Misfits with Cameras

New Year, New Show Location

2013-03-24T15:38:00.000-07:00

As some of you have already seen by our announcement on the Facebook page, we have secured a new place to show our work and get together at the Famous Neon’s Unplugged.

It’s located just off Main Street at 208 E 12^th in Over-The-Rhine. There is a parking lot right next door and ½ a block away is a 7 story parking garage that has security. They have one hell of a great selection of beer, tons of uniques. Right now we’re not sure how many folks could show in one night but we are figuring between 4 and 6. Our hang up method will be similar to how we did at Arnold’s. What’s different about set up is we will not have to take down immediately, so your work can stay on display for up to a month, but remember Neon’s is not responsible for any damage that could occur to any displayed work, they are a bar after all. The interior is similar to Arnold's; two stories, shotgun design. The walls downstairs are brick, and upstairs they are brick on one side and wallpapered on the other. We would be showing on both floors. There’s also a huge courtyard and I’ll get to that later.

At this time neither Lisa nor I are up for having a monthly show, and we’ve yet to decide how we’re going to proceed, it could be every two months or three or even quarterly but no matter what we decide, there are some other cool options on the table for us. First up, there is Final Friday, which is an art-driven event where all the galleries on Main open up for the evening, folks drink some tasty beverages and view the artwork, we could tag on to one of these evenings and members could feature their work at Neon's as part of the event. Another opportunity available is 2^nd Sundays on Main so that could turn out to be really awesome. We can just put a sign up at Main pointing to Neon’s advertising“Photography show.”

Now for the courtyard, it’s flipping massive. So massive that several of us could set up during a summer day/evening. It’s surrounded by the walls of an old apartment building, and they are one story tall with random openings here and there.

We plan on having a get together on Saturday May 4^th, to show everyone around and so everyone can get a feel for the place; not to mention we miss hanging out with everyone. Anyone in the group and their friends are invited and we will make an event on the group Facebook page with more details as it gets closer.

Once again, we want to express undying love and gratitude to Ronda Breeden and Chris, who for three years were so amazing to let us show at Arnold's! And we would also like to thank Chris specifically, because he is the one who got us in contact with John Back, owner of Neon's and Neon's manager Jeremy Moore. They are two really great guys and I think the shows at Neon's are going to be just as fantastic as they were at Arnold's~

Here's a link to their Facebook page and once again hope to see you all in May, we are really excited about the new shows and can't wait to get everyone's opinions and answer any other questions you may have.

The Famous Neon's Unplugged

There goes Bill, Blogging Again!

2012-07-25T20:07:00.001-07:00

So What Exactly Is Going On With Capture Cincinnati?

As many of us know, without Capture Cincinnati, Misfits With Cameras wouldn’t exist as we were founded originally as Club Blatz during the 2009 contest. Due to how awesome everyone who joined the group was and how close we became during the event we decided to continue as a Cincinnati photography club. After a 2 ½ year hiatus Capture Cincinnati is back, leaving some puzzled, some skeptical, some joyous and some angry. I’ve received a lot of emails asking me what’s up and for the most part I really couldn’t answer any of them without a lot of speculation, until now.

The reason that Capture Cincinnati re-started was for two reasons, a) to capitalize on the world attention the World Choir Games was going to generate towards Cincinnati and b) to create local community for photographers to display and share their work, similar to Capture My Chicago. The only book in 2012 that Capture Cincinnati has planned to publish is a World Choir Games book. There are no plans to publish a book on the scale of all the categories featured on the website, which in my opinion they are missing out on some serious money and attention. It is apparent that Capture Cincinnati is going to run indefinitely, why everyone is having to vote for all these photos is a mystery to me, but that is the way that Capture My Chicago is set up and they didn’t have a book last year.

Many of you noticed in the beginning that there was a limit to the number of submissions in one week and then suddenly that was gone and photos of the Choir Games filled the pool. That is because they lifted the submission limit for the Choir Games contest. So, what is the motivation to continue to participate on the website? Well, if you don’t like viewing and voting on the Choir Games photographs, just be sure to follow who you’ve followed or vote by category, staying out of the Choir Games based categories, like “Music”, “Celebrations,” and the like. Now, there is a community there and you are getting exposure. One of the things I like about it is I get to see work from Misfits and other folks that I’ve not seen before. I get to comment on their work and “favorite” it and I get to interact with local photographers in a local file sharing atmosphere. Besides that, any photographer can set up their account for people to purchase images and it seems to me the 3rd party cost is very reasonable for both the purchaser and the seller. Then there’s also the daily featured photo and the individual and photography awards that are handed out. Weather or not this is enough to keep people motivated to continue to participate without the guarantee of a possibility of getting published is something only time will tell. But you have to admit, sometimes it’s really fun.

In conclusion, I’m going to post a response from Chris, an admin of the Capture Cincinnati site to Misfits member Nancie Smith who contacted them with some questions…

“Subject: Re: Limitation on number of photos you can submit in a 7 day rolling period -- Capture Cincinnati Contact Form

Nancie, The 2012 book is a book about the 2012 World Choir Games. If you don't care for World Choir Games photos, you won't care for the book, unfortunately. Now that the World Choir Games challenge is over, other subjects will start to dominate again. We hope to publish a broad-subject Capture Cincinnati book or calendar in 2013. Thanks, Chris”

Capture Cincinnati - It's BAAACK

2012-06-27T10:31:00.000-07:00

Five & Five with Emily Fultz

2012-06-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

The charismatic daughter of our charismatic leader of the MWC, Emily answers some questions posed to her by her father, Bill Fultz. She will be showing her work Saturday night at Arnold's.

1. You've been interested in art all your life, what is your favorite form of art?

I am still trying to figure out my medium. I like tangible things like sculpture and ceramics, but right now what is speaking to me the most is photography.

2. Currently you are interning at the art gallery, Art Beyond Boundaries for college, what is it teaching you for your ultimate goal after you graduate?

I have learned a lot about what it takes to run a gallery. I have learned the appropriate ways to guide viewers through pictures. I have even learned the ins and outs of hanging work. The most valuable information, however, is learning that I am not wasting my time in college. I really have been having fun and I have learned how right of a fit the art world is for me.

3. You are about to enter your Junior year at Mt. Saint Joseph, besides majoring in Art History you are also majoring in Fine Arts with a concentration in photography. Being that you were already an artsy photographer, how has what you learned in college impacted your work?

It has taught me a lot about craft, and being more careful with how you execute a desired message or aesthetic. Intention and composition should be married. They should act as one in the same for success. College has taught me not only the value of this, but also how to employ this idea.

4. What artists most influence your work?

This is a very tough question. I like a lot of artists, but I am not sure who influences me the most. I can say that many of the fantasy artists, like Alan Lee, influence the darker style that I seem to enjoy. The strong contrasts that I use have been influenced by artists like Caravaggio. Over all I can say the world I live in influences me the most though.

5. If you were granted one wish, what would you wish for?

If I had one wish I would wish to switch bodies with a boy for one day. I have some gender myths I want to break.

Five & Five with Pete & Marcia

2012-06-08T07:51:00.000-07:00

I interviewed the newlyweds together separately. Separately together? Separate togetherly? Anyway.

Pete Foley & Marcia Cole will be showing their work upstairs at Arnold's tomorrow evening from 6-9 p.m. Get there early because Arnold's is going to be hopping!

1. What cameras do you use?

M: I have a Sony Cybershot 370 (point + shoot)

P: Nikon D300, D7000, D70, Fuji x100

2. You two travel to wonderful far away lands. Is there one place in particular that stood out above the rest from a photographer standpoint?

M: Africa, for sure. Not just the safari, but the landscapes and people also made it stand out.

P: Africa, especially the Serengeti in Tanzania, Chobe in Botswana, and the whales and penguins in Cape Town.

3. What do you enjoy most about photographing?

M: Learning to notice things, even ordinary things, as though you are seeing art.

P: It makes you stop and smell the roses, or at least look at them through a macro lens. It also gives you a great excuse to get off of the couch and get out and about.

4. Do you have a favorite photograph of each other's?

M: My current favorite of Pete's is the Peruano man with the light on one side of his face. I want this blown up, on canvas!

P: Each others what? Seriously, this one. http://www.flickr.com/photos/stylin_and_smilin/6457585433/in/photostream Its a great example of the photographers eye making a great shot out of virtually nothing.

5. Give me a list of 5 more exotic locations you would like to photograph:

M: Galapagos Islands, Taj Mahal, Petra, Japan, more of Africa and South America

P: Mmmmm, will they be the same? The Kalahari Desert in Namibia, the Galapagos islands as an homage to Charles Darwin, Nepal, Petra, and the Amazon.

If you have always wanted to go to an art show without all the stuffiness that usually comes with them, this is a show to see. We have monthly shows at Arnold's and we would like to thank Bret & Ronda Androski for allowing us to continue invading their upstairs once a month.

Directions and menu and all sorts of great information to be found on their website~

Arnold's

Five & Five with Chuck Eilerman

2012-06-06T07:50:00.000-07:00

Chuck Eilerman, a man who doesn't mince words but takes amazing photographs. He will be showing this Saturday night at Arnold's.

1. What type of camera and gear do you use?

Nikon D90 with standard Nikkor 18-105mm lens

2. How long has photography been a hobby of yours?

Around 10 years.

3. The love you have for Covington really shows in your pictures - do you have a favorite spot in town you like to shoot?

Anything with Mother of God Church, a beautiful Renaissance basilica design (which happens to be my parish).

4. You are actually running for Covington City Commission - do you take your camera along with you while campaigning?

I take it to events such as parades and festivals.

5. List 5 top things to see in Covington if you're a photographer - plus a great place to eat since the photographer will be there all day and might get hungry.

Top places to see would be: Mother of God Church :); Riverside Drive (Roebling Bridge); Cathedral; Devou Park (overlook); Mainstrasse (Carroll Chimes, Goose Girl).

Hard to select from our many dining options. Favorites include: Chez Nora; Dee Felice; Blinkers; Latonia Long John Silvers; and Frisch's.

Five & Five with Connie Sanders

2012-06-05T10:41:00.000-07:00

I sat down over the internet to interview the busiest member of the Misfits group. I dare you to say otherwise!

1. List your gear.

Like some photographer friends, I am becoming an “equipment junkie.” I own and use several Nikon digital SLR cameras, the main ones being the D300s and D90. I still shoot occasionally with one of my film SLRs (two Nikons and a Yashica TL Electro).

Of my “collection” of several lenses, my favorites are the Nikkor 18-200mm and the 105mm macro. I use typical accessories, such as flash and tripods, and studio equipment that I set up for portraits.

2. Tell us how you got started in Photography.

I have had some kind of camera since I was about seven—Brownie, Instamatic—remember those? Because my grandfather published a weekly newspaper, I got “exposed” to good cameras. My mother shot photos for the paper, using an old bellows-type camera. I spent some time in the darkroom, watching my younger cousin develop film. Later, when we both were in college, he helped me pick out my first serious camera, the Yashica I mentioned. With the exception of a built-in light meter, it is totally manual, and because of this, I was able to learn a great deal about using a camera.

3. You are a musician and a teacher and photographer - do you ever get to combine the three? or two of the three?

For the past couple years, I have taught some photography classes at my middle school. We use point and shoot digitals, but occasionally I let a student who shows interest try out my Nikon D50. I also have made photos of students and events around the school for use in the school yearbook.

Combining photography with music is a bit more difficult, simply because I usually am participating in the music. However, I have shot musical events at my church, such as children’s choir camp and music workshops.

4. A lot of us know you as the PomMom - do your pups like their picture taken or do you have to bribe them to get a shot?

I am convinced that Gizmo was a convict in a former life. If he sees a lens pointed at him, he immediately turns to the side! I have learned, however, that bribery is very effective. In a couple of “formal” photo shoots with him, he posed willingly as long as treats were involved. Kira does not seem to mind being photographed, but I haven’t tried a formal shoot with her yet.

5. You show a lot of your work locally. How did you get started with networking with the businesses in your area and have you had many sales?

Often it is a right place/right time situation, and several of these developed at about the same time that got the ball rolling for me. When the Fusion Gallery opened in Bellevue, the owners took an interest in my work and offered room for some of my pieces. That led to other venues in town.

Through a dining group, I met an artist whose studio is in the Essex. She has graciously given me space there to display my work, and I have been able to show at a couple other venues because of contacts made through her.

I have participated in a women’s art exhibit at Christ Church Cathedral and have done a solo show there. I also began portrait photography when several friends from there asked me to do head shots for them. Later I was asked to do other portraits for the cathedral.

The Capture Cincinnati contest of several years ago probably had the greatest impact on my work. Through it, I met many local photographers and became involved with photography groups such as the Ohio Valley Camera Club and Misfits with Cameras. These groups have provided opportunities to exhibit, and their members have shared information, techniques, and advice that have helped me improve my work.

As someone who works full-time at another job—and participates in three musical ensembles, I don’t have as much time as I would like to promote my work. Considering the current economy, however, I have been fairly pleased with sales, having sold one or more pieces at most of the places I’ve exhibited. I’ve also sold online via Fine Art America and my own website for Constance Sanders Photography.

Connie will be showing her work this Saturday night at Arnold's Bar & Grill at the June Misfits With Cameras exhibit from 6-9 pm on the second floor.

To see more of work visit her website

Directions to Arnold's

Bulletin Bill has a Bulletin

2012-05-11T19:23:00.000-07:00

Last night Lisa and I met with Melissa Sideris and Ayla Benjamin, Co-Directors representing a national independent arts organization called RAW: Natural Born Artists.

RAW:Cincinnati will begin having monthly art shows, the first one coming up Friday, May 18th at Luxe, and every third Friday of the month thereafter. Luxe is located at 601 Main Street, Downtown Cincinnati.

The shows will feature 20 independent artists in the genres of art, including independent film, fashion, music, visual art, performing art, hairstylists, makeup artists as well as others. As a matter of fact, our very own Chris Breeden is a featured artist in the inaugural Cincinnati event featuring his photography, and we would like to send our thanks to him for connecting us with Melissa and Ayla.

Currently, RAW is in 32 cities in the US, and by July 2012 it will be in 62 cities as well as Australia, and there are plans to launch in Europe and China in 2013. Now entering their third year, the mission of the organization is “to provide independent artists within the first 10 years of their career with the tools, resources and exposure needed to inspire and cultivate creativity.”

So here’s what we found out: RAW needs artists, lots of artists, and Misfits With Cameras was approached not only because we could work together and cross promote our showcases, but also so they could connect with our pool of talent. The cool thing is, not only do we have many great photographers, but a lot of us know people who indulge in the other arts as well, so we encourage to you to spread the word to your other artist friends.

Here's how it works: You submit for consideration by going to the RAW website and registering. You then complete a profile which takes 5 to 10 minutes, submit some of your work, choose what city you live near and then RAW will contact you if you are chosen to be a featured artist. In being selected you become a part of the RAW online community which showcases the profiles of hand picked RAW artists. The artists have site perks exclusive to RAW artists, however the site is open to everyone to view.

To get a true feeling of what an event features follow/copy paste this link to watch their YouTube Welcome Video

Tickets to Next Friday’s show are available for $10 presale. It is a 21+ event. If you decide to buy online select the May 18^th event at Luxe, it will say “Which artist are you supporting?” Be sure to say you’re supporting Chris Breeden. Tickets are $15 at the door.

Drink specials are $2 Budweiser & Bud Light, $3 Wells and $4 Little Black Dress Martinis.

Here are other links to RAW. We think this could be a really exciting opportunity for our members who are interested in being a part of this.

RAW:Natural Born Artists

RAW on Facebook

Follow them on Twitter

Luxe on Facebook

Five & Five with Nancy Germer

2012-05-08T15:55:00.002-07:00

The spotlight today is on Nancy Germer, another great Misfit photographer, she was nice enough to answer my questions and share some photographs.

1. List your gear here:

I shoot with Canon gear. I have two bodies, the Canon 5DMKII and the Canon 1DMKIV. I have quite an assortment of lenses and other gear. It's not always the gear that makes the photo though:) Because I've taken some very nice shots with my iPhone!...And, of course, Photoshop can do wonders!! LOL

2. When did you first become interested in photography?

Looking back, I guess I've always been a visual person. I liked to take photos way back, even as a child. Eventually, I bought a film camera, a 35mm Canon AE1. But I never did relish the idea of developing my own film..and really as a school teacher, I had little time to spend on this hobby. I retired 4 years ago, and during that time photography has become a passion...now that I have some time to do it!!

3. So, I hear you like Pugs. Are they more fun to shoot than say, Labradors...or elephants?

Funny!! Pugs are my other passion. In fact, I bred show pugs and showed them myself for 15 years. (Another expensive hobby, btw) They are NOT fun to shoot...they wiggle way too much and won't sit still! I think they believe the camera is some sort of food...they are NOT the "brightest bulbs in the box!!" I'd rather shoot elephants..they are slower!!

4. At the upcoming exhibit at Arnold's you are the sole female representation. What do you think you can bring to the show that the boys cannot?

I have no clue.... I strive to be as unique and creative, and memorable as I can be with my style of photography... But aren't all photographers...

5. As a fan of your landscape photography, I want you to list 5 places that you would like to shoot. A Landscape Photography "bucket list":

Thank you! Great to have fans! Well, my bucket list would have to include:

Paris or anywhere in Europe, Utah/Nevada/NewMexico (out West USA), Holland, Egypt, Africa (all of these take moolah to go to)

I also have an interest in aerial landscape photography...know any pilots?

Nancy will be showing her work this Saturday night at Arnold's. If you would like to see more before then, click on her smug mug link below:

NancysPhotos

Arnold's Website

Five & Five - Drew Steinbrecher

2012-05-01T18:47:00.000-07:00

This month we have two photographers showing for the first time. Our first interview is with Drew Steinbrecher

1. What type of photography gear do you use?

I mostly use my iPhone and several photo apps. I don't really worry about using the latest cameras. I like how portable it is... I can grab my phone and take a photo wherever I am.

If I want something more serious, I have an older digital camera that has a great lens. It's only 4 megapixels, but it does the job.

I'm not sure I'd know what to do with a digital SLR!

2. When did your interest in vintage begin?

I've always shopped at thrift stores. At first for clothes when I was in high school. Then for furniture and accessories when I was in college and needed inexpensive furniture. I went to DAAP so I was exposed to mid-century design before the general public... I was able to score some great Danish modern and Eames pieces before other people were looking for them.

3. How do you like to mesh your love of photography with your love of vintage?

I love the history of vintage items as well as their collectibility. Photographing old signage, for example, is another way for me to "collect".

Photography for me is almost exclusively about recording, remembering and/or collecting the subject. I very rarely think to myself, "that'd make a great photo." In the past when I have set out to make great photography, I almost always fail. It's very spontaneous for me.

4. You have quite a great set of pictures on your flickr solely from your iPhone. Do you use your phone more than your camera now?

Yes, I almost exclusively use my iPhone. (see above)

5. Is there a vintage camera that you wish you could get your hands on?

I would LURVE to have a Polaroid SX-70... the kind that folds flat.

Come out and see what Drew has in store for everyone! Saturday May 9th 6-9 pm at Arnold's Bar & Grill

Blog

Shop

Flickr

Golf for a Good Cause.

2012-04-23T11:52:00.001-07:00

This Saturday April 28th, the Norwood Firefighter's Association is holding their annual Golf Outing at Glenview Golf Course and a few of us Misfits are happy to be participating again this year, taking team photos and random shots throughout the day. Here's some pictures from last year's event.

The NFA is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting the local community as well as contributing to regional charities.

One of our photographers at the event in action, Debbie Crowe. Other photographers involved include Mandy Tudor, Dave Fishwick, Suzan Hayden, Bill Fultz & Lisa Sullivan.

Donations raised during the golf outing benefit the Plogman and Condron Scholarship Fund, named after Robert Plogman and James Condron, two Norwood firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty.

This will be our third year in a row involved and it is always a great time.

...and you never know who you are going to catch watching the action.

NFA's Website

Find them on Facebook

2012-04-13T08:50:00.002-07:00

Please join us for the 27th installment of the MWC Photography Exhibit Saturday night April 14th from 6-9 p.m., upstairs at the legendary Arnold's Bar & Grill. There will be food, drink, and merriment and pictures. The most laid back art show in Cincy.

Here's a little bit of info on each of the photographers displaying their work:

Liz Feldman - Photography Under the Influence:

Born and raised in Westwood and currently rocking the downtown urban living gig, my photographic style is a reflection of my life. Major influences include Richard Avedon, the parks of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, friends, family, red wine, cold beer and warm sun. I photograph what I like and I like everything. From blooms to brews; botanical gardens to backyard barbecues, no object or subject is safe.

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Daniel Justes –

I like to say I am “self taught” in photography but truth of the matter is… I’m surrounded by some of the most talented photographers in the Midwest . Only by studying, admiring and learning from their art, do I grow my own craft each and every day.

Dan's Flickr

Dan's Website

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Scott McHenry

My photographic style is diverse and eye-opening. My photography is not limited to a particular category; instead I embrace a diverse range of subjects. I photograph places as if I am seeing them for the first time no matter how familiar they are to me or the potential viewer. I use street photography of people to show insight, compassion and inner beauty. My goal is to change the ordinary into the extraordinary through use of unique perspectives and vibrant imagery. My work is done in both color and black and white to create the appropriate emotion, texture, and atmosphere for each subject. I continually strive to capture the everyday life around us, whether it is people, places, or nature in ways that are visually insightful to the viewer.

Scott's Website

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Teresa Schmid

A photographer who loves to photograph nature and kids. I'm a Nikon user and love to work in Lightroom 3 and Photoshop Elements 10. A married mom to Sydney 12 and Jimmy 7, and a Loveland resident.

Teresa's Website

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Lisa Sullivan - It's an honor just to be nominated.

MWC co-founder, retired beerslinger, freelance photographer, social butterfly.

I love to travel and shoot the most odd and random things. However, I really get a kick out of shooting people too. Call me. I wanna shoot you.

Lisa's Website

Follow on Facebook

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Mandy Tudor -

A young, aspiring, and award winning photographer who brings a fresh and intuitive perspective to modern photography.

Mandy's Website

We hope to see you there. There will be photographs for sale, get them before these photographers are famous world wide and their prices go up.

Arnold's Bar & Grill

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Five & Five - Liz Feldman

2012-04-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

Tiny yet Mighty, Liz is our final Five & Five photographer leading up to the April MWC Show at Arnold's this Saturday night. However, she was off jet-setting in faraway lands and did not get the five photographs to me in time for her interview. So to punish her for not following my directions and having the audacity to have a life outside of sitting home on her computer at all times, I have added five completely random shots from my Flickr site. Yet another reason to come out and see the show this weekend, we are just DYING of curiosity to see what Liz has in store for us.

1. List your gear:

Nikon D90 and a mini-arsenal of cheap and not-so-cheap lenses. Right now you'll most likely find me rocking a Nikkor 35mm f/1.8 and a cheap wide angle or macro converter.

2. You recently got married and honeymooned in Hawaii. I assume you left your camera at home since that is not a very photogenic locale.

Of course. It was incredibly difficult to take a bad picture. I need to go back.

3. Who are your photographer heroes?

Richard Avedon, Jules Daffner, William Albert Allard and William Fultz.

4. You're on a desert island. You have your camera body. You can only have one lens and one case of your favorite alcoholic beverage.

The lens I can't live without at the moment is my Nikkor 35mm f/1.8.

While I do adore the fine local brews of Cincinnati and Milwaukee, I think the best case for a desert island is Bell's Two Hearted Ale.

5. Photography Bucket List! List 5 people in the Reality TV industry that you would like to photograph.

I don't watch much reality TV but I'd like to share a drink with and photograph these five 'celebrities':

- Anthony Bourdain

- Josh Rouse and/or Matthew Pryor (two of my indie music idols)

- Billy Murray
- Juliette Lewis

- the cast of big bang theory

Flickr of Liz

Directions to Arnold's

Five & Five - Lisa Sullivan

2012-04-10T21:37:00.002-07:00

For this interview, the tables are turned on me since I'm also showing my work this Saturday night at Arnold's. I would like to thank fellow photographer Dan Justes for the entertaining questions!

1. What gear do you use?

I started with the Canon Rebel Xsi, now I have the 60D; lenses 18-55, 28 mm, 50 1.4, 55-250 and the 60 mm macro lens plus my fun Lensbaby stuff.

2. I know your dream is to ultimately own your own Diner and I know your photography is growing everyday. Do you intend on abandoning either one to pursue the other? If not do you intend to incorporate them somehow?

No way will I abandon either dream, (I will bake my cake and eat it too!) but the photography business is more realistic for me right now, a lot cheaper to start up and not as scary for failure. About half of my income from photography after expenses goes to the diner fund. And when I do open my diner, I am definitely planning on selling photographs right off the walls; not just mine but works of other local photographers in the area too.

3. Do you have any tricks for when you get photographers block?

The best thing to do when this happens is to get in the car and hit some back roads. You can always find something interesting to shoot, especially when you don't plug in destinations for the GPS.

4. Some photographers refuse to do HDR, others refuse to shoot babies and even others refuse to photograph people. What is your photography taboo?

I refuse to do weddings. I have done three, but I was tricked, begged and in one case, bribed with a trip to Hawaii. So basically, I refuse to do weddings on the mainland. Seriously though, it's just way too much pressure and too much pressure takes the fun out of it for me...and no fun = no point.

5. Will you make me a sandwich?

Sure. How about a goetta grilled cheese?

Please come see some of my work this Saturday night at Arnold's Bar & Grill - and if you're interested in portrait work (everything but weddings) check out my website below:

Betty Photography

Arnold's Bar & Grill

Five & Five - Teresa Schmid

2012-04-09T07:49:00.000-07:00

Five questions & Five photographs - Today's Spotlight on Teresa Schmid~

Funny, Smart & all around Fabulous, Teresa was nice enough to answer some questions and share some of her pictures with us.

1. What gear do you use?

Nikon D60, still using the 18-55mm kit lens and a Sigma 70-300mm lens

2. Who or what has inspired your photography style?

There are all sorts of inspiration out there. Right now I love to go through Pinterest and look at other photographers photos. When our club gets together to something like Junkyard Madness, you have say 10 people taking pictures of the same thing and everyone has a different perspective and it's great, inspiring!

3. Do your kids ever get tired of having their picture taken?

Oh definitely, though Jimmy gets more tired of it than Sydney. With Sydney sometimes it's hard to get a candid photo of her because every time I pull out the camera, my little diva strikes a pose, granted sometimes it's a pose with her tongue sticking out!

4. Being a nature photographer, do you have a favorite season to shoot in?

I have two favorite seasons; Autumn, the colors are so beautiful, and winter, I love to shoot snowy landscapes!

5. Your Photography Bucket List - name 5 people or places you would like to shoot.

There are many people I'd like to shoot, but to take pictures of...But seriously:

1. Alaska- such beautiful landscapes
2 .Any exotic island, my camera in one hand (or on a tripod) and a drink with an umbrella in another ;)
3. Scotland -Loch Ness here I come, well and St. Andrews Golf Course
4. Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow - wouldn't that be fun!
5. Bono - in concert...in Ireland... from the stage!

Teresa will be showing her work this Saturday night at Arnold's Bar & Grill from 6-9 pm

Teresa's Website

Arnold's Bar & Grill

Five & Five - Dan Justes

2012-04-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

Five questions & Five photographs - Today's spotlight on Dan Justes~

(Legendary Photographer, Local Superhero and all around Halfway Decent Guy...most of the time).

1. List your gear:

Nikon D7000.

Various lenses and flashes.

And of course Mandy’s stuff.

2. When did you first get serious about Photography?

Serious? Have you even seen my stuff?

3. Describe your style for our readers.

I don’t have style. Or class for that matter.

But if you are referring my photography style… I think I’m still discovering it.

I have been leaning towards low key, dramatic lighting for portraits.

I am fond of light hearted shots. (Which you will see at the Show at Arnolds on the 14^th.)

I love taking shots using a unique technique, like dangling my camera from a rope off a bridge.

4. You're a brand new grandfather. Is your granddaughter blind yet from all the pictures you've been taking?

No. One should N E V E R use flash when photographing infants. I love taking her picture. She is such a ham.

5. Photography Bucket List: Give me 5 people or places you would like to shoot before you...well, you know...

I don’t have a people or places bucket list. I had one and I did it already. (Having the opportunity to take photos from top of the Roebling Bridge .)

I have a few benchmarks I would like to hit in my photography career and those change constantly.

My biggest benchmark that I’m willing or am allowed to discuss would be getting a cover of a high circulation magazine.

I really enjoy giving myself projects that no one else has ever done and making them a reality.

Come to Arnold's and see Dan's work, Saturday April 14th at Arnold's Bar & Grill 6-9 pm

You can also view more of his work at the websites below:

http://JustesTudor.com

http://www.flickr.com/photos/iggwad/

Five & Five - Scott McHenry

2012-04-04T20:58:00.000-07:00

Five Questions and Five Photographs from Featured Photographers of April's Misfits With Cameras Photography Exhibit~

My next interview for the Five & Five is local photographer Scott McHenry. I sat down with Scott via the internet and asked him about his world.

1. List your gear here:

Canon 7D. Canon 50 D. Canon G12.

Tamron 10-24mm 3.5-5.6 Tamron 17-50mm 2.8, Tamron 24-75mm 2.8 Tamron 18-270mm 4.5-5.6

Tamron 60mm 2.0 Macro. Canon 50mm 1.8 Canon 85mm 1.8 Canon 70-200mm L 2.8

Canon 100-400mm L 4.5-4.6 Lensbaby Fisheye.

2. Being a Canon man, is it difficult to get along with your Nikon owning friends?

Not really. I feel sorry for them. They have been victims of Nikon’s evil marketing campaigns led by Ashton Kutcher. They don’t know any better and it’s not their fault. I’m thinking of starting a rehab clinic for these poor lost souls.

3. Describe your style and / or your favorite subjects to shoot.

I am all over the place. I shoot what I see at the moment. I usually try to shoot in a photojournalistic style, I like to tell stories. I like urban landscapes, street photography, creating fine art, sports etc. A new interest is wedding photography. My business partner Tonya Cook and I are starting a new wedding business called Bokeh Studios that will be going public around the first of May.

4. You were published in the 2009 Capture Cincinnati photography book. How many movie deals did you get out of that?

Exactly none. That was a great feeling and helped to give me the confidence to show and sell my work. In 2011 I did seven shows including Final Friday and Midpoint Music Festival. I have my first real art gallery show coming up this summer, details to come soon.

5. Your Photography Bucket List - 5 places or people you would like to shoot:

1. A portrait session with Bruce Springsteen

2. World Cup Soccer Tournament

3. Hawaii-Been there 3 times but never with a real camera.

4. Africa

5. Ireland/Scotland

Five & Five

2012-04-03T10:17:00.000-07:00

Five Questions and Five Photographs from Featured Photographers of April's Misfits With Cameras Photography Exhibit~

Today I had the pleasure of ~~bugging~~ interviewing Mandy Tudor, one of my favorite local photographers and one of my favorite people. She is co-owner of Justes & Tudor Photography and manages Ritz Camera at Rookwood Commons.

1. Let's begin with the tech stuff. List your gear:

Nikon D700, Nikon D300, Nikon SB-600, Nikon lenses - 24mm f/2.8, 35mm f/2, 35-70mm f/2.8, 70-300 f/4-5.6, 18-35mm f/3.5-5.6, 180mm f/2.8

2. When did you get started in Photography?

I don't remember not having a camera.

3. Describe your style of photography, including photographers that inspire you.

My biggest inspiration is Joel-Peter Witkin. He is my Jesus. I have a pretty diverse style, but negative space is a running theme in most of my personal favorites.

4. Tell us about your greatest achievement as a photographer and your worst nightmare as a photographer.

My greatest achievement as a photographer so far was when I was taking my second photo class in college, and got accepted into the Cream of the Crop art show at the Southern Ohio Art Museum. My worst nightmare as a photographer is going blind.

5. List 5 people, places or things on your Photography Bucket List:

I have to make a bucket list, too? WTF?!

I want a Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 VR or VRII more than any other lens at the moment. That will probably change tomorrow.

I need an army of SB-910s and SB-700s.

I would take a D4 I suppose. (Also, I find it amusing that D$ happens if you forget to let go of shift.)

I want to travel anywhere and take photos, but I always want to be able to order a cheese pizza while I am there.

Number 5 is a secret.

Mandy Tudor will be showing her work at Arnold's Bar & Grill on Saturday, April 14th from

6 - 9 pm on the second floor.

Arnold's Bar & Grill

Tales from the Underground

2012-03-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday several of us gathered for the 3^rd annual Misfits With Cameras Brewery Tour. The tour, which in my opinion one of the coolest things you can do in Cincinnati, takes you deep into the history of Cincinnati’s beer brewing heritage, as well as deep under the the streets of Over-The-Rhine. Beginning in 2006 as an event associated with the annual Bockfest event that takes place in early March, they have grown in popularity since then, and have lead to tours that are now offered on weekends throughout the summer. Our tour guide, Steve Hampton is the Executive Director of the Over The Rhine Brewery District Community Urban Redevelopment Corp, and as he discusses the old breweries and their lagering tunnels during the tour you really feel his passion for preserving this rich heritage, equally impressive is his knowledge of the history of the breweries and of Cincinnati.

Our tour began at the Moerlein Brewing facility on Moore Street, which took us through the Bockfest Hall and into the basement of the building till we reached a skinny wooden staircase that took us underneath the building into the lagering tunnels. The lagering tunnels were often massive storage areas where fresh brewed beer was stored and refrigerated after it was brewed in the brewery. The arched tunnels were constructed during the mid to late 1800’s, using field stone, and hanging from the ceiling were pipes that cold water flowed through to keep the beer cold. When artificial refrigeration was introduced near the turn of the century it made the tunnels obsolete. Over the years many of the tunnels were sealed off or used as a dump and then forgotten. Our first tunnels under the Morelein Brewery were all of the above; dumped, sealed off, and forgotten. Featuring 3 large tunnels, corridors, and some adjacent tunnels that are off limits, we really had a hard time believing our eyes that something this cool is in the city of Cincinnati. We were standing in what was once an important part of the Kauffman Brewing Company.

Some old workings of the facility still remain in the cellars.

A corridor at the back of the cellars that connects the three rooms.

The middle cellar from the corridor in the previous picture. You can see the massive debris pile near the front of the room. Above you can see what remains of the pipes that were used to bring in the water.

A shot of the Left Tunnel from the back. So much debris was thrown into the middle tunnel that it spilled into the ajoining tunnels.

From there we left the Kauffman Brewery and walked around the block to McMicken Ave to the Schmidt Brothers Brewery. This is another building that the lagering tunnels are located below the basement, but the journey down is much shorter and the tunnels are much more intimate. This is a shot of the entrance to the cellar.

Once you get to the bottom of the stairs you have to duck and you enter into this small room. When the room was first discovered it was ceiling high with discarded toilets. Though physical labor by volunteers enough of the debris was moved so you could at least walk across it, so they placed down some plywood and you get to walk across a three foot thick pile of porcelain.

Above the old elevator shaft is open and you can see 2 stories up. All the toilets and debris found their way to here though this opening.

I didn’t take any photos of the lagering tunnels. They are quite small, one is completely full of debris the other is movable in, but space is limited because of groundwater seeping onto the dirt floor making it very muddy. To the back of the tunnel is a smaller tunnel that leads beneath the street to another old brewery. The lights in it were not on, so I didn’t get a shot, but it’s really cool when you can go down it.

Afterwards we headed to our cars and drove several blocks to W. Court Street just outside downtown. There we learned of a brewery called Gerke. As we stood outside and Steve described its history and showed us pictures of the brewery, we learned that where we were entering wasn’t actually the location of the brewery itself but is was where the lagering tunnels were. By looking at the front of the building you would have never guessed what lay beneath it, and better yet, we had no idea either. When we entered the building through the alley we went into a room that had an 8 foot by 8 foot opening in the floor and in that opening was a scaffolding staircase that was two stories in height. Behind the opening sat a 1 ton generator that was removed from the shaft, at the time the area had been first scouted out, it was hanging by a wire. So below we went, into the depths, it was one shaky ride.

Below it seemed to be the biggest we’ve been to and it was an awesome end to a fantastic tour. The owners that had recently bought the property found the cellars and contacted the Brewery Commitee wondering what they had and after investigation it was decided it would be on this year’s Bockfest Brewery Tour.

The bottom of the stairs.

A zoom shot of the tunnel.

Anyone who’s interested in taking a tour this Summer can follow the link provided. That tour goes to the Clyffside and Jackson Breweries which are not featured on this tour. I’ve been to Clyffside and it’s really cool although you can’t get into the lagering tunnels, and I’ve heard Jackson is awesome, and it has lagering tunnels.

Cincinnati Brewery Tours

Eat, Drink and Enjoy an Exhibit.

2012-03-08T16:58:00.002-08:00

Please join us for the 26th edition of MWC (formerly Club Blatz) Photography Exhibit, alcohol tasting, fantastic food eating, hobnobbing with awesome people event.

6-9 p.m. this Saturday night, March 10th, at Arnold's Bar & Grill

We have a great group of photographers showing this month - here's a little bit of info about each of them along with an example of their work~

Kenny Dunn - Born in Cincinnati in 1956 and I have always lived in the area. I've enjoyed viewing pictures and picture taking for many years. I've always been intrigued by viewpoints of life captured in a split second and enjoy sharing mine also.

Facebook

Flickr

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Jim Kramer - I first became interested in photography in the 1980's. I enjoy shooting architectural, infrared, and high speed water drop collisions. My equipment is all Canon, including 2 infrared only bodies. Most of my attention lately has been on my water drop photography.

Flickr

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Chuck Madden - I'm in my third year as hobby photographer. I am Nikon user and enjoy taking photographs of various subjects from nature to concert photography. At heart I am a documentarian so my future photos will lead further down that road.

Flickr

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Andrea McClain - I am a wife to a wonderful husband who supports my dreams, a very proud mother to a teenage daughter, a preschool teacher to lots of sweet children, and a photographer who loves taking photos of just about anything with nature and still life's being my favorites. I love photographing the beauty that surrounds me.

Website
Blog

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Lisa Muvich - I'm a marketing professional whose passion is photography. While I prefer nature and wildlife photography, I recently spent five weeks in Paris through a study abroad program at Northern Kentucky University in which I got to photograph some of Paris's most beautiful landmarks and historical sites. This Saturday I'll be showing work from my Paris trip.

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Ashleigh Pylar - I am currently a senior in UC’s early childhood program as well as an art lover that dabbles in many different mediums. My true art passion lies in photography! I like pushing myself to create images that are unique and unexpected.

Zenfolio
Flickr

As always, we would like to thank the lovely and talented Ronda Breeden Androski and her husband Bret Androski, the owners of Arnold's, along with Ronda's son Chris Breeden and the entire crew at Arnold's.

The directions are on their website, along with the menu - come have dinner before or after you see the exhibit, their food is amazing:

Arnold's Bar & Grill

Balluminaria Nov 19th

2011-11-18T09:47:00.001-08:00

It's that time of the year again as Balluminaria takes over Mirror Lake in Eden Park. Featuring several tethered hot air balloons glowing in the evening sky around the reflective lake waters there will also be carolers, kids activities and food. It's a Holiday tradition that never ceases to satisfy!

In the past parking and traffic can be a problem so I would try and arrive earlier than 5 p.m. There's parking up by the Art Museum, at the Krohn and below the lake around the remains of the old reservoir. I'm not going to designate a meeting area because who knows where they're going to set up the balloons. So just look around for some Blatzers!

Horror Hound Weekend

2011-11-18T09:45:00.001-08:00

Starting tomorrow and lasting through Sunday is the Horror Hound Weekend horror convention at the Crown Plaza Cincinnati North at 11320 Chester Rd. Cincinnati Ohio 45246. Featuring celebrities, movie screenings, and movie premiers there's bound to be plenty of folks dressed up and things to photograph. Click the link for more info!

http://www.horrorhoundweekend.com

Club Blatz Photo Show

2011-11-18T09:43:00.000-08:00

Hey folks! This Saturday from 6 - 9 is the Club Blatz photography show! Not only are we getting to view fantastic work from 6 photographers but you can also choose when you want to show in 2012 and members only can sign up for your chance to be randomly chosen to Ascend The Roebling next Spring! So come on down, or you will miss out!

Please join us for the 21st installment of Club Blatz' Photography Exhibit, alcohol tasting, fantastic food eating, hobnobbing with awesome people event.

6-9 p.m.
...
The photographers displaying their work:

Dennis Camp
Sharon Meyer
Chris Radcliffe
Connie Sanders
Lisa Scolastico
Teresa Schmid

Many thanks to Brett and Ronda Androski, Chris Breeden, and their great staff and crew at Arnold's. These get togethers have been so much fun.

Directions on their website:

www.arnoldsbarandgrill.com

Ascend The Roebling Bridge

2011-11-18T09:41:00.000-08:00

As some of you may have seen today, some of us Club Blatz members ascended the southern pier of the Roebling Suspension Bridge, and I know there's a ton of you who are saying, "damn, I want to do that." Well guess what, some of you will. I have confirmed another trip up in the spring of 2012, those of us who went this time will not next time. How do you get on board? Well, you have to sign up at the November and December Club Blatz shows at Arnold's. 10 lucky people will be picked by a program that randomly chooses the attendees. It is free, it will be on a weekday and it's going to be one of the coolest things you've ever done.

Duke Energy Train Display

2011-11-18T09:35:00.000-08:00

How about this awesomeness! The Duke energy train display after years and years downtown has moved to the Cincinnati Museum Center and opens tomorrow. Be sure to check your Duke Energy bills for your insert for four free admissions to the exhibit (maximum two adults) which can only be used one time "and see this Cincinnati tradition at its new location." You can go see the "tradition" through December 24th.