I know it's been a while

I've been writing on the main journal and I was thinking of phasing this one out since I don't get many responses or hits. But it's here for photo tips and viewing of art by Dlonzo. Here are some pictures from Katrina. These will be the last pictures I post. The images speak for themselves, but I know people want to move on. It was a tragic event, but its time to look away. Even if we can't look away or forget some people have to pretend. Thanks for stopping by; keep an open mind.

Sharing some art

Lets share some pics. Art clears the mind and makes one think. Thanks for stoppin by; keep an open mind.

1) a sign on the highway  2) Clouds, my favorite pasttime             3) Clouds   4) Flags  5) Abstract design  6) Diamonds or Ice?  7) Nourishment  8) Tires  9) abstract design  10) Sing on the road

Just read the manual

When most people buy something, they usually read the manual. I usually skim through the book and learn by using the product. Most digital cameras all have the same features. They may be in a different spot, but it all does the same thing and can be found. The interesting thing about technology is that most electronic products don't come with full manuals. They have these quick start sheets and then you go online to get the actual manual. The other day I was trying to figure out my self timer on the digital camera. It must have been very simple because I couldn't figure it out. I looked through the book and then I went online. I tried to find the section on self timer, but I couldn't find out how to set it when I found it. I played around with the camera and then with a few pushes of a button I got it to work. Soon I'll be able to be in front of my own camera again. It's not just a photograph, it's art. That's my slogan for Artography. Thanks for stopping by; keep an open mind.

Sharing some art

I just thought maybe someone would feel like looking at some pictures. Here are a few taken in the Austin, Texas area.

1 parking  2 it's not me  3 flawless  4 downtown Austin  5 from Congress St  6 my new living quarters  7 an angel  8 guardian angel  9 Fish  10 it doesn't look real  11 hitch    12 almost Halloween  13 tree of ...  14 getting in gear

Thanks for stopping by; keep an open mind. Come back often.

Playing with my new toy

I have this thing about reading manuals. I like to test my ability to figure something out unless I absolutely have to read how it operates. I once bought a camera and got a discount because the manual was not in the box. Some had purchased the camera and for whatever reason they returned it. So as long as it was in good condition and the store guaranteed the product, I bought it. So, I took some pictures today that I hope to post some soon. I'm quite pleased with what I have done with the camera in just a short period of time. Some time next week I'll work with some of the photo programs and create some art. But with all that is going on, I'm doing good. Thanks for stopping by and keep coming back to see the new art of Dlonzo.

Looking at photographs

I'm looking at photographs of hurricane Katrina, before during and after. And I'm looking at photos of the events before Rita.  Photographs are very powerful. I often look at images of Pulitzer prize winning photographs. I used to think I'd like to win a Pulitzer in photography or with my poetry. Only time will tell. I've mentioned this before, when I have my camera with me it feels like there is nothing I can't do. I can climb great heights and dea with any situation for the right shot. I recently bought a Casio EX S500. I fell in love with this piece of technology. So now I'm learning my way around it. I hope to post some pics from both of my cameras. I'm feeling better about my situation. Thanks for stopping by; keep an open mind.

Hello, it's been a while

How about some pictures. I went out and bought a cheap digital camera. I needed to keep myself occupied. So here are a few pics of the Austin, Tx area. There will be more to come as I venture off and get familiar with my new surroundings. Thanks for stopping by; keep an open mind. 1) Hurricane Katrina 2) Clouds in Austin 3) View from my window 4) Bedroom in Drury Inn 5) D artist  from NOLA 6) Girl on a bus 7) Popcorn (This is supplied by the hotel) 8) Security in the parking lot 9) Room numbers 10) A reminder of NOLA 11) Smile 12) Chillin' in the lobby

Which camera will it be?

I've been researching many digital cameras. I'm looking for something similar to the Aiptek which is a 4 in 1 camera. It works as a digital still camera, it records video. It's an MP3 player and its a voice recorder. I've written the company concerning the problems I've had with the camera, but so far no response. Parts of the camera are plastic and don't hold up well. That was the same problem I had with the Argus DC1730. Argus is a good camera, but its a plastic camera and can't take much wear and tear. The part of the camera where the tripod goes is plastic and from screwing it in and removing it, it has become worn and broke off. So you can't get it to stay on the tripod. Pentax of course remains my number one choice if I am going to pay up to $200.00 or more for a camera. The Optio S 50 seems like a good camera, but the optical zoom isn't a lot, only 3x. So I'll have to go window shopping and get some hands on... I'll keep you posted. In the mean time I work with what I have. Thanks for stopping by; keep an open mind.

Buying a new camera

I need to buy a new digital camera. My camera is slowly deteriorating. Southern Decadence is coming up and I may want to take a few pictures. It depends on the weather and how hot it will be. Here are some pics and art I've been working on. Thanks for stopping by; keep an open mind.

 1) approaching the levee 2) Along the levee 3) Dead squirrel 4) Nutrition 5) Abstract for D#2 6) 8 ball 7) Electrical cord 8) Covered water 9) Dove 10) It speaks for itself

Setting up a studio 101

If you're just starting out or starting over, setting up a studio can be fun and quite simple. If you're shooting stills it doesn't take much to set up an area to take photos. One can start off with just a few things and as you master your craft, buy equipment as needed. When I first started out, I didn't want to be like every photographer and besides I didn't want to spend a lot of money. For me photography was a hobby. I had no idea I'd make money at it. But it would be the non conventional usage of items that would become my trademark if you will. My backdrops pulled double duty, as shower curtains, sheets, newspaper, and drawing paper which I spray painted and hung from the ceiling. The paper was disposable and each person I photographed had a different background. There are few clients that I photographed that have had the same background. Let's begin with lighting, providing you've already selected your camera. You can start with one light, but you will want to get another. Most photographers use a main light and two fill lights or vice versa depending on the effect. The main light focuses on the subject, the fill light gets rid of the shadows depending on the position. So let's select a background. A dark color is always best to start off with. Get a black sheet or shower curtain, shadows usually blend right in. Position the light at least 2 feet from the subject. I prefer that my clients not wear a lot of make up because I want the pictures to capture who they are and not some fake image, making them look glamorous when in fact... Get a barstood or a chair with arms for your subject to sit in. You can cover the chair with a nice sheet or comforter to create an elegant look. When a photographer is working with people, he must use his imagination. Sure, you can copy other people, but its the originality that puts you in demand. You have to do what no one else is doing or close to it. If your backdrop isn't very long, find a rug that will compliment the backdrop. Keep in mind that you want people to look at the subject not the background. The same is true if you're framing a photo for a client. The frame is to compliment the photo not over shadow it. I can't tell you the times I've seen a great work of art, but the frame gets all of the attention. A good size room to start your studio would be at least 12' x 12'. You will have room to move and you can either get the entire subject in the frame of a wide angle lens or you can also do close ups withoutchanging lenses. If you have any questions feel free to contact me. Now go out and take some pictures. Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind. Coming soon: 12, White Trash, No he didnt, and A night of intimate Art.

Stealing a shot

I don't recall writing about this, but if so, its another lesson. There are many times that a photographer will go out with a camera, having a particular thought in mind. You may want to photograph buildings, or trees, flowers, etc. Every now and then I stumble across someone else taking a photograph and I'll steal the shot. I'll either include the photographer taking the shot or I'll just photograph what the photographer is photographing. The subjects have already been posed, everything is right where it should be. All I have to do is snap a picture or pictures, without being noticed. A few months back I included a wedding photo. That was a stolen shot. Thanks for stopping by. If you have any photo questions or ideas, drop me a line.

Clouds, those beautiful clouds

1) Swoosh 2) Poof 3) Moon and light 4) Chasing 5) On the road 6) Space 7) Pillow talk 8) Got an itch? 9) Come together 10) Come together 2 11) Father and son 12) Meeting of the clouds 13) The mother ship 14) The World in Coulds 15) Angel in the sky (This is my favorite) 16) Have a seat 17) Slant, (This was done with the camera, not in a photoshop program) 18) There here 19) Going to sleep 20) Ooooh

Spend some time looking at the clouds and see what you may have been missing.

Buying an expensive digital camera

I had the opportunity to teach a family going on vacation how to work their new digital camera. The camera they purchased was a good one. Although I tend to stick with Pentax for all of my photographic needs, they chose a Canon Powershot. It had 5.1 mega pixels and a 12x optical lens. The camera is not very heavy and it fits in the palm of a person's hand. The camera has more features than the amateur camera buff will use. I on the other hand would make use of it all. There is video, and recording voice for still pictures. There is a built in flash and lots of settings. The camera can be totally automatic as well as manual. Playing around with this camera has now made me want to buy a better camera. The irony is that I had begun looking at cameras in the $200.00 price range, but now I've decided I'm going to get a Pentax SLR digital camera. It comes with two lenses, one is a 70-300 telephoto lens. The price is right under $1000.00. Of course I could opt for a Pentax Digital camera with a 10x optical zoom for half the price. We'll see what happens. I've decided to just get through 2005 and in 2006 I begin my new life in full force. Drop me a line and let me know what type of camera you're using, even if it isn't digital. Thanks for stopping by and keep an open mind.

Posing models

I hope to do some photos soon and I'm looking to create something different. It can be easier to go out and take a picture of a flower or capture a pet being itself, but photographing a model in a particular setting isn't always that easy. Learn to be creative. If you have a subject put them in something they like to do. If the person plays sports, get them a baseball bat or basketball and let them play around. They become relaxed and you can work around the model. I did a shoot a year ago and I had the model stand in one place and I moved around the model. The pictures were really some of my best. It was just what I was looking for and working in a confined space. When I have the right person and setting I can pretty much create anything. I prefer doing location shots. Working in the outdoors is so much more inspiring. The next time your working on a project do something simple and gradually escalate into being dramatic. Let your work speak for you, you don't have to speak for your work. Take a look at photography magazines and how to books or videos. Pick up a few tips and add your own style to the picture. Use different backdrops. It's okay to break the rules. When I first started out I used shower curtains as backdrops. I'd create large installations and put the model inside. Begin by creating for you, then create for your client. Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind.

Self taught

I'm a hands on kinda guy when it comes to most things, especially my art. I picked up a camera one day and I took a picture. Because I have a thing for photographing people the challenge comes when I meet someone and tell them what it is I do. Most women that I meet the minute I say I'd like to photograph them they immediately think nude. Why is that? Do women just assume that's all a man has on his mind? Some guys think the same way, but I've learned techniques from many photographers. I read a lot on various things and of course psychology is the number one interest. Knowing how the mind works you can pretty much get whatever you want if you have the time and patience. I've always been a patient man and when it comes to my art, it's better to do it right or don't do it at all. If I meet someone that I find very interesting and I know I want them to be a part of my life, then creating art can take its time. If I feel they won't be around long, then I have to lay the ground work quickly. So from the meeting to the actual photo shoot is all part of my art. Once work is complete its getting the person to like what I have done. Most people always say they don't photograph well or they don't like the way they look. I've only met one person I was not able to photograph the way I felt could do justice. I did get some good pictures, but nothing great. I've been happy with all of my other work. I'm constantly trying different things and though I try not to get influenced by other photographers, sometimes its hard not to do. I'm constantly looking at photography magazines and fashion magazines and the ideas go to flowing or I see something similar to what I have done or an idea I had in my head. Lately I've been copying my own work instead of copying someone else. A few years ago I created a series of photos, based on the see no evil, hear no evil, series. I did it twice with the same model. Now I want to create it again with someone new. I was thinking someone in a suit or maybe a shirt and tie. Put someone in an office setting. I prefer capturing people in a more relaxed setting. It makes the pictures look natural instead of posed. I like watching people and I like a person that has great lines. This way I can create a sketch and then a drawing from the photo. So art can roll over into many mediums from just one photo or vice versa. I'm in the process of clearing the photos off of my computer and then I'll post my photos of clouds I did over the last week. I've always enjoyed looking up at the clouds. I think it has to do with the Charlie Brown comics. Remember they would sit on the baseball mound looking up at the sky describing what they see. I just let my imagination go wild. I also want to work on printing my photos and art on canvas and I'm creating a few other things. If you have any photography questions please feel free to drop me a line. Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind.

D Artist Blues

It happens to the best of us. When a writer can't write, it's called writers block. If a painter can't paint, is it called painter's block? And what about a photographer? Well its the artist blues, that's what I call it, but I take those blues and use that energy to create a poem, a short story, even a photograph to capture my feelings for that moment. I keep my camera with me now at all times. It's becoming part of me, like my hands and eyes. It's an extension of what I see briefly, it helps me see it clearly and more often. I sit around photographing my friends candidly. Sometimes as we hold a conversation I'll take a pic. It's good when the camera doesn't make a lot of noise or a flash isn't going off in someones face. It makes them a lot more at ease. I jot down notes as soon as I get home or sometimes I might carry my digital recorder with me in case a great line is said that I just can't remember. I sleep with my sketch pad and my journal. (Wow! I just gave you more info then you need to know) LOL. (It's a big bed and I sleep on one side) LOL. I just never know when a great idea is going come to me in my sleep.

So brah, think about what's going on, perhaps you're getting the I'm afraid of success blues. I've been there, done that and still doing it. We talked about this. Get it together. Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind.

Happy July 5th

Art inspired by fireworks. I was just thinking about fireworks displays and the American Flag and I created these pieces. Hope you enjoy, your comments are welcome, don't be shy. Open your mind and write something. Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind. 1) The first draft of Dangel, of the angel in the hood series 2) Playing around with windows paintshop I came up with this 3) and this 4) Another form of an angel amongst the black sky 5) angel against the white sky 6) Let's redo the flag 7) Is this art? 8) Mermaid

If you need business cards, brochures, letterheads, invitations, or greeting cards contact Dlonzo. Reasonable rates and I work with in your budget.

The Art of it all

The art of it all. Does there have to be an explanation? Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind.

Visuals Please

I think its time for pictures and art, don't you? 1) D's Angel in serpia, this is from the angels in the hood series, colorized using photoimpression, this particular angel comes in 4 different colors angels can be made for special order which would include the 3-D effect of the wings, which are layered 2) D' Angel in pastel from the same series same process, the angels range in price from $20.00 to $300.00 depending on size and whether it's made by the collectors specifications 3) This is the original, no enhancement 4) This is the Opera House in Australia this was taken back in 95 or 96, I'd have to look it up. It's a beautiful sight. 5) My friends are always subjected to being a part of my art and sometimes they come up with ideas of their own as with this picture taken in Seattle on Broadway 6) Of course, my signature photography, outside of a museum in Sydney, Australia 7) I enjoy photographing statues, this was taken in New York City 8) Mannequins, I enjoy photographing them also, sometimes they are so life like 9) the skater, taken on the New Orleans Lake Front, this is one of the locations where people go to bar b que and ride their bikes and cruise and chill. When the hurricanes are coming in, people go here to watch the waves coming over the steps. As a kid we used to swim in Lake Pontchartrain, but in the mid 70's it was not healthy to do such a thing, but they continue to work on the man made beach to get it up to par, the changes I have seen in this city 10) A beautiful smile

If you are interested in seeing any of my work, making a purchase,or prehaps creating your own art in front of my camera, send me an email and we can set up a consultation.

Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind.

In honor of art

In honor of Rain Vodka, here are a few sketches from my sketch book. Only one of the images has been transformed into a post card at the moment. Maybe I'll run into some of you tonight or maybe not. Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind. All images were inspired by photographs. The sketch is just the starting point of what my imagination can create with one image over and over. They become masters and I can do anything I wish with an image. I can create different settings and put the character in various actions. There is an unlimited world for me when it comes to art. Now with such art programs it even makes it easier to create and try things out before I lay them on paper for a finished project. I can experiement with colors before painting. Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind.

I shoot people, don't I?

I prefer taking photos of people more than anything. My psychological background allows me to see in a photograph what a person is about. What they are capable of. Photography is a moment frozen in time, but tells many stories. A series of photographs during one sitting or over the course of several months or years can tell a lot about a person. How they have changed, whether they have a sense of humor. If they are full of life or just bored silly. The following are photographs taken with the Pentax K1000. Some of people, but I have a broad spectrum when it comes to photography. My mood changes like I do. I can inspire myself just as I inspire others and they inspire me.

1) Just using props 2) Aussiemen, this was taken at Bondi beach in Australia 3) Before Lil Kim, this was taken at a beach in Galveston Texas 4) A bit of fashion 5) D artist in leather 6) D artist and the K1000, fashion and art combined 7) Father and Son 8) strolling on the beach 9) A girl on the rocks 10) Abs 11) Tat, a buddy from ATL 12) Model taking direction 13) Mother and son at Bondi beach 14) Walkin in NYC 15) Ride 16) Silouhettes on Bondi Beach

Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind

Getting the best shot

For an amateur, getting the best shot can be very difficult. For most professionals some shots are very time consuming. If you really have an interest in photography or any type of art, you must have patience. The creative process takes time. You go through phases. Most amateurs, buy a bunch of equipment that they use for a week or so and they may never pick it up again. It's one of those had to have it phases. Then there is the what do I do, where do I begin, phase. Writers get writer's block, but artist in general go through a phase where they just can't think of anything new to shoot. I prefer to shoot a few pictures at a time. I study my pictures. I look for my own flaws. The things that most people wouldn't see. If I'm photographing a subject, I want to make sure it is only the subject in my picture and no one else. If there is enough room perhaps I can put the subject off to the side. Most books will tell you to center your subject. What has made me different is that I don't follow those rules. I don't do the typical potraits or wedding photos. I don't use the standard backdrops and I like using natural lighting and lots of colors. The contrasts of the finished product is what makes it art. Here are a few shots I took just this week. They just popped into my view and I went for it. Some shots do float around in my head for a while, but those usually involve a model. All of the photos are digital.

1)This first image was taken on my visit to the St. Louis Cemetary #3. The sun was two my right side. I stood at an angle right up on the statue to get this shot. The auto white balance was on for all of the shots you will see. The time of day also adds to the effect of some photos. This was taken between 9 and 10 AM. 2) This image was taken indoors with natural lighting. It's a lizard caught between the screen and the iron gate. I thought it was an interesting scene and decided to capture it. One of the reasons to always keep a camera handy and loaded with film. The thing about digital is you don't have to worry about film, but you should check your batteries and always keep spares with you. Most cameras over $100.00 will hold the memory of the photos if you're not using a card. So if you're batteries go out you do have some time to change them, but don't wait too long. Most cameras when hooked up to a computer don't drain the battery.3) My signature photo, it's me waiting for the bank to open. I don't believe in wasting time, just as well be creative. 4) The trolley, or Street car as we call them has expanded to other areas of the city. This is at the start of the line at Wisner and Esplanade Ave. at the entrance of City Park. It was a nice sunny morning and the red bursts from the car. Bayou St. John is in the background. 5) The camera was set for cloudy as it was this morning. This shot was taken on my way to run errands. I'm still learning about my camera. It can do so much, I just have to figure it all out on my own at my own pace. 6) After watering the plants I watched the water form and decided to capture it. My brah had taken some photos in his macro mode and it gave me an idea. My camera doesn't have a macro mode. The 35mm can capture things, but not the digital. Somethings just aren't meant to be seen my the naked eye, like the micro organisms that live on our bodies. 7) A closer look at one of the leaves wet 8) A view in City Park, it's one of my favorite spots to photograph. I like the way the trees almost touch, like 6 degrees of separation. This was also set on cloudy mode and taken this morning. 9) Even trash can be made to look like art. The camera can do some incredible things and black and white images do look so much better. There was a time when I stayed away from black and white photography. I just didn't have the right eye for it the way I do with color. I could always take a colored photograph and know it would look good in black and white. There was a process that could do that. Now with digital you can go back and forth, getting your technique perfected. The world of digital holds so much to be explored. The creation of art, the creation of life, the creation of you as an artist. The possibilities are endless. 10) These are a few houses in my hood, on the opposite side of the street. On a clear day you can see the skyscrappers downtown. I'm only a hop, skip and a jump from the French Quarter. Well that's D's photo tips for today. Tune in next time when we delve into another realm of digital photography as I learn it hands on. LOL. Thanks for stopping by, stick with your dream and create some art. Most of all, keep an open mind.

let try again pics

Just some visuals

1) Taken from Bayou St. John, plantation home 2) Cabrini Church, view from Bayou St. John 3) Pull 'em up 4) Interstate 5) Exit 6) Mall walking 7) Speaks for itself 8) Macy's 9) House by a canal 10) Public sculpture by John Scott 11) Clouds 12) Public sculpture by John Scott in City Park 13) Tee shirt 14) Tee shirt 15) cut outs 16) Cut outs 17) Nature, tree 18) Digitally enhanced, but this effect can be created with some digital camera and if you use Iford film, there is a serpia tone. It gives the aging process to photos 19) Angel 20) The hip cross, this photo was not toyed with in any photoshop programs  thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind

D's tips to buying essentials

As you all know, I was a skeptic on digital photography because I liked the control I had with my SLR. And digital cameras seemed to be so small. I wanted something I could hold on to. As I began research on a digital camera I saw that what I really wanted was very expensive. In most cases you are paying $100.00 per mega pixel. The higher the megapixel the better quality depending on the manufacturer and what you plan to do with your camera. I had done all the research and finally Pentax came out with a digital and now they have several. I had just purchased my first point and shoot for those spur of the moment occasions. But I wasn't ready to shell out $300.00 or $400.00 for another camera and I had other things on my wish list. You have to prioritorize everything. Well, I do. After seeing my friends camera I thought maybe I should look into it again. Last year I purchased a small digital camera by Argus, the model was DC1730. I was in Wal Mart and it was staring me in the face. It shot digital stills, but it also worked as a video cam and that was what sold me on it. I got it home, hooked it up and it was amazing. Then I did my first pictures. I was shocked. I began taking pictures of some of my photographs since I didn't have a scanner. It was hard to tell the difference. I had stumbled onto something. There was something digital could do for me after all. I then went out on the street and took some pictures and they were good, but the camera doesn't zoom and it has a glare that you can't see in the view finder if there is too much light. All in all its a good camera and still holds up. I actually got a few other people to purchase Argus cameras, but the DC1230, the DC1730 was no longer available. A few months later I started thinking about movie making again. (I used to make movies when I was younger and it's still a dream of mine) and other things I could do if I had the right camera. I saw a camera in my Neiman Marcus catalog, yes, Neiman Marcus, it's not that big of a deal. They were showing a camera by Aiptek and it appeared to be interesting. It was a video camera, and still camera for $129.00. I figure this would be cool to play around with, get more experience before I invest more money into something that I'm not familiar with. Someone had bought me a 3 in 1 scanner, printer, copier and fax. Oh, wait, that's 4 in 1. LOL. I had already researched that and when I was in officesupplies Lexmark was a manufacturer that I pushed their products and what I had used myself. So I was getting everything I needed. Before I purchased the digital camera I then saw that Aiptek had another model, and it included video, still images, digital recorder, MP3 player and it was only $150.00. I figured this would benefit me more, so I decided to invest in it instead. I'm glad I did. I'm still learning about my camera and what it can and can't do. I love it when I can figure things out and since I've misplaced the manual I have to learn it on my own. Good thing I know something about electronics and cameras. In fact, when I bought my point and shoot I got a discount because the manual was missing. In todays technological society, you can find most manuals online. In fact you can even download programs online. The future is now. So what I'm saying is whatever it is your planning on getting into. Think of it as an investment. You can go from one level and then upgrade instead of putting all your money into something you don't know a lot about. It's better to have more than one and you can always sell one to go towards the next one. Just a thought. Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind.

Getting visual

A visual kind of mode, enjoy, thanks for stopping by. Keep an open mind. A few photos from the sculpture garden at New Orleans City Park.

Here's some photos

As promised, here are some photos and some tips on achieving some of the effects.

As most of you know I still have issues regarding digital photography. Like everything it has its good and bad points. I like being able to see an image instantly and checking out my mistakes. I can discard it or work on it in some photoshop program. I like doing things that makes it my own. You'll get a glimpse of that in a few images I'm displaying here. I like the idea of being able to take the same image in color and doing the same thing in black and white or vice versa. Of course with the right photoshop program you can do this also, but sometimes it isn't always exact. 1) in color a man chillin' on the beach in Kona 2) the same image in black and white 3) This is one of the techniques I've created. It sort of gives that fish eye effect that you can get with a lens on most SLR cameras. While walking with the camera, I aim at my subjects, but never stopping. This way they have no idea I'm taking their picture. The result is the natural look of the subjects and the curvature of the images in the picture. It works incredibly well with the black and white mode. 4) The pirate outside of the bar Durty Jakes in Kona 5) Once again I use the technique in black and white while driving, everything appears to be on an angle. 6) and again, but I like the way the clouds appear in the background. 7) When I'm around no one has any privacy. If you look closely you can see me in this picture. It's another thing I like to do with all of my pictures. Sort of like Alfred Hitchcock, appearing in his films. 8) These hula dancers are sculptures at the Kona International Airport.  Thanks for stopping by, more photos to come and more images of that same technique.

D's Photography tips

There are many photographres who take pictures, but they don't consider themselves an artist. And I don't consider myself a photographer, I am an artist. There are many amateur photographers that do some great pics from time to time, but there may be one flaw. The subject may not be centered just right or they get that red eye. With digital photography you can keep trying until you get it right. In the 35mm, SLR world, you have to spend some money and keep experiementing. For those of you that aren't photographers, when I mention SLR, that's for Single Lens Reflector. This is how the picture is actually processed into the camera and onto the film before processing begins from negative to an actual picture.

Red eye reduction can be greatly reduced by making sure the subject does not look directly at the camera. When the subject looks at the camera, the flash reflects on the eyes, like a mirror, but they become red. There are other ways to get around red eye reduction once your pics are processed, but the easier way is to make sure your subjects don't look at the camera. You can purchase pencils, or paints and if you have a photo program, you can scan your photo and get rid of the red eye instantly. The only problem is that if you photographed someone you do not know, then you have to guess at the color of their eyes. The red eye reduction makes everyone's eyes brown. So your blue or green eyed friends get a new look. LOL.

Thanks for stopping by. Keep an open mind. New pics, coming soon. Shhhh!!! It's a secret. LOL.

D art of pictures

How about a few pictures. I've been looking into a few venues to display my art, but everyone still has stipulations. Even if they seem to want to help artists, there's always a catch. I hope with D Secret Gallery I don't fall into the same pattern. The bottom line is everyone is out to make a buck. I guess its one reason I just stick to my regular clients and hope that they call me for a job. I will have to go out and seek new clients however. Sales is an important part of working.

1) My first action shot. This was taken at a Holiday Inn in Nuevo Texas. 2) My very first photo. I guess I was 10 yrs old, I saw the camera, picked it up and the flash went off and voila, this was the process. You have to start somewhere. 3) And now I've come to create such pieces as this image. 4) A Big Island water tower for the small beach ponds  5) D artist reflection, I enjoy doing these types of shots of myself 6) Reflective image, it just works so well in any form 7) In memory of my mother, I'd been wanting to create a piece of art in her memory. This is what I came up with. 8) Dude & Dudette, sometimes images just like models just happen upon me 9) Another view of Manhattan before 911 10) Flower, such beautiful colors. Although this is a digital image, I feel its natural as opposed to some of the photos I've mentioned in previous entries. It doesn't make the photo look unreal. 11) An aerial view of the Mississippi 12) Pipe lady, this was a gift from someone I was once close to. I keep it because it is a great piece of art. Of course it also holds some memories. Thanks for stopping by. Keep an open mind.

Maybe it's me

If you've been reading the journal you've read my comments on digital photography. I am now in the process of deleting images from my computer. I've copied them all on disk for future reference. As I look at the photos I see that some look clear and some are fuzzy. Then there are those that I took while moving which created an effect that I really like and plan to use in future pictures. This has made me realize that perhaps it isn't the camera after all, but it is me. I need to get familiar with the camera. Every now and then I make a few mistakes with the SLR, even though I've been taking pictures for over 25 years. Sometimes you are not as focused as you should be. Sometimes things are done on purpose. I will now pay more attention and make notes as I continue to use my digital cameras. Thanks for stopping by. Keep an open mind. More pictures to come.

Fetishes in photographs 1) Hammer head tat 2) gecko tat 3) Fashion, Cheek 2 Cheek, this is where my photographs took shape with fashion. 3) At Canal Place b/w my favorite colors together 4) More fashion, I love clothes, 5) I love dressing women. I was a fashion consultant for 2 yrs. 6) More b/w fashion 7) White 8) Red 9) My first show was the French Quarter festival the first year it began 10) More of the show 11) And more 12) Pastels 13) I love a woman in hi heels. It was a prerequisite for my models to be able to walk in high heel shoes. 14) Dragon tat 15) Skull 16) Skull and bracelet 17) Dragon II 18) Just tats 19) Snake 20) Angel and tribal 21) Skull & Flowers 22) Illustrated man I look at tats not as a marking of the body but as art on canvas. The body becomes a moving canvas displaying the art whenever it pleases. Thanks for stopping by. Keep an open mind.

I feel like being visual

Let's do some pictures. Here are a few more pics from Hawaii. 1) Bud Light bottle, it says Aloha 2) An image of the artist, I've always enjoyed doing this 3) out and about 4) The White Store 5) Memorial Park street level 6) Angel b/w Most of you should know by now I have a thing for angels also 7) Angel Doll, from a grave 8) Angel, this is that classic technique I mentioned. Mahalo for stopping by. Come back again soon.

You learn something new everyday

Digital pictures made easy. I wasn't sure how to post the pics from one of my cameras and today I discovered it. Now there will be even more pics coming since I now have 3 ways to post pics. 2 digital cameras and scanning. Hope you enjoy. 1) Sign up ahead 2) Grave sight 3) What a view 4) Another view 5) Shadow of an artist 6) Speechless 7) Take my picture 8) D artist on the beach 9) Relaxing 10) D artist  All pictures of D artist were taken by him. I've been experimenting with a new technique that I will share soon. It creates a glass effect or curvature in the digital image. Mahalo again. Stay tuned, more to come.

Capturing beauty

As most of you know it will be almost one year that I went digital. It has its good and bad points. First of all, the better the camera the more you can do, but I'm from the old school of SLRs and digital just seems to be too perfect. Even though you can manipulate images sometimes the colors are just too vibrant. It doesn't appear to be real. What the human eyes sees and the camera sees are different. When I take a picture and the weather isn't on my side, that's what I want to convey. If I make a mistake I like to study it and learn from the experience. With digital, you take a picture, don't like it you delete and try again. No need for study, getting your craft down to a science. I'm not saying I will stop shooting digital, but I just have a better eye and feel for the old 35mm, bulky equiptment in my hand. Here are a few more images to perhaps inspire you or give you something to think about.

Kona, The Big Island

The first pics of Hawaii. I figure it was time for some pics since I haven't posted anything in 3 weeks now. Hope you enjoy them. My adventures in Kona will appear on the main journal. Of course there will be stories behind some of the photos. Thanks for stopping by. Keep an open mind and mahalo. 1) D artist on the lanai. Each morning I had my breakfast out on the porch, writing in my journal and enjoying nature. Yes, I do still keep a written journal. It contains the stuff I don't share with everyone. LOL 2) This is a figure that appeared on the coaster that is on the table where I had breakfast. 3) Wishing I were back in Hawaii. This is me on the deck. 4) a tree in the back of the bungalow 5) part of a mural, Birds of Paradise. Birds are just as important in Kona as is Coffee. 6) One of the many beaches 7) cracks and view 8) my first tat 9) sunset 10) There's a Wal Mart in Kona, but I took a pic of the bag because it says Hawaii. 11) future hula girls 12) From St. Peter's church. this is a glass etching and it looks out on the waves from the beach behind the church. More to come.

Some pictures to enjoy

I thought I'd post some pictures for your viewing pleasure. Thanks for stopping by. 1) viewing pictures, 2)Moss 3) Cheek to Cheek, from a fashion show back in the day 4)Little darlings 5) Another fashion show at one of the upscale malls in New Orleans, Canal Place 6) From the same show 7) A bit of manipulation 8) Signs of fall 9) French Quarter festival fashion show, back in the day 10) More from that show 11) A model 12) New York City, I call it greenlight 13) Hiding 14) Just waiting 15) This was one of my roommates in Seattle, I'm serious she was 16) In the jungle Keep an open mind

Photo tips

Todays photo tip of the day. If you like taking outdoor pictures, one of the best times to do it is the day after it rains. The sun will be brighter, the grass will be greener and the colors will be electrified. Thanks for stopping by. Keep an open mind and I'll post more pics this weekend.

Stealing Beauty

Every now and then I will look at magazines and photo books that are a part of my collection. I'm constantly looking at my art and re-doing photos that I have done with new models. I also like to look at other photographers to see how close my work resembles them or that we think alike. There are a few images that have influenced photos that I have taken. I will share one or two with you. The creative mind is not easy to explain. Several artists can have the same idea rolling around in their head, but they may work in different mediums. I'm not the only artist that has had a fascination with the crucifix, but there are many variations. Not counting paintings and sketches, photography alone has had this image displayed in countless angles and colors and locations. If you have a digital camera and you're thinking perhaps you would like to make some money with your art. Try experiementing with the thoughts in your head. What influenced you to pick up a camera anyway? When did you notice you had an eye for color or creating an image that people talked about? Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind.

Blinded

A photographer relies on his sight to get a certain image. I had a friend that lost his eye sight many years ago. I would set up the camera so that he could take pictures of me when I didn't have my timer with me. It's like directing. Once the shot is set up, then its very easy to get what you want. I'll be posting some new pictures soon. Thinking about posting pics of the various places I've been. So many ideas of ways to present my work to you. Have you gone out and bought a digital camera yet? Creating art is so easy and everyone likes pictures. Thanks for stopping by, keep an open mind.

Are you taking pictures?

Most of us enjoy looking at pictures and some of us even enjoy taking them. Of course there is an art to taking a photograph that everyone will love. The candid shots are the best. Action shots are a lot of fun. The problem that most people have is posing their models. When group photos are done they pretty much all look the same. Someone throws their hands up or someone will do the piece sign behind someone's head... that's nice, but it gets to be boring. The next time you do a group shot, try this. Take a few pictures, but center in on a particular person without them being aware of it. If you have a telephoto lens this can be done easily. You'll have a group shot, but you'll also have a few individual shots that can also make you some money. I usually photograph children. Parents love the pictures of their kids and so its an instant sale. Just a few tips for you budding photographers and artists.

Should we talk about masturbation?

The visuals of maturbation, are just as important as the act itself. For many it has to do with video or magazines. Some even create their own visuals by taking their own photographs. The imagination also plays a big part and this is where the fantasies kick in. Sorry no images for this one. LOL. Thanks for stopping by. Keep an open mind.

What are you looking at?

They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Whom be the one to hold the beauty? In photography beauty is not only viewed as an image of the formentioned word, but of context. A beautiful picture can be that of a tragic moment. I recently discussed with someone some of the types of pictures I've taken. Everyone has reasons for wanting particular pictures. Capturing the dead was something most photographers did when a celebrity died, but now the not so famous are remembering that moment. In New Orleans, the Jazz Funeral has always been captured. Pictures do speak 1000 words if not more. You ever tried it? Take out a family photo and write down the number of words that describes this picture. From the day and time to the people inside of the photo and the memories it bestowes, I'm sure you'll get 1000 words if not more. 1) The artist as a model, way back when 2) Preparing a shot 3) A silk scarf 4) one star 5) 2 stars 6) 3 stars 7) Ice pick 8) ice 9) b/w 10) w/b

Only the strong survive

In the world of photography, survival comes on many levels. Depending on the field of your art form, you make it or you don't. In photo journalism and person sometimes risks their life for the perfect photograph. Remember the famous vietnam pic of the girl running naked in the street. A photographer sometimes forgets the danger and only thinks of the outcome. Or in my case my camera becomes my sword. In some of my most fearful situations, as long as I was holding my camera I felt safe. Taking the right photographs means keeping your career going. Being in the right place at the right... plays a big part in that. Thanks for stopping by. Keep an open mind.

1) How do you like ur drink? 2) A statue 3) Cap #1 4) Cap #2 5)Monkey Sculpture 6) Keys 7) Bloomin' 8) Pool anyone? 9) The White House, behind bars 10) White tiger

Fantasy on film

When I meet people and I tell them I take pictures, I try to explain to them that I'm not your typical photographer. I am an artist!!! You're asking yourself, what's the difference? You go to Sears or Kmart, when you want a photographer. Or you find yourself a photographer when you want a portrait or wedding pictures. You come to me when you are looking to make a statement. If you want someone that is going to do what no other photographer is willing to do. I am the rule breaker when it comes to taking pictures. I've been influenced by a few photographers and I've been compared to some I didn't even know who they were. Then I looked at some things and wondered, it had to be a coincidence. It is true that artists do think alike. Even if the realm is different. I started taking pictures when I was in elementary school. My first camera was a Kodak I believe, it shot 126 film. I had that camera until I went to high school and I lost it, in 1975, when Cheryl Ladd rode in Endymion. (That's another story, I'll save it for another time.) It wasn't until 1982 that I really became serious about photography and found out I could make some money. I was told by someone I should get a Pentax K1000. I now own two, and they don't make them like that anymore. I also recommend this camera to anyone starting out of even if you'be been taking pictures for a long time. People have always enjoyed looking at my work and I would get compliments from them, saying my pictures looked like post cards. When I lost my job, I started modeling and portfolios were so expensive that I decided to do my own. Then I started doing them for other models and I found my place... I then went back and forth, infront of the camera and behind the camera. I've enjoyed both sides. LOL. I had a great group of models and friends who have posed for me over the years. I've been taking pictures for over 25 years. In that time I've photographed about 10 weddings. I only did those because they either insisted or I felt they were ready for my work. I have an eye for what looks good on a person. I like natural lighting and natural looks. I don't like models to be heavily made up, and I try to just create natural settings. My backgrounds are not traditional and I try to find the most interesting locations for outdoor shoots. I don't believe in wasting film, so everything has to be planned in advance. Once I get the image in place then I can come up with something everyone will be satisfied with. Sometimes I'll have the model stay in one place and I'll do all the moving. It depends on the space and what colors I have to work with. The fantasy aspect is something I've been working on for a long time, but I prefer doing it more now. Everyone has a fantasy, but not everyone is so bold as to capture it on film for eternity. It takes some coaching and persuasion sometimes to get someone to pose a particular way. Sometimes it's the subjects idea and they may get cold feet as the date nears. Sometimes the fantasy that they come up with just doesn't work. Every now and then I meet someone that just lets me do what my eye tells them is right. I have a lot of people to thank for trusting me and allowing me to see the inner side of themselves. Many of my models have passed on or moved away, but they will always be remembered. From my books, my art hanging on the walls and what I share here in my journal. I thank you all. Without you, I would be nothing. Special thanks to K C, B C, and D D. I'm hoping I'll get to thank some of my newer friends, who I'm trying to get infront of my lens. LOL. Take care, see you soon. Thanks for stopping by.

Through the eyes of a camera

See the world through the eyes of a camera. The weather was bright and sunny in New Orleans today. Even though its rather cool and breezy, I decided to go out with my camera and see the city from a different perspective. I have yet to sit in one spot as a special friend once suggested, but I have moved around a lot in one area. Today I decided to see the Mississippi river from the uptown view at Audubon park. It's spring break still for some people and many were taking advantage of the sun and beautiful weather. Flying kites, walking the dogs, tanning,relaxing, reading, lunching and just having fun. Many waited for the James Audubon cruise to drop off and pick up for those returning to the French Quarter dock. There were barges and tugs, moving up and down stream. I'll continue to compile images as I look at the city through my camera and post them soon. Working with a digital camera makes it easy to take many pictures with no hassle. Although I still enjoy using the 35mm camera, I'm discovering this new world of digital. May will make one year that I've been using a digital camera. I'm quite impressed at what I have done and been able to achieve with it. Thanks for stopping by. Do come back often and keep an open mind.

Art is a language all its own

The mind of an artist varies. It has to do with many aspects of life. Some artists create for the joy of it. Others hoping to make some money. Art can be therapuetic and it can also speak volumes. Art can be simple, complex or twisted. Sometimes you can interpt easily. And then there are times you say, what the ... Art looks like something a 4 year old has created and other times it is so detail. Just what is art? That's the answer we may not ever know. All I know is that either you like it or you hate it. You either get it or you don't. I don't like explaining my art. It all has a story of the process, but what it means... that's personal. 1) The subtle pleasure 2) D's first angel 3) D artist 4) Dlonzo way back when he modeled 5) Fantasy 6)Art 7) Bear 8) Bunny 9) Mouse 10) Angel and Time hope you enjoyed the photos. Art and photos will continue to appear on A year in the life, but only photos will appear here.

The beauty of a photograph

A photograph tells a story in varying degrees. From the simple candid shot of family events to the more photojournalistic picture. The angle, time of day, lighting and color add to telling a story of a moment captured in time.

For anyone interested in Photography I recommend the Pentax K1000 for its size. The weight of the newer models has changed. The camera isn't as heavy as it was 40 years ago. This camera doesn't have a built in self timer, but one can be added. You can't add a winder, which isn't really necessary. A lot of effects can be produced with this camera without having to manipulate photos in a dark room. More photo tips to come or if you have any specific questions please let me know. Take care, open your mind.

Artography by Dlonzo

1 beach birds  2 In bloom  3 black and white  4 sketch, climbing obstacles  5 The artist 6 ducks 7 Flowers  8 Flowers red & white  9 Flowers Black & White 10 Flowers Red & white in black vase 11 Kumquats 12 Kumquats view 2 13 Kumquat in water 14 Kumquats on a branch 15  Dried roses 16 Dried roses another view Hope you enjoy the pics, each month I will display more photos and art. Next update will be April 1, 2005.

I'm tryin to post some pictures

Artography by Dlonzo

Pictures will be coming soon.