Hey there everyone!  Look at me finally part of the blogging world.  As many of you know I am in classes at the Art Institute working towards a bachelor's degree in photography.  I have been taking classes for just about 2 years now and have learned so much.  There are so many elements that go into photography and creating a piece of art.  I find myself noticing little details I otherwise wouldn't have noticed not only in my portraits but in those of other photographers.  It is my hope that as I learn more and become more refined in what I do as other photographers see my work they will not be able to say she should have done this, or look at that mistake, anything like that.  It is important to be open to feedback and take critiques for what they are worth as opposed to getting defensive.  It is in this feedback that we become better at our craft. 

This session I have been taking Printing and Portraiture I.  The classes have been very insiteful and I am learning quite a bit about the studio and the setup of lights to create different effects and moods.  I have used lights before but with little knowledge as to how to use them correctly.  Lighting can make or break an image and is a key element in every great photograph.  I have also been learning about headshots, 3/4 length photos, and this week we will be shooting full length photos.  I am pretty happy with the results I have had up to this point. 

I used these images of Izayah for both my printing and portraiture class.  The printing assignment was to create a cohesive theme with five images.  The portraiture assignment was to photograph a teen, child, mild aged, and elderly person using a 3/4 length.  The first doesn't really count as 3/4 but I submitted it anyway.  These were the two favorites of both my instructors and my classmates.  I must say they are also my favorites.  Although, the basketball is upside down and this would be something another photographer might point out if they were critiquing my work.  One of my instructors was bothered by it, the other didn't say anything.