The Details of Photography

Today I realized just how new I am to photography (not that I didn't already know that ...). I finally downloaded the software that came with my camera. This is software that allows you to edit your photos and tweak them to bring them to their full potential. Wow - what a difference this software can make! But, you have to be careful and use a light touch. I also figured out how to insert copyright information on all my photos in a batch job, thus avoiding having to open up each photo and insert the information one at a time. What a time saver!

Here's why I'm going to all this trouble.

What I'd like to do is have some of my "A" level photos (i.e., the good ones ... or, the ones I think are good) professionally printed, matted and framed. Then I plan to take them to different restaurants and coffee houses around Austin to see if there's any interest in displaying them. My hope is to be able to not only sell a few, but get my name "out there" as a photographer. Austin has a LOT of artists and photographers who do this kind of thing, so I'm sure it won't be an easy task to get my photos displayed. My brother in law did this a few years back and was told that many restaurants have about a year or two wait list.

What I think I have on my side is that my photos are unique in that they're wildlife shots and not Texas wildlife. We'll see what happens, but it's a fun project to work on and I love this type of challenge.

You wouldn't believe how detailed and careful you have to be about this stuff. Acid free tape, UV glass when framing, etc., etc. A lot of attention to detail. I'd like to put together a beautiful group of about 15 photos and see what kind of interest I receive. It's about $150 a photo so this won't be an inexpensive project. That's the price my bro-in-law gave me, and I'm not even sure if that includes the printing costs which are extremely important. You can tell a huge different between Walgreens or CVS prints and a professional grade printer.

On a positive note, I've received some great feedback from several professional wildlife photographers, artists, as well as other new photographers, so hopefully a few of my shots can stand up to the scrutiny. I think they can and I have confidence not only in my photos, but in my ability to continue to grow as a photographer. My next step will be to upgrade my camera (as suggested by a pro) and take more trips to get more shots.Unfortunately not to Africa (until next year), but the U.S. has many wildlife sanctuaries so that's always a possibility. There's also a number of wildlife sanctuaries in Texas so some road trips may be in order.

Also, Born Free has a primate sanctuary outside San Antonio which has approximately 500 primates on 186 acres of land. I've already spoken to a couple friends who work for Born Free and although it's not open to the public, I may be able to visit on a private invitation. Which would be a fantastic photography opportunity.

Here's a parting shot of Meggie. Today I've been thinking about Africa quite a bit; the wonderful people and lions. The camraderie over shared love of lions. Really missing it. I'll be back one day.

Remember ... Animals Matter.