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Wisdom From My Dad #2

2011-12-12T19:39:00.001-05:00

You may not be able to pay for all you want,
but you will pay for all you get.

Two "Old-Timers" & A Man

2011-11-23T13:22:00.000-05:00

I have an ole saying about trucks: "They never die. They just keep on trucking on". Well, this is certainly true about the trucks in this posting. For months I'd seen them protectively locked up behind a chain-link fence and I couldn't get a clear shot of them. To add to the problem no one ever seemed to come by and opened the gate, not even to feed the cats that were roaming around.

Finally, (by pure coincidence) one day after a photo shoot I drove by the little shop building and the gate was wide opened! I did a quick U-turn, pulled up to the gate, and found the owner working on an automobile engine. After telling him how much I admired his old trucks and would he mind if I photographed them, he not only gave me permission to do so but he allowed me to get a few shots of him, too. I think you would have to agree that the title of Two "Old-Timers" & A Man is quite appropriate for the photo essay below.

Enjoy!
Willie

Boshears Skyfest 2011

2011-11-08T23:39:00.006-05:00

Last year I missed this unique airshow because I was away on a photographic trip to Florida. Not this time! Thanks to my uncle (he had free tickets) this year I got the opportunity to observe the 19th Annual Boshears Skyfest at Daniel Field in Augusta on October 15th. I didn't get to spend a lot of time at the show because my uncle wanted to get in and out before the big crowds developed. However, I was able to get some wonderful images of vintage and experimental aircraft within that time. Now that I know what to expect I plan on spending a great deal more time in 2012. Hopefully, these "old birds" will still be flying.

Enjoy!
Willie

(Double click images to enlarge viewing)

To see a slideshow of more images, click here: Boshears

Angelique & Amy - Friends Session

2011-08-24T13:46:00.001-04:00

There is something special about two young friends who are separated by many miles but have an opportunity to get together during summertime. Amy is a long time friend of my granddaughter Angelique and when she came for a brief visit, Angelique made sure they had a photo session together. Angelique really wanted me to photograph Amy by herself because she had been telling her about my photography skills. In fact, Amy brought her camera over to the house for me to give her a few pointers.

However, I decided that it would be neat to combine the sessions and photographed them together while giving Amy a few more minutes in front of the camera. It was easy photographing the girls and there are some unique images of them together. I didn't have a lot of time to shoot the session because Amy was leaving the next morning and the sun was setting when we started shooting. So, I decided to use the front porch of our house for a studio.

I hope these images will offer up memories for years to come.

Enjoy!

Willie

[Double-click image to enlarge viewing]

I started the session with Amy to
see if she could work well in front of the camera.

This is my favorite shot of my granddaughter and her friend.I asked Amy to let her hair down for
the following shots which was a great idea.

One well put statement can give you spontaneous
reactions that generates some awesome images.

Amy's Latin descent is quite obvious in this image.

Nothing like horseplay to seal a friendship.

[To see a slideshow of the session click here: Show]

Camera: Canon 30D with 70-200 mm IS lens
Post-production: Adobe Lightroom and Adobe CS3
Slideshow: Producer 4

Patricia & Jon's Love Story

2011-08-06T17:47:00.000-04:00

Once again I've had the pleasure of photographing the wedding of one of the kids that I taught in the preschool department at Sheridan Hills Baptist Church. I can hardly believe the maturity these students have achieved in years that seem like yesterday to me. My sense of pride in them is overwhelming and my expectations for their future is wrapped up in one emotional high.

I've known Jonathan Simu and his family for many years and was delighted when they phoned me and asked if I would be their wedding photographer. So, I flew into Florida and we hit the beach for a quick session one day before the wedding. As soon as I saw Patricia for the first time I knew the three of us were going to have a great time taking pictures. Without a doubt the two of them could hit the modeling scene and make a career out of it.

Although Patricia was favoring shooting the entire session on the beach, I couldn't resist capturing images of them in the parking lot and on the boardwalk. Because of Patricia's animated personality I was so ready to get started. You will see that some of those photographs are among my favorites. I want to extend my congratulations to Patricia and Jon and tell them what an exciting moment in their lives these images will represent. I'll see you for round two at the wedding.

Enjoy!

Willie

[Double-click images to enlarge for better viewing]

Whenever I start a session and get these kinds of
images within a few seconds, I know it's gonna be a good day.

Model material if I ever saw it.

Patricia's idea of jumping into Jon's arms (he didn't drop her).

Nice rock there, Jon!

Patricia is a natural in front of the camera.

Oh, yeah! Jon was pumped for this shot.

To view a slideshow of this session click on this link: Show

Location: Hollywood Beach
Camera: Canon 30D w/17-55mm IS lens
Post-production: Adobe Lightroom & Adobe CS3
Slideshow: Producer 4

42nd Wedding Anniversary

2011-07-21T17:35:00.007-04:00

This is a special blog for me because it's about my 42nd Anniversary which we celebrated on the 18th of July. Gosh, the time seems to be flying by for me and Eddie Mae as we dive deeper into our golden years. (I don't know why they're called golden years 'cause my hair is getting grayer by the day!) Anyway, we decided to drive down to Savannah and spend a few days there since we've heard so much about it.

To make a long story short, I had a great time. The hotel was nice, staying up til 3am in the morning watching movies was neat, touring the Savannah Historic District by trolley for 3 hours was perfect, climbing to the top of Tybee Light Station was (well, exhausting!!!), and filling my belly with crab and shrimp deliciously topped off our 4 day adventure. I can't wait until our 43rd anniversary. Maybe we'll go skydiving or something...I don't think so.

Now the fun part about this trip is that my youngest daughter Christy sternly instructed me to take lots of pictures with Eddie Mae's brand new point-and-shoot camera (which I tried). Honestly, I have no skills at pointing a camera at myself and snapping the shutter, especially with a camera so small that I nearly dropped it every time I picked it up. So, the pictures below are my first attempt at being a tourist with a non-professional camera.

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double-click images to enlarge viewing]

Okay, Eddie Mae, smile.

Meet Ashley who booked our trolley tour.
Fun, crazy lady with a great personality.

I caught Eddie Mae chummy up to this
physically challenged dude, and...

...so I gave him one to the chops.

Ashley & Eddie Mae escorting this annoying guy outside.
River Street.
The Savannah River.
The street florist who made Eddie Mae's bouquet.

Eddie Mae with her anniversary bouquet.
Another attempt at taking my own portrait.

Thanks to a generous tourist we got a better picture.

A Purple Heart monument on River Street.

Eddie Mae was caught off guard with my self-portrait technique.

Tybee Island Light Station.

178 steps to the top of the lighthouse was a calorie burner

and those little windows provided instant CPR.

View from the top of the lighthouse.

Inside the Fresnel lens of Tybee Light Station.

Light Keeper? Nope. Just another happy soul who made it to
the top of the lighthouse without passing out. Meet Amanda.

I miss eating seafood in Florida at the Rustic Inn, so this

seafood anniversary meal was HIGH on the list of things to do.

[Click this link to see a slideshow of Tybee Island Light Station]

or go to: Tybeelighthouse

Wisdom From My Dad #1

2011-07-13T18:00:00.000-04:00

Six years ago when my father passed away, I sought after claiming for myself an old worn and tattered Bible that he kept by the table where he parked his wheelchair. A quick review of the opening page of the Bible revealed that it had been given to him on October 2, 1971 by New Hope Baptist Church.

This Bible intrigued me for numerous reasons. One being that it had the look of being well read (see the photo below), and two it had some personal notes about our family tree and numerous personal quotes of wisdom he'd jotted down. I'm not certain on the dates of these quotes, but they are very timely words of wisdom and insight and I'd like to share them with you from time to time.

You may not be able to pay for all you want,
but you will pay for all you get.

My Portrait - By Bob Mayes

2011-07-03T22:20:00.000-04:00

Several months ago I had the distinct pleasure of meeting noted artist Bob Mayes at the Living History Park in North Augusta, SC. I absolutely fell in love with Mr. Mayes' work. As Bob says it, "Everything I do is with a number 2 pencil". Here's a link to his site; check out his work: Bob Mayes Artist.

One Saturday while we were downtown at the Augusta Riverwalk selling his artwork, he did a quick sketch of me that I appreciate and enjoy viewing. It's not often you get to be the subject of a noted artist. I will treasure this art piece for years to come. Thanks, Bob, for letting me hang out with you. I get to admire your work up close.

The best compliment I've received about this drawing is when
I first showed it to my wife she asked, "Who is that?"
I had to tell her, "It's me!"

Monica & Ariel's Wedding

2011-06-25T08:57:00.000-04:00

One way a good wedding photographer sustains a great business is to get repeat business from previous clients. It is such a gracious compliment when a previous client calls you up years later and thank you for the wonderful job you did back then, but now their daughter is getting married and they want you to be her photographer, too. That's exactly how I got to be Monica and Ariel's wedding photographer...no questions asked. Well, except "how much was it going to cost?"

I didn't quiet remember Monica at her mom's wedding, but when I met her in the studio I couldn't help thinking, "what a beautiful, spitting image of her mom" she was. Well, I was right and she and Ariel gave me the chance to create some beautiful wedding portraits that are worthy of my portfolio.

Enjoy!

Willie

[Double-click image to enlarge viewing]

Monica has perfect features for making a beautiful bride.

The use of a "fish-eye" lens makes this shot interesting.

Ariel & Monica are simply "beautiful" together.

The Making of An Image

2011-06-15T10:34:00.000-04:00

Recently, I've rediscovered a book that 13 years ago I couldn't get pass the Preface. B-O-R-I-N-G!! The title of that book was "Drawing On The Right Side of The Brain" by Betty Edwards. I knew the book had some deep and profound theories, but at the time in my life I guess I just wasn't ready to receive them.

Now that I'm heavily involved in improving my drawing skills I have an insatiable appetite for finding the best resources out there to help me. While searching the Internet on "how to draw" I came across a site (About.com) that gave some good advice on two books for drawing. It so happened that Betty Edwards' book was at the top of the list. (How ironic). Since I couldn't find my own copy of the book I rushed to the public library and checked out a copy. Boy, am I glad I did. It is a "gem" of a book with some hidden insights on how to maximize the use of your R-mode brain skills. Now I'm seeing the world around me with a new set of eyes.

Taking just a little knowledge of what I've gained from reading the book I want to show you an instance where I put into practice one of the major theories of the book. It allowed me to come up with an incredible image. The 5 steps in Betty's book deal with: 1) Edges, 2) Spaces, 3) Relationships, 4) Light and shadows, and 5) Gestalt (the whole).

Check out the progression of images I took to come up with the final picture that captures the "wholeness" of this mundane scene. Can you guess which one of Betty's theories caught my attention first? The answer is at the conclusion of this post.

[Double-click images to enlarge viewing]

This is the initial scene that caught my eye.

...too much concrete.

The horizontal format is kinda static, but it's interesting.

By introducing the leading lines on
the right, the image is shaping up.

I think this image speaks of the gestalt of this subject,
and the vertical composition adds to its statement.

Answer: When I happened upon this scene I was captivated by the lines (edges) of the pipe.

Vianca & Claude's Wedding

2011-06-05T23:24:00.000-04:00

The following set of wedding images are from Vianca and Claude White's wedding. They had a wonderful outdoor wedding at the Sofitel Hotel in Miami and the reception was also conducted there, too. It had been years since I'd done my first wedding there, and now I was back again for another chance to create some unique portraits for another bride. It's amazing how you can be driving to a location that you don't think you've ever visited before, but as soon as you arrive you clearly remember all the details of your visit. Familiarity of a location takes a lot of pressure off a wedding photographer and helps in the shot selections.

If you read my previous posting on Vianca and Claude, then you know them up close and personal from their engagement session. What follows are portraits from their wedding day.

Enjoy!

Willie

[Double-click images to enlarge viewing]

Vianca's dress was stunning.

Vianca & her special friends.

It's always interesting watching the groom's first glance of his wife to be.

Do you think Claude is excited?

Only Claude could pull off this comedian act...

...and laugh about it.

Opps!

Claude roaring his approval.

Let's get this party started.

Drawing Class Portrait

2011-05-28T18:34:00.000-04:00

I had a great time in my first beginners drawing class offered by the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art. I've never taken a drawing class before, but we had a small class of eager beginners and a wonderful instructor in Cyndy Epps. The photograph below was taken our last day of class just before our "plein air" drawing session. The morning started off "chilly", but quickly warmed up.

[Double-click image to enlarge viewing]

Our teacher, Cyndy Epps, is holding a class project
where each of us had a portion of the drawing to
complete. We joined our individual pieces together,
and Cyndy is holding the final project. Yep,
I was the only dude in the class? Go figure.

Cristina Valesquez

2011-05-22T00:16:00.000-04:00

Two weeks ago while attending an art festival at downtown River Walk in Augusta, I met Cristina who was setting up her booth to sell candles. I'd initially noticed her, but didn't pay too much attention to her until a friend of mine mentioned how attractive she was. With that comment I decided to ask her if she would model for me. Cristina was very flattered by the invitation but equally apprehensive about being in front of the camera. She had never modeled before.

So, to give her some encouragement a week later we met and I showed her samples of my work and she agreed to this first session. I also want to give a big "thank you" to Kenya Moody who applied Cristina's makeup. This was our first time working together as a team, so I've started off the images below with Kenya at work.

In closing, I get a creative rush when I photograph someone who has never been photographed by a professional before. It's a thrill adding my creative touch to their personality and then see it all come together in great images. I look forward to working with Kenya and Cristina in the future. I think we all make a great team!

[Double click images to enlarge viewing]

Cristina before makeup was applied.

Kenya at work.

Model and makeup artist.

Cristina after makeup was applied.

One look at this image and you understand
why I wanted to photograph Cristina.
Cristina is Panamanian and she has great skin coloring.

We borrowed the front of this truck from a
driver who was parked near our location.

[To see a slide presentation of all the images

from this session, click on this link here.]

Location: 6th Street, Downtown Augusta
Cameras: 30D w/17-55mm IS and 70-200mm IS lenses
Flash: Canon 580 EX
Post: Adobe Lightroom 2.5 & CS3

Art in the Park 2011

2011-05-18T14:30:00.001-04:00

Artists showcase their talents at Art in the Park 2011, a festival highlighting the visual and performing arts. This year's event includes performances by local arts groups and performers, arts vendors, artist demonstrations, and the third annual sidewalk chalk contest.

Location: Evans, GA
Camera: Canon 30D w/17-55mm IS lens
Post: Adobe Lightroom 3 & CS3
Slideshow: Producer 4

[Double click images to enlarge viewing]

It all begins with a box of chalk.

My granddaugther (Angelique) and her rendition for the contest.

Here's the sidewalk version.

Samantha and her Phoenix drawing.

This was a very impressive drawing. See artist below.
It ain't mud, but it's just as messy!

Everyone took pride in their work.

I love the piercing eyes through the chalk.

Aaah, the pleasure of making pottery out of mud.

Good music was another part of the festival.

Cyndy Epps (my drawing teacher) had a major part in the festival's planning.

Panorama of the crowd.

To see a slide presentation of all of the chalk drawings click here:

I Can Draw #1

2011-05-15T06:43:00.001-04:00

The following sketches and paintings are from my first installment of: "I Can Draw". Back on March 10th I reported in a posting that I had started exploring my artistic talents in watercolor painting and drawing. Well, I'm having tons of fun learning the medium(s), so I've decided to start a gallery of my work in something I call "I Can Draw". In each of these postings I'll show you what I've been up to lately in my painting and drawing exercises. I hope you like them.
Enjoy!

Willie

P.S.: Please, don't comment about how bad some of the pieces look; I'm a very "sensitive starving artist". LOL!!!

[Double-click images to enlarge viewing]

Male Torso (2H pencil)

This is the sketch that was my drawing breakthrough. On a scratch piece of paper one evening I penciled out this male torso and it perfectly matched my example. I finally could see the positive/negative spaces, shading, and proportions. It was exciting!

Bulrushes (watercolors)

My Hand (graphite pencils)

Two Pines (watercolors)

Winter Stream (watercolors)
Woman's Back (water soluble pencil)

Pond (colored pencils)

Pear (Crayola markers)

Flower (watercolor pencils)
Practice Lips 2(graphite pencil)

Flowers In A Vase (watercolor pencils)
Wacom Mouse (graphite pencil)
Bird of Paradise (colored pencils)
Bird on a limb (graphite pencils)
Bridge in forest (pencil & ink)
Diet Pepsi Ad (colored pencils)
Practice Ear (graphite pencil)
Girl sitting on stool (sanguine crayon)
Practice head (graphite pencil)
Practice Eye (graphite pencil)
Knife resting on spoon holder (graphite pencils)
Apple on table (colored pencils)
Practice lips (graphite pencil)
Assorted flowers in vase (graphite pencils)
Toilet paper on table (charcoal)
Squirrel on tree stump (graphite & water soluble pencils)
Apple (watercolor pencils)
Teddy Bear (graphite pencils)

Nectarine & Banana (pastel pencils)

Natasha & Brett's "Love Story"

2011-05-07T23:36:00.000-04:00

Throughout the business year of a portrait/wedding studio you run into customers who simply standout from the ordinary. These are the clients who come to you because they have seen and appreciate your work and know that they want the best that you can offer them. The joy about working with this type client is that they not only let you do your job unhindered, but they encourage you to express your creativity in any fashion that you see fit.

I can honestly tell you that out of the many clients that I've photographed, Natasha Robinson is in the top five. She absolutely stole my heart and loyalty to create awesome portraits for her over the months leading up to her wedding day. I've never met a woman who is so full of confidence and self-awareness as Natasha, yet she has an aura of kindness that supersedes any label you could put on the term "elegant woman".

Quite often when I was photographing Brett and Natasha during their engagement session below, I reminded them what a beautifully balanced couple they were. In many of today's couples you just don't see the type of unselfish relationship that they have with each other. I wished that every engaged couple could spend some time talking to Brett and Natasha about what makes their relationship so unique. Keep an eye out for all of the postings on this couple because I don't want you to miss a true "Love Story".

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double-click images to enlarge viewing]

I don't give nicknames to my clients,
but Natasha's would be "Smooth".

If Natasha doesn't win you over with pleasantness,

she will surely do it with laughter and fun.

Angelique [Quick Session]

2011-05-01T11:42:00.000-04:00

Angelique and I were trying to find an art show that was downtown, but had difficulty locating it. In our search we came across several rustic walls and doors that made great backgrounds, so I had her to pop in these spots for a quick portrait or two. We came up with some great, fun shots that tempered the fact that we never did locate the art show. So...we created our own art!

[Double click images to enlarge viewing]

Location: Downtown Augusta
Camera: Canon 30D w/17-55mm IS lens
Post-production: Adobe Lightroom 2.5 & CS3

Lisa & Norman's Wedding

2011-04-30T23:35:00.000-04:00

Several months ago in a previous posting I introduced Althea and Norman to you by way of their "Love Story" images. Now, it's time to show you the final chapter in our work with them. Their wedding day portraits.

I'll have to confess that the following images were not created by me because upon returning from Florida after covering another wedding, I became gravely ill for two weeks (I think it was a BAD case of food poisoning) and could not make the trip. Lisa had the unfortunate pleasure of being the first bride's in 25 years of being a photographer whose wedding I missed due to illness.

Thanks, Lisa, for letting us being your photographer.

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double-click images to enlarge viewing]

Lanita Patton - Class of 2011

2011-04-26T21:20:00.009-04:00

The following pages are from the senior album that was created for Lanita Patton - Class of 2011. Congratulations, Lanita.

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double-click images to enlarge viewing quality]

Camera Equipment: Canon 30D w/17-55mm IS lens
Flash: Doug Softbox w/Canon 550 Flash
Software: Adobe Lightroom 2.5 & CS3

Tameka Collins' Glamour Session

2011-04-20T09:52:00.001-04:00

Several postings ago when I showed you images of Tameka's wedding I mentioned what a beautiful woman she was in front of the camera. Not to leave you disappointed I've posted a few images from her portrait session that we created prior to her wedding. I'm sure you'll agree that she is gorgeous and has stunning features. I love her face!

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double-click image to enlarge viewing]

One of my favorite portraits of Tameka.

Camera: Canon 30D w/17-55mm IS lens
Location: Studio
Lighting: Speedotron 400
Post-production: Adobe Photoshop 3

Pride

2011-04-15T09:10:00.000-04:00

"Pride" is an attempt by man to be his own god.

Jennifer & Robert's Wedding

2011-04-11T23:36:00.000-04:00

Maturity in a couple brings a lot to the experience of a wedding and it overflows into the opportunities a wedding photographer can exploit during the wedding day. Add to that the ingredient that in the past you've seen and experienced my style of wedding photography, you've got the perfect mix for a a great partnership. That's how I'm introducing Jennifer & Robert.

Several years ago I photographed Robert's younger brother's wedding, so naturally when it came to his and Jennifer's "big day" selecting me as their photographer was a simple matter. I got to know the Anton boys through their dad Robert, and it's been a dear friendship that I've cherished over the years. So, I had to pull out all stops for "Al's" (a.k.a. Robert) wedding.

When I first met Robert and Jennifer you could feel the love between this couple. It was ablaze! Yet, there was a gentleness and kindness that a lot of younger couple would have to discover years into their marriage. For Jennifer and Robert it was already there.

I love this couple. It was great getting to know them, watching the romance between them, and photographing them. Not only did they make my job as photographer so easy, they give a great representation of what marriage is all about. I wish them all the blessings in their relationship. They score a 10 in my book, and I've photographed a LOT of weddings.

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double click images to enlarge viewing]

Jennifer is every dad's kinda daughter.
Jennifer is naturally playful.

Officer Anton always gets his woman.

This is the kind of love between Jennifer & Robert that is priceless.

Monique & Marc's Wedding

2011-04-05T23:37:00.000-04:00

If you read the post that I wrote on Monique and Marc back in August and you viewed all of the images from their "Love Story" session, then you know what a classy couple they are together. The day of their wedding proved equally as elegant and charming.

Location has a lot to do with how well wedding images are created and how well they can be enjoyed as art. The Double Tree Grand Hotel on Biscayne Bay was an idyllic backdrop for both Monique's and Marc's ceremony and reception. I had a grand time photographing the couple and with scenery and decorum like this it's hard to capture boring images.

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double-click images to enlarge for viewing]

Marc's love for sweet stuff is overpowering.

Location: Double Tree Grand Hotel, Biscayne Bay - Miami
Equipment: Canon 5D & 30D
Post-production: Adobe CS3 & Lightroom 2.5

Elizabeth Valerio - Class of 2012

2011-04-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

If you asked me what is my favorite type of photography session out of all that I do, for now I would probably answer: Seniors. Compared to years ago when a senior session only meant a red or black boa around the neck for the girls and a black tux coat for the boys, today's sessions are a totally different show. It's a full production with make-up artist, fashion designer, set designer...you name it. However, the simplicity of the experience for both photographer and student can be rolled into one word---fun! I love the creativity, the care-free personality of the students (who complain very little during their time with you) and the idea that there are no stiff rules about when, where, and how to capture images. For them it's a moment to be an American Idol. Add that ingredient to all the post-production techniques that are available and you have a recipe for unique and outstanding imagery.

With that introduction meet Elizabeth Valerio an upcoming senior at Lakeside High School. I didn't get to do my usual sit-down interview with Elizabeth before her session, but as soon as we started shooting immediately we were clicking on the same page. Here is a young lady that is very comfortable within herself and was just as comfortable and confident in front of the camera. I thoroughly enjoyed working with this kid. As you view the images below you'll see what an attractive, witty-looking, and exuberant teenager she is. Personally, I think (and told her) that she would make an excellent teen model; she's just that good in front of the camera.

Thanks, Elizabeth, for a great time together. We'll see you at graduation time.

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double click images to enlarge viewing]

Elizabeth started off her session with ease.

Elizabeth's stunning features would
make her a perfect teen model.

My favorite image of Elizabeth.

Elizabeth can be equally animated as well as serious.

Location: Riverwalk
Equipment: Canon 30D w/17-55mm IS & 70-200mm IS lenses
Post-Production: Adobe Lightroom 2.5 & CS3

My Mother Taught Me #15

2011-03-30T22:18:00.000-04:00

My mother taught me ENVY.

She said, "There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have wonderful parents like you do".

Living History Park

2011-03-27T17:03:00.011-04:00

Today I made a twenty-eight minute drive over the state line to visit a park in Aiken County, South Carolina. I was anticipating seeing a full blown event featuring 18th Century living and reenactments, but the newspaper posting was just a little misleading. There wasn't a ton of people milling around and the promise of a major thunderstorm gave me the opportunity to get some clean shots of the park without visitors cluttering up my images. On top of that, Kay, one of the interpreters gave me a one-on-one guided tour of Living History Park since I had arrived so early.

Another treat that I experienced was visiting with Bruce Ingram who was telling stories and demonstrating 18th Century living as a slave in front of the slave cabin. Not only did "Mr. Bruce" have a strong "slave-like" handshake, but his stories were just as compelling and entertaining. I only heard two of them, but I betcha he's got tons of 'em. (Check out his website below).

Thanks to the overcast day there is a lot of detail in the images and I didn't have to fight strong contrasty lighting which can be a problem in wooded areas. At the beginning of the afternoon, moments after I decided to head back home, the weather turned into a severe weather watch that lasted until the following day. Although, I didn't see what I had expected, photographically the trip turned out to be better than I could have planned.

Enjoy!
Willie

Norwood House serves as the Welcome Center to the park.
Willow Springs Meeting House served as

church, school, and protective walls.
Bell tower.

Storytellers dressed in 18th Century attire.

Thompson Academy serves as education center.

Smokehouse used to cure meat to keep it from spoiling.

Lamb's Ear (Stachys byzantina)

"Mr. Bruce" playing music on a gourd

instrument in front of the slave cabin.

Bruce Ingram (slave character and storyteller)
Woman dressed in 18th Century
attire weeding flowerbed.

Location: North Augusta, SC
Bruce Ingram: Art Website
Equipment: Canon 30D w/17-55mm IS lens
Post-production: Adobe Lightroom 2.5 & CS3

Vianca & Claude's Engagement Session

2011-03-20T22:51:00.000-04:00

One of the most challenging moments I have as a professional photographer is when I come under the scrutiny of another photographer as a client. Unlike the average client who contracts me to cover their wedding, working with someone else in the profession requires that I walk a tightrope that has to be a perfect balance between two individuals artistic demands. On several occasions when I've had this type scenario, I've done everything I could NOT to be contracted as the photographer because I knew what the outcome was going to be. One big "opinion fight", and who has time for that?

Well, that wasn't the case when Vianca Monroe and Claude White came to the studio to check us out as their wedding photographer. Upfront Claude mentioned to me that he was an avid photographer and that he admired my work. He also made it clear that he expected quality work because he knew what to look for, but he also wouldn't tie the hands of the photographer he hired. During the course of the consultation I will admit that Claude and I clouded Vianca's inquires about my services when we'd go off on tangents about photo equipment and techniques. To make a long story short, the three of us clicked beautifully after fielding Claude's questions and I was looking forward to really showing him what a talented photographer he'd hired.

The final thing I want to share about Vianca and Claude is this. Vianca is quiet as a church mouse and Claude is, well...plain hilarious. This guy absolutely cracks me up with his sense of humor and he's the perfect match to bring out Vianca's quietness. Claude, thanks for putting your trust in me. Here's the first installment on some great images of you and your "special lady".

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double-click images to enlarge viewing pleasure]

Locations: Fort Lauderdale Airport parking lot
Performing Arts Center

Equipment: Canon 30D w/17-55mm IS lens
Doug Box Location Softbox with Canon 550EX flash
Pocketwizards

Jessica Morris - Protege

2011-03-15T10:51:00.004-04:00

Meet Jessica Morris, my new protege. Over the years I have had numerous photographers come into my life and we became friends and fellow photographers who have spent a lot of time learning our craft and sharing our knowledge. Jessica was introduced to me by her husband (Paul) who informed me during a brief conversation that his wife was into photography. In parting I gave him my business card and told him to tell Jessica to check out my work on my website and give me a call if she wanted to discuss photography.

The following day I got an email from Jessica saying that she loved my work and would love to learn from me, so I agreed to take her on. We scheduled our first photo shoot together with a new model, (who didn't show up), so we spent an hour taking still-life images at the Riverwalk in downtown Augusta. All-in-all it wasn't a busted trip because we got to scout out some great locations for future senior and portrait photography sessions. And, Jessica got her first new lessons under her belt.

So, meet Jessica and check out a few of the images I took at Riverwalk so that I hadn't wasted my time. Welcome aboard, Jessica, I've got plenty to teach you if you willing to learn. I think we're going to make a great new team.

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double click images to enlarge viewing]

Start with something simple...

...and add in a little technique such as a panorama.

I'm learning that "spaces" are a huge part of composition.

Location: Riverwalk, [downtown Augusta]
Camera: Canon 30D w/17-55mm IS lens
Post-production: Adobe Lightroom 2.5 & Adobe CS3

Passion Realized

2011-03-10T11:22:00.002-05:00

Thirteen years ago (when life wasn't so busy) I had a passion to learn how to paint in watercolor. In fact, I promised myself that if I ever retired I wanted to learn how to proficiently paint in watercolor as my next venture. I've always been intrigued by the pencil marks on the paper, how different layers of paint could be seen on top of each other, and how unique each brush stroke represented something not entirely recognizable. To me watercolor painting is just as meticulous as photography. Both require precision, you have to watch small details, and you need to master your craft. Watercolor VS photography = a draw.

Thirteen years ago when I took my first watercolor class at an Adult Education school, the teacher was so terrible at instructing I was left with total frustration and disappointment. So, I packed up my supplies and stored them away until now when the passion once again reignited in my mind. Since the move to Georgia and the subsequent closing of the studio, I've had lots of time on my hand. Well, two weeks ago I enrolled in a watercolor class and this time I'm not giving up mastering this medium. No, I'm not giving up photography...I'm just seeing it through different eyes now. Painting has actually heightened my sense of how to create some awesome images.

I want to share some of my latest works so you can see that I will not quit my day job, but I am having fun; that's what painting is all about. Hopefully, as I get better at this you will have seen where I started and how far I have advanced. The whole point of this posting is: "Don't give up on your passions. They can become realized at the right time".

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double click images to enlarge viewing]

"Camilla Blooms"

"Barn Owl"

"Backyard Tree"

"Flowers In Vase"

"Cattle Drive"

"Sand Dunes"

"Basket of Fruits"

"Mushrooms"

Tools: Watercolor paints, watercolor pencils, & Crayon markers.

Work

2011-03-05T19:57:00.000-05:00

I love work. It fascinates me. I could sit and watch it all day.

~Annoymous

Glidecam 2000 Pro

2011-03-01T08:24:00.001-05:00

As our video services grow for the studio and more and more clients are coming to us for premier video coverage of their wedding and events, we are constantly adding new cinematic equipment to make our work stand out from our competitors. One piece of accessories that I'm truly excited about is our purchase of the Glidecam 2000 Pro camera stabilization systems used by both film and video makers (glidecam.com).

So what does a stabilizing system offer a videoartist? As explained by Glidecam Industries: "These hand-held and body-mounted camera stabilizers create super smooth shots, and allow the operator to walk, run, go up and down stairs, shoot from moving vehicles, and travel over uneven terrain without any camera instability or shake". I'm certain that you've seen these stabilizers in use during major sporting events as the cameraman floats in and out of the action while capturing some breathtaking footage. Well, we want to offer our clients the same experience in our video service. I've already test driven the system and it's proving to be the type improvement that is going to enhance our video products.

[Click on this link: Glidecam Test to see a brief video of the test]

Look for more postings and video sessions showing the Glidecam in action. Contact 706-650-8676 if you have an event you want covered with professional video.

Enjoy!
Willie

Lisa & Norman's Love Story

2011-02-26T10:36:00.000-05:00

Some couples bring a type of chemistry to an engagement session that speaks volumes about their relationship. From the moment I first met Lisa and Norman at a Signature Grand bridal show and they contracted me to be their wedding photographer, I knew we were going to make a great team. I quickly surmised that they were confident in their companionship and would be great subjects in front of the camera. I wasn't wrong about either observation.

Both are a picture of good looks, health, and success that a young couple can enjoy by taking life and each other seriously. I couldn't wait to photograph them because I knew we could have lots of romantic fun and pull off some Hollywood style images. If you want to see what a hot couple they are together, check out the "sweet" images I created of them in several locations around town. They made my job so easy!

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double-click images to enlarge for better viewing]

Norman's baby.

Norman's REAL baby!

One of my favorite shots of Lisa & Norman.

Lisa has an absolutely stunning face.

...and killer eyes!

Hot licks.

Prelude to their wedding.

-to be continued-

Savannah Rapids Park

2011-02-23T23:29:00.029-05:00

Today I took a driving tour of all the parks in Columbia County, GA where I now live. Although I didn't find a lot of subjects that I could photograph, most were ballparks and recreational jump offs, I did find in the Savannah Rapids Park a "gem" of a stop. In fact, it was the last park on my list to visit before heading home.

It's a treat to walk around with my camera and let my senses take in everything that's surrounding me. However, as a photographic artist I then have to isolate particular vistas that might only be as large as a budding flower or as wide as the Savanna River itself.

There is so much visual information going on before your eyes and in your brain. First, there is the play of light, shapes and forms, and textures that can capture your attention as you look at subject matter from different angles. And, second, there is also the forethought of how you can enhance an image later once you get it into your favorite digital software. Now, that's something that years ago I could not dream of doing with film.

Anyway, I found all of these wonderful ingredients during my brief walk in this park and the following images are just a small gallery of what I discovered. Immerse yourself in them and see if you can see what I saw through the eyepiece of my camera and mind.

[Note: The panorama images were created in Adobe Photoshop CS3 using the photo merge feature.

Enjoy!

Willie

[Double-click images to enlarge viewing]

I don't know the name of this tree, but I want one.

Savanna Rapids Park Images

Canal HeadgatesPanorama #1

Panorama #2

I have two favorites images from this trip and this is one of them.
Panorama #3

I wanted to convey the texture of the water in this image.
I'm always looking for lines and perspective in my images.

A serious of shots led up to this
final composition. I love it!
Who says you can't shoot into the sun?

From this...

...to this.

Camera: Canon 30D w/17-55mm IS lens
Post-production: Adobe Lightroom 2.5 & Adobe Photoshop CS3
Additional Software: Topaz Adjust

Sly Fox

2011-02-14T08:57:00.001-05:00

I spend a lot of time behind the camera and when people ask if they can photograph me I usually shy away. Why? 'Cause I take lousy pictures. However, here's a shot of me that my sneaky daughter, Dana, captured of me at a wedding. I kinda like it. [See...that's me HIDING behind the camera] Great shot!!!

Thanks, Dana.

Enjoy!
Willie

My Mother Taught Me #14

2011-02-10T22:16:00.000-05:00

My mother taught me BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION.

She said, "Stop acting like your father".

Lake View

2011-02-09T12:45:00.006-05:00

Although Dana and I are not shooting together at the moment, she's still keeping her photo-taking and post-editing skills up. Here's a recent image she took during our first major snow storm here in Grovetown, GA. Not satisfied with the original image, she put to work her unique talent to enhance images and make them a piece of art. I know I'm her dad and trained her, but I really like her work a lot. Don't think I'm bragging when I say this, but I think she's a chip off the ole block.

Don't stop shooting, Kid! Daddy thinks you're awesome.

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double-click image to enlarge viewing]

"Lake View"

Tameka & OJ's Wedding

2011-02-01T23:25:00.000-05:00

I'm truly excited about this post because it has been years in the making. Although I had been awaiting its arrival, my friend Tameka Collin's wedding came much sooner than I had anticipated. She has been very selective about her choice of men in her life, and I knew she wasn't going to rush into marriage. In a sense this is a fairytale come true.

What you don't know about Tameka is that she is a wedding coordinator and over the years she has referred many brides and portrait clients to me. Not only that, she has also had personal photography created by me and is one of my biggest fans. (Perhaps I'll show you in a future blog how awesome she looks in pictures).

Anyway, years ago in an act of appreciation I told Tameka that if she ever got married I would gladly photograph her wedding day for "free". Well, New Year's Day 2011 she finally did it! I flew down to South Florida and had a great time covering her wedding at Parrot Jungle Island in Key Biscayne.

Congratulations, Tameka and O.J., and I hope you love your wedding album, too. It is one of the best that I've ever photographed and designed. Also, it has been a pleasure working with you over the years, and I'm going to miss you now that we're living in Georgia.

Enjoy!
Willie

[Double click images to enlarge viewing]

Future brides.

Tameka always has a smile.

Oh, yeah, it's that time!

There will be NO bell ringing at this wedding!

Don't count on O.J. braiding any kid's hair.

Stick to the DJ gig.

Women LOVE a bald-head man!

THE END

Splish, Splash!! Who Needs A Swimsuit

2011-01-23T08:30:00.001-05:00

Recently, after covering a wedding, I was on my way to my car when one of the guests asked me if I could photograph her taking a dip in the pool. Not one to pass up a photo op, I said, "Okay". I'll admit I wasn't quite sure how she was going to accomplish this because she was fully dressed in street clothes.

Well, let the following sequence of images tell the story.

[Double-click images to enlarge for a better view]

(Note: She is NOT wearing a swimsuit)

A few warm-up stretches to get the blood flowing.Is this water gonna be cold?

Oh, no, the Invisible Gopher pushed her!

Looks like a 10 to me. It's in the eyes.

Lady, you're cool!

PART 2

This story isn't over yet. Suddenly on the sideline this guy grabs his girlfriend/wife or "whatever" and she's screaming bloody, "No-o-o-o". I look over and he has her lifted in the air and is headed for the edge of the pool. Yep, I got to photograph this couple taking the plunge as an encore. I LOVE photography...and crazy people!

This lady is no dummy. Check out the hand over the nose.

The pool judge scores 10 with a hand clap.

He's celebrating now, but wait 'til she gets him home.

Enjoy!
Willie

I Know It's Been A While

2011-01-22T09:48:00.003-05:00

Finally, I am all settled in our new home in Grovetown, GA which is 15 minutes outside of the Augusta area. It has been an awesome, overwhelming experience closing down the studio and uprooting my entire family (let's not forget our household items) and moving up to the "Peach State". We have left behind some great friends, clients, and certainly family members.

I get this question all the time from people who ask me ,"Why Georgia?" The honest truth is: It was a "God thing" and He worked out all the details in an expedient manner that virtually blew us away. We flew up here late July and spent two days house hunting, closed on a new home in August, and relocated in September. Wow! So, here we are!

To show you what kind of roller coaster ride it has been moving from sunny south Florida to here, check out our first major snowfall below. This is a panorama shot I took of my neighborhood while looking out the front door of my house. Brrrrr! Yes, we're freezing our buns off the first few months that we've been here, but it's great.

This is my first posting for the new year, so stay tuned. There's more to come.

Enjoy!
Willie

My Mother Taught Me #13

2011-01-10T22:15:00.000-05:00

My mother taught me THE CIRCLE OF LIFE.

She said, "I brought you into this world and I can take you out".

My Mother Taught Me #12

2010-12-10T22:13:00.000-05:00

My mother taught me HYPOCRISY.

She said, "If I've told you once, I've told you a million times. Don't exaggerate!!!!".

My Mother Taught Me #11

2010-11-10T22:11:00.000-05:00

My mother taught me PHYSICS PROBLEMS.

She said, "If I yelled because I saw a semi truck coming toward you, would you listen then?"

My Mother Taught Me #10

2010-10-10T22:10:00.000-04:00

My mother taught me WEATHER.

She said, "It looks as if a tornado swept through your room".

My Mother Taught Me #9

2010-09-10T22:08:00.000-04:00

My mother taught me STAMINA.

She said, "You sit there 'til all that spinach is gone".

Portrait Corner Studio, LLC On Hold

2010-09-09T23:27:00.002-04:00

Due to the move that Portrait Corner Studio, LLC is making to the Augusta, GA area, I have temporarily suspended posting to the blog. So, stay tuned for an update as soon as we get settled and up and running again. We're very excited about starting a new venture in the Peach State and will dearly miss all of the clients and friends we've made over the years in South Florida.

Enjoy!
Willie

Monique & Marc's "Love Story" Session

2010-08-27T21:45:00.001-04:00

Every now and then you get to photograph an engagement session that stands out from the rest. It's a rare moment that makes you feel good about your photography and provides you with images that can be used to show as samples to other clients.

I have the good pleasure of introducing you to Monique & Marc whose wedding I will be covering in a few weeks. They brought something special to their engagement session which made it stand out from the norm. The prop they brought was Marc's beautiful blue motorcycle. I really enjoyed working with this couple because they came with their "game faces" on and we had a great time creating some unique images.

Monique set the theme for my photography by explaining to me in advance that she wanted to have some exciting shots taken over several locations. So, I planned five different locations to photograph so that we could get some really hot shots. The images below are the ones chosen for their "Love Story" album. Great job, Monique and Marc. I'm looking forward to your wedding date.

Enjoy!
Willie

Images can be viewed larger by clicking on them.

Candace Booker's Glamour Session

2010-08-21T07:08:00.001-04:00

Many of our portrait clients come from the referral of friends who have either seen our work or have experienced a session with us themselves. Candace Booker is a close friend of Angie Holloway and was extremely pleased with the images that she saw from Angie's session. So, when Candace came into the studio she was already excited about being photographed. Because of her enthusiasm, for me it was one of the easiest sessions I've had in a long time. I had tons of fun and later on I learned from Candace that she had a great time, too.

Candace wanted this session as a gift for her fiancee and all I can say is that he's going to be one happy man when he unveils her portraits. Nice job, Candace. We're looking forward to capturing your wedding images in the future.

Enjoy!
Willie

Previews can be viewed larger by double clicking.

Relocation Of Portrait Corner Studio, LLC.

2010-08-15T23:37:00.004-04:00

For 25 years Portrait Corner Studio, LLC has been Dania Beach's only and longest operating professional photography studio. We want to thank all of our South Florida clients who have become a part of our business family. It's exciting for us to announce that August 31, 2010 we are closing the operation of the studio and relocating to the Augusta, GA area.

On behalf of Dana and myself it has been a wonderful experience sharing our talents with so many people who have come to appreciate our work. We wish many blessings upon each and everyone who have become not only our clients but also close friends.

Dana & Willie
willie@portraitcorner.com

My Mother Taught Me #8

2010-08-10T22:06:00.000-04:00

My mother taught me CONTORTIONISM.

She said, "Will you "look" at the dirt on the back of your neck".