fine art figure photography

I was very recently able to take a workshop on fine art figure photography, an interesting event in and of itself. However, the topic was one that I really enjoy - the use of shadows.

I have to say, I love shadows. I love using shadow to portray shape and form, I love using lighting to bring out texture, I love using B&W photography to emphasize and deconstruct all of these aspects. I love using three examples in a row without using "and."

I was originally wary of taking a figure class - more than a little skittish of being the only woman amongst the class members. Overall, though, I'm very glad I went. I had a wonderful time, produced some admirable work, and was definitely able to concentrate more on the art of photography. The models were fantastic, really helped to put me at ease, and luckily, my classmates weren't all skeezy old men.

polly want a pumpkin?

I was recently working with the National Aquarium in Baltimore on a holiday-themed photo shoot. It was fun and it was fabulous. There were pumpkins, various Aqua residents, and a few of the Aquarium's terrific staff. I had a great time, disregarding any deep-seated fear of bats.

Yes, these ones are fuzzy and cute, with their little muzzles. But then I was inside the bat cage (cool!) and one wandered behind me (scary!), and they closed the door to the cage to make sure that he didn't get out (scarier!). And then I started thinking about the few feet of wing span, and the wicked-looking 'elbow' hooks (shudder).

It's funny, really, that I knew that they were more skittish than I was, and I was trying to not make any sudden movements to make sure that they weren't too uncomfortable with a stranger so close. But still I was definitely feeling a little spooked before I got out of the cage. Just in time for Halloween.


I've posted several of the photos at my pbase gallery, so feel free to check them out.

Friends in interesting places

A friend of mine is soon opening her first show. She not only a talented photographer and artist, but she's a terrific colorist. And I'm not saying that just because I helped her frame everything in the exhibit.

A. Sophie Lenoir: "Portrait of Sacred Lands"
http://www.francedc.org/en/CulturalEvent.aspx?id=211

Her gallery is here:
http://www.betterphoto.com/gallery/gallery.asp?mem=112449

She and I have had some great discussions about art, photography, and life in general. Way to go, Sophie!