Week #52 Photo Challenge

Walking Home

Hard to believe that it has been a year since I started this project. My intent was to give myself  motivation to get out every week with my camera - and it did just that. My commitment to this project gave me some sleepless Saturday nights wondering which picture to use, was it really my best one, would it convey what I was trying to say, and would anyone care. In the end it all come together. I have learned much about photography this year and enjoy having my camera in my hands more than ever. 

I would like to give a special thanks to all of the teachers that have helped me learn to see with a "beginner's eye" this year.

Kim Manely Ort , Lee Ashland , John Ricca , Keith Walklet, and 

Miriam Hall have all shared their love for photography and have helped me align my eyes, heart, and hands. These are truly generous teachers and amazing photographers.

I am not sure what comes next and whether I will continue with this blog. If I do continue, it will most likely look and feel a little different. Stay tuned to see what 2016 brings.

Blessings to you all - Louise

Week #45 Photo Challenge

Meadow Trees - Yosemite

I had the great pleasure last week to participate in a wonderful photography workshop in Yosemite National Park. The class was sponsored by the Yosemite Conservancy and taught by two talented photographers - Keith Walklet and John Ricca. 

I had wanted an opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and spend some guided time out exploring landscape photography.  The days were long,  full of incorporating new skills, meeting new friends, and spending quiet time in the glory of that which is Yosemite Valley. I left the valley feeling grateful for the kindness and knowledge of the teachers and students and blessed to have the creative time to explore this very special place.

Week #14 Photo Challenge

Garden Art

I just came back from a Garden Photography class at the Ruth Bancroft Garden. The teachers for the class were John Ricca and Richard Valenti . Both of the instructors were patient and encouraging as we spent the morning exploring this wonderful garden. We were encouraged to try new skills and both John and Richard were always available to walk us through a new approach or give us feedback on our photos.  

One of the reasons I took this particular class was that I wanted to try making abstracts using these succulents. I had noticed on John's site that he also looks at nature in abstract ways and I was excited to learn more of how he set up the technical part of his shots. I was not disappointed and feel like I finished the class with some new knowledge and techniques. Besides all that, it was fun to meet some new people and share a morning together.