Notes from a Master of Photography

Sometimes I just like to mention that. Master of Photography. What does that mean, you ask? Through Professional Photographers of America, this "degree" is bestowed on photographers who go through the arduous, challenging, and rewarding program to attain status among professional photographers. It involves submitting prints for judging in national competitions and scoring very high in technical and creative points. It also involves teaching workshops and lectures to other professional photographers internationally. I earned this award in my early career, and I am still very proud of this "representation of the oldest and largest professional photography organization’s standards of excellence."

As I worked through the process, the experiences I gained were priceless. I began to seek out judges whose work I greatly admired and asked for critiques which were generously offered. Developing one's own style often involves emulating the work of others, but I found that my own "signature" developed very quickly. I was a single parent at the time and one of my teachers, Linda Lapp, inspired me to create a home studio and photograph out of doors, in client's homes and gardens, and the beach. That really cut down on expenses and I loved working in the soft afternoon light, always challenged creatively by walking into unfamiliar territory.

As a result of all the help I received over the years, I feel it is so important to give back that inspiration and guidance to others. I truly hope that my book will help you make better photographs of children - to find your own style, choose which skills you want to hone in on, and MAKE IT HAPPEN! Whether you are a parent, a grand-parent, or an aspiring/accomplished professional, I believe you will find a great deal of helpful information. I hope so.

Warmly,

Ginny

In the Gloaming...

Days like this make me really appreciate what I do for a living and also as a passion. This little sweetie is 2 1/2 years old and I photographed him on a warm and sunny Sonoma afternoon. I took him, along with his big brother, to the garden at a local winery. The light was a low, broad blue sky, and the overhead portico created good protection from overhead light. The warm glow was thanks to good old California autumn. I love the way the crimson leaves peak through the columns. This portrait demonstrates how lovely an image can be in all its simplicity - both in lighting and composition.

I love the spontaneous, impishness of his expression. What I really love about children this age is that they still have the babyish round, soft cheeks. This usually disappears when they are 3 to 4.

Best of all, his mom said the portrait really captured him! Ahhh. That makes me so happy!