The Story behind the photograph 2015 #1

Artography by Dlonzo
“It’s not just a Photograph, it’s Art!”

The Story behind the Photographs continues -  Many many years ago, I had an idea for a photo shoot in a cemetery. I had begun thinking about doing on location shoots. I believe it started when I was asked to do a wedding of one of my models, who also happened to be a cousin. Although the wedding ceremony photos were good, it was what I did after that was exceptional. It made me realize what type of work I could do. I don’t believe I had considered myself an artist at that point, but I was trying to create photographs I hadn’t seen in anyone home.

So, cut to 2012, I was talking with another artist and I mentioned that I wanted to do this shoot in this cemetery I had discovered. Of course the cemeteries in New Orleans are unique. I found something of interest here in Austin and we set up a day a time. When it comes to location shoots I like to get out early to have the place to myself.

I had an idea of what the look was to be, but as I’ve learned, things can change. I wanted it to look artsy and fashionable. There was one spot that reminded me of the tombstones in NOLA, but the camera wasn’t working with me. At the time I was still learning how to use the camera. I thought perhaps I had accidentally hit a button, but I couldn’t figure it out and I was getting frustrated. It turns out when the batteries are getting low, the zoom doesn’t allow for close ups to focus properly. I’m learning to get around that when I can. I can shoot at the best quality and then later crop the images to get in closer.

There are still a few minuses in working with digital, but the pluses out number them.





Thanks for stopping by; and keep an open mind.

Check out some of my art at Bluecanvas.com/Oznol. Some of these are for sale. Remember Artist Trading Cards (ATC) are available simply by asking. Send an email with ATC in the subject and I can email one to you.

http://www.dlonzo-OpenYourMind.blogspot.com

While you’re here, why not become a follower (fan).
Taking it one day at a time and keep the faith.

Volunteer Appreciation 2014

Artography by Dlonzo
“It’s not just a Photograph, it’s Art!”

At the volunteer appreciation party in 2013, I found out that my supervisor had performed and that everyone was really impressed by his singing. I would later find out that most of the people at ZACH had aspirations of entertaining in some form.

 When I found out about the party for 2014 I decided I would see if I could attend the only way I knew how. I asked if I might get invited to photograph and video my supervisor performing.

(Colleen shows off her new born to some of the volunteers.)

(The evening started with drinks in the lobby and were greeting by Kathy and Vanessa)

That in turn lead to me photographing as much of the evening as possible.

As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, I enjoy capturing an event. This allows the viewer to relive it or to imagine what it might have been like to be there. I don’t like when pictures are posed unless it adds to the telling of the story. I like to get those candid moments. The element of surprise. Sometimes the moment someone might like to forget. LOL.

It was an evening of getting to know people. When I arrived I had no idea what to expect.

 I didn’t know what the lighting would be like or the layout of the room. I would only have a certain amount of time to get things together. I thought I’d sit at the table with the staff that I knew, but I found out that each staff member would sit at a table with volunteers. It surprised me, but at the same time gave me a chance to get to know some of the volunteers. It was an interesting concept and it made the volunteers comfortable around me.

(Volunteers Hank and Nancy)

Which always makes for great pictures.

(Ryan, who was selected the favorite volunteer by the SXSW team and Vickie)

Now I’ve made several new acquaintances as a result.

(Kim and Leta at the check in table)

It was a night of food, drink, entertainment, speeches, awards and fun. Here are a few of the images taken that night.

(Elisbeth welcoming everyone to the volunteer appreciation party.)

(Kyle giving his greeting to the guests.)

(Keith, who has racked up many volunteer hours and enjoys special priveledges.)

(Leland preformed during dinner as did Colleen and Daryl)

(Daryl and Vanessa posing after the event was over.)

Thanks for stopping by; and keep an open mind.

(Some of the volunteers that sat at the table with me.)

Check out some of my art at Bluecanvas.com/Oznol. Some of these are for sale. Remember Artist Trading Cards (ATC) are available simply by asking. Send an email with ATC in the subject and I can email one to you.

(Dave giving an incredible speech in regards to the future of ZACH Scott Theatre.)