photogblog

Nice Day for a White Wedding

2011-11-14T08:47:00.000-05:00

Weddings are always special, this one was no exception. 11/11/11, easy to remember and weather that I'll never forget. I drove through a white out to get to the location, but it was all worth it.

This was a small gathering at the Black Dog Lodge in Ellicottville, NY. The surroundings made for plenty of freedom and creativity.

The Bride and Groom didn't seem to mind the weather, so we stepped outside to enjoy the tapestry of the freshly fallen snow.

The Shadow Side Rises Again

2011-10-03T23:36:00.000-04:00

I just finished giving a program for the Fall Conference of The Professional Photographers Association of Pennsylvania down in State College, PA. What a blast. Thank you to everyone who helped make it happen. Very special thanks goes out to Dave Piazza of FJ Westcott for his support. He came down and provided me with some amazing goodies like the new TD6 Spiderlites for my program. I would also like to thank Jana and everyone at ACI for their support and Tammy Wolfe, PPA of PA President for all that she does. Here are a few images from the day.

This was created with a Westcott TD6 and ambient light mixed in.

This was shot with a Westcott 7' Parabolic Umbrella and one TD6. I was amazed at the coverage for two people. Soft, beautiful light spread evenly across both faces.

Another TD6 in the shallow soft box

2 Days of All Lit Up

2011-08-30T23:48:00.000-04:00

What a great workshop we had at Advantage Media Production Studio in North Tonawanda, NY. Thank you Doug Hangate for hosting this event. Special thanks to John Metcalfe from Alton, IL, for joining us. This was the first time the 3 of us joined forces to teach. We had 15 photographers attend and 10 models each day from Wilhelmina Rochester.

We also had 4 amazing hot rods to use for props. It doesn't get much cooler than that.

It makes me glad that I'm a photographer and get to do this for a living.

Beautiful girls, beautiful cars and beautiful light.

All Lit Up Extravaganza August 27 & 28

2011-08-16T07:13:00.000-04:00

This is the ultimate educational / networking event

John Metcalfe, Dana Nordlund and Doug Hansgate, have invited you to spend an incredible weekend of hands on instruction and applying the techniques with some awesome models courtesy of Wilhelmina Rochester Agency.
This event is being hosted by Doug Hansgate of Advantage Media Productions, located at 154 Christina Street, North Tonawanda, NY 14120

Two days of shooting some of the most beautiful models in the Buffalo - Rochester area.
A day of posing and working with light, plus a second day of shooting on location.
Models and photographers will benefit from this workshop. Lighting and positioning in the light will be the focus of this 2 day event.

Participants will see, learn and apply all the techniques of this very hands on format. Your instructors will bring years of knowledge and experience to the table.

The cost of this event to you is $75, that includes lunch on Saturday (Sunday you are on your own)

Your only requirements are to give us your contact info, sign a release, participate, have a blast, and THE most important rule, ALL photographers must submit their images. (NO EXCEPTIONS)

To learn more or reserve your place, contact Dana Nordlund at: 716.569.3940

More Light, Less Gear

2011-08-02T09:24:00.001-04:00

Making a simple head shot in the studio requires proper light placement, but stepping outside, it requires finding sweet light. For this image of Kate, I placed her close to a concrete pillar, under a covered entrance surrounded by cement and concrete. The light simply bounces all around and reflects into her eyes.

Here is the same set up, just cropped nice and tight.

For this image, I just backed off a bit. The concrete surface becomes an amazing reflector and the wind adds some magic. Now, if I could just get that wind to work on cue.

Super Monday in Rochester

2011-05-30T22:39:00.010-04:00

On May 16, 2011, I had the pleasure of teaching a Super Monday class with my good friend John Metcalfe from Alton, IL. The program, "No Really . . . What Were You Thinking?", was hosted by Bruce Hahn, owner of Hahn Photographic. Special thanks goes to Bruce for his support over the years. Also, thanks to Wilhelmina Rochester for providing some absolutely amazing models.

Shot with a TD6 and a QFlash filling in the background

Many thanks to ACI for being the greatest lab in the world, seriously. Special thanks to Collages.net for helping me rock and to Dave Piazza of FJ Westcott for providing the new TD6 SpiderLights to work with, man are they cool.

This shot was created with window light and a TD6

The class didn't end at 5pm, we decided to give a little bit more so we took to the misty streets of Rochester and continued to shoot until 7pm. What a blast. Thanks to Alanna and Danielle for hanging and putting up with less than pleasant weather conditions.

No Really . . . What Were You Thinking?

2011-04-16T09:15:00.003-04:00

This is a class you cannot afford to miss. Bruce Hahn, owner of Hahn Photographic in Rochester, NY is hosting this event. Weather permitting, we will explore all types of lighting.

Yousuf Karsh once said, "Look and think before opening the shutter. The heart and mind are the true lens of the camera."

Today, anyone can pick up an inexpensive camera, point, shoot and end up with a snapshot they can be proud of. How can we, as professional photographers, stand out from the point and shoot masses? We have education. We have the ability to see the image before the shutter is pressed. We have tools like composition, lens choice, depth of field and direction of light on the subject.

See with your heart. Make the emotional connection between your subject and you. It is all about the process. John Metcalfe, M. Photog., Cr., CPP and Dana Nordlund, Cr. Photog., CPP will help you to see the image before you make it. Spend a day for a hands-on class that is more about the why and less about the how. To register, go to www.ppa.com and look for the Super Monday link, sign up for course #NY30.

The Bonus Round

If you are registered for the Super Monday class, "No Really . . . What Were You Thinking" on May 16, 2011, you are invited to be our guest at a special bonus shoot-a-bout. After 5pm, the sweet light comes alive. That's when available light becomes magical. So, for about 45 minutes to an hour after our class, we are going on a safari, a photo excursion, an epic expedition if you will, to find the sweetest light in Rochester. It will be fast paced and very informal, but you will already have all the tools you need to create some amazing images. This special bonus shoot is not part of the official class, it is just a little extra knowledge that we're offering to anyone registered for Course #NY30.

Top 10 Reasons You Should Attend the Super Monday Class with John Metcalfe and Dana Nordlund on May 16, 2011, at Hahn Photographic, Rochester

2011-03-20T15:54:00.001-04:00

10) You're going to learn something (probably)

9) John and Dana will make you laugh and have a good time (most likely)

8) The proceeds from the $99 registration fee goes to PPA Educational Programs, so you're doing a good thing, you're having fun and learning something, plus PPA members receive an educational merit (how cool is that?)

7) You will see a wide variety of lighting styles

6) There will be beer and dancing girls (ok, not really, just checking to see if you're still reading)

5) Hahn Photographic is an amazing place (it's a great facility to shoot in and it's filled with a knowledgeable staff for all of your equipment needs)

4) You will be a part of history, this is the first time that John and Dana will teach a class together

3) You might win something cool (there is always a drawing or 2 thanks to cool sponsors like ACI)

2) John and Dana are going to do a shoot out (you will see different styles and approaches to making great images, plus it will be oh-so-amusing because they are smart-alecks)

1) What else are you going to do on a Monday? So go to www.ppa.com and register for Course #NY30 before it is Sold Out

Do You Want Fries With That?

2011-02-11T10:10:00.005-05:00

This is an article that was recently published in the American Society of Photographers magazine. Originally, it was intended for photographers. But with a few changes, it makes for good food for thought for those thinking about finding a photographer.

In great portraiture, the camera is the equal sign. The person on the back side of the camera becomes equal to the person on the front side. When that happens, I am doing my job. Of course, in reality, that is only part of the job. Equally important aspects are lighting, posing, composition and key or feel of the portrait are all elements that need to blend in harmony. But for now, let's address the first element.

Let's step away from the camera for a moment. I want you to think about the last time you went to your favorite eating establishment. Were you greeted warmly when you walked in? Did the host make small talk with you that seemed genuine? Or, did he look at you and say, "Just the two of you?", as if it was a guess as to why you were there? When the waitress (or waiter) came for your drink order, did she simply read off the specials, or did she describe them in detail, adding personal commentary about her favorite dish and why she liked it? When you've finished your meal and the waitress comes back, does she ask if you would like some dessert? Or, does she bring a tray of mouth-watering treats for your eyes while she tells you about a few of them? Has your server made you feel as if you are very important and equal to the splendid surroundings?

By now, I am sure that you have figured it out, you know that we are discussing "The Experience". If you are hungry, you can walk into a fast food joint, have a tray slapped down on the counter in front of you and watch as a couple of high school kids dressed in uniforms scramble around with headsets to fulfill your order. In most cases, you can hand the person behind the register a ten dollar bill and get change back, pick up your tray and have a meal.

Or. . ., you can call your favorite place, make reservations, show up at the agreed upon time, be greeted warmly and escorted to your table. "The Experience" will be an important part of the meal and is one reason why the restaurant is your favorite place to eat. At the end of the night, you might spend more than ten dollars on the tip, but over all the end result is essentially the same . . . you need food to fill you up. The cost of the meal is off set by the fact that you feel important; you feel as if you have been invited to a friend's place for dinner.

People need photography for different reasons, but those reasons almost always have a common thread. It is usually a life defining moment. Marriage, a baby, a high school senior, the list is endless. With such a momentous occasion at hand, think about making the most of "The Experience". It is your moment. You deserve a little more than luke warm fries and a burger wrapped in wax paper. So the next time you talk to a photographer think about this; do you want fries with that?

What a Bridal Magazine Should Say

2011-01-25T20:09:00.007-05:00

I recently had a bride call me to place an order for enlargements. She said, "Every time we look through the images, we cry just like we did that day during our vows, thank you".
I was really speechless. But then I thought about it and realized that I had done the job she wanted me to do.

The flowers get dried and their color fades, the cake gets frozen for your first anniversary and the beautiful wedding dress gets carefully packed away. But when the photography holds all of the memories, that's when my job is complete. If you read the bridal magazines, they will tell you how to save money while planning your special day. One of the things they always recommend is to save money on the photography. They never seem to suggest that a bride should save on the dress. That's because dress designers buy ads in their magazines. But when you stop and think about it, that beautiful dress will only be worn for one day. The images of that day will last forever. All too often in the photography business, you get what you pay for. All too often in the photography business, someone has a camera and wants to take pictures. Unfortunately, all too often, it's the bride who suffers from the recommendation of a "dress magazine".

All Lit Up Again

2010-12-22T17:05:00.002-05:00

It's been a very busy year. This is from my October Super Monday program hosted by my great friend Bruce Hahn of Hahn Photographic, in Rochester, NY. Special thanks to Lee Frost of Quantum, Frank Butler of the MAC Group and ACI for all the support. The amazing models were courtesy of US Talent and of course I can't thank Bruce enough for letting me use his world class location.

No More Excuses Tour Rockin' Rochester

2010-09-03T21:35:00.002-04:00

I had a blast at Hahn Photographic in Rochester on August 30th. We had fantastic models, thank you Gina and Mya, you made my job so easy. The next stop on the tour is Albany, NY on the 13th of September. Here's a peek at how the day went.

No More Excuses Tour

2010-07-30T07:16:00.002-04:00

August 30, 2010 hosted by Hahn Photographic, 1035 Dewey Ave., Rochester, NY
$49 2 pm - 5 pm
Buy an X-Rite Passport Color Checker at this Class and receive a 10% discount
call Bruce at 585-254-5705 to reserve your spot today, space is limited

No More Excuses
Dana Nordlund, Cr. Photog., CPP

You no longer have an excuse for poor color. You have the tools to control your own destiny. Using X-Rite's ColorChecker Passport, a reliable hand held meter (like the Sekonic 358) and powerful image editing software (like Adobe Lightroom), the colorful world will be yours to manage. Stop using "automatic". Quit letting your lab make color corrections. Bring your cameras, this will be a hands on shoot with live models and different lighting conditions.
This 3 hour class will change the way you work.

2010 PPA International Print Competition

2010-06-24T07:43:00.005-04:00

Atlanta, GA

I am thrilled, honored and humbled after the results from the 2010 Print Competition. This is where the best in the world submit images to be judged. Four prints go into the case, four prints that you have worked on with all your heart, pouring your blood, sweat and tears into. If you're lucky, only three prints will be shipped back home to you because at least one has been chosen for the General Collection.

This was my first year entering the International. I have entered regional competitions before, but this year, I felt I had images worthy of making a nice start towards my Masters' Degree. The results were far beyond my expectations. To make an image that goes into the General Collection is quite an accomplishment. I had two of those this year and one of those was picked to go into the Showcase Collection. The ultimate laurels of competition is to have an image be accepted into the Loan Collection, when I found out that I had received such an honor, it took the air from my lungs. I am so thankful for the teachers and mentors, friends and models who have been such an important part of this journey.

Queen of Diamonds, Loan Collection

Hero of the Day, Showcase Collection

I'm Listening, General Collection

Rockin' SuperMonday in Rochester, NY

2010-05-22T07:59:00.003-04:00

Once again, I had the pleasure of teaching a lighting class for PPA's sponsored event SuperMonday on May 17th. Bruce Hahn, owner of Hahn Photographic in Rochester, NY hosted and USTalent provided some amazing models for the day. I am so thankful for all my friends who helped make this event a huge success. ACI Labs, Westcott, MAC Group and Cole and Company Backgrounds, thank you so much.

Anthony's Café Gets Silly

2010-05-04T20:04:00.003-04:00

I want to give a huge thank you to Tracy and Josh at Anthony's Café for hosting the 3rd Annual Silly Smiles event on Saturday, May 1st. I also want to thank my wonderfully silly helpers Maggie Smith and Dani Boss, you guys ROCK.

Silly Smiles Time Again

2010-04-07T17:41:00.002-04:00

Dear friends and family,

Spring is around the corner and with a great new season comes a wonderful time to reflect on our families and those around us. It is also a great time to give back to people in need.

Dana Nordlund Photography has once again partnered with Anthony's Café, located at 54 W. Main Street in Frewsburg, NY, to make a very special event. The Third Annual Silly Smiles fundraiser will take place on Saturday, May 1, 2010, from 11am to 4pm.

Many people are currently being treated for a rare and incurable kidney disease that requires staggering resources. This is a disease that can afflict anyone, at any age, at any time.

We know as a community, if we pool our resources, we can make a difference in many lives of many families with this condition. Below are some links to better explain this disease and what Silly Smiles Inc. is all about.

www.nephcure.com
www.sillysmiles.org
Take a few minutes to read our blog about Jazmin's journey with her family.

Join us on Saturday, May 1st for this "Silly Smiles" fund-raiser.

We are asking for a minimum donation of $40 for those who attend. Each family, group or individual will be given a "Silly Smiles" session. The session is simple, make funny faces at the camera and let us do the rest.

For your minimum donation, you will receive a special 8x10 print with 9 of those one of a kind "Silly Smiles". 100% of your $40.00 donation will go to the cause. I hope to see all my friends at Anthony's with the Silliest Smiles they have. Stop in, have a blast and make a difference.

Of Light and Men & Women

2010-02-16T06:57:00.002-05:00

I want to give a huge thank you to Doug Hansgate for inviting me up to the Twin Cities CC event on Feb. 9th. There were over 90 attendees who came to watch and learn, loaded with great questions. What a world class studio he has in the Buffalo area, it was the perfect place for such an incredible event. My job was to demonstrate lighting techniques, with the help of some amazing models. I was honored to be one in the company of my good friend Jeffery Barnes, plus 3 other photographers. Thank you again Doug. I had a great time.

A Journey is Just a Circle

2010-01-16T10:33:00.000-05:00

In the dictionary, the word journey is defined by this simple sentence; an act of traveling from one place to another. Yet in reality, a journey is defined by those closest to you who help you along the way. On Tuesday, January 12, 2010, in Nashville, TN, I sat fidgeting in my chair like a nervous little boy as I waited for my turn to receive the Photographic Craftsman Degree from the PPA at the National Convention.

I had completed one part of a journey, but, if we go back to the definition, we find that a true journey has no end point. The journey is about traveling from one place to another. As I impatiently awaited my turn on the side of the stage, I knew deep inside that the journey was still at the beginning. I saw visions as my heart turned into a pow wow drum. It was so loud that I no longer heard words. The full bloods were kicking up a song. I heard Monte giggle and saw his infectious smile. I saw Dana Barnes and heard him say, "It's about time namesake". Both have already left this world, but both exist in my heart. As we walked across to the spot where PPA President Ron Nichols stood, I heard all my friends chanting ( in a rather non-syncopated fashion I might add), "Tonto, Tonto, Tonto". As we reached the spot, I saw my dear friend John Metcalfe smiling with an elven gleam in his eyes while he reached over my head to hang the medallion. I embraced him tightly for two reasons. First, I was so honored to have him with me an secondly, I thought my knees might buckle. As we walked down the ramp, he congratulated me and handed me a gift. It was a simple token, in fact a wooden drink chip, but it had great meaning. Two years before, he had flown out and stayed with me while doing an educational program for our affiliate section. We went out for a few beverages to celebrate his success at a favorite spot of mine, the Rio in Frewsburg. Handing that chip back to me signified that our journey travels in circles. Sometimes, they are big circles, sometimes, they are small. But, we are always traveling from one place to another and I am so thankful for the friends and loved ones who guide the way.

Super, Natural Light on SuperMonday

2009-10-26T22:59:00.002-04:00

This time, I went up to Rochester to teach a SuperMonday class. First, I have to give a special thanks to Bruce Hahn, owner of Hahn Photographic for hosting this class. Bruce has a world class facility that worked perfectly for this event. Secondly, thanks to Billy and US Talent for providing absolutely beautiful models to photograph, and thanks to Michelle Milliman for her very photogenic daughter Heather. What a great day. Thanks to Frank Butler of MAC Group, Dennis Cole of Cole and Company and ACI for all their support. Here's a glimpse at my day.

Rocking Through Senior Season

2009-09-04T07:21:00.006-04:00

My job is the best job in the world. I love what I do. Here is just a sample of some amazing seniors.

A little tribute to Michael Jordan ; )

Oh Deer

2009-07-12T10:11:00.007-04:00

I had a wonderful opportunity to make some special images. I was invited to see feeding time for fawns at a private sanctuary. These tiny creatures have been raised by hand, completely out of the wild and dangerous environment. They were quite curious about me, so I had to switch from my 70-200mm lens to my 24-70mm f/2.8 so I could close focus.

The best part was watching my son as he made friends with these beautiful animals. I think he wanted to try and sneak one out so he could keep him.

Now he knows what they mean by velvet antlers.

Clean up time is tasty ; )

Class of 2009 Moving On

2009-06-27T13:04:00.005-04:00

Graduation at Frewsburg Central is always fun and amusing, but it always makes me a little sad as I say goodbye to some of my friends.

Mr. Nelson delivered a great speech, issuing a challenge . . . well, actually he dared them to succeed on their new paths. So, I hope they take up his challenge. Good luck Class of 2009, and keep in touch.

Rocking Time in Rochester

2009-05-15T12:15:00.003-04:00

On Wednesday, May 13, Bruce Hahn of Hahn Photographic hosted an incredible workshop. Had invited dealer Reps from Westcott, ProFoto, Quantum and others as well as photographers and models to take part in hands on demonstrations with top of the line gear. What a great night, Thanks again Bruce.

Artificial Natural Light

2009-04-28T17:18:00.004-04:00

Sometimes, we as photographers need to make the light more beautiful. Using a QFlash mixed with the ambient light, plus a Custom White Balance I was able to create these images.

Below, the same light without Custom White Balance

Using just the bare bulb, I was able to get some beautiful directional light.

Making beautiful images starts with controlling the light, naturally.

SuperMonday Again

2009-04-22T14:56:00.003-04:00

On the 20th of April, I had the opportunity to teach another SuperMonday class to photographers willing to learn. We explored many different lighting combinations, in studio, outside and window light with and without my QFlash. As always, it was a blast. Thanks to my fantastic model Lins for being patient and photogenic. A special thanks to Bruce from Hahn Photographic for his support.

Ohh Baby

2009-03-23T22:34:00.002-04:00

As a photographer, I love making beautiful images. As a dad, I love being a photographer. I had such a great time with 6 month old Grace and her mommy and daddy. It was a blast. Did I say that I love my job ; )

Silly Smiles Rocks the Burg at Anthony's Café

2009-03-08T20:55:00.002-04:00

On Saturday, March 7th, laughter with good friends filled the air down at Anthony's Café. So I would like to send out a heart-felt thanks to all who participated in making a successful fund raiser. Students from FCS gave up time on a Saturday to help out and the wonderful people at Anthony's made it truly special, even camera shy Sean ; )

Silly Smiles Time Again

2009-02-05T14:13:00.001-05:00

Dear friends and family,

Spring is around the corner and with a great new season comes a wonderful time to reflect on our families and those around us. It is also a great time to give back to people in need. As a special fundraiser, Dana Nordlund Photography has joined forces with many studios around the country to make a difference for families in need.

A special friend of ours, 5 year old Sammy Rogers is currently being treated for a rare and incurable kidney disease that requires staggering resources. This is a disease that can afflict anyone, at any age, at any time. We know that as a community, if we pool our resources, we can make a difference in the lives of this family and the lives of others with the same condition. Below we have provided a link to better explain Sammy’s disease and what a group of photographers are doing with their talents to help. Please visit www.sillysmiles.org

As a community, we can do more. This is your chance to help make a difference one smile at a time on March 7, 2009 from 10 am to 4 pm. Dana Nordlund Photography has partnered with Anthony's Café on Main Street in Frewsburg, NY to make this a very special event. We are happy to provide an opportunity for change as we take part in the second annual “Silly Smiles for Sammy” fundraiser. For a minimum donation of $40, each family in attendance will be given a “Silly Smiles” session. The session is simple, make funny faces at the camera and let us do the rest! In return for your minimum donation, you will receive a special 8x10 print with 9 of these one of a kind “Silly Smiles.” 100% of your $40 donation will go to Silly Smiles. I hope to see all my friends at Anthony's with the Silliest Smiles they have. Stop in, have a blast and make a difference.

Dance the Night Away

2009-02-02T17:05:00.002-05:00

I had a great time shooting these. I wanted to capture motion without freezing everything. I love the effect.

Cool Senior Session

2009-01-20T07:46:00.007-05:00

Yeah, very cool . . . in fact, COLD! It was zero degrees when we shot these plus the flakes were flying. But that's ok, because I'm really happy with the images.

Sure I'd rather be a on beach somewhere shooting a swimsuit calendar, but a little cold never hurt anyone.

Besides, working in that temperature makes you work fast and keeps the creativity nice and fresh. What a cool session.

Bump Shots and Babies

2009-01-18T08:14:00.002-05:00

I just love it when my circle of friends grows. It makes me smile when brides from a few years back call to schedule a bump shot and then bring their new born babies back. One of my favorite teachers said something that I now deeply understand. Doug Box said, "It's all about the relationship" (of course, you have to hear that Texas drawllll to really appreciate that). So when someone asks, "What do you do for a living?" I just say "I do what I love".

Happy Meal = Unhappy Start to New Year's

2009-01-01T12:15:00.003-05:00

I know, that sounds like a tragedy. I guess for some unlucky field mouse, it is true.

I started my New Year's Day with a little walk through the woods, using my new snow shoes, when I came upon this amazing image. Well, it didn't take CSI to figure out what transpired here. A winged one got a happy meal, which really kind of sucked for the field mouse (or mole). So, I just had to share this very cool scene on the first day of 2009.

Here is another view of my backyard. I think this one says it's very cold out.

Magical Light

2008-12-16T06:59:00.002-05:00

There is something quite magical about a christmas tree and lights. As we finished decorating, I noticed a beautiful light falling on my son's face. Much to his unhappiness, I had to get the image my way. I had to add a kiss of flash, but the trick was to make it not look like a flash had been used. It only took a few minutes, but to my son, it seemed like hours. Ahhhh, that's magic.

Santa Comes to Town

2008-12-12T06:54:00.002-05:00

Nobody seems to mind the snow, especially when the BIG guy comes to town. Businesses in Frewsburg bonded together to make a classic tradition that will continue to grow from year to year. It was a blast being a part of our community celebration.

Remote Fun

2008-11-20T06:59:00.005-05:00

As a photographer, I am always searching for better ways to create images. Now, I have a new way to make interaction more fun. I've found that when working with very little ones, they tend to have other things on their minds. So thanks to Jack Reznicki, I've learned how to trigger my camera with my wireless remote and step out from behind it. So naturally, I needed to try it out with my son. You can never have too many Guitar Heros. Of course, when photographing small children, I probably will not be in the image sticking out my tongue. . .but you never know ; )

Hangin' at Anthony's Man

2008-11-06T19:27:00.007-05:00

Hey, the prints are up and (in my most humble opinion) look really great.

I'm finishing up a tasty turkey on sourdough while I use their wi-fi. How cool is that?
Stop down and see the images, get a great sandwich and dig the scene man.

Poor Scott had to do the dishes ; )

Rock the Café

2008-11-05T22:20:00.003-05:00

Ok, it's almost like the Clash tune, but not quite. Last week, the owners of Anthony's Café in downtown Frewsburg asked if I would like to display some images on the very spacious wall of their newly opened café. Let's just say that I didn't have to think long about the answer. So, I've been scrambling like crazy to get a bunch of images ready for their Grand Opening on Saturday, November 8. I could post some images and give a sneak preview, but I think that one NEEDS to see these images in person so you can be a part of the experience. Stop on in to Anthony's Café on Saturday, November 8, get some amazing coffee, or iced coffee, or latte, or a smoothie and a very tasty sandwich while you see some (as humble as I can be here) very cool images. Come on down and Rock the Café.

BTW, they have wi-fi so I might just do a live as it happens post. That will be cool.

SuperMonday Strikes Again

2008-11-01T09:31:00.011-04:00

On Monday, October 27, I taught my second SuperMonday class. Sponsored by PPA, SuperMonday is a national event with photographers from all over the country (to be a SuperMonday instructor, a photographer must submit an outline for the 8 hour course to be reviewed and accepted).

My course was entitled, "Quantum Mechanics and the Single Light Theory". It sounds harder than it is, because great lighting is all about the process that can be repeated time after time.

The great thing about all of this is, the registration fee for attendees goes to PPA Charities. My time as an instructor is donated, but it is all worth it.

The course is all hands on, so it's all about applying the ideas right away. This last image is one of the students working with our beautiful model. Thanks to everyone who helped make this SuperMonday a success.

Building More Circles

2008-10-13T08:02:00.005-04:00

When I received the call asking if I could do a four generations portrait, I made sure I had the time. This is a special family to me (see the post in March entitled "Bump Shot")

So we did the traditional family portrait.

After the traditional images, we went Dana Style ; )

Some Background on my Backgrounds

2008-10-12T19:45:00.002-04:00

I just love my BG's from Cole and Company. They just rock. Plus they look great with a pretty girl in front of them ; ) Lisa was so much fun to photograph. She was the perfect choice when Dennis asked me to get some images of his new background.

What's The Difference?

2008-09-27T08:58:00.010-04:00

I get a lot of questions regarding why someone should chose dana nordlund photography over just anybody with a digital camera.

I usually tell them that photography is all I do. I spend a lot of time learning as well as teaching photography. Then I ask them, "Do you go to someone with a pair of sharp scissors to do your hair, or do you go to a trained professional?"

Your senior year is a milestone. That moment in time is too important to be printed at WallyWorld, don't you think?

Most of the time my senior images answer the question, "What's the Difference?"

One Season Ends, Another Begins

2008-08-20T09:12:00.005-04:00

It's been a busy summer, which is a good thing, but sometimes it will make your head spin. While I say goodbye to my friends from the Class of 2008, I'm blasting new images of the Class of 2009.

I've said it before, I love my job!

The BIG Night, Complete With Dancing and Video

2008-06-28T07:45:00.005-04:00

Frewsburg celebrated the 2008 year in style. It was the night that they have all been waiting for.

Aaron even busted out some moves to rock the house.

I am always honored to be a part of their big night.

Katie even made the show. She is in Alabama, competing in America's Junior Miss, "Following her heart". You rock Katie.

Sometimes, It's Good to Give Stuff Away

2008-06-04T07:31:00.004-04:00

Back in February, I did a bridal show. The main sponsor asked if I would like to donate a door prize. I decided to give a very cool prize, a full engagement session.

I think that I was the real winner. This couple was so much fun to photograph.

Finding the Light in School

2008-06-03T20:15:00.004-04:00

A good friend of mine teaches graphics at a vocational school. He and I had woked together back in the day at a film processing lab (yes, a long time ago). We were both shooting a high school wrestling match this last winter and we started talking about doing something for his class.

It was a great day as we went on our quest for the light. I hope they go out and try some of the stuff we talked about. These kids had plenty of attitude, which helped bring the images to a whole new level.

Finding the Light in Frewsburg

2008-04-11T10:53:00.004-04:00

On April 7th, I taught my first SuperMonday class sponsored by PPA. The SuperMonday events happen all around the country (on the same day, hence the title SuperMonday) to raise money for PPA Charities.

Teaching other photographers about working with the light they are given was great, but what made it special was seeing the look in their eyes when they really "got it".

I can't wait untill the next one comes around because I'm hooked. Being able to give back makes the whole experience worth while.

Way to go Katie

2008-03-31T08:34:00.005-04:00

I always say that I have the best job in the world. I do what I love for a living and in the process, I get to make friends with some incredible people. Katie is a senior from Frewsburg Central Class of 2008, and was just crowned New York State Junior Miss. That's very cool. I wish I could take some credit for that accomplishment, but being photogenic had nothing to do with Katie winning. I can say that Katie picked dana nordlund photography to shoot her senior session, and I can say that the brand new Junior Miss is my friend. So way to go Katie, I'm proud of you.

Bump Shot

2008-03-21T10:31:00.004-04:00

I love doing these sessions, sometimes they even make me teary eyed.

Of course this couple is very special to me because I've photographed them since they went to the prom about about 4 years ago, her senior portraits and I also did their wedding.

So, I figure that in 18 years, I'll have to schedule a senior session ; )

Seniors in the Snow

2008-03-21T10:21:00.004-04:00

I think that I might have to rethink my usual sessions (typically shot in July to October).

This senior asked if we could do some stuff in the snow, I am very glad that we waited (although it was 10 degrees), because the results were astounding.

I told her, "Oh great, now everyone will want to do a winter session" hehehehe.

March Madness on Donkeys

2008-03-21T09:59:00.007-04:00

Basketball never really held my attention, until I saw it played on donkeys. Especially when the donkeys seem to have a mind of their own when it comes to playing the game.

I have come to believe that fashion plays a large part in the success of the game.

Technique plays an important role in this game, but comes in second to fashion.

Come Make Silly Faces for Sammy! March 8, 2008

2008-02-18T08:17:00.001-05:00

This is a chance for you to be involved with a very special fundraiser. Dana Nordlund Photography has joined forces with many studios around the country to make a difference for families in need.

A special friend of ours, 5 year old Sammy Rogers, son of Illinois photographer Paul Rogers, is currently being treated for a rare and incurable kidney disease that requires staggering resources. This is a disease that can afflict anyone, at any age, at any time. Professional photographers are a close knit family and know that if we pool our resources, we can make a difference in the lives of this family and the lives of others with the same condition. "Silly Smiles for Sammy" is a fundraiser for the NephCure Foundation. Serving people of all ages, the Nephcure Foundation focuses on finding a cure and raising awareness for Nephrotic Syndrome and FSGS, rare kidney disorders that affect the lives of people of all ages. To learn more, visit www.nephcure.org

Please join Dana Nordlund Photography in the “Silly Smiles for Sammy” fundraiser on March 8th. We are asking for a minimum donation of $40 for those who attend. Each family in attendance will be given a 15-minute “Silly Smiles” session. The session is simple, make funny faces at the camera and let us do the rest! For your minimum donation, you will receive a special 8x10 print with 9 of these one of a kind “Silly Smiles.” 100% of your $40 donation will go to cause.

Don’t wait, space it limited. Please contact Dana Nordlund Photography at 716-569-3940 to reserve your time today. Together we can make a difference and have a blast doing it!

Thank you,

Dana Nordlund, CPP
www.dananordlund.com
716-569-3940

It's A Family Affair

2007-12-30T15:41:00.000-05:00

My beautiful cousin came out for a visit from sunny Arizona during the holidaze. She casually mentioned that she had no portraits of her angels.

Well, I just couldn't let her go back to AZ without some nice images of those sweet faces.

Besides, now she will have visit more often everytime she needs some more portraits.

More Circles

2007-11-26T17:26:00.000-05:00

Last year, they were bride and groom, this year they are new parents.

I told them I couldn't wait until she comes in for her senior portraits (that was not received with much enthusiasm).

All in all, this is the reason I do what I do.

Circles

2007-11-26T14:53:00.000-05:00

Life is a series of circles, some are big, some are small, but they are always around us. This beautiful bride was one of my first seniors when I started my business. Shooting her wedding day was very emotional for me, someone who has seen plenty of weddings through my lens.

I'm just so thankful that I could be a part of thier day. Even though it was rather cold and a bit snowy, we managed to sneek outside for some quiet time.

I was Born in a Small Town

2007-09-26T06:54:00.000-04:00

Senior season is the busiest, craziest, battery draining time of the year . . . and I wouldn't change a thing about it. One cool thing about being from a small town is your friends from school are your friends forever. I've had the pleasure of watching this kid play football for the past three years. His dad and I grew up together, and graduated together (a long, long time ago).

One of the benefits of my job is being on the sidelines, the best seat in the house. I'm not just the photographer, I'm a fan. So, being from a small town . . . I wouldn't trade that for anything.

Nice Day for a Wet Wedding

2007-09-15T15:49:00.000-04:00

Just because the weather had other ideas doesn't mean that the day is ruined. On the contrary, we had a blast getting these images. If you look closely, you can see little drops of rain. Love transcends all though.

We did move to a canopy cover for these, water does not mix well with electronic equipment.

First Dance is always a special moment, even with a pony-tailed photographer running around capturing those magical looks to each other.

Sweethearts In Sweetlight

2007-08-11T10:17:00.001-04:00

I love those loving moments between the bride and groom. These two had plenty of that. Maybe it was because they had already been around me and my lens before, or maybe it was the beautiful day, either way we got some magic in these images. (See "Engaging the Passion" back in June)

We had sweet light for these sweethearts and that just made it all the more special. The coolest part of the day was dancing with the bride. Hey, it's all in a day's work ;)

School Daze

2007-07-28T08:46:00.000-04:00

I just got back from school. I spent a week with one of my favorite teachers, Doug Box from Texas. There were about 18 of us from around NY State and other parts of the country. It's a great way to share ideas, learn new techniques and get energized.

It's always interesting to see how someone else creates images. It's all about getting the people in front of the lens to trust the person behind the lens.

So one night after class, I hooked up with one of my friends and we played with the magic light of sunset. A little explaination, his wife creates costumes for re enactors and he brought one outfit with, just in case. With that said, I wanted to use the sweet light of the setting sun and make a very strong portrait at the same time.

For me, it was a fantastic week. I had a chance to learn, share and catch up with friends. Plus, I got to make a portrait of a pirate. That's what I call school daze.

Plain and Simple

2007-07-20T07:05:00.000-04:00

It's a great title, but the truth is, Seniors are far from plain or simple. They are quite complex. They are entering their final year of high school, they are about to embark on a new journey.

The key to a successful Senior portrait is getting beyond Plain and Simple, but not over doing or over thinking or over processing the image. I talk constantly during the session. I want to break the barrier between photographer and subject. I want the final image to be a collabrative effort. I love it when the parents tell me that I caught the "look". That means I did my job.

What is plain and simple about this image? It is straight out of the camera. No post processing. No effects have been added. Just wonderful, natural light balanced with just the right amount of flash. Plain and Simple.

True Love Shines On

2007-06-24T20:40:00.000-04:00

Today was a blast. Thes two are really old friends of mine. I shot a pre prom session with them 3 years ago. So now, we shot the engagement session.

She called me the day after he proposed because she was so excited. I felt like part of the family, to think that she wanted to share that moment with me.

So, I was proud, happy, excited and glad to be a part of it all. I can't wait for their wedding.

I Saw Elvis . . . Again

2007-06-23T07:49:00.000-04:00

Well, congratulations to the Class of 2007. Last night was Graduation and even Elvis made his way to the podium to wish them all the best.

I have made some great friends this year. I have the coolest job in the world. So my message to all my newly graduated friends is, find something that you love, and then do it with all your heart.

As they contemplate the great beyond, I will just all the best to the Class of 2007. It's been a blast, man. Keep in touch.

I Do, I Do, I Do

2007-06-19T07:16:00.001-04:00

I love my job, making memories of people in love. It doesn't get a whole lot better than that. This past weekend was Leslie and Brian's wedding. Because I meet with the couples several times before the actual wedding, they feel like old friends on the big day. I get caught up in the emotion and inspired by the emotion.

A young girl dreams about her wedding until she meets the right man. Then they start to plan the day, carefully picking every detail. But nothing prepares her for the first glimpse in the mirror on her day.

So, I Do love what I Do.

The Circle

2007-06-11T20:12:00.000-04:00

About 3 years ago, I did a session for a Senior. Last week, the coolest thing happened. I received a phone call from a very excited girl telling me that she just got engaged and she wanted me to shoot her wedding next year. To me, it was a moment that warmed my heart, one of my seniors had grown up, but not grown distant. If that wasn't cool enough, she called me a few days later and asked if she could come over to show me the ring. I was grinning from ear to ear. It just doesn't get better than that. I was taken into her circle and a new circle had been started. I recorded a moment in her life as she finishes school, I will record the moment she says, "I do" and starts a new path, and she told me that she wants me to do portraits when they get pregnant. That's what my job is all about, recording special moments in people's lives.

Engaging the Passion and the Fun

2007-06-03T11:38:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I spent some time with Dani and Dave. It was a blast. Doing an engagement session like this is too cool. The whole trick is to get them to forget about the guy with the camera and just have fun. My job is to be invisible, yet get the couple into the sweet light so the images pop. As a photographer, I have to direct without breaking the mood. It's a tough job, but someone has to do it ; )

The great thing about an engagement session is that it becomes a warm up for the BIG day. The best thing about it is (and this is a secret) that I'm not really working, I'm just hanging out with a couple who are deeply in love with each other. I just happen to have my camera with a capture some beautiful moments.

Always Keep Your Eyes Open

2007-05-29T16:46:00.001-04:00

As a photographer, it's just as important to observe as it is to record. When I shooting Seniors, I'm always jabbering with them (I'm sure that a few can lay an Amen to the end of that statement). But, what it hopefully does for them is puts that person in front of the lens at ease. Being in front of the camera can be a bit nerve wracking. While I'm yakking away, I'm also watching. I'm looking for the sweet light if we're outside, I'm looking for a natural smile or just a natural look. Perhaps it has something to do with how a girl flips her hair, or just the way a guy stands when he's at ease talking about music. It's all about observing, to get the best image. This is a perfect example of keeping my eyes open. We shot her session in October, and it was starting to get cold out. When the session was over, she put on her winter coat and I saw the coolest looking hood on her coat. I said, "Wait! I want to do one more image!" So I sat her down, adjusted the lights a fired off 2 frames. I was elated. I knew I had a great image. I downloaded my card and went to work in Photoshop. Poof! The Ice Queen was born.

I'm just doing my job, ma' am

2007-05-26T10:15:00.000-04:00

I was talking to friend of mine, a fellow photographer from the burbs of Chicago, and I said, "Well, I finally finished up all the Spring sports for the 2008 yearbook." He said, "Man, that's got to be a drag having to shoot all that stuff". I told him that I love doing it because I get to watch my friends play. Yeah, it's part of the contract thing to get some candid images of the games, but I really enjoy being there. Sometimes I get wrapped up in watching and forget that I'm shooting.

It's the perfect gig. I get to do what I love, watching my friends do what they love. All the while, I'm striving for that perfect image that defines what the sport is all about. When I was first starting out as a photographer (many moons ago), I was taken by the images of Walter Iooss that filled the pages of Sports Illustrated. Even to this day, his work still inspires me. His iconic images still make me go, "Wow!, that's just amazing". (sometimes, I interject some explicative before the word amazing, but never around my son) Anyhow, next time you see me at a game remember that I'm not just a photographer doing my job, I'm a fan (with a really expensive camera).

Ummm, I saw Elvis and football players in tuxes

2007-05-25T08:22:00.000-04:00

Just so you know, this was not some kind of strange looking mushroom on my pizza induced dream. I'm talking about the Prom, where Elvis really did make an appearance.
When I was in school, the Prom was far less of an event that one attended. Back in the day, the gym was transformed into the magical land where the band played on. Yeah, a real band that played rock, not classic rock (errr, because it wasn't classic yet, it was just rock). Oh and one more thing, Elvis was still alive, although he would end up having a short summer that year. One thing that hasn't really changed much is football players clean up pretty good, hehehehehhee. I had a great time with the class of 2007. I have to admit that I've got a good gig. I get to do what I love, make some great friends, go to some cool places and have a blast.

Welcome

2007-05-24T15:16:00.000-04:00

I am hopeful that you will help make this an active blog. Feel free to ask questions, post comments or tell a story. From time to time, I will post some of my favorite images and share a little bit about the behind the scenes stuff. They say the every picture tells a story, but sometimes, there are some pretty interesting stories that need to be told about the images.