PHOTO LA 2010

Photo LA, the 19th Annual International Los Angeles Photographic Art Exposition was this weekend with more than three dozen exhibitors on hand showcasing their gallery's work. Having really only been to a few photography exhibits and shows in the last two years when I caught the photo bug, Photo LA was a wonderful and diverse group of collections from contemporary and vintage works, classic photos capturing the change of the 50s and 60s, mixed media, 19th and 20th century vintage real photographs, to provocative prints, Chinese and Czech artists and more. The halls were absolutely filled to the brim with photo enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds. There was definitely a vibe of excitement in the air, people with their Leica, Cannon and Nikon cameras slung over their shoulder, definitely with hopes of finding that inspiration that they too can click the shutter and capture a moment like the photos on display.

Not really knowing what to expect, Amanda and I wandered the halls with a sense of mystery and awe. How close can we get to the photos? Can we look at the books on display? Should I pull out my Leica for a quick snapshot? Who are all these people by the way? Eventually we settled in and found our footing as we made our way deeper into the hall. Such a diverse group of artists on display. What really peeked our interest were the black & white photos from the Monroe Gallery showcasing humanist and photojournalist imagery. Those classic images like Dr. King in Selma 1965, the Kent State shooting 1940, The Beatles, John and Bobby Kennedy, Bob Dylan, classic Cartier-Bresson, and Doisneau. Seeing these images up-and-close, how these moments in time tell an intimate story about the place and people, the joy, the sorrow, the pain, the happiness is truly amazing. These images are what we as photographer's strive to achieve each time we put the camera to the eye. Thank you for the inspiration.

I leave you with a photo of Amanda admiring a chromogenic print entitled 'Michael vs Marilyn.' The portrait is made up of 1000s of Marilyn Monroe photos. As well, I caught an amazing magic hour shot on Ventura Blvd as we were on our way to have the car seat installed for baby S. Take a close look at the pinks and purples in the early evening nights sky. Remarkable. Rock on!