~ Mural Mosaic Vegreville ~

The town of Vegreville is going to be the first of 150 towns across Canada to get murals created by the talented minds of Mural Mosaic  and on May 20th, 2015 it was revealed.  The mural was made up of 1500 tiles that were painted by community members and many of the students attending schools in Vegreville.  The mural is located on the wall of ATB and will join together with the other 150 murals to create a larger image.  Recently elected MLA Jessica Littlewood was there to represent the Alberta Government.  It was a fun day and some very cool art.

I teach art at the High School and was able to paint a tile and have my students be a part of this amazing experience.  Of course I shot some images. Here are a few of my favorites from the day.

~ Friends ~

I got to do some photos with two friends.  Using mostly the sigma 35 art and a bit of the 85 1.4 rokinon lens we went to Festival Place in Sherwood Park and walked around taking pictures.  It was a last minute photo shoot but sometimes those are the best kind. :)  Have a great Tuesday!!! :)

~ Destiny Spring 2015 ~

It's been a LONG time since I blogged so I am getting to it.  It's spring now and May long weekend is coming to a close this evening.  I got to see the new Mad Max movie with a good teacher friend, did some attacking weeds in the yard.  Didn't do much for photography so this blog post is about it for tonight.  Awhile back I shot with the lovely Destiny.  She met me in Edmonton and we explored the river valley on a warm spring day.  These are some of the shots we captured.

I was using the Sigma 35mm 1.4 art lens I added to my gear list.  I am loving this lens, it's ability to create mind blowing bokeh is something I adore.  I also love the sharpness and reliability it has.  Most photographers can admit that when shooting at apertures like 1.4 you're bound to get some soft shots as it is a VERY shallow DOF.  I have beyond happy with the results from the shoots I've done with this lens so far and I cannot wait to shoot more with it this summer.  I will try my best to keep more images flowing on the blog and excited to share my outdoor adventures this summer.
-Randy

~ 2015 Is Here ~

2014 Thoughts 

I have neglected my blog long enough.  I really need to start writing again on here.  2015 is here and well in to gear.  Looking back on 2014 I can say I am always going to view this year with sadness as I said goodbye to a precious friend, my cat Scully.  I got to spend about 15 years of my life with her as my cat and it broke my heart when she suddenly got sick and we knew her time had come.  2014 wasn't all bad, I had some really amazing memories doing photography and worked with some talented photographers and models doing creative work.  I also started shooting with a new camera, I picked up a Fuji Xpro1 and I really am loving this new type of non DSLR size camera.  A lot of photographers I know of use this camera line and their results are too awesome to ignore.  I admit I use this camera as an every day camera.  My canon still takes the workload of my shoots but the Fuji is just a fun and amazing little camera to pack every where I go.  I want to give a huge congrats to my friend Roxanne Lavallee, a talented photographer who just finished a 365 for 2014 and has decided she wants to continue it for another year.  I have done 2, one in 2010 and in 2013 and I know how much of a challenge it can be.  She is starting her 3rd I think and it is a joy to see her daily images.

2015 Thoughts 

Now there is a new year ahead of me and I am looking forward to new adventures and moments in creativity.  Just before Christmas I started shooting an Angel theme that I am doing in studio.  So far I have worked with two models on that project and excited to shoot more along this idea.  I said it last year that I wanted to do more visual art and I failed at doing the work I imagined myself doing.  Time goes so fast and I realize if I want to do more art that I need to force myself to get to it or it is never going to happen.  I guess this better be the time to start at is, so hoping the blog might be a place I can share my journey with my return to some art.

For now I'll end this blog with a few images of my last shoot of 2014 with Sean and Clarrisa.  It was inspired by the movie True Romance but with more of a classic gangster look.  I dig the Bonnie and Clyde vibe and these two were fun to work with.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!  Thanks for following my work and blog.
-Randy

~ Movember 2014 and some Wedding Images ~

I realize my blog has been quiet, so here is an update to what's been going on in my world.  This school year has been REALLY busy and I have not had a whole lot of time for photography.  I did shoot a wedding recently with a young couple at Fort Edmonton at the start of November. (pics below)

I have also started growing a MO for Movember.  I have not been promoting it as much as in previous years.  I would appreciate any support.  Go here to donate: RANDY'S MOVEMBER PAGE

Winter is here now and I am hoping to capture some lovely winter scenes to share on the blog.  I also have a plan for some studio work this winter.  The theme I want to do is angels. :)  I have always loved the game Magic The Gathering, there are some really cool cards with angels on them and the art is amazing.  I have always thought it would be cool to do something photography related of angels but I find it SUPREMELY cliche and cheesy to have a model wearing those fake wings.  I always told myself if I did an angel theme it would need to be something composite so the wings looked better than just fake strapped on wings.  So if you're a model interested in being part of my Angel theme then please contact me. :)
-Randy

~ Black and White, it's pretty fun!!!! ~

I was recently challenged by a photographer friend Todd Weider to do a black and white photography challenge.  The goal is to post 5 black and white pictures in 5 days.  I love black and white photography for a lot of reasons:

• it has that timeless look to it
• no colors to distract, it allows for the viewer to just enjoy the light and shadow
• so much fun contrast
• just has that artistic look to it

The other part of the challenge is to challenge other photographers each day.  It's fun and not for any real reason other than promoting the fun and beauty of black and white photography. :)

Here is my day 1 photo of the lovely Michelle:

Here is my day 2 photo of Sean:

~ Too much planning Spoils the Fun of Photography ~

When I am planning a creative photo shoot with a model they usually ask me what theme I have in mind.  I have to admit that themes can be fun and there are times when I do have an idea in my head for a shoot.  But the true fun for me comes from not planning shoots.  When the model comes up with looks on her own, does the hair and makeup it's fun and exciting to see what locations we can go discover that fit her look.  Some of my favorite shoots have been spontaneous in the outfits and locations.  I have discovered some really cool places to shoot just by going on an adventure and not knowing the destination.  Had I planned every last detail I would have missed out some great locations, light and images.

EXAMPLE #1(Model: Galina)

This is a shot of Galina taken in the country side north of St.Albert, Alberta.  We drove north and we just looked for some country roads and finally I saw this spot off the road we were on.  It was a farmers approach and it was grown with tall grass and lined with rows of bushes on either side.  The light looked great and we stopped to shoot a set of images here.  I could have gone out to scout locations in advance and driven right on by this spot.  Sometimes it's just about the light, light needs to be perfect and locations you scout do not always provide the best light due to weather, time of day, etc.  This spot was just perfect for the images we wanted.  I'll prob never go back to it, it was just a special photography adventure and the lack of planning made it exciting and fun.  It probably has a lot to do with my personality but I really dislike making detailed plans. :)  I am all about the unexpected and not knowing what is around the corner.  I love exploring the world with my camera and if I have a model or not, I think the same goes for nature photography.  Finding the light, the location and capturing a moment that is unexpected and impossible to plan for.  

EXAMPLE #2 (Model: Katelyn)

We drove around in the St.Albert area too, similar to the shoot I did with Galina.  We were near sunset (golden hour light) and found a construction area where residential buildings were being constructed.  This was mostly an empty field with some large concrete tubes (I have no clue what their technical names were) but they looked cool and Katelyn climbed on them and did some amazing poses.  The only things we had planned was where we would meet (A Tim Hortons) and from their we just drove around.  We had also briefly talked about the outfit but I didn't know her look until we met for the shoot.  It was just fun and I could never have expected we would find a place like this.  I know this is nothing new, many photographers/artists work like this but I just encourage people to sometimes step out of their comfort zones if you are a person that likes planning everything.  Try going out and being random....find something new and exciting and shoot there.  In Edmonton, I know the typical locations you can find photographers: Legislature grounds, many parks, Museum, Muttart, river valley, Fort Edm.....I've shot in these places lots too, but I have to say if I know I'm shooting there I kind of already know what to expect for light, for location.  

So basically go exploring with your camera!! :)  Make plans if you must but just be willing to go off the rails and find something new and be creative with it. :)

~ Canon 5dm3 and Fuji xpro1 with Katelyn ~

I had a fun summer, did as much photography as I could fit in.  As summer ended and I went back to work I decided I would buy a used Fuji Xpro1.  I have been wanting one for a LONG time, the problem is I am a Canon dude I wasn't sure I was ready to add another brand to my photography addiction.  I asked a few friends for some advice and I found a used xpro1 and decided it'd be a good investment.  After shooting with it I am so excited by the perks of using such a small camera.  I knew having a small body would be fun compared to lugging around heavy gear.  I love the lightweight feel of it and the way it works.  It's totally fun as a photographer to use and it has made photography really exciting to explore with this little camera.

When I was a film shooter I always shot with FUJI film so yeah, it's a LOT of nostalgia to use a FUJI camera.  I also am thrilled with the combo of my Canon and the Fuji.  I can see myself using both a lot now.  I will try and post more from my adventures with this fun little camera.  Here are some samples from a recent shoot with the lovely model: Katelyn


FUJI XPRO1:

CANON 5Dm3:

July 2014 Model of the Month - Candace

What do you love the most about modelling? 
I love how Modelling makes me feel. When I am modelling I am reminded that I am way too hard on myself and how I look. I am gorgeous and I can feel empowered by that knowledge.
What is the most challenging thing about modelling for you?
Most challenging this for me would be trying to have more than one expression.
Do you prefer color or black and white?
I love colour. Although black and white does have a certain timeless feel about it.
What tips do you have for models that are just starting out that you wish you knew when you started? Do not be afraid to be comfortable in your own skin. Your clothing size does not determine how good you will look in your portraits!
Do you prefer shooting in natural light or studio light?
I love Golden light, so I prefer shooting in natural light for sure.
Where would be your dream location to do a photo shoot?
Anywhere warm really. I don't think I have a real dream location in mind though. A good photographer can make any location look amazing!
What kind of music do you like to listen to when you are at a shoot or getting ready for a shoot?
I love to listen to any sort of Pop or Hip hop when getting ready, Iggy azalea is my weakness though. What color is your favorite? I adore Green and everything about it!
What social media do you use? Feel free to shamelessly plug yourself or stay secretive.
I love Facebook. It has helped me connect with some amazing individuals, and reach a broader clientele when I was running my photography business.
What would you say is your biggest strength?
I would say my biggest strength would be the ability to see good in people even when they cannot see it in themselves, and to be able to see past looks and love people for their personality, uniqueness and individuality.

Model of the Month for June 2014 - Vickie

What do you love the most about modelling?

 It’s continuously a challenge against myself to improve and become more versatile. Experimenting with body positioning that feels abnormal and of course seeing what the photographer does with the original photographs for editing is always exciting.

What is the most challenging thing about modelling for you?

I’m still incredibly new to modelling, and I think one of my biggest struggles is facial expressiveness.       Trying to convey a story based on your eyes especially while staying relaxed can sometimes prove difficult for me, but it’s just one of the challenges I love about modelling.

Do you prefer color or black and white?

Although black and white can sustain more raw emotion, I’ve always loved colour in my photos there’s just so much more life to them that way!

What tips do you have for models that are just starting out that you wish you knew when you started?

Get comfortable! It helps a ton when you’re in a shoot when you feel relaxed and at ease and it always shows in the photographs. Whether it’s practicing alone, or in the mirror while listening to your fiercest music, feel out where you feel comfy with posing, angles, and then just experiment from there. Also, I find if you ever need a little inspiration it’s never too far away with all the endless tutorials on the internet. J

Do you prefer shooting in natural light or studio light?

Oh, that’s a tough one because I love both! Natural lighting makes everything so beautiful; however, the possibilities when you add studio lights are far more limitless! This year I had the opportunity of working with a ring light and I would highly recommend giving it a whirl to anyone!

Where would be your dream location to do a photo shoot?

An underwater shoot would be something that I have always been intrigued to do, somewhere in crystal clear ocean water, perhaps somewhere in Australia or New Zealand. I also have a huge fascination with reptiles; getting the chance to shoot with some wilder critters would be rad!

What kind of music do you like to listen to when you are at a shoot or getting ready for a shoot?

I adore listening to 90’s hip hop so usually a lot of Wu-tang, Big L, Atmosphere, A Tribe Called Quest, Dilated Peoples, Boot Camp Clik, and typically I mix in some Lana del Ray as well, it just gets me into an amped up mood to shoot!

What color is your favorite?

It would have to be a shade of blue, blue is such a tranquil colour and when you get the right shade of turquoise, such as a rich glacial lake or a tropical ocean I find it so serene and gorgeous. 

What social media do you use?  Feel free to shamelessly plug yourself or stay secretive.

Instagram (@vahickster ) is by far my favorite! It allows me to find people who are interested in similar things as me, like snowboarding, wakeboarding, hiphop, and modelling.  I get to see a great mix of hilarity, and I get inspired for all sorts of things through other people’s concepts and photos.  There’s also far less negativity strewn about as well in comparison to things like Facebook and Twitter, but as any modern day little lady does I am on most social media platforms. 

What would you say is your biggest strength?

I laugh at myself quite easily, so when I’m at a shoot and something turns out a little bit more strange than planned, I try to just go along with it, and make the most of the oddities. Sometimes that strangeness and uniqueness makes for the most captivating part of a photo!

APRIL's Model of the Month is Jane

What is the most challenging thing about modelling?

Trusting yourself and your body. Sometimes you just have to “go with the flow”, with the music, with the weather or the mood of the shoot. The most awkward poses sometimes make the coolest shots.

What advice would you give a model that is just starting out?

Just go for it. If it feels a little scary, you should tackle it and put the trust in your abilities, whether you know what those are or not.

Color or Black and White?

Definitely Black and White. Color is beautiful for some shots, but black and white allows you to see the emotion in the shot by focusing on the face, the eyes, and the feeling.

How many shoots have you had with Randy Pond?

Is it possible to lose count? If not, then 6 or 7 maybe?

Do you prefer natural light or studio light?

Definitely natural light. Something about the challenge of capturing it and properly posing in it creates some fantastic shots!

Where would be your dream location to do a photo shoot?

Europe! So many fantastic locations and wonderful, old architecture. Bodies of water are pretty great too.

What kind of music do you like to listen to when you are at a shoot or getting ready for a shoot?

Something upbeat that allows me to pump myself up. It helps when conveying emotion later on.

What color is your favorite?

Blue. It’s a calming and cooling color.

What social media do you use?  Feel free to shamelessly plug yourself or stay secretive.

Just a regular ol’ Instagram model! (@zhenyaua). But really, I use the holy trinity of Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

What would you say is your biggest strength?

Passion and dedication. While that’s two things, technically, they do go hand in hand.

April 5th. A sad sad sad Day. RIP SCULLY.

So today we said goodbye to our cat/friend/fur baby, Scully. She took a turn for the worst and to make a long story short we realized we needed to do the right thing. Our hearts have been heavy all day....we both kind of knew it was coming. We are torn and sad now and will miss that wonderful cat so much. I got her when she was a little kitten from Red Deer about 15 years ago. She is a wonderfully beautiful cat and had a personality that was complex and awesome. So many great memories and she really was part of our family. I am so sad and torn up right now and the sadness is insane. I do know that I am happy for the time we had. I am happy to have loved and been loved by Scully. I do have faith that I will see Scully again in heaven. We had prayer with her today and I feel deep down that God creates these wonderful creatures and he Loves Us so much that I don't think for a moment that today was the final goodbye. 

For now though I will grieve and feel the sadness of this loss. I know many people that have pets and had pets know the feelings I am having. Animals are amazing and most often they are > than people. I knew that this day was coming, just never wanted to face it. Thanks to the family and friends that have expressed their condolences and sympathies. <3

Feeling so sad tonight....I miss you Scully. 

-Randy 

Just let it be art

I recently saw a comment on Facebook made about a photo taken by a photographer I respect and admire. The comment basically critiqued the photographers choice to make it appear like the model and background were blending together. Ultimately this was an artistic choice made by the photographer. I just don't understand why some people are determined to make something artistic in to a technical thing??? 

The beauty of art is it is creative and can be so many things. Why does it have to always be technical and follow "rules" for some people???  Why can't it just be respected and celebrated and like the Bambi movie tried teaching us, if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all. 

Just my 2 cents. 

~ Monday Rant, Photographer classes I try and avoid at all costs ~

This won't come as news to people that know me well....but just feel like ranting it again. :)

I love photography and can't get enough of it.  In my experience of photography I have had the unfortunate experience of encountering many different types of photographers and there is one type that seems to get under my skin.  The kind that acts like they know it all to everyone around them, when in reality they are hiding the fact that they have no basis to be acting like that.

It is good to be confident, but I have known photographers that just seem to have such big egos it becomes a huge annoyance.  I have always felt that the work that an artist or photographer produces should speak for itself.  Yet some photographers make everything about them.  There are a few classes of photographers that fit this mold, here is how I'll define them (this was written with some humor but the scary part is there is truth in each one of these classes):

THE "TECH KNOWITALL" SHOOTER: this photographer frequents photography forums and always is there to correct everyone on lighting, exposure and uses their vocab of photography as a way to make themselves appear superior.  This is the photographer that feels their gear is superior and makes them a BETTER photographer than anyone else.  Discussions with them can easily lead to the desire to hit them in the face.

THE "ARTISTIC NUDE" SHOOTER: this photographer has learned that there are young women out there wanting to be "Americas Top Model" and they actively recruit these girls 18-21ish to pose for artistic nudes.  This class of photographer gets a LOT and I mean a LOT of followers and that only adds to their massive egos.  People (mainly males) love commenting on this classes work, saying things like "hot pic", "Yummmy" and this really makes the photographer think he/she is a god.  This class doesn't really know about composition, lighting or how to edit, they just care about hot girls and more LIKES and comments when they post.

THE "I PRETEND I KNOW HOW  MY CAMERA WORKS" SHOOTER: this is the opposite class of the tech knowitall shooter.  This class doesn't know how their camera works, they just shoot and pretend like they do.  They shoot as a "pro" but have no clue what is happening with their camera or how to use the gear they do have.

THE "I HATE EVERYONE WITH A CAMERA" SHOOTER: this shooter typically is a "pro" that rants and HATES that everyone is getting a DSLR and that this will somehow put them out of business.  They go on social media and get their hate on, ranting about "Moms with cameras" or a person charging less than they are for a wedding, family session etc.  They cannot stand that other people are enjoying photography and wanting to profit off it.

THE "SELF ENTITLED CRITIC" SHOOTER: this shooter doesn't really shoot much, they love going on photography pages and leaving a critique on the work.  They tell everyone how to do it, what's wrong with it and how to be better....the problem is they hardly ever shoot work of their own and couldn't take a decent shot to save their life.

I know there are more classes of shooters to avoid, these ones just seem to be the most common in my experience.  I prefer the humble types of shooters that are friendly, the ones that don't care what stage you're at in photography, they are not concerned about your work, they just do their thing.

To end this blog a recent edit from a shoot.  MODEL: Billie Dee