am so psyched to be shooting a portrait in New York. I am also trying to get 2 more musicians who live in NY to sit for me as well.
I can't express how excited I am about this trip. All ready I know it is going to be too short, but maybe this one trip will be the impetus for me to get back there more often. Some of my most treasured memories are from New York. It has been to long since I've been there.
I was talking to a friend about New York. I said to her that things can happen in NY that can't happen any where else in the world. I really believe that. The cosmopolitan nature there brings everyone to a plane where anyone can interact with anyone else. All ready, without even stepping foot there, my life has altered a bit, with this positive energy. Makes me want to sing a song...
I just booked my flight out to NYC this morning. I am so excited to getting back to one of my most favorite cities in the world. I'm shooting a gig up in Connecticut, but will be spending some free time in the Big Apple for several days. I would have been happy just wandering the streets of Greenwich Village, East Village and visiting my old neighborhood in Brooklyn, taking photos of the vignettes that are New York City. But earlier today, I got a message on another one of my blogs. I had expressed sorrow that I was going to miss a performance of a musician who I haven't met, who was going to sing in my home town at a place that I had spent a lot of time studying photography Y E A R S ago. We started a dialog and it turns out she is going to be in NYC at the same time I am. I expressed interest in taking her portrait with a NYC aura around her. She wrote back saying she is interested. I am so psyched to be shooting a portrait in New York. I am also trying to get 2 more musicians who live in NY to sit for me as well.
I can't express how excited I am about this trip. All ready I know it is going to be too short, but maybe this one trip will be the impetus for me to get back there more often. Some of my most treasured memories are from New York. It has been to long since I've been there.
I was talking to a friend about New York. I said to her that things can happen in NY that can't happen any where else in the world. I really believe that. The cosmopolitan nature there brings everyone to a plane where anyone can interact with anyone else. All ready, without even stepping foot there, my life has altered a bit, with this positive energy. Makes me want to sing a song...
May 10, 2006
addendum
I picked up the print from my lab yesterday afternoon. I've had battles with this lab in the past, but for the past 2 years, I've been really happy with what I've been getting back. I have a good dialogue with the 2 main printers there and they are slowly learning how I like a print to look. However, having prints done for my clients and having prints done for myself was going to be measured. I haven't gotten a lot of my personal photographs printed by them. I was setting myself up for a letdown, but to my pleasant surprise, I was ecstatic to see the print. Viewing on screen just doesn't hit home like viewing a print, in your hands, feeling the paper.
On another note regarding prints, I just viewed the largest photograph I have ever gotten printed. It measures 36 x 24 with the image being rougly 27 x 18. The print has the edges deckled and floats inside a matte, framed in a 2 inch wide black wooden frame. I stopped by the printers to view this beomoth before being shipped to my client in Minnesota. Though I hate to admit this, size matters... I was taken aback after seeing it for the first time, especially since this print was framed and in its final iteration. Next stop it will hang somewhere and admired on the walls of my clients choosing.
I am a happy boy...
On another note regarding prints, I just viewed the largest photograph I have ever gotten printed. It measures 36 x 24 with the image being rougly 27 x 18. The print has the edges deckled and floats inside a matte, framed in a 2 inch wide black wooden frame. I stopped by the printers to view this beomoth before being shipped to my client in Minnesota. Though I hate to admit this, size matters... I was taken aback after seeing it for the first time, especially since this print was framed and in its final iteration. Next stop it will hang somewhere and admired on the walls of my clients choosing.
I am a happy boy...
May 09, 2006
Techniques
So an old dog can learn a few tricks... I've loved this photo since the second I saw it, but I wasn't getting the image to look they way I had intended. The result was a much more harder edged photo and I knew that I wanted a more feminine approach to finishing off this file. This is a great result at executing an approach from different angles. The end product are like 2 entirely different photos...
I loved being in the darkroom and playing with contrast, and the various papers that I knew the characteristics of, dilutions of the various developers, pantyhose (for those that know what I am talking about. But hey, I like kink too!)... But what I miss the most is having the print in my hands, right out of the developer, wet and smelly, especially after a sepia tone. Having the need for tactileness is ever increasing. I'm having my revised photo above printed at my lab and it is just not the same! I have got to make some funds to get myself a really nice printer where I can do this at home again...
I loved being in the darkroom and playing with contrast, and the various papers that I knew the characteristics of, dilutions of the various developers, pantyhose (for those that know what I am talking about. But hey, I like kink too!)... But what I miss the most is having the print in my hands, right out of the developer, wet and smelly, especially after a sepia tone. Having the need for tactileness is ever increasing. I'm having my revised photo above printed at my lab and it is just not the same! I have got to make some funds to get myself a really nice printer where I can do this at home again...
May 07, 2006
Where culture and location merge...
in Portland, OR...
After being suited traditionally for the ceremony and earlier formal portraits, the couple changed for the reception in traditional Korean dress. We managed to get more photographs before their Grandé Entrancé.
After being suited traditionally for the ceremony and earlier formal portraits, the couple changed for the reception in traditional Korean dress. We managed to get more photographs before their Grandé Entrancé.
May 01, 2006
Changes...
I know at least one of my readers is going to think, "WTF!!!"
I've finally migrated all of my sites to one webhosting company, saving lots of my hard earned cash, giving me much more bandwidth and I'll never have to worry about having enough storage space on my servers. I always have issues when dealing with something new regarding the internet. I just don't know the language well enough and confusion sets in quickly. Well after about 3 weeks since I signed up, all of my sites and a few client sites are on my server.
obtw, everything works too!
I've finally migrated all of my sites to one webhosting company, saving lots of my hard earned cash, giving me much more bandwidth and I'll never have to worry about having enough storage space on my servers. I always have issues when dealing with something new regarding the internet. I just don't know the language well enough and confusion sets in quickly. Well after about 3 weeks since I signed up, all of my sites and a few client sites are on my server.
obtw, everything works too!
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