Category Archives: Portrait

Photographer’s Choice – Nancy Shoemaker

Capturing the Essence

Stephen Shoemaker through Nancy's lens

Stephen Shoemaker through Nancy's lens

What makes this such a compelling image? Is it the composition, following the “Thirds” rule so meticulously? Is it the fact that there’s nothing superfluous, nothing to clutter up the scene and detract from the very definite focal point? The light providing a semi-silhouette and yet with enough clarity to allow the subject to be recognizable? Or maybe it’s the imposing figure standing in front of heavy boulders and the vastness and power of the sea. Or the hat? The shadow? The reflection? Yes, it’s all of this working and coming together to “paint” the painter, to turn the tables on the man usually behind the easel. Here, Nancy is the artist and Stephen the subject.

Photographer’s Choice – Nancy Bowers

Celebrate With Heels, Tiara, Veil – and a Doll

Nancy Bowers - Granddaughter Lanie Dances in the Light

Nancy Bowers - Granddaughter Lanie Dances in the Light

Since the early days of photography, capturing the fleeting days of childhood has been a family mainstay with a Brownie and the occasional trip to the studio. Today there are undoubtedly more shots taken than ever before, the vast majority of no interest beyond the immediate family. But this image strikes a universal chord, the quintessence of joyful youth and the dreams of lasses the world over. The dark background and back lighting are perfect to capture the swirling gown and stray hairs. The softly lighted grass in the foreground adds emphasis to the main subject. In Lanie’s left hand however, the worn doll reminds the viewer that Lanie, imagining a moment far into the future, is only four years old. A crop shows just how much that doll is treasured. As Nancy says, “The doll never leaves her and is much loved”.
Lanie's Baby

Lanie's Baby

Camera: Nikon D80 with 105 mm f/2.8 lens. Exp: 1/320 sec at f/4.5. ISO: 200