I use to do a lot of portrait and model work, but this was when film was the medium. I did some weddings, family sets and photo business cards as well. I had the use of a studio when I was partnered with another photographer. Due to some unexpected life changes for my partner, the studio was lost and this was the end of the portrait/model shooting for me. I thought something would have evolved and I'd be doing studio/people work once again, but it didn't and I got more and more involved in other areas outside of photography.

 

As a side note, I'm surprised by the apparent lack of appreciation for quality portraiture on Flickr. This probably speaks to snapshots vs. photography and the lack of knowledge and training to know the difference. Portraiture can be/should be very complex work between lighting, posing, garment selection, background/props and being able to illicit a desired expression at a minimum. Knowing how to make someone "look their best" regardless of their imperfections is a challenge that I looked forward to.

  

  

 

The loss of a shared studio did allow me to return to landscape and nature work. This was my initial interest in photography, but its tough getting to those great locations especially when the light is just right. I have always felt that lighting is the most important aspect of a quality photograph. That special quality that the "golden hours" give you just cannot be overlooked or discounted. There are many variables that create a PHOTOGRAPH and separate it from a mere snapshot, but lighting is the cornerstone. A proper setting is also a must. Recording brilliant color, without a scene/setting, will change a potential Photograph into another snapshot. A monotone sky is also a real detriment in what might otherwise be a real "wall hanger".

 

 

 

 

My digital experience is somewhat limited. I shot film for a very long time and was reluctant to change. Now that I have I can't imagine how I got along with film for so long. Although film's limitations made me a better shooter than I would have been without that experience. In this same digital vein I am just starting to scratch the surface of Photoshop. I still feel that the best images should be made primarily in the camera.

 

 

I am really having a great time looking at everyone's work and learning from it. I am always grateful for any constructive criticism and equally grateful for views and comments in general. I hope to get together with any Flickr friends to enjoy any images.