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.

Macro Photography

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.