CATCHING UP

INSPIRATION

2012-01-24T18:14:00.000-08:00

One thing this so-called slow season does for me is give me a chance to focus a little more broadly on the world around me. I see so many opportunities for photography. For example, hardly anyone around here - if anyone at all - does really intimate, meaningful photography: a baby napping in dad's arms, a little child nosing around curiously and cutely in a guitar case. Now that you have the idea, you can come up with better ideas than I can. In fact, that's a good point. Please send me your ideas; if I like them, I'll photograph them for free! Just so I can post them on my web site.

Curt (photocurt.com)
(765) 437-8048

HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR MODELS

2012-01-21T12:33:00.000-08:00

I'm probably like most people in that I'm looking toward spring and summer, but probably for different reasons. Sure, I welcome the warm weather, but I'm anticipating what I call high school senior season. So, during January and February I don't hibernate - I'm hunting to find high school senior representatives. The response has been pretty encouraging since I first put out the call a few days ago.
Anyway, though, I'd still like to find more. So, if you're a high school junior who likes being in front of the camera, and you can share your enthusiasm for what you believe in, please contact Spectrum Photography. Your photo session can be FREE! My e-mail address is spectrumphotography@photocurt.com; my phone number is (765) 437-8048.

Community Involvemenet

2012-01-16T09:05:00.000-08:00

One of the many things I like about photography is that it puts me in contact with a diverse group of people who can make use of Spectrum Photography to help their cause.
Project Access, which is part of the Howard County Medical Society, is doing that. I've got the chance to do some photography next month for Project Access's mother-daughter event at the Kokomo Country Club. Ticket sales will help raise money for Project Access, which provides medical care for people without insurance - what a great mission!

SPECTRUM H.S. SENIOR PROMO

2010-06-29T09:51:00.001-07:00

The first round (pictured left) of voting in the Spectrum Photography-Kokomo Beach high school senior summer promotion has Katie Unger leading the voting. Marlea Duncan is second, with Noel Horvath third.

Voting is closed for the first round. Voting on the second round started this week. The third and final round will start in about two weeks.

The winner gets a free senior session from Spectrum Photography.

Curt (photocurt.com)
(765) 437-8048

ANTICIPATING SUMMER

2010-03-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

Spectrum Photography and the Kokomo Parks Department will partner on a fantastic summer promotion that will culminate with a free high school senior session for the lucky winner. To carry it off, I need models who'll get free mini-photo sessions.
Each two weeks a new large portrait will be posted on one of the most highly visible spots at Kokomo Beach. The portrait will have pictures of four different people; Kokomo Beach patrons vote on their favourite model. At the end of the summer, the model who got the most votes gets a free high school senior picture from Spectrum Photography.
In order to come up with the big display portrait, I need models who'll enjoy a free, abbreviated photo session. The contact outlets are spectrumphotography@photocurt.com or (765) 437-8048.

GOING GREEN

2010-03-03T15:58:00.000-08:00

"Going green" has become a commendable and somewhat popular concept - having to do with people reducing the harm they cause to our planet's environment.
But for photographers, "going green" has another meaning: using a green backdrop that makes it easier to pull subjects from that scene and putting them in something entirely different. Previously, we'd have to do this through a painstaking and sometimes time-consuming process in some version of Photoshop. With green screens and the compatible software, a sometimes 12 minute process can take less than 30 seconds.
Spectrum Photography will begin offering this enhanced service in just a couple of weeks when we photograph the students at Sycamore Elementary School in Kokomo.

WINTER GUARD

2010-02-18T13:54:00.000-08:00

I'm pleased to say that Spectrum Photography and Western High School will pair again for Winter Guard photography. We did a real nice session last year; I hope this weekend's get together goes just as well.

CONNECTIONS

2010-02-01T07:51:00.000-08:00

There really is no such thing as a slow season for an amibitious photographer. For example, when I'm not photographing, I'm trying to make and maintain connections.

Two recent successes have been with Tiffany, the director at the Kokomo Event Center, and Jeanna, the co-owner of Create-A-Cake, also in Kokomo.

The important thing for you from my association with Tiffany is that anyone buying a full service wedding package from me for their ceremony/reception at the event center gets a $150 discount.

As for Jeanna, an image does a better job than words.

RAINING DOGS

2010-01-21T17:25:00.000-08:00

I've had the privilege over the last six months to work with a pet-oriented businesswoman from Indianapolis, Angie Sidebottom from Mid-Day Dog Walkers. This relationship has given me access to people I'd never have been able to meet in a segment of photography - pets - I love to do.

Angie and I fanned out recently to photograph a couple of her client's "children". Even though it was a miserable, rainy day, we still got some good images.

If you know the "parents", please don't tell them the puppy was on the furniture.

DECEMBER MAN

2009-12-02T06:09:00.000-08:00

December Man is a fictional character for whom time - simultaneously - moves at a highly accelerated pace and very slowly.

I find myself acting this part every year at this time, as I see the large cluster of days - made up of rapidly-moving hours - evaporate steadily toward the crucial and unchanging deadline known as Christmas.

December Man swooped down in November this year because of how busy things have been at Spectrum Photography since September. It started with school photography early that month and seems like it will end with a big night out shoved right at the end of the calendar: New Year's Eve at Union Station.

I'm grateful for all the opportunities I've been given and hope to continue to work with the folks involved next year too.

Here are a couple of photographic highlights.

2009-05-25T14:12:00.000-07:00

Kokomo is often maligned for what people say is a lack of the cool and the cultured. But, that's not entirely true. Last Saturday night was an example: a good band in a very distinctive, family-friendly outdoor venue. Local favourite Joe Cameron was performing on the outdoor stage at The Quarry. The setting is an ample, raised, concrete stage backed by a wall of random stones viewed from a courtyard with tables, well manicured grass and a small pond. Kokomo does have other cool settings, but it has also lost some because of lack of support. This gem needs to be kept.

TIDBITS

2009-05-08T12:53:00.000-07:00

In the all-too-long time since my last post, a lot has happened. Business has gotten better: I've been brought in to work with the band at Kokomo High School; I'm on the verge of an opportunity to provide photography for a futbol league; my youngest son, Hudson Koufax, has begun providing entertainment value; my oldest son broke his wrist; I had the chance to provide photography for the kids going through Communion at St. Patrick's Church.

Also, just as the senior season for 2009 high school graduates has "officially" ended, I've got some nice brochures to distribute among the 2010 graduates.

Katy, pictured here, represents my last stand for the 2009 seniors. She carries herself well, which means Spectrum Photography comes off well. Thanks, Katy.

WEDDING SEASON

2009-03-30T10:43:00.000-07:00

Even though March isn't thought of as wedding season, it did get the ball rolling for me with an engagement session for a couple whose wedding I'm photographing this year.

Andy and Lindsay were eager to have the photo session outside, but the forecast apparently didn't share in their plans. Maybe they're a charmed couple because despite a bleak outlook, rain held off long enough for us to get some great pictures, all showing the love that will be on display on their wedding day.

What I really like about them is the like their look to be spontaneous, which is important considering all the important, unplanned moments that unfold at a wedding.

A GLIMMER OF HOPE

2009-03-03T12:15:00.000-08:00

With March here, the natural thought is to look toward better things from the coming of Spring.

But, as the Western High School Winter Guard can attest, good things happen in winter too.

The girls turned in a sterling performance to win their class competition recently. Congratulations to them.

Congratulations also to my oldest son Cortlandt for doing so well in his karate tournament. Even though the kids pour out a lot of effort during their performances,they - and the parents - must be commended for the hours-long wait they/we endure waiting their turn. It was worth it, though. The kid picked up a second place medal for chambara (jousting with long styrofoam sticks), and a first place trophy for kumite (sparring). A purple belt, he had to beat a brown belt with a rugged reptutation to get to the championship round.

THE DRAGON LADY AND ME

2009-02-06T19:03:00.000-08:00

I'm in a networking group with a woman named Terri who creates fine jewelry pieces in her business called The Silver Dragonfly. I call her the Dragon Lady.

Spectrum Photography and the Dragon Lady collaborated on a photo shoot today so she could have some good images for herself, although I didn't know it would benefit me too, but it did. I got some great shots she's letting me use for my web site.

When you help others, you often help yourself.

Thanks, Dragon Lady.

NETWORKING FUN

2009-02-05T17:17:00.000-08:00

The saying "it's who you know, not what you know", is overly simplified. I think it's more a case of who you know helping you to learn what you know. The case in point was just this very evening when Spectrum Photography (photocurt.com) was at a networking shindig at the Junior Achievement center in Indianapolis. It was hosted by B.N.I., Rainmakers and Confluence. Not only did Spectrum get the chance to display portraits at a vendor's booth, but the organizers had three very good presenters who addressed very different, but essential elements of business growth. I was particularly impressed by a consultant named Kyle Lacy, who focused on how to make better use of internet networking sites. That's one reason I'm blogging, because Kyle emphasized the importance of regular blog submissions.

Earlier in the day, I had a chance to put my camera to use at another networking event, The Samaritan Caregivers annual Chocolate Celebration at the Kokomo Mall. I'm simultaneously regretful and proud of myself for not having indulged. Next year, I'll partake, especially if something like this offering by The Windmill Grill is available.

ECONOMIC OPTIMISM

2009-01-23T18:23:00.000-08:00

It's easy to find depressing news about the economy. I'm more interested in creating favourable situations to manufacture my own healthy economy.

January has started well for Spectrum Photography: finishing a photo session at a nursing home (commercial work), picking up additional orders from Christmas business (family portraits), winning a modest little job at a local school for its marching members (classic school photography), forging a relationship with Howard County's newest event hall (aptly named Celebrations) and getting ready for a photo session at a music academy (supporting and being supported by the arts - who'd have thought?!).

Every photographer knows that these jobs are the foundation for good things: the money from the session itself can be good, but the residuals can be career-sustaining.

COASTAL LOVE

2008-12-13T18:04:00.001-08:00

The San Francisco area enjoys a legacy of beauty, greatness of fame. That includes rolling hills, scenic vistas, the settings of Dashiel Hammet and Bogart movies as well as the starts of the baseball careers of Joe DiMaggio and Ted Williams.

Perhaps those are the things that attracted Johnny Kliegl and Karen to the area, and to each other. Whatever the case, it's an honour for Spectrum Photography to be included in the magic of their relationship and the majesty of the bay area.

It's clear from this engagement session that Johnny and Karen will do well in front of the camera during their June wedding, as well as with each other on the golden road to unlimited devotion.

SAVOURING THE SENIORS

2008-11-02T18:28:00.001-08:00

When late October comes, I feel like an autumn leaf on a branch, trying to hang on in the face of gusting winds and dwindling odds. I'm always hoping the dry, pleasant weather hangs in for "just one more week" (and one more after that...) to keep the outdoor opportunities coming.

Here it is early November and the trees are lush with colour - two senior sessions and a family portrait scheduled for this week and successful sessions leading to it.

Photography is great not just because I get to work in these conditions, but because of the fringe benefits. During a session with Eric, I had the pleasure of not only working with a friendly, agreeable individual, but I got treated to a free concert.

Ironically, this is a black-and-white image, so while it doesn't show the colours of the season, I think it does a good job of showing the feel of how I see the saxophone: jazzy, moody and sometimes stark.

ANOTHER GREAT OPPORTUNITY

2008-10-13T11:11:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons why photography is a highly rewarding profession: creative expression, varied experiences... and the opportunity to delve into other worlds. That can be actual travel, or it could be the invitation that is made when a client asks you to make pictures for them. You get the chance to enter that person's, or that family's world.

Such was the case recently when I had the chance to do the high school senior pictures of Olivia at her home. As it is, hers is a beautiful, sprawling wooded property, but pleasant weather and autumn colours made it all the more striking.

Working at other people's homes is a specialty of Spectrum Photography. This allows people to feel a little more relaxed, and we capture elements that are more meaningful. I'm grateful for the opportunity.

STILL STRONG WITH SENIORS

2008-10-06T07:30:00.000-07:00

It's late in the game, so to speak, for the high school senior season, but the activity is still strong. So is the quality.

I recently had the privilege of photographing Courtney, a Howard County senior. We had a great evening, and I had a great subject. As you can see, those ingredients were the recipe for success!

Thanks for making Spectrum Photography look good, Courtney!

PHOTOGRAPHIC HISTORY

2008-09-18T02:34:00.000-07:00

One reason people place such importance on photographs is because it represents history in the making.

You might remember Hurricane Katrina from a few years ago. When people fled their homes, they weren't carrying desks and clocks - they were carrying photographs.

Other than pictures, photographs are the only way to preserve our mental images.

So, even a light moment of high school Sam here at his percussion set tells a story that people want to "read" - not just now, but far into the future, so they can "feel" what happened in the past - even if it is OUR present.

A DOG'S LIFE

2008-09-08T17:37:00.000-07:00

...That's what it will be this Saturday in Danville, Illinois, site of the annual Midwest Dachshund Festival.
I love photographing pets; I'll have the chance to do it almost all day, offering pet lovers three packages that they can use to show off their love for their Dachshunds. Also, I'll be glad to donate a portion of the proceeds to the committee putting together the festival.

Package A
One 5 x 7
Four wallet-sized
$20

Package B
One 8 x 10
One 5 x 7
Four wallet-sized
$30

Package C
One 8 x 10
One 5 x 7
High resolution disque
$50

THIS JUST IN

2008-09-05T15:53:00.001-07:00

I'm photographing a dog show next week (September 13) in Danville, Illinois.
As you can understand, a lot of people put a lot of love into their puppies, which is why they p lace a lot of importance on pictures.
I'll be set up at the Midwest Dacshund Festival, taking and selling photographs.
Since I realize there might be a stray or two - people, not dogs - reading this, I want to thank you in advance for your attendance and patronage. In addition to photo packages, people can buy photo buttons, light-up key chains ($12 each) and Christmas tree decorative crystals ($40, which includes postage). Please contact me at (765) 437-8048 with questions.

Sports and September Seniors

2008-09-05T15:15:00.000-07:00

I had the chance recently to follow a passion of mine: sports action photography. I was hired to photograph a tennis player from Eastern High School, Noel.

Despite this nice shot, things didn't go so well for the team. But, the great thing about sports photography is that I don't photograph the scoreboard, just the athlete, so my subjects always come out as winners.

The high school senior "season" starts in June, but it's a lengthy one, so there are still more to photograph even well after the school term has begun.

I had the privilege of working with Kayla from Taylor recently. Some people think it's easy to photograph people when they're attractive, but it's more important to work with someone comfortable with themselves. This helps them present themselves in front of the camera. Kayla is one such person. She was fun, but focused. And, yes, attractive.

I look forward to working with another senior this weekend, Sam. The connection here stretches to 2006 when I photographed his sister's wedding. We became reacquainted at this year's Howard County Fair when I ran into not only him but his girlfriend Lexi as well. That won me the opportunity to handle Lexi's pictures too.

BURSTING WITH LOVE

2008-08-26T13:24:00.000-07:00

It seems pregnancy portraiture is catching on in this area. Forty years ago pregnancy was a matter of discretion, whereas today it has gone beyond being celebrated - pregnant women go about their business in matter-of-fact fashion.

Arising from that attitude is another branch of photography, which Spectrum Photography offers: pregnancy portraiture.

Kokomo recently held its first baby fair, which attracted new mothers and mothers-to-be.

CATCHING UP

2008-08-03T06:05:00.000-07:00

Technical difficulties can delay the best of intentions and the most enthusiastic of work.

Since Spectrum Photography's last post, it's hard to even remember what assignments have come my way.

I know I got the chance to photograph a woman named Sarah Babbitt recently. She wanted photographs of herself in her wedding dress before her wedding; I was glad to oblige.

I also loved working recently at the Haynes-Apperson Festival recently. Musical performers John Ford Coley, Howard Jones and The Little River Band drew big crowds. The whole thing ended with a high quality fireworks show.