Tag Archives: portrait photography

Projects, Pushes and a Photography Book

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I recently made a list of all my current (supposedly) active personal projects. As in things I am making on my own time, from writing books to roasting coffee and learning a new programming language. At the end of the list, I realized there was too much on my plate. It was time to stop taking on new projects and finish some old ones.

There are always many things waiting to be done. Here's a To-Do from one of my GameSalad projects.

There are always many things waiting to be done. Here’s a To-Do from one of my GameSalad projects.

This is easier said than done, because it is nearly impossible to resist a promising idea, when one pops into my head. I’m a great starter of things, planner of projects and not necessarily as good at wrapping them up. So I took the list of projects and posted it on my Facebook profile, along with a vow to start finishing things. Let the pressure build!

This all happened just two days ago. Since then, I have wrapped up (and expanded) my first ever Python project – simpleAdventure a text-based fantasy game of exploration – but more importantly…

The portrait photography book, which I’ve been collecting data for for a while now, got a much needed injection of content. I had finished the first part a long time ago but hadn’t even started on the second part of the book. A little push was exactly what I needed, and I’ve since started writing on all the remaining parts of the book. The outline is done, and there are several ideas for extra material waiting in the wings. The biggest problem at this point is deciding which photos to include.

Sometimes it’s easier to push ourselves than we think. I found a ton of motivation just by posting my intentions publicly. An old trick, but it works because it takes advantage of that part of your personality that is afraid to lose face to your peers.

Here’s the list I posted on Facebook:
• An update of FantasyMuse (almost done)
• Three different GameSalad titles (various stages)
• A D&D Next adventure (fully written)
• An eBook on Storytelling (first draft 80% written).
• An eBook on Portrait Photography (about 50% written).
• An original fantasy RPG (ready for testing)
• A Python text adventure (working alpha finished)
• Continuing to experiment and learn about coffee roasting.

In other photo book news: I just lowered the price of The Microstock Photographer’s Guide from $8.50 to $4.99.

Portrait Book and Walking Workshop

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Exciting things are happening on the photography front, and I am happy to report some progress on my portraiture book in the making. The overall structure of it is complete, and I am well into writing the first draft.

The book aims to help you get more out of your portraits and to tell a story. Whether you’re new to photography or a seasoned professional, there will be things in there for you to enjoy, get inspired by and apply to your own pictures.

The content includes a mix of tips on everything from lighting to interacting with subjects, and it will have stories and examples from myself and others, all about what makes a portrait great.

Many have already helped the writing along by taking the survey associated with this book, sharing what they care about and struggle with in their own photos. I’m using this research to make sure I address the most frequently asked questions and major concerns.

On a related note, I am organizing a set of photography workshops!

If you’re in the Seattle area in mid August, September or October, you have a chance to join me on a small and exclusive photo walk, during which I will offer tips on how to shoot on the fly and on location. There will also be a Q&A after the walk, and a surprise or two thrown in along the way.

There are limited spots available for these walks, so sign up now if you want to be a part of the walking workshop.

The NERDprov Shoot

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The images presented with this post are from a recent photo shoot, featuring local improv comedy group – NERDprov. As you might guess, these guys focus their material around topics like Harry Potter, Superheroes and video games. They needed shots for their new site and promo material, and I was honored to come take them.

The photos were shot on location at The Market Theater, home of Unexpected Productions, right behind the gum wall by Seattle’s Pike Place Market. We used the main stage for group shots, and a smaller stage out front for solo portraits. I had a ton of fun. A bunch of comedians is not what you’d call a boring client, plus it’s not every day I get to take pictures of people in costume.

If you get the chance, you should go see NERDprov do their thing (check their site for upcoming shows). Also, if you’re the organizer of a con or other such nerdy event, NERDprov may be just the entertainment you’re looking for. Find more NERDprov on Facebook and Twitter.

More and more, I find myself photographing performers and artists. I have three more shoots lined up this week, and I couldn’t be happier for it. Not only is it fun, it’s also immensely inspiring to be around and watch other artists do their thing. The only downside, if you can call it that, is that they always leave me wanting to try what they’re doing at least once. Though I don’t know if I have the balls to do improv!

If you like my work, I am available for hire.