Articles published in September, 2010
Digital photography is a little like sex. It’s a lot of fun, you can do it often, there are almost endless variations, and if you’re not careful there can be unintended consequences.
One of my pocket camera workshop students at North Cascades Institute this summer suffered one of those unintended digital consequences when all of her photos from the day disappeared when she thought she was copying them from memory card to computer. I’m not sure exactly what Alice (I’ve changed her name to protect her dignity) did because I wasn’t looking over her shoulder, but I have a good idea what happened. And I have a strong suggestion for a better procedure that protects you from losing your precious photos. That protection is your digital condom.
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Calamagrostis acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’
Ornamental grasses come into their glory each autumn, shimmering in the golden rays of afternoon light, swaying in the gentlest breezes, and lending a strong vertical backdrop to soft drifts of colorful asters and sedums. One of the first tall grasses to bloom is ‘Karl Foerster’ Feather Reed Grass, Calamagrostis acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’.
This standout grass, which was the 2001 Perennial Plant of the Year, forms gradually expanding clumps 3-4 feet tall. It tolerates a wide range of conditions from zones 3 to 9 and is happiest in full sun, in moist to wet fertile soil. It thrives in clay soil, but will grow in dry sandy soils as well. It has no serious pest nor disease problems. I’ve never seen it become invasive and the seeds are sterile so it won’t self-seed. That’s important because out-of-control grasses can quickly take over.
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What’s a plant nut like me doing adding pet portraits to his business?
Well, I know a lot of you are absolutely nuts about your dog or cat and consider them an equal member of your family along with your children. Maybe you even have a pet child or two instead of human children. Since your pet is in integral part of your family, you should have a portrait of them in the prime of life so you can remember your good times together and the love you share long after they’re gone.
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The Historic Fairhaven Sidewalk Sale on Saturday, September 18 is a huge one-day event throughout Bellingham’s Fairhaven district. Look for tents in front of businesses throughout the neighborhood where there will be bargains on books, clothes, portraits, pottery, shoes, and much more.
I’ll be out on the street in front of Finnegan’s Alley at 1106 Harris Avenue, where my studio is located, with an outdoor portrait studio. Stop by for a quick portrait of you, your kids, your family, or your pet. Bring your friends, bring your funny hat, dress wild or dress mild. It’ll be fun and it’ll be quick. Packages begin at just $20.
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This is my favorite time of the year to photograph familes and seniors outdoors. The weather is still nice, the light is flattering, and we’re starting to get a little color in the maples and shrubs. Soon the rainy season will be upon us again and we’ll all want to curl up with a good book by the fireplace.
Fall is also a time when families are starting to think about Christmas and other holiday gifts, as well as Christmas cards. With a fall portrait you’re a step ahead of the game and can avoid the holiday rush.
For high school seniors, yearbook deadlines are coming up fast in October. If you haven’t had your portrait made yet, there’s still time but you shouldn’t delay any longer.
Call 360-671-6851 today to schedule your session.
The annual feast of glorious gardens, fantastic friends, dynamic dancing, chatty coach rides, and enlightened discourse known as the Garden Writers Association Annual Symposium anticipates some Texas hospitality in Dallas September 10-14. I’ll be there, along with some 600 friends from across the continent who also write, photograph, or speak about gardens and gardening.
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