The Joys of Aging Enjoying a Cake Smash

When I see smiles like this on little ones it just gives me a warm fuzzy feeling. Happy 1st Birthday Little One. 

Sarg

I remember this once people found out it was an attack, for just one short minute the entire county was together, and we all swore we would never forget.

Guess what? The all mighty political gods want you to forget. Thats pretty clear. 

I guess and after seeing news articles about how the interest in first responder services has declined, as so many fire halls are hurting for membership, It makes me wonder if 9/11 was happening today, how many more people would die. I am betting the death toll would be a lot higher today. 

Perhaps I am wrong, but this problem was shared with me years ago, and I offered a take and a hopeful solution. It was blown off and I simply want to point out something. If The Big Mac, The Whopper, Dell, Microsoft, Canon, Sony, or a multitude of other companies failed to advertise their products, services, or in this case cause, do you think they would be staples in today's world? These companies are huge, and in today,s world and the shift in trends on simply how things get done or put out to consumers, does it not make sense to put your product or cause out there to generate interest or a buzz. 

Some old timers thought they knew best. I am here to tell you. They were wrong.  THE HERO 9/11 Never Forget The Heros of 9/11 NEVER FORGET

Stay Safe, even if we forget. 

NEVER FORGET

#FJB

Sarg

See Yourself in a New Light With Professional Portrait Photography

MOMMY

• You don’t need design skills to create a gorgeous desktop wallpaper. Adobe makes it fast and easy! Choose your colors and customize the wallpaper with different fonts or icons.
• Senior portraits are perfect for graduation invitations! Add a great shot from your photo shoot to your favorite template, then add the graduation info so everyone can celebrate the big day. You can send the final version via email, share it on social media, or print it out.

Ready to book your portrait session? Get in touch with Michael Sargent Visuals today.

This is also known as a niche. The world niche is something I have never really liked, and this is my opinion only, but it's a stupid word, but its relevancy in the content creation world means everything. A simple example is why you are on this website. Is it because you are interested in photography or is it because you may know me personally and like to follow or troll my exploits in photography and content creation? Either way you are here reading this, and that very fact is why even I must accept the word niche. 

In regarding creation, it will always fall into the subjective aspect, much as photography does. An example, I see a ton of photographers around and when one catches my eye, and I do decide to check out what they do, I will form an opinion of that work and the photographer and thus we see things as subjective. 

I know a ton of successful photographers and it's my opinion the work is pure crap. Once again, it's 'subjective' and you form an opinion based on the subjectivity of the content that is produced.  I think the biggest thing I see these days is some photographers like to post on social platforms and it happens whenever they do a portrait session, they like to post that their content is published. Having another social account share your work or mention your work is different from being published in a major publishing house or nationally recognized publication. This is what we call Imposter syndrome, and it is quite common among millennials or new photographers who are trying to make a name for themselves. 

The fact is, it's a bad look, and despite any natural talent you have, one's character comes into strong question when you do this on a repetitive basis. 

With all this being said, 

Here is some content.

YOU TUBE

If you do view this content, you also will have the right to form an opinion. It either sucks or its pretty cool. 

Sarg

See that link? Click it You know you want to. 

Get 20 bucks off your purchase at checkout @MPBcom by simply entering my name "Michael Sargent"

GET YOUR GEAR, 

Sarg 

This photo is a prime example of that. I have seen this location a million times. Not once did it ever inspire me to take a composition. However on this evening, something special was happening and I had a high anticipation that we would see some expressive skies. 

The evening did not disappoint. Sorry about the Copyright sign in the middle of the composition, but when you sell a photo for commercial use, it is unavoidable. 

[email protected]

Later, 

Sarg

Well Wiki defines imposter syndrome as: 

Impostor syndrome, also known as impostor phenomenon or impostorism, is a psychological occurrence in which an individual doubts their skills, talents, or accomplishments and has a persistent internalized fear of being exposed as a fraud.^[1] Despite external evidence of their competence, those experiencing this phenomenon do not believe they deserve their success or luck. They may incorrectly attribute it to the Matthew effect, or they may think that they are deceiving others because they feel as if they are not as intelligent as they outwardly portray themselves to be.^[2] Impostor syndrome can stem from and result in strained personal relationships and can hinder individuals from achieving their full potential in their fields of interest.^[3]

When impostor syndrome was first conceptualized, it was viewed as a phenomenon that was common among high-achieving women. Further research has shown that it affects both men and women, in the collective sense that the proportion affected are more or less equally distributed among the genders.^[1][4] Individuals with impostor syndrome often have corresponding mental health issues, which may be treated with psychological interventions, though the phenomenon is not a formal mental disorder.^[5]

With that said, i usually hear this term on photography podcasts and there seems to be a great deal of focus on this topic. I personally feel that if you keep things in perspective and know your own personal limitations, this entire topic is a moot point. Let's be serious for a moment. IF you are constantly learning, and believe in a continuous improvement ideology, you can easily work through this entire narrative. A prime example. I may think something I do is awesome. I then will share it on social platforms to obtain some feedback, in addition I always hope that the right person will see that content and it may be for lead generation, or simple to promote my own abilities. What I can tell you is due to things like pay to play, your content rarely reaches the right people and often you just receive likes and comments from people who follow you on social platforms. Another fact is, as I type this and look to share the content on such platforms, I also know that one person out of ten will click the link and read the content I have posted. That is something that contributes to the whole imposter syndrome phenomenon.  Is it any wonder why people doubt themselves and their abilities? It's like I say in my video, which I will be sharing in this post. NO ONE GIVES A FUCK ABOUT YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY. That is the same for the content you create in the video. The real fact is that a target group will care about what you do, and breaking into that group is the real struggle. 

I call what I do a hobby. It's a personal outlet for me, and I must be real and honest about it. Does this lead to paid work for me? It sure does, but I also must be selective about what I do in that field. In the past I have been involved in some big projects, and the content that was created was outstanding. The earnings from those projects define that. The other side of that coin is to reach a level of familiarity and become in demand is where most will fail. Being an individual who maintains a real-world job and does not work as a content creator or full-time photographer is the sole reason my time to dedicate to the craft has been limited. Some will say work harder, dedicate more time to the craft. Is this your goal? is that what you want to do for a living? Ask yourself that question. Thats the first step towards reaching a goal. Me, well I must be content doing what I am doing. 

Once you grasp all of this, your path becomes clear. As far as "Imposter Syndrome", I will chalk that up to being another modern-day bullshit excuse for being a failure. I am sick of hearing about this and listening to podcasts that talk about imposter syndrome, and mental health issues. GROW UP! Anything worth having, and reaching goals takes demanding work. The real problem is entitlement. Most have no idea what it's like to put in a grueling day to reach a goal. I hate to use this as an example but look at athletes past and present. LeBron cries like a bitch when he thinks something is unfair or he gets fouled. I have seen the videos of him throwing a fit. Here's the thing. Is this guy a beast? No doubt. HE always feels he is entitled. Look at MJ. He became pissed off too. THe difference. MJ did not whine like a little bitch. HE went out and did something about it. Thats why his team won so many championships, and that is why he is the goat. This is all debatable, and I am not a sports expert, but I will agree with many who have played the game and have stated publicly, that MJ is the GOAT.  

All of this garbage in today's world stems from a bad direction taken by leadership, and the facts. People today just suck. 

After typing all of this, here is how I know that my assessment is correct. Comments can be left on any of my posts. If 2 comments are left, I will be surprised.

Enjoy the video. If you made it this far, my hats off to you.. 

The Last Selfie opening Stay real, 

Sarg

To date this is one of my more popular You tube videos. To see my take on this little gem, please have a look at the video. 

I hope it adds some value if you are looking for a functional tripod that does not break the bank.

Thanks. If you like the video and it adds value, please like, and subscribe. 

Hope everyone is doing well. 

Sarg

Thank you, 

Sarg

As stated, this is not an image that would ever be a part of my print gallery of portfolio, but it is an example of how powerful post processing applications have become. 

If this image inspires you to leave a comment, please share your thoughts. 

The REDA splash of red berries

Until we meet again, 

Sarg

This image is inspired by my granddaughter who refers to herself as the Big Lion. Of course, she calls me the old man, and i am fine with that. 

The Spirit of a LionThe heart of a Lion I captioned this, Within the heart of every little girl lives the spirit of a lion. 

Although not a perfect blend, I am just going to say that this was done completely on my Samsung S23 Ultra. 

Hope this brings you inspiration.

Thank you, 

Sarg

For years now, I have had this little website. I also have shared direct links to my website and my print sales gallery. 

I often wonder why, when I share photos direct to social media sites, it never drives traffic to my site. So the old dog learned a new trick. Now I share imagery from my website via the blog or direct from the photo on my website itself or from a relevant site like 500px. 

My hopes for doing so are simply to drive traffic to my site and increase awareness of my print sales gallery. Everything is linked in the forst couple of paragraphs of this post, but I did want to make people aware that often times the same photos you see on social media are right in my print sales gallery. 

I don't expect everyone to be all tech Savy but at my age, I figure if I can navigate the web, most of you can to.

This week, here is what has been added to the gallery. 

 If you want to help, let me ask you to do something. If you are going to check my work out on-line, please share it online. The likes are great, and I appreciate the feedback, but if you really like the content, thank for the LOVE OF GOD MAN, share it with your friends. 

Sharing is caring. Knowing that no one simply takes the one second to share content is the biggest reason why so many photographers make the statement, including myself..... NO ONE CARES ABOUT YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY.  Prove me wrong. Read this, and leave a comment. This will a test and there is no point curve. 

One last thing. The quality of product in the online store here is produced with the absolute best the industry has to offer as far as paper and framing. 

Quality costs, so if you are thinking of getting a print, just remember, you do not have to have it framed. If you do, know that it will be the highest quality product and to date no one has complained about the workmanship our partners have to offer. 

Thanks for the read. 

Share it. Please and thank you. 

Sarg

When the fog is light, and the light is right, you just must compose.

A slow exposure, winter reflection. 

Enjoy it. 

Solstice

Sarg

Recently, 

I changed my profile picture on social media.  There were some interesting reactions to that image. 

A lot of people wanted to know if I was all right. I found that stirring, and it made me think. About what is a conversation for another time, but the photo was just for a project that I am working on, that simply asks the question. Why does no one give a fuck about your photography. 

I will do my best to answer that question because, this single point of view is what so many photographers including myself struggle with.

So many questions can be drawn from this, but my thoughts lead me to a more flawed understanding of why so many people are drawn to personality and subpar imagery vs. creativity and uniqueness. 

More on the topic

Stay tuned or don't. At this point in life, I could give a fuck less about what people do or how they spend their time. 

See the trade off in my logic. 

It is always a nice notification when you are notified that your photo is popular on a real photography platform. 

I doubt that anybody really notices but, I post less to Facebook these days and that is simply because I am not a big pay to play guy.

Many people think I have just hung up the camera, but the reality is I am just not interested in doing the normal snapshots that you see everyone else post. I'm sure that most won't understand but I am of the opinion, if you are going to pay to have a composition created, then you better make sure that you are creating something that is simply different than what everyone else is doing. 

OF course, these are my opinions, but I am not a person who subscribes to the point of view of just sucking. You embrace your own suck. 

Thanks, 

Sarg

SHOW THE WORLD 

Not much for words these days.  Congratulations. JJWED (1 of 2) Jepson [email protected]

Out.

Blood Moon 22 (1 of 1) Thanks You,

Sarg

Just a quick post and playing with a short film. 

Peace

Today I am showing a sample of my moody black preset which I will be offering as a download in the upcoming weeks.  My Moody Black Preset Moody Black In addition to my preset work, I have been working on some cinematic reels. Smartphone photography and cinematic video has come along was since the first cell phone could capture video. This activity keeps me moving and although I am no Spielberg, I simply enjoy the process. 

A recent reel I released on Instagram did very well by my standards, and although the soundtrack is different, people seem to like the content. 

tree music

Enjoy. 

One last thing. I sent an email to all that follow my work, offering Pet Portraits to any one who may be looking for that special lasting memory with your best friend. I am booking fast, so if you would like that wall hanger, hit me quick. The half off sale ends at the end of August. 

Up next. Doing some Drone fun. Wish me luck. I expect to crash. 

IF you would like to know why, please comment on the post and I will give you my reasons why I do not feel inspired to do so. 

Peace all. 

To Enter or Not to Enter. It's Not Really a Question

Sarg

What's all that mean? Nothing................. YET. What I can tell you is Mobile phone gimbals are an absolute if you plan on creating content. What I would advise against, is the damn apps that come with the gimbals. No matter the device you are using, I have found that both the DJI as well as the Zhiyun apps do not take full advange of your mobile devices capability. To hear more you will have to stay tuned. If I have time I will do a You tube video that shows you how to get around the apps and still use your gimbal to create smooth cinematic content. 

This video was shot using the Zhiyun app, and as you can see not everything in this video, is what I would consider sharp. 

Thanks for the read. 

Sarg

The new thing is reels. Both platforms want you to do more video, and that's ok if you feel like doing video, but what if you don't want to do video. 

Well!!!! To bad. It is a must, and its because the platform designers said so. 

I have tried a couple of times to put up a short little post about Facebook on facebook but for whatever reason it does not want to post. I am sure because it does speak to the negatives on both platforms, however it does bear some questions regarding the use of Social platforms. I wanted to know if you as an individual or business could survive if you never had joined or used social media to stay in touch with friends. I mean back in the day that was the whole purpose right. Connect with friends family, and follow things that may interest you. I feel quite confident in saying that 98 percent of the content of what we see in our feeds is add based, and unless you purposely go to a persons page, you will never stay update to date with the content of someone's life, and this is all based on Algorithms. What kills me is the fact that now we have fact checkers who purposely block content of put false information flags on peoples post because it goes against the political agenda. It's called censorship, and it is not legal, not to mention it goes against a persons constitutional rights. Not to mention, we have a ravage of people stealing or copying people's profiles to send spam, scam, or information collecting messages to people who are on your friends list. I myself was a recent victim on such a situation. I received several messages from friends asking me if I was hacked or did in fact send the message. This brings me to a very interesting point. The majority of messages I received were text messages from phone numbers ( not chat apps) from people that I am truly connected with, and not the fake relationships that come from being on a social platform. In fact nothing about social media is really social at all. I like to call this false interaction, KEYBOARD CONVERSATIONS. It poses the questions, could you in fact step away from social media, and not use it. I for one do not log in as much as I used to on either platform, because I just don't care to see the adds. A case in point. A person I knew in real life and was connected to on Facebook recently passed away. I found out about two weeks later and it was only because, a mutual friend posted something and that post showed up in my feed. Being pretty floored by the news, it made the light bulb goes off in my head and say, what face book was to what it has become is simply not what we all signed up for. 

In short, I often ask myself, I wonder if I ran into this person on the street if they would say hello or just walk on by. It also makes you question if this person would even know you if you did run into them. You also have to ask as well, why the fuck am I connected to this person in the first place?

Over the past few years, I have removed so called friends from my social platform, because it made me realize some things. Why would I be connected to someone I went to school with but never really had a friendship with, or was just an asshole to people in general. Hey maybe that person is different now. Well whopta fucking dee. Coming from my world, I learned that a zebra does not change its stripes, so that is always a consideration. 

As this trend in social media continues, I think it bears consideration to at some point to say enough and that is about where I am at. 

DO I need it, No. DO I want to use it, not really. Should I shut it down, I am considering it. 

I wont lie, I have made some pretty cool connections of the coarse of this, and some of these connections I have solid relationships with, One thing is for certain. Anybody that I really care about, I have their phone number and can call at any time. Its also a vice versa thing. In my eyes, that's more social than this entire online world of social media, which should be called advertising media, cause that is in fact what it really is. 

In closing I recently spent some time doing some traveling for work, and during those long rides 12 plus hours in fact I caught up on some podcasts that I subscribe to, and one of the talking points was to ask the opinion of some high profile photographers their thoughts on social media and the direction it was heading. They all agreed that social platforms and the algorithm's in place are not very friendly to photographers. In fact they stated they note that the engagement they see with content they create and share has been reduced to almost nothing. In addition they also state that the only way they can remain relevant is to produce a short video, also known as a reel, to help promote their content. One last point, some photographers do not like to produce video largely in part is because they like to keep their lives private and only share the content they create. They really dont want the world knowing when or what they dine on or what their travel plans are. That is understandable. However, you either embrace the direction or fall in to the social shadows. Like cattle to the slaughter.  I know that those that care about you will stay in touch or reach out from time to time, but those people are what is considered friends, Not facebook friends. Two totally different worlds. 

Please share your thoughts or comments. 

IF you have not seen what this place has transformed to, I suggested you do. This place was stunning. I can't describe it written word what a wonderful job they did renovating this building. ITs a real work of art, and I can wait to attend a show or be able to sit down and enjoy the amazing food. 

A quick video I shot with a photo slide show of all who allowed me to take a photo to remember the evening. 

Valentines at the Harvest RestaurantA wonderful evening at the Harvest Restaurant.

Check it, 

Sarg

Microsoft Will I continue to use the Surface series for my editing.

Sarg

It's so easy

Sarg

Thanks, for watching, 

Sarg

BERRIES FINAL EDIT-Soft Light Berries

Thanks, 

Sarg

Breaking Dawn Nothing to write home to mom about, but it just goes to show you that perspective is everything.

Sarg

When I say that a judging committee has no clue about composition or even the basic rules of photography, I mean they do not factor in these basic principles when it comes to judging an image. For the most part and when it comes to local competition I can say that most people who judge imagery at a local level simply judge that imagery by what is visually appealing. That means the saturation of colors, the subject of the image, sometimes how sharp the image is, but for the most part, if it is colorful, that will likely be the winner. Does that breakdown make me a heal for calling this out. I don't think so, but when you compare the type of imagery that is judged  by a group of peers, ( fellow photographers, gallery owners , publishers, etc.) you can clearly see that game is really stepped up. The images, the compositions, is worlds apart. 

My conflict. I was just told about a local competition, and it was suggested that I enter it. My question regarding that suggestion was why should I enter it. I received a resounding response and it was flattering, because I think you would win. We checked out the contest site and the rules, and one for the first things stuck out to me like a sore thumb. Sunrise and sunset photos have the best change of winning and are preferred. I saw that and thought, Damn! talk about pre-judgement. With that stated it really limited, the prospective of showcasing some of the more popular things that people often do in the area, and really kind of limited the opportunity to showcase some of the really beautiful scenic area's that this small county had to offer. 

With that said, I have a personal choice to make. Do I go ahead and enter a contest that has a pre-judgment already in play, knowing full well that I will not be entering a sunrise or sunset photo. In addition do I go ahead and enter a composition that will be a great frame full well knowing that some crappy photo along a waterway with bright orange, yellow and reds, will more than likely beat out my composition, because it will be more visually appealing to a judge. 

That is a question that remains to be answered. You will have to keep watching the posts or a watch on my social media accounts to see if I go forth and do some photo hunting. 

Please by all means, share your thoughts. YES OR NO. 

Check Point ThreeAlong the Shores of Lake Ontario Thanks for Reading, 

Sarg 

Anyways here is my most recent captures. Hope you enjoy viewing them as much as I did composing them. 

Until we cross paths again. 

Sarg

I give you a Spirit Tree.  SPIRIT TREE (1 of 1)The Spirt Tree I did not do this old tree justice in my composition. It happens, it's all about light, and my light went soft. 

It kind of shows you that life goes on even though it is full of twists and turns. 

3 shot Panoramic. Enjoy. 

Don't be a Mike, get out there and enjoy the wilderness. 

Sarg

You be the Judge.

Did we pull it off.

I also added this bit of morning glory. 

 My last composition for this post. 

We call this. Sit a Spell.

Let me know what you think. 

Thanks for having a look.

Sarg

This long exposure panoramic shot is quickly becoming a favorite. 

Enjoy, and put it on your wall. 

JJCJ (167 of 266)

You only get one chance to capture moments. Once they are gone they are only a memory. Unless of coarse you have a photographer who can capture this sort of awesome. 

Sarg

With the obvious out of the way, I wanted to take a brief minute and put a little update on line. First off, I was honored to have been selected as a spot light contributor to Photoshop user magazine. Who is not a fan of Kelby one and all of the great things the do to help photographers get better at all aspects of the craft that is so loved by all who own a DSLR, or mirrorless system. 

To see a copy of this magazine you can check it out here 

On to bigger things. Yesterday was wedding day. Yes it was hot, but we found a nice breeze and shot this longer exposure image, with some dramatic skies. Having always been a fan of the power of black and white images, I decided to put a spin on this image, and rather that desaturating, I converted this shot right over to black and white. Glad I did. 

JJCJ (51 of 53)Dramatic Wedding Photography

Personally, I think this rocks. You are always welcomed and encouraged to leave a comment, and share your thoughts on this blog. 

Until the next post, may your life be filled with amazement, and always take a second and look at the world around you. You never know what you might see. 

Thanks for checking out the post, 

Sarg 

AWESOME. Emails have been sent to contact you and I will also reach out via facebook, so you can claim you wall art. 

Subscribe to this blog and keep your eyes open. We will be doing more contests soon. 

Peace, 

Sarg

Three new Images have been added to the sales galley. Thank you for your support. 

Sarg

All I am saying. Be real. TFP is BS and trust me, when your big time you don't need to give it away. 

For seekers of framed prints, the above mentioned is also true in this medium as well. What I find amazing is the beautiful choices of frames that you can obtain for you photograph. 

For those of you that are conservative with your buck, I also have smaller prints available that you could easily frame yourself or simply go to a craft store and purchase. The one thing I can say is that anything you purchase here is the very best in quality, and having purchased so many prints here myself, I can assure you that your framed photos will be displayed with pride and trust me, people will ask you about the images. 

Here is your direct link to the store front. Print Store .

Oh one last thing. If you have trouble with your order or have questions, please feel free to contact me directly. 

Sorry, one more last thing. Anybody want to win a canvas 20X30 framed print from our inhouse print team? 

To celebrate the opening of this store we are going to offer up this favorite. All you have to do to enter yourself for consideration, is leave a comment on the comment section of this blog post. It's really that easy man. 

So share it with your friends and family. I will randomly choose the winner the evening of July 3 2021. Good Luck!!!!!!

Thanks to all who have already purchased some wall art from my gallery. Having the itch again to get out and capture some moments, please check back to see what's new. 

Keep shooting, 

Sarg 

In the past, when I wanted to dump off some gear I would send it into Adorama, and they would offer me a lowball price, and being stupid I would accept it because at the time it was the only choice I had. 

Well here is your option. https://www.mpb.com/en-us/ .

They took pretty good care of me and based on my experience I would suggest you check them out if you have some gear you would like to get rid of. 

They also sell equipment too, so be sure to check out that section too.

Full disclosure, MPB has not paid me to endorse there site and this suggestions come strictly based from my personal experience doing business with them on multiple occasions now. 

I am often asked by people about the ability to purchase  prints from my site. Well It's coming. I will be putting some images up in a store on this site. We will see how that goes on a trial basis. I also am going to start taking more Landscape images because it's what I enjoy, and had to step away from doing those things for undisclosed reasons. 

Stay tuned, subscribe, because I am shifting some gears. Leave me your comments. I enjoy hearing what you have to say. 

Here is a couple of images that I will be putting on the for sale site. 

Images to be in the storefrontPrints Images to be in the storefrontPrints

Stay safe, stay healthy, and prosper. 

SARG

Lexi and her Puppy

That is all. 

Sarg

Those eyes oh man!!

SPIDER

People make choices, It's called life choices, and sometimes those choices are the knock on the front door of Karma. You Reap what you Sew. When Karma comes a knocking, BOHICA!!!!! For those who don't know what that means, "Bend Over Cause Here It Comes Again"

BE ready to embrace your own suck. Creating a composite out of your life, or doing the drama thing cause you mental. 

Light house_Reap what you Sew

Peace MOFO's 

One tree

Ever feel like you stand alone against approaching entities that perhaps wish to impose their way on an individual. Makes you think. 

MagicSome Magic Moments

ENJOY

LOST SOULSJust a random creation

Peace,

Sarg

Yeah  I know. Often is the case, we go off on the insanity of politics, and it is a simple sad reality that we live in a world full of uninformed, and to be strait forward about this idiotic, and just plain unrealistic human beings. OF coarse I make no claims to be so much smarter than any one else, but you can't deny the fact that the direction our country is heading is not good. 

With that out of the way you wanna talk photos, OK well here you go. This week I am going to do just that, and the image I am sharing today is just a look into the creative thought process which drives my fondness for the production of my images. SO let me start by saying this. In the photographic world, the natural process of photography and creating an image has changed a great deal just in the past two years. What people want now is composite imagery, and that want has made many photographers go all in on photoshop and learning how to create whimsical composite images. Myself, well as always I entered that arena late, and it's due to my real life obligations and simply not having the time to teach myself the skills required to create the composites. Don't misread that, just because I entered that game late does not mean I don't have the ability. That would be a false statement. Oh I can do them, and I can rock those with the best of them. The reason you don't see more of those from me posted on social media is for one reason. I am not going to give away my content to platforms such as face book and instagram. Mark Zuckerburg don't pay me for my work and unless I want to pay for reach to promote my business it does me no fucking benefit to give my content away. In short Fuck you Facebook. I have a website, and the website is something I pay for every year. It costs me real money, and what I have done is create content on my site, and I will share links to SM platforms so that traffic is driven to my site. Why you ask? Well here is the reason. My website gets a ton of traffic. With that being a fact, it ranks me pretty high on google and other search engines. As another matter of fact my ranking is higher than the more popular photographers in my market zone and that turns into business from my optimal clients. Everyone has a specialization, and I let my specialization be discovered from people looking for what I do. In summary I leave the everyday session stuff to photographers who enjoy that type of lifestyle. For me, I am old and salty, and if someone comes to me asking for imagery, it's because they have seen what I can do and they like what they see. For me that is the motivation that drives you to create something special for them. A fun fact. Since recovering from my surgical procedure, and getting back behind the camera, I am doing more and more word of mouth shoots for boudoir and those images most people will never see, because they are personal and of a private nature. Look at your own ladies guys. dont troll my site looking for sexy ass photos. LOL. Wanna know why I am getting word of mouth recommendation? Well it's because I am not the creepy photographer who gets off on seeing women in skimpy outfits. You have to say it, and I know it's not a topic that people want to talk about. Despite that, I know that there are several perv's who do it, for the very reasons I just mentioned. Trust, that what it takes, and you also have to put your client at ease upon initial conversation. If your client is nervous and you can't build that trust, well forget it. Hang the camera up. 
 

This week however we are not focusing on Boudoir, we are focusing on Baby pictures. Newborns to be specific. Not to be a wuss, but I have a big old spot in my heart for babies. I mean c'mon man, who does not love just creating something special for tow people who just created life. Not to mention that you get to hold a baby. That's precious stuff there, and being able to hold and interact with a newborn is just plain sweet. Same scenario, These images are on my site and links are shared. Hey Zuckerberg, EAD you nutbag, cause in my mind if facebook was gone tomorrow, the world would be a better place. Your a platform not a publisher and the censorship and bias is the reason why so many people are starting to open their eyes and see the bullshit associated with your platform. 

SO here we go. Ladies and Gents I give you Silas . SILAS-7

Little man was awesome and I want to thank his Mom, Dad, and Gramma, for letting me create this visual. 

You wanna hear more about this shoot well you can listen to my Podcast to get the full details of this post. In closing let state this. Yeah I know we rant a lot on politics on the program. Some would say i should keep my thoughts on the topic private because it will hurt your business. Some truth in that, but here's my take. You either love or hate my work, and my work is not a reflection of my opinions on politics. You can choose to go with another photographer just like I choose to have a different viewpoint on the political machine. Either way one thing I can say for certain, just like photography, you have to learn how to capture, edit and create images. Politics, you also have to educate yourself on the topics of concern. I happen to be one of those people who choose to educate themselves and base decisions on facts. IF you choose to listen to the mainstream and be what is know known as sheeple, that I feel pretty sorry for you. All media including social is pretty much agenda driven and not based on fact. Here's a fact. I am pretty good at this image stuff, and if I am not your cup of tea, than drink fucking kool-aid. I have no room for opinions based on anything other than fact. I am what I am, and you be what you be. 

Go ahead and have a listen. 

OUT 

SARG

It would appear the world as we know it, is about to fall into the crapper. One thing I can say with sincerity, I certainly appreciate the passion some people put forth in their political beliefs and can certainly understand why people feel the way they do about the outgoing president. However I also feel that so much of the passion placed in such beliefs are misplaced and here is why. 

There is a lot of people out there that do not remember the great days when politicians from both parties reached across the aisle and worked together to achieve wonderful things. During the Regan Era, following Jimmy Carter, this country was in rough shape. How many remember that. Although unpopular at the time, the Regan plan was to recover our economy and spark the job market and that is exactly what he did. In retrospect I see so many older people who greatly benefited by simple means of retirement savings and personal wealth all due to Regan's policies. Sadly so many do not seem to understand this. We also had major failures during that ere as well when it came to raising children and what is known as the breakdown of the family unit. As this trend continued and children were raised with out repercussions for their actions, you clearly saw an uptick in a lack of respect and bad choices by the youth of America. What we have now is a bunch of entitled misinformed people walking around thinking that everybody owes them a living. In addition people have no regards or worries when it comes to landing a job and working hard to keep that job. At the end of the day it all comes down to life choices and when this is pointed out, you are demonized for calling it what it is. 

With that said and in all honestly, I did not want to go all political in my post, but it leads into my current thought in regards to Social Media and the use of it to promote one's said business. My timeline goes like this. Election day, The upset. There is no way that this election was not stolen, and with any and all evidence being ignored to support this claim, one has to wonder if any of the rumors or theories being circulated are true. Of coarse I am going to be vague here, as I am not going to contribute to rumors. We shall soon see what the future holds for the USA. For years now we have seen The speaker and several other so called leaders suggesting civil unrest against the supporters of the president, not to mention the assault on law enforcement by the left. Now we are impeaching the president again because he is to blame for the "attack" on the capital. Really a double edge sword here considering. We have all watched the assault on the president over the last four years, and the same people who conducted these assaults are calling for healing. Then we have the actions of Facebook, Twitter, and Google, who have shut down the president on social media platforms. 

The explanation for this is, they state they do not want to promote civil unrest. Let's call this bullshit. I for one tweeted at Jack Dorsey (ceo of Twitter) and I let him know that his actions were a real dick move. In addition I also asked him to ban me. Of coarse, my account is still active. So in short here is how I am looking at all this. Censorship is a violation of the constitution and at last check, " THE PEOPLE" have a right to free speech. When you voice an opinion and that is removed because it violates community standards, it is in fact against the law.  Actions to follow. Over the last several months I have become less active on social media simply because Facebook is no longer the Facebook I joined years ago. As a person who has a business page, it has been noted that putting your work out there in the attempt at growing a business is no longer a great way to showcase your talents. In short it has become a pay to play type scenario. I am not saying that things go unnoticed but when you compare insights today to those of 6 years ago, you can clearly see that face book controls who sees your work. I also note that so many businesses are paying for page likes and what floors me with this, is these are all fake. I could go on and on regarding this and how crappy the entire social media world is but instead I am simply going to go at this on a different path. 

Moving forward, I will no longer post images to Facebook. Why would I give my work away for free. When I say this, I cant tell you how many times I get messages from friends, that notify me someone has one of my photos as their cover photo. Really shitty part of this is some of the people that do this is local. No credit to the photographer nor any connection as a client to my respective field whatsoever.  What I will do is blog and or post the images on my website and share the link to the post with anyone who cares to have a read. As time goes on, I plan on moving away from certain social media platforms, because I am tired of all the bullshit. Political and personal. 

In closing, I will state this. Some of you who know me are aware that I recently had a surgical procedure. I want to thank everyone who sent messages wishing me a speedy recovery. I also want to share this. One of the messages I received, I was a little perplexed over. The thought that my beliefs were a result of the pain I have lived with for years and or my disposition was directly related to this issue's I had struck me as assumable. 

I certainly hope people are paying attention. Life is going to get really interesting. May you stay safe in these unusual times. 

I leave you with a favorite. 

Wonders of the World.  SUPERMOON2016Two Wonders One Frame

Covid or Corona whichever you prefer, has destroyed the world, and they claim there's a cure. 

Business's close due to tyrants rules, politicians opinion the people are fools. 

If you look very close at all this is in play, the informed realize the lies that they say. 

An election was stolen and its a topic of debate, BLM, ANTIFA and a country of hate.

Biden will unite us or so you think, 50 years in politics and 50 years of stink.

Christmas has passed and 2021 on the horizon, 4 more years of nonbipartisan.

The snowflakes all claim this is the start of a solution, but one parties solution, is another's revolution.

The patriots of the world who stand strong and free, a message to the rest, DONT TREAD ON ME!

super moontree

A simple Super Moon rising. 

STAY STRONG. 

THIS TOO SHALL PASS

Sarg

With that being said, I will look forward to doing more and more of this, as I expand on the skill set in photoshop. 

The next stage will be to shoot some images for exclusive use in blend modes to create some images that I have had in my head. 

This one I will call the The King. As a fan of the whitetail-deer, I created this image based on some recent encounters with this elusive ghost of the woodlands. 

IF you have any thoughts, please leave me a comment and let me know your thoughts. 

THE KING

Stay safe, Stay strong, and be blessed. 

MS

What a jackwagon of a year! Honestly, that's barely describes just how screwed up everything has been.

Between covid and how this has all been used as a political agenda is a pretty strong testament at just how corrupt our so called leaders are. Now with a looming dumpster fire in Biden and Harris, I hope everyone starts paying fucking attention. There is no doubt that most people will not being doing better in 4 years. Also with an outspoken political agenda aimed at disarming the American people of their right to keep and bear arms, It's a pretty sure bet that when the corrupt start to enact their agenda, this will be the time you see people rise up and start to fight back. Perhaps I am wrong. 

SO a little update: Over the last year my back has just petered out and It was time to do something. The do something has been done, and so far so good. Although I never really told many about my issues, it was the reason for turning down so much work over the last year. Plus side, It gives me a little time to work on my Photoshop skills, and start to put out some of the composite work I do. 

HEre is a couple of samples.   Bigger goal with all this is to implement subjects with the creative composites. For those of you that have spoken to me about doing composites, I will begin producing images in January. 

Keep your eyes open for a post in January. 

That is all.

The Red Headed Woodpecker, What can I say they are the most elegant woodpeckers around,

I was lucky enough to have found these two mating pairs and they're home at lakeside beach state park. I enjoyed their presence and didn’t seem to mind that I was enjoying theirs while they were cleaning out their home, it was a sight to see and the knocking sound coming from inside the tree and sticking their heads out to disregard the shavings from with in it was just absolutely amazing. Woodpeckers are my favorite and I never thought I would ever see a Red-Headed Woodpecker let alone two! And they’re home. 

Hope you enjoy!

D. James Photography

This could become my new favorite thing,and on a record pace to learn some new software with the addition of some pretty cool strobes, Who knows what's next. 

Amanda (1 of 1)

Here is a little news for you. I have always been a guy who likes to practice a continuous learning mindset and all these years have gone by and I have not entered the photoshop world. Until now.

I could go into a long list of reasons why I never used photoshop but that could take hours. Instead I will tell you why I opted to go with the platform. Many of you may not be aware that I am now working with Canon and I have been accepted into a development program that enhances the careers of many talented photographers. In short I was considered to be talented enough to invest in. Doing my thing, my style, and going in my own direction, was the rteason I was accepted. A very good friend of mine who works at Canon, and is a spokesperson for the company advised me to go ahead and do the photoshop thing. With all that out now, I want to touch on the topic of wildlife photography. I see several photos on social media and here is the constant. The subjects are so far away that you literally can not see any detail or hardly can tell what the heck the subject is. In short, just stop. Take it from me, It does you no good to post stuff like this. Hit me up if you would like to discuss this topic. 

My opinion, if you are going to do this, incorporate some real outdoorsman skills and put those skills into practice. If you get really good at this you might just have an encounter like this.  Nice to meet you Fox favorites By far, my all time favorite wildlife image. 

Just saying. Be the wildlife. 15 yards and face to face. I can tell you what the Fox Says. 

Nice to meet you. 

Take care and Stay safe. 

Sarg 

Hope you are doing well during these Covid Times. How are you dealing with the isolation? Despite the times, here is a little beauty in an otherwise messed up world.

Covid Times (1 of 1)

Stay safe and wash your hands. 

Sarg
 

Welcome to the world Alora. You will be loved, and i'm betting spoiled, 0)

alora vid Thanks for sticking around, 

Sarg

I guess maybe someday I will become a professional photographer. 

Welcome to the world Alora Rose. Alora Rose What a Sweetie Thanks all for the read. 

Later, 

Sarg

Until next time, 

SArg

More to come with this story.  

The Waiting Mommy to Be

Thanks for checking it out. 

Sarg 

Enjoy.  shortie (1 of 1) Sarg

One hour later I was listening to the distinctive call of one of the most unique woodpeckers I have had the chance to photograph. 

What more can I say. I was a fan. IF you ever have a chance to observe these incredible woodpeckers, have a seat and enjoy the antics. 

PileatedThe not so Elusive Pileated

THanks for reading, 

Sarg

Coming in HotGoose in flight

Miss you. 

Screwed it aint fun, and it's my own fault.

I give you the latest edition to our clan. Bella.  bella boo (1 of 3) bella boo (2 of 3) bella boo (3 of 3) Honestly people. If you share my love for this beautiful breed, or any pet, don't forget to capture some portraits. Time flies and before you know it, they go home. That's when you will wish you had those memories that last forever. 

Call me to set up your shoot. 

Medina, NYHistoric Village of Medina

In short, several things to consider, Copyright laws and the theft of intellectual property is the future of things and although some may feel I am being a jerk about this, in my defense, I can tell you that when you work your ass off for peanuts for a town, that has never really supported my business it kind of puts you in a sour mood. What even amazes me more is the fact that I am the sucker that gave this event my all, when other photographers who were supported deserted this event and community. Sure, I will be the jerk. 

Yeah it hurts, but yet again the old saying "Once Bitten Twice Shy"

August, September is closer that you think. 

SAD 

Now I'm Done. 

Sarg 

Hope you enjoy, D. James Photography

About the shot My Hometown, Middleport New York. When we were young, we sat on this bell for hours. 

See Ya 

The Santa ClauseNaughty or Nice

I have watched other visual artists copy this style and as the old saying goes, often imitated, never duplicated. 

To prove this I am giving everyone a huge 20% off my normal session fee to prove that I am the guy to capture the spirit of everything you worked for. 

I also am going to throw in a print of your choosing up to 20x30  to sweeten the deal. 

Whether it's an athletic portrait or something you are passionate about contact me today and lets 

Show the World just who the Hell You Are!

In my latest adventure I give some takes on some pretty big deals.

Um yeah.

Sarg

KAP NIKE IDIOTS

Some of us that have been doing this gig for years and have our own styles and genres of shooting, like to refer to this type of person as, "photography guy" or girl. Just a couple of funny things with photo guy that I will lay out. 

1. Photo guy is always ready to hate on another photographers work.

2. Photo guy is always a guy who's images are the most iconic images ever shot. Allegedly!!!!

3. Photo guy is a complete authority on camera settings as well as knows everything about lighting, and techniques.

4. Every photographer who has success as a photographer at one point was photo guy. 

5. Every photographer who was photo guy and has had success  has learned that being photo guy is a bad look.

6. Photo guy's images always suck.

7. Photo guy will cut up your work, and then ask you what setting you use when you take your shots, so they can try and copy your look. 

8. Photo guy, will troll social media for hours looking for images to rip on instead of learning to be a better photographer.

9. Photo guy  does not understand they are obnoxiously oblivious .

10. Photo guy can not be spoken with about this. He feels his work is his own style and it is unique to the industry. Photo guy is waiting to be discovered, so he can show the world just how talented he is. 

To put a summary on Photo guy, the short of all this is simply, photo guy just sucks. He or she has embraced their own suck, and deep down they know they suck, but won't admit they suck, nor will they do anything to stop the suck. They in fact want to spread the suck, and hating on better photographers work is just a small part of spreading their own suck.  In the end,  Photo guy sends a clear message to everyone in a photo group that photo guy him or her self sucks and he or she is the Jar Jar Binks of the group and is only there for comedic relief .

Photo guy, KEEP ON SUCKING , cause you are awesome  and make my life so much better. 

Ok with that out of the way. The image I am putting up this week involves my sports portrait work, and honestly my favorite part of this whole shoot is the studio shots, and that is largely in part due to the lighting techniques. Here is why. Having the ability to bend and shape light to create a look that is flattering to the subject is a big old rush for me. Not for the work involved to do this, but the reaction I get from the subject. It's not the words they say, It is in fact the facial expressions, and that expression says it all . The spoken words after the expression are just a little bonus. SO here is my slice of humble pie. Recently I had a client that travel 4 state lines so I could do a sports portrait for them. At booking time I had no idea that this was the case, and when I found out, I was taken back. This all took place because this person asked a local photographer if they could do a shot like mine, which I am to understand the client was showing an image from my website. The local photographer stated they could try but that is a unique look and it might be difficult to reproduce. THis local then suggested that if they wanted a shot like that they should book with the guy that took that shot. THe client did, and my hat goes off to the local photographer, for suggesting the subject do so.  I spent 4 hours with this athlete and as a senior in college he told me, that he thinks he will make the NFL. I can only wish him success and told him if he does, please don't forget about the little people. We laughed and called it a wrap.

My shot this week is of Natalie. Natalie is an awesome model and her sport is body building. I think she is kicking that ass pretty hard. Go get it Natalie. All the best to you young lady. YOU WERE INCREDIBLE!!!!!

Hope you enjoyed Photo guy, No one so great has ever sucked so much. 

MIKE DROP.

SARG

I give you, 

CHECK POINT 3

CHECK POINT 3Sunset on Lake Ontario

Let me know what you think.

Sarg

I know this sounds shitty and it makes me seem  like I am an arrogant prick, but the bottom line here is, I have decided I will not do the standard snapshot anymore. In fat fuck that. I am going to show all you what you have been missing in photography and it starts right here with some macro shots I did without a macro lens. Totally tubular man... Ok excuse the bad 80's pun. 

Here ya go.... Just wait till you see whats next. 

Lifes a beetchSargent is going ALPHA

Yard Macro-008

I would say sorry for the boldness but it would be a big old fat lie. I'm not sorry, and will no longer do the normal

OUT!!!!!

Sarg

I have rules I follow, I call them " Rules of Sarg" .  They mean nothing to nobody but me. Once in a while you will see me post a rule of Sarg. Most do not understand them and I explain if asked. 

Closing this opening, Pain seems like a pretty fucked up reason for motivation doesn't it ? I suppose, but I never asked anyone to understand it. I simply put it out here because the question existed as to what motivates me. I also will give credit to my wife. Oh yeah we battled, and battled hard.  I would like to consider myself what is known as a good man. Opinions vary. I also think about the old saying, behind every good man is a good women, but I find fault in that, cause in reality, I prefer her right by my side. SO there is my mushy moment. Piss off if you can't handle that. 

So from a fat old balding man with a shitty back and a nasty intolerance for bullshit and disrespect I give you my image for this post. 

Drunk at HeartLight modifications   Yes ladies and gentlemen, this image is brought to you in part by, Pain, death, disrespect, lack of belief, stupidity, and an overall disregard for one mans view on what is right and what is wrong.

At the end of it all if this crap makes me sound like a whacko, so be it. What I do know, is opinions will vary and in my opinion this is a pretty damn good frame. 

You all come back now ya hear.

PEACE,

Sarg 

For those of you that were aware of my Ugly project and supported it I thank you, and you will see at the end of this post a very rough draft of the opening tittle segment. To add to this project, there are several outside agencies as well as people who are involved with this and they are all contributing in some manor. 

In closing, I want to thank everyone who is involved and supported this  initiative. Those of you who turned a blind eye, well let me just hope that you never have to experience what so many parents have had to deal with over the last several years. 

Sad to learn that people only start to care after they have been impacted.

Stay blessed and blind to the truth.

SARG

THE UGLY TRAILER  

Sarg.

THE UGLY TRAILER

Two new bodies in place and holy crap are they tack sharp. I also updated my little play time video.. SO I guess it's true. I am nuts.

Enjoy and by all means tell me how nuts I am.

A Week in the LifeAdventures

Despite the weather, I am a man on a mission. Lots of bookings, lots of engagements, and of coarse, a whole bunch of logistics.

Anyway, feeling kind of sureal, as I look back on everything last year, it had me thinking. I certainly had no lack of interaction with people. What I mean by that is experiencing transformations. The correct use of written words escape me, but the best way I can communicate my thought here is to simply say, it is a powerful thing watching a person transform in front of my lens. I am always moved when I get the response of "I can't belive thays me". The smile and behavior of an individual who goes from the deer in the headlight look, to one of self confidence and just plain rocking themselves is pretty cool in my book. 

Anyway, It kind of inspired me to do a short quick video. As words escape me, I'm thinking the feeling is a little something just like this.

Sarg.

project1_2018_04_15_2

Our son Wade was lost due to the drug epidemic that has taken so many lives and continues to do so.

Long before Wade was born, My wife and I had been trying for a child, but for whatever the reason we were not having much success. We had given up.  It was shortly after we were blessed with the news that we going to have a son. My wife could not wait for the day he would arrive, and during Wades Birth, I watched my wife do one of the hardest things I think a women can do, and she did it with her heart and soul.  I will never forget that moment when Dr. Green took our son and placed him on my wife's belly. I watched a women transform. It was like a light had shined down on the two of them. It was magical and I have no words to really explain it, but I can tell you it was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. I witnessed that three times in my life and felt blessed each time.  My wife, was now a mother and I a father, and I have to say this, My wife was incredible. She gave up so much to be a mother and the love she had for my Son and Daughter's was inspiring. It was the inspiration I needed that allowed me to provide for my family. It was hard and it was worth every sacrifice we made. Wade and his mother had a very special bond. I remember one day, I was at home with him and Michele went to the store. It was Wades birthday, and we were having a party for him. The poor little guy was not feeling well, and he was sitting in his high chair. I tried to comfort him but I was not doing a good job. As soon as his mother walked in his eyes lite up, and when they made eye contact, I saw the biggest smile on a kids face I had ever seen. Wade adored his Mother. 

As Wade grew, I watched him change. He was a tough kid. Very Spirited, and at times he was very determined, but always full of good intentions. He so loved the outdoors, I was proud of that. He spent countless hours with his Grandparents along the Erie Canal competing in the fishing derbies, and one of his favorite fish to catch was Carp. He had one year that he won a ton of fishing equipment, and several trophies. That time with his grandparents was wonderful for him.  He also loved to camp. He spent every summer with his Grandfather and cousin just enjoying the outdoors and all the people that were associated with these adventures. His grandmothers always had stories about the things he would do, and often would remark about things little boys do that grandmothers did not always care for. He was all boy and I enjoyed hearing these complaints, and often times would simply laugh with a proud thought in my head.  Being a kid who loved the outdoors, I nourished that, and his grandfathers, uncles, and I taught him everything we could about hunting. When he took his first deer, I was so very proud of him. I hugged him, kissed his forehead, and told him how much I loved him. Wade was an amazing shot with a bow. He would show us up every time we would set up a target, and loved to let us know he was the man. No argument. 

In school Wade had many friends, he was very social, and I have learned about what a caring kid he had become. He was compassionate and very protective of things he loved. I know school was not easy for him, but he did graduate, and had decided to work.

This is were things became unclear for Wade. He finished high school working at the local fast food joints, but after graduation, he went to work at a local factory. One of his coworkers introduced him to the world of drugs, and with peer pressure, he began to experiment. Now I can say so much about this topic, but the one thing I will note. It is a well know fact that this facility is a hive for drugs, and it is my opinion that this needs to be a looked at. As a father I can tell you, that a few of these scumbags came across my path, and let's just say, they will have the scars from my meeting with them. I am a big believer in Karma, and people who are blessed to be in positions where they can make a difference need to.

Wade became more and more independent, and refused to allow anyone to help him unless it was his way. As parents we continued to help him as much as we could. When we learned of his problems, we did everything we could to try and get him the help he needed. We were no longer dealing with our son. We were dealing with a demon, known as addiction. He did things that were not who my son was and it was very difficult for all of us to come to terms with that.  I know many have experienced what we did, and the only words I can find to help come to terms with this, is our child is no longer suffering.

As a parent you can mark my words. All of us who have lost a child know that there is no greater hurt that having to bury a child. We live in a time in which things are so completely turned upside down. I am not going blame specific individuals or political affiliations, however I will call upon our leaders and those in position to start thinking about people and the struggles families face. I have watched things go right into the toilet and the wonderful part is we can do something about this. The need for jobs in this country is great. Not just Jobs but jobs that pay people a decent livable wage. In our little town I am seeing growth, but that growth is not what I would call a future for our children. Understand, just because a business opens, does not mean it is good for the people who work for said business. People and cultures will never change unless they have the means. Those means are not there. We also have people in leadership roles who have no idea what is best for our world. These people need to be removed from power. Personal agenda's play no role in our day to day lives and we are not here to serve your agenda's.  The next thing is education. We all know what happens when our children give in to peer pressure. I am or the opinion that we are not doing enough to teach our children the dangers of drugs. We have always had a problem with drugs, but not like this. Many of you are aware of what has happened in the last several days since the death of my son. I ask how many lives must be lost before real action is taking place. That is no longer on leadership, that is on us as a community. We can not tolerate this any longer. I want to let everyone know, that these treatment programs that are being pushed are a fucking joke. They hand out what is know as subs to these children in the false hopes it will get them through. Law enforcement uses these kids as rats to provide them with information so they can make busts on low level drug dealers with the hopes that maybe they will get lucky and obtain leads on the people who introduce them into our culture. I am sorry but this is not helping our kids on the scale that needs to be accomplished. I will simply say to everyone in law enforcement. DO YOUR FUCKING JOBS!. I know the people I have been in contact with are doing everything in their power to change things. However they can't do this alone. They need our help. I would ask people to say something if they see it. Be more mindful of who your kids are hanging out with and understand that if these actions save just one child, it will be worth it. 

Nothing will bring back my son and as My family grieves, I would not wish this on anyone.  For you kids, that may be reading this, let me tell you, we as parents love you. We all try to do our best to give you things that you need. Most of what we give is our love, because that is the greatest gift we can give to you as parents. The playstations, the x-boxes the I-pods will all one day be worthless. Our love for you lasts a lifetime. The most hurtful thing you can do is walk down a path of self destruction that leads you to a destination, in which your parents have to say goodbye forever. We have to carry on with that love we have given to you. There is no greater hurt than a parent who has to say good bye to our child. I will never forget that moment when I had to walk into a hospital emergency room and see my son's lifeless body laying on a bed. Watching his mother and loved ones destroyed but what has happened. I felt like a piece of my soul just died, and the only thing I could do was run my fingers through his hair, take his hand, place a soft kiss on his forehead, tell him that I loved him and always will, and then say goodbye. That my young friend is what this road you choose leads to.

Stay away from this shit. If you are approached by a schoolmate, a coworker, a group of friends, do not give in to this peer pressure. Find new friends, tell someone what happened. You do not have to deal with this on your own.  If you tell a parent and they do nothing tell someone else. Do not stop trying. Parents if your children come to you listen. All roads once they become addicts will lead to you having to do what we and so many others have done. It is about time we start giving a fuck and taking action. 

Wade, I love you, and I know you did not always see that. I wanted so much more for you that what you choose to accept. I know you walked your path, and did not understand the decisions your Mother and I made.  I hope now under Gods watch and with all your relatives around you that have left before us, you understand how much and how deep our love was for you. You blessed our lives for twenty two years. Thank you 

Something was said to me by a close family member that helped me a great deal during all this. He stated, GOD PICKS HIS FLOWERS BEFORE HE PLANTS THEM.

BLOOM MY SON! You will always be loved.

" The Deer Hunter's Prayer " 

Heavenly father, to you I pray,

A majestic deer may come my way.

Let my aim be straight and true,

this my Lord, I pray to you.

A swift clean kill is what I ask,

Take his spirit swift and fast.

For his last breath should not be,

One of pain or agony.

Let his soul,

Come to Thee,

To roam your heavens,

Wild and free.

I also recently learned that Robert Ortt is taking action on this major issue and I cant thank him enough for taking the lead. You can read the story here. 

Goodbye my son. Your family will always love you

I am sharing with you today the newest creation, well sort of, from my twisted mind and it is a promo vid for the Big Picture. THis Podcast airs on Tuesdays nights at 8pm and is heard on All WNY news and Radio. 

It's real, sometimes it's raw, and you can bet your ass it's a ton of fun for me to do. Now only if I spoke better.

Here is the Video. Thought and comments are welcome. Oh yeah I do Guests on the show sometimes too. Contact us if you would like to be part of the program. The audio will be opening this week on the big pic.

That's all I got................ FOR NOW!

BLESSED.

SARG

In short, I realized that although yes my time is limited, I will use any available time to educate myself on some new tricks.  After doing all this I realized for me, this has always been the way. So in recent weeks these new tricks are all self taught, and when I think about how I got there, well let's just say once i get pissed off, blown off, or just need to do it bad enough, I will always find a way. 

I'm new to graphic arts, and design, but this is my first go at it. I'm happy and I will go with. WHAT'S NEXT????

Have a gander, and please share your thoughts. 

Michael Sargent PhotographyLogo and Watermark

In short and summary, I will offer a tidbit from the demented mind of Michael Sargent AKA: Me 

Always learn, keep your options open, and figure it out. You will be satisfied with your results despite the fact you hate the path to get there.

DONE!!!!!

SARG

THE STEW!!!

SO after a few weeks of catching up on edits and stewing over this, I took a little time and said, screw him. I will create my own overlays and in time I will blow his away. That's the competitive side of me talking now, and lets face it, I don't quite until mission complete. 

This shot is out of the gate and it is a start to where I plan on taking the sports interests genre. 

JALINThe Sargent Sports Overlay With all this said, let me offer some advice to other photographers. As of late I have seen a lot of ass kissing going on, and here's the thing. DO you think that by saying nice things about photographers who have made a big name for themselves is going to help you in your career at all?  Trust me it's not. The only thing that's gonna happen here is you will expose yourself as a big old butt-kisser. Unless you are going to work for that photographer as an assistant, trust me, ass kissing isn't going to do a damn but of good. What will do you good, is to simply run your imagry on your own merit until you break the barrier and create something they find interesting. If you can do that , and you play your cards right, you might just make a name for yourself. Me, well let's just say I am content in my own skin, and although I thought about taking a shortcut here, the end result is my clipping overlays are on their way. I am saving the created files and maybe, just maybe I will offer them as a product just like the dickhead who blew me off. The only difference here is I would have the decency to say yes or no if I am ask for a sample. 

DON'T LEAVE ME HANGING!!!

Oh yeah I will discuss more of this topic on my Podcast which can be heard Tues nights at 8pm on ALLWNYNews and radio. 

Go check it out and get the mobile app so you can listen on your smart phone. Hers is the app.

OUT!!!

SARG

Ladies and Gents, JALIN COOPER!!!! I want to just say it, this kid is awesome. I invited him in and we talked. Despite his talents and his success, he was the most humble person I think I have ever met. Following his game play, of a touchdown and an interception I was inspired to do a little creative editing on this image.. 

JALIN, believe in yourself, stay humble, and keep working. You will make it. Here's my crazy.... A HIGHER POWER HAS TOLD ME SO!. NFL BOUND!

Ladies and gents JALIN

JALIN COOPER Medina Mustang's Jalin Cooper

Something else I have said for years, everyone is beautiful. All to often you hear, well I don't look good in pictures, or did I break your camera?

Look people, it's real simple. It's not you.. It's the photographer, and all to often a photographer will not take the time to get you where you need to be, so the end result is a frame that makes you change your position on your so called, I don't look good in images take. 

In the case of Hannah, I did not have to do much work to get her comfortable in front of the lens. She simply came in and had fun.

So far this one has turned out to be my favorite..

She Rocked the shutter. Nice Job Young Lady. STAY AWESOME!!!!!

I give you Hannah.

HANNAHHANNAH

OUT,

Sarg

I could say I found a way to be more productive but that would be a lie. A way found me. Enter  Scared 2 Death. I was contacted by the brains of this program, and lets just say I bought in. My message was best served telling others with problems, like my son, the reality of what the future could hold for them and what the effects of these actions have done to the people who loved them most. 

So without a bunch of useless words from a talking head, here is the story on the Scared 2 Death project.

SUNFLOWER FIELDS-4

Thanks all for the read. 

BE BLESSED

SARG

Pretty cool I guess, considering we don't see this too often in our neck of the wood. Oh sure you could drive towards Rochester or perhaps along rt.17 towards Binghamton. I know there are massive fields of sunflowers in those areas. Question here, is it really worth the drive to see sunflowers. All depends on who you ask. In reflection, yeah it is kind of nice to see them, they are pretty cool. Big thanks go out to the people who planted a whole field of them. I should have grabbed the name, but I did not. Yes that makes me a bag. Pressing on.

So here is where it gets a little weird for me. I think every damn person in the world has seen a sunflower, and if you have a bird feeder, it is likely that you have had them come up in your yard. On the Photo side. Everyone and I mean everyone is out there with their fucking I phones and digital cameras snapping away. Yeah I did it too, however I think a lot of people missed the "BIG PICTURE" here. So as everyone was taking selfies, and individual shots of specific sunflowers, I was like, holy shit are you kidding me. We have a huge ass field of sunflowers here that a very generous farming family has provided for the public's viewing pleasure, and the majority of imagery being taking of this gift is fucking selfies. Please! Now the few decent ones I have seen were not really decent because of composition it was largely in part to some really good equipment being wasted on people who have no fucking idea to to use that camera. Not to mention the only decent portrait I saw taken with a sunflower was by a friend in photography that I have never met, but he seems cool. 

Nice Job! You know who you are... I would mention your name but I didn't ask if you even wanted a shout out. So with all this sunflower fuckery about, I took my big carcass out to Sanborn and gave it a shot. However instead of doing a selfie I did a wide angle panoramic. Sticking to the rule less is more, I suspected that this would show things in a different light. Hell maybe even almost EPIC! What was even more noteworthy on this day was the cloud cover. Maybe no one noticed but it was raining like a bitch earlier today and when things started to clear it was a good time to be next to a sunflower field. THat is exactly where I was. So without going on and on here is my shot. 

SUNFLOWERS and the PASSING STORMSanborn, Ny

I will tell you another cool story about today. These 2 wonderful ladies asked me if I would be willing to take their photo. I said sure. I think I caught them off guard when I dropped to the ground and shot up on them. However at first I used their camera, and the shot was not all that great. I then used my rig and BOOM! We had a frame. I told the ladies how to find me and I would have their image on my site here. They must have liked it cause sure enough they bought some prints. YEP!!! Good day and another encounter with some wonderful people who was simply enjoying the kindness of some local WNY farmers. 

THANK YOU!!!!!

This Print will be available for sale on my website along with some variations and different looks. Hope you enjoy. 

SARG!

Summary, Fire is lite and Ethan NAILED IT!!!!
PAGE-3 PAGE-9 PAGE-7 PAGE-6THE ICEMAN COMETH

We also tried to get him help with inpatient treatment, but we were told the situation was not severe enough to justify that action. The system is a joke, and some of the stuff I have seen regarding treatment is really flawed. As I stated earlier, these treatment facilities hand out suboxone like candy. All I can say regarding this, is WTF. Whoever came up with that idea, and those that supported it are in need of a reality check.

Since all this, and my original posting, I need to say I was overwhelmed with all the support and outreach, by friends, family, and yes, people we have never meet. The cards, letters, phone calls, social media outreach, and the prayers were inspirational. So many of you touched our hearts and we would not have made it through all this without the support. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank everyone for your outreach.  God Bless!

Some of you know that WGRZ contacted me and wanted me to do a interview. It was considered, but declined, as some of you know me and know that I would not hold back. In short my thoughts would not change anything. What I do know, is in less than 24 hours, almost seventeen thousand people read my post, and the awareness created by that was touching. As I stated, the outreach was incredible, and the suggestions to help raise awareness were amazing. It was recently suggested that I start a go fund me page to help raise funds to fight the epidemic as well as use my photography to support that cause. It is being considered. One of the options suggested was to show the ugly side of this but, I think anyone who has lost someone understands the aftermath. Does anyone remember the Smoking is very Glamorous posters that used to be all around?  Not important, what is relevant however is the aftermath. Kids do not realize, what they leave behind. Families are heartbroken after something like this, and they have to go on. This addiction is a selfish son of a bitch, and once it gets hold of a person, you are no longer reasoning with your child, but a demon that has taken over your child. I also want to state that some people are calling this a disease. Seriously, it is not. Perhaps it can be argued that a mental condition could cause a person to inject this crap into ones self, but knowing this crap can kill you, well that is not a disease. My opinion, if you want to refer to it as a disease, well it is a self inflicted disease then, and you have to ask why would one do that. It takes you back to the previous, which would be a mental condition. The use of these drugs lead to disease, however once again they are self inflicted.

With that opinion out there, a respected friend suggested that perhaps I should reach out to addicts and recovering addicts and see if they would want to share their story to help raise awareness of just how bad this stuff is. I will leave it like this, If someone does want to talk about their problem and share their story I would be willing to film and photograph. I am not a filmmaker but I do have some skills and some friends that would be willing to produce the content.

Once again, thanks to everyone who offered their support during our loss. We were touched by these actions and it made me realize how wonderful our community really is.

Thank you all and God Bless.

The Sargent Family.

BE LEGENDARY Je'ne-5224

I give you JE'NE and her mom Jonna.  

BE LEGENDARY Je'ne-5249Je'ne and Jonna Thank you ladies, for allowing me the chance to capture this moment... GOD BLESS!!

THAT'S A WRAP!!!

Mike

Today we started the project, "The Assassination of Betty Rage".

Betty Rage was a pinup model inspired by Betty Page. The difference between Page and Rage was simple. Rage was a reflection of emotion. She held nothing back, and you always knew just what she was thinking. The downside of Rage was she was a soul sucker, and she failed to portray the person behind the persona. Besides that she was a bitch.  The time had come to remove Betty Rage, not only remove, but assassinate that bitch.

That is exactly what we did. Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Carolyn Elizabeth. 

Carolyn is an aspiring model, who has an edgy side. Having photographed her on several occasions, I have learned on thing. You can tell her the look you need, and she always delivers. This black and white image is an example of her ability to portray a look.  Carolyn Elizabeth Tell me what you see. I could make this easy, but for the fun of it. I want you to look at the image and tell me what you see.  

Carolyn is available for modeling jobs,and she can be contacted through our website by emailing [email protected] .

Here is the link to the gallery. 

For now, that's a wrap.

SHAZAM!!!!!

Sarg

I am sure that a photographer can transition to a role of filmmaker and vice versa, but It is my opinion that this creates a water downed version of the selected craft.

In closing. Employers need to understand the difference. CEO's and hiring managers have much better things to do than worry about this. However, I think the crafts need to be defined so, when an employer is looking for a video guy, he is getting a video guy. When he needs a photographer, he gets a photographer. 

Two different skill sets, and two different personalities. 

Any thoughts on this ?

All for now. 

Mike

michaelsargentphotography

Now here is some food for thought. In my life I have never seen things so crazy. In some ways it is refreshing to me, considering I have not been a big fan of the events taken place over the last 8 years. However this post is not about politics. It is about people. What amazes me, is those of us who are brought up with certain values, one day enter the daily grind and we do what we can to carve out a little piece of happiness for ourselves and our loved ones.  For whatever reason some people don't fair well in this quest. It is sad and I wish things were different, however I cant control peoples destiny and for that matter I would not want to. Something I do know, people often times cherish what they have and will fight to hold on to it. Rightly so. When I first saw this, I said to myself no big deal. I saw a lot of this in the South and perhaps I am a little insensitive, but thinking about this, I thought, WOW!! You never see this kind of stuff up here.  With all that said it had me thinking. I wondered about the story behind this sign. Many years ago I met the man that used to reside in the worn down house that sits on this property. Now I can not be sure if it is the same gentleman, but assuming it is, I can tell you he was a decent guy, nice to speak with. My guess is his home had become uninhabitable. I think that's safe considering the condition. Your first question would be, well why didn't he keep it in better order. My answer would be the struggle is real. Hey cupcake, not everyone has a great job and most people struggle just to survive. Take a trip to a third world country and this is how a lot of people live. So this little shed is now a home, and just my opinion here, but my bet this is all this man has. Taking this into consideration can you understand why he would protect it. Not everyone is born with a silver spoon in their mouth, and many people have to rise up to carve a bologna sandwich out of the ass of of life. I myself have had struggles and have went without and I completely understand the thought process behind this warning.

I saw a recent post on social media where the police where dispatched to a situation similar to this to determine if there was a danger.  It is not for me to say if this was right or wrong but I will say this. This may be all this man has and he is willing to shoot you if you trespass on his property. So if there is a danger at all, it will because some dumb ass did not heed the warning.  With that being offered let me say this. I am sitting back watching people cry and whine and throw temper tantrums because a man who became a man for the people rose up and said enough and as crazy as it sounds the people agreed with him. I expect great things in the coming years, and hope that one day we will unite as a people and do whats right for each other. Remember this, We the people are not here to be servants of the government. The government is here to serve the people.

You love what you own and you work for what you have. No man or no entity has the right to take that away from you and that includes your rights that are protected by the constitution.

God Bless.

Ladies and Gentlemen

THAT IS A WRAP!!!

Profound isn't it. Well most truths are and sometimes it stings a little. Many of us go forth and capture great epic images and we proceed to share them in the hopes of being discovered. Well that isn't likely. I for one share images like most, and I enjoy the reaction especially when a photo hits home with residents of a community. For the most part I do a lot of sharing on facebook as well as Instagram. Yes these are ways to put your work forward, but if you look at the return as it relates to new business, I think it can be agreed with that the return on investment for posting a photo is not a worthy investment. Photographers including myself however will continue to do so. Now let's talk about boosting images and or paying for reach. It can be a solid marketing idea if you are looking for reach, but in the end reach has to evolve to new business. For the most part, a new client will stay with one photographer especially if the experience's are positive. It can be stated that clients are loyal, and will return to said photographer every time they have a need for photographic services. So the question here is why? Do you think it is because you produced outstanding images? Perhaps. I however think it has a lot more to do with the person behind the camera. After all these years, and all the training and learning of new innovative styles of image capture not to mention learning how to edit an image none of this matters. What matters is the experience and the personality of a photographer. I can tell you first hand that as a user of social media, (mainly facebook) I get to see just how many photographers exist in a demographic region, and it is amazing to me how many people are offering services. Now out of all these people who take images it can be stated with out any hesitation that maybe five percent of them know their way around a camera. However if they have a crappy personality it wouldn't matter if they are Ansel Fricking Adams, they are not going to get the job.

What's funny to me is I see imagery from said photographers and if it is a good photo it's because of editing. Not to many have the ability to capture a great image in the camera. It has become a lost art. With that being said, photographers still get work and it is due to personality. The sad part is personality may get you the gig, but if you can't capture a decent image in camera and your talent is in editing, you are screwing your clients big time. Having cut my teeth in film photography, I understand that you have to get it right. Film gave you one shot, and if you did not get it right, you blew it.

Digital however, changed that, and the evolution of the raw file and editing software was key in opening up the market, and allowing so many people to offer services. It could be debated if this is a good thing or not, but I know this, if you want to test a photographers skills ask them to take a photo and not edit it. You can then clearly see the skill set as they have to rely on their knowledge of just what all those settings and controls are. I often times like to show clients the image I captured in camera, and I am always jacked when I see the reaction. So I can say without any doubt that if there was ever a test of skills which involved a simple image capture and those images were judged, I would bury the me too crowd. In fact I have thought about trying to put something like this together just to prove a point.  The reality is NONE OF THIS MATTERS!!!!

If you are a person with a crappy personality, and you take great images, sell your camera, cause you are not gonna thrive 

If you have a great way with people and your images suck, sell your camera, you are not gonna make it.

If you have a great way with people and you can take a picture well you might be a photographer.

Last big point, If you have to beg for work, you may need to look at everything. I often times see photographers responding themselves to requests or recommendations for photographers, and if you really think about it, its kind of a bad look. It shows desperation or at least in my opinion it does.

My name is mentioned a lot in social media groups, when a person is looking for a photographer in these groups. I do get a notification when my name is mentioned however I do not post a link to my page. I sometimes will send a private message if I feel I can be of service to someone, but for the most part I prefer that people contact me and allow me to opportunity to earn their business. Another practice I avoid is commenting to a potential client about other photographers. Here is the reason and this all comes from past experiences. My name was mentioned right away, as a member of this social group had asked for photographer recommendations. The recommendation came from a past client that I have done several jobs for, and I thanked them for the recommendation. Just by doing that, I was notified by facebook every time a new post was placed in regards to this job. One camera owner had the nerve to state that I did not do this type of imagery. That is when I decided it was time for a clarification. This individual in fact I did know , not well, but I was asked for some help as they were new to photography. I did offer suggestions and it was admitted that they had no idea how to operate a camera and shot everything in full auto. My suggestion was they better learn to use the creative or controlled modes,  as full auto is simply not an option for a person who is advertising themselves as a pro. So when I saw the remark regarding what I do as a photographer, I was a little angry. I did make a statement about that, and I asked publicly if this person had ever learn to shoot out of the full auto mode. I was told to mind my own business. My final response was, "that is exactly what I was doing" . The client seeking did end up contacting me, and I provided them with an experience that they were quite happy with. They also loved the images. 

In summary,

we all know that sometimes no matter what people will have personality conflicts, it is how you act towards these conflicts that will define who you are as a photographer. A person may not like you and that is ok. It is all about fit and as time has taught me, I as a photographer have to be as selective about my clients as they are towards their choices for a photographer. In the end, one thing is for sure, if a client and you are a fit, always give them your best. This will lead to word of mouth advertising and it is by far the best. It is also how this mess became a lesson and a rule of operation for my conduct.

THE WINTER BLAHS are here, but some great frames are around if look closely.

UNTIL NEXT TIME.

That's a wrap!!!

Sarg

First thought. Have you ever noticed that when you ask a photographer what it is they do, they simply tell you, I am a photographer? Then as you continue to speak to said photographer you will hear all about how passionate they are about photography.  I even see this in people's Bios on some pretty shitty websites. Now my site may not be great but it communicates, and that is the goal. However to get to my point, I just about have come to a point in which I would like to slap the back of people's heads every time I hear "I am a passionate photographer" .  Now this is simply a personal take but I get it. Yeah you enjoy photography, but stating you are passionate about it? This trend started about 10 years ago and marketing experts suggested to anyone who would listen, you have to define yourself and state what your passion is. So without really putting thought into this, many photographers just simply went with this suggestion, and you see it all over the internet. I am sorry, but this is such a load of hogwash. Once again my opinion, but I have also been more of a visual guy vs. the spoken word. Yes, it is action that speaks louder that words, and let me go on record here. Stating you are a passionate photographer and then producing images that suck is not a very good indicator of passion or a skill set. I also see all this let me help you create a profit from your passion. Trust me, the only ones that profit in that industry is the ones who are trying to sell you an ideology of how to operate a photography business. There are practices, but the thought that saturated markets can be stood out in is possible, but in the end, running a successful business as a photographer is going to come down to two things. 1. The quality of your work. 2. Your personality.  On a local platform I have a friend in this business and the talent  is incredible. We share a common interest and it is nice to know that backs are covered.  However both of us have had to deal with the passionate photographer and let me define that passion. Ok the work is standard at best, but the practice and the personality is what I just flushed. Look you cant bully people into accepting your services. Stating that this person sucks or this person is a jerk is a bad look. On top of that, attacks on social pages is just a low blow, and it kind of defines who the hell you really are. I have had to deal with that, and believe me, I am not one to take crap from a person that I would consider to be a me too type of person.  Then of coarse we have the friends and family. Oh that guy just retorted, so lets leave crappy reviews and hurt this persons business. You know what? I am so over that. That is our standard everyday Passionate Photographer.  SLAP RIGHT ON THE BACK OF THE HEAD! 

Look sometimes you nail the shoot and sometimes you produce nice images. Once in a while you blow it. I know one thing, this art is a journey and every time you press the shutter, you need to learn something. Photography is truly an exploration of light, and what excites me is the next adventure. 

So with my opinion in place here and knowing this is like two minutes of your life that you will never get back, if you read it, I wanna show you how I define passion. 

This is the super moon of 2016. I read all the hype and news stories leading up to the event, but over the years I have been displeased with super moons of the past. However I read one story that stated we would not see a moon this big again for several years. I was hooked.  When the moon came up, it was like a 50/50 shot. Lots of clouds and as I stood out there with hope freezing my ass off, The moon peaked, over the horizon. As I watched the whole thing fell apart as the clouds just swallowed the view. Trust me, some real colorful metaphors came into play. However the event wasn't just isolated to the evening hours. I knew I may get a second change in the early am. Up early and out the door, I did what came natural to me. Set up watch, wait do my research and at one moment, I set off the exposure. One shot. 

SUPERMOON2016Two World Wonders Meet

After post process, it hit me. I said to myself, " Mike you big dummy, you just shoot the meeting of two wonders of the world." Niagara Falls, New York, just meet the Super moon of 2016. Once again and in closing, we can all say how passionate we are about something, but saying it, and showing it are two different things. I prefer to be passionate about my wife and children and see photography for what it is. Moments captured forever in the ultimate exploration of light.

Shutter bang. THAT'S A WRAP.

Sarg.

Please leave your thoughts and comments on this post. I do read them, and like to hear the various opinions on the topics I write about.

Oh for the record, I know I am a jerk, that comment is stating only the obvious.

The time has come for me to a do a little self promotion and offer up what has been by far my most popular image campaign since I returned to the portrait studio.

So let me break this down. I was in the studio one day and just finished doing some head shots. I received a phone call. The caller asked me if I could do a sports portrait. Now to be clear, I had to distinguish the difference between a sports action photo and a sports portrait. Let me explain, a sports action image is one that is more or less live action or simulated in studio on a backdrop. The Sports portrait however is just a little different. What I do is capture the emotion, love and or intensity for the sport as told by the subject. Now this does not only apply to sports. In addition it can be about anything an individual may be passionate about. 

The experts say that photographers develop styles or certain looks to their images, and if that is true, than perhaps I found a look. I say all this lightly simply because I don't think it is about a look or style, I like to think it is about the subject and what you as a photographer have to do to bring out the intensity or passion in your subject.  Oh for the record I hate that term. Passionate. For years now I have listened to people people say I am a passionate photographer. Oh yeah, well tell me just how passionate you are. Would you sit in cow crap for 10 hours to capture a rare albino housefly? Tell me what's passionate about that. 

Enough, of my passion rant, so here's a look at my Sports Portraits. 

0U8A2763 This is Eric. and it would not surprise me if one day you see him in the NFL. He is tough as nails, and he has a love for the game. I have had the pleasure of watching him play a few times, and he will knock you on your ass. Although we shot him in his basketball jersey, he loves football and if he can deal with the hell I put him though in the studio I can easy see him making it to the big show one day. 

This is Emily, and she was one of my all time favorite subjects. She came into the shoot and was just ready to go. Emily is a member of the Medina, New York Mustang Marching Band. This school activity has stood the test of time and the Medina Mustang Marching band has been winning awards for years now in state and national competitions. The dedication these kids have is incredible and that dedication is what leads them to greatness. 

I want to thank Emily, and her family for allowing me to capture this frame. 

This is Michael. Now I can tell you all about him and what he is into, but, I think what I will do here, is let you look at the shot and you can tell me what you see. 

untitled-48

Here is the closer. I have been producing these images on canvas and they are incredible. So in celebration of all the great feedback I am going to offer a special on the Sports Portrait package.  Normally this session costs $300.00. Book before the end of November 2016, and the session is $180.00 dollars. Oh yeah, we still throw in the 16x20 canvas print.

Hop on it we are booking quickly. 

Here is a happy place. 

I shot this for a photo project, that involved an Arbor day theme, however it was not shot in the light I was waiting for. It is peaceful and please do't ask about the location. It's a secret and it is a place I go to think, work, and refocus. How many of you have a place like this?

I would love to hear about your "Happy Place", in the comments section.  Thanks for reading.

GO TIME!!!!

Mike

There are a million lighting shots out there and tools exist to help photographers capture those shots. However try doing it free hand, Just you a camera and a tripod. No lighting triggers, no cable release, just you and your basic equipment. 

That is how I shot this. Here was my formula. I used mirror lockup, ISO 100 and a 15 second exposure. My lens was a 24 to 105, and used a 10 stop ND filter, to cut out as much light as I could. My delay on my shutter was 2 seconds. There is no way to time the strikes, so I simply was patient and hoped that sooner or later I would be exposing a frame and get lucky.

Some will call it luck, I will call it faith and experience. 

Hope you enjoy the shot as much as I did capturing it.

MIKE

As he entertained the audience with his charm and wit, he told marvelous stories of his life and times,

Ronan Tynon that lead you into his true talents, which was his powerful, awe inspiring vocals.

From the very first tune, he had the audience captivated, and was meet with thunderous applause each time he would finish a song.

What I enjoyed the most about his performance was the heart and soul he put into the song. At one point, as his Pianist Billy Lewis played, I watched Dr.Tynon emerge himself into the music,  and feel the song. When his mouth opened, and that beautiful sound came flowing out, you felt like you were part of the song itself. I am not much of a classical music guy, but to hear him sing with such heart and soul, it brought a tear to my eye. You could feel the passion in his voice, it took control of you. That’s Powerful

Ronan Tynon-1

He also sang two songs that I really took note of.  I would suggest you go take a look online for his song, The Old Man, which will bring a tear to your eye. The other I am not sure is available on line, but he told the audience that he has always been a fan of Sting. Rightly so. He told a story of how he felt when he first heard the song;  Field’s of Gold, by Sting. Then he gave, the audience the pleasure of singing it. I will tell you that he owned it, and there is not anyone present that night that would disagree with me.

I spoke with Dr. Tynan, and he thanked me for being there and taking photographs of his performance. He also asked me if I enjoyed the show and, as I shook hands with him, I responded with enjoyed, Hell!  I was moved. I stated to the good Doctor that he brought a tear to my eye. He smiled, and then chuckled, and told me he was glad.

My closing thoughts. Ladies and Gentlemen, in this day and age we have a lot of acceptable bubble gum music to listen to. I won’t hate on any of it and honestly, some of it , I enjoy. It can be catchy. However if you want to hear a performance that not only will entertain, but may very possibly move you. I would suggest that you catch Dr. Ronan Tynon Live.  

His piano player Billy Lewis was amazing, and Dr. Tynon’s vocals are something that you do not want to miss.

I thank the Orleans County Renaissance Group for the chance to be present and photograph this amazing performer.

MY BEST,

SARG

My point of all this. Well back in my day when I was in high school, you were considered a nerd or a geek if you were in the schools band or played a musical instrument. Not anymore, and I think that's awesome. In fact I think some of us were idiots when people were labeled. From personal experience, I wrestled in high school and although I was not a star, I was big enough and strong enough to throw down on the mat. Funny thing was here was a wrestler, who could play the violin or as I like to call it, the fiddle. I wasn't really good at that either. Now to bring up the cool. I happen to be very lucky to live in a district, were our local High School, Medina High School happen to be home to the highly decorated Mustang Marching Band. They have a long track record of championships across the country for outstanding performance. The kids are dedicated to being the best, and my personal opinion is they deserve every win they get. They are incredible.

I recently had the change to photograph one of the band members and we decided to do some back lighting portraits. I wanted bad ass and thanks to Emily I received just that. Ladies and Gentleman I am proud to present the beautiful, and talented Medina Mustang Marching Band member, Miss Emily Green. 

So tell me again that people in school bands are geeks. Anyone who still thinks that, well here is your punch in the face of reality. ROCK ON EMILY, MUSTANG MARCHING BAND, and MEDINA, Ny.

Once again I want to thank Patti and  David, for allowing me to do this, and a big shout, out and thank you to Emily. You were an incredible model and subject to photograph. 

Later,

Sarg

C'mon admit it. That music is running through your mind right now. Ok so now I have your attention, I want you to take a good hard look at the real eye of the tiger. Tell me what you see. What I see is the intense look of one of the world's most dominant predator. In short I will eat you. ROAR

How cool would it be to be a tiger for just one day. Find Aladdin's lamp and your wish will be my command. 

Later,

Sarg

MSP-25

Memory Locks

This composite image is one that I converted to black and white for no other reason, other than because, I can. {Smart ass grin inserted here}

The Black The White and the Starry Surprise Long Exposure Please leave your comments and share the hell out it. I'm proud of this one. Should I be?

Stick to your guns!!!

SARG

Here is a little info on this landmark : The Van Horn Mansion was built by Judge James Van Horn in 1823. It is the site of the Town of Newfane's first town meeting, April 6, 1824. The name for the Town of Newfane is believed to be chosen by the town Postmaster. Wikipedia.

VAN HORN VINTAGE (1 of 1)THE HISTORIC VAN HORN MANSION So for this shot, here is what I did. I sized it up and decided just where I wanted to capture the frame. Wanting to create something different than some of the normal shots you see on the net I went for a low perspective. My carcass was on the ground and I put on a wide angle lens. I framed it at roughly 18mm and captured 3 bracketed images. That's right it is a HDR composition. If I wouldn't have told you, you would have never known. PHOTOGRAPHERS ARROGANCE INSERTED HERE, {Yeah i'm really good at that method}. So at iso 400 I shot these pics and then used lightroom to merge and do the basic edit. Then the magic started. I finished my vibrant colorful HDR image and decided that I wanted a vintage look. It was converted to black and white and I used Nikon software to add a border and classic copper color effect. Now here was the tricky part. The resolution on this frame was so  tack I felt that adding just a touch of grain would give this shot the vintage look I wanted. 

Opinions may vary but I have the shot I wanted. Not to mention I also came away with a lot of bites from ants. As my carcass lied on the ground, I was lunch for those nasty little bastards. Not the first time, and it wont be the last. 

Did I mention I hate ants. 

Later 

Sarg

Ant macroSeeking Shelter From the Rain

The second frame I'm sharing was an awesome capture. The rain was coming down and I wasn't sure if I wanted to take a chance on the camera getting wet. Glad I said screw it.

It's just a little water Unaffected by the Rain

My third frame and my favorite, simply because of content. The Prince and his Palace.

THE FROG PRINCE and his THRONEUPON MY THRONE

If you have the time you can check out my crazy there too.

A little news update for everyone who has followed me over the years.

This year has been by far the busiest I have had with weddings and portraits. It is a good problem to have.

Thank you for letting me frame you. I also want to thank those who had the balls to step in front of my lens and allow me to put you through my brand of photography hell. 

I know what I do is different and seems a little weird, but when I hear you say, " I cant believe that's me" then I see the ear to ear smile, we both know it was worth it and we know why.

THANK YOU!!!!

I am also now a contributing photographer for All WNY NEWS . I suggest you follow and get your local news from this venue.

The Editor is one incredible, unbiased and true Journalist, not to mention I consider this gentlemen a friend.

Hats off to you MR. Scott Leffler FOLLOW THE DUDE!

Here is an image from my view

LATER

SARG

Dreams just before waking up

LAKESHORE

Micro world intro Micro world video THE FRAME

PEEK-A-BOOPEEK

Not knowing what to expect I thought ok cool, let's see what this is about. As promised they sent me a link and told me to use it. I did and although not exactly my style I thought it was well done. Now I am not gonna bore you with all the details, but, I would like to reach out to the person who did this and say thank you. I also would like to add them to my database for future reference. If anyone can help me solve this mystery please do.

Mike.

The video:

0U8A2767

My big tall glass of awesome morning with a side of coffee and #CANON_bringit