Archive
Change is Inevitable: Here’s To New Beginnings
Rainbow to the Sea, Treasure Coast, Florida 2019
CHANGE IS INEVITABLE. Decide what you want. Believe you can have it. Believe you deserve it and believe it’s possible for you. And then close your eyes and every day for several minutes, and visualize having what you already want, feeling the feelings of already having it. Come out of that and focus on what you’re grateful for already, and really enjoy it. Then go into your day and release it to the Universe and trust that the Universe will figure out how to manifest it.” Jack Canfield (Who wrote “Chicken Soup for the Soul).
I choose to believe that I deserve happiness and additional success with my work and that it is possible for me. Universe, here I come…
Happy Holidays from Barry Steven Greff Photography 2019
Magnificent Christmas Lights at the Eustace Mansion, Hutchinson Island, FL 2019
On beautiful Hutchinson Island is a $8 Million mansion built on 50,000 square feet of oceanfront property. To the delight of families driving by each holiday season owners Robert and Elsa Eustace have the property adorned in the most spectacular Christmas light display one can imagine.
Creating holiday memories for generations to come, this display is clearly second to none and should be experienced by anyone that finds themselves on the Treasure Coast during the holiday season. These are just some of the images that are my take on this overwhelming sight….
All images © Barry Steven Greff / All Rights Reserved
Usually a Straight Shooter, Sometimes, my Imagination Runs Wild.
Fantasy Island, Many Locations, Over Many Years
I am primarily a straight shooter, I try to capture what I see. There is often some type of post-production required, but again, with my subjects being natural, I try to keep them that way.
Every once in a while, I have been known to create something that I saw, but only in my mind’s eye. Case in point, Fantasy Island. A composite image of various portions of many different images I have created that come together in an M.C. Escher..esque type fantasy. Taken over many years in places from Niagara Falls to Carlsbad, California, an Oregon lake to a waterfall in Boulder, Colorado and many more. Following the image around, water flows down then up again, there is a full moon, yet lightning strikes in the distance. Horseback riders on a Washington State beach, mystic lake boaters and even a Roseate Spoonbill from the Florida Everglades flying across the scene.
Taken together, this an example of how the overly creative side of my mind works. The black and white helps produce the seamless nature of the composition, the rest of it, I can’t really explain…it just happens.
Here’s to the New Year: 2019
Having had several rough years, I have not been posting nearly as much as I should. This image reminds me of better days, driving up the California Coast and stopping to shoot every beautiful scene I came across. 
Surfers, Carlsbad, CA 2008
Taken some ten years ago in front of the magical cliffs of Carlsbad, California, it captured several surfers waiting for the next big wave to pick them up and carry them forward. Although their small silhouettes are dwarfed by the grandeur of the overall scene, when the image is enlarged, you can almost see the contentment on their faces.
I post it for two reasons.
First, the early morning quest of the surfers symbolizes the hope of a New Year.
Secondly, having come full circle, ironically, my son now lives a short drive up the coast and surfs these waters himself.
So, taking a deep breath here’s looking to 2019…
New Bern and the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Pre-Hurricane
Lightning, OBX, North Carolina, 2005
Thinking about all those in the path of Hurricane Florence, the Outer Banks (known locally as OBX), New Bern and much of the rest of the states of North and South Carolina.
While staying in the historic city of New Bern, a two and a half hour road trip north to the Outer Banks resulted in the image above. Having forgotten my tripod in New Bern, I rested my camera on a towel on the railing of the hotel room’s terrace during a lightning storm and timed the opening of the shutter just right to capture the largest strike I have ever seen. It shook the building and the composition of the bolt and the lifeguard stand in the flowing sea oats made the image.
These are images of the Tryon Palace and New Bern Grand Marina, North Carolina, created in 2005. These are images from beautiful New Bern which is now already under water because it is located at the confluence of the Neuse and the Trent rivers. It is a historic city much of which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Many of the buildings, residences, stores and churches date back to the early eighteenth century.
The Governor’s Palace, New Bern (also known as Tryon Palace, above), served as the capital of North Carolina from 1770 until the state government relocated to Raleigh in 1792. George Washington actually slept in New Bern. Visiting the room in which he stayed, was an eerie and historically moving experience.
Here’s hoping that both survive the Hurricane and can re-build as soon as possible.
What a Difference a Day Makes / Hurricane Irma’s Wrath
What a difference a day makes…The image below was created on a beautiful evening in Coconut Grove at Florida’s Dinner Key Marina. The water was perfectly calm and the sailboats were lit by natural light from a full moon… Fast forward to Sunday as Hurricane Irma came ashore on the
Moonlit Sailboats, Coconut Grove, FL 2010 / ©Barry Steven Greff
west coast of Florida some 100 miles across the state on Marco Island. Notwithstanding how far away the eye of the hurricane was, her intensity and strength had significant impact on much of the east coast because the storm stretched further than the width of the State itself. Below are a couple of news images of what Dinner Key now looks like after the storm. The moorings of the
sailboats that were secured specifically for the storm, were no match for her. The winds and surge of the water dislodged many of the boats with some of them winding up on the shore as seen above while others capsized in the water.
As a resident of a state that has gone through many hurricanes, Floridians are a resilient bunch. No doubt, given enough time, Dinner Key will once again be restored to its natural splendor. It’s been done before and… I’m sure it will be done again.
You can help those affected by the storm by contacting the Red Cross at 1-800-HELP NOW or online at: http://rdcrss.org/2y1q1VV
BSG Recognized by 2017 International Color Awards
BSG Recognized in the 2017 International Color Awards
Pelican’s Rest, Biloxi, MS 2010
© Barry Steven Greff
THE 10th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL COLOR AWARDS HONORS PHOTOGRAPHER BARRY STEVEN GREF FROM THE U.S.A.
LOS ANGELES (3/10/2017) – Professional photographer Barry Steven Greff of the U.S. A. was presented with the 10th Annual International Color Awards Nominee title in the category of Silhouette. The ICA is one of the industry’s most important events for color photography.
10th Annual Jury members included captains of the industry from Christie’s, New York; Contemporary Art Society, London; Sotheby’s, Paris; ING Collection, Netherlands; Y&R, Malaysia; Preus Museum, Norway; Art Beatus, Hong Kong; Ogilvy & Mather, Amsterdam; Whitechapel Gallery, London; and J. Walter Thompson, New York.
“It is an incredible achievement to be selected among the best from the 6,178 entries we received this year,” said Basil O’Brien, the awards Creative Director. “Barry Steven Greff’s “Pelican’s Rest,” is an exceptional image entered in the Silhouette category and represents contemporary color photography at its finest.”
INTERNATIONAL COLOR AWARDS is the leading international award honoring excellence in color photography. This celebrated event shines a spotlight on the best photographers worldwide and honors the finest images with the highest achievements in color photography. http://www.colorawards.com
# # #
Contact: Barry Steven Greff
Telephone: 305.576.8400
Email: barrystevengreff@gmail.com
Website: http://www.barrystevengreff.com
America….My Country, Tis of Thee
Through the lunacy these days of our political “landscape” (pun intended), it is crucial for us all to remember the simple basics for which we stand. From the physical beauty of our land to the inner
Nubble Light, York, Maine 2004
beauty of so many of our good people, it is a national pride that should join us all. To me, these classic images created along the coast of Maine are the epitome of the feeling of Americana. The commonly shot Nubble Light above was perfectly lit at low tide when I came upon it while two seabirds were circling the tiny island that sits 100 yards off of Cape Neddick Point.
I watched as the two birds circled, and timed the shot so that one bird fit the composition of the scene in the sky while the other blended into the image just above the little red shed.
New England Light, Maine Coast 2004
The bottom image was shot at dusk in what was again, perfectly warm New England light. The tiny white specs on the rocks and in the water are seabirds settling in for the night.
I will never forget stopping to ask directions from a local to the best place to eat lobster. He was out for an evening walk and did everything short of drawing me a map, going well out of his way to make sure that I knew exactly where I was going before I pulled off.
To me, these are true examples of America…and, btw, the lobster was unbelievable.
The Art of the Sea from the Motion of the Ocean
When most people look at the ocean they see the waves as they ebb and flow. Although most find it enjoyable to the senses, something additional happens to me. I tend to follow the actions of the
Ebb and Flow, Deerfield Beach 2013
waves as they come ashore and then again as they retreat back out. I also gravitate to those sea shores that contain rocks, piers or any other solid structures around which the water must traverse. I visually slow the motion of the water down in my mind’s eye and foresee the beautiful form it takes as it surrounds the rocks or pylons in its way.
Time and Tide Wait For No Man, Deerfield Beach, FL 2013
Using a tripod during the dawn or dusk hours I can capture the slowed down motion of the water as it crests and eventually hits the beach and returns from whence it came. Seeing the scene in advance helps me create the final image and timing is everything.
I am sure that for all eternity, one of my favorite forms of art…will be that of the Sea.
After the Storm / Surf’s Up / Time to Shoot
As indicated in the last post, as a long time resident of South Florida, if you pay attention to the local media broadcasts, you can maintain a pretty good idea as to what, if any, effects a storm will have on your area.
Goodnight Irene, Deerfield Beach, FL 2011
As often happens, it is not until late in the game that the storm takes a wobble one way or another. Matthew went 30 miles west just before passing South Florida, resulting in 100 miles between the eye and us. That turned out to be good news for our area, only downing some branches, and the occasional tree uprooted by a strong gust.
Sunrise after Sandy, Stuart, FL 2012
Notwithstanding, in the past I have gone to the beach to shoot after the danger has subsided and created some classic images. The sky is eerily beautiful and the waves are always strong (hopefully not too strong because the storm surge is often as damaging as the wind).
Not feeling up to it this time, here are a few from some former storms. Until the next one.
Cure the Blues with a long, dry walk into the Ocean / Lit Pier
For me, in the past, nothing cures the blues, or brings you right into them, like a walk out on the pier at night. No matter what time of year, there is ususally a nice breeze blowing and once out toward the end you are walking just above the ocean waves.
Lit Pier, Deerfield Beach, FL, 2014
If you are lucky during the summer months you might see some lightnining strikes out at sea, but whatever time of year you head out, you are sure to take a mental break from whatever is happening in your life at the time as the sea flows around you.
So, in order to cure the blues, head straight for them…the deep dark blues…and hopefully you can accomplish this and ..still stay dry.
Photo District News recognizes BSG’s Lightning, Outer Banks, NC 2005
Photo District News (PDN) is the award-winning magazine for the professional photography industry whose on-line presence is Photoserve.com http://bit.ly/1zmIcPX
The PhotoServe newsletter goes out every month to over 15,000 industry creatives. As a photographer (or creative), a subscription to PDN is essential to keeping your pulse on the photo industry.
Considering the quality of imagery in PDN on a regular basis, I’m honored to have my image “Lightning, Outer Banks, NC” chosen as one of their Top 10 images of June 2016.
Lightning, Outer Banks, NC 2005
The image, which is the most powerful bolt of lightning I have ever seen captured on film, was created under some unique circumstances. We were visiting the quaint city of New Bern http://www.visitnewbern.com/ which served as the capital of the North Carolina colonial government, then briefly as the state capital. After visiting places where historical figures such as George Washington, John Adams and Alexander Hamilton had slept, I wanted to visit the famous Outer Banks.
This being before the days of Mapquest, I thought it was going to be a quick day trip and didn’t even bring my tripod. After a two hour drive just to get there, then realizing it would take a day to drive the Banks and explore https://www.outerbanks.org/, I found a hotel on the beach. That night, a thunder storm that shook the building brought me out to the balcony to improvise in an attempt to capture some of the continuous lightning strikes. Using a cloth on the balcony railing, I set up the composition, stabilized the camera enough to leave the shutter open and watched the storm move until…bam, this incredible bolt hit beautifully composed behind the life guard stand. The fact that everything in the image is “tack” sharp, including the lightning hitting the water, as the sawgrass blows slightly in the wind, is extremely fortunate and makes this an iconic, beautiful large print for display.
So, thanks again to PDN for the recognition, and if anyone is interested in having an image on their wall…that will definitely blow everyone away, reach out through http://www.barrystevengreff.com or barrystevengreff@gmail.com
Meet me in St. Louis…at least my work.
St. Louis Fine Print Fair – May 6-8, 2016
CITYSCAPES
Touch the Sky, 30 Rock
Cab Ride in the Rain, NYC
This weekend, from May 6 through May 8, is the 10th annual St. Louis Fine Print Fair http://bit.ly/R5eI8K. Stop by the booth of photography addict/rep, Jeff Appel of Photography Past & Present, Missouri http://www.photographypastandpresent.com/ to see the work of some highly respected photographers as well as some terrific emerging artists.
Jeff works with many prestigious photographers such as Roger Ballen, Paul Caponigro, John Sexton, Jock Sturges, Roman Loranc and Alan Ross, who was Ansel Adam’s photographic assistant. Other artists such as Cole and Kim Weston, whose father was the famed 20th Century photographer Edward Weston, have created great work themselves. Finally, Jeff works with some talented emerging and/or mid-career artists such as Camille Seaman and…yes, Barry Steven Greff. The four images above will be available at the fair and many others can be viewed at http://www.barrystevengreff.com. So, “Meet me in St. Louis” (sort of) this weekend. Anyone interested in getting on the guest list can reach Jeff through his website or on FB at http://bit.ly/1WECQN7. Friday night is a Silent Auction and Preview Party from 6-9 pm.
So if you happen to be in Ole St. Lou, stop by and see Jeff…and tell him Barry sent you.
Happy Valentines Day / Moments to Remember
A Moment to Remember, South Pointe, Miami Beach 2011
Over my lifetime, I would match those romantic moments I have created with anyone.
On these two occasions, I cannot take credit for anything other than being in the right place at the right time and capturing such moments photographically.
In the image above, I was shooting the waves crashing against the South Pointe jetty as the sun set. There are always people on the rocks fishing, taking pictures or just contemplating. On this particular evening, a young couple was standing there as a huge cruise ship passed them heading out to sea. The epic nature of the moment was not lost on them, and they turned it into a romantic moment to remember. A tripod allowed me to capture the slight movement of lights on the seaward ship while keeping there motionless embrace in focus.
Front Row Seats, Torrey Pines, CA 2008
On the opposite coast, this couple planned ahead and took the time and effort to climb up the seaside cliff to await the sunset. Meanwhile, I had been walking up a trail on the mountain behind them towards the ocean view, unaware of how far it was to the top. As I have often done in the past, racing against the setting sun, I reached the top just in time and this is what I saw in front of me. Moving to the best vantage point for this composition, it was clear to me that this couple had the best seats in the house and had created there own …moment to remember.
And Now for Something Completely Different / Time for a Change
Fantasy Island, Ode to M.C. Escher, 2006-2010
Albert Einstein is attributed with the clever quote: “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results.” Although it has come into question as to whether or not he actually said it, it is still both catchy and thought-provoking.
After an absolutely awful year of health, which is still challenging me through the new year, it leads me to think it would be insane not to try something new going forward. That being said, my work has always been known for its rendition of Mother Earth’s natural beauty with very little, if any, help from post production “magic.” Notwithstanding, over the years, I have (secretly) dabbled in the creation of scenes which have been born in my mind’s eye and then generated from several composite images I have captured over time.
Hence, for the first time seen beyond my eyes, one of my more complicated compilations, Fantasy Island. Created from over a dozen images taken over several years, this is truly one that the viewer can see new things at every different turn. Produced in the mystical style of M.C. Escher, following the composition around, brings you back to the beginning…or does it? It’s enough to drive you insane.
Rainy Night Dock / Weather or Not, Expect the Unexpected
Rainy Night Dock, Deerfield Beach, FL 2014
I haven’t posted for a while, because I have been laid up due to a couple of surgeries. When I do post, I often look for an image that relates to an event, season or mood I am in at the time. Although I actually enjoy inclement weather personally, and for photography, a dreary, rainy night sums up my situation (and has for some time).
On one of the last nights I had actually been able to go out to dinner, a casual dockside dining experience was cut short by a South Florida rain storm. Although the outdoor patio was closed to diners, I used a bit of an overhang to capture a moody image of the scene. The rain was so intense, it was blowing the door closed and I was barely able to shoot without my camera getting soaked. Notwithstanding, sometimes the worst conditions can result in the best images. Using a soft filter and shooting the scene in black and white, I like to think I created a moody, timeless image from a scene that many would avoid.
Moral of the story, don’t let some unexpected weather keep you from creating something…. unexpected.
One of a Kind / Commemorating a Very Special Young Man
Lone Tree at Sunset, 2004 WMC TICU Private Consult Room
WMC TICU Lobby / Lounge Commemorative Plaque
I have participated in more than a dozen Gallery Exhibitions around the country including a Solo Exhibition in NYC. I have been published in most of the major Fine Art Photography magazines and have enjoyed the support of some of the legends of the industry. All that means a great deal to me…but recently I had the honor of participating in a project that not only will make the lives better for the families of those that will find themselves at the Westchester Medical Center TICU (Trauma Intensive Care Unit)…but was created and dedicated to an incredibly special young man, Evan Lieberman.
That some of my work graces the walls of this beautiful, and more importantly, calm and functional space, is truly special. Built from the tireless efforts of Evan’s family through Evan’s Team which they created in his memory as a group effort committed to helping the community http://www.evansteamny.com/ they hold regular events such as mud runs, golf tournaments, poker nights and the like, raising funds so that along with the Westchester Medical Center http://www.westchestermedicalcenter.com/, they have created a comfortably practical and contemplative space for the families of TICU patients.
My image above, which is part of the project, is entitled Lone Tree at Sunset. It is especially appropriate to have been included in the project because Evan Lieberman…was truly one of a kind.
Images of WMC TICU © Ben Cotten 2015.
Rare Break / Lavender Sunset
Rare Break, Lavender Sunset, Deerfield Beach 2014
In a rare, medically induced break from my current madness, I made it to the Sea one day last year at sunset. As luck would have it, just after the sun set, the clouds took on their nightly orange glow inside a pastel lavender sky.
The message I took from that last light was that although it was one of the last Seascapes I have created as of late…I will do whatever I can to make sure it is not the last…that I will create.
Timing is Everything…Even When it Isn’t
Low Tide, Nubble Light, York, Maine 2004
Staying with some of the older, classic images from my archive, I post this rendition of the (very) often photographed Nubble Lighthouse on the Coast of Maine http://nubblelight.org/. One of my earliest Fine Art images captured digitally, the natural light was gorgeous and the low tide exposed the waterline on the rocks when we arrived at the spot from which the famed lighthouse is most often viewed. Knowing I had to try and add something to the image that made it my own, I noticed that there were a couple of seabirds flying continuously around the island on approximately the same path during each turn. I set up my tripod for the best composition and followed the birds in my minds eye as they circled. When I felt I had one placed in the perfect position, I clicked the shutter. The other bird is actually blurred in flight directly below the bird in the sky, and in front of the white picket fence.
Hence, my timing worked out, thanks to some great light, and a couple of cooperative…and predictable, seabirds.
Visualization / Seeing is Achieving
Old Pilings at Sunset, Naples, FL 2013
Visualization of a scene, ahead of time, is often the key to creating something special. In the image above, before the sun was going to set, I positioned a tripod in such a way as to best capture the pilings in the scene, once the sun had gone down. This included monitoring the spacing and assuring their line-up created a pleasant composition throughout the frame.
At this particular location, I also noticed that sometimes, if the water receded far enough back into the Gulf of Mexico, there was a reflection of the pilings on the beach. From experience, some sunsets are dull, while others are spectacular and most others are somewhere in between.
As I have said before, the best part of the sunset, is after it has gone below the horizon, watching for the afterglow. On this particular evening, for a very short time, there was a beautiful, solid, orange background on the horizon. I took advantage of that, and the timing of the tide, to capture the reflection of the pilings on the beach. This scenario was quite short lived giving me only a couple of long exposures to get it right.
This was an example of being in the right place at the right time…and waiting for the right moment.
Looking Back / The Importance of Editing
Moonlit Sailboats, Coconut Grove, FL 2010
Pelican Rest, Gulf of Mexico 2010
Due to circumstances beyond my control, I am not able to produce new work for a while. Notwithstanding this situation, I will continue to do my best to post images to keep my work out there in the public’s consciousness. In order to do that, I will be posting older images, including some that have never been exhibited before.
While reviewing much of the older work it made me remember the importance of editing, something that is much easier said then done. When you get serious about photography, it becomes very difficult to separate the better images from those that might not meet the test. In addition to paying attention to the overall composition, lighting, etc., it is often suggested that an outside set of eyes should give an unbiased opinion. Either way, the key is to be extremely critical and be sure that only the best make into the portfolio and/or are ultimately printed for exhibition/collection.
Finally, editing is also critical to the presentation of images in a portfolio, or when published in a book. Here, editing is used to present the images in a sequence that makes them flow. They should be placed in order by comparing color and/or lighting and/or composition and/or subject, so the images lead from one to the next naturally as the viewer sees them. This is more difficult than it seems and it is often necessary to use a professional Editor, even if it is just at the beginning to learn how it is done. I personally have worked with Paula Gillen http://bit.ly/1yMh3Gi, who has helped me along the way.
As a good example of successful editing, in the case of the two images above… they work well next to each other, whether in a portfolio, a book or… across from each other in an office lobby (see last Blog post).
From Virtual to Reality / See it Before you Hang it
Lakeside Executive Suites, Lobby – (PC generated) Virtual Layout, 2014
Lakeside Executive Suites – Lobby pieces installed, 2014 (I Phone photo of installation)
After capturing an iconic image, it is added to my portfolio and becomes available for residential, corporate and/or commercial display. While offering these options, I believed it would be very helpful for those considering which work to display, to see how a particular image, or images, would look…framed and on the wall, in the space available to be filled.
Clearly, if the art buyer, designer, or even collector, could see a framed version of a particular print in an available place, it would be very helpful to their decision-making process. Case in point, the project above, the lobby of Lakeside Executive Suites http://www.lesweston.com/. LES is a first class executive suite office space with all of the amenities of a modern-day contemporary office and virtual office facility.
After reviewing the available space, I photograph the areas with blank walls. I then create various virtual options (see top two images), ie. different images and cut and paste them into virtual frames and present them in the particular area.
In this case the designer and office manager chose the pair of images above for the lobby to compliment the new renovation they were working on. The finished project offers a first class option for anyone looking for office space in the Weston area. Stop in and visit LES for any of your office needs and/or to see the outstanding quality of work done by the design firm… for your next project. http://www.meredithmarlow.com/
Miami Vice / South Beach Blues
South Beach Blues, South Pointe, FL 2008
A bird’s-eye view of the tip of South Pointe (South Beach) captures the change in water-color from aqua to blue as it gets deeper. The colorful lifeguard station, beachcombers and incoming pleasure craft, round out the composition of the image and are reminiscent of our Miami Vice era.
Fire from the Sky / Lightning, Outer Banks, North Carolina
Lightning, OBX 2006
With the arrival of summer weather, lightning season is fast approaching. I look forward to safely capturing striking (pun intended) images of this amazing and powerful natural phenomenon.
This image, which I posted when I first started this blog, still memorializes the most extraordinary lightning strike I have ever witnessed.
While lightning images require a tripod to keep the shutter open awaiting the strike, on this occasion I had left mine at a different location. Using a hotel railing as support, I timed the shutter release to capture this monumental strike. The force of the lightning shook the building, yet I was still able to keep the lifeguard stand in focus and record the soft blur of the blowing sea grass.
As my Artist Statement reflects… I capture moments in time, never to be repeated.
Earth Day 2014
Mother Earth
In 2011, I decided to create a 3 minute montage of some of my images to commemorate Earth Day (April 22nd each year). My goal was to celebrate the planet’s natural beauty and put forth the message of conservation and preservation.
Initially, I planned on making a new video each year, but life got in the way. So, until such time as I can create a new one, I re-post the original around Earth Day each year.
I added natural sound to the finished piece and the haunting musical soundtrack is Willow and the Light by Kevin MacLeod. (A good pair of stereo headphones can enhance the experience).
If you haven’t seen it before, I hope you enjoy it and when it comes to Mother Earth…choose wisely.
The Lost Coast / Where Heaven Meets Earth
Where Heaven Meets Earth, Lost Coast, CA 2009
To get to this pristine paradise in Humboldt County, California, one needs to hike in from either the north or south. There are no roads for a 25 mile stretch, hence the name “Lost Coast.”
On this particular day, the low clouds drifted in and practically touched the Sea…the closest I have come to a place where Heaven meets Earth.
BSG Exhibits ASCENSION at The Center for Fine Art Photography
Ascension, Newport, Kentucky, 2009
Ascension, from the Series: FLOW http://www.barrystevengreff.com, is currently being exhibited in the Natural World exhibition at The Center for Fine Art Photography in Fort Collins, CO http://bit.ly/1ejRmqo
The exhibition runs from April 12 through May 17, 2014 with a reception on Friday, May 2, 2014 from 6-9. Speaking at the reception will be juror, Susan Spiritus, owner of the prestigious Susan Spiritus Gallery in Newport, CA. http://susanspiritusgallery.com/
Susan Spiritus has been a leader in the field of fine art photography for 38 years, opening the doors to her Southern California gallery in 1976 so that she could share her passion for photography with others.
Today, the gallery handles works by such photographic luminaries as Ansel Adams, Ruth Bernhard, Manuel Álvarez Bravo, Eikoh Hosoe, André Kertész, Paul Caponigro, Brett Weston and George Tice.
The esteemed Ms. Spiritus has previously chosen one of my images for the 2010 Natural World exhibition and three images for the Black and White exhibition in 2012.
Spring has Sprung / Road to the Sea
Road to the Sea, California Coast, 2009
To commemorate the beginning of spring, I posted the image above, Road to the Sea.
Along a dirt and gravel road, spring flowers guide the way for surfers heading to the ocean. On this relatively calm day the sky was filled with beautiful clouds. This particular road beckoned to be captured in a photograph, because for me, it epitomizes how I am always, and forever…drawn to the sea.
To the Moon / Different Perspectives
Super Moon, 2013
When I capture the moon in images, I either make it the focal point, or a punctuation. In the top image, utilizing a long lens, I caught the glowing super full moon behind pink dusk clouds, shortly after sunset.
Below, early morning shell seekers comb the Sanibel, Florida seashore just after sunrise, as a full moon sets behind them.
Moon Walkers, Sanibel, FL 2013
New for 2014 / First Sunset Seascape
First Sunset, Ft. Lauderdale Beach, FL 2014
On my first opportunity to shoot a sunset Seascape in 2014, I came across this combination of clouds and fading sunlight off of Ft. Lauderdale Beach. I added some foreground interest with a bit of beach and sea grass, and some slight motion to the waves, resulting in a painterly effect.
Hopefully, the promise of this scene, and the new day to follow…are a sign of good things to come.
