Studio 42 Photography

The Sky is the Limit!

2011-12-02T10:20:00.002-06:00

FRESH AIR - BLUE SKIES - RAIN - RAINBOWS. HOPES -DREAMS - DESIRES - GOALS. NO OPPORTUNITY WASTED - RISK - FULFILLMENT. These are just a few of the experiences that have occurred with the studio and me, both personally and professionally. Although a long time between writings, this year has been filled with growth and chances and successes. The new studio is beginning to come together and it gets more encouraging by the day to hear the excitement others have for the new studio and its potential. I have grown personally for a multitude of reasons which makes it exciting to wake up in the morning, breathing fresh air, listening to the rain or taking in a crisp blue sky, knowing I'm alive and ready for living! I truly wish the same for those reading this. About the image: This was a composite of images I took outside of my current studio one fall afternoon. It was amazing but fleeting, relegating itself to becoming a brief memory, lasting only a few minutes. How grand and blessed to have experienced it! Carpe Diem!

Self Portrait: Split Lighting

2011-03-08T13:42:00.005-06:00

In an effort to continually build and define and refine my photographic skills, I joined a photography class at Joliet Junior College several weeks back. Last week my instructor Gene Alvear, a talented professional photographer himself, provided the class with the weekly assignment: Produce an image with some form of portrait lighting. As I reflected on the lighting styles, Rembrandt, loop or butterfly, paramount and split lighting were among my choices. I had to choose just one. In my business and in my studio, I find myself most often using Rembrandt or loop lighting. This assignment called for something different. I decided to give split lighting a try. Now for a subject: Several photographer friends of mine shouted "selfie, selfie". Ok, I decided to give it a whirl. Now for a theme: I thought about it and the black/white images of Irving Penn came to mind. The self portrait would be created as a black and white image. Now for the inspiration: I immediately thought of my brother-in-law's who is scheduled to visit town soon and his awesome shoulder tattoo. It is an image of a smiley face as one half and a skull on the other. Perfect...split lighting, black and white image, utilizing a black and white shirt for greater contrast and statement. Add a bit of compositional design and here is what I came up with. For those that might ask...one photograph, multiple lighting techniques and gobo's, minimal post production...set-up to finished product...about 1.5 hours. Enjoy. Carpe diem!

Chicagoland Professional Photographer's Association

2011-03-02T15:41:00.004-06:00

Recently I was honored for my 4th term as the group's President. It was quite truly a surprise. From early on was taught that it is common practice to give back. The whole "pay it forward" adage seems to always fit. And working in the photography group just seemed to be one of those situations. I have enjoyed learning and talking to others and will be forever grateful for the recognition I have been given. At times a labor of love but always something that paid me back ten fold to what I put into it.

A Day with Dad

2010-11-11T09:58:00.004-06:00

Veteran's Day...a day of remembrance that I feel many of us take for granted. Do we understand what it represents? Do we have an emotional connection to its meaning? Or is it just another day off for some of us? I had the honor and privilege of assisting the American Legion Post 111 of Orland Park yesterday in a presentation to local school children. The Legion members presented an honor guard with a 21 gun salute to all those that are currently serving and those that have served in the United States Military. Outside of the fact that the men of old were being saluted by the men of new, it was heart stopping to see active military personnel singing "God Bless the USA" by Lee Greenwood as the presentation came to a conclusion. And to make this experience special, I was able to share my time along side my Father. He takes pride in what he does and always gives that extra effort to reach out to others. Here is my Dad and I before the ceremony. Photo taken by my good friend and photographer Mary...Thanks for the lasting memory this photograph will have for me! Carpe diem.

What We See

2010-11-09T09:09:00.009-06:00

I had a meeting with a business colleague today. We talked about a variety of things but one statement he made resonated strongly. It all began with this question: "What is the first utensil you use when you go to a restaurant?" Stumbling cautiously I answered "a fork". He corrected me and said, " Actually, isn't it your eyes?" And with that he got me to ponder the idea that most of what we do each day begins with what we see. It made me think that this very statement is what helps to give value to photography. Photography begins with what we see. It begins the journey into the emotion, the impact, the creativity, the style in which the photographer viewed as he or she pressed the shutter. It then crosses borders and begins to impact the person viewing the work. Each and every person viewing a photograph has their own experience. Hopefully you will enjoy the preceding images. Shown are a few images taken of Dalena, a model from the Chicago area. Thanks to her for the idea of taking some photographs downtown. Carpe diem!

Newest Pumpkin

2010-10-14T15:22:00.004-05:00

This little pumpkin graced my camera just the other day. Waving as I arrived to meet her for the first time, this one year old found it fascinating to touch leaves and play in the autumn grass. I believe she also enjoyed the direct attention of mom and dad, grandma and grandpa, as well as me, the photographer. It is always so rewarding to experience and embrace the love families share with one another, especially when centered around a new member of the family. For me it is one of the core reasons I love being a family and portrait photographer. Thanks for a great afternoon "Pumpkin"! Carpe diem.

We Dare Not Forget

2010-08-27T13:32:00.003-05:00

Feeling energized today with the studio and the potential future of the studio, I found myself wanting to learn something new. As the work developed, I found myself feeling more and more patriotic. For all the problems our country struggles with there are infinitely more successes and consummate dreams that have been fulfilled or surpassed. How is it that we focus on the negative and not the positive? Here is my "thumbs up" to the American Dream and our American Life...Carpe diem!

Every 21 Seconds, 2nd Edition

2010-08-20T13:58:00.004-05:00

Just the other day author Brian Sweeney came back to the studio for new updated portraits. He is planning a second printing of his book and this time the publisher is going hardcover with the story. Conversation between us ensued about the hard work and effort it takes to be successful. The hard work it takes especially when life deals you something like a traumatic brain injury. He commented to me that "all of this is a testament to where I have come from...someone paralyzed and having to relearn most things...to this." I have to believe he is proud of his triumphs and proud to be a ray of hope for those that suffer from similar traumatic occurrences in their lives. Carpe diem!

Why I Do What I Do

2010-07-10T10:33:00.010-05:00

Today I had two unexpected visitors. My visitors to the studio were two women that I had photographed on December 26, 2009. They had come to say "Thank You" for a job well done. Sometime last fall I met them when they stopped by the studio. The two sisters wanted to set up a family portrait session and it was decided that the Sunday after Christmas would be the only time the entire 20+ family would be together. I was more than happy to accommodate the family and their request even though it was in the heart of the Christmas Holiday. And it was today that I was reaffirmed as to why I do what I do...their Mom that had been the center of the family and reason for the family portrait died last month. They made a point to be sure I knew how valuable that family portrait was to them. Stories were told, tears were shed and hugs were exchanged today on behalf of Mom. They expressed true appreciation for the legacy created here in the studio and shared how thankful they were to be able to have Mom in family portraits. Thank you for allowing me to be part of those special moments. Carpe diem.

Tranquility

2010-06-01T11:27:00.005-05:00

Reflection...Meditation...Tranquility...if only for a few brief moments...one with Nature. As I stepped outside, I took in the moist morning air, heavy with the fragrance of flowers and grass and trees and the recent fresh rains. Taken at a nearby prairie wetland preserve, this image reflects the tranquility I experienced today. Carpe diem!

Where Have All The Craftsman Gone?

2010-05-04T15:40:00.003-05:00

This image was created for a woodwind repair craftsman and musician. He painstakingly repairs instruments other musicians have used or damaged. It takes precision, time, talent, education, effort and a dedication to give 100% service. To be proud of what is presented when the job is finished. Not too many people take pride in the things they do...whether it be a job, a family, how one looks, or the service they give others. I believe this man cares for each and every instrument that graces his workstation...hoping to make it the work of art it once was. Carpe diem!

"American SweetHeart"

2010-04-02T15:23:00.005-05:00

Last week, education seemed to be the focus around the studio. I had been asked to help another photographer learn more about studio lighting and posing. Little did I know that I would learn a great deal as well. She brought ideas and big plans and two fantastic models willing to experiment with her. Inspired by the iconic image of Marilyn Monroe, she crafted the following concept. In post production, I blended the images and came up with the following triptych. Kudos to Mary for the fantastic ideas and the excitement to learn more. But most of all thanks to the American Sweetheart pictured above who was ready to try anything. Carpe diem!

Midwest Storm

2010-03-12T13:13:00.004-06:00

Yesterday brought storms to the Midwest, spring-like storms that we haven't seen for many months. This was the view last night from the back parking lot of the studio. Reminded me of a photograph I took years ago when I was on a trip with some college buddies in Canada. I'll have to locate that slide and image over the lake...hmmm...now the hunt begins. Image specs: Nikon D50, 24mm w/o conversion factor, ISO 200, 1 sec, f8 and bracketed x3 at +/- .7 of a stop.

"Upper Limits"

2010-03-02T10:49:00.005-06:00

Ever feel like your life is an uphill battle? From time to time, I believe we all feel this way. Sometimes, in part to life in general, and sometimes more specifically by the choices we make. Contemplating this today made me think of this photograph. This is a photograph of my son climbing a 70 foot silo in Central Illinois. I'm always amazed at the speed and excitement in which he climbs, working hard to get to the top. This reminded me that although life can get tough and painful, the uphill battles are usually always manageable, with the ultimate potential of reaching the top. Sometimes it takes looking to the next handhold and not dwelling on all the things that lay ahead. Carpe diem!

Irish Girl

2010-02-18T15:41:00.006-06:00

Introducing "Irish Girl"; sporting her designer Irish Kilt, large safety pin and sweater, making this little model a supreme fashionista. What a great little girl! She worked with us for more than an hour getting things just right. And when I asked her to stand "there", "there" is where she stayed. And thanks so much to the 2 helpers that took care to make their little sister happy and engaged. Carpe Diem!

Self Portrait

2010-01-26T15:31:00.004-06:00

Recently a good number of photographers I know have embarked on a 365 day study of self portraits. Even after much encouragement, the 365 is not for this year...maybe next year. We'll see. But I did take it upon myself to create a self-portrait the other day. I believe this is a close reflection of Daniel Kemp the photographer. Quiet, serious, introspective, thoughtful. Carpe diem.

Self Portrait: "Chevy-man"

2010-01-22T16:26:00.006-06:00

Had the pleasure of talking with international photographer Michael Ayers out of Lima, Ohio the other day and the conversation turned to his recently purchased '39 Chevy Pickup. Beautiful condition, 30,000 miles on a 60 year old classic. So I found one of my favorite Chevy shirts and wore it "undercover" to the studio today and decided to create an image just for him (and any other Chevy guy/gal out there). This is my rendition of a "Chevy-man" self-portrait. Thanks Michael for the great conversation and I look forward to your seminar with the Chicagoland Professional Photographers Association next month! Carpe diem.

The New Year: Rejuvenating the Soul

2010-01-01T20:01:00.006-06:00

Brought in the new year with a trip to the slopes to rejuvenate the soul! Thanks to everyone for your support and business in 2009 and I look forward to an exciting and growth-filled 2010. Carpe diem!

"DESIRE"

2009-11-06T12:31:00.004-06:00

There are days, and then, there are days...yesterday was one of those days. So today I arrived at the studio set on creating a private paradigm shift, with the intent to look at things a bit differently. What a difference a change in perspective and a day can make! This strong portrait entitled "Desire" was created a few weeks ago but was realized only today after some editing, cropping (yes, Mary, I do crop sometimes LOL!), dodging and burning. And with it I realized how much I love to create something that is unique, emotive and exciting. Carpe diem!

Artist: Patricia Watkins

2009-10-28T09:12:00.005-05:00

Ever wonder what an artist goes through to create a piece of art work? Experience tells me there is a vast range, everything from it happened in a "moment" to a piece of art that took "years" to create. Patricia Watkins falls somewhere in that continuum. Her opening show Faith Journey takes place later this week at Governors State University, part of the process for her to complete her Master of Fine Arts degree. "Road to Calgary" ( top image) is her signature piece as you enter the gallery and was her announcement image for the show. The latter image is the answer to the question of when is a piece of art complete. For Patricia, it is constantly evolving, constantly developing, even after it has been hung for the show! Thank you for inspiring me Pat! Carpe diem.

Macro Photography

2009-10-02T13:04:00.006-05:00

Many times I get to work with families, children and individuals. But every so often, my photography gets to include inanimate objects instead of people. This photograph is part of a series of pieces done for a manufacturer that CNC metal stock into parts that can be found in F-18 fighter jets, Caterpillar earth moving equipment, robotic arms and a multitude of other man-made machines. Playing with lighting and gels adds variety to what can be created, depending on what the client needs or wants. Working with the Creative Director on projects is usually fun and different each and every time. Carpe diem!

Unique Family Portraits

2009-10-01T16:25:00.003-05:00

Today I received a request for a "unique family portrait", something different from one of the chain photography stores. I immediately thought of this lovely family...a family of girls that Dad so affectionately cherished...especially his best girl! So many times families and individuals fail to explore the possibilities of something different. As some have said, "Variety is the spice of Life". Feel free to try variety when you come into the studio...Carpe diem!

Every 21 Seconds by Brian D. Sweeney

2009-09-25T14:07:00.006-05:00

Sometime last year a local author came into the studio to have a professional portrait completed for use in his upcoming book. As I have come to know Brian, both from our time together in the studio and now from his book, he is quite a remarkable person. Having worked in hospitals for over 20 years, and having seen and worked with multitudes of various diagnoses, I'm not sure I would have noticed that Brian suffers from a Traumatic Brain Injury. His book is a remarkable tribute to the human spirit, the meaning of family and friends, as well as the perseverance one person can possess when the desire presents itself. If you get a chance, check out his book, recently published by Tate Publishing. Brian, thanks for sharing your story...Carpe diem!

Little Boy's Growing Up

2009-09-23T15:44:00.005-05:00

Over time I have learned to really appreciate all the different ways parents celebrate their children. One family celebrates each child as they turn 5 years old. I had the pleasure of meeting this Little Boy's sister last year and yesterday I received the honor of photographing him. It was his turn for the "wall of fame" at home, a prominent place in this family's house that celebrates each of the children in the family, particularly when they turn 5 years old. Thanks so much for the honor! Carpe diem!

A Sister's Secret

2009-09-22T13:24:00.004-05:00

A Sister's Secret...Can I tell you a secret? Come near...Can I whisper something to you, something I need you to hear? Just between you and I...a whispered secret. Carpe diem!

My Mind as a Photograph

2009-09-18T11:38:00.005-05:00

Earlier this morning, I took an hour to swim at the local high school. This has become my personal time to exercise as well as a way to relax with a very rhythmic, serene type of physical exertion. Most days my senses seem dull while I focus on breathing and pacing myself. Yet today that rhythmic trance was interrupted by an overwhelming mixture of fragrances. The combination included smells of Brute, Old Spice, and a bouquet of flowery perfume like lilac, gardenia, and vanilla...the results of the local exercise group joining me in the pool for their weekly workout session. With each breath I took, the combined fragrances were almost overpowering. But as I continued with my strokes, photographs of smoke images came to mind...paralleling the combination of waves from the pool water and the smells that seemed to be floating through the air. Here is one of the images that came to mind. Carpe diem!

Fairy Princess

2009-09-14T17:17:00.003-05:00

Over the weekend, I was graced with the presence of one gorgeous Fairy Princess! From a Tea Party to some funny faces, my Fairy Princess ended our session with a few magic spells cast on the me and the studio! And all of this was in preparation for her big debut come Halloween in a few weeks. Such the precious 2 year old...Carpe diem.

Outdoor Family Portraits

2009-09-08T16:19:00.002-05:00

Several months ago a daughter took it upon herself to organize having a family portrait taken...something that her mother and father would cherish for years to come, as would the rest of the family. Fast forward to this past weekend and voila! A beautiful family portrait. So what makes a great family portrait? Things like consistent colors, solid clothing choices, a well planned out background, and a family willing to make it all happen. Enjoy! Carpe diem.

Classic Child Portrait

2009-09-04T12:34:00.006-05:00

Early this morning a returning friend graced the studio...someone we haven't seen here in some time...and he is now a big boy at one year old. A child ready to run, kept mom busy in the studio helping to control the drool and the lightning crawl he was able to attain. Here is one that may hang prominently in the families home, a compliment to JH's two sisters that have a similar style portrait. Thanks again JH and mom...Carpe diem.

Body Building 101

2009-09-03T13:26:00.003-05:00

I have to give a shout out to Dalena and Alex for making a last minute photo shoot a success! You guys are awesome! Alex is competing on Saturday in a Midwest Competition that hopefully will lead to a top finish and hopes for going to Nationals. Alex was so gracious today to answer all my crazy questions about some of the efforts that go into bringing a body to such chiseled perfection. It is so amazing to have a better handle on the science behind the look. Here is just one of many images we were able to capture today. Best effort on Saturday Alex! Carpe diem.

Celebrations of Life

2009-08-31T11:42:00.005-05:00

This weekend I was remembering back to my college days and a Gerontology class I was taking as part of my Sociology major. I vividly remember the topic of age and the many stages of life. My grandfather, pictured here, constantly reminds me that he is in his dying stage. He goes into elaborate details of all the stages of life he has embarked upon. And this week he will celebrate is 92nd Birthday. And as sad as it is to hear him talk about his impending death, I try to reflect on all the stories he has shared with me over the years. And the many treasures he holds in the photograph albums he covets. So often my visits are trips down memory lane with my mother as a little child growing up in Chicago or his rehabbing a 3 flat on Cullerton Street. This is one of the first non-posed photographs that he has allowed me to capture and hopefully an ongoing project for me...to capture his spirit in celebrating life...especially his. Carpe diem.

High School Seniors

2009-08-28T09:32:00.004-05:00

Met a gorgeous young lady the other day, headed off to college for the first time. She just finished her senior year and wanted to get some portraits redone before she left. She was so enjoyable to work with and I believe she had a fun time posing and modeling! Here is one of my favorites...showing attitude, style and poise...not to mention a cool hair style! I wish you all the best and have a blast at college...go Bulldogs!!! Carpe Diem!

Eagle Project #1

2009-08-26T10:44:00.003-05:00

I decided I'd share one of my son's Boy Scout Eagle Project with you! Joshua chose to work with the Nature Conservancy to help restore a portion of land back to native prairie. The prairie is called Sundrop Prairie. What a difference in how it looks today. I can only imagine what it will look like in 3-4 years when the prairie flora and grasses begin to surround the area as it once did hundreds of years ago. Needless to say, a dad couldn't be more proud of a son that worked as hard as he has to get this project off the ground and completed. AWESOME job Joshua! Carpe Diem!

Pet Portraits

2009-08-26T10:35:00.003-05:00

Just the other day I had the opportunity to photograph Max. Max was a rescued dog from a shelter and is as gentle as they come...unless you get near his tail! That tail wags at the speed of light and is powerful enough to give you welts on the leg. Due ot the welts I know Max enjoyed the studio, especially the area outside of the camera area. And as time progressed, his owner and I figured it all out...Max didn't like the canvas backdrop on the wood floor...he wanted the area that had the padded carpet over by the computer work station. Ahh, even dogs love comfort! Here is a profile image taken during the session. Carpe Diem!

The Little Flower Girl

2009-08-20T13:41:00.003-05:00

Today I had a memorable moment regarding children with my good friend and fellow photographer Theresa Costa. Our conversation began discussing the challenges of helping in a professional organization and how TIME is the one thing that can not be recovered once it has passed. Conversation was abruptly interrupted by her son running into her office to share his news of the one corn stalk he planted in the spring having grown some actual corn! And I could hear his full-bodied excitement through the phone...a memorable moment for me today! It reminded me...that life is precious, so very precious, and we need to take life lessons from children, especially us busy adults. When was the last time you became excited seeing something as simple as a corn stalk growing? Do you fully enjoy the little things that happen each day in your life? Are you thankful for what you have rather than worried about what you don't possess? This caused reflection for me in the studio today and after filing my sales tax online for the first time (the government tells me that it is easier for me...how nice of them to think of me so kindly) I decided to search for the Tea Party portraits I did recently. The portrait helped me reflect on how life for children is and should be simple, fun, inquisitive and full of exploration. Something as simple as a set of play cups and pots created joy and an enjoyable moment for this "little flower girl". Carpe Diem!

Wedding Prices

2009-08-13T09:52:00.006-05:00

Recently a wave of phone and web inquiries have been coming into the Studio asking for prices of our wedding packages. My guess is that people are shopping ONLY for a price, especially when you take into account the current unemployment and economic scenarios. And yet most of the time people don't even leave a name or number, just want us to respond to an "empty" email address. Empty in the sense that there is no person associated to the email. We know nothing about them...their interests, tastes, styles, or even more importantly, what and how much they value photography. Yet these are very important factors to the Studio when working with future clients. Today, more than ever, a person can pick up a consumer camera, turn it on, and instantly take a very respectable photographic image. All camera at that point...yet...no thought to composition, lighting, design, color balance, impact...you get the idea. A camera can only record the photographic image as seen by the photographer. And I'm not sure most people understand the relationship between talent and education as it relates to what makes a truly artistic, professional photographer. But then again, when you only look at price as the qualifying factor, I do believe you get what you pay for. Here is another recent wedding image...sure to garnish an award at a future print competition. Carpe Diem!

Wedding Art

2009-08-11T16:51:00.005-05:00

Last month I attended, and hosted, an all day workshop held at STUDIO 42, which was led by nationally acclaimed wedding photographer David Ziser. David and his wife were nothing more than the kindest, most gracious and pleasant people you would want to host. David spent the Wednesday night before addressing 65+ photographers on his style and approach to wedding photography at the Chicagoland Professional Photographers Association. With the very next morning speaking at the studio and planning a live-wedding model-session. David shared numerous ideas, suggestions and approaches to helping make wedding photography more artistic and a better value for our brides and grooms. But one of the more profound things he said that has lingered with me was this...When I am hired to photograph a wedding, I have been given the greatest honor and privilege to share in this couple's and family's special day. It is an HONOR...and that very statement has given me a different perspective on photographing weddings for my brides and grooms. Thank you David for the inspiration. Here is an image from a wedding just 2 days after the seminar...Carpe Diem!

Having fun!

2009-05-11T14:12:00.002-05:00

I realized I haven't posted in a while, meaning my focus has been on other things involving the studio. So the other day a Porsche Carrera was parked outside the studio. Seeing it was time for my mandated "break", I played a bit and came up with the following. How fun! Carpe Diem!

Doggy Portrait

2009-04-08T13:17:00.007-05:00

A recent Bride and Groom that I photographed in February happen to be dog sitting yesterday. New Bride Jennifer stopped by about some wedding orders and shared the story of how an elderly lady that her husband stayed with some time ago became ill and had become concerned who would take care of her treasured pet while she was in the hospital. Jennifer and Ryan agreed to care for the dog until she came back home. So we did a quick "Doggy Portrait session"...along with a mat-framed portrait to give to the women in the hospital...all compliments of Studio 42. I could not think of a better gift to give a women in the hospital, especially when she was so concerned about her beloved pet. Get well soon! Carpe Diem.

Studio 42 and Mom

2009-04-02T10:13:00.005-05:00

Took this photograph of the front entrance of the studio several days ago. Planned on using it for a headshot/promotion image. Still might, but for now will share it here. In my mind, the front area of the studio is always in development...my mind gets ideas often to move furniture or to move/hang new images all around. What about this? What about that? This comes from a good part of my mother in me...she is constantly redesigning the house I grew up in with new colors or just moving furniture (sometimes even buying new furniture when she really doesn't need it). So I usually cut myself some slack as I believe I come by it honestly. I love you Mom! Thanks for being such a powerful supporter of me and my photography. Carpe Diem!

No Opportunity Wasted!

2009-04-01T12:26:00.006-05:00

It has been some time (part busy schedule, part procrastination), so I decided today to share a future journey I am planning to be part of with TV celebrity, author and spokesperson Phil Keoghan. Back in February, I was fortunate to photograph Phil Keoghan for a corporate client in a 2009 kick off! I had the privilege of hearing him talk about the movement he has been involved with for a good part of his life, entitled NO OPPORTUNITY WASTED. His NOW moment came out of an experience of being down in a 22,000 ton sunken ship, some 100+ feet below the surface of the water, realizing he was in the aloneness, with uncertainty and utter darkness all around him. This experience was so powerful, he describes in his book that it was the first time he had felt pure panic. Out of that life-threatening experience came the life philosophy of living each day to the fullest, living with no regrets and pushing forward to challenge oneself each and every day. As host of The Amazing Race, he sees individuals each season push themselves like they never thought possible. As I photographed him, his speech targeted something within me. And at one point, he talked about his upcoming trip across the United States, promoting his book and supporting MS. He was planning on a cross-country bike ride, to be done in 40 days, coast to coast. He then asked how many in attendance would join him in the ride? I was one of two people in a crowd of 200 to raise their hand. I knew I needed to embrace my own mantra and take the thought and talk to action. For me, NOW exists in the phrase "Carpe Diem", otherwise know as "Seize the Day!" At the end of April, he will be riding through the Chicago area. As things will have it, part of that time I will be working in the studio. But on Sunday, April 26, 2009, I will be riding with him in support of his efforts in Northwestern Indiana. I have recruited several friends to join me as I ride for 100+ miles with Phil, as I promised myself that day when I raised my hand. I plan on doing a pictorial of the journey, documenting our ride through the countryside of Indiana. For more information or to join me, sign up on his website at http://www.philridesacrossamerica.com/register.html. And if you get a chance, read his recent book entitled "No Opportunity Wasted: 8 Ways to Create a List for the Life You Want". Easy read, but challenging if you decide to create your lists for life! Carpe Diem!

2009-01-09T11:48:00.004-06:00

Decided to begin to add new images to the studio lobby. Framed this the other day. Loved this portrait of 10 year old Mr. C...shared a range of emotions within just a few seconds of being in the studio and in front of the camera! What a treat for me as the photographer.

The New Year

2009-01-09T11:39:00.004-06:00

Well, it is the beginning of what hopes to be a recovery for many in the country. Here at Studio 42, 2009 expects to be a time of venturing out of the comfort zone to create some dynamic and stunning images. Plans are in the works for a few sets to be built in the studio, better utilizing the area within the studio and creating some fun spots to highlight children, high school seniors, models and families. Come back soon to see the progress! Carpe Diem!

Welcome!

2008-10-26T22:22:00.003-05:00

Decided to enter the world of blogging. I hope to share inspiring ideas and thoughts for the work I truly love! Carpe Diem!