Wednesday, May 4, 2011

This photo 365 project came to be, in large part, because of my friendship with Erin, who influenced my decision to purchase a Canon Rebel. We have formed a photo walking group and both hobbyists and professional photographers have joined us. One such photographer is Kate, a friend of Erin's. Kate is a fantastic photographer and was so kind to let me practice taking portraits of her at our recent photo walk at Mill City Ruins. Being shy, taking photos of people is one of my greatest challenges. Also, I realized yesterday that I haven't really had the opportunity to take photos in the bright sunlight because since getting my camera in November, the skies have mostly been overcast. Kate gave me a quick tutorial in choosing an outdoor location where the light is coming in from three directions but is not causing your subject to squint and the sun is not casting shadows over their face. I am probably not summarizing this adequately but that is what I remember. What Kate gave me the most is the confidence that most photographers, no matter their skill level, are willing to share their knowledge and experience and likely get a bit out of the teaching moment themselves. So, I will continue asking questions, and more importantly practicing. So, who wants to model for me? 

You can see the photos I took at the Mill City Ruins, as well as photos from our other photo walk, here. 

I was chosen to be one of the photographers for my neighborhood's photo project, Armatage365. Today was my first day! I will be responsible for Wednesdays and my photos will be posted on Thursdays at www.armatage365.org. 

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Today was a fantastic day in so many ways. I started the day with an informational interview with two professionals on the Online User Experience team. They had so much great information for me and an offer to observe a usability test. The usability test fell through but I know I'll be able to go to a future session. I then checked my tweets and discovered MinneWebCon, a web conference happening in my backyard in two weeks. I've been searching for a reasonably priced professional development opportunity and proposed it to my boss. I received approval so I will be going on April 11! After work, I had a photo walk with some amazing friends. We met at the Minneapolis Central Library and then headed to Restaurant Max for drinks. On the bus ride home I caught up on blog reading which always gives me such great inspiration and ideas. So, you can say I know have information overload. Better start winding down or I won't sleep.