Stepping Stones

Two years ago I undertook a task that was bigger than I anticipated.  It required me to learn new skills—including how to work studio lights, work with white balance and most importantly, have the confidence to believe I could photograph something other than nature photos—at that time, my specialty.  (I only photographed easy subjects like butterflies, spiders, flowers, etc.) The task required me to work after hours and on weekends. Once the task was complete I regretted ever ‘wasting my time’ as I felt it became a labor of love.  In retrospect however, that experience helped me become a more … Continue reading Stepping Stones

Abandoned Shoe

Denise:  “Sam, I don’t know what to do with this blog.  What’s the point?” Sam explained I should continue doing the blog.  It can inspire other individuals interested in photography and it gives me a chance to share my experiences with others through my photos. Sam:  “Don’t over think it.  Be open and see where it takes you.” With his encouragement I felt renewed motivation and throughout the work day I thought about possible photos for today’s entry.  I came up with several options. ————————————————————————————————— For the last few days I’ve passed a shoe on the side of the road … Continue reading Abandoned Shoe

Secretly I was cheering for the bull

This morning I was telling my coworker I wasn’t happy with my first blog post. So here’s another round on the same Plaza de Toros experience. Once the bullfighting began and I got a handle on the rules I decided I’d cheer for the bulls.  I didn’t want the bullfighters to get injured but I did enjoy seeing them cornered. Towards the end of one of the rounds, the bullfighter’s cape got stuck on the bull.  The crowd, kids among them, laughed at the sight.  This massive creature, stood helpless with its head covered with a pink and yellow cape.  … Continue reading Secretly I was cheering for the bull

Day in the Life of a Street Vendor

We were sitting on the upper deck of a tour bus in Florence, Italy when I took this photo. I was watching “closing time” for a street vendor.  The vendor was carefully wrapping up her jewelry then placing the items in her car when a wave of customers came by.  She greeted them as they briefly looked at her products.  They walked on without buying anything.  She continued to pack her items into the trunk of her car. Then a mother and son walked by.  Again, the vendor greeted them.  The mother looked at the items and seemed interested enough. … Continue reading Day in the Life of a Street Vendor

Plaza de Toros

I admit this is an unusual photo to launch my photography blog with. You’ll either like it or hate it. Here’s the background: This was our first day in Madrid. We landed mid-morning, got settled in our hotel then scoped out the sights to see. It just so happened there was a bullfight that Sunday evening. It was the only day available– so we got a taxi and off we went. I didn’t realize what I was getting into until the bullfighting began.  (Surprisingly, I don’t always think things through 😉   ) It was a 2-hour experience. A new … Continue reading Plaza de Toros