blog

Sounds from the Treetops

Fri, 08 Nov 2013 09:22:55 -0500

Looking for an excuse to go to the Arnold Arboretum? Check out Sounds from the Treetops! Hosting their first ever Artists-in-Residence program, The Arnold Arboretum will be featuring Ensemble Evolution and imagery from Adam DeTour.

“A collaboration cultivated by percussionist Maria Finkelmeier, Ensemble Evolution will present a three‐part residency highlighting the creative connection between composing and performing music dedicated to and inspired by nature. With a history of collection inspiration from natural elements such as trees, unique landscapes, and extreme environments, the musician’s compositions are a combination of classical-contemporary and improvised works."

Today, Friday, November 8^th Adam DeTour’s imagery will help the to provide inspiration for the percussionists as they produce and prepare a new 10-15 minute piece. A workshop of the piece-in-progress will be open to the public from 3-4 PM. Swing by to get some fresh air and taken in the beauty of the Arboretum. The program also continues onto Saturday and Sunday with concerts and a family workshop.

Photos by Adam DeTour

OPEN REHEARSAL

Friday, November 8, 3:00– 4:00pm, Hunnewell Building

Fee: Free

For more info visit: www.my.arboretum.harvard.edu or www.ensemble-evolution.com

CONCERT

Saturday, November 9, 8:00pm, Hunnewell Building

Fee: $20 Arnold Arboretum member, $25 general, $10 student

Limited ticketing: only 75 tickets available. Purchase tickets online at http://my.arboretum.harvard.edu or call 617-384-5277.

FAMILY WORKSHOP

Sunday, November 10, 10:30-noon, Hunnewell Building

Fee: $5 per person plus a $5 materials fee per child

Additional Info: Open to ages 5-11; children must be accompanied by an adult; max three children per adult. Purchase tickets online online at http://my.arboretum.harvard.edu or call 617-384-5277.

Flow-tography

Tue, 22 Oct 2013 12:58:52 -0400

Create images that have impact, tell a story and capture the beauty of your life through Flow-tography.

The purpose of the Flow-tography workshop is to gently, imaginatively, guide you through an intuitive, not technical process. This process serves to deepen your experience of mystical beauty in daily life while you boost the quality of your images dramatically. Think of it as learning how to enter the flow or zone while you create photos that truly express the essence of the moment. Flow-tography reveals the secret power of beauty as a source of creative energy and well-being that shows up in our best photos. These are the photos we actively experience and will be eager to share. When the image matches our memory or even expands it every time we look at it, we know it se see it, we love it!

Master instructor and author Suzanne Merritt will be offering a one Day Workshop on Saturday October 26th 9:30-4:30 at Boston Center For the Arts. This workshop is based on the book Flow-tography: Take Better Pictures Now, The Curious Soul's Guide to Intuitive Photography. During this special one day introduction to Flow-tography you will:

Be introduced to 3 simple photo/meditation practices
Discover 8 universal patterns of beauty such as vitality and luminosity
Find out which pattern of beauty makes you feel most alive
Receive positive feedback on your photos to help you use what you learn right away

To see 3 minute video of the approach click here, see testimonials from former students here and to see sample photos and find more details see full workshop description here.

Photorama Thank You

Fri, 04 Oct 2013 11:47:44 -0400

Thanks to everyone who attended Photorama last night! It was amazing to see so many different groups of people – from commercial and fine art photographers to amateur photographers and photo enthusiasts – coming together through photography.

Thank you to all the people who submitted photos as well – Photorama couldn't have happened without you! We were so excited to display all your amazing images and be able to share them with others. It is the reason PNB was founded, and after years of hard work, it was truly amazing to see everything come together last night.

Finally, a big thank you to our sponsors for believing in our mission and helping us make it a reality. We are so proud to have such an inclusive and supportive creative community.

Check back next week (10/8) to see photos from the event from photographer Emily Knudsen and get a full recap!

Photorama!

Thu, 03 Oct 2013 12:35:18 -0400

Happy Photorama! We’re looking forward to an awesome event tonight. Thanks to everyone who registered to our sold out event! With over 600 expected guests, here are a few things that you can do to make your night a success:

1- Be sure to follow us on Instagram for live and behind the scenes photos from the event: http://instagram.com/photonightsboston

2- Don't forget to hashtag your own posts #Photorama. Here are some others to keep in mind: #artweekboston #artweek #bostonphotography #boston

3- We will be hosting a silent auction where you can bid on some great prizes. Looking for a studio for an upcoming shoot? Some art for your apartment? Ready to start your Christmas shopping early? We’ll have prizes from EP Levine, Jim Rohan, Catalyst Restaurant and many more…

4- The event starts at 7 PM. To beat the line, think about getting there when the doors open and have your IDS handy. Here’s how to get to the Cyclorama if you need directions.

5- With a crowd of photographers, artists, creative directors and people in the “buiz” you’ll want to bring your business card. This will be an opportunity to make some new friends and connect with your community.

6- Be sure to grab your free beer courtesy of Sam Adams, visit the photo booth by Detography and feel free to start your own dance party to the tunes of DJ Die Young.

7- Check out the photo wall with prints by Digital Silver Imaging, sponsored by NESOP. Here you’ll get a closer look at some of the images we received in the photo contest.

We also want to give a shout out to some of our sponsors. This includes catering by BG Events and Catering, NESOP, ASMP, Workbook, The Hunt Alternatives Fund, Blinkbid and The Green Mountain Fine Art Gallery. With their help, we’ve been able to make Photorama into a really exciting event that will celebrate the photography and creativity of Boston.

See you there!

The Robert Klein Gallery and Photorama

Wed, 02 Oct 2013 10:35:42 -0400

As we continue highlighting our curators for Photorama, we are pleased to have Robert Klein up next. Founded in 1980, The Robert Klein Gallery has with a large, ever changing collection of photography and is the place in Boston to find masters of photography like Diane Arbus, Sally Manm and Bruce Davidson. Robert has an immense knowledge on photography and his staff is committed to being a resource for the community along with seasoned and novice collectors.

When talking to Robert he let us know that, “The photo community in Boston is reaching a critical mass the likes of which we've never seen. More and more Boston galleries are showing photography, and with exhibitions like She Who Tells a Story: Women Photographers from Iran and the Arab World on display at the MFA, the city is becoming more adventurous and inclusive in its tastes.”

The Robert Klein is currently gearing up for their Jessica Backhaus show, being held at RKG and at Ars Libri. With two opportunities to see this work, you don’t want to miss out!

Jessica Backhaus at Robert Klein Gallery

Photographs from Once, Still and Forever

October 5 - November 30

Opening on Saturday, October 5, from 2 to 5 PM

Jessica Backhaus at Ars Libri

Photographs from Symphony of Shadows and I Wanted To See The World

October 4 - 26

Opening on Friday, October 4, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM

The Griffin Museum and Photorama

Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:07:00 -0400

The Griffin Museum is a mainstay in the Boston photography world. With premier gallery shows, an active membership and a platform for talented artists, we’re lucky to have them call Boston home. We had the chance to catch up with Paula, executive director, and a curator for Photorama the other week.

Tell us your thoughts on the Boston photo world:

I am very proud to be part of the photo community in Boston. It is a vibrant scene with rich and varied offerings that keep our photo appetites whetted.

What did you think when looking through the Photorama submissions:

When judging the images I was surprised how much I enjoyed looking at the portrait category submissions.

What is coming up for The Griffin?

We have the Focus Awards on October 19^th, which will recognize individuals making critical contributions to the promotion, curation and presentation of photography. The awards this year celebrate five people and organizations instrumental in building greater awareness of the photographic arts in the general public. Tickets are $85 and include mixing and mingling with attendees and presenters along with wine and hors d'oeuvres. Head here for more info.

Digital Silver Imaging + Photorama

Thu, 26 Sep 2013 09:50:03 -0400

Eric Luden believes in the power of the print. The Digital Silver Imaging founder and president reached out to Photo Nights Boston with the idea for all Photorama winners to receive a hard copy of their work. We were thrilled with Eric’s suggestion and even decided to feature these prints as part of Photorama. They will be hung during the live event and the winners will be able to take this piece of work home with them.

We have seen Eric’s stunning images in exhibits at The Griffin Museum and his one-of-a-kind prints of The Beatles. We have heard that he’s the best in fine art black & white photographic printing. But after collaborating with him on Photorama, we wanted to hear Eric’s story and learn more about the history of DSI.

What did you do before starting DSI?

After graduating from Boston College, I worked in the retail photo industry as a commercial and fine arts photographer, at Kodak, as an executive at Ilford Photo, and as the VP of Marketing for Ilford’s parent company, HARMAN Technology. During my time at Ilford, I gained a profound knowledge of photographic processes, photography labs and the needs of the photographic community.

What inspired you to start Digital Silver Imaging?

My wife (photo curator J. Sybylla Smith) and I founded Digital Silver Imaging together. We were inspired to bring digital printing on real B&W photo paper to the public. We have pioneered the direct B&W digital print process and have continued to innovate. We have implemented products and services that keep real custom B&W prints affordable and accessible to all photographers.

I also wanted to be a resource for the fine art and discerning photographer. I have worked in many capacities, and wanted to share that experience and knowledge to benefit our customers. We educate them about our process to help them understand what differentiates us from the other options. We have printed a lot of Rock & Roll photographic collections, such as The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Grateful Dead, and many more. And we work with digital photographers who want to provide their galleries and clients with the best quality B&W prints possible.

How has DSI changed over the years?

Over the past five years, we have added a number of new services based on our clients' needs –from fine art color inkjet prints using the latest Epson prints and inks to custom framing and mounting options, including DiBond, aluminum, and acrylic.

In addition to our services, we also offer exhibition space for the Griffin Museum of Photography. Our 400 sq. ft. gallery has had numerous exhibitions featuring local and emerging photographers.

What about your process is different?

DSI's true B&W process is unique. We utilize a Lightjet 430 photographic laser enlarger with a tricolor RGB laser that exposes a traditional Ilford B&W silver gelatin photographic paper. The resin or fiber based paper is processed in traditional B&W chemicals – just like in a darkroom. It's a pure silver process, and the only true B&W process available. Prints are neutral in tone without unwanted ink reflections and they are archival. DSI's process allows for all the control and flexibility of a digital workflow with the archival benefits of a true B&W print.

Who else works on your team?

We have a dedicated staff of employees. Everyone that works at DSI has had a focus on photography, both in college and beyond. Each of us brings our own discerning eye and attention-to-detail to our clients. In addition, we have provided internships to many students from local colleges and universities.

What type of photographer has their work printed at DSI?

We work with a variety of clients, ranging from established fine art photographers who are exhibiting their work in galleries around the world, to photo-enthusiasts who have an astute eye and appreciate quality printing.

Our hope is to enable clients to get their work off their cameras and hard drives and hanging on the wall again.

_________________________________________

As big supporters of bringing photography to the public – in any form – we want to thank DSI for their role in Photorama and for serving as a supporter and resource for the photo community over the years.

Be sure to visit the DSI website (http://www.digitalsilverimaging.com/) if you are thinking of printing any of your B&W images! Or swing by to see one of their gallery shows with the Griffin Museum.

Thumbnail photo by Alicia Savage

Copying your way to originality

Wed, 25 Sep 2013 09:39:28 -0400

Evolving your originality to a point of supreme confidence is a maddening journey that includes copying other peoples work. Which may, at first blush, seem slightly smarmy. But it's not, everyone starts this way.

The most common question from those who are coming up, to those who are established is “how did you do that?” Veteran photographers are asked about their gear and methods, veteran writers are asked about their pens and methods, and veteran actors are asked about their motivation and methods. This is good in the beginning. Emulating the style of someone's work you like is the first step to finding your own. It forces you to acquire and practice the skills required to get a predetermined result. You're developing a creative dexterity, as well as fostering a fabulous backup career as an art forger.

When you find that your efforts are close to your reference pieces, it's time to stop copying and break out to find your own original style. Which is yet another long, insanity inducing process on the path to creative individuality. But one that can be helped along.

When a scene or an environment suddenly makes you feel different, or, put it another way, it inspires you, take a snap shot of it. Keep those photos in a folder entitled "awesomeness." Refer back to them when you're in need of a creative jolt. It's called capturing the "this." Best demonstrated by saying, "I want my picture to be like this," while waving your arms spastically in the direction of some massive desert scene with perfect light, and a breathy wind, that's so beautiful that it makes you want to pee. You'll find art directors use this vague communication form all the time.

Don't use video to preserve a "this" that inspires you. I know, it seems counter intuitive, especially with the emergence of micro video services like Vine. The thing is, creative people naturally take really good snapshots. Snapshots work exceptionally well to trigger your memories, which have been naturally enhanced by your psyche, resulting in your excellent version of the story behind the image. This process will also trigger your brain to access other experiences that you've had, which will in turn bring forth random connections from those experiences, which culminate in, you guessed it, an original idea.
It's difficult to create a reasonably good "snapshot" video. It requires a lot of effort and, in the end, a video has intent behind it, which is manifest in the editing. Also, the crappy sound of a snapshot video is more of an assault on the sensibilities rather than a connection with them. The result is that a video directs your brain versus a photograph which sparks it. That my friends is the enduring magic of photography and using it as tool for your creativity.

One last word. Creative reference photos must congregate in the same place. If you think that you'll upload them to a social network and then access them easily, you won't. It never works. Also, please don't get caught up in classifying your reference photos, you'll drive yourself mad trying to think of the proper taxonomy for everything. Just collect and browse. When a photo gets too old to provide a spark, delete it. Change is sexy and so are new ideas.

Written by Lou Lesko, mastermind behind Blinkbid. Don't know about Blinkbid? You need to check out their site and brillant software: blinkbid.com.

Jason Landry from The Panopticon Gallery

Mon, 23 Sep 2013 13:25:21 -0400

Leading up to Photorama, we wanted to shine the light on each our curators. As influential members of the photo community, who believe passionately in image making, we are thrilled these folks agreed to be involved. They looked at every image submitted into our contest, no easy task! We are forever thankful for their help and guidance.

We’d like to start off with a profile on Jason Landry from the Panopticon Gallery. Take it away Jason….

I love the photo community in Boston. There are so many promising artists out there. I spend a lot of my time working with artists at all stages in their careers because I want the medium to grow and I like to watch people succeed. Many of the exhibitions that we produce at Panopticon Gallery are group-themed exhibitions. This gives us the ability to give many people opportunities and showcase talented artists. Artists need support, motivation, and opportunities and I'm glad we're able to do that for them.

In the gallery from now through January 14, 2014, we have three exciting shows. The first is called On First Contact, a group exhibition of artists who have created contact prints and enlarged contact sheets. This gives our viewers the opportunity to see and uncropped, unmanipulated view of what the photographer saw when he or she took their images. In the private room, we have a group exhibition called What I Did On My Summer Vacation, curated by Jim Fitts of photoweenie.com and Anne DeVito, co-owner of Panopticon Gallery. And lastly, in our emerging artists corner, Michael J. DeMeo, Founder of No Thoughts Magazine has curated a small group of artists that have appeared in his popular indie photography magazine. There are 100 photographs currently on display in the gallery. We hope you come by for a visit.

Agnieszka Sosnowska, Self Portrait in Lettuce Bed, Kleppjárnsstaðir, Iceland, 2012

As for me, I usually take a back seat now-a-days on promoting myself, as I tend to just live vicariously through the successes of the artists that I work with. But one thing I can mention now is that I wrote a book that will include essays and interviews on photography called Instant Connections and it will be coming out soon. Stay tuned!

ASMP Partners with PNB

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 10:13:48 -0400

The team at Photo Nights Boston could not be happier to partner with the American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) for our October 3^rd event, Photorama. ASMP will be presenting the Visionary Award to one talented photographer, selected by former ASMP President, Shawn Henry.

To those that may not know the ins and outs of ASMP, we wanted to share with you some information on their mission, what key issues they are working on and why you may want to consider joining this very important organization.

ASMP as an organization protects and promotes the fine work and interests of imaging professionals. With chapters around the country, ASMP also opens up a world of opportunities to photographers.

As a member of ASMP, you are a part of the premier trade association for the world’s most respected photographers. Your membership offers you enormous benefits that save you money, put dollars in your pocket, help you run a more profitable business, protect your interests, and extend your network.

Recently, ASMP has been working on the implications of social media on photographers, particularly Facebook and Instagram. With social media being a tool that many photographers use for marketing their work and business ASMP says, “It has opened new doors and created new opportunities…Yet, it has also created new risks and liabilities.” The implications of putting your work on these sites have tremendous consequences. For example, ASMP has “grave concerns about Instagram's unreasonable Terms of Use – particularly the fact that once you agree to their terms, you have no right to terminate the agreement. Even after you close your account, Instagram can continue to use your images and your name without restriction.” You can learn more about this issue and download ASMP’s PDF Guides to Social Media for free on their website.

ASMP’s resources can help you become more informed and make decisions on how you run your business. To find out more about this awesome organization, check out their website www.asmp.org or come to Photorama on October 3^rd and swing by their table at the event.

ArtWeek selects Photo Nights Boston

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:10:21 -0400

A creative take on the concept of Restaurant Week, ArtWeek is a collection of featured events that highlight the diversity of arts in Boston including dance, opera, music and, of course, photography. Already, ArtWeek has received tons of buzz with pieces in BostonInno, the Boston Globe’s Fall Arts Preview and MBTA turnstile ads in select T stations. As part of its launch this September, ArtWeek has selected Photorama as one of its curated events.

Tonight you can get a behind-the-scenes look at Photorama and hear some of the PNB crew talk about the event so far! Be sure to tune in to Chronicle on WCVB-TV at 7:30 pm.

ArtWeek is presented by the Highland Foundation and is produced by the Citi Performing Arts Center.

ArtWeek MBTA turnstile ads, Image provided by ArtWeek Boston

PNB Welcomes Workbook, Dripbook and Yodelist

Tue, 17 Sep 2013 11:57:40 -0400

Photo Nights Boston is very proud to have Workbook, Dripbook, and Yodelist on board as sponsors of Photorama. Since we’re all dedicated to connecting the creative community it’s a perfect match!

Photographers need to have many different skills - social media expert, marketer, accountant, designer, stylists. Fortunately, Workbook and Dripbook are excellent resources that can make some of those things, like marketing yourself and getting your work in front of the right client, a lot easier. As an online collective for professional photographers you can be added to their index, which includes your complete contact info and links to your website and online portfolio.

As the former photo editor for The Improper Bostonian, Workbook and Dripbook are tools I used monthly, if not weekly. When I was in a mad panic to find the right photographer (after the publicist let me know the shoot with Suzy Celebrity was going to happen in 2 days) I would pop on these sites to find the perfect photographer. With the ability to find people in certain cities or even to look up photographers by category, Workbook and Dripbook make life a lot easier. The ease of searchability along with the roster of great talent are definitely my highlights.

To complete your marketing toolkit, Yodelist allows you to get in touch with over 50,000 contacts in the industry, including art buyers in the publishing, design, advertising, and marketing world. It's the perfect tool for creating your own contact list so that you, the photographer, can take control of your email marketing distribution.

A big part of the photography industry is having your work online and getting it front of the right people. With Workbook, Dripbook, and Yodelist, you can make sure your marketing is targeted and effortless, allowing you to spend more time behind the camera.

$5 discount, 5% donation from LensProToGo

Wed, 11 Sep 2013 11:58:35 -0400

Hey photographers! We’re excited to let you know that LensProToGo will be offering $5 off your order!

And here’s the really cool part – 5% of your order will be donated to Photo Nights Boston now through September 30th. All of those funds will go directly to our inaugural event Photorama on Thursday, October 3^rd where we will celebrate photography and the arts in Boston.

So, whether you have a big photo gig coming up and you need to rent some gear or if you are in the market for a new zoom lens for your next wedding shoot, head to www.lensprotogo.com. Be sure to type in PNBOSTON at check out!

Get a discount and do some good. It’s a win, win. And big thank you to the team at LensProToGo for supporting the photo community!

Mike Pecci: More Than Just Pictures

Mon, 09 Sep 2013 14:06:55 -0400

Mike Pecci will take you on a journey back and forth between still photography and filmmaking, blurring the lines enough to ask 'is that a still from a movie? or a movie packed into one single editorial frame?' Using a DSLR to create it all, Pecci is a Boston-based photographer, director, artist combing passion and talent in everything he does, whether for personal or corporate, documentary or grindhouse, it all shines and screams Pecci.

Often hailed as raw, peculiar, and dark, Mike's ability to utilize technology and images to translate the darkest moments of human experience is insurmountable. Crafting deep characters and consistently pushing the limits in every project, Mike Pecciis an artist whose commitment to detail and process have proved to be the reason for his success. His ability to touch audiences through his films is a credit to his commitment to understanding humanity. The work has an emotional quality that can both frighten and pull you in, playing off the darkest chasms of the human condition. Working with some of the most hidden places in a character, Mike has created timeless films that impel you to fall in love and cringe with fear.

Mike Pecci will be at Quixote Studio, 184 Everett St Allston Village, today talking about his work! Swing by: 5:30 drinks and food, 6:30-8 presentation, 8-9 Q&A

Photographers to Keep Your Eye On

Mon, 02 Sep 2013 10:30:00 -0400

Nancy Fulton, Richard Jacobs and Susan Nalband are three Boston based photographers that you should keep your eye on. They are at varying stages of their photographic practice, but all are deeply committed to the photographic medium and message and making powerful imagery.

What first drew me to Nancy and Richard's work was their painterly, nature-based series that are in conversation with light, form, and spirit. Nancy's series Tapestry of Seasons and Richard's series Spirit Woods take us into an etherial place, where form and function are replaced by dreams and light. Both have used motion and chance to create portraits of nature and beauty. Nancy states: "Tapestry of Seasons investigates time and change; both are continuous as we travel through the year. Each moment is fleeting, a ghost that leaves an imprint, a feeling in our minds."

Photo by Nancy Fulton

Photo by Richard Jacobs

In addition to being a photographer, Nancy is also a watercolor artist and studied architecture. She was a veteran planning committee member and artist for the Somerville Open Studios (SOS) and has been exhibiting her art since with SOS since1999. She has most recently exhibited in the annual juried Community of Artist show at the Danforth Arts Museum/School in Framingham, MA and will be part of a group show Photography Atelier 18 at the Griffin Museum of Photography in Winchester, MA, in September. I asked Nancy about her photography practice. She says:

"Like many photographers, I’ve taken photographs for years. The first time I exhibited my photography work was in 2008. At the end of 2007, I had the opportunity to sail on a classically rigged three masted barque. The ship was beautiful. I had taken a series of photographs of the interaction between the sails and the wind. This is what I exhibited at Open Studios in May of 2008. I’ve been exhibiting my photography work ever since. I studied photography while earning my Bachelor of Architecture degree. Watching a print appear in the dark room was magical. The creative processes of architecture, painting and photography are all connected for me. Architecture is designed as an abstraction, and becomes an experience. It’s a way of thinking and seeing. Painting and photography are particularly close. The two dimensions, or three dimensions portrayed in two, the colors, the patterns, the composition, the light and shadows, the point of view. All are ways to communicate, a connection between my vision and the viewer’s interpretation. Photography is an experience that becomes an abstraction."

Nancy has recently released a new series of work, The Rain Begins, shot in Tanzania in the Ngorogoro Crater, which I personally think is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Again, Nancy draws from land and seasons, but rather than blur and motion to capture their essence, she has captured that still and pregnant pause when the life force is strong and promising. Nancy writes: "The mist burned off and then, in the afternoon, clouds heralding the edge between the wet and the dry formed on the rim and spilled rain into the caldera. The wind-driven clouds were at times soaring and at times darkly ominous, but the welcome rains brought hope, renewal, and needed water to both people and animals."

Photos by Nancy Fulton

Richard has had a successful career as a therapist, and has returned to photography quite recently. I asked Richard what inspired him to pick up the camera: "Taking pictures 'brings me into life.' I'm inspired by natural and human beauty, by fleeting moments in time that slip through our minds and are forgotten unless we can capture them in a photo. I'm inspired by the very magical act of making a photo, from clicking the shutter, to the wonder of watching it come out of a printer. I've spent countless hours with the Monets and the Rothko's, the van Gogh's and Cezannes, and have always wanted to pay tribute to them for what they give me." Richard's father handed him a 127 format Kodak pocket vest camera he had used during World War II. "He showed me a photo he'd taken of Olivia de Havilland, who made a USO visit on March 3, 1944. That camera had been through a war, almost to Japan, and taken a picture of a famous person! By 12, I graduated to a Brownie, then my father's 35mm Argus which I took cross-country, and finally my own Minolta SLR. In college I shot with a Polaroid. Then I became a therapist and photography got put away for a long time. My father had promised every summer to build us a darkroom in our basement. But he never did; so I feel I have picked up that thread and maybe am carrying out an interest of his that he never really developed. Why else would he have made that little plastic camera seem so important? And handed me the Argus like it was the secret to the Universe?" Richard is in the process of transforming his basement into a photography gallery.

Richard has looked inward with his recent work AfterImages - a series taken in his office where he has practiced as a therapist for more than 25 years. Richard says: "AfterImages shows my therapy office as it is between my clients' sessions…I sit and join my clients as they face their shattered illusions. Their stories echo in the walls and furniture; the images of their lives and mine change in this space over time, and we create new images that hopefully are better than the old ones."

Photos by Richard Jacobs

Susan works with communities, often on projects that take place over several years. When I first met Susan, she was revisiting a town where she had shot a documentary as a college student in 1974. She returned and re-photographed the place and the community. She has studied large families, isolated individuals, sisters, small town inhabitants, diner workers, and laborers. She says, "As is true for many photographers, I don’t remember not being compelled by images and a means to make them. My father and his father were amateur camera men, and I confiscated the family camera for myself at a young age." In her recent work, Devoted to a Mennonite Life, she came to know and photograph a rural Mennonite community that is bound in time and where change is slow. It all began in a local farmers' market where they were selling their produce. She worked with the community for about six months last year, and it is an ongoing project. Susan states: "That the Bible teaches a way of life involving speech, dress, work, recreation, education and non-participation in politics and warfare has been the historical belief of Mennonites… There is no television or internet in their homes, the men and women sit on separate sides of the church during services, and the women are encouraged to follow the lead of their husbands in the home… With humility they share their successes and hardships with devotion to their way of life and their community.They have generously allowed me, a worldling, an other, to photograph them and their children at work and play, and share in the peace and simplicity of their lives." She has shot a wonderful documentary that will soon be published in Desert Leaf Magazine.

Photos by Susan Nalband

When you are out and about in Boston, keep an eye out for Nancy, Richard and Susan. They are going places.

Nancy Fulton: http://www.nancyfulton.com
Richard Jacobs: http://www.richardleojacobs.com
Susan Nalband: http://susannalband.zenfolio.com

Written by Julie Williams-Krishnan. Julie is a fine art photographer living and working in Boston and holds an M.A. in Photographic Studies from the University of Westminster. She has exhibited in the UK and the US, including most recently at the Khaki Gallery and has also taught photography at a university in London. To see her work and learn more visit: www.jwkphotography.com. - See more at: http://www.photonightsboston.com/blog/2013/photosynthesis-the-griffin-museum/#sthash.90EqVBnS.dpuf

Last Days to Submit Photos for Photorama!

Wed, 28 Aug 2013 13:44:52 -0400

We know you love to wait until the last minute – and the last minute is almost here!

Open submissions for the Photorama photo contest ends this Thursday, August 29th at 12:00 midnight. Enter now and you may win the ASMP Visionary Award for $1,000!   In addition to the ASMP award, you'll have the opportunity to have your work and artistic vision displayed for all to see, as well as the chance to win other amazing cash prizes and honors.   Make sure to enter your best images for the chance to have your photos light up the walls of the Cyclorama through large-scale projections – creating a truly immersive and one-of-a-kind experience.

Image by Gregory Waldo, www.gregorywaldo.com

Photo Show Roundup

Fri, 09 Aug 2013 20:05:46 -0400

Hello photography fans! We’re here to bring your attention to 3 different photography exhibits that are currently up and running and that you should definitely check out.

The Griffin Museum will be showing Kathleen Volp’s “The Melon Series” until September 1^st. Volp says that "exploring materials is an essential part of her art making", which is demonstrated by her photographs of the cantaloupe. Volp takes the melon and then splits and rebinds them. She says that this physical process "allows me to explore feelings of otherness and vulnerability, but also to eventually evolve out of the introspective self and into a greater context with others." You have To learn more about this exhibit, click here.

The Peabody Essex Museum in Salem will be featuring Toshio Shibata’s “Constructed Landscapes,” on view until February 2, 2014. Shibata is a distinguished landscape photographers in Japan who is known for "exploring the delicate balance between human-made structures and nature." He delves deeper into the unique appearance of structures, photographing things such as erosion control barriers, water catchments, roads, damns, and bridges. Check out Shibata's work at the Peabody Essex museum to experience his talent for turning what could be seen as ordinary structures into extraordinary and beautiful photographs. For more information, click here.

Image by Toshio Shibata

The last show features esteemed New York photographer, Bruce Davidson, whose exhibition will be at the Museum of Fine Arts until September 8^th. This exhibition offers a look at life in Harlem in the 1960s. These 43 prints were originally showcased in 1970 at the Museum of Modern Art in Davidson’s show, “East 100^th Street.” Davidson captures images of life on the blocks between 1^st and 2^nd Avenues, which, during the 1950s, had been described as the most dangerous blocks in the entire city. He was able to gain trust of the residents of the Harlem neighborhood, enabling him to take "intimate, close-up portraits," and thus capture quite powerfully the "gritty reality" of life there. Don't miss out on a chance to see this incredible exhibition and experience a little bit of Harlem history. For more information, click here.

The Secrets of Success

Wed, 31 Jul 2013 17:25:15 -0400

I was working the BBQ over the weekend. I was cooking a pork loin, slow and low, using what I call, the indirect method. The menu that evening also included grilled asparagus and grilled corn on the cob. For dessert, I grilled peaches, split in half and finished with Mascarpone and honey. As I was preparing this feast, I got to thinking that I had to have a real solid plan to pull it off properly.

The pork loin has to cook very slowly. The slower the better. That’s the essence of barbecue. Slow and low. Grilling on the other hand is fast and high. The pork loin is cooked over an aluminum pan with a little water in it with coals banked on both sides. The lid goes on the grill and the vents are closed most of the way to choke off the air and control the heat. When the loin is close to done, I open the vents raise the heat on the banked coals, and it’s time to start grilling. First the corn goes on, with the husk peeled back but not removed. When the corn is close to done, on goes the asparagus. A few minutes later I’m ready to serve the main course. When I clear the plates, it’s the peaches turn to meet the heat. It only take a few minutes to perfect goodness. Add the Mascarpone and drizzle the honey and I’ve got a little bit of Georgia heaven.

What’s this got to do with photography you might ask. Good question. And here’s were I see the relationship. I shoot mainly still life in the studio. A lot of projects I shoot take precise planning. It takes exact timing. It’s getting all the ingredients right and prepared. In the studio, we collaborate with prop stylists, food stylists, tech assistants, grip assistants, hand models, catering for the crew and timely delivery of files. Like preparing a BBQ and grilled feast, planning and timing is everything. It occurred to me that the discipline I’ve used for years in the studio and on the grill are very much the same. If you want success doing either, you gotta have a plan.

Photo by Dave Bradley

I’ve asked fellow photographers Gary Tardiff, Kim Lowe and Josh Campbell about what discipline, passions and skills they use in life that they bring to their art. Their answers are diverse, enlightening and pretty damn cool. I’ve included shots selected by myself, Gary, Kim and Josh to illustrate my theory.

Gary Tardiff:

Iʼve been called ʻhandyʼ all of my life. Itʼs a trait that I was either born with or developed out of necessity. When I wanted a skateboard, I fashioned one out of a piece of wood and a pair of discarded roller-skates. Later, when I wanted a go-cart, I first looked for a supermarket carriage to cannibalize the wheels. A few basic tools, some pieces of wood or metal and a hand full of nails, nuts and bolts was all I really needed.

Rarely, if ever, do I find an out-of-the-box solution to a project that Iʼm working on, photographic or otherwise. I’ve not often seen the plate of food that doesnʼt need some kind of ʻspecial treatmentʼ to look itʼs best or to show off a particular feature (or even to hide something else). I go into each end every project expecting that to be the case and also expecting the need to MacGyver something together at the last minute that will last just long enough for me to make the picture I want to make.

Photo by Gary Tardiff

I start each project with the picture I want to create already in my mind. More often than not, the initial plan is a ʻbig pictureʼ plan and itʼs in the details where things can go off track. Thatʼs when I go into ʻhandyʼ mode...coming up with a solution that keeps me on track toward the finished product. Sometimes itʼs as simple as camera work, sometimes itʼs more complicated like customizing a light modifier, or even making some device ʻon the flyʼ and these days, it can even involve a computer.

In the end, much of my process comes down to my own particular set of ʻexpectationsʼ. I typically donʼt expect to find a standard solution to many of the issues that I may face in producing an image. What I do expect is there will always be something within reach, with just a little bit of playing, that will accomplish my visual goal.

Photo by Gary Tardiff

Kim Lowe:

There are two things that make me a better photographer – being an Art Director for almost a decade and also being a mother — both roles are still very present in me as a photographer, with every photo I take.

The Art Director in me understands the juggling act Creatives do with each project. They want to create something cool and interesting but also keep the client from fearing something too edgy. AD's want to push the envelope without freaking the client out and making them want to retreat to "safe," flat imagery. Then there's the design side to being an AD. I think every artist, whether they're a painter, sculptor or photographer, should take a design class. The basics of design that I learned 20 years ago change the balance and harmony of every photograph I take to this day.

Photo by Kim Lowe

And as a Mother, geez, where do I start?! As a kids photographer, being a mother changed everything about the way I photograph kids. It didn't change my style of photography so much but it changed my interactions with the kids. With my new found understanding of tantrums and moods, I could better evaluate a kid on set and know when to stop pushing for a specific shot and when a kid is just toast. And patience. Who can't benefit from learning a little more patience. Now that's with young kids — with teenagers, I'm still trying to figure them out!

Photo by Kim Lowe

Josh Campbell:

I would have to say that being a snowboarder has been incredibly valuable throughout my career. I began my career photographing the worlds best snowboarders. Being able to snowboard around a mountain with them is a skill, that if I didn't have, would have made capturing the subject matter extremely limited. I’m boarding with the top talents in the world. If I don’t keep up, I don’t get the shot. And because of my own boarding experience, I can truly appreciate the talent, skills and amazing discipline of the athletes I photograph. I started snowboarding when I was 12 years old, so this winter will be season 24 for me.

Photo by Josh Campbell

In the summer time I mountain bike which has come in pretty handy on a more than one assignment as well. It's especially useful for finding locations most other photographers may not find. I had a double page spread that I shot for Runner's World at a location I discovered while mountain biking. There's no way I would have discovered this location if I didn't roll around the woods on my bike.

Photo by Josh Campbell

Dave Bradley is a photographer from Boston and you can find his work here. Dave also serves on PNB's executive board.

Unlimited Happiness Tour

Fri, 26 Jul 2013 12:32:55 -0400

Photographers looking to create and build your own business shouldn’t miss this great opportunity to attend the Unlimited Happiness Tour, sponsored by ShootDotEdit and Lens Pro To Go.

This year’s tour is focused on giving photographers the tools to create the business they’ve always dreamed of. The tour will be hosted by Jared Bauman and will feature Jeff Jochum and Brian Friedman who will respectively speak about “Specialism Will Set You Free” and “Shooting Stars: A guide to shooting our dreams in today’s marketplace.” Each city the tour hits will feature a guest speaker. Boston will be featuring wedding photographer and business advisor, Jason Aten, whose subject will be “Growing Your Business Without Losing Your Mind.”

What’s more: this event is FREE with a simple RSVP! There are 200 seats available. RSVP now and tell your photographer friends to do the same!

Event Details:
August 22^nd, 6-9pm
FREE with RSVP
$25 to buy tickets at the door

ASMP Testifies in Congress on Photo Copyrights

Fri, 26 Jul 2013 07:14:54 -0400

The Executive Director of ASMP, Eugene Mopsik, was asked this past Thursday to testify on "Innovation in America: The Role of Copyrights" before the US House Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet. ASMP writes that Eugene is,

“one of five individuals asked to participate in the hearing and his is the only testimony representing an organization of professional photographers. Mopsik was invited because of ASMP’s history of leadership in the area of copyright. In his remarks, Mopsik said in part, “The advent of the digital era has made it fast, easy and simple for images to be stolen or otherwise infringed. Without copyright protection, all possible recourse by the photographer would be eliminated, and we would be creating a culture in which digital theft is considered acceptable.”

Read the full testimony here and learn more about ASMP here.