Friends, photog friends, and Nikon Ambassador Ami Vitale always immersed in making her photos really do more than just impress the viewer. Her amazing talent behind the camera produces stunningly beautiful images, always with a strong message and greater purpose. From pandas to elephants to planet conservation, she shapes the world through the viewfinder with the aim of saving it.
She has gathered Nat Geo photogs of many generations for the cause of Ukraine. Through the Important impact organization, 100% of accumulated funds are passed current flash print discount will go to Direct Relief, is providing medical aid to that war-torn country. As we are all appalled at the madness and uncontrollable cruelty perpetrated, this print sale is a simple way to help.
As a result, I received a notification from Steve and Melissa Hausz, via Ami, that they had obtained the photo of the ballerina dancing in the Cuban kitchen, seen above. They remind me that many years ago, they bravely took to the stage of PhotoShop World in Las Vegas as the subject of my portrait.
Standing in front of the camera always takes courage, especially when you do so in front of hundreds of people. But they are wonderful and lovely people (not to mention great subjects) and they ended the session with ease. I chose well that day, back in 2012.
I often say that images are our footprints. Just like the cave paintings from millennia ago, they simply said, “We were here.” The image is also the intersection, the intersection of life, emotions and expression of time spent and cared for. I’ve had several photo sessions now that I might better describe as a dead end than an intersection, but fortunately, not too many. Most are actually pretty awesome. In the flash of light, a benevolent contract is being formed, born of mutual respect. The subject, placed in a vulnerable position, facing the camera’s camera, will bring you a gift. Their presence, and trust. In front of the camera, it’s our mission to cherish and enhance that gift, while delivering an amazing result. Steve and Melissa both say, even now, years later, it’s their favorite picture of them.
I’m delighted to hear that I will now have two prints hanging on the wall of their home, and both speak volumes in their own way. Clicking the shutter often becomes a long conversation that spans years and distances.
Coming soon is the home extension for Sell Printed Vital Impacts ending soon. It’s a good gallery. Incredible pictures of the world. Reminder of beauty and people, in this time of grief and wanton, needless destruction.
I ordered two prints from the sale, one by Jim Richardson, longtime friend and colleague and author of my favorite quote: “If you want to take better photos, let’s get to the more interesting stuff.” Jim has spent his life standing in front of extremely interesting things. And for my wife, Annie, who is a cat lover, Prasenjeet Yadav’s incredible image is called the Ghost Cat. Prints come with dispatch, and I can personally attest to the excellent quality of the prints.
Cave paintings, and paintings, are as enduring as the human spirit.
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