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FRAMES Artist-in-Residence November / December 2021: Cynthia Gladis

PART 1 – NOVEMBER 15, 2021

W. Scott Olsen in conversation with Cynthia Gladis, introducing our Artist-in-Residence, talking about her photography, designer background influencing her work, and about the way she is planning to approach her FRAMES assignment.

Leave your questions to Cynthia in the comment section below and she will do her best to answer them all.

PART 2 – NOVEMBER 22, 2021

Hello FRAMES!

I’m so honored, and excited, by Tomasz’s invitation to be November’s FRAMES Artist-in-Residence and hope that you’ll find how I approach this interesting and a bit entertaining. For this first installment I’ve taken you with me on a photo walk, and I’ll eventually be sharing my raw files vs. the final images, and also discussing which images, if any, I think are suitable for FRAMES. Hopefully at the end of the month I’ll have a small portfolio of images that will work!

As some of you know, I love to try new photographic techniques and to experiment, in general. Once I got over my initial terror at the prospect of doing this, I quickly decided that I’d like to record photo walks with a GoPro. Have I ever used a GoPro? No. Have I ever shot video of any kind? No. So it just follows that I’ve never edited video, either. This is my first effort, and now that I know you will be watching it, a slight bit of terror is creeping back. I normally don’t talk so much and I’m more used to writing than talking these days, so please forgive my copious use of “ummm” – if I’d tried to edit out all my “ummms” I wouldn’t have made the deadline!

You will notice that my raw files show up on screen only briefly. I’ve never shared raw files before, and I’m not a “straight out of the camera” type. I’d rather spend my time walking and composing rather than adjusting camera settings, while I collect the raw material that I bring to life in post. But trust me, you will see them in all their underexposed glory (I shoot that way intentionally – I’d rather brighten photos in post than tone down something that’s overexposed) when I do the side-by-side comparisons.

A few acknowledgements: Thank you again, Tomasz, for this opportunity, and for the FRAMES community, which inspires me on a daily basis. Thank you, Scott Olsen, for the great interview. Special thanks go to FRAMES member Shane McGeehan, for generously letting me “pick his brain” about video and for encouraging my approach. I’d also like to acknowledge that the transition and brief musical clip I used were downloaded, legally, from my Adobe Photography Plan account. I recorded the sound of my Fuji X-T2’s shutter with my iPhone and used that throughout the video.

I hope you enjoy this installment, and I look forward to producing the next one!

Cynthia

Leave your questions to Cynthia in the comment section below and she will do her best to answer them all.

PART 3 – NOVEMBER 29, 2021

Hello FRAMES!

As promised, in this installment I’ll show you my “befores and afters” – my RAW vs. processed files. There is a PDF attached to view after you’ve watched the video, so that you can look much more closely at the images in a higher resolution than you’ll see in this video.

The primary deliverable for my tenure as Artist-in-Residence is a portfolio of 5-10 images. As I head toward that goal I’ll show you how I evaluate and critique my own photos to decide which ones, if any, are “FRAMES-worthy.”

As I go through my photos in the video, I categorize each image in one of three ways:

1. “Meh.” These are the photos that might have seemed like a good idea at the time, but just didn’t pan out the way I saw them in my mind’s eye. Or, they suffer from me not using the right lens for the job. They normally never see the light of day, but you will see some, here.

2. “Solid.” These images range from semi-solid (a step up from meh, and the ones I sit on, sometimes forever) to rock solid, which are the images I’m comfortable sharing on social media, in genre groups, on my own page with a little story, and on my website. I allow myself a lot of latitude in the “solid” category, because I never share an image that I’m not pleased with on some level.

3. “Personal Best.” These are the images that I feel best reflect me and my way of seeing, and have a unique element or feature – usually something a bit quirky or unexpected – that makes them mine. These are the images that get me excited, that I can’t wait to share. And sometimes I don’t realize I have one until I see it in post. These are the “FRAMES-worthy” images I hope to end up with for this project.

I hope you enjoy this installment, and I’d love to hear if any of you go through a similar thought process in evaluating your own work.

Cynthia

You can download the accompanying PDF file here.

Leave your questions to Cynthia in the comment section below and she will do her best to answer them all.

PART 4 – DECEMBER 6, 2021

Hello FRAMES!

Welcome to Installment 4 of my Artist-in-Residence project, my second, and final, photo walk. This time I’ve brought you with me to Point Pleasant, New Jersey. I had great conditions for this shoot – sunny and mild, and before noon, with the kind of blue skies and light that I enjoy. I will shoot in any kind of weather, but a day like this happens to be my favorite.

I will again show you, in Installment 5, the befores and afters, and then I’ll close out that installment with my selection of final photos that will make up my Artist-in-Residence portfolio.

This continues to be a very interesting exercise for me, because I am used to processing my photos and displaying the ones I’m most pleased with shortly thereafter. For this exercise, I set out to do two completely different shoots and figured I’d pick the photos I liked best from one of the shoots for the final portfolio. However, after having “sat” on the photos from both walks for a couple of weeks now, I find that I can connect them conceptually and include photos from both excursions in the final portfolio. I’m still giving it a lot of thought, but this is my plan.

Other than the fact that I usually post a few images quickly when I’m pleased with a particular shoot, what I’ve shown you is typically the way it goes for me – I pick a place, I shoot anything there that catches my eye or that I feel has potential to be an interesting image and then, sometimes weeks or months later, I build “sets” from my photos based on common threads I see, or a story they might tell. There are of course times I’ll say to myself, for example, “ok, we just had our first snow, I’m going to go out and photograph the trees.” But my favorite type of shooting is what you’re seeing during this project – exploring with my camera while keeping an open mind.

I hope you enjoy this installment.

Cynthia

Leave your questions to Cynthia in the comment section below and she will do her best to answer them all.

PART 5 – DECEMBER 13, 2021

Hello FRAMES!

Welcome to the last installment of my Artist-in-Residence project. I will show you my “befores and afters” from the Point Pleasant photo walk and then, at the very end, I’ll present the 10 images I chose for the final project portfolio. I won’t be rating the photos this time, but I will describe how this shoot resulted in a few distinct “series” and some interesting standalone images.

As I mentioned before, I love shooting on a day like I had in Point Pleasant – sunny and unseasonably mild. I “come alive” a bit more when I have those shooting conditions, and this shoot was no exception!

I won’t say too much more about what you’ll see. I invite you to look at the two attached PDF files (use the links below, under the video) – one contains all the photos from the shoot in high res, and the other is a presentation of the final 10 portfolio shots so you can see them in high res as well.

One more housekeeping detail – when I watched this video I realized that when I was describing why a few shots are blurry I mistakenly said I had my Fujifilm X-T2 and “18-35mm” lens. I misspoke, it’s an 18-135mm lens, which makes a lot more sense in the context of my “fumbling with my gear” demonstration.

I’d like to thank Tomasz again for this opportunity. How I approached my tenure as Artist-in-Residence was a bit of a stretch for me and I’m just so pleased that it worked out the way I planned. I enjoyed doing this, and sharing my “laughing side,” more than I could have imagined. Photography gives me great joy, and heading out with my camera always makes me happy. Some of my laughter is ironic, because it kills me that it took me this long to discover that. But, as they say, better late than never!

Thank you all for watching, and I appreciate the comments. I hope that you enjoy this last installment.

Cynthia

PDF DOWNLOADS:

All Point Pleasant high-res images
Final FRAMES Artist-in-Residence Portfolio

Leave your questions and comments for Cynthia in the comment section below and she will do her best to get back to you as soon as possible.

Comments (158):

  1. Paul Sanders

    November 15, 2021 at 13:17

    Really looking forward to this Cynthia- good luck

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 15, 2021 at 14:24

      Thanks so much, Paul! I enjoyed your segments a lot and you set the bar high for me and all who follow! This is a lot of fun and I hope that I can keep people as interested as you did.

      Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 15, 2021 at 17:15

      I’m so glad to hear that, Jan! Thanks.

      Reply
  2. Kate Barclay

    November 15, 2021 at 17:43

    Exciting, I am looking forward to your Photowalks Cynthia

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 16, 2021 at 13:48

      Thanks so much for your comment, Kate! I hope you enjoy what I’m going to do!

      Reply
  3. Sonja Bowden

    November 15, 2021 at 17:57

    What an enjoyable interview. Very relaxed and relatable. I’m looking forward to more!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 16, 2021 at 13:48

      Sonja, thank you so much (and for your encouragement as well!). I can’t wait for you to see the first installment and to see if you recognize a scene in it that made me think of you — the type of scene that makes both of do the happy dance!

      Reply
  4. Elizabeth+Klanac

    November 15, 2021 at 19:27

    Wonderful introduction Cynthia… I gained a lot of knowledge from your first podcast, but I have always been amazed with your photo walks. Your design background plays very prominently in your images and I like and appreciate that. I too like that sense of order. I love the clean lines and appreciation of space and shape and light and shadow. I do see your sense of humor, and I like that very much because I need more laughter in my life. I love the shopping cart up against the building it’s like he’s peeking out. And of course the target balls. But I do enjoy how you see. It has opened my eyes and changed my perspective in the short time I’ve known you. Thank you for a great introduction.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 15, 2021 at 20:20

      And thank you for your wonderful comment, Elizabeth! I really hope you enjoy my first installment and the photowalk, during which I am very much myself. I have to work on the “ums,” LOL, will do that for the next time!

      Reply
  5. Danielle Labonte

    November 15, 2021 at 19:35

    Great interview! And I’m looking forward to the next instalments and the walks!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 16, 2021 at 13:12

      Thanks so much, Danielle! I’m so pleased to see that you’ll be able to access the content!

      Reply
  6. Bill Fosdick

    November 15, 2021 at 20:35

    I am very much looking forward to your next discoveries and am curious to know if you revisit a site to find different light; continue to shoot from different angles; or nudge the odd object into or out of your frame to capture the image you conceive? Questions I hope will come up during your residency and walks. Thanks.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 16, 2021 at 13:14

      Bill, thanks for your comment, which couldn’t have been more prescient! I’m just about finished putting together my first installment and I think you’ll find that much of what you asked is answered!

      Reply
  7. David Mark

    November 15, 2021 at 21:47

    Thank you so much for your inspiring introduction Cynthia. You have powerful design DNA, and I loved the simple, clean lines with homorous juxtapositions

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 16, 2021 at 13:15

      David, thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed the images and can appreciate this way that I see!

      Reply
  8. Richard Hutson

    November 15, 2021 at 22:01

    Cynthia, I’m really looking forward to seeing the images you make and why you make them.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 16, 2021 at 13:16

      Thanks very much, Richard, and I hope you enjoy learning about my process.

      Reply
  9. Eric Falk

    November 16, 2021 at 00:48

    I look forward to your photowalks. I see a lot of William Eggleston in your work and he is my favorite. BTW–I grew up in Monmouth County and spent LOTS of time hanging out at Sandy Hook and Fort Hancock. Know it well.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 16, 2021 at 13:20

      Wow, Eric, thank you! I have come to appreciate Eggleston’s work very much, but I have to be honest with you — when I started on my photography journey I had never heard of him, in fact I didn’t pay attention to any of the greats when I was starting out because I was afraid they would influence me and I wanted to “do my own thing” and see what emerged. Now, a comment like yours pleases the heck out of me. And I’m happy to hear that you grew up in Jersey, I think you will really enjoy the first installment I have planned, and my way of speaking will probably come as no surprise to you. I wish I could put in the laughing emoji here!

      Reply
  10. Richard+Young

    November 16, 2021 at 01:16

    Very fine work, your development is worth watching so have fun with your residency. I am always interested in the genealogy of artists, where the magic started and how the artist took it forward. Your work feels like it is extended from Edward Hopper but I could be wrong.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 16, 2021 at 13:23

      Richard, thanks for your comment, it elicited another “wow” from me. If you read my reply to Eric above, you’ll see that I tried not to be influenced by other photographers, but I have spent a lot of time in museums and have always loved Hopper’s work — it’s interesting to think that photographically I might have been influenced by a painter. I love his work and appreciate what you said very much!

      Reply
      • Richard+Young

        November 16, 2021 at 13:38

        Thanks! I think that it is fine to be influenced by others so long as you dont just copy. So, look at the long list of artist who crossed the boundary …. painters who then transitioned to become great photographers eg Cartier-Bresson, Saul Leiter, Avedon or painters who took photographs eg Warhol, Degas, Hockney, Rauschenberg, Twombly, Estes, Chuck Close etc. I am a painter who takes photographs.

        Reply
  11. Rivki Locker

    November 16, 2021 at 02:03

    New Jersey resident here! Looking forward to joining you!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 16, 2021 at 13:24

      Rivki, it’s so great to hear from fellow Jerseyans, and I really hope you enjoy my first installment — I hope you recognize the first place I visited. You’ll see!

      Reply
  12. Giulio

    November 22, 2021 at 15:45

    Great interview, sincere and fun to listen to, yet a bit…. controlled! naahh, just kidding, it was very spontaneous 😀 And very nice photos. I do like the cleanness of your shots. Just one question, would you say your vision was also inspired by William Egglestone’s or Luigi Ghirri’s work?

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 22, 2021 at 15:51

      Thanks so much, Giulio! And “controlled,” that cracked me up. Wait till you see my photo walk videos. Let’s just say I take my photography seriously but myself, much less so! I honestly tried not to be influenced by anyone — back when I started my photography journey I wasn’t paying attention to the “greats,” as I wanted to do my own thing and see what “developed” (pardon the pun). I honestly had never heard of Ghirri until now, thanks for pointing me in his direction. I’m flattered! I like to photograph many different things, including construction sites and abandoned, messy places, but I do lean more towards clean and graphic.

      Reply
  13. Sonja Bowden

    November 22, 2021 at 23:40

    I just took the photo walk with you, Cynthia, and it was so much fun! You see and experience things very much the way I do. I loved your choices of scenes and subjects. It was a joy to hear your thoughts as you walked along. Thanks for creating and sharing this very entertaining video.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 23, 2021 at 00:48

      And thank you for your wonderful comment, Sonja. I do know that we “see” alike, and I thought of you immediately when I saw the “porta john festival” scene!

      Reply
  14. peter van eekelen

    November 23, 2021 at 00:46

    That was greatly interesting, Cynthia. Really cool to see you walk about as I’m sure we all do, and in particular to watch you make your shot decisions because that’s what makes the difference. I already know that after your PP I’ll perfectly understand some of your choices, even though at times I would walk right the other way 😀 I’m looking forward to your next walk, and of course to the final results and your commentary on that!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 23, 2021 at 00:51

      Peter, thanks for watching, and I’m so pleased to hear that you thought it was interesting! I’m being very honest in the presentation of the photos, and you’ll see that some of the images I make I end up scrapping, because they looked better in my mind’s eye than in reality! But sometimes you just don’t know until you make the image — I think the trick is to be honest with yourself and be able to recognize when an image is “meh” rather than “wow!”

      Reply
      • peter van eekelen

        November 23, 2021 at 12:35

        Cynthia, you’re absolutely right. This meh-wow recognising ability is as difficult as the whole shooting and PP process itself :-). I really admire your guts to take us along in the ride!

        Reply
  15. Gail Orgias

    November 23, 2021 at 01:17

    Where to start – absolutely loved your Fort Hancock walk – ‘almost’ as good as being there – know many of us will wish! The place is so painterly – great architecture, wide expanse of sky, those trees & perfect light. Enjoyed hearing your thought process as you were taking the photos – you have a wonderful eye for composition – colour, symetry, and a sense of quirkiness as well. Your photos work so well in colour – did you convert any into B&W. Thanks Cynthia and looking forward to your next photo walk.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 23, 2021 at 14:25

      Gail, thanks so much for watching, and I’m so glad you enjoyed it! You will see the final photos next Monday — I ended up enjoying the muted color more than I expected, but find that I really come alive on a a sunny day, which I was fortunate enough to get for my second walk! Sometimes sunny days make for the kind of black and white I like, with strong contrast. I’m enjoying this project so much, and it’s teaching me a lot about how I truly like to shoot, and how I self curate — so it’s been interesting to me as well!

      Reply
  16. Earl Rogers,Jr

    November 23, 2021 at 01:25

    I like the video even though it had a sad moment to it. It’s a shame to have let a whole military base Close down when we have so many service members overseas that we could have brought home and kept that post alive.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 23, 2021 at 16:57

      Earl, thanks for watching. Keep in mind that Fort Hancock is well over 100 years old at this point, and the buildings are crumbling. They are being brought back to life, but at this point it might be better served as a historic monument/science center/living museum than living quarters.

      Reply
  17. Caroline Jackson

    November 23, 2021 at 07:39

    Cynthia, your photos are uplifting, but the composition is OH delightful. Looking forward to your photowalk, and your thought bubble. Cheers!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 23, 2021 at 14:28

      Caroline, I’m so glad that you’ll be able to access the content! We’ve always seemed like kindred spirits so you let me know once you’ve listened to me “walk and talk” (although I’m from NJ so it’s “wawk and tawk”). Thanks for the kind words on my photos, and I hope you enjoy this — I’m having such a great time with it!

      Reply
  18. Lowell Wolff

    November 23, 2021 at 14:55

    Really enjoyed your photo walk! Found my eye being drawn to same design elements you found fascinating. I am anxious to see which images make the cut and what happens to them in the post-processing. Apologies, in advance, for a gear-head question: Tell me about the GoPro setup, gimbal, mic etc. Simple (I hope) and very effective story telling device! Thank you for sharing your thoughts via your photo walk.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 23, 2021 at 16:55

      Hi Lowell, thanks for watching the video, and I’m so glad you enjoyed it! I’m looking forward to showing everyone my “before and after” photos, it should be interesting to anyone who enjoys post processing as much as I do. I don’t mind the gear-head question at all, I love talking about this stuff. The setup is simple, and I had fun doing the research and assembling what I needed! I used a GoPro Hero 10 (buy extra batteries!!!), it’s the new version that has very good stabilization (so I didn’t need a gimbal). I alternated between carrying it on the “shorty stick,” which is tiny and light and quite enjoyable to use, and the “3 Way 2.0” which is fantastic because you can hold it farther away from yourself to avoid the dreaded selfie distortion (I read that our arms would have to be 5 feet long to avoid that, LOL). I also used the RODE Wireless Go external microphone, and it’s fantastic. It also works well through my computer (you need special cords for that — reach out if you need more info, happy to send you links). The only negative about the RODE system is that they give you these little fur wind reducers that don’t stay on well at all — I lost one of the two they gave me, it just blew right off! I ended up taping the second one to the unit with surgical tape and, even though RODE is sending me a replacement, I will not use the little furry thing without tape, ever again! Whew, aren’t you glad you asked?

      Reply
  19. Lowell Wolff

    November 23, 2021 at 18:55

    Thanks for the thorough response. I love that the video (as insight your thought process) does not become the primary focus – very effective! What do you use to edit your video? Moving on to your website…

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 23, 2021 at 22:00

      Lowell, thank you. And I used Adobe’s Premiere Rush, I discovered that it now comes bundled with the photography package of PS and LR!

      Reply
  20. Ella Hudson

    November 23, 2021 at 22:46

    Enjoyed the walk about. Another place to add to our lengthy list of interesting places to visit! I’m looking forward to seeing the before and after shots from this video!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 24, 2021 at 15:07

      Thanks for watching, Ella, and for your comment. So glad you enjoyed the photo walk! Fort Hancock is a special place, and I hope you enjoy the photos!

      Reply
  21. Lowell Wolff

    November 23, 2021 at 22:48

    Thanks, you have been most helpful! Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.

    Reply
  22. Cynthia+Gladis

    November 23, 2021 at 23:48

    Lowell, it’s been my pleasure, and I wish you and yours the same!

    Reply
  23. Tua Rahikainen

    November 26, 2021 at 11:04

    Thank you Cynthia .
    I love the interesting area and your explanations. Very similar to my ideas ! Pity you do not live in Finland. We should take a photo walk to a world heritage fortification on an Island outside Helsinki.

    Reply
  24. Tua Rahikainen

    November 26, 2021 at 11:08

    Which are your camera settings . I always use manual mode and set the best WB. Do you take many shots of the same scene even when they are not moving as I do to avoid shaking or tilted horizon. I could hear only one click .

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 26, 2021 at 14:52

      Tua, thanks for watching. I’m glad you enjoyed the video and “tour” of Fort Hancock, and I’m glad to hear that we are kindred spirits! I’d love to travel more in the future, particularly to your area, but for right now I don’t mind staying put on the east coast of the US. There’s always something to explore! My camera settings for a walk like this are typically f/8 or f/11 and whatever shutter speed gives me what the camera says is the proper exposure, which is typically underexposed but which I actually prefer. I always try to use the fastest shutter speed that I can so I go back and forth between those two apertures. Since I shoot raw I don’t set the white balance till I’m in post. I used to shoot multiples of each scene but working with film for a while has cured me of that. On this walk I shot one or two versions of each because I like to “work a scene,” but in the interest of time and to keep the video “tight” I only included one shot. I shot the entire video with GoPro. When you hear a click, I had stopped the video, put the GoPro down (or held it and my camera at the same time) and shot the picture with my camera. I inserted the shutter sound (which I recorded on my iPhone) and the raw file into the video during editing. So you are not actually hearing me take the picture, but I’m glad that you thought you were!

      Reply
  25. Michael Cox

    November 29, 2021 at 16:02

    I’ve only begun watching–first episode. Immediately drawn to your philosophy of finding stuff, not setting out for something. Lately I’ve been feeling pressure (totally self-imposed) to “have a project” and to focus my photography on that project, but I don’t have one. I just don’t. I like walking, I like photographing things that interest me, and where I live (Vancouver BC) it’s really difficult with the weather (in the winter: grey, shadowless, and rainy) to do either. So now I’m about to start a much-delayed revamp of my website. I look forward to the virtual photo walk and your post process tutorial.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 29, 2021 at 16:18

      Michael, I’m so pleased to hear you’re watching! My photo walks often become a project on their own (like this first one, Fort Hancock) or, as you will see in my second photowalk that will come out on December 6, I end up with several groups of images that can stand alone as projects. I just like to keep an open mind because I never know what I might find. And I’m also not afraid to just have some fun, as when I was out to dinner with some friends recently, and my Chicken Francese was smiling at me! Of course I had to snap it, and ended up having more fun with that one silly photo. We can’t be afraid to have fun. Just one more thing — I am not doing a processing tutorial, I am showing the befores and afters, but focusing more on how I self curate and critique my own photos as I head towards the goal of 5-10 final images. I hope you are able to watch all the segments!

      Reply
      • Michael Cox

        November 29, 2021 at 17:28

        Thanks Cynthia, I”ll keep watching. I actually only discovered Frames recently (and subscribed). While I respect that you won’t be discussing the processing, I do have a question regarding consistency. When you have created a look after framing and making lines parallel, when you’re done with grading, dodging, burning, etc., on an image, do you use LR’s copy settings? How do you maintain a consistent look across multiple images to give a colour/exposure cohesiveness to a set of images (along with the subject matter, framing, and so on)? I tend to work toward making each image stand out, but getting a set of them to feel like part of a whole, of a series, is definitely more challenging. Appreciate your thoughts….

        Reply
        • Cynthia+Gladis

          November 29, 2021 at 18:18

          Michael, I do use LR’s copy feature when I have a series of photos that I’d like to ensure match as far as their overall look. As I mention at the end of this new video, I’m not much of a preset user but I do like Fuji’s film simulations, particularly Classic Chrome, which I used for this set. I typically treat each image individually, particularly when it comes to blue skies — sometimes they are too washed out, and sometimes too saturated, so I end up adjusting them to work for each individual photo. The only thing about my process that is set in stone is the way I bring everything into Lightroom, keep my catalog (I only have one catalog that goes back to 2015) well organized and backed up, and the fact that I follow my own filing system. Otherwise I’d have a virtual shoebox full of photos that I couldn’t find again if my life depended on it!

          Reply
  26. Jim

    November 29, 2021 at 17:11

    Thank you so much for the walkthrough of your photo selections. I liked that you talked through your reasoning for each one and did not spend time on post processing explanations. I don’t have any graphic design training but i really appreciate your approach to these images. I feel good thinking I would have made the same selections. Maybe I’m not weird after all. LOL. Thanks again. Great job!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 30, 2021 at 15:23

      Jim, thanks for your comment. I’m pleased that you appreciate the way I approached this project, and I’m glad to hear that you would have made some of the same selections as I did! And it’s never “weird,” but “interesting!” Thanks again.

      Reply
  27. Ted Scott

    November 29, 2021 at 17:35

    From the bottom of my architect’s heart: thank you for correcting the converging verticals!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 30, 2021 at 15:41

      Ted, your comment made me chuckle, and I thank you. I try to keep in mind that “perfectly vertical” sometimes looks too “perfectly strange” and I adjust accordingly. I’m thinking of my image of the house with the crumbly front porch, because that one drove me a bit crazy and I ended up having to re-introduce a bit of the convergence. I actually enjoy working on some challenging verticals without using guides, correcting them till I feel they are right. But on others, guides save me!

      Reply
      • Tua

        December 3, 2021 at 15:47

        The auto button in Lr straightens the worse distortion in architecture. To do it very straight manually makes the result unnatural. Sometimes it is also fun to shoot a very tall building vertically from below and let the top disappear into the sky.

        Reply
        • Cynthia+Gladis

          December 4, 2021 at 15:50

          Tua, I agree on both counts. I rely on my instincts to know if I’ve over-corrected my verticals, but typically when I’m showing something straight on I want the verticals to be true, even if it does look a bit surreal, as that’s the look I’m going for! It all depends on the image.

          Reply
  28. Bill Fosdick

    November 29, 2021 at 20:11

    Loved your commentary on each shot and why you rated them the way you did. You asked what others do and I know that I use LR stars when I first view my raw shots. One star means come back and edit. Two or three means worth keeping track of and then, after editing I may assign four stars to those I show friends and five stars to the ones that I will print in an annual album.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 29, 2021 at 21:15

      Thanks for commenting, Bill! Glad you enjoyed my commentary. I have to admit that I came up with my “meh,” “solid,” and “personal best” rating system for Frames, but it’s pretty much what goes through my head when I’m going through my photos! I don’t use a lot of LR’s categorizing or ranking features — after a shoot I usually know that I have one or two images I have high hopes for and can’t wait to see, and I often process those first. The rest I sit on until the mood strikes me to look through them. Consequently I have a lot of images sitting in LR that have yet to see the light of day. I was working under a deadline here so I went through and processed everything in a couple of days. The only images I toss right at the beginning are of the “I shot my leg by mistake” variety. There weren’t too many complete duds (just some “mehs”) in this bunch, so Frames is seeing basically everything I shot that day. I love LR though, I’m really a big fan, particularly since they upgraded the masking!

      Reply
      • Michael Cox

        November 30, 2021 at 00:15

        Yes that masking upgrade in the latest CC desktop Lightroom is a game-changer. I hardly need to use Photoshop at all except for layer-based work. But oddly, I still find that PRINTING from LR is not up to snuff, and will either export into PS a TIFF file to hand over to my printer, an Epson SC P800, or now that Epson has revamped its printing utility, use that. LR’s focus seems to be on wedding photographers with all the presets for multi-image layouts and so on.

        Reply
        • Cynthia+Gladis

          November 30, 2021 at 16:07

          Michael, thanks for sharing that link. I have never tried to print from Lightroom. I don’t print that often, but when I do I just export the photo at the specs the printer requires. One of these days I’d like to get my own photo printer and do it myself, but that has yet to happen! And yes, the masking upgrade is indeed a game changer!

          Reply
          • Michael Cox

            November 30, 2021 at 16:37

            If you get a photo printer, do yourself a favour and get one that will print reasonably large. The paper and ink are the killer costs, but still less expensive than getting custom printing done (unless its the drugstore variety). Epson SureColor P800 is now superseded by the P900 (and one big advantage to the newer model is that it doesn’t waste ink converting from Matte Black to Photo Black). Canon makes good ones too but we have an excellent Epson dealer here where I got mine lightly used). It’s a whole different set of knowledge, trial-and-error, printing. As for papers, while Epson makes incredible papers (and their printers are, out of the box, set up for their own paper, naturally), Red River papers are beautiful and the documentation that comes with each of their papers describes the settings for Epson or Canon printers. But ink: OMG, the printer I have uses 8 cartridges, the newer one 9, so a set of all inks will set you back a few hundred dollars. (NNTR (no need to respond)

  29. Richard Hutson

    November 30, 2021 at 03:08

    I echo what Bill said about your commentary, and I also use the star rating method in my initial review of a photo shoot, although I really do like the “meh – solid – personal best” analogy. I also like your eye for simplicity and graphic design in your editing process. It really bugs me when perspective is not properly aligned, and when the four corners are not used to anchor the image. I have had a camera in my hands ever since I could hold my mother’s little Kodak Brownie but it was only about six years ago, at age 75, that I got serious about making photographs. I admire the enthusiasm and sense of humor that you bring into your art. I’m looking forward to your next photo walk and the images that you create.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 30, 2021 at 16:04

      Thanks so much for your wonderful comment, Richard, and I’m pleased to hear that you appreciate my approach to photography! It sounds like we are kindred spirits, as I’ve had a lifelong love of photography as well but only got serious about it not even ten years ago. And I think that may be one of the reasons for my “enthusiasm and sense of humor”, because I never set out to do this for a living. I do it for the pure joy I get from making images, so I’m under no pressure other than the pressure I put on myself to do it well. As far as “second acts” go, I couldn’t be more pleased that photography has turned out to be mine! I hope you enjoy the next photo walk and set of images.

      Reply
  30. Ella

    November 30, 2021 at 16:32

    Thanks for the run through of all the pictures you shot. I was pleased when I knew why you liked the house with the sandbagged fence so much! Those sandbags jumped out! Unexpected organization set against the disorganized house. Looking forward to seeing your next installment.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 4, 2021 at 18:03

      Ella, thanks for watching, and for your comment! And I’m so pleased to hear how you appreciated my fondness for the sandbags! I love it when I see something in post that may not necessarily have been the reason for me taking the picture in the first place, because it makes me wonder how much we “see” and recognize on a subliminal level. I look at those images as a gift!

      Reply
  31. peter van eekelen

    November 30, 2021 at 22:36

    Loved your results sharing of your first photowalk. This does not happen too often to me, but over 90% of the time you expressed my thoughts exactly. The other 10 percent, well let’s have coffe sometimes (in Amsterdam please :-D). I very much look forward to your next shoot!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 30, 2021 at 23:54

      Peter, thanks for your comment! I’m dying to know what the 10% is, LOL. I think more of us are kindred spirits than we realize, and I hope you enjoy the next shoot! I sure did!

      Reply
  32. Elizabeth+Klanac

    November 30, 2021 at 23:19

    Cynthia, in video 2, that looks like a wonderful place to photograph… I’m so happy that we got to go along on this walk with you… I appreciate  your excitement. I too am a big fan of naked trees. There is something so statuesque and wonderfully graphic about them…
    I love compositions with the scaffolding and propped porches etc. They have such potential for wonderful stories. I know that I would have a field day here as well. I appreciate your efforts and being out in the windy elements, that’s what happens with photography. We are willing to brave the wet, the wind and the heat…
    Excellent job…

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      November 30, 2021 at 23:55

      Thanks for watching, Elizabeth, and for your wonderful comment. Fort Hancock is a great place to photograph, but I like the place I went on my second photowalk even better! I hope you’ll get a chance to view that one as well!

      Reply
  33. Sonja Bowden

    December 1, 2021 at 01:29

    This series has been thoroughly enjoyable, Cynthia. I appreciate how you shared both your RAW and processed photos in Phase 3. We give a lot of our heart and soul to each image, from choosing our subjects to visualizing and framing to artistically post-processing. You have conveyed that well. I also appreciate how supportive you are of other photographers.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 1, 2021 at 16:40

      Sonja, thanks so much for following along, and for your kind words! I’m enjoying this so much so it means a lot to hear that people are actually enjoying the results. 2 more to go!

      Reply
  34. Paul Lewis

    December 2, 2021 at 23:44

    So interesting, this is so interesting following you in your quest for photographs, and understanding what you are looking for, how you work the scene, sometimes fast, other times trying different views, understanding how you work and why you work the way you do. It is fantastic being able to walk in your shoes, and piggyback on your mind, in a sense. I love watching the photo walk in Fort Hancock. Fantastic and instructive. Thanks for sharing what isn’t usually shared, for our benefit.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 3, 2021 at 14:56

      Paul, thank you for your wonderful comment, and I appreciate that you watched. I enjoy exploring on my photowalks, even if I explore places I’ve been before. It truly is my favorite way to shoot, and I’m so pleased that you enjoyed following along with me on this one! I have one more to go, and for the this next one I was fortunate to get an unseasonably mild, sunny day, which is my absolute favorite. So, very different images — should be interesting!

      Reply
      • Paul Lewis

        December 4, 2021 at 16:20

        Hello, I just went through your analysis of your Fort Hancock’s photo walk. It is as interesting as the photowalk, to hear you commenting on your photos, your solid ones, and your personal best, and why some don’t make it for you, or at least, aren’t solid on best ones. It is interesting to see that some photographs that looked promising don’t make it, and why. I can relate to that. Sometimes I take photographs that I think will be really nice, but looking at them at home, they don’t deliver to their promises.

        This second video was full of humility, and I appreciate that. Photographs don’t often show photos that they don’t like, and I am thankful that you did. There is a lot to learn from the way you curate your own shootings. Thanks.

        Reply
        • Cynthia+Gladis

          December 4, 2021 at 18:12

          Paul, your comment made my day on so many levels! You “get” what I’m doing here, and for that I am very grateful. Participating in the Frames group for a little over a year has made a big difference in how I look at my own photography, and I’ve become much better at self curation and identifying what I want to share with a group like Frames. I save my daily posts, which I’m not afraid to have include my “smiling dinner” and “the life of traffic cones” photos for my own page, because if I ever lose my ability to laugh (especially at myself) I might as well hang it up! I’ve never felt so exposed when it comes to my work, but your comment made me feel like what I’m doing here has been quite worth it. Thanks again.

          Reply
        • Paul Lewis

          December 4, 2021 at 21:27

          Oups. It should have read : PhotographERs don’t often show photos that they don’t like…

          Reply
          • Cynthia+Gladis

            December 4, 2021 at 21:41

            I knew what you meant, and I appreciate your comment!

  35. Henriette

    December 6, 2021 at 15:37

    Hello Cynthia, thank you for your insightful comments on your work whilst on photowalks and during the after production. Really enjoy hearing about it. It gives me a `head up` feeling that everyone has the challenges to cope with that come with the production of images that can pass the (our) test: processing, questioning and rewarding! Great that you are doing this for us! Greetings from Switzerland to you!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 9, 2021 at 15:37

      Henriette, thanks for your wonderful comment, and I’m glad you enjoyed this! It’s been my pleasure to share how I approach my photography, and also to hear how others can relate to it. Greetings from NJ to you! I visited your beautiful country twice back in the 1990s and fell in love with it. We took a train ride through the “big three” mountains, the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, and I will never forget it. I wish I’d been into photography back then!

      Reply
  36. Paul Lewis

    December 6, 2021 at 15:53

    Hello, The 2nd photowalk is as interesting as the first one. It is really instructive to see how you operate on a photowalk. I can relate to your interest for graphics, and your quest for good lighting which makes graphics come alive… Thanks for this openness to the way you work, and why.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 6, 2021 at 21:12

      Thanks, Paul, glad you watched! Two very different shoots as far as the weather, and lighting, but there are things to be found no matter what kind of weather!

      Reply
  37. Ella Hudson

    December 6, 2021 at 16:33

    Love the teeny, tiny little Jersey Shore boardwalk houses!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 6, 2021 at 21:13

      Ella, I’m glad you enjoyed them! They are teeny and tiny, but people will pay an arm and a leg to live at the beach!

      Reply
  38. Tua

    December 6, 2021 at 20:07

    Thank you Cynthia for this second Photo walk . Lovely to see that beach area. Interesting to see the final exposures. I already got a lot of positive energy. We have some minus 15 C in Helsinki and minus 55 C in Lapland on our 104 independent day today 6.12.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 6, 2021 at 21:15

      Thanks for watching, Tua! I will have to look at the Centigrade conversion chart, as I think in terms of Fahrenheit, just like I think in terms of inches and miles instead of millimeters and kilometers! It would be so much easier if the US used the metric system!

      Reply
    • Tua Rahikainen

      December 6, 2021 at 23:07

      – 15 C= 5 F
      -55 C= -67F

      Reply
      • Cynthia+Gladis

        December 6, 2021 at 23:17

        THAT’S COLD!!!!

        Reply
  39. Richard Hutson

    December 6, 2021 at 21:37

    Photwalking (virtually) with you along the boardwalk at Point Pleasant, New Jersey was a lot of fun. And, once again, I’m looking forward to seeing the results of your image-making process. Thank you, Cynthia, for sharing with us.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 6, 2021 at 21:53

      Richard, I’m so glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching! Next week you’ll see the images, as well as the final 10 for the project portfolio!

      Reply
      • Jim Miller

        December 14, 2021 at 15:34

        I really enjoyed your time as the artist in residence and taking us all along on your journey. Great images and insight into your process. Thanks.

        Reply
        • Cynthia+Gladis

          December 14, 2021 at 16:11

          I’m so glad you enjoyed this, Jim! Thanks for watching.

          Reply
  40. Eric M Lipnack

    December 6, 2021 at 21:38

    I love the walking tours. You are opening up new vistas as I look forward to going back to the places I just walked by and looking at them with a new perspective. I’m in Ft Lauderdale but spent my youth on the boards from Ocean City to Cape May, this was so much fun. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 8, 2021 at 16:09

      Eric, thanks for your wonderful comment, I’m so glad you enjoyed this! I think that as long as we keep an open mind, there is always something interesting out there to photograph. Funny you mention Cape May, that’s another place I spent a lot of time in, I just love it there. Do you happen to remember the old store right across the street from the beach? It was there until around the 1990s, but the owner had merchandise from the 1960s. We called it “The Time Warp Store,” because where else could you go and see a jar of clear, green Dippity Do that was about 30 years old? I still spend occasional weekends down there and was actually considering doing one of my walks there, but it’s about a 2 hour drive and I wanted to spend more time shooting than driving (I would have needed 32 ounces of strong black coffee for that one!).

      Reply
      • Eric M Lipnack

        December 8, 2021 at 17:33

        Cynthia, from the late 50s to 90s I spent most of my time in Ocean City/Summers Point and eventually moved up to Margate and ended in Stone Harbor. Cape May didn’t happen until 2000, and then I found Nova Scotia and have spent the last 20 years there, now it will be summers back at the shore, Ft Lauderdale is great, but in August, back down the shore. Thank you again for the wonderful photography lesson.

        Reply
        • Cynthia+Gladis

          December 8, 2021 at 17:38

          Eric, you certainly spent summers in one of the nicer areas of the Jersey Shore! Nova Scotia must be gorgeous, but it’s nice to hear you will be returning to the Jersey Shore! I think it becomes part of our DNA. As much as I love South Carolina, where I spend a lot of time, the Jersey Shore will always pull me back.

          Reply
  41. Rob Jenkins

    December 6, 2021 at 21:45

    Hi Cynthia. Thoroughly enjoyed being along with you for your photo walks, hearing you verbalize thought process, and seeing the world through another set of eyes. I’m not ashamed to say I binge watched all four videos! Can’t wait to see the RAW vs processed comparisons in the next video.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 6, 2021 at 21:54

      Rob, wow, I never thought I’d be able to say that someone “binge watched” me! I’m so pleased to hear that you watched the videos. One more to go, and I have to say I’m going to miss this!

      Reply
      • Rob Jenkins

        December 6, 2021 at 22:35

        I can imagine it was intimidating at first, Cynthia, but once you got started you found your rhythm quickly. You’ve done a good job of being both informative and entertaining (especially your love/hate relationship with the cones!), which is difficult to do. Kudos on your residency thus far.

        Reply
        • Cynthia+Gladis

          December 6, 2021 at 23:16

          Thanks, Rob! Comments like yours make it all worthwhile! If you really want to see how I relate to the cones, feel free to look at my Facebook page. I take my photography very seriously, but I tend to have a lot of fun on my own page, as I’m also a pareidoliac (not sure that’s a word) — I had a recent encounter with a plate of Chicken Francese that almost made me spew my wine.

          Reply
          • Rob Jenkins

            December 15, 2021 at 03:05

            Hi Cynthia. I just watched the last video in your series, and really enjoyed it. The 10 images you curated for your presentation are wonderful, and the title is perfect. For anybody who doesn’t live in New Jersey, or had the chance to pay a visit, your photowalks and final portfolio paint a delightful image of a misunderstood and often maligned State. There is such beauty and quirkiness here, and your residency shone a light on that perfectly. Oh, I also looked up pareidoliac – I’m not sure if it’s a word either, but how perfect!! The Chicken Francese incident sounds like a good story for another time.

  42. Danielle Labonte

    December 6, 2021 at 22:05

    What an interesting photowalk! It is really striking how deserted the community is at this time of year. I’m not sure I can think of any place in Canada that would have that feel to it.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 6, 2021 at 22:17

      Hi Danielle, thanks for watching! All the shore towns close up shop for the winter, and that’s why I love to shoot there. The only negative, and one that I just do not understand, is that even though they get a lot of walkers getting their exercise on the boardwalk, the restrooms are not open! Arghh!

      Reply
      • Danielle Labonte

        December 6, 2021 at 22:39

        ha ha! I can relate to that…

        Reply
  43. Carolyn

    December 7, 2021 at 01:13

    Hi Cynthia..I’ve just binge watched everything too. Loved the Officers Row images and the inside of the derelict building you went into. Now I’m in my mid 70s I don’t dare do that alone. Interesting to hear ” Portapotties and Portajohns” …. in NZ we call them Portaloos. Not good memories as after my city s big earthquake we had to use them out on the side of the street and I was always paranoid that there’d be a quake and it would topple over with me inside. Can’t wait for the next session…. you’re so great at explaining how you feel about your compositions and editing. Best wishes from NZ.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 8, 2021 at 15:54

      Hi Carolyn, thanks for bingeing! And Portaloos works too, but I don’t like using them either. I’m so glad you enjoyed this, and I’m glad you appreciated my explaining my compositions and editing. This has been a great “stretch” for me and I really enjoyed it. One more session, with the Pt. Pleasant photos and then the “final 10!”

      Reply
  44. Nazmul Bashar

    December 7, 2021 at 03:42

    Very interesting photowalk from a spontaneously creative photographer. I loved watching it and learned a lot from Cynthia’s Before and After comparative analysis on her photo creations.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 8, 2021 at 15:55

      Thanks for your comment, Nazmul, and for watching! I absolutely love “spontaneously creative” and I’m pleased to hear that you learned something! Just one more session, hope you get to watch it!

      Reply
  45. Shane McGeehan

    December 8, 2021 at 14:48

    I absolutely love these virtual photo walks. The mix of humor with sudden moments of inspiration makes them so enjoyable. We all walk around looking for stuff to photograph, but we are quiet and in our own heads. Being able to see into Cynthia’s (fun and goofy) mind while she explores is a joy… I know she probably just wants to finish the project and call it done, but I could see these photo walk videos being a hit on YouTube if she really got into it. Been following her path closely, and can’t wait to see the final work she creates for this Artist In Residence.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 8, 2021 at 16:04

      Shane, thanks so much for watching (and cheering me on) and your great comment! I am usually quiet and in my own head while shooting, just like everyone else, but it was really a blast to say what goes on in there out loud because, as you know, I did not script a single thing. I’m actually going to miss this — but now I have all the equipment, so you never know! Since I don’t do any extreme sports like snowboarding or OneWheeling (to me that’s an extreme sport, LOL), perhaps this YouTube project you mention could be “Cindy’s Extreme Walking — watch as she occasionally speeds up, climbs on something, or stops for a giant pretzel!”

      Reply
  46. peter van eekelen

    December 11, 2021 at 15:32

    I certainly hope that this wasn’t the last fine day this year, Cynthia. What a beautiful surrounding to walk and photograph, I loved the colours, lines and shadows. Obviously I’m curious what will come out of it after pp, but I already saw some great ones. And I can see Shane’s point; these walks (maybe 5 minutes extracts) would do great on Youtube or similar! I’m a fan anyway 🙂

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 11, 2021 at 16:38

      Peter, I can pretty much guarantee that it won’t reach 70 degrees again here in NJ until at least March! It was such a wonderful day, and I’m glad you enjoyed the walk. I had so much fun with this that I hate to think that my GoPro will sit idle for too long. We’ll see! Thanks so much for your wonderful comment!

      Reply
  47. Bill Green

    December 13, 2021 at 21:15

    I just watched the first two videos and must tell you how inspirational they are. I’m 72 and been involved with photography since 1971. In all those years I have never settled on a style or genre of photos I want to exclusively identify with. I’ve gone through periods that I focus on landscape, then street, then moody B&W, on and on. But one “style” has always had my affection. I’m not sure what it would be called but your photography fits me perfectly. I love the “New Topographic” photographers like StephenShore and Robert Adams. In my own photography I try to stay away from the postcard look as much as I can but with the conventional rules of photography that are always being set forth, sometimes it’s hard to let go. Your approach is refreshing. I applaud your non-apologetic stance on things like cloning or the moving of a cone. It’s your vision, your photo, your art. I really have little patience with anyone who sets forth their rules for what makes a legitimate photograph. Anyway, I’m enjoying your videos, now onto #3.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 13, 2021 at 22:49

      Bill, thanks for your wonderful comment! And I’m so pleased that you “get” me! I don’t have the years of photography experience that so many FRAMES members do, and for a good part of my photographic journey I felt like I was all over the place (in fact a well-meaning FB friend sort of admonished me to “pick one thing and stick with it” and I just laughed). I still don’t stick to only one thing, but this style or whatever you want to call it (I love how you said “I’m not sure what it would be called,” LOL) is my absolute favorite. I love finding interesting things, the quirkier the better, and bringing them to life in post — the results of my “treasure hunts” Please keep watching, as you will probably get a kick out of last video! Thanks again for taking the time to comment.

      Reply
  48. Sonja Bowden

    December 13, 2021 at 22:17

    I just watched your final video, Cynthia (sniff). I agree with Shane. I think you should consider doing YouTube videos. I enjoyed your sense of humor and relaxed manner. It was fun to hear your thoughts as you took us along on your photo walks. It was also interesting to see how you cropped and processed your work. It’s not always easy to choose what to post and where. It’s often difficult for us to decide what is our best work. You explained all of those elements throughout this series very well. And I loved your final portfolio choices.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 13, 2021 at 22:57

      Sonja, I can’t thank you enough for following along, and I appreciate it so much when your always-astute comments are directed at me! This whole project was such a fun challenge for me, and now that I’ve been bitten by this video bug, who knows what will happen! I’m glad you found my cropping and processing interesting — I can’t help but wonder if most people do about as much processing as I do, or if they do more, or less. I didn’t really have to do a lot to the photos from either shoot (unless you count the flying penguin, LOL) but I do enjoy working on my photos in post. Glad you liked the final choices. That was a tough exercise, trying to separate what I really thought was my best from what were my favorites, but at some point I had to make up my mind! You know you’ll see those porta potties again!

      Reply
  49. Carolyn Collins

    December 13, 2021 at 23:13

    Hi Cynthia, Its obvious you enjoyed this series so much and I’m sure everyone else will agree with me that now, you and Paul have set the bar incredibly high. I wonder from which country Tomasz will choose the next Artist in Residence.
    I love your graphic BnW images the most from the last walk. We have nothing like your boardwalk, the beach fencing or beach houses in NZ. Could you please explain about the Beach Closed sign. Why is it closed and what would happen to anyone who went into the water? Would they be arrested? The only reason a beach would be closed in NZ is if there were toxic algae in the water.
    Thanks a million for your informative, entertaining series. I know I’ll go back and watch it all again over the holidays. Have a great Christmas and New Year.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 14, 2021 at 16:34

      Hi Carolyn, thanks for your comment! You might be surprised to hear that New Jersey charges us to use the beach. Our “official” summer season starts on Memorial Day weekend (the end of May) and Labor Day (the first Monday in September), and there are lifeguards in place for safety. You must buy a beach tag to get onto the beach, and they are very strict about this. Any other time of year you can go on the beach, walk, swim, sit, whatever, to your heart’s content, for free. You should see the beach on a warm, sunny day in late September or October (or April and early May). The “beach closed” signs are probably more of a liability thing than anything else, because if you decide to use the beach or swim in the water when there are no lifeguards, you do so at your own risk. I’ve always found them a bit amusing. In South Carolina, where I shoot all those sand photos, the beaches are free and the only signs are the ones that tell you not to litter or drink on the beach, and to protect the nesting loggerhead turtles (a story for another time!). Since I grew up in NJ I assumed it was normal to have to pay to get on the beach. How sad is that?! Thanks for watching the videos, and I’m so glad you enjoyed them! I wish you and yours a great Christmas and New Year as well.

      Reply
  50. Tua Rahikainen

    December 13, 2021 at 23:28

    Thank you so much for this one month program . You took me to places I did not know about and the way you analyzed your choise of subject and the final editing was excellent. You could any time arrange a workshop.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 14, 2021 at 00:49

      Tua, thanks for being with me from the beginning! I’m so pleased that you enjoyed this, because I certainly did! I’d do this again in a heartbeat. Workshops! That’s quite a compliment, thank you!

      Reply
  51. Bill Green

    December 13, 2021 at 23:39

    Ok, I just watched #4 and I want to echo some of the other commenters and encourage you to consider launching a YouTube channel. I love watching good presenters on photography but YouTube is so lopsided with landscape content. Worse is the fact that it is overwhelming “calendar” type imagery. I’ve searched and searched for content pertaining to your (our) type of eclectic imaging and there is a serious void to be filled in that respect. I find your approach entertaining and insightful. With the landscape guys I know pretty much what they will shoot and what it will look like in the final image. With you, there’s surprise after surprise. It’s like Forest Gump’s box of chocolates.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 14, 2021 at 01:00

      Bill, oh, man, what a comment, I can’t thank you enough! I’m grinning from ear to ear, and I’m probably also blushing. Forrest Gump’s box of chocolates…that’s high praise, indeed. Thanks so much for watching and for taking the time to write.

      Reply
  52. Carolyn

    December 14, 2021 at 01:34

    Bill!!!!You’ve really hit the nail on the head!! Most blogs ARE entirely predictable.

    Reply
  53. John Clark

    December 14, 2021 at 03:19

    Watching your videos was a real treat, Cynthia and your joy of shooting quirky scenes infectious. I’m looking forward to seeing more of your work on Frames! Keep shooting!!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 14, 2021 at 16:35

      So glad you enjoyed the videos, John! Thanks for watching, and for your great comment. And I can’t wait to get out and shoot again!

      Reply
  54. Bill Green

    December 14, 2021 at 04:59

    Just finished the last video. Great job. Thoroughly enjoyed them all. Your choices for the final project were spot-on. My favorite image of all is the mast with red flag. To me that is pure enjoyment. It reminds me of a body of work (book) by Joel Meyerowitz named Cape Light. Many of your images are consistent with that feel but the red flag image is like it was part of the book. Well done.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 14, 2021 at 16:43

      Bill, I’m so pleased that you were able to watch till the end, thank you! You also picked my favorite image (the one that I almost didn’t shoot!), there’s something about that red flag. And the reference to Meyerowitz’s Cape Light is much appreciated. We all like to think we’re “originals,” but I have that book and was probably influenced on a subliminal level. But who knows, I just know what I like when I see it, and sometimes it doesn’t reveal itself until I look at it again in post! Thanks again for following me on this journey, and for your fabulous comments, they are very much appreciated.

      Reply
  55. Amy

    December 14, 2021 at 12:48

    Thank you Cynthia for a really inspiring set of videos. I love your approach and I particularly appreciated you posting the RAW images alongside the Processed. I LOVE the red flag image. All best wishes to you.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 15, 2021 at 17:44

      Amy, thanks for watching, and for your wonderful comment! I’m glad you like the image with the red flag, that really is just about my favorite!

      Reply
  56. Paul Lewis

    December 14, 2021 at 14:15

    Hello,

    I have just watched the final video, as interesting as the other. I love being able to understand your creative process, how you decide what you will photograph, how you photograph and how you post-process your photographs, and even how you decide which photographs make it, and those that don’t make it. It is fascinating to be able to accompany you in this adventure. To me it was something invaluable, something rarely seen, especially that you don’t try to hide anything. Usually photographers will show the end results, not much else. But for us, to understand your process, your videos are fantastic lessons in photography as a process. I enjoyed these lessons as much as you enjoyed making them.

    Some suggested that you launch a youtube channel. It would be great. There are lots of technical videos (PS, LR…), but there are few videos that deal with the creative process, and what goes inside the head of photographers. Maybe within the Frames ecosystem, this would make sense. Just saying.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 14, 2021 at 16:21

      Paul, thanks so much for taking the time to write your wonderful comment! I used to be loathe to show anyone my raw files, but I made an exception for FRAMES and I’m glad I did. I enjoy and respect what others do with digital art and compositing, but my style is more to shoot what I see and then bring it alive in post, and I was more than happy to demonstrate how I work. As for the YouTube thing, I am definitely open to possibilities, and I’m glad you mentioned it. Thanks again for following along with me!

      Reply
  57. Richard Hutson

    December 15, 2021 at 03:22

    Cynthia,
    The joy of your photography shines through every image. Thank you for sharing it with us !

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 15, 2021 at 17:45

      Richard, there’s that word “joy” again, I’m so pleased that you used it! Thanks for watching the videos, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed them. And thanks for the kind words!

      Reply
  58. peter van eekelen

    December 15, 2021 at 12:26

    This series of shooting and presenting your two photowalks was greatly pleasing and very inspiring. I love your clean style of shooting, and your humorous analysis. So, I guess what I’m trying to say is that I will miss these weekly episodes. How lucky we are that you keep posting on Frames! Thanks for all the joy you’re bringing (forgive me to quote Abba but you probably like the quirkyness 😀 ).

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 15, 2021 at 17:43

      Peter, thanks so much for your kind words, and for following along with my project. Also, for using the word “joy,” as that is how I view photography. Even if I take a break from my more “serious” work to photograph tacky holiday decor!

      Reply
  59. Tua Rahikainen

    December 15, 2021 at 23:09

    Your “tacky” holiday decor project keeps you young. Please continue ! We all need some childish inspiration.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 16, 2021 at 16:16

      Tua, it sure does, and I’m glad you enjoy that little project of mine. I have fun with it every year — I also photograph the tasteful decorations, as I’m an equal opportunity “decorations sharer.” But the tacky ones are the most fun!

      Reply
  60. Henriette

    December 20, 2021 at 08:28

    Thank you so much Cynthia for this look into your photographic journeys. I tried to look at the PDF files, but they are gone, is that correct?

    Reply
    • Tomasz

      December 20, 2021 at 11:55

      Dear Henriette, all PDF links seem to be working fine. Would you be so kind and try once more?

      Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 20, 2021 at 17:42

      Henriette, thanks for your comment, and for following along! I’m glad Tomasz answered your question and I hope you were able to view the files.

      Reply
      • Henriette

        December 20, 2021 at 20:28

        Hi Cynthia…..one more question…do you take pictures in automatic whilst photographing? And which lenses do you use most frequently? Best, and thank you again!

        Reply
        • Cynthia+Gladis

          December 20, 2021 at 20:43

          Henriette, no, I don’t use the Auto setting, because I’d rather process the photos myself and not let the camera make the decisions for me (on Auto, you are shooting jpegs and, not only do the images get compressed and lose detail, but the camera makes all the processing decisions). I concentrate more on finding things to shoot and composing them than on fiddling with my camera and achieving a perfect exposure every time. So, as I mentioned somewhere along the way, I’d rather just set the camera to raw, set an appropriate ISO, aperture, and shutter speed and then work on the photos in Lightroom afterwards. Once I learned the ins and outs of photography and exposure, I realized that learning how to post process effectively is an extremely important piece of the puzzle! The lenses I use most frequently depend on the camera — I primarily use Fujis but also have a full frame Sony. I enjoy shooting, and tend to shoot, wide. On the Fujis, the ones I use the most are the 14mm f/2.8 I used for this Ft. Hancock shoot — it is extremely sharp and has just about zero distortion — and the 18-135mm, which I love to use as a walk around lens but is a bit softer than the 14mm. I have a similar, equivalent zoom for my full frame Sony, 28-200mm, and a 24mm f/1.4 that I love to use for my night shooting. I have a lot of gear and love to experiment, so I have fisheyes, pinholes, vintage lenses, etc., but the ones I mentioned are the ones I grab the most! Thanks for asking.

          Reply
          • Henriette

            December 20, 2021 at 21:09

            Thank you so much Cynthia for this extensive answer….love it!

  61. Kate Barclay

    December 22, 2021 at 08:55

    Hi Cynthia
    Just watched your final instalment 🙂 loved seeing how you see things for a month and your final selection. As you did your walks I kept seeing shots and was fascinated to see if I saw what you saw. I loved your dialogue fun and interesting and fascinating visiting places so different to where I live. I can’t believe you have to pay to use the beach, even with beaches where we have life guards they are free here in the UK and NZ my other home. A very successful ‘artist in residence’ Cynthia congratulations.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      December 22, 2021 at 16:43

      Thanks so much for your comment, Kate, and I’m really pleased that you enjoyed my photo walks! Having to pay to use the beach is one of the “charms” of New Jersey. I say that with tongue firmly planted in cheek. I love showing people “my” New Jersey, it’s home and, despite its idiosyncrasies, I love it! Thanks again for watching.

      Reply
  62. Donna Hopkins

    January 4, 2022 at 22:01

    Hi Cynthia, We’re snowed in here in Virginia this week so I’ve been happy to go on these photo walks with you! I can’t begin to tell you how much I enjoyed the experience. I see in a way that is similar to you – and I often find myself trying to explain or defend my way of seeing. It was so reassuring to find a kindred spirit. I got such a kick out of those palm trees on the Jersey shore. We are from a very small town on the Potomac River, Colonial Beach, VA, and there are those same crazy palm trees – in a place they would never naturally grow! I took a photo similar to yours, with the out-of-place palm trees, when we visited home for Thanksgiving and my grown sons laughed and laughed – both at the trees and at their quirky mother. Your process is organic and affirming and it’s plain to see that you take pictures for the sheer joy of it. Me, too! Thanks again for your thoughtful artist-in-residence contribution!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      January 5, 2022 at 18:16

      Donna, thanks so much for your comment! I’m so glad you got something out of this, even if it’s just knowing that you are not alone in how you like to shoot. It is a joyful experience for me, and the quirkier the stuff I find is, the happier I am. But I find all the photography I do worthwhile to me and I’m not opposed to photographing a scene just because it’s pretty. The best is when we can find pretty and quirky at the same time. I’m glad to hear that New Jersey isn’t the only state with misplaced palm trees!

      Reply
  63. Richard Haas

    January 6, 2022 at 01:04

    Being a Jersey expat, I certainly appreciated your walks at Sandy Hook and Point Pleasant. Wonderful aesthetic. In the summer on the Point Pleasant boardwalk, there is a house with speakers attached to the roof playing Sinatra, all day and into the night.

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      January 6, 2022 at 18:12

      A fellow Jerseyan! Thanks for your comment, Richard, and I’m glad you enjoyed my photo walks! I am thinking that the house you’re talking about might be the one that had the statues out front — that’s my guess, I can only imagine. But it fits!

      Reply
  64. Sharon Loudon

    February 27, 2022 at 14:56

    Hi Cynthia – I just finished your series, and really enjoyed it. It’s so great to watch other photographers in their “seeing” processes. I imagine you have to open yourself up to some vulnerability to be able to do it, and I found it refreshing and inspiring. As an aside, I had to get my New Jersey born and raised husband into the office so he could watch some of it. He’s not a photographer but you remind us so much of his sister, it’s uncanny! And, we may be heading to the Jersey shore in September, pending pandemic situations…. Anyway, really enjoyed this, so thank you!

    Reply
    • Cynthia+Gladis

      February 27, 2022 at 18:26

      Hi Sharon, I really appreciated your comment showing up in my inbox this morning. Thanks so much for watching my series, and for the kind words, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. And I’m glad your husband can relate to “my Jersey.” As far as me looking like his sister, they say we all have a twin somewhere! (I hope she has a sense of humor like I do). Enjoy the Jersey Shore in September, it’s one of the best times to go.

      Reply
      • Sharon Loudon

        March 4, 2022 at 23:07

        Cynthia – thank you for the reply. I really meant to include that you’ve given me an appreciation for a few new things, such as employing blue skies in my photos! 😉 I confess I am the one who looks for cloudy, moody days. No need to reply, but wanted to share that, as blue skies have often hindered my desire to go out and shoot. Sacrilege, I know! Thanks again!

        Reply
        • Cynthia+Gladis

          March 4, 2022 at 23:11

          Sharon, I have to reply, as your comment gave me a chuckle! I like shooting in all kinds of weather, but I know that there are people who loathe blue skies, and I never understood that. Blue skies are also great for a nice deep black when I’m shooting monochrome infrared! Some days I want the nice bright, saturated color I get on sunny days, but other time I like the softer look of a gray day. It’s all good! I’m glad you’re willing to give blue skies more of a try!

          Reply

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