Click Denver

33 Ways to Stay Creative

2012-01-16T10:19:00.000-08:00

2012 - The Year of Love

2012-01-01T20:21:00.000-08:00

Gotye

2011-12-18T13:07:00.001-08:00

The LOVE Project - Phase II "Puppy Love"

2011-10-20T13:06:00.000-07:00

So, I've been a busy little bee.... hehehehe.... The LOVE Project continues with Phase II, "Puppy Love" a series of one minute photo shoots of a single (or dating) person and their dog - I'm exploring what Love looks like in all forms, how much of it we have in our lives without even realizing it, and how much love a dog brings to our daily routine. Love is all around, we just have to feel it.

This Phase of The LOVE Project is raising funds for no-kill, rural, animal shelters. We can all help, a little at the time... xoxo

Candlebox

2011-10-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

Candlebox was the very first band I shot professionally, and it is so close to my heart... I decided to be a music and concert photographer when I developed my film, yes, film, and saw how, somehow, I was able to capture not only the performance, but the music. It was great to see everyone again after all this time, and say thanks in person. That one concert so many years ago changed my life. Very grateful indeed.

Flobots Bowling Ball - 2011

2011-10-16T12:40:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights of every year is the Flobots Bowling Ball - this year, OneRepublic, Colorado Rapids, Paper Bird, Bop Sizzum, John Common and Jessica DeNicola, Devotchka, Air Dubai, 93.3 Jocks, Rocky Mountain Roller Girls, Churchill and more friends that I can count attended the bash, supporting Flobots.org. Always an honor to spend time with people who love what they do, and do it so well...

Here's a little slideshow of what I saw, and yes, I had a blast...

Mom

2011-09-24T09:31:00.001-07:00

in my heart
where you're safe
where you can tell me
all your secrets
where you can cry
and release your pain
where you're finally healthy
where you don't feel anything but love
where you lay your head
and sleep peacefully
where you speak softly
and laugh loudly
where you eat
where you drink
where you nourish the Soul
where you have everything
where you don't need anything
where you don't have to worry
ever again
about him
about me
in my heart.

Pearl Jam - Black

2011-09-16T12:29:00.001-07:00

Sia - "Breathe Me"

2011-09-12T21:09:00.001-07:00

Florence + The Machine - Addicted To Love

2011-09-07T20:11:00.000-07:00

Angus and Julia Stone - For You

2011-09-05T20:26:00.001-07:00

Bat For Lashes - Daniel

2011-07-27T09:11:00.000-07:00

LUCIO BATTISTI - Amarsi un po'

2011-07-09T05:48:00.000-07:00

Love...

A day with Le Divorce

2011-06-09T12:47:00.000-07:00

I am truly a blessed person. The other day I tagged along with Denver-based band Le Divorce, to document their first time playing Red Rocks. Their excitement was matched by their incredible talent, and they truly rocked it. I admire people who live their dream, and I was so honored to record the whole experience for them - I so often shoot only the show, I somehow forget what builds up to each set. The hard work, hours practicing, the camaraderie, van rides, sound check, and the celebration after... Here's a small sample of what I witnessed. Full set at http://lucia.zenfolio.com/ledivorce. Congratulations, Le D!!!!! Wishing you many, many, many more... xoxo

Street photography in Denver, CO

2011-06-05T15:11:00.000-07:00

If you've ever read this blog, it's no surprise that I am a huge street photography fan. However, running around in "stealth mode" is pretty difficult carrying around my Nikon pro camera outfits, and the point-and-shoot world is quite limiting.

Enter the Fujifilm FinePix X100 - I have been on the fence about this camera since I read the first reviews, yet it seemed just perfect. Small, a rangefinder-feel, not to mention the tech-specs of a prosumer camera. Too good to be true? If the ticket price was a bit steep, it became all worth it the minute I held it in my hands and took it out for a couple of days. No bulky camera bag, it actually fit in a small insert inside my purse.

Whenever I'm asked about my opinion as to the "best" camera on the market, my answer is always the same : "The one you carry with you". There is no missed shot with this little beauty - handy, small, and an ISO of 12,800 combined with a F2.0 lens makes this a really great camera. Here are a couple of test shots.

Art and creative community rally for Michael Hancock

2011-06-03T18:56:00.000-07:00

The art and creative community in Denver came together at Plus Gallery to support Denver Mayoral candidate Michael Hancock. It was an event I wasn't planning on covering, but... well, you guessed it. A photojournalist always has a camera handy... Here are a few pics from the evening, and yes, I was pleasantly surprised by Mr. Hancock's down-to-earth approach to his campaign, and it was great meeting him and his family.

Poem to A Leaf...

2011-05-31T18:39:00.000-07:00

Every leaf speaks bliss to me

Fluttering from the autumn tree.

Street photography in Newtown Sydney, Australia

2011-05-30T17:20:00.000-07:00

Walking around Newtown Sydney was truly an experience I will remember for the rest of my life.

This is your Life

2011-05-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

Beth Orton

2011-05-16T07:50:00.000-07:00

Family

2011-05-13T18:45:00.000-07:00

More and more I realize how truly blessed I am to spend time with wonderful people...

Meet the Ferrill family - generations reunited to spend time all together. What made this day so special was the way I was welcomed into the family with open arms. I was not only "the photographer", I was an instant part of it all, a friend. The warmth I felt from the moment the door opened was so welcoming and it made for an incredibly fun photo shoot. I felt the love shared by great-grandparents, sisters, husbands, daughters, wives, sons, fathers and it made my heart swell with happiness to be able to capture these precious hours for all.

Thank you Kris and Nadine and all for opening your home to me, and for the delicious coffee. And thank YOU for the memories, I will cherish them forever.

Faces of Colorado Art

2011-03-21T14:30:00.000-07:00

Oh, boy, am I really this behind on blogging? Insert comment here.
Yes, I know, been a while, but trust me, it's because I'm involved in pretty much everything I love lately, and, well, really, really busy.... One of my loves, besides photography, music and architecture, is art. Any kind of art. I surround myself with art at my studio and even in my car (don't judge) - I simply love being around creative people, seeing life through artists' eyes.
When I was contacted by 5280 Live to cover the Faces of Colorado Art opening at the beautiful Ellie Caulkins Opera House, I jumped at the chance, as it meant not only being surrounded by beautiful artwork, but also spend an evening with some of my best friends in Denver. Oh, yeah.... Done!
Here are a couple of photos from the wonderfully executed Denver Theater District's Art Salon event. Denver has so much to offer, and I'm really proud to be part of this vibrant art scene!

The Love Project in the Denver Post

2011-02-18T14:32:00.000-08:00

I was really honored to be on the front page of the Denver Post and Entertainment section on February 11, 2011 - the article can be viewed HERE in its entirety - the response was overwhelming, so many emails, telephone calls and messages, all supporting the LOVE Project, as well as the "My Life" Project.
Thank you Mr. John Moore for this article - the interview felt like having coffee with an old friend and I might have disclosed a few personal details, but, hey, that's how I roll.

Thank you!

Preach - In memoriam

2011-01-26T15:28:00.000-08:00

I want to take a moment to remember Preach, an amazingly talented graffiti artist who passed away. Thank you for your vision.

Thank you 2010

2010-12-31T18:43:00.000-08:00

I spent most of today reflecting over the past year. All the wonderful people I met and loved, the talented musicians and actors I photographed, the couples I spent time with during the LOVE Project, documenting my best friend's successful battle with breast cancer, presenting the My Life Project at PechaKucha, mentoring young photographers, moving to Australia, collaborating on a book, moving back to Denver, starring in a music video, helping people who lost everything in the Boulder fires, getting an enormous tattoo, finding my voice in Byron Bay, the gin-nights, coffee with friends, writing another book, being interviewed for a documentary, selling my loft, getting published in magazines and newspapers, finding a home for my sweet little dog, the heartbreaks, the laughs, the feeling that everything is going to be ok.

Everything left a mark, some deeper than others, and 2010 was the year of change. The year of courage. The year of love. The year of possibilities. The year of understanding. The year of forgiving. The year of being forgiven. The year I finally let go. The year of growth.

So, as the last few hours of a spectacular year are ticking away, I look at 2011. No expectations, just an enormous amount of wonder. I welcome it with open arms, an open heart and an immense amount of love for everyone in my life. May we be happy in this Journey together.

Happy New Year everyone, 2011 will be the year of.... place your intent here.

Lucia De Giovanni - Focus Project 2010

2010-12-15T19:48:00.000-08:00

Lucia De Giovanni - Focus Project 2010

Please rate this photo to advance it in the Focus Project 2010, thank you!

Transitions Global

2010-12-14T10:15:00.000-08:00

Transitions Global is a non-profit organization funded in 2007 by James and Athena Pond. Its mission is to provide new lives for survivors of sex trafficking, through a comprehensive program of aftercare services to girls between the ages of 13-19 years old who have been sexually trafficked, exploited, or abused. Transitions Global has been extremely successful in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, creating environments, opportunities, programs and systems to empower girls and give them control of their own lives.

When James Pond contacted me to see if I would be available for a photo shoot of two of the Cambodian young ladies visiting the United States to share their stories and bring awareness to the issue of sex trafficking, I immediately started to envision what I could possibly do to help them feel beautiful, after years of abuse and a self-image that was so tied to heavy makeup and an adult lifestyle that really had nothing to do with Beauty.

I wanted to photograph them in a natural style, and try to capture their real essence. I asked for privacy for each session, even though the language barrier was interesting to say the least - yet the moment I connected with these beautiful young girls, magic happened. There was no need to translate any of the silent understanding of what I wanted to accomplish. They knew. The first awkward glances into the camera quickly dissipated into a peaceful moment where they simply shined. Here are a few examples.

My gratitude to James and Athena for all the work with such a great organization and for trusting me to show these lovely ladies how beautiful they truly are. I look forward to partnering up with Transitions Global in the future.

Denver Music Summit

2010-12-13T08:10:00.000-08:00

The Denver Office of Cultural Affairs (DOCA), in partnership with the Western States Arts Federation (WESTAF), presented the inaugural Denver Music Summit on December 9 and 10. The Summit kick-off party took place at the Bluebird Theater, and featured performances by some of Denver's best in the music scene - Playground Ensemble, internationally renowned jazz artist Ron Miles, hip-hop luminaries Mane Rok, DeeJay Tense, Prime Element, and local band Fingers of the Sun.

The evening was put together with a sense of community and reflected the tight bond shared by musicians. Kudos to my friends Eryc Eyl, Ben Desoto, Mane Rok and the rest of the wonderful music supporters who put so much of their time and efforts into organizing such a successful event.

The challenges, blood, sweat and tears were addressed during the second day of the Summit, when musicians had the chance to have one-on-one consultations with experts in the fields of booking, recording, artist management, promotion and much more. It's a business, and it takes a village. A village I am proud to be a part of.

The LOVE Project

2010-12-11T09:31:00.000-08:00

As some of you know, I have been working on a couple of books, one of which is on my latest series, The LOVE Project. As self-publishing is incredibly expensive, I have started a Kickstarter project to pre-order the prints and book, and to help with a special event I'd like to put together to celebrate LOVE - if the project funds at above goal, a portion of the proceeds will go to SafeHouse Denver. Kickstarter is powered by a unique all-or-nothing funding method where projects must be fully-funded or no money changes hands. Which means that if I don't get pledges totaling at least $2750, the book will not be funded and the event will not happen - so, THANK YOU for your pledges and pre-orders, you can pledge as little as $1 to help!! Your support is greatly appreciated - please share with your friends, everything helps!!!

For more details, please see the Kickstarter Project here -
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1560253532/the-love-project

Thank you!!!

Second Annual Flobots Bowling Ball

2010-12-01T18:41:00.000-08:00

On October 23, 2010, I was invited to the Second Annual Flobots "Bring It On" Bowling Ball, to share in the crazy fun held at Lucky Strike Lanes in Belmar. The benefit event featured teams of musicians and creatives battling it out on the bowling floor, and the proceeds of the evening went to Flobots.org, an organization I support with all my heart. After being gone for the whole Summer, it was great to see all my friends and support such a great cause - Rise Against, the Flobots, Matt Morris, Tickle Me Pink, and the Epilogues showed their bowling skills and I loved capturing those candid moments that make my job a pleasure each and every day. SO MUCH FUN! A full gallery of images can be seen here

Street Photography

2010-11-28T15:25:00.000-08:00

There are days you just get lucky. No other way to explain one of my mentoring sessions with a very talented photographer who wants to get into street photography. As a photojournalist, I often have to capture the moment in a split second, assessing light, composition, emotion and technicalities all in a shutter click. My genuine interest for people's stories often leave me wondering what each person I photograph under those rushed circumstances is going through, feeling, thinking. When I can, I ask.

I first noticed her standing by a door, looking at her phone, then at the "For Rent" sign, then back to her phone. I approached her with a big smile, and explained I was giving a photography lesson. She smiled back, "my father was a photographer". I instantly liked her, as she sat on the steps, waiting for the landlord of the apartment for rent to come by and show her the place she hoped to call home. He was late, and she didn't have reception in that part of town, so I offered my help and my phone. And just like that, she opened up her whole life story, her reasons for moving to a new city so evident to me by the mark of the wedding ring she obviously wore for a long time, and no longer there. Fresh start. She showed me pictures of her children, laughed recounting some silly memory of them, and there was hope and sadness in her eyes. In that moment, I asked if I could take some pictures. And she agreed.

When we left, I thanked her and wished her the best of luck. She smiled and told me she already liked Denver.

Jon Wirtz Promos

2010-11-14T13:53:00.000-08:00

Jon Wirtz is an extremely talented musician who just released his solo album, "Sea Level", this month. He also happens to have worked with pretty much everybody I know in the music industry (he is THAT good and in much demand), and when he called me to discuss his new promotional packet, I knew we would have some fun. After our production meeting over some yummy coffee, we came up with a unique idea, having Jon "play" a piano made out of discarded parts. When we had everything we needed, an empty parking lot in the middle of nowhere gave us plenty of space and privacy to be as goofy as we felt like. And thanks to all those Pilates classes, I was able to get the shot while pretzeled on the ground and twisted around all those piano parts, to capture the real Colorado sky I love so dearly.

Congratulations to Jon for a SOLD OUT CD release show earlier this month at Dazzle in Denver, so well deserved... If you want to hear some of his piano magic, visit his site and make sure you purchase the CD - it's soooooooo worth it!!!

Skin Deep

2010-10-10T17:19:00.000-07:00

Everyone has a story, and sometimes they're willing to share it with a total stranger.

Meet Richard.

At first glance, this mohawk sporting man could be intimidating. The biker attitude, and the fact that he towers over most everyone around, does not make him look very approachable. Yet, when I saw him, I knew I would feel really comfortable around him. With the biggest smile I felt from my heart, I asked him if he was going for a ride. Surprised, he turned around and smiled almost as wide as me. I must have looked like a little kid to him, as I'm "vertically challenged" and he had a good foot and a half on me. We chatted about the weather for a second and then he told me that he was in town visiting a friend who is also a long time survivor. "Survivor?", I asked. "Yes, HIV survivor, 23 years and counting". I instinctively wanted to hug him, this total stranger just opened up his whole life to me. He told me his story, and as I listened, I heard his gentle voice, saw his bright blue eyes light up when he mentioned his friends, also long time survivors, and at the end, I asked him if I could take his picture. I didn't tell him what I do for a living, because it wasn't important, I just wanted to take his portrait for me. He agreed to it and to have me share part of his story on the blog.

Remember that everyone has a story and if you listen without judgment, you can be gifted with meeting a beautiful, gentle Soul...

and then... he left...

Camera Ready

2010-10-07T16:47:00.000-07:00

The best advice I ever received was "always bring your camera". And I do. No matter where I go, even if it's just a meeting or out for ice cream with friends, my camera is always with me. To tell you the truth, I feel naked without it and no longer feel the weight of it in my bag. It is accessible, ready, and simply an extension of my arm.

While in Australia, I was fortunate to meet some wonderful people who opened up their homes to me, met entire families who treated me as a sister and daughter, and was invited to share in their daily lives as a long time friend. On one of the road trips I took to the countryside, I was lucky enough to visit with a family who lived on a farm, and was so kind to let me document some of the farm life. Street photography took on a new meaning...

I will always cherish this experience, and I will be able to revisit it from time to time because on that day, I was "camera ready".

Shut the F@#k Up!

2010-09-25T14:24:00.000-07:00

What would ever make me think, let alone utter those words? Did I lose my mind? In a sense, yes, fed up, and had enough.

Let me rewind. If you know anything about me, you know I hardly ever get angry - sure, frustrated, yes, disappointed, yes, and I might even cry (sob) my way through an argument. You might also have figured out, if you read this blog, that I am truly passionate about music, and everything related to it. Having no musical talent of my own, I figured out a way to always be surrounded by it. I am a concert photographer, I do musicians' promos, I document bands in recording studios - hell, I might even have married a couple. So, it's not a surprise that most of my really good friends are musicians and on the rare occasion I am not working a show, I thoroughly enjoy going to a venue to listen to music. And that's where I was last night. An intimate performance by some really good friends of mine, turned into an idiotic argument. The venue in question, the Walnut Room, is more of a happy hour bar with a stage in the back, where people usually gather to spend a couple of hours listening to some well known, and not so well known talent. The tickets are always reasonable, and you tend to run into the same music loving crowd, creating an atmosphere that is familiar, usually relaxing and fun. Not the case last night.

As the first act finished up, I noticed the people sitting at the table next to mine. A good group of 10 or 12, ready to have some fun, beer flowing freely. And that's where the problem started. You see, this group of co-workers came to the show to see the first act, and they couldn't have cared less about the rest of the people in the venue, nor the talent up on stage that followed. They got louder and louder, laughing and actually having to scream over the music to be heard. Now, as irritated as I was by the total lack of respect for the band on stage, I remained calm and asked them if they could keep it down, once, then twice. The third time, I actually was told to shut up. I like to think of myself as a tolerant person, understanding and calm, yet I had to walk out of the venue as I was fuming and didn't want to cause a fight. At the same time, the musicians on stage had a very similar reaction and stepped away from their microphones to sing in a quieter tone in hopes that people would realize just how loud their talking and laughing was. Did that do any good? Nope. Just frustrated the hell out of the offenders who followed me on to the patio to make sure more harassment was in order. Well, they picked the wrong person, at the wrong time. I had had enough and let them have a piece of my mind. If people want to go to a bar and have some fun getting caught up with each other, I'm all for it. But PLEASE, don't do it in the middle of a concert, where people are actually trying to listen to some good music. What got me all fired up, is that I know how hard musicians work to get in front of an audience and give their all. It's a labor of love, some don't even get paid, they do it because they love it. Music chooses them, they are compelled to follow a dream that so often stays only a dream. The least you can do is respect their efforts, their bare souls up on stage, there to make you feel, to bring you to the depths of whatever emotion is expressed with their music. It's my understanding that going to a show, you're there to listen. I'm not one to get intimidated, and I know I have the support of all my friends on this one - if you want to talk, please go outside, go to the bar, be respectful of the talent and the people around you.

So, those words were spoken, loud and clear, from my mouth to their drunken ears: Shut the F@#k Up! turned around, and called it a night.

Little Hands, Big Nut

2010-09-23T16:03:00.000-07:00

I just met with one of my good friends and fellow photographer I have mentored for a few years. A wonderful conversation that made me remember all too well the feeling of having had my first show - so successful, the praise, the compliments, the feeling of being accepted for what and how I see things... and then... the paralyzing fear of never being able to do it again, the doubts about any possible talent I might actually have, the "knowing" that these were just my friends and they were being kind, saying their encouraging, kind words, in a kind voice, so I wouldn't know what they were really thinking about my work. Oh God, do I remember all those emotions. Like her, I stopped taking pictures for months, I was a fraud, someone who just fooled everyone into making them believe I was a photographer. I made excuses not to carry my camera around, too heavy, too cumbersome, didn't go with my outfit or fit in my bag. I bought more camera bags, maybe having a choice in size and color would make me carry it again. Nope. So I bought a point and shoot. And I kept on "forgetting" it at home, or it wasn't good enough to take a real picture anyway, so it would never see the light of day.
I was scared. The kind of fear that comes from understanding that success had implications beyond my control. Would Real People, not my friends, like my next series? Would the reviews be kind? Could I even take a better picture? As time went on, I started to question whether I could even take a picture at all. I told myself that since I hadn't been practicing, I probably forgot how to use a camera anyway and I wasn't going to put myself through learning something all over again.
I put up obstacles, I believed my inner dialogue, I convinced myself that I was done. I kept on "seeing shots" everywhere I looked, but didn't take a single one.
And then one morning I woke up, a crisp, Fall morning - a gentle tapping on the window, another, and another... I carefully opened the curtain to see a squirrel, trying to crack open his nutty breakfast on the flower bed, so intent he was in his efforts that he didn't even acknowledge me. Little hands, big nut. I instinctively picked up my camera, checked the settings, and took a picture right at the same time he successfully revealed the golden treasure, and took his first bite. There was bliss in this squirrel's face. I think he was actually smiling. And when I realized I had my trusty camera in my hand and I was doing what I loved more than anything in the world, there was bliss on my face and a smile that would never be dimmed by any fear of success, any judgment, any perceived failure. And, many years later, I'm still smiling.

Shoot for Joy, for yourself, for the love of it... and you can find it on a clear, crisp, Fall morning...

Glenbrook National Park

2010-09-01T16:08:00.000-07:00

While living in the lower Blue Mountains, not far from Penrith is Glenbrook National Park.
The day I was diagnosed with pneumonia and spent the morning in Emu Plains emergency, we decided to take a nature walk and ended up in Euroka Clearing, where the kangaroos were so close I could almost touch them, the trails pristine. Nature heals...

The end of one of the trails brought us to Red Hands Cave, a steel-cage protected cave where I tried to capture 1600 year old aboriginal art. Took a little patience to photograph through the 1-inch openings, but I loved the hand stencils and prints of different colours... it made me wonder who these artists were and felt a strong bond with them. We are all one.

Gavin E. Greenoak

2010-08-20T13:50:00.000-07:00

One of the most fascinating and gracious people I met in Australia is Gavin Greenoak. I had the pleasure of sharing a meal and coffee with him on a couple of occasions, in Sydney as well as Byron Bay. Mr. Greenoak is the head of The Australian Photobiology Testing Facility Pty. Limited (APTF). The APTF services the national and multinational cosmetics and pharmaceutical industry mainly in Australia. New Zealand, Fiji, UK, USA, Singapore, Malaysia, China, Netherlands, Holland, France, Belgium, Norway, Argentina, Brazil, Israel, and Germany by testing cosmetics and pharmaceuticals on human skin for purposes of claim substantiation and toxicological requirements. As its name suggests, the APTF specializes in the effects of light, or electromagnetic energy (including ultraviolet and infra red), on skin, and in the evaluation of all types of material, including sunscreens and clothing, designed to protect the skin from the damaging effects of sunlight exposure.

Of course, our conversation was a bit less technical and more casual, but I was so intrigued by his work that I read up a little on The APTF here and learned that Mr. Greenoak is THE authority in his line of work. So unassuming, a smile that could light up a room and class we could all share.

Thank you Gavin, I feel privileged to have shared some of my time in Australia with you.

Where Have I Been?

2010-08-18T18:01:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well - that is THE question... sorry kiddos for not updating the blog during my Summer "working vacation", I have been sooooooo busy with working on the book, scheduling, bookings, shoots, editing and trying to resolve more internet issues that I care to recall, that I had to neglect the blog a little... Forgive me?
Pretty please? Whew, ok, thank you...

In the next few weeks I will upload some of the pictures taken on the adventure - the book photographs are "in the vault" until publishing, early next year.

I can tell you that some of the photographs were taken on location in Sydney at New Directions' headquarters, in this natural light Heaven.

New Directions Aromatics Inc. was founded in 1987 Sydney, Australia to support worldwide distribution of the finest Essential Oils, and is now a leading wholesale supplier of 100% Pure, Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils around the world. Starting with just a handful of distilleries, they now source directly from ethical producers in all six continents. They also have a huge US distribution, and I'm planning on always keeping a plentiful supply of macadamia oil, which I think is THE best face moisturizer I have ever tried.

The staff at the Sydney facility was more than accommodating (thank you Melissa!), keeping me caffeinated with some of the best cappuccinos I've ever had (thank you Eddie!), and making me feel completely at home.

front of the building

The interior is flawlessly decorated... hard to leave this place!

So, I'm back, better than ever, and enjoying the last few weeks of Summer in Colorado. Thank you for all the messages, and I will do my best to give you a sense of where I lived in Australia and what I saw, mixed here and there with some "present time" entries. Stay tuned!

Gotye 'Hearts a Mess' By Gotye

2010-06-27T03:25:00.000-07:00

Maree Faulkner

2010-06-26T02:45:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I was on a train ride back from Katoomba's Winter Magic Festival and magic really did happen. I was standing in a packed cart, not an inch to spare, when a woman caught my eye. I couldn't stop looking at her, I was completely drawn to her energy. And then, the seat next to her magically became available and I sat right beside her. There was small talk about a cloth doll she was sewing for a friend, and then she reached inside her bag and pulled out a small point and shoot camera to show me a picture of when she was a baby. She recently acquired it from a friend and took a snapshot, so she was really proud of her photography skills. Taking a picture of a photograph is not easy. I sat quietly as she exchanged memory cards and started to flip through some seemingly uninteresting people shots. When I asked her if I could see some of them, she slowed down her review and photographs of her and Leonard Cohen appeared. I voiced my surprise and she just smiled, continuing her review. She said that night she felt pretty and showed me a picture of her with fake, long, PINK eyelashes. I was more and more intrigued by her and finally asked her if i could take her photograph, as I thought she was one of the most striking people I've ever met. Literally, her energy just kept on drawing me closer and closer. She graciously agreed, and I took about 5 frames, talking to her as I would a long lost friend. She then proceeded to show me some photographs of her "drawings" and that's when I just about blew a fuse. Her artwork is simply STUNNING, completely alive, colorful and full of emotion. You can see the motion, the love, the passion in each stroke. I finally asked her what her name was and she wrote her name and address on my train ticket to keep in touch. Maree Faulkner.

I will be contacting her again, and hopefully will spend more time with this amazing woman.

Australia

2010-06-22T04:35:00.000-07:00

Every year I take on a project that inspires me, and I usually work on it tirelessly until I accomplish my vision. A couple of months ago, I was contacted by Australian author Amanda Foxon-Hill to be the main photographer on a book she's passionately writing about Beauty. Immediately, I knew this was not another assignment, but a personal project that I would dive into with complete abandon. And I did. The decision to move to Australia to work with Ms. Foxon-Hill was almost instant, right after she described her intent for the book. I knew this would be a life-changing experience for me, only I didn't know how. So, on June 15, I packed my gear, a few belongings and left Denver for Sydney. My usual assignments bring me to hotels and quick day shoots, so I really have to thank my lucky star that Amanda opened up her home to me and made me a part of her family before I even arrived to the airport. I was received with such warmth and care, and I feel truly blessed to be able to immerse myself in my work while living with her and collaborating side by side with someone who shares my vision. The book has expanded its scope, and I'm ready for the challenge, as I believe in it 100% and any sacrifice will be well worth it.

And yes, I miss Denver, all my friends, Summer of music and BBQ's, long nights in the courtyard and days by the pool, but this is worth it. I am discovering a part of myself that I struggle daily to acknowledge. I record Beauty in everything, yet it is hard to see it in my own person - the concept of the book will be revealed in time, suffice it to say that it is forcing me to be completely authentic, and to see my own Beauty. From wild, unruly hair that I no longer straighten, to a non-fashion sense that I completely embrace, I am being me, 100% Lucia. And I am only beginning to accept what I look like, there is beauty in everything, including me.

Photography allows me to express myself in ways I could never even dream of, so I hope you will see what I see through my lens, what I experience with such passion every day I'm in Australia... My intent is to document this Journey with authenticity and grace, grow from it and come back to Denver with even more love in my heart.

Let the Journey to full acceptance begin.

Katoomba - Winter Magic Festival

Sia at The Gothic Theatre

2010-06-20T04:02:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of Sia and her music - it helps to be talented, but when it comes to personality, Sia has no match - thanks to a shout out from her to her Twitter followers (over 30,000) to check out my photos, my site almost crashed, but it was worth it - met a ton of great, like-minded people... Sia, you make me smile, big, giant grin kinda smile. Thank you.

Rabbi Steven Foster

2010-06-17T21:46:00.000-07:00

One of the great pleasures of my job as a photojournalist is that I never know what story I will cover and the people I will meet as a result - the story on Rabbi Foster, Senior Rabbi of Temple Emanuel in Denver, was almost a history lesson for me on the transformation of Denver's Jewish community since he was ordained in 1970. Captivating, eloquent and charming, Rabbi Foster has been an icon for decades. His work in founding the Temple Emanuel Preschool and Kindergarten, Herzl Day School, Stepping Stones to a Jewish Me (an outreach program for interfaith families) in addition to his far reaching community work such as serving on the boards of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, National Council of Justice and Peace, United Way, and Allied Jewish Federation to name a few, demonstrate his commitment to the Jewish and secular community alike.

DJ Sl8r

2010-06-17T21:31:00.000-07:00

I'm a lucky girl. I am really blessed to call some of the most talented people in the arts and music business my close friends. Case and point, DJ Sl8r, an incredible person, talented DJ, founder and organizer of Titrwrench Festival, and really good friend. Here's a little sample of the promo shoot we did in Denver - love you Sarah!

The Love Project

2010-06-17T21:17:00.000-07:00

The Love Project continues - 100 couples captured in a minute or less photoshoot - I am so grateful for all the couples involved in this project, for they are showing me and everyone who sees the slideshow what true Love looks like. No movie romance, no trashy book novel, just Real Love. Thank you...

Citizen Cope at The Fox Theatre

2010-06-17T21:12:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a while, really... sooooo many things have happened since my last entry, and I feel like this should be a mega-post to get caught up, which is really overwhelming so I won't freak myself out and end up procrastinating it again. Let's start with Citizen Cope at The Fox - lovely show, seeing Clarence again brought me and the crowd much joy. This photoshoot was something I will remember for a long time.

Gin Wigmore is a New Zealand little gem, great show and kept it real.

Denver Kids Create

2010-05-31T13:47:00.000-07:00

As part of Create Denver Week, Flobots.org and the wonderful Laura Bond put together Denver Kids Create, a great event designed to promote creativity among children and adults alike. I partnered up with Flobots.org and had so much fun taking photos of the beautiful work being created, not to mention laughing so hard with Jenna Maynes of Arte Del Corazon, who inspired the paintings of Leroy Brown, the rescued shelter dog. What an afternoon.... thank you!

full gallery of photos can be viewed here

Exit Through The Gift Shop

2010-05-10T22:44:00.000-07:00

As most of this blog is an ode to street art in one form or another, I found it compelling to see the movie Exit Through The Gift Shop the minute it arrived to Denver. Directed by Banksy, one of my favorite graffiti artist, this is the story of an eccentric "film maker" turned pop art icon. Billed as 'the world's first street art disaster movie' the film contains exclusive footage of Banksy, Shephard Fairey, Invader and many of the world's most infamous graffiti artists at work. Banksy's sense of humor comes through with flying colors, pun intended. See this movie, thank me later.

PechaKucha Nights #9 - Denver

2010-04-09T13:56:00.001-07:00

There are gifts in life that bring you to tears... I was lucky enough to be invited to present the My Life Project at PechaKucha Nights on April 13, 2010 in Denver. Not only it was a great honor, but I got to share it with my amazing friends, John Common, Jessica DeNicola and Wes Michaels, who accompanied the slideshow with a very emotional rendition of "Turnaround", a song that means the world to me from their latest CD, "Beautiful Empty".

Hundreds of people sat watching this slideshow projected on the wall, and felt every single emotion I experienced during the past year. I know this because of all the emails and outpour of support I received since. I am so very grateful to all the families that have allowed me to enter their lives for a moment and capture the last portrait of all the My Life friends. I hope this brings you peace and touches others to get involved.
Thank you...

Photos courtesy of Steven Wallace

Call for Entries - PHOTOGRAPHERS!!!

2010-04-06T07:16:00.000-07:00

BEAUTIFUL EMPTY PHOTO CONSPIRACY

A Call For Photographers

This is an open call for photographers of any age, background, skill level, and artistic point of view to participate in Beautiful Empty Photo Conspiracy – a music+photography collaboration. The goal of this project is simple: to use the release of a new record from an indie band as creative inspiration for more and different art, and through this collaboration, to bring the music and photography communities closer together.

Beautiful Empty Photo Conspiracy will be curated by Lucia De Giovanni, an award-winning photographer, internationally known photojournalist, and founder of MYPP, Mentor a Young Photographer Program. Participating artists will draw their inspiration from Beautiful Empty, the new record from John Common and Blinding Flashes of Light. Each photographer will use the music and lyrics from Beautiful Empty as their creative starting point and then do what they do best: make interesting, challenging, amazing, curious, beautiful art.

Every photographer who participates in this project will have their work promoted online at www.johncommon.com and at other Beautiful Empty Photo Conspiracy websites.

A subset of the photographic entries will be chosen for physical viewing at a special exhibit in Boulder, Colorado at the Fox Theatre on Saturday, June 12th – the night of John Common & Blinding Flashes of Light’s Boulder CD release for Beautiful Empty.

Artist Registration

Photographers who are interested should visit http://www.beautifulemptyphotoconspiracy.blogspot.com/ where they will find detailed instructions and project guidelines. Every participating artist will be given a copy of the music and lyrics from Beautiful Empty. Registration will remain open until May 15, 2010. The cost of registration is $10 for up to three photo submissions. Artists who are chosen to participate in the Boulder exhibit will be announced by e-mail and on the Internet upon completion of final judging on May 24, 2010.

Please contact Lucia De Giovanni at beautifulemptyphotoconspiracy@gmail.com or (303) 246-8674 for press inquiries, show details or sponsorship opportunities.

Thank you for spreading the word!

"Green Shoot" for The Cove

2010-03-30T08:21:00.000-07:00

When I was approached to shoot merchandise for the Academy Award Winner movie The Cove, I have to admit I froze a little. I am not a studio photographer, and although I have done my share of product photography, I wouldn't call myself a commercial shooter. My background as a photojournalist is everything but dealing with catch lights, 1500W strobes and soft boxes... When I actually watched the movie, holding my poor companion's hand until I caused pain, I understood that this was a shoot I was going to approach in my typical style, no artificial lights, not beauty dishes, no professional models.

"Green shooting" is becoming more popular with commercial photographers, yet it really is the essence of what we do. More and more I'm being approached by photo editors and commercial clients because everyone is becoming more energy conscious and we can all do our part. Even though it is more of a challenge to produce results that can only be achieved in a controlled studio environment, I feel the industry is shifting a little and for that, I'm very thankful. Here are a couple of samples from the shoot.

Academy Award® Winner for Best Documentary of 2009, THE COVE

2010-03-17T17:33:00.000-07:00

Today I had the pleasure of spending some time in Boulder, to shoot for OPS, the Oceanic Preservation Society. While having coffee with Viki Psihoyos at OPS headquarters, I was admiring the Oscar that Louie Psihoyos won as Director of the documentary The Cove, and she graciously allowed me to borrow the little golden man for a shoot - I couldn't help but giving an acceptance speech and thanking the Academy the minute I carefully cradled him in my arms. The energy of years' worth of hard work, determination and gratitude resonated immediately. I'm still in awe... thank you Louie and Viki for your friendship and for being such strong influences in my life.

Marvin L. Meyers

2010-03-12T18:09:00.000-08:00

Today I had the pleasure of taking Mr. Meyer's portrait for a newspaper article - I was so impressed with all his work as the Legislative Chairman at United Veterans Committee of Colorado, as well as his tenure with the Department of Institutions. Mr. Meyer's dedication reduced the institutional population by 25% in a five-year period while Colorado experienced growth of 11%, promoted institutional reforms and deinstitutionalization, and helped to establish 110 agencies in the community to provide residential and day services for people with mental retardation of all ages. He also served as a consultant to public and private non-profit agencies throughout the west and mid-west in matters relating to program development, administration and management. He initiated Colorado’s first comprehensive community-centered program for the individuals with mental retardation.

And he asked me to dance.

The reason I do what I do

2010-03-08T07:42:00.000-08:00

My Mentor and Friend, David Burnett, being interviewed by Jim Peck - Dave has been my biggest influence as a photojournalist, and his guidance has been invaluable through the years. Thank you for always keeping me laughing when I had no idea what I was doing and encouraging my work and for being such a support in my personal life.

Great little video

2010-02-24T22:14:00.001-08:00

Dine and D'Art 2010

2010-02-21T12:14:00.000-08:00

Last night I was one of the invited artists to participate in the annual Dine and D'Art, a wonderful event to benefit ArtReach. Established in 1974, ArtReach, Inc. is a Colorado 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization serving arts, cultural and human service organizations. ArtReach is the only organization in the Denver area that exists to ensure people of all ages who struggle with physical, mental, behavioral or severe economic challenges have an opportunity to experience arts and culture. ArtReach works with area schools, member agencies, cultural facilities, numerous foundations and supporters to bring the arts into the lives of children, young adults and seniors.

Adam Lerner and I at the kick-off party in October

After enjoying fine dining and music, and honoring Adam Lerner, Director of the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, each pair of RSVPs was entered into a drawing to determine the order of who will D’Art for art. As numbers were called, attendees "D’Arted" for their art of choice worth a minimum of $400.

My piece, "A Wish" was selected by Marc Cutiletta, President of ArtReach,and I just received his enthusiastic call this morning to let me know how much he loves it and holds a special place in his home. Yes, it feels AWESOME!

Some of the artists included Jullie Harris, Dan Ericson “The Signtologist”, Chris Guarino, Eli Cash, Pedro Saldarriaga, and many other friends.

Special thanks to Karla Johnson-Grimes for putting together such an incredible event, and Tina McKeever and the ladies of VAIN Salon who volunteered their time.

Another year...

2010-02-15T22:14:00.000-08:00

I can only imagine the people I will meet and what stories I will cover this year - I love my job...

Happy B-Day Elmo...

2010-02-14T09:09:00.001-08:00

Today is Elmo's 2nd birthday - I miss him so much....

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T13:06:00.000-08:00

Dear Life, I love you.

Vail

2010-02-09T08:29:00.000-08:00

I live in Colorado, and lately I've been spending more time than imagined in Vail, a year-round resort nestled in the beautiful mountains 100 miles East of Denver. Vail attracts more than one million skiers each season and visitors are drawn to its charming European-style pedestrian village, which provides a variety of shopping and dining opportunities and a vibrant nightlife. Trust me, the free transit system facilitates the nightlife.. wink wink...

View from the condo

Coffee always nearby....

Night lights in the Village

Coffee with a view

See you soon....

FUN!

2010-01-23T13:43:00.000-08:00

Today's couple for the LOVE project has two children who came along for the shoot - I cannot even begin to describe how much fun these kids were having and I just had to capture what I saw... there is a unique bond between brother and sister, I just had the best time in those few minutes and there I was, feeling like I was 5 years old again, laughing and wanting to jump up and down with my own brother... thank you Anthony and Karen for allowing such beautiful children the Joy to express themselves.

Rabbi Alysa Stanton

2010-01-18T16:08:00.000-08:00

2010 is off to a great start! Last week I was very fortunate to photograph Alysa Stanton, the first African-American woman ever to be ordained as a rabbi and the first African-American rabbi to lead a majority white congregation. What started out as an ordinary shoot, turned into a very deep spiritual experience and I'm still feeling her warmth days later. She's an extraordinary woman, and a fine spiritual leader. When she asked me if it was ok to give me a hug at the end of the shoot, I felt like it was such a privilege to share in the human experience with her, and I thanked her for being on my Path...

Here are a couple of shots...

She has a wonderful sense of humor

The "My Life" Video

2010-01-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

Thank you for watching this video.

Donations are accepted to keep this project going in 2010, provide families with prints and set up a fund for a traveling show to help hospices around the country - I thank you from the bottom of my heart

Thank you 2009

2009-12-31T08:33:00.000-08:00

Thank you 2009 for every smile and love you have brought to me this year - thank you for the hardship as well, as it made me stronger and more appreciative of peaceful moments. Thank you for amazing friendships and for my family. Thank you for my health and for Elmo. In the Spirit of gratitude I welcome 2010 with Joy and a smile.

The last sunset of 2009

Fitting into Old Jeans 'Better Than Sex' - Really?

2009-12-30T18:45:00.000-08:00

Like most women I know, I had a pair of old jeans I saved even though I couldn't fit into them anymore. One day...

Kept them for a couple of years and then... one day came, I was able to fit into them again and yes, it was such a great feeling! But better than sex? Read this article to see what I'm referring to

http://www.stylelist.com/2009/12/30/fitting-into-old-jeans-better-than-sex/

and although the jury is still out on the jeans, as far as the shoes go, I'm GUILTY!

Move with the Cheese

2009-12-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

Great advice

The Quicker You Let Go Of Old Cheese, The Sooner You Can Enjoy New Cheese..
... and let Hem find his own way....

Looking forward to 2010!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T19:08:00.000-08:00

The Children's Hospital

2009-12-18T11:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I covered a story for the newspaper at The Children's Hospital, a state of the art facility dedicated to improve the health of children through the provision of high-quality coordinated programs of patient care, education, research and advocacy. I was so impressed with the building, but then I talked to a volunteer who has been welcoming the little patients and their families for 13 years and I was really moved by the staff's dedication - he told me about witnessing a nurse soothing a two week old baby who needed major, painful treatment, in such a way that brought tears to my eyes. As I was metering my camera for the shoot, one of the little patients came towards me, showing me his new toy - with his Mom's permission, I took this shot, which makes me feel so thankful for all the wonderful people at The Children's Hospital, staff and volunteers alike, who understand giving and caring is not a once a year event rather a lifestyle.

The "LOVE" Project

2009-12-06T12:32:00.000-08:00

There are moments in life when you feel it, share it, hold it in your heart - LOVE, the most wonderful feeling in the world... Project LOVE is a three-phase series on love, phase one being 100 couples in love. Each one is a seasoned, tested, oak-tree kind of love story, and I hope I'm able to capture what I feel in the presence of such joy. Here's a little sample...

Greg and Anne's Wedding

2009-11-29T17:51:00.000-08:00

I'm a little behind on editing lately... today I finally delivered the last wedding of the season shot at the Ski Tip Lodge in Keystone last month. It was such a beautiful day, and working alongside Julie Harris is truly a wonderful experience. The ceremony was very touching and the weather cooperated just in time for the wedding and reception. I truly enjoyed the little mountain roadtrip and can't wait for the wedding season to start up again! Here's a sample of what I saw... congratulations to the happy couple!

Being Thankful

2009-11-26T08:17:00.000-08:00

Today I'm thankful for my family, friends, good health and being surrounded by peace. I feel like I'm in the hands of Grace when I look at this little face and everything is well with the world...

And the word Love took on a new meaning...

The Muppets: Bohemian Rhapsody

2009-11-24T18:34:00.001-08:00

Photoinduced.com

2009-11-24T18:32:00.000-08:00

Whenever I have a question about ANYTHING regarding photography, I turn to Photoinduced.com, a comprehensive site that covers almost any photography topic, from equipment to education, events, galleries, and contests. The video section offers virtual museum and gallery tours, behind the scenes documentaries and interviews with Masters.
This wonderful site is the labor of love of my friend Damon Webster, who is THE resource for my endless quest for knowledge. It comes as no surprise that when I needed some advice for the My Life project's next steps, I simply picked up the phone and had the pleasure of bouncing ideas with Damon for an hour. His insight and background in advertising cleared up a few myths for me and opened new doors. I know a lot of photographers read my blog, so do yourself a favor and sign up for the Photoinduced newsletter - not only you can win a weekly giveaway, but the information shared is invaluable...
Thank you Damon for your guidance and generosity!

Viki and Louie Psihoyos

2009-11-22T14:35:00.000-08:00

I am so blessed to have such amazing people in my life - every day I count my blessings... Yesterday I was feeling a little blue and since I was in Boulder, Viki offered a glass of wine as a cheer-me-up. I gladly spent time at her studio and she graciously allowed me to take some snapshots to put on my visualization board - you see, this is the inspiration for what, one day, I hope my studio will look like... As Louie is regarded as one of the top photographers in the world, I figured he already knows what works and what doesn't - and as Viki is an amazing ballerina, the studio is also a wonderful space to dance, my other passion...
This year they have been incredibly busy promoting Louie's movie "The Cove", a stunning documentary which has won several international awards and is in line for an Oscar. Viki and I were joking that a party is in order in this beautiful space, so we had a little of our own, a little vino, crackers and cheese, who needs anything more?
Thank you so much for letting me glimpse into the Oceanic Preservation Society's headquarters, I will do what I can to support this organization not only out of friendship, but because I really believe people can make a difference... Viki and Louie, you are a ray of sunshine in my life!

Louie's famous underwater photographs (National Geographic)

Sliding doors to the studio

Viki and Louie are great art collectors

Studio

Skylights to the studio

Oceanic Preservation Society's headquarters

Louie's office (really inspiring!)

Posters for The Cove documentary

Viki closing the curtains - look at this space!

LOVE

2009-11-18T11:44:00.000-08:00

I'm crazy about the Kidrobot Dunny series - and I like to surround myself with happy, funny little figures - check this one out, isn't he soooooo cute??? French Series, this one by TILT.

North Boulder Artwalk

2009-11-18T08:51:00.000-08:00

Some of my work will be featured at the Village Uptown in Boulder tonight - stop by, have some wine, check out some art... see you there!

Ryan Adams - Cover of Oasis' Wonderwall

2009-11-17T20:15:00.000-08:00

Hauntingly beautiful...

Today is gonna be the day
That they're gonna give it back to you
By now you should've somehow
Realized what you gotta do
I don't believe that anybody
Feels the way I do about you now

Backbeat the word is on the street
That the fire in your heart is out
I'm sure you've heard it all before
But you never really had a doubt
I don't believe that anybody feels
The way I do about you now

And all the roads we have to walk are winding
And all the lights that lead the way are blinding
There are many things that I would
Like to say to you
But I don't know how

I said maybe,
You're gonna be the one that saves me
And after all
You're my wonderwall

Today was gonna be the day
But they'll never bring it back to you
By now you should've somehow
Realized what you've gotta do
I don't believe that anybody
Feels the way I do
About you now

And all the roads we have to walk are winding
And all the lights that lead the way are blinding
There are many things that I would like to say to you
But I don't know how

I said maybe
You're gonna be the one that saves me
You're gonna be the one that saves me
You're gonna be the one that saves me
And after all
You're my wonderwall

Promo Shots - John Common and Jessica DeNicola

2009-11-16T14:26:00.000-08:00

John and I have been friends for a while... one night, over waaaaaaay too much whiskey, we started throwing out ideas for his next CD, "Beautiful Empty" (which, btw, is AMAZING!!!) and I have been thinking about how to do his music justice in pictures. I wanted to depict the vast world of music as a huge field, where John and Jess invite the listener to sit down and hang out for a while with them, listen to their music and get to know them... So, last weekend we packed up the cars and headed East - thank Goodness John and Jess are so laid back! They happily ended up in the middle of a field ready to have some fun! Here are some of my favorite shots from the session - thank you guys for being such sports and playing with me!

If you are in the Denver area, check out John and his band in concert - details on his site or blog - I had the pleasure of seeing them live a few times and they're fantastic!

Project "My Life"

2009-11-15T13:48:00.000-08:00

There are moments in life that can only be expressed in pictures... I was so honored when my friend Carissa asked me to include her Nonna in the "My Life" project - I have to admit it, this one "got me" as the bond between them is so evident and strong...

Thank you my Friend...

Scot Lefavor

2009-11-13T10:40:00.000-08:00

A couple of days ago I hung out with one of my favorite peeps and we did a fun photoshoot at Andenken Gallery in Denver - Scot Lefavor is one of the most respected contemporary artists in the country and a good friend of mine. We met while I was documenting the art scene in Denver during the DNC Summer of 2008 and have remained in touch sharing laughs and heartbreaks. Not only I respect Scot as an amazing artist, but he's also such a generous and kind human being, who makes my world a better place. If I need a pick me up, I look at one of his pieces he gave me as a present and smile from ear to ear.

If you missed his solo show "SEECHANGE" at Andenken, please try to catch him at his new show in Washington, DC in a couple of weeks.

Coffee with Elmo

2009-11-06T11:00:00.000-08:00

I really, really, really LOVE coffee, and really, really, really LOVE Elmo - every day I have coffee with Elmo - it is the best part of my day!!!

Caught in the act!

2009-10-31T16:58:00.000-07:00

So, we had some crazy weather in Denver these past few days - snowed in for a couple of days full of editing and popcorn, Elmo and I fell asleep on the couch watching a movie... thanks to S.R. for this photo, just priceless! Yes, I love my little Elmo...

Molly and Dan

2009-10-26T15:14:00.000-07:00

Molly and Dan were married 12 years ago in the blizzard of '97 - 3' of snow and a great start! When they asked me to take their portrait, I jumped at the chance, they are so fun to be around and the love for each other is evident... Thank you for letting me be a part of such special anniversary, love you guys!

Jelly the dog, super sweet!

Look at these two!

Dan is a lucky man...

Hannah and Erik are Married!

2009-10-23T18:59:00.000-07:00

Hannah and Erik were so much fun to photograph - they brought their long boards and shared a very touching ceremony topped by a fun dance to begin their lives together. Again, I partnered up with Julie Harris and we spent a wonderful day in Breckenridge, Colorado... So much love, it was a day to remember...

Baby Sage

2009-10-23T11:45:00.000-07:00

Desiree and Rich welcomed little baby Sage on October 7 and here she is, 10 days old, in all her beauty - I'm in awe of her, she's so inquisitive and sweet, gives me goosebumps! When she had a moment and did not feel like being a model anymore, her Mommy's voice immediately calmed her down and the shutter clicks kept her amused.
Congratulations guys, she's amazing!

"BALLS! A Holiday Spectacular (PG 16)"

2009-10-21T17:53:00.000-07:00

Shooting the promos for the production of "BALLS! A Holiday Spectacular (PG 16)" was beyond fun - this new-fashioned variety show is conceived and performed by Melanie Owen Padilla and Mare Trevathan, with flashy guest stars and a chorus of sock puppets.

See www.lida.org for a complete schedule of guest stars, including Steven Burge, Regan Linton, John Common, Karen Slack, Eric Elkins, Candy Brown, DJ Savior Breath, Santemu Aakhu, Diana Dresser, Diane Wziontka, GerRee Hinshaw, Emily K. Harrison, Meridith Crosley, Patty Kingsbaker and more!

The 75- minute show is followed by an Afterglow party. At BINDERY
space (2180 Stout St in Denver, next to the Mercury Cafe); December 3-19; Thursday-Saturday at 7:31 pm.

I'll be there, do not miss this!!!

Bobbi and Brian Get Married!

2009-10-21T12:09:00.000-07:00

What a day! So much happiness shared with Bobbi and Brian, at the beautiful Della Terra Mountain Chateau. Shooting alongside the incredibly talented Julie Harris is a privilege and we had a blast taking the little road trip to Estes Park. Thank you Julie and Congratulations guys!

Rockin' a New Hair Do!

2009-10-14T15:08:00.001-07:00

Loving the new haircut, thanks to Tina at VAIN Salon!

More Denver Street Art

2009-10-14T15:03:00.001-07:00

I have received so many emails from people regarding my almost daily "hunt" for street art and graffiti - everyone loves the series, and I really don't have to go far to find some amazing pieces, here are a couple in my 'hood...

Dia De Los Muertos

2009-10-07T14:54:00.000-07:00

In honor of Dia De Los Muertos, I have created the piece "The Beauty Within", which will be on display at VAIN Salon, 1890 Pennsylvania St, Denver during their amazing art opening featuring 25 local artists. Stop by on Saturday, October 10, between 7 and 10 pm, and enjoy one of the most fun evenings courtesy of VAIN!

John Common and "In My Neighborhood" video

2009-09-30T15:20:00.001-07:00

John Common is a fantastic singer/songwriter based in Denver and a good friend. When he told me about the making of his video "In My Neighborhood", I jumped at the chance of documenting a fun filled afternoon. Here's a little sample of what I saw, and yes, I laughed the whole time and had a blast. I am so grateful I am able to be surrounded by such talent and creativity - yup, I'm a lucky girl...

Actor Mare Trevathan

2009-09-30T14:45:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I have to pinch myself to realize that I'm actually awake and this is my life... I had the pleasure of taking Mare Trevathan's headshots on Sunday, and besides being one of the most talented actors I have seen on stage, she is also so gracious and kind ... thank you for such a great session and your friendship Mare, you shine girl!

Somewhere...

2009-09-25T13:28:00.000-07:00

... over the rainbow...
This was my view last night as I was driving back to Denver - I have to admit it, a double rainbow always gets me to make a wish...

Blues Travelers and Joshua James at The Fox

2009-09-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

Last night I photographed one of my favorite bands, Blues Travelers, at the Fox Theater in Boulder - of course, it was a great show, but the surprise of the night was Joshua James. I was semi-familiar with the Lincoln, Nebraska native, but after the live experience he gave the BT fans last night, I believe more people walked out of The Fox with a new favorite on their list, one who will inspire music lovers for many years to come - his soulful voice has a way of getting deep in one's heart, making you feel the emotions he sings about in a raw, powerful way. The new album, Build Me This, features "In The Middle", a song about a broken relationship. The lyrics still linger in my head - “You’ve tried so hard to forget me/You burnt the letters I’d made/Though my memory has been dyin’/I hope the feeling still remains”. Yes my peeps, worth picking up a copy...

Joshua James

Blues Travelers

What a Girl Loves

2009-09-22T13:13:00.000-07:00

Today I received the most beautiful flowers from Babylon Floral - I love them, Arthur is fantastic and it made me feel wonderful - every time I look at the amazing arrangement I smile, and that is a gift within a gift... thank you....

iEmpathize

2009-09-21T22:10:00.000-07:00

Tonight I had the pleasure of attending the official launch of iEmpathize at the Boulder Theater. iEmpathize is a non-profit organization founded by Brad Riley to protect children victimized by the sex trade and deserves every bit of support. The evening included a preview of the Empathy Experience Art Exhibit featuring NYC photographer Pete Gibson, the premier of the new iE short film and live interviews with the cast and crew. Music courtesy of DJ Drop Logik and an incredible performance by Son Lux (the music featured in the film).

Brad Riley and Pete Gibson

Colorado Avalanches

2009-09-21T21:56:00.001-07:00

I am so excited about hockey season!!! The Avs have a new team and are ready to take on the 2009-2010 season - I was a guest for the VIP event and preseason game against the Blues and loved being sooooo close to the net (first row). Brett Clark is a class act and had me laughing at "hello". Funny how my little camera "ate" his head in this shot...

The puck hit the glass right in front of me - I need to remember to bring earplugs next time...

My view...

The "My Life" Project continues...

2009-09-19T18:31:00.001-07:00

This project has changed my life, it is such an honor to share such quiet, calming energy and dignity... I hope I'm able to translate the Beauty I see in these moments...

Vain Salon and Babylon Floral Design

2009-09-15T16:46:00.000-07:00

Saturday I had the pleasure of documenting the grand opening of the Eze Mop Shopping District on 17th Street in Denver - some of my close friends and favorite people collaborated to create amazing living sculptures, Arthur of Babylon Floral Design and Tina of Vain Salon, along with the out-of-this-world makeup skills of Sally Walker. Here's a sample of what I experienced...

and here's me with some of my wonderful girls later on that night, keeping the celebration going!

Thank you for making this such a special day for everyone (and a wonderful birthday party for CK!)