A Day with Dad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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?

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"

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

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"

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

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

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"

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

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!