ctphotographer

Reflections on Judging at the Stamford Photography Club

Recently, I had the privilege of serving as a judge for the Stamford Photography Club. It was an incredible experience that left me inspired and invigorated. The talent and creativity displayed by the photographers were nothing short of remarkable. As I reviewed each submission, I was struck not only by the technical skill but also by the unique stories and perspectives conveyed through the images.

Being a judge offered me a fresh perspective on the art of photography. It challenged me to articulate what makes an image impactful and to appreciate the diverse approaches photographers take to communicate emotion, composition, and storytelling. Witnessing such dedication to the craft reminded me why photography holds such a special place in my life—it’s not just about capturing moments but about creating connections.

I found judging very fun and inspiring.

The Joy of Being a Photo Enthusiast

Photography is more than a hobby; it’s a way to view the world differently. It encourages us to slow down, observe, and appreciate the details that often go unnoticed. For enthusiasts, it’s an outlet for creativity and a medium to share personal narratives.

Joining a local photography group, like the Stamford Photography Club, comes with so many benefits. It provides a platform to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for visual storytelling. These groups foster a sense of community, offer valuable learning opportunities through workshops and critiques, and create avenues for inspiration.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, participating in a local club can help you grow both technically and creatively. It’s a chance to refine your skills, gain new perspectives, and even explore new genres of photography you may not have considered before.

An Inspiring Takeaway

Being part of a photography community—whether as a judge, participant, or enthusiast—is a reminder of the endless possibilities of the medium. Each image tells a unique story, and every photographer brings a fresh perspective to the table. Judging for the Stamford Photography Club reinforced my belief in the power of photography to connect, inspire, and evoke emotion.

If you’ve ever thought about joining a local photography group, I encourage you to give it a try. You might discover not only a community that shares your passion but also new ways to see and capture the world around you.

It is very seldom that all 3 judges have the same score, but here we did.

Capture the Spirit of the Holidays with Professional Photography

The holiday season is full of joyful moments—family gatherings, laughter, and special traditions that make memories last a lifetime. But as the host, you’re often so busy organizing, decorating, and snapping photos that you miss out on truly enjoying the celebration.

Hiring a professional photographer this holiday season can change that. Here’s why:

  1. Relive the Joy – Holidays fly by, but photos let you hold onto those special moments. A professional captures genuine smiles, hugs, and laughter so you can revisit the memories year after year.
  2. Be Part of the Fun – Don’t get stuck behind the camera! A photographer includes everyone, ensuring you’re in the photos, too.
  3. Preserve Unique Traditions – Every family has its holiday rituals, from special recipes to games. Let a photographer document these moments beautifully, capturing the heart of your holiday.
  4. Share-Ready Quality – With professional lighting and expertise, you’ll have stunning images to share with loved ones and maybe even next year’s holiday card.
  5. Enjoy Stress-Free Memories – Relax, knowing someone else is capturing every detail. With a photographer, you’re free to be fully present with family and friends.

This season, let a professional photographer preserve the spirit of your celebration, so you can focus on what truly matters: enjoying every magical moment.

A candid moment.

Simple and very unobtrusive capturing candid moments.

Details.

Feels like you were there.

Staying Motivated as a Photographer: Finding Inspiration

Every photographer hits moments where motivation wanes. One of the best ways to reignite that passion is by exploring the work of other photographers. For me, Rodney Smith is a major influence. His elegant, whimsical images remind me that photography is more than just capturing a moment—it’s about creating a world within the frame.

The Saugatuck Railroad Bridge in Westport Connecticut.

Before the event at La Plage in Westport, Connecticut.

Portrait on location Bridgeport, Connecticut.

Texture. Westport, Ct

It is all about the hair. Westort, Ct

Before the triathlon.

Try new techniques. Stepping outside your comfort zone often sparks new ideas.The key to staying motivated is seeking inspiration from others. A single photo can reignite your passion and remind you why you fell in love with photography.

Build an inspiration library. Collect images that inspire you, whether online or in print.

Study photography masters. Explore the work of icons like Rodney Smith, Annie Leibovitz, or Henri Cartier-Bresson to gain fresh insights.

Connect with current photographers. Following creative, boundary-pushing photographers keeps your perspective fresh.

When I feel stuck, looking at Smith’s work pushes me to rethink my approach. Here are a few ways you can stay motivated by drawing inspiration from other photographers:

Tribute Ride Honors 9/11 Victims and First Responders

This past weekend, the largest motorcycle ride in the state paid tribute to the victims and first responders of 9/11. The event began at Sherwood Island State Park, where hundreds of riders gathered to remember the fallen.

From there, riders headed south on I-95, exiting at Exit 17, and then proceeded through seven towns, including Wilton, before reaching their final destination in Bridgeport. Thanks to a police escort, the route remained closed and continuous, allowing riders to drive through traffic lights and stop signs, making it a seamless and powerful procession.

This ride is not only a tribute but a show of solidarity, bringing together communities to remember and honor the courage and sacrifices made on that tragic day.

The Importance of Lifelong Learning in Photography and My Midnight Tunnel Journey

Photography is a dynamic and ever-evolving craft. With new techniques, technology, and trends emerging constantly, staying stagnant can cause a photographer to miss out on exciting opportunities to grow and create fresh, compelling images. To keep pace, it’s essential to commit to lifelong learning.Here

I was asked to assist on this midnight to 5am photoshoot in the bowels of New york City. The shoot was done with an 8×10 view camera for quality and the story had to be captured on film so that no one could edit it digitally.

It was cool down here and of course very dark. We had a crew with us and it was eerie listening to train traffic that was only a few tunnels away. These images will be delivered to Washington and the National Archives.

Master photographer Todd Bryant working on the 8×10 view camera.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newcomer, never underestimate the power of ongoing learning. Each new skill or technique you acquire is another tool in your kit, helping you tell stories in a more profound, impactful way. Like my late-night tunnel shoots, it’s the experiences outside of your comfort zone that shape your work and refine your artistic vision.

So, keep learning. You never know where the next adventure or challenge may lead you—whether it’s deep underground at midnight or into the skies with a drone, photography offers endless possibilities when you remain open to growth.

Color Run Fundraiser

Capturing the Spirit of Community: How I Use My Camera to Tell Stories About People

Photography, at its core, is about connection. Through my lens, I strive to capture not just images, but the essence of people—their stories, emotions, and the moments that define them. Recently, I was approached by Megan Rutstein of Westport Moms, who invited me to photograph a special community event: a color run at the SES track to raise funds for Parker’s Cure, a cause close to her heart.

The Power of Community Events

Community events like this color run are powerful storytelling opportunities. They bring people together, not just for a common cause, but also to celebrate life, resilience, and the bonds that hold us together. The event, organized to support Megan’s Niece with a rare genetic syndrome, is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a vivid expression of hope, love, and unity.

Capturing the Energy and Emotion

Events like a color run are visually vibrant and emotionally rich. The explosion of colors, the joy on participants’ faces, and the collective energy of the crowd offer endless storytelling possibilities. My goal for this shoot is to capture these dynamic moments in a way that not only documents the event but also tells the deeper story behind it.

Elevating the Story with Drone Photography

In addition to traditional photography, I see an opportunity to enhance this story with drone photography. The aerial perspective can capture the full scope of the event, showcasing the scale of participation and the beautiful chaos of colors from above. These shots will add a unique dimension to the narrative, offering a view that connects the individual experiences into a collective celebration.

Thank god for a long battery life on the drone. I basically had it floating for a half hour and would capture my handheld photography and then switch to the drone for some

The Importance of Telling This Story

Telling stories through photography, especially in a community setting, is about more than just creating beautiful images. It’s about honoring the people involved, raising awareness for important causes, and contributing to the shared memory of a community. In this case, photographing the color run is a way to support Parker’s Cure, amplify the message, and help bring attention to a cause that matters.

Sharing the Story

Once the event is over and the images are processed, they will be shared not just as documentation but as a visual narrative that can be featured in magazines and other media outlets. The photos will be used to promote the cause, celebrate the community’s involvement, and ensure that the story of Parker and the support she receives continues to resonate with others.

Rinse off always makes great pictures.

Why I’m Excited to Capture This Event

I’m always eager to take on projects that allow me to use my photography to make a difference. This event is not just a big ask; it’s a big opportunity to tell a meaningful story. I’m honored to be considered for this and look forward to the possibility of capturing the spirit, energy, and emotion of this special day.

Use a drone to sell

Capturing the Charm of a Fairfield County Farmhouse with Drone Photography

Fairfield County is known for its picturesque landscapes and charming architecture, and I recently had the opportunity to photograph a stunning farmhouse-style property that truly embodies the area’s appeal. The home, nestled on a sprawling piece of land, combines classic design with modern amenities—a perfect representation of the rural elegance Fairfield County offers.

Why Use a Drone?

To showcase the full beauty and scale of the farmhouse, I used drone photography. Drones offer a unique vantage point that allows viewers to appreciate not just the architecture of the home, but also its setting within the landscape. From above, the relationship between the house, the land, and the surrounding environment becomes much clearer.

Video provided by Videler.com

The Versatility of Drone Photography: Beyond Real Estate

While drone photography is often associated with real estate, its applications extend far beyond just capturing homes. The unique perspective and flexibility drones provide make them a powerful tool for various types of photography, from boats to landscapes, to builders and architects. The weather will soon be changing and the pools will be closing. Drones are a great tool to showcase projects from this summer.

Commercial Restaurant Photoshoot

As an experienced photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing numerous moments and scenes, each unique in its own right. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to conduct a photoshoot at Emmy Squared Pizza in Westport. This wasn’t just any location—it was a restaurant housed in a beautifully repurposed old fire station, complete with a rustic charm that instantly drew me in.

Emmy Squared Pizza

I remember this being an old fire station.

The stylist working on the food layout.

As a family, we recently had dinner here and it was so good!

The bar area is so cozy and the bartenders are really nice.

From the moment I stepped into Emmy Squared, I knew this shoot was going to be special. The restaurant’s rustic look, characterized by its exposed brick walls and large, airy windows, created an inviting and warm atmosphere. These elements provided the perfect backdrop for the photos, making the space not just a place to eat but an experience to be remembered.

Funny. I was in Miami on vacation and I saw a magazine with the layout from Emmy Squared that I had shot and I am like “this looks familiar” and when I looked closer, I realized it was from our shoot.

We spent the day arranging and photographing various dishes, capturing the mouth-watering appeal of their famous pizzas and other delectable offerings.

As a photographer, there’s nothing more fulfilling than working with others to create photographs that truly represent a company’s identity and charm. I look forward to many more such experiences, where passion and creativity come together to produce something truly special.

As I reviewed the photos at the end of the day, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. Each image was a testament to the hard work and creativity of everyone involved. It’s in these moments that I’m reminded of how much I love what I do

A Wedding Shower

I recently had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful wedding shower at Gray Barns in Silvermine, a venue that perfectly blends rustic charm with elegant sophistication. As a photographer, I strive to use my camera to tell a story, capturing the laughter, the intimate moments, and the details that make each event unique. At this shower, the soft natural light streaming through the windows, the joyful expressions of friends and family, and the meticulously arranged decorations all came together to create a tapestry of love and celebration. Through my lens, I aimed to preserve these precious memories, creating a visual narrative that the couple and their loved ones can cherish forever.

I love capturing the details of the event.

Flower arangements were made by the guests and then they could take them home as a gift. Brilliant.

Capturing the feel of the day.

Lots of flowers to arrange.

Story telling with my camera.

Group shot.

Inside Gray Barns.

Candids are always shot unobtrusively.

But sometimes you will mix in a pose.

I like being invited to a fun day.

Family Portrait

In the world of photography, there exists a beautiful synergy between candid and traditional styles. As a photographer deeply passionate about both, I’ve found immense joy in blending these approaches to create timeless memories for my clients.

Sheila’s call brought an exciting challenge: finding the perfect venue for 6 families to gather for a group photograph. Sheila decided on The Fairfield Hunt Club as the ideal location. Its picturesque surroundings and spacious grounds would provide a beautiful backdrop for capturing of each family.

I love capturing snippets to show the feel of the day.

Even though the client wanted wanted family portraits I still made it more interesting by caopturing behind the scenes images.

I love capturing candids to show expressions.

Baby trust.

These are my more posed images. I wanted to match the background exposure with the foreground. So I used my Godox off camera flash system. Two flashes with a fill.

The lighting really separates the background which I love. The client did too.

Family groups at Fairfiled Hunt Club.

End it with a nice casual group photo.