cl photography: portraits

I realize that bringing up this subject may offend some of my readers. However, I feel that the consequences of not doing so far exceed the alternative. I certainly do appreciate your feedback, negative or positive, as my intent is not to offend others, but rather to hopefully shed light on an issue that is plaguing the photography industry and crushing the creative spirit of the field.

When I made the decision in 1998, to take that intimidating leap from amateur photographer to “professional”, my biggest concern was…will others beyond my circle of close friends and family accept my non-traditional approach to portrait photography? The integral element of my vision from the start, was to offer folks an alternative to traditional posed images of the Masters. I wanted (and continue to strive for) capturing the spirit and the heart of the moment. This is my vision…this is my heart, this is why I shoot.

The biggest challenge for me within the photography field is continually providing my clients with images that defer from any of those of their friends and co-workers. For each session that I stand behind the camera, there have been hours and hours of planning, strategizing, and brainstorming beforehand. Visually capturing personality cannot be accomplished without the hard work that occurs before I even pick up the camera. Continually providing this level of photography becomes much more challenging when a photographer resides in a small, rural community. Discovering hidden locations, unique ideas and poses beyond those of any other area photographers. Striving for uniqueness becomes increasingly more important for me. Competition is essential, as it forces each of us to continue to think outside the box and in doing so expand our creativity. However, there is a difference between competition and imitation.

After receiving the call last night in regards to this image below, and after biting my tongue for 4 years, I can no longer sit idly by and allow this to continue without at least speaking out. The example below is just one of many that I could reveal. My image on the left was shot and posted in July 2010 http://candlphotography.blogspot.com/2010/07/sneak-peekjohn-nye.html . In the image on the right the photographer chose to shoot in the exact dugout, with exact hand, body and eye positioning as that of my subject on the left.

As much as I am humbled, honored and appreciative of the fellow photographers who enjoy my style of imagery, for those few who choose to blatantly mimic it both visually, verbally (even as far as copying my exact blog slang, and descriptions into their own Facebook business page), I have to say that this is not only completely unprofessional and an absolute disregard of the artistry of those in this field, it absolutely hinders “your” vision it and ultimately cheats you of the beauty and creativity that resides within that vision.

Thanks to each of you for your time, understanding and sensitivity.

Best,
Connie

Oh my, could I be anymore behind. I'm sure Cameron and Katherine have kept themselves occupied in beautiful St. Lucia, and aren't too concerned with seeing their blog post. For the rest of you however...I beg your forgiveness for my horrid procrastination.
This wedding was one to go down in the history books. Any element that could be present, was! Cameron is a hopeless romantic, and he along with his dear mom-in-law thought of everything, even dance lessons. Every dance was a work of art,and the duet Thriller dance between Cameron and his father-in-law, Mr./Reverend Winters, was the hit of the evening. Who would have thunk a pastor could have moves like that! Very impressive!
This wedding was personally very special to me. Katherine's mother, Mrs. Winters, was my now 20 year old son's fourth grade teacher; not just any teacher but most certainly one of, if not my favorite of all of his teachers. It was of no surprise to me that Katherine is as charming and lovely as she.
Wishing the both of them a long, beautiful & blessed life together. :o)