Experimental

November 17, 2014

Before I explain what you see below, take some time to look at these photos without having context or description. What do you see and what do you feel?

Now that you have reviewed the images, does it surprise you to know that they are all food and beverage? Perhaps you could easily see the chicken egg with its familiar shapes and cracking pattern. In this case it is seen from below a glass pan.

It is so easy to ignore everyday objects until we see them in new ways. Color and contrast can lend a very different perspective on simple shapes. Two images are of liquid being poured from above and of carbonation settling in a glass. The last image is of peanuts and their dust, sitting in a glass jar.

How can you make something ordinarily interesting?

Fashionable Chicago

August 16, 2014

Chicago is full of fashionable residents and tourists. On a beautiful Saturday, Buckingham Fountain and the Riverwalk are perfect spots to enjoy summer (in style)!

This weekend also marks the 56th Annual Chicago Air & Water Show so the beaches and lakefront are hopping with aviation enthusiasts.

See More Tourist Photos:
Touristosaurus

Beach Style

August 8, 2014

Spring in Grayscale

April 29, 2013

Street photography in Chicago: A series of black and white photos as spring approaches.

Waterworks : Fun with Food Coloring

January 23, 2013

Sometimes I just like to play. And what better way than to fill a vase with water and photograph food coloring? Even though it was really fun, it was more than just play – I wanted to capture some interesting backgrounds and shapes and investigate the time lapse options on my camera. The result of both taught me some great lessons I’ll use in other photography situations.

Here is a time lapse view of the process:

If you try it yourself, be sure to try and catch the food coloring just above the water surface as in this shot. Like lightning, it’s a thrill to catch!

Fall Morning

November 2, 2012

Project : Empathropomorphic

October 15, 2012

It’s a project that requires a bit of explanation, but the intent should become clear very quickly. It is a collection of objects, plants and animals that I’ve encountered. And for them, I am supplying a voice (or perspective) with short poems or conversations accompanying each photo.

Empathropomorphic – it’s a compound word that I’ve defined as “the understanding and sensitivity to the feelings and thoughts of objects that have been (or are commonly) defined using human attributes.” It’s created from the combination of empathy and anthropomorphism. The definitions of each individual word are included on the main page of this gallery-style project.

I hope you’ll visit and enjoy empathropomorphic.com and I will hope to hear your feedback!

Street Level-palooza

August 5, 2012

I went for a walk this evening with the intent of using my Polaroid to capture a typical Chicago scene. And I did – easily accomplished at Cloud Gate in Millennium Park.

After meeting this cute couple, I figured it was time to head home.

But with Lollapalooza in town this weekend, it was hard to ignore the masses. So I walked south on Michigan Avenue to see what things were like from the street during this massive music event.

Sometimes, you have to work the event from the gate.

Many pedicabs to cart attendees around the city.

No ticket? Just listen from afar.

Industry

August 4, 2012

I owe my friend Brian for the tip on this location. It’s a place I will return for more industrial beauty. I definitely have more to explore here!

Also, thanks to Marco, who spent a little time chatting with me!

Light in Shadows

July 29, 2012

There are parts of Chicago that only a few people see. Tourists almost certainly aren’t spending their time looking in hidden places. But if you enjoy the play of light on buildings and architecture, some of the greatest light play I’ve found are in the alleys.

How-to : Soap Sculpture

June 15, 2012

Neat freaks take note – you can create a very interesting effect for the price of two soaps!

I recently purchased a glass soap dispenser from Target. (If you want the same one, you can find it here.)

The very little remaining soap in the plastic dispenser (slowly) dripped into its new home. Then I opened up the new refill bottle and poured it on top. After the first use, a fascinating sculpture erupted on the bottom of the glass.

How to : Make and photograph your own soap sculpture

Purchase a clear soap dispenser (or make one from an old jar)
Purchase (or make) an opaque and transparent soap
Add a thin layer to the bottom of the jar with the opaque soap
Pour transparent soap on top
Replace dispenser top and PUMP IT!
Watch the beauty unfold and get out your camera

Photo Tip: Use a macro or fisheye lens to get really close and be sure to use a direct light source to illuminate!

Knot, Tie, Entangle

May 6, 2012

Knots, ties and tangles are everywhere. These are just the few I found on quick walk around my neighborhood. I think they are interesting and beautiful!