Interning with Lois Greenfield!

This summer I will be interning with world-renowned dance photographer Lois Greenfield. She has been in the field for over 30 years, and is arguably the most famous dance photographer in the world. http://www.loisgreenfield.com/galleries/index.html

After a phone and email inquiry about an internship, she actually emailed me back! (I would have never thought she would have time to respond). Not only that, but she called me on Mother's Day and we chatted for 30 minutes about what I could expect to learn, what I would be doing, and just about photography in general. She was a real sweetheart - which is great, given that I was unsure of what to expect in such a competitive industry, and for working with such a famous photographer.

I begin my internship on Tuesday, June 1, and will be living here in NYC until the end of August.

I guess this just goes to show, You don't know if you don't ask! I figured she would have already booked interns months ago, but I'm glad I called!

Details

Desserts!

A dessert assignment for my Advertising & Illustration photography class gave me the opportunity to discover my new favorite tool: the infinity (lighting) table!

How Philly Moves

I had the wonderful opportunity to assist JJ Tiziou with his "How Philly Moves" project this weekend. http://www.howphillymoves.org/blog/

It was very inspiring (both as a dancer and a photographer) to see so many people come out to dance & model for JJ. There was a wide range of styles and ages - which just goes to show...anyone and everyone can dance. This project is for anyone who considers themself a dancer: whether they dance in their kitchen, or train with a professional company.

The unveiling of 20-25 mural-size photographs at the Philadelphia International Airport is expected to take place in June 2011.

For the Love of Hasselblad...and Inspiration

I forgot how much I loved medium and large format until I was required to use them for my current photography assignment.

Going back to basics: film, spot metering, manual focusing, really being aware of composition and other little details - is exactly what I need right now.

Using the Hasselblad in particular has forced me to:

* Slow down.
* Be more attuned to detail & composition.
* Check. Double check. Triple check.
* Appreciate the beauty of film.
* Get excited about photography all over again!

I guess sometimes it takes changing your camera, your lens, or your style/subject of shooting in order to regain inspiration, spur new ideas, and push your comfort zone.

How can we improve & grow as photographers if we are always chained to our standard, good-ol'-standby shooting equipment & habits?

Force yourself to use a lens that has been collecting dust. Approach a familiar subject in an unfamiliar way. Shoot a different format. Use black & white if you normally shoot color. Try morning light if you typically use evening. Experiment with long exposures.

However you shoot: Mix it up every once in a while. You might be surprised what kind of ideas it will stir up.

Harner Wedding

~ Wishing Erin & Dondi a lifetime of happiness & health. ~