the photograph

This week i surround myself with like minded artists and talent grander than
words can surround.  I'm continually inspired by the images i see and
intrigued by the stories behind them.  Any photograph that i remember 
for more than a moment, has a resonance based on the 
emotive impact that it holds for me.  


Tonight I sat and watched an immensely, emotionally charged
presentation from Sam Abell,who's work i've admire since his 
National Geographic days.  Iconic is a word that could describe 
the imagery he produces.  But more than that, is the fact that he's an excellent teacher.
Possibly one of the best 30 minute presentations I've seen thus far
in my life.  


He showcased some of his most widely published shots and paired them 
with the shots leading up to the one.  Watching the light, changing the angle, waiting for
that perfect moment.  


"Setting, expression, gesture.  That's all there is", according to Mr. Abell. He proves it with
photographs that literally brought me to tears.


He also touched on his book, "Stay This Moment".  
Titled, based on the reference of Virginia Woolf's words, "If one does not lie back and sum up and say to the moment, this very moment, stay you are so fair, what will be one's gain, dying? No: stay, this moment. No one ever says that enough." 


A truer statement, never there was...


Above all, it's hard learning to live with vivid mental images of scenes I cared for and failed to photograph. It is the edgy existence within me of these unmade images that is the only assurance that the best photographs are yet to be made. - Sam Abell, Stay This Moment : The Photographs of Sam Abell by Sam Abell


I leave this note with no image.  tomorrow i may have created one worth showing.


For more info on how to work with the masters and explore the spectacular beauty of the local countryside, check out Maine Media Workshops.   I can say with just a taste so far, its worth it.


Thanks LK.  You mean the world to me...