Saturday, February 28, 2015

365 Project - Day 121

I am sharing my weekly Lenten photograph. I do need to plan what I will photograph for the next few weeks as I struggled to decide on this week's photo. I'm happy with this one, but it took a long time to get here. I wandered around the house and then tried a variety of different options for the scramble letters, including dropping them in water. It turns out that the letters warp when wet. Oh well, the things you learn!

Blessings!

Today's Photo: Rest in the Lord



"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him." Psalm 37:7




EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 640
58mm (16-85mm)
f5.6
1/10

Friday, February 27, 2015

365 Project - Day 120

We are on the brink of another musical. Such fun! I am anxious to see Newtown High School's production of City of Angels. Two years ago, my sons' first duet together featured a song from this show. This will be a bittersweet moment. The final high school performance for my oldest son and the inaugural high school performance for my younger son.

I had the opportunity this week to take publicity photos during rehearsal. My kids absolutely never allow me to see their performances before opening night. So I was over the moon and did not behave properly, I'm sure! I was so excited to be there that I was less a fly on the wall than I should have been. Ah well, if I am allowed back again, the novelty will have worn off ;-)

This performance will be produced in both color and black and white. This will be an outstanding production. I can't wait! Below are two photos from the rehearsal. It is wonderful to see my children living their passions. I hope you are living yours. Enjoy!

Today's Photo: Passions' Play





"There is no passion to be found in playing small - in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living." Nelson Mandela

Thursday, February 26, 2015

365 Project - Day 119

I recently saw a black and white museum photograph of a cabbage leaf and was immediately committed to this project. I chose to begin, however, by photographing red cabbage, one of the most photographed vegetables. I was excited as I cut through the middle of the cabbage with its vibrant color and intricate design. I was not, though, thrilled with that awful cabbage smell, but once I peeled back the first layer and exposed it to the open air for a few minutes the odor went away. I took several photographs and when processing the photos I noticed something special about this one.

The complexity of the natural design of the center slice of cabbage immediately reminded me of the complexity of our lives. What a thrill, then, to find the arrow formed by the leaf and its reflection in the mirror. If you look closely, you'll also notice that the blemish on the right is barely visible in its reflection. Finally, pull back a bit from the cabbage and the complexity appears to simplify into nestled curves rather than haphazardness. Our lives are similarly complex, with curves, twists and turns and bruises, but also with beauty, vibrancy and simplicity. Could it be that all of this is necessary to position us for the success we are intended to live? Imagine that our lives are designed with ordained complexity -- meaning while life seems aggressively messy to us, God is in control. Yes, it may be easier to live blemish-free, straight lines, but if so, perhaps we would not be prepared for our successes.

I've been studying Ecclesiastes and I find it a wonderfully perplexing book of the Bible. I have read several chapters over and over in many different versions and I find myself not much wiser than in my initial read. In Ecclesiastes, Solomon, the son of David, is struggling with the meaning or meaninglessness of life. Yet, he acknowledges God's constant presence. Each day's events may not make sense and life can be particularly confusing day to day, but when we look back over a series of events during a season of our life, we can see the pattern(s) more clearly.

So, given there are some things we cannot change in God's design, perhaps we need to live and learn in both prosperity and adversity, trusting that all things work together for good and His purpose moves forward regardless.

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Move forward on purpose



"Consider what God has done: Who can straighten what he has made crooked? When times are good, be happy; when times are bad, consider this: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, no one can discover anything about their future." Ecclesiastes 7:13-14







EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 320
85mm
f5.6
2s

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

365 Project - Day 118

"Share each other's burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important." Galatians 6:2-3.

I had originally planned on including only verse 2, but I felt compelled to add verse 3. We are not as familiar with this follow-on reprimand of simply not being better than the person who needs help and certainly not being as important as we think we are. I drove past an elderly woman who was shoveling her mailbox out of the snow this afternoon. I wanted to stop and help, but I am recovering from a broken leg and I did not have proper gloves and boots - aka, I was more important. As I drove by, however, I called my husband and asked him to go help her. I then turned my car around to tell her he was on his way. When I got back to her house I had to laugh at myself. My husband had asked me if I was sure she needed help. To which I responded, "She's like 80+ years old, it's cold outside and she's on the street shoveling. Of course she needs help!" When I got back to her house 3 minutes later, she was not outside (speedy woman) and a young man was shoveling her porch steps. Clearly, I had misread the situation. I turned around, called my husband, who was now on his way, and told him NVM. I meant well.

Blessings!

Today's Photo: Let me share your burdens



"I would rather make mistakes in kindness and compassion than work miracles in unkindness and hardness." -Mother Teresa





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 200
200mm (70-200mm f/2.8)
f4
1/20

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

365 Project - Day 117

I went out to take photos in the snow with my 16-85 zoom lens that I "recovered" from my son. I then used Silver Efex to create this Black and White film noir version. I like the minimalist look. As such, I will keep this entry simple.

This photo reminded me of Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven:
A time to be born,
And a time to die;
A time to plant,
And a time to pluck what is planted;
A time to kill,
And a time to heal;
A time to break down,
And a time to build up;
A time to weep,
And a time to laugh;
A time to mourn,
And a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones,
And a time to gather stones
A time to embrace,
And a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to gain,
And time to lose;
A time to keep,
And a time to throw away;
A time to tear,
And a time to sew;
A time to keep silence,
And a time to speak;
A time to love,
And a time to hate;
A time of war,
And a time of peace.


Best Wishes!

Today's Photo: Everything has its time







EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 400
16mm (16-85mm f/3.5-5.6mm)
f16
1/90

Monday, February 23, 2015

365 Project - Day 116

"Blue is the only color which maintains its own character in all its tones ... it will always stay blue - " Raoul Dufy

I was feeling a bit blue and so compelled to play around with the blue gel on my speed light. Yes, I know these are very blue, rather than having a blue cast, but I wanted no doubt of my intent. I truly intended blue photos to match my mood! I suppose they might be bluer than I was, but I couldn't resist the fun. The flowers are naturally pale purple. The setting is a navy blue room. So, I was doomed from the start!

Here's something interesting about the color blue ... we use the color to express melancholy, yet it is a primary source of calmness as it is said that the color of blue triggers the release of the calming hormones of the brain. It is also considered a color of trust, constant and confidence. Now, what was I feeling when I said, "I was feeling blue?"

Best wishes!

Today's Photos: Perplexing Blue



"Blue color is everlastingly appointed by the Deity to be a source of delight." John Ruskin






EXIF: NIKON D7100
ISO 160
50mm
f11
1/180 (off camera flash)

Sunday, February 22, 2015

365 Project - Day 115

This is my first still life with candlelight. This took patience given the longer exposure of 6 seconds. I had to settle in, sit and wait a bit to ensure there were no in camera vibrations, nor small movements within the content. I liken this to relaxing in a quiet corner at the end of a long, hard day. A little stillness, peace and solitude is necessary to settle the nerves, wipe the slate clean, relax and restart.

Just as God's mercies are new every morning, we must shake off the day and start afresh. "The thought of my suffering and homelessness is bitter beyond words. I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss. Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, 'The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!' ” Lamentations 3:19-24

Blessings!

Today's Photo: Time to Relax and Refresh



“Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 400
50mm
f5.6
6s

Saturday, February 21, 2015

365 Project - Day 114

I'm working on developing my still life skills in all aspects. The difficulty is as much in orchestrating the content as in developing the photograph. For this photograph, I chose to pull out my china, which I do not use often enough and pair it with an old pearl necklace which I love, but broke many years ago. I added the flower and miniature painting to incorporate additional interest in the photograph. The light is natural and from a window several yards away.

Today's Photo: Simple, traditional elegance


"The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do." Walter Bagehot





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 160
155mm
f5.6
1/4s



Friday, February 20, 2015

365 Project - Day 113

I had a moment of great energy today when I unhooked my camera from its home on my tripod and headed towards the door on my way to my physical therapy appointment. I had planned to venture out in the bright sunlight after PT to capture photos of our snow capped winter. I had planned to, until I asked my husband to tell me the temperature. At that very moment, I carefully snapped my camera back into place, zipped up my coat, grabbed my gloves and briefly wondered what I would photograph for the day. When I reached my appointment, my car's temperature gauge read 3 degrees. I am so much happier in warmth.

A couple of days ago, I walked around the outside of my home to take photographs and found huge icicles, I mean enormous, hanging off the water drainpipes on our roof. I can't imagine how they are keeping it together ;-) The photo below is one of the smaller icicles. It is lovely and I got a kick out of trying to catch a droplet on camera.

Today's Photo: Winter's Folly



"For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! 2 Corinthians 4:17






EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 100
35mm
f2
1/8000

Thursday, February 19, 2015

365 Project - Day 112

We have just stepped into the Season of Lent, a time to refocus on God and Christ. It is a season reflective of the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert after his baptism and before much of his preaching. Matthew 4:1-11, "Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, 'If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.' Jesus answered, 'It is written: "Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God." ' Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. 'If you are the Son of God,' he said, 'throw yourself down. For it is written: "He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." ' Jesus answered him, 'It is also written: "Do not put the Lord your God to the test" ' Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 'All this I will give you,' he said, 'if you will bow down and worship me.' Jesus said to him, 'Away from me, Satan! For it is written: "Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only." ' Then the devil left him, and the angels came and attended him."

During Lent, I will post one photo a week that reflects the symbols of Lent and Easter. I choose to start with this one.

Blessings ...

Today's Photo: Do this in remembrance of me


"Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him." Matthew 4:11





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 160
50mm
f8
1/2s

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

365 Project - Day 111

I wanted to play around with photographing objects on mirrors. While at the hardware store the other day, I picked up a package of mirror tiles. When I returned home, I discovered they were too small for most projects, including this one, but I'm sharing anyway. The biggest challenge is that without a clear, clean space, everything is reflected in the mirror. There were somethings in the room that I could clearly see would be in the way and end up as problems in the mirror reflection and other items that I either simply could not see or chose to include because I thought they added complexity, depth or interest. In this photo, the high ceiling adds dimension that may cause one to pause to determine whether the photo is right side up or upside down. So, of course, I thought - there is a life lesson in here, somehow.

What do you see when you look in the mirror? Do you like your reflection? Do you see only what's on the surface or do you see more deeply? Which matters most to you? I am convinced that Khalil Gibran's statement, "The appearance of things changes according to the emotions; and thus we see magic and beauty in them, while the magic and beauty are really in ourselves," applies as much to how we see ourselves when we look in the mirror as it does to how we view anything else. If we can appreciate that we are beautiful souls and celebrate the unique gifts and talents within us that create magic, then we will see magic and beauty when we look in the mirror.

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Reflective Beauty



"Attract what you expect, reflect what you desire, become what you respect, mirror what you admire." Unknown





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 200
50mm
f8
1/6

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

365 Project - Day 110

One of my favorite regions in the world is southern France. In the south of France, Saint Paul de Vence is a beautiful, picturesque small town. I have visited the town on several occasions, with my family joining me once. We stopped in one of the small local art boutiques, looked around and met the master artiste. He was absolutely delightful, though, he spoke little English. We all enjoyed meeting Leo and felt like we were instantly part of his family. Since we had two small children in tow, I did not expect to feel so comfortable in an art studio, but Leo and his assistant were filled with such joy. We bought several floral on canvas paintings and cheerfully moved along the narrow cobblestone paths. Each time I returned, I continued to be welcomed into the boutique / studio.

The Leo florals are hung on our staircase walls and I enjoy seeing them everyday. I so miss the flowers of France. It was always such fun to stop in an open market to pick up a fresh bouquet or to see beautiful local paintings. To be constantly surrounded by beauty filled me with much joy. This photograph reminds me of France and Leo.

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Je me ennuie de votre beauté



"My garden is my most beautiful masterpiece." Claude Monet





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 160
200mm (70-200mm f/2.8)
f4
1/20s



RANDOM BONUS:

Since it is Fat Tuesday! I am adding this photo that I neglected to post the other day (long story) ... Have a great Lenten Season!





Monday, February 16, 2015

365 Project - Day 109

I have thought of orchids as being rare and delicate flowers, sought after by the most skilled gardeners. I learned today, however, that the orchid is one of the largest and most diverse families of flowering plants with more than 20,000 species, which house almost 70,000 scientific plant names. I am still a bit surprised. Given all of the snow and chilled air we're experiencing, I was delighted to find these colorful, delicate, "rare" orchids at the hardware store this week ;-)

I am intrigued by the color and complexity of this plant. It is different and that makes me smile. I found a wide variety of colors, sizes and shapes to choose from in the hardware store. I can only imagine the possibilities in a flower or plant shop. I believe that the expansiveness and diversity of the Orchid is part of its real allure and strength. That is also true, I'm convinced, in life. When we embrace diverse cultures and people, we create more vibrant and vital lives for ourselves, capable of richer successes. I encourage you to take advantage of any opportunity you find to expand your life with relationships that enrich you through their differences.

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Vital Diversity



"Strength lies in differences, not in similarities." Stephen R. Covey





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 160
190mm (70-200mm f/2.8)
f5.6
0.5s


Sunday, February 15, 2015

365 Project - Day 108

I had the honor and privilege of serving as a staff photographer for the Tim Tebow Foundation Night to Shine event at Faith Church in New Milford, CT. I admit to feeling inadequate as a photographer amongst a group of highly professional photographers. I have had to remind myself of Humans of New York's recent interview with President Obama in which the President said you have to remember that it's about the work.

I began by serving on the red carpet as paparazzi. I quickly read the name tags, called out participant names and took photographs treating everyone like celebrities. The easy part for me was not taking photographs, it was talking to the participants, sharing their joy, telling them how beautiful, handsome and cool they looked. I loved loving them. After the red carpet, I took candids during dinner and dancing. We talked, smiled, laughed and hugged. We all had a great time. I was truly blessed to have been a part of such a spectacular event.

Since the Prom, I have anguished over the photographs. In fact, I waited nearly 24 hours to download them. If you've read my headshot blogs, you know I am a perfectionist. And, the most important thing to me is that I deliver photographs that make the subjects proud. This time I felt inadequate. It's possible, though, that my participation just was not about my photographs, particularly given there were 7 other photographers. Perhaps, it was more about the giving of myself, and that was enough. I do know that I am better for having been a part of such beauty and joy and love.

"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." 1Corinthians 13:13

At the end of the evening, everyone was crowned kings and queens. So many smiles! I am sharing 2 of my favorite photographs.

Wishing you blessings!

Today's Photos: Kings and Queens Shine!




















"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

Saturday, February 14, 2015

365 Project - Day 107

I believe everyone is uniquely gifted to make a difference. I want youth to understand and embrace the talents they have been gifted and use those gifts to change the world.

I've just watched an SNL Vintage Episode of Janice Ian singing At Seventeen. I had forgotten that I know all the words to that song. Perhaps, this is why I am so convicted about the impact of youth. The song reminds me of the importance of knowing that no matter what is happening, you matter and you have within you the tools to make the world a better place.

Today's Photo: "Come dance with me"



"At Seventeen", Janice Ian
I learned the truth at seventeen
That love was meant for beauty queens
And high school girls with clear-skinned smiles
Who married young and then retired

The valentines I never knew
The Friday night charades of youth
Were spent on one more beautiful
At seventeen I learned the truth

And those of us with ravaged faces
Lacking in the social graces
Desperately remained at home
Inventing lovers on the phone

Who called to say, "Come dance with me"
And murmured vague obscenities
It isn't all it seems at seventeen

A brown-eyed girl in hand-me-downs
Whose name I never could pronounce
Said, "Pity, please, the ones who serve
'Cause they only get what they deserve"

And the rich relationed hometown queen
Marries into what she needs
With a guarantee of company
And haven for the elderly

So remember those who win the game
Lose the love they sought to gain
In debentures of quality and dubious integrity

Their small town eyes will gape at you
In dull surprise when payment due
Exceeds accounts received at seventeen

To those of us who knew the pain
Of valentines that never came
And those whose names were never called
When choosing sides for basketball

It was long ago and far away
The world was younger than today
When dreams were all they gave for free
To ugly duckling girls like me

We all play the game and when we dare
To cheat ourselves at solitaire
Inventing lovers on the phone
Repenting other lives unknown

They call and say, "Come dance with me"
And murmur vague obscenities
At ugly girls like me at seventeen





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 200
50mm
f13
1.5s



Friday, February 13, 2015

365 Project - Day 106

What a night! Can't wait to write about it ... Until then ...

With Lent fast approaching, I needed a quick fix of my favorite chocolate chip cookies. Several weeks ago I mentioned these. Alton Brown's The Chewy is simply the most delicious chocolate chip cookie ever. It has just the right amount of crunch on the outside and softness in the middle and they stay that way for days. Uh, well, at least until they are all eaten!

Why did I need these now? During Lent, I traditionally give up chips, sweets and candy. I have been doing some version of this since high school. The hardest part has historically been that we nearly always held business conferences during lent. Conference afternoons I desperately needed a snack in the afternoon to stay awake and alert and PM breaks were filled with chips or cookies or ice cream or some combination and all meals came with big sweet treats. I learned to steel myself in preparation of these meetings, but it was challenging.

Ash Wednesday is this week, beginning the season of Lent and I shall be without cookies for 40+ days. So in preparation, I made these incredibly delicious treats. Though, I'm not telling how many I've eaten already!

Enjoy

Today's Photo: The Chewy


"Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you." Jeremiah 29:11




EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 400
50mm
f2.4
1/90





Thursday, February 12, 2015

365 Project - Day 105

"Why do you do the crazy things you do?" she asks. "I hope to add some measure of grace to the world!" Don Quixote responds.

I saw the musical, Man of La Mancha, at one of the local theaters this evening and absolutely loved it. I hung on every word and tried hard to memorize lines as they came. As I was relishing one, however, another came along to savor. It is a lovely, whimsical, meaningful and sad musical. My parents took us to see many musical when I was young and I vaguely recall this being one of those. I so enjoyed seeing it this evening. Most are familiar with "The Impossible Dream," but I suspect few recall the context. I find the opening quote and this to be central to this musical, "And maddest of all: to see life as it is, and not as it should be."

"And the world will be better for this,
That one man, scorned and covered with scars,
Still strove, with his last ounce of courage,
To reach the unreachable stars!”

Today's Photo: As it should be



“Call nothing thine except thy soul. Love not what thou art, only what thou may become.” Don Quixote





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 160
98mm (70-200 f/2.8)
f11
1.5s

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

365 Project - Day 104

Admittedly, the sunshine just wasn't enough to brighten my day today. I needed a new toy and fresh cookies. More about the cookies in a couple of days. My new toy is Nik's Silver Efex Pro2. I knew my B&W photos were okay, but not as interesting as I wanted and did not have the kind of depth I recalled from way back when I was working with film. Though I have been playing with different plug-ins, I still wasn't fully satisfied. So, today I watched videos and downloaded the demo software. I ran a couple of old faves through the software and was enamored by one of the photos I "tricked up" with Selenium and will add it here later. My son thought one of his photographs using the film noir preset was a little too harsh and grainy. I made a few changes and got, "that's cool, mom."

I really like the Selenium tone which is a cool blue silvery look, causing the object to appear as though it's platinum (under the proper circumstances). So, for today's photo, my intent was to combine Selenium with a soft selective color on the pink lily. I like the combination of pink and platinum. I don't believe I created magic here, but I am happy with this as a first step. The good news is it brightened my day. I hope it works as a "pick me up" for you.

Best wishes!


Today's photo: "Brighten my day"


“Flowers and fruits are always fit presents; flowers, because they are a proud assertion that a ray of beauty outvalues all the utilities of the world.” Ralph Waldo Emerson





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 160
50mm
f8
7/10


Tuesday, February 10, 2015

365 Project - Day 103

"Next to God, thy parents." William Penn

I received a phone call this afternoon that my 82 year old father is in the hospital. So, it was a delightful treat to speak with him this evening and hear his laughter. That smile and laughter are among my favorite things in all the world. My father is a very funny man, a prankster. He kept us laughing, often to the point of tears while we were growing up. I can vividly remember snorting beverages at the dinner table from laughing so hard.

I pray for my father's supernatural return to perfect health.

Best wishes.

Today's Photo: His smile!



"A father’s goodness is higher than the mountain, a mother’s goodness deeper than the sea." Japanese Proverb





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 200
50mm
f5.6
1/10

Monday, February 9, 2015

365 Project - Day 102

I saw a Facebook posting today that read, "New England Closed Mondays Please Call Again!" So appropriate for yet another snow day! I meant to bake cookies today, but got distracted with another Creative Live broadcast (though this time a free recording). I continue to dream of Spring and since that is the case, I am compelled to deliver another flower photograph. I think, much like a rain dance, I am going to keep posting flowers to make drive Spring weather. I can't remember the last day we did not have snow on the ground. The good news is shots like this, using window light, are easier to take because of the reflection off of the snow, but I would rather have sunshine any day!

"Winter is on my head, but eternal Spring is in my heart" Victor Hugo

This lily is delicate, beautiful and pink. Pink. In my opinion, the primary color of Spring. I shoot these flowers in my dining room. It is a large room, but it is full of stuff. I use the room, however, because it has fantastic navy blue walls that serve as a wonderful back drop. As I was shooting today, I was unnerved by the painting on the wall that crowds my space. I finally stood back to look at the painting I had purchased more than 17 years ago and had been ignoring. It is a beautiful floral painting with many colors and a dark background. The reason why I was having spacial challenges at the moment I stepped back to look at the painting was because I was photographing a larger eclectic arrangement of flowers. I used that moment as an inspiration for a later floral - when Spring truly arrives. It was a reminder, though, of how much I love florals.

Best wishes.

Today's Photo: Until Spring!



"Despite the forecast, live like it's Spring." Lilly Pulitzer




EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 160
50mm
f/11
1/3

Sunday, February 8, 2015

365 Project - Day 101

I am excited about the remaining 200+ days of this project, knowing that I have lots to explore, learn and develop. One of things I have discovered in the last 100 days is that I have a preference for portraiture/headshots of youth, event photography and flower photography. Sort of an odd mix. I am trying to determine how that melds into a single objective, or not. The unfortunate thing is that they are all costly, naturally! All requiring very different kits, naturally!

I am committed to stretching, growing and achieving excellence. This is no longer about taking 10,000 photographs or spending 10,000 hours on this passion. It is about doing exceptionally well, which will require time, sacrifice and faith. I am reminded of my former CEO's quote, "growth and comfort do not coexist." Ginni Rometty Along the way, I will remain focused and "Cast all [my] anxieties on Him because He cares for [me]." 1 Peter 5:7

So, it won't happen everyday, but as often as possible, I will select photos that illustrate new skill development. Today, I selected the combination of my favorite format, old fashioned B&W and grainy in still life. While I have been working on stills for several weeks. Shifting to B&W and incorporating the apple's shadow in the photograph is an important distinction in this photograph. I also believe the tones and details are improved in this over others. While the subject doesn't meet one of the 3 preferred categories above, developing talent in B&W, natural light and still photography will strengthen my abilities in all 3, regardless of subject.

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Nourished by faith



"If I had 4 hours to chop down a tree, I'd spend 2 hours sharpening my axe." Abraham Lincoln




EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 100
50mm
f6.7
1/8

Saturday, February 7, 2015

365 Project - Day 100

"If God had granted all the silly prayers I've ever prayed where would I be now? Someday we will be more grateful for the prayers that didn't get answered than the ones that did." C.S. Lewis

What a remarkable 100 day journey this has been. When I initially thought about the 365 Project, I did not imagine the challenge in front of me. I thought that simply taking a photo every day and posting it somewhere should be simple enough. As I began that first day, however, it felt strange just to posting a picture. I was compelled to say something about the photograph and the words, though difficult to come, needed to be more than "here is my photo; I took this because; this is the EXIF." I had more I wanted to say. I didn't know why. I am convinced that God was stirring me, unbeknownst to me at the time, into a greater service. Frankly, had I understood at the time, I might not have started. He knew, however, that I was committed to the project the first day I created this blog, but I think he also knew I wasn’t keen on the written blog. I got a little help the next day. A broken leg changes your perspective in a really big way, if you let it.

Society does a lot of self-checking after the first 100 days. Let's look back at what I have accomplished in the first 100 days of my 365 Project. While I have been on crutches for 100 days, my life and this journey have been about so much. "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4 I have often been anxious that I would exit this time with a fully healed leg, yet as the same person that fell down the stairs that day. To me, that would mean I had wasted 100 days.

In 100 days, I have taken 8,615 photographs! A normal day for me has been 20, with my high of 1200ish (70 cast members) and my low of 4 (at the gas station). I love that those were my bookends. Both were huge tasks to tackle. Only 20 days were actually shot away from my house. I've had very few days that were total failures, but have had a couple days when only 1 or 2 photos were worth processing. And, one of my favorite photos remains the one I took immediately following my fall, before I realized I had broken my leg. I was in pain and limping, but I was on a mission. Shortly after taking that photograph, I realized it was time to "be still." It is important to me to acknowledge that I managed my way through the first day or two after the fall with help from a small event on Light Stalking. I shared a photo I had taken earlier in the month as my first posting into their Shark Tank, a critiquing forum. I received lots of excellent constructive criticism coupled with lively banter. I was distracted during that time and I am grateful.

I have been incredibly fortunate during these 100 days. I rested and attempted meditation! I have had time to learn, to laugh, to love and to live, with little distraction, except my camera (and Lightroom). I have experimented, discovered and grown. I have come to understand the possibilities and limitations of my lenses. I believe that less is more and even less is better. And, some days, I just draw a creative blank. I am my biggest critic (which is nothing new) and one of the best feelings is to take a second look at my daily photos and think, "maybe that wasn't so bad after all." I have developed new skills in headshots, studio lighting, silhouettes, flower photography and still life, though not an expert, I'm making huge strides. My speed light is now my friend, whereas before it was a stranger. Christmas bokeh and event photos are much easier for me. I successfully created guidelines and taught ISO.

I am fearless!

I want to come back to the headshots. When I was shooting the cast photos, I realized I wasn't interested in only taking a good photograph. I personally had a dual purpose: 1) in the few minutes I had with each child, I wanted them to feel important, beautiful and talented in a way that was unique and special, and 2) I wanted to create a photograph that made them also feel so when they saw it. I had less than 5 minutes with each person. I was in a non-weight bearing cast and I was shooting 5 to 18 yr olds straight through without a break. It was impossible to deliver on this - but I wanted to come as close as I could. I wanted a sweeping victory. I felt God commanded it from me. We don't always get to choose our circumstances, but we always get to choose our attitude. "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

So, I will wrap 100 / 365 with this: I have selected photos to post both because I think they are among the best of the day and because they suit my message. When I embarked on this project, I didn't expect to become a quote hoarder, nor did I anticipate the Lord to taking over, but He is in control and again, I am grateful. Amen.

I often joke that I am the only person reading my blog. Now, I feel I am being pushed to ensure there is broader circulation. I am praying I'm ready. This could be why I spent 100 days with a broken leg!

"The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; your mercy, O Lord, endures forever." Psalm 138:8

Blessings to you and yours!


Today's Photo: Perfected Perseverance



"And, when you want something, the whole universe conspires in helping you to achieve it." Paulo Coelho




EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 100
50mm
f8
1/180 (Paul C Buff Einstein Strobe)






Friday, February 6, 2015

365 Project - Day 99

"For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:9 This first 99 days has been a fascinating combination of learning and stretching as I work through this process in the best possible way given a difficult situation. I am happier and stronger than I was 99 days ago, for certain. I know I have potential for far more than I believed 99 days ago. And this work, this passion, was never about impressing others, but about finding a path to helping others. While that hasn't come full circle yet, I feel more encouraged.

"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14 I am sometimes frustrated that the mission of helping others using this creative is not clearer, but I know that it is a work in progress and will come at the proper and appointed time. Until then, I have been granted this amazing time of patience, healing, reflection, development, gratitude and most importantly time with my family. And, that is huge. I am convinced that there will come a time when my world will be crazy busy again and I will want for a return to this solitude. So, for now, I cannot wish this away. I must enjoy and learn from and through it.

Until that time, I am thankful for the incredible life I am living - every bit of it. And, I am thankful for the one that is on it's way as "God weaves together all the circumstances of my life into a beautiful tapestry." Such an awesome way to think about it, right? "Enter with the password: Thank you! Make yourselves at home, talking praise. Thank him. Worship him." Psalm 100:4.

Praise God!

A note about this photograph - I chose this for 2 reasons: 1) its heavenly / upward tilt and 2) as I mentioned yesterday, in the run-up to Day 100, I chose (though unplanned when I shot these photos) a photograph that illustrates a new technique. So, while I have been shooting floral for a few weeks, the processing for this is different. I saw a reference to a photographer who shoots monochrome and creamy tones with his florals. I looked as his work and it's lovely. I tried to imitate to suit my taste, a little less creamy and a little sharper. (NB - I will add his name - need to research)

Best wishes.


Today's Photo: Until Then



"Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4




EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 200
50mm
f8
1/2s

Thursday, February 5, 2015

365 Project - Day 98

While I did less today than I had planned, I may have done more than I should have. I am making excellent progress in healing my broken leg, but I spent too much time standing on it today and it hurts.

We had a photography club meeting this evening, designed to allow people who have new cameras to join us and learn more about the fundamentals. We had a larger turn out than expected. Yay! I co-staffed the ISO table and had a ball. It was fun being in a leadership role and helping people again. I had forgotten how good that feels. Plus it was nice to test my skills.

My approach to today's photograph, therefore, is about skill. Given I am nearing the end of my first 100 days in this project, I felt I should select a photo that demonstrated knowledge of a skill I did not have when I started. And, while this photo was taken 2 days ago, I am selecting not my favorite or the best photo of the day, but one that that illustrates a new technique (and is a decent photograph as well).

My husband was kind enough to shovel the walkways, including a few paths for me. I walked out into the backyard on 2 solid for the first time in over 2 months. It was liberating, albeit cold. I was confined to a few snow shoveled paths, but that was enough for me. I have taken photographs of the sun before, but have not managed to capture a starburst. I had to properly position myself and ensure the sun was positioned slightly behind the trees to capture this. Success meant setting my mind on the possibilities, not the probabilities.

When I was working, I often pushed my teams to think about the art of the possible. In doing so, we could abandon small minded thinking and move on to create much stronger solutions for our clients and partners. We would also collaborate with colleagues to innovate new ways to solving complex issues. It often meant that we accomplished more than folks believed we could and sometimes we surprised ourselves. One of my favorite poems on the art of the possible is Emily Dickinson's, "I Dwell in Possibility". I should note that I have a less insular, more literal interpretation of the poem! I think it's a brilliant take on the extension of a person's world when they dwell on possibilities - it creates many new windows and doors; opens up a world in which the best of everything is possible; the sky is the limit with blessings from heaven; you do what you have been destined to do. Ah hah!

Best wishes!

Today's photo: Bursting forth with new possibilities



"I Dwell in Possibility" by Emily Dickinson

I dwell in Possibility -
A fairer House than Prose -
More numerous of Windows -
Superior for Doors -

Of Chambers as the Cedars -
Impregnable of Eye
And for an everlasting Roof -
The Gambrels of the Sky

Of Visitors - the fairest -
For Occupation - This -
The spreading wide my narrow Hands -
To gather Paradise -





EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 100
50mm
f11
1/180





Wednesday, February 4, 2015

365 Project - Day 97

My children are delightful, funny, creative, talented, wise, energetic, kind, beautiful, brilliant and exasperating! Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "A child is a curly, dimpled lunatic." And, I am proud to say that have two of those.

Most believe it is a lucky break when a photographer has children and pets. They have ready subjects to photograph and thus to practice with any time. This is simply not true for me. I have beasts that absolutely do not wish to accommodate my requests for sitting for photographs no matter how I might bribe them. I try nearly once a week to coerce them into a photo session and fail every time. This time was different. We were snowed in and they were getting bored. They had seen my Rembrandt style self-portrait taken immediately following my time in Creative Live's Studio Lighting 101 course with Lindsay Adler. (Can I say again that this is one of the very best training sessions I ever attended? You can't help but learn. Fabulous!!) I suppose they thought it looked okay, but they still refused the first few times I asked. They knew I would persist, however. This time I was armed. I promised to deliver the harshest possible photograph with minimal light (well, they are teen boys). I promised only shadowy Rembrandts, split light and profiles. I promised I would take only 15 minutes of their time. I promised they would have the coolest photos ever! Yeah, I was on a roll and they bit.

I set up a small makeshift studio in the basement with the Einstein strobe and dug around to find my silver reflector, which before the class, I had no clue how to use. I had originally planned on using my tripod, but Lindsay doesn't so I put it away. I had also thought about trying to build makeshift barn doors for my speed light, but felt I was overcomplicating things and adding more light when the objective was as little light as possible.

As we got started, the boys were each a mess, cracking jokes, texting, shifting in their seats, making odd faces and doing everything except sitting still in the chair. I kid you not, they are the worst possible clients. I would rather a 2 year old over my own children. One of the things they complain about is how long it takes for me to finish a photo shoot with them -- no wonder. I cannot get them to sit still long enough to get started and get through the shoot. Once they finally settled in, though, a funny thing happened. I started to show them the photos on the back of the camera and they became more agreeable. When they realized they were actually going to get what they paid for (their payment being stillness and silence), I had their undivided attention. No phones, no squirming, no joking. And for that payment, I delivered a new set of social media profile photos. That's how happy they were.

Looking back on that session, it would have been easy for me to get really agitated with them. I must instruct and discipline, yes, but yelling at them only agitates me, not them. They are in their own world. As much as I would prefer to have obedient children who always succumbed to my wishes as soon as commanded, that is not what I was granted. I have children with huge, wonderful minds of their own. If I am patient, we will come together, eventually. I know we were made for each other. So why allow them to make me crazy?

Best wishes!

Today's photo: (a daily double) To each his own...



"Children are a blessing and a gift from the Lord." Psalm 127:3

Tuesday, February 3, 2015

365 Project - Day 96

"Keep me away from the wisdom that does not cry, the philosophy which does not laugh and the greatness which does not bow before children." Khalil Gibran.

I have to repeat myself. These children are awesome. It is wonderful to witness them performing beyond their years, training and experience as they execute talent to their maximum potential. I wonder, perhaps, if music is the fuel that drives this push to overachieve. Music can flood our senses and sensibilities, intensifying feelings that exist or causing us to integrate new ones. And, it has the unique ability to give wings to an ambitious soul or refresh a broken one.

In this photo, I hope you'll agree, the former is at work. So much energy, such joy. I believe this is reflective of Bach's intention when he said, "Music is an agreeable harmony for the honor of God and the permissible delights of the soul." All I can say is, "Bravo!"

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Children - The joy of music!




"Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything." Plato




EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 1600
70mm
f2.8
1/125

Monday, February 2, 2015

365 Project - Day 95

I have these amazingly talented children who seem to get a lot of joy out of surprising me by their roles in each. They prefer that I do not see the rehearsals nor know much about the shows before opening night and while that makes for an exciting evening, it also makes for an anxious mom. Brooks' performance of Schlomo in Fame, Jr. was outstanding, but I had no clue he would be leading the finale, starting out on stage alone. So, as I casually sat in the audience with my camera in my lap enjoying the show, I was stunned when he stepped on stage. (I suppose I could have read the program!) As usual, the show was terrific. All of the kids were wonderful and we were blessed with three musicals in a single day. I cannot imagine a more delightful way to spend a Saturday! Life is groovy.

My son's signature song, Bring on Tomorrow, is a poignant one. If our youth (and adults) embraced these lyrics and felt there was a calling to make a difference, utilizing the talents they were gifted, I believe they (we) would be stronger physically, mentally and spiritually. I have this discussion with my children rather regularly, "please do not forget that the talents you were given are intended for you to change the world." (aka not just for fun)

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Fame!



"We have arrived at a moment in our lives, when the future passes into our hands, we can find out, are we really strong enough to fulfill what the future demands? ... Bring on tomorrow, let it shine, like the sun coming up on a beautiful day, it's yours and mine, we can make a difference, it's not too late." From Bring On Tomorrow, Fame! The Musical




EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 1600
130mm (70-200mm)
f2.8
1/250

Sunday, February 1, 2015

365 Project - Day 94

We had the joy of witnessing another round of youth musicals this weekend. The kids are amazingly talented and always deliver energetic performances that warm us on these chilly winter evenings. Their talent and passion exudes from every pore. The photograph below is from the performance of Company by the older kids. I love the energy and passion displayed by my son, who played the role of Larry.

Passion has long been one of my cornerstone principles. I am convinced that passion can carry someone further than talent alone. And, I am sure that without passion, our breaths and steps shorten, making progress slow and uncertain. I'll share a few favorite quotes on passion: "Light yourself on fire with passion and people will come from miles to watch you burn." John Wesley; "When you catch a glimpse of your potential, that's when passion is born." Zig Ziglar; "It is your passion that empowers you to be able to do that thing you were created to do." T. D. Jakes

I am passionate about a lot of things, but as you can read in my "about" post, I was unclear as to my true passion until recently. Since discovering, I have been hesitate to embrace it fully. A funny thing happened today, though. I knew I wanted to write about passion, given the evidence of it in this photo. I have been reading a single chapter in two different books each morning and evening. Today, those two chapters both spoke to the same bible verse with each also stating that God was the one who puts the dream [read passion] into our hearts. This was an exciting revelation for me. It does come with responsibilities, however, to ensure the fire of passion is stirred. Confirmed by a third reading tonight, "we will always harvest what we plant." (Galatians 6:7) I encourage you to live, fuel, and harvest your passion!

Best wishes!


Today's Photo: The harvest of passion



"And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." 2 Corinthians 9:8




EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 1000
150mm (70-200mm)
f2.8
1/90