Keep your Memories technology independent.

There are lots of new ways to enjoy photography today. Digital has brought with it an amazing palette of possibilities. But keep in mind, we have been using computers and electronic devices for decades. 5 1/4 floppy, 3.25 floppy, syquest, zip drive, jazz drive, DAT, are just some of the back up systems that have faded away in less than 2 decades. Our memories should be something that we know can be enjoyed and passed down for generations to come. Keeping your memories independent of changing technology is an important concept that is lost with all of the wiz bang advertising we are bombarded with on a daily basis.

Short term, having all your photographs on an iPad seems cool and hip. But think about that, what happens when there is hardware failure and the images are no longer retrievable on that device? Hopefully there is a backup somewhere, but if not they are gone.

What's the point? Having important life cycle events and memories in an album of real photographs is the only way of ensuring your legacy continues. There is no guaranty that todays technology will be usable even a decade from now. Example, take a look at your cell phone. How old is it? Have you ever lost or dropped it? Did you end up not being able to retrieve the information on it? Life gets busy and we neglect the constant housekeeping needed to keep our digital world safe.

So the next time you are planning an event, think of your photography as a long term investment. The dividends are knowing that past is not lost in the present.

Anyone can take a Picture! Right?

As true as the above statement is, Professional photography is more than just snapping a picture. Hiring a professional is about having your special day not only documented, but having beautiful photographs made that will truly reflect the effort, significance and essence of it all. Beautiful photographs are created and made, not just snapped and taken. Lighting, composition, demeanor towards those being photographed, are just a few of the elements that make your experience exceptional. I’m talking about making photographs, not just taking pictures.

What you receive after your event is important too. Having a book of photographs to look through and enjoy without the hassle needing a computer or TV to view your photographs is not a new concept, but, it is a fleeting one. Some of the many reasons this is happening, is cost and time. Many photographers are unable to provide these services in a professional manor out of sheer ignorance or an unwillingness to invest time and the cost of professional products, so they convince people that it’s not necessary. It makes less work for them and puts a great burden on you.

Now you are responsible for color correcting, cropping, retouching and printing your photographs. Which is why you go to a professional in the first place. It’s like going to a 5 star restaurant and having them show you where the kitchen is to cook your own meal. It defeats the purpose. So when you compare, make sure it’s apples to apples and not half baked.

Corinthian Hall in Melrose MA

I had the pleasure of photographing a hidden jewel some weeks ago. Corinthian Hall in Melrose is a quaint venue that has been dormant for decades. Director Kelley Carroll has poured hart and soul into bringing this treasure back to life. Kelley can be reached at 617-750-4897 for more information.