Bruja's Photo 52 + Night [Archive]

Bruja

13-01-2009, 12:01

Jill, How did you prop up the mirrors, BTW? I am thinking of trying a multi mirror shot soon just to see how difficult it is?

Is there anything you would do differently for THIS shot next time?

Hi Simon, I used a small, narrow hallway and propped one mirror as straight as I could without it falling over against a door. The second mirror I Idid the same but against one of those square, cheap tables from Ikea. But I had to be very, very careful how I took the shot as any movement against the table sent the mirror falling, and, with a large lighted candle, that wasn't a good idea! As I didn't have the energy to get the tripod out, and it wouldn't have fit in the space I was using anyway, I was using the table to balance the camera.

It's also very difficult to keep yourself or your camera out of the frame when using 2 mirrors. And I wanted the focus on the candles without any distracting background information so I only used the light of the candle, and underexposed and then adjusted the levels in ACDSee.

Whay would I do differently?

Take more time - 20 minutes from start to finish - including uploading, wasn't long enough (PM me if you want to know why I only had 20 minutes ;))

Clean the mirrors

Use the tripod

Try and get a wider angle on the candle

Use a different place to set it up

Try a different DoF and focal point

But, all in all, it's probably something I wouldn't repeat as it's not my usual style, but who knows what may happen in the future. I prefer shots of details of stuff people normally don't see as they walk past and candids. Like here http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=2503

But I'm glad you've set this up as I like experimenting, and learning from my mistakes is all part of that :naughty:

Duckydoodle

13-01-2009, 12:03

Nice image Bruja. Good luck with the next one. It's a wonderful learning curve and it does feel like a community project. The encouragement and advice from everyone is great and gives you the boost to get going with the next project :thumbs:

Bruja

13-01-2009, 12:20

Thanks Maureen, I appreciate it. Got an idea for history so I've just got to try it out now! Might be rubbish though and then back to the drawing board (or a last minute entry again!)

Bruja

17-01-2009, 16:50

HISTORY

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3366/3203428495_8e8945b067_o.jpg

This is me.

Sometimes I can wear my high heeled shoes, though not often enough. :(

Most of the time I have to use at least one crutch, and sometimes two. :razz:

Occasionally I'm limited to the wheelchair. :shake:

And this can all happen in the same week, and sometimes in the same day.

It's been a bad few weeks for me and I've not managed to get out of bed much (should have had a picture of that too! :lol:)

I've got Multiple Sclerosis you see, and, although it tries to control me, I'm still the boss :naughty: and this challenge is encouraging my innate stubborness to carry on regardless :thumbs:

I've learned a few lessons from this week's challenge but you'll have to wait for another day to find out what they are as I'm now cream crackered.

Dark Star

17-01-2009, 16:54

I've got Multiple Sclerosis you see, and, although it tries to control me, I'm still the boss :naughty: and this challenge is encouraging my innate stubborness to carry on regardless :thumbs:

Good on yer Jill :thumbs: - thats a touching and personal image and I applaud you for creating it and sharing it and for the sentiment that you express above!

Makes my trivial day-to-day whinges seem trite

Great and powerful 2nd week image! :thumbs:

fabs

17-01-2009, 16:54

Hi Jill. What an excellent series of pictures they are. They really do express your situation well. I would say all three pics are descriptive of me as well, but I try not to where the heels so much these days! :lol:

Sorry to hear that you are still having such a hard time of things and I really hope that things start to improve sooner rather than later.

jeangenie

17-01-2009, 17:21

Good on yer Jill :thumbs: - thats a touching and personal image and I applaud you for creating it and sharing it and for the sentiment that you express above!

Makes my trivial day-to-day whinges seem trite

Great and powerful 2nd week image! :thumbs:

John's expressed my sentiments exactly. All power to staying the boss. It's truly amazing what the human mind can achieve over adversities and your image this week is strong and beautifully executed. :clap:

Jean

EdBray

17-01-2009, 18:26

Absolutely gobsmacked, as John said it puts our insignificant problems into perspective.

Lovely set of images telling a very poignant story. All the best!

SimonTALM

17-01-2009, 19:54

Wow, a very good series of shots combined together beautifull :thumbs:. It's clear that the time you've spent on this is time well spent. I don't think there is much you could do to improve this, although I am thinking that the ballance of the three images could be improved by pointing the chair slightly to the right (as we see it) as in a sense this would mirror the first image with the heels.

I am very much looking forward to you sharing your Learning from this week and your Learning shot next week :)

jgs001

17-01-2009, 19:58

Wow, that's an excellent image, There's nothing I can say that's not already been said. Thank you :clap: :clap:

Bruja

18-01-2009, 14:17

Good on yer Jill :thumbs: - thats a touching and personal image and I applaud you for creating it and sharing it and for the sentiment that you express above!

Makes my trivial day-to-day whinges seem trite

Great and powerful 2nd week image! :thumbs:

Thanks John I appreciate it

Hi Jill. What an excellent series of pictures they are. They really do express your situation well. I would say all three pics are descriptive of me as well, but I try not to where the heels so much these days! :lol:

Thanks Marc. Your 365 gave me the courage to 'come out' about the disease.

John's expressed my sentiments exactly. All power to staying the boss. It's truly amazing what the human mind can achieve over adversities and your image this week is strong and beautifully executed. :clap:

Jean

Thanks Jean, it's amazing what a bit of stubborness can do :D

Absolutely gobsmacked, as John said it puts our insignificant problems into perspective.

Lovely set of images telling a very poignant story. All the best!

Thanks Ed, I appreciate your support, and glad you like the images. It's a bit of a twist on theme but I hoped it would work.

Wow, a very good series of shots combined together beautifull :thumbs:. It's clear that the time you've spent on this is time well spent.

Thanks Simon. I'll get around to my 'what I've learned' in the next couple of days.

Wow, that's an excellent image, There's nothing I can say that's not already been said. Thank you :clap: :clap:

What a lovely thing to say and I'm glad you like it. I'm overwhelmed by the positive response to this week's entry.

Spartacus

18-01-2009, 15:36

Well you put some of to shame with our moaning about things like the weather and other trivia..that a great set of shots:clap::clap::clap:

stevewestern

19-01-2009, 10:28

Brilliant Jill. Well done.

Duckydoodle

19-01-2009, 10:31

Brilliant tryptych so emotive and poignant :clap:

Bruja

19-01-2009, 13:07

Well you put some of to shame with our moaning about things like the weather and other trivia..that a great set of shots:clap::clap::clap:

Thanks Spartacus, and I moan about the trivial stuff too. Takes my mind off the rest :D

Brilliant Jill. Well done.

Thank you kind sir :naughty:

Brilliant tryptych so emotive and poignant :clap:

Thanks Maureen, maybe I should have put it in POTY instead of the 'pretty' entry I made :lol::lol::lol:

Toothie

20-01-2009, 19:33

Great image for History, cant help but wonder why you didn't enter it into the monthly?

The Matt

21-01-2009, 13:46

I really like this. It's a very unusual set of self portraits, and also very honest and telling. Nicely done.

Graulges

22-01-2009, 08:15

Brilliant tryptych so emotive and poignant :clap:

:agree:

Bruja

22-01-2009, 10:44

Great image for History, cant help but wonder why you didn't enter it into the monthly?

Thanks Toothie and I didn't enter it for POTY as I'm more motivated to see this 52 project through because it gives me more chance to get feedback on my work. This feels more satisfying for me. :)

I really like this. It's a very unusual set of self portraits, and also very honest and telling. Nicely done.

Thanks Matt, I appreciate it :thumbs:

:agree:

Thanks Graulges :D

22-01-2009, 10:49

YOu know what that image proves? That a 'portrait' doesn't have to include a face to tell you a load of stuff about a person you would never have imagined. Great idea, great execution, great inspiration :clap:

Bruja

24-01-2009, 10:05

Toothie

24-01-2009, 10:17

Thanks Toothie and I didn't enter it for POTY as I'm more motivated to see this 52 project through because it gives me more chance to get feedback on my work. This feels more satisfying for me. :)

i think to be honest you are right you have to do all 12 to make the monthly compatition worthwhile. I am finding the 52 much more fun :D

Bruja

24-01-2009, 10:31

Well I've made it to week 3 :D

Over the last 10 years or so I've learnt many things.When I had to retire as a lecturer because of MS I decided to train as an acupuncturist as the treatment had helped me such a lot and it was also a way for me to help other people in a similar situation. It was a 4 year course and I really enjoyed it, even though it was a struggle at times (for example I had to do my exams on a computer as I can't write very much or very clearly as my hands tire very quickly, and I had to sit on the floor with a beanbag and cushions as I can only sit for short periods of time at a table).

Anyway, I loved the whole experience and it did indeed allow me to help a lot of other people (or so they tell me :)). I finally gave it up last year as I didn't have enough energy, and I couldn't predict how I would feel on a particular day, so I didn't think that was fair to my patients. :(

Fortunately, just before this, I had been introduced to the world of photography and this has filled the void left after having to give up acupuncture. So I started a whole new learning process, one which is going to last a long time I hope. I certainly didn't think I was a creative person but photography seems to have opened up a whole new area in my brain. So much so that I've just finished my first exhibition and I sold 11 pictures :woot::woot:

Alongside this I've been learning Spanish for 5 years now (Well, as I live in Spain it seems only fair!) and I've got a few Spansh friends now as a result of this. MS can making learning difficult though. It affects short term memory, concentration and even eyesight at times, but, as I've said before, I'm the boss :D and if you look carefully at the picture you might even see the book what I wrote.......:lol::lol: which was about how to help others learn.

LEARNING

http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/gallery/data/2513/IMG_3669_edit_sm.jpg?844

24-01-2009, 10:40

:clap: I can see it, just, had to get a bit clos to the screen with dodgy eyes, but yes, its there. A very good way to interpret the theme, including all your own years of learning in a shelf of books and a good write up to go with it. :thumbs:

Bruja

24-01-2009, 10:50

Thanks Yv, it's great to get feeback, especially when it's good :D

jgs001

24-01-2009, 11:33

Excellent Jill, a great take on the theme, showing your learning path, I think it probably works for history too. Took a moment to find your book. :clap: :thumbs:

Congrats on the exhibition and sales too

Bruja

24-01-2009, 11:39

Thanks John, although I think without the story it would be a very average shot. But what I like about the 52 is that you can add a narrative (like the 365) so that the picture shows both something about the theme and your life - if that's how you want to do it.

SimonTALM

24-01-2009, 12:15

Dark Star

24-01-2009, 12:31

Lovely words, lovely shot and well done on having a book of yours on that shelf Jill

The colours are great and the tale it tells, illustrating your words is wonderful

Me gusta mucho ;)

Bruja

24-01-2009, 12:39

Wow great photo and great narrative. I think it works really well that all the books are mixed together as that really reflects my understanding of learning (i.e. how I tend to learn best when new information can be linked in some way to prior knowledge).

I especially like the lighting coming from the right side of the frame as this gives the image some depth. I'd imagine that front lighting would have given a very 2D image. It's not surprising that you've sold 11 photos :thumbs: I'm sure you'll sell many more.

Thanks Simon, I did try shooting with front lighting first but I didn't like the effect. And thanks for the vote of confidence :thumbs:

Lovely words, lovely shot and well done on having a book of yours on that shelf Jill

The colours are great and the tale it tells, illustrating your words is wonderful

Me gusta mucho ;)

Muchisimas Gracias John :lol: and thanks for the great feedback - and there was me thinking it was a very average picture :cuckoo:

jeangenie

24-01-2009, 15:48

Life throws some unexpected challenges at all of us, Jill. But I have to say - you are an inspiration the way you've risen to more challenges and overcome more setbacks than anybody has a right to expect.

The picture and narrative are very powerful together. :clap::clap:

Congratulations too on selling photos - and learning Spanish. :) I should imagine getting your book published ws a great thrill, too.

Jean

Spartacus

24-01-2009, 16:19

Simply, but very much on the button for this topic...

The story that goe's with it is truly inspirational...:clap::clap::clap:

Bruja

25-01-2009, 14:47

Thanks Jeangenie and Spartacus, I really appreciate it, and, you never know what you are capable of until it happens :D

fabs

25-01-2009, 14:53

Truly inspirational stuff Jill and congrats on selling those pictures. :thumbs:

Bruja

25-01-2009, 14:55

Truly inspirational stuff Jill and congrats on selling those pictures. :thumbs:

Thanks Marc - that makes 2 of us (inspirational that is :naughty:) and selling the pictures was a surprise (a nice one of course :D)

fabs

25-01-2009, 14:57

Thanks Marc - that makes 2 of us (inspirational that is :naughty:) and selling the pictures was a surprise (a nice one of course :D)

Sweet of you to say so. And I'm sure that surprise was well deserved. ;)

Daysleeper40

25-01-2009, 15:22

Bruja

25-01-2009, 15:27

I like all your shots so far but I've got to say the history one is fantastic :clap:

Love how personal you've allowed this to become - the narrative is inspirational and I hope you are damn proud of what you have achieved when life threw a curve-ball at you ;)

That's very kind of you, and I am a bit proud (sometimes) :D and sometimes I'm doing this.... :help::coat::runaway: and this.....:beer:

Graulges

25-01-2009, 19:34

Image complements the description very well to make it right on theme.:clap:

Duckydoodle

25-01-2009, 19:41

I'm enjoying following your 52 Jill. It's very inspirational both the narrative and the images. Congratulations on your book fantastic accomplishment and you should be immensely proud. Looking forward to next week :clap:
Always wanted to get something published but don't write like I used to let life get in the way, poor excuse I know.

staffitaxi

26-01-2009, 12:53

Really nice to see a publication by you in the learning material. You must feel really proud.

I enjoyed reading the information behind the image as well.

Bruja

26-01-2009, 14:23

Image complements the description very well to make it right on theme.:clap:

Thanks Graulges :thumbs:

I'm enjoying following your 52 Jill. It's very inspirational both the narrative and the images. Congratulations on your book fantastic accomplishment and you should be immensely proud. Looking forward to next week :clap:

Thanks Maureen, it's turning into a more personal project than I first expected. It's a bit like a 365 I suppose but I'm using the 52 themes in a way that reflects my life although sometimes (like this next one) won't necessarily fit the theme without the narrative ;)

I enjoyed reading the information behind the image as well.

Thanks staffitaxi, you are probably going to get a lot more of that :lol:

kelack

27-01-2009, 14:57

:clap::clap::clap::clap::clap: your history picture is very touching and perspective-putting-into (if that makes sense). :thumbs:

I see your book :D

Bruja

27-01-2009, 16:24

your history picture is very touching and perspective-putting-into (if that makes sense). :thumbs:

I see your book :D

Wow Kelack, thank you :D and I'm having the same trouble as you keeping up with all of these threads :lol: and I think my surprise this week will be actually posting a picture :eek:. Who put that in as a theme :bat::bang::shrug:?

Bruja

01-02-2009, 12:53

Well, the surprise this week is that I've actually submitted a picture! It's been a bad week for me physically (no energy), mentally (imagination/creativity/concentration all on holiday) and emotionally (partly due to the previous 2, and partly due to the strain my being ill puts on our relationship).

However, I refused to let it get the better of me and yesterday just went for it :D. I love abstract photography and thought this was an ideal theme to try some out. Can you tell what it is yet? (said wth an Australian accent :lol:)

SURPRISE

http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/gallery/data/2513/Surprise.jpg?105

PS to all the people whose threads I haven't kept up with this week, my apologies - I'll do it soon ;)

jeangenie

01-02-2009, 17:05

Hi Jill

Is it a Cordyline or Formium (never know the difference!)?

Whichever, it's a cracking good shot with strong geometrical lines and gorgeous colour. :clap::clap:

tbh, if you produce a shot of this quality on a bad day, the good days will be up there in the stratosphere. I look forward to more abstracts, too.

I'm sad you've had a bad week - and it's true when one thing goes wrong everything else suffers. I know the nature of MS is unpredictable and its a good job you're the boss. I hope Week 5 will be just the Opposite. :love:

Jean

Dark Star

01-02-2009, 17:42

No chance for an ID from me Jill :D

I absolutely love the image though - abstract plants is right up my street and down my garden path :clap:

Like Jean I'm sorry you've had a rotten week and hope things lift for you :)

As for the surprise - it actually looks like a fan dancers fan and there's a surprise behind it :)

Ok thats my interpretation but it works for me :D

Lovely shot!

Hyster

01-02-2009, 17:54

Great abstract image, haven't done anything like that yet, going to have to have a go now, that a really strong pic.

SimonTALM

01-02-2009, 18:31

Love the image, as Jean says the lines are fabulous and the colour is superb :thumbs:

Hope you have more energy this week :)

madmitch

01-02-2009, 18:51

Nice light Jill, i'm surrounded by these Palms but i still don't the full name, I'm still waiting to get a gecko sillouhetted throught a leaf.

corky

01-02-2009, 20:10

Love the photo. Everything works

fabs

01-02-2009, 20:48

Lovely abstract Jill but I couldn't tell you what it is. Keep fighting! :thumbs:

RichardtheSane

01-02-2009, 21:21

I haven't a clue exactly what plantlife it is - but I do like the abstract.
Strong colours, bold lines. Winning combo

jgs001

01-02-2009, 22:56

Like everyone else, not a clue, but a cracking shot. Brilliant colours and pattern. Sorry to hear it's been a bad week, I hope things improve this week.

Bruja

02-02-2009, 11:41

Whichever, it's a cracking good shot with strong geometrical lines and gorgeous colour. :clap::clap:

tbh, if you produce a shot of this quality on a bad day, the good days will be up there in the stratosphere. I look forward to more abstracts, too.

I hope Week 5 will be just the Opposite. :love:

Jean

Thanks Jean, and both guesses are wrong :D. Its a Chamaerops (European fan palm). And love the pun at the end ;)

I absolutely love the image though - abstract plants is right up my street and down my garden path :clap:

As for the surprise - it actually looks like a fan dancers fan and there's a surprise behind it :)

Lovely shot!

Thanks John, you always say the nicest things :love:. And I've identified it above. Don't know if it fits the theme but it's all your getting :lol:

Bruja

02-02-2009, 11:47

Great abstract image, haven't done anything like that yet, going to have to have a go now, that a really strong pic.

Thanks Hyster and I'm glad I've inspired you to try something new :thumbs:

Love the image, as Jean says the lines are fabulous and the colour is superb :thumbs:

Hope you have more energy this week :)

Thanks Simon, glad you like it :D

Nice light Jill, i'm surrounded by these Palms but i still don't the full name, I'm still waiting to get a gecko sillouhetted throught a leaf.

It's a Chamaerops (European fan palm) and I shot it with the sun behind it and from the back of the leaf as this really shows up the concertina effect of the growing leaf as it comes out of the top of the stem.

Love the photo. Everything works

Thanks Corky, glad you like it :D

Bruja

02-02-2009, 11:50

Lovely abstract Jill but I couldn't tell you what it is. Keep fighting! :thumbs:

Cheers Marc and glad you like it. Like I said above, I'm not sure it fits the theme but it was all you were getting this week :D

I haven't a clue exactly what plantlife it is - but I do like the abstract.
Strong colours, bold lines. Winning combo

Thank you so much Richard, I really appreciate it :)

Like everyone else, not a clue, but a cracking shot. Brilliant colours and pattern. Sorry to hear it's been a bad week, I hope things improve this week.

Thanks for your support John and I'm glad you like it :D

Spartacus

02-02-2009, 12:05

I don't know what it is...but I sure know I like it a lot...:clap:

love the line of this shot...excellent me thinks:thumbs:

jeangenie

02-02-2009, 12:17

Thanks Jean, and both guesses are wrong :D. Its a Chamaerops (European fan palm). And love the pun at the end ;)

Hi Jill

Thanks for the ID - I have to admit total ignorance - I've never even heard of Chamearops. If I'd read the word not knowing what it was, I'd have guessed it was a lizard of some kind. :lol:

Yes - sorry about the pun - I couldn't resist it. :lol:

Hope you're feeling more perky today and good luck with Opposites. :)

Jean

Graulges

02-02-2009, 15:18

Striking image. I'll go along with the other comments. Well done.:clap:

Bruja

02-02-2009, 20:08

I don't know what it is...but I sure know I like it a lot...:clap:

love the line of this shot...excellent me thinks:thumbs:

Thanks Spartacus, and I've ID'd it above, and so glad you like it :D

Striking image. I'll go along with the other comments. Well done.:clap:

Thanks Graulges, I appreciate it. :thumbs:

And everyone's comments are making me feel really good today, still low energy but I'm definitely picking up so thanks everyone, you're stars :clap:

Toothie

02-02-2009, 20:19

your learning post fits the theme well but it it stretch you as a photographer? surprise image is great fantastic lighting and great composition :thumbs:

Bruja

03-02-2009, 16:23

your learning post fits the theme well but it it stretch you as a photographer? surprise image is great fantastic lighting and great composition :thumbs:

Hi Toothie
I think the learning post only stretched me in making me more aware of how the direction the light falls can dramatically affect the depth of the picture :)

And glad you like the Surprise picture :D Thanks for your support

Duckydoodle

03-02-2009, 16:29

Like this Jill. Lovely colour and detail. Great abstract. Sorry you had a bad week. Hope this one proves to be a better one for you :clap:

Bruja

05-02-2009, 09:51

Like this Jill. Lovely colour and detail. Great abstract. Sorry you had a bad week. Hope this one proves to be a better one for you :clap:

Thanks Maureen, and I am starting to get better. Actually went out and took some pictures yesterday!!!!! :thumbs:

kelack

05-02-2009, 12:46

This is something I could imagine on a big canvas on a wall in a reception area or something, I like the green-ness of it and the lines emanating from the corner

Bruja

05-02-2009, 12:54

This is something I could imagine on a big canvas on a wall in a reception area or something, I like the green-ness of it and the lines emanating from the corner

Thanks Kelly, I appreciate it :)

Bruja

08-02-2009, 11:48

Phew, just made it in time.....

This has been a much better week for me both physically and emotionally - until I decided on the picture I wanted to take and then it all went pear-shaped :eek: because I hadn't realised the lighting implications of my choice of subject :D. Anyway, I soldiered on and I suppose the main learning point for me this week is to think about what furniture I might need to move before finally deciding on the subject :lol::lol:

Why does this picture represent Opposites to me?

Well on a number of levels, it's a man and a woman (Mars and Venus springs to mind!), it's a husband and wife (not always the smoothest of relationships and often with opposite roles and goals), it's actually me and the husband, and we are like chalk and cheese. He's healthy and I'm not, he's patient and laid back where I'm a worrier and perfectionist. He's happy just pottering around whereas I'm driven to do stuff, to achieve, to try new things. He wants to take care of me and I don't want to be taken care of :(

BUT - Opposites attract, and the attraction is still there after 18 years. So there you have it, my take on Opposites.

OPPOSITES

http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/gallery/data/2513/Opposites_sm.jpg

Dark Star

08-02-2009, 11:53

Bruja

08-02-2009, 12:11

What a great combination of image and words, I love your reasoning on this one Jill and the obvious sentiment and love that is present here :)

The image is great, good concept well executed and well framed (which I imagine would have been a nightmare to pose and capture just right :))

Even the choice of clothes is opposite :)

How did you light it in the end?

Well done in getting one in and so glad you had a better week this week :)

Thanks John. The choice of clothes was deliberate and I chose cream and brown as I though black and white might be one complication too far :lol:

I used Manual as I wanted a small DoF and a fast exposure time - the only problem was the flipping sun kept going behind the clouds and messing up my exposure setting. After rearranging much of the furniture (and pictures) in two rooms we eventually ended up on the long, windowed porch. The problem then was to get a blank piece of wall because my nature is if I see a blank space I think what can I put there :D

The only suitable space had light then coming from the front and then from my side so I dug out my new reflector, played around with the positioning, which was less than perfect and in the end Reg was holding the bottom of the reflector as I peered through the view finder to find the best position and then rapidly moved myself into position before the sun went in again! I used my phottix remote which meant I couldn't use my Speedlite, but in a way I was glad as I prefer natural light for portraits. I could have used the timer I suppose but I wanted multiple exposures quickly in slightly different positions.

Phew, after that I had a sit down with a stiff drink :naughty:

Glad you like it as I wasn't sure at all that it was decently lit.

Jill

Dark Star

08-02-2009, 12:16

Thanks for that Jill - no wonder you needed that drink :) I think on reflection (if you'll pardon the pun) a little more light on Reg's face might have lifted it a little from the background but thats a minor niggle on such a set up I reckon

And I think its time I stopped taking the easy route on these 52s and started challenging myself a bit more like you're doing! Good stuff Jill :)

adrury

08-02-2009, 16:08

EdBray

08-02-2009, 19:40

Nice image and very poignant. I agree the skin tones look a little grey, but other than that a great take on the subject.

Spartacus

08-02-2009, 20:00

Well you put some of us to shame with all the effort you put in to your shots..:clap:

You add so much more to your photo's with your small essay on how you got your shot...tell your a writer.....phew I need a drink..:lol:

But seriously great interpretation...nice..:thumbs:

fabs

08-02-2009, 20:00

Like your opposites shot Jill. Just a contrast boost would finish it off nicely. :thumbs:

Toothie

08-02-2009, 20:04

Great take on opposites, but i would like to have seen a little more room on both sides :)

Graulges

09-02-2009, 06:14

Very nice interpretation and again your words support a really effective image. As Toothie says, a tad more room at the sides would improve the feel. Well done! :clap:

jeangenie

09-02-2009, 08:57

Jill, this is excellent. Yes, a little more space would have been great, but your perfectionism has paid off handsomely. :clap: It's also nice to put a face to the name.

Your rationale of you and your husband's oppositeness (no such word?) really adds to the portraits, and I need to sit down with a strong drink just reading about what lengths you went to to capture this. :D

I'm so glad you have had a better week, and hope this week is as good. :hug:

Jean

Bruja

09-02-2009, 09:18

I really like this shot Bruja,:thumbs:

I have been married for 19years myself and so can relate to all of your reasons. Hubby and I are also opposite in alot of things, yet very similar in others.

I am really thinking that I might set up a similar shot for us as we lack photos in which we both appear.

I really like the skin tones that you have accomplished alongside the detail in the hair (especially your husbands).

Well done :clap::clap:

Thanks very much Angela and good luck with setting up your photo. Can we see it when it's done? :D

Nice image and very poignant. I agree the skin tones look a little grey, but other than that a great take on the subject.

Thanks Ed, I've re-edited the shot but don't think it's any better :(, but glad you think it fits the subject :)

Well you put some of us to shame with all the effort you put in to your shots..:clap:

You add so much more to your photo's with your small essay on how you got your shot...tell your a writer.....phew I need a drink..:lol:

But seriously great interpretation...nice..:thumbs:

Thanks Spartacus, glad you like it :thumbs:

Bruja

09-02-2009, 09:26

Like your opposites shot Jill. Just a contrast boost would finish it off nicely. :thumbs:

Thanks Marc :thumbs:

Bruja

09-02-2009, 09:33

Great take on opposites, but I would like to have seen a little more room on both sides :)

Thanks Ruth, I've re-edited with a bit more room but I just think it emphasises the difference in light from each side - or, I suppose he could be the 'Dark One' and me the 'Light One' in the relationship :naughty:

Very nice interpretation and again your words support a really effective image. As Toothie says, a tad more room at the sides would improve the feel. Well done! :clap:

Thanks Frank, I really appreciate your support :thumbs:

Jill, this is excellent. Yes, a little more space would have been great, but your perfectionism has paid off handsomely. :clap: It's also nice to put a face to the name.

Your rationale of you and your husband's oppositeness (no such word?) really adds to the portraits, and I need to sit down with a strong drink just reading about what lengths you went to to capture this. :D

I'm so glad you have had a better week, and hope this week is as good. :hug:

Jean

Thanks Jean, as supportive as ever. I am keeping up my progress so finger crossed :lol:

OPPOSITES Take 2

http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/gallery/data/2513/IMG_3831_edit2_sm.jpg

jgs001

09-02-2009, 09:36

Well done Jill, that's a great shot. I agree on a little more room on the sides, but I know exactly how hard it can be to get this sort of thing right, and it fits the theme perfectly. :thumbs:

Dark Star

09-02-2009, 09:37

That little extra space does work Jill, I didn't think it needed it until I saw your rework! And I guess thats what this is all about - learning :)

Good stuff :)

Spartacus

09-02-2009, 09:42

What can I say, there you go again making a good shot in to a great one...much better with the added space..:thumbs:

jgs001

09-02-2009, 10:09

Ohhh... Cross posted... Sorry Jill, my comment was on the first one. Much better with the extra space.

jamlid

09-02-2009, 11:05

Hi Jill, excellent photo there! Works great in black and white and with the extra space either side it feels like the photo (and you two!) has more room to breath :)

well done!

adrury

09-02-2009, 15:38

Thanks very much Angela and good luck with setting up your photo. Can we see it when it's done? :D

Absolutely!

Bruja

09-02-2009, 16:44

That little extra space does work Jill, I didn't think it needed it until I saw your rework! And I guess thats what this is all about - learning :)

Good stuff :)

Thanks John, I'm always willing to give it a go, learning that is!

What can I say, there you go again making a good shot in to a great one...much better with the added space..:thumbs:

Thanks Marcus, Ooooh I do like praise :D

Much better with the extra space.

Thanks John, I agree :thumbs:

Hi Jill, excellent photo there! Works great in black and white and with the extra space either side it feels like the photo (and you two!) has more room to breath :)

well done!

Thanks Jamie, I know what you mean about the extra space and I much prefer portraits in B&W. BTW I used to live very close to Durham. Lovely City and especially Vennels for their stilton scones on a Sunday morning:love:

Thanks for your feedback :thumbs:

Daysleeper40

09-02-2009, 17:43

Definately prefer the one with more space - like the idea, composition and the thought that obviously went into the clothes :thumbs:

ScotlandTheScare

10-02-2009, 08:32

I definitely think the 2nd post improves things - a great opposites idea... and the grey vs. black hair and light vs dark top all add to the theme nicely :) Like the monochrome look too - keeps it simple to enhance the theme :thumbs:

Duckydoodle

10-02-2009, 19:22

Toothie

10-02-2009, 19:30

The edit works really well with the extra space :thumbs:

maddog.mark

10-02-2009, 19:37

Sorry Jill I've neglected my duties and not caught up with your 52. Like the opposites picture, very welll thought out with a powerful story to go with it. :clap:

The second edit is even better, keep up the good work.:thumbs:

jeangenie

10-02-2009, 20:50

Yep, I like the extra space, too. It also gives a better sense of where the light is coming from. Very nice indeed. :)

Jean

SimonTALM

10-02-2009, 21:44

Jill, another fantastic image that clearly shows thought before taking the image, I'm impressed :clap: I don't think I can add anything to what has already been said, very nice and the extra space improves the shot :thumbs:

Bruja

11-02-2009, 12:15

Definately prefer the one with more space - like the idea, composition and the thought that obviously went into the clothes :thumbs:

Thanks so much DS. It's good that C&C helps me to improve :thumbs:

I definitely think the 2nd post improves things - a great opposites idea... and the grey vs. black hair and light vs dark top all add to the theme nicely :) Like the monochrome look too - keeps it simple to enhance the theme :thumbs:

Thanks Stewart, sounds like I met the brief on a number of levels :D. Glad you like it.:thumbs:

Bruja

11-02-2009, 14:56

Looking at your shot really made me think about my relationship. Sometimes we imagine we are the only people in the world with our concerns and problems. My partner and I are very much chalk and cheese in many ways but very alike too but sometimes I think I dwell on the differences and neglect to see the positives that exist even in the opposites. 18 years together what an achievement. You make a lovely couple. Great interpretation Jean and I'm glad you've had a better week :clap:

Aaaaw, thanks Maureen. I'm glad the picture resonated with you, planning it certainly made me take another look at our life together in much the same way. Thanks :thumbs:

The edit works really well with the extra space :thumbs:

Thanks Ruth

Yep, I like the extra space, too. It also gives a better sense of where the light is coming from. Very nice indeed. :)

Jean

Thanks Jean

Jill, another fantastic image that clearly shows thought before taking the image, I'm impressed :clap: I don't think I can add anything to what has already been said, very nice and the extra space improves the shot :thumbs:

I appreciate your comments Simon :thumbs:

Bruja

14-02-2009, 09:44

Well here we are more than 10% done already :D

My take on Special is yet another personal tale, so scroll down to the picture if it's not your thing ;)

There are lots of special things in my life, and, not in any particular order of priority :naughty:, they are my cats, my husband, family, friends, my camera, lenses, and ME :lol:

The fact that I am still here is testament to my strength of mind, my sense of humour and the support of people who have helped me in the past. You see I was emotionally abused as a child by parents who later claimed they didn't know any better, so I never got praised, nothing I did was good enough and I was threatened with physical violence if I didn't do exactly what I was supposed to. (And in retrospect, the threat of being belted when my father got home, some hours later, was more terrifying than if she had just hit me there and then). I also realised 30 years later that my father knew none of this.

As a result, by the time I got to grammar school I was a prime target for bullies, and suffered through four years of loneliness and isolation until, finally, at 15, I refused to go back.

To cut a long story short on my 40th birthday I had to see a cognitive therapist and a psychiatrist because I was suicidal. I thought I was a bad person, worthless and just generally not good enough. I know now that this was because of my childhood and school experiences but found it impossible to trust people and really didn't know how to make friends. That's all changed now and I have a number of very good friends and now actually hear positive feedback and support rather than dismissing it because I know I'm not good enough.

So here's my Special picture, because this does what it says on the tin :D

SPECIAL

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3349/3274822164_e427525ac9_o.jpg

So there it is, lots of support and positive feedback, lots of challenges, and I've made the acquaintance of some lovely people. So thanks to everyone involved, you've made learning more about photography a breeze, and a joy.

:clap::clap::clap:

Dark Star

14-02-2009, 10:21

maddog.mark

14-02-2009, 10:24

Jill, that's a hearbreaking story:(

I'm pleased to hear that you have found your self worth and that TP has become a special place to you, as it is to many of us. Have a hug:hug:

Keep up the good work:thumbs:

Hyster

14-02-2009, 11:12

Spartacus

14-02-2009, 11:57

Wow, you really are brilliant...:clap:

I am so glad you feel so at home on this Special site... deep down we are all the same, and I think sometime the older you are the more you need the positive feedback from people. I to could have been given a much better childhood, guess it's the way it was in the 50s no money and parents who too honest didn't know what they were doing really.

Still enough of that... you could say you got another online family, and we all love you...:love:

I love the relection you managed to get in this shot...top of your game as usual :thumbs:

fabs

14-02-2009, 12:04

SimonTALM

14-02-2009, 13:52

The pic is great, I love the lighting coming from the top right of the image. I also really like the hint of a reflection in the worktop too.

You are right this place is special :thumbs:

Bruja

14-02-2009, 14:59

Jill the words are powerful and the picture is testament to the strength of this forum and your strength and your ability to 'survive' (if thats not too strong a word) thus far!

I'm glad things turned positive for you! And I sincerely hope all the bad stuff is way in the past!

Good image, good (and moving) words!

Thanks John :thumbs:

Jill, that's a hearbreaking story:(

I'm pleased to hear that you have found your self worth and that TP has become a special place to you, as it is to many of us. Have a hug:hug:

Keep up the good work:thumbs:

Thanks Mark, glad you like it and here's one right back at you :hug:

Bruja

14-02-2009, 15:06

Wow Jill, what a story, sorry to read of an unhappy childhood but pleased to see you so positive now in spite of it.

You are spot on about this forum, its a great group of people, sharing knowledge and insight, there are a lot of good people here Jill and you are one of them.

Nice pic by the way.

Thanks Gary for your kind words, I appreciate it. Glad you like the picture too :thumbs:

Wow, you really are brilliant...:clap:

Still enough of that... you could say you got another online family, and we all love you...:love:

I love the relection you managed to get in this shot...top of your game as usual :thumbs:

Aaaw Marcus, thanks, and I'm glad you noticed the reflection. It was taken on a black granite worktop. All these kind words are giving me a warm fuzzy feeling :thankyou:

Toothie

14-02-2009, 15:09

The pic is great, I love the lighting coming from the top right of the image. I also really like the hint of a reflection in the worktop too.

You are right this place is special :thumbs:

Can't agree with you more Simon

as for this place i love it :)

Bruja

14-02-2009, 15:15

Jill, you are very brave to let that all out in the open. You obviously have a great deal of courage and have been on an incredible journey. I feel honoured to be part of the TP community and therefore a part of that journey. :clap:

Thank you Marc, and you're definitely part of that journey :thumbs:.

I don't know about brave though, I suppose it's because people are frightened of the reaction they might get if they admit to having or having had mental health problems. To me there's no shame or embarassment in that. If people choose to treat me differently because of that then that's their (ignorant) loss as we have even less control over how our mind's work then how our bodies do. Phew, climbing off my hobby horse now :lol: And as you can tell from that my self esteem is a lot better :lol::lol:

The pic is great, I love the lighting coming from the top right of the image. I also really like the hint of a reflection in the worktop too.

You are right this place is special :thumbs:

Glad you like it Simon :thumbs:

Bruja

14-02-2009, 15:17

Can't agree with you more Simon

as for this place i love it :)

Thanks Ruth, and it seems there are a lot of us that feel the same way about this place. I can't praise it enough :clap::clap:

fabs

14-02-2009, 15:51

To me there's no shame or embarassment in that. If people choose to treat me differently because of that then that's their (ignorant) loss as we have even less control over how our mind's work then how our bodies do.

Couldn't agree more. :thumbs:

jeangenie

14-02-2009, 16:37

Hi Jill - that's a great shot - simple and well executed - but totally overshadowed by the powerful story behind it. You are one amazing lady and if you ever have the slightest doubt or slip back into your 'old' reality about yourself, I hope you will get straight online to TP and read this thread again and again until your self-esteem is back in its rightful place.

Thank you so much for telling us about your life, for trusting us with your story and for being so generous to us all. :hug: :love:

Jean

adrury

15-02-2009, 18:59

I can totally relate to your past, and applaud your braveness in talking about it, Well done :clap::clap:

The picture is nice and simple and I also really like the reflection in the worktop.

very nice :clap:

jgs001

15-02-2009, 22:35

Jill, that's brilliant. A very personal tale and history, and John has already said it all. I'm really glad you got through it, found your sense of self worth and all. :thumbs:

Bruja

17-02-2009, 09:42

Hi Jill - that's a great shot - simple and well executed - but totally overshadowed by the powerful story behind it. Thank you so much for telling us about your life, for trusting us with your story and for being so generous to us all. :hug: :love:

Jean

Thanks very much Jean, but I'm not quite sure how I deserve the term 'generous' :thinking: but that's hardly surprising is it.;)

I can totally relate to your past, and applaud your braveness in talking about it, Well done :clap::clap:

The picture is nice and simple and I also really like the reflection in the worktop.

very nice :clap:

Thanks Angela, glad you like the picture :thumbs: and as for my past it's surprising how many people have had similar experiences.

Jill, that's brilliant. A very personal tale and history, and John has already said it all. I'm really glad you got through it, found your sense of self worth and all. :thumbs:

Aaaw , thanks John :clap:

Bruja

21-02-2009, 09:50

Well here we are, another week over :D

This was quite a challenge as I live in rural Spain where a crowd is 3 people talking on the street :(

However, almost every city, town, and village has a weekly market. This stems from the lack of transport during the Franco era, as well as the lack of shops/goods. They still survive today for a number of reasons: the old folk depend on them as they still don't have transport, you get really good fresh (and in season) fruit and veg at reasonable prices, and you can choose your own, unlike the supermarkets.

You can buy fresh and dried spices and herbs, herbal combinations for anything from herpes to hypertension :eek:, shoes and handbags :D:D, clothes, cheese, sausages and churros which are cooked freshly in the market. They are kind of like a doughnut mixture but piped into a huge spiral in a very large frying pan, add some sugar and they are lovely. And something that differs from the UK, cafes have no problem if you take in your cone of churros and order a coffee to have with them! (I've got a picture of them cooking this too so I'll post it later)

In short, the markets sell everything but furniture, and the third reason they are very popular is with the tourists and the expats. And in the 5 years I've lived here they have grown a lot. Every market also has a roast chicken van where the chickens are cooked on spits, using calor gas for the flames and they cook up to a hundred at a time and this is the treat of the week for many of the Spanish.

We categorise the size of the market by the number of chicken vans :D. Our village has 1, Fines has 2 and Vera has 3, so our's is just a 1 chicken van market - pretty small then.

Well, that makes a change - a bit of local history instead of personal history :naughty:, but I'll be back........

CROWDS

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3364/3296501179_45845ec093_o.jpg

And here is the Churros Man - good work in winter, a nightmare in the summer!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3558/3297334136_4e9c121eca.jpg

kennysarmy

21-02-2009, 10:20

great streetscene shot...lovely mono treatment and tight crop...

Spartacus

21-02-2009, 10:22

Excellent young lady...:clap:
That's a great story...but not as good as your photo's this week...:thumbs:
I love the tone and boarder you got going there...:woot:

Another one you absolutely nailed...

and well done for getting out of the house, I'm still working at home...:bonk:

Bruja

21-02-2009, 14:17

.......

Bruja

21-02-2009, 14:19

great streetscene shot...lovely mono treatment and tight crop...

Thanks, I appreciate it :thumbs:

Excellent young lady...:clap:
That's a great story...but not as good as your photo's this week...:thumbs:
I love the tone and boarder you got going there...:woot:

Another one you absolutely nailed...

Thanks Marcus, you're always so kind about my pictures, it's great to have your support :clap:

I thought the tone suited it because it could almost have been taken many years ago as the older women still dress very conservatively and have shopping trollies :D

Duckydoodle

21-02-2009, 14:30

Wow what a powerful story for your Special theme. All my life I've hated bullies and bullying and have stood up against it even though sometimes I put myself at risk.
The thought of adults abusing children reduces me to tears. My children trust me and expect me to protect them not take my anger and hositility out on them. Children have rights but it seems in the world we live in this concept is lost on very many.
I'm so sorry to hear about the poor treatment you received growing up Bruja but am really pleased to hear how you have managed to triumph over adversity. Your image is all the more powerful because of the narrative. Thank you very much for sharing such a personal and painful part of your history with us :clap::clap::clap:

I like the crowd shot. Nicely exposed and composed. Lovely sharp image that tells a story. I looked at the expressions of the faces and wondered what they were thinking wondering around that busy market. Great interpretation. Fits the theme perfectly :clap:

Bruja

21-02-2009, 15:43

Thanks very much Maureen and I wish there had been more around like you when I was growing up :(

Thanks for your comments on my pictures, I really appreciate them, and I'm glad you like them :D

Toothie

21-02-2009, 15:51

Lvoe the crowds shot the sepia tones really suit it :)

dizzy

21-02-2009, 17:24

Lovely shot and nice write up! We had our honeymoon in Barcelona and I loved the market off Las Ramblas. I didn't see any chicken vans though!!

adrury

21-02-2009, 19:37

I love the sepia crowd shot, it reminds me of my mum's local market in Almeria. Last time we were there it was 42degrees :eek:

Well done :clap::clap::clap:

Bruja

21-02-2009, 19:53

Love the crowds shot the sepia tones really suit it :)

Thanks Ruth :thumbs:

Lovely shot and nice write up! We had our honeymoon in Barcelona and I loved the market off Las Ramblas. I didn't see any chicken vans though!!

:lol::lol::lol::lol:

Glad you like the shot :D Not been to Barcelona yet but I'm planning on it.

Bruja

21-02-2009, 19:56

I love the sepia crowd shot, it reminds me of my mum's local market in Almeria. Last time we were there it was 42degrees :eek:

Well done :clap::clap::clap:

Thanks Angela, we've had the odd day here recently when it's been up in the 30s for a few hours - but 1C at night :eek:

Daysleeper40

22-02-2009, 08:33

catch up time for me...

Special - all I'll say is I am glad you have overcome the obstacles that were there and long may your self esteem be sky high.. oh, and nice shot :thumbs:

Crowds - Love everything about this one. The sepia treatment works well and I get a real sense of the hustle and bustle - nice work! :clap:

Dark Star

22-02-2009, 08:43

Good crowd shot Jill, nice treatment and great reading - makes me quite envious :)

The image has just the right feel of 'bustle' and activity I can recall from the odd Spanish market I have visited as a tourist :)

Judging by the woolly parka type coat worn by the guy in the background its still chilly out there I guess :(

Bruja

22-02-2009, 17:39

catch up time for me...

Special - all I'll say is I am glad you have overcome the obstacles that were there and long may your self esteem be sky high.. oh, and nice shot :thumbs:

Thanks for your support Daysleeper, and glad you like the shot too :D

Crowds - Love everything about this one. The sepia treatment works well and I get a real sense of the hustle and bustle - nice work! :clap:

Thanks again :thumbs:

Good crowd shot Jill, nice treatment and great reading - makes me quite envious :)

The image has just the right feel of 'bustle' and activity I can recall from the odd Spanish market I have visited as a tourist :)

Thanks John, a bit nervewracking shooting candids as I think I stand out with my camera (Or maybe it's just because I'm tall and gorgeous :naughty:)

Judging by the woolly parka type coat worn by the guy in the background its still chilly out there I guess :(

Sometimes, although it was sunny and 30C for a few hours today :whistling:

jeangenie

22-02-2009, 21:15

When I see a photo I really like I try and work out what it is that does it for me. I keep going back and looking at your Crowd shot and I love the sepia treatment (not usually my top of the pops - but it works really well here). The composition is spot on, too. The crowd all seem to be oblivious to you and your camera, which means you must have been very unobtrusive.

So all these add up to a good shot, but I think what really makes this excellent is the contrast between the space behind the stall with just the stallholder and the denseness of the crowd beyond the stall.

It's one of those shots that seems very simple, Jill, but has all the elements coming together to make a stunning shot. I hope you enjoyed taking it. :clap::clap::clap:

Jean

jgs001

23-02-2009, 08:09

I really like your Crowds shot Jill, it's all been said, and I can't add much to the above comments. :clap: :thumbs:

Bruja

24-02-2009, 17:51

SimonTALM

24-02-2009, 18:33

Bruja, that is a fantastic street shot and really gives the impression of the hustle and bustle of a good local market. I think the sepia conversion is good and the frame really works well.

Hyster

25-02-2009, 06:22

Completely agree with Simon, love the sepia tones. Its a great image, pretty much what I had tried and failed to do at the weekend.

Well done.

Bruja

26-02-2009, 14:21

Thanks Simon and Gary for your fantastic feedback, glad you really like it :thumbs:

Graulges

26-02-2009, 21:05

Love the feel of action and the expressions. It seems very like the markets here when things liven up in the summer. Another great shot.:clap:

Bruja

27-02-2009, 16:35

Thanks Frank

Bruja

28-02-2009, 16:15

Well here we are, 2 months completed already! :D

I've thought a lot about wealth this week, and what it can mean to different people.

There's financial wealth (I should be so lucky, I had to take medical retirement when I was 43 - 10 years ago now) :(

There's a wealth of possessions - in my case it would be books, shoes, handbags, and, more recently, camera gear :D

There's having a wealth of knowledge, a wealth of creativity, a wealth of friends, a wealth of well, wealths.

But my wealth comes from none of those things. I have one thing in my life that is worth more than money, and, if you want to avoid the personal history bit, scroll down NOW .....

My wealth is the wealth of love, support, and understanding that my husband Reg gives me. :love:

It's been a complicated journey for us over the last 18 years. We were both married to other people when we met (unhappily married as it turned out), and I'd already been married and divorced before. To cut that particular long story short we were living together 6 months later, divorces were underway and we were planning to get married once they were all sorted.

We both changed jobs that year and were financially secure and we moved from the little terraced house I'd bought into a new bungalow. We didn't know at the time but that was an inspired move. Our divorces were finalized and in September 1992 we were married on a tiny little island in the Seychelles. Everything was perfect, we just felt so right together (and still do, just in case you were wondering :D)

4 months later I had a recurrence of what had been described a viral infection of the nervous system a year before so I went to see my GP as I wasn't well enough to go to work. He was filling in the 'sick note' when he stopped and asked me if work knew what the problem was so I just said yes. When I looked at the condition for absence from work it said Multiple Sclerosis.

To be fair I didn't respond with shock or despair. At that point I was just glad to have a diagnosis as I'd had all kinds of weird and wonderful symptoms going back to 1989, and, at one point I'd been referred to a psychiatrist as my GP at the time thought I was depressed and a bit of a hypochondriac. Well I was depressed, but I was depressed because I felt lousy but didn't know why and couldn't seem to get close to an answer. So my initial reaction was relief, and Reg was great with me. We'd only been married a few months so I told him I was still under guarantee if he wanted to trade me in, but he just took it all in his stride.

Now, many years and many symptoms later (I'm sure they'll be incorporated into a picture story at some point :lol:), including having all my upper teeth removed because of persistent toothache in 1992 - toothache which I still get because it was caused by trigeminal neuralgia, for which I've had 4 neurosurgical ops, lots of high dose intravenous steroid courses, and an overwhelming fatigue which feels like jet lag most days, Reg is still here.

He is strong for me, he adores me, tells me I'm gorgeous every day, and would do absolutely anything for me. I love him to bits and when he asked me what the theme was for this week and what was I going to do for it I told him I was going to take a picture of him because he was worth more to me than money, he got a tear in his eye. So here I give you Reg, my Wealth

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3588/3316745758_28ce1ed73d_o.jpg

Toothie

28-02-2009, 16:35

Thats a story with a happy ending :)

shame you missed the tip of his hair otherwise a good shot :thumbs:

Graulges

01-03-2009, 07:06

Again great background accompanying a really good shot (don't mention the hair :D) Really it's alovely portrait - the love shine through. :clap::clap:

jgs001

01-03-2009, 07:13

Wonderful Jill... Great story and a superb shot to go with it :thumbs:

Bruja

01-03-2009, 09:16

All right, all right Ruth and Frank, I give in :lol::lol: here's Wealth mark II

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3521/3318943910_1a51149b8f_o.jpg

Bruja

01-03-2009, 09:20

Thats a story with a happy ending :)

shame you missed the tip of his hair otherwise a good shot :thumbs:

Thanks Ruth :thumbs:

Again great background accompanying a really good shot (don't mention the hair :D) Really it's alovely portrait - the love shine through. :clap::clap:

Thanks Frank :D (and I've added an edit now :nuts:)

Wonderful Jill... Great story and a superb shot to go with it :thumbs:

Glad you like it John ;)

corky

01-03-2009, 09:56

Well done Bruja, great story that proves "health is wealth"
jon

maddog.mark

01-03-2009, 10:33

And yet another interesting insight into your life Jill. I'm glad you have found wealth in your love for each other, it really does transcend everything else.
The picture aint bad either. :thumbs:
Mark.:wave:

SimonTALM

01-03-2009, 14:16

Jill, fabulous story and a fabulous photograph, you've really captured the light brilliantly (I presume this is natural lighting as I think the catchlights are window shaped). All I can suggest you do is to print it and frame it.

MKII is definitely the better image IMO :thumbs:

Bruja

01-03-2009, 14:24

Well done Bruja, great story that proves "health is wealth"
jon

Thanks John, appreciate the support:D

And yet another interesting insight into your life Jill. I'm glad you have found wealth in your love for each other, it really does transcend everything else.
The picture aint bad either. :thumbs:
Mark.:wave:

Glad you're glad :D and that the picture ain't bad too :lol::lol:

Jill, fabulous story and a fabulous photograph, you've really captured the light brilliantly (I presume this is natural lighting as I think the catchlights are window shaped). All I can suggest you do is to print it and frame it.

MKII is definitely the better image IMO :thumbs:

Thanks Simon. Yes it is natural light as I much prefer it to flash for portraits. As for MKII, in the first crop I was concentrating too hard in getting the eyes on a third and missed the fact I'd chopped the top off his hair off. Just goes to show - I've learned yet another lesson thanks to the people on here :thumbs:

Dark Star

01-03-2009, 14:34

MKII wins for me, what a story and what a lovely sentiment and image you've presented - I'm sure that the love you have for each other is in a joint account with an enormous interest rate :)

First class interpretation and shot! :thumbs:

Bruja

01-03-2009, 14:37

I'm sure that the love you have for each other is in a joint account with an enormous interest rate :)

First class interpretation and shot! :thumbs:

Thanks John, the interest rate does vary from time to time - but that's pretty normal :D and we've never been overdrawn :lol:

Glad you think it's such a good shot :)

Daysleeper40

01-03-2009, 14:40

MKII is definately an improvement - but I love the lighting regardless of how you crop it :clap:

Lovely sentiment - I think we can all relate to what wealth really means and your story sums it up perfectly.

Bruja

01-03-2009, 14:49

Thanks DS, I'm glad it has struck a chord with people and that you like the lighting :D

Spartacus

01-03-2009, 19:39

Well you know I'm a great fan of all your work...:D

So I'm only going to say for me that is a lovely story...and lovely photo to boot...that's real Wealth...:clap:

Keep Healthy Wealthy and Wise...:thumbs:

jeangenie

01-03-2009, 20:39

Jill, with a story like that behind it, the picture could have been absolute rubbish and it wouldn't have mattered at all. Not many people find that kind of love anytime in their lives and Reg wasn't the only one with a tear in his eye.

... and in case, you're wondering - I think the picture is as fabulous as the story.

You are an inspiration. :)

Jean

adrury

03-03-2009, 08:05

Sorry, I have an essay looming so my catching up with threads is a bit hit and miss.

A lovely story and a great picture to go with it. I am glad you posted a second pic as it is better. I like the lighting used and the skin tones for me are fab.

:clap: :clap:

Bruja

03-03-2009, 09:06

Well you know I'm a great fan of all your work...:D

So I'm only going to say for me that is a lovely story...and lovely photo to boot...that's real Wealth...:clap:

:nuts: Thanks Marcus, it means a lot :thumbs:

... and in case, you're wondering - I think the picture is as fabulous as the story.

You are an inspiration. :)

Jean

Thanks so much Jean and.... you're not too bad yourself :lol::clap:

A lovely story and a great picture to go with it. I am glad you posted a second pic as it is better. I like the lighting used and the skin tones for me are fab.

:clap: :clap:

Thanks very much Angela, and I hope the essay goes well - I remember that feeling all too well :(

Bruja

08-03-2009, 16:12

Well Happy Campers, here we go again :D

Identity seems like such a simple concept. You could say it is the things about an item/object/person etc that allows us to know what it is - to identify it.

There are specific things that can identify people for official purposes: photographs, fingerprints, DNA, Iris recognition, but are they who we are? :shrug:

In real lfe we have a lot of different identities, for example, in my case grandaughter, daughter, eldest child, victim, niece, friend, girlfriend, lover, wife, mother, lecturer, acupuncturist, writer, photographer, mother-in-law :naughty: ,acquaintance, student, barmaid etc etc etc :eek:

And in each case my 'self' has been different. In other words, we can present a different version of ourselves depending on what role we play, what relationship we have with the other people involved, what our and others' expectations are about us, who we are in that particular situation.

This was brought home to me quite graphically the first few times I went shopping with my electric wheelchair. I loved that wheelchair :love:. It was a motorised shopping trolley as I could hang all my bags on the back. I could go shopping by myself and I could shop until the batteries went :lol: BUT, the first couple of times I went with my kids they didn't like it. Not because I was in a wheelchair but because of the way people looked at me, the way the treated me. They said they didn't like people to feel like that about me. As though I was being pitied. But I told the kids (they were 13 and 15) that those people didn't know what I was thinking, that I was thinking 'Get out of the f.....g way, I've just seen my next pair of shoes' :lol:

But I also noticed that people were a lot more friendly towards me, more helpful, and people who would have just ignored me in a lift for example would make conversation. My identity was different in their minds because I was in a wheelchair, whereas in my mind I was just the same Jill (and still am :D)

So, in reality, we are a mass of identities and which one we portray changes all the time. Irving Goffman described people as 'actors on a stage', which sums it up pretty well for me. We talk about putting a different head on depending on what we are doing, so you could say we largely go through life wearing a series of masks. And here's one of mine :eek:

IDENTITY

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3358/3335905958_3d101a2fc3.jpg?v=0

corky

08-03-2009, 16:18

love it!! excellent slant on Identity:clap:

Dark Star

08-03-2009, 16:19

Wow - great narrative Jill, always good reading your words as much as seeing your images and what you say is so true too!

Great image (even though masks creep me out a bit :D) - in this case the words and the image are so well combined! The eye contact is terrific!

Where did the mask come from? Is it a local one?

Bruja

08-03-2009, 16:23

And I've even done a reshoot on Reflection :D

I've not tried to improve the original picture, just thought I'd give the theme another go. It's not a particularly startling picture, but the whole picture is a reflection in one of the sun porch doors of our house showing part of the pool. There's even a reflection in the reflection :lol::lol:

I jus wanted to see how it could work, which is what this challenge is all about for me :D

REFLECTION RESHOOT

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3633/3335933536_a51f38194b_o.jpg

So I've been a busy little bee this week :D

And the sun has returned at last, 30 C today (but don't hold that against me :lol:)

SimonTALM

08-03-2009, 16:28

IDENTITY - Well you've certainly stepped out of the box for this one haven't you :lol: Great idea :thumbs: I do find the image slightly dark though with quite flat lighting, no where nearly as good as the lighting from last week. But I do agree with Dark Star that the eye contact is brilliant (if a little intense and scary)

Bruja

08-03-2009, 16:29

love it!! excellent slant on Identity:clap:

Thanks Corky, I climbed out of the box for that one :D

Wow - great narrative Jill, always good reading your words as much as seeing your images and what you say is so true too!

Glad I haven't lost the knack :D

Great image (even though masks creep me out a bit :D) - in this case the words and the image are so well combined! The eye contact is terrific!

Thanks John, self portraits are never easy and I don't want to admit how many shots it took to get 'the one' as the mask kept slipping (no pun intended :lol:)

Where did the mask come from? Is it a local one?

It was €1.50 from a local Todo shop, they're like pound shops in the UK but mostly run by the Chinese here.

Bruja

08-03-2009, 16:32

Well you've certainly stepped out of the box for this one haven't you :lol: Great idea :thumbs: I do find the image slightly dark though with quite flat lighting, no where nearly as good as the lighting from last week. But I do agree with Dark Star that the eye contact is brilliant (if a little intense and scary)

Thanks Simon, I was just using natural light again, as you can see from the eyes, and direct light was just blowing out the mask. And it was a self portrait which didn't help :D I have got an alternative with my eyes closed but it doesn't have the same (scary) effect.

I was going for intense and scary though so I'm glad it came across :naughty:

It used to work on my students by the way :lol::lol::lol::lol:

Toothie

08-03-2009, 20:14

For some reason the identity shot is really freeking me out, i think its the stare in the eyes, great take on the theme though and a brill shot imo :)

jeangenie

08-03-2009, 21:55

Jill, you've expressed so eloquently what I thought about how we all have different identities and present different identities to different people. And then people interpret our identities through their own filters as well!

What comes across so powerfully is that you are very clear about your own identity (I've got no idea who I am :( ) and then to see the mask picture is quite literally shocking. Talk about the power of an image! It's certainly stopped me in my tracks. What a superb interpretation of the theme. :clap::clap::clap:

And a reshoot, too! Lovely reflections shot with that tantalising thought of warmth and sunshine - ahhhhhhhhhh :) Definitely a gold star this week. :D

Jean

ScotlandTheScare

09-03-2009, 07:32

Identity - it kind of creeps me out. You have no idea what the person behind the eyes is thinking! But its an interesting portrait I think :)

And your reshoot is a nice composition - and it is amazingly clear since its a capture of a reflection on a glass door! In fact - you cant tell its a reflection which is what I think I am wanting in that image - some idea that we are looking at a reflection - even if it is part of the door handle strategically positioned. That way it would hammer home the reflection theme :)

Dark Star

09-03-2009, 07:45

Wow that is a shot of a reflection - amazing! As Stewart says a part of the door added would have hammered it home! That is so clear! And How envious am I that you have that within a few yards of you Grrrr :D!!!

jgs001

09-03-2009, 08:00

Jill, Amazing. You've summed up identity so well, and that shot is startling, and fits so well. The reflection shot is excellent and clear :thumbs:

Spartacus

09-03-2009, 09:28

Your identity is just something else...:eek:

It's a shocker...:nuts: but wow doe's it make you have a reaction...

That's so scary, if I was to walk in to a room with someone sat in a mask like that my feet wouldn't touch the floor.

I love your build up to the shot...:love:

and then you go and frighten the daylights out of me...:lol:

Great interpretation and so well executed...:woot:

Your reflection shot...now that a different story...you got it all going on, I love all the shapes/reflections and the colours...superb.

So I now forgive you for the scary one...:thumbs:

Bruja

09-03-2009, 16:30

For some reason the identity shot is really freeking me out, i think its the stare in the eyes, great take on the theme though and a brill shot imo :)

Thanks Ruth. It seems lots of people think it's scary but I'm glad you think its a brill shot

What comes across so powerfully is that you are very clear about your own identity (I've got no idea who I am :( ) and then to see the mask picture is quite literally shocking. Talk about the power of an image! It's certainly stopped me in my tracks. What a superb interpretation of the theme. :clap::clap::clap:

Thank you so much Jean, as you can guess I gave it a lot of thought as I tend to think of the text then take a shot to complement it. I thought the hardest thing was going to be actually finding a mask, but, as usual, taking the shot was much more difficult than I anticipated

And a reshoot, too! Lovely reflections shot with that tantalising thought of warmth and sunshine - ahhhhhhhhhh :) Definitely a gold star this week. :D

Jean

Identity - it kind of creeps me out. You have no idea what the person behind the eyes is thinking! But its an interesting portrait I think :) Thanks STS, and I think that is often true in real life too

And your reshoot is a nice composition - and it is amazingly clear since its a capture of a reflection on a glass door! In fact - you cant tell its a reflection which is what I think I am wanting in that image - some idea that we are looking at a reflection - even if it is part of the door handle strategically positioned. That way it would hammer home the reflection theme :)

I'll bear that in mind for next time :thumbs:

Bruja

09-03-2009, 16:37

Wow that is a shot of a reflection - amazing! As Stewart says a part of the door added would have hammered it home! I know, I'll try that next time. maybe we can have a Reshoot, reshoot? That is so clear! And How envious am I that you have that within a few yards of you Grrrr :D!!! Yeah, but the water is only 14 C Brrrr. It gets up to 28 in the summer though :D

Jill, Amazing. You've summed up identity so well, and that shot is startling, and fits so well. The reflection shot is excellent and clear :thumbs:

Thanks John, glad you like the shots. The Identity one seems to have shocked most people :naughty:

Bruja

09-03-2009, 18:46

Your identity is just something else...:eek: Thanks, I think ....

It's a shocker...:nuts: but wow doe's it make you have a reaction... So I've noticed :) althought that wasn't my initial intention.

That's so scary, if I was to walk in to a room with someone sat in a mask like that my feet wouldn't touch the floor.

I love your build up to the shot...:love: Well this is honing up my writing skills, and I've got a degree in psychology so that probably helped ;)

and then you go and frighten the daylights out of me...:lol: Sorry :naughty:

Great interpretation and so well executed...:woot: Wow, thanks

Your reflection shot...now that a different story...you got it all going on, I love all the shapes/reflections and the colours...superb.

So I now forgive you for the scary one...:thumbs: Glad you ended up happy :D

Bruja

14-03-2009, 21:05

Well, what a week! I had a great idea for Wisdom but then Reg got a cold (Man Flu :D) and by Thursday I was feeling ropey too, which does me no good at all. But as a result of that I had another idea and today finally got the energy to put it into practice.

What does Wisdom mean to me? Well, it's about choices. We can use our knowledge, intelligence and experience to decide which choice we make in any circumstance.

Sometimes we hear things we don't want to hear about ourselves or about others. Sometimes they are good things and we don't hear them because we can't believe them, sometimes they are bad things about ourselves that we don't want to believe because we don't think they are true, or at least we hope they aren't, but we believe them anyway. For me it was when I was growing up and it took me more than 30 years to realise they weren't true. When we hear bad things about other people sometimes we secretly hope they are true because that way we can feel better about ourselves. But we have a choice and we have, if we are lucky, wisdom on our side.

Sometimes we see things that we don't want to see. When we look in the mirror :D, when we look at others and their behaviour and we make judgements about what we see. And usually that is based on our perceptions about what's right and what's wrong. But they are just our rules and we don't know what else is going on in their lives, what makes them behave they way they do. Nevertheless we make a choice as to whether their behaviour is good or bad. But, once again, we have a choice, and if we are lucky,wisdom on our side.

Sometimes we say things that are unwise. In temper, in the heat of the moment, through ignorance, through not seeing someone else's point of view, or through just not thinking. I've been guilty of this on more occasions than I care to remember. Because of frustration, thinking we are being helpful or because we think we know more than the other person, thinking we understand the situation, or, sometimes, just because we care. And, yet again, we have a choice, and, if we are lucky, wisdom on our side.

I think you can see where this is going. So, here's my take on Wisdom.

WISDOM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3653/3353744653_9d495e5c6a_o.jpg

Hah, got you :D

But not really, because there are links to the proverb 'Hear no Evil, See no Evil, Speak no Evil to the teachings of Buddhism that if we do not hear, see or talk evil, we ourselves shall be spared all evil. This could be considered similar to the English proverb "Speak of the Devil – and the devil appears."

So there you go, not as off the wall as you thought :lol:

Hope you enjoyed the story, and the picture of course ;)

jeangenie

15-03-2009, 07:29

Hah, got you :D

But not really, because there are links to the proverb 'Hear no Evil, See no Evil, Speak no Evil to the teachings of Buddhism that if we do not hear, see or talk evil, we ourselves shall be spared all evil. This could be considered similar to the English proverb "Speak of the Devil – and the devil appears."

So there you go, not as off the wall as you thought :lol:

Hope you enjoyed the story, and the picture of course ;)

Hehehe - you got me. :)

As always, Jill, very nicely explained, and an excellent picture to go with it. I've got mixed feeling about the background, at first I thought it was a bit distracting, then I decided it was vibrant and balanced the rich colours of the Buddha. :shrug: I'll come back to it. :)

btw - your Wisdom sounds a lot wiser than mine. :lol:

I hope both you and Reg are feeling better - and well done for getting such a good shot when you're under the weather. :clap:

Jean

Duckydoodle

15-03-2009, 08:47

Jill your thread is amazing and I look forward each week to checking out not only your images but your pearls of wisdom. Your words are so encouraging and inspiring as are the images that accompany them. Your wealth shot was great and the sentiment so heartfelt and honest. Identity really touched a chord with me and I loved the image of a woman behind a mask hiding so many different selves. Your wisdom shot was a great interpretation. Keep them coming Jill :clap: :clap: :clap:

Dark Star

15-03-2009, 14:09

Jill your thread is amazing and I look forward each week to checking out not only your images but your pearls of wisdom. Your words are so encouraging and inspiring as are the images that accompany them. Your wealth shot was great and the sentiment so heartfelt and honest.....Your wisdom shot was a great interpretation. Keep them coming Jill :clap: :clap: :clap:

Couldn't have said it better myself :)

Great (and honest) words, great shot!

:D

Bruja

15-03-2009, 17:31

Hehehe - you got me. There's always one :D

As always, Jill, very nicely explained, and an excellent picture to go with it. I've got mixed feeling about the background, at first I thought it was a bit distracting, then I decided it was vibrant and balanced the rich colours of the Buddha. :shrug: I'll come back to it. It's a very important colour (well in Chinese Medicine) as red, or in this case deep pink, signifies the Heart, but I also felt it needed to be vibrant as Wisdom too is vibrant, positive and life affirming

btw - your Wisdom sounds a lot wiser than mine. I didn't say I always put it into practice, but I'm learning. :D

I hope both you and Reg are feeling better - and well done for getting such a good shot when you're under the weather. :clap: We both are, thanks.

Jean

Jill your thread is amazing and I look forward each week to checking out not only your images but your pearls of wisdom. Your words are so encouraging and inspiring as are the images that accompany them. Your wealth shot was great and the sentiment so heartfelt and honest. Identity really touched a chord with me and I loved the image of a woman behind a mask hiding so many different selves. Your wisdom shot was a great interpretation. Keep them coming Jill :clap: :clap: :clap:

Thank you so much Maureen, such great support is much appreciated

Couldn't have said it better myself :)

Great (and honest) words, great shot!

Thanks John, if I keep this up I'm thinking of doing a photobook at the end of the year. What do you think?

:D

SimonTALM

15-03-2009, 17:35

Bruja

15-03-2009, 18:50

Jill, I'm surprised you didn't take a self portrait for wisdom, you appear to have almost Yoda qualities about you - your thread is peppered with wisdoms ;) (If I was a mod I would have set Yoda as your forum title already :lol:) Well suggest it to them then, I'm too shy :D

I like the photograph of Budda, the back lighting is great touch and really gives some depth to the image. Whilst the uneven lighting is ok, I think on this occasion it would have been better if it was more even (the right side is too bright for me). Could be a reshoot then. I'm learning a lot about lighting from this challenge ;)

I hope you and Reg are fully recovered as I'm very much looking forward to you shot next week - relationships will suit you perfectly :) Oh no, I didn't think portraits were my thing, but perhaps this challenge is proving me wrong :D Thanks again for setting it up as it's doing me the world of good as it has reignited my passion for writing. And we are both recovering, thanks.

corky

15-03-2009, 20:07

:agree: with all the sentiments

J

Bruja

15-03-2009, 20:22

Thanks Jon :)

Toothie

15-03-2009, 22:06

Excellent take on theme, i think we could all do better if we followed those words of wisdom :)

jgs001

16-03-2009, 09:04

Excellent take on the theme, superb image with a wonderful backlight and very wise words to go with it. Excellent work Jill. Maybe it's time to PM Marcel with a request or should we start a petition ?

dizzy

17-03-2009, 15:09

Great Shot, again! I have to completely agree with Simon too. I think you should have done a self portrait for wisdom. Really looking forward to your next installment!

ScotlandTheScare

18-03-2009, 07:35

Well - bang on the money there - good image although I wondered to myself how it would look being slightly more muted in colour. Thats just me though - I love the textures on the hair and of the well worn metal. We all learnt something too!

Bruja

18-03-2009, 09:34

Great Shot, again! I have to completely agree with Simon too. I think you should have done a self portrait for wisdom. Really looking forward to your next installment!

Thanks very much David :D. But would that have been arrogant rather than wise? ;)

Well - bang on the money there - good image although I wondered to myself how it would look being slightly more muted in colour. Thats just me though - I love the textures on the hair and of the well worn metal. We all learnt something too!

Thanks Stewart, and it's actually a painted resin and sits on a chest in my bedroom :D

Bruja

20-03-2009, 17:09

Relationships eh!

I thought, well that's an easy one, then I thought about all the different types of relationships there are in the world. Political, geographical, diplomatic, and economic are the one's on the world stage. Closer to home though there are are personal ones, and the most personal of all perhaps is the romantic/sexual one. By that I mean a marriage or partnership. In other words, an intimate relationship.

I've had quite a few of those :naughty: (Reg is my third husband). And like all relationships they can be tricky :D

So what makes a good relationship?

Well, like most things in life, you only get what you work for. I remember as a young (19) bride thinking that once we'd got that far all the work was done and we just got on with it, life would be great. Now at the grand age of 53 I've realised that if you want to be happy with each other you both have to work at it. When we moved here over 4 years ago we were suddenly spending all day, every day together and that takes some getting used to no matter how much you love each other. It's taken more than 3 of those years to get to the point where we are really comfortable with each other again, after a number of difficult patches.

But with hindsight I realise that many couples will have a similar kind of experience from time to time. When circumstances change it often has a knock on effect on a relationship. When a baby is born, when the last child leaves home, when a parent dies, when jobs and roles change, and, in our case, when Reg retired. I naively believed (like I did at 19) that it was going to be great spending all our time together. After all, isn't that what most of us dream of when we think about retirement, that it's a time for celebration :woot::woot:

So what have I learned (or, more appropriately, put into to practice)?

Well first of all you can't have love without respect. I'm sure many of us know couples who are always bickering in public, using sarcastic humour to belittle the other. And I wonder if it's just a habit they have fallen into or whether they genuinely dislike each other.

Secondly, you need to have trust. That your other half will support you, back you up and, always be on your side cheering you on in everything you do. But, equally as important, will tell you when you are making an absolute 'blue chested bird' of something :D and vice versa of course.

Thirdly, you genuinely need to care for each other. Caring is not just about supporting someone or looking after them when they are ill or upset but, for me, it's thinking 'what will be the consequences for Reg if I do this, how will he feel?' about just about everything I do. In other words, taking him into consideration when I make decisions big and small. That doesn't mean we talk about every one, or that I always put him first, just that I think about him.

And, fourthly, and perhaps the most important in all of this, is that you keep the lines of communication open. If you respect someone, trust them, and care for them then you can talk about anything. Your hopes, fears, desires, your strengths and weaknesses, your past and your present and your hopes for the future. In other words you can bare all without fear of failure, derision, and most importantly, without judgement.

So I give you ......

RELATIONSHIPS

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3585/3370551796_1f67edc3c5.jpg

I chose a slightly high key version on purpose Simon ;) and if I keep taking portraits we are going to have to get a bigger house because I'm struggling to find a decent background, and moving furniture, and taking stuff off walls, and finding space for the tripod etc etc etc.

And Dark Star, I told you I was freckly :lol:

And now I'm off to see my friend in Paris for a week :woot::woot: (without Reg I might add), but I'll still be online. I just hope that the next theme doesn't need a tripod!

Dark Star

20-03-2009, 17:33

Jill, I have to say that your narratives are astoundingly good reading: bags of good thoughts, common sense and wise words - that are so obviously from your heart!

You write as well as you take photos and you're bloody good at that:)!

A great double portrait and a great tribute to what looks like a fantastic relationship.

Nothing more to add, a brilliant post Jill! :) :clap:

And yes you were right about those freckles ;) :D

jeangenie

20-03-2009, 21:21

Jill, I have to say that your narratives are astoundingly good reading: bags of good thoughts, common sense and wise words - that are so obviously from your heart!

You write as well as you take photos and you're bloody good at that:)!

A great double portrait and a great tribute to what looks like a fantastic relationship.

Nothing more to add, a brilliant post Jill! :) :clap:

John has said exactly what I was thinking, Jill. And I would add: You and Reg look 'right' together, he obviously supports you in your photographic journey and very well done for achieving an excellent, well-framed pose in a self-portrait. :clap::clap::clap:

Bon voyage. :)

Jean

SimonTALM

21-03-2009, 22:02

Jill,

You just brought tears to my eyes with that shot (seriously) :thumbs: That is fantastic, I knew when my O/H pulled the theme for this week you'd give us a stunner and you have :clap: :clap: :clap: I love the lighting to bits !!

Enjoy Paris and I'll let you (all) know the theme for next week tomorrow evening.

P.S. If I have 1/2 the insight you have at 53 (I don't believe you are any way near 53 BTW) I'll count myself very lucky. You really are a wise woman - in ancient times they'd have burned you at the stake out of jealousy (just like the woman in your avatar)

Hyster

21-03-2009, 22:31

One thing shines through in that image, love.

Your image is brave, bold and honest, you both smile with you eyes.

You've knocked this one out of the park, great effort, well done.

jgs001

23-03-2009, 00:06

Jill, you've produced a stunning photo with great words again. :clap: :clap:

Duckydoodle

23-03-2009, 04:51

Beautiful photograph and beautiful and as always, heart felt sentiment :clap:

Spartacus

23-03-2009, 07:32

Hello Jill first of all sorry I missed your wisdom shot...work and all that stuff...:razz:

That was a great build up again...and a well taken shot with the lovely red/pink background...:clap:

But this week up are in a whole different league with this self portrait...:clap:
What a fantastic shot, and so well executed...:clap:
The lighting is so spot on, I'm loving this work from you...:love:

I've got to say the 52s are bringing everybodys standard up.:thumbs:

Enjoy Paris...:wave:

Bruja

25-03-2009, 12:43

Jill, I have to say that your narratives are astoundingly good reading: bags of good thoughts, common sense and wise words - that are so obviously from your heart!

You write as well as you take photos and you're bloody good at that:)!

Thank you so much John. That means a lot to me. :)

A great double portrait and a great tribute to what looks like a fantastic relationship. I wasn't sure when I looked at it - but I'm my own worst critic. And it is a great relationship again ;)

Nothing more to add, a brilliant post Jill! Thank you, thank you, thank you

[QUOTE=jeangenie;1391130]John has said exactly what I was thinking, Jill. And I would add: You and Reg look 'right' together, he obviously supports you in your photographic journey and very well done for achieving an excellent, well-framed pose in a self-portrait. :clap::clap::clap:

Bon voyage. :) Thanks again for your support Jean, and I let him read everything I say (but not until after I've posted it :naughty:) and he's happy with all of it so far./QUOTE]

Bruja

25-03-2009, 12:49

Jill,

You just brought tears to my eyes with that shot (seriously) :thumbs: Wow, I'm shocked! I didn't think it was that good :D That is fantastic, I knew when my O/H pulled the theme for this week you'd give us a stunner and you have :clap: :clap: :clap: I love the lighting to bits !! Thanks for the vote of confidence, I appreciate it :thumbs:

P.S. If I have 1/2 the insight you have at 53 (I don't believe you are any way near 53 BTW) I'll count myself very lucky. You really are a wise woman - in ancient times they'd have burned you at the stake out of jealousy (just like the woman in your avatar) Hah hah, flattery will get you everywjere. But you'll find out at the TP Convention a) I've got feet of clay just like everyone else and, b) in the cold light of day I do look 53 (well 54 by then :D)

One thing shines through in that image, love.

Your image is brave, bold and honest, you both smile with you eyes.

You've knocked this one out of the park, great effort, well done.

Thank you so much for your own, obviously heartfelt words :nuts:

Bruja

25-03-2009, 12:53

Jill, you've produced a stunning photo with great words again. :clap: :clap:

Thanks so much John, glad you're liking it all still :thumbs:

Beautiful photograph and beautiful and as always, heart felt sentiment :clap:

Thanks Maureen, kind and supportive words from you as always :) (and heartfelt too from you)

Bruja

25-03-2009, 12:58

Hello Jill first of all sorry I missed your wisdom shot...work and all that stuff...:razz: I thought you'd gone off me :D

That was a great build up again...and a well taken shot with the lovely red/pink background...:clap: Thanks

But this week up are in a whole different league with this self portrait...:clap:
What a fantastic shot, and so well executed...:clap:
The lighting is so spot on, I'm loving this work from you...:love:

So it was worth all the furniture and picture moving and waiting for the sun to go/come out and wearing Reg's patience a bit thin :lol:

Enjoy Paris...:wave: I'm trying to but I was in bed Monday and Tuesday exhausted by the travelling :razz: so not even had the camera out yet and I'm going to struggle to find Poverty around here as the suburb I'm staying in is 'exclusif' But off into the city tomorrow with my TP friend and my 70-200 so I might get something there :shrug:

Bruja

31-03-2009, 08:56

Well it's going to be short and sweet for this week you'll be glad to hear :D

I spent the first 2 days of my visit to my friend in bed recovering from the journey and then I've spent 2 days in bed recovering from coming back home again. Sometimes I really hate this disease :( :razz:

Anyway, the one day we managed to get into Paris itself we went (only) to Notre Dame and this woman was sitting on the ground outside the public entrance to the Cathedral in the freezing cold and damp winds.

I also have a picture of her sitting down here (http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3464/3399789564_82d1d41af9.jpg?v=0) but didn't like the composition so much. I only took a couple of pictures of her as they were candids, but I did put a couple of euros in her cup.

POVERTY

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3654/3399810826_60b8251c01.jpg?v=0

Spartacus

31-03-2009, 09:28

Welcome back...we missed you...:love:

Poverty...that's a great candid shot...:clap:

Sorry you were not well, but now your back with friends your be right as rain...:thumbs:

jgs001

31-03-2009, 09:35

Welcome back Jill, sorry to hear that the time in Paris didn't go quite as you'd hoped...

That is a stunning shot with great detail :thumbs: :clap:

dizzy

31-03-2009, 14:37

Lovely portrait, hope you're feeling stronger soon!

Bruja

31-03-2009, 14:53

Welcome back...we missed you...:love: Aw shucks :nuts:

Poverty...that's a great candid shot...:clap: Thanks Marcus :)

Sorry you were not well, but now your back with friends your be right as rain...:thumbs: And the only way is UP! (sorry, couldn't resist it :naughty:)

Welcome back Jill, sorry to hear that the time in Paris didn't go quite as you'd hoped...

That is a stunning shot with great detail :thumbs: :clap: Thanks John, appreciate it as always

Lovely portrait, hope you're feeling stronger soon! Thanks, I hope so too!

adrury

31-03-2009, 16:46

Sorry to hear that the trip took it out of you so much.

The shot however, is absolutely stunning. You can see what toll life has taken on this lady because it is written all over her face. The angle shows perfectly the heavy eyes and bowed head of someone who is tired of being on the wrong side of luck!!

Excellent :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

SimonTALM

31-03-2009, 16:55

I've been waiting to see what you got ;) and it's been worth the wait. A lovely portrait that is really full of character :thumbs:

You did well to avoid a trap and crop too close :clap: there is just enough background to the left not to make the image too black (if you know what I mean) and I think because it's a good close up it doesn't matter that the top of the head is cut off (which I think spoils the other shot).

corky

31-03-2009, 19:02

Lovely shot. shows her character splendidly :thumbs:

Bruja

01-04-2009, 18:21

The shot however, is absolutely stunning. You can see what toll life has taken on this lady because it is written all over her face. The angle shows perfectly the heavy eyes and bowed head of someone who is tired of being on the wrong side of luck!!

Excellent :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

Thanks Angela, glad you like it :thumbs:

I've been waiting to see what you got ;) and it's been worth the wait. A lovely portrait that is really full of character :thumbs:

Thanks Simon, glad I'm living up to your expectations :D

Lovely shot. shows her character splendidly :thumbs:

Thanks Corky :D

Now all I've got to do is catch up with everyone else

Duckydoodle

01-04-2009, 18:44

Bruja

02-04-2009, 15:31

Thanks Maureen :thumbs:

jeangenie

04-04-2009, 22:55

Excellent interpretation Jill. The tired, wor out look you've captured is priceless. The thought of her sitting on the floor out in the cold is such a sad indictment on society. Fantastic exposure :clap::clap::clap:

That's just how I feel, too. It's easy to be complacent about what we've got and to forget how much of a struggle life is for so many people. Poverty in the true sense of the word. Beautifully captured, Jill. :clap:

I'm so glad to hear you're on the UP again, after a bad week. :hug:

Jean

Bruja

05-04-2009, 10:24

Well I'm UP this week which is a good start :D

There are 2 parts to this week's story: why I'm up is one part, and what the photograph means is the second part. So if you are easily bored scroll down now ;)

So, why am I UP? Well I've found that taking a holiday is very exhausting for me, and next week I'm off to the UK for the first time in 4 years, so I've really struggled this week. But, I remembered a new shopping centre that had opened about 50 Km away which I visitied about 2 months ago. The upstairs area is open air and is draped with (probably fibre glass) sails of many colours.

I thought then, what a fantastic place to ake some abstract pictures so I approached one of the security guards and asked if there was un jefe (a manager). He pointed him out to me so we had a chat and I explained that I'd like to take some pictures of the outside of the Centre and did I need permission. He said I did and that the next time I visited the Centre and wanted to take pictures (because, typically, I didn't have my camara with me) just ask one of the security guards to call him. I told him about my recent Exhibition and that I had a book of the pictures (thanks to BLURB) that I could bring next time so he could see the type of pictures I like to take. So we parted on an agreement. Or so I thought :(

Turned up there on Friday (with the camera gear this time :thumbs:) and was directed to the Centre office. The Manager wasn't there so one of the administrators called him and after a bit of a discussion on the phone she said NO! They only managed the Centre and weren't the proprietors so couldn't give permission. I just wanted to cry :'( as I was so looking forward to it and it was the perfect venue for UP, and it was already Friday, and I'd dragged myself out of bed to go there in the first place. So I wandered around the supermarket with 'him indoors' cursing under my breath, and sometimes out loud. But, I thought, that's life. Anyway, we decided to have some lunch and just as I was sitting down Reg saw El Jefe walking past the window so I grabbed my book of pictures and ran (well limped) after him.

To cut an even longer story short he agreed that I could take photographs as long as there were no shops in the pictures, and would I like to have an Exhibition of my pictures in the Centre in the summer because he loved what he saw. And it won't cost me a penny, I just deliver the files and the Centre pays for the printing and mounting and publicity :woot::woot: What a result!

So that's why I'm UP, and, the whole thing took place in Spanish. So glad I've made the effort to learn it. So here's my interpretation of UP, and below it is what it means to me. Enjoy....

UP

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3547/3410749645_dcbe541d7a_o.jpg

Well there's the centre pole which represents me and all the different strands that are keeping me up and supporting the protective cover that shelters me from harm.

They include my close friends, my family, Reg, photography, TP, Jack Daniels, my cats, my self-determination (stubborness :D), my spirit, and, currently, Modesto (el jefe) who turned a really bad day into a great one. We all have things that both anchor and support us and this, for me, was the perfect representation on the day. I think I might actually put this on the wall to remind me that all those things are there even when it doesn't feel like it.

Thanks to all of you as well, you've got a whole strand to yourselves keeping my pole anchored. :love:

Bruja

05-04-2009, 10:25

That's just how I feel, too. It's easy to be complacent about what we've got and to forget how much of a struggle life is for so many people. Poverty in the true sense of the word. Beautifully captured, Jill. :clap:

I'm so glad to hear you're on the UP again, after a bad week. :hug:

Jean

Thanks Jean, have one back :hug: :D

corky

05-04-2009, 15:13

good composition and lines. Glad to hear you are feeling better

Jon

adrury

05-04-2009, 15:23

Life sure is a rollercoaster!!! glad you got your shot for this week and glad you're feeling up. A nice clear shot, well done!!

Daysleeper40

05-04-2009, 16:26

Poverty - excellent portrait, I really like the eye contact and you can obviously see how life has worn itself into the ladies face. Slight niggle is the white bit on her clothing is distracting but that's just me being picky!

Up - like the composition and the lines... and like the meaning behind it even more :thumbs:

SimonTALM

05-04-2009, 17:19

Pity you couldn't get shots including the shops but fabulous news on the exhibition :thumbs:.

The composition is great and I love the thoughts you've pulled out of this one.

maddog.mark

05-04-2009, 18:58

I agree with Simon, the composition works for me, and the story and exhibition that has come out of the effort you put is the icing on the cake.

Well done you:thumbs:

jeangenie

05-04-2009, 22:03

Jill, what a fantastic result. You got the shot you wanted AND a whole exhibition too. Fortune shines on those who help themselves. :thumbs::thumbs:

I love the image in its own right, as well as the meaning behind it, and it speaks for all of us, imo - no-one can survive without the support of family and friends.

As always, your 52 is an inspiration. :)

Jean

Hyster

05-04-2009, 22:27

Good composition and an interesting geometric shape, works well.

jgs001

06-04-2009, 08:53

Well done Jill, a cracking shot, a wonderful story and excellent news on the exhibition too :thumbs:

Toothie

06-04-2009, 11:55

Loving the lines in this and such a moving story you should definitily print the picture :D

Bruja

06-04-2009, 15:16

good composition and lines. Glad to hear you are feeling better

Jon

Thanks Jon :thumbs:

Life sure is a rollercoaster!!! glad you got your shot for this week and glad you're feeling up. A nice clear shot, well done!!

Thanks Angela, I appreciate it :thumbs:

Poverty - excellent portrait, I really like the eye contact and you can obviously see how life has worn itself into the ladies face. Slight niggle is the white bit on her clothing is distracting but that's just me being picky! And she was wearing it :D

Up - like the composition and the lines... and like the meaning behind it even more :thumbs: Glad you like picture and even more glad you like the meaning :D

Pity you couldn't get shots including the shops but fabulous news on the exhibition :thumbs:. TBH I wasn't interested in the shops (a first for me :lol:) it 's the outside that's spectacular from an abstract point of view and when I get back from the UK I'm going to post some shots from there on flickr. So that wasn't (for me) my best shot from the day but it said what I wanted it to. And the exhibition was a fantastic surprise.

The composition is great and I love the thoughts you've pulled out of this one.

Thanks Simon. I used my 70-200 and no crop, which is a miracle for me as it makes my arms very tired :(

Bruja

06-04-2009, 15:20

I agree with Simon, the composition works for me, and the story and exhibition that has come out of the effort you put is the icing on the cake.

Well done you:thumbs:

Thanks Mark ;)

Jill, what a fantastic result. You got the shot you wanted AND a whole exhibition too. Fortune shines on those who help themselves. :thumbs::thumbs: Or stalk people :D

I love the image in its own right, as well as the meaning behind it, and it speaks for all of us, imo - no-one can survive without the support of family and friends.

As always, your 52 is an inspiration. :) Thank you so much. As you know, that wasn't my intention at the beginning; I just wanted a reason to get out of bed, so it's doing me the world too :D

Jean

Good composition and an interesting geometric shape, works well.

Glad you like it :)

Bruja

06-04-2009, 15:23

Well done Jill, a cracking shot, a wonderful story and excellent news on the exhibition too :thumbs:

Thanks John, I didn't think it was that good tbh but it said what I wanted to say :D, and the exhibition turned a sad day into a happy one.

Loving the lines in this and such a moving story you should definitily print the picture :D

Thanks Ruth, as always I appreciate your comments ;)

dizzy

06-04-2009, 21:32

lovely abstract feel and fabulous news about the exhibition!

Spartacus

07-04-2009, 10:23

lovely abstract feel and fabulous news about the exhibition!

Well that's a lovely shot from you and works great for this weeks theme...:clap:

and I know it's not the most important thing of the shot, but that boarder makes it look absolutely superb...:love:

well done you...:thumbs:

Bruja

07-04-2009, 11:16

lovely abstract feel and fabulous news about the exhibition!

Thanks, I do love abstracts :love: and the exhibition made my day ;)

Well that's a lovely shot from you and works great for this weeks theme...:clap:

and I know it's not the most important thing of the shot, but that border makes it look absolutely superb...:love: Well, without the border it didn't look so good as it needed something to define the edges of the white space. So glad yu like it :thumbs:

well done you...:thumbs:

Thanks Marcus, supportive as usual. :hug:

Dark Star

08-04-2009, 18:48

Jill - catching up :)

Poverty - fantastic portrait - bags of character, bags of detail and that half knowing smile under all those lines from her life - sad but just great if that makes sense :)

And what a result re the shopping centre! Great image and a great (and well deserved) result!

Your words, as ever, both inspire and delight!

Great to come back to good news and good images :D!

Bruja

11-04-2009, 14:03

After my initial reaction of what the :bang::bang: !! I actually enjoyed thinking about this week's subject and which letter meant the most to me. So here it is :D

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3648/3421078580_8da822f67d.jpg?v=0

OK, you don't get away that easily, I've still got stuff to say.....

Why did I choose X? It's because, depending on its context it means many different things.

X marks the spot
An X is a has-been or a former....
X means I choose this one.
X means WRONG.....
We can come to a Xroads in our life.
It used to be your mark if you were illiterate.
But my favourite meaning is X means a kiss and lots of XXXXXXs means love :love:

And I have a very important learning point to share with you this week. My X is the last letter in my local town's name - ALBOX - and they have just erected a new monument on the roundabout leading into the town and, conveniently for me, used marble letters to spell out the name of the town.

And the learning point is, if you are going to stand right next to a roundabout with your back to the traffic take a buddy with you so you don't get splattered (or booked by the Guardia Civil). Fortunately I took Reg with me so I managed to avert disaster :eek::eek:

Toothie

11-04-2009, 14:30

I think htis fits the theme perfectly, and it can't have been easy to take, big white letter with a difficult bg nicely done :thumbs:

Dark Star

11-04-2009, 14:37

I think htis fits the theme perfectly, and it can't have been easy to take, big white letter with a difficult bg nicely done :thumbs:

My thoughts exactly and what a cute name for a town - a cross (or is that an X) between All Bran and Radox :)

Good shot Jill :D

jeangenie

11-04-2009, 14:53

That's really clever, Jill. :thumbs:

I spent some time looking at the picture, wondering how you had created the perspective before I read the rest of your post:bonk:

It's a good shot and I like the slight shading in the marble. I like the reasons for choosing 'x', too.

It's a good job you've got Reg there to save you from the traffic. :)

Jean

maddog.mark

11-04-2009, 19:45

That's really clever, Jill. :thumbs:

It's a good shot and I like the slight shading in the marble.

Jean

I agree with Jean, especially about this bit, I would have been easy to blow out the detail on the marble, but you've managed to retain the detail and that for me makes the shot.

Mark :thumbs:

adrury

11-04-2009, 20:47

OMG what an amazing coincidence, Albox is the nearest town to my mum!!!! She lives just up the rambla (Ramblica d'oria)... Imagine her surprise when I phone her tomorrow and tell her I think Albox's new hollywood style lettering looks fab!!!!:lol::lol:

As for the picture, I like the thinking behind it as well as the clear, colourful shot. :clap::clap:

p.s is thar grass real, or is it astroturf!!:D

Bruja

12-04-2009, 13:17

I think htis fits the theme perfectly, and it can't have been easy to take, big white letter with a difficult bg nicely done :thumbs: Thanks Ruth, trying to get it right to preserve the detail of the marble took some working out :thinking: but I'm glad I persevered.

My thoughts exactly and what a cute name for a town - a cross (or is that an X) between All Bran and Radox :)

Good shot Jill :D

Thanks John, and I'll catch up with yours (and everyone else's) when I get home in a week's time.

That's really clever, Jill. :thumbs:

I spent some time looking at the picture, wondering how you had created the perspective before I read the rest of your post:bonk:

It's a good shot and I like the slight shading in the marble. I like the reasons for choosing 'x', too.

It's a good job you've got Reg there to save you from the traffic. :)

Jean

Thanks Jean, he really was watching my back :D

Bruja

12-04-2009, 13:22

I agree with Jean, especially about this bit, I would have been easy to blow out the detail on the marble, but you've managed to retain the detail and that for me makes the shot.

Mark :thumbs: Thanks Mark.:D I used the 70-200, shallow DoF and underexposed about a stop I think. The major problem was the autofocus hunting for a focal point.

OMG what an amazing coincidence, Albox is the nearest town to my mum!!!! She lives just up the rambla (Ramblica d'oria)... Imagine her surprise when I phone her tomorrow and tell her I think Albox's new hollywood style lettering looks fab!!!!:lol::lol: Next time you are going to visit drop me a PM and we can meet up :thumbs: and I bet your mum wondered how you knew

As for the picture, I like the thinking behind it as well as the clear, colourful shot. :clap::clap:

p.s is thar grass real, or is it astroturf!!:D

Astroturf :lol: