Patterns

This week was a week of patterns starting with Surtex, the fabulous art and design exhibition at Javits Center in NYC.  Concurrent exhibits at Javits were the National Stationery Show and the ICFF, International Contemporary Furniture Fair.  A virtual feast of art, design, function, beauty.  I also was honored to attend two graduations: Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and Mechanics Institute.  Graduations are wonderful patterns of moving towards goals and dreams, evolving through knowledge, skills and personal growth.  Inspiration! 

Patterns on Ceiling at Javits Center, NYC

Abstracted Patterns of Wires at Javits Center, NYC

FIT Graduation 2012

Mechanics Institute Graduates Looking Towards the Future

Train Tracks

Everywhere there are shots.  Waiting for the LIRR to take me to NYC, I became fascinated with the materials and patterns of the train tracks.  So involved was I with taking track pix, that the train's arrival surprised me!  The possibilities are limitless.

NYC Landmark Building

A favorite NYC landmark building of mine is located at West 44th Street and 5th Avenue.  It is the General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen's home: a venerable 225 year old organization that promotes the trades.  The Mechanics Institute and the General Society Library are significant components of the General Society's dedication to education and knowledge.  The superb Artisan Series, which brings to the public the art and craftsmanship the General Society wholeheartedly supports, and lectures regarding the building industry are  marvelous.  Like her father Past President Gerard A. Dengel (1982), current President Victoria Dengel works selflessly to increase the excellent standards of the General Society in every area of its scope.  I am proud to be a member of this remarkable Society.

General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen: NYC Landmark Building

Photographs of General Society Past Presidents: Gerard A. Dengel, Past President 1982, father of current President Victoria Dengel is center row right.

Unexpected

Camera ready: expect the unexpected.  Pouring in Manhattan.  Streets clogged with umbrellas and slick with rain.  By chance I come upon the unexpected.

A majestic bronze eagle guarding Herald Square.........

Buckets of spring flowers......

Golden fleur de lis on a subway entrance!  Images are everywhere.

Focus

In deciding on black and white or sepia images after shooting in RGB, I carefully look at the photograph to determine my focus.  Primarily, it comes down to composition, values and the story I'm telling with my photograph.  In most cases, black and white or sepia photographs focus more on subject without the distraction of color.  However, it is all in the eye of the beholder!

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Architectural Photography at Berger Bros.

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I'm preparing to give my class in architectural photography at Berger Bros. camera store in Syosset LI.  It was an honor to be asked to teach.  I love sharing with professionals and hobbiests because I usually learn a lot.  In this sepia architectural photograph, I wanted to show the park-like atmosphere which is the setting for the Newport Public Library.  Setting, in architectural photography, and/ or all art in general, is a key component.  Here, the library is engaged with the park in a seemless joining of natural and architectural elements.  The sepia medium presents a timeless quality.