"Accounting for Taste"

Hey All

I'm trying to catch up on my reading and recently read an article called "Accounting for Taste" in a Psychology Today Mag from the writer Eric Gardner.  Psychology to Photography???  I know I know where is the transition, right?  My major in University was Psychology but the transition makes sense...maybe I'll explain one day.  

Anyway...Eric went on to write a brilliant article about our choices in art and music and what that says about our personality. 

I've took the liberty to paraphrase the article but keep in mind there are opposite sides to each of these styles that have both positive and negative attributes.  I chose to just elaborate on the positive but you can read the article for more details.

The Taste Hunters, enjoy discovering new artistic material and influencing the taste of others.  Their openness correlates to a great range of taste.  And are constantly sampling new music, scouring movies and visiting art museums.

The Thrill Seekers, are extroverts that are lively, active and social people that crave sensory excitement in their art.  They maybe attracted to abstract or surreal art from such artists like Jackson Pollock.  They also enjoy music with vocals as they are drawn to human voice. 

The Self-Medicators, feeds off raw emotional songs and gravitate to emotionally turbulent art.  They utilize inspirational message as self affirmation and self medication and often focus on content rather than structure.  Art can regulate their moods from melancholic or uplifting music, books, movies or pictures.  

While I don't like to assing myself into any one style, but it begs the question "what style best  describes me"???  Based on my own perception of my self I think I would be a "Taste Hunter". But if you ask my wife I would probably be a "Self Medicator"  All said and done I think I would like other to see me as a "Thrill Seeker" but I'm not sure why.  

You tell me.  Based on my favourite pics of 2008, what style do you think fits me better?  The Taste Hunter, the Thrill Seeker or the Self Medicator.  Then let me know what style fits you and why. And even try to list some of the styles of your favourite photographers like the photographers I've listed on the side of the blog.  Who knows maybe they'll offer their opinion of their style as well. 

My Favourite Pics of 2008

 

My top 5 Influential Photographers list for 2008

Hey All

I just going through My top 5 Influential Photographers list for 2008 and thought to share it with you all. Keep in mind this is no official ranking by any means but simply photographers that has influenced me throughout 2008. Feel free to comment or add your top 5 as well.

My Top 5 Photographer Influencers for 2008 (okay...I couldn't narrow it down to just 5 photographers so they are segmented into themes)

5.Dennis Hammond and Paris Whittingham These photographers I was able to meet at David Jay's Free to Succeed Workshop in NY. I like to think we are all at the beginning of our photography career so it is great to view their successes and accomplishments throughtout the year.  And ofcourse, it motivates me to better my photography business to their level as well. Check out their latest blogs and don't forget to leave a comment or two. 

4. Mike Larson, Fred Egan and Sara France. Not only do they offer great advice towards images, workflow and branding for your photography business. But they were instrumental in helping me organize a personal project called the Camera Cruise workshop. Mike, Fred and Sara your feedback and positive vibes will always be appreciated by my wife and myself...thanks much. 

3. Sandy (Sam) Puc and Heather Rivlin. Their tireless efforts to photograph subjects in situations that are not always ideal is a true inspiration and a testament of the spirit. If you are not familiar with these photographers, Sam is the co-founder of the NILMDTS organization that I'm a part of and Heather is the Toronto region co-ordinator. Thank you both for your words of encouragement prior to me assisting in my first remembrance photography session. Your advice and encouragement was needed and did not go-unnoticed. You can always count on me for any future assignments,big or small.

2.[b]ecker. This year, I've learned more from this photographer than any other photographers combined. His [b]school videos and forum is invaluable to your business and I suggest checking out [b]school for any answers regarding your photography business.  When you meet him in person you can't help but to get caught up in his energy which in turns positively influences your photography business. [b]ecker my only question is where do you get the energy?

Jasmine Star. Connecting with Jasmine, hearing her story and capturing her wisdom made a lasting impression on me. Even though my wife was not able to attend Jasmine's "church sermon" (those who have attended a workshop with her will know what I mean by "church service") she was still affected by my positive encounter with Jasmine. Jasmine your continued words of encouragement is appreciated by my wife and I more than you know. 

David Jay. Attending David Jay's Free toSucceedworkshop in NY hands down was the best money spent for my photography business this year. The confidence, sincerity and workflow gained during the workshop was invaluable and I've made sure to add these philosphies into my business platform. David, please continue to be a positive influence for us photographers...God Bless.

1.  My wife.  She is awesome behind and in front of the camera.  Nicole, thank you for always being my inspiration.  I love you.  

Goal list for myself: Photographers I would love to learn from for 2009

the husband/wife photography team groups like lifeimages, the Bebbs and Jeffrey & Julia Woods

the unique perspective of Jesh De Rox, Perspectiveye and Justin DeMers (I know I know, I'm a little bit Canadian biased) 

the creative authority on photography niches from Gene Higga and Jose Villa

the visionary and influential qualities of Chase Jarvis, Jay Reilly, the image is found, David Beckstead and Nick Onken.   

and finally the video qualities and methods from the Bui Brothers and Ron Dawson