Hello, all!  Thank you for the continued support.  I haven't blogged for well over a year, and I feel like it's time.  I'm hoping life has treated all of you well!

As for me, things have been tough.  Many of you know that over the past year I have faced many challenges.  None more paramount, however, than the passing of my father.  There is so much I could share on this subject, but instead I will simply say that my closest confidant and best friend left me unexpectedly and suddenly, and I had to handle all of his affairs while mourning and in a state of disbelief.  It still shakes me to the core, but I am trying to move on as he would want me to. 

As a photographer, I am blessed.  I know I am not as skilled or as educated as many others, but I am very thankful to be where I am on the journey.  I am still a welcome member of a wonderful family where I work.  This company has been so supportive of me; before my father's passing, I always felt I was surrounded by contemporaries, mentors, and friends at my workplace.  Always there to answer questions, and to lend equipment, and give advice without egos.  When I had to leave for 3 months to handle dad's death and affairs, they all put themselves out there for me.  Financially, emotionally, and in every way you might expect an old friend to.  They were there.  

While in Texas, I was fortunate enough to build some much needed bonds with my family.  Under the worst circumstances, I came to understand that I am loved, and that I have even more people who care about me.  I have family.  I have people that I haven't taken the time to cultivate relationships with because I didn't understand that family will always love me, no matter what.  I am sorry I didn't know or trust that, and am now working hard to maintain what I've discovered from very far away.

Since I've been back, I've had some great momentum career-wise.  I've had 2 jobs for Girl Scouts of Wisconsin South East; I've had a couple of weddings;  I've assisted on a wedding;  I've photographed a Drum Corps International event;  I've been fortunate to photograph many events.  But here's the thing...

As a professional, I sometimes go a long time shooting many events without being able to share what I've done, how I've grown, etc.  I realized I was doing good work, but have not been able to share the results with the public.  

To that end, check out my galleries featuring Drum Corps International Cedarburg Rotary Event, Baby Adeline: a Miller/Madsen Production, and March Fourth at Summer Sounds.  I'm trying to renew my passion for the art, while humbly submitting that I have much to learn.  

Thanks, friends for the support, and I am so thankful to be where I am.  Make some art today!  Peace and love.

Hello, all!  The last 3 months has flown by, and I'm just about caught up with everything to wrap up 2015.  I hope you all had a happy Holiday Season, whatever that means to you.  I love this time of year for a variety of reasons;  but although we may differ on what this time of year means, I hope that at the essence, it means peace, love, and compassion for all.

Having just arrived in Milwaukee from Texas, I can tell you that because of the nearly 80 degree weather there, I was missing snow.  The weather was so summer-like, that I didn't even bother to pack sweaters.  The last night of my trip was a reminder of how unpredictable Southern Winters can be! Tornadoes in Dallas, flooding in certain areas of the state, and 2 feet of snow in El Paso all culminated in my flight being cancelled.  My dad was happy to have me an extra night, anyway.  And, of course, my 'white-winter' prayers were answered with a snowstorm the minute I arrived in Milwaukee.  Be careful what you ask for!

Before I left, I did a photoshoot for some dear friends for the purposes of a holiday card.  So much fun.  I love my unconventional friends!  I also put on a 'Pop-Up Studio' for Christmas, and was very pleased and thankful for the turn out.  Check out the Pop-Up Gallery to see the images.

My trip home was very fullfilling.  I made the decision to not be a 'photographer' for the holidays;  I captured images when I felt compelled to, yet I just wanted to sit back and enjoy my family.  The weather was such that Dad had a couple of beautiful roses blooming, so I captured a pic of a bud just about ready to open.  I also photographed what was left of his garden.  It's been awhile since I've seen snails, but I captured their images, because they aren't something I see every day.

I visited with my brothers as much as possible.  My brother Rudy found a way to light his house with laser lighting, making short work of home decorating for the holidays.  It really looks beautiful, and I did my best without a tripod to capture the effect.  We sang carols, ate Mexican food, and enjoyed the time we had.  

My Brother Frank is one of my favorite people in the world.  He is so musically gifted, and every time we get together, he puts up with my 'Lucille Ball' voice and asks me to sing with him.  I enjoyed singing with him, spending time with him and his wife, and most of all, attending his church on Christmas Eve. The service was awesome, and he sang and played beautifully.

The most joyous part of the Holidays was the fact that, for the first time in 20 years, we were all peacefully together.  My family is starting to heal, and it feels wonderful.  My brothers and father have not been the closest, but it's amazing to note the things they have in common.  That's why, when we finally came together for a meal last week, I had to point out that all 3 of them have flip-phones, and all 3 absolutely refuse to move with the times!  That's why I love the image of them together with their phones! I love them.  Hopefully, we can all continue to get together and find common ground to build upon.

I also had the chance to spend some time with my lifelong friend, Debbee.  She is still pushing forward, despite kidney failure, a broken tail bone, and a staph infection.  She is raising her kids with more dignity and grace than I have seen from people with far less on their plate.  I have so much respect and love for her.  

Thanks, all for a wonderful year.  Let's look forward to being all we can be in the coming year, and remember life is about connection and love.  I can't wait to see what each new day brings!  Happy New Year, everyone!

 

Hello, Friends!  It's been awhile since my last post.  I had a very busy and productive summer.  Now that fall is approaching, I'm settling in with extra layers of clothing and comfort foods.  I have some time to think and I wanted to pick this up where I left off.  So, here's what I've been up to.

Summer was a whirlwind! Working at VIP has put me in touch with a whole new group of great photographers that I now have the honor of calling 'friends'; and many familiar friends to lead the charge to what was a very exciting season.  We all felt very scrambled and exhausted at times, but we all love what we do and wouldn't have it any other way.  I learned a great deal by making a mistake or two here and there, but that's how we learn.  Being surrounded by counterparts that share the love of photography provides me the availability of growing and evolving.  It's been great.

My own projects have been very exciting, as well.  I had the honor of photographing the 10th Annual Milwaukee Comedy Festival.  What an opportunity! Not only was it a great way to meet fun, interesting people and performers, but I was completely entertained, and laughed the whole weekend.  One of the perks of being an "Official Photographer" for any event is the all-access I am provided: that means I was able to talk to performers from different places and people from near and far.  I made many new connections, and am so thankful to Matt Kemple, the organizer of the event for allowing me the pleasure.

There are so many things happening in this city, and I jumped at the chance to pick up my camera and participate in Doors Open Milwaukee.  This is an annual event happening all around our community.  It is a two-day event where businesses, historic sites, and a variety of places allow the general public in so they might see and learn a little more about Milwaukee.  I only had availability one day, but next year I will definitely take advantage of both days.  There are so many potential places to see, but I only had time to visit three or four.  The highlight for me was The Basilca of St. Josaphat:  I'd never been inside, and could not put the camera down once I entered.  So much beauty!  A feast for the lens!  

On Halloween, I also attended my first Dia de Los Muertos Celebration, and although it was a very cold and rainy day, I could not have been more pleased. The celebration was beautiful, with so many facets and traditions, and some good friends, old and new in participation. Sugar skulls, crafts, good food, sage burning, dancing, drumming and respectful prayers for positive reform and peace were all part of that fantastic day.  I did what I could to capture the essence with my camera.  I even gave my video function a try (which usually doesn't even come to mind) and I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the video.  

Last week's highlight for this photog was the Dusk/Night Shoot we organized.  I intended to get a group of photographers together to practice our craft in a fun environment.  We had a group of 6, and met at the Art Museum at dusk, with tripods, timers, glow sticks, and a flashlight.  I dare say, after talking with my fellow shooters that we all learned something that night and had fun at the same time.  THAT'S what it's all about-coming out with more than you had before.  I loved it, and we are hoping to make it a monthly gathering.  All are welcome to join.  

Last, but not least, this past Saturday I was able to photograph my dear friend, Alice in costume.  Alice is a woman of many talents, and she and her husband put together an outfit to add to her living statue/performing artist collection.  It is a tribute to Gene Wilder;  She became a Bronze Statue of Willy Wonka!  (Have I mentioned how great my friends are?)  She looked amazing, and we had a blast walking around downtown and photographing, while interacting with many passers-by.  

All of these images are in my gallery.  Feel free to take a look.  Thanks, all!

 

Hello, friends!  So many wonderful things have happened in the past month.  First, and most importantly, School Portrait training has started with my company, and we seem to have such a wonderful group filled with talent and great attitudes.  This year promises to be a great one, and I'm looking forward to working with them all.  It's nice to be an employed photographer, and to work with a company that cares about personal relationships.  It's good stuff.

Also, I had a few of my own photo shoots that I learned from, and I am happy with the results, as are the clients.  I was lucky enough to share my results with perfect strangers, and build relationships while tending to my art.  I'm a lucky gal, and thankful to be constantly evolving as a photographer.

Yesterday was a great day to be a photographer.  So many events happened right outside my doorstep.  So, with camera in hand, I took a few walks, saw many friends, old and new, and captured some wonderful images.  I am working on uploading them now, but I can only go as fast as uploading allows, so stay tuned, friends.

Have a look at my newest gallery, 'Gundamraj Celebration'.   This is an example of the kind of photography I've been doing lately.  These clients were celebrating one daughter's graduation, and another daughter's Sweet 16.  They welcomed me with open arms, and although it was an incredibly humid day, we all got through it with good attitudes, and the atmosphere of celebration at hand.  They were very easy to photograph, as there was a wealth of colors, smells, and sounds abundant.  I share their gallery with you, and am proud that I was their photographer.  More images of other shoots will be coming soon.  I've had a great month.

Good night, all.  And I leave you with this thought:  remember what you have, and concentrate less on what you don't.  

Hello, friends!  I recently returned from another short trip to Texas.  I got to catch up with old friends, catch up with family.  The highlight and reason for my visit was to attend my first family reunion ever.  It was a beautiful experience.  I made the conscious effort a few years back to start asking questions about family history and any stories my dad and relatives could remember.  Having lost people, I realize these are things I want to know and it's my responsibility to ask.  At the reunion, I was able to put faces to stories, figure out where I came from, and see the cycle of life repeating itself with the cutest new generation reflected in the eyes of the children.  It was a great day, especially because when I go to Texas, I am constantly scrambling to see everyone, and usually need a few days of vacation after my 'vacation' just to relax; I was able to see some folks I would never had time to see if it weren't for the gathering.

Now that I am back in Milwaukee, I can see that Texas is being very selfish with the heat.  It's downright suffocating in Texas, and barely breaking 75 here. Needless to say, I'm a bit chilly, but thankful to be home.  Summerfest is in full swing, and there is a great deal of 'people watching' happening from my 3rd floor abode.  My cat also missed me, and I have missed my adopted city and family!  I just love Milwaukee, and even though it isn't the perfect city, I enjoy the eclectic mix of people, the stories they have to tell, the history of this city, and how perfect it is for me.  I miss my family, and I know they miss me, but I just have to admit that I love this city...for an Army Brat, feeling like you're 'home' is kinda a big deal.  That's how I feel here.  I'm employed and a working photographer at a small company that has always looked out for me; I have conservative and liberal friends;  I hang out with hippies, punks, travelers, artists, and 9-5ers, and they are all in this world I call home.  Milwaukee.  

I have made the decision to remove my Angela Wangrud Photography page from Facebook.  For over 2 months now I have not been successful at uploading, editing content, or even trying to work with FB to correct these issues.  Also, FB has a policy quite unfriendly toward copywrite laws, so I am throwing in the towel with them.  Anything of interest will now only be uploaded on this website, and I will provide a link on FB.  

My Repo shoot is still bubbling over in my mind...I will post updates about that soon.  In the meantime, have a safe and happy 4th!

Hello, friends!  Yesterday was the only day I felt it might be necessary to put the air conditioner up, but today is a different story.  When you live in the Mid-West, the weather is consistently unpredictatable (yes, that is an oxymoron, to my English geek buddies out there).  Part of the reason I don't live in Texas, much to the chegrin of my friends and family is that we usually do get 4 seasons here...still waiting for Summer.  

On a happier note, Angela Wangrud Photography has been doing wonderful work and taking on exciting clients and projects.  I am still very busy with my work at Visual Image Photography, a company I love and am loyal to; however, in the last couple of months, AWP has had some wonderful subjects to capture, including Horror-O-Rama!  My friend, who owns Rockabilly Girl Productions, Alice, is constantly busy with her passion for performance art and art in general, and she made this wonderful event happen for the 3rd year.  I am proud, humble, and thankful to know her.  

Balancing work with life is difficult to describe because I do what I love, and therefore it's difficult to separate the two.  I am extremely lucky to struggle as a photographer...this is what I wanted, and I am exactly where I belong, and with the right people.  Life has brought me to a place where I have really talented people in my life, and as a photographer, this is welcome.

And, on that note, I am happy to announce the newest project from Angela Wangrud Photography:  "Repo: The Genetic Photoshoot", inspired by the movie, "Repo: The Genetic Opera".  This movie is not for everyone, but I feel it is a modern-day "Rocky-Horror".  It's a musical, it's a horror movie...what interests me (besides the fact that Sarah Brightman is in it) is the imagery.  There are so many memorable characters, beautiful cinematography, and music.  My plan is to take the interest generated, meet with folks, and try to get some great images.  Someone asked me what I plan to do with these images, and honestly, I do not know...I simply feel that with the talent available to me it would be silly not to try to put something together.  I am trusting this will be a fun project, and hope to end up with stunning images.  Stay tuned.  Oh, and if you don't mind gore or musicals, give the movie a whirl. 

Overall, I am growing and learning, and evolving.  This is all great stuff.  

Thanks for all of the support.  I am so incredibly thankful that photography found me, and I can't wait to see where it will take me.  

Hello all!  It seems that with warmer weather comes the desire to wander, and to smell the air, feel the breeze, enjoy some sun.  Well, depending on the hour of any given day, that might be possible.  One minute it's sunny, the next it's raining...at least there is no snow on the ground and we can entertain the idea of sandals.  One of my recent assignments took me to a camp where a local 5th grade class was enjoying an overnight stay with all sorts of adventures for me to capture...it was only 40 degrees, but around here, that is acceptable outdoor weather.  Besides, the kids didn't mind, and I must be turning, 'Mid-Western', but I didn't mind either.  To photograph children outdoors, with joy in their hearts was just a privilege.  I requested the assignment again next year.  

It has been that very special time of year when proms, graduations, and communions, and spring sports all converge for the perfect storm of Spring Season! That wonderful time filled with long drives, heavy equipment, not knowing what town you're in, dealing with however you smell on the 3rd job of the day, and realizing that Sonic isn't always a good idea (even if they are all wearing light-up rollerskates).  I realize that I am ill-equipped to have a '9-5' job.  I love what I do.  I love knowing that I have captured someone's moment at graduation, and they will remember that image forever without even knowing I captured it;  I am lucky to relive my first communion photographing these little ones dressed so carefully taking theirs;  I get to see great plays because they need a photographer;  I'm part of lasting memories of prom kings and queens from here to Southern Illinois.  I will not complain about working this much.  I am thankful.  Doing what I love and getting paid for it is a blessing.  And the bonus is that I learn new things every day.  

Angela Wangrud Photography has other projects happening as well.  At the beginning of the month, the anticipated annual Horror-O-Rama at the historic Best Place at the Pabst Brewery went down.  It was a rousing success once again for Rockabilly Girl Productions!  Alice Wilson and Derek Stuart really gave Milwaukee something special this year, and we are fortunate artists like this continue to keep Milwaukee weird and interesting.

I will be traveling to Texas with my new 7D in a few weeks.  My goal has been to make my beloved father a wonderful photobook of my visits and the memories we make.  My family is healing after so much negativity, and I am looking to continue to create better photographs to include in my book for the one man in my life (besides Stewart) who has been a constant.  One of my teachers always emphasized the need to always have a camera.  Sometimes, as we become complex with the trappings of photography, we don't want to carry all that stuff...but I will take off my grip, use 1 or 2 lenses, and that's it.  I was taught enough to do it simply, and beautifully.  

Enjoy the weather, friends!

Hello, all!  It seems that we have entered a new season already this year, and although the sun hasn't been out daily, there is an energy in the air that is unmistakably change, growth, and new beginnings.  Every corner turned is a new opportunity to capture images of every and anything.  One of my instructors always told us to always, ALWAYS carry your camera with you.  I have to admit, when I don't feel like gearing up and going for a walk, I am usually sorry within the first 10 minutes...cell phone images are not acceptable to convey what my mind's eye sees.  So, to that instructor, you are right.  

Many exciting things have been happening this Spring.  I retired my old camera and upgraded to a 7D, and am have exchanged my 28-105mm lens with a 28-135mm lens;  it's been a great transition, and I'm really enjoying working with both.  The new lens is more stocky and rugged and along with the new camera, the images are outstanding.  I've been photographing a great deal for the company I work for and haven't had as much 'play-time' with the camera as I'd like, but I do get the chance occasionally.

The first chance I had was for a friend that needed some images of the costume work she does.  She is a Burlesque Dancer and artist, and she's managed to combine the worlds by applying for an artist's residency of the work she does at a local gallery.  It was my pleasure to capture images for her and an honor to be able to see these works privately.  From headpieces with horns, to hand-sewn and beaded bustiers, to flowing skirt-pants, she excels at what she does!  I was even able to photograph some of her personal canvases and artwork.  What a pleasure!

Next, I was fortunate enough to photograph one of the most darling toddlers in the world.  Little Miss Asami is 1 year old, and just a joy to be around.  I love the chaos of a baby/toddler session, because there are usually at least 2 adults doing the most ridiculous things behind the camera, all for that split-second of a smile.   This is why I love what I do...it's the human connection that is most important, and I get that every day doing this.

If you haven't seen, take a look at the images I did of Art Carnival at the beginning of this month.  I was only able to stay for the first act, which was not my preference, but I had to be up so early the next day.  I had a great time, as usual.  I can't wait what until Horror-O-Rama on May 8, which is next for Rockabilly Girl, Productions.

I've also been given new opportunities at work.  So that, along with busy season starting has really kept me busy.  I am hoping to meet expectations in my new responsibilities, and above all, LEARN.  I am fortunate, as I've said many times.  There are new projects on the horizon for Angela Wangrud Photography, too.  I can only say that I love Zentangle so much that I'm going to attempt to combine it with photography.  I also am still researching body painters, and hope to put something together soon.  In addition, I have a friend who is undergoing gastric-bypass surgery, and I am going to attempt to capture that journey for her while supporting her.  Clients, too!  I didn't forget you!

My health has been up-and-down, as I've been struggling with the same seasonal ailments as many of you.  Just trying to stay healthy and focused.  These things pass and life keeps moving, and I am thankful to be a photographer in it.  

 

Hello all!  I had the privilege of going to Texas, my home state, last week for a dear friend's wedding.  I was pulling double-duty as officiant and photographer, and loved every minute of it.  Of course, I was sincerely excited to photograph this wedding weekend, preparations beforehand, and the aftermath.  I went from below zero temperatures in Milwaukee to 60 degrees in Texas;  however, on the last 2 days, the temperature dropped dramatically, and all the cars were iced over.  

I think the temperature shifts combined with getting very little rest has manifested in this terrible cold I have had since arriving home.  It is a respectable illness, and I have done very little since being home.  Of course, my favorite past-time of editing images from my trip has been the only thing I have been able to do.  I have been taking good care of myself, and doing all I can to beat this beast of a cold.

Photography is my passion, and I loved being able to share this with so many on my trip.  Beyond capturing moments, I enjoyed 'talking shop' with anyone willing to listen.  With any luck, I may have inspired a few to pick up a camera and express themselves, and that is what I enjoy the most.  This was an emotional and rewarding trip home, but I am glad to be back in Milwaukee, and I have a few projects to sort out.  I have some exciting collaborations on the horizon, so keep checking me out!  

If you have the means, get out and photograph something today.  :)

Hello friends!  2015 has been an interesting year thus far.  I had the privilege of collaborating with James Tavernese, a former classmate from M.A.T.C., and a co-worker at V.I.P. recently.  Both sessions went extremely well, and as always, I learned a great deal from Jim.  And, we had a blast doing it!

As the year continues, I am working through personal issues and improving myself all around. I hope to continue working steadily, learning, facing the uncomfortable, challenging myself, and being thankful for being able to do what I love the most.  Photography is my passion.  It has changed how I see color, light, people, and everything.  It's more than just 'capturing moments'...I feel like a superhero with the ability to freeze time.  It's immensely satisfying.

I am lucky to work with extremely helpful, knowledgeable, selfless, fun and kind professional photographers whom I now consider friends.  I look forward to growing in the art this year.  

Have a great week!