The Big Picture

My week in photos, Dec. 13-20

2010-12-20T21:15:00.004-06:00

One of the kids made a Christmas tree out of an ice cream cone, icing and candy at church. Not sure why we kept the thing in the fridge for a week!

This shot is of an anti-bullying program at a school. The game of tug-of-war capped a two-day workshop.

My wife ran over something with her car that ended up denting the front left rim. Spare me!

A good bottle of root beer cures most ills.

J and Z swing in the back yard. We did this again today, but it was so warm they were wearing shorts.

Batman enjoys a muffin.

"Me love Christmas cookies!"

My week in photos, Dec. 6-10

2010-12-13T11:49:00.003-06:00

Mavs Man and other representatives from the Dallas Mavericks visited an elementary school.

A preview concert for middle school students on a holiday concert.

An SMU basketball clinic for coaches of middle school teams. Love her expression!

A high school musical adapted loosely from "The Wizard of Oz." The wicked witch is recast as Lady GaGa.

My youngest son turned 4 on Saturday. He has some of the best expressions!

My Week In Photos, Nov. 29-Dec. 3

2010-12-04T23:09:00.002-06:00

Dallas Mavericks guard Jason Kidd signs autographs at a middle school in Dallas.

I visited some restrooms to show how badly some need to be repaired.

Progress is being made on several new schools.

As part of a freelance assignment to cover a city's holiday event, there was a snow hill (this is at least the third year) for Texas-style sledding.

***

I realized that this photography blog has been too light on photos lately. Well, too light on new posts, too! So in an effort to spice things up a little, get the creative juices flowing and show more of my work, I will attempt to round up a few samples from each week. I'll post them here, with a few words to describe each one. Enjoy!

10 Ways to Spot an Amateur Photographer Posing as a Professional

2010-11-09T20:09:00.002-06:00

With the holidays on the horizon, many families might be looking to hire a professional photographer to capture images of them for a greeting card, or to use as gifts. That's an excellent idea! But beware of hiring just anyone. If you're going to spend the money, make sure you are most likely to walk away a satisfied customer.

1. They don't charge sales tax. Texas State Law requires any business that produces a physical product – photography included, even if fees are charged only for services, collect local sales tax. It's free and easy to register online on the State Comptroller's Web site.

2. That physical product comes in the form of a CD with all the images on it. Those images are usually unedited, and may include all the images taken during a session. Even the most seasoned pro takes some photographs that just don't work, and those should never see the light of day – much less be burned to a disc and handed to a client. Moreover, images on CD is a lazy way to deliver them and lacks a crucial component of the service industry – providing customer service. Much better is the ability to buy prints, special products or even framed art that needs nothing more than a hammer, nail and location to hang it. In the case of greeting cards, a well-connected pro will offer card-printing services as well (with included envelopes!).

3. They use the selective color method A LOT. There are a few times having a predominantly black-and-white photo feature a splash of color is neat. However, 99 percent of the time the effect takes the focus off the main subject of the image. That defeats the purpose of taking the photo in the first place. Just because you CAN do it, doesn't mean you SHOULD.

4. Their portfolio includes at least one person posing on railroad tracks. With a few exceptions involving static train displays, railroad tracks are off limits, and most certainly are private property. Venturing onto active tracks is not only dangerous, but against the law. Plus, such shots border on cliche. If you must (and I have), find an unused portion that is little-used and permitted for such use, or seek permission from the owner of the tracks.

5. They advertise on Craigslist. While there are legitimate professional photographers who do this, most don't. Experienced portrait artists often avoid being lumped in with the "others." If you are shopping based on price, avoid Craigslist altogether and go for a high-volume studio. Your images will look just like everybody else's, but at least you will get them.

6. Their prices are extremely low compared to the standard market fee for similar services. This is often because they haven't figured out what it costs them to sell photos, and so they won't be in business for long. They also figure undercutting the other photographers out there will bring them lots of business. It might, but burnout is a good possibility. Certainly, the quality and reliability of their work comes into serious question. You get what you pay for, sometimes you don't get what you pay for in those situations. Many professionals always work with a contract that spells out costs and services provided, even among friends.

7. Their photos are too dark, too bright, fuzzy or have people and important objects chopped out of the frame. Sadly, many consumers can't tell the difference between excellent, decent, OK and horrible photos. That's usually because photographs, even bad ones, have an emotional pull when people or pets we love are featured. But if you're going to pay for photography, judge a photographer's portfolio objectively. Are the photos pleasing? Not just cute … are they technically stellar or any better than you can take yourself? If the answer is no, don't hire that person! An even worse indictment is a portfolio full of boring shots.

8. Photography, like many other things (think "golf") and "fishing", depends on having equipment to do the job. The photographer (or golfer/fisherman) has the most control of whether his or her work is done well. A photographer cannot be judged on equipment alone – certainly anyone can buy the best and pretend. But serious photographers, ones who have done their homework and built up experience, will – when profits allow – invest in themselves and their business with better equipment. Philosophical discussions aside, the camera DOES matter, if only in showing commitment. Quality lenses make more of a difference in the final product than the camera. Quality equipment overall allows a skilled photographer to get consistent results during every shoot, no matter the situation. Also, a professional photographer should always have at least two cameras, two lenses and backup lighting if it is being used.

9. Lack of confidence. If anyone shows a lack of confidence in his or her abilities, they should practice and become adept before hanging out a shingle. Do or do not, there is no try! It is unfair for paying clients to fund the learning process. Sure, there are challenges … a professional will be confident in meeting them. There are talented beginners out there, but when spending your money, trust someone with solid and varied experience.

10. You can't always tell. It's not about memberships to national photography associations, and it's not about having the biggest camera (see No. 8). Work speaks for itself. Sadly, there are photographers who have been caught using others' work on their Web sites. Demeanor should tell a lot, but there are actors out there who will put on a happy front just to get your money. Buyer beware, and take a hard look into a photographer's abilities before forking over your hard-earned cash.

There's more ways to spot someone not ready to produce good work but quite ready to take your money. More important, however, are the ways to spot a professional. Most are willing to give you references, show you work and talk openly about their philosophies and experience.

Downtown Dallas in the Clouds

2010-11-09T16:03:00.003-06:00

Took this photo rather blindly while driving to work this morning (I was focused primarily on the road).

NASCAR Cup Race @ Texas Motor Speedway

2010-11-09T15:57:00.003-06:00

Todd's Top Ten Photo Tips

2010-11-01T14:25:00.003-05:00

Implement any one of Todd's Top Ten Photo Tips and with practice you're photos can't help but get better. See below for a description of the image above.*

1. Get closer to your subject.

Why: Most point-and-shoot cameras and lenses geared toward beginners are wide (they include a lot of the scene in your images), so that your main subjects will often get lost in the background unless you get closer. Many small cameras also have automatic flash that will hit your subjects directly; for it to work you can't be across the room. And for getting closer, don't just zoom in with the lens: use your feet!

2. Don't get too close to your subject.

Why: The same wide-angle lens will distort objects and faces, making them look unnatural and unflattering. Any flash you use will also blow out (make too bright) objects too close to you.

3. Pay attention to the background.

Why: If you are photographing a person, for example, you don't want tree branches, light poles or other objects appear to sprout from their heads. Unless this adds to the story, avoid people or random cars in the background. Watch what a horizon line does to a person's head, or what vertical lines do. Elements that tell a story or give a sense of place are great, but make sure they relate well to your subject for a pleasing image.

4. Pay attention to the composition.

Why: Many amateurs will put their main subjects directly in the center of the frame. Sometimes, by sheer luck, that composition works. Most of the time, though, it is boring. Add a little interest by having some room to either side. There is a guideline called "The Rule of Thirds" where if you divide a photo into thirds horizontally and vertically, your subject's placement on one of the intersections more often than not can produce a pleasing composition.

5. Pay attention to the light.

Why: There must be enough light, good light and coming from a pleasing direction. Light is the most important element often beyond our control as photographers. Putting subjects facing direct sunlight makes them squint. If the sun is overhead, their eye sockets will be in shadow and it won't flatter them. If the sun is behind them, this can kiss them from behind but could render their faces extremely underexposed (in complete shadow) or silhouette. Flash, if you know how to use it, can remedy a backlit subject, but sometimes the bright sun will fool your camera. Often the most flattering portraits come from strong sidelight, which can create pleasing shadows and dimension to a face (or a nonhuman subject). Indoor lighting is rarely enough for small cameras, so go outside in daylight when photos are purposeful. Find even shade – not dappled with bright and dark areas – and start there.

6. Pay attention to poses.

Why: If you are photographing a large group, try to have them sit or stand about the same distance from the camera. If you don't, particularly with a wide-angle lens, the people in front will look much larger than the people behind them. For poses, there are a slew of rules out there that can't be given due time in a bulleted list. Basically, in a pinch eliminate any poses people put themselves into that don't look natural or don't fit into the rest of the group. Pro tip: showing the back of a woman's hand directly toward the camera is a sure way to give her "man hands." They should be positioned so a thin side is most visible.

7. Check your equipment beforehand.

Why: Nothing ruins a planned photoshoot or trip to take pics more quickly than not having a camera that works. Test it beforehand, take spare batteries and memory cards, too.

8. Shoot a lot of photos in the beginning.

Why: Hands-on experience is a great way to learn, but to learn you need to begin understanding what works. As you improve, take fewer photos. Why? Editing photos will become a chore, and storing/printing/using them will become something you just don't do anymore. Once you've gained confidence, create meaningful images.

9. Focus.

Why: Focus not only what you are doing, but improve your camera-focusing technique. Digital editing can (somewhat) rescue under- or overexposed images, and cropping can fix some compositional woe. Objects can even be added or removed to improve a photo. But if it is out of focus, an image is basically worthless. That is, unless the subject matter is so rare or special, that focus does not matter. Or the unfocused image is some kind of artistic experiment.

10. Have fun.

Why: That can be the most important thing about image-making. Lately, having fun has been such an important goal to me that I leave my camera at home. Most people, I think, find taking photos to be great fun – even when those photos are not technically good (in any way, shape or form). This is a good thing. I hope that means people value photography, although the jury is still out on whether the general public can tell the difference between stellar photos and barely good ones. Making that distinction is a challenge for the professional photographer today!

*The above image was an impromptu shot of a dancer before her group performed at a school event. I was talking to a colleague and just happened to see her leaning against the pole. I attempted to use light, composition, focus and color to create a pleasing image.

Has it really been that long?

2010-10-14T20:41:00.003-05:00

I've become one of those people who are just too busy to spend a lot of time updating various online facades! The insanity! Is it because blogging, for me at least, seems so 2003? It's all about Facebook now (and my mom still has more friends than I do).

Since April, I've been working a great, new full-time gig that involves creative energies including taking lots of photos. If it's been a busy week – and it usually has – that means my creative juices aren't bursting to escape as much as they used to. Even more, family activities take away any free time I have to spend on pursuing more photo business. The end result? I haven't pursued much of it.

However, I relish the opportunities that come my way. Now that money is no longer the priority, I can pick and choose what I want to do photographically. I can pursue quality projects rather than a specific number of jobs. What does that mean for you? A more customized experience, images that you can't get anywhere else and a higher level of customer service. I know in the past I have not always fulfilled my professional obligations as well as I wanted to. The images may have been terrific, but something fell short in the delivery. That won't happen again.

With my renewed energy and focus – still primarily on family portraiture – I also want to share a few tips to make your own photography better. It's those moments where it's just you and the ones you love that can produce the most genuine images. My tips won't focus on buying the latest and greatest gear; that alone won't make you a good photographer. More important is knowing how to read light, compose your subjects in relation to their environment and focus, focus, focus. I hope you will benefit and share your own photographic experiences along the way.

And if you're looking for a professional photographer, I'm your guy!

Focusing on families

2010-08-25T10:17:00.003-05:00

My new focus is on family portraits, although I'll still take on the occasional wedding or other freelance assignment. To refresh my portfolio, I'm offering a promotional price to at least five families.

When I say "family," I am referring to any individual or group of people (but not too many at one time) who feel like and call themselves a family. And those families must also be:

• Fun
• Willing to be photographed
• Able to follow easy directions
• Flexible
• Smell good*

*Just kidding, although that would be nice

Besides offering traditionally posed and composed images, I am looking for families who are willing to try something new. What that is will depend on you to a degree!

Here's what a family portrait session includes:

• A limited-time, killer promotional fee
• Over-the-phone or e-mail consultation before a session
• Up to two hours of photography time during session
• Traditional photos of you and your family in ugly sweaters**
• Action-packed, fun-filled images of you and your family
• Individual photos of each family member
• One complimentary group print up to 16x20
• Ability to order additional images and gift products via an online gallery of processed images
• Stunning images that will capture the essence of your family at this particular moment in time
• A signed contract that explains your rights and mine (such as using your likeness in my marketing efforts)
• Photos to brag about and show all your friends and other family members

** Or the attire of your choice; we can talk about clothing beforehand.

Contact me today if you are interested, those five slots will go fast: todd@toddovermanphoto.com. We're finally getting cooler weather, which makes for better on-location experiences!

Refocusing

2010-08-14T22:38:00.001-05:00

My photography skills were honed with the unexpected and varied assignments a newspaper photojournalist typically comes across. From photographing a group of award-winning students to documenting the scenes of just-happened car wrecks, to shooting a high school softball game to looking for a good angle to see flames shooting out of a house … being ready for everything made me think that I wanted to focus my own photography business on everything.

But that’s not the case.

I have been privileged to be part of some incredible weddings, as a primary photographer, second photographer and also an assistant. I’ve met some great couples to photograph engagement sessions, and have captured teens caught between childhood and adulthood for their senior portraits.

Now that I have a full-time job, one during which I have the chance to take a lot of journalistic-style photographs, it’s time to narrow down what I want to do in my own time. What is that? Family portraits! To me, they are an important record of a family captured at a particular moment in time. Anytime a family is together is important, because that time is so fleeting. When I say “family portraits,” this includes individual shots of each member – especially the children. There is no more incredible way to realize the passage of time than comparing a child NOW to what he or she used to look like in a portrait.

Those portraits can be traditionally posed, or can depict a favorite family activity. Biking in the park? Hiking in the woods? Wakeboarding at a nearby lake? Camping? Shopping? Cooking at home? Whatever it is, my more than 10 years of professional experience – being ready for anything – will help me figure out the best way to capture something special.

My style is pretty straightforward. To me, a technically perfect photo of a person is good enough and I don’t need to embellish it with too much computer work.

So for now, I’m not actively pursuing weddings, engagement sessions, senior portraits, maternity/infants or event coverage. It’s all about family, whichever form that family takes.

Let’s work together on an image that your family will treasure for generations! Contact me at todd@toddovermanphoto.com.

White Rock Lake

2010-07-28T11:03:00.003-05:00

I'm hoping to get my kayak into White Rock Lake in the near future. It's a paddler's paradise, not only because of its pretty shoreline but also because powerboats are limited to puny motors on the lake. I love powerboats, but around here, many of their operators have no business being on the water. White Rock offers a more serene setting for those of us who like human-powered craft and enjoying nature without the constant drone of marine engines.

Writer's block

2010-06-29T12:13:00.002-05:00

I've been a professional writer for most of my post-college career(nearly 16 years now). There have been times I've been stumped or hesitant to begin a writing project. Honestly, though, I've never had writer's block. If a writer's worst enemy is a blank screen or a clean sheet of paper, then overcoming that enemy is as simple as writing something to get the ball rolling. This method has served me well, especially because my entire career has made use of a computer of some kind. More important, the mindset behind that method is that, no matter the project, you've got to get started before you can begin.

Pictured around me is a mix of personal and work-issued laptops and my grandparents' vintage Underwood typewriter. None of the computers are actually on. There's a flash unit on a light stand coming from the left side of the photo, and another sitting on the keyboard of the big laptop at right. Both were triggered from a unit on the camera, which was mounted to a tripod. Self-portraits can be so complicated sometimes!

A little bit of camera magic

2010-05-30T23:29:00.004-05:00

The above image (click to enlarge) is a composite of five separate photographs. It was taken at a school board meeting when I was in quite a bind. Even with my widest lens mounted to the camera (17 mm), there was little chance I was going to capture the entire group. I couldn't back up because there were seats directly behind me. I had no options for securing an elevated position (great for group shots) because this was but one of several groups I was charged to photograph.

So what did I do? I asked the group to hold as still as possible, and then took several photos, turning my camera to focus on a particular part of the group. I tried to keep the camera level from shot to shot so that the perspectives would line up. Once back in the office, I chose what I considered the five best images of each section. In Photoshop CS5, I selected File/Automate/Photomerge and selected the five photos. The software did its best to line everything up, and with a few nudges and fixes from me, the end result is pictured here.

Not perfect by any means, but I was pleased that it turned out so well. Some of their expressions are a little off, but that can't be helped in a large group of subjects this age. This technique is fairly easy to manage and would be highly effective for landscapes with a wide field of view. A few helpful tips:

• Switch your camera's settings to manual mode or aperture value. You want the same aperture throughout so that the focus depth won't change.

• Use a tripod. This will help you keep the frames level in relation to each other.

• Overlap your shots a little to aid the software's merging of the images.

• If you adjust each image before the merge, ensure that you are consistent in those adjustments.

• Try a lot of different things and see what you like best.

• Not just for wide horizontal shots, capture a tall building or other vertical object in the same way (helpful if your tripod can mount your camera sideways for vertical captures).

Meet Ol' Red

2010-05-23T21:54:00.003-05:00

I was coming back from an errand the other day and noticed an old red bike at a garage sale on our street. I'd been toying with the idea of getting a more comfortable, purposefully slow bike to just cruise around on. A bike that didn't beg for cushiony shorts, special shoes or gloved hands. The kind of ride that, if I were a coffee drinker, I'd pedal on up to a table on the sidewalk at my favorite neighborhood cafe and sip a mochalattecino while reading the lastest hipster news from a mag that you're not cool enough to know about.

Never fancy, the bike appeared to have suffered mostly from neglect and the overuse of WD-40. There was a bit of rust and grease, some dents and a few blemishes on the paint. I made an offer, and wah-lah ... Ol' Red is mine. Or ours. My better half has already decided she enjoys riding it, too.

After a good scrubbing with car soap and a soppy SOS pad, a chain degreasing and relube with actual bicycle-chain lube, she was lookin' good. I did a quick wax to bring out the shine and help prevent a few of the paint dings from turning into rust. Unbelievably, the bike looks close to new. The sellers called it "an antique," but my guess is it's no more than 25 years old. I might see if the serial number and Google can shed light on that, but it's not important.

The ride is smooth, the steel frame demands taking your time, the white-wall balloon tires absorb the bumps. The fenders collect pebbles and puddles instead of flinging them at the rider. The upright riding position is at the same time more upright and relaxed. The saddle is a bit wide for me (I'm used to a more narrow, firmer perch), but it's OK for now. Would love to find a vintage chrome headlight and taillight to complete the retro-looking aesthetic. Maybe a few other fun touches (a cool sticker to disguise Red's Huffy lineage, chrome rack, etc.). This past weekend we already got our money's worth out of the bike, so spending a little more won't hurt too badly.

The moral to the story? Don't let a little rust or dust deter you from a good time. A bonus: this heavy beast is gonna help whip us into better shape!

Up, up and away!

2010-05-06T18:48:00.003-05:00

I covered an event this morning on the 42nd floor of the CityPlace Tower in Dallas. These were shot through a window, showing most of the Dallas skyline and 75 (Central Expressway) when it's not chock full of traffic. The elevator moved so quickly, and the height was so significant, that my ears popped on the way up and down. Crazy!

Supersize Mini-Me

2010-04-15T23:17:00.002-05:00

Thinking inside the box!

A day @ play

2010-04-11T10:45:00.003-05:00

We didn't do anything fancy yesterday, just had a fun day around the house. Hard not to enjoy warmer weather, even if it means my allergies were acting up.

Max loves to catch and chase his favorite ball, even if it means he eats a little of the nature that ends up on it. Yuck!

My youngest pushing the oldest? Something doesn't look right here!

Reflections

2010-04-07T11:27:00.004-05:00

These self-portrait shots are not quite what I was going for, but at least shows part of the progression between concept and execution. The reflective marble is sitting on my desk, and the camera is on my right on a tripod. There is a flash on the camera pointed up to bounce light off the ceiling, and another flash unit triggered off-camera to add a highlight on the marble. A macro lens is zoomed in to the little object, showing my distorted reflection. Or at least it will when I refine my technique!

Digital cameras make it easier than ever to snap photos of yourself. Rembrandt was a rare bird among painters because of his regular dedication to painting self-portraits ... imagine how much longer he spent on his own images vs. how fast we can use a cell phone to snap and post our likenesses online. Besides Rembrandt's artistry, a major difference is that only time will tell if the 1's and 0's of our digital existence will endure as long as the master artist's own self-portraits.

I'm pretty sure this mess I just posted won't be hanging in a museum at any point in time!

Little signs of Spring

2010-03-29T09:22:00.003-05:00

I stopped by the Grapevine Botanic Gardens last week to take a few quick snaps of Spring. It's a nice respite from traffic nearby, along Ball Street not far from the city's historic downtown. Definitely worth a stop if you're in the area. The coming season promises a good blooming time, but there is already some color to see.

Apparently, although signs are still posted, there is no longer a professional photography fee. That means clients who are seeking a park-like experience (the gardens) and a classic downtown/urban/train depot feel (downtown) can now be conveniently photographed in Grapevine without costs above my fee. The area offers fantastic variety in a setting that is easier to navigate than, say, downtown Fort Worth or Dallas. Let's do it: todd@toddovermanphoto.com.

Melanie-Class of 2010

2010-03-28T14:55:00.004-05:00

On Friday, I met Melanie and her dad in the Fort Worth Stockyards for a fun senior portrait session. We had a breeze to contend with, and the afternoon sun made western-facing shots a little tricky, but we made it happen. Above are just a few samples from a ton of great images from the session (click on each image for a slightly larger view). I didn't check her driver's license photo, but I have a feeling it's hard to take a bad picture of Melanie!

Schedule your own portrait session today – children, family, high school senior, engagement – to take advantage of our much nicer weather! Shout out to todd@toddovermanphoto.com.

Fueling Up!

2010-03-25T13:01:00.002-05:00

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Bradie James visited Grapevine Middle School on Thursday, March 25, 2010, to celebrate the school's top earnings among area schools in the Fuel Up To Play program. I took these photos (and many others) for the school district. The Fuel Up initiative is a partnership between the NFL and the National Dairy Council, which reminds you: "What a friend we have in cheeses." :-)

Enjoying your vacation photos

2010-03-19T08:24:00.006-05:00

Spring Break is winding down (cue kids booing here). If you traveled during the week, chances are you have some photos of the good times. Before digital photography became the standard, we'd come home, drop off the rolls of film at the store and have an envelope full of 4x6 prints. To get the most out of our digital files, we at least have to get them off the camera. Sometimes they'll languish untouched on the computer until we forget about them. I urge you ... break the cycle!

My wife has a lengthy slideshow of her favorite images on her computer at work (and her work laptop). That's a great way to enjoy the photos, for sure. She also has some on her cell phone (me, too), and that allows us to see vacation pics at the touch of a button. The problem with leaving precious memories solely to electronic devices is that they all fail eventually. Besides backing up photos you care about to disc, consider these options:

• Have a favorite photo blown up and framed to use as wall art. The photograph of the sandals was an impromptu moment almost seven years ago when we took our oldest son to the beach for the first time. It was taken with my film SLR and enlarged from a 35 mm negative. I consider it an alternative family portrait, and it reminds us of the time and place every time we look at it. With effective algorithm interpolation programs (software that enlarges digital photos by boosting pixel size mathematically), even shots from small-sensor point-and-shoot cameras can be brought to poster size.

• Print out photos in a normal size and put them in a collage frame. The montage pictured above comprises images from several trips and vacations. The frame is actually the front of my wife's jewelry box, so she sees the images every day. We'll swap them out over time as we collect updated pictures, saving the prints in an album to view at other times.

• Build a photo album. If you're into scrapbooking, turning your vacation photos and souvenirs into a fun book is a no-brainer. For the rest of us, there are myriad options in uploading photos, using a quick and easy service and creating a printed album of photos worthy of any bookshelf.

• Use the image on personalized greeting cards. Like photo albums, there are a ton of services out there for easy creation of postcards and greeting cards. Not only does that let you enjoy a special photo, but you can share it with friends and family via snail-mail. Uploading to a social networking site such as Facebook is a good start, but Aunt Hilda can't put those on her refrigerator. In addition, many services offer you the chance to add your photo to gift products (think T-shirts, mugs, calendars, jigsaw puzzles).

• Create a DVD slideshow of images set to music. This keeps the files on electronic media for posterity and easy viewing on a DVD player. Downside: it hearkens to the days when Grandma would pull out the slide projector and show off 3,000 images from her cruise to Italy. Or worse: the same number of slides of random, ho-hum family moments. Upside: your DVD of images can be viewed by large groups at one time and, most likely, won't have 3,000 images in it.

These are just a few possibilities to what you can do with vacation (or any favorite) photos. The sky is the limit, as new and innovative products become available often. Some exciting examples are available only to professional photographers, however. If you'd like to learn more about those, give me a shout at todd@toddovermanphoto.com.

J's final basketball game

2010-03-14T22:42:00.005-05:00

J takes some practice shots before the game starts.

Protecting the ball!

Getting ready to pass.

Having a little snack.

We wondered if letting J play basketball would be worth it (for reasons that constitute a long story, for another time). The verdict? Even with a few struggles along the way, it was a growth experience for all of us. I would say that when he let himself have fun, he had a lot of fun. When we let ourselves relax, we had a lot of fun, too. Anyone with young kids considering a youth sport, check out Upward if it's available in your area. A great program!

Keeping your vacation alive!

2010-03-12T11:16:00.002-06:00

Going somewhere on Spring Break or later this summer? Taking photographs is a great way to document your trip, your family's growth and can serve as a visual reminder of all the fun long after it's over. At the end of this post are 10 tips for having fun while taking pictures on vacation.

Ten Vacation Photography Tips

1. Before you leave home, check that your camera is functioning and that you've got plenty of spare batteries/memory cards/film (if that's how you roll). Take any accessories you enjoy using, including a flash or tripod, different lenses if your camera takes more than one, and a comfortable way to carry it all on your travels.

2. Don't forget to use your camera, but don't let it spoil your fun. A vacation is about relaxing and interacting with your family or friends. Know when to put the thing down, too!

3. Take lots of photos! Just refer to No. 2 if you find yourself with a camera in your hand too often.

4. If you want to move beyond snapshots, buy a book on travel photography (or check one out from your library). Paying attention to backgrounds, composition and light will help you create images that stand out. Also, ensure you know how to operate the most important functions on your camera before your trip begins.

5. When taking photos of landmarks, include members of your traveling party. The porthole of the tall ship Elissa in Galveston, Texas, is an interesting photo subject. The historic ship came alive when my son poked his head through with a funny expression. The image is more meaningful because he's a part of it, too.

6. If you'll be at the beach, as we were for our trip last year to Surfside and Galveston, protect your gear from the elements as best as you can. If you have a camera with interchangeable lenses, I recommend NOT changing lenses outside. The slightest bit of sand on your digital sensor can spell disaster, as can saltwater.

7. Put your camera strap around your neck. Even if it's not something you normally do elsewhere, a strap is cheap insurance against dropping your rig in the water, on the beach, on the concrete, down a wishing well. You'll wish you'd been wearing your strap if that happens!

8. If you have a cell phone like an iPhone, you can actually get some decent snapshots with it in the right conditions. Consider downloading applications that aid you in the capture and editing of photos. Sometimes the right camera is the one you have with you.

9. Don't forget to include yourself in some of the photos, either by handing your camera to someone else for camera duty (someone you know, preferably), to using a tripod and employing the self-timer or a remote shutter release.

10. After all is said and done, view your photos, cull through the keepers and then pick your favorites. Do something with them rather than letting your images languish on your computer's hard drive or on DVDs/CDs. The point is enjoying your photos, right? Life was a little simpler when we shot a few rolls of film, had them processed and then got prints without having to do any extra work. With digital, the photos need a little push to paper to make them useful sometimes. If not printing your favorite images, load them onto a digital photo frame or mobile device for sharing. Viewing them, even on your phone was wallpaper, can take you back to that happy place.

Bluebonnets!

2010-03-12T09:26:00.007-06:00

Bluebonnets are not only a harbinger of Spring, but also of Texas pride. They are the Texas state flower, and it's only natural that any native Texan (or "foreign"-born resident) should want to capture the blossoms along with their cute kids. I've photographed my niece around her birthday for the past two years in a secluded patch of the lovely flowers. See a few tips on capturing the moments at the end of this article.

Tips for photographing your family in bluebonnets:

• Safety first. Don't be tempted by patches of bluebonnets that are too close to roads and highways. If you can, find a more quiet area where there is no traffic. Also, be aware of fire ants, which come alive during wet spring weather and like bluebonnet fields, too.

• Wildflowers tend to grow best in bright, open fields where sunlight is abundant. If you come across a nice spot during mid-day, you're going to contend with bright sun. Bad thing: it can wash out the color of the flowers. If the light is bright, don't face your family into the sun, as the brightness will make them squint. Position your subjects so light falls to the side/slightly behind them. Focus on eyes and faces and fire away. The ultimate is to photograph in the early morning or early evening, when the sun is lower in the sky. This creates beautiful, directional light. But that's not always practical when you're traveling. Shooting directly into the sun will wash out the sky as well, so avoid that if you can. If your camera will allow you to use a flash in bright light, use it to add sparkle to the eyes and fill in some of the potential shadows.

• If a background is distracting or ugly, put the camera higher so you are photographing down onto the flowers. That way, you can hide the horizon if necessary. Your subjects, surrounded by flowers, will be the main subjects.

• Props can add a little punch to your photos. Above, my oldest son holds a picture frame. We were shooting at mid-day, and the colors aren't as rich as I'd like. The bluebonnet field was a little disappointing that year, too. Think about old chairs, or a special family blanket, etc. Adding an extra element can make your images that much more special and unique.

• Get into the flowers yourself. Invest in a cheap tripod, set up your camera (ensuring it's steady and won't tip in any wind) and use the self-timer (it delays the release of the shutter so that you can get into position).

For fellow Texans, the Texas Department of Transportation maintains a Web site this time of year that collects reports of wildflowers. You can find it here.

With lots of precipitation this winter, I'm hoping for a spectacular wildflower season. This is going to be the year I get some frame-worthy portraits of my sons – both of them native Texans – amid a field bursting with bluebonnets. I would love the opportunity to photograph your family among wildflowers this year. Give me a shout at todd@toddovermanphoto.com, and we'll keep an eye on the blooms and find the perfect time, date and place to create art worthy of your walls.

Keller Public Library grand reopening

2010-03-11T13:47:00.006-06:00

A large group of community members christened the newly renovated and expanded Keller Public Library on Saturday, March 6, 2010, in Keller, Texas. Voters approved the $4 million expansion and renovation of the existing facility in November 2007. Bottom line? If you live near Keller and are looking for a cool library, check this one out. It is one of the few municipal libraries that is open on Sundays. Bonus: it's located next to a neat park for the kids. MAP IT: 640 Johnson Road, Keller, Texas 76248.

Mom Mom and Little Z

2010-03-09T16:14:00.003-06:00

This is a shot I grabbed last Saturday of my mom and my youngest son. We were watching my oldest son's next-to-last basketball game. Because it was so dark, I was pushing my camera to suck in as much light as possible. That caused "noise," or the digital graininess that happens when a digital sensor is pushed to extremes. I desaturated the color a little to help hide some of that noise. I'd like to set up a few shots like this, where I've got more control of the lighting.

Remember the Alamo!

2010-03-02T19:51:00.003-06:00

This is a recent photo of my 3-year-old son. However, it doesn't depict what he apparently did this evening while I was out of the house working. He stripped naked and ran through the house shouting, "Remember the Alamo!" Sounds like a sort of appropriate way to celebrate the anniversary of Texas Independence.

Countertop Hot Rods

2010-02-25T10:28:00.003-06:00

I've always loved Hot Wheels cars. What's not to love? Bright colors, stunning design and the promise of speed, all for less than $1. Now that I'm a father, my kids continue to enjoy the cars I played with as well as new ones of their own. These are straightforward hot-rod models, but I love the cleverness that goes into the artistry and naming of some of Hot Wheels' cars. My dream job? To work with the team that comes up with the latest designs.

Photo details: I photographed both of these cars on my kitchen counter with a 100 f/2.8 macro lens, which lets me get in close and produce 1:1 ratio of object-to-image. Mounted on a tripod, I used a small LED flashlight to add some highlights and shadow. Shutter was at 1/8th of a second, f/20, and ISO 800.

A job well done

2010-02-23T12:09:00.006-06:00

Working for a public entity can be difficult. Complaints from the public, shrinking budgets and rising costs, thankless days and stress ... like any other job, in some ways exponentially. The city I contract for has an annual awards ceremony that honors longevity and adhering to the organization's core values (excellence, integrity, service, creativity and communication). An overall Employee of the Year is also named, voted on by fellow city employees. The gentleman in the blue jacket is the overall honoree for 2009 (awarded in January 2010). He was humbled and surprised – but no one else was. He was simply doing what he thought was his job, and others noticed he was going above and beyond.

I've photographed two of the awards ceremonies, and all the winners are so surprised and humbled by being recognized.

It's gratifying to work with people like that. Not-for-profit entities are tough; I know that and am not even on staff. I've interviewed for three jobs with public entities in the past year. Two of the three jobs were closed or delayed after the interview process because funding wasn't there. So why do I keep trying to land such a job? It comes down to service: it's what I want to do.

If I'm unable to find a full-time public service job, though, I will continue to use my talents to serve others through photography. There are competitors who are cheaper, but I can use a heart for service to go above and beyond, to connect, to provide more than is expected. Still working on that, of course, and it hasn't all been smooth sailing. Being a freelance photographer is a hard road when the economy is good!

But I am blessed when I can be a blessing to others. What can be better than that?

Meet Peanut

2010-02-19T15:15:00.003-06:00

This is Peanut, a co-worker's dog who was adopted from an animal shelter. I took some photos today for a project and needed an illustration. He was a good sport, even though he was a little chilly. Reminds me of the chihuahua I used to have, except that Bear wasn't nearly as sweet.

Lonely bus stop

2010-02-16T11:26:00.003-06:00

This old school bus-stop shelter is made out of old billboards and has been standing for a long, long time. I don't even know if there's a bus stop there anymore. It's got "Keller Indians" painted on both sides, but is actually on the edge of Keller in North Richland Hills, along Davis Boulevard. The house and property behind it is now for sale, so I figured if I wanted a shot of this thing I'd better get it now.

The journalist in me, particulary the copy editor, loves the fact that vinyl is spelled "vinal" on the sign. Just a part of the structure's time-worn, quaint charm!

Snow Day, Part II

2010-02-12T13:49:00.004-06:00

There was already snow on the ground when we woke up Thursday morning. The snow fell all day long and hadn't stopped when I went to bed just after 11 p.m. Not surprising that most area schools were closed. M parents still have the old sled my sister and I used to use in Virginia. All I had readily available to tow the kids with was my sit-on-top kayak. Z loved it!

J made a few "snow angels" in the back yard.

Here's an idea of how much snow we got yesterday ... the accumulation on the swing set was after we'd played on it Thursday evening. It's about 2 p.m. Friday, and the roads are looking better. No sun today, so the snow isn't melting too quickly, but it is falling off the roof and trees. Our neighbors lost one of their trees, and another saw damage, as the wet, fluffy snow built up until the weight was too much for the branches. Pretty wild to get this much snowfall in north Texas ... our area set an all-time record for snowfall in one day.

Sick Day, Part 2

2010-02-10T14:51:00.003-06:00

My son being just slightly feverish this morning meant we'd be spending the day together. I turned part of the day into a mini photo project just to document a few of his expressions.

There were several times I put the camera away, so it's not a comprehensive documentary of the day. When we were eating, or one of us had to use the bathroom, or if we were having too much fun together, I tried to focus on that rather than creating images.

Z wanted to play with his Play-Doh for a little while.

He's not really sick ... his highest fever was 100 and he's been normal for most of the day. But I must've worn him out just enough for him to fall asleep on the couch. Maybe I need to take a nap while I can, too!

Catching up on some homework

2010-02-10T10:07:00.004-06:00

Little Z was feeling a little puny today, so we kept him home so he doesn't get worse or share his germy germs with his running buddies. We're at home taking it easy, doing laundry, playing with the dog, watching a movie, plotting our next move in our quest for world domination. You know, just the usual boring stuff.

Teresa and JR get "married"

2010-02-02T13:33:00.006-06:00

Teresa getting ready for the ceremony (description at the end).

The dress.

JR shaves before getting dressed.

The guys at the bar.

The couple shares a quiet moment (this was taken after the ceremony).

The beautiful bride!

The girls.

They hadn't seen each other all day until the ceremony.

Teresa and JR reaffirm their commitment to each other.

JR dances down the aisle as the Blackeyed Peas' "I Gotta Feeling" plays after the ceremony.

JR toasts his "new" bride during the reception.

One of the couple's sons gets funky on the dance floor.

Teresa and JR have been married for six years this past January. As a surprise, Teresa planned a full-blown wedding ceremony and reception at a nearby hotel with family and friends coming in from near and far to celebrate. Even though he was getting suspicious as the date approached, JR was pleasantly surprised. The couple got married by a Justice of the Peace at the Tarrant County Courthouse, and having a big party and photos afterward was something he had wanted.

What a fun, beautiful and loving couple. Their children were a big part of the fun (that's one of their sons breakdancing during the reception). I enjoyed being there to record the evening for them. I love weddings, but there's something more meaningful about a couple who's already been married for awhile. It's easy to be head over heels with a new love; it's special to have that same feeling years later.

Cold enough for you?

2010-01-08T09:24:00.005-06:00

Two water fountains flanking a neighborhood in Keller, Texas, are frozen in time on Friday, Jan. 8, 2010. One of them was actually continuing to spout water (the one in the first two shots) while the other was frozen solid (third shot). The thermometer in my car – which has proven to be fairly accurate when measuring the outside temperature – said it was 18 degrees. Made me want to rush home and have some hot chocolate, which is what I just did!

For the birds

2010-01-06T12:49:00.003-06:00

These aren't the most exciting shots, but I'm proud of them because I've been trying for more than a year to get a good, clean shot of a great blue heron. Today, the coming cold weather is making them flock together and act crazy. That gave me several chances to catch one. The four images above are of the same bird. I got fairly close to him before he took off and then followed him until he was out of range. You can click on the images for a larger view.

Shooting wildlife and sports are two areas in which equipment matters. Ultimately, I'd have at least a 300 mm lens (this was taken with the long end of a 70-200 zoom). Working with what I have, I had to get close to the elusive creatures. They are really skittish, probably tired of being chased by chatty children and beleagured photographers. I can now leave them alone ... until I get my hands on that 300 mm lens!

Snow going

2010-01-06T10:16:00.005-06:00

I've been remiss in not posting some snow pics from Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2009. Here are the boys catching some flakes in our driveway.

Little Z hasn't seen much snow, and he was watching it fall outside a window and asked, "Are those cornflakes?"

The rare White Christmas for North Texas was nice and, as usual, mostly gone after Christmas Day. There were pockets of unmelted snow for most of the week where the sun didn't shine. We got another light dusting of snow before all of the first snow was gone. Except during the second round of powdery precipitation, we awoke to find all of it gone because of rain that fell overnight.

This week, we're going to see arctic cold and possible freezing rain. Snow? Probably not.

Uh, Happy New Year!

2010-01-05T21:42:00.001-06:00

It's only five days late. :-)

Had an awesome job interview today – actually the second interview for a great job. I'm excited about the possibility.

No matter what happens with that, 2010 is going to be an awesome year!

A December at home

2009-12-23T23:32:00.003-06:00

J wanted a "mohawk" for his hair cut today. The sides aren't shaved too closely, but he loved the way it looked! It is winter, after all!

I'm sure the effect will be further enhanced tomorrow when my wife spikes the middle portion. Hopefully he'll be OK with another wee trim before heading back to school next month!

Z got some gloves as a Christmas gift from church. As you can see, he loves them. Maybe he loves them a little too much ...

I hope this holiday season finds you well and among people who love you. I'll have more family photos to post before ramping up my client work next month. I'm also renewing my efforts for full-time work, which will make life busier and more interesting, I'm sure!

Merry Christmas!

My Z turns 3

2009-12-15T12:11:00.002-06:00

My wife made an awesome "monster truck" cake for our youngest son's 3rd birthday.

It's so fun to watch kids open up their presents. Z was thrilled about everything he was given.

This is a helmet/race car game thing. He loves wearing hats, so it was a no-brainer!

Here's our little rascal in my sister's car trying to escape.

We are hoping that both our boys will continue to look forward to December as a special month, because of their birthdays (Z's on Dec. 11 and J's on Dec. 26) and realizing God's gift of Jesus that is celebrated at Christmastime. Easier said than done, as for now they are focused on the receiving rather than the giving. But we'll work on that later.

What a weekend!

2009-12-06T21:58:00.003-06:00

So busy lately, I'm actually looking forward to the coming week (even Monday).

On a sad note, a personal blog that I'd had for a long time has been deemed an "attack site" (actually, just the host). Guess that means it will be easy to quit using the site altogether. Simplifying is good.

Stay on the sunny side, but this made me chuckle

2009-12-01T10:10:00.003-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-22T23:30:00.002-06:00

I know it's a little early, but I'm hoping to take a l'il break from the Internet in the coming week. Don't worry ... I'll be back the first week of December, ready to serve you! You can still contact me via e-mail anytime, at todd@toddovermanphoto.com.

Photography as a diversion

2009-11-19T15:01:00.005-06:00

I feel fortunate to be working as a part-time contractor. Sure, I miss full-time pay. The flexibility, however, is awesome. Whenever I need a break, I might take a walk outside. These first two photos were taken from the office where I work a couple of days a week. I noticed the gentleman fishing and loved his classic-looking outfit and the reflections. This was taken a little after lunchtime one day.

I stepped onto the back patio as the sun was setting (and I was about to begin my night duties at my job), and the man was still there. He was no longer fishing, but rather just enjoying the scene. For me, his enjoying the scene was part of the scene.

For this casual shot, I liked the way the sign contrasted with the relaxing pasture on the other side of the barbed wire. Where I was, there was a public park and hiking trail. A few steps further down the trail, there was a curious llama, but he was in too much shadow to fire off a good shot without stepping closer and spooking him.

Taking random photos is one way I like to beat stress (besides bicycling, jogging or taking a nap). You don't need a fancy camera or any plan to do it. Just go.

Portraits of a sweet family

2009-11-18T14:29:00.005-06:00

I had the opportunity to photograph a wonderful family on Sunday. We chose Prairie Creek Park (shhhh, don't tell anyone about the waterfalls ... it was crowded enough!) and it ended up being a wonderful location.

The grandparents tagged along, too (see above and below images).

Another cool aspect of this shoot was that I went to high school with the mom. It was very nice to briefly reconnect with her and meet her beautiful children, too. I have more edits to do but am striving to complete them this week so the family can pick the ones they like best.

Live in DFW and love the location depicted here? Contact me to set up your family's portrait session soon! Eventually the trees won't have any leaves left at all. If possible, I'd recommend a weekday for the session. That's sometimes tough to do, but this particular Sunday wasn't even all that busy. Still, we had to dodge other families and photogs.

Rainy-day Wedding

2009-11-17T10:07:00.007-06:00

I had the opportunity to help photograph a wedding last month in Mansfield. The ceremony was originally scheduled to be outdoors, with the couple and bridal party beneath a gazebo. The guests, however, were to be seated in the open. The weather had another idea, with sporadic heavy showers forcing the entire wedding indoors to the reception hall. Still a beautiful ceremony, but dark! The tables were decorated with beautiful fall flowers.

The couple's cake was elegant, with the initial of their last name beautifully added on the front.

The groom's cake was stunning, topped by chocolate cowboy boots on top, edged with little chocolate Texas shapes and with realistic chocolate rope.

The venue featured a photo booth, and people had a great time dressing up with the available props and taking photos of themselves. The booth produced a strip of little pictures that served as souvenirs for the wedding (complete with the wedding couple's names and the date).

I got a great shot of the kiss during the ceremony, but usually my favorite is the moment right afterward.

Most of the weddings I've photographed with other photographers, I've ended up being the one with the widest lens. At 17 mm, the people begin to become a little distorted at the edges similar to a photo taken with a fisheye lens. But here's everyone there!

Here the couple shares some quiet time alone in the reception hall before making their grand exit.

By the time the couple went to leave, the rain had momentarily slowed to a drizzle. Guests lit sparklers, which mixed with the orange lights under the porch made for some interesting colors. Here the happy couple gets ready to step into the Rolls Royce that was rented for the occasion. What a beautiful car! And what a sweet couple. I had time only to talk briefly to the groom.

Getting married or know anyone who is? So far I have two bookings for 2010. I would love to be considered to document and share your special day!

Inside Cowboys Stadium

2009-11-14T22:25:00.002-06:00

We went to part of a high school playoff game today at Texas Stadium, but I don't have any photos. Well, I didn't take many and didn't take any of my camera gear (we had my wife's point-and-shoot). The rules weren't strictly being enforced, as it was high school football, but the published rules at the Stadium Web site say that still cameras are allowed if the lenses are 3 inches or smaller in length. Sad to say, but I no longer own a lens that fits that spec! Maybe Santa can bring me one for Christmas so that I don't have to feel guilty about taking a camera the next time I get to go.

The place was awesome. From a photography standpoint, at mid-day with daylight-balanced artificial lighting, it would've been dream conditions to shoot in. There were several credentialed photogs on the field with monster lenses having a good time of it, I'm sure!

Hello, lovely!

2009-11-09T22:42:00.004-06:00

It's a good thing I'm not in the market for a new camera. This will be Canon's new top-of-the-line professional digital SLR, shipping to the public sometime next month.

Be clear that a photographer's knowledge, experience and instincts have more to do with the type of image that emerges much more than the camera used. Cameras are merely tools. If one needs a camera of this caliber to make pretty pictures, something is wrong.

But who said anything about need? I want one!

The Help Portrait

2009-11-07T23:29:00.004-06:00

The first time I heard about the Help Portrait, I was skeptical that offering a free portrait to someone who can't afford one would really help them. But reflecting on the fact that I've seen when photos can mean the world, I've humbly changed my mind. What possession do people historically grab first when they are forced to leave their homes? Often it's the family photo album. When a loved one passes, photographs take us back to the joyful times we spent with them. Photos provide a link to a past we've never known, too, as I can see that I could have inherited my freckled face from a great-grandfather.

The process is simple:
1. Find someone in need
2. Take their portrait
3. Print their portrait
4. And deliver them.

The first step is where I'd like your help. The official event is on Dec. 12, and I'd like to take the portrait on or near that date. If you know of anyone in need who would cherish a portrait of themselves or their family, you may nominate them by sending an e-mail to me at todd (at) toddovermanphoto.com. Please include their name, their city of residence and reason why you think they would benefit from a portrait. If chosen, I will need help in contacting your nominee to do the portrait and deliver the final image. When you nominate someone, you are qualified for a half-price professional photo session* from me (a savings of $125!) that must be used by the end of this year.

I will take nominations until Saturday, Dec. 5, 2009. Please help me help someone in need for the holidays! It's also a great time for you to update your own family portrait at a special price!

*This is a full-blown photo session, but does not include print credits or other promotional offers. Other restrictions may apply!

A change of identity (sort of)

2009-11-07T23:18:00.003-06:00

I'm working on a new logo for my photo business, which looks suspiciously like the old logo but with "Todd Overman Photography" pulled out from the swooshy circle and placed underneath. Mainly I made the changes to make the words easier to read and also make it more embroidery-worthy for promotional materials. Might look good on a coffee mug, too!

Now I need to modify the whole thing for a photographic watermark for identifying images I've taken when posted online.

Who knew that pumpkins float?

2009-11-06T12:39:00.002-06:00

I meant to get these posted before Halloween, but here they are! The Keller recreation center hosts a "Pumpkin Splash" every year for kids to swim, pick out pumpkins and decorate them leading up to H'ween. It's cool to see pumpkins floating in the indoor pool.

Kids love picking the pumpkins out of the pool, too.

This mom had her hands full with twin girls.

As the daylight faded and stopped streaming through the glassed walls, I had to get overcome the cave-like atmosphere. For this shot, I waited for the people to appear over the underwater lights. High ISO, a slowed shutter and a deep breath and it turned out OK.

After picking their pumpkins, participants could decorate them with paint. A mess, for sure, but not nearly as bad as carving jack-o-lanterns would've been. This was my first time at the Splash, never being able to make it while I was editor at the local newspaper. I took these photos for the city to use in promotional materials next year if they choose.

You should have seen the other guy!

2009-11-03T15:21:00.004-06:00

Here's a pic of black-eyed Z after taking a little trip on some concrete steps Saturday while trick-or-treating. The area near his left eye bruised immediately, and there's a scrape next to that. We were right there with him and should have just lifted him up the steps ... he wouldn't have liked that but wouldn't have a shiner to show for his efforts!

Another Halloween in the history books

2009-11-02T23:15:00.001-06:00

This is probably my favorite photo from Halloween 2009. It was the first time Z got to go trick-or-treating. He loved it, although he did take a spill trying to go up some steps.

A burning desire to be a clown

2009-10-29T15:37:00.004-05:00

The Keller Fire Brigade (aka "fire clowns") performed for students across Texas today via streaming Web video. October is Fire Prevention Month, but it's always a good time to learn about preventing fires and knowing what to do in case one breaks out in the house. Above, the clowns wave to the camera (and students).

One of the guy's duties was to magically appear inside the computer screen from time to time.

This is the number of the day: 9-1-1.

In case of smoke, stay low to the ground where the air is still good!

This is an attempt at an "artsy" shot.

Here's what the clowns were interacting with. It made their job difficult compared to the instant reactions they get when performing in front of a live children-filled audience.

One of the video feeds from a school was upside down, so they figured they'd accommodate the ceiling-flipped students.

All in all a fun show. All four are full-time firefighter/paramedics with Keller Fire-Rescue. They aren't afraid to get silly in the name of fire education!

It's hard to resist a silly hat

2009-10-28T00:01:00.000-05:00

It helps that both my kids are total hams!

The Buddy System

2009-10-22T12:01:00.003-05:00

Want professional family portraits for the holidays? To give as gifts? To incorporate into custom Christmas cards? To mark the end of another special year? Want to save some money? Have I got the plan for you!

The Buddy System allows you to invite up to two friends and their families for a mini portrait session, to split the session fee among you. The session can take place at the location of your choice, include one of your homes. Each family will be photographed individually, but can also be combined for other photos if desired. The combined session may not last as long as an individual family session, but the result is the same: beautiful images of your family and each of its members, preserved for the ages. Experience them every day with lab-quality prints and gift products. Share them with others.

Buddy System-Two Families
• Family and individual family member portraits on location.
• Password-protected online gallery for proofing and ordering of products.
• CD of low-resolution images for sharing on Web sites.
• Session cost: $125 per family. Splitting the cost is twice as nice!

Buddy System-Three Families
• Family and individual family member portraits on location.
• Password-protected online gallery for proofing and ordering of products.
• CD of low-resolution images for sharing on Web sites.
• Session cost: $100 per family. Save $150 per family on the individual family session fee!

Buddy System-Family Reunion
• Group shot of all family members when they are all related.
• Family and individual family member portraits on location.
• Password-protected online gallery for proofing and ordering of products.
• CD of low-resolution images for sharing on Web sites.
• Session cost: $100 per family (four-family minimum). Get together!

Standard Family Session
• Family and individual family member portraits on location.
• Password-protected online gallery for proofing and ordering of products.
• CD of low-resolution images for sharing on Web sites.
• $50 credit toward prints and products.
• Included 25 holiday cards featuring images of your family.
• Session cost: $250. Isn't it time for a custom family portrait?

Contact me today, as Christmas will be here before you know it: todd@toddovermanphoto.com.

A ride on the Pumpkin Express

2009-10-19T11:39:00.002-05:00

The boys had a great time at the Pumpkin Express, a pumpkin patch and train ride in Argyle. I highly recommend this patch over the two more famous ones in Flower Mound ... it was busy the day we went but never felt like it. For me, it was great to finally get out of the house after being flu-ish for a week. What a great weekend to feel better!

My partner in crime

2009-10-15T09:00:00.003-05:00

My household has gotten bitten by the flu bug pretty hard. After my wife and older son got the flu, it was only a matter of time before it bit me. Fortunately, when the younger boy started to get feverish, we were able to get medicine to squash the bug before it took over. The end result is the same: he and I have been home together trying to recover.

The orange on his face is marker – his immediate reaction when finding any marker is to draw on himself. Lately that's included his face, legs and feet. He is really a fun, crazy kid! He has been talking coherently enough for meaningful conversations since he was 18 months old (he turns 3 this December). Still, he can't explain his fascination with body art.

Thankfully, I'm feeling a lot better but am not yet 100 percent. The timing has just about knocked out any chance of us attending this year's State Fair of Texas – even though we've got the free tickets to go. Real disappointed about that! This is the last weekend, and Saturday being the Texas-OU game I'm not sure we will be up to braving the crowds. That is, if I'm up for leaving the house.

Portraits: Capturing the whole family

2009-10-09T23:18:00.004-05:00

This is Max, our beloved Border collie, who is the best dog in the world.*

Pets fill a special place in our lives that nobody or no other thing can. So when it comes time to create lasting family portraits, don't forget the special family members who make every day special! Pets are also good subjects for Christmas cards – unfailingly photogenic even on bad hair days.

With paid portrait sessions now until Nov. 30, receive 25 Christmas cards as part of your fulfillment package. Now, what are you waiting for?

*Nothing against your pet, but Max rocks!

Soggy day @ the orchard

2009-10-02T11:34:00.002-05:00

I was able to visit Henrietta Creek Orchard on Thursday with my son's first-grade class (and a lot of other parents). The day started with heavy rain that waned slightly while we were there, but pretty much kept the proceedings soggy. The kids, however, seemed to have a great time. One sad thing was that two seasons' worth of crops have been affected by either an unexpected freeze in the spring or hungry parasites. It's still a neat place to visit, although suburban sprawl is getting awfully close to this family farm/paradise.

Going West!

2009-09-29T11:04:00.002-05:00

The City of Keller's annual Wild Wild West Fest at Bear Creek Park was cool. We didn't stay too long, so I focused on getting shots I missed from last year. Namely, the "Children's Stick-Horse Rodeo," which is a lot of fun. Although I was shooting photos for the city, the ones I posted here don't clearly show children's faces. Some of my other shots show their excitement as they rode stickhorses during barrel racing. Fun stuff! The last shot is of the tractor pull, which is loud, dusty and a blast to watch.

A helping hand

2009-09-28T00:14:00.003-05:00

When my oldest son – unprompted – helps his brother put his shoe back on, it's priceless! Being four years apart, they get along well most of the time. Watching your kids grow up is such bittersweet joy. You want them to grow up, yet some days you want them to stay young and dependent on you. All that passes when a toy his haphazardly thrown across the living room. Or someone yet again spills something sticky all over the kitchen floor.

Parenthood is grand!

Group perspectives

2009-09-24T15:43:00.003-05:00

This was a photo I was asked to take at the last minute. That, coupled with the fact that I should have been doing something else, caused me to overlook things such as feet and hand placement. But thankfully, these ladies are all photogenic, had pleasant expressions and all their eyes were open. Who can really ask for anything more?

I've taken a lot of group photos, and the best perspective seems to be from at least slightly above your subjects (especially for us otherwise short people). Main issue with shooting where I did was that the floor is extremely reflective. I had to photoshop out the reflections of two strip lights behind them. Other than that, this is what it looked like out of the camera. Success!

None of these ladies needed any help with looking fine, but having subjects look up into the camera can stretch out necks and faces ... a good technique for slimming those who could use a little bit of that.

A quick trip to Austin

2009-09-22T11:55:00.003-05:00

My wife had a business meeting on Austin the end of last week, so we decided to make it an overnight family trip. We didn't have much time to do a whole lot, but we did do the short hike up Mt. Bonnell. We also stopped in Salado on the way back, ate lunch and visited a little pumpkin patch. Good times! We'll have to plan another trip soon.

Caught in the rain!

2009-09-15T15:30:00.006-05:00

The rain stopped briefly yesterday, so I decided to head out to take some photos for a city-related project I'm working on. Went to the historic area and got some shots of houses (and ended up talking to the resident historian, which was cool), then decided to head to the Keller ISD Athletics Complex for a few quick photos. Was cloudy yesterday, but still "dry" as I took a few photos from one end of the field (first photo above). The I decided to head up to the stands in front of the press box for an overall shot (second photo). Then, of course, it started to rain. Hard. My car is highlighted in the cropped image (third photo).

I'm not skeered of raindrops, but my camera gear doesn't like it. Had my camera and lens, with the bag back at the office. Traveling light, don't you know? Ended up putting my cam under my shirt as I made my way back to the car. Such is the life of an intrepid photographer!

Moral to the story: if there's even the slightest chance of rain, protect any sensitive equipment. Better yet, put off until tomorrow what wasn't safe to do today!

Crossing a bridge!

2009-09-11T15:20:00.004-05:00

The covered pedestrian bridge at Bear Creek Park in Keller has got to be one of the most over-photographed things in town (aside from the old water tower). Today during my lunchbreak I attempted to find a slightly different angle that didn't require getting in the ditch in front of it (which I've done before) or climbing a tree. A little more depth of field with a family on bicycles, along with a clear blue sky, would make this shot perfect for me.

I've taken a different shot before with City of Keller workers in a boat tied to the bridge, working to free debris washed down under the bridge after heavy rains. That's something you don't see every day!

Trying to find another angle on something that's photographed over and over is a real challenge. Take structures such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. All you can hope for is either an interesting sky or some other object walking/driving/floating past to add something new to oft-retreaded images. Putting your family in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa might work, but will it really be interesting? I don't know ... fly us over there and I'll let you know. :-)

Final ad

2009-09-09T23:04:00.002-05:00

I thought this turned out pretty well. It will be a half-page in the PTA phone directory for my son's school, and I hope it gets some attention.

Did it get your attention? Give me a call to set up YOUR professional portrait session today!

Let the labor begin!

2009-09-07T22:21:00.004-05:00

Now that Labor Day is over (and my birthday was last week), summer is officially over. Even the weather is a little nicer. Sure, it's still hot, but the oven is starting to cool, the fever has finally broken from our recent dog days. With school back in session, too, our house is running on eight cylinders, cooking with gas, *insert "we're busy" metaphor here*. It's full steam ahead for my business, too. I'll be trying new things to get the word out about me and what I do. For sure, when someone needs a photographer, please think of me and pass on my information!

The above photo is my nephew taken about a year ago, when he turned 3. I'm considering using it for a print ad I'm placing this week. Who can resist such a face?

When it's time for photos, give me a call or shoot me an e-mail. It's not too early to start thinking about Christmas cards, gifts and more! The holidays will be here before we know it.

Todd Overman
817-675-1143
todd@toddovermanphoto.com
www.toddovermanphoto.com

Driving lessons

2009-09-01T17:02:00.003-05:00

My oldest son "taught" my youngest son to drive the Powerwheels Jeep earlier this month. They had an absolute blast. Sometimes they make taking photos of them really, really easy!

Vincent Van Gogh in action!

2009-08-30T21:43:00.003-05:00

More sensitive than GI Joe ... more artistic than Superman ... it's Vincent Van Gogh! This isn't really ours, but we had it for the weekend (long story). So I decided to have a little fun with the late Dutch-born artist in the back yard.

1. and 2. added bandage after the poor guy did *something* to his ear.
3. Little swinging for Vin.
4. He needed to take a little, uh, "break" and couldn't make it inside.
5. That's not Photoshopped, people. His little head pops off and flies into the air. Found out later it's because the original set came with two interchangeable heads (one with a bandage on his ear). Freaky!
6. VVG takes control of a large green rabbit.

Anyone looking to buy an SUV?

2009-08-28T10:13:00.003-05:00

So this old guy up for sale this morning. Looks like original paint (and possibly exhaust system), lots of room for the whole family, natural "air conditioning." The deal-breaker might be the driver's seat, which isn't the original. In fact, it's a cinder block!

Happy motoring!

Turning 40

2009-08-26T11:13:00.004-05:00

Here a couple of my friends at their house. The guy in the grass skirt was celebrating his 40th birthday with a luau-inspired party. Was a blast.

My birthday is in a couple of weeks. I won't be turning 40 yet, but close enough. I've been wondering if the milestone would even mean anything if we didn't keep track of how old we are. Guess we'd still be "feeling" our age even if we didn't know what it was.

Turning 30 (years ago) was no big deal for me. Forty probably won't be, either, even if my career isn't where I want it to be. In the long run, our careers leave little behind. The people we touch are our legacy. And as more of my friends turn Geezer, that's a good thing.

When you've got a milestone in your life, please consider me as your photographer to document the special occasion. From weddings to family portraits, reunions to sporting events, contact me at todd@toddovermanphoto.com.

Court trials

2009-08-24T22:09:00.003-05:00

I shed some of my sports-shooting rust on Saturday during an invitational volleyball tournament. I've got a long way to go before I'm back in the swing of things. Seems like my days many years of ago shooting film were actually easier, but that just might be the cloud of time fogging my memory. Volleyball is incredibly difficult to photograph anyhow (at least for me). I learned a lot from Saturday's trials on the court:

• Zoom in to isolate players. You can tell I did that on the first shot but not the second. That second image is way too cluttered!
• Find different angles. I was somewhat limited because there were five games going on next to each other. I stuck to the very ends, and it shows in my photos. Should be easier when it comes time to photograph a single game without all the distractions and balls whizzing past my head.
• Machine-gun it. I'm not used to that at all, preferring to take maybe a few shots in quick succession during a portrait session to catch expressions. But with sports a quick burst could yield the money shot that taking your time makes you miss.
• Study others' sports photographs for ideas and to see what is pleasing about theirs.
• Read, practice, lather, rinse and repeat! Practice is usually the best medicine.

Saving a life

2009-08-19T07:20:00.004-05:00

Five Keller firefighter/paramedics were honored on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2009, at the Keller City Council meeting with the Life Saver Medal. David Simmons, Guy Proctor, Donny Ramirez, Walter Wineberg and Jason Paradise worked together to rescue 3-year-old Kayla Smith after she swallowed a whole grape, which lodged in her windpipe and prevented her from breathing for eight minutes. See more information here.

Spinning wheels, got to go 'round!

2009-08-17T22:12:00.003-05:00

I took a few long-exposure shots Saturday, Aug. 15, 2009, at the Keller Lions Club Fair in Keller, Texas. This involves putting the camera on a tripod and leaving the shutter open to capture the lights (and sometimes passersby) in motion. The key is to release the shutter without shaking the camera so that immobile people and objects in your image will be sharp and in focus, contrasting against the gut-wrenching effect of the rides in fast motion.

The first one is a yammy-inducing merry-go-round. The name of the second ride escapes me, but this shot makes it look painful. The third is The Kamikaze, sometimes depicted as a pirate ship or rocket, that rocks back and forth before spinning all the way around. The third is the Starship thing (it was called "The Gravitron" in my day) that spins you around until the support you're leaning against slides up to the ceiling.

Good times!

Going for gold

2009-08-16T22:47:00.004-05:00

2004 Olympic Champion gymnast Carly Patterson, 21, now a rising singing star, performed on Saturday, Aug. 14, 2009, at Bear Creek Park in Keller, Texas. About an hour or so away as she was on stage, the 2009 Visa Championships took currently competing gymnasts to the mat. I wonder if she was thinking about that while singing Saturday night? Once a gymnast, always a gymnast.

Her music was pretty cool, and her backing band rocked the park. I'd compare it to Kelly Clarkson's music, but it doesn't sound that ticked off. With the right promotion, I think she'll do pretty well. She provided enthusiastic between-song banter and even shared some of the back stories with songs she wrote. I stayed for the opening songs before moving on to my next assignment of the night (photos to follow), but what I caught sounded pretty good.

So you want to buy a digital SLR

2009-08-13T14:28:00.003-05:00

I've had friends, family and co-workers ask me about what cameras they should buy. While I don't know everything there is to know, I've been using film and digital SLR (single lens reflex) cameras long enough to at least feel confident in my opinions about cameras. Google is also my friend and yours when it comes to nitty-gritty queries. Here we go!

1. First, let's determine if you really want a digital SLR. I'm assuming you already love taking photos, maybe with a digital point-and-shoot or film camera (or – gasp – cell phone).

• What don't you like about the photos you are taking? A new camera alone won't solve the issues, so plan to also read, study and practice to improve your skills along with any new equipment you buy. In fact, getting the most out of a DSLR camera requires that you know about aperture, shutter speed, ISO, etc. You might learn first before taking the plunge.
• Are you planning to buy a DSLR and then stick with one lens? One of the main draws to SLRs is the ability to change lenses for different situations and effects. If you're planning to use only one, maybe you should stick with the point-and-shoot.
• Are you willing to trade convenience of your small camera for lugging more gear around? Nobody says you have to get rid of your point-and-shoot. If you can, I recommend having one when you are sight-seeing or want to travel light.

2. Let's find the right camera for you.

• Consider what you'll be photographing most and in what conditions. Fast-moving objects? In daylight or darkness? Portraits of your kids? For everything but extreme conditions, an entry-level camera like the Canon Digital Rebels (XS, XSi, T1i) and Nikon D40, D50 or D5000 will provide excellent results. It's when pushed when there's not much light, too much light, inclement weather, extreme temperatures, etc., that they begin to show why they are the consumer models. Taken care of, most people won't have any issues at all. Check out offerings from Pentax, Olympus and Sony as well, many of which have camera bodies built to withstand elements that go just beyond the norm. Unless you understand what the features of each do, they aren't that important for simply taking still photos. Some now offer HD video capture (T1i and D5000), which is a nice option.
• What's your budget? Many new DSLRs can be had for less than $1,000. Some even come with a "kit" lens that usually isn't all that great but will get you started.
• Go to a reputable camera store near you and touch, feel and test out models that interest you. How does it feel in your hand? Do you enjoy holding it? Will you use it?
• Once you've settled on a model, consider again what you will be shooting most of the time. That will help you consider what lenses would suit you best. Seasoned amateur and pro photographers alike realize that lens quality makes the most difference in your photos vs. the camera. In fact, just about all my DSLRs were purchased from fellow photographers so I could dedicate more to lenses and accessories. I could write a book about lenses, but Google is your friend!
• Don't forget things like batteries, memory cards, accessory flash units and a decent camera bag to store and carry along your new photo gear.

3. The difference between amateur and professional camera models. There are too many differences to list all of them, but I'll highlight the most important ones I've come to love.

• High-ISO performance. ISO is a number rating that loosely translates to the sensitivity of film. For example, in bright sunlight you would have wanted to buy ISO 100 or ISO 200 film. When you need to compensate for less light, or bring up detail in shadows, you'd want to use ISO 400 or ISO 800 for even darker situations. The beauty of digital is that you can change these numbers to suit changing conditions without changing any film. In some modes, various cameras will set the ISO for you, but I recommend learning what it means and not leaving it up to the camera. When an image is underexposed (not enough light in the image), digital sensors create a phenomenon called "noise," unpleasant dots and weird pixels that can ruin an image. Professional cameras often feature better processors to reduce or eliminate noise, and can produce cleaner images at higher ISOs than many entry-level cameras.
• Shutter speed. Many consumer models go as low as 1/20th of a second and up to 1/4000th of a second. Pro models usually have a "bulb" mode where you can leave the shutter open for as long as you want, and the best DSLRs will go up to 1/8000th of a second. These can help a photographer deal with extreme light, fast motion or very little light. It also can give more creative control, although the consumer ranges are usually enough.
• Build quality. Some entry DSLRs are built to withstand moisture and extreme temps (Pentax comes to mind), but most are not. Professional bodies are not waterproof, but usually heavily dust- and weather-sealed. "Prosumer" cameras usually have some light sealing that is better than nothing.
• Size. For some reason, professional cameras are big and heavy. Other than the "wow that's a big camera" factor, there's no benefit to having to tote around such ginormous cameras. In addition to the outside, pro cameras often have larger digital sensors for capturing images. What does this mean? More pixels and more pixel-density to capture finer detail and allow larger prints to be made. Don't confuse more megapixels with quality, though. The sensor ratings are important, but it seems more like a horse race among camera companies than a meaningful improvement in images in many cases.

4. Conclusion.

• Hopefully I've whetted your appetite for information. This isn't a comprehensive post by any means. Just something to get you thinking before taking the plunge. If you have the time, I suggest taking a photography course to demystify the photo-making process.

As always, if you have a specific question, I'll be happy to share what I know and find out if it's something new to me.

Hometown parade

2009-08-12T15:13:00.004-05:00

You know you're still in a "small town" when the parade features a guy on a tractor, candy for the kids and an elementary school teacher on horseback armed with a water gun.

For more than 50 years, the Keller Lions Club has conducted its annual fair and launched the event with a community parade. What sets the parade apart is that anyone who wants to participate just needs to show up an hour before it starts, sign up, get a number and join the processional. Afterward, there's a weeklong carnival and pageants – making the whole affair a throwback in a town that has grown exponentially and doesn't have the time it used to for such things.

That was apparent for a few reasons this year. First, there were fewer spectators than I've ever seen at the parade. Second, the participation in the parade was relatively low as well. When I first started working in Keller five years ago, as editor of the newspaper, the parade was a huge deal. The high school marching band even participated (a logistical nightmare but something that made it special). The parade also used to go onto FM 1709, a former two-lane dirt road that is now six busy lanes of a LOT of people in a hurry. I'm no longer with the paper (I know do contract work for the city), but it was cool to see and be recognized by people I used to work with.

There used to be a lot more guys on tractors, including a championship lawnmower racer. Used to be a lot more excitement, people building more elaborate floats, more people watching the action pass by. I wonder if the parade is on its way out. I sure hope not! Keller's grown up, but I hope it still has room for the things that make it feel small.

Keller Famer's Market

2009-08-10T20:27:00.002-05:00

Check out the Keller Farmer's Market, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays through November in front of Town Hall, 1100 Bear Creek Parkway, Keller. The event is supposed to keep growing, adding family entertainment and more vendors and craftspeople to bring the country back to the city that used to be in the country. I took these shots this past Saturday.

Wedding Albums with a special twist

2009-08-05T21:47:00.007-05:00

If you're engaged to be married or know someone who is getting married, read some exciting news below!

The ultimate way to enjoy and preserve quality professional images of your wedding day is the photo album. The "traditional" album ... maybe one like your parents have with individual photos stuck into a binder ... has given way to press-printed publications that resemble coffee table books in quality and size. Designing the new albums is much easier than ever. Skilled designers can take beautiful photographs and create something truly special that can last for generations.

But it got me thinking. A picture is worth a thousand words, but what about supplementing the images, from engagement portraits to the end of the wedding day, with actual words? How about tastefully captioning the photos, but also incorporating a brief narrative about how a couple met? What about telling a complete story, not only to reinforce a couple's memories of how their love began but also for their children and grandchildren? The thought got me excited! I know my wife and I would have benefited by getting our details in writing along with our photos. Such a product goes beyond the basic wedding to tell Your Story.

Even further, it allows me to contribute my photography, graphic design, writing/editing/reporting skills into one glorious tribute to my clients. I'm currently working on a prototype album. I am offering this new, exciting product at no extra charge to three couples who hire me as their wedding photographer within the next six months (the wedding can be in 2010). The experience will help me further develop the product, and the couples will receive a professionally produced storybook of their wedding days. My plan is to also produce a smaller companion album that takes images from the larger one and offers them in a more portable format for sharing with friends, family and co-workers.

So if you are getting married, but have not yet hired a professional photographer, or you know someone who's looking for one, please send the couple a link to this blog post. My main Web site is www.toddovermanphoto.com, where you can view examples of my work.

I can't wait to put this idea into action! It is initially being offered only as part of wedding coverage, although the possibilities of storybooks for high school senior, family and first-year portraits excite me, too.

Back from a sweet vacation

2009-08-03T11:44:00.002-05:00

Two years ago, my family and I had the most relaxing vacation to date at Crystal Beach, Texas, east of Galveston on the Bolivar Peninsula. It's true that you can't go "home" again, though. In September 2008, Hurricane Ike ravaged the peninsula, destroying most of the houses and businesses there. While efforts to rebuild to continue, we knew that a trip to the beach would have to be elsewhere.

Doing a little research, we found a cute little beach house to rent for the seek in Surfside, which is about 40 miles west of Galveston. We found the same laid-back vibe that permeated Crystal Beach, yet there was less hurricane damage there (although evidence of storm damage wasn't hard to spot).

The above shots are just three images from the trip. I focused more on fun than documenting the location, so that when we return in the future I'll be excited to take my camera out to places I missed this time. The first photo is of a boat that had seen better days. The second is of my youngest son chilling on the deck of the beach house. The third is my two boys during what was supposed to be an evening walk on the beach, but quickly turned into a full-body romp into the waves.

Every vacation has made us question our lives a bit, but this time it hit hard. We are drawn to the water like hungry pelicans. Is Surfside where we belong? Probably not, but we have a goal to be living La Vida Lakeside as soon as possible, with many trips to the beach in our future.

Stay tuned!

2009-07-25T08:04:00.001-05:00

We're going unplugged for about a week. See you on the other side!

Swimmingly

2009-07-23T16:01:00.002-05:00

My oldest son had his final summer swim lesson today (he took two sessions) and did very well. He has been taking lessons at various places for years, but our limited access to a good pool hasn't helped him keep his skillset above water. Because of that, he went from a kid too scared to put his head below the water to being relaxed in the water to the point of simply liking to float. He can swim, but has a ways to go before he can really "swim."

We're going to the beach soon (not the best for swimming, but we'll have one night in a motel with a pool) and might also head back to Grandma and Grandpa's lake house in a few weeks. Hopefully he'll keep his fishy mojo alive with more dips in the water.

I'd recommend for any parent to start putting their kids in swim lessons NOW. Lessons for kids teach about swimming to the wall and climbing out if they fall in the pool. The important thing is that kids are comfortable enough to be calm when it comes to saving themselves. Do it NOW!

My camera loves me

2009-07-22T23:44:00.001-05:00

An enduring family portait

2009-07-22T14:38:00.004-05:00

This family photo has survived untold decades, although it is starting to show some wear (and has a rip on the right). I'd like to tell you that it is my great-great grandpappy Jebidiah Overman, his wife Hannah Patience Sampson-Overman, and their son Willy James Overman. But the fact is, I have no idea who these people were!

The image was in a beautifully appointed frame when I first saw it, and that's what caught my eye as I drove past. Someone was throwing the framed photo away. Me, being an unashamed Curb Shopper, swooped in to rescue the frame. The photo was a pleasant bonus. I forgot I had the photo – since removed from its safe haven in the frame – until I rediscovered it recently. The image is inked over in several places (note the man's strange hands and the gloves drawn over the woman's hands), surely an early Photoshop user in the making. There were no telltale incriptions to firmly date or place the image or name its subjects. I plan to do some research into at least the type of image and when the aforementioned embellishments were common.

With today's modern printing processes and inks, the hope is that family portraits will be enjoyed for generations. That was probably the case with the antique portrait, although I'm guessing the lack of sentimentality from its previous owners was more because it was an antique-store find rather than a treasured family heirloom. The point being, all those digital photos of your family you're taking now? Print some of them! Stick them in an album. Make them into a photo book! Have your favorites printed large and frame them, enjoying them on your wall. Out of sight out of mind ... we forget about photos we've taken, but also hard drives crash. CDs scratch. Photos can so easily be lost forever. All we have to do is take a cue from the past and see that printing is a lasting way to preserve photos that also lets us enjoy them.

Better yet, why not take the time to have a professional family portrait made this summer? Whether you want a traditional photograph more akin to the one pictured above (without those whack lace gloves) or something that shows your family's unique personalities in a favorite setting, give me a call! There will be no time exactly like now. Preserve the moment now, pass down that portrait through generations and, maybe someday, it will show up on the curb for someone else to enjoy.

An updated vehicle for adventurous nerds

2009-07-21T22:10:00.003-05:00

Stopped by my local Subaru dealer a few weeks back to see if they had a 2010 Outback in stock. There was one (pictured at top), but as it was Sunday I didn't have to fight off salespeople. It's definitely a change from the previous generation (my 2005 version pictured here also). The thing is beefier on the outside and more refined on the inside. I walked away from it perfectly satisfied and happy with the one I already own. The more truck-like cues might convince owners of gas-guzzling SUVs to convert to a car that still looks tougher than the average family sedan.

For the record, it's a wagon (and even Subaru calls it this). The Outback isn't a crossover, SUV or some other made-up designation. It has more ground clearance than regular sedans, full-time all-wheel drive and a more heavily constructed suspension. I bought one for the flexibility of the space (wagon shape vs. car with trunk), lower roofline so that I could more easily toss up my bicycle or kayak and just the fact because I thought it was cool. My Outback replaced a 1995 Isuzu Rodeo 4x4 ... a solid truck but one I don't miss much. Yeah, I'm a nerd. But I'm an adventurous nerd!

What makes a city special

2009-07-20T21:58:00.004-05:00

We live not too far from one of the most affluent suburbs in the country. Big-name retailers are represented there, the homes are fantastically (and a little obnoxiously) large and fancy. Many of the vehicles coursing the streets are gilded and showy and cost nearly twice what the average home in my city is valued. There's nothing wrong with high-dollar living, although I wonder how much soul there can be behind the monotony of gleaming sameness. Nothing is allowed to become time-worn or show a little character. Fitting in is something celebrated rather than being lamented.

On the flipside, the town I live in has gone a little too far in the opposite direction and is beginning to show signs of decay. Surrounded by the behemoth that is Fort Worth, and smaller suburbs that had keener eyes on the future when it came to development and attracting business, my city was left behind. But like anyplace, it has things that make it unique and special. Generally, the people are humble and hard-working. They don't always have much to show for it, and that's OK. We don't plan to live here forever, or even that much longer. There are things we detest about the place, sure. But it's still home. We'll take the good along with us when we move on.

In the meantime, I'm going to capture images of as much soul as I can find – when I'm not on a paid assignment, of course. Not sure that the collection will become anything more than a diversion, but I'm kind of excited about it. I'll probably share a few photos here and there. I've already got ideas of things I need to shoot before it's too late. Time is marching on!

Celebrating parenthood

2009-07-14T11:33:00.006-05:00

Being a parent can be one of the most difficult – and yet most rewarding – jobs we are ever given. Difficult because kids will be kids. Rewarding because it lets us help shape the next generation, can at the same time it's something that is so much fun if we stop and smell the roses once in a while!

This past Sunday, I had the chance to photograph a mother-son swimming party at a local recreation center. What a blast! Was a great chance for moms and their sons to just be themselves and have fun. What I enjoyed the most was seeing how so many of them interacted with each other. Obviously, there can be a special bond between mother and boy-child. A former neighbor of ours, a mother to two boys and a girl, told my wife once, "Little boys just love their mommas." And it's so true.

A bonus with being a daddy is that they'll want to hang out with me more after they are potty-trained. Me and my boys will go fishing, camping, stomping around the woods and otherwise declaring our manhood. I have to set the example of loving and respecting the most important woman in their life (and mine): their mother. Then they'll get to a point where I'm no longer cool. But they'll still love their momma!

The above photos are just a few from the swim party. For those with pools or access to a similar facility (or a lake), let me say such locations make a fantastic portrait site. The lighting is a little tricky (and I wish I had a circular polarizer to cut some of the in-water reflections), but when the shots were good they rocked. Give me a call if you want to hang with your family poolside and have a pro document the waterbound fun!

Don't sweat the small stuff!

2009-07-13T13:41:00.002-05:00

A friendly little reminder from Todd Overman Photography. If the little things are getting you down, focus on The Big Picture.

Keep your chin up!

The perfect time for family portraits!

2009-07-13T11:01:00.003-05:00

Now is a great time to have professional family portraits created (not that there's a bad time). While many of us are busy with summer activities, there's often a good time to slow down long enough to come together for a fun morning or afternoon.

Just think:
• The kids are out of school/home from college/visiting your house with their kids.
• Summer means the chance to wear relaxed, casual clothing. Portraits with sweaters is so un-Texan!
• Morning or evening sessions take some of the bite out of the mid-day heat, and it's the times of day when there is beautiful sunlight for portraits outdoors.
• Without holiday-specific decor in your home, it's a great time for portraits indoors (any time of day).
• Why not make Summer 2009 a summer to remember? Kids grow up so fast!
• Hello! Family reunions! It's a great time to get a group shot of everybody there, but it's also a great time to document individual groups as well.
• There are a lot of creative ways to have a portrait made depicting something the family enjoys doing ... time out in the family boat? Playing soccer/softball/baseball/volleyball? Having a picnic at a favorite park? Chilling in the family room? Water-balloon fight anyone?

Then there are awesome ways to enjoy and show off your photos, from artistic wall groupings to a portable "smile book" to show your friends and co-workers.

So what are you waiting for? Schedule a creative family portrait session today. Call me at 817-675-1143 or e-mail todd@toddovermanphoto.com.

The anatomy of a self-portrait

2009-07-06T14:08:00.006-05:00

With blogs and Web sites such as Facebook, MySpace and Twitter continuing to grow in numbers and popularity, it's obvious that taking a decent photograph of ourselves is hard! Too often we're turning to Web cams built-in or hooked up to our computers. Or, worse yet, we're using the dreaded stretched-arm cell-phone camera method. Just say no to blurry, underexposed images! Put your best face forward, particularly if business clients or potential employers will see it (the subject matter you post is another issue for someone else to discuss).

Here are a few tips to consider:

• Light: make sure there is enough light on your face, but not so much that you squint.
• Background: pay attention to weird things growing out of your head. Keep the background uncluttered and simple. Dark is even better so that your face is the emphasis.
• Dress in something simple and that doesn't wrinkle or bunch up in the wrong places.
• Do something fun or that shows an interest or aspect of your personality.
• If this is a self-portrait, place your camera on a sturdy surface and use the "self-timer" function, which will give you some time to get into place after you press the shutter release.
• Take several photos. With a digital camera, you can review the results. Check the focus, lighting, wardrobe, your expression, etc.
• Take the photo in high resolution (sometimes called "fine") so that when you reduce it for posting to the Web it won't get grainy and pixelated upon shrinking.
• Get the camera close. When uploaded to the Web, the image is going to be small. It gets even smaller for sites that turn your mug shot into a thumbnail.
• Sometimes "posing" doesn't work. In that case, have a photo taken or take one of yourself not looking directly into the camera. That can be more natural.
• If the self-portrait thing doesn't work, have a friend take a picture for you using these guidelines.

The above photo is one I took of myself for my personal Facebook page. The pic I use on my business page is also a self-portrait. For this one, I mounted my camera on a tripod with an accessory flash mounted to the camera. A second flash with a diffuser was placed on the laptop's keyboard and triggered by the first flash, illumniating my face and exaggerating the glow of the computer's screen. I used the self-timer, which gave me 10 seconds after pressing the shutter button to get into place. After about a dozen images, I got one that I thought was good enough to use. One issue was tilting my head down far enough so that the flash didn't reflect into my glasses. Using Photoshop, I brightened the Apple logo just a bit; even though I turned the laptop on, the glow was slightly underexposed.

Besides high-quality prints and Smile Books, my clients have the option to purchase a disc of Web-ready images for use on their personal Web pages. That's another way to end up with a professional-looking photo ... hire a professional photographer!

The Master's Touch

2009-07-06T07:44:00.005-05:00

Why not? Because at its essence, much of photography aims to capture the uniqueness and glory of God's creations. That includes the people He created in His own image, the natural wonders that grace terra firma or the painted skies that neither film nor digital sensors can capture with realistic justice. God doesn't need Photoshop. And fortunately for us, His love is enduring and He speaks to us through the God-inspired instruction manual of life that is so readily available. The Bible is tons more understandable than a how-to guide for Photoshop, too!

For my work, I use Photoshop to attempt to enhance images I capture with my camera (the above photo was simply cropped). The photos of old cars I took recently have adjustments to color saturation and contrast, mainly to give them a grittier feel. I also "burned" in areas of a few of them to render parts of the images darker and (to me) make them more interesting.

In my life, I strive to apply God's Word to the way I live. Not always easy, but always worth it. His saving grace, though his son Jesus Christ, is available to all who accept Him as their savior. John 3:16: "For God so loved the world what He gave his only begotten son, so that all who believe in him should not perish but have everlasting life." I don't have all the answers, but if you have questions, let me know!

The car lot time forgot

2009-07-05T19:29:00.004-05:00

Here are shots I took of a lot full of old and junked cars for sale near where I live. It wasn't just the dilapidated jalopies that lured me, but wanting to see if this place was a viable place to photograph clients. The verdict? Score! There are some sharp pieces and some broken glass (sorry, kids!), but otherwise it is an incredible place for those wanting edgy, urban-decay-type photos. Some of the cars (including the Mustang in the last shot here) have been sold, so there's no telling when it will be hauled out.

Rusty

2009-06-26T13:37:00.004-05:00

Found this old rusty 1950s Plymouth (?) on my lunchbreak today. I don't think the rusty ride got there by itself. At least half the tires are flat, plus the interior is full of pieces from the front end. That would make driving a bit difficult!

When I get more time, I'm going to play with the files to olden and grunge them up a bit. I love old cars ...

For Sale!

2009-06-25T23:54:00.003-05:00

After my previous post about film cameras, I'll follow up by saying I have a digital camera for sale if anyone's interested. It's a Canon Digital Rebel XTi in excellent condition, used primarily as a backup camera. Includes battery grip and two batteries, strap charger, manuals, software and original boxes. Plus, a 2 GB Compact Flash memory card and a Canon 50 f/1.8 lens that no longer autofocuses but takes great photos. All for just $500 (this is about half of what I originally paid for the package and accessories).

I've also got a Canon 100-300 f/4.5-5.6 lens for sale, just $100.

This would make an excellent starter camera or a backup. Will try to post some photos of the camera and lenses soon.

Photographic nostalgia

2009-06-24T22:32:00.003-05:00

For my professional work, I use digital camera bodies exclusively. But I've got a few film cameras in my collection, three of which I actually use.

The first camera pictured belonged to my mother's parents. It was the camera they had with them when my grandfather was called to report for military duty in California. They used the camera to document their trip from Chincoteague Island, Va. By the time it came into my possession, the island's salty clime and years of neglect had rendered it unusable (not to mention the piece that had fallen off). I have the original box and two unused, unopened rolls of antique 35 mm film.

The second camera pictured is my dad's Kodak Retina IIIS rangefinder that he gave me a few years ago while cleaning out a closet. He used it in the late 1950s as a teen-ager, snapping pics of friends and family. By the time I came along in the early 1970s, he'd switched to the instant gratification of Polaroid. This one still works and is one I've just recently rediscovered as a fun camera to use. The rangefinder has a mechanism for focusing that takes some practice and time to master. I'm not there yet.

The third camera pictured belonged to my dad's mother. The Olympus OM-1 was the first camera I used professionally as a newspaper reporter/photojournalist. She gave it to me during one visit because she had heard I needed a camera. Her eyesight failing, she no longer found taking photos enjoyable. She originally bought the camera and learned to use it while living in Puerto Rico in the late 1970s. My grandfather worked for Bell Telephone and was instrumental in installing the island nation's first comprehensive telephone network.

The fourth and final camera pictued is my Canon Elan II, which I bought about a year into my first post-college newspaper job. It was a big jump from the OM-1, with its electronic exposure modes, electronic film advance, autofocus and bigger bulk. I loved it instantly, and bought two new lenses to go along with it. But for about a month or so, I didn't trust it. The OM-1 is so simple and sturdy and virtually unfallible in comparison, that I was afraid I'd be on an assignment and the newfangled Canon would let me down. It never did, and that's why I have Canon digital SLRs in my professional bag. I can't bring myself to let this one go, because there were times when film, at least in the early days of digital, was superior. Now it's a wash, but I guess I'm sentimental sometimes!

For the shots above, I shot them on the floor of my bedroom using east-facing window light behind and a reflector to just barely bring up the highlights on the fronts of the cameras.

Father's Day portraits

2009-06-22T09:40:00.006-05:00

David, a fellow photographer, contacted me this week about wanting portraits taken with his four sons (and grandson). He recommended a great location he had used before with clients, and we met there Sunday evening. It was hot, but with great subjects and great light, it's no wonder the photos turned out well. This is just a sampling of some of them.

I'll definitely use that location in the future. It would be great for engagements and bridals, too.

The end of a long week!

2009-06-21T23:03:00.003-05:00

A week ago tonight, our church's Vacation Bible School got rolling. My wife (see her "incognito" above) and I volunteered to work VBS, in part to convince our oldest son that it was going to be a fun event to attend. We were assigned to watch a really cool group of sixth-graders. And as far as our son? He had an absolute blast all five days, from last Sunday to Thursday night. So did we. A wonderful experience I'm sure we'll repeat next summer!

But we are still a little worn out, especially considering he began swim lessons last week that wrap up this week. Capping this week was Father's Day. I even had a photo shoot this evening (images coming tomorrow). I'm hoping for a more sane week starting tomorrow. Just some swim lessons and hanging out!