tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50702348238378080392024-03-19T05:12:15.065-07:00tate davidson photographicbecause I don't build web-sites …Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-33965472614201483802014-05-28T10:40:00.000-07:002014-05-28T10:54:01.244-07:00We lost an Angel …<h3>
<b>How could one not love Maya Angelou? </b></h3>
Her name. Her voice. Her words. You can almost feel the touch of her hand when reading her work. She could find beauty unlike anyone amid the struggles of her life. Now an angel never to be forgotten. She's the type of person that could inspire anyone to want to write. I feel like I took her work for granted. I should have known more about her.<br />
<br />
Here's something I wrote. It's not about Maya but it is about seeing, smelling, feeling everything, and finding some joy and peace amidst it all. And feeling like the training wheels just came off and you are totally ready for whatever comes next …<br />
<br />
---- <br />
<br />
<b><u>the world becomes small again</u></b><br />
<br />
the smell of fabric softener<br />
synthetic perfume<br />
and diesel exhaust<br />
the plastic of the water bottle<br />
<br />
muffled thumping and rattling<br />
2 jackhammers<br />
the rhythm is gonna getcha<br />
a man lacking several teeth shouts “play the numbers! i do”<br />
the chain whispers secrets whenever i can listen<br />
wind hums like a current rushing faster than me<br />
a seagull announces something<br />
a shapeless cloud remains speechless<br />
<br />
moments sparkle past like reflections on waves<br />
sharp. transient.<br />
a disconnected landscape<br />
am i part of this world<br />
or debris unwanted?<br />
<br />
thoughts bubble up and try to stay<br />
but dissolve like pop-rocks fizzing self-importantly<br />
then sink under the surface<br />
<br />
eyes to the wind<br />
meandering faceless vehicles<br />
blinking. beeping. coughing.<br />
swerve<br />
detour.<br />
glance back.<br />
coast<br />
<br />
look down at the blur<br />
a jarring memory triggered unexpectedly<br />
by the scent of a thing or a someone unknnown<br />
of things forgotten not forgiven<br />
<br />
forget.<br />
<br />
pedal faster<br />
a yellow light just changing<br />
stand<br />
signal a turn<br />
<br />
the smell of rain<br />
a flowering tree<br />
<br />
I am a lone seed surfing a river
unaware of my purpose<br />
I go under the surface, if just for a moment<br />
the world becomes small again<br />
a rumble of thunder
somewhere in the distance
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
---<br />
<h3>
Thank you Maya ... for inspiring so many. </h3>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-62982977970446926222012-11-06T12:51:00.001-08:002012-11-06T12:51:50.254-08:00Finding Personalities (with imperfect photos)This post is about finding personalities. Freezing otherwise overlooked moments. Creating memories, Occasionally breaking rule. And sometimes pretending you are being attacked by a dinosaur.<br />
<br />
Are these the best photos photographically? – Some have perfect focus, clarity, glimmer in the eye and a flawless pose - but <u>sometimes</u> we get lucky and beauty is found in the spontaneity and the essence of life's imperfections …<br />
<br />
My latest shoot was for my friend Maggie and her family. She is one of the friendliest, most cheerful people I have ever met so I had no doubt it would be a joy to photograph her along with her son and husband. She is also a breast cancer survivor and very involved in making the world less breast-cancer-having-ish … There was no question that I wanted to give her some really great memories with our images (and I knew she wanted to show off all that great hair she grew back =D !)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.tatedavidson.com/Photography/Portrait-Sessions/Maggsamples/26377581_wMSJn6#!i=2144135830&k=JNLWgpq&lb=1&s=A" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.tatedavidson.com/photos/i-JNLWgpq/0/L/i-JNLWgpq-L.jpg" title="" /></a><br />
Fortunately, I'm not afraid of encountering wildlife during a shoot.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.tatedavidson.com/Photography/Portrait-Sessions/Maggsamples/26377581_wMSJn6#!i=2144140233&k=KfmMvQ3&lb=1&s=A" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.tatedavidson.com/photos/i-KfmMvQ3/0/M/i-KfmMvQ3-M.jpg" title="" /></a><br />
People always amaze me in front of the camera. Could I make him do this? Of course not. Is it great? I thought so.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.tatedavidson.com/Photography/Portrait-Sessions/Maggsamples/26377581_wMSJn6#!i=2144148053&k=hLmd4MT&lb=1&s=A" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.tatedavidson.com/photos/i-hLmd4MT/0/M/i-hLmd4MT-M.jpg" title="" /></a><br />
<br />
It's never the obvious shots that are my favorites. Direct sunlight is a "no-no" for the most part and the more I can avoid it the better. But in this case, I think it works. A tight shot of a close family!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.tatedavidson.com/Photography/Portrait-Sessions/Maggsamples/26377581_wMSJn6#!i=2144140584&k=kmr4MjL&lb=1&s=A" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.tatedavidson.com/photos/i-kmr4MjL/0/M/i-kmr4MjL-M.jpg" title="" /></a><br />
<br />
The dog got in the way! Or maybe not!? Not a good portrait - but a welcome addition to a group of photos getting to the heart of what this family is like.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.tatedavidson.com/Photography/Portrait-Sessions/Maggsamples/26377581_wMSJn6#!i=2133097168&k=9mkC2gw&lb=1&s=A" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.tatedavidson.com/photos/i-9mkC2gw/0/M/i-9mkC2gw-M.jpg" title="" /></a><br />
His eyes are closed! But it a joyous image capturing the personality?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.tatedavidson.com/Photography/Portrait-Sessions/Maggsamples/26377581_wMSJn6#!i=2144146452&k=KZqv6cZ&lb=1&s=A" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.tatedavidson.com/photos/i-KZqv6cZ/0/M/i-KZqv6cZ-M.jpg" title="" /></a><br />
Hey - he's not even looking at the camera … and direct sunlight with harsh highlights and shadows!!! By the way, they have a waterfall in their yard. Yup! <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.tatedavidson.com/Photography/Portrait-Sessions/Maggie/25782827_6SRfr6#!i=2133097813&k=fbPdhGC&lb=1&s=A" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.tatedavidson.com/photos/i-fbPdhGC/0/M/i-fbPdhGC-M.jpg" title="" /></a>
"I will photograph your family watching TV!" Sounds creepy and lame - but with a chair like that how could I NOT?! …
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.tatedavidson.com/Photography/Portrait-Sessions/Maggsamples/26377581_wMSJn6#!i=2144134380&k=wMXQRSh&lb=1&s=A" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.tatedavidson.com/photos/i-wMXQRSh/0/M/i-wMXQRSh-M.jpg" title="" /></a><br />
Let's take a break! … I don't think so kiddo. Click.<br />
<br />
Naturally, there were more formal, clear posed images from this shoot. But by far I enjoy looking at the images that wer unplanned and imperfect.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-34140504658401367672012-01-25T09:21:00.000-08:002012-01-25T09:41:34.734-08:00When will the magic end?I can't help but wonder when all the amazingness will end. Life's puzzle has some oddly shaped and awkward smelling pieces but they seem to have fit together quite nicely. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37goqAP3oThsVZjQkf1RRJ7dkz7cl0o2Prf1kOp0H5yvhASUxBJ_o7ooQHltPhxv8nBcm7A2SYeGwyP2obFQKiRyAlV1lAtrJI1yfTTjp5fjIVRdsh4aJtRXlVwWLxgYIlfWe8AVtedlP/s1600/image_1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37goqAP3oThsVZjQkf1RRJ7dkz7cl0o2Prf1kOp0H5yvhASUxBJ_o7ooQHltPhxv8nBcm7A2SYeGwyP2obFQKiRyAlV1lAtrJI1yfTTjp5fjIVRdsh4aJtRXlVwWLxgYIlfWe8AVtedlP/s320/image_1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magical moment captured by Ada with a magic phone</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Life in general is pretty amazingly magical the way we have set up our little human ant-farm we call life … I mean really …<br />
<br />
I turn on the faucet and water comes out. Not blood. Not bile. Not bats or nightmares. Clean, clear mud-free water! I get to decide whether I want hot, cold, or variations of warm. I assume this is just a result of a magic water fairy who loves me.<br />
<br />
I plug something into the wall and it turns on. A light. A heater. A fan. I don't have to donate a piece of my soul or 6 eyelashes each time for this privilege - it just works. I assume this is because I have an electric personality that keeps me completely in charge of the electrons that worship me! But WHAT is in that magic wall????<br />
<br />
I walk down the street and people smile and say "hello" and no one tries to steal my stuff or beat the hell out of me (usually). Obviously through my years of living in a civil society I have developed a reputation worthy of respect so I'm obviously super special. That and the fact that I have angels following me around keeping evil away.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdW4EyvCFTBnWmbPr_BoSAGWfVRUpDtl1A_jLxEp1yzbVdUCN6aYTGWLNgz51Cra5SO166IhXB_HhVo3rHuZ3VIfMvzzEfHEsHnwM4QUdwbRb9YGIfYF_CMdJ-skUO3m_d42ZP1eN1rilm/s320/image_2.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="290" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ada made these wings (and some for Zella) for a scrapped piñata. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I open the garage and see vehicles - each of which can take me anywhere in North America without fail. A gas station will be there on every route I take so that I don't need to feed horses or sell my kidneys to keep going. If I have car troubles, it might take 30 minutes but help will be on the way - no reason to pee in the gas tank or build a dog-drawn wagon. Being a VIP has its privileges, I guess - no one else gets treated this way, right?<br />
<br />
I look at my phone, it looks to space, and gives me stuff people have never had before in history. Why? Little magic bugs obviously - if you ever get hit by one, you can see the future for a few seconds.<br />
<br />
I go to the store and I get fresh organic fruit even though it is freezing outside. I go to a restaurant and order authentic Indian, Italian, and Irish food and a beer from California - and they quickly place it in front of me. I don't even need to learn another language or a pay a membership fee or solve a riddle that risks my own imprisonment if I fail - It JUST HAPPENS! Again, obviously important people get cared for around these parts.<br />
<br />
I can contact any person in my family using the phone or the internet. Yes there's this thing called the internet - it is a series of tubes. Being royalty means having no one ever say "never" to things like that.<br />
<br />
If I don't feel well, I can get help. I can walk to the doctor or to the store and have the choice to get a magical bottle which can sometimes cure my woes. If that doesn't work, there's plenty of other methods at my disposal - yeah disposal. This magic isn't available to all - so I'm sure to nourish and scratch its belly to keep it around. <br />
<br />
If I want to go somewhere else on the planet, an amazing vehicle can transport me there within hours - amazingly soaring above everything at hundreds of miles-per-hour. Just be sure to not open the window or your head will snap off and everyone will get sucked out - but that never happens. Everyone knows that the airlines bought out the super-fairies years ago. A controversial move that benefits humans but is arguably slavery to the fairies - although they get paid quite well for their work.<br />
<br />
There is so much we take for granted. So many problems we generate on our own that people in third-world countries would love to have. No one in Haiti has been caught complaining about their MAC machine taking too long or their Netflix is too expensive.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DR8qxWCdKthjWnm-zLTdl-CgafQQMO-uLUW8KpFjWbFs-whFcKTZfvs9Beofri6UkH_NmBkKOvy-WQTcSOB6tuywyYbDfeu0Iho9oa_Hywu6Zz0wVj-ulSNjNUS-0uUpC7RiLyhY-_9u/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DR8qxWCdKthjWnm-zLTdl-CgafQQMO-uLUW8KpFjWbFs-whFcKTZfvs9Beofri6UkH_NmBkKOvy-WQTcSOB6tuywyYbDfeu0Iho9oa_Hywu6Zz0wVj-ulSNjNUS-0uUpC7RiLyhY-_9u/s200/image.jpeg" width="153" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleep: take it where you can get it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>This is one of the most challenging times for the people - even specifically under the roof of my house. A fussy baby and two young people trying to adjust to being 50% less in the spotlight (at least). They swallow rocks. They poop the tub. They pee on themselves. They cry over nothing. They cry for who-knows-why. They spill everything. All at the same time the person who carried each of them for 9+ months is still trying to physically, mentally, and spiritually recover. Not to mention any baggage we carried into this mess. And I have serious baggage you know. Serious as cake. Home-made cake.<br />
<br />
There is no question that each day tests us - and I often fail to live up to the "me" I want to be. Sounds like a song I should write but I won't because I'm not blessed with a magical voice - but I can accept that. And hey - it's true that there are a lot of inequality in the world and a lot of anger and hate --- <br />
but I am happier today that I have ever been even thought I know things will never be perfect. <br />
<br />
And with all this in mind, I keep wondering when the magic will end. <br />
And praying it never does.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-32541712818134439052012-01-05T13:14:00.000-08:002012-01-16T10:30:33.276-08:00the conformity problemHumans appear to be conformists by nature. To some degree, I suppose we would be more likely to win some battles of <i>survival of the fittest</i> by joining groups and having a common goal. But is that conformity? Kind of.<br />
Does it mean we have to be conformists? - I would hope not.<br />
<br />
<br />
The societal structure in the states is not completely horrific - despite the rhetoric we might hear. And since our societal structure has some decent laws and rules, it is generally favorable to follow those rules. However, there are MANY rules we instill on ourselves that quite literally limit the way we live every day.<br />
<br />
As a basic and simple example: Valentine's day. <br />
<br />
I'm not going to suggest V-day is a bad thing- but does everyone have to make dinner-and-a-movie reservations for it? Does everyone need to buy a heart-shaped box of chocolates and a dozen roses?<br />
<br />
In my mind, conformity is NOT romantic. Romance is doing the unexpected. Romance is throwing spontaneity and creativity into an otherwise "normal" day. So the "here's what everyone does" of Valentine's day is actually the opposite of romance.<br />
<br />
The thing is, this is old news. Remember <i>Say Anything</i> ? <i>Jerry Maguire</i> ? Casablanca (I don't) … but there were no romantic candies or roses as defining elements - there were crazy, unexpected actions where people poured out their hearts.<br />
<br />
Let's try another holiday:<br />
Halloween<br />
<br />
The best costumes are the ones that EVERYONE is wearing, right?!<br />
Nope - the best ones are the unique, hand-made, creative ones. Conformity loses again.<br />
<br />
OK - now …<br />
Survival.<br />
<br />
On the external, the Armed forces would lead one to think that we all need to walk in lock-step to succeed militarily. But it is the unexpected, the crazy, the insane moments that win battles. I'm not a military expert but we all know the many successful battles throughout our history that took the enemy by surprise and for that reason alone had a catastrophic effect. These were not "here's what you are supposed to do" moments.<br />
Conformity loses again.<br />
<br />
But WHAT ABOUT Business? … I thought you'd never ask.<br />
<br />
It would seem as if business is all about conformity. The higher-up you are, the more likely you are to wear a designer suit and tie. Specific shoes and cuff-links should be your attire as well, right?<br />
<br />
Well, if Steve Jobs taught us anything, it is that you don't need a tie to be successful. In fact, the rebellious act of wearing jeans when representing what eventually became one of the most influential companies in history was more on a statement than a tie will ever be.<br />
<br />
Lastly … RELIGION.<br />
If there's anything that inspires mass conformity, it is religion, RIGHT?<br />
I don't think so. At least not Christianity. <br />
<br />
ROMANS 12:2 states:<br />
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."<br />
<br />
But I suppose anyone could find a verse of the bible to help make a point. So let's look at the good ol' son of God, Jesus. If anything, Jesus was a rebel. An inspiration for us to go against the grain - especially when the grain affects others negatively. So even though Jesus may have dressed like everyone else, he was by no means conformist. <br />
<br />
So what the H#** is my point?<br />
<br />
Well, as with pretty much everything I am concerned about - it involved the kids. I just want my kids to think for themselves. Not every kid needs to listen to Justin Beiber or iCarly or whatever is going on at the time. In fact, doing so makes you a conformist. It also tends to take the place of kids exploring the new, the old, and the unexplored. And it is in the unexplored that one will find success and happiness upon discovering the new and enriching stuff that life has.<br />
<br />
This is actually a challenge I have. I realize children may find common ground and start friendships based on their mutual love for Hello Kitty or whatever … So I'm never going to say those are bad in and of themselves. However, I don't feed into these obsessions. I'm not going to start buying every Zhu Zhu pet or Barbie that exists just because my kids seems to like them.<br />
<br />
There is SO MUCH MORE to life that I hope to encourage my kids to explore. And that's where we need to start …Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-15086433600623181872011-10-26T09:26:00.000-07:002011-10-26T09:26:01.102-07:00Siri and my rotary iPhone"I'm worried Siri, what should I do?"<br />
<br />
<br />
Well if you're not familiar with the hype of Siri and the latest iPhone, you will be soon, probably. But the more I think about it, the more I wonder whether we are progressing forward or backward.<br />
<br />
Here's a scenario to imagine. Let's say that a tech-savvy (or at least i-device savvy) parent realizes it is safer to use the new iPhone by giving it verbal instructions. This is where Siri comes in. Siri "listens" to normal human speak and gathers information or performs digital tasks accordingly. For example, if I say "how old is Shaquille O'Neil" … it somehow magically comes up with the information on the sceen without further input from me. I say "magically" because most people don't care how or where the information is acquired, it just is. If that isn't enough, Siri can also find the 5 closest Italian restaurants or Pediatricians with a simple voice command. It can also call "your Mom" but you will need to tell it who your mom is the first time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://laptopreviewshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/apple-siri-phones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="http://laptopreviewshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/apple-siri-phones.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So I ask: Is Siri a friend? A trust co-pilot that will lead us happily into the future? </span><br />
<br />
I want to sidestep to something my wife mentioned to me. Apparently, some of the big-wigs that work for tech giants like Google, Apple, and Microsoft pay huge tuitions to send their kids to schools that are absolutely void of technology. Instead of computer class, they go to basket-weaving I guess. Here's the New York Times article she was referencing:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/23/technology/at-waldorf-school-in-silicon-valley-technology-can-wait.html?pagewanted=all">NYT: At Waldorf school, technology-can-wait …</a><br />
<br />
So anyway, back to talking about the middle class and Siri. Was I talking about the middle class? Of course. Anyway, so "Daddy tells his iPhone what he needs and it helps him". This will undoubtedly be the refrain of more that a couple of kids who ride with Daddy to school as he tries to get a little work done with the help of Siri. Or Mommy, of course. Wonder why Siri has a female voice? I don't … but anyway …<br />
<br />
We all know that parental behavior affects that of the kids. We can argue how influential it is but not right now. But as of today, I will no longer be talking to Siri in amazement in front of my kids. Kids need to find the answers in many ways … but simply asking a computer is not one of them. At least not in the learning stage. Still learning to look people in the eys. Still learning to read. Still learning to listen.<br />
<br />
Sometimes the canary in the coal mine has information you might need other than the fact that he is dead. Not sure what I mean by that other than to say that I sometimes feel like a victim of the most prevalent piece of tech of my generation: the TV. The brain-sucking, addictive TV. My kids already seem to think that the TV is pretty much the greatest thing in the world - yet I have come to realize that it can completely warp people into something no one really wants to be. <br />
<br />
Upon thinking about TV, there is something to be said for iPads and iPhones. They do require a bit of interaction. And sometimes even inspire curiosity, learning, and arguably friendship with others through sharing information and entertainment.<br />
<br />
But hearing that the brains of our culture who get their paychecks signed by Google and Apple are sending their kids to a school that cuts the cords on the very products that pay the tuitions ? That should say something to us. <br />
<br />
We are not on this planet to shop. We are not here to be told which device can make our life complete. We are not here to sit in front of a screen or ask a virtual 'bot all of our questions. Yes being able to talk to your phone is kinda cool. Yes it can be useful and might save you from slamming into someone while texting in a no-texting zone (anywhere while driving). But it could also help our children never learn how to learn.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQyGnTVK5Cl0dMkosVtpJ_WaufinAhThQ9zAbyXFvTrgfECzMgSU4YJ_wcF2g" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQyGnTVK5Cl0dMkosVtpJ_WaufinAhThQ9zAbyXFvTrgfECzMgSU4YJ_wcF2g" /></a></div><br />
Here's an image of WALL-E …<br />
Yes, this idea has been made into a movie =) <br />
A friendly Robot saves humans from the computers which had helped make people lazy, stupid, and anti-social. What a guy!<br />
<br />
Your thoughts welcome …Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-74949412411111224792011-10-04T09:06:00.000-07:002011-10-04T09:06:05.547-07:00taking a break …We have another child on the way so I am taking a break from non-personal photography in order to focus my attention on other areas. I figure it is better to do this than to have clients conform to my fragmented schedule. Thanks for your understanding! =)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-34852612908842570462011-03-11T13:24:00.000-08:002011-03-12T06:48:52.079-08:0037 …Thank you for all the birthday wishes. It really makes for a special day hearing from all of you! =)<br />
<br />
I just want to share a few things with those who care (this may come off as a bit of a public diary entry - which i guess it is):<br />
<br />
My 37th was the greatest year of my life.<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I saw my oldest daughter learn to tie her shoes. And ride a 2-wheeler. And begin to draw, color, and read in ways that are just wonderful to watch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnux6_E_WNDeSPZVUa-A1UkEiEBXUwFTVki-pMUbdfyvpo90kHmPmD5hQo2d5KlIov9bw6EhBhJDA_vDNCyokUf2tcYFkflsHc3nfJf6Np1aOiR99m4PccAfbpbahS3cadGqnYW6FaRjpJ/s1600/DSC_8660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnux6_E_WNDeSPZVUa-A1UkEiEBXUwFTVki-pMUbdfyvpo90kHmPmD5hQo2d5KlIov9bw6EhBhJDA_vDNCyokUf2tcYFkflsHc3nfJf6Np1aOiR99m4PccAfbpbahS3cadGqnYW6FaRjpJ/s320/DSC_8660.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">My younger daughter is learning to speak and be compassionate. I love how she says "chlock-oh-let".<br />
<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I did things I have been meaning to do for years.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">My wife and I have both started playing the sports we loved as kids. Volleyball and hockey respectively.</div><br />
I was fortunate enough to be able to have 2 gallery shows to benefit local causes.<br />
Photography played a pretty big role this year as I contributed prints to benefits and also did several fun photo shoots of great people and families.<br />
I met new people and learned to appreciate the people I already know and love even more.<br />
As marriages grow and people get older, it seems that we learn more about ourselves as well - and how to inject each day with more joy and hope. 37 was all up in that action - a real motivating year.<br />
<br />
This is a pretty sappy and serious post but my goal is to spread laughter and moments of joy wherever I can … OK now it sounds like I am on my death bed … which I am not =) But anyhow …<br />
I live a privileged life and I am learning to appreciate that fact.<br />
<br />
Here's to 38! =D …<br />
<br />
BTW: If you are wondering what I am up to tonight … I will be reenacting a moment of my childhood right after I saw this movie … dancing in my room:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/nwBbMXYDsXw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-2264221099130148882010-11-12T11:17:00.000-08:002010-11-12T11:20:34.336-08:00Wanna learn? … Put down that book and grab some fruit …<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I personally love photography books. Probably because there's less reading than most books. Anyway, this article isn't about books. It's about putting down the book for a moment and learning by playing … and occasionally, referencing a book.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Maybe you can guess my favorite subjects to photograph. They have a great shape. They are curvy and complex. They have beautiful skin. They have so many fine details and tend to be very cooperative if cared for. They don't mind working in the dark. And when the fun photos are over, there's still a very fulfilling moment remaining.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yup, you guessed it;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>PEARS! …</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So here's an assignment for any beginning photog that would like to learn more: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><ol><li>Take a bowl of pears (or whatever interesting natural objects you have sitting around the house) </li>
<li>Get some not-necessarily-photo-specific sources of light (flashlight, desk lamp, laser pointer, cell-phone, or whatever you come up with)</li>
<li>Put your camera on the "Manual" setting</li>
<li>Set up the camera, a tri-pod, and the pears in a dark area of your liking</li>
<li>Take interesting photos using the above items</li>
<li>No 6 … That's it … </li>
</ol><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>WHY is this a good project?</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This sort of open-ended project requires two things not listed in the set-up:</div><ul><li>Going beyond typical point-and-shoot, the photographer needs to learn how to use the camera … and a tri-pod.</li>
<li>A creative, thought out process is the only thing that will give good results.</li>
<li>Photography is all about light. This project is all about working with light.</li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://tatedavidson.com/Professional/playing/DSC6567/680346186_KpiMJ-M-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://tatedavidson.com/Professional/playing/DSC6567/680346186_KpiMJ-M-3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Above: An iPhone using the "Flashlight" app with different colors (30 second exposure).</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://tatedavidson.com/Professional/playing/DSC6610-Edit/680351682_RthNs-S-2.jpg" width="350" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Above: A laser pointer creates the illusion that the stems were just blown out like a candle. A little poof of smoke was created using a cell phone diffused with tissue paper. The pears are lit with a snooted desk lap waved over and around away from the eye of the camera. Yes, cameras have eyes ;).</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Some additional thoughts on this project: You may actually need to read the camera's manual to get the result you want. That's a good thing. You may also get hurt playing in the dark. That's not really a good thing. So wear a helmet if you need one. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-88098404124899376022010-11-09T13:09:00.000-08:002010-11-09T13:09:08.288-08:00Art Against Hunger … A Success!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The Art Against Hunger silent auction was a success!<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>I am very excited to say all 10 pieces were auctioned for a total of $710! All profits will go to hunger facilities in our area via Rocky River United Methodist Church. So not only do we have some happy customers, but they can take credit for helping provide many meals to people in need.<br />
<div><div><br />
A special thanks to Sheri at RRUMC, my wife Julie, and Linda at Local Girl Gallery for their help in preparing, hanging, and promoting the show. </div><div></div><div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzs71MSKJg8V1JAmULWHQnudyDOnEqYQZGOs1sWd085NEVRxK0Q90uRVmxD_YkMXEwFLon0oFSzASDeNoyNdeMQOxVXsHhfJNq3NqryDpBLhR7BJBXatyRB5y0MTouO0JqdRiin7pfvZs/s1600/AAH-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzs71MSKJg8V1JAmULWHQnudyDOnEqYQZGOs1sWd085NEVRxK0Q90uRVmxD_YkMXEwFLon0oFSzASDeNoyNdeMQOxVXsHhfJNq3NqryDpBLhR7BJBXatyRB5y0MTouO0JqdRiin7pfvZs/s320/AAH-01.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a><br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://tatedavidson.com/Photography/Art-Against-Hunger/DSC6809/1078751438_L2fhN-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://tatedavidson.com/Photography/Art-Against-Hunger/DSC6809/1078751438_L2fhN-L.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://tatedavidson.com/Art/unheardof/DSC1685/928013198_o3ymZ-M-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://tatedavidson.com/Art/unheardof/DSC1685/928013198_o3ymZ-M-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzs71MSKJg8V1JAmULWHQnudyDOnEqYQZGOs1sWd085NEVRxK0Q90uRVmxD_YkMXEwFLon0oFSzASDeNoyNdeMQOxVXsHhfJNq3NqryDpBLhR7BJBXatyRB5y0MTouO0JqdRiin7pfvZs/s1600/AAH-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-48876549248738062862010-10-14T11:04:00.000-07:002010-10-14T11:20:01.681-07:00Best of Cleveland 2010 Scene cover … AKA why Cleveland doesn't suck.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVeHV71k6yzu0pGeew3sl37a60ZppLIji1xcxFr3Nu128nRzsRZpT-IwCis_ujyuY57z_4N_bavRzQyQ-qWZ7yb7dc_rjiICxSkuugXT321cAizlqZo8kaBsq7auEh2147pHPVSHwhX-E/s1600/01A-COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVeHV71k6yzu0pGeew3sl37a60ZppLIji1xcxFr3Nu128nRzsRZpT-IwCis_ujyuY57z_4N_bavRzQyQ-qWZ7yb7dc_rjiICxSkuugXT321cAizlqZo8kaBsq7auEh2147pHPVSHwhX-E/s320/01A-COVER.jpg" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleveland Scene cover - Oct. 13, 2010 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>There is something happening this week that makes me wanna scream a duet of "Cleveland Rocks" from the top of the Terminal Tower with Harvey Pekar (RIP) …<br />
<br />
This week our very own <a href="http://www.clevescene.com/cleveland/best-of-cleveland-2010/BestOf?oid=2142166">Cleveland Scene magazine "Best of Cleveland 2010"</a> issue was released featuring my artwork on the cover. Yes … and I want to brag about it - just a little. This is the biggest Cleveland Scene ever released - It's like a textbook about Cleveland … with ads. Heck, maybe textbooks have ads nowadays, I wouldn't know.<br />
<br />
<div>Anyway, this is the most exposure I've had since that day I ran down the street after our dog in my underwear and flip-flops. Stupid shitzu. This is a great issue of Scene – featuring the results of a huge survey somewhere between the size of the SATs and the Healthcare bill. I swear, filling out the survey was almost intolerable and I'm guessing most of the winners were just made up because no one could have possibly filled out the whole thing. Seriously though folks, an unbelievable number of "Best Of …" categories are well worth checking out and exploring for those interested.<br />
<br />
I selfishly used my frequented and nearby locations to create this "planet Cleveland" … but that is not to say they aren't awesomely awesome in their own right. West Side Market, Great Lakes Science Center, Browns Stadium, the War Memorial Peace statue … these are some of the many places that make Cleveland great. <br />
<br />
There are plenty of other great Cleveland places and events to enjoy - So <u><b>do read</b></u> the "Best Of" list and let Cleveland (and me) pat ourselves on the back for a while.<br />
<br />
Here's a link in case you can't get your hands on a real live printed copy … which are free … and why I have a stack high enough to keep my house warm if the power goes out for the entire winter:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.clevescene.com/cleveland/best-of-cleveland-2010/BestOf?oid=2142166"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Scene Best of 2010</span></a><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-24929493405757396052010-10-14T07:55:00.000-07:002010-10-14T07:55:43.106-07:00About what I do …<h2 class="title" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">I'm a photographer. I'm a designer. Since I enjoy both, <br />
I started Tate Davidson Photographic.<br />
</span></h2><span style="font-size: large;">Take a look at my samples to get an idea of what I offer. Visual communication is my specialty. Whether it is a logo and brochure or a family portrait worthy of a gallery wall, Christmas card, and facebook page, I can help. </span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Photography:</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I like all things photographic. But let's talk about portrait photography … To me, a photo shoot should be a fun experience that brings out the joy of life - and the photos will reflect that.</span><br />
<h2 class="title" style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"> </span></h2><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I prefer not to work in a studio (although I can arrange for that if the occasion arises). I’ll usually meet you on location. Sometimes I even bring my family if your kids need some company. We can work together to determine a location that suits the personality and goal for the photos.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<h2 class="title" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">Each photo shoot includes:</span></h2><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<ul><li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">A personal approach</span> that can only be achieved from a local business.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Unique</span> images customized for your personality and goals.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Secure online proofing</span>.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">A personal private web link</span> to show your friends and family (and they can order prints and gifts there also).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">An option to <span style="font-weight: bold;">download images</span> for use online for business and pleasure: facebook, linked-in, MySpace, Twitter etc.<br />
</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Two options for printing</span>: Order online ala carte print ordering or have me put together a print package for you.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">In addition to prints, you can order fun products and gifts featuring your photographs (t-shirts, mugs, etc.).<br />
</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A fun photo shoot where you are involved and <span style="font-weight: bold;">choose the location</span> and discuss your goals beforehand with the photographer ! <br />
</span></li>
</ul><b><span style="font-size: large;">Additional options:</span></b><br />
<ul><li><span style="font-size: large;">Creative <b>processing</b> and / or adding of text.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Photos can be incorporated into <b>graphic design</b> pieces. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">I can <b>repair old photos</b> or <b>change elements</b> drastically on your new ones.</span></li>
</ul><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
<b>Graphic Design:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have a BA in graphic design. I've been doing freelance design for many years and I specialize in corporate identities and printed marketing pieces.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Often, I will incorporate my own photography which can make keep things affordable yet have great impact. Let me know what i can help you with today!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-78094946055276298282010-10-09T07:24:00.000-07:002009-11-25T08:00:45.588-08:00More about me …<span style="font-size: large;">I am a married father of two girls. My passion to create timeless memories drives my photography. As I watch my family grow, I am thankful for the captured moments that document them at every age. I really enjoy working with families and helping create lasting moments through images.<br />
My education is in graphic design and art therapy. I have a BA in Art and for the past 14 years I have worked in the field of graphic arts. For me, photography is a very special part of art world and is a great way for me to be involved with my community. Together, design and photography allow me to participate in my community in a positive way. Contact me to discuss your next project.<br />
<br />
<br />
tate@tatedavidson.com </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">evenings / voice mail: 216.533.9554<br />
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-19852751610147610962010-07-09T09:45:00.000-07:002010-07-09T10:31:59.967-07:00Cleveland is bitter … I mean BETTER now …Well, he got everybody talking …<br />
I'll give him that.<br />
<br />
He made a horrible decision for himself, but the right decision for Cleveland.<br />
So I'm kinda pumped about it to be honest.<br />
<br />
I never wanted to live in Cleveland. I never knew anything about it until I would ride down from Mercyhurst College in Erie, PA … watch bands at the Agora … get real drunk (sorry Mom) and be driven home by many good friends who put up with me. My room mate freshman year was from Cleveland and I actually think I may have teased him about it when he said he wanted to leave school and go back to CLE. I suppose, in a way, I thought there were better cities where I was "supposed" to go.<br />
<br />
But now I know better. Cleveland has a great deal to offer. I wonder whether our self-diagnosed "hero" really knows this. My feeling is that his decision wasn't based on any real logic. I really can't think about how this helped him at all - but there are plenty of reasons it helped Cleveland! <br />
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When people think of Cleveland, they shouldn't picture 1 dude in a jersey … they should know that Cleveland's people and life are great and getting even better. And we need to show them this without the banner of a single person who "saves" us!<br />
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Where was I last night during "the Decision"? … I was a Whiskey Island: A place where you can watch sailboats drift in front of a beautiful sunset in one direction and look at the Cleveland skyline in the other … while listening to a live band, or playing sand-volleyball, or just drinking a beer sitting solo by the shore. This is just one of the many gems Cleveland has that people should really appreciate. We lost our volleyball game and LeBron left - actually an awesome evening! =)<br />
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I kind of hope Cleveland has good sports teams … but I REALLY hope people don't rely on those teams to give the city true value. The value of the city resides in communities and activities that truly bring us together.<br />
<br />
So take a moment and ask people around you what they value in their city and maybe you'll learn of a new place to have fun … or at least share in something other than an egomaniac whom we've encouraged to be our savior.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH9Qx9QMSwSV6vV-rd8RmFzaZrMaxsSkfyMq2JpLv11ZFf7UZ2DhlOKSoaT1_jNpzmZGNxcKI8mXsqGO4oXkyDu9NYJ9sdbPvG6wLhTJBKxgB_1rdYk1qHWf8hGOd7aGaQd5jmZliwxctW/s1600/quitness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH9Qx9QMSwSV6vV-rd8RmFzaZrMaxsSkfyMq2JpLv11ZFf7UZ2DhlOKSoaT1_jNpzmZGNxcKI8mXsqGO4oXkyDu9NYJ9sdbPvG6wLhTJBKxgB_1rdYk1qHWf8hGOd7aGaQd5jmZliwxctW/s320/quitness.jpg" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-8619376730314870012010-03-29T07:28:00.000-07:002010-03-29T07:32:08.669-07:00Photo Therapy?Some of my friends know that I majored in Art Therapy in college – at least for the first 2.5 years. That was over fifteen years ago, but I just sort of realized that I have my own form of artistic therapy that I engage in almost every day.<br />
<br />
No, I'm not a practicing Art Therapist. And I'm not saying that I have some revolutionary technique for life improvement – but I have something that seems to work for me.<br />
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Still images.<br />
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That's it.<br />
<br />
To understand how this works, just turn on the TV and turn down the volume all the way. The visual information the TV blasts us with surprises me every time I try this. Imagine being a small child seeing prime-time TV for the first time. It's so unlike reality, it's scary.<br />
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When we juxtapose this with a single photograph, painting, or any still image, it becomes almost meditative. <br />
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A still image creates movement in out mind, not on the screen. The movement is neurons firing, not pixels changing. It's like eating with chop-sticks rather than a shovel. No wonder Eastern culture has hung on to the whole chop stick thing - it is a meditation in itself.<br />
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So when we carry around a digital camera, we have something that can sort of stop the world as we need it. OK so maybe I sometimes use my iPhone to take a picture of where I parked so I don't forget - maybe it can be a crutch.<br />
<br />
Or maybe it's an existential dilemma and I'm worried about people changing and getting old so I think I can somehow stop it by holding their images.<br />
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Or maybe its like a drug that I use to put the brakes on a little bit.<br />
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Or maybe I'm hiding my face behind it because I want to redirect attention toward others – oh, who am I kidding, I want the attention ;P<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b style="color: #f6b26b;">What do you think? How do you use a camera in your life?</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #cccccc;"> </span> Comments welcome.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-78198524993579956982009-11-12T08:22:00.000-08:002009-11-12T08:23:56.310-08:00Can your graphic design be GREENER?Working in prepress, I come across a great deal of waste. Wasted time, wasted ink, and especially wasted paper among other things like wasted electricity and print products such as plates. Much of this could be resolved ahead of time at the design stage – creating a more green workflow and saving money and time in the process. <b>What can a designer do?</b><br />
<br />
1: <b>Use less ink.</b><br />
How important is this? Well, someone invented a font called <a href="http://www.ecofont.com/ecofont_en.html">ECOfont</a> which illustrates in itself the importance of saving ink and demonstrates a novel way to do so. No, I'm not saying use EcoFont for all your design. A better idea is to use a design that has impact, but reduces ink coverage. This is where creativity is really important - there's part of designer's mind that wants to inundate the viewer with eye-candy … but often the simple stuff leaves the most memorable message.<br />
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The downside of using less ink is that isn't glamorous. It isn't really even seen as a sustainable thing to do in the general public (yet). But at the same time, that where the brilliance resides. When someone asks about your client's brochure, they can explain why it is so sparsely spectacular - and learning and inspiration is passed on. Not to mention a positive image for your client (and you). <br />
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2:<b> Design for the sheet the job will print on.</b><br />
This is completely counter-intuitive for some designers who like artistic freedom. But when you tell your client that the printing cost is $2000 less because you chose to design this way, your green decision will have the ambiguity for which you will be proud.<br />
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The one frog to leap in this process is to make sure print-bidding is resolved before the design stage begins. If not, just be sure you are designing for a standard sheet size for the quantity that will print. Another sure bet is to simply design smaller and/or use a standard 8.5x11 or 5.5x8.5 finish size. OK - many designers (like myself) like a non-standard finished size - so again, try to design for optimal sheet usage - you may even insist that this is done because the most costly thing in the printing costs is … PAPER! Yes - negative space is a great tool, so this is a balancing act for sure. Find a creative way to use paper rather than leave it on the bindery floor.<br />
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3: <b>Use digital proofing</b><br />
This saves a huge amount of time and resources. Whenever possible, send a proof via e-mail or whatever setup you have with your printing company. When in doubt, ask and explain why you would prefer to use this method. <br />
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4: <b>Direct mail? Look Out!</b><br />
A correctly designed mailing piece can literally save thousands of dollars in charges from the post office. Basically, the post office has automation set up - and they want you to use it! Something as simple as rotating the mailing panel so that it opens on the top (folds at the bottom)<b> </b>can make a huge difference in price. In this case price = cost that makes jobs inefficient and less "green".<br />
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5: <b>Insist on sustainable products</b><br />
Vegetable based ink. Recycled paper. Hand-made paper with seeds in it? … there are always new products that take advantage of efficiency and sustainability. Consider these things carefully when planning the design.<br />
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6: <b>Don't greenwash.</b><br />
Green is obviously a trend, so do things for the right reasons. If a special green logo adds to the footprint of your job, who needs it? <br />
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6: <b>Be prepared to explain why.</b><br />
I struggled with confidence throughout my early years as a designer. I wouldn't insist on things that most times I would look back on and regret that I should have. Since we as designers know about the subject, we should show a bit of swagger and let our customers know how we feel and why we insist on things that could sometimes seem trivial to others.<br />
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7: <b>What does local mean?</b><br />
The value of "think globally, act locally" is real and true. Whether we are talking about the economy or the environment, it is always smart to consider using a local establishment to get the job done. Of course, since we can do many thinks remotely (like sending files and proofs), you can always weigh this into the equation. <br />
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Again, creativity and planning go a long way in this process. Designers can plan ahead but still allow for a great deal of artistic activity when producing a job.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-809689343448985152009-10-08T11:00:00.000-07:002009-10-08T11:02:43.899-07:00Skype and the iphoneI remember being really excited that there was a Skype app for the iphone. Then disappointed that AT+T wouldn't allow it.<br />
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Then I was excited again the other day.<br />
Then I tried it and my excitement was on hold for a while thinking there needed to be an update or something to make it actually work.<br />
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Now I'm disappointed again because I thought of a pretty significant flaw in the Skype / iPhone combo - even if it DOES work properly.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">The camera is on the wrong side!</span><br />
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When you look at the screen, the device is acting like a standard camera - the lens points away from you.<br />
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So how do we solve this ??? Personally, I want to invent an 8$ mirror attachment that works like a periscope and effectively lets you see who you are talking to while they see you.<br />
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Just a thought.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-84925865796510267612009-08-27T14:24:00.000-07:002009-09-04T08:52:12.059-07:00Thoughts about "dressing up" for a photo …When I look at photos from the past, it is usually the faces and the location I am interested in. However, clothing is still important. So to create a timeless photo, I like to think that it's not necessarily what you wear – but your clothing should suit your goals of the photo.<br />
<ul><li>Wear something that is comfortable physically and mentally. Just because Gramma gave you that outfit doesn't mean it has to be worn if it's not working for you. She'll love you just the same.<br />
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<li>Simple is usually a good thing. Solid colors and classic styles let the focus be on the important thing: the person.</li>
<li>Be versatile: Having a layer or two to add or remove can add variety. Having a change of clothes can have the effect of looking like you had two or three photo sessions instead of one!</li>
<li>The obvious: Dress for the occasion. If you're going to be on location scraping honeycomb at a bee farm, you better wear on of those mesh suits ;) If it's winter, don't wear a tank-top … as if you didn't know. But seriously: since I shoot on location, keep it real and fun.<br />
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<li>Lastly, if you have more than one person together, it might be smart to do a "test-run" to make sure you don't have one person wearing the soft side of velcro and the other wearing the hard side. I assume you get the funny.</li>
</ul>But when it comes down to it, it's you that get to keep and share these photos for eternity, so use your best judgment and remember … life goes on.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-35916236280696932192009-08-27T06:47:00.000-07:002009-08-28T07:28:56.876-07:00What time of day are you?Obviously the time of photo shoots is generally based on a person's schedule. But since I incorporate a great deal of your personality into much of my photography, I ask the question: "Are you a day person?". Specifically, when are you at your best: most creative, thoughtful and happy. This tends to be obvious in the youngest clientele. Some kids are just more jolly right after breakfast or in the afternoon. Others need naps at certain times and should become little models right after the nap.<br />
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Another thing you might consider is the sort light we will find at your location. Yes, this is my job ... but if you want to get pictures by your uncle's pond, ask him when it is most beautiful. Most likely he will have an answer.<br />
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So if you're thinking about scheduling a shoot, consider what time of day might be best. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-75317914158019706752009-08-20T09:21:00.000-07:002009-08-20T13:59:54.969-07:00How we can be as cool as the iPhone …If you've seen and iPhone, you probably used the word "cool" or "nifty", or perhaps at least "interesting". These are pretty positive words … so how can we be more like the iPhone?<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 204, 204);">iPhone:</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 204, 204);"> Apple doesn't make too many iPhone Applications. They left the coolness open to the creative minds around the world.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Us:</span> Life needs some structure, but let it unfold as it will. Create a framework for your life and let the moments add variety. For example: If you plan a vacation to Cedar Point … get a place to stay, figure out how to get there, and make sure you'll have tickets and food at a cost you can afford. But don't plan all the moments of your day. Just go there and let the smell of life lead your nose for a while. Cool.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 204, 204);">iPhone:</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 204, 204);"> Visually cool in its simplicity … but it would be meaningless if it wasn't so darn functional.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Us:</span> Personality comes from your actions. Get the basics. Make sure to wear underwear and acceptable clothing, but let the personality come through in your actions and words.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 204, 204);">iPhone:</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 204, 204);"> Modest and unassuming. Very few moving parts.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Us:</span> This is the equivalent of speaking softly and carrying a big stick.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 204, 204);">iPhone:</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 204, 204);"> GPS integration and compass.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Us:</span> Know where you came from. And where you are going. And be able to stay level-headed (the darn phone even has a level!).<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 204, 204);">iPhone:</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 204, 204);"> Video and photography on the go.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Us:</span> Be sure to document your progress through life in a way that still enables you to enjoy it!<br /><br /><br />Just in case you think I'm selling apple … <span style="font-size:180%;"><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/169179/apple_rejects_google_voice_iphone_app.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">here's</span></a></span> a disappointing App rejection!<br /><a href="http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/169179/apple_rejects_google_voice_iphone_app.html"></a><br />A note: The Google App on the phone already has Voice search ... amazingly accurate!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-34931748809984394672009-08-20T08:56:00.000-07:002009-08-20T09:17:07.741-07:00Is it possible?Today I ask the most philosophical question many ask themselves. Can we do what we love and make a living? I recently started reading "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield. He suggests that out life is full of obstacles that we often create ourselves.<br /><br />Mainly?: Rationalization.<br /><br />That's what Tate Davidson Photographic is supposed to be for me. Me doing what I love. But I also want to change the world in a way that I am yet unsure about. Make it better. Cleaner. More compassionate. <br /><br />Just something to think about. Contemplate. And maybe do something about.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-74892267590235575392009-06-02T06:42:00.000-07:002009-06-02T07:57:19.420-07:00thingsCute meets crunchy: My wife found a good way to clean her silver jewelry. In my child's mind that consists of "wiping it and throwing it in the sink". Later that day … "what is that crunching sound in the garbage disposal?". Sounds like metal!<br /><br />The key to running: I went running with Ada in the jogging stroller. My keys were in the back pocket of the stroller. I later realized there is a big hole in this mesh pocket. My keys have not been found.<br /><br />Full of hot air: We have central air. Right now that means if you turn on the power to the heating and cooling system, the heat comes on. It doesn't matter if it's already 82 degrees in the house and the thermostat is set to 65 … the heat come on no matter what. <br /><br />What else sucks?: Not the vacuum cleaner. Just stopped ... as if the powere went out ... HELLO!<br /><br />A difficult lens with which to see life: Don't even get me started on how gravity affects a camera lens when it is attached to a camera when pavement is involved. Broken lens equals super-sad face.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-39621221247651404422009-05-08T07:40:00.000-07:002009-05-09T05:10:02.527-07:00When one door of happiness closes, another opens - Helen KellerJohn, a friend of mine was laid-off yesterday. This was devastating news of course. But there is not time to waste wondering why or being angry.<br /><br />I confidently told him that this was an opportunity to focus his energy on what he loves: His hobby and passion is essentially the same as mine: photography.<br /><br />Since he will be looking for opportunities which help to pay the bills (and bring fulfillment in life), I have offered him my help with his photography business. He certainly has the ability, knowledge and equipment to help people get great images of themselves and their families that will be life-long mementos. The only thing missing is: <span style="font-weight:bold;">customers</span>.<br /><br />Here's what we offer:<br />1) Location portraits or event photography: we meet at your place or at a special location of your choosing (or my choosing if you need help).<br />2) Digital files, printouts or something different: whatever works for you.<br />3) Re-purposing and/or graphic design: Whether you want your photos on Facebook … or in a real book, we can do that.<br />4) Effects and retouching: If you're looking for something a little different or simply want to remove a blemish … heck, we can even change your hair color if you want =)<br />5) A personal, enjoyable experience where we all get creative and have fun.<br /><br />Here are some resources to check out some of my work:<br /><a href="http://www.metatate.com">metatate.com</a><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/metatate/NewAlbum101808312PM?feat=directlink">I can photograph kids ;)</a><br /><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/metatate">my linked-in account</a><br /><a href="http://dpchallenge.com/profile.php?USER_ID=38032">my dpchallenge photo page</a><br /><a href="http://metatate.dpcprints.com/">some prints I have for sale</a><br /><a href="http://jpgmag.com/people/metatate">jpg magazine stuff</a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/metatate/">flickr stuff</a><br /><br />Some of John's work and interests can be seen here:<br /><a href="http://www.dpchallenge.com/profile.php?USER_ID=52115">dpchallenge page</a><br /><br />Please contact me if you are interested in having portraits of your family or your self. I have portrait samples available to people who would like to see them but i don't want to post them for everyone to see for the privacy of the subjects.<br /><br />Call me at: <br />216-533-9554<br />or email:<br />tate@metatate.comUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-84851401544502177482009-05-05T08:07:00.000-07:002009-05-05T08:44:44.528-07:00Does Kia Deserve the MVP?It is hard to argue that LBJ … the King … LeBron James doesn't deserve the NBA's MVP award. We could consider some other players but it would be hard to say that someone else deserved it more. I was pretty impressed with the pieces of the press conference that I saw … especially where LeBron thanked his friends and family (see below).<br /><br />My question is: Does Kia deserve the MVP award? This is the first time I've noticed that a corporation had part ownership of this award. Officially, it is the "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Kia MVP Award</span>" (see <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.nba.com/2009/news/05/04/mvp.release.20090504/">NBA's anouncement</a>)</span><a href="http://www.nba.com/2009/news/05/04/mvp.release.20090504/"></a>. In fact, I just learned that a spokesperson from Kia had a significant portion of the MVP press conference alotted to him. He apparently talked about how Kia grew into a great company, much like LeBron grew into a great player. <br /><br />I don't know about Kia cars. I don't have an opinion about Kia cars. I know that they are not considered and"American" car but that doesn't really matter. What irks me is that everything that we could possibly tolerate is taken over by corporations. To what degree, I don't know. I guess they flood us with shiny objects and instructions on why we need their products and services.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.adbusters.org/files/cultureshop/products/corporate_flag.jpg">US flag?</a><br /><br />But to me, this confuses the MVP award a bit. This confuses many things a bit. What is this award all about anyway? What is the NBA all about? What are professional sports all about? Quicken Loans arena is where I go to see Cavs games. Progressive field is where the Indians play. This is all part of capitalism I suppose. Is my life based on what I buy? Are we mere consumers in a world of instructions on what to purchase?<br /><br />This argument is not new and I'm sure eyes roll when this discussion starts. But the minute we as humans walk blindly through life, buying things without regard to where it comes from or how it affects the world, is the day we are no longer human. Oh wait … that day is now.<br /><br />Forget it.<br /><br />On a lighter note … here's Lebron! …<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DCmT5qps2Uk&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DCmT5qps2Uk&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-37233608479510295372009-02-10T08:38:00.000-08:002009-02-10T08:42:13.124-08:00TV choiceI made a point of watching Obama's first scheduled presidential press conference last night. Well, Ada and I watched the first 25 minutes or so.<br /><br />She has no idea what he's talking about. And I have to say, there was really no important things revealed that I cared about either. But just knowing that this guy will be leading us into the future with some decent grammar was enough for me. <br /><br />She knows Obama. She knows he's important and that I appreciate him. That's enough for now.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5070234823837808039.post-14268173561489350202009-02-06T08:41:00.000-08:002009-02-06T09:12:16.592-08:00ING Direct Referral codesThese are codes that give you 25$ if you sign up for a savings account with $250 or more. Once you have an account, you get more that 2% interest (distributed monthly). You can have it automatically deposited too.<br /><br />A great way to save money since it has no risk (unlike the stock market). But - if you care to, you can use ING's Sharebuilder in conjunction with this account which allows you to invest in individual stocks.<br /><br />If you sign up, you get 25$, I get 10$. Thanks.<br /><br />Each code can only be used once. once you have an account, you can refer people also.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" ><a href="https://banking.ingdirect.com/savings/set_promo_cookie.vm?t=%a5%86%aa%ab%b1%a4%a4%ad%aa%ab%a4%a7%a7%b1%a9%a5%dd%a5%a4%ab%a8%a8">code 1</a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" ><a href="https://banking.ingdirect.com/savings/set_promo_cookie.vm?t=%99%a0%c4%c5%f7%cb%be%be%c7%c4%c5%be%c1%c1%cb%c3%bf%bf%be%c5%bf%c0">code2</a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1