This past Wednesday Sophia and I walked down to Doctor’s park beach on the western shore of Lake Michigan. Why do we all love to look for and pickup water-smoothed rocks and stones? What makes throwing stones into water so enjoyable? I understand the challenge of skipping; but the kids seem extraordinarily happy with a throw and kerplop.
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Mary Kelly called and said we needed a birthday celebration invitation; and in a few weeks we had this delightful album invitation off the press and in the mail. Then of course we celebrated with Mary.
(click image for larger view – or go to the slide show for more images)
“At the root of creativity is an impulse to understand, to make sense of random and often unrelated details. For me, photography provides an intersection of time, space, light, and emotional stance. One needs to be still enough, observant enough, and aware enough to recognize the life of the materials, to be able to ‘hear through the eyes.’ “ — Paul Caponigro
Last evening
as Colin Hay
drew music from his guitar strings
formed dramas with his lyrics
the stage lights also
drew beautifully
the form of a fan’s face
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“Photographers may be concerned, conceptual, confrontational, candid, casual, constructing, but what is important is that they have a point of view.” – John Loengard, Pictures under discussion by John Loengard
“Taking photographs, taking candid photographs, means that the photographer is an invisible man. Whereas there is still a feeling that in having a photograph taken there is loss of face: something of the soul is gone.” – Bruce Davidson – talking on Beautiful Beautiful, a BBC film shown on 5 October 1969 [cited in: Creative Camera February 1970, p. 41]
“My pictures are not escapes from reality, but a contemplation of reality, so that I can experience life in a deeper way.” – Bruce Davidson – 1968 [cited in: Creative Camera April 1970, p. 104]
Grandfather’s point of view
after applying scissors and pencil
to paper
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About a month ago a number of LUG (Leica User Group) members thought it worthwhile to take on an occasional “assignment.” This group of both amateur and professional photographers, from around the world, will bring an interesting international flavor to any topic. I’ve posted a list of contributors with links to their contributions here.
So here’s my first take on the LUG Assignment for March “Document the effects of the worldwide economic downturn, as you see it unfolding, in your city, town, village, social group or family.” (the link will take you to a pdf for viewing or download)
This, my “first take,” does not feel complete. I don’t feel that I’ve gotten into the subject as deeply as I’d like. It still feels like a work in progress. The deadline, for me, has moved from March 31 to “whenever it’s finished.” I’ll continue to work this subject; meet and interview people; observe new evidence of the condition of our local economy; whether improving or declining.
If you have a story to tell and live in the Greater Milwaukee area (Milwaukee and Ozaukee counties). I’d like to talk to you. Drop me line.
Last Thursday I went to hear Buckwheat Zydeco at Turner Hall; in an attempt to warm up a bit; and also get in synch with our friends in NOLA. Didn’t quite work out. As a huge Clifton Chenier fan I’ve been watching Buckwheat for the past decades; hoping he may pickup where Clifton left off.
Alas, not yet. Buckwheat never seemed to hit the groove at Turner Hall. Although a fair number in the audience got to their feet, created their own heat and found their own groove.
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“A painter works with color as the medium, a photographer works with light.” – Carlotta M. Corpron
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and time — the photographer works with light and/or time
Last Sunday Ann’s son, Josh, brought Clyde over for a visit.
Here’s what people say to do to survive this current economic slowdown:
Market
Budget
Sharpen Position
Increase Exposure
Self promotion – All the time
Develop New Business
Deliver on promise of Client-centered organization
Manifest polite behavior
Exceed client’s expectations
Sustain positive attitude
Keep Calm
See the glass as half full
Be flexible
Never take the work for granted
Maintain focused optimism
Identify solutions
Fewer desserts and Lattes
More soups
Bake our your own bread
Cook more — eat-out less
Put the “children” on eBay
So as a graphic designer, photographer and videographer I decided to look at my economic picture…
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and open up a clothing store at cafepress with a zen line of designer clothing
times gone by
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and those to come
NOW
between history and mystery
may the New Year — 2009 — bring
a shift in consciousness, however subtle, toward
non-violent, genuine communication
and compassionate understanding
