A Confession to Make

Lowes Wharf in St. Michaels, by Betsy Spruill Clarke

Shot a party the other day with the theme Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall and I thought it would make the perfect title to kick off this part of the year in blogging the DC photo world.  Of course, my deliberate theft of another person's title is not the confession I have to make.  My carefree neglect to this blog, however, is.

I thought, back in June, that I would be able to blog more, since photo jobs and more tend to thin out over summer.  And I would be partially right, except for one thing that I never saw coming...the very fact that my husband needed a vacation.  And therefore, I would also need a vacation.

Working in a creative department, he puts in long hours through the spring and into the early weeks of summer.  And, much like any human, he was going to crack if he didn't get a little air.  So, I started focusing all of my energy into two things...his sanity and renewing my portfolio.

When August rolled around, I figured that I would take the month off, since it seemed that most people would be getting in those last weeks of vacation anyway, and jump back in this month.  But, alas, I am jumping in a little later than I wanted.

I apologize and I confess, I got carried away with the summer.  But, while we're on topic, here's a summary of our two big trips:  we went to St. Michaels and Rehoboth with Mom and Dad Clarke and we went to LA to see one of the final NIN concerts and visit with our friend Diamond Dallas Page (DDP).

The St. Michaels and Rehoboth trip was awesome and ended with a delicious crab feast/birthday dinner for me.  Southern Maryland is fantastic and has so much to offer--relaxation, shopping, much to photograph.

El Lay, what can I say...first time for both of us and the opportunity to see one of the final NIN concerts before Trent had to take a few sick days was...well...sick.  Plus, it was fantastic getting to visit with our friends DDP and Angela and getting to try out some new moves (quick background on DDP - former pro-wrestler-turned-fitness-guru; creator of a brand of power yoga called YRG that Adam and Betsy swear by).

There were some pretty nice activities going on here, too - SynchroSwim being my fave - WPA rules!  The DC Photography community also had to say goodbye to good friends and fellow talent - Stirling and Rachel Elmendorf, who have pulled up roots and moved out west.  And, while working on my portfolio, I did get some portraits and interviews of local photogs Megan Nadolski and Michael Domingo, so please stay tuned for that as well!

Of course after such a busy month or two, my husband says "You know, you really haven't put anything in the blog lately." Argh.  The reality that you have wronged someone...or an entire community...is a lot to take.

Let's kick this off right and get this engine up and running...

So, tell DC Shot List - you know the drill...in photo...what you did for the summer:  foto.maven@gmail.com

And for goodness sakes, please tell us that you met the DC Fotoweek submission deadline!

July 4th, 2009:  DC Shot List's Picks for

the Unique, Interesting or Unusual July Fourth Shots

July 4th, 2009, photograph by John Ulasek.

Almost two weeks ago, DC Shot List put out a call to readers for photos of the unique, unusual or interesting persuasion.  We received some fantastic ones back and thank you for that.  The following is a mini gallery of the best pulls from the overall response.

Check out the talent!  The explanations for DC Shot List selecting them are below each picture.  Oh, and if you see anything you like, just click on their name to see their website!

John Ulasek

Because of course there will be fireworks on Independence Day!  And you see John's work featured at the beginning of this gallery, too. (Do we also spot Christopher Chen taking a shot at the viewer in that photo, by the way?) 
The Shot List couldn't make a decision between the two.  Both have Ulasek's "in-the-moment-of-the-moment" feel.

Rob Fredley

Another bottle rocket shot, but from the eye of Rob Fredley. 
This is a fantastic shot because it is the quintessential final moment of a seemingly quiet and serene scene.

Amanda McLean

Yes, yes, yes, we have seen fireworks photography...but there is something about this one in particular...a high fStop resulting in crisp focus in fore and back grounds? Or could it be the color and the detail of the memorial?  Or the color mixed with the boats?  Something very bewitching about this...

Meaghan Gay





Hesitant to break them up, DC Shot List wants to show you all three with the favorite being the first one.  There is something to be said about a fleeting moment of absolute bliss.  The big deal to adults is the three day weekend...but the big deal to kids is so much more...conquering the deep end of swimming pools, getting to eat as many chips as you want with your hot dogs, swinging as high as you can go, with Mom or Dad giving you a boost...and all of this with no worry to this young lady as to how she will get the Murphy Project finished in time for Monday morning's huddle up meeting.

Katie Harbarth

Sometimes it's not the viewpoint that makes it creative, but how the actual photo flows upon itself.  In this case, Katie has put together a concept that seems to invite the eye to stay in perpetual motion with the shot.

Jon Haber

For this Fourth of July Weekend, Jon went to the Capital and took shots of the dome.  Jon is very skilled putting together photomontages, digitally, as well as digital painting - a creative use of filters.  If you look closely at this picture, you will notice several interesting things.  Not every window, moulding, etc is the same.

M. Adam Clarke

Remember the firefly shot from last week?  (If not, it is featured below) Well, this was shot by Betsy's husband, M. Adam Clarke, as she was making that shot.  This is interesting, in particular, because of the comparison a viewer can make on the light exposure needs for the goal of the image.  Plus, the composition is very Arnold Newman.  That makes DC Shot List smile.

Fourth of July Fireflies, 2009, Betsy Spruill Clarke

July 4th Shot Call and Your Thoughts on Young Talent

"Fireflies," July 4th, 2009, by Adam & Betsy Clarke

Did you enjoy your three-dayer?  I organized my ass off, we helped in-laws with attic insulation, and watched movies and episodes of "Always Sunny in Philadelphia."  If you haven't seen this show, you are missing out on piss-your-pants-comedy.  But this isn't a television blog, this is a blog focused on DC's best in all-things photography and I'll get on with it...

Jumpstarting my weekend was a shoot with Washington Life, alongside of two very talented DC photographers:  Nakeva Corothers and Anchyi Wei.  This inspired an article that I'm going to write sometime soon about the importance of nurturing all aspects of our photography community in support of DC's growing reputation as THE city of photography.  For example, Anchyi, is very hesitant on pushing her photography forward, regardless of the fact that there are many who feel that she has an incredible eye.  In my opinion, when we fail to give encouragement to those who may not even realize their talents, we fail the greater deliverable of our photography community.

Ideas?  Thoughts?  Please let me know!

Also, Adam and I were so exhausted after helping with the insulation that we did not make any plans for fireworks.  So, we tried a little something different...fireflies.  We found a great spot on Beach Drive (Rockcreek Park) where the fireflies were overly-abundant...as well as the mosquitoes.  In between applications of cortizone cream, we managed to kick out a few through the editing process.

Featured above is one of the shots from the night.  Since we were trading cameras constantly, I have no idea which person took this.  But, Adam took a series of sweet shots.  I'm hoping that he will submit to the following request...

Satisfy the DC Shot List curiosity...what were some other shots taken from this July 4th?  Got anything unique or unusual to share?  Please send it along and if I get enough, I'll do a posting of these pics this week (you will get credit, of course).

So, that's your Monday homework...send me your thoughts on the influence of supporting up-and-coming photographers as well as any photos from July 4th that you would like to show off...

In the words of DC's Erika Horn, "Shoot 'em dead!"

Honfleur Gallery Presents FLAUNT: 

Photograph by Joshua Yospyn
Photography & Fashion Collaboration,
A LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION AND RUNWAY SHOW
April 25, 2009 - June 13, 2009

This spring, The Honfleur Gallery will premiere Flaunt: Photography & Fashion Collaboration, a special exhibition showcasing emerging local talent in photography and fashion design. To highlight the synergy between the two mediums, the show will feature two events:  an opening launch on Saturday, April 25, 2009, and a runway show on June 6, 2009. 
 
Flaunt, produced in association with Ten Miles Square and Project Beltway, LLC, will feature new fashion portrait work by photographers Joshua Yospyn, John Ulaszek, Meaghan Gay, and Steve Goldenberg.  The work is the result of collaborations with local fashion designers Dana Greaves, Taimur Baig, Lara Akinsaya, and Will Sharp, who will showoff their talent as their clothes grace the runway.
 
An artistic experiment of sorts, Flaunt aims to challenge and explore the notions of what constitutes fashion photography. "This unique visual event revolves around the concept that the beauty of art is its lack of fixed rules and definitions," says Heather Goss, founder of Ten Miles Square. "Each photographer captured the essence of high fashion in their own terms, as did each designer."
 
The show is meant not only to ignite discussion about fashion photography as a genre, but also to remind DC residents and artists of the ongoing need for a strong artistic- and affordable- voice in the community. "Creativity is something we can't afford to lose in this economy, but unfortunately so many designers are limited by what sells," says Rachel Cothran, founder of Project Beltway, LLC. "This show in many ways is about the artists and their explosive creative vision; visions that should not be hindered by a desire to sell, but rather embraced for their desire to create works that define their style."
 
The opening exhibition and runway show promise an outstanding soundtrack further promoting local artists including DJ Felipe. The Honfleur Gallery is located at 1241 Good Hope Rd. SE within Historic Anacostia, between the 11th Street Bridge and Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., SE. Free and Open to the Public- Don't miss out on this first-time collaboration.
 
The Honfleur Gallery exhibits & represents both fine contemporary arts & artists, while also incorporating non-salable, socially-minded exhibitions & installations. Honfleur aims to provide better access to The Arts for residents "East of the Anacostia River," D.C., Affordable Artist Workspace and a diverse range of Artistic Opportunities for Washington D.C. www.honfleurgallery.com  

Ten Miles Square is a venture to promote local photographers through independent, art supporting businesses, while also nurturing a new generation of collectors by offering real art at affordable prices. www.tenmilessquare.com
 
Project Beltway started as a local street-style blog and has evolved into an insider resource for all things fashion in D.C. www.projectbeltway.com

Had a great time at HABATAT Gallery, last night, for their Habatat for Healing kick-off party.  Turns out co-owner, Lindsey Scott, is actually a nominee for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Woman of the Year.  It was also her birthday, so it was truly a festive night.  I will post these very soon.  Great event, special pictures, and lots to share, so check back in.

Also, coming up on Thursday night is the opening to the "I'm With the Band" exhibit, produced by Ten Miles Square.  Featuring the works of local photographers Kyle Gustafson, Martin Locraft, and Nestor Diaz.  This will be at the Dahlak, 1771 U Street NW and the opening reception will run from 6-8pm with drink specials and local DJ Chris Nitti on the decks.  A $5 donation is suggested but it's more than reasonable when you're attending a Ten Miles Square exhibit.

And on Friday, come out and celebrate the Cherry Blossoms in super style at Cherry Blast!  From 9pm - 2am, $10 at the door will get you full access to art + music + dance + fashion + anime + origami and more.  A true Pink Line Project in association with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, this will take place at the Warehouse at 2020 Shannon Place SE.  There will be plenty of parking, but there is also a FREE shuttle bus service to and from the Anacostia metro and the island in DuPont Circle. 

I plan to be at both of these events, taking pictures, so come on out, show your support, & get your picture taken!

See you there!

What's pink and taupe with flat screens all over?

Hudson Restaurant & Lounge's Final Four party on Saturday night, of course.  This was just the pick-me-up that we needed after the let down of missing out on Photo-Graffiti at Zone Zero.

Adam found a nice spot to chill while I did my grip 'n' grin thing.  The guests were great - the type of crowd where even if they didn't know you, they were going to say hello to you anyway.  Always interesting.

For gigs like DC Magazine and Washington Life, my goal is to get what's actually going on, not just the folks at each event.  So, the amount of flat screens all over the place really helped the cause.  I think I counted 7, which also includes one outside.

And speaking of outside, there was an ice sculpture, that was also being used as a vodka shot chiller.  I would have loved a taste, but I don't drink on the job for two reasons:  1.  where would I even hold it?  and 2. someone has to make sure the picture's in focus.

Alan Popovsky (picture, above left), Hudson's principal, covered all necessary bases with this event. But then again, I wouldn't expect anything less from a guy who's expertise is also strongly rooted in event management.

If I were to change anything, it would be a little more space to move around in, but that would require moving the bar and curved wall.  And I don't expect that to happen on a photographer's request.

Habatat for Healing

Tonight is Habatat for Healing and DC Magazine is sending me to cover!  I've been looking forward to this event because it just sounds like fun and for a good cause, I might add.  Plus, I love any chance to visit with the gallery's owners, Jay Scott and Lindsey Scott.

A non-profit branch of HABATAT Galleries, Habatat for Healing is a two-month campaign to raise money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and tonight is the official 2009 kick-off party.  For your generous donation of $20 you will get complimentary Maker's Mark drinks, Mezza from Me Jana, entered into a raffle, and and AND...the first 10 women through the door receive a complimentary gift bag from Shea Terra Organics.

For more information on tonight's event or to see the live auction that's on until 5, go to www.habatatforhealing.com.  Check out the pieces if you get a free moment today.  Maybe you will see something that you cannot live without and, hey, it's all for a good cause!

Hope to see you tonight.

Photo by Claire Bouleau. 
See more on Zone Zero's website...  http://www.zonezerophoto.com/index-slides.html?gallery=Claire%20Bouleau
Experience even more in person... 1000 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 300

With the company of a patient and supportive husband, Adam, we jumped in the car with two objectives:  the Photo-Graffiti opening at Zone Zero in Georgetown and then photography for Washington Life Magazine of Hudson's Final Four party.

Choosing the best route, Adam came up with a logistically sound idea to just take Canal Road down because the Cherry Blossom traffic will be leaving the city.  And it was a great idea, until we got to the Key Bridge intersection.  Not giving any other options, there were police directing all incoming traffic over to Virginia.  Swell.

So, after seeking out an alternate entrance (several were closed) and fighting traffic, we realized that there was only enough time to park and run into Hudson. 

I have already sent one of the co-owners of Zone Zero an apology with hopes to come down to the gallery soon.  Turns out, as he wrote back to me, it wasn't the Cherry Blossom brouhaha, but a fire.  And this was the culprit to many others being unable to attend. So, maybe there will be another opportunity to meet Claire Bouleau.  I hope so. 

If you did get a chance to go, I would love to hear--or read--your thoughts on the event and show, so please don't be shy.  If you didn't but you do plan on going soon, let me know that, too!

If you're looking for Hudson photos, no worries.  They will be up tomorrow, along with a little coverage on the event.  Until then, here's a little taste of the action...

Check back in tomorrow for some more!

Corcoran's Artini Was Anything but Dry

 After leaving Fashion For Paws at the Italian Embassy, keeping my camera equipment together, I jumped in the car and headed across town to the Corcoran Gallery for the Artini Closing.

 A gala in full swing, mixologists from some of Washington's best restaurants were lined up and down the foyer wings, slinging potent potables for all to enjoy.  The occasional Capri Sun was also spotted but the serving locale was unknown.

 With ever-changing lighting and electric energy, Artini was an absolute playground for this photographer.
  

Also, I think my time frame was perfect.  By the time I arrived, everyone seemed to have the right amount of either alchohol, sugar or both in their systems - not too drunk, not too hyper - just right with a lovely buzz.

 It's not that alcohol or sugar are the necessary ingredients of a good time or a good photo, but they sure do make it easier.

No one is self-concious, no one is insisting on looking at the back of my camera and saying "I need a re-take."  Well, scratch that.  I do actually get the occasional person who has had too much to drink and wants to grab at my camera to see the photo that I just took while slurring the words "I guess that's okay." But not at this event.

Nope, the closest anyone got to looking at my camera was this interesting fellow (above, left) who just wanted to see what kind I was using.  As for the two on the right, they were just getting a kick out of the fact that I caught a shot of them texting in front of ole Abe and amped it up a bit for couple more pics.

"Bartender! Another round for my friends in front of the Lincoln portrait!"

Both Artini and Fashion for Paws made for a fun evening of photography.  Make sure to pick up a copy of DC Magazine to see more pictures and read up on total coverage for both events. 

Fashion For Paws and One Photo Faux Pas

DC Modern Luxury Magazine sent me out to photograph two events on Saturday night:  Fashion For Paws and the Artini closing.

Held at The Embassy of Italy, Fashion For Paws was an event photographer's dream with decor that was minimalist, yet elegant and lighting that was rich and well-placed.  Everyone came out to show their support for the Washington Humane Society and see a fashion show featuring models of the two-legged and four-legged kind.

First, just to mention, I would like to say that even though the dogs stole the show, one dog stood out to me and that would be Samy K’s Slash.  Decked out in a shiny black vest with a blood red tie, all this bark ‘n’ roll pup needed was a top hat and a cigarette chew toy of sorts. 

As far as the human attendees, Steve Andronico’s lavender suit was, by far, the best in show!  Although, I think he could have used Susanne Seidman’s Raspberry Beret from Tossed & Found.

Of course, everyone looked spectacular.  The only "photo faux pas" that I would like to briefly mention is related to the program.  Somebody worked really hard on that booklet and somebody paid a lot of money to have it printed.  A great deal of thought and effort went into each bio submitted by all of the evening's models.  So where was the same effort behind the photography?  There were way too many images that were either lo-res, too dark, or a little too "spring break."

The bio and the photo go hand in hand!

The photo goes a long way.  It's what draws the reader into your bio. If you're just going to half-ass it with the photo, then, 9 times out of 10, the reader is just going to assume that there's nothing all that special to read about.  Just my two cents.

Enjoy the photos!