A bit more than RIDICULOUS

RIDICULOUS: Inspiring ridicule,absurd,silly: Synonyms: laughable, idiotic, foolish, cockeyed, nonsensical

What Am I Talking About?

  I am talking about the massive amounts of software and the ability to distort photos. Over processed and what was once natural in its beauty becomes lost. Did you see the Photoshop Epic Fail that Target did on two of it's edits http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/lifestyle/2014/03/target-apologizes-for-thigh-gap-photoshop-fail/

Have you seen the filter of instagram popping up as a preset on every photo software available? I have and I am getting tired of it. I often as a photographer join other photography communities and forums and even sometimes join the conversation. I am just irritated that so many people hit the like button in facebook for mediocre work. I appreciate the tools that are given in software, I just wish interpretation and use were put to what is in my opinion good use. Unless you are given an assignment specific to a concept, let's tone it down?? Anyone who knows me, has heard me speak of taking the best photo first and never relying on software to save you. You will never learn or hone any new skills that will help you AS YOU PHOTOGRAPH. A simple portrait can be stunning even if you use software... don't over do it. Here are two examples: Original and over edit.

I took this next photograph which is some of my first boudoir work and did a soft skin edit with a few tweeks. I am not always happy with the things I see sometimes when I look back at my own work. I am glad to know that I DO IMPROVE! This photo was taken when I didn't use anything other than exposure & contrast to help me edit portraits. My statement for portraits is, that I will make you look like a healthier you. I want you to look good, or I do not look good. I do think the original of this portrait was nice.. I decided with new skills and learning a new program to show you how less is more. I soften the skin, took out blemishes and brightened the eyes. I wanted Karin to remain as beautiful as I have always seen her with out heavy edits.

Any thoughts? Let's discuss... laymanphotography@windstream.net or leave a comment. Have a great day!

Do you remember your firsts?

Hello everyone! I hope all has been well. I wish I could say the same, but my health has been an issue due to extreme dental problems. Thank you to all for the get well wishes. I am on the up swing!! Yay! I have many photos to sort and process and share with all of you. I'm excited!! In my massive LightRoom Catalog, I stumbled upon photos that I take personally for myself. My own life events and moments that I want to cherish.. Sometimes as a photographer, these images sit all alone in a folder marked "Personal" and get pushed to the last of the list. The reason I did get to these few photos of my Lab was to clear up my photo count of 763, so when I look at the total, it doesn't stress me out. I know, its my own trick for the mind! I do have a lot of good news and photos to share, so stay tuned! My 4 year old yellow lab, Henry enjoying his first marshmallow! Do you have a few firsts to share? If so, send them to me, Id love to see them and share on my blog. Have a great day! Stacey

What is this?

Several of you on facebook had some really great guesses and only a few of you got it right! This photo is indeed peanut butter cookie dough... Thank you all who participated!

Free Wedding Photography-Essay Contest

Official announcement that there are no winners of the contest. There were zero entries and the deadline is expired.

Long Exposure- Christmas Lights 2013

Hey everyone. I hope the holidays are being kind to you all. I wake up so early that I get bored before everyone else wakes up. So I decided to take photos of my tree. I do it every year and thought it would be cool to get some long exposure shots. Here are the photos and the settings. Image 1 (F5.6/Shutter 1/4 sec) -ALL ISO 400 Image 2 (F6.3/Shutter 1/2 Sec) Image 3 (F29/Shutter 3.2 sec) Image 4 (F22/Shutter 1 sec)

Christmas Photo Special- No Sitting Fee & Disc of Images

Greetings everyone I hope you all are doing well. Its time to gather the family as we remember all our loved ones, past and present.. a time to tell family stories and enjoy each other's company. A unique gift idea StoryBlocks! A great investment that can be modified as your family grows. Come in the studio,, pick your board design, photos and watch everyone say "Wow!" as they enjoy playing with the blocks.

Christmas Photo Special.. Studio portraits with no sitting fee with the purchase of StoryBlock design and $50 flat rate for all disc of images, not just the ones for the storyblock.. What does this all mean? It means you need to book now if you are using the storyblock for a Christmas gift. Last day to book Nov 30th,2013!

Free Wedding Photography Deadline!

We are getting close to the Nov 30th , 2013 Deadline for your chance to enter the Wedding Essay Contest!

Details are listed below..

Write an essay of your love story, date of your wedding, location or idea of venue and why you want me to be your photographer.

 Due: November 30, 2013 before midnight.

 Top 3 will get an engagement session in the studio and their pick of 5 photos on a disc

 Winner will be announced December 31^st 2013, so get writing! You have the rest of this year to tell me and the world about your journey!

 

****All submissions are to be sent to laymanphotography@windstream.net.***

 

Please do not post your essay on facebook or other social media in which you may find me. I will only respond inquiries sent via email.