Penning Photography Daily

Using my wireless remote flash trigger.

My external flash in hand, my new flash diffuser, the WhaleTail made by Gary Fong, in my hand.

Set the flash to 1/64th power, 1/20th second and f9.5, delay for 2 seconds and fire!

I love this diffuser, it’s so versatile. I’m just beginning to learn the possibilities that it can add to my photography.

Yes, that’s a smile on my face.

I like this one the best of a series I took this evening.

I was again playing with my prime lens, the 50mm f1:1.4

I have it at arms length in my right hand, pointing in the general direction of my lap companion.

She stays on my lap as long as I pet her.

If I stop petting, off she goes after sufficient pause to see if I’m going to start up again.

It’s interesting, trying to type, move a cursor around and pet a cat at the same time.

Sometimes I refuse to cooperate and off she goes, only to jump back up in 2-10 minutes for another round.

Unless she’s ready for another nap. Then it’s off to a convenient place to wax dream-like in kitty snooze.

I like dogs, but cats are a better fit for me.

They’re better at being photographed, when in the right mood. Hmmmmm.

Tip of the hat to Paul Simon for the lyrical title steal.

One from a newborn session with my great-niece Layla Rose.

With her eyes focused (sort of, at least pointed in the right direction!) on her mother Monica, Layla has such a trusting, bonding look to her.

Monica’s hand keeping her baby warm.

Her ring, a symbol of the love which brought Layla to life.

The black and white rendition focuses on the emotions in this one, for me.

Lovely.

From Friday’s Wedding.

I now can remember “in the moment” that I have the ability to stitch photos together.

This allowed me to give a panoramic view of the wedding reception in this composite photo.

I love this ability.

I’m learning more about it every time I venture to use it.

Now, If I had a panoramic tripod head, I could render a 360 view that you could explore with the touch of a mouse.

One day.

For now, I’m happy to be able to capture this moment in time, less limited by a single frame of a photograph.

From a wedding shoot last weekend.

Almost the last shot of the night.

Around 11PM

Started at 2PM

The bride put her bouquet down to sign the marriage license.

I saw a photo op!

Arranged the tableau, and Chris (the main photographer) made an adjustment (his compositional eye is so much better than mine!).

Snap, Snap, Snap with a couple adjustments.

Viola!

A warm look at the end of the party, and the beginning of a new life together.

Our friend’s daughter, Clare, gave a vocal recital to complete requirements for a Silver Cross.

Used my 50mm 1.4 to get a few captures.

We enjoyed the concert and seeing lots of friends.

There was a reception at her home afterwards, but I begged off.

Karen went and had a blast!

I upgraded my server with more space (photos take up a bunch!) and more memory. I then worked on 3 assignments into the wee hours of the morning.

I’m loving being a photographer. Capturing and presenting beauty.

Mother’s Day 2007

At my in-law’s home on a Sunday afternoon.

Karen was lit up with this golden light.

My camera was at my side and ready! I had asked Karen if she wanted me to bring it in or not. She said “Why Not?”

I grabbed it and here you go. A perfect portrait of a classy Mother.

My Karen Sue Ford, who said “Yes and I Do” almost 29 years ago to my question.

Christopher’s Mom – This weekend Chris moved out and into his own house in preparation for his upcoming wedding in 2 weeks. A tug on Mom’s heart, both sad and happy to see him leave the nest. On his own, Chris wrote a very moving note in his Mother’s Day card to Karen, thanking her for being his mom and the great contributions she has made to bringing him to this point in life. First full-time job, Graduation from college, and marriage.

Always have your camera ready!