GETTING OUT OF A PHOTOGRAPHY SLUMP

Athletes in a slump often admit that during these times they're gripping the stick or bat more than they usually do.  Even the smallest amount of variance in their routine adversely affects their results.  Similarly, it becomes unnatural when a photographer begins over thinking and forcing something to materialize that typically comes naturally to them.  Tensions and anxieties arise, in all walks of life, when one pressures themselves into forcing something to materialize.  When moments like this become apparent, let go, let your anxiousness effervesce, and move on.  Dwelling on it will only amplify the frustration.  It's that simple, good luck working that into your daily routine.

KODAK FILES FOR BANKRUPTCY

Image by: What The Duck

It's hard to believe that one of the most prominent names asscoiated with photography is close to disappearing forever.  Last week, Kodak filed for bankruptcy protection.  To put this into perspective, it would be like one of the five major car manufacturers disappearing from our collective consciousness for eternity.  Given our current economic climate, and what has transpired in the last few years, that may not be that much of a stretch come to think of it.  Regardless, Kodak and photography were terms that were often used interchangeably.  Well, the "fad" of digital photography clearly caught on, and Kodak's gamble to put far too much stock in their past, that being film sales, led to their diminishing relevance and eventual financial collapse.  

Kodak seemed to be everywhere when I was growing up.  The oh so well known red and yellow logo was to be found plastered almost everywhere.  I can't remember however the last time that I saw a Kodak advertisement.  Kodak is just another reminder of the impermanence of everything in this universe.  If we live in the past, and cannot come to accept change, we will undoubtedly suffer from our failure to look to the future and let go. 

PHOTOSHOP PARODY

Here's just another reminder to those of you using any type of retouching software that less is almost always better.  Subtlety reigns!  One day people are going to look back at this time in photography and ask "What were they thinking?".  That's easy; they weren't... 

UPGRADE YOUR MIND'S FIRMWARE

Image by: PeterAnthony Photography

Many of us always make a point of upgrading.  For some people, it's a mantra that they live according to.  Somewhere along the way we've developed this idea that newer is always better.  Why would I buy a regular laundry detergent if there's an "improved" laundry detergent on the market?  We seem to be wired into believing that the most recent iteration of something is always going to be superior.  Well, that's not always true.  I only have to look at some of my old manual focus lenses.  There's nothing out there today that can match the colour, rendering, and construction of these gems.

However, there is one thing that many of us tend to neglect upgrading, which genuinely requires upgrading, and that's our mind.  Oh sure, when there's a new operating system, or even an incremental improvement to an existing operating system, we quickly upgrade.  When it comes to our mind, we're either reluctant, slow, or unmotivated to upgrade our own mental firmware.  Whether it's a result of our current comfort, or being in a perceived unbreakable routine, we need to trudge past this and push our mind in order to genuinely stimulate ourselves.  Stimulus should not always come from external sources.  It should come from within.  With that being said, you can't improve your photographic eye unless you begin by furthering your photographic mind first.

NIKON D4 ANNOUNCED

From today's press release:

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the Nikon D4, a Nikon FX-format camera that serves as the new flagship model in Nikon's lineup of digital-SLR cameras. Nikon will be exhibiting the D4 at the 2012 International CES, to be held Tuesday, January 10 through Friday, January 13 in Las Vegas, Nevada. This electronics exhibition is open to the public.

The D4 is equipped with a new Nikon FX-format CMOS image sensor (imaging size of 36.0 x 23.9 mm) and EXPEED 3, the latest image-processing engine specifically optimized for digital-SLR cameras, making it the next-generation flagship Nikon digital-SLR camera with the ultimate in versatility and functionality that offers superior image quality rich in detail along with excellent high-speed performance. It has an effective pixel count of 16.2-million pixels, and offers superior image quality under a broad range of lighting conditions with its image sensor supporting an incredible range of sensitivities from ISO 50 to ISO 204800.

The new 91K-pixel (approximately 91,000 pixels) RGB sensor supports the Advanced Scene Recognition System, which is able to recognize human faces even when images are framed using the optical viewfinder. In addition, the Advanced Scene Recognition System offers significant improvements in AF, AE, i-TTL flash control, and auto white balance (AWB) control accuracy. The 51 focus point AF system has been improved with faster initiation of autofocusing and the ability to detect and focus on subjects with less lighting. In addition, 11 focus points are fully functional when lenses with a maximum aperture of f/8 are used. All of this means more precise autofocusing when super-telephoto NIKKOR lenses are used with teleconverters (2.0x). The Multi-area Mode Full HD D-movie movie recording function is capable of recording full-HD movies at 30 fps, and offers three movie recording formats for selection according to recording conditions or creative intent.

What's more, the D4 records images to memory cards faster with built-in support for high-speed, UDMA 7-compatible CompactFlash memory cards and next-generation, high-speed XQD memory cards. In addition to built-in wired LAN features, the D4 also supports high-speed image transfer via wireless LAN when the new, compact, easy-to-use Wireless Transmitter WT-5 (available separately) is connected to the camera. The D4 is also equipped with a number of new functions that support a more efficient workflow for professional photographers, including one that allows users to add IPTC (International Press Telecommunications Council) information to images.

Here's one of the first promotional videos, if you're interested:  

NEW YEAR'S PHOTOGRAPHY RESOLUTION

Without a doubt my New Year's photography resolution is going to be not to purchase any camera gear in 2012 (unless something I currently own is lost, stolen, or broken beyond repair).  No lenses to be purchased, no cables, no lighting equipment, no accessories whatsoever.  That's quite exciting for me.  Use what you have and make great images with your current stock of gear.  I'd rather spend the time learning more about myself by using existing gear than purchasing new gear and learning about it.  It's a simple yet very liberating plan.  In fact, I'm actually going to take this a step further and take inventory of what I own, and sell off some of my lesser used gear.  This is one resolution that I'll have no difficulty keeping, but that's what everyone says early in January.  

AVOID UNNECESSARY ACCIDENTS

Image by: PeterAnthony Photography

This may simply be a matter of stating the obvious, but indulge me for a moment to do exactly that.  In order to reduce the number of hectic moments that you have, develop a routine where you always return your gear back to your camera bag, or your studio, to exactly the same spot every time.  It can be unnerving when you're on location and you begin to fumble through a camera bag or backpack looking for something, when you know you're losing time, the moment, and more importantly optimal light.  Routine and habit is important when it comes to photography; sometimes we cannot afford to spend seconds searching for something that isn't even there.  Pay attention to organizing your gear, because there's already enough unpredictability in our cluttered day.  

LED ZEPPELIN IV ... 40 YEARS LATER

Image by: Bob Gruen

40 years ago this past week, Led Zeppelin released the greatest rock album of all-time (at least in my opinion). A powerhouse from the legendary opening vocal intro of “Black Dog” to the final notes of the hypnotic Mississippi blues-infused “When The Levee Breaks”.  Led Zeppelin IV contains eight classics including “Rock And Roll,” “The Battle Of Evermore,” “Misty Mountain Hop,” “Four Sticks,” “Going To California,” and, of course, the ultimate rock anthem, “Stairway To Heaven.”

“Hats Off…” to Jimmy, Robert, John Paul, and John for creating a true work of art that only gets better with age.

Celebrate the anniversary ... put it on, turn it up loud, and go edit some images.

REMEMBRANCE DAY

Image by: PeterAnthony Photography

Canadians pause today in a silent moment of remembrance for the men and women who have served, and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict, and peace. We honour those who fought for Canada in the First World War (1914-1918), the Second World War (1939-1945), and the Korean War (1950-1953), as well as those who have served since then. More than 1,500,000 Canadians have served our country in this way, and more than 100,000 have died. They gave their lives and their futures so that we may live in peace.  To all the brave Canadians that served, and to continue to serve around the world ... thank you.  Words cannot express how fortunate we are to live in such a safe, just, and peace filled country.

Many of the rights and freedoms that we still have today as photographers in various parts of the world, are a direct result of those who served and continue to serve our respective countries. To all the veterans and their families ... thank you.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

We're just approaching the end of Thanksgiving weekend here in Canada.  Although we should be cognizant of the need for an appreciation for all of the blessings in our life on a daily basis, Thanksgiving is an official time to do so.  Take the opportunity to take stock of the many freedoms and gifts that are afforded to those of us that live in a Western Democratic society on a daily basis.  In Canada, we have the freedom to photograph in public spaces without fear of reprisal or persecution, let alone imprisonment. We also have the luxury to access disposable income to support our hobbies and businesses.  Most importantly, we also have our health and leisure time to pursue our interests in photography ... too often these two things are overlooked when we're taking inventory of the things to give thanks for.  Instead of looking through a viewfinder, spend some time looking inward over the next few days.  No doubt, you'll come to the realization of how fortunate you are.

To all of my friends south of the border, have a very enjoyable and peace-filled Thanksgiving in a few weeks from now.  May all of you have more reasons to be thankful each and every year.

HONEST FEEDBACK AND CRITIQUE

I may be way off base here, but it seems that the culture of self-esteem proliferates so many of our day to day interactions.  Our politically correct environment dictates that we heap accolades on others for almost everything.  Why do people feel so compelled to constantly praise others for what amounts to mediocre work?  People have much more to gain from polite and honest critique, over that of syrupy and insincere praise.  Honesty is the best policy, and yes the truth often hurts.

REVISUALIZATION

Experienced photographers extensively plan and prepare their shoots in advance.  That may include scouting a series of locations, packing all of the appropriate gear, getting permits, and even pre-visualizing particular shots to exacting standards.  They also have a number of contingency plans in case the weather or other circumstances turn against them.

Once the shoot takes place, that should not signify the end of things.  Obviously there's all of the post processing work that goes into cleaning up and finalizing a series of images for your clients.  However, I'm talking about what you can do for yourself.  I call it "revisualization".  That's the time that you take to reflect back on the shoot.  Ask yourself some of the following questions:

What went well, and what didn't go well?

What was your best shot, and why?

What could you have done differently?

What did you not see coming that happened, that you can prepare for in the future?

What was the client most and least pleased with?

What were some of the hooks or one-liners that were effective with the client(s)?

Did you use or need all of the gear that you brought?

Would an assistant or an additional assistant have been helpful?

How well did you quote your job in the first place?

The list goes on and on.  Personally, I always seem to think about the shot that I didn't get.  Even worse, for myself, is the shot that I didn't even think about getting until well after the shoot.  That's frustrating when that happens.  All of this afterthought, or reflection, will help you improve so that your next shoot will have more potential to be your best shoot.    Take time for revisualization.

LEICA PORTRAIT: WOLFGANG WESENER

Leica Portrait: wowe from leica camera on Vimeo.

German born, New York based photographer wowe (Wolfgang Wesener) has photographed some of the most iconic individuals of the past two decades. He is especially known for his photography of the 1980's punk scene in New York.  Here wowe shares some of his wildest stories.

This video was shot and edited by Trevor Bayack 

9/11 TEN YEARS LATER

The New York Times originally ran this photo documentary about New York's iron workers and their efforts to rebuild the site of the World Trade Center.  The images remind me of, and bring me back to, similar photographs of my own city, Toronto, when it's skyline was radically transformed in the 1950's.  The New York Times compilation, shot in July of 2011 by Pulitzer Prize winning photographer Damon Winter, has soaring views of the city below contrasted against angular steel and interesting characters whose faces tell quite a story. The images themselves look timeless, and collectively they provide a strong documentary about transformation and growth.  Take three minutes out of your day to watch these "cowboys of the sky".  If you'd like more insight into the making of the actual shoot, check out this article from The 6th Floor Blog.

STEVE MCCURRY: LEICA HALL OF FAME AWARD

Steve McCurry: A Retrospective from leica camera on Vimeo.

"For more than three decades, 61 year old Steve McCurry has been on the road as a documentary photographer at the world's trouble spot and has obtained many awards for his work. His documentary on the Soviet invasion to Afghanistan won him international fame. He also covered, amongst others, the Iran-Iraq War, the Gulf War, and the Yugoslav Wars, and sent reports from Lebanon, Tibet, Yemen, and Cambodia. His probably most famous photograph is the "Afghan girl" Sharbat Gula, a photograph that was taken in 1984 in a refugee camp. Since 1986, Steve McCurry has been a member of the renowned photographic agency Magnum. 

Dr. Andreas Kaufmann, chairman of the supervisory board of Leica Camera AG, explains why Steve McCurry was chosen as the first awardee of the Leica Hall: the reason is his indefatigable commitment to a kind of reportage photography focussing on the sufferings and inhuman concomitants of acts of war: "More than almost anyone else, Steve McCurry has recorded the terrible consequences of war and persecution and has thus had decisive influence on our perception of world affairs for decades."

Source: Magnum Photos

SPECULATING RABBITS

Internet forums have been buzzing over the last few months about a "significant" Nikon release due at the end of this month.  Many hobbyists and working pros, for that matter, went so far as to sell their existing Nikon camera bodies in anticipation of the Nikon announcement.  Some, that I know personally, told me that they were just trying to sell their used gear at the optimal time, in order to get top dollar for it.  Well, the announcement revealed that Nikon was releasing a number of point & shoot cameras (insert collective groans from the masses here).  The "expected" pro body announcement never materialized.  What are you going to shoot with now? 

This sort of speculation makes as much sense to me as playing the stock market without informed research and significant amounts of information.  As I've said before, chasing the proverbial carrot, whatever it may be, will only lead to a sense of dissatisfaction, emptiness, and frustration.

ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISM

Mark Rothko's No. 5/No. 22

Jackson Pollock. Mark Rothko. Robert Motherwell. Joan Mitchell. Arshile Gorky. Lee Krasner. Willem de Kooning. These are just a few of the legendary 20th-century artists whose artwork is currently on view at the Art Gallery of Ontario.  The AGO exhibit Abstract Expressionist New York is an exhibition drawn from the collection of The Museum of Modern Art. The exhibition, on view until September 4, 2011, features 100 key works by artists whose radical work changed the course of art history and catapulted New York City to the centre of the international art world.

Abstract Expressionist New York is drawn entirely from MoMA’s collection of works by the pioneers of abstract expressionism, from its beginnings in the 1940s through its zenith in the 1950s and 1960s. The exhibition features works across a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, drawings, and photographs, including 12 era-defining works by Pollock, and multiple works by Rothko, Motherwell, de Kooning, Gorky, Barnett Newman, Louise Bourgeois, Philip Guston, Adolph Gottlieb, Franz Kline, David Smith, and others.

If you’re interested in seeing how these masterworks use negative space, compositional tension, and emotional intensity, or you’d like to spend a while appreciating the works of Paul Caponigro and Robert Frank, also part of the exhibit, take some time out of the last few weeks of summer and visit the Art Gallery of Ontario.

PASSIONATE STORYTELLERS

Image by: PeterAnthony Photography

For an image, or a series of images, to have lasting appeal, they need to convey a story or a message.  If the image has emotion, it's even easier.  This is especially important for those viewing the image that are removed from the subject(s).

There are numerous images produced every day that are technically strong, but for them to have endurance, and hold your audience's attention, they need to be passionate storytellers in and of themselves.

WHERE CHILDREN SLEEP

Images by: James Mollison

I recently came across a book by James Mollison entitled Where Children Sleep. It's a photo essay that chronicles the lives of children, and the conditions that they live in, around the world. Each subject’s portrait is presented against a stark white background, and is accompanied by an adjoining photograph of their bedroom. There is only a limited amount of text under the portrait of each child, and that's more than appropriate given that the photos speak volumes about each of the individual children and their circumstances.

The project was originally undertaken for a children's right's charity, and it took five year to complete. During that time, Mollison travelled around the world gathering images for this project. Mollison believed that the best way to represent the lives of these children was through images of their bedrooms. The book presents bedrooms of children living in all kinds of different socio-economic and political circumstances ... from the 5th Avenue priviledged to the Nepalese and African children that live in extreme heart-wrenching poverty.

Although the book is written for an audience between the ages of nine to thirteen, it's captivating for people of all ages because of how telling the "personal kingdom", as Mollison describes it, is of others around the world. To say that Mollison’s images evoke very strong emotions is an understatement. Individually, each photo that was selected for the book is strong, but when presented in this comparative format, they're even more powerful. It’s hard to believe that such a simple concept like this becomes a vehicle for a powerful commentary on the world, and values of those living in it today.

If you’d like to see more of Mollison’s images from his book, feel free to visit his website. If inclined, here’s the link to purchase a copy of Where Children Sleep.

BRIAN DUFFY: THE MAN WHO SHOT THE SIXTIES

THE MAN WHO SHOT THE SIXTIES from CHRIS DUFFY on Vimeo.

The Man Who Shot the Sixties is a tribute to Brian Duffy, who passed away in May of 2010.  Duffy was considered by many to be one of the greatest photographers of his generation.  Along with David Bailey and Terence Donovan, the trio became known as "The Black Trinity". Duffy played a significant role in defining the image of the 1960's, and even became as famous as the stars that he photographed.  In the 1970's he suddenly disappeared from view and burned all his archives of negatives.

This documentary was filmed on the eve of the first-ever exhibition of his work.  In the documentary, Duffy agrees to talk about his life, his work, and why he made it all go up in flames. 

If you'd like to see more of his iconic images, and learn more about Brian Duffy, there's plenty to peruse on his official website.