The Black Dog’s PhotoBlog

I just wanted to say congratulations to some special people who gratuated this year.

My niece Nikki, who for the life of me I can’t find a picture of at this moment and I know I have a bunch.

My nephew Eli, who is full of life and a blast to be around.

Kandi, who graduated a year early AND puts up with my son on a daily basis.

(Sorry, we haven’t done her senior pictures yet but will soon.)

They say a smile only takes a moment but its memory lasts forever.

This was probably my favorite picture from this session and I’ll tell you all why. See that great smile and if you look, you’ll see his dog is even giving me a smile. You guys are great – thanks for giving me the chance to meet you, your mom, your dog and to take your pictures!

I’m always trying to pull out that “real” smile. For some people it comes easy and others it’s very difficult. For me to capture a real smile on my subject is always so gratifying. Sure I like some serious faces for some types of portraits but a smile is like some kind of reward. You know the old saying, “a smile makes the world go round”. If you’ve got a nice smile, show it off!

Despite not really being thrilled to have his picture taken, this smile was great!

Of course, I love this picture too….(and many more which I’ll have to post more of later for the readers).

It’s September and for many that means the return to school. Many will hear new and interesting things.

I love learning and in photography I feel like I’m constantly learning. I’m constantly discovering new techniques and new people with new ideas. I always try to get people to give me their thoughts on where and how they’d like their portraits. It not only helps me become aware of new ideas but it helps to create that one of a kind, originality in each person’s portrait package. That little something that no one else will have and that little something that says “you”. Remember, your portraits are about “YOU” not the photographer taking your pictures.

Also, just a note, there’s still plenty of time for your Class of 2009 senior portraits. Not everyone has their senior portraits done in the summer before they start back to school. Many people like to wait for the colorful fall leaves or even the winter snow.

I’m just going to take a little bragging time here.

Any of you ever heard of the MTEA SuperMileage Challenge? This year it took place on May 19th & 20th, 2008 at Brainerd International Raceway in Brainerd, MN. (Yes, I realize I haven’t posted in my blog since the 18th of May. We’ve been very busy around here, but more on that in the coming days.)

This was my son’s second and final year taking part in this challenge. The goal of this challenge is not to be the fastest vehicle but instead to get the best mileage using E85 fuel. My son’s vehicle won the prize for the top performing E85 vehicle and his school was awarded $300! The vehicle he designed and built got 493 miles per gallon on it’s best run. That’s pretty amazing if you ask me. Especially in a day when gas prices are outrageous and many of us are beginning to realize that we need to very soon find an alternative fuel source.

Here’s a little write up from the MN Corn Growers Association’s Website about SuperMileage Cars and this year’s challenge.
High school students build super high mileage cars
Written by Jonathan Eisenthal
That’s my son and his girlfriend accepting the check for his school pictured at the bottom of the article.

Last spring my son convinced me that I would really enjoy doing senior portraits. Tell me, what mother can turn her own son down? We had a great conversation and even talked about my senior portraits, or the lack of them. My parents couldn’t afford to pay for senior portraits back then. So while my son and I were talking, I decided that if I were to do this, I was only going to do it if I could bring the senior portrait experience to some people who would otherwise not have this opportunity.

Recently I read about a photography studio in MI who gives out “Senior Portrait Scholarships”. My thought was how well this concept fit with my goals. In fact, I wish I had thought of it sooner. So as the Class of 2009 is preparing to have their portraits, I’m thrilled to announce that I will be offering 2 Senior Portrait Scholarships.

Especially, these days when so many families are experiencing financial setbacks and difficulties. I’ve been there myself. I know there can be many different reasons that can prevent a person from being able to have senior portraits. I feel this is an important part of the senior year experience.

The 2 students selected will receive a portrait setting and senior portrait package free of charge. The senior portrait package will include one 8×10, four 5×7s, wallets and one yearbook proof.

To be eligible you must be a resident of the Stanchfield, MN area attending one of the local High Schools and submit an essay of 250 words or less.

Awards will be based on either financial need or personal circumstances.

Applications must be submitted by June 30th, 2008. Winners will be announced on July 7th, 2008.

Please see www.blackdogsphoto.com/09ScholarshipAppl.html for application.

I would like to challenge other high school senior portrait photographers to do the same.