Joe Young Photography

Country Roads Exhibit Opening

2012-01-28T10:09:00.004-05:00

Bethlehem Branch Library Exhibiting Artist Series

"Country Roads"

Collaboration by Photographer Clayton Joe Young & Poet Scott Owens

February 2nd thru March 29thth 2012

Opening Reception Opening Reception February 2nd 5:30-7:00 PM

Gallery Talk at 6:00 PM

The ongoing exhibitions of art and photography as "The Exhibiting Artist Series" at the Bethlehem Branch Library in Bethlehem, NC will feature "Country Roads", a unique collaboration of photography and poetry by Clayton Joe Young and Scott Owens from February 2nd through March 29th 2012. The exhibition includes a poetic pictorial book titled Country Roads: Travels Through Rural North Carolina (Blurb 2011). An Opening Reception to meet the artists will be on Thursday, February 2nd from 5:30 to 7:00 PM. with a gallery talk at 6:00 PM.

Clayton Joe Young is currently the Program Director and Lead Instructor for the Photographic Technology program at Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory, NC. In 2010, Young was awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award at CVCC. He has won numerous awards with the North Carolina Press Association and North Carolina Press Photographers Association. In 2011 he won Best in Show at the Appalachian Mountain Photography Competition. His photography captures the rich heritage of our region of North Carolina.

Hickory poet Scott Owens is the author of seven collections of poetry, editor of Wild Goose Poetry Review, author of "Musings", founder of Poetry Hickory, Vice President of the Poetry Council of North Carolina, and a writer of reviews of contemporary poetry. He has been featured on Garrison Keillor's The Writer's Almanac and WFAE. His work has received numerous awards from the Academy of American Poets, the North Carolina Writer's Network, North Carolina Poetry Society, and Poetry Society of South Carolina. He currently teaches creative writing at Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory, North Carolina.

The Bethlehem Branch Library is located at 45 Rink Dam Road, Hickory, NC 28601 (Bethlehem, Alexander County). For more information contact 828-495-8753.

Blurb Bookstore

2011-12-22T08:57:00.001-05:00

I added all of my books to my Blurb Bookstore. You can preview each book.

Country Roads Exhibit

2011-12-19T18:43:00.004-05:00

Country Roads: Travels Through Rural North Carolina
A Collaboration Between Photographer Clayton Joe Young & Poet Scott Owens

Exhibition Dates Feb 2, 2012 - March 29, 2012
Bethlehem Branch Library, 45 Rink Dam Road, Suite A , Hickory, NC

Opening Reception Feb 2, 2012 (5:30 - 7:00 PM)

Gallery talk at 6:00 PM with poetry readings from Scott Owens and discussion with Clayton Joe Young.

Light refreshments will be served. The event is free and open to the public. Please bring family and friends.

The Latin American Heritage Camp

2011-07-06T21:13:00.001-04:00

Our second part of our Colorado Rockies adventure happened at the heritage camp. The first evening involved registration, a first timers meeting, a market, and a traditional Latin American meal. Right away I can't count how many people came up to us and treated us like family. It felt like a warm homecoming. I was one of the photographers and talked to several of the other photographers. Several made fun of me because I had two cameras. I wasn't ready for battle but I wanted calibrate both cameras with the photo editor which he requested we take pictures of his watch (I am not sure how he creates a timeline from his watch but OK). I was told to take it easy and have fun.
More than anything I love watching and interacting with the other children and adults. Most of them where born in Guatemala. They all remind me of Abigail at different stages of her life. They were all so beautiful. We were hoping Abigail would make a lot of friends. What is funny though is that the best friend she made was born in South Korea, like her brother.
The camp was also great for Julie and I because learned a lot about Guatemalan traditions and more importantly how to deal with issues as Abigail gets older. What worries me more is not how we are treated with our children around strangers but how she will deal with confrontations when she is alone. When older, like all teenagers she will have to face self identity and people who are not nice. Let's not even talk about boys. I won't always be there to save from harm. Is this not what all fathers worry about?
I can't wait to go back again in a few years with Nate and also go to the Korean camp which is the previous week. I think we might drive though. I did not enjoy dragging around a car seat through mazes at the airport and I cannot count how many flight delays we had which included a flat tire on the plane.

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The Colorado Rockies

2011-07-06T21:08:00.001-04:00

Finally I have taken my family out West to witness the grandness of the beauty a camera can't capture. The purpose of the trip was to take Abigail to a Latin American Adoption Heritage Camp. We thought we would spend a few days enjoying the sites before the camp.

We flew into Denver, rented a car, and started our journey to Estes Park, a gateway to the Rockies. I forgot how empty the traveling was with gas stations and restaurants far and few between. Somehow Abigail spotted a Chick-Fil-A which filled some hungry stomachs. I was surprised they had sweet tea and spicy chicken nuggets which I expect will hit Hickory in about six months.

Estes Park was not what we expected. The town had some history, including the haunted Stanley Hotel but lacked the charm and good food we hoped for. For supper we ate what tasted like a microwaved flip flop. Think of Gatlinburg going through a rough recession back in the '80s.

What Estes Park lacked the national park made up for. We saw elk everywhere, hiked through snow with a nice older couple. We also walked to several beautiful waterfalls.

The next day Julie drove across the park, over the highest road in the US, Trail Ridge Road. The road is only opened a few months during the year and was delayed because of a recent snow. For most of the two hour drive you are over the tree line. On one side of the road is a huge drop off, you either see the tops of trees or the sky. On the other side of the road is a huge snow drift, often much higher than car. We stopped and hiked in the snow a few times and took pictures. We saw more elk, rams, and a moose. It was incredible. It made Abigail sick.

We stopped at Grand Lake for lunch. The food was much better. It had more of a feel of an old Western town with streets from the days of cattle drives and rodeos.

I have to give credit to Julie for driving. Abigail is not the mountain climber I thought she was but it an adventure. We made it to the YMCA camp, Snow Mountain Ranch, for the heritage camp. The place is huge but not real photogenic due the pine beetles destroying most of the trees. It was still well worth the trip.

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Friends Of Facebook

2011-04-29T20:46:00.001-04:00

It has taken me two years to learn a valuable lesson from a professor in graduate school. I requested to "friend" her on Facebook. I was surprised and a little upset to discover that she denied my request. I figured it was to distance her personal life from her profession life. I have questioned this myself and once tried to manage two separate accounts. I really did not want everyone to know my private life but merged the two accounts together to make life easier.

It all came to me Thursday while watching a multimedia project from a student. The policeman in the video said he had to turn the scanner off when not at work or that he would go crazy. For me the scanner is Facebook. I thought being friends with students would improve a student teacher relationship and that it would be a great way to stay in touch and keep them informed with opportunities such as jobs or events. I also thought that I could stay up to date with milestones in their lives such as marriages, children, or the dream job that had finally happened.

Other than just learning about their successes I also get to hear complaints indirectly or directly towards me or other photography instructors. Instead of meeting with me in my office, students rather vent to their friends who of course agree with them. I find it unprofessional and not accepting responsibility to their own actions, be it a bad grade or misunderstanding. True, photography is a very suggestive profession and it can be debated what is considered acceptable or not. But to be a professional and to move away from a hobbyist you have to accept criticism and learn how you can improve your craft. By not doing so, not only is the student receiving a discredit but the survival of the profession of photography is falling deeper in its grave. I am not sure which type of student is worse. Is it the one who brags about a good grade or complains about a low grade on their status?

I feel both need to learn a valuable lesson. To me, a grade is a private matter between a student and instructor. Immediate family and employers could be included but why does the world need to know? A real achievement is winning an award or getting paid for a profession you love doing. What is going to matter is a client or employer paying you a deserved salary you can live of. If some cannot accept constructive criticism how are they going to deal with an angry boss or client? Instead of a bad grade you are getting fired or will harm your future business because this client will tell all of their friends how you mishandled the situation.

I have decided in order to keep my sanity that other than the ones I have a professional relationship with that I am going to unfriend all current and past students on Facebook. I am sure with social media today this will not totally work in my favor. To prevent myself from receiving more ghosts of photography past and my profession as an instructor I have to distance myself outside of the classroom.

I am sorry to make this announcement but I hope it is understood. If anyone has a problem with any grade which I believe was deserved or other issue please make an appointment to see me or contact me via email at jyoung@cvcc.edu.

I truly care about each and every student that I have had. I have felt your happiness, encouraged you to try your best, and have shared your hardships. Maybe this will be a life lesson and will help you move on. Or it might all just continue and I won't have to hear the nagging behind my back.

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Run of the Mill 5K

2011-04-14T21:32:00.001-04:00

On Saturday I hope to make my third go at the CVCC Seeds Of Service 5K at Murray's Mill. The weather forecast is not looking good but I am keeping my fingers crossed. This is the first time that I have actually trained for the race. Previously I have came in 13th and 17th place. Once I came in second in my division. My average is around 33 minutes. I hope to make it in 30 minutes or less. This might not sound like much but the first time I just wanted to finish and last year I beat two of my students which one is younger than me and the other is in great shape.
I love running at the mill, it is beautiful and helps me find peace. Maybe one day I will attempt something larger but right now I looking forward to Saturday. I will post my results after the race. Wish me luck.

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The 8th Annual Appalachian Mountain Photography Competition

2011-04-06T21:34:00.001-04:00

I was very humbled to discover that I won Best In Show last Saturday at the reception for the competition. There was a lot of incredible images selected. Two of my images were chosen out of the 46 on display. It was the picture of Eustace Conway that got the judges attention. Eustace has been proclaimed as the Last American Man. Him standing in front of a worn flag while looking at the sky can be interpreted many ways. The picture is not posed. We were talking and stopped in front of the flag. We paused, he looked up and I captured the moment. It ties in closely by his proclamation.

The picture above is from the seating for the Banff Film Festival at ASU. The exhibit is apart of the festival. A slideshow of the show played as the New River Boys entertained our ears. A highlight was when they announced my name to an auditorium full of guests. There was a roar of cheers.

I am just glad I got to share the experience with my wife. It is nice to have these moments. For everyone high there are plenty of lows that I would like to forget about.

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Holga in color

2011-03-16T13:48:00.002-04:00

I got two rolls of color film back from Kansas from a recent Holga shoot. You use to be able to get 120 medium format film processed anywhere. Now, there are only a few places in the country to send it to. Most labs can process 120 but do not know how or do not want to switch the processor for 120.

I ended up not liking the color as much as I thought I would. I still am a die hard black and white fan. Included in this post are a few recent black and white toned images also. I will let you be the judge of which you like better.

Lomo LC-A+ in black and white

2011-03-16T13:42:00.003-04:00

I have continued to carry my Lomo LC-A+ with me wherever I go. I shot a roll of black and white and processed it in the darkroom. I have continued to be amazed how well the camera calculate exposure and helps me get those easy to miss images. The scans are not the best, the scanner I am using is having problems. I think it needs therapy.

Appalachian Mountain Photography Competition

2011-03-09T20:19:00.001-05:00

Please vote for me for the People's Choice Award. You can enter here.

My two images are listed under Culture. There are a lot of incredible images so every vote counts. More about the reception later.

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Holga

2011-03-08T20:28:00.001-05:00

I always keep a Holga loaded in my car to capture images only a Holga can capture. A Holga is a plastic 120 medium format plastic camera. It's imperfections make images unique and unpredictable. These include vignettes, soft focus, and light leaks that create dreamlike effects.

With digital cameras why bother? Because for one it is fun. You still can't beat not knowing how your pictures turned out and watching a print appear in the developing tray. Taking pictures is also simple so I can concentrate on composition and capturing the moment.

The above images are from recent roll. My subjects is usually my children who are never shy in front of the camera.

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Lomo LC-A+

2011-03-07T15:18:00.001-05:00

Recently I purchased a Lomo LC-A+. What is it you may ask? It is a copy of a Russian compact 35mm autoexposure camera.

What is big idea? It has a sharp 2.8 wide angle lens. It is very small which is great for candid and street photography. It has preset focusing points and autoexposure. The lens tends to vignette edges and colors are saturated.

I did not purchase the original because of extra features such as ISO settings up to 1600 and double exposure setting. I did not know what I was getting into when I opened the box. You will just have to order one and see what I mean.

So in the digital age, if you want to go old school with film again and want to make photography fun get one of these little cameras. It is quite an experience waiting on film to process and seeing what moments you capture.

Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Blogging From My iPad

2011-03-06T21:19:00.001-05:00

I have not blogged for awhile. I am using an app for my iPad. Hopefully, it will make blogging much easier. I have a lot to share, finding the time is another story. I am writing this while sitting in bed.

I am finding the iPad quite useful as a photographer and teacher. For instance, above is an image for a portfolio app I am using. I will share my findings in an upcoming post. This reminds me, I am in the process of updating photos on my website, Joe Young Photo.

So look out for more updates and changes. They are on the way soon.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Clayton Joe Young MTN TV Interview

2010-10-18T08:01:00.000-04:00

Flickr

2010-07-19T22:14:00.001-04:00

I have finally updated my Flickr account. I am starting to use Flickr more, it is a great teaching tool for my students. Check out my images: http://www.flickr.com/photos/83599662@N00/

My Children

2010-05-13T21:46:00.003-04:00

I recently read the book "Lift" by Kelly Corrigan. It is beautiful short book of love letters to her children. The book makes me think of my own children, how they will be grown before I know it and I will also change with them. I do not want to forget what they were like and how my life is with them. I have already forgotten a lot about my daughter when she was a baby. I also wish they would not forget what they were like. Here is a personal attempt that maybe some day my children will read and be reminded about their childhood.

To my five-year-old daughter Abigail: I love that I am the man in your life, who can always save you from your fears. One day I hope I won't embarrass you and that a man will take good care of you. I dread the days of you dating and not knowing where you are. I know I will be a nervous wreck. I love your chipmunk voice and your natural ability to sing and dance. I look forward to the day that we will one day go to Guatemala together. If you one day seek your birth family you will not forget that we are your family too.

To my one-year-old son Nathaniel: I was once scared that I could not handle another child and that you would break Abigail's heart. I am happy to say that I was wrong. I love you and Abigail was meant to have a brother. You are so funny and adorable. It is so funny how much you are already into sports which is very opposite to Julie and I. It makes me so happy to see Julie have a momma's boy. I look forward doing boy things together like going fishing and camping. Your sister enjoys it too. I do look forward to the day that you are potty trained though. I want to go back to Korea with you also. I want to see your reactions.

I hope you both have a family of your own one-day and find passion in your jobs. I want you both to be proud of who you are and find strength in those moments I can't be there to save you. Remember to call us and don't move too far away. We might have to move near you. Please bring us grandchildren to spoil. I want to look into your children's eyes and see you and remember what you were like when you were little. I hope your children sleep better at night.

I love you both with all my heart. I hope I stay in good health for many years together.

Commencement Speech Slideshow

2010-05-12T21:32:00.000-04:00

Watching Myself on TV

2010-05-12T20:58:00.004-04:00

I just watched myself on cable channel 3.

It was a surreal experience. Not just because there is a few second delay from the video and sound. I don't really like to see myself on video or in pictures. I noticed that I talked too fast and my voice sounded nervous. The best part was seeing my slideshow presentation. To me, I prefer my images to speak for me.

Why was I on TV? I have recently been award the Excellence in Teaching Award at Catawba Valley Community College. One of the honors is being the keynote speaker during graduation. This year there was two ceremonies. I was the speaker to the second smaller ceremony. My students graduated at the early ceremony. I wish I could have talked to my own students but at least one of them was present and took pictures. I was a nervous wreck up to the time I got up and talked. Once I was on stage I found out what an honor it is to sit up there and see the crowd and students from that perspective. It really was a great experience. If you missed it and live in Hickory it will air through Sunday at 8 PM.

A special thanks goes out to my wife, family and CVCC.

Fast Track Photographer

2010-02-02T21:27:00.004-05:00

I just finished reading Fast Track Photographer by Dane Sanders. I purchased the book at Imaging USA. Sanders was a speaker but I did not hear him speak. I did hear some annoying singing from his session. I was in the next room getting inspired by Jerry Ghionis.
I read the book and took the pDNA test. I agree with a lot of what he says but thought the personality test was a little too overrated. Sanders pretty much says you either need to be a freelance photographer or a signature brand photographer. One allows you to just take pictures, not keep your name attached to your work and not reap very big monetary awards while the other requires more marketing and chances of failure. I feel like I am sort of in the middle because I keep my name but do not really advertise very much. I really do to supplement my teaching income and is a way to keep my foot in the business. I do not make enough to earn a living off just freelance work so there is a lot I could learn.
A few other points he makes is that all any artist really needs is 1,000 fans that will spend $100 a year. That sounds great! All I need is about 980 more fans! Through the flat globalization of the internet I guess this is possible.
Another point he makes is that companies like Bella Pictures is turning photography into a commodity. They are like Starbucks, they are setting standard prices and will absorb the general wedding market through the hiring of freelancers. This can be good or bad.
Another point is that a successful photographer needs a very charismatic personality and has to be a risk taker. Most of the speakers from Imaging USA are like this. You would spend money just to hang out with them. Part of the pDNA test is seeing if you have these assets. If you do not, you cannot just get inspired by successful photographers and be famous. It has to be in you.
Another big encouragement is for photographers to outsource everything that is not essential to your personal style. This is tough to bite because you have to pass these costs onto the consumer who already thinks my services are expensive.
One good point is that you are not selling photography but yourself. Because there is only one of you there is no competition.
It is also good that you always remain an amateur at heart. The origin means "to love." To never forget why you got into photography to start with. Amen to that!
All yeah, my pDNA told me that I could become a "Grumpy" if not careful because I have a lot of technical knowledge and high confidence. Because of this I need to stay humble which I think I am. I also believe that I am an artist which is good. I am not a high self starter and I think structured learning is important. I want to be in control and not pass off work to others. Anyway, I am encouraged to be a freelancer and work for others. I think I will continue to do a little of both and keep my website. What do you all think? I do recommend the book and the pDNA test.

New Logo and Website

2009-12-21T21:28:00.001-05:00

I have a new logo that was designed by Chad Ritchie. I also recently designed a new website. Please check out my new look at: www.joeyoungphoto.com. Let me know what you think.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas! A lot is in store for 2010.

A Celebration of Heritage Poster

2009-12-15T21:26:00.002-05:00

Kristina Anthony at the Hickory Museum of Art created a eye catching poster for my exhibit, "A Celebration of Heritage." Also noted that my exhibit is in conjunction with "Torn From Home," a hands on exhibit about a child's life as a refugee. I still have to thank Chad Ritchie for the initial design that is on my postcard and recreated on the poster.

Regional Artist Project Grant Recipient

2009-12-15T21:10:00.004-05:00

I found out a few months ago that I was awarded Regional Artist Project Grant. This is the first grant I have ever applied for. The funding will pay for almost all of my costs for my Latino exhibit, "A Celebration of Heritage." This includes professional framing of 24 18"x24" prints, inkjet paper costs, and the printing of 3,000 postcards. I will still have to pay a little out of pocket money but I have already found two sources of additional funding. I have come to believe that if really believe in yourself and have a clear vision of your goals you can make anything happen. I have been putting a lot of effort preparing the exhibit which goes up in a few. I have also spent a lot of time spreading the word about the show. Please help me by telling friends and attending the opening reception on January 29th from 5-8 PM at the Hickory Museum of Art. I promise you will be glad you came. All yeah, it is recommended that the grant is funded by the North Carolina Arts Council, the United Arts Council of Catawba County, the Caldwell Arts Council, the Hiddenite Center of Alexander County, the Rock School Art Foundation in Burke County, the Burke Arts Council, and the McDowell Arts Council Association. That was a mouthful!

Celebration of Heritage Exhibit

2009-12-01T21:22:00.004-05:00

I have been really slack with my posts over the last several months. To be honest, a lot of exciting things have happened and I have not had a chance to get caught up. One big relief is that I am finished with graduate school. To name a few: I have received an artist grant, attended a documentary workshop at Duke University, celebrated my son's Tol, photographed two incredible weddings, and working on an exhibit at the Hickory Museum of Art. I also plan on overhauling my website, www.joeyoungphoto.com in the upcoming months. I will review the other events later. What I want to talk about now is my exhibit.
I will have my first major solo exhibit from January 9th - May 23rd 2010, at the Hickory Museum of Art. The exhibit will be in the entrance gallery until April and will move to the Windows gallery until May. The exhibit is in conjunction with Torn From Home, an interactive children's exhibit about life as a refugee. I am sort of the opening act. The reception is January 29th, 2010, from 5:00-8:00 pm, for both exhibits. I guess I need to tell you a little bit about my show. It is titled "A Celebration of Heritage: The Face and Voice of Latinos in the Catawba Valley." I started shooting the exhibit last year as a graduate project. It is turned into a labor of love for my children, especially my daughter who is from Guatemala. I wanted to learn more about her heritage and culture. Along the way I reflected my experiences with immigration and the importance of remembering where we came from.
Chad Ritchie designed the postcard you see posted. I am in the process of promoting the exhibit. Please help me by telling others and for coming to see the exhibit.

Lights, Camera, Woof!

2009-10-01T11:33:00.003-04:00

LIGHTS, CAMERA, WOOF!
Membership and Memories

Sunday October 18, 2009
1 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Bring the whole family (two-footed and four-footed members) to Humane Society of Catawba County. We will have professional photographers from Orange Cat Photo and Joe Young Photography at the shelter with various backdrops, including Christmas for you and your family to have your professional portrait taken with your pet(s). You may also choose to have just your pet's photo taken. Various affordable photo packages will be offered including Christmas cards, with all proceeds going to benefit the Humane Society of Catawba County.

If you bring an item from our wish list to this event or become a Humane Society Member, you will receive one 4 x 6 print of your photo for free.

There will be plenty of fun things for families to do: crafts, play areas and food will be served during the entire event. The shelter will be open for tours, adoptions and to register your pet for spay/neuter. We will gladly sign you up for membership with Humane Society of Catawba County.

Contact the Humane Society of Catawba County to make your photography appointment.

Humane Society of Catawba County
Mailing address: P.O. Box 63 Hickory, NC 28603
Street Address; 3224 20th Ave SE, Hickory, NC 28603
(828) 464-8878
catawbahumane.org

Newton Show

2009-09-29T21:29:00.002-04:00

I have been busy but I wanted to update everyone that my Country Life Exhibit is now at the Newton-Conover Civic & Performance Place. It should remain there for the next few months. I did not bother with an opening or reception but I am excited about the opportunity. Please go by and see the exhibit if you get a chance.

Ebony Exhibit Reception Rescheduled

2009-08-18T09:39:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone,
We are moving the reception for the CVCC Student Exhibit to Oct. 9th during the NAACP Conference instead of this Friday. Please mark your calendar.

Details will be announced later.

Student Exhibit at Hickory Museum of Art

2009-08-12T06:48:00.006-04:00

On August 21st from 4:30-6:00 there will be a reception at the Hickory Museum of Art for a new exhibit by the students of the Catawba Valley Community College Photographic Technology Program. The show is titled “Ebony, Faces of African Americans in Catawba County.”
During the past spring semester, the students photographed African Americans around Catawba County. One neighborhood, Ridgeview, is most prominent in the exhibit because of its rich history.

Included in the exhibit is the Community Ridge Daycare Center (a renovated wing of the old Ridgeview High School) to the wisdom of some of the seasoned community members such as Mrs. Josephine James (who is in her 90’s and still a vibrant and outgoing leader of the community) and Mr. Ed Fuller (who is still practicing the age-old “art” of shining shoes – an “art” that he has perfected since retiring as an educator.

Please come out, see the show, enjoy some light refreshments, and meet some of the students.

South Korea

2009-08-06T12:32:00.002-04:00

I have finally edited through my South Korea images. It was a very special trip because we went to adopt our son Nathaniel. It is hard to describe in words the experience I had. I hope my photos do otherwise.

South Korea Portfolio

Mast General Store

2009-07-19T03:34:00.002-04:00

Next weekend I will have my work featured at the Mast General Store in Boone, NC. I am very excited because most of my pictures were taken near Boone over the last 12 years. If you can't make it, I will back at Mast General Store during the weekend of August 14th. I plan on making several appearances on both weekends to answer questions and talk about my work.

Hickory Furniture Market

2009-07-19T03:23:00.003-04:00

I have a lot of posts to catch up on next week. I will start with the most recent event.

Today I installed my photography at Taste Full Beans at the Mart at the Hickory Furniture Market. My work will stay up for the next several months if it's not all sold during next weekend's big sale. 2000 people are expected. I can only wish.

Art Crawl

2009-06-18T10:08:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone,

This evening, June 18, the Catawba Valley Community College Photographic Technology program will participate in the Downtown Hickory Art Crawl from 5:30-9:00.

The students will be in the atrium of Shoppes on the Square (beside Groucho's Deli) and in the Sandy Lyons building located at 25 Second Street NW (next door to Taste Full Beans). My work will be on display at Taste Full Beans.

Please come out and support the students and enjoy art in downtown Hickory.

Taste Full Beans

2009-05-29T08:55:00.004-04:00

I picked up my "Living The Country Life" prints up last week from a show in Lexington, NC. To keep my goal of not having the prints sit at my house they are going to be displayed at Taste Full Beans in downtown Hickory, NC, tomorrow. They will be there for three months. There is five new prints in the show that were added for Lexington. I will be at Taste Full Beans during the Downtown Hickory Art Crawl on June 18 from 5:30-9:00. 14 of my students from Catawba Valley Community College's Photographic Technology program will also be displaying their work. Please come and show your support.

Latino Portfolio

2009-05-24T12:09:00.003-04:00

I have finished my Latino portfolio to M. A. Candidacy Review for SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design). Within the following week I will know if I can take my final portfolio class in the fall and graduate.
It has been a wonderful project to document the Latino community in and around Catawba County. I have made a lot of friends and have learned a lot about a local ethnic group I knew little about. I feel closer to my daughter who was born in Guatemala. I took her with me to several of the photo shots. In the future I plan to take her to more Latino events.
This might turn into an exhibit one day if I can find a way to pay for the printing and framing. I plan on applying for local grants when they are available.
I am not sure what I will document next. I might continue this project about Latinos or go back to documenting NC farmers. Time will tell.
You can see the portfolio on the following link:
Latino Traditions

Atlanta

2009-03-29T21:31:00.002-04:00

I just returned last weekend from Atlanta. I was the official photographer for a group of young males called Minority Male Mentors. We went to Morehouse College where Martin Luther King, Jr. and Spike Lee graduated from. I was really impressed that academics come first. We couldn't hardly find any students who knew where the gym was.
The following day we visited King's Memorial. It was a very moving experience that everyone should visit at least once. The Civil Right Museum was very emotional. I looked at those young men with us and I am very thankful that they don't have to experience the racism their ancestors dealt with. I do feel that they should understand all of the injustices and hardships heir forefathers lived through.
It was an honor to be invited and my only regret was that we only stayed one night.

Mom's Internet Premiere

2009-01-30T13:31:00.005-05:00

I finally attended my show reception at Davidson County Community College last Tuesday after being postponed due to hint of snow the previous Tuesday. A different crowd of college students, artists, and a few members of my family filled the hallways of the opening. I always enjoy sharing stories and hearing positive comments about my work.
My wife stayed at home sick but I took daughter who enjoyed seeing my mother and stepfather. My mother stills my thunder by being featured in the Lexington Dispatch and on DCCC's website. My mother does not even understand the concept of the internet.
I enjoyed talking with fellow photography instructor and featured artist Benita Van Winkle. She also enjoys photographing her community and heritage. She also does traditional book binding with her photography. This is something I hope to achieve myself.
My cousin Sherry, who works with Bob Timberlake, came to see my show and treat us to Lexington BBQ. She told me Bob is going to try to come by and see the exhibit. Maybe one of my pictures will become a famous painting.

Here are links to the two websites about the opening:

Davidson County Community College Website News

The Dispatch Article

Davidson Show Opening

2009-01-13T12:24:00.005-05:00

My show at Davidson County Community College will open on Tuesday, January 20th, from 4-6:00 PM in the Mendenhall Administration Building. 17 of my prints are on display through May. Several other artists will also have their work displayed. I hope to have a good turn out. A lot of my family is from Davidson County and Rowan County. This will be the first time a lot of them will see my work.

Aussie & Me

2008-12-29T14:07:00.003-05:00

On Christmas day I took the family to go see Marley & Me. I had also started reading the book and finished it last night. Marley & Me is one of the first stories in a long time I could really relate to.
My dog Aussie, an Australian Cattle Dog, has been my companion since 1997 when I was a college student. I had dogs growing up but they were never really my dogs. Aussie was the first dog that was really mine who I could take with me everywhere.
I wanted an Australian Cattle Dog because a friend of mine's parents had one. My friend explained to me if I wanted a 100% dog, an Australian Cattle Dog is what I needed. She told me tales of her dog's mischief and cleverness and for some reason I was sold.
Like Marley, Aussie is not the most well behaved dog. She had graduated from obedience school twice but still pulls on her leash and misbehaves daily. She still nips and barks at anything moving in her path and eats everything in her reach.
Like any dog owner I have a lot of stories about Aussie. One I can't forget is when we first got married we took Aussie on a vacation to the beach. She loved catching the waves and she drunk a lot of salt water. Once we were back in the car and was boarding a ferry the salt water flowed back out and filled the cup holders and console of my car. I could never get the smell out. We decided to camp out for the vacation and Aussie added twists to the whole weekend.
Hiking has always been an adventure. Aussie once chased an armadillo at me and once caught a mouse and threw it in my lap. I could unleash her and she would stay by my side. Rangers would always scold us and it would take years before I understood why.
When I first started dating Julie I tried to get Julie's dog Molly and Aussie to play together. With both of them being females they liked to dominate each other. It all ended when Aussie bit Molly under the eye and required stitches. We kept them separated until Molly sadly passed away with cancer. Aussie would not leave Molly's side when she passed away. When Molly died, Aussie changed to a different dog. Aussie became more calm and reserved.
Aussie has always been by my side. I have to admit I have not spent as much quality time as I use to with her. I have taken her for granted. Instead of taking her everywhere I usually leave her at home now. I guess I don't want to risk her scaring people who walk near my car or have her bark constantly in the passenger seat.
These days, Aussie has arthritis and gets sore very easily. Her eyesight and hearing is also fading. She use to be able to play frisbee and soccer endlessly. She could also ride a skateboard and keep up with any hiker or mountain biker. Now she knows where her limit is and can't play for too long without giving out.
With Aussie we have always felt safe in our home and have always had an automatic food vacuum cleaner at our disposal. Who needs an alarm system when you got a barker who sounds mean but isn't.
My plan was to learn to be more responsible. I thought I could graduate from raising a dog, to finding a wife, then to having a family. The plan worked like clockwork and I have to thank Aussie for it. I now have a wife, a daughter, two cats, and my beloved Aussie. I know she is getting older but I can't think of life without her.

Art Sync Magazine

2008-12-16T13:53:00.002-05:00

My photography is being featured in Art Sync Magazine. I am the December Artist of The Month. The online gallery will be featured for the next year. Art Sync Magazine is a new art magazine about North Carolina artists. Check out my gallery and check out the magazine.

The Colors of New York City

2008-12-10T15:38:00.003-05:00

A student of mine, Kris Huffman, had his reception for his first photography exhibit, "The Colors of New York City" last night. Kris is very gifted at street photography by finding interesting subject matter and compositions that shows the colors and beauty of the city. One of my favorites is a group of Santas that he follows around the city. I one shot he finds them looking into the windows of a Victoria Secret store.
I am very proud of him to take the leap and exhibit his own work. The photographs jump off the wall and makes me want to travel there myself.
If you get a chance don't miss the show. It's at the Newton-Conover Auditorium until the end of December.

New Show in Lexington

2008-12-03T19:05:00.003-05:00

I am happy to announce that I will be apart of a show in Lexington, NC, at Davidson County Community College. The opening will be January 20th from 4-6 PM. The exhibit will be displayed until May 18th. Seventeen of my Living The Country Life exhibit has been selected. Several new prints will be included, a recent picture of Arlie Presnell's new life and a photograph of Clifford Glenn in his father's dulcimer shop.
What makes the show so special is that Davidson County is where my ancestors are from. The Youngs where frontiers of the area dating back to the 1700s. My family lived there until my grandfather married my grandmother. There is a lot of rich history that my ancestors were apart of that I hope to further research.

Show Extended

2008-11-02T20:05:00.003-05:00

I went by Taste Full Beans to take down the show last Saturday and was asked to leave the show up through December 4th due to its success. I gratefully said yes. I had to move the prints into the large sitting room in the front of the coffee show. I think it looks better there than the hallway. If you haven't seen the show go by and see it. I don't know where it will be next.

Pennell Krage Wedding

2008-10-01T21:19:00.010-04:00

Shane and I recently shot the wedding of Kendall Pennell and Jason Krage. Hurricane storms were predicted during the wedding date but through Kendall's prayers the day turned out beautiful. It was a very informal country wedding with bottle drinks, homemade ice cream, blue jeans, and a antique fire engine.
Kendall is a photography graduate and former student of Shane and I. It was a real honor to photograph her wedding for both of us.

Being Blogged About

2008-09-25T22:30:00.004-04:00

I have found posts about my show in Hickory on different blogs. What an honor. Thank you.
http://www.setzler.net/2008/09/18/living-the-country-life/
http://www.sojourner8.wordpress.com

Fort Defiance

2008-09-21T22:36:00.017-04:00

I visited Hoy and Bertha Moretz Saturday and traveled with them to Fort Defiance, a home dating from the Revolutionary War. Fort Defiance was holding a living history day and Bertha was going to churn butter. It was a beautiful day and I enjoyed taking pictures and talking to everyone. I met a lot of people I hope to photograph at their homes in the near future. I had not talked to Nathan Roark in 10 years. He runs the Buffalo Cove Outdoor Education Center which teaches guests traditional survival skills. He is a really cool guy.
The highlight of the day was talking to Rick Ward. Old time banjo picking has been passed down for many generations in his family. After talking with Rick I discovered that he is related to most of my subjects that I have photographed including The Hicks on Beech Mountain, Arlie Presnell, Jack Guy, and Charlie Glenn. I enjoyed looking through his collection of old photos and hearing his stories that remind me of Ray and Orville. Rick told me he was also an expert in Kung-fu. I found this sort of odd but I did some research about him later. In summary, he is a grandmaster in Kung-fu, a police officer, and a folklorist. He is a man of many trades and a very interesting person. I can't wait to sit down and talk with him again.
Rick walked me to what is believed to be the oldest Beech tree in the United States. It is over 200 years old.

Jack and the Coffee Beans

2008-09-19T18:41:00.010-04:00

Orville Hicks joined my reception at Taste Full Beans which was also during the Downtown Hickory Art Crawl. Orville told some Jack Tales and entertained guests as they looked at my photography. This show has been my dream for the last ten years. I have always wanted to have a solo show of my mountain friends with them there. I hope I can book more shows especially in the mountains so I can invite my subjects.

All That Buzz

2008-09-19T18:41:00.002-04:00

There is a nice article about my exhibit on the Hickory Daily Record website. Pictures from the reception will be online soon.

Just for the record, my name is Clayton Joe Young not Joe Clayton Young as mentioned in the article.

Here's a link to the article:
http://www2.hickoryrecord.com/content/2008/sep/17/joe-clayton-youngs-photography-freezes-time/entertainment/

Hickory Show

2008-09-04T11:00:00.002-04:00

My next show of "Living The Country Life" will go up this Saturday at Taste Full Beans in Hickory. I will remain on display until October 25th. The reception will be on September 18th from 5:30-9:00 PM which is during the Downtown Hickory Art Crawl. Appalachian Storyteller Orville Hicks will be present telling stories. I am very excited and I believe I will have a huge turnout.
The Taylorsville show was successful. I received a lot of positive feedback and sold some prints. The Spilled Bean hopes to exhibit local artists. Because of my solo show, the local camera club in Taylorsville are displaying their photography now.
After this show I hope to exhibit my work in the NC mountains. I have applied for the Jones House in Boone for 2010 but would like to find a location for the end of the year. I would love to find a location in Asheville, Black Mountain, Lenoir, or Morganton.

Class of 2008

2008-08-06T20:43:00.003-04:00

Last week eight students finished the Photographic Technology program at CVCC. The students went through two years of intensive photography classes. It's not easy and a lot students don't make it. I hope all of them pursue their photography careers.

Opening Night

2008-07-12T21:24:00.006-04:00

I had my opening last night. The whole process turned out to be a lot of work. The turn out was good. I had around 60 people come to see my photographs. That's not too bad for Taylorsville. I had a lot of good comments including the pictures bringing back memories of childhood and that I captured the soul of the subjects. I hope I sell a lot of prints. I really want to help Ted and Rosa out. I have the framed prints for sale and 11x14 matted prints for sale. I just created a poster that hopefully will be popular.

Exhibit Dates Confirmed

2008-06-24T21:12:00.002-04:00

I have two dates confirmed for my solo photography exhibit about rural living. Here is the press release:

Photographer Joe Young Exhibits Work:
“Living the Country Life”

Joe Young, an award winning photographer and photographic technology instructor at Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory, will be exhibit a special collection of his photography called “Living the Country Life.”

The exhibit includes photographs of North Carolina farmers, mountain storytellers and people living a simpler way of life. In his photography, Young explores the joys of family and community built on taking time, such as making dulcimers, gathering eggs or just sitting on front porch swings.

Portraits include photos of the late great Jack Tale storyteller Ray Hicks and son Ted Hicks of Beech Mountain. Other photos feature Clifford Glenn of Sugar Grove, Hoy and Bertha Moretz of Happy Valley, Eustace Conway of Triplett, Lester Hunt of Toluca, Arlie Presnell of Beach Creek, and Stanley Whitaker of Shelby.

The exhibit will be on display at Spilled Beans in Taylorsville July 11 – August 29. A reception with the photographer will be held on July 11 from 5 to 8 p.m.

An upcoming display of the exhibit will be at Taste Full Beans in downtown Hickory September 6 – October 25. A reception will be held on September 18 during the Downtown Hickory Art Crawl with Jack Tale storyteller Orville Hicks and Young.

Photos will be available for purchase. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Rosa and Ted Hicks Fund. This fund assists the son and wife of the late Ray Hicks with their increasing medical bills. For more information about the fund, visit www.rayhicks.com. To find out more about the photographer and his upcoming exhibits visit www.joeyoungphoto.com.

The Golden Years

2008-05-31T19:34:00.004-04:00

This is a personal project about an elderly couple, Lester and Lily Hunt. After spending time with them I get a sense of love and understanding that has lasted more than half a century. They have six children, ten grandchildren, and four great grandchildren together.

Because of various ailments they no longer drive and rely on their children to help take care of them. Lily, 73, had two strokes a few years ago and takes over a dozen medicines for diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. She has a hard time getting around but is able to do small chores. Lester, 89, is in very good health but is suffering from what appears to be advanced stages of Alzheimer’s.

The farmer the Hunts once worked for rents a house to them. He worries about them living alone and feels they would be better off in a nursing home.

I think they are living one of the last chapters of their golden years and before long things might have to change.

Life On The Farm

2008-04-30T22:14:00.005-04:00

Here is my artist statement and a few images for my latest assignment as a SCAD student:

Hoy and Bertha Moretz live in the rural community of Happy Valley, NC, a place they call “God’s Country.” The Moretzs live differently then their neighbors and family. They live a simple lifestyle that in today’s modern age reflects more of the past.

Most of their time is spent milking cows, churning butter, attending to the animals, and sitting on the front porch. If a visitor arrives, Hoy is full of stories while Bertha quietly listens in acknowledgement. Smiling, they will tell you that recently eight kids (baby goats) and two calves where born.

Hoy dropped out of school in the 5^th grade to stay home on the farm. As a child Hoy would get caught following his father to the fields where he worked with steers. At first he was punished but soon helped his father and fell in love with working with the animals. From this came a curiosity of how things worked. Hoy started studying every local trade. Hoy makes up for lack of a formal education with his extensive knowledge about traditional rural living. A lot of people come to Hoy for advice about farming and crafts that were thought to be forgotten.

Once you watch Hoy work with his farm animals you notice he has a sixth sense with them. His bulls and steers listen by command and are disciplined enough for children to ride them. His favorite trick is walking his bulls up and down steps to his front porch. Why does he do it? Because he says no one believes it is possible.

According to Hoy the secret to training the animals is to get them to trust him and not to be afraid. He is not abusive, but instead teaches them to listen by talking to them.

The Moretzs holds the same beliefs to child raising. When Hoy was 14 his uncle brought his young son Grady to Hoy. The uncle said he couldn’t do anything with him and asked Hoy if he could watch after him. Grady had 16 brothers and sisters. According to Hoy there was nothing wrong with him, his uncle was too rough and the boy needed some attention. Grady stayed with Hoy and his family for a while and Hoy helped him out as much as possible.

A few years ago Grady passed away. Grady’s son Bobby came from Maryland to visit recently and told Hoy that one of his father’s dying wishes was to get Hoy something that he needed. Bobby noticed that Hoy was having problems getting around due to arthritis. Soon Bobby left and returned with a rugged golf cart. Tears fill Hoy’s eyes when talking about the gift, he sobbed that he never expects anything in return.

The Moretzs don’t have children of their own and have been married almost 42 years. Bertha had a miscarriage when she was young and was told she couldn’t bear children. Instead of being bitter, they are very generous and wise with all living things, be it animals or children.

To find their house you have to get off the main road, turn onto a graveled dirt road and drive past a little white church. Once you go over a steep hill you catch sight of a grand view of hundreds of acres of forest and the wooden house Hoy built with his own hands. You’ll also spot cows in a pasture, various outbuildings, and farm equipment. One thing you’ll notice is that it’s very quiet. The only sounds heard are birds singing and cow bells clinging throughout their pasture.

When asked why they live this rural lifestyle you can never get a straight answer. Some things just can’t be explained, it’s just the way it’s meant to be.

Blurb Books

2008-03-13T21:10:00.005-04:00

I finally published my first Blurb book. I had procrastinated publishing a book for over a year using Blurb. I talked to a rep from Blurb at Imaging USA a few months ago and she said you just have to pick 20 images and do it. Once you get over the hurdle it becomes much more easy. Well I am glad I took her advice because I finally did it. I actually published two books. One is about my daughter Abigail who is turning 3 tomorrow. The other is about my home state NC. It contains mostly scenic landscapes and old farms and houses.
I didn't include any people. I want the next book to be about the mountain people I have met in the NC mountains around Boone.
I am also thinking about a second book about NC and a travel book. The books look professional and are not very expensive. I'd love to sell some but I think the cost is too high to resell. I didn't have any problems giving away the ones I printed though.

Polaroids RIP

2008-02-12T21:00:00.001-05:00

I just read some articles that Polaroid is going to quit making instant print film. I don't know what I will do about the film that is required for my classes that use medium and large format cameras. I guess for now I will find the remaining film out there or find an alternative. This is just as big as a set back as when Kodak quit making black and white paper. It's an end of another era.
Don't get me wrong, I love digital. But I also still love shooting film and I still teach with film. Film is still the best way to learn photography when you are just getting started. I hope I will never have to close the darkroom but it looks like that day will come. The students will be the ones missing out.

Remembering Fred

2008-02-12T20:42:00.001-05:00

A photography friend of mine, Fred Carey, recently passed away due to cancer. I meet Fred several years ago and with his encouragement started a photography club in Shelby. Fred was always traveling the country by car and on cruises. He had won numerous awards for his photography over the years and won in a National Park contest a few years ago. I took a portrait of him for the newspaper that his family adored. I got a phone call from the newspaper asking if the family could use the image and I was afraid I knew why.
I visited his widow last week and asked to purchase one of his pictures. My wife was with me and she got a feeling that one day she might be in this woman's shoes. Fred had printing 100s of his pictures and his wife is selling them. I purchased one of my favorites. A photo of Mabry Mill of the Blue Ridge Parkway that won the contest.
I tend to think that I will live forever and I will always have time to print my pictures so my family will find them. In truth, most of them are digital files on two external hard drives and on hundreds of cds and dvds. Most of them are in a RAW format. I don't know if my family would ever be able to find them all or know how to view them. This doesn't include the 1000s of negatives I have in binders. At least someone would know what these are.
I do make an attempt to print my favorites but I can't keep up with all the digital files that I take. Maybe I will be able to come up with a solution.

Wedding Portrait Demonstration

2008-01-29T21:02:00.001-05:00

Myself and fellow wedding photographers Shane Atkinson and Cathy Yount will be sharing our wedding images on April 6th at Caldwell Community College. A bride will be modeling for us and we will shoot on location at the campus. Included will be what to look for when on location, posing, and lighting. Other photographers will be on hand to talk about nature photography and photojournalism. Travel Photographer and instructor David Hessell is putting all of this together. It will be free and open to the public. More details will follow later.

Snow

2008-01-19T17:06:00.001-05:00

It snowed for the first time in two years last Thursday morning. As you can tell my daughter and dog love the snow. We bought a sled last minute. I'm glad we did.
When I was a photojournalist I use to have to drive around and photograph the snow every time a flake hit the ground.
I bet a lot of photographers were probably out trying to get snow shots at their favorite sites.
I was content photographing the family and staying close to the indoors.

Tampa

2008-01-06T22:10:00.000-05:00

Tampa has been amazing. We arrived safely and there is nothing I enjoy more than seeing the students experience the conference and volunteering with a smile on their face. Everyone is enjoying themselves and absorbing the expertese of the experts. It's warm to boot. My only complaint is that Imaging USA will be in Phoenix next year. That is too far to drive. Maybe a few students will be able to fly.

Tampa or Bust

2008-01-03T20:35:00.000-05:00

I am driving a dozen photography students to Tampa tomorrow for Imaging USA. The students are volunteering to help throughout the photography conference and work along side professional photographers. I am looking forward to a few days of winter sun and chances to take some pictures. I hope the experience will motivate the students and get them started in their careers. I am only hoping the drive there and back won't be too bad. I am driving a bus.

The Next Young Photographer

2007-12-27T14:37:00.000-05:00

We bought a digital camera for my daughter Abigail for Christmas. Abigail has already taken a lot of pictures. The camera holds 60 images and she can fill the camera in a few minutes. She snaps away photographing everything in her path including dolls, pets, and people. Her photos show an untrained eye but are very creative. The images exhibit the fun of picture taking for the sake of enjoyment. As adults we loose our innocence and get our minds too filled with camera settings, posing, and compositions. Abigail works with an amazing grace and lightning speed running around capturing moments that are hard to get. Did I mention she is only 2 years old?

A Show At Last

2007-12-01T07:02:00.000-05:00

I originally posted this as a comment on a recent post John M. Setzler, Jr.'s blog entitled The Next Step (Part 2).
What drove me to photography was my grandfather. When I was a child he would drive me up to the mountains to visit mountain people near a cabin he rented on Cat Tail Creek. I enjoyed sitting on the porch with them hearing their stories and learning about their simple ways of life. When I was in college I took a photography class and my first subject was my grandfather. He was an old farmer who stilled plowed the field with a horse and grew his own vegetables. I had him take me back to Cat Tail Creek but everything had disappeared. I found this to be a rude awakening. I went back to Boone and starting driving through the back roads looking for a way of life that was disappearing in front of my eyes. Eventually I did meet a lot of new friends and found what I was seeking. My grandfather passed away before I could take him with me to meet some of my new friends. What I was looking for evidence of own heritage. I wanted to hear tall tales and sit on front porches again. I wanted to look at their hands and faces and see the hard work and pride they had in their land.
To make a long story short. I graduated college and got a job as a photojournalist. After 6 years I would eventually get burned out and loose my passion. I have since college I revisited my friends once a year or so. A lot have passed away and some have held on. I always fear that I would one day knock on a door and find no one at home.
My goal had always been to share my friends with the world and let the public hear their stories. I have applied for shows since I was a student and always been turned down. A year or so ago I applied to several local galleries and never heard a response.
I am happy to say that I am finally having my first show in Taylorsville at The Spilled Bean early next year of my mountain friends.
In conclusion, I have been a photographer for over 10 years now and I still get that spark of excitement at times and still love everything about photography. The flame has died down a lot but I have never forgotten why I started in the first place.

Being A Student Again

2007-11-13T06:50:00.001-05:00

After being out of school for 8 years I decided to apply for graduate school. I wanted to study photography and I found out the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) offered a Masters of Art in Digital Photography online. I was accepted and have now finished my first semester. I learned a lot but it was rough. I didn't think I would learn a lot about digital photography but I learned about art, montages, and semiotics.

In The Name Of Progress

2007-11-06T12:44:00.000-05:00

When driving my car on the rural roads of western NC I often come across scenes that make me want to grab my camera. A lot of times I can't find a place to pull over or I talk myself out of stopping. There have been numerous occasions that I have driven down the same road and sadly discovered that the landscape has changed forever. Maybe it's an old house that has fallen down or a new road that has been built.
One day last summer I was driving work and the sun was rising over a cow pasture. What caught my attention was the warm monotone color and the configuration of the trees. I also liked the old fence and the few cows grazing. I stopped and took a few pictures. My wife loves the picture and we have it hanging in our home.
When I drive by there now I feel sick to my stomach. A new road for a Target distribution center and a housing development is replacing the cow pasture. Oddly, the beautiful trees remain. The fence has been replaced with a new fence and the cows are gone.
If I wouldn't have stopped that one morning I wouldn't have any proof that it ever existed.

My first blog ever.

2007-11-02T00:33:00.000-04:00

This is my first time ever submitting a blog. I have been thinking about this and putting it off long enough. I will talk about photography and my views on life in general. I hope it will be informative and interesting. Hopefully not boring like this first post.
I teach photography in Hickory, NC. It might sound crazy but I live and breathe photography. I see pictures everywhere I am and at times have my camera to capture what strikes my attention. Most of the time I am too busy or don't want to spend the trouble talking to the subjects. Too bad we live in such a fast paced world.
One last comment. One thing that always comes before my photography is my family. I can always take another picture.