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!