Week #46

I Feel The Same Way

Friday I was off of work and treated myself to a day long street photography class in San Francisco. Once again, I had the pleasure of roaming the streets with Valerie Jardin and once again, I had the opportunity to spend the day with nine other creative and inspiring students. Spending the day connecting to people and our shared humanity helped bring joy back to my heart. I hope you find time this week to honor the people and pursuits that bring you joy and peace.

Week #35

Side by Side

"Photography is the power of observation not the application of technology."

Ken Rockwell

In a few weeks I will be in Paris taking a week long street photography course with Valerie Jardin. In preparation, I thought I would take my camera with me yesterday as I went out to our local library. One of the concepts that I am working with is what makes an interesting image. There are always people out in the streets, but how do you capture a moment that really expresses the human condition? 

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.

Miksang

Several weeks ago I had the opportunity to participate in the Miksang Institute held in Boulder Colorado. Michael Wood, the founder of Miksang, and Julie DuBose were our teachers as we embarked on the journey of learning how to see with fresh eyes and how to capture those images with our cameras. I spent five days with a group of like minded travelers. We spent the week opening our minds, eyes, and hearts to learning how to see the extraordinary in our everyday world. You can find out more about this training and Miksang here.

Ways to Learn

Being new to photography, I try to do something every day that increase my knowledge and skills. When I am not out taking pictures, I read blogs and books on a variety of photography subjects. However, what I have found to be the most helpful is taking classes. I have taken a few in-person classes but what I really enjoy is the structure and community of online classes.



I'm getting ready to take my third online class with Kim Manley Ort . So far I have taken her Going Abstract and Photo By Design. On May 19th I will start Keeping It Simple. Kim is a wonderful teacher and I find that she provides interesting assignments along with in-depth resources. She creates a class environment that is supportive and encouraging to students of all abilities. Having a reason to take my camera out each day keeps me growing as a photographer.