They are here!

After weeks of selecting images, style design and packaging my first series of "whatever" cards are now available.

Those of you that have been with me from the beginning know that I began revisiting my love for photography about one year ago. It has been wonderful. The next step for me in this journey was to create something that would allow people to enjoy some of my favorite images in a useful fun way. Hence, my creation of the "whatever" card.

The first series are three images that were selected to represent my love of nature and concern for our environment. All cards will be printed on recycled paper. This is just a small step to help protect and save the environment....

If you are interested in ordering a box of the first series, please send me an email at thomas@thomastaulbee.com or go to my website thomastaulbee.com and fill out a comment form and I will contact you.

Thanks for your interest and I hope you enjoy this series and future one's....

Start'em young

On a recent trip to visit with family in Atlanta, I met my cousin's daughter's for the very first time. What a wonderful time we had. Catching up on old times and seeing the sites of their hometown. It was just great! Oh, can't forget feeding the fish!! Hi, Victoria....

Now, all of you know that my interest in photography started at a very young age. And, you can contribute that interest to my Dad. Not realizing at the time, photography would become a big part of my life so many years later. But, here I am.

I was so pleased to see Sofia, the older of the two girls take such an interest in photography. She would follow me around with her camera shooting lots of pictures. Some of her shots were really good and she seemed to enjoy it. Now, this (photography) may be a brief moment in her life but you never know. If her interest continues to grow we maybe are looking at the next great photojournalist or nature photographer. Who knows but the fact that she has started at this young age is very promising. And, if that interest is just a hobby then she is in for years of great joy taking pictures of the world around her.

So, take interest in these brief thoughts and give the young one's around you a camera to play with. You never know!!

Skies the limit, Miami

Growing up in Miami, I have been witness to the many faces of an emerging city. And, Miami, like many cities have been blessed with the good and the bad. But, Miami and it's residents can say with pride that the sky is the limit.

I had the pleasure today of going to what is a world class event. Art Basel! This event finds it's permanent home in Basel, Switzerland but has made it's way to the Magic City. It truly is magnificent. Hundreds of artists flock to Miami to show off their talent to a collection of people from around the world. Wondering the floor today as I did made quite an impression on me. The amount of talent that was available for the average art enthusiast to the serious art collectors was incredible.

As a photographer, I was most curious to view others that shared my same interest. There was an impressive collection of photography and I was most pleased albeit surprised to see works from a particular favorite which is "street" photography. I chatted with a younger (well, slightly younger than me) guy from England about his work. He sounded very similar to a guy I know (me) saying that street photography has given him the ability to show off the world around him. His work was intriguing to say the least. Although, impressive may be a more accurate description.

Miami, you should be proud that you have finally joined the ranks of such cities as New York, Boston, San Francisco in catching the attention of the world's elite artists...Cheers!

Take it and Sell it!

Living in a city as beautiful as Miami one can't help but to venture out and take pictures.  Because I am not a professional photographer most of my photography is for personal use or an occasional purchase from a friend or admirer of my work.  But, several weeks ago I mentioned to a friend that I had some really nice photo's of our city and would he like a few to hang in his office.  He lives in the already bitter cold Northeast.  Well, he loved the images and as a result showed them to several others in the office and they fell in love with the sunny and warm view of the city.  

As a result, of that first simple "trying to be nice" email I sold three images to several people.  Simple, quick and effective.  So, in the future you can be assured that I will take more pictures and be sure to let people know they are available.  My point is that you never know if you don't ask.  Take it and Sell it!!

Take it with you!

One of the biggest obstacles faced in getting back into photography is the fear of "taking it with you"....The camera, of course!

How many times have you been in a situation where you wished that you had your camera. Of course, with almost every cell phone having a camera installed it does make it easier. And, that's fine for what it is ....But, what I am talking about are those moments that just catch your eye. That's why over the last several years I have started carrying my camera with me all the time. Yes, from time to time it does get in the way but I will take that in order to know that at any moment I can catch that memorable image....

The photo included in this post was taken at one of my favorite Charleston, South Carolina restaurants S.N.O.B. I was eating with family at the chef's table which as you can see is just outside the kitchen. The atmosphere was as to be expected at a well known restaurant jumping! Chef's were busy shouting out orders to line cooks and servers attempting to get orders out on time. Loving cooking as I do this really sparked my interest and I began to the dismay of my fellow diners shooting images of the kitchen. But, having overcome my fear of what other's think I tuned them out and just concentrated on what was going on just in front of me...

So, as photographer's we need and should have our equipment with us at all times. It has taken me a while to get over the fear but for every shot that I capture makes it that much easier. So, "Take it with you!!"

Making an image work for you

For most of my life, I have been known by my friends as the guy with a lot of good ideas. Well, some of those ideas have been successful ventures and some have been left on the cutting room floor.

But, as I rediscover my love of photography those ideas keep coming. And, now with that connection, I am going to combine one idea with one passion. This idea is not new, but, an idea (product) that is something we all need and use on a regular basis....I am talking about a "thank you" card. Not what you were thinking? How many times have you needed to send a quick note to someone special or send a greeting to an old friend. Well, I hope to be able to fill that need with an attractive environmentally friendly card.

Combining some of my favorite images that friends have helped select, I am in the production stages of the development of this new idea. These cards will be made in keeping with my concern for the environment "Green". Recycled paper and environmentally friendly ink. We are currently in talks with several local printers and my goal is to have the first series of cards available for the holiday season. Please say tuned.

This first series will be a limited production run and carried by a select number specialty stores and available on my website. www.thomastaulbee.com . Please feel free to let me know what you think by filling out the comment form on my website....I look forward to hearing from you.

Happy Holiday!

A photographer's photographer

One of the biggest compliments a photographer can give to another photographer is that they hope to achieve their level of skill and that they enjoy their work!. One photographer that I have admired is a guy from the Seattle area, Chase Jarvis.

I came across his site several months ago and it impressed me then and continues to impress me with each visit to his site and blog. His work quite simply is amazing. He seems to be a fairly free spirited guy which I guess comes along with being a photographer. Or, at least one would hope. What impresses me about his style is his ability to capture and portray images in the now. Now, that's what photography is supposed to do many of you will say but his images are extraordinarily in the now. It's hard to explain but if you visit his site
( www.chasejarvis.com ) you will see what I am referring to...

Like so many of us in today's society Chase is on Facebook and upon a request from me we are now friends. No, I am not a stalker! Just a fan. And, trust me I am not the only one. What prompted me to write this post is a brief visit to his Facebook page and was surprised at how many people around the world are following this guys work. It's amazing...From Saudi Arabia to Pakistan. Even with the web providing exposure to the world not many of us can say that we have that kind of following. Obvisouly, this guy is doing something right.

As an amatuer photographer, I am inspired by the likes of Chase Jarvis and I will continue to work hard at my craft to become a more skillful photographer...

A Moment in Time

It's early Saturday morning and I was watching a news talk show and to my great surprise, I actually heard something that caught my attention!

During a segment on this weeks election results the talking heads (broadcaster) were discussing the difference between images in video and still photography. They compared basically the same shots of President-Elect Obama and his family preparing to greet the millions of people gathered in Chicago. The video was raw so editing would have improved it but let it be said that from a viewers prospective it was bland and did show the true emotion of the moment. The same basic scene was shown in still photographic images and the difference was significant. The images reflected the incredible emotion of the moment and one could feel the weight that was just placed on this young man!

What I have tried to do in this blog is to write about my passion, photography. And, how wonderful it can be in telling a story. From images of a new President to the loving touch of a new father photography is a wonderful way to capture a brief moment of time and turn it into a memory forever.

The President's Photographer

This is one story that you may not read in your local paper or see on the local news. Monday evening, the world of photography lost one of the greats, Cecil Stoughton.

Unfamiliar with Mr. Stoughton? Well, you have most certainly seen the iconic images of his work. He was the White House photographer during the Presidency of John F. Kennedy. In fact, Stoughton accompanied President Kennedy to Dallas on that horrible day in 1963. And, was in the hospital at the time of Kennedy's death. Following the tragic death of the President Stoughton was taken to Air Force one where he captured one of the most famous images of our time. The image of Lyndon Johnson taking the oath of office on Air Force One with Jackie Kennedy, widow of President Kennedy next to his side.

The world of photography has lost a giant but fortunately his images will live on forever.

Welcome, Little Man!

Several weeks ago you may remember I wrote of the importance of taking pictures and that in time of loss how important it can be! For a time of reflection there is nothing better than to spend time looking back and enjoying pictures of loved one's...

Well, I am here to tell you that taking pictures is a wonderful way to welcome someone into this world! Yes, today my nephew, Tim and his wife, Laura welcomed their son, Blake into this world. Blake made his debut around 1:30 pm today and what a debut it was! We welcomed him to our lives on a day that many Americans were busy electing the next President of the United States. Although, Blake was much more interested in striking a pose for his great uncle Thomas.

The pictorial story of young Blake has begun. And, the importance of this may not be felt for months and most likely years. But, we will look back on this day and remember the importance of taking pictures of the most precious times.

So, little man welcome to what you may find is a crazy place but know that you will be loved and cherished by all those around you.

Forgotten Influence!

I have given a lot of thought over the last several weeks to my early years and how those times influenced the person I am today. Like many kids, childhood memories are filled with happiness and thoughts of easier times. And, with a few exceptions, I am no different.

In my last post, I wrote about an email I received from an individual that I do not know but, it started a chain reaction of thoughts of why I have become the person here today. And, there is one small period of time that I just came to the realization had great influence on me. That was my senior year in high school. During that last year of (what seemed to be an endless 3 years) I wrote a term paper on someone that many think is the most influential photojournalist of the 20 century, David Douglass Duncan. I remember researching this incredible and talented photographer and looking at what he loved to do and thinking that I hoped to find that passion in my life. Duncan, was commissioned a United States Marine where he became a combat photographer. After the war Duncan's career headed in the direction of a leading photojournalist where he gained great notoriety. His career and life had become a great influence on me although, I was unaware at the time.

"Forgotten influence?" A distant memory brought up by a random email from a complete stranger? Who knows, but I can say that Duncan had a lasting influence on that kid in 12 grade.

Why Street?

I am often asked why I enjoy photography and my answers for the most part remain the same. But, today in an email, I was asked why do I enjoy street photography and what is it, exactly? I laughed quietly because just over a year ago I was asking myself those very same questions. Well, at least the "what is it" part?

So, in order to answer the question I took a minute to think....Truly, any genre of photography comes with the photographers own interpretation. That's why it is such an intriguing art form. Street is no different, a glimpse of what the photographer sees at a particular moment time. I think what intrigues me the most is the unknown. Not knowing what else is going on around the subject. Shooting street actually creates this great rush! A sense of control over time but actually having no control at all. But, creating this mirror of everyday life on the street.

I think that one of the best ways to describe street photography is serendipity which is "the effect by which one accidentally discovers something fortunate while looking for something else entirely". (source: Wikipanion)

I suggest to anyone that art is best viewed with an open mind and open spirit. Street photography is no different.

The Photo Person!

The butcher, the wine guy(or gal), the fishmonger, we all have them and we use them. I guess you could say that they are important people in our lives.....But, have you ever included the person at the local photo lab? Honestly, I had not until today.
As most photographers do, I ventured down to my local professional photo lab today to have several prints made from a shoot yesterday. I got the ever friendly hello from the smiling faces of the sales people and proceeded over to the "self-service" photo selection processor. Not too sure that is the correct name but you get what I mean...After selecting my desired photo's and filled out the necessary paperwork for the developer, the technician walked in the developers office to ask when they would be ready. Thinking that I would get my standard it will be ready tomorrow answer out walks the head developer. He greeted me with a hello, Mr. Taulbee, how are you today. Do you need these today, he asked? Well, that would be great if you have time, I responded! He graciously said give him about twenty minutes and your prints will be ready...Now, in an age where customer service is a thing of the past, I am pleased to report that it is alive and well at Pitman Photo.

So, next time you visit your local photo lab think about including them to your list of people that help make things better in your life!

BLINDERS ON

As some of you know by now, my website is now available for the world to see. I must say that I was a bit nervous about this. It's a coming out of sorts. Before the website, I showed people my work in a 12x18 portfolio and was comfortable in that it was a one on one showing. Well, that's not the case anymore with the creation of my website. It is open for the world to see! And, yes be critical if they choose.

Honestly, I am not too sure what to expect. Of course, I am very excited about presenting my work for display but it's kinda like a horse with Blinder's On. Having no ability to see what's around me. Not being able to share with the viewer what I was thinking when I took that shot or why I choose that angle. All left up to the viewer's own imagination. But, that's what makes what we do so rewarding. The gift of imagination!

So, I say to all those out there who may come across www.thomastaulbee.com enjoy and view with pleasure...

China Bound

Well, it's official. 2009 is taking me to China for a photography expedition! This is very excited news.

This is a trip that has been in the works for years and over the last 6 months a good friend and I have been discussing the possibility of making such a journey...So, we decided that there is no time like the present. Our itinerary is far from being set but the stage is there for what plans to be a most exciting trip. A good friends' nephew spent several years in Beijing and surrounding provinces and is going to assist us with our travel plans.

I(we) want to see China like the locals. Staying in hostels and with locals, a nice hotel here and there. Food will of course play a major part of this adventure. I am a lot more adventurous than Paul but I am sure that I can convince him to take the "NO RESERVATION" approach to seeing China.

Photography will be a huge part of my trip. A lot of what I hope to shoot is "street" life but in a country like China it can be a challenge. Government control can be an issue. This is where local guides can be of great help. You can be assured we will retain locals to help us out.

There will be a lot written about this in upcoming months! And, I may ask for suggestions, recommendations or just general travel tips to China. Thanks

Race for the Cure

Just returned from running the "Race for the Cure" which took place in Downtown Miami. It is such a wonderful organization and it is always fun to participate....

Normally, I would not mention my time but considering today was a personal best for a 5K , I would! My time was 26:02 . I was please with the time and now know that I am getting close to breaking the 26 minute mark....

I think I can say with great certainty that we all have been touched by cancer in someway. It's events like "race for the cure" that really make it possible to make difference...

Have a great day!!

Commercial Work

Obviously, one of my objectives in starting a blog and a website is to create greater awareness of my photography.

The photo I included in this posting is from a shoot that I did for World Waste Services ( www.worldwasteservices.com ). They are a very successful independent waste/recycling company owned and operated in South and parts of Central Florida. My goal with their direction was to capture daily life in the waste management business. For several weeks, I teamed up with drivers on routes capturing images of their day to day work in neighborhoods and commercial districts that they service.

The image seen here was taken about 5:00 AM in a staging area by MIA. The photo was taken with the ISO setting at 400, white balance (Auto), Quality (fine), Saturation (auto), Shutter speed 1/8 and FStop was 4.5.

Capturing the Moment

When I decided about an hour ago to continue writing in my blog after a few days away, I struggled with what to write. So, after several attempts it hit me!

As you read in my last post the news of my Dad's passing. It has been just over a week and I have had time to reflect on what this has meant to me. Now, that both Mom and Dad are gone it gives me a clear understanding of how important the little things are in life.

As you can see by the title of this post "Capturing the Moment" should be very straight forward. But, what might not may be obvious is how important this can be. Especially, in times of loss. I spent hours looking at pictures from my Dad's past from his early childhood to most recently at a luncheon. The thought of what would happen if those pictures were not available to me. Lost, damage or even worse never taking at all.

So, I hope that you will consider this very simple advice from someone who has learned the hard way. Take pictures! Take a lot of them. Don't be shy at the next family gathering or party with friends. With the age of digital photography there are no more excuses....And, the array of online photo storage websites the possibility is endless.

One other quick note and that is a brief update on the website. We are still on schedule for the end of the month to go live. A meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 15 with ARC to discuss the status of the site. So, stay tuned!!! It's coming..

Thomas

Personal Privilege

Today, I am setting aside my regular posting of a photography related topic and share with you the passing of my Dad. He left us last night, October 6 in Palm Beach to go on to a more peaceful and joy filled world!

As a boy, I remember his many interest from tennis to travel and yes, photography. As a matter of fact, I remember going with him to Fleming's Photo Center in South Miami on a weekly basis to pick up film and then returning home to watch him proudly put them in the slide projector. And, then, spending hours reviewing his shots then picking the right one's for others to see and enjoy. His choice of equipment, Pentax. Nothing but Pentax equipment graced his camera bag. Honestly, I think that it was only because that's all the the photo shop carried. He liked the owner, Fred and did not want to give his business to anyone else. So, maybe you can see where I got my interest in photography.

So, in the next few days family and friends will gather to share their memories of Dad. And, I know there will be many! Thanks to all of those that have called with their best wishes and prayer's. I know that I speak for the entire family when I say thank you.

Dad, I know that "little slip of paper" is gone forever but in my mind will remain forever.
Namaste

My City

Came across an interesting blog last night about photography and it sparked my interest! The blog provided one photo everyday for a year. That's right 365 pictures. The blog address is http://pad.focalization.com . It's interesting so check it out. Although, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, I am not going to post 365 pictures.

But, I am going to show you a photo that was taken this weekend during a friend's visit. It's a shot looking from South Beach toward downtown Miami.

Came across several upcoming photography show's in the Miami area and wanted to give you a head's up. I will post them in the next several days. That's it for now....

A touch of Nature

One of my goals in the creation of this blog is to introduce friends and followers to two very distinct genres of photography. Last posting, I introduced you to a photograph that falls into the Street or Urban catagory. Which, I encourage you to view with an open mind. So, today I am showing you what is obviously a nature shot. This picture was taking at Fairchild Tropical Gardens which is a wonderful place to photograph.

What I find alluring about nature photography is that you can be creative. Don't just point your camera at the subject and shoot! Look at it from different angles. Up/down, side to side. front/back! This can really enhance your photo and give it a truly different prospective. Try this with all your photography and create that special shot.

Picasa 3

Just a quick test of the new Picasa 3 (Beta) Program. For those out there that have used Picasa know that it's actually a
really good program for storing images on your computer. It offers basic adjustment options for photo's and the best thing is that it's free. If interested Picasa is offered by Google and can be found at www.google.com/picasa. One suggestion that I highly recommend is that no matter what you always make a back up copy of all your photo's....It's easy, fast and safe.

I have talked a little about street photography and the picture with this blog is a sample. There will be more available on the website and future postings...

Some Changes

I have to laugh when I was talking to one of my nephews friends today and mentioned my soon to be website and my blog...He called me a "Renaissance Man". Just found that funny.

As you can see, I have made some changes to the blog. Mostly design which I hope you all find more appealing. You will also notice that in the "Me" section I have tried to give you some indication of what I intend on trying to accomplish with this blog and eventually the website and that is to share with you my passion for photography. And, to give you some insight into what I find so great. As you can see I talk about two different genres that I have been studying. Nature Photography and Street Photography. Street also known as Urban is an exciting type of photography not only to shoot but to view. Photo's of both will be available on my website. www.thomastaulbee.com .

End of Day one

An update on a few pending items....My website ( www.thomastaulbee.com ) should be up and running at the end of October...I am working with ARC Media Consultants
( www.arcmediaconsultants.com ) which was recommended by Chamber South's President. Thanks...We are working on a site that will focus on my photography. And, will also feature a new project....Stay tuned....

On a lighter note....On my run this afternoon I ran into ( not literally ) Dave Barry, a humor columnist and a favorite of many South Florida residents...

Be back soon....

My first blog

Welcome!

Well, this is my first attempt at blogging....So, here goes nothing.

As a person with many interest, I hope you will enjoy reading about what they are. I hope to provide those who join me with information about some of them. For example; Photography, Distance Running, cooking, traveling and Conference Planning (my career) ! It's been an interesting couple of years. For those who know me, you know and for those who don't know me yet you will see....It's going to be a great ride!!

Please come back from time to time and check in! There's a lot going on so enjoy!!

See you soon! Thomas