Reinventing The Wheel

The wheel is symbolic of many things within many religions and creeds. It has been known to represent anything from the Buddhist wheel of transformation to the wheel of Fortune. The wheel's strength is derived from the design of the center hub to the outer rim. The thought put behind its intended use determines it's useable sustainability. While all the same, the wheel remains a device to facilitate movement or transportation while supporting a load.

When building a photography business, it's natural to look for shortcuts to make life easier. But it's not always the wisest thing to do. Going through the process of doing the same thing as everyone else does is part of running a business. Everyone needs to apply for a business license and get a logo, have business cards printed and structure everything  from processes, policy, and pricing not to mention developing your personal vision. This all takes up valuable time.

There are several plug and pray business models for photography. Like Glamour Shots® or Spoiled Rotten where you simply follow their instructions with all their materials, i.e., forms contracts, etc. a model of working someone else's vision and their business model.

The experience and expertise you gain from building your own unique business expressing your photographic vision is the most valuable process to your personal business success. You'll be happier, and most likely have a better chance for success.

I would suggest there are no shortcuts to building the business that's right for you as an artist. So pullup your sleeves and "Reinvent The
Wheel".

David is a NC based photographer. Please subscribe.

There's a Plenty

Here is the season when families get together to celebrate Christmas. A time when some will return home to visit the folks. For me that' would be going back to the country. Fresh air, big sky, and lots of peace and quiet. The image of a country home is iconic to America. I'm grateful to live in a country where land is plentiful and beautiful.

The land of photography is plentiful as well. Recently, photography Peter Lik sold his image "Phantom" for 6.5 million at auction setting a record for a photographic fine art sale. Peter is receiving a lot of negative feedback about his image not being art, and some have gone as far as stating that landscape images is not fine art.

The Artsy folks think Peter needs to be playing in their sand-pile as Mr. Lik creates his own.  He has no images in major galleries, and they go on to say that he has no official ties to the sanctioned photography community. Well,  I guess he doesn't need it.

Today it's nearly impossible to succeed in Fine Art Photography through traditional means, i.e., gallery, etc. Ironically the two most successful American Fine Art Photographers I know about are Peter Lik and Alain Briot. Neither of which are sanctioned by the photography community.

Peter Lik is an immigrant that comes to America and falls in love with the Landscape and makes a life of photographing it. He engineers a career creating and selling stunning photos while innovating technology and exercising marketing mastery.

This record breaking sale inspires me. The message for me is, if you know what you want, you find a way to get it, and "There's a Plenty".

David is a NC based photographer. Please subscribe.

Moat

Fortresses used moats as a preliminary line of defence during an attack. I think of moats in terms of offensive. Today's economic definition of Moat is  "The competitive advantage that one company has over other companies in the same industry.  "Warren Buffett"

Professional photography is very competitive. I've stated before that competition is something I don't understand within the context of stifling shared opportunities with the assumed competitor. Here I'm writing about the photographer's edge.

Moving to the next level ask why would someone use my services over another? Here is where the edge comes in by creating a personal template for your work, and this comes from your personal vision.

Constant growth is a given in the business of photography. Improving skills, vision and business is a way of life. Having the courage to manifest your personal vision is the only way to be different than others, and they won't be able to touch you competitively simply because you are you.

The advice given to me was "don't' shoot someone else's picture, discover your vision and have the courage to share it. Then wide and deep will be your " Moat". 

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Warren Buffett 

Cotton

Every day I have several thoughts, more than I can count. I often just pass these thoughts off  and try to think about what I want to think about.  But now and then I get a thought or an idea that isn't like the other thoughts. This thought has the volume, as it vibrates through my whole body. General known as intuition.

Intuition is always responding to something or has your best interest at heart. An artist that creates something the world hasn't seen listens to their intuition.

Art Photography is comprised of very hard work from a notion until drilled down to eureka. The Masters photograph so much, the technical skills are second nature. They are armed to meet opportunity with preparation. They work with a state of mind cultivated to be alert and see clearly.

I've posted before about going out empty to shoot. Don't expect anything. If you spend your time looking for something, you'll miss that intuitive or decisive moment; this takes mental preparation.

Recognizing the intuitive message requires preparing or quieting the mind through quiet time or meditation. You must live in a world that works for your creativity.

Creative blocks do happen. Fear, busy-ness, procrastination, perfectionism may contribute. But remember, bad habits and bad attitudes will always render a mind as if it's stuffed with "Cotton."


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Eye To Eye

Having the courage to look another in the eye and tell them exactly how you feel can be very difficult for some of us. I once heard a marriage counselor state that most of all the issues his clients had were resolved by having the couple take 4 minutes a day and look each other straight in the eyes.

I've found the great photographers of our time and in history have always had a common theme of being very honest about their photography. They accept failure simply as a learning tool. Their resolve of knowing they are doing what they were born to do is enough knowledge for them to keep going.

Competition in business is something I really don't understand. Don't get me wrong photographers are a pretty good bunch when it comes to helping each other. But I see other businesses that stunt their opportunity for growth by not helping business around them succeed.

We should be willing to share and help others succeed. Be honest with developing ourselves and our business. We all need the courage to accept our weakness and willingness to share our strengths and the openness to sit down and converse "Eye To Eye" .

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Flow & Grow

Reaching for the sky from a seed covered with earth to become something beautiful  is not without challenges. Over time, the life becomes this full majestic presence of all it can be. Wanting for nothing but having everything.

Rooted in the faith of nature the trunk branches and leaves become the intellectual, emotional and practical achievements, bearing fruit with the power to influence positive procreation.

Photographing in a state of mind that is open to whatever happens and being receptive to any given moment is a mental and emotional discipline. Getting in the flow when all the nervousness disappears and just being in the full enjoyment of making images is the place where the unexpected and an unplanned surprise can reveal it's self.

I would suggest photographers learn to get in the flow, where your concentration is completely involved and focused.  A state when you lose the sense of self and your concerns of outcome drift away.

The Art of Photography is very rewarding. Personally photography is in direct context to self-development. I've heard the masters state it a few times, "if you want to become a better photographer develop your heart." I challenge you to get to the place of "Flow & Grow".


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The Beast

Some people feel the more they have, the happier they'll be. They acquire and acquire and still can't get enough. They keep getting more stuff and associate, that more stuff will make them happy. They don't dare share it with anyone or give away what they never use due to identifying themselves with stuff.

I have to steal an acronym from Zack Arias, GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrom). It shows up in photographers, musicians, hotrodders, woodworkers and others. Defined as "If I just had x then I could do x just like x." It can lead to a whirlwind of debt, stress, not to mention the families ripped apart by GAS.

It's not uncommon that photographers acquire the latest and greatest before getting the full potential out of the equipment they already own. Some are more interested in equipment than photographing. But don't get me wrong, thinking the next best thing will improve your photography isn't entirely wrong if it's a wise business decision.

We're all guilty of having a little GAS, but that's not what makes a great photographer. Learning everything about the equipment you have, and its full potential, so you can apply it towards your vision, is the road the masters travel.

Obsession with photography can control you if you don't control it. Stay out of debt and only buy if it makes good business sense. It's more important to work on your craft than to be swallowed up by "The Beast."

The Mill

Day in day out most of us are busy with working, kids, sports leagues, spouse, parents and all the other stuff. We may start to feel like we're grinding out the time, and before you know it, you haven't made any personal time. It's important to our well being to check once in awhile to see what's coming out the mill.

Today professional photographers are working hard to gain business, and when it gets busy, some feel they need to get the goods while the getting's good. Portrait, wedding and commercial photographers love what they do, but there is something said for having complete control over one's self-expression. Fine Art Photography can be a creative outlet for commercial photographers when they make time for personal projects.

Commercial clients can restrict some photographer's creativity. They are very specific in what they want and hire a photographer that can do the job. The commercial photographer may do jobs that require many hats, and some not so fun.  But, you are still doing something you love, photography.

I would offer that commercial photographers have personal projects. Be sure to create your personal art, i.e., fashion, landscape, stills or whatever. By doing this, you can gain a good sense of self as a photographer and have an outlet for your creativity. Personal projects also provide new ideas you could integrate into your commercial work as well.

The main objective is to stay busy with a balance of self and service. When a busy professional photographer makes time for themselves, it's not such a grind all the time because you are happy with what's coming out of "The Mill."

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Join The Club

Humans learn by observing their environment. What that means is we learn from watching and listening to others such as parents, family and friends. Since we were little, we have learned by emulation, although I think some folks just go where the wind blows:) 

Photographers learn by watching and listening as well. I've written about finding your personal vision and not trying to copy anyone else. But if you need other skills along the path to your vision, it's much easier to watch, listen and learn from someone more knowledgeable.

There's no way to know everything technically. Photoshop, for example, is a lot to learn if you're objective is not just photography. What works best for me is to visualize in my mind's eye what I want and then learn just what I need to meet my objective to print.

Clubs and organizations have seen a decline in younger aged members I think due to the internet. You can get almost any answer to any technical question you may have on the internet. As a modern day photographer the internet is an extremely valuable tool for learning.

So what's good about belonging to an organization? Along with being another family to observe, the biggest thing is learning about business. If you are serious about being a professional there isn't anything I can think of more valuable than organizations teaching and offering resources regarding the business aspects of photography.

I can find most anything on the Internet when it comes to technical. But what I have difficulties doing is being able to establish networking to a niche market and selling my art. If you're in the same boat, "Join The Club."

http://www.crusadeforart.org/
http://apanational.org/
http://www.ppa.com/
http://www.ppofnc.com
http://www.cnpa.org/

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Simply Put

Today we have so many things to keep us busy, confused, in a hurry and anxious. Corporations attempt to recruit the best talent by pitching work life balance. It's a known fact that stress kills but I feel we're not far from reaching a critical mass of awareness that will eventually change the culture of this nation.

Photographers are no different. We need to find our peace of mind too. I've found that a lot Fine Art Photographers revel in the presence of nature and beautiful landscapes. Almost all the Landscape Fine Art Photographers have a need to be outdoors with nature.

The American Indians teach us about the Great Spirit, a non-theistic belief in an active, personal, non-anthropomorphic Deity intertwined with the fabric of the Universe. They would practice getting in a rhythm with the spirit. In modern terms, we could call this getting in the zone.

The more the Landscape Photographer works their craft, the more they find a deep appreciation and love for the natural world. Some photographers have a whole heart commitment; their art contributes to the sustaining of our National Forest.

I love the natural outdoors, but most of all, I love the peace and quiet it has to offer. I would suggest to anyone, grab your camera take a short hike to get far enough off the road to be quiet, find a beautiful place and get "Simply Put."

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Way of Life

Driving through the country, I often think of the days growing up on a farm in Missouri. Now that I"m older I've come to realize the values gained from that experience. There's something gained when it's over a mile to your nearest neighbor. You live a few miles on a dirt road from the pavement that is several miles from the nearest town; that might have a store.

Images reflect our moment in time, environment and attitudes. Some photographers are so committed to the environment that's what drives them to photograph. Other photographers love the joy they bring their client with family photos. As for me I simply attempt to capture the essence of nature and things to bring awareness to our hearts.

Fine Art Photography is a vehicle for the photographer to express themselves in their special way. Their photographic abilities offer a unique ways of expression. This nonverbal means of communication can become an obsession.

The obsessed photographer wakes in the morning thinking about photography. They will watch TV checking out the lighting used in the movies. They'll drive the car taking in all the forms shapes and textures  viewed from the road. They read, watch videos, attend workshops, practice and then practice some more. Then after serious study and contemplation the process repeats. Hopefully, at a different level.

I love photography; it's who I am, down to the very core of my being.
Yes, it's a preoccupation to the point of complete obsession, and there's nothing wrong with that, for me its the "Way of Life."

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Stand Tall

Bold and majestic, respecting nature and it's course, giving warning of any impending danger while keeping a watchful eye. The skippers guide to safety offered by a beaming white light, oh the lighthouse.

Is it safe to be a Fine Art Photographer, I don't think so, I've busted my butt more than one occasion. Other than that, the scariest thing I've done is call myself an artist.

I've visited exhibitions and art shows, and I'm seeing that Fine Art Photographers are not reveling in the fact they are artist. The work does speak for its self, but the photographer has to create it and that takes artistic talents and a lot of efforts and hard work.

There are a couple of ways you can tell if someone thinks of themselves as an artist. The words used to describe their work and their selling prices.

I'm not getting into pricing here, but I feel a lot of artists are simply not asking for their fair share.  I'm feeling they forget about the biggest element in the artwork that should be the most expensive, and that is the element of themselves.

Artist create art, not the cameras, paint brushes, tools, or whatever. If it wasn't for the photographer thinking, learning, planning, sweating, investing, loving and giving all of themselves we wouldn't have the art.

Take an inventory of all the time and money invested into creating the art. Call your sales an "Investment," your customers "Collectors" and factor what would be pricing of a great piece of "Art" and "Stand Tall."

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The Maze

Have you every felt that you were in a valley facing a wall, and the only way to turn, is back from where you came?

As an artist, the photographer has to find their photographic vision. I'll be honest; I don't feel most photographers ever truly find their unique photographic vision. Some may refer to vision as style, but I feel vision is a better word for what I'm trying to explain.

For a photographer to find their unique vision, it takes guts and a lot of hard work. You'll have to be willing to not please anyone but yourself. Grant it, the technical aspects should be in full control before any photographer can realize their vision.

Personal vision is unique to every individual. Two photographers could make images of the same subject, and they will look different. The images should reflect who you are and your perspective of the world around you.

Your vision is not something outside of you. Jay Maisel said, "if you can imagine what it is you're going out to shoot, you're making someone else's picture."

Equipment, genre, occupation, and other people can divert your vision. Look within, learn about your heart and develop its ability to see your personal truth and you'll avoid "The Maze."

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http://www.jaymaisel.com/

Step By Step

We don't always know what's up ahead on our path. Knowing what we want and going for it is a scary proposition, especially when we can't see in the future.

Fine Art Photography is an adventure. Many times Delores and I have known where we were going to capture a shot but wouldn't know what to expect when we got there. Every time we eliminate the worry about it and welcome the adventure, it gives us more than what we would ask for.

Planning is good, and photographers have to plan but to get into too much detail and especially expectations of the outcome can stunt our ability to see. I've heard many say "when you walk around be sure to look behind you and look up because you never know what you might miss otherwise." I like to take it a step further and watch what I'm thinking about. I would suggest going with the flow and not getting wrapped up with expectations. After all, the only thing you can control, is what you think and feel about a thing.

It's not called Fine Art Photography for no reason. There is usually an unseen element in the photo that makes it really work. The more an artist can remove themselves from trying to control things, the easier seen what the universe has to offer.

Let's take it one moment at a time, being happy with peace of mind and let everything happen "Step By Step."

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The Essence of Photography

Fort Pulaski GA.

At times in life, I have to put my head down and walk through a tunnel and face whatever it is on the other side. Depending on what's there, I may find myself in a pickle and feel as if everyone and everything is gunning for me.

It doesn't make any difference if you are a landscape, wedding, portrait or commercial photographer; there's always some sort of tunnel during a project.

But! I have good news for you, solving problems is what a good photography business does. It's part of why we are called creatives. We need to be creative artistically, strategically and with business.

I've made a decision today to welcome the issues that arise on shoots. I'm going to make friends with adversity and 

contribute my creative strengths to get through them. There's no need to get upset or anxious when difficulties arise, after all, we're in business to solve problems. I've come to believe that problem solving is the "Essence of Photography"

David is a NC based photographer. View website.

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Workshops?

Image of an old oak tree Boone Hall Plantation Charleston SC while attending an Art Wolfe workshop.

A lot of successful photographers of all categories teach workshops. It should be an opportunity for the students to get practical hands on experience with a particular photographer and have as many questions answered as they can.

You attend workshops to learn something that improves your photography. So choosing the right workshop  is very important. You should know what you want to learn and ensure the workshop can deliver.

When your photography improves over time you may reach a point  where it seems people are asking you more questions than you are asking. You'll see a natural tendency from eager learners wanting information from you. You might ask yourself, "should I be teaching?"

There is a couple of reasons photographer's teach workshops. They enjoy teaching, and it's an added revenue stream for their business. The Fine Art Photographer can create and teach a workshop and benefit from paid travel, networking with others, and learning from every experience.

The teacher should have the experience or put forth the effort to learn about the subject they are teaching. So if your thinking about teaching  workshops be prepared to be a student as well. Photography is a life learning event. Having the ability to teach from your knowledge and experience requires skill as well.

A teaching photographer needs to be as committed to the success of their students as they are to their own photography. He or She should have as much passion about teaching as making pictures. The rewards are reciprocal with a successful workshop.

When the student is ready, the teacher will arrive...(Zen Proverb)
When the teacher is ready, the students will arrive...(Photographer's Proverb)

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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The Flow

Inspiration is the fuel that drives creativity. Placing yourself in surroundings that cultivates creativity will help to inspire your greatness.

Successful photographers and artist in general have found ways to stay inspired. They read and visit museums; study others artwork and some may find themselves getting back to nature. Ansel Adams listened to Classical music for inspiration.

I feel that being self-aware is important to maintaining a creative state of mind. As an artist one needs to know what makes them tick. Personally I have to slow my mind down enough in order to listen to my feelings. And once I listen to my gut feelings, and start to get excited and happy about what I"m creating I know I"m doing the right thing.

A successful artist has lots of Passion. Passion is the intense drive of mastering something with a complete feeling of conviction. Passion accepts failure as only temporary.

Adversity will always be there creating the contrast for experiencing success. A passionate artist knows this and nurtures their creativity by fueling  their inspiration and staying in the flow.

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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The Heart of The Matter

Images can remind us of the seasons we experience in a life. The viewer may take a mental journey to a place and time where they experienced the same feelings a photographer shares within a photo.

With all the technology, we have today in photography, it's pretty easy to take good pictures. Just put the thing in full auto and shoot. But it's a much different thing to make an excellent image, let alone being something called art.

There are many elements that should be included in high quality Art Photography. To list a few, the technical must be excellent, which includes exposure, depth of field, file handling, color management, etc. Once the technical becomes second nature to the photographer the work begins. And that would be to develop one's heart.

Personally photography has made me realize things about how I see the world more than anything else. The Masters write and speak of how much of the photographer goes into making a great image.

Great photographers have Empathy, Compassion and Love that become the silent subject of their images because they have learned how to capture the "Heart of The Matter."

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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A Part of Me

Something very simple and common to one person can be a breath of fresh beauty to another. It's all in the eye of the beholder. For example, a person living in the city, can get great satisfaction having a beautiful image of the sound or seaside where it may be everyday to a fisherman.

Talking to one of my collectors this week, they voiced their appreciation of having Fine Art Photography in their home and how enjoyable it's been for them.

Photographers get so busy striving to raise the bar that we don't realize how much impact we have on our client's home or family. The images we create that our clients collect have a special bond. As photographers we should realize if someone is hanging your work in their home, we have become part of their lives.

It's extremely rewarding over time for our clients to express their appreciation of how much they enjoy our work hanging on their walls. And as to me, when a collector acquires one of my prints, they become family, because with each image they get "A Part of Me."

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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Open The Blinds

The United States has so many places that when you are there it seems like another place at another time Savannah Ga. is one of those places. Of the many things that make Savannah special for me, two stand out, the architecture and the people. Ok, three, the food!

Having great subjects when making images helps to make great photos. But as photographers we eventually come to realize, regardless of what's in the frame of the camera, there's a subject outside the frame, included in every photo, and that would be a photographer.

I believe the photographer puts the heart in the image. It's a difficult idea to explain, and more easily experienced. The photographer can only see what they can see, feel what they can feel, at the moment of capture.

I've spent a lot of time attempting to break down the blindness and develop my vision and the ability to capture feeling in the frame. It's a continuous process, like peeling an onion; you remove something just to understand there is something else to remove again and again. And each time you see things you couldn't see before.

This learning process of seeing has been my personal shrink. I have learned so much about what blinds me it would be embarrassing to list here. Dealing with the attitudes and emotions that block your vision as a photographer will improve your images.

If you want to improve the ability to recognize a great image or picture opportunity beyond what your ability is now, learn to see, better yet learn to understand what is keeping you from seeing and "Open The Blinds"

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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Deserted Island

A beach on a deserted island can be paradise. It's a long way away from the chaotic lives we know as normal.

There's something  to be said about simplicity. Keeping things simple can help one keep their sanity. As photographers, striving for simplicity in our images is something we always try to do.

The business part of photography can get complex and very time-consuming. Figuring out a way to simplify is very important. I love protocol. I know that you can't always do business the same way with everyone all the time, but having parameters around you, your products and clients will help simplify things.

As a photographer realizing your strengths and weaknesses will allow you to know what you can do and what someone else might do better for you and your business. I feel this alone is a key factor for a lot of successful photographers. Business doesn't need to be more difficult that it already is, keep it simple.

Today's photographers are expected to wear so many hats that it's almost impossible to succeed unless you simplify. And while you're at it, get some help and don't' end up on a Deserted Island.

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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Gratitude

Beautiful things can show up anywhere as long as you're looking for them.

I can remember a time when I couldn't see as much beauty as I can see now. I am grateful for photography.

I can remember a time when I wouldn't talk to people and shy away, but now I see no strangers, I'm grateful for photography.

I can remember when I would get in a hurry all the time and never settle down to realize my surroundings, but now I stop and smell the roses. I'm grateful for photography.

I can remember a time when I didn't understand art and how it can change the world, but now I  see how a single photo can alter the world. I'm grateful for photography.

I can remember when I felt older, less driven, a little washed up, but now I feel as though I'm a youngster working toward a life's dream. I'm grateful for photography.

I can remember when emotions were something I avoided, but now I strive to create them. I'm grateful for photography.

I could go on and on here, but photography has changed my whole outlook on life. The desire to be the very best at something I love to do has its way with me, and for that I'm living a life of Gratitude.

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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The Soul

A great image can make your mind go back to a place and time where you may have a feeling or the essence of something in your past. And the experience of your reflection feels like a long lost old friend that has returned, if only for a fleeting moment.

Great photographers know they must push for that something extra, that difference that will make their images connect to the viewers. It's not about competition; it's not about money, it's about communicating a feeling.

I feel art, if honestly and passionately perused will teach artist about them. They will go through the stages of buying equipment; learning techniques, emulating other artist, but eventually, while in pursuit of their vision, will return full circle to themselves. The artist might ask themselves, "what is it about me, that I perceive a thing the way I do"?

The journey towards creating our art is the teacher, imagery is the communicator, and the message is from The Soul.

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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Master Mind

Two essences of life with color and complementing colors giving great presence. Seeing the beauty mirroring into the water reminds me of  something I read in Napoleon Hill's book "Think and Grow Rich" he called it the POWER OF THE MASTER MIND.

If you don't know it, this is some very powerful stuff. To explain it in the  simplest terms, it's Team Work on steroids. I'll define teamwork as, when everyone on the team is willing to subordinate themselves for the better of the team.

Fine Art Photographers or any other business won't see their full potential by themselves. There are a lot of  areas in business that needs attended to with excellence to be successful. When you have your team, working to the extent of creating a Master Mind affect, your success will be unstoppable. To quote Napoleon Hill, "The Master Mind may be defined as: Coordination of knowledge and effort, in a spirit of harmony, between two or more people, for the attainment of a definite purpose."

Marketing people call this networking. When you network, you should be trying to find individuals for your Master Mind in mind. And you'll find it doesn't take very many. Usually two or three other people working subordinately together towards the teams success while bringing their individual strengths to the table, and you'll find your magic formula and power.

Personally I think the first person on your team if you have one is your partner in life. What they bring to the table, even though you may not physically see it, should be highly appreciated.

So be careful who you hang with, and do business with, if you want to be successful and become aware of your Master Mind.

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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"Think and Grow Rich"

Confusion

This image of the West Virgina Captial building reminds me a little of the systemic confusion in our government.

Photographers can be challenged with  genres. There are the Fine Art Landscape photographers that have focused on just landscape and  then when faced to make a living they need similar skills in a different genre that will sell perse'. A good example is when someone has mastered one genre, i.e., landscape and then need comparable skills in people portrait photography.

It's a matter of paradigm. The challenge is bringing the best of what a photographer does into all of their work, regardless if it's landscape,  people portrait, fashion, etc. It's not a far reach once the photographer has cleared the confusion of what is needed to get clients.

Seeing is seeing, and if the heart of the photographer is into what they are doing, genre shouldn't keep them from having the ability to accomplish a more commercial task.

If you have a hobby of making Fine Art Landscape images and thinking about becoming more commercially viable, it's simply a matter of clearing the confusion and getting out and making the images with that same magic you have in one genre and include it in another genre.

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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Out of The Matrix

Where does the road lead when it's raining? That is a question that we all have to answer one time, or another.

When you are caught up in a job, project, relationship that you know doesn't feel right, do you have the capacity to realize it? When the rain is pouring down and you're just not happy, can you see the road leading to someplace that others may think would be insane to follow?

As for the art photographer, the question isn't have you experienced these things, but do you have the ability to think outside of circumstances and the world's influence on you?

Remember you do have a choice. Great fine art photographers learn to trust their vision. Sometimes it's hard to go out on a limb and be true to yourself creating art the way you visualize it. It may take effort to learn the tools you'll need, but most of all, you'll need the courage to step "Out of The Matrix" to express your own personal vision.

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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Crusade For Art

Some folks believe the full moon can negatively effect our lives. "It's a full moon you know." I try not to let the moon put me in a state of crises, but  I do know of one crisis.

In my blog, Happy Cam I commented on the number of people that have nice cameras and are considered professional photographers by some. I also know that since photography has gone digital that talented photographers are gaining ground every day, and there are so many of them that we're starting to experience a huge imbalance.

I believe Fine Art Photography has the toughest path for success of all the categories of photography. As this blog has the history of sharing knowledge "About Fine Art Photography" my hope is to gain more appreciation for Art Photography.

I recently found a website, Crusade For Art. When I first saw this, I didn't feel so alone. They are teaching FAPs to find opportunities. They believe we are at the precipice of a crisis in our art, more supply than demand. There's an abundant amount of art and no audience.

I encourage you to visit their website and get involved. We have a great opportunity to be part of a very cool movement and Crusade For Art.

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

Light In The Valley

It's interesting how the light illuminates the valley. If you were down in the valley, you would be in the light but unable to see it from this higher perspective.

Sometimes we are our worst enemy. We can't see the light of opportunities the universe has to offer because we are staying in the valley. As appreciators of Fine Art Photography, it's important to view from a higher perspective. A closed minded collector that just goes along with the crowd as to what is good photography, will miss the opportunity from a great emerging artist. The same  goes for the photographer. If you're not open to challenging yourself and improving your work, the world will miss out on your uniqueness.

It's important not to try too hard. What you need is already there. You should be aware of who you are and where you want to be. Then you'll be able take steps to view the light in the valley.
 

David is a NC based photographer. View website here.

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Have A Good Tiime

Image of the Emerald Isle Bridge. Iconic to a lot of people of a good time. It is a wonderful structure that is well traveled during the summer vacation season.

I know there are several images of this bridge made by many different photographers. Some may ask why would you want to make images of the same thing that everyone else has. My answer to that is "they weren't me."  Only I can take a photo and put my signature on it. Not that I'm better than everyone, that's not my point.

As photographers regardless if your shooting portrait, landscape or anything else, there are always two subjects in the photo. One is the subject matter of the photo and the other is the photographer.

Experienced photographers develop styles uniquely identifiable  as their own. This to me, it's what separates a great photographer from a good photographer. And this is what collectors love to collect.

As photographers, the main thing is to get out to make photos and have good a time developing a personal style,.

David is a NC based photographer. To see his online gallery click here.

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Horizons

Here is another image of the beach from the North Carolina shores. The calm after the storm reveals beautiful sun light peeking through the clouds with the message of peace. The ocean’s horizon with an uphill perspective accompanied by the comfort of colors, offers a sense of serenity.

Photographers are often challenged with adversities that may seem like an uphill run to a never reaching horizon. I’ve been writing this blog for over a year now. I’ve tried to gather some knowledge of collecting fine art photography, sharing images and perspectives and have enjoyed every minute of it. But writing a blog can be  just one of the uphill horizons a Photographer may face.

With that said, I want to introduce all of you to my new blog, “Fine Art Photography Experience”.
Please visit the blog and subscribe. This blog will be a journal of what Fine Art Photographers go through with creating their images, marketing and selling Fine Art Photography. I have felt for a long time there isn’t enough resources available to us photographers wanting to establish their Fine Art business. My hope is to have engaging readers contribute so we all can learn more about becoming better photographers and entrepreneurs with Fine Art Photography.

In the subjective world of Fine Art there are so many avenues to pursue and questions along the way, that it at times seems like a never reaching horizon. So let’s get started and visit www.fineartphotographyexperience.com and share comments or questions about becoming successful with your fine art photography.

David is a NC based photographer. To see his online gallery click here.

Freedom

A good friend of mine wanted his 2014 Dodge Challenger Hemi R/T photographed after his hours of laborious polishing. Of course I couldn’t wait to get the shots. The car’s iconic image is homage to classic muscle cars. There is something really American about the Challenger. To me it represents a working man’s car. It’s something that is gritty but refined with performance. Although modern, its lines are a real throwback to the 1970’s when muscle cars were king.

When making the images of this beast, I could imagine driving on the open highway where the speed limit didn’t count. With the windows down, wind blowing and the rhythm of classic rock playing from the stereo, my imagination was fitted with a sense of authority, just being too cool for school.

The aforementioned experience can be filled with pride, excitement and exhilaration. I can sum it with one word “joy”.  As visual artists we strive to communicate what we see in our images.
And what I see in the Dodge Challenger is Freedom. So this memorial day I thank all the men and women that served and gave their life so we can have the Dodge Challenger experience.
 

David is a NC based photographer. To see his online gallery click here.

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The Pelican

This image was taken in one of our favorite spots for photos down at Atlantic Beach. We were excited about catching stormy images but hadn’t been successful up to that time. Right at the time we were packing up to leave, a little gift from heaven appeared, there they were, in all their glory, “God Beams”. There was something unexpected and magical about that moment. I remember thinking I’m not prepared and didn’t have time for a lot of technical manipulation and simply pointed the camera framed a bit and shot. Everything about this shot was right there and easy.

As lot of us photographers are equipment junkies and get really involved with all the technical. We drive ourselves to know everything about all the equipment we have and get even crazier about the equipment we want.  The trap of “if I had this latest gadget, then I could make great photos” has kept a lot of great images from being made.

Later that day we were on the beach I noticed a Pelican. It was in the air with wings spread and soaring two hundred yards or so and circling back without a single wing flap. After seeing this happen about four times I then realized, that bird has everything it needs and it’s doing what it wants without any effort at all. What I have learned, and it generally goes for everything in life, is “we have everything we need, to accomplish whatever we want”. We just need to get our heads on right to see it. I think I’m going to try harder to not try so hard, and maybe I can soar like the Pelican.

David is a NC based photographer. To see his online gallery click here.

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Timeless

This image of old store fronts in Rocky Mount NC was taken a few years ago. I could imagine when walking the streets, for the most part of an empty town, how it must have been back in its heyday. With the railroad running right down the center of town and parking on sides and in the center of the streets, I can visualize it being hard at one time to find a parking spot. These stores have a lot of character. It’s disappointing to see such a beautiful place forgotten.

I’ve said it before; I feel as photographers we have a responsibility to capture images of our history. The structures of the past are much different than what we are seeing being built today. It seems the older buildings were much more a work of art vs. the cookie cutter approach. On my website I have several images of old barns. They’re beautiful representations of old rural America.

Photography is unique, as we captures an image, we're capturing what’s in front of the lens at that moment. The image could be communicating something historical, current, and future among other things. I think the best images are Timeless.

David is a NC based photographer. To see his online gallery click here.

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Path To Perfection

Delores made this image right in front of the Clam Digger Inn at Pine Knoll Shores NC, a small community near Emerald Island NC. The lines are clear as to where it leads. A place where there is nothing to do, no one to answer to, no right or wrong, a place where everything is given without want or need. In this place everything is working in perfect harmony with the universe.

I know that’s deep, but it goes a long way as to the artist’s state of mind the moment a masterpiece is created. Photography has taught me a lot about life. Looking inside and trying not to resist that state of having everything and needing nothing. Like going out to photograph and expecting nothing and seeing everything. I attempt to enter this place when I use my camera. When I can get there, it allows me to see the beauty of a landscape. Other times, it’s the moment of a perfect gesture when someone allows their inner self to be revealed. If I’m lucky my camera will be ready as well.

Striving to improve and reaching for perfection is endless. It’s a consistent expansion of self, in every aspect of living. Just about the time I think I’m getting it, a teacher arrives to show me more. For me this is the never ending and unreachable Path to Perfection.

David is a NC based photographer. To see his online gallery click here.

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Taking A Break

Last year I was introduced to Brad Styron’s work. His gallery is located at the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier near Emerald Island NC. His love for surfing has allowed him to create incredible work from the view of being on the water. His wave images are really a piece of art. Having been in the area all his life, knowledge of where and when to shoot is intuitive to him. Just last night he steps out to close shop and notices the beautiful stormy clouds and subjected the Bogue Fishing Pier to a piece of art. The creation of this image was second nature to Brad. In his gallery you’ll find amazing wave images and stunning landscapes. Brad is print master, and knows how to make colors pop. I also have to say that I’ve never seen canvas prints like Brad Styron’s. Along with his acrylic, metal and paper prints he’s created some very unique frame designs. So the next time your down towards the beach stop in at Playa Graphics and chick out the Brad Styron Gallery.

I apologize for the delay of posting the blog, but as you can see Delores and I have been at the beach this week. I’ve been capturing some really cool long exposure that I hope to include on my website.

Sometimes you just have to take make time to get away from all the worries of home. We make sure to do this every year around this time as it today our 21st wedding anniversary. We have really enjoyed this time getting away. So this week’s blog is a little of just taking a break.

David is a NC based photographer. To see his online gallery click here.