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Photography is my passion and perhaps some day my vocation. This is the journey.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
What is my problem with portraits?
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Monday, December 21, 2009
Oh gosh, I haven't posted
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A little background...I have a BA and a MS degree, so school, or at least academics, have been relatively easy, sure hard work, but academically and grade-wise, I have been successful, mostly A's with one B between the two degrees. However, I was not prepared for the rigors of this particular program.
There is a reason this program has a national reputation. It is tough. My first grade was an "F"...OMG...that just doesn't happen to me...and needless to say, I was devastated. The instructors have decades of experience in their areas of expertise. I always thought I was a good photographer...but much like boot camp, I had a lot of bad habits to UN-LEARN! So they break you down and then teach you how to do things the right way. One great thing that they do is still teach film photography and processing. I can now process black & white film and print from the ensuing negatives. Is my processing perfect...no, I still have trouble rolling film and end up with little crescent moons on the ends...my fellow students know what I mean. Are my prints perfect, no...but they are getting better and I have a better "eye" for what a good and what a crappy print is.
Another thing that I have discovered is that some of my instructors are willing to go above and beyond to offer advice, constructive criticism, and time and it has nothing to do with my grade. The instructor that gave me the lowest grade is the first one I go to for advice. The bar has been set high and I plan on meeting it and exceeding it.
OK, so I cried a lot of tears this semester and have had to really change (it is a work in progress) the way I look at grades. The good news, one A, one B & one C. Any other time and this would have been horrendous but I am thrilled with these grades because I really had to work my butt off to get them and most importantly, my work has improved and the level of my finished product that I will turn in is much pickier.
Well, next semester, is going to be even tougher, but I suspect even more rewarding. I promise to post more often with the good, the bad, the ugly and the beautiful. I have been taking pictures on my digital camera like crazy during the Christmas break, so check out http://www.daylilydreamsphoto.com/ and see what I've been up to. Hopefully see things improve as I learn more.
Thanks!
Lisa
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Here I am, one step closer.
I like flowers! I think it is pretty obvious. Every time I go out and take pictures, there is usually a flower or some other point of nature involved. I am beginning to take people pictures. It’s fun, especially the kids in my neighborhood. They really ham it up and the parents appreciate a free print. I am getting better but now I have the opportunity to really learn how to take pictures. I was accepted into the Commercial Photography Program at Randolph Community College in Asheboro, NC. It’s a phenomenal program with a great reputation.
Their standards are high and I am going to have to rise to them. I take good pictures but I want to take exceptional pictures and I am going to have to work harder than I ever have to get there. It will be worth the effort. I worked for years in jobs that I thought I might like but really just hated going to work. Photography is my Zen Garden, my yoga and my peaceful place. I can’t imagine what it will be like being paid to follow your dream and passion.
The biggest obstacle I face right now is financial. My home, internet and cell phone have all been cut off. I am trying to find work or work study. At least I have food. And through the kindness and generosity of staff and students, I have been able to get some of the supplies. I still have to get a light-meter, tripod, T-square, more film and developing paper and another flash. My flash doesn’t meet the standards.
I wish I had something really valuable or unique that I could list on EBay to raise money for tuition, fees, books and supplies. Basically I would need it to go viral. I do have a lead on two grants that I am applying for. They won’t meet my immediate needs but they will help next semester. Class starts in a couple of minutes, so I have to go. Wish me luck!
Friday, July 10, 2009
Family
I think that I am a fairly good photographer but my daughter paints her pictures in words. The artistry that she weaves with the subtle nuances of meaning and the words play on my mind like the light plays on the images I capture with with my camera.
So, that is my attempt at a play on words. I think I like cameras better. So, to my daughter, when you read this...we will have to do a book together. I'll take the pictures and you weave your magic alongside them.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Another Day, More to photograph
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
A Rose by any other name
I sure do love digital photography. You don’t have to wait two weeks for your film to be developed. Instant feedback, I love it. This rose is one of dozens of photos that I took when my miniature rose finally started blooming. Although the overall color looks a little off, I do think that the composition is pretty good. I love to do nature, wildlife, and floral photography but I’m trying to branch out to “people” photography.
Friday, June 26, 2009
I had googled my photography website and discovered Zazzle.com. They are a community of artists who design items to sell in a free storefront. The nice thing is that there is no capital outlay. So I've designed mouse pads, mugs, postcards, posters, stickers, calendars and so much more using my photography and get a small percentage of the sales. I have a link and illustration in the gadget at the bottom of my post. Now is the time to get your 2010 calendar. I am looking forward to photo sessions with people and in addition to framing and matting the photos, I can now offer other merchandise. Heck, I even made first class photo postage.
My main website is www.daylilydreamsphotography.com and there are examples of photography that can be used and printed right there. More to come later.