Klassy Koala

Have you ever seen a hairless cat? Besides Mr. Bigglesworth? We happen to have one. Her name is Koala. I can honestly say there is nothing on this planet even close to her looks, personality, and disposition. That's why we think she may actually be an alien, disguised in this elaborate costume of flesh and bone, to observe and study us. Then she somehow reports back to the Mothership with super-intelligent and technologically advanced communication methods. Like a cross between Men In Black and Alien. Despite this trickery, I can honestly say, to know her is to love her.

The other day, she was on the window sill as the sun was low on the horizon, creating this perfect dramatic lighting. I'm not sure what she was looking at - it could have been her Mothership, but non the less, I took advantage of the opportunity to capture the moment. In post production, I applied a warm filter and some softening effects. Behold the Klassy Koala!

Photo of the Week

Would you believe me if I told you this photo actually took almost an hour of shooting to get the perfect pose, focus, and composition? I never knew just how shy a spider can be. You'd think with their ego and authority that they throw around they'd be a little more unperturbed. But, then, there I go stereotyping again. I guess every spider has his own issues to deal with, just like anyone. Fortunately, after a little positive reinforcement and flattery, I got him to open up a bit and relax.

Inspiration

I went to my very first Photographer's User Group last night. I didn't know what to expect - and all I can say is WOW! It's a brand new group that's starting here in San Diego, and being lucky enough to attend the first meeting - I'm taking this as my sign to grab the bull by the, uhm, horns, and take a leadership position in helping to launch this group. I may be making history here folks ;-)

It was extremely inspiring and motivating. We talked a lot about "who you are" and how it relates to your photography. Being true to yourself and your creativity. And knowing that we all have the tools to achieve anything! It's just a matter of taking the first steps. We don't have to know where we're going or what we're going to do - just take those first steps.

As three very wise women once said - "I'm so excited, and I just can't hide it! I'm about to lose control and I think I like it!" I can't wait to capture more of my creative energies. Be sure to check back here often to see what I'm up to. You can also see more of my photos at my web site:

www.mindintheshutter.com

Photo of the Week

Sunshine in San Diego! I can always count on it - even if it is June Gloom. While at Mission Bay last weekend, I was able to capture this view of sailboats along the shore. This tattered and seemingly abandoned boat coexisted perfectly with the weed infested sand that it sat on. I envisioned a retro look - which was accomplished by color tweaking and warm filters. Add a cup of over-sharpening, a tablespoon of contrast, a teaspoon of surface blur, and set to warm for 20 minutes. Decorate with a vignette and serve.

Black and White and Grey all over

Here's a series of self portrait shots I did. Using spot lighting and high contrast, I am able to create these dramatic photos. Ad a little grittiness and monotone work in post-production and bam! I'm ready to be in an advertisement for a work-out supplement drink. Ok, either that or a razor ad  ;-)

Droplet Like it's Haute

Funny thing about San Diego - rain is rare. So when it does rain here, I find it a great opportunity to capture the local flora and fauna in it's unfamiliar and wet condition. A condition that most people in the rainy regions see all the time, and fail to appreciate. I mean, snails in the desert? C'mon - if this doesn't raise a brow..... I spent last Saturday morning capturing some of these wet and misty images up close and personal. I call it "Droplet Like it's Haute". Applaud here....  ;-)

 

Photo of the Week

This is a macro shot I created from a statuette of a sleeping Buddha. Using the close proximity of the lens to the subject, and a large aperture setting, I am able to selectively sharpen and blur. I then applied some post-production techniques to give it the hyperreal effect.