The Sky is the Limit!

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

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

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

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!

"DESIRE"

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

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.