What's a Christmas without the Nutcracker ?

What's a Christmas without the Nutcracker? I hope you enjoy the Nutcracker ballet as much as our family does. There are so many companies that produce this throughout the world and can never pick a favorite. Enjoy this small clip from the Nutcracker and watch it through the eyes of a child. God Bless and Merry Christmas.

Finalizing my Project

~~~~ ~~ THE PHOTOGRAPHIC WORKS OF SHELLY PERKINS ~~
~December 12, 2012
In a quest to finalize my project for this semester at the University of Oklahoma, I’ve found that I’m wanting more. I don’t want my project to be over and plan to make additional images for my Wonderland interpretation. I loved getting to know how I work and how I go through the process of making my artwork, from the initial concept and idea down to the final image and large inkjet print. There are a few images that my project will never be complete without, one of which is the White Rabbit. How can Alice go to Wonderland without chasing after the White Rabbit who is always late? (I’m currently on a mission to find a white rabbit that my little Alice could cuddle in a portrait.) Another image I plan to make includes the caterpillar, possibly with a smoking hookah, and finally the Mad Hatter and well, you’ll just have to wait and see about him. The Mad Hatter images I made looked a little too creepy for my final presentation. I wanted to stay away from the creepiness (which is the path I took for my last large project but instead wanted this final class project to have a light-hearted feel to it and to bring back memories of what others may have remembered about “their” Alice for their own childhood. Here is a collage of the final images from my project (albeit finished for the class, but not quite finished for my own personal project). This will be my final posting on my student blog for this Digital Photography at the University of Oklahoma. I’ve had a great time…now Enjoy and Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Have a Blessed New Year!!! ( FOR MORE INFO ON MY ONGOING WORK — CHECK OUT WWW.SHELLYPERKINS.COM )

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Ben Heine's Mad Hatter

December 11, 2012
I wanted to share some other work I found that I’ve really enjoyed. Ben Heine’s work ~ WOW ~ Lovin' this artist.

Alice in Wonderland

Did Lewis Carroll have a Mental Illness ?

~~ ~December 10, 2012

Did Lewis Carroll have a mental illness ??
I had not addressed this in the blog before but some historians have wondered if Lewis Carroll, the author of the original Alice story, had a form of mental illness and even worse. Whether he did or not, I do not know, however the author did record in his journal his bouts of illness with terrible migraines. I too have migraines and know how debilitating they can get at times. Here’s a short article written by news publication Varsity in the U.K. about Lewis Carroll.
http://www.varsity.co.uk/culture/4085

Twisted or Just Child Play ?

~~December 9, 2012
Was Lewis Carroll twisted or did he just enjoy the innocence of child-play?
I want to think in my mind, that Lewis Carroll who was a professor, simply enjoyed spending time, teaching and entertaining young children. He did not have any children of his own and by terms of his employment he was not allowed to marry and therefore did not. He spent much time with the school’s Dean and his family (the “the real Alice” was the Dean and Lewis Carroll’s employer). Without confirmation otherwise, I believe Charles Dodgson, a.k.a. Lewis Carroll, was an educator who loved his job of teaching children and delighted in seeing the eyes of the innocent sparkle when he told his tales. If you can step back in time and remember when everything was new and an adventure. Why shouldn’t we all carry that feeling around with us and go out into the world and see everything through the eyes of a child?
Smithsonian link on Lewis Carroll’s Shifting Reputation http://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/Lewis-Carrolls-Shifting-Reputation.html?c=y&page=3#
~~

Interpretations of Alice in Wonderland

~~ ~December 8, 2012

A few more clips of other Alice and Wonderland interpretations. I can’t get enough of Wonderland now. I’m so in love with the whole little story. I’ve been researching the back story about the original author and the surroundings of the original writings, which are somewhat strange but all in all, it’s a great story to make-believe.
Here’s a little clip from the original Disney 1951 animated film.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgbntWU7pG8

Here’s a fun short video with various Cheshire Cat clips. I LOVE the Cheshire Cat. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cl5Bd_-FzA

Here’s another little Youtube link from another Wonderland film. It has somewhat of a Little House on the Prairie feel to it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&NR=1&v=ZhHun-Jq7s8

Here’s a link to the entire film of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is a 1972 British musical film based on the Lewis Carroll novel of the same name. It had an all star cast, and John Barry composed the score. In 1973, the film won the BAFTA Film Award at the BAFTA Awards Ceremony for Best Cinematography, won by Geoffrey Unsworth, and Best Costume Design, won by Anthony Mendleson. Cast: Fiona Fullerton – Alice Michael Crawford – White Rabbit Peter Sellers – The March Hare Dudley Moore’s name was in the credits too… still have yet to find him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgWshJ9yN7c

Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland filmed in 1972
And Lastly…. Here’s the U.K. trailer to the latest Disney Alice in Wonderland film produced by Tim Burton. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9POCgSRVvf0

My Art Process ~ Alice in Wonderland

~~December 5, 2012
I wanted to include a little behind the scenes look at the process I go through to make an image. I usually have an idea in my mind and will often sketch out a scene. The final image may not look exactly like the sketch but it’s more of a beginning point. Much of my work is about the process not just the outcome and I wanted to offer a glimpse of the steps that I take to get to the destination.

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Inspiration for my Chesire Cat

~~ ~November 20, 2012 ~
Here’s a little video clip from the original animated version of Alice. This video and seeing it through the eyes of a child was inspiration for my Cat ~ Animated Alice in Wonderland’s Chesire Cat CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ACCESS CHESHIRE CAT VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUnqbBgYZmI

Continuing my Quest for Alice ~ Avril Lavigne's Alice Video

~~ ~November 17, 2012 ~ 3:45 pm CONTINUING MY QUEST FOR ALICE ~
Avril Lavigne's "Alice" from Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland Soundtrack I've loved this song and the creepiness look of the video since it came out. I don't know why I didn't share it earlier.

Click here for Avril Lavigne's VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZb8CnUzUOc

Lyrics to "Alice"

[Verse 1:] Trippin' out Spinnin' around I'm underground I fell down Yeah, I fell down
I'm freakin' out Where am I now? Upside down And I can't stop it now It can't stop me now ooooooh
[Chorus:] I... I'll get by I... I'll Survive When the world's crashin' down When I Fall and hit the ground I will turn myself around Don't you try to stop me I... I won't cry
[Verse 2:] I'll play the game But I can't stay I've got my head on straight And I'm not gonna change I'm not gonna change
I'll win the race Keep up with the pace Today's the day That I start to pray You can't get in my way Nooooooooo
[Chorus]
[Bridge:] I found myself (myself) In Wonderland Get back on (back on) My feet again Is this real? (this real) Is this pretend? I'll Take a stand (a stand) Until the end
[Chorus 2x]

The Jabberwocky ~ Alice in Wonderland

~~ ~November 16, 2012 @ 4:00 am
The Jabberwocky

" “Jabberwocky” is a poem of nonsense verse written by Lewis Carroll, and found as a part of his novel Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There (1871). It is generally considered to be one of the greatest nonsense poems written in the English language. This poem is used in many schools to teach students about the use of portmanteaux."


by http://www.conradaskland.com/blog/2007/05/jabberwocky-by-lewis-carroll/
Link to The Jabberwocky, a poem by Lewis Carroll, author of Alice in Wonderland Poets.Org, collections of poetry

http://www.poets.org/viewmedia.php/prmMID/15597


Jabberwocky
by Lewis Carroll
'Twas brillig, and the slithy toves Did gyre and gimble in the wabe; All mimsy were the borogoves, And the mome raths outgrabe.
"Beware the Jabberwock, my son The jaws that bite, the claws that catch! Beware the Jubjub bird, and shun The frumious Bandersnatch!"
He took his vorpal sword in hand; Long time the manxome foe he sought— So rested he by the Tumtum tree, And stood awhile in thought.
And, as in uffish thought he stood, The Jabberwock, with eyes of flame, Came whiffling through the tulgey wood, And burbled as it came!
One, two! One, two! And through and through The vorpal blade went snicker-snack! He left it dead, and with its head He went galumphing back.
"And hast thou slain the Jabberwock? Come to my arms, my beamish boy! O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!" He chortled in his joy.
'Twas brillig, and the slithy toves Did gyre and gimble in the wabe; All mimsy were the borogoves, And the mome raths outgrabe.

~~

Annie Leibovitz does Alice in Wonderland for Vogue

~~ ~November 13, 2012 @ 06:00 am Annie Leibovitz does Alice in Wonderland
While researching Alice I found a piece from one of my all time favorite portrait photographers to the stars and designer of our day. I always love her work and was very excited to find this fashion editorial shot by Annie Leibovitz. http://trendland.com/alice-in-wonderland-by-annie-leibovitz/#

The image of giant Alice inside the doll house is my favorite image!!! I love it.


These photos are images made by Annie Lebowitz and printed for Vogue, both are copyrights of these individuals and their companies. These images have been only been used for educational purposes while as a student on the University of Oklahoma. No copyright laws have been broken. Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

My Inner Trip to Wonderland

~~ November 12, 2012 @ 3:50 am My inner trip to Wonderland
I am continuing my journey to my own "Wonderland" and have found many roads I could choose to travel. As I work through my idea and storyline, I relax and let my mind take me on a journey to a make-believe space and to a time which is always speeding along, too quickly and yet it almost stands still. I find inspiration all around in small objects that are often missed or ignored and I feel compelled to photograph these small details, up-close in a minimalist way, keeping the images simple to show the importance of each object. I have photographed Alice's legs and feet. This is a tool which are going to take us to our adventure through Wonderland and Alice's dreams. We notice the key and wonder what kind of door it might open. We see a stack of disheveled cards with the Queen of Hearts on the top to show the domination the queen possesses. A purple, fat, whimsical cat looks the viewer in the eye while other images of clocks and time pieces have importance to the story. Each small part helps to represent the larger part of depth of the story of Alice's journey.

My Quest for Alice

Some inspiration for my University of Oklahoma photography project has been found in the writings and illustrations of the original Alice in Wonderland author, Lewis Carroll. The story is really deep if you truly study it and the characters and even the behind the scene process and journey which Lewis Carroll and the family of the real Alice take during this time.

Lenny's Alice in Wonderland website has posted a lot of great information and also has a webshop selling Alice merchandise. Inspirational Website: http://www.alice-in-wonderland.net/pictures/alice-pictures.html
Alice in Wonderland related merchandise http://www.alice-in-wonderland.net/shop/
Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Finding Other Interpretations of Alice in Wonderland

~~ ~November 10, 2012 @ 11:00 pm
Finding other interpretations of Alice in Wonderland



I found this amazing artist, Romain Berthou, who is working with a company in Paris using his illustrations in digital media and television for companies like Disney. I LOVE, LOVE Berthou's take on Alice in Wonderland. I wanted to share these two images he included on his flickr account from his recently published pop-up book. I love the play of cards, popping up only to knock Alice down to the ground. (You'll have to look closely to find her amongst the cards. Also Berthou's White Rabbit is amazing. He looks so sweet and cuddly but so demented with those red eyes. Maybe he's like most people who are most often civil and nice to people but there's always a little bit of evilness or uncertainty which one must constantly battle to contain.

Romain Berthou's Flickr Site ~ http://www.flickr.com/photos/57121663@N03/ Click on link below to see Berthou's representation of an illustrated Alice along with a few other classics in his recent book. http://vimeo.com/14769206

Photographs, Images, Ideas and Representations used for educational purposes as a student of the University of Oklahoma in Media, Fine Art Photography.

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Christmas and Holiday Photos by Shelly Perkins Photography

I haven't been advertising for appointments while I've been attending the University of Oklahoma full-time this semester. However, over the Christmas holiday I will be taking a few photography sessions for children and families. Here's a little advertising promo that I put together showing some of my favorite images I've recently made.

Let me know if you're interested in making an appointment. Limited space is available during the kid's winter break. I can't wait to make some memories with your family. Best wishes ~

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Avril Lavinge Lyrics to Alice in Wonderland song

[Verse 1:] Trippin' out Spinnin' around I'm underground I fell down Yeah, I fell down I'm freakin' out Where am I now? Upside down And I can't stop it now It can't stop me now ooooooh [Chorus:] I... I'll get by I... I'll Survive When the world's crashin' down When I Fall and hit the ground I will turn myself around Don't you try to stop me I... I won't cry [Verse 2:] I'll play the game But I can't stay I've got my head on straight And I'm not gonna change I'm not gonna change I'll win the race Keep up with the pace Today's the day That I start to pray You can't get in my way Nooooooooo [Chorus] [Bridge:] I found myself (myself) In Wonderland Get back on (back on) My feet again Is this real? (this real) Is this pretend? I'll Take a stand (a stand) Until the end [Chorus 2x]

Disclaimer ~

Disclaimer~~~~ Shelly Perkins is a current student of the University of Oklahoma and a professional photographer. She uses this blog as a process blog to record thoughts and ideas for future projects, to show current commercial work and to post anything that she may find interesting and want to share. The original works of Shelly Perkins is copyright Shelly Perkins Photography and may not be reproduced for any reason without the permission in written form from Shelly Perkins. Any images used in this blog by other photographers or artists are given credit when available and Shelly Perkins, Shelly Perkins Photography does not accept credit or any type of royalties from any such work. If you're interested in sharing any ideas, photos or additional information about anything found within this blog, please contact Shelly Perkins through Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ShellyPerkinsPhotography

Space and Time found in Alice in Wonderland

~October 24, 2012
Space and Time
Alice in Wonderland

As I am beginning to explore different avenues of Space and Time I find myself continually drawn to a make-believe space that is of a timeless appeal. I love the story of Alice in Wonderland and how since its original writing in 1865 by English author Lewis Carroll, the story remains loveable. The adventure begins with Alice going into a rabbit hole and into a space where real life is turned upside down. She follows a rabbit that is continually worried about the time and being late. When she comes to a gathering at a tea party, she has found the time has stopped at 6 pm or tea-time and so the tea party never ends.
In researching and thinking about space and time one must wonder about the existence and acknowledgement of time. In modern day advanced civilization, time is recorded by the passing of minutes, hours and days on a calendar. Even the Mayans of long ago understood and accepted the passing of time and recorded it by the creation of a calendar. Prehistoric man may have thought about the passing of time as in the life cycle of animals or the growing seasons of vegetation. These long ago people didn’t record it the same way we do now but still understood that time does not stand still.
Time continues the same for all, however the way people observe it and how they record it through their point of reference is the only thing that’s different. Time is the same for all and exists within a space or a three dimensional location. Space and time exist together, while the differences are the ways people exist within in a particular space and record the time within that space. As for Alice and the time she spent in Wonderland, one must wonder if it was just a dream? Was the time she spent there actually sleep and if the space only existed in her imagination of a dream?

Alice in Wonderland, a fictional space in time, as it existed in the mind of the author, “Lewis Carroll” and his original manuscript.

Source of image: Manuscript of Alice's Adventures Under Ground (f. 45v / p. 88) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Alice%27s_Adventures_Under_Ground_-_Lewis_Carroll_-_British_Library_Add_MS_46700_f45v.jpg

Job Interviews and Social Anxiety

Job Interviews and Social Anxiety


Here are some tips for people with social anxiety for a job interview:

Treat Yourself Well
Avoid caffeine, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. By following these three simple rules, you will greatly reduce job interview anxiety.

Visualize Success
Find a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed, close your eyes and visualize yourself being successful in your interview. Visualizing success is more than just positive thinking; when done correctly, you are getting your brain ready to behave in the way that you desire. This technique is used by elite athletes before competitions to improve performance.

Reduce Stressors
Reduce stressors unrelated to the actual interview, such as uncomfortable clothing, getting lost, or showing up late. Well in advance, choose an outfit that is comfortable and that looks good on you. If you aren’t familiar with the location of the interview, give yourself plenty of time to find it or do a trial run a day or two before.

Do Your Research
Being well-prepared is a great antidote to anxiety. Research your potential employer. Prepare answers to common questions. Every bit of preparation that you can do will help to increase your comfort level and make you feel more confident and capable in the interview.

Don’t Succumb to Pressure
Once in a while, you may be interviewed by someone who grills you to see how you handle stress. Although as a person with SAD it can be tempting to start spiraling into negative automatic thinking, such as “He knows I can’t handle this job; I should never have applied” or “They don’t really like me; I’ll never get the job”, stop. If you find yourself in this situation, realize what the interviewer is trying to accomplish and don’t let him ruffle your feathers. Know that the other candidates have been treated the same way and that it is no reflection on you or your capabilities.

Interview the Interviewer
A great way to feel less self-conscious in an interview situation is to realize that interviews are a two-way street. You are deciding whether you want to work for an employer just as much as they are deciding whether they want you to come work for them. Try putting yourself in this mindset and see if your focus doesn’t change.

Release Anxious Energy
Anxiety has a way of leaking out even when you think that you have it well-hidden. If you find yourself fidgeting, try doing something to release anxious energy that no one will notice, such as wiggling your toes.

Take Your Time
Realize that you don’t have to answer questions immediately. Pause before answering and collect your thoughts. If you worry about drawing a blank during interviews, a great technique is to take notes as everyone talks. This takes the focus off of you and allows you to refer to your notes after a question has been asked. If you start to draw a blank, keep making notes and comment that you want to collect your thoughts before responding.

Be Prepared
A well-prepared interviewee has an immediate advantage in an interview. In addition, being well-prepared and proactive will take the edge off of job interview anxiety. Be sure to bring everything that you think you might need, such as your resume, cover letter, business cards, references, licenses, certifications, and a pen and notepad.

Congratulate Yourself
Regardless of how you felt that the interview went, congratulate yourself afterward for taking the chance. Do something that you enjoy as a reward. Above all else, avoid ruminating about how the interview went or what could have gone better.

For information check out the link and the complete site~ Release Through Art.
http://releasethroughart.tumblr.com/post/35214914824/job-interviews-and-social-anxiety

www.shellyperkins.com

#art therapy, #social anxiety, #job interview, #help

Working the Light at the End of the Tunnel

"The Light at the End of the Tunnel"

I completed my latest OU photography project based on an idea of light, which is basically what photography is – light. As I was working and researching possible ideas I continually found myself returning to the ideas of the “light at the end of the tunnel” or “tunnel vision.” These sayings represent a metaphorical meaning but I wanted to show a literal tunnel to represent the end of a long journey.

In life there are achievements that you’ve had to complete an extensive amount of work to achieve a specific final goal, as in college graduation, and you are looking for “the light at the end of the tunnel.” In death the “light at the end of the tunnel” can be a representation of the finality of this world’s death and the “light at the end of the tunnel” is the light beaming, inviting you to the new afterlife.

To show a literal tunnel for the metaphorical meaning I wanted to represent, I found there are not a lot of tunnels located in the state of Oklahoma, where I currently reside. I worked through several ideas with making my own tunnels of light, which is another project that I am continuing. I happened upon a series of tunnels located in downtown Oklahoma City which runs under the urban city blocks of the tallest buildings in the city. For those people who work in these locations the tunnels give the employees and visitors the ability to be mobile without ever needing to venture into an outdoor environment. The tunnels use different colors of lights as a key to a navigational map to guide you throughout this small city that lives underground.

I made a series of images of these tunnels where I found the vibrant colors of the fluorescent lights were placed in various geometric patterns throughout the long man-made underground. Each tunnel offered a different minimalist abstract experience of being an active part of an art exhibition or museum. The lights bleed onto the surrounding space that also becomes a part of the work. The work that is found in this area is similar to the work of the late Dan Flavin. A person wanting to experience his works can travel to Marfa, Texas where a large exhibit of his works remains.

In the final critique of my work I believe most people enjoyed looking at the images with the saturated colors. The minimalist views of the lights created an abstract art which I could control the way in which the viewers see the space, by the way I made the images. My placement of the camera in a particular space forces the viewer to observe the abstract art in a way I wish it to be seen. The images offer a different perspective than viewers who visit the area in person. I would have liked to add a transition area between the images of different colors. When visiting the tunnels, there is not really a transitional area but each tunnel abruptly starts and stops therefore I didn’t photograph what was not there. The final point of the tunnel was recorded as a dark space into the unknown because it was not accessible due to ongoing construction.

Overall I enjoyed the light project and making multiple visits to the site to experience and photograph the area. I like how the photographs came together in the series with a variety of different colors and different patterns of light. The light at the end of the tunnel came to an end of darkness into the unknown that is representative of life because no one really knows what the future holds.

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

"Postcard from 1952" - Explosions in the Sky

"Postcard from 1952" - Explosions in the Sky
Lovely song with beautiful images and a great story of life made by some talented folks. Wow, it brought tears to my eyes and I wanted to share it with you. If you're a Mama like me you'll love this. Enjoy, Shelly :0)

Click on this link to enjoy the video~ http://vimeo.com/41669642

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

HDR ~ Only a Method

HDR is Only a Method

Here's a link for my photographer friends getting into HDR.
http://www.pixiq.com/article/hdr-is-only-a-method

Exploded Camera Gear

Exploded Camera Gear

Do you want to see what a $12,000 lens looks like inside? If you can stomach it, check out these cameras and lens cut in half. I wanted to share this link of disassembled lens and cameras from this pretty cool exhibit at Photokina.

http://www.popphoto.com/gallery/photokina-2012-exploded-camera-gear

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Exploring the Work of Dan Flavin

Exploring the Work of Dan Flavin

I shared my current project with my OU Photography Professor, Todd Stewart and he said it reminded him of work produced by Dan Flavin, who passed away in 1996. I had no idea and was just really blown away. I love his work. Dan Flavin’s large-scale work in colored fluorescent light for six buildings at the Chinati Foundation in Marfa, Texas. Cool. Go check out this link:

http://www.chinati.org/visit/collection/danflavin.php

Soon, I will be posting a little bit of my work from the Underground which I've made that are similar to the style of Flavin. It's interesting to see your work appearing similar to another's work when you had never even seen it. Hopefully soon, when I have a few days off, I can make a quick trip to Marfa and check Flavin's work out in person.

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

We Heart It

Check it out ~ We Heart It !
If you love Pinterest, you'll love We <3 It!
I'm at
http://weheartit.com/oushelly/sets

Heart It

We Heart It

Heart It

Andy Warhol on Japanese TDK Ad

Andy Warhol on Japanese TDK Ad

I found this strange youtube video with Andy Warhol selling TDK tvs ~ I wish the video quality was better but still thought it was a bit comical. Enjoy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=x82gWQFEpQA

Underground

This is my metaphoric geometric play on light and color.
Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

The Light at the End of Tunnel

The Light at the End of the Tunnel

Working with light. How do you get to the end of the project, the end of the day, the end of your life, the end of a bad event? You come to the light at the end of the tunnel. It can be literal or metaphoric.

photo by Jamie Machtemes

Blog by Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Light Graffiti

Researching and looking for some inspiration. Check out this fun Light Writing video ~ Looks like Light Writing and Light Graffiti may be my next project.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=gHPHTY9K5ws#!

Photography Student Arrested for Photographing Outside

I found this interesting and disturbing video that an art student in the U.K. filmed as she was harassed, ticketed and arrested for filming and photographing outside of a building while on public property. No days in the U.K. and in the U.S., photographers should beware doing the things that he or she loves because a police officer / government official can consider it an act of Terror and have you thrown in jail. I understand that police need to be aware and on guard but when is enough, enough? I think the days of freedoms and innocence are gone. :0(


http://lockerz.com/u/20918325/decalz/9753920/_you_re_filming_for_fun_i_don_t_believ

Discovery Channel's HOW LIGHT WORKS

LIGHT ~ How it Works ~ Check out this How Stuff Works Video “How Light Works” To understand light we need to understand a larger group of energy known as electromagnetic waves. Learn more about electromagnetic waves on Discovery Channel’s “Assignment Discovery.” tp://videos.howstuffworks.com/discovery/29406-assignment-discovery-electromagnetic-waves-and-light-video.htm

Into the Digital

Into the Digital

Photography has evolved in a changing society from the mechanical to the digital. Names found in natural everyday objects are given to products and devices to make consumers feel more comfortable with welcoming them into their lives. People in advanced societies have embraced the “digital age” as the changes in photography could not be stopped. Touch has been reduced to clicking and sight has been reduced to a rectangular shape.

Computers have made “users” out of people like drug addicts who buy software and must continually check their email. Digital media translates everything into a flat space, “redefining space and time.” Binary code can be viewed as musical notes and designers can be seen as musical composers writing great symphonies. Digital photography is no longer a “visible reality” but it is something that can be manipulated for new meaning or something created out of nothing but numbers.

Photography has now become a constant in everyday life. What was once a dance between the photographer and the image viewer is now quickly viewed and discarded. As one Microsoft employee explained people now function with “continuous partial attention.”

Photography of today can be viewed as a process with advanced and efficient tools to capture images but we are living in an “evolution in media.” An analogy to the automobile teaches us how a tool can change the way people live and exist. Transportation on horses kept most events local but with the invention of the automobile, people can work, travel for leisure and live at a distance from family. Even wars could now be fought at a distance because of the invention of the automobile and modes of transportation other than the horse. As the digital revolution occurred it was considered the “information superhighway” which will take you where you want to go.

Photography has become an interpretation of the “real.” Constantly digital cameras and cell phones track our everyday mundane activities that are blasted on the “information superhighway,” quickly viewed and discarded from memory. We add text to explain the scene as if to give our trip to the store or football game more meaning. We no longer photograph images to really “see” the “real” but photograph to prove our existence. We capture quick images to make our lives seem worthwhile and less average. We are now caught up in a movement where photography has lost its meaning and is now just a moment in time, quickly discarded as we move to the next moment.

Response to reading, Into the Digital by Fred Ritchin All quotes credited to Fred Ritchin

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Security Cameras show Crash from inside Bus

~~
Security Cameras show Crash from inside Bus
Security cameras from multiple angles inside a bus show the vehicle careening out of control and crashing into a Maryland home. WRC’s Derrick Ward reports.

http://video.msnbc.msn.com/nbc-news/48778569

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/48778569#48778569
~~

Enjoy your Labor Day Weekend

Enjoy Your Labor Day Weekend


I hope everyone has a break this weekend. Even if you have to "labor" on Labor Day, try to take a few minutes for yourself. Take a walk, get in a cat-nap or soak in the tub. Just do a little something for yourself this weekend.

Also, If you know a military member, take time to THANK those who gave us freedom to have a weekend of fun with friends and family. God bless you all and GOD BLESS the USA!

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Enter AmeriKidz Cute Kids Magazine Cover Contest !!!

Is your kid so cute he or she should be on the cover of a magazine? Well here's your chance to let your child shine !!

AmeriKidz of OKC Metro Magazine is sponsoring a new CUTE KIDS COVER CONTEST in search of the next CUTE KID to be featured on the covers of their Oklahoma kids magazine. Two winners will be chosen. (One winner from under 3 years category and one winner from 3 years to 12 year old).

Click on the LINK for entry form and more info. http://www.amerikidz.com/ok/prizepromos3.htm

You can also go to AmeriKidz of OKC Metro Magazine's Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/AmeriKidzOKC

or you can mail your entry to AmeriKidz of OKC Metro !

Send your photograph along with your name, address, phone, email, child's name and age to:
AmeriKidz Cover Kidz Search 13700 Alton Parkway, Suite 154 Irvine, California 92618

This year's deadline is October 22, 2012.
Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

AmeriKidz Magazine Cover by Shelly Perkins Photography

I wanted to share the latest AmeriKidz Magazine with you. I was blessed to not only get to shoot the cover for this fall's magazine but was able to use one of my kiddo's in the layout. Here's a link to view a digital copy in case you don't have a chance to pick up a print copy at one of your local retailers in the OKC metro. Don't forget to shop these local Metro Oklahoma vendors.

AND to save the best thing for last..... GO TO PAGE 20 to learn how to ENTER YOUR CHILD IN THIS YEAR'S CUTE KID COVER CONTEST !!!


click here for digital copy of Fall 2012 AmeriKidz OKC Metro Magazine
http://www.flippubs.net/publication/?i=124318

AmeriKidz Magazine Cover photographed by Shelly Perkins Photography, Fall 2012
www.shellyperkins.com

Guy Permanently Attaches Surveillance Camera To His Head

Wanted to share this interesting article about a guy who had a surveillance camera permanently attached to his head. Wow, I love to take photos but I can't image that I'd love to have a camera following me to the potty and all the business of the day. ha! Well I guess someone has to be the pioneer. Hopefully this won't become a standard.

(image by Prof. Camerahead Jessica Rinaldi)

http://www.popsci.com/technology/article/2011-02/cyborg-captures-photos-highlight-how-surveillance-has-permeated-our-society

Back to School

Can you believe it's already time to go back to school? I always love when the kid's schedules are a little more planned but it always adds so many more activities to our days. Plus at our house having to keep up with students at four different schools is kind of crazy. I have my 12 year old daughter moving up to junior high this year. I can't believe she's already there. I still remember her running around with her adorable bouncy little curls. My youngest is in elementary school and my oldest studies at OSU. Then there's the mama. Yes, I'm going back to school full time again this fall. I'm finally a senior at the University of Oklahoma. Had I not changed schools, changed majors several times and had OU allowed my credits from New York, I would have graduated quite a while ago. It's funny how when you try to change your major and think you want to do something else in life, your heart always finds a way to tell you what you're supposed to be doing.

So yes, I'm back to my Fine Art Photography major and well, after all, isn't that what I am, a photographer?

When my father passed away in January I was so sad and I just didn't even want to get out of bed some mornings. While my Dad was still in the hospital and we found out he would be needing help with dialysis and his care if he were to ever get to go home, I told him I was going to quit school to help take care of him. He made me promise to go back. He told me how well I did and he knew I loved it. He didn't want me to change anything I had planned before he got sick for the spring semester. Little did I know at the time that a week later, he would go Heaven and I wouldn't be taking care of him anymore. My return to OU helped me so. When I felt like I didn't want to get up and do anything I knew I had to go to school because I had promised my Dad. Going back to photography school was helping me and I was doing one more thing for my Dad.

So here it is, Back to School time and Yes, I am going back to school too. A forty year old college senior. In this life, I have learned there are so many things to be thankful for and one of them is being back in college. I appreciate it so much more now than when I started as a freshman at the age of nineteen. When my kiddos think I am crazy because I LOVE doing my homework, hopefully I'm instilling the desire to learn and the importance of school and most of all, the importance of following your heart. Follow your heart and follow your dreams, whether it's going back to school, changing your job, having another child, or confessing your heart to the one you love. Life is too short to not do what love and love what you do. God bless ~ Shelly


.....about the photo.... I created this image of my youngest daughter for a magazine cover that will be coming out this fall. We did a couple of outfits and although this is not the one that will be on the cover, this is the one that I love the most. I wanted to share it with you and tell everyone to enjoy your time this fall as the kids (and mamas) go back to school.

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

What Impact One Hug Can Make ~ Wrestlers of the Olympics

I LOVE this image. I'm not sure who took it so I can't give credit to the photographer but wow, how powerful can one hug be? It's Iran wrestler Saeed Goudarzi, silver medalist, and U.S. wrestler Jordan Ernest winning gold.

Why can't life be this simple? Why does everything have to be so political? You can't even take your kids for their favorite chicken nuggets anymore without it being a political statement. It's ridiculous.

I'm already sick of the election because well, let's face it, the campaign has been going on for the last two years. Seriously I've started to believe any President should only be in office for one term. This way they could try to make improvements the best they could or not screw up it so badly that it takes the next two or three generations before it's a little better again.

I could write so much more here but I just really wanted to share this image and it not become a political rant because at this point, all political sides are screwy. It should all just come down to one thing ~ how are we going to make America a better place for our kids to grow up and raise their kids?

Kudos to the photographer! (as soon as I find out who it is I will credit the image) Kudos for not only a well executed image but also for seizing a moment that he/she knew could have so much impact on the world.

Be Still

Recently my family went on a trip to Hawaii. This was the third time I've been blessed to visit and I always feel like I grow closer to God both physically and spiritually. You can't be there and not feel like you're getting a glimpse into Heaven. God totally sent me there to get some answers.

If you know me personally, you know how crazy I am, I don't mean that I should be committed in a padded room, but I mean crazy with activities and the hustle and bustle of life. My family is always going here or there. We're blessed to have a great family, some great friends and people in our lives and able to go to the best church in my part of the world. With all those people we love, brings lots of activities. Lots of church activities, lots of lessons between band, dance, volleyball, gymnastics, scouts, you name it. With me it lots of college classes and lots of photography shoots and I'm always on the go.

I've been praying a lot lately about what's next in our lives. I've been thinking about when I graduate (yep, from OU with a Fine Arts degree), if I should get a "regular" job with a 9 to 5 work week with a regular paycheck and pension or if I should continue my passion in photography. I love my photography and I feel like God has given me this gift to see those things in the world which are beautiful. However, with the photography business comes the part of working for myself, having a job on commission, working for years without ever getting anything from social security when I'm old and in my rocker, no 401k's and no company picnics.

When I married my husband, Scott, we had to luxury of me being able to quit my job as a photographer in a studio, where I worked on a salary and commission, shooting portraits and weddings. I knew each week I would get a paycheck and it helped pay the bills and take care of my kids when I was a single mother. With Scott, I was able to continue in my passion for photography and make images and shoot portraits on my own time. I have been able to do the things I love. I was able to stay home with my girls. I was waiting for my husband when he'd come home from a trip and have dinner waiting for him. We were close but we were often far distances apart. Then my husband, who was an officer in the Air Force and pilot, got brain cancer. My world stopped.

Unless you've had a terminal illness hit your immediate, nuclear family, there is no way you will ever completely understand what I am saying. It will completely stop you in your tracks, overnight it will change your world.

Now being a Momma to three beautiful and bright girls, my main purpose in life is to give these girls spiritual guidance, help them to become self-reliant, protect them and care for them. That's it.

I love my husband and I'm happy to say he has so far beaten the original prognosis of only having months to live with this terminal brain cancer. However, I honestly can't help but wander what's on the horizon? I don't have the luxury of living in a little bubble while my husband hands over his paycheck and I hand out the money for bills. I can't help but wonder, what's next? I wonder what's next with his cancer? Is it going to come back? Is it going to be worse than before? Will I be able to continue helping him get better? Will I have enough money to pay for insurance and the doctor appointments? Will I still be able to pay for kid's college? Will I even have enough money for food and a place to live with my kids? These are things that people think about, when the reality of a terminal illness strikes. Before this happens, it's easy to plan for the future, when "we're old" and when "we're retired." So instead I just go and go and go and go. I go to school. I go to work. I go here. I go there. All the while, wondering what I should be doing and praying to God asking if I'm doing the right thing? Then I found this verse ~

Mark 4:39 King James Version (KJV) 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

Sometimes when we are on our crazy roller coaster life, in search of the ole' mighty dollar, striving to be the best at whatever, or just trying to make a living but we can't find the answers we're searching for because we haven't slowed down to listen to God.

Peace.
Slow Down.
Peace.
Listen.
Peace.
Be Still.
Peace.
Okay God, I'm listening.


Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Vintage Blacksmith in Grapevine

Vintage Blacksmith in Grapevine

For all those western decor lovers and those who love the old west, I made this image with thoughts of times long ago. We've taken several family trips to Grapevine, Texas and really love the area. There is such a variety of things to do and living in Oklahoma, it's not that far for a great vacation.

Grapevine offers such a variety of places to visit, shops of all types and price range and things to do no matter what your age. If you've got a family full of kids, you'll probably want to stay at either Great Wolf Lodge or the Gaylord Texan. Been to both resorts and there's lots to do. If you're a shopper, then hit the outlets at Grapevine Mills. We bought my oldest daughter's prom dress, shoes and jewelry here. (BTW-she looked beautiful.) If you're like my husband and enjoy vintage like railroads and museums, or like me who and enjoy live artist exhibitions, go downtown around the railroad and check it out.

Here I go on my travel planner tips again ~ but I always like to share when I've found a great place for my family to visit. ;0) Made this image on our last trip ~ I love all things vintage and the idea of a simpler life. Enjoy.

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Take the 30 Day Photography Challenge

Do you look shooting photos as much as I do? Do you take so many photos that you're bored with your work? Are you looking for a new challenge or new idea? Why don't you take a 30 Day Photography Challenge? I found this cute little challenge on a blog by Amanda Nicole Miller. Cute ideas ~ Have fun!

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Love

Love is in the Air ~
I was blessed to spend the evening photographing two of my favorite people tonight. I created this portrait for them during a beautiful Oklahoma sunset. The temperature has been sweltering and even setting new records but we had a great evening shooting pics.

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Farming on Faith

While doing some research, I found this blog and wanted to share it with you. Click on the button or go to http://farmingonfaith.blogspot.com/. Great recipes and info on homeschooling, homesteading, homemaking from a Christian family. Have a great Thursday, Shelly

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

God's Beauty

We took our two youngest kids on vacation for their first visit to Hawaii. We stayed on the island of Oahu and found so many beautiful places. Many people just stay on Waikiki Beach, which yes is beautiful, but there are so many other places to discover. Finding an isolated beach, listening to the waves, feeling the sun reflect off the water made me feel so much closer to God. If God can make places this gorgeous on Earth, can you imagine how beautiful Heaven must be??

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Vintage North Shore

Here's a little image I created on our recent trip to Oahu.  I LOVE Hawaii and have been blessed to visit four of the islands.  I shot this on the North Shore of Oahu and lovin' the vintage truck, added a vintage feel to the colors.

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

Enjoy Your Summer !

Hope you're enjoying your summer ~ Can you believe how HOT it's turned in just the last couple of days.  The weather has been so lovely this summer, esp. in comparison to last summer's record setting heat, but I knew it just wouldn't last.  After all, this is Oklahoma and the summer's are always extremely warm if not COOK THAT EGG ON THE SIDEWALK HOT!  Ugh!

Stay Tuned for Fun and Funky

I'm trying to update my website and blog with lots of new images and ideas.  My photography is undergoing some major changes ~ trying new styles and new post-processing techniques.  Lots of fun stuff coming and I can't wait to share.  I'm still LIMITING my photo shoots because I have this tendency to over-book and go a little crazy being way too busy.  Since my Daddy died a few months ago, I've really been trying to spend more time with my family and not constantly shooting pics of everyone else's family or working on my school work from OU.  I'm trying to put my family first. I'm only taking two classes this summer and not going on any huge conferences.  I'm still keeping up-to-date with some of the latest edgy looks and products.  OH I CAN'T WAIT TO SHARE (And get some new things for my house too).  So stay tuned ~

Shelly Perkins Photography
www.shellyperkins.com

New Online Portfolio of Children's Photography

Working on a new online portfolio ~  Check out the preliminary cut ~
at:  http://www.behance.net/ShellyPerkins

click on the link below:

Five iPhone Camera Apps You Want

Here's a link to check out ~
http://lightstoppers.com/top-5-iphone-camera-applications/
http://lightstoppers.com/top-5-iphone-camera-applications/

Five iPhone Camera Apps you don't want to be without ~

 Photo by Free Wallpaper:  www.freewallpapersdb.com

Shelly Perkins Art from Kids to Crazy

I've been very busy finishing up this semester at OU. I'm about to finish up my first year at art school. I've had a great time experimenting many different aspects of my photography. I'm usually a kid photographer by trade but working with other new emerging artists and being pushed by the faculty, I've found a whole other side to my work. By all means, many of these photos are not exactly everyone's taste but isn't that what art is all about? Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

This summer I will be back to shooting more kid portraits and team pictures but also I'm working on several other projects that I may showcase through my personal blog. This blog is basically my online journal in my world. It's not a "site specific" kid photographer site but a whole hodge podge of what's going on inside that eccentric head of mine. I've been working on a few "alternative" works which are a little edgy and maybe a little disturbing to some. Okay I'll say it, some may just think the work is really strange. God has blessed me to see beauty is so much that others wouldn't and I really enjoy experimenting with many different genres in life. I was born an Okie, married a New Yorker and had the chance to be a New Yorker for about five years. I appreciate that not everyone is the same and many people are open to other lifestyles or types of photography.

So before I freak everyone out here, just look at my images and creations for what they are ~ works of art. Sometimes art is unexplainable and sometimes it is misunderstood. I'm just here to create and enjoy life. God bless you guys ~

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Oklahoma Trips on a Tank Full

With summer fast approaching you may be wondering like me, how do I keep these kids entertained all summer?  Luckily, if you live in Oklahoma like me, there are many opportunities that this great state has to offer.  I've included a link to the Oklahoma State Department of Tourism where you can request free brochures and receive free coupons for children friendly museums and activities.  http://www.oktourism.com/literature-request/

From trips to the Oklahoma City Adventure District visiting the Oklahoma City Zoo or the Oklahoma Science Museum to trips to Frontier City Amusement Park and White Water, there is so much to do. Of course, the Oklahoma Aquarium and the Bricktown Ballpark are great destinations for summer fun but have you also visited Andy Alligator's in Norman or Leonardo's Discovery Warehouse in Enid? Looking for a cool place to eat with your kids that won't break your bank?  Check out Pop's on Route 66 in Arcadia or Meers Restaurant in Meers near Lawton and Altus. If you're near Stillwater of course you have to check out the world famous Eskimo Joe's.

My family travels frequently and we love to travel around Oklahoma.  You don't have to travel far or spend a lot of money in gas (which is going up again!!!) to find something to do.  I encourage you to look around Oklahoma before making your expensive travel plans for the summer and notice all that Oklahoma has to offer.  Is this a great state or what?

www.shellyperkins.com
Shelly Perkins Photography

Blast from the Past ~ from Chanel

Blast from the Past ~ from Chanel I LOVE THIS !!!

God's Beauty at Oklahoma Lake

The Wichita Mountains in Southwestern Oklahoma has several lakes and many gorgeous viewing areas. This is an image I created in the spirit of Ansel Adams and his idea for black and white landscape photography. I am not, by any means, saying I can duplicate his amazing talent but I'm learning and loving what I'm doing. I'm proud to live in Oklahoma where we have a diverse landscape from flatlands and prairies to hills and mountains. I hope you enjoy this shot of God's Beauty that I found at Ketch Lake near the Wichita Mountains. Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com

Moore Oklahoma's Buck Thomas Park at Sunset

I am blessed to live in Oklahoma with many amazing people. Moore is one of the great towns with great people and Buck Thomas Park is where many residents spend lots of time with their kiddos. Moore has been hit several times by tornadoes, as recent as last year. Many people lost everything they had but the people of Moore have rebuilt and gotten stronger. The people help each other and can rely on each other in times of need. I just wanted to make an image at sunset to show the beauty of the Moore area and God's graciousness on this land.

Shelly Perkins Photography www.shellyperkins.com