The Black Dog’s PhotoBlog

Rush Point Store, Est. 1879. View an old photograph of this store here –>old photo of Rush Point Store or visit the store’s website here –>Rush Point Store Website

Just the beginning of August and already I’m busier that last month. I’m excited about the new month and the new developments for my business. Besides being a month away from the beginning of the school season and finding that many seniors haven’t yet had their portraits taken I also have a few projects this month which will take me out of the studio. This is very exciting for me. I began one of these projects on August 1st which is photographing a small township just north of Cambridge, MN called Nessel Township. It’s a very quite and peaceful place that consists mostly of agricultural land. I’d love for my photographs of this area to show others what beauty is contained here. I’ve decided to do this essay entirely in black and white using only my 17-35mm wide angle lense. My hope is that this will become a collection of work that I can build on for some years to come and maybe duplicate for some of the other small towns in Minnesota.

Designed in Simple Georgian Architecture, Calvary Lutheran Church, Est. 1870

West Rush Lake Shoreline

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.